Closure Of Ports Research Articles

DThe Value of Captains’ Behavioral Choices in the Success of the Surfclam (Spisula solidissima) Fishery on the U.S. Mid-Atlantic Coast: a Model Evaluation.

The response of the surfclam Spisula solidissima to warming of the Mid-Atlantic Bight is manifested by recession of the southern and inshore boundary of the clam's range. This phenomenon has impacted the fishery through the closure of southern ports and the movement of processing capacity north, impacts that may require responsive actions on the part of fishery captains to mitigate a decline in fishery performance otherwise ineluctably accompanying this shift in range. The purpose of this study was to evaluate options in the behavioral repertoire of captains that might provide mitigation. A model capable of simulating a spatially and temporally variable resource harvested by fleets of boats landing in a number of homeports was created. The model includes characterization of each vessel in terms of economics and vessel performance. The model assigns to each vessel a captain with defined behavioral proclivities including the tendency to search, to communicate with other captains, to take advantage of survey data, and to integrate variable lengths of past history performance into the determination of the location of fishing trips. Each captain and vessel operate independently in the simulation providing a spatially and temporally dynamic variability in fishery performance. Simulations showed that a number of behaviors modestly varied performance. Use of survey data and occasional searching tended to increase performance. Reliance on an older catch history tended to reduce performance as did frequent searching. However, in no simulation was this differential large and the differential was little modified by the contraction in the surfclam's range. Simulations showed that the population dynamics of the clam and the low fishing mortality rate imposed by the Fishery Management Plan permit near optimal fishing performance based on a few simple rules: choose locations to fish that minimize time at sea while permitting the landing of a full vessel load; base this choice on the most recent catch history for the vessel. Simulations suggest that the performance of the fishery is primarily determined by surfclam abundance and the location of patches that control LPUE at small geographic scales. Constraints imposed on fishery performance by port location and vessel size far exceed limitations or ameliorations afforded by modifications in the behavior of captains.

Feasibility of Continuing Operations at California’s Marine Oil Terminals during ARkStorm

AbstractCalifornia’s marine oil terminals (MOTs) transport the bulk of the state’s requirement of petroleum and petroleum products and constitute a vital infrastructure link to mount successful emergency response after disasters. The ARkStorm scenario may simultaneously affect multiple MOTs and potentially trigger a major disruption in crude supply to refineries and petroleum products to the public, cause likely closure of ports, and significantly impact the economy of the western United States. As disaster relief necessitates timely supply of petroleum products, the feasibility of continuing operations at the state MOTs during the ARkStorm scenario is assessed, taking into consideration the existing design, and operational and procedural safeguards that were primarily built in to address public safety, health, and environmental effects from other hazards. The expected runoffs from ARkStorm are estimated to overwhelm MOTs’ drainage design and site-specific flooding analysis and review of mooring analysis ...

Jaques-Louis Reverdin (1842-1929): el cirujano y la aguja

With the development and rise of abdominal laparoscopic techniques, the old Reverdin needle has had a revival, because it proved to be useful for the endoscopic closure of laparoscopic access ports, in order to lower the incidence of incisional hernias. Several new modifications of the Reverdin needle, with different names, are in the market now. This new use of an old instrument, prompted a review of the life and work of Jaques-Louis Reverdin, the Swiss surgeon trained in Paris and founder of the modern Swiss surgery.Biographical and bibliographical review of Jaques-MLouis Reverdin and his contributions to surgeryJaques-Louis Reverdin (1842-1929), born in Geneva, completed his medical studies in Paris, where he practised in several well-known hospitals such as La Pitié (with Goselin), Saint Louis (with Guérin), Lariboisiére, and Necker (with Guyon). In 1869 he published and presented in several meetings, a pioneering experience of successful free skin graft procedure, that is still performed in some cases and constitutes the first organ transplantation. In 1870 he presented his doctoral thesis "Etude sur l'uréthrotomie interne" with the expeience of his master Guyon (63 operations), gaining the Civiale prize and the bronze medal of the Paris Faculty of Medicine. He returned back to Geneva in 1872 to begin a long surgical practice and Faculty teaching, and he made seminal contributions to the knowledge of thyroid diseases, in particular on the clinical presentation of function deficiency following exeresis of the thyroid gland ( postoperative myxoedema). His contributions paralleled that made by Theodor Kocher in Bern, the surgeon that received in solitary the Nobel prize for these studies in 1909. With Jean6hyphen;Louis Prevost and Constant Picot, they founded the "Revue medicale de la Suisse romande", the most important Swiss medical journal of the 20th century. He is remembered in the field of Urology for a special needle designed to pass through a suture in a time were catgut and silk were the most employed sutures to control organ pedicles.Reverdin, that pertains to the glorious epoch were surgery -performed under anaesthesia and with the antisepsis postulates of Lister and Pasteur-, reached most of his goals, is remembered for the first human transplant (skin grafting), and, fortunately, one of the several surgical instrument he designed, the Reverdin needle, had a revival in current laparoscopic surgery.

