Preservation Process Research Articles

Patrimônio industrial, identidade e memória: o caso do Vale do Ruhr

Abstract This article aims to describe and analyze the process of preservation and repurposing of industrial heritage in the Ruhr Valley based on field research conducted in the region between October 2023 and July 2024. To achieve this, we will begin by contextualizing the industrialization and deindustrialization process that has been occurring over the last century and a half in the Ruhr Valley. We will demonstrate its connections with the urbanization of the area and the construction of a local collective identity grounded on the memory of the mining and industrial past. Then, we will explore the political and economic processes that led to the formation of the Ruhr Industrial Heritage Route, a collection of industrial sites of historical interest now protected and repurposed.

Advancements in food preservation technologies: enhancing food quality, safety, and sustainability

The field of food preservation has seen remarkable advancements, driven by the need to enhance food quality, safety, and sustainability. This paper provides a comprehensive examination of the latest food preservation technologies, detailing their principles, applications, and impacts on the food industry. Traditional methods such as canning, freezing, and drying are discussed alongside innovative techniques like high-pressure processing (HPP), pulsed electric fields (PEF), and cold plasma. Emphasis is placed on the benefits these advanced methods offer, including extending shelf life, preserving nutritional and sensory qualities, and reducing food waste. The review also addresses the challenges associated with each method, such as equipment costs, scalability, and potential health effects. By synthesizing current research and technological developments, this paper aims to provide valuable insights into how these technologies can be utilized to optimize food preservation processes. It highlights the importance of these advancements for pedagogy, scientific research, and societal benefits. Furthermore, the review underscores the necessity for continued research to address existing challenges and enhance the efficiency and applicability of these technologies. This comprehensive analysis is intended to assist researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers in understanding the state of food preservation technologies and promoting their use to improve food quality and safety.

The Effect of Plant Food Treatment on Stable Isotopes and Their Relevance for Archaeological Studies: A Methodological Pilot Study

Plants are a crucial part of the human diet, serving as a primary source of micronutrients, fiber, and carbohydrates, providing readily available energy. Beyond the consumption of cooked and raw edible plants, early humans also developed methods for plant processing for delayed consumption, to de-toxify/improve bioavailability, and perhaps for flavor. In later prehistory delayed consumption includes preservation processes for storage. The processing of plants through sprouting, fermentation, cooking, and roasting has not only expanded the variety of consumable plant species but also enhanced their nutritional value. There are few methods for detecting fermented foods in the early prehistoric diet. Based on the hypothesis that the microbes active in fermentation change the nitrogen and carbon isotope ratios of plant foods, our pilot study lays the groundwork for further research, offering a promising direction for understanding the complexities of human-plant interactions throughout history. This study focuses on these four plant treatment methods, which have both contemporary relevance and archaeobotanical evidence of use. We aimed to explore how these treatments might affect stable isotope values, such as carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N), which are crucial for reconstructing ancient diets. Through an experimental approach involving 12 plant species, our findings suggest that while sprouting and roasting had minimal impact on isotopic values, fermentation and cooking showed more variable effects depending on the plant species. These preliminary results provide new insights into the influence of plant processing on isotopic compositions and underscore the importance of considering these factors in dietary reconstructions.

Decay experiments and microbial community analysis of water lily leaf biofilms: Sediment effects on leaf preservation potential.

