Seismically-induced landslides by a low-magnitude earthquake: The Mw 4.7 Ossa De Montiel event (central Spain)

The Ossa de Montiel (2015/02/23, Mw 4.7) earthquake struck the central part of Spain and was felt far from the epicenter (> 300 km). Even though ground shaking was slight (Imax = V, EMS-98 scale), the earthquake triggered many small rock falls, most at distances of 20–30 km from the epicenter, greater than previously recorded in S Spain (16 km) for earthquakes of similar magnitudes. The comparative analysis of available data for this event with records from other quakes of the Betic cordillera (S and SE Spain) seems to indicate a slower pattern of ground-motion attenuation in central Spain. This could explain why slope instabilities occurred at larger distances. Instability was more frequent, and occurred at larger distances, in road cuts than in natural slopes, implying that such slope types are highly susceptible to seismically induced landslides.

Seguimiento del Grado en Geología (Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, curso 2015-16)

La Facultad de Ciencias de la Universidad de Alicante ha constituido una red de trabajo formada por los profesores coordinadores de semestre del Grado en Geología, así como por los coordinadores responsables de la titulación. Los objetivos de esta red son: Asegurar la ejecución efectiva de las enseñanzas conforme al contenido del plan de estudios del título verificado; detectar posibles deficiencias en su implementación, proponiendo recomendaciones y sugerencias de mejora; y evidenciar los progresos en el desarrollo del Sistema de Garantía Interno de Calidad (SGIC) tanto en lo relativo a la revisión de la aplicación del plan de estudios como a la propuesta de acciones para mejorar su diseño en la implantación. El método de trabajo se basa en reuniones en las que los miembros de la red plantearán y debatirán los parámetros e indicadores de seguimiento de la red. Cada coordinador llevará a cabo una investigación individualizada del semestre del que es responsable en coordinación con los miembros de su comisión. Asimismo, se participará en la elaboración de los informes de autoevaluación del título.

The Pliocene Mediterranean infilling of the Messinian Erosional Surface: New biostratigraphic data based on calcareous nannofossils (Bajo Segura Basin, SE Spain)

The Bajo Segura Basin (eastern Betic Cordillera) is a Mediterranean marginal basin where the Messinian Erosional Surface (MES), formed during the Messinian Salinity Crisis sea-level fall, is well developed. Overlying this major discontinuity the lower Pliocene transgressive sediments record the reflooding of the Mediterranean and the return to an open marine environment, the continental shelf being rebuilt after the Messinian erosion. The stratigraphic and biostratigraphic study of six sections allows two transgressive-regressive sequences filling the MES to be distinguished, correlated with the previously distinguished Mediterranean offshore seismic units. Ten calcareous nannofossil bioevents have been identified. The lower sequence can be dated according to nannofossil biozones NN12 to NN14 and the upper sequence by NN15 to NN16. The boundary between both lower Pliocene sedimentary sequences occur after the first common occurrence (FCO) of Discoaster asymmetricus found in the uppermost sediments of the lower sequence and before the first occurrence (FO) of Discoaster tamalis in the lowermost part of the upper sequence. Thus this sequence boundary can be estimated at between 4.1 and 4.0Ma ago.

A hydrological–economic model for sustainable groundwater use in sparse-data drylands: Application to the Amtoudi Oasis in southern Morocco, northern Sahara

