bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehend Analysis of Surface and Subsurface Sediment Distribution Using Underwater Acoustic Instruments
Authors: Amanda Shafira , Hana Hariyanto Irena , Arief Santoso Imam
Published: December 2024

Ports play an important role in shipping and transporting while its fundamental challenge is sedimentation that occurs continuously at a location. A management system is required to respond to this siltation problem by dredging the underwater sediments parallel with Sustainable Development Goal 11 about sustainable cities and communities. Therefore, analyzing the area’s sediment types and distribution is necessary, especially using acoustic instruments. In this research, the dredging plan shows the relative depth distribution is around 4 to 18 meters with deep sloping topography on the north side. Furthermore, the overall result of the backscatter value of the multibeam echosounder ranges from −45.86 dB to −55.73 dB. According to the Angular Response Analysis, the sediment type of the seabed surface is clay with depths ranging up to 5.40 meters. The result of the sub-bottom profiler processing discovers step or bowl-like features where the curvature seems to have an unequal height. It considers the difference in sediment height around the area while the intensity is relatively low. Through acoustic processing analysis, it informs that the total area of 643872 m2 needs to be dredged with an estimated dredging volume of around 2181105 m3 both in surface and subsurface areas. The qualitative analysis of Multibeam Echosounder, and Sub Bottom Profiler data shows that the acoustic instrument’s products are accurate with validation data in the field.
Analysis of Sedimentation Rate at Royoq Port (Kutai Barat, Kalimatan Timur) with Hydrodynamic Modeling
Authors: Nur Febriani Farida , Aulia De Silva Nusantara Candida
Published: December 2024

Sedimentation in port areas can have a significant impact on port operations and shipping safety. The accumulation of sediment material in the harbor area can cause a decrease in depth, limiting the size of ships that can enter the harbor. Our research aims to analyze the flow patterns and sedimentation rates in Royoq Harbor, a crucial step toward maintaining the safety and smooth operation of the harbor. The model simulation was conducted on a 75-kilometer stretch of the Mahakam River that was separated into three monitoring locations at Royoq Port for 2023. The research method used is hydrodynamic modeling with Delft3D. The results showed that the existence of the harbor decreased current velocity to 0.5 m/s on the west side and 0.2 m/s on the east side, as well as a change in current direction around the harbor as it headed from upstream to downstream. This phenomenon triggers the formation of stagnation zones that increase the risk of sedimentation. The sedimentation rate in the study area is 96.29 m3/year or 34 tons/year. The sedimentation rate in the west of the harbor has a value of 5.49 m3/year, while in the east of the harbor it is 97.9 m3/year. In addition, the Delft3D modeling results for six months showed a change in the morphology of the water bottom in the port, with sedimentation ranging from 0.03 m to 0.4 m on the west and east sides and erosion between −0.002 m to −0.01 m on the north side. To maintain the safety and smooth operation of the harbor, it is recommended that regular monitoring of the water depth and dredge sediments be conducted if necessary, supporting SDG 9 on building resilient infrastructure.
Unveiling Gas Seeps: A Dive into Water Column Data Analysis
Authors: Alief Ramadhan Surya , Guruh Pratomo Danar , Amaliah Putri Shofa’
Published: December 2024

Multibeam Echo Sounders (MBES) have significantly advanced underwater acoustic data analysis, allowing for the detection of various marine features. The enhanced capabilities of water column acoustic data analysis by MBES have played a crucial role in numerous research projects, including mapping methane gas flux and studying free gas release. This research aims to detect and quantify underwater gas seeps by leveraging the advanced imaging capabilities of MBES. The workflow involved displaying water column data, removing irrelevant echoes, applying amplitude threshold filtering, validating Local Intensity Maxima (LIM) values, exporting final coordinates, and calculating volumes using voxel-based methods. Results showed that higher frequencies (200 and 400 kHz) provided more detailed and accurate gas seep detection at 30 m depth, with average volumes of 25.972 m3 and 31.050 m3, respectively. However, at a depth of 60 m, the 100 kHz frequency was more effective, with an average volume of 28.324 m3. These findings underscore the importance of frequency selection in MBES surveys for accurate gas seep detection and quantification. This study provides valuable insights into underwater gas seeps, enhancing our understanding of their impacts on the marine environment and the global carbon cycle. This study supports SDG 14 by advancing marine ecosystems, including the management of marine resources.
Three-Dimensional Hydrodynamic Modelling to Estimate Sediment Rate in Lamong Bay
Authors: Isnania Zahra Ayu , Guruh Pratomo Danar , Wasilah Robbani Hilma , Amaliah Putri Shofa’
Published: December 2024

