bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological, isotopic and proteomic study of the Pleistocene and Holocene fauna of Cova dos Santos (Abadín, Lugo, NW Spain)
Authors: García-Vázquez Ana , Vaqueiro-Rodriguez Marcos , Guitián Fernández Esteban , Grandal-d’Anglade Aurora
Published: December 2021

Cova dos Santos is a karstic cavity in Abadín (Lugo), in a hitherto unexplored area that may have been the natural route between the well-known Quaternary faunas of the Cantabrian Mountain Range and those located further south in Galicia, such as in the Serra do Courel. The surface surveys carried out during the topographic layout revealed the presence of deposits of bone remains, usually extremely fragmented, of medium and large vertebrates. Due to the nature of these remains, different molecular techniques (ZooMS, stable isotopes), radiocarbon dating, and morphological and metric analysis were used to characterise the remains present at the site. Combining these methods, it has been possible to identify different taxa such as Ursus speleaeus, Ursus arctos, Panthera pardus, Cervus elaphus, Rhinocerotidae, and to confirm the occupation of this cave since at least 43000 years ago calBP. The presence of domestic species, such as Ovis aries, Equus sp. and Gallus gallus, also shows the use of this cave in more recent times.
MATERIAL ISSUES FOR CURRENT AND ADVANCED NUCLEAR REACTOR DESIGNS
Authors: Hosemann Peter , Vujić Jasmina
Published: December 2021

In all engineering applications, design and materials together determine the functionality and reliability of a device. This is particularly important in nuclear systems where the materials are pushed to their limits and phenomena not present anywhere else occur. In nuclear systems a combination of high temperature and pressure, stress, corrosive environment and high radiation environment combined causes significant materials challenges. Majority of commercial LWRs today are licensed for 40 years of operation, but many of them undergo lifetime extension to 60 or possibly 80 years. Materials degradation has always been a significant issue. However, due to the lifetime plant extension, finding materials that could sustain prolonged exposure to these extreme conditions has become a significant problem. In addition to the materials challenges in current LWRs, advanced reactors usually deal with even more difficult issues due to their operational requirements. Unusual heat transport media, such as liquid metals, liquid salts or other types of coolants, lead to a whole new set of material challenges. While corrosion has been the main issue, much higher operating temperatures create additional difficulties. In this paper, we present an overview of materials issues for current and advanced nuclear reactor designs.
ACTUAL PROCESS PARAMETER DETERMINATION FOR MICRO-ENGRAVING OF FULLERENE FILM
Authors: Petrović Ivana , Nikolić Marina , Bojović Božica , Đuričić Ivan
Published: December 2021

Mechanical engineers are consistently challenged with the requirements posed by contemporary materials machining by using the existing equipment. In this case determining the cutting conditions becomes an actual problem. This paper offers a response to that request in the form of micro-machining of thin fullerene film deposited on a glass plate by using chemical vapor deposition method. Experimental verification of thin fullerene film machinability is conducted on computer numerical control engraving machine using a diamond scraper. Different values of process parameters are combined to determine adequate parameters set from groove edge quality aspect. During machining we noticed intensive wear, so one part of our research was directed towards determining the cause of tool wear. Modern equipment was used for qualitative analysis and near-optimal cutting condition selection and for analysis of wear debris. The results present a basis for further process optimization of thin fullerene film micro-engraving and for introduction of cutting conditions in the existing table for well-known materials.
INFLUENCE OF CRYSTALLIZATION TEMPERATURE ON THE ABSORPTION OF DIBUTYL PHTHALATE IN ZEOLITE A
Authors: Vasiljević Ljubica , Škundrić Branko , Lazić Dragica , Gligorić Miladin , Mićić Vladan
Published: December 2021

In order to determine the effect of crystallization temperature on the absorption and properties of zeolite A particles, we have monitored the modified dibutyl phthalate absorption ( DBP ), a degree of crystalline phase, specific surface area, mean diameter of particle ( DS50 % ), and performed scanning electron microscopy ( SEM ) of the synthesized samples of zeolites. The synthesis of samples was carried out at crystallization temperatures of 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90°C ; the raw materials (sodium aluminate and sodium silicate) were heated at 90°C. The particle size of the synthesized samples is similar in most studied systems at all temperatures of crystallization, which is in accordance with the principles of the autocatalytic nucleation and „memory effect” of the gel. An increase in the specific surface area of the synthesized samples with the increase in the crystallization temperature was observed in all the analyzed systems (3.25 to 35.31 m2/g). It was found that the increase of crystallization temperature increases the absorption of dibutyl phthalate(0.90-1.20 cm3/g ); however, at the same time, the proportion of zeolite A in the same samples is reduced, as confirmed by SEM analysis.
Monitoring Spatial and Temporal Scales of Shoreline Changes in Lahou-Kpanda (Southern Ivory Coast) Using Landsat Data Series (TM, ETM+ and OLI)
Authors: Zonkouan Badjo Ruth Virginia , Bachri Imane , Beda Abaze Henri Joel , N'Guessan Kpangba Aristide Meniansou
Published: December 2021