A hydrological–economic model is introduced to describe the dynamics of groundwater-dependent economics (agriculture and tourism) for sustainable use in sparse-data drylands. The Amtoudi Oasis, a remote area in southern Morocco, in the northern Sahara attractive for tourism and with evidence of groundwater degradation, was chosen to show the model operation. Governing system variables were identified and put into action through System Dynamics (SD) modeling causal diagrams to program basic formulations into a model having two modules coupled by the nexus ‘pumping’: (1) the hydrological module represents the net groundwater balance (G) dynamics; and (2) the economic module reproduces the variation in the consumers of water, both the population and tourists. The model was operated under similar influx of tourists and different scenarios of water availability, such as the wet 2009–2010 and the average 2010–2011 hydrological years. The rise in international tourism is identified as the main driving force reducing emigration and introducing new social habits in the population, in particular concerning water consumption. Urban water allotment (PU) was doubled for less than a 100-inhabitant net increase in recent decades. The water allocation for agriculture (PI), the largest consumer of water, had remained constant for decades. Despite that the 2-year monitoring period is not long enough to draw long-term conclusions, groundwater imbalance was reflected by net aquifer recharge (R) less than PI + PU (G < 0) in the average year 2010–2011, with net lateral inflow from adjacent Cambrian formations being the largest recharge component. R is expected to be much less than PI + PU in recurrent dry spells. Some low-technology actions are tentatively proposed to mitigate groundwater degradation, such as: wastewater capture, treatment, and reuse for irrigation; storm-water harvesting for irrigation; and active maintenance of the irrigation system to improve its efficiency.

The Early Miocene “Bisciaro volcaniclastic event” (northern Apennines, Italy): a key study for the geodynamic evolution of the central-western Mediterranean

The Early Miocene Bisciaro Fm., a marly limestone succession cropping out widely in the Umbria–Romagna–Marche Apennines, is characterized by a high amount of volcaniclastic content, characterizing this unit as a peculiar event of the Adria Plate margin. Because of this volcaniclastic event, also recognizable in different sectors of the central-western Mediterranean chains, this formation is proposed as a “marker” for the geodynamic evolution of the area. In the Bisciaro Fm., the volcaniclastic supply starts with the “Raffaello” bed (Earliest Aquitanian) that marks the base of the formation and ends in the lower portion of the Schlier Fm. (Late Burdigalian–Langhian p.p.). Forty-one studied successions allowed the recognition of three main petrofacies: (1) Pyroclastic Deposits (volcanic materials more than 90 %) including the sub-petrofacies 1A, Vitroclastic/crystallo-vitroclastic tuffs; 1B, Bentonitic deposits; and 1C, Ocraceous and blackish layers; (2) Resedimented Syn-Eruptive Volcanogenic Deposits (volcanic material 30–90 %) including the sub-petrofacies 2A, High-density volcanogenic turbidites; 2B, Low-density volcanogenic turbidites; 2C, Crystal-rich volcanogenic deposits; and 2D, Glauconitic-rich volcaniclastites; (3) Mixing of Volcaniclastic Sediments with Marine Deposits (volcanic material 5–30 %, mixed with marine sediments: marls, calcareous marls, and marly limestones). Coeval volcaniclastic deposits recognizable in different tectonic units of the Apennines, Maghrebian, and Betic Chains show petrofacies and chemical–geochemical features related to a similar calc-alkaline magmatism. The characterization of this event led to the hypothesis of a co-genetic relationship between volcanic activity centres (primary volcanic systems) and depositional basins (depositional processes) in the Early Miocene palaeogeographic and palaeotectonic evolution of the central-western Mediterranean region. The results support the proposal of a geodynamic model of this area that considers previously proposed interpretations.

3D geometry of growth strata in a fault-propagation fold: insights into space–time evolution of the Crevillente Fault (Abanilla-Alicante sector), Betic Cordillera, Spain

This work presents a 3D geometric model of growth strata cropping out in a fault-propagation fold associated with the Crevillente Fault (Abanilla-Alicante sector) from the Bajo Segura Basin (eastern Betic Cordillera, southern Spain). The analysis of this 3D model enables us to unravel the along-strike and along-section variations of the growth strata, providing constraints to assess the fold development, and hence, the fault kinematic evolution in space and time. We postulate that the observed along-strike dip variations are related to lateral variation in fault displacement. Along-section variations of the progressive unconformity opening angles indicate greater fault slip in the upper Tortonian–Messinian time span; from the Messinian on, quantitative analysis of the unconformity indicate a constant or lower tectonic activity of the Crevillente Fault (Abanilla-Alicante sector); the minor abundance of striated pebbles in the Pliocene-Quaternary units could be interpreted as a decrease in the stress magnitude and consequently in the tectonic activity of the fault. At a regional scale, comparison of the growth successions cropping out in the northern and southern limits of the Bajo Segura Basin points to a southward migration of deformation in the basin. This means that the Bajo Segura Fault became active after the Crevillente Fault (Abanilla-Alicante sector), for which activity on the latter was probably decreasing according to our data. Consequently, we propose that the seismic hazard at the northern limit of the Bajo Segura Basin should be lower than at the southern limit.