Lamong Bay Terminal, part of Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya, functions as a container terminal. The port in the Surabaya area causes high ship traffic activity in the waters of Lamong Bay and sediment may be carried away from rivers heading towards the sea. The sedimentation process in waters can cause problems because it can cause shallowing of the waters, so it is necessary to maintain and monitor the depth of shipping lanes to maintain the safety of sea traffic. Therefore, understanding the hydrodynamics of seawater and sediment movement in the water region is necessary for successful dredging operations and assessing the impact of silt on port areas. In this research, the approach used to determine current patterns and sediment distribution was through the application of a numerical model with three– dimensional baroclinic hydrodynamic equations. The numerical modeling study in this research uses tidal data, sediment samples, salinity, and temperature to determine current patterns and the rate of sediment distribution. This process is carried out periodically and continuously as part of the evaluation of Lamong Bay Terminal. The results can serve as a reference for dredging planning to maintain the depth of the waters at the Lamong Bay Terminal. In this study, the highest current velocity was obtained at the time of spring tide reaching 0.9 ms−1 and at the neap tide of 0.4 ms−1. The sediment distribution pattern in the waters of Lamong Bay affected the existence of the pier and the morphological conditions of the seabed. The largest siltation or sedimentation that has occurred at Lamong Bay Port is 0.055 m/month near the jetty, thus depth monitoring is needed in this area, regularly. This study supports SDG 9 by advancing resilient infrastructure solutions to manage the sedimentation process in waters.
Analysis of ship collision accidents in Indonesia using fault tree analysis (FTA) method
Authors: Firdaus M I , Zaman M B , Gurning R O S
Published: December 2024

As an archipelagic country with emerging economies, maritime transportation has significantly contributed to the Indonesian economy by ensuring the fullness of domestic demand for goods and services, accelerating annually. However, with the increase in sea traffic, the probability of collision accidents may also grow, posing non-negligible risks to individuals and society in various aspects. Considering this condition, this paper assesses and evaluates past maritime collision accidents in Indonesia to observe and analyze the tendency of factors contributing to collision accidents. The analysis was conducted using the Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) method, qualitative and quantitative, on data obtained from the collision investigation report in the last 20 years. The qualitative approach is used to propose the minimal cut set, and the quantitative analysis is conducted to estimate the probability. Based on the obtained probability and the produced cut set diagram, the conclusion states that human-related factors contribute to the top even occurrence at most, implying that the human factor is the most contributing factor to collisions. Those factors include the lack of training, lack of experience, and improper decisions.
Maintenance Priority: A Literature Review of Equipment Criticality Analysis in the Oil and Gas Industries
Authors: Priyanta D , Zaman M B , Semin
Published: December 2024

Criticality analysis is a fundamental tool in the oil and gas industry to ensure the efficiency and safety of equipment. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review on current methodologies for identifying safety critical equipment (SCE) and critical equipment (CE). The review begins by discussing the initial step of identifying SCE, followed by the identification of CE. Various methodologies are examined, ranging from simple, quick screening techniques to complex, quantitative analyses. Simple methodologies are often used for initial assessments, while complex methods are applied to equipment posing high risks that require detailed, quantitative calculations. The review highlights the strengths and limitations of each approach, providing a comparative analysis of their effectiveness in different scenarios. Finally, the paper suggests a structured methodology for developing maintenance tasks tailored specifically for SCE and CE, ensuring optimal maintenance strategies that enhance safety and operational efficiency. This review aims to guide practitioners in selecting appropriate methodologies for criticality analysis and maintenance planning in the oil and gas sector.
A Multicriteria Approach for Ship Bunkering System
Authors: Fini  , Artana K B , Puspitasari N W D , Kusuma G J , Wiraguna D S
Published: December 2024

This research aims to enhance maritime fuel supply’s efficiency, safety, and sustainability by advocating for the standardization of bunkering systems in ports. Through the application of Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), this study assesses three primary bunkering methods: Ship to Ship, Truck to Ship, and Onshore to Ship. The criteria for evaluation encompass safety, economic factors, operational efficiency, technical considerations, and additional relevant aspects. Stakeholder feedback underscores the significance of safety (0.281) and economic (0.274) criteria, eclipsing operational (0.274), technical (0.137), and other factors (0.033) in importance. The findings prominently advocate for the Onshore to Ship method as the superior option for standardization in principal ports, marked by a value of 0.480, with Truck to Ship and Ship to Ship methods trailing in preference. Sensitivity analysis reinforces the stability of this outcome, indicating that adjustments in criteria weightings scarcely affect the overall conclusion, thereby affirming the Onshore to Ship method’s predominance. This method, characterized by a pipeline connecting the jetty to ships, holds considerable potential for both research and practical applications in port logistics.
Dual fuel retrofit LNG for Indonesia’s Greenhouse Gas Strategy Case: Fulfilment of engine requirements on existing vessels in accordance with class requirements
Authors: Hariadi M R F , Kurniawan M A , Pratama A A P
Published: December 2024

