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the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) has established a large-scale container port system with seaports and Yangtze ports as the mainstay and including other riverports and dry ports, occupying a prominent position in the pattern of national and even the global shipping development. Considering the new trend that the theoretical paradigm of port research has shifted from "spatial" to "network", and that the focus of research goes from seaports to both seaports and inland ports, this study brings the complexity and uniqueness of the development of the port system in the YRD into the picture. By analyzing the influence of globalization, specialization, marketization, transportation, and greenization on port system development and its pattern formation, this paper elaborates on the gradient process of transportation and services allocation from the coast to the riverside and then to the inland. The evolution of port system is considered to have a temporal gradient between spatial-level transportation expansion and network-level services upgrading, and it is also believed that there is a spatial gradient in logistics supply chain terminalization between coastal and inland areas. Combined with the quantitative analysis from 200 5 to 2020, after entering the stage of port regionalization in the YRD, the container volume is distributed from coastal concentration to inland decentralization at the spatial level, while at the network level, port and shipping service enterprises (PSSEs) maintain a relatively centralized distribution along the coastal areas. At the same time, container volume growth rate fluctuates down, number of PSSEs growth rate fluctuates up, which trend is notable in the seaport. Currently, port regionalization in the YRD is still incomplete; the degree of logistics supply chain terminalization of ports in inland areas is relatively low; and the synergy between spatial and network in the entire YRD region has not yet been formed. This study tries to answer the question of the relationship between different types of ports in the complex port system, which can enrich the theoretical and empirical results of port system research and guide the practice of port and shipping in the YRD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the new development pattern of "dual circulation" in China, it is of great theoretical and practical significance to study the spatial pattern and evolution law of port systems. This study takes the port system in the Yangtze River Delta Region (YRDR) as an example, based on the panel data from 2000 to 2019, analyses the spatial pattern and evolution characteristics of port domestic trade throughput (PDTT) and port foreign trade throughput (PFTT) from the perspective of dual circulation. The key influencing factors in the evolutionary process are explained, and the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics of the two types of port throughput are compared. The results show that (1) in spatial evolution, the PDTT and PFTT of the port system in the YRDR fluctuate and increase significantly, showing a typical three-level echelon structure in space. (2) From the perspective of spatial equilibrium, the two types of port throughput are markedly discrete; however, the degree of agglomeration of PFTT is greater than that of PDTT. (3) In spatial patterns, the centers of gravity of PDTT and PFTT are distributed in Suzhou and Jiaxing, respectively. Both are distributed from northwest to southeast. However, the rotation angle of PFTT was larger, and the north-south differentiation was more evident than that of PDTT. (4) In influencing factors, the throughput pattern of the port system in the YRDR is driven by multiple factors, and some differences exist in the driving mechanism between PDTT and PFTT. • The spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of port system was analysized from the new perspective of dual circulation. • A typical three-level echelon structure in space was found to the port system in the YRDR. • Differences in the influencing factors between PDTT and PFTT were reported. • Policy implications were provided to promote high-quality development of port system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• With its novel detector technology, Photon counting CT offers inherent spectral contrast, which can be utilized for virtual monoenergetic imaging, virtual non-contrast and iodine maps. • Photon counting CT derived virtual monoenergetic images can reduce beam- hardening artifacts in thoracic imaging and optimize image quality. • In subjective artifact assessment pronounced and severe artifacts were completely suppressed for all evaluated areas at 120 keV. Aim of the recent study is to point out a method to optimize quality of CT scans in oncological patients with port systems. This study investigates the potential of photon counting computed tomography (PCCT) for reduction of beam hardening artifacts caused by port-implants in chest imaging by means of spectral reconstructions. In this retrospective single-center study, 8 ROIs for 19 spectral reconstructions (polyenergetic imaging, monoenergetic reconstructions from 40 to 190 keV as well as iodine maps and virtual non contrast (VNC)) of 49 patients with pectoral port systems undergoing PCCT of the chest for staging of oncologic disease were measured. Mean values and standard deviation (SD) Hounsfield unit measurements of port-chamber associated hypo- and hyperdense artifacts, bilateral muscles and vessels has been carried out. Also, a structured assessment of artifacts and imaging findings was performed by two radiologists. A significant association of keV with iodine contrast as well as artifact intensity was noted (all p < 0.001). In qualitative assessment, utilization of 120 keV monoenergetic reconstructions could reduce severe and pronounced artifacts completely, as compared to lower keV reconstructions (p < 0.001). Regarding imaging findings, no significant difference between monoenergetic reconstructions was noted (all p > 0.05). In cases with very high iodine concentrations in the subclavian vein, image distortions were noted at 40 keV images (p < 0.01). The present study