Restoration Of Architecture Research Articles

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.

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.

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.

Acute Pre- and Post-administration of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 2034 and Its Secretory Metabolites Ameliorates Hyperglycaemia, Hyperlipidaemia, and Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Rats.

The global prevalence rate of diabetes in 2021 was 6.1% making diabetes one of the top 10 causes of death. Prolonged use of antidiabetic medications is associated with various side effects; therefore, alternative treatment strategies for diabetes need exploration. The antidiabetic properties of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 2034 was explored both in in vitro and in vivo studies. Secretory metabolites of probiotic L. plantarum 2034 exhibited alpha-glucosidase, alpha-amylase, and lipase inhibitory activities, in vitro. Further, the antidiabetic efficacy of 2034 was evaluated in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats. In the therapeutic model, oral administration of L. plantarum resulted in normalization of body weight, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), and liver enzymes, and significant (p < 0.05) reduction in insulin and triglyceride (TG) levels. Histological evaluation of pancreas, liver, and kidney showed restoration of normal architecture in probiotic-treated group. Similarly, in a preventive + therapeutic model, 14days of pre-administration of 2034 in pre, pre + post, and cell-free supernatant resulted in significant reduction in glucose, TG, TC, and liver biochemistry of diabetic rats as compared to untreated diabetic rats. An oral glucose tolerance test showed that the glucose levels normalized within 90min in all the treated groups. Further, the oxidative stress parameters were also studied that showed that in all the treated groups, the concentration of antioxidant enzymes significantly (p < 0.05) increased as compared to diabetic untreated rats. Thus, administration of L. plantarum 2034 and its metabolites successfully ameliorated hyperglycaemia and hypercholesterolemia in both the models probably due to inhibition of gut enzymes and by increasing the concentration of liver antioxidant enzymes.

Peptidyl arginine deiminase-4 inhibitor ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis through positive regulation of developmental endothelial locus-1

Recurring lung injury, chronic inflammation, aberrant tissue repair and impaired tissue remodelling contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are released by activated neutrophils to trap, immobilise and kill invading pathogen and is facilitated by peptidyl arginine deiminase-4 (PAD-4). Dysregulated NETs release and abnormal PAD-4 activation plays a crucial role in activating pro-fibrotic events in PF. Developmental endothelial locus-1 (Del-1), expressed by the endothelial cells of lungs and brain acts as an endogenous inhibitor of inflammation and fibrosis. We have hypothesised that PAD-4 inhibitor exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in mice model of PF. We have also hypothesised by PAD-4 regulated the transcription of Del-1 through co-repression and its inhibition potentiates anti-fibrotic effects of Del-1. In our study, the PAD-4 inhibitor chloro-amidine (CLA) demonstrated anti-NETotic and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro in differentiated HL-60 cells. In a bleomycin-induced PF mice model, CLA administration in two doses (3 mg/kg, I.P and 10 mg/kg, I.P) improved lung function, normalized bronchoalveolar lavage fluid parameters, and attenuated fibrotic events, including markers of extracellular matrix and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Histological analyses confirmed the restoration of lung architecture and collagen deposition with CLA treatment. ELISA, IHC, IF, RT-PCR, and immunoblot analysis supported the anti-NETotic effects of CLA. Furthermore, BLM-induced PF reduced Del-1 and p53 expression, which was normalized by CLA treatment. These findings suggest that inhibition of PAD-4 results in amelioration of PF in animal model and may involve modulation of Del-1 and p53 pathways, warranting further investigation.

Masterpiece of the Leningrad School of Constructivism – House of Culture Named after Ilyich (Cultural and Leisure Center «Moscowsky»)

Architects of the 1920–1930s acted in the context of the new communist agenda, constructing the spatial environment of the person of the future. The projects of that era realized a dialectical connection between formality (geometricity) and functionality (utilitarianism). Constructivism became the key style of this stage; he was characterized by experiments with volumes, rectangular and curvilinear shapes. House of Culture named after Ilyich, which is the focus of this study, became one of the signs of the time — the era of palaces and houses of culture, where cinemas, concerts, sports, rehearsal halls, libraries, music schools, premises for clubs and circles were located under one roof. The article presents an analysis of the volumetric-spatial solution, the functional characteristics of the building and the history of the existence of the building of the House of Culture, and also identifies the problem of the preservation and restoration of constructivist architecture. In 2020, the House of Culture named after. Ilyich received the status of an object of cultural heritage of the Russian Federation of regional significance. The analysis of the scientific context makes it possible to conclude that today in the scientific community there is an increased attention to avant-garde architecture as a striking phenomenon of Russian architecture and a change in the protective status of the House of Culture building is a positive marker of a change in attitude towards the architecture of the 1920–1930s.