The global maritime industry is transitioning towards sustainability to meet stringent environmental standards under IMO’s MARPOL Annex VI and the Paris Agreement. LNG emerges as a promising marine fuel, significantly reducing sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate emissions compared to traditional fuels. Indonesia, a major LNG exporter, aims to utilize LNG domestically under its Long-term Strategy for Low Carbon & Climate Resilience 2050. Adopting LNG in Indonesia’s maritime sector faces challenges, especially retrofitting existing diesel engines. Technical hurdles include ensuring engine compatibility, modifying fuel systems, and conducting comprehensive on-board testing due to limited infrastructure. Regulatory frameworks like Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) Rules and the NOx Technical Code 2008 amendments provide the guidance for emissions compliance and testing. This paper discusses methodologies to overcome these challenges, emphasizing robust testing protocols and sea trials to validate engine performance and emissions under real-world conditions. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to facilitate Indonesia’s transition to sustainable maritime practices. Future advancements in LNG technology and infrastructure will bolster Indonesia’s energy security and contribute to global emissions reduction targets in maritime transport.
Forest Health Monitoring of Tree Collections in Bogor Botanical Garden: A Case Study of Plot V
Authors: Fikri T , Muttaqin Z , Zulkarnaen R N
Published: December 2024

Botanical Garden is an ex-situ plant conservation area with documented plant collections, especially species of scarce, endangered, and endemic species. Bogor Botanical Garden has 25 collection plots, and this research focused on collection plots V (V.A., V.B., and V.C.). The study aims to estimate the percentage of trees in healthy condition and the number and types of trees with severe tree damage. The method used is Forest Health Monitoring (FHM), which was done visually to identify the type and extent of tree damage. The results of the research showed that 234 trees fit into the healthy tree classification (86.67%) with NIK (damage index value) (0 ≤ 5) from the total number of trees observed, namely 270 trees in those collection plots. The tree classification for heavy damage was four trees (1.48%) (NIK 16 ≥ 21), including Barringtonia racemosa (L.) Spreng., located in collection plot V.A.078a, Syzygium aqueum (Burm.f.) Alston., which is in plot V.A.129, and Syzygium polycephaloides (C.B.Rob.) Merr., which is in plot V.B.111 and 111a. Most trees in plot V were healthy, but the least were heavily damaged.
Phylogenetic relationship of trees in Arboretum University of North Sumatra based on matK gene
Authors: Rangkuti A B , Hartini K S , Tumanggor A N F , Rangkuti R R , Amelia R
Published: December 2024

Arboretum Kwala Bekala campus II University of North Sumatra is one of the Green Open Spaces that has benefits for education, research, and ecological functions formed into an interconnected system. Development of arboretum management continues to be carried out. One of them complements the tree species data in it. Phylogenetic relationship analysis is one of the common ways to recognize and know the diversity of an organism through reconstruction. The existing data is still incomplete because it does not display genetic data and needs to be updated to provide the latest information about species data in the Arboretum. Phylogenetic analysis is used to classify and provide information related to the evolution of kinship between existing tree species. This study aims to identify tree species and conduct a phylogenetic analysis of tree species in the USU Arboretum based on gene matK. The creation of this phylogeny tree was carried out using the neighbor-joining method using the Mega X application. The study’s results obtained tree data for as many as 62 species from 28 families. Based on the search for sequence data in the GenBank NCBI database, 51 species were obtained whose sequences were available. The phylogenetic tree with gene matK has a bootstrap value of 75-100%. They form 13 clades consisting of paraphyletic and monophyletic. Almost every type of tree clusters in the same family or genus.
Stand structure and regeneration status of trees at Soraya Research Station in Aceh
Authors: Susilowati A , Elfiati D , Siregar S M H , Rachmat H H , Dwiyanti F G , Ginting I M , Arrofaha N
Published: December 2024

The Soraya Research Station is a critical forest research conservation area in Aceh Province. The forest area consists of essential and valuable tree species, including Dipterocarpaceae. This research aimed to determine the population structure and regeneration status of trees at the Soraya Research Station. The vegetation analysis was used for this purpose. The total height of each tree and the diameter at breast height (DBH) were also collected for population structure analysis. According to the research findings, the vertical stand structure in Soraya Research Station is dominated by stratum C, which is in good condition and forms an inverted J shape, with a decrease in the number of individuals as the DBH size increases. A total of 126 tree species with varying regeneration states were found. As much 40.47% (51 species) have new regeneration, 46.03% (58 species) have poor regeneration, 1.58% (2 species) have good status, 8.73% (11 species) have none status, and 3,17% (4 species) have fair regeneration. According to the findings, conservation efforts were urgently needed in this location due to regeneration problems.
Carbon stock estimation of trees and poles in Karendan Forest, North Barito, Central Kalimantan
Authors: Trimanto  , Renjana E , Angio M H , Metusala D
Published: December 2024

Kalimantan is known as one of the biodiversity hotspots. It harbours various endemic, rare, and endangered plant species. This research aimed to inventory plants and estimate the carbon stock of trees and poles in the Karendan forest, Central Kalimantan. The biomass and carbon storage of above-ground biomass (AGB) were measured using non-destructive methods. Around 88 species of tree stands were recorded, consisting of 51 trees and 61 species of poles (young trees). The average estimate of total carbon stock in the Karendan forest was 91.19 tons/ha, while the carbon stock value of trees was equivalent to poles, indicating forest regeneration. We observed forest disturbances caused by fires or selective logging in the past. The Dipterocarpaceae family (meranti) dominantly contributes to carbon biomass, either through its tree species, such as Shorea leprosula (25.07 tons/ha) and S. lamellata (5.05 tons/ha), or its pole species, including S. leprosula (3.39 tons/ha), and S. bracteolata (2.02 tons/ha). This family’s abundance of carbon-contributing trees indicates that the Karendan forest has a relatively high conservation value. The findings of this research are helpful for the management of coal mining companies, considering that this area is within the mining concessions.
Mycorrhizal Fungi in Seedlings of Meranti Bukit (Shorea platyclados) in Martelu Purba Nature Reserve
Authors: Rangkuti A B , Hartini K S , Sinaga D R , Amelia R
Published: December 2024