Shoreline changes are crucial for assessing human-ecosystem interactions in coastal environments. They are a valuable tool for determining the environmental costs of socioeconomic growth along coasts. In this research, we present an assessment of shoreline changes along the eastern coast of Lahou-Kpanda of the Ivory Coast during the period from 1980 to 2020 by applying Digital Shoreline Analysis System method using Landsat Data Series. The measurement of the shoreline dynamics of the Lahou-Kpanda coastline is mainly described in three parts: the west straight cordon, the dynamics at the mouth and the east straight cordon. The findings show a drastic reduction in natural shorelines. The greatest transition occurred along the mouth segment of the coast, where the average erosive velocity approaches 90 meters each year and the average distance has decreased by around 2 kilometers. The Ivory Coast lost more than 40% of its biological shorelines between 1980 and 2020, according to this report, a worrying development because these are regions that were once biologically abundant and highly rich. In general, human operations on the Ivory Coast’s shorelines have never had such an impact. The effects of these changes on habitats, as well as the vulnerability of new shoreline investments to increased human activity and sea-level rise, must be measured.
A Clinician-Free Method Using Top-View Photography for Screening and Monitoring Hallux Valgus
Authors: Fong Daniel T.P. , Heng Marabelle Li-wen , Pan Jing Wen , Lim Yi Yan , Lee Pei-Yueng , Kong Pui Wah
Published: December 2021

Background

Hallux valgus is a progressive foot deformity that commonly affects middle-aged women. The aim of this study was to develop a novel method using only top-view photographs to assess hallux valgus severity.

Methods

A top-view digital photograph was taken of each foot of 70 female participants. Two straight lines were drawn along the medial edge of the great toe and forefoot, and the included angle (termed bunion angle) was measured using a free software program. Each foot was also assessed by a clinician using the Manchester scale as no (grade 1), mild (grade 2), moderate (grade 3), or severe (grade 4) deformity.

Results

The mean bunion angles of the 140 feet were 6.7°, 13.5°, and 16.2° for Manchester grades 1, 2, and 3, respectively (no foot was in grade 4). The reliability was excellent for both intrarater (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.93–0.95) and interrater (ICC = 0.90) assessments. Receiver operating characteristic curves determined the optimal bunion angle cutoff value for screening hallux valgus to be 9°, which gives 89.2% sensitivity and 74.2% specificity.

Conclusions

The bunion angle is a reliable, clinician-free method that can potentially be integrated into a smartphone app for easy and inexpensive self-assessment of hallux valgus.
A Pragmatic, Single-Center, Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial of Adjunct Hemoglobin-Mediated Granulox Topical Oxygen Therapy Twice Weekly for Foot Ulcers
Authors: Jonker Leon , Smith Danielle , Mark Emma , Thornthwaite Sarah , Gunn Carol , Fisher Stacey
Published: December 2021

Background

Achieving timely healing of foot ulcers can help avoid complications such as infection and amputation; topical oxygen therapy has shown promise in achieving this. We evaluated the clinical effectiveness of Granulox, a hemoglobin spray device designed to deliver oxygen to the surface of wounds, for the healing of foot ulcers.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial comparing standard of care (once-weekly podiatric medical clinic visits) versus standard care plus adjunct Granulox therapy twice weekly in adults with foot ulcers. After a 2-week screening phase, patients in whom the index wound had healed by less than 50% were randomized 1:1. Outcome measures were collated during the trial phase at 6 and 12 weeks.

Results

Of 79 patients enrolled, 38 were randomized. After 12 weeks, the median percentage wound size reduction compared with the size of the ulcer at the start of the trial phase was 100% for the control arm and 48% for the Granulox arm (P = .21, Mann-Whitney U test). In the former, eight of 14 foot ulcers had healed; in the latter, four of 15 (P = .14, Fisher exact test). In the control arm, two amputations and one withdrawal occurred, whereas in the Granulox arm, one unrelated death and five withdrawals were recorded.

Conclusions

We could not replicate the favorable healing associated with use of Granulox as published by others. Differences in wound chronicity and frequency of Granulox application might have influenced differences in study results. Granulox might perform best when used as an adjunct for treatment of chronic wounds at least 8 weeks old.
Is TCC-EZ a Suitable Alternative to Gold Standard Total-Contact Casting?
Authors: Bhatt Umangi K. , Foo Hui Ying , McEvoy Mahalia P. , Tomlinson Sarah J. , Westphal Cara , Harrison Jessica C. , Oshin Olufemi , Carter Sarah L.
Published: December 2021

Background

The total-contact cast (TCC) is the gold standard for off-loading diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) given its nonremovable nature. However, this modality remains underused in clinical settings due to the time and experience required for appropriate application. The TCC-EZ is an alternative off-loading modality marketed as being nonremovable and having faster and easier application. This study aims to investigate the potential of the TCC-EZ to reduce foot plantar pressures.

