bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Anti-aging Effects of Gemfibrozil on D-galactose induced Aging Mouse Model
Authors: AL-Bairmani Rana J. H. , Kadhim Haitham M.
Published: October 2023

Background: Aging is the sequential or progressive changes in the organisms that is associated with increasing susceptibility to disease and death. Advanced age is associated with increased incidence of a variety of chronic disease states that share oxidative stress and inflammation as causative role players. Accumulating evidence in published literature showed that the use of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents is an effective approach to alleviate or reverse aging-related changes with consequent reduction of the aging rate and related disease. Gemfibrozil, as a peroxisome proliferator-activated alpha receptor ligand (PPARα), is reported to have antioxidant and inflammatory activity. Aim of the study: Evaluate the anti-aging effect of gemfibrozil on many parameters associated with the aging process on the D-galactose induced aging mice model. Method: The current work was an experimental randomized controlled study in which 60 albino male mice weighing between 25 to 40 gm were randomly divided into 6 groups (10 mice each group). group1 apparently healthy group, receive normal saline orally. Group 2 (age induction group receive D-galactose 500 mg/kg) orally only for 6 weeks, group 3 (+D-galactose 500 mg/kg + vitc 100 mg/kg orally for 6 weeks) group 4 (D-galactose 500 mg/kg for 6 weeks then vitc 100 mg/kg for another 6 consecutive weeks group 5 (D-galactose 500 mg/kg + gemfibrozil 7.5 mg/kg concomitantly for 6 weeks) group 6 (D-galactose 500 mg/kg for 6 weeks then gemfibrozil 7.5 mg/kg for another 6 consecutive weeks. Then animals were sacrificed, liver and kidney were weighed for organ index measurement and tissue sections and heart homogenate were prepared for ELISA assay (measurement of TN alpha, IL1beta, SOD, GPX) and histopathological analysis of myocardial tissue. Results: results showed a significant rise in liver and kidney indices in animals that received gemfibrozil orally administered (during and after induction) compared to aged group, with a dramatic decrease in inflammatory and oxidative stress mediator level and a marked reversal effect on myocardial hypertrophy induced by D-galactose. Conclusion: Gemfibrozil oral administration alleviates aging-associated atrophic changes in liver and kidney, oxidative stress and inflammatory state in myocardial tissue and reverses aging-related myocardial hypertrophic changes.
Polymeric Fluoroquinolone Microparticles for Pulmonary Drug Delivery: A Review on Characteristics, Drug Release Profile, and Antibacterial Study
Authors: M.F Deliaz , E Hendradi , D.M Hariyadi
Published: October 2023

Polymeric microparticles have recently gained significant attention as promising carriers for antibiotic administration to the pulmonary route, especially the antibiotics from the fluoroquinolone class. The versatility and efficiency of fluoroquinolones, combined with the stability, biocompatibility, and tunable protection provided by polymeric encapsulation in microparticles, contribute to the effectiveness of fluoroquinolone microparticles in achieving desirable characteristics, particularly precise and controlled drug release in the lungs. Such characteristics, drug release profile, and antibacterial activities are mainly influenced by the physics and chemistry of the fluoroquinolones-polymer system as a whole, formulation parameters, and solvent usage. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive summary of studies and research conducted between 2012 and the present, focusing on the characteristics, drug release profile, and antibacterial investigation of fluoroquinolone microparticles that utilize polymeric formulations for the purpose of delivering drugs to the lungs.
Depression and Associated Factors among Type 2 Diabetics in Karbala City, Iraq: As a Model of Anti-depressant Drugs
Authors: Mahanrth TiSammar J , Mahammad Mohammed M
Published: October 2023

depression symptoms are well-known co-occurring diseases. A person’s ability to do everyday things can be affected by depressed symptoms and DM. Objectives: To find the level of depression symptoms among type 2 diabetics, observe the socio-demographic & disease-related agents that cause depression. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to assess depression in 200 people suffering from type 2 diabetes and 120 healthy participants as a control group. Patients scoring 5 or more were termed depressed. Each participant’s verbal informed consent was obtained before the interview. On the questionnaires, no names were written. Depression was correlated with demographic and patient-related disease characteristics using Spearman’s rho correlation. Results: The severe, moderate, and mild depression rates were 7.5, 56, and 29%, respectively and 92.5% of diabetics had depressed symptoms. Among the control group, absences of depressed symptoms and mild depressed symptoms were more common. Diabetics had moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression are all more common than mild depression symptoms. Diabetic patients’ median PHQ-9 score (10) was significantly higher than the control group’s 8. Conclusion: Depression is common among diabetes mellitus type 2 patients. Glycemic control is poor & obesity have an impact on it. Endocrinologists should be aware of the elevated risk of depression in this patient population
Formulation and Development of Polyherbal Ointment containing Clerodendrum serratum, Solanum xanthocarpum, and Nyctanthes arbortristis Extracts and Assessment of Anti-inflammatory Activity in Carrageenan-Induced Paw Edema Model
Authors: Laware Sandip G. , Shirole Nitin L.
Published: October 2023