Shorea platyclados is a commercially important tree species known as Meranti Bukit, and it is nearly threatened. Its population is thought to have declined between 20 to 30% over three generations. This study aims to identify mycorrhizal fungi on S. platyclados seedlings in Martelu Purba Nature Reserve. The sampling method randomly sampled ten soil sample points and ten seedlings on three lines. Furthermore, isolation and identification of mycorrhizal fungi in these samples were carried out microscopically. The results showed the presence of several species of mycorrhizal fungi found in the rhizosphere of S. platyclados seedlings, namely the genus Glomus and Acaulospora. Mycorrhizal fungi are also found in root observations where vesicles and hyphae are found, which means that the roots colonize with mycorrhizal fungi, namely the ectomycorrhizal type. Applying mycorrhizal biofertilizer containing fungi from the genus Glomus and Acaulospora will provide good growth for S. platyclados.
Impact of 24-hour pharmacy call response on time to antibiotics in open fractures
Authors: Kadi Bacil , Condeni Melanie Smith , Morrisette Taylor , Bell Carolyn , Hamby Aaron , Pollander Abby
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Open fractures are associated with significant morbidity after trauma, which is driven, in part, by infection. Current literature and guidelines recommend that this patient population receive antimicrobial prophylaxis within 1 hour of emergency department (ED) arrival to minimize the risk of infection. The primary aim of this study was to investigate whether the addition of a trauma response to a pharmacy resident on-call program resulted in antibiotic administration within 1 hour of presentation to a higher proportion of patients with open fractures.

Methods

This was a retrospective, observational, quasi-experimental analysis that was conducted at an academic medical facility with a level 1 trauma center for patients presenting to the ED from January 2019 to December 2020 (preimplementation period) and from January 2021 to December 2022 (postimplementation period). Patients were included if they were 18 years of age or older and presented to the ED with an open fracture(s). Patients with independent fractures of fingers and those who died in route to or in the ED were excluded. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with antibiotic administration within 1 hour of ED presentation for patients with open extremity fractures.

Results

A total of 292 patients met the eligibility criteria (49% in the preimplementation group and 51% in the postimplementation group). Patients were predominantly male (61% vs 58%), with an overall median age of 46 years. Following implementation of the on-call pharmacy resident trauma response, a significantly higher proportion of patients received antibiotics within 1 hour of presentation (70% vs 83%; P = 0.019). The median (interquartile range) time to antimicrobial administration was also significantly shorter in the postimplementation group (31 [16-68] minutes vs 19 [10-50] minutes; P = 0.005).

Conclusion

The addition of a 24-hour on-call pharmacy resident response in the ED was associated with improved antibiotic administration within 1 hour of presentation in patients with open fractures.
Electrical storm in a patient with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease treated with radiofrequency ablation and subsequent serious complication of implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation: a case report
Authors: Vrtal Jiří , Plášek Jiří , Václavík Jan , Šipula David , Dodulík Jozef
Published: December 2024

Background

Charcot–Marie–Tooth is the most common inherited neuromuscular disorder. Rarely, it can be associated with heart failure and various arrhythmic disturbances. This case illustrates the challenges of making decisions to prevent sudden cardiac death in a patient with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease.

Case summary

A 69-year-old male with a history of Type 1A Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease was admitted due to repetitive runs of ventricular tachycardia. Twelve-lead electrocardiogram, echocardiography, selective coronary angiography, and cardiac magnetic resonance did not clarify the cause of the electrical storm. As conservative therapy was not successful, radiofrequency ablation was chosen to treat the electrical storm. After this procedure, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) was implanted. The follow-up revealed severe perforation by the ventricular lead. An extraction was performed with no complications and a new lead was immediately implanted. The patient remains asymptomatic. Three episodes of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia were recorded during the last follow-up.

Discussion

This case illustrates the challenges of making decisions to prevent sudden cardiac death in a patient with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease after successful ablation for electrical storm. Due to a lack of evidence, atypical origin of arrhythmia, and clinical presentation, we did not consider this as idiopathic arrhythmia and decided to implant an ICD, which was complicated by severe perforation by the lead. Specific recommendations for preventing sudden cardiac death in rare cardiac conditions, such as Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, still need to be refined.
Late post-endovascular abdominal aortic repair rupture due solely to type II endoleak without other types of endoleak
Authors: Shimano Ryo , Takeuchi Koh , Komatsu Takuya , Inamura Junzo , Miyazaki Suguru , Akita Masafumi
Published: December 2024

Rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) due to an isolated type II endoleak (TIIEL) is rarely reported, accounting for less than 1% of all TIIELs; typically, rupture associated with TIIEL is accompanied by type I or type III endoleaks. We report a case of ruptured AAA secondary to TIIEL without any other types of endoleaks, occurring late after endovascular abdominal aortic repair (EVAR). A 77-year-old man with a history of EVAR 11 years earlier presented with abdominal pain. Computed tomography revealed a ruptured AAA, likely due to TIIEL from the lumbar artery. He was on warfarin for atrial fibrillation, and his preoperative PT-INR was 6.05. After administering lyophilized human prothrombin complex concentrate, lumbar artery ligation and aneurysmorrhaphy were performed. Intraoperatively, there was pulsatile bleeding from the lumbar artery, which was sutured closed. No other types of endoleaks were observed. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged home.
Polytime embedding of intuitionistic modal logics into their one-variable fragments
Authors: Rybakov Mikhail , Shkatov Dmitry
Published: December 2024

We prove that propositional intuitionistic modal logics $\textbf{FS}$ (also known as $\textbf{IK}$) and $\textbf{MIPC}$ (also known as $\textbf{IS5}$) are polynomial-time embeddable into, and hence polynomial-time equivalent to, their own one-variable fragments. It follows that the one-variable fragment of $\textbf{MIPC}$ is coNEXPTIME-complete. The method of proof applies to a wide range of intuitionistic modal logics characterizable by two-dimensional frames, among them intuitionistic analogues of such classical modal logics as $\textbf{K4}$ and $\textbf{S4}$.
Civic Honours under Roman Rule
Authors: Heller Anna
Published: December 2024

In the Greek world, the award of honours by civic institutions or civic subgroups had a long history, going back to Classical times. This chapter examines the development of this honorific system from the 2nd century bc into the Imperial period, highlighting changes and continuities. The spread of honorific monuments went along with a new emphasis on individual excellence and family prestige in the language of public praise conveyed by honorific inscriptions. Traditional civic ideology nonetheless persisted: commitment to the community was still presented as the cardinal virtue for members of the elite, and the prerogative of the dēmos in the decision to honour was repeatedly asserted. A variety of honours, from ordinary to exceptional, rewarded a variety of benefactors, from the minor local notable to the emperor. Finally, the chapter reflects on the complex political, social, and cultural significance of civic honours for the Greek poleis under Roman rule.
Clubs and Associations
Authors: Eckhardt Benedikt
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses the history of associations in Greek cities under Roman rule. While associations had been known in Greek cities long before the Roman conquest, changes in their nomenclature, their public activities, and their internal structure can be observed from the late 1st century bc onwards. The chapter explores the possibility of relating some of these changes, such as the rise of professional associations or the increased autonomy of some civic institutions, to Roman legislation on collegia. Rather than assuming either direct enforcement of these laws or their complete irrelevance in the East, the chapter builds on the available evidence to demonstrate the opportunities provided by the Roman framework to ambitious individuals and cities. Continuities and deliberate non-engagement with the Roman order also come into view.
Slavery and the Polis
Authors: Dalla Rosa Alberto
Published: December 2024

Slaves were virtually everywhere in the ancient Greek city and the coming of Roman rule did not change that. Sources are abundant, but they often give an unsatisfactory picture of this very diverse phenomenon. After a presentation of the problems posed by the surviving sources, this chapter provides a survey of the different facets of slavery in the civic context. Many were the ways through which one could become a slave: war, capture by pirates, exposure as an infant, and even self-enslavement. Civic and Roman authorities actively pursued fugitive slaves in order to return them to their legitimate owners. Further topics are the role of public slaves in the everyday functioning of the city, the economic activities of slaves, and the different degrees of participation of slaves in civic religion. An overview of attested manumission practices and of the place of freed slaves in the city closes the chapter.
Literary Sources for Greek Cities of the Roman Empire
Authors: Bowie Ewen
Published: December 2024

This chapter reviews the chief literary texts that transmit information about the political and cultural life of Greek cities in the Roman Empire, noting where their information is especially important for understanding civic life. After sketching, with examples, the scanty contribution of narrative histories and imperial biographies, it gives pride of place to Philostratus’ Lives of the sophists, adding some sentences about his largely fictional In honour of Apollonius. It then deploys speeches of two of his sophists. Dio of Prusa addresses on their political behaviour Rhodes and Alexandria on the one hand, several Bithynian cities on the other. Pliny’s Letters then amplify understanding of Bithynian politics and civic mismanagement. The leaner harvest from Plutarch is contrasted. There follow reviews of the monument-focused Periegesis of Pausanias; of the satirical essays and dialogues of Lucian; of the speeches of Aristides on Smyrna, before and after its earthquake, and on concord between cities; and of his Sacred Tales’ account of his securing immunity from public office.
Oracles and the City
Authors: Lesgourgues Manfred
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses the place of oracles in the religious and political life of Greek cities under the Roman Empire. It first shows for what reasons and in what ways cities resorted to oracular inquiries and why the epigraphic habits of the time make it difficult to maintain the usual distinction between public and private consultations of oracles. It then explores the relations that a polis could have with the oracular sanctuaries. This is achieved first from a local point of view, and then on a regional and imperial scale, stressing how those shrines were an important instrument of those cities’ soft power. Finally, it looks at the way in which oracular pronouncements themselves, old and new, were inscribed on stone and publicly displayed in cities, whether to give authority to religious norms or politic decisions, to invoke them in public debate, or to reinforce the political and religious identity of the city.
Sparta and the Peloponnese
Authors: Balzat Jean-Sébastien
Published: December 2024

