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• 71. [Article] A computer controlled robot analyzer for in situ water quality monitoring

  A new, computer oriented system for automatic, in situ monitoring of water quality is proposed which makes full and effective use of modern computer technology. The main objective of this thesis work was ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A computer controlled robot analyzer for in situ water quality monitoring Author: Birch, Kenneth Norman A new, computer oriented system for automatic, in situ monitoring of water quality is proposed which makes full and effective use of modern computer technology. The main objective of this thesis work was the development of the concept for in situ computer controlled experimenting as a reasonable and effective means of automatically observing the wide range of aquatic parameters needed. The established capability in the teleprocessing industry is assumed as starting point and an optimal design is sought for a sensing head which would meet current expression of requirements for automated water quality monitors while exploiting the advantages of both hardware and software in a total system context. A working model of such a sensing head was constructed and operationally tested using an EAI 690 hybrid computer to simulate the central computer and telecommunications facility. This sensing head consisted of a peristaltic pump, a servo positioned valve, an array of six electrodes (2 glass pH, 3 silver-silver chloride and 1 gold microelectrode) and a thermistor, along with buffer amplifiers and motor controllers to service these devices. A main feature is its design as a remote, computer periferal, like a teletype, which understands up to 64 different commands and which returns coded responses. A second feature is its in situ design making the entire sensor head submersible and operable in depths to 100 meters. A repertoire of programmed experiments was developed for the working model system to show how, for example, it could monitor the water quality parameters; temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, chloride ion, total carbon dioxide, total alkalinity, and a factor called "other ions". The last three in the list being derived from a novel titrametric method, that could be implemented in the particular set of devices in the model sensing head. Concepts of autovarification and autocalibration are introduced and applied with some success. Examples of data (taken at 1/2 meter or 100 meter submergence) for known test solutions and local river water are presented and discussed. It is concluded that the proposed concept is both practical and feasible, having an almost open ended potential to monitor parameters for which sensors per se are not now available, and to do this with high levels of confirmed data return. Title: A computer controlled robot analyzer for in situ water quality monitoring Author: Birch, Kenneth Norman A new, computer oriented system for automatic, in situ monitoring of water quality is proposed which makes full and effective use of modern computer technology. The main objective of this thesis work was the development of the concept for in situ computer controlled experimenting as a reasonable and effective means of automatically observing the wide range of aquatic parameters needed. The established capability in the teleprocessing industry is assumed as starting point and an optimal design is sought for a sensing head which would meet current expression of requirements for automated water quality monitors while exploiting the advantages of both hardware and software in a total system context. A working model of such a sensing head was constructed and operationally tested using an EAI 690 hybrid computer to simulate the central computer and telecommunications facility. This sensing head consisted of a peristaltic pump, a servo positioned valve, an array of six electrodes (2 glass pH, 3 silver-silver chloride and 1 gold microelectrode) and a thermistor, along with buffer amplifiers and motor controllers to service these devices. A main feature is its design as a remote, computer periferal, like a teletype, which understands up to 64 different commands and which returns coded responses. A second feature is its in situ design making the entire sensor head submersible and operable in depths to 100 meters. A repertoire of programmed experiments was developed for the working model system to show how, for example, it could monitor the water quality parameters; temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, chloride ion, total carbon dioxide, total alkalinity, and a factor called "other ions". The last three in the list being derived from a novel titrametric method, that could be implemented in the particular set of devices in the model sensing head. Concepts of autovarification and autocalibration are introduced and applied with some success. Examples of data (taken at 1/2 meter or 100 meter submergence) for known test solutions and local river water are presented and discussed. It is concluded that the proposed concept is both practical and feasible, having an almost open ended potential to monitor parameters for which sensors per se are not now available, and to do this with high levels of confirmed data return. Close

• 72. [Article] Satellite monitored dive characteristics of the northern right whale, Eubalaena glacialis