Understanding the intricate dynamics of sediment-mediated microbial interactions and their impact on plant tissue preservation is crucial for unraveling the complexities of leaf decay and preservation processes. To elucidate the earliest stages of leaf preservation, a series of decay experiments was carried out for three months on Nymphaea water lily leaves in aquariums with pond water and one of three distinctly different, sterilized, fine-grained substrates-commercially purchased kaolinite clay or fine sand, or natural pond mud. One aquarium contained only pond water as a control. We use 16S and ITS rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to identify and characterize the complex composition of the bacterial and fungal communities on leaves. Our results reveal that the pond mud substrate produces a unique community composition in the biofilms compared to other substrates. The mud substrate significantly influences microbial communities, as shown by the correlation between high concentrations of minerals in the water and bacterial abundance. Furthermore, more biofilm formers are observed on the leaves exposed to mud after two months, contrasting with declines on other substrates. The mud substrate also enhanced leaf tissue preservation compared to the other sediment types, providing insight into the role of sediment and biofilms in fossilization processes. Notably, leaves on kaolinite clay have the fewest biofilm formers by the end of the experiment. We also identify key biofilm-forming microbes associated with each substrate. The organic-rich mud substrate emerges as a hotspot for biofilm formers, showing that it promotes biofilm formation on leaves and may increase the preservation potential of leaves better than other substrates. The mud's chemical composition, rich in minerals such as silica, iron, aluminum, and phosphate, may slow or suspend decay and facilitate biomineralization, thus paving the way toward leaf preservation. Our study bridges the information gap between biofilms observed on modern leaves and the mineral encrustation on fossil leaves by analyzing the microbial response in biofilms to substrate types in which fossil leaves are commonly found.

Simulation research on the blister evolution behaviors of UMo/Zr monolithic fuel elements

Blister behavior is one of the main failure modes of UMo/Zr monolithic fuel elements during irradiation. The temperature of fuel elements may increase greatly so that the fuel elements may be destroyed. Post-irradiation annealing tests are used to study the blister behaviors of fuel elements under high temperature. In this study, a simulation method is developed based on the finite element method to study the evolution of blister behaviors of UMo/Zr monolithic fuel elements in the blister tests, taken into considering that the evolution of bubble pressure should be coupled with the deformation of cladding. The influence of creep rate of the cladding on the evolution of blister height is analyzed. The study shows that the unrecoverable creep deformation of the cladding, which occurs under high temperature, is the major factor in the increment of bubble height. The increase of bubble height mainly occurs during the heat preservation process and the initial stage of cooling process. The creep rate of cladding is positively related to the evolution of bubble height.

War memorials in Tyumen in 1967–1987 (materials of the GBUTO GASPITO): formation, preservation and use

One of the significant periods of Russian history is the Great Patriotic War. In order to immortalize the events of 1941–1945, a war-memorial landscape was formed in many Soviet cities. The main stage of folding of commemorative signs into a single complex was carried out during the Brezhnev era. Memorials can rightfully be considered the dominants of the Tyumen ensemble of “military” monuments. The purpose of the article is to identify the problems associated with the process of formation, preservation and use of Tyumen war memorials in 1967–1987. The work is based on the documents from State Archive of Social and Political History of the Tyumen Region. The article examines the Tyumen war memorial located on the “Memory” square, which includes a cultural heritage site of regional significance, the historical monument “Mass grave of Soviet soldiers who died from wounds in hospitals in Tyumen during the Great Patriotic War in 1941–1945” and “Monument at the site of the mass grave of those who died from wounds in hospitals in Tyumen”, as well as the complex located on the Historical square, including the “Monument to the fallen soldiers of the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945”. The methodology of the work is based on the principles of objectivity and historicism, comparative and descriptive methods of research are applied. The article presents the dynamics and peculiarities of construction of Tyumen war memorials. The role of the City society for the protection of monuments in the implementation of programs aimed at their creation is noted. The question of using the objects as a means of forming the identity and collective memory of the citizens is touched upon. Special attention is paid to the problems associated with the implementation of state and public activities aimed at the preservation of the objects in question. The conclusions obtained concretise the results of the work of researchers who have addressed the study of the history of the formation of war memorials in Soviet Russia. Consideration of the process of transformation of Tyumen war memorials carried out by the city authorities at present requires a separate study.