demonstrates that PCCT derived spectral reconstructions can be used in oncological imaging of the thorax to reduce port-derived beam-hardening artefacts. When evaluating image data sets within a staging, it can be particularly helpful to consider the 120 keV VMIs, in which the artefacts are comparatively low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European ports are facing sustainability and energy challenges, requiring changes to port functions, supply chain systems and business models. A 20-year 'port vision' could support decision-makers in designing effective strategies and prioritising investments. This study aims to identify the current energy management trends and their impact on ports and analyse the resulting scenarios. A literature review on energy management trends and ports' value chains was used to develop a conceptual framework, from which a Delphi questionnaire was created. The questionnaire was administered in two rounds, during which experts assessed the probability, impacts and desirability of energy sources, renewable energy, cold ironing, equipment, alternative fuels, energy digitalisation, human resources, emergencies and security. The results are clustered to depict the following port's energy management scenarios: most critical (related to digitalisation, cybersecurity, installation of renewable energy in small ports and electrification of docks and vehicles), most uncertain (concerning inland and/or offshore expansion of renewable energy production, use of autonomous vehicles and energy self-sufficiency of large ports) and most desired (involving investments on cold-ironing, alternatively powered cranes and cost reduction for photovoltaics and wind power). The research implications include conceptual actions to be considered and introduced in a generic European port plan and provide strategy recommendations to foster future ports. • Ports are complex entities, and energy management foresight is needed. • Energy and port management experts contributed through a Delphi questionnaire. • The following future scenarios are derived: most critical, uncertain and desirable. • Research implications could provide European ports' strategy plans with future-oriented recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a study developed in a medium port system composed of 50 public and private actors interacting with their macro-environment, which can generate strategic synergistic relationships. In order to determine these synergistic links between their components, the strategic phrases contained in their missions are analysed and classified according to the multi-criteria that are part of the macro-environment of each port actor: political, economic, social, technological, environmental, risk and learning. Likewise, new characterizations and classifications are proposed for groups and sub-groups of port actors. From absolute frequencies, Contingency Tables and the Chi-square test, quantitative results are obtained, which show the potential cases of strategic synergistic relations in the port system and the behavior of each group and sub-group of actors, as well as dependence / independence between every pair of criteria. Finally, it is verified that it is possible to use quantitative methods to analyze the strategic synergistic relationships between the actors of the port system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Port system development is a key theme in port geography literature. Recent decades have brought a rise in container terminal development at estuarine, coastal and offshore port locations, in part driven by scale increases in vessel size. This paper examines how container ports located upstream on rivers use processes of adaptive capacity building in an attempt to remain competitive in port systems. We link the development path of upstream seaports to a range of economic, technological, social and political factors. When combined, these factors shape the willingness and capacity of an upstream seaport to adapt to changing conditions such as an increasing demand for nautical accessibility. The case study results on Antwerp and Hamburg show that the discussion on the future of these upstream seaports cannot be detached from broader public policy and stakeholder management concerns and the influences of retention mechanisms, power, politics and collective action by the port community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Models and empirical studies of port system evolution dominantly focus on land-based dynamics. Hence, it is traditionally recognized that such dynamics condition the evolution of ports and their relations as well as wider regional integration processes. The Maghreb region (Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia), which is currently responsible for no less than one-third of all African port throughputs, offers a fertile ground to test the possibility for regional integration to occur through maritime linkages despite limited trade integration and land-based transport connectivity. Main results highlight the increase of trans-Maghreb maritime connectivity but this occurs mostly at the periphery of the system based on transit flows. Logistical integration versus trade integration is discussed in light of the recent evolution of Maghreb ports and of the region in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal plays a vital role in the socio-economic development of China. Yet, the spatial mismatch between production centers (inland Northwest) and consumption centers (coastal region) within China fostered the emergence of dedicated coal transport corridors with limited alternatives. Serious problems of energy shortage and power rationing have already affected southeastern China. At the same time, enormous interregional coal transfers face a lack of transport capacity along the transport system. Based on first-hand statistics, a disaggregated analysis of coal distribution patterns since the late 1970s provides novel evidences about the local effects of macroscopic trends, such as the shift from dominant exports to dominant imports in terms of changing traffic concentration levels and distribution patterns among routes and ports. The spatial evolution of coal distribution is also discussed