This study investigates assessing the structural behaviour and efficacy of historical masonry towers constructed using unreinforced masonry techniques. Four such towers were subjected to numerical analysis through the finite element method (FEM) in the aftermath of the 2015 Nepal earthquake. The initial stages involved visual inspections to gauge the towers' structural conditions. Using these visual assessments and data from existing records, precise geometrical plans and elevations for each tower were incorporated into AutoCAD. Subsequently, comprehensive 3D-models of the towers were subjected to complex analysis containing static and dynamic assessments. Employing the ANSYS Workbench tool (version-14) with Indian codal provisions and guidelines (IS:875, Part I-III) offered a distinct insight into the study. Material properties of the towers are accomplished through non-destructive testing (NDT), incorporating Rebound Hammer and Ultrasonic Pulse velocity methods. Site visual inspections unveiled significant damage to integral tower components such as arches, openings, and masonry walls. This observation highlights susceptibility to abrupt structural elements and material failures. Furthermore, utilising NDT data as a computational input stimulated insights into the substantial influence of tower geometry—encircling factors like slenderness, wall thickness, and openings-on structural capacity regarding stresses, deformations, and overall performance. The research highlighting vulnerabilities and structural complexities extends to suggesting mitigation strategies, notably retrofitting, that can preserve these valuable remains of history.

Historic structures have demonstrated exceptional durability over centuries, often surpassing modern constructions. Traditional materials such as lime and Roman concrete, once valued for their longevity, have largely been replaced in contemporary practice. Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of resilience, features many buildings constructed using lime-based mortars. However, restoration efforts have often overlooked material compatibility, resulting in poor repairs and premature deterioration. In the African context, limited studies have focused on reproducing repair mortars that reflect the original composition and performance. This study investigates historic mortars from Robben Island, where sample quantities were restricted due to conservation regulations. Characterisation revealed that that hydraulic lime mortars had a binder-to-aggregate ratio of 1:3, with approximately 5% non-calcined crushed seashells of varying particle sizes, while recent repairs were mainly cement-based. Based on these findings, eight compatible repair mortars were formulated using hydrated lime, sea sand, and crushed seashells. The mixes achieved satisfactory performance in porosity (27%), compressive strength (0.4 MPa), and resistance to salt crystallization and freeze-thaw cycles. The results highlight the importance of tailoring restoration mortars to the original material characteristics and functional requirements, rather than applying uniform formulations across heritage sites.

This research examines the construction methodologies, materials, and architectural principles employed in creating ancient monumental structures in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), India. Despite being erected over 600 years ago, these structures stand resiliently among the evolution of modern construction techniques and seismic safety standards. The history of Prayagraj can be traced back to ancient times. The city was initially referenced in the ancient Hindu scriptures, known as the Vedas, as a sacred destination. Further, established by the Mughal Empire under Akbar’s reign in 1583, Allahabad City witnessed the construction of numerous monumental structures using robust techniques involving stone, brick masonry, and timber materials bonded together with thin mortar and plaster. Many of these ancient edifices, erected during this period, continue to serve various functions today, reflecting the enduring craftsmanship of their builders. In this study, we have identified prestigious monuments for examination, utilizing visual inspection to gain deeper insights into the emphasized construction materials and techniques. Notably, mortar is a critical component in construction and structural connections. Furthermore, our investigation reveals the diverse range of materials utilized for binding, plastering, painting, and other decorative purposes during construction. However, it is evident that some of these monuments have endured significant wear and tear over time, resulting in major cracks and damage to their structural elements and construction materials. Through this exploration, we aim to unveil the intricate craftsmanship and architectural brilliance that characterize Allahabad’s ancient monumental structures, while also highlighting the preservation challenges posed by ageing and environmental factors.