Methods

Twelve healthy participants (six males, six females) were fitted with a removable cast walker, TCC, TCC-EZ, and TCC-EZ with accompanying brace removed. These off-loading modalities were tested against a control. Pedar-X technology measured peak plantar pressures in each condition. Statistical analysis of four regions of the foot (rearfoot, midfoot, forefoot, and hallux) was conducted with Friedman and Wilcoxon signed rank tests. Significance was set at P < .05.

Results

All of the off-loading conditions significantly reduced pressure compared with the control, except the TCC-EZ without the brace in the hallux region. There was no statistically significant difference between TCC-EZ and TCC peak pressure in any foot region. The TCC-EZ without the brace obtained significantly higher peak pressures than with the brace. The removable cast walker produced similar peak pressure reduction in the midfoot and forefoot but significantly higher peak pressures in the rearfoot and hallux.

Conclusions

The TCC-EZ is a viable alternative to the TCC. However, removal of the TCC-EZ brace results in minimal plantar pressure reduction, which might limit clinical applications of the TCC-EZ.
Simultaneous recording of multiple cellular signaling events by frequency- and spectrally-tuned multiplexing of fluorescent probes
Authors: Kierzek Michelina , Deal Parker E , Miller Evan W , Mukherjee Shatanik , Wachten Dagmar , Baumann Arnd , Kaupp U Benjamin , Strünker Timo , Brenker Christoph
Published: December 2021

Fluorescent probes that change their spectral properties upon binding to small biomolecules, ions, or changes in the membrane potential (Vm) are invaluable tools to study cellular signaling pathways. Here, we introduce a novel technique for simultaneous recording of multiple probes at millisecond time resolution: frequency- and spectrally-tuned multiplexing (FASTM). Different from present multiplexing approaches, FASTM uses phase-sensitive signal detection, which renders various combinations of common probes for Vm and ions accessible for multiplexing. Using kinetic stopped-flow fluorimetry, we show that FASTM allows simultaneous recording of rapid changes in Ca2+, pH, Na+, and Vm with high sensitivity and minimal crosstalk. FASTM is also suited for multiplexing using single-cell microscopy and genetically encoded FRET biosensors. Moreover, FASTM is compatible with optochemical tools to study signaling using light. Finally, we show that the exceptional time resolution of FASTM also allows resolving rapid chemical reactions. Altogether, FASTM opens new opportunities for interrogating cellular signaling.
Author-sourced capture of pathway knowledge in computable form using Biofactoid
Authors: Wong Jeffrey V , Franz Max , Siper Metin Can , Fong Dylan , Durupinar Funda , Dallago Christian , Luna Augustin , Giorgi John , Rodchenkov Igor , Babur Özgün , Bachman John A , Gyori Benjamin M , Demir Emek , Bader Gary D , Sander Chris
Published: December 2021

Making the knowledge contained in scientific papers machine-readable and formally computable would allow researchers to take full advantage of this information by enabling integration with other knowledge sources to support data analysis and interpretation. Here we describe Biofactoid, a web-based platform that allows scientists to specify networks of interactions between genes, their products, and chemical compounds, and then translates this information into a representation suitable for computational analysis, search and discovery. We also report the results of a pilot study to encourage the wide adoption of Biofactoid by the scientific community.
Detecting genes associated with antimicrobial resistance and pathogen virulence in three New Zealand rivers
Authors: Davis Meredith , Midwinter Anne C. , Cosgrove Richard , Death Russell G.
Published: December 2021

The emergence of clinically significant antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria is frequently attributed to the use of antimicrobials in humans and livestock and is often found concurrently with human and animal pathogens. However, the incidence and natural drivers of antimicrobial resistance and pathogenic virulence in the environment, including waterways and ground water, are poorly understood. Freshwater monitoring for microbial pollution relies on culturing bacterial species indicative of faecal pollution, but detection of genes linked to antimicrobial resistance and/or those linked to virulence is a potentially superior alternative. We collected water and sediment samples in the autumn and spring from three rivers in Canterbury, New Zealand; sites were above and below reaches draining intensive dairy farming. Samples were tested for loci associated with the AMR-related group 1 CTX-M enzyme production (blaCTX-M) and Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC). The blaCTX-M locus was only detected during spring and was more prevalent downstream of intensive dairy farms. Loci associated with STEC were detected in both the autumn and spring, again predominantly downstream of intensive dairying. This cross-sectional study suggests that targeted testing of environmental DNA is a useful tool for monitoring waterways. Further studies are now needed to extend our observations across seasons and to examine the relationship between the presence of these genetic elements and the incidence of disease in humans.
El cambio de jurisprudencia por la Contraloría general de la República: ¿Cómo determinar sus efectos en el tiempo?
Authors: Phillips Letelier Jaime
Published: December 2021