  The western North Atlantic population of the northern right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) was severely depleted by whaling over the last century. Despite over fifty years of protection, fewer than four hundred ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Satellite monitored dive characteristics of the northern right whale, Eubalaena glacialis Author: Nieukirk, Sharon L. The western North Atlantic population of the northern right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) was severely depleted by whaling over the last century. Despite over fifty years of protection, fewer than four hundred individuals are believed to exist in the North Atlantic. Relatively little is known about the diving behavior, respiratory physiology, or diel activity of these whales, although such information could be useful in predicting population abundance and distribution in relation to food or environmental variables. Dive behavior data can be collected visually, but collection is limited to daylight hours, calm weather, and fortuitous encounters with study animals. Satellite-monitored radio tags offer the opportunity to collect data on individual whales' diving behavior continuously, over long distances and periods of time, and at relatively low cost. Thirteen North Atlantic right whales were tagged and monitored in the Gulf of Maine between 1989 and 1991. One male was tagged in 1989; two adult males, six adult females (two with calves) and one juvenile were tagged in 1990; one adult female (with a calf) and two juveniles were tagged in 1991. The duration of monitoring for the whales varied from <1 day to 43 days. Characteristics of the radio tags were different over each year in order to evaluate different attachment mechanisms and methods of collecting and summarizing data for dive duration, dive frequency, and time submerged. These data were then used to describe the dive behavior and to predict aspects of the respiratory physiology for these whales. The number of dives, their duration, and the time submerged varied considerably among individual whales and between years. Over all, the whales spent 79% of their time underwater. However, most dives were short (i.e., 95% were <14 min; the mean dive duration was 92.3 sec), although dives of 30-40 min duration were observed for several individuals. In general, the number of dives a right whale made was inversely related to the average duration of its dives within a time interval. Furthermore, over a given time interval, the number of times a whale dove was a better predictor of the percent time it was submerged than was the average duration of its dives. There was no evidence of diel variation in dive behavior (i.e., number of dives, average dive duration, or percent time submerged) among these whales. Age, sex, and reproductive status may have affected dive behavior, although these trends were not statistically significant due to the small number of study animals and individual behavioral variability. Males tended to dive more often and averaged shorter dives than females. Females with calves dove more often and averaged shorter dives than females without calves. Juvenile females dove less often but averaged longer dives than adult males or females with calves. It was predicted that the aerobic dive limit of an "average" right whale was approximately 14 min. Ninety-five percent of the dives recorded for the 11 monitored right whales were < 14 min. Furthermore, there was no evidence of recuperative periods (i.e., prolonged periods at the surface) after long dives. These observations were consistent with the idea that the North Atlantic right whales dove within their aerobic scope. They further suggest that physiological parameters alone probably have little influence on dive characteristics, except to set an upper limit on the duration of a dive. Satellite telemetry provides an opportunity to monitor the movements and behavior of free-ranging animals, and overcome many of the short-comings associated with traditional, human-based visual techniques for tracking and studying such animals. Although the tags used in this study were prototypes and varied in their design from year to year, several right whales were monitored simultaneously and were tracked over thousands of kilometers. Advances in tag miniaturization, attachment, and software will likely extend the time tags stay attached and the detail of the behavioral and environmental variables that can be monitored. As testimony to the power of this technology, this application of satellite telemetry to monitor great whales yielded one of the most extensive, long-term, continuously-monitored data sets yet recorded on the diving behavior of a baleen whale. Title: Satellite monitored dive characteristics of the northern right whale, Eubalaena glacialis Author: Nieukirk, Sharon L. The western North Atlantic population of the northern right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) was severely depleted by whaling over the last century. Despite over fifty years of protection, fewer than four hundred individuals are believed to exist in the North Atlantic. Relatively little is known about the diving behavior, respiratory physiology, or diel activity of these whales, although such information could be useful in predicting population abundance and distribution in relation to food or environmental variables. Dive behavior data can be collected visually, but collection is limited to daylight hours, calm weather, and fortuitous encounters with study animals. Satellite-monitored radio tags offer the opportunity to collect data on individual whales' diving behavior continuously, over long distances and periods of time, and at relatively low cost. Thirteen North Atlantic right whales were tagged and monitored in the Gulf of Maine between 1989 and 1991. One male was tagged in 1989; two adult males, six adult females (two with calves) and one juvenile were tagged in 1990; one adult female (with a calf) and two juveniles were tagged in 1991. The duration of monitoring for the whales varied from <1 day to 43 days. Characteristics of the radio tags were different over each year in order to evaluate different attachment mechanisms and methods of collecting and summarizing data for dive duration, dive frequency, and time submerged. These data were then used to describe the dive behavior and to predict aspects of the respiratory physiology for these whales. The number of dives, their duration, and the time submerged varied considerably among individual whales and between years. Over all, the whales spent 79% of their time underwater. However, most dives were short (i.e., 95% were <14 min; the mean dive duration was 92.3 sec), although dives of 30-40 min duration were observed for several individuals. In general, the number of dives a right whale made was inversely related to the average duration of its dives within a time interval. Furthermore, over a given time interval, the number of times a whale dove was a better predictor of the percent time it was submerged than was the average duration of its dives. There was no evidence of diel variation in dive behavior (i.e., number of dives, average dive duration, or percent time submerged) among these whales. Age, sex, and reproductive status may have affected dive behavior, although these trends were not statistically significant due to the small number of study animals and individual behavioral variability. Males tended to dive more often and averaged shorter dives than females. Females with calves dove more often and averaged shorter dives than females without calves. Juvenile females dove less often but averaged longer dives than adult males or females with calves. It was predicted that the aerobic dive limit of an "average" right whale was approximately 14 min. Ninety-five percent of the dives recorded for the 11 monitored right whales were < 14 min. Furthermore, there was no evidence of recuperative periods (i.e., prolonged periods at the surface) after long dives. These observations were consistent with the idea that the North Atlantic right whales dove within their aerobic scope. They further suggest that physiological parameters alone probably have little influence on dive characteristics, except to set an upper limit on the duration of a dive. Satellite telemetry provides an opportunity to monitor the movements and behavior of free-ranging animals, and overcome many of the short-comings associated with traditional, human-based visual techniques for tracking and studying such animals. Although the tags used in this study were prototypes and varied in their design from year to year, several right whales were monitored simultaneously and were tracked over thousands of kilometers. Advances in tag miniaturization, attachment, and software will likely extend the time tags stay attached and the detail of the behavioral and environmental variables that can be monitored. As testimony to the power of this technology, this application of satellite telemetry to monitor great whales yielded one of the most extensive, long-term, continuously-monitored data sets yet recorded on the diving behavior of a baleen whale. Close