Historic buildings ensure generational knowledge of past events, milestones, construction developments and evolution of materials, architectural designs, and practices throughout the centuries. It is indisputable that heritage buildings' survival against deterioration factors has proven the use of durable materials for their construction. However, they suffer inevitable decay due to ageing. Therefore, restoring the monuments to their original appearance and strength is always necessary for long-term survival. This paper discusses solutions for the design and development methods of new compatible restoration mortars for the architectural heritage, covering four significant aspects, namely: i) visual analysis of the heritage building in question, ii) experimental analysis of the original mortar samples for their physical, mineralogical and chemical properties, iii) characterization of the potential raw materials (available in the study area) that are close to the original, and iv) assessment of the new mortar durability. The mortars collected from the Castle of Good Hope, an important and ancient colonial edifice in the Western Cape Province (South Africa), were earth (samples SK7 to SK9) and hydraulic lime-based (SK1 to SK6), with 21-38 % porosity. The raw materials used on this monument include feldspar aggregates, possibly from the West Coast (Cape Town) and hydraulic lime for SK1, SK3 and SK5 mortars. For the restoration of the lime mortars (SK1, SK3 and, SK5), a hydrated lime-based mortar with a binderto-aggregate ratio of 1:3, made of west coast sea sand and 5 % seashell additives, with a porosity of 24 %, has proved to be the most durable. The aesthetics for all the restoration mortars M1 to M9 is difficult to achieve considering the original material ageing factor, thus, the use of colorenhancing pigments is recommended.

This study aimed to improve and compare the parameterization of three prominent shrinkage prediction models-RILEM B4, MC 2010, and WITS-tailored specifically for High-Strength Concrete (HSC), both with and without the inclusion of admixtures. The dataset used for refining model parameters consisted of 220 experiments related to drying shrinkage and 342 experiments concerning autogenous shrinkage. Model performance evaluation involved various statistical metrics applied to the entire HSC dataset, subdatasets, and distinct time periods of shrinkage (0-99 days, 100-199 days, 200-499 days, and >= 500 days). The statistical indicators included Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), R-squared adjusted (R2 adj), Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC), and the overall coefficient of variation (C.o.Vall). Modified models exhibited significantly improved predictions compared to the original models, with most predictions falling within +/- 20% of the measured shrinkages. For HSC drying shrinkage, the original model accuracy ranked as WITS, RILEM B4, and MC 2010. However, after parameter adjustments, WITS, MC 2010, and RILEM B4 were the best-performing models. Conversely, for HSC autogenous shrinkage predictions, the RILEM B4 model surpassed the MC 2010 model, demonstrating superior accuracy and reliability in forecasting this specific type of shrinkage behaviour within High-Strength Concrete.

Finite element (FE) macro 3D modelling of the unreinforced masonry (URM) wall of ground floor (GF) is evaluated for static and dynamic behavior and compared with an actual in-situ condition of the building. The Senate Hall (SH) building is built in 1915 (108 years old), designed from Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. In-situ survey and geometrical drawing of the building is used for entire modelling the unreinforced masonry load bearing (thickness 1.07m) and the partition walls (0.91m to 0.31m) on the ground floor level. A site visit of the building has been answered several unknown features such as geometrical plan, construction techniques, mechanical properties, architecture style, damaging maps (cracks, failures, damages, collapse, etc.), strengthening, renovation, retrofitting and actual conditions of the SH building. The major cracks and material deformities are observed in load bearing walls and arches. Most of the construction material deteriorated due to water seepage, moisture, and atmospheric behavior, etc. The finite element technique has been used for built 3D model of entire GF level of the SH building using macro modelling approach. The mechanical properties have been evaluated from non-destructive tests performed on the masonry and stone materials of the building after used approximate values. Static analysis results show the maximum stress and deformation response of the GF level for its self-weight and live load. Dynamic modal analysis results are also shown. Finally, simulation results of the GF level have been compared with the actual in-situ survey condition of the SH building.

