Freeze-thaw cycles (FTC) influence soil erodibility (K-r) by altering soil properties. In seasonally frozen regions, the coupling mechanisms between FTC and water erosion obscure the roles of FTC in determining soil erosion resistance. This study combined FTC simulation with water erosion tests to investigate the erosion response mechanisms and key drivers for loess with varying textures. The FTC significantly changed the mechanical and physicochemical characteristics of five loess types (P < 0.05), especially reducing shear strength, cohesion, and internal friction angle, with sandy loam exhibiting more severe deterioration than silt loam. Physicochemical indices showed weaker sensitivity to FTC versus mechanical properties, with coefficients of variation below 5 %. Wuzhong sandy loess retained the highest K-r post-FTC, exceeding that of the others by 1.04 similar to 2.25 times, highlighting the dominant role of texture (21.37 % contribution). Under different initial soil moisture contents (SMC), K-r increased initially and then stabilized with successive FTC, with a threshold effect of FTC on K-r at approximately 10 FTC. Under FTC, the K-r variation rate showed a concave trend with SMC, turning point at 12 % SMC, indicating that SMC regulates freeze-thaw damage. Critical shear stress exhibited an inverse response to FTC compared to K-r, displaying lower sensitivity. The established K-r prediction model achieved high accuracy (R-2 = 0.87, NSE = 0.86), though further validation is required beyond the design conditions. Future research should integrate laboratory and field experiments to expand model applicability. This study lays a theoretical foundation for research on soil erosion dynamics in freeze-thaw-affected areas.

Mesh-free methods, such as the Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method, have recently been successfully developed to model the entire wetting-induced slope collapse process, such as rainfall-induced landslides, from the onset to complete failure. However, the latest SPH developments still lack an advanced unsaturated constitutive model capable of capturing complex soil behaviour responses to wetting. This limitation reduces their ability to provide detailed insights into the failure processes and to correctly capture the complex behaviours of unsaturated soils. This paper addresses this research gap by incorporating an advanced unsaturated constitutive model for clay and sand (CASM-X) into a recently proposed fully coupled seepage flow-deformation SPH framework to simulate a field-scale wetting-induced slope collapse test. The CASM-X model is based on the unified critical state constitutive model for clay and sand (CASM) and incorporates a void-dependent water retention curve and a modified suction-dependent compression index law, enabling the accurate prediction various unsaturated soil behaviours. The integration of the proposed CASM-X model in the fully coupled flow deformation SPH framework enables the successful prediction of a field-scale wetting-induced slope collapse test, providing insights into slope failure mechanisms from initiation to post-failure responses.

Root-knot nematodes (RKN) are globally distributed and highly pathogenic. By determining the threshold at which damage occurs, we can create effective measures to protect plants from nematodes. In our study, we investigated the impact of ten initial population densities (Pi-log series) of M. javanica, i.e., 0, 2.38, 2.68, 2.98, 3.28, 3.58, 3.88, 4.18, 4.48 and 4.78 juveniles (J2) g(-1) soil on tomato cv. S22 plants in pots. The graphical estimation of yield losses caused by RKN was calculated using Seinhorst's yield loss model based on the relationship between the RKN population and damage to tomato plants. The relationship between initial nematode population density (Pi) and plant yield was analyzed using Seinhorst's model, where T is the tolerance limit, m is the minimum yield, and z is a constant describing yield decline. This allowed us to determine the threshold at which nematode infestation significantly reduces tomato growth. Seinhorst's model, y = m + (1-m) 0.95(Pi/T-1) for Pi > T; y = 1 for Pi <= T for RKN, was fitted to the data of shoot length and fresh weight of infected and uninoculated control plants to estimate the damage threshold level. The impact of M. javanica on plant physiological parameters, including chlorophyll content, carotenoid and nitrate reductase activity, root-gall formation, and disease incidence, was also determined in this study. The tolerance limits for relative tomato shoot length and fresh weight were 3.34 J2 of M. javanica g(-1) soil. The minimum relative values (y(m)) for shoot length and fresh weights were 0.39 and 0.42, respectively. We found that the damage threshold level was between 3.28 and 3.58. The root galls index, nematode population and reproduction factors were 3.75, 113 and 29.42, respectively, at an initial population density (Pi) of 3.58 J2 g(-1) soil. The chlorophyll (0.43 mg g(-1)), carotenoids (0.06 mg g(-1)) and nitrate reductase activity (0.21 mu mol min(-1) g(-1)). Our study highlights the importance of the accurate estimation of damage thresholds, which can guide timely and effective nematode management strategies.