Salud pública e inestabilidad política en Venezuela durante los gobiernos de Guzmán Blanco, 1870-1888

In this paper, we analyze how during Guzman Blanco governmental periods epidemic cycles generated a sense of distrust and political instability. The misinterpretation form governmental authorities lead to think that oppositionists promoted the closure of ports, a halt on exchange and limitations to the access to economic resources coming from foreign trade with the purpose of obtain political benefits. To avoid oppositionists politically use epidemics cycles, governmental action were addressed to prevent rumors and to put down any political action related to this matter. Guzman government also efficiently carried out an information policy from consular offices aimed to take advantage from up-to-date information with respect to vessels movements and their internal health situation. Moreover, a set of highly effective national and international preventative measure were adopted in order to control and manage epidemic cycles.

Treatment of submucous cleft palate by pharyngeal flap as a primary procedure

(a) Palatal repair is the standard surgical method for correction of velopharyngeal incompetence due to submucous cleft, but some patients may need further narrowing of velopharynx by pharyngeal flap. (b) The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a pharyngeal flap as a single surgical procedure in the treatment of symptomatic cases. Nine cases of symptomatic submucous cleft palate were subjected to treatment by pharyngeal flap only as a primary and single procedure after failure of speech therapy. Preoperative flexible nasopharyngoscopy was carried out for all children to determine the width of the velopharyngeal gap; the results were recorded on videotape and reviewed in the operating theatre for determination of the width of the pharyngeal flap. Postoperative follow-up by flexible nasopharyngoscopy and parent's questionnaire were used to assess the success rate. Follow-up flexible nasopharyngoscopy showed complete closure of the lateral ports in eight cases (89%) while one case (11%) showed incompetence. Hypernasality was improved in all cases witnessed by parent's questionnaire and this improvement was satisfactory in seven cases (78%) but not satisfactory in two cases (22%). One of the last two cases reached to satisfactory level after speech therapy, while the other case showed no further improvement. Speech therapy alone cannot correct hypernasality in presence of anatomical defect. Pharyngeal flap is a useful procedure monitored by flexible nasopharyngoscopy. When pharyngeal flap is used, the need for adjunctive procedure is absent.

Markets panic, crude goes above $80, more trouble in Nigeria

This section summarizes downstream developments of the previous month. Exploration & Production are covered in 'Upstream Review'. The capture of two Israeli soldiers by Iranian‐backed Hizbollah guerrillas operating out of Lebanon flared‐up into a full‐scale military confrontation, with Israeli attacks on Lebanon's energy infrastructure (see 'Looking Ahead'). Oil traders, fearing a wider Middle Eastern conflagration, bid‐up the price of crude oil to new record levels. Prompt WTI futures hit $78.40/bbl on 14th July and three days later, prompt IPE Brent went to a record $78.18/bbl. The outer months rose even higher, with March, April and May WTI all above $80/bbl. Iran tried to dampen the markets by saying it would not use the oil weapon in support of its Hizbollah allies, and prices eventually eased. The seaborne trade in oil in the Eastern Mediterranean was disrupted by the closure of ports in Israel and Lebanon and a rise in insurance premiums for voyages to ports nearby. Outside the Levant, markets remained well‐supplied with oil.

Assessment of a method to expel intraperitoneal gas after gynecologic laparoscopy

To assess a method using instillation of saline to expel all residual intraperitoneal CO2 after laparoscopy. If successful, this would enable clinicians to use radiography as a simple diagnostic test to detect bowel perforation following laparoscopic surgery. Cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). Department of Endo-Gynecology, Royal Hospital for Women, Sydney, Australia. Thirty women undergoing elective gynecologic laparoscopic surgery. At completion of surgery, the patient remained in maximum head- down position as the abdomen was filled with up to 1 L of normal saline. The suprapubic port remained open to allow the CO2 to escape as it was displaced by the saline. Closure of abdominal ports was completed in routine manner. Erect upper abdominal radiographs were taken 24 hours after surgery, and measurements of any subdiaphragmatic gas were recorded. If gas was evident at 24 hours, a repeat radiograph was performed at 48 hours. Of the 30 patients recruited, four did not complete the study protocol. There was evidence of subdiaphragmatic gas in 25 (96%) of 26 patients on the radiograph taken 24 hours postsurgery. The median volume of gas was 12.9 mL (range 0-2003 mL; IQ range 2.0-144 mL). Of the patients that had a second radiograph, 76% still had subdiaphragmatic gas present. This method for displacement of residual intraperitoneal gas at the end of laparoscopy does not appear to be effective.

