Search Results (4,879)

Low-light image enhancement (LLIE) remains a challenging task due to the scarcity of paired training data and the complex signal-dependent noise inherent in low-light scenes. To address these issues, this paper proposes a fully unsupervised framework named Wavelet-Guided Zero-Reference Diffusion (WZD) for natural low-light image restoration. WZD leverages an ImageNet-pre-trained diffusion prior and a multi-scale representation of the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) to restore natural illumination from a single dark image. Specifically, the input low-light image is first processed by a Practical Exposure Corrector (PEC) to provide an initial robust luminance baseline. It is then converted from the RGB to the YCbCr color space. The Y channels of the input image and the current diffusion estimate are decomposed into four orthogonal sub-bands—LL, LH, HL, and HH—and fused via learnable, step-wise weights while preserving structural integrity. An exposure control loss and a detail consistency loss are jointly employed to suppress over/under-exposure and preserve high-frequency details. Unlike recent approaches that rely on complex supervised training or lack physical guidance, our method integrates wavelet guidance with a zero-reference learning framework, incorporates the PEC module as a physical prior, and achieves significant improvements in detail preservation and noise suppression without requiring paired training data. Comprehensive experiments on the LOL-v1, LOL-v2, and LSRW datasets demonstrate that WZD achieves a superior or competitive performance, surpassing all referenced unsupervised methods. Ablation studies confirm the critical roles of the PEC prior, YCbCr conversion, wavelet-guided fusion, and the joint loss function. WZD also enhances the performance of downstream tasks, verifying its practical value. Full article

The research empirically evaluates ancient earth construction techniques through the analysis of archaeological adobe samples from Tell Zurghul/Nigin, south-eastern Iraq, dating from the mid-5th to mid-3rd millennium BCE. Simple, non-standardised empirical field tests were employed to obtain preliminary material characterisations, valuable for pilot assessments and gaining further significance when compared with quantitative analytical results. Their application evaluates the functionality of these tests while integrating archaeological insights with material science, underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in earthen heritage conservation. Sixteen samples—fifteen archaeological and one modern—were analysed to assess raw material composition, grain size, clay behaviour, organic content, cohesion in wet and dry states, and surface adhesion. Results demonstrate notable homogeneity in material composition across the time span, primarily fine sands with minimal clay or silt. This suggests favourable drainage, minimal shrinkage, and reduced cracking but limited cohesion, implying a potential need for stabilisers such as plastic clays or fibres in construction. These findings inform conservative strategies for the preservation and restoration of earthen structures at the site. Full article

The Loess Plateau (China) is an ecologically fragile region where understanding the impact of forest naturalness on soil carbon content is critical for ecological restoration and enhancing carbon sequestration. This study investigates this relationship in the Cuiying Mountain area (Yuzhong County, Lanzhou City), a representative landscape of the semi-arid Loess Plateau. The Cuiying Mountain ecosystem is characterized by coniferous forests and Gray-cinnamon soils. We assessed forest naturalness using several key indicators: herb coverage, shrub coverage, tree biodiversity, and stand structural attributes. The results revealed a generally low level of forest naturalness at Cuiying Mountain. Although herb coverage was high, shrub coverage was minimal (2.1%), and tree biodiversity was low (Shannon index = 0.09). The stand structure was simple, characterized by considerable variation in individual tree sizes and a single canopy layer (mean mingling degree = 0.14). This structural simplicity aligns with the area’s history of plantation management. Furthermore, analysis of soil physicochemical properties and their relationship with plant diversity identified plant diversity as a significant factor influencing soil carbon content. The strongest correlation was observed between plant species number and topsoil organic carbon (r = 0.77), indicating a particularly pronounced effect of plant diversity on surface soil organic carbon. In summary, while forest naturalness at Cuiying Mountain is generally low, increased plant diversity enhances the accumulation of litter/root exudates and carbonates, suggesting that enhancing plant diversity is an effective strategy for increasing total soil carbon content. This study provides valuable insights for refining ecological restoration practices and strengthening the soil carbon sink function in forest ecosystems across the Loess Plateau and similar semi-arid regions. Full article