Silicon monoxide (SiO) is highly attractive as an anode material for high-energy lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its significantly higher specific capacity. However, its practical application is hindered by substantial volume expansion during cycling, which leads to material pulverization and an unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer. Inspired by the natural root fixation in soil, we designed a root-like topological structure binder, cassava starch-citric acid (CS-CA), based on the synergistic action of covalent and hydrogen bonds. The abundant -OH and -COOH groups in CS-CA molecules effectively form hydrogen bonds with the -OH groups on the SiO surface, significantly enhancing the interfacial interaction between CS-CA and SiO. The root-like topological structure of CS-CA with a high tolerance alleviates the mechanical stress generated by the volume changes of SiO. More encouragingly, the hydrogen bond action among CS-CA molecules produces a self-healing effect, which is advantageous for repairing damaged electrodes and preserving their structural integrity. As such, the CS-CA/SiO electrode exhibits exceptional cycling performance (963.1 mA h g-1 after 400 cycles at 2 A g-1 ) and rate capability (558.9 mA h g-1 at 5 A g-1 ). This innovative, topologically interconnected, root-inspired binder will greatly advance the practical application of long-lasting micron-sized SiO anodes. (c) 2025 Science Press and Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. and Science Press. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.

Background: The detection of metal ions represents a critical analytical challenge due to their persistent environmental accumulation and severe toxic effects on ecosystems and human health. Even at trace concentrations, toxic metal ions can cause irreversible biological damage, necessitating the development of sensitive, selective, and rapid monitoring platforms. Advanced detection systems are urgently needed for environmental surveillance, industrial effluent control, and food/water safety applications where regulatory compliance and early warning capabilities are paramount. Results: This work presents an etching-based sensor array to identify and discriminate Pb2+, Hg2+, Cu2+, NO2-, Cr6+, and As3+ as hazardous ions. Au@Ag core@shell nanorods were utilized as sensing elements in different pH values in the presence of thiosulfate and thiourea as key elements in the oxidation of nanoparticles. Analytes' response patterns in the range of 1.0-30 mu M were analyzed via various methods, including heatmap, bar plot, and linear discriminant analysis (LDA), showing perfect discrimination. To ensure the sensor's applicability in real samples, we conducted meticulous testing on different sources, including tap water, well water, tilapia pond water, tomato soil extract, and urine samples. Significance: The sensor demonstrated excellent performance in classifying mixture samples and providing precise and accurate detection in real samples. This innovation offers a promising future for etching-based sensor arrays by utilizing core-shell nanoparticles as sensitive sensing elements and a significant contribution to global efforts in safeguarding public health and the environment from the threat of pollutants.

The rapid growth of the global population and the transformation and upgrading of dietary structures have led to a widening gap in the demand for cropland resources. Research on agricultural land reallocation that seeks to maximize cropland availability and increase grain production while also considering the preservation of natural ecosystems still has gaps. Following the theoretical assumptions of the agricultural land reallocation process, this study constructs a comprehensive framework for integrating scale, structure, and prioritization. Sichuan Province, China's main grain-producing region, is used as an example for a case study. The results demonstrate that the scale of agricultural land reallocation decreased from 56,742.01 to 44,965.52 km2 after correcting the evaluation of ecological conservation importance and crop production suitability under spatial and non-spatial constraints. There are significant differences in crop production suitability for agricultural land reallocation structures. Despite the wide spatial distribution of forest land, its utilization is challenging. Therefore, cropland, garden land, and grassland are prioritized for exploitation and utilization. In the eight priority zones for agricultural land reallocation, the main obstacles are constituted by single or composite factors of utilization convenience, spatial agglomeration, and facility stability. In general, agricultural land reallocation needs to be supported by considering different dimensions of resource availability, structural convertibility, and spatial compatibility. This approach maximizes the availability of resources for grain production while minimizing damage to natural ecosystems.

