Arsenic (As) contamination in soil presents significant challenges to plant growth and development, impacting agricultural productivity, food safety, ecosystem stability, and human health. This study investigates the effects of As toxicity on the medicinal plant Ocimum basilicum L. cultivar CIM-Saumya by assessing the impact of varying As concentrations (1, 5, 10, and 25 mg kg-1 of soil) on various physio-biochemical and microscopic parameters. Controlled experiments were conducted to assess the photosynthetic rate, gas exchange, and the activities of carbonic anhydrase (CA), Rubisco, and nitrate reductase (NR) enzymes. In addition, the concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants (proline, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds) and enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POX) were analyzed. Alterations in glandular trichomes, essential oil (EO) content, and composition were also evaluated. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was utilized to examine root cell viability and detect reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our results revealed that As exposure significantly inhibited physio-biochemical activities in O. basilicum, with low As concentrations (1 mg kg-1) enhancing EO content by 18.75 %. However, higher As concentrations (25 mg kg-1) induced oxidative stress, evidenced by increased malondialdehyde (MDA), ROS accumulation, reduced trichome size and density, and smaller stomatal apertures. The highest As concentration resulted in a 53.12 % reduction in EO content. These findings demonstrate that O. basilicum exhibits differential responses to As stress, with low concentrations enhancing EO production, while high concentrations cause oxidative damage and reduced EO content, providing insights into the plant's adaptive strategies and potential alterations in its aroma and therapeutic properties under As stress.

The cracking during the drying process of thickened tailings stack is a critical issue impacting its stability. This study establishes a comprehensive analytical framework that encompasses both mechanism cognition and technical methodologies by systematically integrating multidimensional research findings. Research indicates that cracking results from the coupling effects of environmental parameters and process conditions. The environmental chamber, with its precise control over external conditions, has emerged as essential experimental equipment for simulating actual working environments. From a mechanical perspective, water evaporation induces volume shrinkage, leading to microcrack formation when local tensile stress surpasses the matrix's tensile strength, ultimately resulting in a network of interconnected cracks. This process is governed by the dual parameters of matric suction and tensile strength. In terms of theoretical modeling, the fracture mechanics model analyzes crack propagation laws from an energy dissipation standpoint, while the stress path analysis model emphasizes the consolidation shrinkage coupling effect. The tensile damage model is particularly advantageous for engineering practice due to its parameter measurability. In numerical simulation technology, the finite element method is constrained by the predetermined crack path, whereas the discrete element method can dynamically reconstruct the crack evolution process but encounters the technical challenge of large-scale multi-field coupling calculations. Research suggests that future efforts should focus on optimizing theoretical prediction models that account for the characteristics and cracking behavior of tailings materials. Additionally, it is essential to develop a comprehensive equipment system that integrates real-time monitoring, intelligent regulation, and data analysis. This paper innovatively proposes the establishment of a multi-scale collaborative research paradigm that integrates indoor testing, numerical simulation, and on-site monitoring. By employing data fusion technology, it aims to enhance the accuracy of crack predictions and provide both theoretical support and technical guarantees for the safety prevention and control of thickened tailings stacks throughout their entire life cycle.

Mosquitoes represent a considerable risk to human health due to their role in transmitting various pathogens responsible for diseases like chikungunya, malaria, dengue, and Japanese encephalitis. There is an immediate necessity to explore innovative biological strategies to combat mosquito-borne illnesses. One promising avenue in current research is the development of bioinsecticides utilizing advanced nanotechnology. Therefore, this study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles from the actinobacterial strain Streptomyces anthocyanicus (OR186732), isolated from the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, India. The AgNPs were synthesized and then characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, identifying a prominent absorption peak at 424 nm. The identification of different functional groups within the AgNPs was confirmed through FTIR. The produced AgNPs were shown to be crystalline by XRD analysis. The nanoparticles were characterized using FESEM, HRTEM, and EDX to analyze their morphology, size, and elemental composition. The stability was assessed through Zeta potential measurements, which were measured at -0.2 mV. The synthesized AgNPs showed strong larvicidal effects against Culex quinquefasciatus (LC50 = 2.924 ppm), Aedes aegypti (LC50 = 3.245 ppm), and Anopheles stephensi (LC50 = 3.767 ppm). Furthermore, the AgNPs were observed to significantly increase the levels of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and GPx at high concentrations. In contrast, levels of detoxifying enzymes such as AChE and GST levels were reduced. Histological analysis of mosquito larvae treated with AgNPs revealed significant damage to the midgut tissues. The research suggests that AgNPs synthesized by Actinobacteria could be an environmentally friendly option for biological mosquito control.