The Effect of Gamma Irradiation as A Food Preservation Technology on The Shelf Life and Quality of Fresh-cut Watermelon

Several methods for preserving food, particularly fresh fruit, aim to extend shelf life without compromising nutritional value. Food preservation technology utilizing irradiation techniques ensures food safety and stability by eliminating microbes and microorganisms while preserving nutrients. This study investigates the food preservation process using gamma irradiation, analyzes the physical changes in irradiated food over time, and examines the effects of varying gamma irradiation doses on the weight loss and shelf life of fresh-cut watermelon. The research method involves gamma irradiation at doses of 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3 kGy. Findings indicate that gamma irradiation at these doses affects the weight loss of fresh-cut watermelon. The highest weight loss, approximately 87.36%, was observed at a dose of 3 kGy, indicating significant cellular and membrane damage. Furthermore, high-dose irradiation leads to nutrient degradation and accelerates water loss, resulting in physical changes in fresh-cut watermelon, such as increased softness, wateriness, and odor.Keywords: Food irradiation, Food preservation, Watermelon.

Study of drying and thermal performance of an industrial food dehydrator for cubic beet portions

Drying is a food preservation process that involves removing moisture from products to extend their shelf life, reduce weight and volume, and facilitate storage and transportation. In the food industry, this technique is essential for preserving the nutritional and organoleptic properties of foods while limiting microbial degradation. Beets, in particular, are rich in water and require effective drying to become stable, high-quality products. However, their drying presents specific challenges due to their structure and high water content. This study examines the impact of an electric dehydrator on cubic beet slices measuring 4 x 3 cm, with thicknesses of 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm, and initial weights of 30 g, 31 g, and 45 g, respectively. The slices were exposed to an airflow at 50 °C for 225 minutes. The results showed substantial weight reductions, with final weights of 5 g, 1 g, and 6 g, representing 16.6%, 6.45%, and 13.33% of the initial weight, respectively. The beet slices took on a chip-like appearance while retaining their original color. The total heat produced in the drying chamber, 11.5 watts, was sufficient to achieve these results, demonstrating the dehydrator’s effectiveness in reducing moisture content, preserving shape, and maintaining color stability.

Shelf Life and Organoleptic Attributes of Multifruit Smoothies Treated by Combined Mild Preservation Technologies

The application of high hydrostatic pressure and mild heat treatment represents preservation processes for extending the shelf life of food products without compromising their quality. The combination of these physical methods at lower applied levels represents a promising approach to preserving the quality of treated products. This study aims to investigate the impact of combined treatments on the quality and storage stability of strawberry, banana, almond milk and avocado smoothies. The total colony count, electronic nose and tongue signals, colour, viscosity and sensory properties were examined over a 14-day storage period at 6 °C. The combined treatments were found to be effective in reducing the total colony count. During the sensory analysis, the impact of storage was the most prominent factor. Both the treatments and storage conditions significantly affected the colour characteristics of the samples. The smoothie samples exhibited pseudoplastic flow behaviour. Both applied treatments resulted in enhanced texture stability of the samples during the storage period. The electronic tongue and nose could differentiate between groups of fresh and stored samples, as well as between control and treated samples.

Digital preservation strategies for historical records in the age of AI and the metaverse

Purpose This study aims to explore digital preservation strategies for historical records, focusing on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse. It examines how AI-driven technologies and immersive virtual spaces can enhance the accessibility, integrity and usability of digitized historical archives. Design/methodology/approach The research draws on literature from AI, digital preservation and archival studies to analyze current trends and challenges in preserving digital records. It evaluates the role of AI in automating preservation processes and examines the potential of the metaverse for interactive engagement with historical data. Ethical considerations regarding data privacy and ownership are also discussed. Findings AI enhances digital preservation by streamlining digitization and predictive record management. The metaverse offers a novel platform for immersive engagement with historical records, allowing users to interact with and experience archives in dynamic, virtual environments. However, challenges related to data ownership, privacy and the integrity of historical records must be addressed to ensure sustainable preservation efforts. Originality/value This paper contributes to the growing body of research on the intersection of emerging technologies and digital preservation. It offers new insights into how AI and the metaverse can reshape archival practices, highlighting both opportunities and ethical challenges for institutions tasked with preserving historical records in an increasingly digital world.