• 73. [Article] Hatfield Marine Science Center Dynamic Revetment Project DSL permit #45455-FP: Monitoring Report February 2014

  Stabilization of the Yaquina Bay shoreline along the northeastern edge of the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) campus became necessary to halt erosion that threatened both HMSC critical infrastructure ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Hatfield Marine Science Center Dynamic Revetment Project DSL permit #45455-FP: Monitoring Report February 2014 Author: Nelson, Walt, Allen, Jonathan, Folger, Christina, Cowen, Robert, Arbuckle, Scarlett Stabilization of the Yaquina Bay shoreline along the northeastern edge of the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) campus became necessary to halt erosion that threatened both HMSC critical infrastructure (seawater storage tank) and public access to the HMSC Nature Trail. A Dynamic Revetment (gravel beach) was installed in November, 2011 on 260 feet of shoreline to mitigate erosion. Shoreline topographic and biological monitoring was initiated before and has continued after the project completion. Monitoring of beach profiles indicated that as of December 2013, the 2011 Dynamic Revetment Project (DRP) has successfully stabilized the shoreline in the project area, while rapid erosion has continued in the adjacent Reference beach area. Erosion in the unprotected Reference area in the period 2009-2013 has been as great as 9.6 m (31.5 ft). Beach profile data also indicated that the 2007 DRP continued to be successful in stabilizing further retreat of the shoreline. Monitoring of birds and marine mammals was discontinued in 2013 as planned. Monitoring of beach wrack invertebrates, fish, and vegetation continued. Per unit of beach wrack biomass, there was no significant difference in density of wrack invertebrates among the three study areas. Total amount of beach wrack was much sparser in the Reference area because of vertical beach scarps generated by erosion that appeared to limit wrack accumulation. As has been a consistent pattern, fish were significantly more abundant in the Reference area compared to the DRP. However, this pattern was present in the pre-project sampling, and the Reference area may have a higher degree of physical habitat complexity, resulting from root masses of trees that have been eroded onto the shore. Bottom dwelling Pacific Staghorn Sculpin tended to be somewhat more evenly distributed between the DRP and Reference areas, while pelagic Shiner Perch tended to be found more in the Reference area. Vegetation coverage was significantly greater and presence of non-living substrata was significantly less in the Reference area as compared to the DRP. These differences are consistent with pre-project site differences, probably resulting from a low area of the shoreline which allows increased flooding and associated disturbance in the DRP back shore area. Fish and wrack invertebrates, such as beach hoppers, were shown to utilize the DRP project area. Biological differences in fish and vegetation observed in year 2 of post-project monitoring tended to reflect differences in habitat that were present before the DRP project. Title: Hatfield Marine Science Center Dynamic Revetment Project DSL permit #45455-FP: Monitoring Report February 2014 Author: Nelson, Walt, Allen, Jonathan, Folger, Christina, Cowen, Robert, Arbuckle, Scarlett Stabilization of the Yaquina Bay shoreline along the northeastern edge of the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) campus became necessary to halt erosion that threatened both HMSC critical infrastructure (seawater storage tank) and public access to the HMSC Nature Trail. A Dynamic Revetment (gravel beach) was installed in November, 2011 on 260 feet of shoreline to mitigate erosion. Shoreline topographic and biological monitoring was initiated before and has continued after the project completion. Monitoring of beach profiles indicated that as of December 2013, the 2011 Dynamic Revetment Project (DRP) has successfully stabilized the shoreline in the project area, while rapid erosion has continued in the adjacent Reference beach area. Erosion in the unprotected Reference area in the period 2009-2013 has been as great as 9.6 m (31.5 ft). Beach profile data also indicated that the 2007 DRP continued to be successful in stabilizing further retreat of the shoreline. Monitoring of birds and marine mammals was discontinued in 2013 as planned. Monitoring of beach wrack invertebrates, fish, and vegetation continued. Per unit of beach wrack biomass, there was no significant difference in density of wrack invertebrates among the three study areas. Total amount of beach wrack was much sparser in the Reference area because of vertical beach scarps generated by erosion that appeared to limit wrack accumulation. As has been a consistent pattern, fish were significantly more abundant in the Reference area compared to the DRP. However, this pattern was present in the pre-project sampling, and the Reference area may have a higher degree of physical habitat complexity, resulting from root masses of trees that have been eroded onto the shore. Bottom dwelling Pacific Staghorn Sculpin tended to be somewhat more evenly distributed between the DRP and Reference areas, while pelagic Shiner Perch tended to be found more in the Reference area. Vegetation coverage was significantly greater and presence of non-living substrata was significantly less in the Reference area as compared to the DRP. These differences are consistent with pre-project site differences, probably resulting from a low area of the shoreline which allows increased flooding and associated disturbance in the DRP back shore area. Fish and wrack invertebrates, such as beach hoppers, were shown to utilize the DRP project area. Biological differences in fish and vegetation observed in year 2 of post-project monitoring tended to reflect differences in habitat that were present before the DRP project. Close