La Contraloría General de la República, al introducir un cambio de criterio, no suele argumentar por qué concreta de una forma u otra los efectos en el tiempo de la nueva jurisprudencia. Lo anterior es problemático dado el efecto normativo que tiene la jurisprudencia de este organismo. Por esto, se proponen criterios que permitirán: resolver cómo concretar los efectos temporales de un cambio de jurisprudencia, limitar la aplicación extensiva de la retroactividad favorable y analizar cómo implementar un cambio de jurisprudencia motivado por la ilegalidad de un criterio anterior.
Foot Drop: A Rare Post COVID-19 Complication
Authors: Aradhey Parag Rameshrao , Kinkar Jiwan , Gade Neeta Dilip , Takalkar Kedar , Patil Tushar
Published: December 2021

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus which has caused Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, may also affect neural axis at different levels including Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). There is increasing evidence of neurological complications caused by SARS-CoV-2. Though isolated facial nerve involvement has been reported in literature, isolated peroneal nerve palsy secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection is a rare occurrence. This article reported two such rare cases (53-year-old male/45-year-old male) of foot drop where isolated peroneal nerve involvement was present on nerve conduction study. It was possibly caused by an immune mediated mechanism in patients who had recovered from COVID-19 infection.
Characterization of Emissions and Residue from Measures to Improve Efficiency of In Situ Oil Burns
Authors: Gullett Brian K. , Aurell Johanna , Holder Amara , Lamie Nathan , Arsava Kemal , Conmy Robyn , Sundaravadivelu Devi , Stone Karen
Published: December 2021

ABSTRACT NUMBER: 1141223

Simulated in situ oil burning tests were conducted in a 14 m × 2.4 m × 2.4 m tank to characterize variations in boom length/width aspect ratios, the use of injection air, nozzle angle, and presence or absence of waves on combustion efficiency. Tests were done with approximately 35 L of unweathered Alaska North Slope oil within an outdoor, fresh water, 63 m3 tank. The combustion plume was sampled with a crane-suspended instrument system. Emission measurements quantified carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particulate matter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5), and total carbon. Post-burn residue samples were collected with pre-weight oil absorbent to determining oil mass loss and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in the residue.

Plume measurements of modified combustion efficiencies (MCET) ranged from 85% to 93%. Measurement of residual, unburnt oil showed that the oil mass loss ranged from 89% to 99%. A three-fold variation in PM2.5 emission factors was observed from the test conditions where the emission factors decreased with increased MCE. The TPH in the residue were found to decrease with increased oil mass loss percentage. In terms of combustion efficiency and oil consumption, results suggest that the most effective burns were those that have high length to width boom aspect ratios and added injection air.
Case Study of a SCAT Survey and Successful Remediation Strategy by Mechanical Mixing of a Fuel Oil Spill into a Mountain Stream
Authors: Owens Ed , Reimer Doug
Published: December 2021

ABSTRACT # 1141233

The cargo of a double-tank truck carrying diesel and gasoline was released directly into a fast-flowing upland stream following an accident on a mountainous section of road in British Columbia (BC), Canada. High concentrations of the product were trapped in the interstitial spaces of coarse (cobble-boulder) sediments during a period of rising water levels. Almost the entire river backshore in the affected area was characterized by steep wooded slopes so that access everywhere was very difficult. These constraints for the SCAT program largely were overcome where direct backshore access was not possible using river rafts, boats (on the reservoir above the dam) and small Unmanned Aerial System (sUASs). Based on the survey results, a 4x4 Spider Walking Excavator equipped with a Universal grab on the hydraulic arm was deployed over a 2.5 km section of river immediately downstream of the accident site over a 9-day period. The grab rotated to mix the sediment or lifted and moved cobbles and boulders along the channel margin and in river bed sediments to release the oil. Swift Water Rescue personnel and river rescue response equipment were positioned with the Spider operations and the SCAT river bank surveys throughout the project, and used to scout river conditions ahead of SCAT rafting operations. Air monitoring was maintained throughout the response during all operations both along river banks as well as in the cab of the Spider while working in the river. A small UAS quadcopter was deployed to monitor the mixing activity in real time where the excavator could operate but ground access was unsafe or physically not possible. Standard SCAT practices were followed to provide the Unified Command (UC) with Shoreline Treatment Recommendation (STR) forms to guide the operations activities and once the treatment criteria were achieved STR Inspection Reports (SIRs) were submitted for approval by the UC. A downstream daily water sampling program monitored for PHs, VOCs and PAHs in the river waters during the mixing operations downstream of the operations area. At no time during the mechanical mixing activities (April 3 – 12) did the results of the analyses exceed Canadian and BC Water Quality Guidelines standards downstream past the confluence with the Salmo River and standards only were exceeded for the first few days of mechanical mixing (April 3 – April 5) during the period that the Spider was working on the upper reaches of the South Salmo.
Advocating for scientifically sound spill response decision making in a social media driven world
Authors: Varghese Geeva , Coolbaugh Thomas , Parker Barbara
Published: December 2021

In today's world of rapid information sharing, multiple communication platforms, data sources, and an unending stream of opinions and commentary are the norm. In this increasingly interconnected world there is a tendency to blur the critical distinction between opinion and fact and to consider that all opinions are created equally and are of equal weight. Add to this an increased noise level around most subjects and a general lack of scientific discourse around technical topics and the end result has been an increased lack of acceptance or understanding of expert, fact-based opinions. This presents a challenge during the outreach efforts of the spill response community in that a number of potential stakeholders, often with less experience, may have developed their own “expert attitude” with respect to spill response tools and their use.