This chapter offers an overview of the history of the Peloponnese, with an emphasis on Sparta, from the early 2nd century bc to the mid-2nd century ad. This chronological scope is challenging as the late Hellenistic and Roman Imperial periods differ so radically in terms of documentation and historical issues. The thread this chapter follows is the analysis of the group of men who dominated the cities of the region throughout these four centuries. This runs from the inception of pro-Roman views in the late Hellenistic period to the pursuit for some of a Roman senatorial career in the 2nd century ad. Through their eyes, this chapter explores how Roman military campaigns, Roman administration, Roman patronage and perceptions, the imperial cult, and the spread of the civitas Romana influenced the vitality of the Greek polis model in one of the most venerable regions of the Greek world.
Epilogue
Authors: Pont Anne-Valérie
Published: December 2024

Focusing on the cities of Asia Minor, this chapter discusses their evolution throughout the second part of the 3rd century ad, the Tetrarchy, and the reign of Constantine. Facing military threats from the 250s until the 270s, the cities overcame them using the institutional frame and ideology of polis culture. Yet, the most competitive aspects of this culture recede. The establishment of Constantinople as a new capital after a preliminary transformation of Nicomedia in the 280s, the increase in career opportunities outside of the civic hierarchies which began with the Tetrarchy, as well as the effects of religious and imperial administrative policies at the beginning of the 4th century, led to a new situation. While civic culture continued to be articulated through traditional media and conservative vocabulary in northern Africa during the 4th century, this chapter concludes that such was not the case in the Greek cities under examination.
Music, Mind, and Body after Merleau-Ponty
Authors: De Souza Jonathan
Published: December 2024

Music raises questions about mind-body relations. Sometimes, it seems to intensify bodily activity and awareness; other times, it seems to transcend the physical realm. This chapter considers the musical implications of René Descartes’s mind-body dualism and Maurice Merleau-Ponty’s embodied phenomenology. It reviews their general theories of mind and body—and also their claims about music. For Descartes, mind and body are separate, listening to a melody involves a kind of rational calculation, and music-related movement is merely mechanical. For Merleau-Ponty, by contrast, mind and body are inseparable and situated in the world, and holistic, intentional movement contributes to listening, musical performance, and musical knowledge. The chapter shows how their perspectives on embodiment support distinct accounts of musical experience and the ontology of music. In addition, because significant musical illustrations and metaphors appear throughout Descartes’s and Merleau-Ponty’s work, it argues that music offers conceptual resources for their theories of mind and body.
Use of tenofovir-based PrEP among pregnant women in South Africa
Authors: Matthews Lynn T. , Bruxvoort Katia J. , Jaggernath Manjeetha , Kriel Yolandie , Smith Patricia M. , Haberer Jessica E. , Bassler John , Bennett Kara , Psaros Christina , Bangsberg David R. , Hurwitz Kathleen Wirth , Smit Jennifer A.
Published: December 2024

Objective:

We developed Healthy Families-PrEP to support perinatal women to use HIV prevention strategies.

Design:

Single arm study to evaluate PrEP use among pregnant women exposed to the intervention.

Methods:

We offered safer conception counselling including TDF/FTC as PrEP with adherence support (Healthy Families-PrEP) for women planning for pregnancy in South Africa with a partner with HIV or unknown serostatus. Women completed pregnancy and HIV testing quarterly and were followed for one year or until pregnancy end. For those initiating PrEP, electronic pillcap data and plasma were collected. We described PrEP adherence by proportion of days with pillcap openings and proportion of women with detected (≥10ng/mL) plasma tenofovir.

Results:

From November 2017 to January 2020, 326 women with median age 24 (IQR: 22–27) years enrolled. Partner HIV-serostatus was unknown by 316 (97%). Over 3,204 person-months of follow-up, 56 women became pregnant. Twenty-six women used PrEP during pregnancy and opened pillcaps on a mean of 53.1% (95% CI 46.9–59.3%) of days. Plasma tenofovir was detected among 25.0%, 15.4%, and 12.5% of women providing samples during months 0–3, 4–6, and 7–9. No HIV seroconversions were observed.

Conclusions:

We observed low pregnancy incidence. Counselling may have encouraged delayed pregnancy plans; some women may have exaggerated pregnancy plans to enroll. About half of pregnant women used PrEP and took over half of doses by pillcap. Fewer than 25% had tenofovir detected, likely reflecting pregnancy-related pharmacokinetics and adherence challenges. High interest in pregnancy PrEP use highlights the need to optimize adherence support and prevention choice.
Incorporating Augmented Reality Patients Into Online Trauma Training to Support Mental Model Development
Authors: Mansour Lauren , Sushereba Christen , San Miguel Christopher E. , Militello Laura G. , Allen Theodore T. , Patterson Emily S.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Medical students find translating lessons from traditional lectures to caring for trauma patients challenging. We assess whether adding video-based virtual flashcards and videos of augmented reality-based trauma patients in an online learning environment improves performance.

