Restoration Of Architecture Research Articles

Protective Role of Nano-encapsulated Bifidobacterium breve, Bacilllus coagulans, and Lactobacillus plantarum in Colitis Model: Insights Toward Propagation of Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Reduction of Exaggerated Inflammatory and Oxidative Response.

Irritable bowel disease (IBD), also known as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Herein, nano-encapsulated multi-strain probiotics formulation, comprising Bifidobacterium breve DSM24732 and B. coagulans SANK 70258 and L. plantarum DSM24730 (BBLNPs) is used as an effective intervention technique for attenuating IBD through gut microenvironment regulation. The efficacy of the prophylactic role of BBLNPs in alleviating injury induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was evaluated by assessing oxidative and inflammatory responses, levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and their regulation on GPR41/43 pathway, expression of genes related to tight-junctions and autophagy, immunohistochemistry of IL1β and GPR43, and histological examination of inflamed colonic tissue. The severity of clinical signs and paracellular permeability to FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate)-labeled dextran was significantly decreased after BBLNP treatment. Reduction of oxidative stress-associated biomarkers (MDA, ROS, and H2O2) and acceleration of antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px) were noted in the BBLNP-treated group. Subsiding of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-18, IL-6, TRL-4, CD-8, NLRP3, and caspase 1) and upregulation of tight-junction-related genes (occludin and JAM) was detected in BBLNPs. Administration of BBLNPs remarkably resulted in a higher level of SCFAs which parrel with colonic upregulation of GPR41 and GPR43 expression compared to DSS-treated rats. Notable modulation of autophagy-related genes (p62, mTOR, LC3, and Beclin-1) was identified post BBLNP treatment. The mRNA expressions of p62 and mTOR were significantly downregulated, while LC3 and Beclin-1 were upregulated after prophylactic treatment with BBLNPs. Immune-stained labeled cells showed lower expression of IL-1β and higher expression levels of GPR43 in BBLNPs compared to the DSS-induced group. The intestinal damage caused by DSSwas effectively mitigated by oral BBLNP treatment, as supported by the restoration of healthy colonic tissue architecture. The findings suggest that BBLNPs have a promising avenue in the remission of IBD by modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, microbial metabolites such as SCFAs, and autophagy.

From Europe to the Alhambra: The Origins of the Conservation and Restoration of Historic Architecture to the Preservation of the Alhambra Palatine City

From Europe to the Alhambra: The Origins of the Conservation and Restoration of Historic Architecture to the Preservation of the Alhambra Palatine City

A potential therapeutic role of resveratrol in mitigating hepatotoxicity induced by paracetamol and alcohol.

Drug-induced hepatotoxicity, particularly from ethanol and acetaminophen (APAP), is a pressing global health challenge. This damage arises from oxidative stress and inflammation, manifesting as elevated liver enzymes and structural liver alterations. Resveratrol and silymarin, recognized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, offer potential hepatoprotective benefits. This study investigated the hepatoprotective efficacy of resveratrol and silymarin, alone and in combination, in a rat model of ethanol- and APAP-induced liver injury. Thirty Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, ethanol-APAP, ethanol-APAP-resveratrol, ethanol-APAP-silymarin, and ethanol-APAP-resveratrol-silymarin. Treatments were administered orally for 10days. Serum ALT and AST levels were assessed, and liver tissues underwent histological evaluation. Ethanol and APAP administration significantly elevated ALT and AST levels, alongside severe liver structural disruptions. Treatment with resveratrol or silymarin alone normalized enzyme levels and improved liver histology. Notably, the combined resveratrol-silymarin treatment exhibited greater reductions in ALT and AST levels and superior restoration of liver architecture compared to either treatment alone, indicating a synergistic hepatoprotective effect. Resveratrol and silymarin effectively counteract ethanol- and APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Their combined use demonstrates a synergistic benefit, as evidenced by enhanced biochemical and histological improvements. These findings support the potential therapeutic role of these natural agents in managing drug-induced liver injury.