In this study, our objective was to explore the phytochemical constituents of Clerodendrum serratum (CS), Solanum xanthocarpum (SX), and Nyctanthes arbortristis (NA) and evaluate their anti-inflammatory activity. Subsequently, we aimed to develop a polyherbal ointment formulation incorporating these extracts. The phytochemical screening of the CS extract showed carbohydrates, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. Similarly, the SX extract exhibited the presence of all these constituents, along with the additional presence of alkaloids. The NA extract demonstrated the presence of alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, and flavonoids. CS roots exhibited notable inhibition of inflammation at the given doses and periods of 1 to 5 hours, surpassing the effectiveness of the standard anti-inflammatory drug, indomethacin. The polyherbal ointments were found to be greenish, non-transparent, and with acceptable pH. F3 formulation demonstrated excellent viscosity of 1200 cp, making it easy to apply on the skin. Furthermore, formulation F3 demonstrated exceptional spreadability, covering a diameter of 1.8 cm, surpassing the other formulations. Importantly, all polyherbal formulations were non-irritant when applied to the skin, as evidenced by the absence of edema or erythema upon application to rat skin. F3 formulation indicated no physicochemical variations in comparison to initial results in stability studies. Even after the 6-month stability study, the ointment formulation maintained a smooth and greenish consistency, signifying its durability and stability. These findings suggest that the developed polyherbal ointment formulation can be stored at room temperature without any additional requirements. Overall, this polyherbal ointment formulation represents a promising alternative approach to existing topical formulations for the effective treatment of inflammatory conditions.
Formulation Development and Evaluation of Freeze-dried Aviptadil Injection using Mannitol as Cryoprotectant
Authors: Bukkawar Amit , Jain Amit K , Chatap Vivekanand K
Published: October 2023

physiological effects that have been well-documented, including anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, anti-hypertensive, enhancement of cardiac contractility, vasodilation, and fostering immune-neuroendocrine connection. Aviptadil (AVP) is the name of the vasoactive intestinal polypeptide’s synthetic version. Aims and Objectives: The main goal of this work was to create a novel, stable, lyophilized version of aviptadil injection. The stability of aviptadil is of utmost importance due to its classification as a polypeptide, recommended storage condition of -20°C, and susceptibility to degradation in aqueous solutions. To achieve this, the aviptadil injection was processed using freeze-drying technology with the addition of mannitol, serving as a bulking and cryoprotectant agent, within an aqueous solvent system. The choice of cryoprotectant and solvent system was based on factors such as the drug substance’s solubility, stability, and feasibility in the manufacturing process. During the development of the formulation, the bulk solution underwent evaluation to assess the effects of process time, temperature, and compatibility with the materials it came into contact with. Results and Discussion: The incorporation of mannitol, a sugar alcohol, led to the stability of the bulk solution for up to 24 hours before lyophilization when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8°C. Moreover, enhanced stability was observed post freeze-drying. The lyophilization process was meticulously optimized, taking into account critical quality attributes such as description, active drug content, pH of the reconstituted solution, reconstitution time, moisture content, and color absorption percentage. The bulk solution demonstrated compatibility with various materials employed in manufacturing the drug product, such as stainless-steel vessels, polyethersulfone (PES) and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membrane filters. Notably, when the drug product bulk solution was kept refrigerated for up to 24 hours, there were no appreciable changes in the critical quality features found. The optimized freeze-dried product successfully meets the quality target product profile (QTPP)’s preset acceptance criteria. Conclusions: The stabilization of AVP injection was successfully achieved through the implementation of the lyophilization process with mannitol as the cryoprotectant. The envisaged injectable formulation proves to be safe and showcases its economic viability, convenience, and overall safety in the preparation methods. These findings strongly support the viability of the freeze-dried formulation as a technically sound solution for ensuring the stability of aviptadil as a drug substance within the freeze-dried injectable dosage form. This formulation warrants more research due to its potential to treat patients with conditions such acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute lung injury, pulmonary fibrosis, and sarcoidosis.
Antiepileptic Drugs Adverse Drug Reactions and Role of Clinical Pharmacist
Authors: Gopu Dharani , D Akila Devi
Published: October 2023

Aim: To identify the ADR of suspected adverse drugs to monitor, manage, and assess to improve patient health. Materials and Methods: The study type is a prospective observational study done in a tertiary care hospital at Telangana. Patients prescribed with at least one antiepileptic drug and patients with chronic diseases (SLE, renal and hepatic failure, etc.) were included in the study. Result: Sodium valproate shows relatively less adverse drug reactions (ADRs) (2.5%) when compared with other antiepileptics. Phenytoin shows the highest number of ADRs (50%), among which CNS-related ADRs, where more than 75% of were predictable clinical pharmacists can play a crucial role in the early identification and prevention of these ADRs due to Antiepileptic drugs.
Novel HYDALJSS08 Polyherbal Formulation Development and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatographic Separation, Estimation of Gallic Acid in Terminalia chebula Dried Fruits, and a Marketed Siddha-based Polyherbal Formulation “Kabusura Kudineer”
Authors: Jatoth Ramkishan , S.P Dhanabal , Basavan Duraiswamy , Senthil Venkatachalam , Ganesh Thangavel , Selvaraj Jubie , M Jeyprakash
Published: October 2023