Methods

We performed a between-subject experimental study. Thirty-five medical students were randomly assigned to the control and experimental groups. The control group viewed a traditional online lecture. The experimental group viewed the same online lecture and received virtual flashcard training. Each virtual flashcard consisted of a video of a virtual patient, and examination questions about diagnoses, treatment, and disposition. The experimental group also viewed a video of a physician coach providing an expert assessment of the virtual patient. Simulation-based assessment was used to measure performance and knowledge. The evaluation consisted of the following 3 scenarios: a video of a simulated patient followed by multiple-choice questions, a free-text examination, and the writing of a Subjective, Objective, Assessment and Plan note. Differences in performance for 3 measures (diagnoses, therapeutic interventions, and disposition) were assessed for pre-post change in accuracy. For these 3 measures, we used a binary logistic regression model. We assessed perceptions of performance and the training experience with a survey.

Results

The training intervention statistically significantly improved accuracy for diagnosis (P = 0.01) and self-reported performance (P < 0.01) compared with the control group. The themes for the experience were engaging, innovative, and valuing the expert's assessment, with 17 of 19 positive statements.

Conclusions

Adding virtual flashcards to traditional training significantly improved diagnostic accuracy while being engaging and innovative.
External Validation of the ISGPS Complexity Grading System for Minimally Invasive Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Napoli Niccolò , Donisi Greta , Kauffmann Emanuele F. , Ginesini Michael , Abu Hilal Mohammad , Baiocchi Gianluca , Bracale Umberto , Brolese Alberto , Butturini Giovanni , Coppola Roberto , Coratti Andrea , Valle Raffaele Dalla , Di Benedetto Fabrizio , Ercolani Giorgio , Ferrari Giovanni , Garulli Gianluca , Jovine Elio , Mazzola Michele , Memeo Riccardo , Molino Carlo , Moraldi Luca , Morelli Luca , Salvia Roberto , Tebala Giovanni D. , Tondolo Vincenzo , Troisi Roberto Ivan , Viola Massimo Giuseppe , Vivarelli Marco , Zerbi Alessandro , Boggi Ugo
Published: December 2024

Objective:

To validate the ISGPS complexity grading system for minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD).

Background:

Although concerns about patient safety persist, MIPD is gaining popularity. The ISGPS recently introduced a difficulty grading system to improve patient selection by aligning procedural complexity with surgeon and center expertise.

Methods:

Data from MIPD cases reported in the IGOMIPS registry (October 2019–February 2024) were analyzed, with severe postoperative complications as the primary outcome. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for complications.

Results:

Of the 771 MIPD cases, 426 (55.3%) were analyzed. A pancreatic duct size ≤3 mm was the only significant risk factor for severe complications (OR=2.22, P=0.0001). Most cases (n=255; 59.9%) were classified as grade C complexity, whereas 22 (5.1%) were classified as grade A. Severe postoperative complications increased with complexity (grade A, 31.8%; grade B, 36.3%; grade C, 48.6%; P=0.0091). For grade A complexity, the outcomes were consistent across surgeons and centers. Grade B outcomes were similar between grade B and C centers but superior to grade A centers. In grade C cases, outcomes were comparable between grade A and B centers, with improvements at grade C centers. Grade A ISGPS experience correlated strongly with mismatches between planned and performed procedures (grade A, 15.0%; grade B, 3.0%; grade C, 3.1%; P<0.0001), including total pancreatectomy (grade A, 11.5%; grade B, 1.2%; grade C, 3.1%; P=0.0005).

Conclusions:

The ISGPS complexity grading system effectively predicted MIPD outcomes, supporting better patient selection and alignment of complexity with surgical expertise.
At the Scrub Sink: Evaluation of Ureteric Patency During Cystoscopy
Authors: El-Nashar Sherif A.
Published: December 2024

At the scrub sink, we discussed the best ways to evaluate for ureteric patency during cystoscopy. For decades, surgeons have been using intravenous indigo carmine for evaluating ureteric patency. Ten years ago, a shortage of indigo carmine halted production. In response to the shortage of indigo carmine, surgeons went into action, developing alternative strategies that are evidence-based and cost-effective. The shortage is over now; the lessons we learned as a subspeciality can help us address the next challenge.
Experimental Warming Alters Nitrogen Cycle in a Humid Tropical Forest Warming Alters N Cycle in Tropical Forest
Authors: Bartz Parker M. , Reed Sasha C. , Grullón-Penkova Iana F. , Cavaleri Molly A. , Shahid Saima , Wood Tana E. , Bachelot Benedicte
Published: December 2024

Humid tropical forests typically contain high soil nitrogen (N), supporting rapid rates of primary productivity and recovery from disturbances. Nitrogen fixation is regulated by microbial communities, which can be free-living in the soil and leaf litter (asymbiotic) or in symbioses with plants.