Histomorphological Assessment of Adrenal Glands in Wistar Rats Following Myricetin Treatment Against MNU-Induced Oxidative Stress

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of myricetin against oxidative stress induced by N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea (MNU) in Wistar rats, emphasizing its impact on adrenal gland histomorphology and antioxidant enzyme activities. Study Design: The study utilized a randomized controlled trial design with seven groups: normal control (Group A), MNU (Group B), MNU + Casodex (Group C), 100mg myricetin (Group D) and varying doses of myricetin (Groups E-F) administered to rats that had been subjected to MNU-induced oxidative stress. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the University of Calabar between February 2024 and October 2024. Method: A total of 42 male Wistar rats were used in this study. Oxidative stress was induced in the experimental groups through intraperitoneal administration of MNU (50 mg/kg). Following MNU exposure, varying doses of myricetin (75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg) were administered orally for three weeks. Biochemical assays measured antioxidant enzyme activities, namely Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx). Histological evaluations of adrenal glands were performed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Results: Findings indicated that antioxidant and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdyhide) was significantly higher (p<0.05) after induction while (glutathione) also showed slight significant increase in the induction group when compared to normal control group. Results after treatment with myricetin showed significant reduction in oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase). Malondialdyhide showed statistically (p<0.05) significant difference in groups D & E. However, there was no statistically significant difference in glutathione level across the groups following treatment with doses of myricetin, but the group induced with 50mg of nitrosourea only showed a slightly increase in the mean expression of glutathione. Histopathological analysis revealed that myricetin treatment preserved the structural integrity of the adrenal glands, showcasing a dose-dependent restoration of normal architecture and improved vascular arrangement, particularly in the highest treatment group. Conclusion: This study suggests that myricetin has promising therapeutic potential for protecting adrenal gland integrity from MNU-induced oxidative stress. The observed improvements in antioxidant enzyme activities and histological preservation underscore myricetin's role as a natural product for alleviating oxidative damage in endocrine dysfunction. These findings support the integration of myricetin into treatment strategies for conditions associated with oxidative stress, highlighting the importance of natural compounds in modern medicine.

Antiparasitic and antioxidant effects of selenium nanoparticles on parasitic Trichinellaspiralis.

This study presents a comprehensive methodology for the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) for their anthelmintic properties against Trichinella spiralis. SeNPs were synthesized via a chemical reduction method, with a color change from clear white to brownish-red indicating nanoparticle formation. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed broad peaks at 2θ ranges of 20-33° and 48-58°, confirming the semi-crystalline nature of the nanoparticles. UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy identified a characteristic peak at around 295nm. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) showed spherical, monodispersed SeNPs with smooth surfaces, ranging from 30 to 106nm in size, with an average diameter of 69nm. Forty-two male rats were divided into six groups, including healthy controls and T. spiralis-infected rats treated with varying doses of SeNPs. Body and organ weight indexes were assessed at the start, during the intestinal and muscular phases. Significant body weight increases were observed during the intestinal phase, particularly in the positive control group. Organ weight analysis showed a significant decrease in liver weight in the high-dose SeNP group compared to controls. SeNP treatment significantly reduced the number of adult worms in the intestines and encysted larvae in muscles. The high-dose group reduced adult worms and encysted larvae more than the low-dose group. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed morphological alterations in adult T. spiralis worms, including wrinkled architecture, torn cuticles, and severe sloughing in high-dose treated worms. During the muscular phase, significant decreases in hemoglobin and red blood cell count were observed in the positive control group, while SeNP treatment restored these levels. Liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, and ALP) were elevated in infected untreated groups but were enhanced with SeNP treatment. Antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, and SOD) increased in SeNP-treated groups, with higher doses showing greater efficacy in reducing oxidative stress markers (MDA) and inflammatory markers (TNF-α, and IL-6). Histological analysis showed significant restoration of normal intestinal architecture in high-dose SeNP-treated infected rats, including the reduction of villus atrophy and leukocyte infiltration. In diaphragm muscles, high-dose SeNP treatment minimized encysted larval deposition and restored normal muscle architecture. We can conclude that the study demonstrates the potential of SeNPs as an effective anthelmintic agent against T. spiralis, highlighting their synthesis, characterization, and therapeutic efficacy.