The Siddha-based polyherbal formulation known as “Kabusura Kudineer (Marketed)” contains fifteen plants materials in dried raw form and The Ayush Ministry, Govt. of India highly endorsed for use of “Kabusura kudineer” during the pandemic of COVID-19, due to its immuno-booster properties. The current study aims to develop and document an analytical strategy for the estimation of gallic acid (GA) and methyl, ethyl acetate fraction of Terminalia chebula dried fruits and in polyherbal formulations (Marketed, & Developed). One of the active substances of Kabusura Kudineer and developed “HYDALJSS08” Polyherbal formulation is Myrobalan (T. chebula dried fruit-Combretaceae). Myrobalan restrains active principal substances are GA. GA is proven for its Anti-viral and immunomodulatory activity. During the pandemic of, COVID-19 ministry of Ayush, Govt of India highly recommended the immuno-booster Siddha-based polyherbal formulation “Kabusura Kudineer” for immune-boosting and treatment of COVID-19. TLC, and FTIR carried out the preliminary identification of GA and the sample. The HPLC method was developed on an Inertsil C18 (150*4.6 mm and 5 μm) column. The mobile phase was enhanced for water: Acetonitrile (50:50). The flow rate was 1-mL/min and was GA tracked at 272 nm in a UV detector. The total run time of the chromatogram is 8 minutes and the retention time of GA is observed. The Rf value of GA and sample was found to be 0.27. Validation was carried out according to ICH guidelines. The retention time of GA was 2.2 min, and the Valid parameter of GA is system precision, SD (14247.75), %RSD (0.9), Regression equation y = 25511 x−947505, Correlation coefficient (R2) 0.9999. The adequate Linearity concentration was found to be 50 to 150 μg/mL, LoDs (1.70 μg/mL), LoQs (5.16 μg/mL), Method precision %RSD (0.8), SD (11626.7), Recovery 99.8, and 101.1%. GA content was found in a formulation (“Kabusura Kudineer”- 1.39 μg/mL, developed “HYDALJSS08” Polyherbal formulation-379.4 μg/mL), and ethyl, methyl acetate fraction of T. chebula dried fruits was 105.59 and 29.17 μg/mL. The developed (HPLC) UPLC methods have enabled novel, simple, accurate, rapid, easy, reproducible, rugged, and linear analysis in these two fractions, and Siddha-based formulation “Kabusura kudineer” (Marketed), a developed “HYDALJSS08” Polyherbal formulation.
In-vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammation Activities of Ethanol Extract from “Bang Chang” Thai Cultivar Chili Pepper (Capsicum annuum Var. acuminatum)
Authors: Thongkao Kanittada , Sudjaroen Yuttana
Published: October 2023

Chili peppers (Capsicum spp.) are really important crops in several Asian countries. In Thailand, chili pepper cultivars are also a wide range of flavors, colors, shapes, and spiciness levels. The cultural importance in Thai cuisine. The “Bang Chang chili pepper” (Capsicum annuum var. acuminatum), a Thai cultivar of capsicum, had first cultivated in Bang Chang subdistrict, Samut Songkhram, Thailand. This study aimed to determine capsaicin, phenolic compounds and flavonoids and screen ethanol extract’s biological activities. The extract’s average capsaicin and total phenolic content (TPC) was 10.4 ± 0.3 (g/100 mL and 2.50 ± 0.13 mg GAE/g, while it could not determine flavonoids. The low amount of capsaicin in extract was defined this cultivars as non-pungent capsicum (0-700 Scoville Heat Units, SHU). This extract was strongly scavenged NO and DPPH radicals (IC50 = 0.09 ± 0.02 and 14.88 ± 1.59 mg/mL). There was also exerted in-vitro anti-inflammation activity by suppression of albumin breakdown (IC50 = 0.51 ± 0.05 mg/mL), which, can comparable to control, diclofenac diethyl ammonium (IC50 = 0.45 ± 0.01 mg/mL). Therefore, lipid peroxidation was weakly inhibited (IC50 >1,000 mg/mL) and unable to trap metals compared to vitamin E and EDTA. According to our finding, this extract was exerted biological properties like antioxidant and anti-inflammation, as well as being non-pungent, it can be used externally for medicinal purposes like as a muscle relaxant and massage oil to reduce subcutaneous fat. This extract can be used as a condiment in Asian recipes and other healthful dishes
Correlation between Serum Troponin-I Levels and Acute Stroke in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
Authors: Patil Shilpa , Patil Dilip , Porwal Amit
Published: October 2023

Background: Studies reveal that the average age of stroke in less developed nations would be younger due to changing population structures brought on by increased mortality rates and other causes of death. The risk of death for AS patients is highest in the first few weeks and varies from 20 to 50% in the first month, depending on age, severity of stroke, other medical disorders, and treatment effectiveness for all outcomes. Furthermore, Tn subunits bind to muscle filaments, according to studies. Since it is a sensitive sign of myocardial necrosis, researchers have determined that it is widely used to diagnose acute coronary syndromes. Objective: To assess the link between serum TnI levels and AS in CAD cases. Methods: Based on the average patient volume and available resources at the KIMS, Karad from October 2017 to December 2019, our study comprised 57 patients. A structured and validated questionnaire was utilized to collect data. Microsoft Excel received the data. Tests were conducted using Epi-Info 7.2 and SPSS version 20. The student’s t-test is used to determine correlation, whereas the chi-square test was utilized to measure association. Result: A strong correlation was observed between mortality and elevated TnI levels in AS cases (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Patients with AIS showed significant TnI levels. Serum TnI levels were higher in patients with AIS, despite these levels being thought to be more selective for myocardial damage. TnI levels and AIS prognosis were substantially associated. The results of this study will improve our understanding of cardiac enzymes in AIS patients as well as how they impact prognosis.
Preparation and In-vitro Evaluation of Pemigatinib Nanosponges Tablets by Box-Behnken Design
Authors: Mamatha Palanati , Bhikshapathi DVRN
Published: October 2023