In the present work, seismic hazard assessment is performed for Allahabad city in terms of liquefaction potential index (LPI) for a hypothetical earthquake along the Allahabad fault of magnitude Mw 6.7 for different surface peak ground acceleration (PGA) levels (0.06, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2 g). Factor of safety against liquefaction (FS) has been estimated using modified semi-empirical process from Idriss and Boulanger (Soil Dyn Earthq Eng 26, 115–130, 2006 ( Mogami, T., Kubo, K.: The behaviour of soil during vibration. In: 3rd International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering, pp. 152–155 (1953))) for all depths of 116 boreholes across Allahabad. Estimated FS values are used for computing LPI (deterministic) valuwheres. Liquefaction potential hazard contour maps are shown in terms of spatial distribution of FS and LPI indices. It is observed that a large part of Allahabad is safe against FS for lower PGA values (0.06 and 0.1 g) but has a potential to liquefy under high intensity shaking of 0.15 g and 0.2 g PGA at depth 15 m or more. In terms of LPI, most places have “low” to “very low” liquefaction severity (i.e. LPI < 5) for (0.06 and 0.1) g. It gets modified to “high” (i.e. LPI b/w 5–15) for (0.15 and 0.2) g at Naini, Jhalwa, Sangam area, near railway station and Jhunsi region.

A comprehensive analysis was conducted on a 106-year-old masonry tower to assess its response to gravitational forces and wind effects. Various techniques, including visual inspection, non-destructive testing, and finite element analysis (FEA), were employed in this study. Visual inspection played a vital role in evaluating the Tower’s exterior and interior components, aiming to detect signs of damage or wear at any level and comparing them to the analyzed model. Dimensioned and assembled drawings were utilized to create a detailed 3D finite element model, employing the Ansys Workbench's macro and homogeneous modeling techniques. Non-destructive testing was carried out on multiple structural parts of the tower, using techniques, such as the rebound hammer and ultrasonic pulse velocity tests, to gather the mechanical properties of the stone and brick masonry. These properties were incorporated into the finite element model to evaluate the Tower's structural responses during analysis. The tower's structural response under gravitational forces was determined using standard code regulations and guidelines, and stress and strain responses were compared to the actual structural morphology observed during the inspection. The highest stress was found in the stone elements between the connection of the dome and the drum on the second floor. Furthermore, the tower’s response to wind, including stress and deformation, was thoroughly examined at the same location, revealing the maximum response under gravity loading. This study pinpointed critical and weak areas that require retrofitting and strengthening using modern techniques to safeguard these monumental historical structures for future generations. The combined use of visual inspection, non-destructive testing, and finite element analysis proved to be an effective approach in assessing the response of the 106-year-old masonry tower to gravity loading and wind effects.

This research investigates the mechanical properties of the old masonry gable wall of the 196-year-old Non-Pareille Manor House, an excellent example of Cape Dutch architecture. The manor house is classified as a Grade 1 heritage resource by SAHRA, the highest level of significance in South African heritage. The mechanical properties of the front gable wall of the Non-Pareille manor house have been determined through non-destructive testing. The testing methods used in this research are rebound hammer testing and ultrasonic pulse velocity testing. The surface level compressive strength has been determined through rebound hammer testing, following calibration through site sample crushing in a laboratory. Poisson’s ratio and Young’s Modulus for the masonry have been calculated from ultrasonic pulse velocity test results. From visual inspection, severe cracking above the door opening has been noted and remediation is recommended to avoid further crack opening. The compressive strength distribution indicates a higher strength at the center wall panel, with a higher Young's modulus and a lower Poisson's ratio. Increased cracking has been noted on the right wall panel, corresponding with a lower compressive strength, Young's modulus, and a higher Poisson ratio. The study achieves results through the development of a testing methodology that is unique in the field of the conservation of heritage structures in South Africa. The method can be further incorporated into other heritage structures in South Africa to sufficiently describe the mechanical properties and aid in the development of suitable conservation plans.