Application of Adipose Extracellular Matrix and Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Spinal Cord Injury Repair.

Graphene-based materials (GBMs) hold strong promise to restore the spinal cord microenvironment and promote functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Nanocomposites consisting of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and adipose tissue-derived extracellular matrix (adECM) are known to promote neuronal growth in vitro and to evoke a biocompatible response in vivo when implanted on top of the intact spinal cord. In this study, pristine adECM and adECM-rGO nanocomposites are implanted directly after hemisection SCI in rats. Scaffolds composed of collagen type I (COL) are applied as negative control, based on evidence that COL triggers integrin-mediated astrogliosis. However, COL scaffolds induce orthotopic bone formation in the lesion site and are therefore excluded from further analyses. Compared to pristine adECM, adECM-rGO nanocomposites completely restore spinal cord integrity. Macrophage-mediated uptake and clearance of rGO remnants is observed as early as 3 weeks post-implantation. Nanocomposites show an elevated presence of βIII-tubulin-positive axons in the host-material interface after 8 weeks, yet scaffold penetration by axons is only occasionally observed. This is partially due to an increased expression of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) within the nanocomposites, even though reactive astrogliosis is unaltered. Despite the complete restoration of tissue architecture, adECM-rGO treatment does not significantly improve functional recovery.

Neuroprotective Effects of Curcuma longa and Rosmarinus officinalis Extracts on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in the Brains of Alcohol-treated Rats

Background: Neurological disorders remain a global health challenge. Chronic alcohol consumption induces damage to the brain that can cause various forms of dementia. An abundance of acetaldehyde is produced by excessive alcohol consumption and accumulates in the body to induce oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in neuronal cells, which results in brain damage leading to memory loss. This study is aimed at investigating the effect of mixed ethanol extract of Curcuma longa rhizome and Rosmarinus officinalis leaf on oxidative stress and proinflammatory markers in the brain of alcohol- treated male Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty-five male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, mixed extract only (600 mg/kg), alcohol only (15 ml/kg of 40% ethanol), and mixed extract + alcohol groups at 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg doses. Treatments were administered orally for 21 days. Brain homogenates were analyzed for superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and AChE activity. Histopathological evaluations assessed neuroprotective effects. Results: Alcohol administration significantly decreased SOD (16.2 ± 1.3 U/mg protein), catalase (12.8 ± 0.9 U/mg protein), GPx (10.7 ± 0.8 U/mg protein), and GSH (9.2 ± 0.6 mg/g protein) compared to the control group (32.8 ± 2.2 U/mg, 23.5 ± 1.7 U/mg, 18.9 ± 1.2 U/mg, and 18.3 ± 1.1 mg/g, respectively; p<0.05). MDA levels increased to 7.6 ± 0.3 nmol/mg protein compared to 2.8 ± 0.2 nmol/mg in the control group. Treatment with 600 mg/kg of mixed extracts significantly restored SOD (31.5 ± 2.4 U/mg), catalase (22.6 ± 1.4 U/mg), GPx (17.8 ± 1.0 U/mg), GSH (17.4 ± 1.2 mg/g), and reduced MDA (3.2 ± 0.3 nmol/mg; p<0.05). TNF-α and IL-1β levels were elevated in alcohol-only rats (123.5 ± 4.3 pg/mL and 85.6 ± 3.2 pg/mL) compared to controls (68.3 ± 2.8 pg/mL and 43.2 ± 1.7 pg/mL, p<0.05) but were significantly reduced with mixed extract treatment. Histopathological analyses confirmed reduced neurodegeneration and restoration of normal brain architecture in treated groups. Conclusion: The mixed extract demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal damage in alcohol-treated rats. These findings suggest its potential as a therapeutic candidate for preventing alcohol-induced dementia.