Objective: Pemigatinib depicted antitumor action in complex and metastatic tumors and it’s a hydrophobic compound having strong pH-reliant solubility. The current work was designed to improve oral solubility of pemigatinib by incorporating into nanosponges (NSs). Methods: Box-Behnken Design optimized the independent parameters of polystyrene NSs formation. Polystyrene NSs were prepared by ultrasound-assisted method using diaryl carbonate as cross-linking agent, which were later characterized and formulated into tablets. Tablets got screened for the respective quality attributes. Results: A number of tests were carried out from the test runs generated by a three-factor, three-level BBD. The range of mean PS was 153 to 316 nm, the range for encapsulation efficiency% was 68.2 to 91.4%, and the value for PDI was 0.273 to 0.445. ZP for the finalized formula was determined to be -29.1 mV. The drug and excipients were compatible as confirmed by FTIR studies. SEM study confirmed that pemigatinib has successfully entrapped in interior of the polymer. In-vitro examination of the pemigatinib loaded NSs tablets were compared with a marked product and satisfactory results were obtained (98.74 ± 2.65% vs. 93.73 ± 1.06%). The prepared formulations were stable during 6 month stability study period. Conclusion: The study findings for pemigatinib NS tablets demonstrated quick dissolution since the changed solubility qualities of the drug, satisfying the intended objective of increased absorption. Formulated pemigatinib-loaded NSs can be beneficial in the treatment of cancers
Future Pharmacological Prospectives and Multiple Diagnostic Recognition of Traditional Medicinal Plant Ficus racemosa
Authors: Khade Prathamesh P , Sutar Shubhangi B , Patil Sachinkumar
Published: October 2023

A significant medicinal plant called ‘Ficus racemosa’ of the Moraceae species can be found in Southeast Asia, Australia, and India, Mainly in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. It is frequently referred to as “gular.” Due to the presence of bergenin as a flavonoid, it acts as an anticancer. Numerous isolated active components from various portions of this plant have been discovered to possess advantageous pharmacological characteristics. According to a literature review, it has various pharmacological actions, including liver-protective activity, anti-HIV, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, antioxidant, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, anticancer and antibacterial activities. This review study does a good job of discussing this particular plant’s traditional usage, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity.
Eclipse Timing Variations Observed in PCEB Systems
Authors: Baştürk Özgür , Esmer Ekrem M. , Demir Eylül , Selam Selim O.
Published: October 2023

Post-common Envelope Eclipsing Binary (PCEB) systems with a white or sub-dwarf primary and a low-mass secondary are ideal systems to study Eclipse Timing Variations (ETVs) due to their relatively small total masses which make it easy to detect gravitationally bound, yet unseen, additional bodies even within planetary limits on long-period orbits. With the addition of the recent discovery of two planetary-mass bodies in the sdB + dM binary Kepler-451 system, the number of circumbinary planets in PCEBs approaches 30 now. However, some of these systems turned out to be dynamically unstable with the suggested planetary parameters. As more observations accumulate over time, there have been significant changes in both the number of suggested planets and their parameters. These necessitate a look back to the ETV analyses of these systems with new and more precise data spanning longer baselines. Within this contribution, we review the systems hosting substellar bodies suggested from the light-time effect they are claimed to be causing. We list the general problems encountered during the ETV analyses and the interpretation of the results, and comment on their possible solutions. We calculate and present the potentials of supporting evidence from astrometry, radial velocity, and transit observations as well as tests through dynamical stability analyses and magnetic activity assumptions.
Detailed follow up studies of three ultracompact sdB binaries
Authors: Stringer Eric , Kupfer Thomas , Dorsch Matti
Published: October 2023

We present follow-up studies of three ultracompact hot subdwarf binaries. Using data from the Zwicky Transient Facility, we find orbital periods of 33.6, 37.3, and 36.9 minutes for ZTF 1946+3203, ZTF 0640+1738, and ZTF 0643+0318 respectively. The light curves show el-lipsoidal variability of the hot subdwarf star with potential eclipses of an accretion disc. Phase-resolved spectroscopic observations with Keck were used to measure a radial velocity curve and atmospheric parameters of the hot subdwarf stars. ZTF J0643 shows evidence of accretion disc emission lines in the average spectrum. Combining light curve and spectroscopic fits will allow us to measure precise system properties such as masses, to determine the evolutionary history and future evolution of the system.
Adjusting the Operational Potential Window as a Tool for Prolonging the Durability of Carbon-supported Pt-alloy Nanoparticles as Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Đukić Tina , Jean Moriau Léonard , Klofutar Iva , Šala Martin , Pavko Luka , González López Francisco Javier , Ruiz-Zepeda Francisco , Pavlišič Andraž , Hotko Miha , Gatalo Matija , Hodnik Nejc
Published: October 2023