Geological risk assessment of Amtoudi Agadir in southern Morocco: a key case for sustainable cultural heritage

Medieval fortified granaries known as “agadirs” are very common in southern Morocco, being catalogued as world cultural heritage by United Nations. These Berber buildings (made of stones and tree trunks) usually located on rocky promontories, constitute historical testimonials related to the origin of Morocco, and, as tourist attractions, have a positive impact on the local economy. The sustainability of these ancient monuments requires geological-risk evaluations of the massif stability under the agadir with the proposal of stabilization measures, and an architectonic analysis with appropriate maintenance of the structural elements. An interdisciplinary study including climate, seismicity, hydrology, geology, geomorphology, geotechnical surveys of the massif, and diagnosis of the degradation of structural elements have been performed on the Amtoudi Agadir, selected as a case study. The main findings from this study are that the prevalent rocks used for construction (coming from the underlying substratum) are good-quality arkosic sandstones; the SW cliffs under the agadir are unstable under water saturation; some masonry walls are too thin and lack interlocking stones and mortar; and failures in the beams (due to flexure, fracture, and exhaustion in the resistance due to insect attacks or plant roots) are common. The basic risk assessment of ancient buildings of cultural heritage and their geologic substratum are needed especially in undeveloped areas with limited capacity to implement durable conservation policies. Therefore, recommendations have been provided to ensure the stability and maintenance of this important archaeological site.

New theropod remains from the Tiourarén Formation (?Middle Jurassic, Niger) and their bearing on the dental evolution in basal tetanurans

A fragment of a maxilla and isolated theropod teeth from the (?) Middle Jurassic Tiourarén Formation are described. The specimens come from Tadibene, in the rural community of Aderbissinat, Thirozerine Department, Agadez Region, Niger. They were identified through direct comparison with teeth previously described in the literature as well as on the basis of discriminant and morphometric analyses. Our results suggest they belong to Ceratosauridae, Megalosauridae, and the oldest representatives of Spinosauridae. The analyzed sample shows some uncommon characters, such as spinosaurid-like ornamentation in megalosaurid-like teeth, or spinosaurid-like teeth with a low number of denticles, which sheds light on tooth morphology and dental evolution in basal tetanurans and early spinosaurids.

Compositional signatures of the Cenozoic sedimentary succesions of the Malaguide Complex (Betic Cordillera, Spain)

The studied Cenozoic sedimentary successions consist of deposits from continental/shallow-water to deep-marine environments of the Malaguide Complex (Betic Cordillera) outcropping in the Sierra Espuña area (SE Spain). The aim of this study is to characterize the composition, source area(s) provenance and weathering processes of these sedimentary successions from the pre-orogenic (Paleocene-Early Oligocene) to the syn-orogenic (Late Oligocene-Early Miocene) stage using petrological and geochemical methodologies. The studied sandstones are mainly quartzolithic with abundant metamorphic and sedimentary lithic fragments. In particular, the composition of samples from the pre-orogenic cycle is mainly carbonate with important siliciclastic components that occur within the medium to fine grained arenites. The composition of samples from the syn-orogenic cycle is characterized by a sharp change from carbonate to siliciclastic terms. Thus, the composition of the overall sandstone samples is very heterogeneous and suggests a source area mainly characterized by the Malaguide basement and lower units of the Internal Betic Zone, that partially compose the Mesomediterranean Microplate. The geochemical proxies suggest a provenance mainly from felsic source area with a minor supply from mafic rocks in some samples of the syn-orogenic stage. Furthermore, palaeoweathering indices indicate low to moderate weathering conditions for the sources. The Cenozoic sedimentary successions of the Malaguide Complex played an important role in the geodynamic evolution of the Betic Cordillera that represents the key tectonic element of the western domains of the Mesomediterranean Microplate.