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.

The soil moisture content (SMC) of moist clay directly affects the traction performance of off-road tire. This study set up a high-fidelity interaction model between off-road tire and moist clay with various moisture content, developed by coupling the finite element method (FEM) and smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) algorithm. The interaction behavior between pneumatic tire and moist clay is studied. Firstly, a finite element model of tire which can characterize the complex structure and nonlinear mechanical properties is established. The Drucker-Prager (D-P) constitutive model parameters of clay with various moisture levels are calibrated by soil mechanical test. The moist clay with various moisture content is modeled through the SPH algorithm. The hybrid FEM-SPH interaction model is used to define the tire-moist clay interaction. Moreover, a traction performance test device suitable for tire-moist clay is developed to verify the accuracy of the interaction model. The influence of soil moisture content and tire operating conditions include vertical load and inflation pressure on the longitudinal traction coefficient, rolling resistance coefficient and instantaneous sinkage of tire center are quantitatively analyzed. The purpose of this study is to provide accurate tire force information under moist clay for unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), which can improve the problem of wheel instantaneous sinkage of tire center and slip under moist clay, and effectively reduce the yaw phenomenon in the path tracking process.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) granular lightweight soil (ELS) is an eco-friendly material made of EPS particles, cement, soil, and water. This study investigates the modification of ELS using a silane coupling agent (SCA) solution to improve its performance. Various tests were performed, including flowability, dry shrinkage, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), triaxial, hollow torsional shear, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties at different SCA concentrations. The results show that the optimal SCA concentration was 6%, improving flowability by 13% and increasing dry shrinkage weight by 4%. The UCS increased with SCA concentration, reaching 266 and 361 kPa after 7 and 28 days, respectively, at 6% SCA. Triaxial and shear tests indicated improved shear strength, with the maximum shear strength reaching 500 kPa, internal friction angle rising by 4%, and cohesion reaching 114 kPa at 6% SCA. Hollow torsion shear tests showed that 6% SCA enhanced stiffness and resistance to deformation, while reducing the non-coaxial effect. SEM analysis revealed that SCA strengthened the bond between EPS particles and the cement matrix, improving the interfacial bond. This study highlights the potential of modified ELS for sustainable construction.

The erosion of cohesive soils is regarded as one of the major threats to the failure of earth structures. The current evaluation of clay erodibility is primarily based on empirical correlations with other physical and mechanical soil properties, which lack a fundamental understanding of multiscale resistance formation under complicated environmental conditions. In this study, the hole erosion test (HET) was conducted using our augmented testing system, which includes sample preparation equipment and a temperature control unit. The kaolinite specimen is prepared following the saturated preconsolidation approach under defined stresses, which significantly improves the test repeatability. In total, 33 specimens are prepared and tested using the enhanced HET system under varying preconsolidation pressures, temperatures, and fines contents with triplicates for each case. The erosion resistance of clay increases with the preconsolidation pressure, and macropores are destructed into micropores, as revealed by the mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) test and the specific surface area analyzer. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images indicate an anisotropic aggregate structure prepared using the preconsolidation approach, which possesses different erodibility indices in different flow directions. With the increase in temperature from 10 degrees C to 40 degrees C, the critical shear stress decreases from 292 to 131 Pa (or by 55.1%). The addition of quartz sands in the kaolinite clay undermines the soil erosion resistance.