A current trend in the investigation of the state-of-the-art Pt-alloys as the proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) electrocatalysts is to study their long-term stability as a bottleneck for their full commercialization. Although many parameters have been appropriately addressed, there are still certain issues that must be considered. Here, the stability of an experimental Pt-Co/C electrocatalyst is investigated by high-temperature accelerated degradations tests (HT-ADTs) in a high-temperature disc electrode (HT-DE) setup, allowing the imitation of close-to-real operational conditions in terms of temperature (60 ℃). Whereas the US Department of Energy (DoE) protocol has been chosen as the basis of the study (30 000 trapezoid-wave cycling steps between 0.6–0.95 VRHE with a 3 s hold time at both the lower potential limit (LPL) and the upper potential limit (UPL)), this works demonstrates that limiting both the LPL and UPL (from 0.6–0.95 VRHE to 0.7–0.85 VRHE) can dramatically reduce the degradation rate of state-of-the-art Pt-alloy electrocatalysts. This has been additionally confirmed with the use of an electrochemical flow cell coupled to an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (EFC-ICP-MS), which enables real-time monitoring of the dissolution mechanisms of Pt and Co. In line with the HT-DT methodology observations, a dramatic decrease in the total dissolution of Pt and Co has once again been observed upon narrowing the potential window to 0.7–0.85 VRHE rather than 0.6–0.95 VRHE. Additionally, the effect of the potential hold time at both LPL and UPL on the metal dissolution has also been investigated. The findings demonstrate that the dissolution rate of both metals is proportional to the hold time at UPL, regardless of the applied potential window, while the hold time at the LPL does not appear to be as detrimental to the stability of metals. Nevertheless, the total dissolution of metals has been once again significantly lower for the narrower potential window of 0.7–0.85 VRHE rather than 0.6–0.95 VRHE.
Synthesis of Stereocontrolled Polyurethanes with Defined Monomer Order by Step-economy Approach
Authors: Sharma Anuj , Cwynar Pawel , Gupta Vijaj , Szweda Róża
Published: October 2023

Polyurethanes are valuable materials in the industrial sector due to their broad scope of various applications. Traditional synthesis methods rely on step-growth polymerization, which inherently lacks precise molecular weight and structure control. Consequently, pursuing a synthetic strategy for stereocontrolled, sequence-defined polyurethanes represent a substantial challenge in soft material design. This study demonstrates an approach to synthesising discrete, stereo-regulated polyurethanes with defined monomer order by combining the one-pot synthesis method with iterative exponential growth. This work presents a methodology to fabricate non-biological polymers with structural precision characteristics for biomacromolecules. By varying the composition of different monomers and gradually increasing the chiral monomer content or altering its position within the polymer chain, we can influence the secondary structures of polyurethanes and, consequently, their properties and functions. Furthermore, we demonstrated the production of polymers with non-symmetrical sequences, showcasing the feasibility of tailoring polymer chains to specific requirements and preserving complete sequence control. This synthetic strategy paves the way for the facile fabrication of abiotic polymers that could emulate the characteristics of artificial proteins.
Optimal Network Design for Microseismic Monitoring in Urban Areas - A Case Study in Munich, Germany
Authors: Keil Sabrina , Wassermann Joachim , Megies Tobias , Kraft Toni
Published: October 2023

Well-designed monitoring networks are crucial for obtaining precise locations, magnitudes and source parameters, both for natural and induced microearthqakes. The performance of a seismic network depends on many factors, including network geometry, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the seismic station, instrumentation and sampling rate. Therefore, designing a high-quality monitoring network in an urban environment is challenging due to the high level of anthropogenic noise and dense building infrastructure, which can impose geometrical limitations and elevated construction costs for sensor siting. To address these challenges, we apply a numerical optimization approach to design a microseismic surveillance network for induced earthquakes in the metropolitan area of Munich (Germany), where several geothermal plants exploit a deep hydrothermal reservoir. First of all, we develop a detailed noise model for the city of Munich, to capture the heterogeneous noise conditions. Then, we calculate the expected location precision for a randomly chosen network geometry from the body-wave amplitudes and travel times of a synthetic earthquake catalog considering the modeled local noise level at each network station. In the next step, to find the optimum network configuration, we use a simulated annealing approach in order to minimize the error ellipsoid volume of the linearized earthquake location problem. The results indicate that a surface station network cannot reach the required location precision (0.5 km in epicentre and 2 km in source depth) and detection capability (magnitude of completeness Mc = 1.0) due to the city´s high seismic noise level. In order to reach this goal, borehole stations need to be added to increase the SNR of the microearthquake recordings, the accuracy of their body-wave arrival times and source parameters. The findings help to better quantify the seismic monitoring requirements for a save operation of deep geothermal projects in urban areas.
Automated shear-wave splitting analysis for single- and multi- layer anisotropic media
Authors: Hudson Thomas Samuel , Asplet Joseph , Walker Andrew M
Published: October 2023

Shear-wave velocity anisotropy is present throughout the earth. The strength and orientation of anisotropy can be observed by shear-wave splitting (birefringence) accumulated between earthquake sources and receivers. Seismic deployments are getting ever larger, increasing the number of earthquakes detected and the number of source-receiver pairs. Here, we present a new Python software package, SWSPy, that fully automates shear-wave splitting analysis, useful for large datasets. The software is written in Python, so it can be easily integrated into existing workflows. Furthermore, seismic anisotropy studies typically make a single-layer approximation, but in this work we describe a new method for measuring anisotropy for multi-layered media, which is also implemented. We demonstrate the performance of SWSPy for a range of geological settings, from glaciers to Earth's mantle. We show how the package facilitates interpretation of an extensive dataset at a volcano, and how the new multi-layer method performs on synthetic and real-world data. The automated nature of SWSPy and the discrimination of multi-layer anisotropy will improve the quantification of seismic anisotropy, especially for tomographic applications. The method is also relevant for removing anisotropic effects, important for applications including full-waveform inversion and moment magnitude analysis.
Determination of the Mathematical Theorems on Ancient Mosaics
Authors: AYDOĞDU Erhan , ÖZ Ali Kazım
Published: October 2023