The Immunosuppressive Drug LF15-0195 Acts Also on Glomerular Lesions, by a Change in Cytoskeleton Distribution in Podocyte

Introduction: Buffalo/Mna rats spontaneously develop nephrotic syndrome (NS) which recurs after renal transplantation. The immunosuppressive drug LF15-0195 can promote regression of the initial and post-transplantation nephropathy via induction of regulatory T cells. We investigate if this drug has an additional effect on the expression and localization of podocyte specific proteins. Methods: Buffalo/Mna kidney samples were collected before and after the occurrence of proteinuria, and after the remission of proteinuria induced by LF15-0195 treatment and compared by quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot, electron, and confocal microscopy to kidney samples of age-matched healthy rats. Cytoskeleton changes were assessed in culture by stress fibers induction by TNFα. Results: We observed, by electron microscopy, a restoration of foot process architecture in the LF15-0195-treated Buff/Mna kidneys, consistent with proteinuria remission. Nephrin, podocin, CD2AP, and α-actinin-4 mRNA levels remained low during the active disease in the Buff/Mna, in comparison with healthy rats which increase, while podocalyxin and synaptopodin transcripts were elevated before the occurrence of the disease but did not differ from healthy animals after. No difference in the mRNA and protein expression between the untreated and the LF15-0195-treated proteinuric Buff/Mna were seen for these 6 proteins. No changes were observed by confocal microscopy in the protein distribution at a cellular level, but a more homogenous distribution similar to healthy rats, was observed within the glomeruli of LF15-0195-treated rats. In addition, LF15-0195 could partially restore actin cytoskeleton of endothelial cells in TNFα-induced-cell stress experiment. Conclusion: The effect of LF15-0195 treatment appears to be mediated by 2 mechanisms: an immunomodulatory effect via regulatory T cells induction, described in our previous work and which can act on immune cell involved in the disease pathogenesis, and an effect on the restoration of podocyte cytoskeleton, independent of expression levels of the proteins involved in the slit diaphragm and podocyte function, showed in this article.

Evaluating the potential impact of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor "canagliflozin" on the hepatic damage triggered by hypertension in rats.

Hypertension (HTN) is a prevalent chronic disease. HTN and liver disease association is extensively noted. Thus, finding a medication that can alleviate HTN and its accompanying liver insult would be promising. This study investigated the potential impacts of canagliflozin "sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor" on the liver of the Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced HTN rat model. Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into four groups; negative control group, canagliflozin group, L-NAME group: 50 mg/kg of L-NAME was injected daily for 5 weeks and L-NAME + canagliflozin group: 1 week after L-NAME injection both L-NAME + canagliflozin (40 mg/kg) were given concomitantly daily for further 4 weeks. Liver functions, serum lipid profile, hepatic oxidative/nitrative stress biomarkers, gene expression of lipogenic enzymes, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), and DNA fragmentation, were measured. Besides, hepatic histology and immunohistochemistry of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were assessed. Canagliflozin improved hepatic lipogenesis via the downregulation of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and transcriptional regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) genes leading to an improved serum lipid profile. Further, canagliflozin modified the eNOS/inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) pathway and decreased the NF-κB immunoreactivity besides restoring the oxidants-antioxidants balance; increased reduced glutathione concomitant with declined malondialdehyde. This improvement of the liver was mirrored by the significant restoration of liver architecture and confirmed by the preserved liver DNA content and upregulation of the antiapoptotic Bcl2 mRNA level and attenuation of the alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase. In conclusion, canagliflozin is a promising anti-hypertensive and hepatic-supportive medication. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Canagliflozin's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-lipogenic, and antiapoptotic characteristics mitigate remote liver compromise caused by hypertension. Canagliflozin can be exploited as a hepatoprotective and antihypertensive medication.

Effect of Orchidectomy on Hepatic Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury

Abstract Background Little attention has been paid to investigate the effect of orchidectomy on hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, which is lacking. The Aim of This Study is to evaluate the possible impact of orchidectomy and/or testosterone treatment on the function and structure of liver in rat model of hepatic I/R injury and, also, to explore the possible underlying mechanism(s). Materials and Methods 65 male Wistar albino-rats were divided into 5 groups; sham- operated control group (Sham), hepatic ischemia/reperfusion group (hepatic I/R), orchidectomized hepatic ischemia/reperfusion group (Orch+I/R), Testosterone- treated hepatic ischemia/reperfusion group (T+I/R) and Orchidectomized testosterone-treated hepatic ischemia/reperfusion group (Orch+T+I/R). All rats were subjected to determination of serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), testosterone and estradiol, and hepatic tissue level of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor- alpha (TNF-α) and gene expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Also, hepatic tissues were histopathologically assessed. Results Hepatic I/R was associated with significant rise of serum ALT and AST, and hepatic tissue TNF-α, NF-κB and MDA, and significant reduction of serum testosterone and estradiol, and hepatic tissue SOD and Nrf2. Histopathological analysis showed vacuolization of the cytoplasm, dilated sinusoids, inflammatory cells infiltration, increased collagen fibers and significantly increased caspase-3. Hepatic I/R -mediated effects were aggravated following orchidectomy, however preischemic treatment with testosterone protected the liver as shown by the significant decline in ALT and AST, and hepatic tissue MDA, TNF-α and NF-κB, and significant enhancement of serum testosterone and estradiol, and hepatic tissue SOD and Nrf2, and restoration of hepatic architecture. Conclusion Orchidectomy hypersensitizes the liver to ischemic injury, due to exaggeration of oxidative and inflammatory states and apoptosis, while testosterone treatment improved the hepatic I/R detrimental effects on liver function and morphology due to its suppressive effect on oxidative and inflammatory states and apoptosis.

Gedunin attenuates streptozotocin-induced diabetic hepatopathy in rats

Objective: To examine the hepatoprotective effects of gedunin in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Rats were divided into 4 groups: control, STZ, gedunin, and STZ+gedunin. Biochemical parameters for liver function and liver histology were studied. The molecular interaction of gedunin with the liver glucose transporters GLUT2 and SGLT1 was examined using AutoDock Vina. Results: Gedunin attenuated STZ-induced increase in the levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and gamma-glutamyl transferase in the serum and liver tissue, reduced lipid peroxidation, and enhanced antioxidant activity. Histopathological studies showed considerable restoration of liver architecture in gedunin-treated diabetic rats. In silico studies revealed stable binding of gedunin with GLUT2 and SGLT1. Conclusions: Gedunin exerts hepatoprotective effects in STZ-induced diabetic rats by reducing liver enzymatic activities and oxidative stress. Further studies are warranted to verify the mechanism of its hepatoprotective action.

ArchGPT: harnessing large language models for supporting renovation and conservation of traditional architectural heritage

The renovation of traditional architecture contributes to the inheritance of cultural heritage and promotes the development of social civilization. However, executing renovation plans that simultaneously align with the demands of residents, heritage conservation personnel, and architectural experts poses a significant challenge. In this paper, we introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI) agent, Architectural GPT (ArchGPT), designed for comprehensively and accurately understanding needs and tackling architectural renovation tasks, accelerating and assisting the renovation process. To address users’ requirements, ArchGPT utilizes the reasoning capabilities of large language models (LLMs) for task planning. Operating under the use of tools, task-specific models, and professional architectural guidelines, it resolves issues within the architectural domain through sensible planning, combination, and invocation. Ultimately, ArchGPT achieves satisfactory results in terms of response and overall satisfaction rates for customized tasks related to the conservation and restoration of traditional architecture.

Architectural semiotics in the renovation of rural architecture

AbstractThis study combines theoretical research and practical case studies to explore effective methods for renovating rural architecture within the context of Chinese new rural construction. By analyzing the current state of existing rural architectures, identifying their characteristics and shortcomings, and applying the theory of architectural semiotics, this study proposes an innovative model for rural architecture renovation. The aim of this research is to provide valuable insights and optimization strategies for the revitalization of rural architectures in China, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of rural areas and the preservation of regional culture.

Multi-objective hierarchical strategy for university dorm renovation in severe cold areas

In China, there are many old buildings whose renovation could enhance building environment quality, reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and create economic benefits. However, there is currently a lack of efficient architectural renovation optimization methods to provide decision-makers and designers with highly feasible renovation plans. This paper proposes an innovative optimization method for renovating old buildings to address this issue. The research employs a hierarchical optimization framework integrating Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), the NSGA-II algorithm, and the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method. The first layer's three-objective optimization using the trained neural network model significantly improves the algorithm's efficiency in searching for optimal solutions. The second layer's entropy-weighted TOPSIS optimization includes eight objective optimizations, such as energy, economy, and lighting, thus broadening the assessment dimensions. Taking an old multi-story university dormitory in the Shenyang area as an example, the study optimizes nine passive design variables across eight objectives. The hierarchical optimization results show that the high-scoring renovation plans can save 1.52 to 3.17 million yuan in energy costs over the building's remaining lifecycle and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 644–962 kg per square meter. SRRC results indicate that external windows significantly impact economic efficiency and energy consumption, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right type of windows in actual engineering projects. The new method proposed in this study can offers a comprehensive and highly feasible renovation plan for old buildings.