In spill response, this growing trend of questioning established knowledge or expert opinion presents a unique challenge as timely decision making is critical towards mounting a successful response.

Spill incidents are complex and usually consist of evolving scenarios, where scientifically-sound decisions are to be made against the wider context of operational considerations and ecological, socio-economic and cultural sensitivities. Often these nuances are missed or unknown to the general public and established practices and proven operational principles may be disregarded in the presence of other, potentially less rigorous or fact-based information that is easily found via social media channels and/or through the opinions and beliefs of less informed laypersons. It is difficult to ensure that a scientifically-sound message is getting through these multiple inputs of unfiltered data and this has the potential to negatively influence response decision making or, in the worst cases, hinder the successful use of all tools in the response toolbox.

In the following paper, the authors examine spill response advocacy efforts aimed at promoting scientifically-sound response decision-making by various oil spill industry stakeholders since the Deepwater Horizon incident. While reviewing the lessons learned from these efforts, the authors will closely examine the heightened public awareness and engagement through social media channels and how it influences stakeholder risk perception of oil spills and various response options. The paper will assess the emerging challenges towards stakeholder engagement in relation to the oil spill response community and make recommendations for the future on scientific discourse, outreach and communication and potential effects on response decision making in a social media obsessed world.
A Simulation-based Contingency Planning Tool for Offshore Oil Spill Response
Authors: Ye Xudong , Chen Bing , Lee Kenneth , Storesund Rune
Published: December 2021

Session: (PS-03) Response

The improvement of offshore oil spill responses efficiency to minimize economic and environmental impacts has become a major need worldwide. This paper presents an Oil Spill Simulation and Response Selection tool (OSSRS) for international applications that is designed to support spill response contingency planning by industry and government. This proposed tool combines the advantages of currently efficient oil spill tools (i.e., Response Options Calculator (ROC) and Incident Command System (ICS)) and upgrades the capabilities of spill simulation and response selection by integrating a new Agent-Based Modeling (ABM) software platform, scenarios of icy marine environment and a new optimization module developed by Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control Laboratory (NRPOP Lab). The agent-based offshore oil spill simulation module has been developed to simulate the over-time changes of oil spill behaviors and characteristics as well as the actions of and interactions among individual devices and/or response centre. The simulation tool can consider an offshore spill with multiple slicks and multiple means of response techniques (e.g., booming, skimmers, dispersant, in-situ burning). The effects of oil weathering and characteristics include slick thickness, viscosity, remaining oil volume, affected area, temperature, ice cover, evaporation, dispersion, and emulsification, etc. The optimization module can provide contingency plans of response selections and resource allocation with a minimal demand of response sources. Response time, response cost, and environmental sensitivity and impacts are considered as three criteria for planning and decision making. A hypothetic case in the North Atlantic is applied to examine the efficiency of the proposed tool under an icy marine environment. Based on the result, OSSRS has a comparable capacity. The system has considerable scalability. The response capabilities and simulation modules can be adjusted according to needs. Requirements for levels of response competency may change over time or from different stakeholders. The proposed tool is a powerful and useful tool to help decision makers for oil spill responses by providing the optimal contingency plans under different requirements of criteria.
Shoreline Contamination Report 2015 SS Arrow Spill Chedabucto Bay, NS, Canada
Authors: MacDonald Shannon , Zrum Leanne , Grenon Stéphane , Laforest Sonia , Lambert Patrick
Published: December 2021

The 1970 SS Arrow incident in Chedabucto Bay, Nova Scotia (NS) was a milestone event in Canada's oil spill response history and has been used by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) for ongoing research for almost 50 years. In August of 2015, the remaining sunken section of the SS ARROW released Bunker C oil from its tanks and some sections of shorelines impacted in 1970 were affected once again. The Canadian Coast Guard led the 2015 response effort, which included Shoreline Clean-Up and Assessment Technique (SCAT) surveys, to evaluate the contamination on the shorelines of Chedabucto Bay. This poster presents an overview of the 1970 event as well as the shoreline contamination resulting from the 2015 release from the SS Arrow. It summarizes the SCAT survey results and the operational response of the ECCC's National Environmental Emergencies Centre (NEEC) in support of the incident.
A Case Study of Oil Spill Trajectory Forecast Model for Effective Clean Up
Authors: T R Akshaya , K Murali , Raju Kumaran
Published: December 2021