The aim of this research is to examine and evaluate the reflection of mathematical knowledge on examples of ancient mosaic art. As a result of the comparison between history of mathematics and art of mosaics, a connection has been made between the well-known theorems and patterns through the nature of the forms. For this purpose, patterns like swastika, meander, spiral and cube forms, as well as the forms that can be produced from the graph related to the lunar area calculation of Hippocrates of Chios have been analyzed. In addition, analyzes, discussions and evaluations on the identification of the forms similar to the semi-regular solids of Archimedes and the hexagons of Pappus of Alexandria have been presented. It is thought that the methods used and the information obtained in this study will contribute to the research of mosaic art and history of mathematics, the documentation and evaluation of archaeological artifacts, the museology practices and conservation studies.
Half-Human Half-Vegetal Hybrids in Eastern Mosaics
Authors: DERWAEL Stéphanie
Published: October 2023

The aim of this paper is to investigate the evolution of the use of half-human half-vegetal figures, the so-called Rankenfrau and Rankengott, in the pavements of the Eastern Mediterranean, from their appearance in the Classical period to their appropriation in the Roman and Christian times. The contextualised analysis of this corpus, combined with a comparison to other media such as architectural sculpture, provide a good opportunity to better understand to what extent the motif varied at different times and how the worldview of the commissioners of the decors can, or not, affect their meaning. In the Classical and Hellenistic contexts, vegetalisation of the human body seems to plastically translate the prerogatives of different divinities of wild nature, growth, and life. Through the mastery of their primitive savagery, these deities allow the coexistence of two different natures and bring divine prosperity into everyday life. In Roman times these figures inherited from the Greek world went through an unprecedented formal and syntactic diversification. A new variant is even created: the foliate head, which concentrates the force of a vital principle and appears as the metonymic representation of its primordial and spontaneous fecundity. In Eastern pavements, bearded and beardless foliate heads are associated with young foliate boys in the peopled scroll borders of the public rooms of rich houses. They evoked the mastery of a vital impulse that is made beneficial for wealthy owners. During the 6th century AD, whilst the foliate heads survive in the pavements of Christian monuments, the Rankenfrau and the Rankengott seem to disappear from the Eastern repertoire.
The Mosaics of the Domus I of the Plaza de Armas of the Royal Alcazar in Roman colonia Augusta Firma - Astigi (Écija, Seville, Spain) - II
Authors: GARCÍA-DILS DE LA VEGA Sergio , ORDÓÑEZ AGULLA Salvador
Published: October 2023

The Domus I of the Plaza de Armas of the Royal Alcazar of Ecija (Seville, Spain) has been object of archaeological excavations and restoration interventions since 2001, which have revealed that this luxurious urban residence was completely reformed in the Severan period, when several rooms and the central courtyard were decorated with mosaic pavements of different thematic. In 2015 was discovered the so-called mosaic of the Loves of Zeus, which decorate the triclinium of the domus, with several scenes from this mythological cycle, along with Bacchic themes and characters, and the representation of the seasons. In this paper is offered an update on the progress of research relative to this outstanding mosaic.
The Representation of the Nile on Mosaics: Various Contexts, Various Meanings
Authors: GUIMIER-SORBETS Anne-marie
Published: October 2023

Based on a few examples from different regions of the Roman Empire, we study the representation of the Nile from the end of the Hellenistic period to Late Antiquity. Depending on the case, the river is represented for itself, as a major element of the Egyptian landscape, a pleasant setting that brings benefits and abundance; this landscape, characterized by its flora and fauna, can also be depicted in “Nilotic scenes” with caricatured characters. In other representations, on the other hand, the god Nile is personified and the celebrations offered to him are shown to greet - and guarantee - the abundance of his flood, source of wealth and pleasure. It also happens that the personification of the Nile only serves as an allegory of the river, without wanting to highlight the god. These different iconographic schemes were to be found and intermingled in all regions of the Roman Empire until Late Antiquity. We show how the same iconography can take on, depending on the context, a religious character - when these images are associated with the cults of Egyptian deities, particularly Serapis - or a profane character, essentially in a domestic context. In the early Christian period, the Nile was considered one of the rivers of Paradise, and images of it took on a new meaning for both the commissioners and the faithful. We show how the same iconographic elements were used in different contexts, and how they were adopted, sometimes adapted, to serve different purposes and ideologies.
Symbols of Faith in the Mosaic Floors of the Newly Discovered Ecclesiastical Complex at Ashdod Maritima, Israel
Authors: HABAS Lihi
Published: October 2023