• 74. [Article] The distribution and reproductive success of the western snowy plover along the Oregon coast - 2006

  From 2 April – 14 September 2006, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The distribution and reproductive success of the western snowy plover along the Oregon coast - 2006 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Eucken, Krista, Weston, Susan, Castelein, Kathleen A., Gaines, Eleanor P., Lauten, David J., Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center From 2 April – 14 September 2006, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2006 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of miniexclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the success of predator management. We observed an estimated 177-179 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 135 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990 (n = 147). Overall Mayfield nest success was 38%. Exclosed nests (n=68) had a 60% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n=79) had a 40% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (18%), unknown cause (18%), one egg nests (16%), wind/weather (13%), abandonment (13%), corvid depredation (10%), adult plover depredation (6%), infertility (4%), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) depredation (1%). We monitored 84 broods, including 15 from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 109 fledglings, the highest number of fledglings since monitoring began in 1990. One other chick was raised in captivity at Newport Aquarium and released. Overall brood success was 76%, and fledgling success was 48%. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The distribution and reproductive success of the western snowy plover along the Oregon coast - 2006 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Eucken, Krista, Weston, Susan, Castelein, Kathleen A., Gaines, Eleanor P., Lauten, David J., Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center From 2 April – 14 September 2006, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2006 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of miniexclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the success of predator management. We observed an estimated 177-179 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 135 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990 (n = 147). Overall Mayfield nest success was 38%. Exclosed nests (n=68) had a 60% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n=79) had a 40% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (18%), unknown cause (18%), one egg nests (16%), wind/weather (13%), abandonment (13%), corvid depredation (10%), adult plover depredation (6%), infertility (4%), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) depredation (1%). We monitored 84 broods, including 15 from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 109 fledglings, the highest number of fledglings since monitoring began in 1990. One other chick was raised in captivity at Newport Aquarium and released. Overall brood success was 76%, and fledgling success was 48%. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 75. [Article] The distribution and reproductive success of the western snowy plover along the Oregon coast - 2007