To investigate how warming affects asymbiotic and symbiotic components of the N cycle, we analyzed soil and leaf litter samples as well as annual seedling census data from an experimental warming field site in Puerto Rico.

16S andnifHsequencing revealed that warming significantly altered bacterial composition. Asymbiotic N fixation rates were 55% greater in soil (0.004 nmol N2/g/hr) and 525% greater (0.217 nmol N2/g/hr) in leaf litter from warmed compared to ambient plots. This increase in fixation was associated with changes in the N-fixing bacterial community. Under warming, N fixers experienced a 4.4-fold increase in growth rate compared to non-fixers, yet competition with neighboring N fixers eventually reduced N fixer growth. Seedling growth, especially of N fixers, initially increased following hurricane disturbances before declining.

Together, our findings suggest that warming increases the flux of N from the atmosphere into this tropical forest, driving changes in both microbial and tree dynamics.
Voxel-wise or Region-wise Nuisance Regression for Functional Connectivity Analyses: Does it matter?
Authors: Muganga Tobias , Sasse Leonard , Larabi Daouia I. , Nieto Nicolás , Caspers Julian , Eickhoff Simon B. , Patil Kaustubh R.
Published: December 2024

Removal of nuisance signals (such as motion) from the BOLD time series is an important aspect of preprocessing to obtain meaningful resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC). The nuisance signals are commonly removed using denoising procedures at the finest resolution, i.e. the voxel time series. Typically the voxel-wise time series are then aggregated into predefined regions or parcels to obtain a rs-FC matrix as the correlation between pairs of regional time series. Computational efficiency can be improved by denoising the aggregated regional time series instead of the voxel time series. However, a comprehensive comparison of the effects of denoising on these two resolutions is missing.

In this study, we systematically investigate the effects of denoising at different time series resolutions (voxel- and region-level) in 370 unrelated subjects from the HCP-YA dataset. Alongside the time series resolution, we considered additional factors such as aggregation method (Meanandfirst eigenvariate[EV]) and parcellation granularity (100, 400, and 1,000 regions). To assess the effect of those choices on the utility of the resulting whole-brain rs-FC, we evaluated the individual specificity (fingerprinting) and the capacity to predict age and three cognitive scores.

Our findings show generally equal or better performance for region-level denoising with notable differences depending on the aggregation method. Using mean aggregation yielded equal individual specificity and prediction performance for voxel- and region-level denoising. When EV was employed for aggregation, the individual specificity of voxel-level denoising was reduced compared to region-level denoising. Increasing parcellation granularity generally improved individual specificity. For the prediction of age and cognitive test scores, only fluid intelligence indicated worse performance for voxel-level denoising in the case of aggregating with theEV.

Based on these results, we recommend the adoption of region-level denoising for brain-behavior investigations when using mean aggregation. This approach offers equal individual specificity and prediction capacity with reduced computational resources for the analysis of rs-FC patterns.
In vitroactivity of imipenem/relebactam alone and in combination against cystic fibrosis isolates ofMycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Sanders Madeline , Shinde Aditi , Kim Sun Woo , Quach Eric , Beringer Paul
Published: December 2024

Background

Mycobacterium abscessuscomplex (MABSC) is an emerging opportunistic pathogen that causes chronic, difficult-to-treat pulmonary infections, particularly in people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF), leading to rapid lung function decline, morbidity, and mortality. Effective treatment is particularly challenging due to the pathogen’s resistance mechanisms and the need for prolonged multidrug therapy, which is often hindered by poor clinical outcomes, highlighting the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies.

Imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam (IMI/REL), a novel β-lactam-β-lactamase inhibitor combination, demonstratesin vitroactivity against resistant MABSC strains and effective pulmonary penetration. Prior literature indicates synergistic activity of imipenem with various antibiotics againstM. abscessus.

Methods

This study aims to evaluate thein vitroactivity of IMI/REL, alone and in combination with other antibiotics, against MABSC clinical isolates from PwCF (n=28). Susceptibility and synergy were assessed using broth microdilution and checkerboard assays. Extracellular and intracellular time-kill assays were performed to evaluate bactericidal activity of synergistic two- and three-drug combinations.

Results

IMI/REL demonstrated potentin vitroactivity against clinical MABSC isolates, exhibiting substantial synergy with cefuroxime, cefdinir, amoxicillin, and cefoxitin. Rifabutin, azithromycin, moxifloxacin, clofazimine, minocycline, and omadacycline also demonstrated additive effects with IMI/REL. Extracellular time-kill assays identified IMI/REL+cefoxitin+rifabutin/moxifloxacin as the most effective combinations. Rifabutin demonstrated the highest intracellular killing activity, with combination regimens involving moxifloxacin+rifabutin/omadacycline/azithromycin resulting in greater reductions in bacterial load.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that IMI/REL may offer a significant advancement in the management of MABSC infections in PwCF. The promising efficacy of multidrug regimens combining IMI/REL with agents like cefoxitin, azithromycin, moxifloxacin, rifabutin, and omadacycline highlights potential therapeutic strategies.