To enhance the safety and reliability of urban buried water supply networks, this study developed a monitoring and early warning system based on wireless transmission networks and Internet of Things (IoT) technology. Through numerical simulations, the structural tilt warning thresholds for ductile iron pipes were determined. Additionally, in conjunction with meteorological data, monitoring pore water pressure serves as a supplementary indicator for detecting potential pipeline leakage. This study further analyzed pipeline strength warning thresholds based on strength theory. In practical engineering applications, the proposed system enables real-time monitoring of the operational status, service environment, and structural integrity of buried water supply networks. Data analysis revealed the influence mechanisms of backfill soil conditions, daily operations, and third-party construction activities on the structural behavior and stress state of water supply pipelines. Results indicate that during the initial backfilling phase, uneven backfilling and soil settlement induce significant variations in pipeline tilt angle and stress distribution. Furthermore, longitudinal stress in the pipeline exhibits a strong correlation with ambient temperature fluctuations, with a pronounced increase observed during colder months. Notably, third-party construction activities were identified as a major contributor to pipeline anomalies, with all recorded early warnings in this study being attributed to such external interferences.

Background: The olive stone, a primary by-product of olive oil extraction, is mainly composed of a lignified shell and inner seed. It represents a substantial portion of the olive industry's biomass waste, contributing over 40 Mt annually. While typically regarded as waste, olive stones contain a variety of nutrients and bioactive compounds like lipids, proteins, phenolic compounds, and minerals found in the seed, as well as fibers in the shell. These elements hold significant value across multiple sectors, including food, energy, and agriculture. These phenolic compounds and nutrients provide notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive, and antimicrobial effects, supporting health and disease prevention. Scope and approach: This review explores the sustainable utilization of olive stone by-products, highlighting their potential to contribute to human health and environmental sustainability. It discusses the practical applications of olive stones in various domains, from functional ingredients in food products and pharmaceuticals to renewable energy sources and soil-enhancing agricultural inputs. Key findings and conclusions: Olive stones, particularly olive seeds, are rich in dietary fiber (47.6 %), lipids (30.4 %), proteins (13.5 %), and phenolic compounds (8.10 %), especially n & uuml;zhenide, n & uuml;zhenide 11-methyl oleoside and methoxyn & uuml;zhenide, and demonstrate a range of health-promoting properties. Additionally, they are shown to benefit metabolic health by combating disorders such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and car- diovascular and neurodegenerative diseases while also protecting organ functions like those of the liver and kidneys. The review underscores the promise of olive stone by-products as a sustainable, health-benefiting resource in circular economy practices within the olive oil industry.

Date palm trees, especially Alhayani, Barhi, and Majhool, have a rich history in Palestine. However, the waste produced by these trees, such as unripe dates, date pits, and palm fronds, is usually burned on farms, leading to environmental concerns, or collected inside the farms for long periods, which leads to the emergence of the red date palm weevil, which works to damage palm trees. These wastes are a significant source of excellent biomass that can be used in many applications such as energy production, livestock feed, fertilizer for soil, and wooden boards, and can even be used as insulating materials as they have an excellent insulation value up to 0.083 W/ m.K [1]. This study focuses on utilizing agricultural waste from date palm trees in Palestine by grinding and transforming it into wooden blocks or pellets for use in heating, bakery ovens, household wood stoves, and other applications. The effectiveness of these waste materials for use as excellent heat value resources has been demonstrated, especially when compared to other tree waste. The heating values that were measured for date kernel (17.127 MJ/kg), palm leaf (16.887 MJ/kg), and palm frond petiole (15.990 MJ/kg) indicate their promising potential for use in heating applications. A feasibility study was conducted for a production line that converts these waste materials into wooden blocks for use in heating applications. The annual profits were estimated at approximately 41000 $, with a payback period of around 2.4 years and a return-oninvestment rate of 36 %.

Hydrogel, as a typical representative of functional materials, constructs a three-dimensional network structure through physical or chemical cross-linking of hydrophilic polymer chains, which are rich in hydrophilic groups such as hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH), and amino (-NH2) on the molecular chain and exhibit excellent high water absorption (water absorption multiplication rate of 10-20 times and up to more than 500 times after nanocomposite modification). Studies have shown that the modified hydrogel removes more than 95 % of heavy metal ions (e.g., Pb2+, Cr3+) and possesses pH and temperature responsive swelling behavior. In response to the pressing problems faced by global agriculture, such as water scarcity, low fertilizer utilization, and soil heavy metal pollution, hydrogels show great potential for application in precision controlled release of fertilizers, water and moisture conservation, and pollution remediation. In this paper, we systematically review the performance characteristics of hydrogel, optimization strategies, and preparation methods, focusing on its innovative applications in agriculture and mechanistic role based on the environmental response mechanism to achieve the synergistic management of nutrients, water, and pollutants, which provides significant technological support for the development of sustainable agriculture.