Oil spills near the shore is an important environmental problem. The oil spill has to be contained in the early stages of the accident which otherwise would spread rapidly making it hard to control. The oil gets weathered affecting marine life and can get into the food chain and cause ecological distress. It also affects port and harbour activities. The after effects of the spill are mostly irreversible, so it is essential to follow proper control measures. It is essential to establish the spill forecast and movement for necessary prevention and mitigation measures. To do this, oil spill trajectory forecast models need to develop, that helps to provide the action plans to control the spill. A hydrodynamic simulation is carried out for the Ennore 2017 Chennai oil spill of India and corresponding trajectory analysis is performed. The results of the simulation will aid for effective cleanup measures to be followed in the region.
An assessment of the feasibility of using skirt containment boom together with paravanes for offshore response
Authors: Montgomery Alex
Published: December 2021

The use of conventional offshore containment boom is a recognised way of containing and recovering oil spilt at sea. However, there are various operational and logistical challenges with their use. One of the largest being that their containment becomes ineffective when towed through the water at speeds of greater than 0.75 knots. Containment and collection of oil using high speed systems allows for greater tow speeds (2–3 knots) without failure and can be operated with a paravane as a single ship system.

Oil Spill Response Limited (OSRL) have had numerous requests from its members to supply offshore containment and recovery systems suitable for a single vessel deployment. The reason for this was to help with the challenges of low availability of vessels suitable for offshore operations and to reduce high costs. OSRL have used manufacturers guidance to advise its members on the best options however wished to have its own data to further support this guidance and provide user-validated recommendations to its members.

OSRL have investigated the viability of using a paravane with a conventional offshore boom using field tests. These tests focused on vessel tow speed, current speed, boom containment effectiveness and encounter area. A number of deployments were carried out using conventional inflation boom and a medium sized paravane in Southampton Water, UK in 2018 (Figure 1). Observations were gathered to identify the point of boom failure when towed at different speeds and whether a suitable encounter area could be achieved.

This poster will provide the detail on the feasibility of towing a conventional offshore boom with a single vessel and paravane, see boom configuration in Figure 2. It will outline specifications and parameters which make for a successful / unsuccessful deployment of conventional boom with paravane and provide recommendations for Tier 1 single vessel deployment equipment.
The Status of Oiled Wildlife Preparedness and Response in the NOWPAP Region
Authors: Kang Seong-Gil , Joung Tae-Hwan , Lee Joung-Yun , Lee Siyeon , You Young
Published: December 2021

Abstract and introduction

The Marine Environmental Emergency Preparedness and Response Regional Activity Centre (MERRAC) is one of four Regional Activity Centres of the Northwest Pacific Action Plan (NOWPAP). It was adopted in 1994 as a Regional Seas Programme of UNEP by the People's Republic of China, Japan, Republic of Korea and Russian Federation and is responsible for regional co-operation on marine pollution preparedness and response in the NOWPAP region.

The shipping density has been growing greatly in the NOWPAP region due to the high level of industrial and economic development of the NOWPAP member states and consequently, the region has been severely exposed to oil spills. Oil spill incidents were identified as one of the threatening elements to the marine environment and coastal biota, especially, birds and marine mammals that live mostly near the coast.

Objective: We collected existing data on oiled wildlife including relevant response techniques for rescuing, relevant national laws/policies and guidelines concerning response of the oiled wildlife from the NOWPAP Member States to mitigate the damage on the oiled wildlife. Based upon the reviews, we be identified weaknesses and challenges on oiled wildlife issues in the region, suggesting the possible future action plan to taken by NOWPAP members.
Potential Role of Marine Snow in the Fate of Spilled Oil in Cook Inlet, Alaska
Authors: Ross Jesse J. , Kinner Nancy , Ziervogel Kai , Saupe Susan
Published: December 2021

The objective of the research is to inform response decision-making and understanding of the potential association of spilled oil with marine snow in Cook Inlet, Alaska. While extensive research has been conducted on minerals aggregating with spilled oil, larger organic aggregates, such as marine snow, have only recently been studied as a transport mechanism. This knowledge gap in understanding the fate of oil was highlighted as part of the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative (GoMRI) following the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) spill. It was determined that significant percentages of spilled oil reached the seafloor as a result of association with marine snow during both DWH and the Ixtoc 1 blowouts. As development of oil resources continues in Alaska and the Arctic, marine snow is a significant oil exposure pathway that must be considered during oil spill response. In parallel with a corresponding sedimentation study, input from local, federal and industry experts was used to develop laboratory scale oil exposure experiments to evaluate the potential for oil-marine snow aggregate formation in Cook Inlet. Roller-bottle experiments were conducted from May to July 2019 to assess the interactions between a 5 μm sheen of Alaska North Slope crude oil and Cook Inlet surface water. Aggregate formation was documented and sinking flocs were observed and analyzed with fluorescence microscopy to estimate oil content. The total oil volumes estimated in aggregates were between 0.01 to 0.4 μl. Estimates of total oil volume associated with the aggregates ranged from 0.6 to 9.3 % ± 1.4% of the total oil volume (80 μl) that was added to the bottles. The incorporation of spilled oil in surface forming aggregates will contribute to understanding fate and response implications in Cook Inlet and other northern regions at risk of spilled oil entering the benthic food web via association with sinking marine snow.
Identifying local oil spill risk factors: An application of Hazard Identification within the International Maritime Organization Formal Safety Assessment framework in Washington State
Authors: Kirk Brian , Thompson Sara
Published: December 2021