Local Interactions and Practices: A Case of Eastern Tibet's Reba Dance, China

The Reba dance of Eastern Tibet, a vital aspect of China's intangible cultural heritage, has been significantly influenced by national cultural policies since the 1980s. This context necessitates an examination of the practices of folk groups and local intellectuals, as practical subjects, which have been overlooked in previous studies. By using the ethnographic method and Bourdieu's concept of agency, this study seeks to analyse how these two practical subjects collaborate and interact in the practice of art festivals, performances, and teaching under the structure of national policies. By exercising their agency, the study emphasises that in the preservation process, folk groups and local intellectuals play crucial roles as primary practical subjects. This study argues that, in the preservation and inheritance process of Reba dance in Eastern Tibet, the relationship between the state, local intellectuals, and folk groups is not a one-way operation of the government and intellectuals but involves a strategic interaction of multiple subjects' practices. while the state appropriates and shapes folk dance through its policies, folk groups and local intellectuals, as the practical subjects, strategically respond to these policies, further facilitating the inheritance of Reba dance.

Cerebral natriuretic peptide and systemic inflammation factors in the combined course of community-acquired pneumonia and gastroesophageal reflux disease

Objective: to determine the level of cerebral natriuretic peptide (CNP) and markers of systemic inflammation in the dynamics of treatment of CAP in patients with GERD.Materials and methods: 84 patients with CAP were studied at an average age (42.3±2.9) years, including 44 men and 40 women who were treated in a therapeutic hospital. All patients with VP had a mild course. Among patients with CAP, 48 were diagnosed with GERD (main group), 36 patients had no symptoms of GERD (comparison group 1). Comparison group 2 consisted of 36 patients with GERD without CAP. In addition to conventional examination methods, all patients with CAP and GERD were assessed for CRP, procalcitonin (PCT), BNP (by its stable fragment NTproBNP), interleukins (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8 at the start of therapy and before discharge.Results: in all patients with CAP in combination with GERD, respiratory and dyspeptic symptoms were noted, along with symptoms of intoxication. Electrocardiography in patients with CAP in combination with GERD diagnosed low voltage voltage of QRS complexes, right ventricular extrasystoles, violations of the processes of repolarization of the left ventricle. During laboratory examination in patients with САP combined with GERD, a significant increase in the level of CRP, PCT, and proinflammatory cytokines was observed, which characterized a pronounced systemic inflammatory syndrome. At the same time, by discharge in patients with CAP combined with GERD, blood levels of CRP and IL-1, IL-6 and IL-8 remained elevated, despite clinical recovery from CAP. Positive correlations were found between CRP and proinflammatory cytokines, which weakened by discharge. In patients with CAP combined with GERD and with only CAP, at the beginning of treatment, the level of NTproBNP was within the reference values, and by discharge it increased by 1.2 times, more significantly in patients with CAP combined with GERD.Conclusions: the clinical course of САP in patients with GERD is characterized by respiratory and dyspeptic syndromes, as well as more frequent ECG changes in the form of extrasystole. In patients with САP combined with GERD, there is a pronounced systemic inflammatory syndrome with a significant increase in the concentration of CRP, PCT and proinflammatory cytokines in the blood compared with patients with САP without GERD. At the same time, by discharge in patients with САP combined with GERD, blood levels of CRP and IL-1, IL-6 and IL-8 remain elevated, despite clinical recovery from САP. An increase in the level of MNUP (according to a stable fragment of NTproBN) in patients with САP combined with GERD, which appeared during clinical recovery from САP, taking into account its pathogenetic role, should be considered as a risk factor for myocardial involvement in the preserved inflammatory process, which determines careful monitoring of the dynamics of CRP, MNUP (NTproBN), proinflammatory cytokines and the state of myocardial infarction in patients with GERD who underwent САP during the dispensary observation.