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in agricultural soils poses a serious threat to crop productivity and food security, necessitating effective mitigation strategies. This study investigates the role of silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) in alleviating Cd-induced stress in maize (Zea mays L.) under controlled greenhouse conditions. Sterilized maize seeds were sown in sand-filled pots and treated with varying SiNP concentrations (0%, 0.75%, 1.5%, 3%, and 6%) with or without Cd (30 ppm). Physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant parameters were analyzed to assess plant responses. Results demonstrated that SiNPs significantly enhanced photosynthetic pigment concentrations, with chlorophyll-a, chlorophyll-b, and carotenoids increasing by 45%, 35%, and 50%, respectively, in the 6% SiNP + 30 ppm Cd treatment. Biochemical analyses revealed improved osmotic adjustment, as indicated by higher soluble protein (6.52 mg/g FW) and proline (314.43 mu mol/g FW) levels. Antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase, were markedly higher in SiNP-treated plants, mitigating oxidative damage. Additionally, SiNPs reduced Cd accumulation in plant tissues, suggesting a protective role in limiting metal toxicity. These findings highlight SiNPs as a promising approach for enhancing maize resilience against Cd stress, with potential applications in sustainable agriculture for improving crop health in contaminated soils.

Soil erosion has both on-farm and off-farm effects. On-farm, reduced soil depth can decrease land productivity, while off-farm, sediment transfer can damage streams, lakes, and estuaries. Therefore, optimal soil erosion modeling is a crucial first step in soil erosion research. One of the most important aspects of this modeling is the accuracy and applicability of the soil erosion factors used. Various methods for calculating these factors are discussed in the literature, but no single method is universally accurate. After an extensive review of the literature, we propose using the existing revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) factors for global application. Additionally, we conducted a grassroots-level experiment to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods. RUSLE is identified as the most suitable model for global-scale soil erosion modeling. We evaluated the potential impacts of climate and land use and land cover (LULC) by utilizing shared socio-economic pathways (SSPs) alongside projected LULC scenarios. A suitable general circulation model (GCM) was selected after comparing it with recorded data from a base period. This model was validated with experimental observations, confirming its effectiveness. This review article outlines the future direction of soil erosion modeling and provides recommendations.Graphical AbstractThe graphical abstract visually summarizes the comprehensive methodology and key findings associated with optimal soil erosion modeling and management. It highlights a structured approach, beginning with identifying optimal methods for assessing soil erosion factors: Rainfall and Runoff Erosivity (R), Soil Erodibility (K), Slope Length and Steepness (LS), Cover and Management (C), and Support Practice (P) integral components of the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). It illustrates the detailed methodological framework, emphasizing selecting suitable climate models for projecting future R factors, combined with projected land use and land cover (LULC) scenarios derived from Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSPs). The scenarios shown range from lower emissions (SSP 126) to higher emissions (SSP 585), indicating progressive increases in future erosion risk. Moreover, it explicitly ties the research findings to policy recommendations, underscoring a holistic approach aligning soil conservation with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): specifically, Climate Action (SDG 13), Life on Land (SDG 15), and Zero Hunger (SDG 2). Suggested measures include integrating soil erosion control into broader policy frameworks, promoting sustainable land management practices such as agroforestry and contour plowing, and fostering policy integration and collaboration to enhance conservation effectiveness. Overall, the graphical abstract succinctly depicts how climate change, socio-economic dynamics, and LULC variations amplify future soil erosion risks, reinforcing the need for targeted, sustainable, and integrated soil conservation strategies globally.