An ecclesiastical complex has recently been discovered in Ashdod Maritima – ancient Azotus. The site was excavated in 2019 and 2021. The complex includes a basilica, several rooms, and a chapel on the north side, all decorated with mosaic pavements. A mixed trend comes to light in the mosaics: on the one hand, there is a continuation of the geometric and vegetal compositions and motifs that originated in the Roman world and continued into the Byzantine period. On the other hand, the complex is unique in the many symbols of faith that appear, scattered throughout its parts. All types of crosses are depicted; a medallion with a Greek cross accompanied by the Greek letters iota-chi, and alpha and omega; a medallion with a Latin cross standing on Golgotha Hill with the Greek letters iota-chi and alpha and omega; a large Latin cross standing on Golgotha Hill with two large Greek crosses between its arms; and a medallion with a quote from Psalms. The complex is exceptional in the large number of crosses, the names of the bishops, priest, deacon, and deaconesses who were involved in the construction and decoration or were buried in the complex, and the large number of dated inscriptions.
Technology and Composition of the Mortar and Origin of the Stone and the Smalta Tesserae of the Early Christian Mosaics from Parthicopolis. The Beginning of Database on the Ancient Mosaics from Middle Strymon
Authors: PETROVA Svetla
Published: October 2023

The article presents the results of a study on the mortar and tesserae made of marble, sandstone, brick, and smalta in the mosaic pavement of the exonarthex of Basilica No. 2 in Parthicopolis. This basilica served as an important episcopal center in the province of Macedonia I. The methods employed include macro- and micro-analysis, as well as SEM-EDS and XRD analysis of the mineral phases.
It has been established that the mosaic was laid on a mortar layer without a statumen and rudus. The study of the mortar revealed the presence of a fine fraction among the tesserae, as well as lumps of lime in the mortar composition, which were reinforced with a fine brick powder. The brick and stone tesserae, including marble and sandstone, originated locally, while the smalta used for the glass tesserae was imported, possibly undergoing secondary processing on-site.
The analysis of the smalta composition identified several technological processes, including secondary heating, a significant presence of small air bubbles, and unwanted crystalline impurities. These phenomena likely occurred during the melting, molding, annealing, or secondary processing of sodium-lime-silicate glass. This suggests the possibility of imported manufactured production being remade in situ, demonstrating the utilization of local materials and techniques.
The study revealed that the mosaicists possessed a profound understanding of the craft, including a deep knowledge of the underlying processes and a diverse range of technical skills. With this expertise, they were able to successfully achieve the desired result by utilizing local materials.
Potencialidades dos cafés especiais de Mandaguari: uma análise do círculo virtuoso da qualidade ligada à origem
Authors: Flôr Priscila Grazielle , Guimarães Kléssius Alexandre , Oliveira Matos Fábio Fernando , Sartori Rejane , Paracampo Mileo Bruno Alberto
Published: October 2023

Este estudo tem por objetivo apresentar os aspectos relevantes das potencialidades dos cafés especiais de Mandaguari, município do Norte-Central Paranaense, para reconhecimento de Indicação Geográfica (IG) na modalidade de Indicação de Procedência (IP). Para tal, foi realizada uma pesquisa qualitativa com abordagem exploratória, assentada em pesquisa documental e de campo, com realização de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os resultados indicaram que a busca pela IG conta com o esforço de vários atores, os cafeicultores locais, o Sebrae Paraná, as Secretarias Municipais da Agricultura e do Desenvolvimento, além de outros parceiros, como a Cooperativa local. O processo encontra-se em estágio avançado e os produtores estão reunidos em associação prestando apoio para a formatação do Caderno de Especificações Técnicas. A concessão do sinal distintivo, para eles, é um claro fator motivacional. Para o município, a possibilidade de conquistar maior desenvolvimento territorial.
YALIN YÖNETİMİN SAĞLIK SEKTÖRÜ UYGULAMALARINA İLİŞKİN ÖRNEKLER VE LİTERATÜR İNCELEMESİ
Authors: ACAR Safa
Published: October 2023

Rekabet şartlarının her geçen gün daha zor bir hale dönüştüğü ve geleneksel yöntemlerin yeterince kârlı olmadığı son dönemlerde çağdaş yönetim teknikleri işletmelerin daha rekabetçi ve daha uzun ömürlü olabilmelerini sağlayan çözümler sunmaktadır. Yalın felsefe olarak tanımlanan Toyota üretim sistemi, üretim işletmelerinde bulunan ve değer üretmeyen israf noktalarının ortadan kalkmasında ve işletmelerin daha rekabetçi ve daha uzun ömürlü olmalarında önemli katkılar sağlamaktadır. Üretim sektöründe başarılı olan bu sistem sağlık sektörü gibi farklı sektörlerde de uygulanmaya başlanmıştır. Sağlık sektöründe ortaya çıkan müşteri bekleme süreleri, hatalı müdahaleler, yüksek maliyetler ve buna benzer birçok problemli alanın iyileştirilmesinde yalın felsefe uygulamalarına başvurulabilmektedir.