Preparation of composite hydrogel with mechanical stability and temperature response for tea polyphenol release

The method of adding additives at once not only increases costs, but also poses a risk of excessive consumption. Therefore, the slow-release technology was employed for improving the utilization efficiency and edible safety of additives in this work. The poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and polylactic acid (PLA) composite hydrogels with sheath-core structure were fabricated by in-situ spinning method. The mechanical bearing capacity of PNIPAM hydrogel was improved by controlling the structure of PLA electrospun fiber membrane. The results showed that the compression resistance of the samples coated with PLA was increased 931 % at 50 % deformation. In addition, the surface wettability of samples was studied to ensure the stable water permeability. The composite hydrogel was used for the sustained release of tea polyphenol (TP) antioxidant. The release effect of TP at different temperatures, and radical scavenging effect of 2, 2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2-Phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetraMethyliMidazoline-3-oxide-1-oxyl) (PTIO) were investigated. It was found that the release rate for TP could reach to 77.8 % at 30 °C. The radical clearance rates of ABTS and PTIO were 99.2 % and 46.6 %, respectively. This work provides effective ideas for the use of antioxidants in food preservation processes.

Ethnic foods of Northeast India: insight into the light of food safety

BackgroundTraditional and fermented foods are widely consumed by the ethnic population of Northeast India. These foods are not only very nutritious, easily available, and reasonably priced, but also boost immunity and protect from various seasonal infections and have been reported through several investigations. However, pathogens transmitted by these foods have never been reported. The process of preparation and preservation of fermented traditional foods involves various steps that can prompt contamination risks. Using the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-FoodNet surveillance data, we report the profile of enteric bacteria and mycotoxin-producing fungal pathogens identified in traditional and fermented food items and their importance in public health.MethodsFood samples were collected from rural areas of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Sikkim. Bacterial and fungal pathogens were tested as per the standard operating procedure at respective ICMR-FoodNet laboratories and MycoNet laboratory at Assam. Samples were collected under six broad categories: milk products, edible insects, non-vegetarian, legumes/cereals, veggies, and alcoholic beverages. Data compilation was done centrally through a digital data portal. Quality assurance was done by the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections (NIRBI), Kolkata.ResultA total of 1227 samples were collected, among which 78 samples (6.8%) were positive for enteric pathogens, with Bacillus cereus being the most prevalent one (n = 59). Furthermore, 71 fungal isolates were detected from different food categories. The most common mycotoxin-producing fungal genera include Aspergillus [A. fumigatus (n = 7)], Rhizopus [R. arrhizus (n = 13)], and Penicillium (n = 2).ConclusionTraditional foods have immense social, and cultural value and popularity among locals. However, processing, fermentation, and preservation of these foods without any preservatives and refrigerators, increases the possibility of contamination and growth by pathogenic organisms. It is crucial to understand the contamination risk involved during preparation so that the safety of these traditional foods can be ensured and local delicacies can be relished without any fear of foodborne infections and outbreaks, particularly when consumed by masses during festivals.

Molecular flow model of gas transmission rate test device with auxiliary chamber for high barrier film

The oxygen barrier test of plastic film is an important step in the sealing and preservation process of food and drugs, and the system leakage is pivotal factor of the test device that affecting the efficiency and accuracy. In order to reduce the impact of system leakage on the oxygen barrier detection of plastic film, a test device with an auxiliary seal on the outer layer is designed by using series dual sealing structure technology. Based on the molecular flow states hypothesis, according to the conservation of gas throughput and the invariance of flow resistance, a mathematical model and simulation platform for permeability test of flexible packaging materials with high barrier with outer auxiliary sealing chamber and forward leakage are established. By using Laplace transform method, the analytical solutions and corresponding characteristics of the pressure and leakage rate changes in the inner and outer sealing chamber are discussed, and the equivalent test time expression of the forward leakage test device is derived. The simulation and measured results show that the equivalent test time of the test device with the outer auxiliary sealing chamber is much longer than 24 h, and the test results of the pressure change of the inner sealing chamber are the same as the ideal leak-free system. Compared with the single sealing structure test device, the test error of the same high barrier film permeability test is negligible. By using the test device with an auxiliary sealing chamber, the oxygen barrier property can be accurately measured without any leak measurement and correction.