Carbendazim (CBZ) is a highly effective benzimidazole fungicide; however, its excessive use poses significant risks to the environment and nontarget organisms. To mitigate this issue, in this study, we developed environmentally friendly antifungal mulch films that exhibited controlled CBZ release. The films were prepared using a tape-casting technique, incorporating 21.32 % CBZ-loaded halloysite nanotubes, ultramicrocrushed sorghum straw powder, corn starch, polyvinyl alcohol, and glycerol. This unique combination not only enhanced the environmental compatibility of the films but also leveraged the synergistic properties of the components. The resulting mulch films had excellent mechanical properties (maximum tensile load of 28.9 N) and barrier performance (water vapor transmission rate of 253.22 g/(m2 & sdot;d)), fully complying with the Chinese standard for biodegradable agricultural mulch films (GB/T 35795-2017). Additionally, the films demonstrated remarkable antifungal efficacy and controlled-release behavior, following a first-order release model with a cumulative release rate of 81.43 % CBZ over 18 d. The novelty of this study lies in the integration of CBZ-loaded halloysite nanotubes with a biodegradable matrix to develop multifunctional mulch films that combine antifungal performance, environmental protection, and agricultural sustainability. The controlled release of CBZ reduces its loss and excess release in soil, addressing pollution concerns and minimizing environmental risks. Thus, this study provides insight into the design of advanced agricultural materials that align with global sustainable development goals.

Soil improvement is one of the most important issues in geotechnical engineering practice. The wide application of traditional improvement techniques (cement/chemical materials) are limited due to damage ecological environment and intensify carbon emissions. However, the use of microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) to obtain bio-cement is a novel technique with the potential to induce soil stability, providing a low-carbon, environment-friendly, and sustainable integrated solution for some geotechnical engineering problems in the environment. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the latest progress in soil improvement based on the MICP strategy. It systematically summarizes and overviews the mineralization mechanism, influencing factors, improved methods, engineering characteristics, and current field application status of the MICP. Additionally, it also explores the limitations and correspondingly proposes prospective applications via the MICP approach for soil improvement. This review indicates that the utilization of different environmental calcium-based wastes in MICP and combination of materials and MICP are conducive to meeting engineering and market demand. Furthermore, we recommend and encourage global collaborative study and practice with a view to commercializing MICP technique in the future. The current review purports to provide insights for engineers and interdisciplinary researchers, and guidance for future engineering applications.

The disposal of excess milk can pose significant challenges for dairy farms during supply chain disruptions, extreme weather events, or plant closures. Improper disposal methods risk causing environmental damage, public health issues, and regulatory violations. This study evaluates three on-farm milk disposal methods, lagoon discharge, composting, and land application, to guide the effective management of large-scale milk disposal events. Laboratory experiments assessed the impact of milk disposal on lagoon water quality, highlighting that lagoon discharge was feasible for large-scale operations but increased total solids and chemical oxygen demand (COD), potentially overloading the system's treatment capacity. Similarly, experiments on composting showed that adding milk enhanced compost quality but required careful monitoring to prevent moisture imbalance and odors. For land application, experiments demonstrated improvements in soil health and plant growth but also revealed risks of nutrient imbalance and gas emissions, particularly at higher application rates. Dividing milk into smaller, multiple applications consistently reduced adverse impacts across all methods. Each method's suitability depends on farm size, infrastructure, and disposal volume. Lagoon discharge is better suited for large farms with sufficient capacity to manage treatment risks. Composting works well for smaller volumes, while land application benefits soil health when carefully managed. The findings have practical applications in helping dairy farms select appropriate disposal strategies, minimizing environmental harm, and complying with regulations during large-scale milk disposal events. Additionally, this study serves as a foundation for creating more comprehensive guidelines and strategies to address milk disposal challenges, fostering sustainable practices across diverse agricultural settings.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivation faces significant challenges: highland cultivation leads to soil erosion and fertility degradation, while medium-land cultivation is constrained by suboptimal temperature and humidity conditions. Processing potatoes into starch improves shelf life and economic value, however, native potato starch has limited food applications due to heat sensitivity, high viscosity, and its propensity for retrogradation and syneresis. This study investigated the effects of cultivation altitude and modification methods on the physicochemical and functional properties of potato starch from 'Medians' cultivar, comparing samples from medium-land (765 m above sea level) and highland (1312 m above sea level) locations. Starch modifications included Heat Moisture Treatment (HMT), crosslinking with Monosodium Phosphate (MSP), and a combined treatment (CLM-HMT). A factorial randomized complete block design was employed to analyze physicochemical characteristics, functional properties, and pasting behavior, with statistical significance determined using two-way ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range Test (p < 0.05). Results revealed significant effects of cultivation altitude, modification method, and their interaction on starch properties. Highland-grown modified starch exhibited superior characteristics in color properties and thermal stability. Modification methods improved starch thermal stability and minimized retrogradation, with the combined CLM-HMT treatment yielding optimal results. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing potato starch production and modification techniques, contributing to sustainable agriculture and broadening its applications in the food industry.