In this study, we present an on-chip analytical method using a microfluidic device to characterize the mechanical properties in growing roots. Roots are essential organs for plants and grow under heterogeneous conditions in soil. Especially, the mechanical impedance in soil significantly affects root growth. Understanding the mechanical properties of roots and the physical interactions between roots and soil is important in plant science and agriculture. However, an effective method for directly evaluating the mechanical properties of growing roots has not been established. To overcome this technical issue, we developed a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic device integrated with a cantilevered sensing pillar for measuring the protrusive force generated by the growing roots. Using the developed device, we analyzed the mechanical properties of the roots in a model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana. The root growth behavior and the mechanical interaction with the sensing pillar were recorded using a time-lapse microscopy system. We successfully quantified the mechanical properties of growing roots including the protrusive force and apparent Young's modulus based on a simple physical model considering the root morphology. (c) 2025 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Waves can cause significant accumulation of pore water pressure and liquefaction in seabed soils, leading to instability of foundations of marine hydrokinetic devices (MHKs). Geostatic shear stresses (existing around foundations, within slopes, etc.) can substantially alter the rate of pore pressure buildup, further complicating the liquefaction susceptibility assessments. In this study, the development of wave-induced residual pore water pressure and liquefaction within sandy seabed slopes supporting MHK structures is evaluated. Unlike most earlier studies that excluded the impact of shear stress ratios (SSR) on the residual pore pressure response of sloping seabeds, asymmetrical cyclic loadings are considered herein for a range of SSRs. To obtain wave-induced loading in the seabed (and cyclic shear stress ratios, CSRs), the poroelasticity equations governing the seabed response, coupled with those for fluid and structure domains, are solved simultaneously. Utilizing an experimental model based on anisotropic cyclic triaxial test data that includes CSR and SSR impacts, an equation for the rate of pore pressure buildup is developed and added as a source term to the 2D consolidation equation. Numerical investigations were performed by developing finite element models in time domain. The models were calibrated using particle swarm optimization method and validated against wave flume experimental data. The results indicate that the consideration of static shear stresses has led to sudden rise in residual pore pressures followed by fast dissipations at early and late time steps, respectively, beneath the structure. The exclusion of SSR is shown to cause significant overestimation of pore pressure accumulations at late cycles, potentially causing significant overdesign of MHK foundations. The impact of proximity to the free drainage boundary, CSR amplitude, and loading frequency on the accumulation of residual pore pressure is illustrated. The residual liquefaction susceptibility of the seabed is shown to decline by increase of the seabed slope angle.

A large diameter triaxial specimen of 61.9 mm was made by mixing coconut shell fibers with red clay soil. The shear strength of coconut shell fiber-reinforced soil was investigated using a dynamic triaxial shear test with confining pressure in a range of 50-250 kPa, a fiber content of 0.1%-0.5%, and a loading frequency of 0.5-2.5 Hz. The Hardin-Drnevich model based on the coconut shell fiber-reinforced soil was developed by analyzing and processing the experimental data using a linear fitting method, determining the model parameters a and b, and combining the influencing factors of the coconut shell fiber-reinforced soil to improve the Hardin-Drnevich model. The results show a clear distinction between the effects of loading frequency and fiber content on the strength of the specimens, which are around 1 Hz and 0.3%, respectively. Hardin-Drnevich model based on coconut shell fiber-reinforced soil can better predict the dynamic stress-strain relationship of coconut shell fiber-reinforced soil and reflect the dynamic stress-strain curve characteristics of the dynamic stress-strain curve coconut shell fiber-reinforced soil.

Research on urban flood risk has highlighted the need for more comprehensive flood risk assessments in low-income and vulnerable communities. This study aims to examine the causes, impacts and existing flood risk management measures in the Somali region of Ethiopia. The study used a mixed research methodology, including a cross-sectional survey, to collect original qualitative and quantitative data.. In addition to flood risk and vulnerability assessment, the study evaluated urban flood risk management measures through soil protection service curve number, production distribution network and supply chain risk management methods.The results suggest that flooding in Dolo-Ado is increasing due to heavy rainfall and flooding, as well as inadequate flood control measures and geographical location. Soil Conservation Service Curve Number analysis shows that the arid landscape of Dolo-ado is predominantly shrub and barren with significant differences in land cover types. The low infiltration capacity, high runoff potential and frequent heavy rainfall are the main factors contributing to the area's high soil vulnerability to flash floodsConsequently, qualitative results also confirm that this has resulted in extensive infrastructure damage, displacement, loss of livelihoods, ecosystem disruption and disruption to community life, as well as water and health problems. In addition, flood risks are more severe for vulnerable urban communities, impacting services, the economy and the environment. Therefore, inadequate preventive measures for effective supply chain management are urgent and crucial for resilience. This study implies that urban planning and policies should be changed and prioritize the integration of production distribution networks and flood risk management in the supply chain to effectively mitigate floods. Climate change-responsive and integrated urban planning, improved drainage systems, early warning, emergency planning and community engagement are critical for flood preparedness, adaptation and resilience and require further research and modeling techniques.

Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging global change factor with the potential to affect key agroecosystem services. Yet, MPs enter soils with highly variable properties (e.g., type, shape, size, concentration, and aging duration), reflecting their heterogeneous chemical compositions and diverse sources. The impacts of MPs with such varying properties on agroecosystem services remain poorly understood, limiting effective risk assessment and mitigation efforts. We synthesized 6315 global observations to assess the broad impacts of microplastic properties on key agroecosystem services, including crop productivity and physiology, soil carbon sequestration, nutrient retention, water regulation, and soil physical and microbial properties. MPs generally caused significant declines in aboveground productivity, crop physiology, water-holding capacity, and nutrient retention. However, the direction and magnitude of these effects varied considerably depending on the specific properties of MPs. The hazards posed by MPs to aboveground productivity, antioxidant systems, and root activity were size- and dose-dependent, with larger particles at higher concentrations inducing greater damage. Prolonged microplastic exposure impaired crop photosynthesis and soil nutrient retention, but most other ecosystem services (e.g., belowground productivity, antioxidant systems, and root activity) showed gradual recovery over time. Fiber-shaped MPs positively influenced crop aboveground and belowground productivity and soil carbon sequestration, potentially due to their linear configuration enhancing soil aggregation and connectivity. Polymer type emerged as the most prominent driver of the complex and unpredictable responses of agroecosystem services to MPs, with biodegradable polymers unexpectedly exerting larger negative effects on crop productivity, root activity, photosynthesis, and soil nutrient retention than other polymers. This synthesis underscores the critical role of microplastic properties in determining their ecological impacts, providing essential insights for property-specific risk assessment and mitigation strategies to address microplastic pollution in agroecosystems.

Using steel slag concrete (SSC) as a pile material not only promotes industrial waste recycling but also improves ground conditions through its distinct hydrological and chemical properties. This study investigated the hydrological processes of SSC piles under no-load conditions, offering new insights into pile-soil interactions. A novel visualization test device was developed to continuously monitor water migration, pore water pressure fluctuations, and soil disturbance over six months. Macro-scale observations and micro-scale analyses were conducted to elucidate physical and chemical reactions at the pile-soil interface. Compared to ordinary concrete piles, SSC piles demonstrated superior expansion and drainage capabilities, characterized by enhanced radial and vertical water flow, increased surface porosity, and the formation of a distinct interface layer enriched with calcium carbonate and cementitious hydration products. These improvements facilitate effective water distribution and drainage while reinforcing the pile-soil bond, thereby contributing to a more robust composite system for ground improvement. This integrated approach and its findings offer valuable contributions to the broader field of soil-pile interactions by detailing the multi-scale mechanisms governing the hydrological behavior and interface evolution of composite foundation systems.

This article evaluates the long-term wet-dry durability of lime, fly ash, and lime-fly ash slurry injection stabilization of expansive soil in the desiccated state. To achieve this objective, the expansive soil was compacted in large cylindrical test moulds and desiccated after making a central hole for slurry injection. Subsequently, the lime slurry/ fly ash slurry/ lime-fly ash slurry, prepared with the predetermined water-binder ratio, was injected into the desiccated expansive soil and cured for 28 days. The test results of lime and lime-fly ash slurry injected soils showed that there is improvement during the first wetting. However, at the end of four wet-dry cycles, the volumetric deformations of lime- and lime-fly ash slurry-treated soils increased to 10.6% and 13.6%, respectively, which are much lower than the volumetric deformation of untreated soil (30.7%). Additional analyses were also conducted to trace the growth of desiccation cracks of both untreated and treated soils. At the end of the third drying cycle, the total percentage of the cracks (surface cracks + annular gap) in lime slurry- and lime-fly ash slurry-treated soils reduced to 1.18% and 5.37% from the untreated soil value of 31.9%. The findings of the present study underline the positive impact of using lime, and lime in conjunction with fly ash for controlling the volume change behaviour of expansive soils. Furthermore, combination of lime and fly ash significantly reduces the consumption of lime, leading to sustainability in geotechnical practices.