Ruskin’s Impact on Spanish Architecture in the 1980s

This article analyses how Ruskin’s texts were interpreted in Spanish architectural restoration, especially during the 1980s. Ruskin’s influence impacted early twentieth‑century Spanish culture, but it was forgotten during Franco’s regime. Ruskin’s ideas resurfaced in the democratic 1980s. Spanish theorists like Antón Capitel and Ignasi de Solà‑Morales, among others, reinterpreted Ruskin’s principles to shape their theories, recognizing his influence in notable Spanish architectural achievements of the time.

Quercetin alleviates ulcerative colitis through inhibiting CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis: a network and transcriptome analysis

IntroductionUlcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the intestinal tract in which mucosal healing is a crucial measure of therapeutic efficacy. Quercetin, a flavonoid prevalent in various foods and traditional Chinese medicines, exhibits notable pharmacological properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Consequently, it warrants investigation to determine its potential therapeutic effects on UC. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of quercetin in a murine model of UC.MethodsA comprehensive approach integrating network predictions with transcriptomic analyses was employed to identify the potential targets and enriched pathways associated with quercetin in UC. Subsequently, the effects of quercetin on pathological morphology, inflammatory mediators, and mucosal barrier-associated proteins, as well as the identified potential targets and enriched pathways, were systematically investigated in a murine model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC.ResultsNetwork analyses identified CXCL8 and its receptors, CXCR1 and CXCR2, as primary target genes for therapeutic intervention in UC. Further validation through transcriptomic analysis and immunofluorescence staining demonstrated significant upregulation of the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis in the intestinal tissues of patients with UC. Experimental investigations in animal models have shown that quercetin markedly alleviates DSS-induced symptoms in mice. This effect includes the restoration of colonic crypt architecture, normalization of goblet cell structure and density, reduction of inflammatory cell infiltration, and decreased concentrations of inflammatory mediators. Quercetin enhanced the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins, including ZO-1, MUC2 (Mucin 2), and occludin, thereby preserving the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier. Additionally, it significantly diminished the levels of IL-17A, NF-κB, CXCL8, CXCR1, and CXCR2 in the colonic tissues of mice with UC.DiscussionThe ameliorative effects of quercetin on colon tissue damage in DSS-induced UC mice were significant, possibly due to its ability to inhibit the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 signaling axis. These findings provide a solid foundation for the clinical application and pharmaceutical advancement of quercetin.

7-Hydroxy-3-(4'-methoxyphenyl) coumarin (C12) attenuates bleomycin-induced acute lung injury and fibrosis through activation of SIRT3.

Silent mating-type information regulation 2 homology 3 (SIRT3) is a member of the sirtuins family expressed in mitochondria performs deacetylation of metabolic enzymes and promotes longevity. 7-hydroxy-3-(4'-methoxyphenyl) coumarin (C12) is a small molecule first ever known for its direct activation of SIRT3. SIRT3 performs its function by balancing the redox system by activating manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and 8-Oxoguanine glycosylase (OGG1). For the first time, we reported that activation of SIRT3 by C12 attenuated bleomycin (BLM)-)-induced acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis. C12 prevented the oxidative stress and injury caused by BLM in alveolar epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) in in vitro and inhibited the fibrosis in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) induced fibrosis in fibroblasts (MRC-5). Additionally, activation of SIRT3 by C12 in vivo mice model alleviated BLM-induced inflammation, collagen accumulation, cellular infiltration, and restoration of alveolar architecture by inhibiting TGF-β, smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen-1A, collagen-3A, and mesenchymal markers. The protective effect of C12 was through activation of MnSOD and OGG1 in both in vitro and in vivo models suggesting C12 can be a potent SIRT3 activator and helps to treat fibrotic-related diseases.