in terms of related industry linkages and local influences, coal trade policies and market pricing, port system evolution, and transport network planning. The paper also discusses possible improvements of the current situation through enhancing multimodal transport based on a review of current policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Port system is a research focus of transport geography, and most studies believe carriers are important factors in the development and concentration of the port system. Since the 1990s, carriers have played an important role in organizing the global shipping network and reorganizing the port system. But there isn’t a perfect method to evaluate carriers’ influence and the roles of each port in the maritime shipping networks. In this paper, we use the monthly schedule table of international carriers to describe and model the spatial pattern of the global shipping network and identify its hub-and-spoke system. The result shows that a hierarchical structure exists in the global shipping network. The North Hemisphere, especially the East Asia and the Southeast Asia, is a dominant region of the worldwide shipping network. East Asia, Southeast Asia, Northeast Europe, and East coast of the USA are the concentration regions of worldwide shipping lines. The ports of Hong Kong, Singapore, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Kaohsiung etc have advanced capacity for maritime shipping and high potentials for being hub ports in the global shipping network. Today, the worldwide shipping network is transforming from the multi-port calling system to 44 regional hub-and-spoke systems. Meanwhile, the sub-networks with hub ports of Antwerp, Singapore, and Hong Kong have become the most important ones and dominate the whole global shipping network. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The European container port system features a unique blend of different port types and sizes combined with a vast economic hinterland. This paper provides an update of the detailed container traffic analysis developed by by extending it to the period 1985–2008 and to 78 container ports. The paper also aims at identifying key trends and issues underlying recent developments in the European container port system. These trends include the formation of multi-port gateway regions, changes in the hinterland orientation of ports and port regionalization processes. While the local hinterland remains the backbone of ports’ traffic positions, a growing demand for routing flexibility fuels competition for distant hinterlands between multi-port gateway regions. The prevailing assumption that containerisation would lead to further port concentration is not a confirmed fact in Europe: the European port system and most of its multi-port gateway regions witness a gradual cargo deconcentration process. Still, the container handling market remains far more concentrated than other cargo handling segments in the European port system, as there are strong market-related factors supporting a relatively high cargo concentration level in the container sector. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper analyzes North Korean ports in light of existing models of port system evolution. It reviews the economic and political factors shaping port concentration in developed, developing, and socialist countries. A database on vessel movements allows for the analysis of individual North Korean port traffic by total capacity circulated, cargo type, fleet nationality, immediate origin and destination, and berthing time. While ideological factors and military control hamper port modernization and trade openness, traffic concentration at the Pyongyang–Nampo gateway highlights the spatial polarization in the capital region at the expense of Eastern ports for which inland transport limitations and industrial decline have become major issues. The North Korean case only partly fits general models because traffic concentration occurs due to geopolitical isolation and internal limitations rather than economic and trade growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy employs a hepatic artery catheter as a conduit to achieve a high concentration of antineoplastic agents to liver tumors. Historically, this catheter placement has been performed via laparotomy. However, it may now be performed using less-invasive percutaneous image guided procedures. There are many anatomical hepatic arterial variations and complicated blood flow patterns. Various techniques are required to ensure high concentration of antineoplastic agents in liver tumors. These techniques are composed of arterial redistribution by embolization, percutaneous catheter placement applying “tip-fixation method,” and evaluation and management of flow patterns that reflect drug distribution. The role of interventional radiologists in hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy is to create and manage the access to achieve these objectives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper discusses traffic inequality in the European and North American container port systems by means of the so-called inequality decomposition analysis. The results show that the observed traffic concentration levels in the North American container port system are emanating from strong inter-range structural differences whereby some port ranges are increasingly dominating the whole system. Alternatively, the European port system is reaching a more balanced composition of the Gini coefficients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Earthquake early warning (EEW) systems are used to provide timely alerts on ongoing earthquakes, which can facilitate important risk-mitigation actions before potentially damaging seismic waves reach target sites. A major shortcoming of existing EEW approaches is that the earthquake-related conditions for activating alerts are not generally defined according to a formal decision-support system (DSS) that accounts for possible risk-based consequences of triggering/not triggering the alarm. This paper exploits a next-generation risk-informed EEW DSS, which incorporates multi-criteria decision-making for evaluating the optimal decision. The proposed DSS integrates