Efficacy and histological changes following collagen plug closure of fetoscopic access ports in the Rhesus monkey

FETOSCOPIC ACCESS PORTS IN THE RHESUS MONKEY JAN DEPREST, WOUT FEITZ, LIESBETH LEWI, ELINE POLIARD, ROLAND DEVLIEGER, ALEX HANSSEN, PAUL VAN DEN BERG, KU Leuven, Centre for Surgical Technologies, Leuven, Belgium, University Medical Center Nijmegen, Urology, Nijmagen, Netherlands, Katholieke Universiteit Nijmegen, Dierenlaboratorium, Nijmegen, Netherlands, University Medical Center Nijmegen, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nijmegen, Netherlands OBJECTIVE: In rabbits we demonstrated that collagen-plugs (Gratacos, AJOG 2000) prevent consequences of iatrogenic PPROM. We evaluated efficacy, fetal side effects and histological changes following collagen plug closure of fetoscopic cannulation in a non-human primates. STUDY DESIGN: 10 Rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) underwent @88-105 d a standardized fetoscopy and partial amnioexchange using two 3mm cannulas. Port sites were randomly assigned to closure with collagen plug (n Z 6) or left for spontaneous closure (normal; n Z 4). At 140 d cesarean section (CS) was performed to evaluate membrane integrity and harvest port sites.Outcome measures were amniotic fluid index (AFI) before and 1 week after fetoscopy and at CS, PPROM, membrane appearance and fetal side effects. Microscopy included morphology and immunohistochemistry (Ki-67 for proliferation, cytokeratin as epithelial marker and CD68 for macrophages). RESULTS: None miscarried, showed amniorrhexis or amniotic bands and all fetuses survived. In 9/12 (75%) plugged sites the membranes were clinically sealed; 5 with apparent intact membranes and 4 with visible plug in the defect. The 3 others had a membrane defect without visible plug. In controls, 3/8 ports sealed (37%), while in 5 a persistent defect was present (P Z .09). AFI dropped from 6.2 (3.0–12.2) to 3.0 (0-7.2) at CS in all (P .004) without difference between groups. One plugged subject had membrane separation and oligohydramnios. In the 4 with plug in the defect, membranes were on histology not restored. The plug was invaded with cytokeratin-negative cells and macrophages. At the interface there were more macrofages, small blood vessels and increased proliferative activity around the site. CONCLUSION: Collagen plugs sealed in 75% vs 37% in controls. Small numbers and low incidence of iPPROM may explain absence of significant differences. There were no fetal side effects. Despite clinically and functionally effective sealing there was no true membrane restoration and decrease in AFI. Healing response consists of fibroblast invasion, mild inflammation and angiogenesis. S100 SMFM Abstracts

Optional sump: novel use of triple lumen closed drainage system.

The debate over the use of drains in abdominal surgery is controversial. Selective drainage using a closed system is the method employed by most surgeons. There are, however, specific circumstances where different forms of drainage are required. One hundred and sixty-seven patients undergoing a mix of complex upper gastrointestinal surgery and colorectal surgery received an Axiom sump drain at the time of surgery. All side air vents were spigoted and the main lumina connected to a urine bag, with the option to convert to irrigation/suction as required. Two patients required conversion to irrigation/suction, because of ongoing egress of fluid. In both cases drainage ceased without surgical intervention. The remaining cases resolved with no complications related to the drain. The technique described allows the use of a large bore, soft, gravity-driven drain in cases where wound drainage is necessary. The closure of the ventilation ports maintains the advantage of a closed drainage system, yet allows for the conversion to a true sump system as required. This obviates the need for further drainage procedures.

Endoscopic Forehead Rejuvenation: Using Bone Channels for Soft-Tissue Suspension

Introduction: The use of endoscopic procedures to facilitate the rejuvenation of the upper face offers today's cosmetic surgery patient a less invasive and less morbid procedure, with comparable results to the various open techniques. Multiple methods of soft-tissue suspension have been utilized with varying results while performing endoscopic browlift procedures. All methods of suspension attempt to maintain the elevated brow, however they differ in length of time for fixation, use of hardware, and the need for secondary procedures. Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review various techniques of soft-tissue suspension for endoscopic forehead rejuvenation and describe the bone channel technique. Methods: The authors present a brief review of the history of soft-tissue suspension in endoscopic forehead rejuvenation ranging from the use of scalp excision to resorbable suspension screws. A procedure for the use of bone channels to maintain suture suspension of the soft-tissue flap, which is currently in use at their institutions, is presented. Results: The bone channel procedure is a simple, predictable technique that provides long term suspension of the soft-tissue flap, eliminates the use of hardware, and allows for immediate closure of the instrumentation ports. Conclusions: This simple technique of suture suspension using bone channels in the outer cortex of the cranial bone provides an inexpensive and predictable alternative for endoscopic forehead rejuvenation. Proper use can successfully effect a pleasing and natural look for the facial cosmetic surgery patient.