Study on the difference of composition between traditional and modern lime used in the restoration of Qufu San Kong Ancient Architectural

In recent years, a decline in the binding strength and frost resistance of lime binder used in the restoration of the Qufu San Kong ancient architectural complex in Shandong Province has been observed, which has significantly affected the quality of restoration. In this study, lime binder samples were collected from the Kuiwen Pavilion roof, limestone samples in the vicinity of the Confucius Temple, and modern industrial quicklime from various provinces in China. Analytical methods including X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were employed. Results indicate that the local limestone in Qufu contains impurities such as Si or Mg. XRD patterns reveal that the main phase of the Kuiwen Pavilion roof lime binder samples is calcite. Using FTIR and Scanning Electron Microscope- Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM-EDS), the presence of hydrated calcium silicate (C-S-H) gel is identified in the samples. This suggests that the traditional quicklime-production process in Qufu yields a multiphase composite system. Modern industrial quicklime, aged for two months, showed no presence of C-S-H gel in the FTIR spectra and SEM-EDS results, indicating that it is a comparatively pure system primarily comprising CaO. The study suggests that traditional quicklime-production processes typically involve burning limestone with higher Si content, leading to the generation of a significant amount of dicalcium silicate. Additionally, the use of high-ash coal as fuel introduces reactive silicon dioxide into the quicklime product. These factors contribute to the formation of C-S-H gel in hydrated lime. The presence of C-S-H gel enhances lime binder properties such as binding strength and frost resistance. Modern quicklime production, which selects limestone with lower Si content and employs low-ash coal as fuel, aims to minimize or avoid the formation of C-S-H gel in hydrated lime. High-purity CaO quicklime products align with the principles of modern fine processing; however, they compromise the binding strength and durability of lime binder required for traditional architectural restoration.

Teleost Caudal Fin Development and Regeneration: Mechanisms, Models, and Therapeutic Potential

The caudal fin of teleost fish, a fundamental locomotive structure, has received considerable attention due to its extraordinary capacity for regeneration. Teleosts' ability to regenerate their caudal fins involves complex interactions between various signaling pathways, growth factors, and transcription factors that organize wound healing, cell proliferation, and tissue redevelopment. Key pathways implicated in these processes include Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog, FGF, and Notch signaling, which not only regulate the proliferation and differentiation of resident stem cells but also ensure the spatial and temporal coordination necessary for tissue architecture restoration. Moreover, on the practical challenges or limitations of translating these findings to human regenerative medicine would provide more balance. Looking forward, future research could benefit from advanced genomic and proteomic techniques to unravel the finer aspects of cellular dynamics and molecular diversity within the regenerative process of the caudal fin.

“Development, optimization, and characterization of Eudragit-based nanoparticles for Dasatinib delivery”

This study focused on developing and evaluating dasatinib-loaded nanoparticles (DST-NPs) using Eudragit L100 as a polymer matrix for enhanced breast cancer treatment. The optimized formulation exhibited a particle size of 202.1 ± 5.7 nm, a zeta potential of −18 ± 1.01 mV, and an entrapment efficiency of 93.11 ± 0.2%. In-vitro release studies demonstrated sustained drug release from DST-NPs, following Fickian diffusion. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats revealed higher Cmax and AUC0-t for DST-NPs compared to pure DST, indicating improved bioavailability. Tissue distribution studies showed enhanced targeting of DST-NPs, with higher concentrations in the liver and spleen. In vivo efficacy in a DMBA-induced mammary carcinoma model demonstrated that DST-NPs significantly reduced tumor volume, maintained stable body weight, and improved survival rates compared to pure DST. Hematologic analysis indicated a favorable blood profile with DST-NPs, and histopathological examinations confirmed the restoration of normal mammary gland and liver architecture. MTT assays showed higher cytotoxicity of DST-NPs against MCF-7, MDA-MB231, and 4T1 cell lines, with lower IC50 values than pure DST. Stability studies indicated that DST-NPs maintained their properties over six months at various storage conditions. These findings highlight the potential of DST-NPs as an effective nanocarrier system for cancer therapy.

Making plundered spaces sacred again: fragmentation, reorganisation and respect in reused Theban tombs

Textual sources from the Egyptian New Kingdom highlight a societal desire to preserve tombs for life after death, yet extensive architectural renovations and tomb robbing often followed the interment of elite individuals. Rather than posing a threat to conceptions of the afterlife, the author argues that these post-mortem activities were conducted with respect and the intention of forming connections. Using the identification of an unusual ritual structure from the Third Intermediate Period inside the reused Nineteenth Dynasty tomb of Paenmuaset (TT362) at Thebes (Luxor) as a basis, the author explores respect in ever-changing burial spaces as a key feature of tomb reuse.