  From 3 April – 21 September 2007, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The distribution and reproductive success of the western snowy plover along the Oregon coast - 2007 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Gaines, Eleanor, Castelein, Kathleen A., Lauten, David J., Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center, Pruner, Raya, Friel, Marvin From 3 April – 21 September 2007, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2007 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selected use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 181-184 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 162 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990 (n = 202). Overall Mayfield nest success was 33%. Exclosed nests (n=38) had a 66% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n=164) had a 41% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (20%), one-egg nests (20%), corvid depredation (17%), abandonment (16%), unknown cause (7%), unknown mammal depredation (7%), overwashed (3%), infertility (3%), coyote depredation (3%), wind/weather (3%), raccoon depredation (1%), and adult plover depredation (1%). We monitored 89 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 123 fledglings; the highest number of fledglings since monitoring began in 1990. Overall brood success was 82%, fledgling success was 54%, and 1.60 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The distribution and reproductive success of the western snowy plover along the Oregon coast - 2007 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Gaines, Eleanor, Castelein, Kathleen A., Lauten, David J., Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center, Pruner, Raya, Friel, Marvin From 3 April – 21 September 2007, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2007 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selected use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 181-184 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 162 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990 (n = 202). Overall Mayfield nest success was 33%. Exclosed nests (n=38) had a 66% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n=164) had a 41% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (20%), one-egg nests (20%), corvid depredation (17%), abandonment (16%), unknown cause (7%), unknown mammal depredation (7%), overwashed (3%), infertility (3%), coyote depredation (3%), wind/weather (3%), raccoon depredation (1%), and adult plover depredation (1%). We monitored 89 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 123 fledglings; the highest number of fledglings since monitoring began in 1990. Overall brood success was 82%, fledgling success was 54%, and 1.60 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 76. [Article] Use of Virtual Visual Sensors in the Determination of Natural Frequencies of Timber Structures for Structural Health Monitoring

  Many nondestructive techniques for structural health monitoring are subjective and based on visual observations of degradation. In addition, dynamic properties of structures are already used to obtain ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Use of Virtual Visual Sensors in the Determination of Natural Frequencies of Timber Structures for Structural Health Monitoring Author: Walker, Kristopher (Kristopher David) Many nondestructive techniques for structural health monitoring are subjective and based on visual observations of degradation. In addition, dynamic properties of structures are already used to obtain quantitative structural health data. However, most current data collection is limited to localized damage on the structure, rather than global response. Recent research involves the use of commercially available digital video cameras, or virtual visual sensors, to observe structural dynamic behavior. This project focuses on the determination of natural vibration frequencies by monitoring the intensity value of a single pixel coordinate over the course of a few seconds of a video of structural vibration, and then applying a fast Fourier transform to extract signal frequencies. Natural frequencies can be used to observe changes in stiffness properties of materials and structural systems that may relate to deterioration. The focus here is primarily on the development and application of the virtual visual sensor technique to wood structures to obtain information relevant to objective structural health monitoring. The experiments focus on verification of the method to extract natural frequencies in various scenarios, using the natural color gradients in wood structures to observe the motion. Additionally, effects of moisture content and simulated damage on natural frequencies are observed on simply-supported beams of dimensional lumber. Applications are also made to an in-place US Forest Service pedestrian bridge. Results show comparable accuracy in determining vibrational frequencies with virtual visual sensors and accelerometer measurements, successful observation of vibrational frequencies in a timber bridge, and good use of naturally occurring color gradients in both laboratory and field tests. Moisture content and simulated damage had measureable effects on natural frequencies using conventional accelerometers and virtual visual sensors. Digital video cameras show potential to be a promising tool for structural health monitoring of timber structures. Title: Use of Virtual Visual Sensors in the Determination of Natural Frequencies of Timber Structures for Structural Health Monitoring Author: Walker, Kristopher (Kristopher David) Many nondestructive techniques for structural health monitoring are subjective and based on visual observations of degradation. In addition, dynamic properties of structures are already used to obtain quantitative structural health data. However, most current data collection is limited to localized damage on the structure, rather than global response. Recent research involves the use of commercially available digital video cameras, or virtual visual sensors, to observe structural dynamic behavior. This project focuses on the determination of natural vibration frequencies by monitoring the intensity value of a single pixel coordinate over the course of a few seconds of a video of structural vibration, and then applying a fast Fourier transform to extract signal frequencies. Natural frequencies can be used to observe changes in stiffness properties of materials and structural systems that may relate to deterioration. The focus here is primarily on the development and application of the virtual visual sensor technique to wood structures to obtain information relevant to objective structural health monitoring. The experiments focus on verification of the method to extract natural frequencies in various scenarios, using the natural color gradients in wood structures to observe the motion. Additionally, effects of moisture content and simulated damage on natural frequencies are observed on simply-supported beams of dimensional lumber. Applications are also made to an in-place US Forest Service pedestrian bridge. Results show comparable accuracy in determining vibrational frequencies with virtual visual sensors and accelerometer measurements, successful observation of vibrational frequencies in a timber bridge, and good use of naturally occurring color gradients in both laboratory and field tests. Moisture content and simulated damage had measureable effects on natural frequencies using conventional accelerometers and virtual visual sensors. Digital video cameras show potential to be a promising tool for structural health monitoring of timber structures. Close