Seguimiento del Grado en Geología (Facultad de Ciencias, UA)

La red de trabajo formada por los profesores coordinadores de semestre y de titulación del Grado en Geología (Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante) ha tenido como objetivos principales: afianzar la implementación de las enseñanzas conforme al contenido del plan de estudios del título verificado; elaborar planes de mejora para solventar las posibles deficiencias detectadas y colaborar con los instrumentos del Sistema de Garantía Interno de Calidad (SGIC) del centro en la elaboración de los informes de autoevaluación del título. El método de trabajo se basa en reuniones en las que los miembros de la red plantearán y debatirán los parámetros e indicadores de seguimiento de la red, en la que cada investigador (coordinador) aporta una investigación individualizada del semestre del que es responsable. Ante la inminente acreditación del título el próximo curso, buena parte de las tareas se han enfocado a colaborar en los informes de auto-evaluación del título y en los planes de mejora.

MAPA PRELIMINAR SINTETICO DE AMENAZAS GEOLOGICAS DE COSTA RICA. SU IMPORTANCIA EN EL DESARROLLO DE LA INFRAESTRUCTURA CIVIL

Se presenta en este trabajo, el primer intento de integración de un mapa temático, escala 1:500.000, de las amenazas geológicas que afectan frecuentemente a Costa Rica.  El esfuerzo principal ha consistido en aportar la compilación de toda la fuente bibliográfica, cartográfica y documental, técnica y científica disponible, de los principales fenómenos geológicos que han provocado o son capaces de provocar daños al hombre y a su infraestructura del país.El mapa tiene carácter descriptivo y por supuesto NO de pronóstico, pues esencialmente presenta los sitios donde se han manifestado los fenómenos y donde, por las condiciones locales, podrían hacerlo de nuevo.  Según el predominio relativo de los factores que controlan cada fenómenos, las amenazas se clasifican en tres grandes categorías:  aquellas de naturaleza atmosférica (sequías, tormentas-lluvias de alta intensidad), geológica, geodinámica interna (sismicidad, volcanismo) y geodinámica externa (erosión, deslizamientos , inundaciones).  No obstante que las amanazas de carácter atmosférico intervienen fuertemente dentro del desarrollo de la geodinámica externa, no serán descritas, al igual que las inundaciones.   Se pretende con este mapa establecer un criterio de base para iniciar y difundir la conciencia de la necesidad de conceptualizar un adecuado ordenamiento territorial, de explotación racional de los recursos naturales y de mitigación preventiva de los desastres naturales.

Foraminíferos como ferramenta de estudo na geologia ambiental do estuário do Rio Potengi e da plataforma interna, RN, Brasil

The Potengi River estuary has been affected by various anthropogenic factors over the years, as periodic dredging, industrial and domestic waste, traffic and other factors, causing various environmental disasters, including the notorious ecological accident in July 2007, which covered the municipalities of São Gonçalo do Amarante, Macaíba and Natal. Foraminifera serve as viable study tools in these environments; they are able to identify ecologically stressed environments, pointing out hydrographic changes and depositional environments in estuaries. The necessity to check the differences in environmental gradients in places anthropically impacted in Potengi River and adjacent inner shelf through species of foraminifera, and, the responses of these organisms to physical, chemical and geological factors is to provide baseline in the diagnosis of environments. The results show the dominance of opportunistic Ammonia tepida, Bolivina striatula, Quinqueloculina patagonica and Q. miletti especially in regions close to shrimp farms and Baldo Channel sewage in fine grain environments; and Q. lamarckiana indicates penetration of the saline waters in Potengi River. The occurrence of low-salinity tolerant foraminiferal species typical of mangrove environments as Trochammina inflata and T. squamata in Potengi River Channel suggest they probably could have been transported from mangrove area near the Potengi river mouth to the inner shelf regions. These findings suggest Potengi River is able to export mixohaline and mangrove organisms to inner shelf. Two distinct environments were observed, the outermost area is more influenced by marine influence and the innermost area is less influenced. Calcareous and agglutinated species dominate Potengi River, while mouth and inner shelf areas are dominated by calcareous, agglutinated and porcelaneous species, which are typical of highly saline and hydrodynamic environments and the contributive factors that controls foraminiferal distribution were balance of marine and freshwater currents, grain size, availability of CaCO3 and organic matter.

