Search Results (1,720)

Earth-rock dams are critical components of hydraulic engineering, undertaking core functions such as flood control and disaster mitigation. However, the potential occurrence of dam breach poses a severe threat to regional socioeconomic stability and ecological security. To address the limitations of traditional Bayesian network (BN) in capturing the complex nonlinear coupling and dynamic mutual interactions among risk factors, they are integrated with machine learning techniques, based on a collected dataset of earth-rock dam breach case samples, the PC structure learning algorithm was employed to preliminarily uncover risk associations. The dataset was compiled from public databases, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Dam Safety Management Center of the Ministry of Water Resources of China, as well as engineering reports from provincial water conservancy departments in China and Europe. Expert knowledge was integrated to optimize the network topology, thereby correcting causal relationships inconsistent with engineering mechanisms. The results indicate that the established hybrid model achieved AUC, accuracy, and F1-Score values of 0.887, 0.895, and 0.899, respectively, significantly outperforming the data-driven model G1. Forward inference identified the key drivers elevating breach risk. Conversely, backward inference revealed that overtopping was the direct failure mode with the highest probability of occurrence and the greatest contribution. The integration of data-driven approaches and domain knowledge provides theoretical and technical support for the probabilistic quantification of earth-rock dam breach and risk prevention and control decision-making. Full article

Growing health consciousness drives demand for convenient, nutrient-dense snacks. This study evaluates five Sukkari date-mixed-nut bar formulations (DNB1–DNB5; date/nut ratios 40:60–80:20) through comprehensive biochemical and nutritional analyses. Macronutrient profiling showed that higher date ratios increased moisture and carbohydrates, whereas higher nut ratios enhanced protein, fat, and caloric density. Mineral assays revealed progressive increases in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace elements as date content decreased. The assessment of phytochemicals and antioxidants demonstrated that total phenolics, flavonoids, and radical-scavenging activities peaked in nut-rich bars, declining by ~50% in date-rich bars, underscoring nuts’ dominant antioxidant role. HPLC profiling identified catechol and vanillic acid as the major phenolics, with optimal release and retention at the 60:40 ratio (DNB3). Amino acid (AA) analysis confirmed positive correlations between nut content and total/essential AAs; DNB1–DNB2 achieved favorable essential-to-nonessential AA ratios (0.56–0.59) and higher protein quality indices. Fatty acid (FA) composition analysis revealed that oleic acid was identified as the major constituent across all formulations, coupled with optimal omega-6/omega-3 ratios. GC-MS analysis identified a total of 31 volatiles, mainly benzene derivatives and FA methyl esters. Results also revealed that notable variations attributed to different date/nut ratios significantly alter aroma profiles, with DNB3 yielding the most remarkable diversity of health-associated volatiles. Results from PCA and hierarchical clustering suggest that a single dominant dimension (PC1, 94.47% variance) governs compositional differences among the five date bar formulations, reflecting deliberate variation in ingredient proportions. The evidence suggests that DNB3’s (60:40 Sukkari date to mixed nut ratio) delivers balanced macro-nutrients, robust antioxidants, and diverse bioactives, positioning it as a health-promoting functional snack, aligning with its suitability for athletes, clinical nutrition applications, and health-conscious populations. These findings support the commercial development of optimized date-nut bars as nutrient-dense functional snacks, and future work should focus on scale-up production, shelf-life stability, and assessing in vivo bioavailability. Full article

