The present-day crustal deformation in the North African area is mainly driven by the NWSE to NNW–SSE convergence (4–5 mm/yr) between the African and Eurasian plates (Mckenzie, 1972; Nocquet & Calais, 2004; Serpelloni et al., 2007). This convergence is accommodated over a wide deformation zone (the Tellian Atlas) implying the existence of significant seismic activity. This domain represents the southern part of the Alpine ranges at the boundary between the African and Eurasian plates.

This book is a follow-up to a Geological Society of London conference with the same title, held in urlington House, London, in February 2000. Following the conference it was decided to compile a Special Publication based in part on papers presented at the conference and in part on papers that were added later to form a balanced content. The content of New Insights into Structural Interpretation and Modelling presents a balanced overview of what the title promises. It is intended as a book that will serve the experienced professional as well as more advanced students in Earth sciences with a wide range of topics described in high quality publications. Some chapters are by leaders in the field, other chapters are written by young authors with fresh ideas.

WILLIAMS, E. A., FRIEND, P. F. & WILLIAMS, B. P. J. A review of Devonian time scales: databases, construction and new data
HOUSE, M. R. Chronostratigraphic framework for the Devonian and Old Red Sandstone
FRIEND, P. F., WILLIAMS, B. P. J., FORD, M. & WILLIAMS, E. A. Kinematics and dynamics of Old Red Sandstone basins

GRIPPING, D. H., BRIDGE, J. S. & HOTTON, C. L. Coastal-fluvial palaeoenvironments and plant palaeoecology of the Lower Devonian (Emsian), Gaspe Bay, Quebec, Canada
BRIDGE, J. S. The geometry, flow patterns and sedimentary processes of Devonian rivers and coasts, New York and Pennsylvania, USA

The optimisation of a mining operation requires precise ore grade control, metallurgical accounting, and laboratory sampling protocols, which are implemented by using accurate and flawless sampling systems. Good sampling practices, and sampling technologies in these fields have been historically poor and too many existing sampling systems available on the market are flawed in many ways.