Strategies for Preserving Analog Collections in Digital Format as a Preventive Measure: A Systematic Literature Review

Background: Nowadays, various analog collections like cassettes, vinyl records, and VCDs circulate broadly within society. However, despite technological advancements, few institutions—whether governmental or private—have undertaken the task of digital preservation, even though the information contained within these collections holds significant value for future generations. The safeguarding of collections in analog formats, including cassettes, VCDs, and vinyl records, is essential due to the wealth of information they hold for future generations. Thus, preservation efforts are undertaken as a proactive strategy to ensure that the valuable content within these collections remains accessible for an extended period ahead. Purpose: To examine the transformation of analog collections into digital formats through preservation activities. Method: The method used in this study is the Systematic Literature Review (SLR). Results: The findings indicate that numerous organizations, encompassing both private and public sectors, have engaged in efforts to convert analog collections, including CDs, VCDs, and vinyl records, into digital formats. This awareness underscores the significance of these initiatives, ensuring that the information contained within the collections remains accessible for future use. Conclusion: The items typically safeguarded include video cassettes, audio recordings, and vinyl records, with the preservation method involving digitization or conversion of media functionalities. The most extensively maintained microfiche collections, as these collections continue to be utilized by the Indonesian populace. There remain individuals who engage in the preservation process by hand, yet gradually, they have begun to incorporate contemporary technology.

Analysis of Poly(ethylene glycol) from the conservation of 17th century shipwreck Vasa and associated wooden objects

Vasa, a Swedish warship that sunk in 1628 and was excavated in 1961, and associated wooden objects underwent a preservation process using various low molecular weights (600, 1500, and 4000 Mn) of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) to gradually displace the water within the wooden structure, preventing the collapse of the waterlogged wood upon drying. However, after six decades of aging after application, to what extent are these polymers degraded? To investigate this, a Soxhlet apparatus was used to extract PEG from wooden samples of Vasa, and lyophilization was used to dry aqueous PEG solutions, these samples being the runoff accumulated during the application of different molecular weights of PEG to Vasa and other associated wooden objects. These samples underwent analysis via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization – time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.The primary discovery was that the PEG within Vasa exhibited minimal degradation, with the dominant identified species, as determined by MALDI-TOF MS and NMR spectroscopy, being HO-PEG-OH. However, small quantities of HO-PEG-OH had undergone degradation, resulting in the formation of PEG chains with distinct end groups, notably a range of carbonyl-based compounds, including aldehydes, carboxylic acids, and esters, as observed through MALDI-TOF MS, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopy. These mass spectrometry product peaks could be confirmed by the expected mass difference through various end-group functionalizations, such as oxidations, esterifications, or ether formations. In addition to the carbonyl-based degradation products, some PEG chains had completely cleaved into two separate lower molecular weight HO-PEG-OH polymers, each approximately half of their original molecular weight, as revealed by GPC analysis.