Fibronectin (FN) is a key mechanoresponsive glycoprotein within the extracellular matrix (ECM) that contributes to the assembly of a dynamic fibrillar network that is important for maintaining tissue structure and mediating cellular signaling. In this review, we delineate the molecular mechanisms underlying FN’s role in barrier restoration, ECM remodeling, and stem cell niche regulation, functions that inform its applications in both regenerative medicine and cosmetic science. In biomedical contexts, FN is recognized as a valuable biomarker for numerous diseases, a promising therapeutic target, and a functional component of biomedical material matrices. FN is involved throughout the skin repair process, making it a physiologically active ingredient for cosmetic anti-aging treatments, alleviating sensitive skin conditions, and enhancing cutaneous immunity. This review also addresses significant translational challenges associated with FN research, including recombinant protein production and rational peptide design, and suggests avenues for future work. Ultimately, studies on FN highlight the complexity of ECM biology and lay the groundwork for innovative approaches to advancing human health and developing new cosmetic treatments. Full article

The aim was to optimize a series of aluminosilicate glasses for the synthesis of leucite glass-ceramics (GC) for dental applications. Appen predictive models were used to design a series of aluminosilicate glasses to control optical, thermal and mechanical properties. Glasses were produced using melt quenching methods, annealed and processed into powders and further heat-treated and milled to produce GC powders. Glasses/GCs were characterized using dilatometry, HTXRD, SEM and ²⁷Al MAS-NMR and GCs tested using biaxial flexural strength (BFS) for comparison to commercial leucite GC products. The results indicated good prediction to experimental measurement correlations (for coefficient of thermal expansion, refractive index and density) and provided evidence of leucite GCs’ optimization compared to commercial products. This included significant BFS and Weibull m increases, improved microstructural control and designed translucency, meeting the demands for strong, esthetic and durable single-tooth restorations. The simple predictive approach, combined with complementary characterization techniques, allowed structure–property relations of aluminosilicate glasses/glass-ceramics to be understood, and may find similar applications in other glass systems beyond dentistry. Full article

Soil aggregates are critical determinants of soil erosion resistance and nutrient retention capacity, while freeze–thaw cycles (FTCs) induce the structural reorganization of soil aggregates, thereby altering soil stability and influencing soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. This study was located in the Minjia River Basin in the typical seasonal freeze–thaw areas of the Loess Plateau and aimed to quantify the effects of FTCs on soil aggregate stability and SOC content under different land use types. Farmland, grassland, and forestland with more than 20 years of usage in the region were selected, and a 0–20 cm soil layer was subjected to seven FTCs (−8 °C to 20 °C), followed by wet and dry sieving classification, focusing on soil aggregate distribution, aggregate stability, mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), aggregate particle fractal dimension (APD), and SOC content of the aggregate. The results showed that soil aggregates in all land use types were dominated by macroaggregates (>2 mm), with the proportion in forestland (61–63%) > grassland (54–58%) > farmland (38–51%). FTCs enhanced aggregate stability across all land use types, especially in farmland. Concurrently, FTCs reduced the SOC content in all aggregate size fractions, with reduction rates ranging from farmland (9.00–21%) to grassland (4–26%) to forestland (5–31%). Notably, FTCs significantly increased the contribution of 2–5 mm water-stable (WS) aggregates to SOC sequestration, with increment rates of 86% (farmland), 80% (grassland), and 86% (forestland). Furthermore, FTCs altered the correlation between SOC content and aggregate stability. Specifically, the positive correlations of SOC with MWD and GMD were strengthened in aggregates < 0.5 mm but weakened in aggregates >0.5 mm. These findings advance our understanding of the coupled mechanisms underlying soil erosion and carbon cycling across land uses under freeze–thaw, providing a theoretical basis for ecosystem restoration and optimized soil carbon management in cold regions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounts for nearly 10% of global cancer cases and is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. While age and genetics are non-modifiable risk factors, nutrition and its impact on gut microbiota are emerging as key determinants in CRC prevention and management. We aimed to systematically evaluate recent evidence on the role of diet and microbiota-targeted interventions—including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics—in modulating CRC risk and therapeutic outcomes. Methods: A structured literature search was performed in PubMed, ResearchGate, Scopus, and ScienceDirect up to July of 2025. Reference lists of relevant reviews and clinical trials were also screened. A total of 36 studies were selected according to PRISMA guidelines. Data were extracted on dietary exposures, microbiota modulation, metabolite profiles, and CRC-related outcomes. Evidence quality was assessed using appropriate appraisal tools for observational and interventional designs. Results: Western-type diets were consistently associated with microbiota dysbiosis, the enrichment of pro-inflammatory and genotoxic taxa, and elevated CRC risk. Diets rich in fiber and polyphenols enhanced commensals producing short-chain fatty acids (e.g., butyrate), with anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic effects. Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics demonstrated potential to restore microbial balance, improve epithelial integrity, and enhance tolerance to conventional therapies. Conclusions: Current evidence supports a complex interplay between nutrition, the gut microbiota, and CRC, with strong translational potential. Microbiota-modulating nutritional strategies, particularly fiber-rich diets and synbiotics, show the most consistent microbiota-related benefits in CRC prevention and represent promising adjuncts to standard therapies. However, much of the available research is still based on preclinical models. Therefore, there is a pressing need for well-designed clinical studies in human populations to validate these findings and inform evidence-based guidelines. Full article