engineering-driven loss predictions associated with issuing/not issuing an EEW alert during an event, also considering possible system malfunctions. The DSS is demonstrated for the strategic Gioia Tauro seaport, located in a region with some of the highest seismic hazard in Italy. Real-time seismic risk analyses are conducted for various earthquake scenarios, accounting for event-parameter uncertainties that are integral to any EEW process and considering the multicomponent nature of the port as a system of interconnected elements. The results of these analyses are used as input to the proposed EEW DSS along with end-user risk preferences, to evaluate the optimal decision in each case and to define a series of risk-informed EEW warning thresholds for the port. • The system integrates seismic risk predictions and multi-criteria decision-making. • The system identifies the optimal action (issue or not a warning) for a given event. • The optimal action can be sensitive to stakeholder risk preferences. • The optimal action can depend on the level of functionality interdependence captured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acknowledging that sea-land intermodal integration and transshipment are core transformations of the contemporary international logistic system, we study the spatial and functional structure of a port system across land and sea in this context. Previous port-driven regional development models have focused only on landside port-hinterland spatial structures in the local vicinity of ports, not seaside inter-port connections together. By revisiting the concepts of port triptych and hinterland-foreland continuum, we argue that the spatial structure of a port system should consider both flows to and from ports together when tracing spatial structures of hinterlands and forelands. Incorporating the network-based analytical model of the nonparametric weighted stochastic blockmodel, we study the global-scale structures of hinterlands and forelands under integrated landside-seaside freight flow dynamics. We investigate the network block structures of cargo shipping routes between Europe and the United States based on micro-level shipping flow data. We find a rich and meaningful collection of different network blocks of hinterlands, feeder and hub ports, and forelands that mirror the functional division of logistic processes across space, the interdependent relationships between hinterlands and forelands along a logistical continuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of various interactive metal artifact reduction (iMAR) algorithms on attenuation correction in the vicinity of port chambers in PET/CT.Material and Methods: In this prospective study, 30 oncological patients (12 female, 18 male, mean age 59.6 ± 10.5y) with implanted port chambers undergoing 18F-FDG PET/CT were included. CT images were reconstructed with standard weighted filtered back projection (WFBP) and three different iMAR algorithms (hip, dental filling (DF) and pacemaker (PM)). PET attenuation correction was performed with all four CT datasets. SUVmean, SUVmax and HU measurements were performed in fat and muscle tissue in the vicinity of the port chamber at the location of the strongest bright and dark band artifacts. Differences between HU and SUV values across all CT- and PET-images were investigated using a paired t-test. Bonferroni correction was used to prevent alpha-error accumulation (p < 0.008).Results: In comparison to WFBP (fat: 94.2 ± 53.9 HU, muscle: 197.6 ± 49.2 HU) all three iMAR algorithms led to a decrease of HU in bright band artifacts. iMAR-DF led to a decrease of 159.2 % (fat: -51.9 ± 58.5 HU, muscle: 94.5 ± 55.3 HU), iMAR-hip of 138.3 % (fat: -30.3 ± 58.5, muscle: 70.4 ± 28.8) and iMAR-PM of 122.3 % (fat: -21.2 ± 47.2 HU, muscle: 72.5 ± 25.1 HU; for all p < 0.008). There was no significant effect of iMAR on SUV measurements in comparison to WFBP.Conclusion: iMAR leads to a significant change of HU values in artifacts caused by port catheter chambers in comparison to WFBP. However, no significant differences in attenuation correction and consecutive changes in SUV measurements can be observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: CT artifacts from port-systems are a common problem in staging- and restaging-examinations and reduce image quality and diagnostic assessment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reduction of these artifacts using virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) from dual-energy spectral-detector CT (SDCT) in comparison to conventional CT-images (CI).Method: 50 SDCT-datasets of patients with artifacts from port-chamber and port-catheters were included in this IRB-approved, retrospective study. CI and VMI (range, 40-200 keV, 10 keV increment) were reconstructed from the same acquisition. The quantitative image analysis was performed ROI-based assessing mean and standard deviation of attenuation (HU) in most pronounced hypo- and hyperdense artifacts surrounding to the port-chamber and the distal end of the port-catheter in the superior vena cava. Subjectively, artifact reduction and diagnostic assessment of surrounding soft tissue were rated on 5-point Likert-scales.Results: In comparison to CI, VMI of higher keV-values showed strong reduction of hypo- and hyperattenuating artifacts around the port-chamber and port-catheter (CI/VMI200keV: hypodense -104.7 ± 124.7HU/10.8 ± 58.1HU and -101.6 ± 101.5HU/-36.7 ± 32.9HU; hyperdense 240.8 ± 151.6HU/79.6 ± 81.3HU and 108.6 ± 129.3HU/25.9 ± 31.9HU; all p < 0.001). Image noise could also be reduced significantly. The subjective analysis showed significantly reduced artifacts around the port-chamber and port-catheter (CI/VMI200keV: hypodense 3(1-4)/5(4-5) and 3(2-4)/5(4-5); hyperdense 3(1-4)/5(4-5) and 3(2-3)/5(3-5); all p < 0.001) and improved diagnostic assessment of pectoral/subclavian soft tissue for VMI of ≥100keV. Ratings for diagnostic assessment were best between 140-200 keV. Overall interrater agreement was high (ICC = 0.79).Conclusions: Higher keV VMI enabled a significant reduction of artifacts from port-systems around the chamber and the catheter leading to improved assessment of surrounding soft tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]