Molecular fingerprints of sedimentary dissolved organic matter in mangroves: Importance to blue carbon sequestration

Mangroves are important organic carbon (OC) reservoirs that can mitigate climate changes. Although sedimentary dissolved organic matter (SDOM) has been established as a dominant OC component within these ecosystems, its molecular composition, origin, and fate remain largely unknown. This study examined SDOM molecules from one of the largest peri-urban mangroves and adjacent tidal flats in China by using techniques like absorption fluorescence spectroscopy and ultrahigh-resolution mass spectrometry. We found that SDOM in mangroves differs significantly from that in non-mangrove ecosystems. The presence of mangroves created higher levels of N- and S-containing SDOM molecules with depth and exhibited higher lability. However, the suboxic mangrove sediments may limit microbial activity, promoting labile SDOM preservation. Mangrove litter also contributed to the formation of carboxyl-rich alicyclic molecules in sediments, potentially transforming into biologically refractory SDOM that acts as OC sinks. As the understanding of molecular fingerprints of SDOM in mangroves is still at early stages, these findings provide molecular-level evidence that mangrove sediments promote the OC sequestration through preservation and transformation processes. This study offers crucial insights into the role of SDOM in carbon sequestration and the method could be applied into other blue carbon ecosystems.

MANEJO DE FERIDAS EM COELHO ATRAVÉS DO USO DA PELE DE TILÁPIA LIOFILIZADA

The study addresses the importance of treating skin lesions in veterinary medicine, with an emphasis on wound healing in rabbits with pododermatitis, including the use of Nile tilapia skin as a therapeutic alternative for grafting after debridement of necrotic ulcers. Skin lesions can be caused by trauma, bites or other causes, compromising vital skin functions, such as protection and defense against infections. Tilapia skin is rich in type I collagen and has been highlighted as an accessible and effective biomaterial in the treatment of wounds, stimulating cell regeneration and healing. The work reports the case of a rabbit, named Paçoca, diagnosed with ulcerative pododermatitis in the left pelvic limb, a chronic condition that can lead to serious complications. The clinical signs of the pathology are pain, abdominal and limb alopecia, edema, ulcerative lesions, loss of joint mobility with the presence of osteolytic reactions. Pododermatitis in rabbits is often related to factors such as cage floor quality, excess weight, and sedentary lifestyle. The rabbit’s treatment included debridement of necrotic tissue and the application of tilapia skin as a graft. The tilapia skin was prepared through a rigorous sterilization and preservation process, involving immersion in specific solutions and the application of antibiotics. The use of this skin as an occlusive dressing helped stimulate growth factors essential for skin regeneration, such as fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The use of this biomaterial proved effective in the treatment of wounds with significant tissue loss, avoiding the need for sutures and promoting healing through the formation of new tissue. Postoperative follow-up included the use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, and treatment with tilapia skin contributed to the successful recovery. The study highlights the effectiveness of the biomaterial in the management of skin wounds in rabbits, especially in the recovery of lesions caused by ulcerative pododermatitis. Therefore, after treatment, the rabbit presented good healing, the wound evolved positively, with formation of granulation tissue and epithelialization.

Application of deep learning algorithms for identifying deterioration in the ushnisha (Head Bun) of the Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha’s ushnisha (Head Bun) has suffered from loss of lime plaster, cracks, and biological damage, compromising its structural integrity and reducing the effectiveness of the drainage system in the Buddha's head. The infiltration of moisture has led to water damage within the statue, significantly accelerating its weathering. This situation urgently requires protection and reinforcement measures. Detecting deterioration in the ushnisha is a crucial step in the preservation process. In this study, we utilized two deep learning models for pixel-level semantic segmentation of the damage. Due to the small size of the cracks, a weighted loss function was applied to improve both the training speed of the model and the efficiency of crack identification. This weighting strategy proved effective for both models. The weighted K-Net model achieved a mean accuracy (mAcc) of 90.23% and a mean intersection-over-union (mIoU) of 69.55%, with a damage segmentation speed of 7 images per second, which is 1309 times faster than manual segmentation. By applying the trained deep learning models to re-examine the ushnisha, we successfully identified damage that had been overlooked during manual annotation. Using the model’s enhanced results, we conducted a comprehensive quantification of the damage across all ushnisha and identified the most severely affected areas. Additionally, we performed a model interpretability analysis to explain the decision-making process and principles of the deep learning models. This research provides significant practical value for detecting and quantifying damage in the Leshan Giant Buddha.