In this investigation, we explore previously unknown relations between natural constants by taking the following steps: (1) We discard Dirac’s constant ℏ from the universal man-made constants of physics, which we redefine in terms of Planck’s constant h. (2) Working in the SI system of units, we determine Newton’s gravitational constant G from Boltzmann’s constant $k_{\mathrm{B}}$ and the elementary charge e, recognizing the entropy of matter as their common underlying characteristic. (3) By comparing the mass of 1 mole of electrons to the h-defined Planck mass $M_{\mathrm{P}}$, we deduce nature’s own molar constant ($\simeq$0.1 mol) that contains a ‘reduced Avogadro number’ ${\aleph }_{\mathrm{A}}=N_{\mathrm{A}}/f_{\mathrm{A}}$ of particles, where $N_{\mathrm{A}}$ is Avogadro’s number and $f_{\mathrm{A}}\simeq 10$ is the associated Avogadro factor. (4) From the new effective gravitational constant $G_{★}\equiv 4\pi {\epsilon }_{0}G$, where ${\epsilon }_0$ is the vacuum permittivity, we obtain MOND’s universal constant ${\mathcal{A}}_0$ and its critical acceleration $a_0$, recognizing the Newtonian source of gravity as the common underlying characteristic and repudiating the need for a principle of equivalence of masses. (5) We derive the gravitational coupling constant ${\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{g}}$ solely from ${\aleph }_{\mathrm{A}}$. (6) We adopt the measured value of the h-defined fine-structure constant (FSC) $\mathsf{\alpha }$ and the value of ${\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{g}}$ (or, equivalently, nature’s ${\aleph }_{\mathrm{A}}$), and we determine the relative ratio ${\mathsf{\beta }}_{\mathrm{g}}={\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{g}}/\mathsf{\alpha }$ precise to 10 significant digits. (7) We derive the relative strong ratio ${\mathsf{\beta }}_{\mathrm{s}}={\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{s}}/\mathsf{\alpha }$ directly from the Avogadro factor $f_{\mathrm{A}}$. (8) We determine the coupling constants of weak and strong interactions (${\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{w}}$ and ${\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{s}}$, respectively) in terms of the FSC $\mathsf{\alpha }$. (9) The relation ${\mathsf{\alpha }}_{\mathrm{w}}=\sqrt{\mathsf{\alpha }}$ leads to a determination of the mass of the W boson $m_{\mathrm{W}}$ from the measured values of $\mathsf{\alpha }$ and the reduced Fermi constant $G_{\mathrm{F}}^0$. (10) Using the Planck mass as a principal constant ($M_{\mathrm{P}}={\aleph }_{\mathrm{A}}{m}_{\mathrm{e}}$, where $m_{\mathrm{e}}$ is the electron mass), we obtain new classical definitions of $h,\mathsf{\alpha }$, and the Compton radius $r_{\mathrm{c}}$; and we reformulate in a transparent, geometrically clear way several important QED equations, as well as the extended Planck system of units itself. We discuss the implications of these results, and we pave a way forward in exploring the unification of the fundamental forces of nature. Full article

Nutrient stoichiometry and dissolved organic matter (DOM) govern essential ecosystem processes; however, their coupling in tea garden soils remains obscure, and cultivar-specific effects on this linkage remain virtually unknown. In this study, soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) contents and their C/N/P stoichiometry were measured in two contrasting tea cultivars, Rougui and Shuixian. DOM composition and sources were resolved using UV–visible spectroscopy, three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy, and parallel factor analysis. The tea garden soils exhibited low C/N/P ratios but high nutrient availability. DOM was dominated by fulvic- and tyrosine-like components, indicating low humification and high biodegradability. Soil organic matter and C/N/P stoichiometry jointly controlled the quantity and quality of DOM. In Rougui soils, protein-like DOM accounted for 61.92% ± 7.27% of total fluorescence and was primarily regulated by the N/P ratio. In Shuixian soils, humic-like DOM increased to 53.13% ± 8.58% of total fluorescence and was positively driven by the C/P ratio. These findings demonstrate that tea cultivars modulate the coupling between DOM and C/N/P stoichiometry, providing a basis for cultivar-specific fertilization strategies, efficient regulation of soil nutrient cycling, and sustainable tea garden management. Full article