Foraminíferos como ferramenta de estudo na geologia ambiental do estuário do Rio Potengi e da plataforma interna, RN, Brasil

The Potengi River estuary has been affected by various anthropogenic factors over the years, as periodic dredging, industrial and domestic waste, traffic and other factors, causing various environmental disasters, including the notorious ecological accident in July 2007, which covered the municipalities of São Gonçalo do Amarante, Macaíba and Natal. Foraminifera serve as viable study tools in these environments; they are able to identify ecologically stressed environments, pointing out hydrographic changes and depositional environments in estuaries. The necessity to check the differences in environmental gradients in places anthropically impacted in Potengi River and adjacent inner shelf through species of foraminifera, and, the responses of these organisms to physical, chemical and geological factors is to provide baseline in the diagnosis of environments. The results show the dominance of opportunistic Ammonia tepida, Bolivina striatula, Quinqueloculina patagonica and Q. miletti especially in regions close to shrimp farms and Baldo Channel sewage in fine grain environments; and Q. lamarckiana indicates penetration of the saline waters in Potengi River. The occurrence of low-salinity tolerant foraminiferal species typical of mangrove environments as Trochammina inflata and T. squamata in Potengi River Channel suggest they probably could have been transported from mangrove area near the Potengi river mouth to the inner shelf regions. These findings suggest Potengi River is able to export mixohaline and mangrove organisms to inner shelf. Two distinct environments were observed, the outermost area is more influenced by marine influence and the innermost area is less influenced. Calcareous and agglutinated species dominate Potengi River, while mouth and inner shelf areas are dominated by calcareous, agglutinated and porcelaneous species, which are typical of highly saline and hydrodynamic environments and the contributive factors that controls foraminiferal distribution were balance of marine and freshwater currents, grain size, availability of CaCO3 and organic matter.

Adaptação transcultural e consistência interna do Early Trauma Inventory (ETI)

As experiências traumáticas precoces são um fator de risco preditivo de problemas psicopatológicos futuros. O Early Trauma Inventory (ETI) é um instrumento que avalia em indivíduos adultos experiências traumáticas ocorridas antes dos 18 anos de idade. Tal instrumento foi traduzido, transculturalmente adaptado e sua consistência interna foi avaliada. Vítimas de violência que preencheram os critérios de inclusão e exclusão foram submetidas a uma entrevista diagnóstica (SCID-I) e ao ETI. Foram incluídos 91 pacientes com o transtorno do estresse pós-traumático (TEPT). O alfa de Cronbach nos diferentes domínios variou de 0,595-0,793, e o escore total foi de 0,878. A maior parte dos itens nos vários domínios, com exceção do abuso emocional, apresentou índices de correlação interitem entre 0,51-0,99. A versão adaptada foi útil tanto na clínica quanto na pesquisa. Apresentou boa consistência interna e na correlação interitem. O ETI é um instrumento válido, com boa consistência para se avaliar a presença de história de traumas precoces em indivíduos adultos.

Deficits on self ordered tasks associated with hyperostosis frontalis interna

A 74 year old patient, EW, with dorsolateral frontal cortical compression due to hyperostosis frontalis interna, in the absence of the Morgagni or Stewart-Morel syndromes, is described. In addition to conventional neuropsychological measures EW was administered one nonspatial and two spatial self ordered working memory tasks, as well as a standard measure of fluid intelligence or g. She showed impaired performance on all three self ordered working memory tasks compared with a normal control group of 10 subjects matched for age, education, sex, and IQ. By contrast, her performance on the fluid intelligence test was comparable with that of the controls. It is concluded that the compression of dorsolateral frontal cortex accompanying hyperostosis frontalis interna may produce selective cognitive impairment.