Abstract Number 677002

Oil spills from commercial vessels are low probability, high consequence events that threaten economic, ecological, cultural, and natural resources. Washington State Department of Ecology Spill's Program (Ecology) has a robust risk assessment program that focuses on identifying and reducing oil spill risks to Washington waters. In 2017-2018, Ecology developed and implemented a novel application of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Formal Safety Assessment process to lead a collaborative Hazard Identification for oil spill risk in Grays Harbor, Washington. This use of the IMO Formal Safety Assessment Process to assess oil spill risk was a first for Washington State and appears to be unique among US state governments.

Working with area tribes, government agencies, and stakeholders, Ecology modified the IMO Formal Safety Assessment process to focus on local factors that could contribute to oil spill risks. Ecology facilitated structured brainstorming discussions during two workshops to complete Hazard Identification. Focusing on local factors fostered collaborative discussion among workshop participants, and allowed the process to benefit from local expertise about the characteristics of waterway and operational practices. The workshops resulted in the identification of 43 local factors related to oil spill risks, 34 recommendations to reduce risks based on current vessel traffic, and 10 recommendations to consider if vessel traffic increases in the future. The recommendations from this assessment are directly informing operations in Grays Harbor; in 2019, the Grays Harbor Safety Committee voted to adopt the risk assessment final report as an addendum to their Harbor Safety Plan. Ecology is also working with area tribes, government agencies, and stakeholders to review and prioritize the risk assessment recommendations with a goal of developing implementation plans for selected measures.

This application of the IMO Formal Safety Assessment process represents a repeatable, scalable, and defensible method for conducting oil spill risk assessments. Ecology plans to use this process in other state waterways, and invites other organizations to consider adopting these methods. The presentation will walk through how to apply this process for localized waterway risk assessments and discuss best practices for success. Additionally, Ecology will discuss new risk analysis initiatives directed by the Washington State Legislature, including development of a quantitative model for evaluating oil spill risk and the potential effect of risk reduction measures.
Incident Command Futurism
Authors: Gravenmier Josh , McGowan Greg
Published: December 2021

The availability of integrated remote sensing platforms and digital data collection and sharing tools is changing spill response. These tools facilitate a more effective and rapid decision-making process that can increase resource protection, improve responder safety, and reduce response costs. Early detection and response are a key to preventing smaller incidents from becoming larger. A variety of innovative tools now exist or are in development that could assist facilities and responders in the early stages and throughout an incident event to reduce human, environmental, and economic impacts. Real time field data collection for key parameters such as oil thickness and trajectory, SCAT data, oiled wildlife details, and resources at risk identification, allows for more robust data to be shared rapidly throughout the response operation. This information facilitates more effectively targeted deployment and re-deployment of human and mechanical response assets, and more immediate assessment of both environmental impacts and cleanup progress. Auto-population of incident command system forms as well as better document sharing and document retention through remote and cloud-based file saving platforms can improve the administrative and functional aspects of the response, contributing to enhanced efficiency. The ability to identify and effectively respond to rapidly changing circumstances provides the Unified Command with new tools to make better decisions and keep the public informed of progress. This paper considers new and emerging technologies as they may be applied to the work in a unified command setting, and how they may allow us to compress the operational period for decision-making and action, more accurately and more rapidly understand and share the spill response status, and how we may be able to enhance responder safety and recognize cost savings. We also consider some inherent risks associated with reliance on integrated technologies and digital information and will offer suggestions for drills and exercises to test and optimize these tools.
Optimising Subsea Well Source Control Timeframes
Authors: Best Andrew , Brenan Patrick
Published: December 2021

In response to the Montara and Macondo subsea well incidents in 2009–10, the industry's knowledge of and ability to respond to a subsea source control (SSC) event has greatly improved. Industry has invested heavily in its response capabilities and established best practices to resolve future incidents that may arise in the offshore oil and gas operations. The investment has driven rapid advancements in science, engineering, and new technological equipment developments to establish a higher standard for SSC preparedness and readiness. The industry now has a high confidence in its ability to deal with a subsea well release. The growth in capability has led to many variations in equipment and response plans, which has led to complexity in an already highly technical field.