The Southern Great Xing’an Range (SGXR), an important W–Sn polymetallic metallogenic belt in northern China, hosts multiphase magmatism and has witnessed recent discoveries of multiple tungsten–tin polymetallic deposits. The W–Sn mineralization in this area is intimately associated with Early Cretaceous highly fractionated granites. The Chamuhan deposit, a small-sized W–Mo polymetallic deposit in SGXR, is genetically linked to a concealed fine-grained porphyritic alkali feldspar granite intrusion. In this study, we present the LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb ages, whole-rock geochemical, and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) mineral chemistry to constrain the petrogenesis and metallogenic implications of this granite. Zircon U–Pb dating yields a crystallization age of 141.3 ± 1.2 Ma, consistent with molybdenite Re–Os ages. The granite is characterized by elevated SiO₂ (76.9–79.1 wt%) and total alkalis (7.3–8.5 wt%), and exhibits peraluminous high-K calc-alkaline affinity (A/CNK = 1.37–1.57). Geochemical signatures reveal enrichment in large ion lithophile elements (LILEs, e.g., Rb, Th, U) coupled with depletion in high-field strength elements (HFSEs, e.g., Ba, Sr, P, Eu, Ti, Nb, Ta), and are accompanied by right-sloping REE patterns with LREE enrichment and HREE depletion. EPMA data indicate that the mica in the intrusion is primarily zinnwaldite and Li-rich phengite, whereas the plagioclase occurs as albite. The feldspar thermobarometry yields crystallization temperatures of 689–778 °C and 313 MPa–454 MPa, while the melt H₂O content and oxygen fugacity are 8.61–11.1 wt% and −22.58–−14.48, respectively. These geochemical signatures indicate that the granites are highly fractionated I-type granites with extensive fractional crystallization of various minerals like plagioclase, K-feldspar, and apatite, etc. From the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous, the subduction and rollback of the Paleo-Pacific Ocean plate resulted in extensional tectonic environments in eastern China. Asthenospheric upwelling and lower crustal melting generated parental magmas, wherein progressive fractional crystallization during ascent concentrated ore-forming elements and volatiles within residual melts. This process played a key role in the formation of the Chamuhan deposit, exemplifying the metallogenic potential of highly evolved granitic systems in the SGXR. Full article

Red-bed desertification represents a critical form of land degradation in subtropical regions, yet the coupled soil–vegetation processes remain poorly understood. This study integrates Sentinel-2 vegetation indices with soil fertility gradients to assess vegetation–soil interactions in the Nanxiong Basin of South China. By combining Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)-based vegetation classification with comprehensive soil property analyses, we aim to uncover the spatial patterns and driving mechanisms of degradation. The results revealed a clear gradient from intact forests to exposed red-bed bare land (RBBL). NDVI classification achieved an overall accuracy of 77.8% (κ = 0.723), with mixed forests being identified most reliably (97.1%), while Red-Bed Bare Land (RBBL) exhibited the highest omission rate. Along this gradient, soil organic matter, available nitrogen, and phosphorus declined sharply, while pH shifted from near-neutral in forests to strongly acidic in bare lands. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified a dominant fertility axis (PC1, explaining 56.7% of the variance), which clustered forested sites in nutrient-rich zones and isolated RBBL as the most degraded state. The observed vegetation–soil pattern aligns with a “weathering–transport–exposure” sequence, whereby physical disintegration and selective erosion during monsoonal rainfall drive organic matter depletion, soil thinning, and acidification, with human disturbance further accelerating these processes. To our knowledge, this study is the first to directly couple PCA-derived soil fertility gradients with vegetation patterns in red-bed regions. By integrating vegetation indices with soil fertility gradients, this study establishes a process-based framework for interpreting red-bed desertification. These findings underscore the utility of remote sensing, especially NDVI classification, as a powerful tool for identifying degradation stages and linking vegetation patterns with soil processes, providing a scientific foundation for monitoring and managing land degradation in monsoonal and semi-arid regions. Full article

Caffeic acid (CA), 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA), and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA) were subjected to treating stimulated mouse P815 mast cells to unravel their antiallergic potential. β-Hexosaminidase release, appearance, morphology change, cytokine secretions, and degranulation-related pathway gene expressions, including Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor, member B2 (MRGP receptor B2), and inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor 2 (IP3 receptor 2), in the stimulated mast cells were measured. An ELISA was used to determine the secreted cytokines. The relative gene expression folds were analyzed with reverse transcription real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Correlations between gene expressions and different parameters were analyzed using the Pearson product–moment correlation coefficient (r). The results showed that CA had a superior effect than 3-CQA and 5-CQA on reducing β-hexosaminidase release, IL-4, and IL-6 cytokine secretions by the compound 48/80 (C48/80)- and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (5-HMF)-stimulated mast cells. CA increased intact mast cell numbers but reduced granule releases, evidencing that CA may soothe activated mast cells. CA reduced IP3 receptor 2 gene expression. There were positive correlations between IP3 receptor 2 gene expression and IL-4 and IL-6 cytokine secretions. Our results conclude that CA might inhibit degranulation, IL-4 and IL-6 cytokine secretions, and IP3 receptor 2 gene expression in C48/80-stimulated mouse P815 mast cells. Full article