The importance of compatible restoration of historic masonries cannot be overemphasized, as it helps maintain the historic structures for sustainable development, economic growth, and the representation of a country's history. This paper acknowledges the existence of extensive research work on historic mortar characterization, the proposition of restoration materials, and the awareness raised about the use of incompatible restoration materials. However, the concept of historic mortar characterization still faces some challenges in methodology, material sampling, and mortar decay that need to be confronted. The problem extends further to designing and producing compatible restoration mortars for historical monuments. The work has not been extended to evaluate the compatibility and durability of the designed mortars. This creates uncertainty about the effectiveness of such proposed solutions. These could be overcome by analyzing the physical, chemical, mineralogical, and mechanical properties of the original representative mortar samples collected from historic structures and the proposed repair mortars before executing repairs. It is believed that investigations into the mix designs help achieve successful restoration work. This review presents the recent advances in historic mortar characterization and is intended to be a useful tool for historic restoration teams when tackling conservation activities on historic masonries.

The restoration and conservation process of structures of historical significance, specifically the mortar, is complex. This is mainly because historic structures symbolize many countries’ backgrounds and historical events. Hence, caution is always necessary to preserve their authenticity. For the ultimate results of historic restoration activities, there are several aspects to consider, such as compatibility, retreatability, reversibility, and durability. These are achieved through original mortar characterization beforehand. The original material analysis has been well received and explored worldwide; however, the African continent is yet to invest more research on this concept for sustainable restoration projects. To address the long-existing challenge and make informed decisions on suitable restoration mortars for future restorers, a reverse engineering approach, by means of physical and mineralogical analysis of original historic mortars from the Castle of Good Hope, a 350-year-old colonial structure located in Cape Town, South Africa was conducted. As part of the preliminary investigation on original mortar characterization for restoration interventions, this paper reports on the aesthetic, physical and mineralogical properties of samples collected from the oldest section of the Castle. A semi-quantitative analysis employing colorimetry, mercury intrusion porosimetry, powder x-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry was carried out. The physical and mineralogical analysis show original mortars for this structure to be mainly whitish to cream lime-based with porosity ranging between 20–38

After a visual inspection following the 2015 Nepal earthquakes, a finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted on a 108-year-old unreinforced brick masonry tower. The focus of study was on the brick masonry clock tower standing at a height of 30.48 m on the Senate Hall (SH) building of Allahabad University in India. This tower, which spans five storeys and features a rectangular cross-sectional shape, exhibits substantial cracks and material degradation across its connections and binding points. The process involved creating geometric plans and a 3D finite-element model through visual inspection and implementing ANSYS Workbench. The study utilised the mechanical properties of the aged materials, sourced from various studies encompassing surveys of old monumental structures, codes, and historical records. The clock tower’s behaviour was assessed through static, modal, and site-specific simulated time history analyses. The static analysis results revealed a maximum deflection of 3.76 mm at the top and a maximum equivalent (von-Mises) stress of 1.81 MPa at the joint of the first-floor level. Modal frequencies for the first three modes were determined to understand the tower’s free vibration behaviour. The time history analyses presented the acceleration, velocity, and displacement response under a peak ground acceleration (PGA) of 1.29 m/s 2 simulated for the site. The dynamic analysis highlighted stress responses in critical locations, exposing severe cracks and damages across various points.

Introduction: Pancreatic Fluid Collections (PFC) can develop as a consequence of severe pancreatitis. Signs of infection are an indication for prompt drainage to assist in tailoring of antimicrobial therapy. Gastrointestinal flora are usually the isolated organisms in culture positive collections. Although, Candida spp. have been isolated as contaminants, symptomatic fungal infections are rare in the absence of immunocompromised states. Here we present a series of 3 immunocompetent patients with symptomatic infected PFC. Case Description/Methods: Case 1: A 33-year-old male presented with alcohol related necrotizing pancreatitis complicated by PFC extending from the left hemidiaphragm to the pelvis. Drainage was performed due to persistent fevers and initial cultures grew Staph aureus that was treated. Extensive infected necrosis needed multiple drains and surgical debridement. Persistent drainage further showed E. fecium and Candida albicans which were successfully treated with linezolid and fluconazole. Case 2: A 34-year-old male with hypertriglyceridemia induced pancreatitis presented with fever and abdominal pain. CT showed evidence of chronic pancreatitis and a 18.3 X 5.7 X 5.1 cm PFC. He underwent endoscopic cysto-duodenal stenting. Symptomatic residual infected paraduodenal collection needed additional CT guided drainage which grew Candida lusitaniae. Patient improved with fluconazole therapy. Case 3: A 47-year-old male with alcohol related pancreatitis complicated by PFC presented with pain and fever. CT showed a splenic artery pseudoaneurysm with active bleeding into the PFC. He underwent coil-embolization of the pseudoaneurysm. Persistent fevers prompted percutaneous drainage of PFC and cultures showed Candida albicans. Treatment with Micafungin led to symptomatic improvement. Discussion: PFC drainage is indicated when infection is suspected, and fluid cultures help to tailor antimicrobial therapy. Uncommonly, Candida spp are isolated from PFC. Risk factors include immunocompromised status, abdominal instrumentation and systemic fungemia. Here, we present 3 cases of PFCs growing Candida spp post instrumentation that were successfully treated with antimicrobial therapy.