• 77. [Article] Expert system prototype for food aid distribution

  Numerous investigative reports have cited the problems of inefficient food aid distribution by various international disaster relief agencies. These problems not only deprive the disaster victims of life ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Expert system prototype for food aid distribution Author: Singh, Neeta Numerous investigative reports have cited the problems of inefficient food aid distribution by various international disaster relief agencies. These problems not only deprive the disaster victims of life giving support, but can also discourage potential sources of contributions. Lack of a feedback process has been attributed as a cause of organizational inefficiencies in these agencies. Existing old-fashioned distribution processes failed to incorporate present day tools for advanced process control. Investigations of food distribution organizations revealed a need for a state-of-the-art monitoring system. Typically, these systems incorporate an expert knowledge base which aids an adaptive decision making process. This research identified data related to food aid monitoring and evaluation processes of various international organizations. It then applied an artificial intelligence based expert system to develop a prototype for those processes. Existing data related to monitoring and evaluation program cycles were obtained from two international food relief organizations. An expert system shell called CLIPS (©NASA) was utilized to develop a prototype system named FAM (Food Aid Monitor) for monitoring and evaluating food aid distribution. FAM, a rule based expert system, uses facts and heuristic rules to provide advice regarding food aid monitoring and evaluation processes at various stages of an operation. The FAM was evaluated and validated by three expert panels checking the prototype system for: (1) completeness and relevancy, by a faculty expert panel; (2) consistency, (3) correctness, (4) and precision, by a software engineering expert panel; and (5) usability, by a field expert panel. The faculty panel identified some modifications to the original set of rules. Their review indicated a relatively complete set of rules and high rule relevancy to the knowledge base. Upon revision of the rule source code by the researcher, the software experts validated the prototype in two iterations. The panel determined a system accuracy of approximately 95% and 100% in the two iterations. This exceeded the initial objective of the research. Finally, usability experts commented upon the generic nature of the prototype and indicated a belief that the system might have an overall positive impact on the stages of monitoring and evaluating food aid distribution. Title: Expert system prototype for food aid distribution Author: Singh, Neeta Numerous investigative reports have cited the problems of inefficient food aid distribution by various international disaster relief agencies. These problems not only deprive the disaster victims of life giving support, but can also discourage potential sources of contributions. Lack of a feedback process has been attributed as a cause of organizational inefficiencies in these agencies. Existing old-fashioned distribution processes failed to incorporate present day tools for advanced process control. Investigations of food distribution organizations revealed a need for a state-of-the-art monitoring system. Typically, these systems incorporate an expert knowledge base which aids an adaptive decision making process. This research identified data related to food aid monitoring and evaluation processes of various international organizations. It then applied an artificial intelligence based expert system to develop a prototype for those processes. Existing data related to monitoring and evaluation program cycles were obtained from two international food relief organizations. An expert system shell called CLIPS (©NASA) was utilized to develop a prototype system named FAM (Food Aid Monitor) for monitoring and evaluating food aid distribution. FAM, a rule based expert system, uses facts and heuristic rules to provide advice regarding food aid monitoring and evaluation processes at various stages of an operation. The FAM was evaluated and validated by three expert panels checking the prototype system for: (1) completeness and relevancy, by a faculty expert panel; (2) consistency, (3) correctness, (4) and precision, by a software engineering expert panel; and (5) usability, by a field expert panel. The faculty panel identified some modifications to the original set of rules. Their review indicated a relatively complete set of rules and high rule relevancy to the knowledge base. Upon revision of the rule source code by the researcher, the software experts validated the prototype in two iterations. The panel determined a system accuracy of approximately 95% and 100% in the two iterations. This exceeded the initial objective of the research. Finally, usability experts commented upon the generic nature of the prototype and indicated a belief that the system might have an overall positive impact on the stages of monitoring and evaluating food aid distribution. Close