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening vascular disorder characterized by progressive dilation and weakening of the abdominal aortic wall. Despite advances in surgical repair, rupture remains associated with mortality rates exceeding 65%, and no effective pharmacological therapy exists to prevent disease progression. Increasing evidence highlights chronic inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, and immune dysregulation as central drivers of AAA pathogenesis. Among these mechanisms, the thrombospondin-1 (TSP1)–CD47 signaling axis has emerged as a critical upstream regulator of vascular inflammation. By engaging CD47, TSP1 promotes macrophage activation, impairs efferocytosis, and sustains a self-perpetuating inflammatory loop that accelerates tissue destruction. This positions the TSP1–CD47 pathway as more than a bystander in aneurysm biology, linking immune activation with structural failure of the aortic wall. The therapeutic relevance of this axis is underscored by the development of CD47-targeted agents in oncology, which restore phagocytosis and immune balance. Repurposing such strategies for vascular medicine, in combination with advanced drug delivery systems, offers a promising avenue for disease-modifying therapy in AAA. Notably, two targeted drug delivery approaches have been described: both employ bispecific targeting of CD47 in combination with a macrophage-specific marker, using immunotoxins encapsulated in liposomal carriers to enhance selectivity and therapeutic efficacy. By shifting focus from structural repair to immune modulation, targeting the TSP1–CD47 axis with these strategies has the potential to redefine the clinical management of this condition. Full article

Zeolites are becoming potentially important multifunctional fillers in dentistry, providing a distinctive blend of mechanical reinforcement, remineralization, and antimicrobial properties. Their crystalline aluminosilicate frameworks offer ion-exchange capacity, the controlled release of therapeutic ions (Ag⁺, Zn²⁺, Ca²⁺, Sr²⁺, Cu²⁺), and compatibility with various dental composites. Sustainable and cost-effective zeolite production has become possible due to recent developments in synthetic strategies. These include the valorization of industrial and agricultural residues that are abundant in Si and Al. The incorporation of zeolites into dental adhesives, restorative composites, glass ionomer cements, root canal sealers, prosthetic materials, and implant coatings has been shown to improve mechanical stability and remineralization potential, and enhance antibacterial protection. The unique advantage of zeolites in integrating multifunctionality within a single system is emphasized when compared with other fillers, such as hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and bioactive glass. Nevertheless, obstacles persist with respect to clinical validation, regulatory pathways, and long-term biocompatibility. This review critically assesses the structure–function relationships, synthesis strategies, and dental applications of zeolites, while also delineating future perspectives for their translation into clinically approved, sustainable dental biomaterials. Full article