Bu kapsamda çalışmanın amacı yalın sağlık hizmetlerini ulusal ve uluslararası literatürde incelemektir. Yapılan araştırma sonucunda en fazla yayın yapan ülkelerin ABD ve Birleşik Krallık olduğu, en fazla çalışmanın sağlık ve işletme alanında yazıldığı, çalışmaların odak noktasının ise insan ve yalın yönetim kavramları olduğu görülmüştür.
Memoria senso-perceptual: la contribución de las prácticas artísticas al estudio de lo patrimoniable
Authors: Piedrahita Stephanie , Fracasso Liliana , Vidal Rubiano Rene Alejandro , Moncada Leonor
Published: October 2023

El aparato senso-perceptual del individuo posibilita la construcción de la memoria que permite re-conocer valores de contexto. En el barrio popular Pardo Rubio, localizado en los Cerros Orientales de Bogotá, un grupo de jóvenes, dirigido por investigadores y maestros, explora la función de la memoria en el reconocimiento de valores culturales. El proceso, basado en las prácticas artísticas, es un aporte a la metodología que estudia lo patrimoniable. Reúne, por un parte registros, narrativas, objetos y elementos encontrados en el entorno y, por otra, genera - en el caso específico - piezas de barro llevadas a la cerámica y obras fotográficas, acudiendo a la técnica denominada rayograma. Con base en la evidencia de las obras, se reafirma la idea que la práctica artística permite indagaciones y reflexiones profundas acerca del valor patrimonial y ofrece al joven, en una actividad lúdica, la posibilidad de comprender su esencia de forma significativa y experiencial.
Tunnel Surveying Works: A Technical Challenge of 10 km-long tunnel under the Arabian Gulf-Qatar
Authors: Peach Gary , Al-Marri Saad Zayed , Fernandez Hernan Vigil , Kazingizi Simbarashe , Chumakou Pavel
Published: October 2023

The Musaimeer Pump Station & Outfall Tunnel project (MPSO) was constructed as one of the longest Outfall tunnels in the World with a total length of 10.189m and at the same time being the longest undersea tunnel in the Middle East. MPSO will manage ground- and storm-water from the Southern Doha District and dispose of this water via a diffuser bed connected to the outfall tunnel. Difficulties faced during the project execution were firstly, the tunnel network itself. It was necessary to maintain precision and reliability of the 10km network, in a tunnel of smaller than 5m in diameter, starting from a 26m diameter drop shaft. Secondly, the breakthrough was into a 3m diameter vertically positioned riser shaft encased in a 5m x 5m concrete block which was positioned and constructed offshore by utilizing different network of 10km Global Positioning System Real-Time Kinematic (GPS RTK) readings. The key problem was confirming that both survey networks used were homogenous as the marine tolerances in comparison to the tunnel tolerances were very different. Thirdly, the actual Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) connection was under the sea. The TBM excavated through a concrete filled shaft 0.6m beneath the riser shaft invert, then excavated 35m to create working space for civil works. The tunnel's crown was then cut using a 3m diameter opening to connect into the bottom of the riser shaft. This study serves to describe the Survey technical issues faced in the construction and coordination of underground tunneling and interfacing with offshore works.
Modeling Thermal Conductivity, Thermal Diffusivity and Specific Heat of Asphalt Concrete Using Beta Regression and Mixture Volumetrics
Authors: Khasawneh Mohammad Ali , Alsheyab Mohammad Ahmad
Published: October 2023

The main objective of this paper is to develop predictive models using Beta regression for laboratory-prepared hot mix asphalt (HMA) specimens' thermal properties, including thermal conductivity (TC), thermal diffusivity (TD) and specific heat (SH). Thirty such specimens were prepared while varying the mixture's nominal maximum aggregate sizes (NMAS) and gradation coarseness. The widely used Transient Plane Source (TPS) method was employed to determine the thermal properties of the asphalt concrete. Only one type of asphalt binder was used for preparing all specimens. The air void volume (Va) and the effective binder volume (Vbe) were calculated for each mixture. To this end, the multiple linear regressions and the non-linear beta regressions were employed. Laboratory work resulted in hundred and fifty (150) data points. Three nominal maximum aggregate sizes, two gradation coarseness levels, five replicates and five different locations of measurements to ensure accuracy and repeatability in the obtained results. In conclusion, using Va and Vbe as predictors provided reliable predictive models for the thermal properties of different asphalt mixtures. The distribution of Va and Vbe was identified, and synthetic data was created to evaluate the accuracy of the models. Apart from R2 values, beta regression was more reliable to predict thermal properties of asphalt mixtures than multiple linear regression.
Multicriteria Approach in Developing Pedestrian Network Data for Sustainable Urban Mobility
Authors: Sonone Sagar , Balamohan Narayanasamy
Published: October 2023

Building a reliable Infrastructure is a continuous activity, improving the accessibility to the known areas and connecting the origin to destinations with various modes of transportation. Having safe and secure pedestrian movement ensures sustainable urban mobility. Therefore, the study includes an approach for multi-criteria evaluation to reach from origin to destination. Factors strongly correlating that will affect the walkability were considered, including climatic conditions, type of network (crossings, pedestrian bridges, shared use, footpath), land use etc. which will affect the distance and time of the walkability. After capturing & tracing all the footpath locations in GIS for the most populated areas, the percentage of land use provides insights into typical pedestrian movements for a specific period of the day. Pedestrian movement is categorised into various levels and focused on locations of interest where huge volume travels a particular area at the same time & travel distance, which leads to analysing required infrastructure considering safety and convenience aspect such as availability of sufficient footpath width, availability of streetlights, locating a bus stops/ public transport etc. as an initial experiment using the above criteria for a known location such as a metro station was considered which will result in building more confidence on the factors and their integrity. The study will aid as a tool in designing and constructing infrastructure projects which will ensure the maintenance of seamless pedestrian connectivity & incorporate necessary assets within the project. Better connectivity will encourage people to walk further, safely & use public transportation facilities more often.