Development of an M.I.S. for the prevention of hurricane damage on the Mexican coast

This article describes the first stages in the development of an early warning system to alert Mexican authorities of the possible track, intensity and consequences of incoming hurricanes. The MIS was developed to manage the impact of a hurricane, assisting decision-making before and after the event through the forecasting of possible scenarios. Every year over twenty tropical cyclones are generated over the waters surrounding Mexico: 61% in the Pacific Ocean, 39% in the Atlantic. Of these, around four will hit land or pass close by causing tremendous damage to the region economically, ecologically and of course, socially. Along the coast storm surge, surf beat, storm winds and heavy rain may effect the closure of ports even the evacuation of inhabitants. With 11,000 km of vulnerable coastline and a population of over 12 million living along them, Mexico is in dire need of some form of MIS for effective logistical planning to limit the damage caused by this devastating natural phenomenon. The MIS described is based on MAPINFO® 5.5 which analyses political boundaries, topographical and bathymetrical features, location of centres of population as well as the infrastructure including that of ports, oil platforms and pipelines. In addition a database from ORACLE®8i gives further analysis such as the type of constructions found in the settlements, detail of telecommunication networks and health services. With this information the probable track of the hurricane can be forecasted as well as possible damage to affected zones. As a result early warning announcements can be given and plans for the emergency made in advance.

ECONOMIC LOSSES INCURRED DUE TO DAMAGE AND CLOSURE OF PORTS IN HOKKAIDO DURING THE PASSAGE OF ICE FLOES

Damage caused by ice floes drifting down from the Sea of Okhotsk has a severe economic impact on communities located along the coast of Hokkaido, particularly those located on the Okhotsk Sea side. The force closure of many harbors and fishing ports along the coast of Hokkaido during the winter also has a severe economic impact. However, the total economic losses in Hokkaido due to damage and closure of ports caused by ice floes has not been clarified yet.The aim of this study was therefore to clarify, through questionnaires and interviews, the totaleconomic losses incurred due to damage and closure of ports in Hokkaido during the passage of ice floes.

Erosion in choke valves—oil and gas industry applications

This paper describes predictions of erosion depth in pressure reduction valves (chokes) caused by solids and large amounts of droplets. Solid and droplet erosion data for WC (tungsten carbide) with 6% Co and 6% Ni and polycrystalline diamond (PCD) have been transformed into correlations. These correlations have been coupled with particulated fluid flow models to determine the erosion depth due to solids and droplets. One solution to the solids erosion problem in chokes is to reduce the impact angle of the solids and/or apply PCD as target material. For needle chokes particulated flow calculations and experiments have demonstrated that small impingement angles can be achieved. The incubation period against droplet erosion of PCD is 4–5 times longer than for WC-6%Co. The erosion rates, however, are similar. Even if computations indicate that small droplet velocities may be achieved in the commonly used chokes (if no closure of ports by steel debris), experiments are required to verify the actual exposed areas in the choke (by soft material experiments) as well as the angular dependency indicated by rotating arm experiments.

Political and technical factors impinging on port operations: The case of Manchuria

Five readily discernible seminal events have moulded port-hinterland relations in Manchuria, and accordingly, have dictated the scale and scope of port operations. They are, in chronological order, the Treaty of Tientsin and the attendant opening of Newchang (Yingkou) to foreign trade in 1862, the lease to Russia in 1898 of the tip of the Liaodong peninsula and the founding thereon of the port of Dalny (Dalian), the seizure of Dalian by Japan in 19O5, the closure of Manchuria's ports to foreign trade with the accession of communist rule in China in 1949, and the reversal of that policy in no uncertain terms during the 1980s consequent upon China's conversion to “open port” thinking. Scarcely acknowledged because less perceptible, changes in the technology governing the characteristics and employment of ships have been equally critical in regulating port operations in this part of northern China. In particular, the twin driving forces leading to ship enlargement and specialisation have induced fundamental reorganisation of both waterfront and inland transfer facilities. These adaptations, abrupt and gradual, politically-inspired or technologically-motivated, are grist to the mill of this study.

The Closure of Ports in Control of Insurgents

The case of the Oriental Navigation Company, decided October 3, 1928, by the Claims Commission established between the United States and Mexico, has brought up anew the difficult question of the de jure government's right to close ports which are at the time in the de facto control of insurgents.