Introduction: Ashwagandha is found in several herbal products today. However, there is a paucity of literature regarding its safety. Our case serves to remind physicians about the potential liver toxicity of Ashwagandha and to illustrate how early recognition of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) and discontinuation of the offending substance can be lifesaving. Case Description/Methods: A 58-year-old man with a remote history of hepatitis B and C presented with nausea, vomiting, and right upper quadrant abdominal pain of one day duration. He reported using an herbal supplement called “Primal Male,” which contained Ashwagandha as a main ingredient, over the past two weeks. He was normotensive, tachycardic up to 120 beats per minute (bpm), and febrile. The initial laboratory studies were notable for elevated AST level of 954 U/L, ALT level of 860 U/L, and a normal alkaline phosphatase level of 101 U/L. He had a normal total bilirubin level and an international normalized ratio of 1.3. His complete blood count and renal function were unremarkable. His creatinine kinase (CK) level was also within the normal range. His drug test, alcohol level, and acetaminophen level were unremarkable. The viral panel did not suggest active viral infections. His autoimmune panel was negative. An abdominal CT scan did not reveal any acute abnormality. In the following days, his symptoms worsened, and he became more encephalopathic. His AST, ALT, total bilirubin, and INR levels continued to rise. He developed hypotension and received intravenous fluids and midodrine. He also completed a course of N-acetylcysteine treatment. On the fifth day of admission, he underwent a transjugular liver biopsy. Liver histology showed active lymphocytic hepatitis with moderate inflammation (primarily lymphocytes, abundant neutrophils, and occasionally eosinophils) around the portal tract. On the sixth day of hospitalization, he reported decreasing pain and was more hemodynamically stable. His liver enzymes also showed improvement. The cause of acute liver injury was suspected to be drug-induced liver injury from Ashwagandha use. He was counseled to avoid the use of the herbal supplement and other hepatotoxic products. One month later, his liver enzymes were in normal range. Discussion: DILI is a less common form of liver injury but is a leading cause of acute liver failure in the United States. Ashwagandha has been reported in a few cases of DILI. It is important to have an early suspicion of the offending agent and avoid further substance exposure.

The Indo-Saracenic style of architecture reconnaissance survey is presented in the present work. The Senate Hall building is 106 years old unreinforced masonry of Allahabad University, India, built-in 1915. It was designed from Hindu (Stone Columns, Windows), Muslim (Domes, arches) architecture with British plans (inner rooms) like large halls, wide openings, porches, and facades. The building has been survived two major earthquakes, viz., Bihar Nepal (1934) and Nepal (2015). Masonry walls were constructed from cellular wall patterns ranging from 1.07m to 0.61m (thickness) from the ground floor to the first-floor level. Most buildings have observed major cracks and damages in masonry walls, connections, arches, and porches. The construction materials (binder and plaster) have continuously deteriorated due to environmental factors like atmospheric conditions, seepage, and moisture. This work is focused on developing a digital model of the SH building using visual inspection for future preservation.

