Developments in Geographic Information Technology have raised the expectations of users. A static map is no longer enough; there is now demand for a dynamic representation. Time is of great importance when operating on real world geographical phenomena, especially when these are dynamic. Researchers in the field of Temporal Geographical Information Systems (TGIS) have been developing methods of incorporating time into geographical information systems. Spatio-temporal analysis embodies spatial modelling, spatio-temporal modelling and spatial reasoning and data mining. Advances in Spatio-Temporal Analysis contributes to the field of spatio-temporal analysis, presenting innovative ideas and examples that reflect current progress and achievements.

This book describes the domain of research and investigation of physical, chemical and biological attributes of flowing water, and it deals with a cross-disciplinary field of study combining physical, geophysical, hydraulic, technological, environmental interests. It aims to equip engineers, geophysicists, managers working in water-related arenas as well as advanced students and researchers with the most up to date information available on the state of knowledge about rivers, particularly their physical, fluvial and environmental processes. Information from various but also interrelated areas available in one volume is the main benefit for potential readers. All chapters are prepared by leading experts from the leading research laboratories from all over the world.

Submarine earthquakes, submarine slides and impacts may set large water volumes in motion characterized by very long wavelengths and a very high speed of lateral displacement, when reaching shallower water the wave breaks in over land - often with disastrous effects. This natural phenomenon is known as a tsunami event. By December 26, 2004, an event in the Indian Ocean, this word suddenly became known to the public. The effects were indeed disastrous and 227,898 people were killed. Tsunami events are a natural part of the Earth's geophysical system. There have been numerous events in the past and they will continue to be a threat to humanity; even more so today, when the coastal zone is occupied by so much more human activity and many more people. Therefore, tsunamis pose a very serious threat to humanity. The only way for us to face this threat is by increased knowledge so that we can meet future events by efficient warning systems and aid organizations. This book offers extensive and new information on tsunamis; their origin, history, effects, monitoring, hazards assessment and proposed handling with respect to precaution. Only through knowledge do we know how to behave in a wise manner. This book should be a well of tsunami knowledge for a long time, we hope.

The most pertinent tsunami related issues such as water borne debris during tsunami flooding, design loads to incorporate for impact forces on coastal zone infrastructure, detection and warning are meticulously incorporated in this book.Modelling of various coastal processes have proven to be successful in the recent past, which includes extreme events such as storm surge, cyclone, etc. The possible provisions for computational/numerical tsunami modelling and real physical modelling in laboratory are elaborated. The propagation, evolution and run-up of tsunami waves and their associated non-linear dynamics are discussed.The significant inferences from the experts who have had hands-on experience working with the extensive magnitude of a tsunami disaster reported on the signature studies and post-facto effects of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, with respect to the damages along the Indian coast.

The Clean Water Act (CWA) requires that wetlands be protected from degradation because of their important ecological functions including maintenance of high water quality and provision of fish and wildlife habitat. However, this protection generally does not encompass riparian areasâ€"the lands bordering rivers and lakesâ€"even though they often provide the same functions as wetlands. Growing recognition of the similarities in wetland and riparian area functioning and the differences in their legal protection led the NRC in 1999 to undertake a study of riparian areas, which has culminated in Riparian Areas: Functioning and Strategies for Management. The report is intended to heighten awareness of riparian areas commensurate with their ecological and societal values. The primary conclusion is that, because riparian areas perform a disproportionate number of biological and physical functions on a unit area basis, restoration of riparian functions along America's waterbodies should be a national goal.