Pre-Planning and Post-Evaluation Approaches to Sustainable Vernacular Architectural Practice: A Research-by-Design Study to Building Renovation in Shangri-La’s Shanpian House, China

The renovation and revitalization of vernacular architecture are pivotal in sustainable rural development. In regions like Shangri-La, traditional structures not only safeguard cultural heritage but also provide a foundation for enhancing local communities’ living conditions. However, these villages face growing challenges, including infrastructure decay, cultural erosion, and inadequate adaptation to modern living standards. Addressing these issues requires innovative research approaches that combine heritage preservation with the integration of contemporary functionality. This study employs a research-by-design approach, focusing on the Shanpian House as a case study, to explore how pre-planning and post-evaluation methods can revitalize traditional vernacular architecture. The pre-planning phase utilizes field surveys and archival research to assess spatial, cultural, and environmental conditions, framing a design strategy informed by field theory. In doing so, it evaluates how traditional architectural elements can be preserved while introducing modern construction techniques that meet current living standards. The post-evaluation phase, conducted through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, assesses user satisfaction, focusing on the impact of architectural esthetics, structural stability, and material choices. Key findings from an OLS regression highlight the strong positive correlation between architectural style, structural choices, and cultural relevance with resident satisfaction. The research emphasizes that design elements such as structural details, materials, and infrastructure upgrades are critical in shaping perceptions of both functionality and cultural identity. Interestingly, the model reveals that improving architectural esthetics, alongside modern indoor features such as network connectivity, has a significant impact on enhancing overall resident satisfaction (significance level: 0.181). This study contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable building renovation by demonstrating how traditional architecture can be thoughtfully adapted for contemporary use and also proposes a paradigm shift in the renovation of historic buildings, advocating for a balance between preservation and modernization. The application of sustainable materials, digital modeling, and innovative construction techniques further ensures that these traditional structures meet the demands of modern civilization while maintaining their cultural integrity.

Low-Cost Photogrammetry for Detailed Documentation and Condition Assessment of Earthen Architectural Heritage: The Ex-Hotel Oasis Rouge in Timimoun as a Case Study

Earthen architecture holds deep historical, cultural, and ecological value, forming an essential component of our global cultural heritage. However, these structures face numerous threats, including climate change, socio-economic shifts, and, in many cases, neglection, which accelerate their deterioration. This study introduces a photogrammetry-based methodology adapted for the digital documentation and preservation of earthen architecture within the context of developing countries. We focus on the Ex-Hotel Oasis Rouge in Timimoun, an iconic earthen building in southwestern Algeria and the current headquarters of CAPTERRE (Algerian Centre for Earthen Built Cultural Heritage). This paper details our approach to using photogrammetry to capture both the interior and exterior of the building, produce detailed orthophotos for archiving the unique earthen bas-reliefs, and conduct a condition assessment. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of photogrammetry as a cost-effective tool for heritage documentation, highlighting its potential to assist in the ongoing preservation and informed restoration of earthen architecture.

Antibacterial and wound healing potential of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles against carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: an in vitro and in vivo study

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii denotes a significant menace to public health, and it mandates an urgent development of new effective medications. Here, we aimed to estimate the efficiency of the zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NP) biosynthesized from Arthrospira maxima (Spirulina) both in vitro and in vivo. Carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii isolates were collected, identified, tested for their antibiotic susceptibility, and then subjected to PCR to detect carbapenemase-producing genes. The most predominant carbapenemase resistance gene was blaKPC. The biosynthesized ZnO NP were characterized using UV, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TEM. The prepared ZnO NP was then tested against A. baumannii isolates to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), which ranged from 250 to 1000 μg/ml. Burn wound was persuaded in twenty rats and inoculated with carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii isolate. Rats were allocated into four groups: a negative control group, a positive control group treated with topical 0.9% saline, a test treatment group that received topical ZnO NP, and a standard treatment group. All groups received treatment for 15 consecutive days and then euthanized. Skin samples were harvested and then subjected to histopathological and immunochemical investigations. ZnO NP revealed a comparable antibacterial activity to colistin as it revealed a lower level of fibrosis, mature surface epithelization with keratinization, and restoration of the normal skin architecture. In addition, it significantly decreased the immunoreactivity of the studied inflammatory markers. Thus, ZnO NP synthesized by A. maxima could be considered a promising, safe, and biocompatible alternative to traditional antibiotics in the therapy of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii infections.