Introduction: Hepatic inflammatory pseudotumor (HIP), albeit rare, is an important pathology to be included in differentials for hepatic masses. The benign nature and treatment of this disease process should be considered especially in comparison to malignant hepatic processes. Case Description/Methods: A 66-year-old male with pre-existing history of compensated Hepatitis C cirrhosis status post direct-acting antivirals with sustained virologic response presented in shock after a syncopal episode. Initial work up revealed leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, acute renal injury, elevated liver enzymes, and COVID-19 positive test. Patient underwent initial liver ultrasound revealing intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary ductal dilation. Subsequent MRCP demonstrated diffuse thickening of intra and extra hepatic bile ducts suggestive of cholangitis and several hepatic masses concerning for abscesses versus possible metastatic cholangiocarcinoma. Patient improved symptomatically with antibiotics and supportive care. A liver biopsy was performed with pathology showing lymphoplasmacytic inflammation and fibroblastic infiltration suggestive of hepatic inflammatory pseudotumor. A repeat MRCP one week later showed interval decrease in size of liver lesions and repeat liver function tests also showed improvement. Patient was discharged on a course of ciprofloxacin and metronidazole. Patient had repeat MRCP 3 months after discharge, with further significant improvement in size of liver lesions. After multi-disciplinary discussion the plan was for further surveillance with imaging and labs in 2 months. Discussion: Inflammatory pseudotumors are benign and non-neoplastic lesions that can occur in any organ. They can appear as a malignant lesion when they arise in the liver and an accurate identification can allow for conservative management and prevent unnecessary invasive procedures. Hepatic inflammatory pseudotumors are often seen with concomitant infection or inflammatory processes. Liver biopsies distinguish these tumors from other malignant processes as they demonstrate a characteristic dense inflammatory infiltrate interspersed in stroma of interlacing bundles of myofibroblasts. This case highlights the importance of maintaining HIP on the differential diagnosis.Figure 1.: Coronal cross section of MRCP demonstrating numerous hepatic masses.

Buckling-Restraint Braces (BRB) is a new type of bracing system with energy dissipation mechanisms developed to improve the behaviour of conventional braces. In this system, the bracing member is placed in a metal or concrete casting that prevents this member from experiencing failure due to the lateral buckling. By implementing these changes, the brace's behaviour in compression is identical to its behaviour in tension, which is accompanied by yielding of material and therefore buckling does not occur. In this paper, the effect of the BRB system on the seismic performance of a typical frame is evaluated using the finite element method. Numerical studies using ABAQUS software are conducted to develop a 3D model of a BRB system, considering the nonlinearity effects of material and geometrical deformation. The BRB component is analysed under the cyclic loading protocol recommended by FEMA 450 and the resultant hysteretic behaviour of BRB is compared with the experimental work. The results show that the application of this system in structures may improve the stability of the structural system and enhance the energy dissipation mechanisms in the buildings. As a result, the structural design will be safer and more economical.

Prestressed steel beam has the advantages of lightweight sections; this makes them economical and feasible solution in various practical situations. Prestressing the steel beams using externally unbonded tendons improves their load-carrying capacity and serviceability performance. This paper reports the flexural behaviour of continuous steel beams strengthened by prestressed tendons under concentrated load using finite element software, ANSYS. Mid-span deflection of the beam is essential to decide its functionality requirement. The effect of tendon eccentricity and prestressing force on the mid-span deflection has been analysed in detail through parametric studies. Furthermore, a simplified model derived from multivariable regression analysis is proposed for predicting the deflection of the prestressed continuous steel beam. The proposed model is based on applied load, the eccentricity of tendons and prestressing force with a high coefficient of determination (R2 > 0.99). Numerical results show 15–27% improvement in flexural capacity in terms of reduction in mid-span deflection.

Escherichia coli O157: H7 sepsis following fecal microbiota transplant in an IgA-deficient inflammatory bowel disease patient Landen S. Burstiner* Jared Silver, Logan J. Burstiner, Arian Teymoorian, Kumar Pallav, Demarre Jones, Anna Owings and Sarah Glover 2 Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Davie, FL, USA, Department of Gastroenterology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA, Department of Medicine, Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood, FL, USA; Department of Gastroenterology, GI Associates & Endoscopy Center, Flowood, MS, USA