This study evaluated the protective role of farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) agonist INT-787 in the control of mitochondrial changes using a metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) model. Lep-ob/ob mice were fed a control diet (CD) for 21 weeks (wks), or a high-fat diet (HFD) for 9 or 21 wks; in the 21 wk HFD groups, INT-787 (30 mg/kg/day) dosed via HFD admixture was added. The hepatic ATP, ROS, GSH and MIC19, which stabilizes the structure of inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM), were quantified. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis was also performed. INT-787 increased hepatic ATP, which was downregulated after HFD 9 and 21 wks. Hepatic ROS increased and GSH decreased after 21 wks and were recovered by INT-787. MIC19 mRNA level decreased after HFD 21 wks, and it was completely restored after INT-787 administration. TEM analysis showed that INT-787 reverted the mitochondrial alterations as documented by restored mitochondrial length, number of mitochondrial cristae junctions (CJs), and distance between endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) when compared with HFD groups. These results underline the involvement of the FXR pathway in the control of mitochondrial damage, thus revealing a previously undiscovered mechanism mediated by FXR activation: the upregulation of IMM protein MIC19, which is essential for maintaining cristae integrity and mitochondrial function. Full article

Homeostasis, which supports and maintains brain function, results from the continuous regulation of thermodynamics within tissue: the balance of heat production, redox oscillations, and vascular convection regulates coherent energy flow within the organ. Neuroinflammation disturbs this balance, creating measurable entropy gradients that precede structural damage to its tissue components. This paper proposes that a thermodynamic unity can be devised that incorporates nanoscale physics, energetic neurophysiology, and systems neuroscience, and can be used to understand and treat neuroinflammatory processes. Using multifactorial modalities such as quantum thermometry, nanoscale calorimetry, and redox oscillometry we define how local entropy production (s_t), relaxation time (τ^R), and coherence lengths (λc) allow quantification of the progressive loss of energetic symmetry within neural tissues. It is these variables that provide the basis for the etiology of thermodynamic biomarkers which on a molecular-redox-to-network scale characterize the transitions governing the onset of the neuroinflammatory process as well as the recovery potential of the organism. The entropic probing of systems (PEP) further allows the translation of these parameters into dynamic patient-specific trajectories that model the behavior of individuals by predicting recurrent bouts of instability through the application of machine learning algorithms to the vectors of entropy flux. The parallel development of the nanothermodynamic intervention, which includes thermoplasmonic heat rebalancing, catalytic redox nanoreacting systems, and adaptive field-oscillation synchronicity, shows by example how the corrections that can be applied to the entropy balance of the cell and system as a whole offer a feasible form of restoration of energy coherence. Such closed loop therapy would not function by the suppression of inflammatory signaling, but rather by the re-establishment of reversible energy relations between mitochondrial, glial, and vascular territories. The combination of these factors allows for correction of neuroinflammation, which can now be viewed from a fresh perspective as a dynamic phase disorder that is diagnosable, predictable, and curable through the physics of coherence rather than the molecular suppression of inflammatory signaling. The significance of this set of ideas is considerable as it introduces a feasible and verifiable structure to what must ultimately become the basis of a new branch of science: predictive energetic medicine. It is anticipated that entropy, as a measurable and modifiable variable in therapeutic “inscription”, will be found to be one of the most significant parameters determining the neurorestoration potential in future medical science. Full article

Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires integrated interventions that leverage synergies and minimize trade-offs across sectors and institutions. However, siloed institutional structures often prevent such alignment. Using panel data from 361 households and a difference-in-differences approach, this study examines how an integrated landscape restoration intervention, combining homestead gardening, soil and water conservation (SWC), and credit provision, affects SDG outcomes in rural Ethiopia. The study evaluated impacts on SDG-1 (no poverty), SDG-2 (zero-hunger), SDG-13 (climate-action), and SDG-15 (life-on-land) outcomes. Results indicate no statistically significant outcomes from single-intervention participation. Among dual interventions, SWC + credit improved all SDG indicators except SDG-1, while homestead gardening + SWC showed limited impacts. These results suggest that credit provision plays a critical catalyst in widening the impact of biophysical interventions across multiple SDGs. Participation in the full tripartite intervention induced significant, synergistic improvements across all SDG outcomes. These findings provide empirical evidence that bundling biophysical restoration with socio-economic interventions maximizes synergies. The results also underscore the need to inform integrated development approaches using ex-ante analysis of potential synergies and trade-offs among interventions to optimize efficacy and avoid unintended consequences. The findings offer critical guidance for evidence-based multi-objective policy formulation to advance the 2030 Agenda. Full article