To reduce the complexity, common understanding is required of all the actions that comprise a SSC response, the linkages and dependencies between all the actions, and the critical path items that influence the overall timeframes of regaining control of the well. With a common understanding of the response plan comes enhanced industry, regulator and community confidence in the ability of the oil and gas industry to appropriately manage its environmental and social impacts. To help with this effort, the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (IOGP) has produced reports 592, 594 and 595. Report 594 is a guideline that can be used to support subsea source control response planning and Report 595 addresses capping stack design and operational reliability.

IOGP Report 592 - Subsea Capping Response Time Model Toolkit User Guide, was completed in December 2019. It was jointly developed by IOGP and the Australian National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Authority (NOPSEMA). This report involved the creation of a digital subsea response time model that is freely available with a number of different software templates. The objective was to create a common standardized document that described the processes for preparing and implementing a subsea well blowout response in a timeline format, and in doing so, identify and communicate critical path activities, areas that can be prioritised pre-response, be easily transferrable to other parties to support mutual aid activities and, should the need arise, be used as an actual response project planning tool.

This paper informs readers of these resources and explains the reasoning behind their creation.
Quantification of oil lost from tanker vessel using space borne radar datasets - Case study of Haldia port oil spill, July 2018.
Authors: Prasad S.J , Balakrishnan Nair T.M.
Published: December 2021

Abstract 686884

Determining the spilled volume of the marine oil pollutant is an essential requisite for the oil spill modellers and the responders. Generally, the mass of the spilled pollutant is computed from the total quantity and the remaining quantity of the storage tank of the distressed vessel. A method to estimate the quantity of the spilled oil pollutant using the space -borne synthetic aperture radar dataset is elaborated here. The synthetic aperture radar data, its ability to penetrate cloud cover, irrespective of weather conditions, has been widely used to detect the signature of spilt oil. SAR data available from European Space Agency and Canadian Space Agency were used to detect the oil spills as they are proved to be appropriate for oil spill detection. Minor oil spill occured off Haldia Port, off Kolkata from SSL tanker vessel on 14 July 2018. The geographical location of the distressed vessel is 88.775 ′E, 21.441 ′N. The zone of the vessel distress was monitored for oil slicks. The acquisition plan of the Radar satellite Sentinel -1A was obtained from European Space Agency. As per that, the pass of the Sentinel -1A was available on 15 July 2018 and 17 July 2018 for the region of study. The Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) datasets were obtained from Sentinel -1A as per their availability. Those datasets were processed using Sentinel Application Platform (SNAP) tool box. The SAR data is subjected to terrain correction, which automatically reprojects the radar scene. The next stage is performing radiometric calibration, which converts the amplitude into intensity values. The radar reflectance values are converted to Sigma0 intensity values in Sentinel tool box. This Sigma0 values were wrote in netcdf format for identifying the oil slicks. The pixels of lesser intensity values are identified and are interpreted for oil slicks. The zone of the oil slicks in the radar scene are considered as irregular polygons. The area of those polygons were computed. Later the volume of the spilled oil is computed using the thickness of the spilled oil pollutant. Finally the mass of the pollutant is computed. It was collectively estimated from the SAR datasets, that, 33 Tons of Fuel oil was lost from SSL vessel that sank off Haldia Port. This paper elaborates in detail about the method of processing SAR dataset and estimating the quantity of oil lost from the vessel using SAR datasets.
NOAA Scientific Support for a Natural Gas Pipeline Release During Hurricane Harvey Flooding in the Neches River Beaumont, Texas
Authors: Davis Adam , Thrift-Viveros Dalina , Baker Commander Matt S.
Published: December 2021

During the height of historic flooding from Hurricane Harvey's rainfall, a rupture occurred in a 16-inch, 80 psia (65 psig) natural gas pipeline crossing the Neches River east of Beaumont, Texas. Over the preceding five days, Hurricane Harvey stalled over the area, generating rainfall totals between 35 and 60 inches. The storm broke the record for rainfall totals in the U.S., with 60.58 inches reported in Nederland, Texas and 60.54 inches near Groves, Texas. The Neches River was in extreme flood conditions, cresting the day after the pipeline rupture at a historic high of 19.59 feet (nearly 10 feet above major flood stage and nearly 7 feet above the former historic record from 1994). At the request of the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit (MSU) Port Arthur, NOAA's Emergency Response Division provided scientific support for the incident including on-scene support from the NOAA Scientific Support Coordinator (pre-deployed in Port Arthur, Texas for disaster response) as well as technical assistance from the NOAA Scientific Support Team in Seattle and Baton Rouge. Products and support provided by NOAA included air hazard modeling using ALOHA (Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres) as well as the overall hazards assessment. ALOHA modeling indicated that several significant ignition sources were located within the specific threat zone identified. However, no ignition occurred and no injury or further damage resulted from the release. This incident highlights the advantages and limitations of using ALOHA to model a subsurface natural gas release from a large underwater pipeline provided in the context of an ongoing response to historic flooding and high intensity search and rescue and emergency port operations resulting from a natural disaster.