Sally Macgill

Theoretical properties of biproportional matrix adjustments

The basic uniqueness and existence properties of biproportional matrix solutions are reviewed and a direct and constructive proof of the convergence of an iterative routine commonly adopted to adjust a given nonnegative matrix to produce a second matrix (biproportional to the first), whose row and column sums are given strictly positive numbers, is offered. Existing convergence proofs, most of which are limited to particular cases of the present form, are considered.

The EU directive on port reception facilities for ship-generated waste and cargo residues: current availability of facilities in the North Sea

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the current availability of port reception facilities within the North Sea area. The evaluation is based primarily on original survey data from the summer of 2001, supplemented by existing information from surveys conducted by the International Maritime Organization. The EU Directive on port reception facilities for ship-generated waste etc. (Directive 2000/59/EC) requires that all ports provide facilities to meet the needs of those vessels normally calling in at them. In order for the Directive to be implemented effectively, the physical availability of such facilities is vital. This paper audits the wide range of port types within the region and also outlines the wide range of vessel types using these ports, and their requirements for a range of facilities. On the basis of this analysis, conclusions are drawn about the extent to which the provision requirement of the Directive is already being met.

Local energy conservation initiatives in the UK : Their nature and achievements

Abstract Local energy conservation initiatives in the UK have been relatively neglected on the part of the energy policy research community as a whole. However, though individually small in scale, in aggregate and with effective replication, their impact could be very substantial indeed. Here, we review and evaluate the varying nature of five different local UK energy conservation initiatives.

Convergence and Related Properties for a Modified Biproportional Matrix Problem

This paper establishes the convergence of iterative routines for matrix balancing in which some row and some column totals must equal prespecified positive numbers. This balancing procedure is called a modified biproportional problem. Applications of the procedure are cited, various theoretical properties discussed, and its relationship with the full biproportional problem, treated in an earlier paper (Macgill, 1977a), is noted.

A review of the science behind drinking water standards for copper

Copper is an essential element, being a vital component in several enzyme systems. Some intake, therefore, is necessary for human health. At high intakes, however, it can have toxic effects. This paper uses a quality audit framework to review the strength of the science underlying the setting of standards for copper in drinking water intended for human consumption. The two copper standards examined are the revised EU drinking water directive (98/83/EC) of 2 mg/l, based on WHO guidelines, and the USEPA treatment technique action level of 1.3 mg/l. Examination of these standards reveals that neither has a firm scientific basis, accordingly both are difficult to justify from a scientific standpoint, a situation that is worrying in both health and policy terms.

Towards quality assurance of assessed waterborne risks.

Abstract An exploratory “proof of concept” application of a quality assurance framework for auditing the strength of the outputs of waterborne risk assessments is presented. The need for such a framework is established with reference to the rapid growth in the application of risk assessment techniques in the water sector and in the light of manifest uncertainties in their results. The components of a proposed quality assurance framework are introduced. The framework is applied to two case studies: Cryptosporidium in raw water and copper in treated drinking water. The differing outcomes in these two areas are evaluated and it is concluded that the framework provides a significant step forward by way of a formal tool for the representation of uncertainties in knowledge about waterborne risk.

Structural Analysis of Social Data: A Guide to Ho's Galois Lattice Approach and a Partial Respecification of Q-Analysis

A pedagogic exposition of Hos Galois lattice approach for analysing social data is given in this paper. This provides a basis for respecifying Atkins Q-analysis in a way that is believed to be more powerful, more economical, and accessible to a wider audience. Concepts of traffic and eccentricity are reexamined, but more generally, the suggested respecification may enhance the utility of Q-analysis and broaden its applicability, while remaining true to its underlying ethos.

Research Policy and Review 12. Evaluating a Heritage of Modelling Styles

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first to provide a systematic identification of a range of criteria whereby the utility and quality of modelling can be assessed; second to comment on the characteristics of a number of key modelling styles in the light of the criteria distinguished. The goal is to further general understanding of the multiplicity of roles of modelling, and of its various limitations, among interested research and planning communities.

LEG Risk Assessments: Experts Disagree

One of the most challenging problems in decisions concerning the deployment of novel, large-scale technologies is the assessment of the risk to the surrounding populations. In particular cases, such as nuclear reactors or liquefied energy gas (LEG) facilities, the political process involved may tend to focus on one particular form of that risk: the risk to life from catastrophic accidents. This chapter examines several assessments of this type with two main goals in mind: (1) to present and compare the various risk assessment procedures as they have been applied to LEG terminal siting, and in so doing to clarify the limits of knowledge and understanding of LEG risks (2) to quantify and compare the risks estimated in analyses prepared for four LEG sites, namely: Wilhelmshaven (Brotz 1978; DGWE 1979; Krappinger 1978a,b,c; WSB 1978) Eemshaven (TNO 1978) Mossmorran—Braefoot Bay (Aberdour and Dalgety Bay Joint Action Group 1979, henceforth referred to as Aberdour; Cremer and Warner 1977; HSE 1978a) Point Conception (ADL 1978; FERC 1978; SAI 1976)

Simple Hybrid Input—Output Models: A Graphical Approach

It is shown how the familiar Leontief input–output model, and the less familiar supply driven input–output model, may be formulated in terms of weighted digraph analysis. The two models concerned have hitherto been used essentially independently of each other with apparently no simple framework within which they can be combined. The graphical analysis presented below, however, enables them to be combined within a single framework, thus forming a new, hybrid, input–output model framework.