The Cathedral of San Giorgio, a chief example of Baroque architecture in Sicily (Italy), has been the focus of extensive geophysical investigations aimed at structural and subsoil characterization to support heritage conservation efforts. This study is among the few to apply a high-resolution Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey to the pillars of a Baroque Church, revealing internal structural details not documented in any available historical sources. Using a 2 GHz antenna, parallel radar profiles, spaced 0.05 m apart in both directions, were collected to reconstruct a detailed 3D model of the internal structure. Depth-slice and 3D-view analyses revealed multiple reflector sets corresponding to the different masonry blocks forming the pillars. Distinct internal layers were identified at depths of 0.22–0.30 m and 0.40–0.55 m, indicating blocks approximately 0.20–0.30 m in height and the possible presence of vertical connectors. These results complement previous studies that defined the dynamic parameters of the structure and a 3D velocity model of the subsoil, which suggested anomalies linked to remnants of the ancient Byzantine church of San Nicola. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights into the construction techniques and current condition of the pillars, contributing essential data for the planning of conservation and restoration strategies. Full article

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are essential constituents of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell surface, orchestrating a wide range of biological processes, such as cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and intercellular communication. Through their highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan chains, HSPGs serve as crucial modulators of bioavailability and signaling of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, thereby influencing tissue homeostasis. Their dynamic remodeling is mediated by numerous enzymes, with heparanase (HPSE) playing a predominant role as the only known human endo-β-D-glucuronidase that specifically cleaves heparan sulfate chains. Beyond its well-documented enzymatic activity in ECM degradation and the release of HS-bound molecules, HPSE also exerts non-enzymatic functions that regulate intracellular signaling cascades, transcriptional programs, and immune cell behavior. Dysregulated HPSE expression or activity has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including fibrosis, chronic inflammation, cancer progression, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immune evasion, positioning this enzyme as a pivotal driver of ECM plasticity in both health and disease. This review provides an updated overview of HSPG biosynthesis, structure, localization, and functional roles, emphasizing the activity of HPSE and its impact on tissue remodeling and disease pathogenesis. We further explored its involvement in the hallmark processes of cancer, the inflammatory tumor microenvironment, and its contribution to fibrosis. Finally, we summarize current therapeutic strategies targeting HPSE, outlining their potential to restore ECM homeostasis and counteract HPSE-driven pathological mechanisms. A deeper understanding of the HSPG/HPSE axis may pave the way for innovative therapeutic interventions in cancer, inflammatory disorders, and fibrotic diseases. Full article

Mining-induced subsidence has significantly altered the structure of the vadose zone in coal mining areas, where soil cracks act as preferential pathways controlling water infiltration and redistribution. In this study, a Hydrus-2D dual-domain seepage model incorporating geometric parameterization of cracks was developed to simulate water migration in the vadose zone of a typical subsidence area in the Ordos Basin. The model integrates field-measured crack geometry, soil texture, and rainfall characteristics to quantitatively analyze preferential flow formation under twelve combinations of crack width, soil type, and rainfall intensity. The results show that (i) crack width dominates preferential flow behavior, with wider cracks (≥5 cm) deepening the wetting front from approximately 107 cm to 144 cm within 120 h and sustaining high conductivity after rainfall; (ii) soil texture governs infiltration pathways, as sandy soils promote deeper wetting fronts (up to 99 cm, ~40% deeper than loam) and layered soils induce interface retention or “jump” infiltration; and (iii) rainfall intensity controls infiltration depth, with storm events producing wetting fronts more than four times deeper than those under light rain. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility and significance of integrating crack parameterization into vadose-zone hydrological modeling using Hydrus-2D, providing a quantitative basis for understanding rapid infiltration–migration–recharge processes and supporting ecological restoration and water resource management in arid and semi-arid mining regions. Full article