• 78. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011

  From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Castelein, Kathleen A., Gaines, Eleanor P., Lauten, David J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A. From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2011 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of mini-exclosures(MEs) to protect nests from predators when and where needed, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 247-253 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 214 individuals were known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 289 nests in 2011, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 50%. Exclosed nests (n = 48) had a 71% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 241) had a 48% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (22%), corvid depredation (20%), unknown cause (18%), one-egg nests (16%), abandonment (15%), wind/weather (3%), mammalian depredation (2%), adult plover depredation (2%), infertility (1%), and rodent depredation (1%). We monitored 148 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 168 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 46%, and 1.57 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Castelein, Kathleen A., Gaines, Eleanor P., Lauten, David J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A. From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2011 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of mini-exclosures(MEs) to protect nests from predators when and where needed, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 247-253 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 214 individuals were known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 289 nests in 2011, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 50%. Exclosed nests (n = 48) had a 71% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 241) had a 48% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (22%), corvid depredation (20%), unknown cause (18%), one-egg nests (16%), abandonment (15%), wind/weather (3%), mammalian depredation (2%), adult plover depredation (2%), infertility (1%), and rodent depredation (1%). We monitored 148 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 168 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 46%, and 1.57 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 79. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011

  From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Kotaich, Adam A., Portland State University/INR, Farrar, J. Daniel, The Oregon Biodiversity Information Center, Castelein, Kathleen A, Gaines, Eleanor P., Lauten, David J. From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2011 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators when and where needed, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 247-253 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 214 individuals were known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 289 nests in 2011, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 50%. Exclosed nests (n = 48) had a 71% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 241) had a 48% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (22%), corvid depredation (20%), unknown cause (18%), one-egg nests (16%), abandonment (15%), wind/weather (3%), mammalian depredation (2%), adult plover depredation (2%), infertility (1%), and rodent depredation (1%). We monitored 148 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 168 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 46%, and 1.57 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Kotaich, Adam A., Portland State University/INR, Farrar, J. Daniel, The Oregon Biodiversity Information Center, Castelein, Kathleen A, Gaines, Eleanor P., Lauten, David J. From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2011 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators when and where needed, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 247-253 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 214 individuals were known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 289 nests in 2011, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 50%. Exclosed nests (n = 48) had a 71% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 241) had a 48% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (22%), corvid depredation (20%), unknown cause (18%), one-egg nests (16%), abandonment (15%), wind/weather (3%), mammalian depredation (2%), adult plover depredation (2%), infertility (1%), and rodent depredation (1%). We monitored 148 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 168 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 46%, and 1.57 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 80. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2010

  From 8 April – 27 September 2010 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2010 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Farrar, Daniel, Castelein, Kathleen A., Kotaich, Adam A., Lauten, David J., Gaines, Eleanor P. From 8 April – 27 September 2010 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2010 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selective use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational information about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 232-236 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 175 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 261 nests in 2010, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall Mayfield nest success was 25%. Exclosed nests (n = 67) had a 72% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 194) had a 23% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (24%), unknown cause (17%), one-egg nests (15%), rodent depredation (14%), abandonment (12%), wind/weather (5%), corvid depredation (5%), mammalian depredation (4%), wave overwash (2%), infertility (2%), and adult depredation (1%). We monitored 94 broods, including two from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 80 fledglings. Overall brood success was 55%, fledging success was 33%, and 0.90 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2010 Author: Institute for Natural Resources, Farrar, Daniel, Castelein, Kathleen A., Kotaich, Adam A., Lauten, David J., Gaines, Eleanor P. From 8 April – 27 September 2010 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2010 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selective use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational information about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 232-236 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 175 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 261 nests in 2010, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall Mayfield nest success was 25%. Exclosed nests (n = 67) had a 72% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 194) had a 23% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (24%), unknown cause (17%), one-egg nests (15%), rodent depredation (14%), abandonment (12%), wind/weather (5%), corvid depredation (5%), mammalian depredation (4%), wave overwash (2%), infertility (2%), and adult depredation (1%). We monitored 94 broods, including two from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 80 fledglings. Overall brood success was 55%, fledging success was 33%, and 0.90 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close