The Industrial Design Model in Italy at the Stage of Formation. The Aemilia Ars Group

The article considers the formation of the industrial design model in Italy in the peculiarity of socio-political conditions at the turn of the 20th century. Orientated towards the prospects of the design industrial culture, the progress of new art tended towards two vectors of development: a strong influence of traditional heritage of the great classical past and passion for modern examples of European design schools. The design, formed within the boundaries of the Italian regional version of the Art Nouveau style, stile Liberty, became a product of a specifically Italian design and artistic culture with a strong designer’s original creative beginning. It allowed freedom of experimentation in the search for its own unique means of expression. The industrial model of design was determined by the experience of the great craft heritage in addition to the influence of the artistic traditions of the new style. The new “revival” of the artistic industry of Italy took place in symbiosis of the activities of an artist-designer and artistic craft and industrial production. The Aemilia Ars group, as a regional design and production association, became an exemplary model of industrial design in Italy. The multidisciplinary structure of the association, which included a collaboration of architects, designers, and artisans specialising in various areas of the art industry, allowed the implementation of interdisciplinary tasks: from architectural restoration to interior design solutions. The group was an example of a unique design culture focused on a scientifically based approach, regional craft artistic traditions and an original style of a creative experiment. The great design-artistic and technological heritage as well as design potential of the Aemilia Ars craft traditions can still be found in the practice of a number of local associations of embroiderers of modern Bologna.

Digital Construction Preservation Techniques of Endangered Heritage Architecture: A Detailed Reconstruction Process of the Dong Ethnicity Drum Tower (China)

This study suggests a pioneering conservation framework that significantly enhances the preservation, renovation, and restoration of heritage architecture through the integration of contemporary digital technologies. Focusing on the endangered drum towers of the Dong ethnic group in Southwestern China, the research employs a meticulous data collection process that combines manual measurements with precise 2D imaging and oblique unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photography, enabling comprehensive documentation of tower interiors and exteriors. Collaboration with local experts in drum tower construction not only enriches the data gathered but also provides profound insights into the architectural nuances of these structures. An accurate building information modeling (BIM) simulation illuminates the internal engineering details, deepening the understanding of their complex design. Furthermore, UAV-obtained point cloud data facilitate a 3D reconstruction of the tower’s exterior. This innovative approach to heritage preservation not only advances the documentation and comprehension of heritage structures but also presents a scalable, replicable model for cultural conservation globally, paving the way for future research in the field.

The possible protective effect of ginger extract on toxic changes induced by bisphenol A on the thyroid gland of adult male albino rats: light and electron microscopic study

ABSTRACT Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical substance used in the plastic industry and considered as an endocrine disruptor. Ginger is a herbal material used in the food industry and has antioxidant activity. The present study was performed to evaluate the histological changes in the thyroid gland of adult male albino rats after intake of BPA and if there is any protective role for ginger extract (GE). Eighty adult male rats were divided equally into four groups. Group I as a control group, group II included rats that received 250 mg/kg/day GE orally for eight weeks, group III included rats that received 200 mg/kg/day BPA orally for the same period and group IV included rats that received BPA in the same dose for the same duration concomitantly with GE. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were taken for hormonal essay and tissue samples were processed. Light and electron microscopic studies were done. Morphometric and statistical studies were carried out. Group III showed degenerative changes in the thyroid gland, decreased serum levels of T3 and T4 and a strong positive inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immune response. Group IV showed restoration of thyroid gland architecture and function. In conclusion, GE protected the thyroid structure from the damaging effect of BPA oxidative stress through its anti-oxidant effect, thus preserving thyroid activity.