Forest fire regimes are undergoing systematic reorganization under climate change, particularly in monsoon–human coupled ecosystems such as Southeastern China, where risk dynamics remain poorly quantified. This study proposes a meteorology-driven machine learning model designed to assess long-term forest fire risk. Using kernel density estimation and standard deviational ellipse analysis, we assessed the spatiotemporal patterns of fire risk during the observational period and their future shifts across the SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios. The results indicate a significant overall decline in fire frequency from 2008 to 2024 (−467.3 fires/year, representing an annual average reduction of 10.8%, p < 0.001), which is attributed primarily to enhanced regional fire prevention and control measures, yet with a notable reversal after 2016 in Guangdong and Fujian. Fires are highly seasonal, with 74% occurring in the dry season (December–March). The meteorologically driven random forest model exhibited excellent performance (R² = 0.889), validating meteorological conditions as key drivers of regional fire dynamics. It is projected that intensified warming (+5.5 °C under SSP5-8.5) and increased precipitation variability (+23%) are likely to drive pronounced northward and inland migration in high-risk zones. Our projections indicate that by the end of the century, high-risk area coverage could expand to 19.2%, with a shift from diffuse to clustered patterns, particularly in Jiangsu and Zhejiang. These findings underscore the critical role of hydrothermal reconfiguration in reshaping fire risk geography and highlight the need for dynamic, region-specific fire management strategies in response to compound climate risks. Full article

Coastal zones are critical areas of marine ecosystems, where biodiversity is a key ecological element for maintaining ecosystem stability and ensuring the sustainability of fishery resources. The Shengsi Ma’an Archipelago Marine Special Reserve features heterogeneous habitats such as rocky reefs, seaweed beds, and artificial aquaculture areas, which are significantly affected by human activities. This study focused on the nearshore waters of Lvhua Island within the reserve. Based on the degree of human disturbance, the study area was divided into five typical habitat types: cage culture area (A), intertidal seaweed bed (B), marine platform area (C), open waters (D), and mussel culture area (E). Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology was employed to analyze the characteristics of eukaryotic community structures across these habitats and their coupling mechanisms with environmental factors. The results showed that a total of 767,360 valid sequences were obtained from 15 seawater samples. Clustering into operational taxonomic units (OTUs) yielded 811 OTUs, taxonomically covering 50 phyla, 104 classes, 220 orders, 334 families, 435 genera, and 530 species. The number of OTUs shared across all habitats was 387. The intertidal seaweed bed (B) had the highest proportion of unique OTUs (4.8%) and showed significant differences (0.01 < p < 0.05) in OTU composition compared to the marine platform area (C) and the mussel culture area (E). Among the major dominant phyla, the abundance of Dinoflagellata across sites was A (74.56%) > E (68.32%) > B (62.15%) > C (58.74%) > D (55.21%). The abundance of Arthropoda across sites was D (27.34%) > C (19.98%) > B (17.89%) > E (9.17%) > A (8.25%). Each of the other sites had 1-2 dominant phyla. Among the major dominant genera, the abundance of an unclassified genus of Dinophyceae was B (41.39%) > C (23.31%) > D (22.03%) > E (19.27%) > A (18.56%). The genus Noctiluca was endemic to Site A, with an abundance of 39.98%. The genus Calanus was dominant in site D (26.17%). The genus Meganyctiphanes was unique to sites C (12.12%) and D (8.76%). The genus Ectopleura was unique to site A. The genus Botrylloides was unique to site E. The remaining genera were evenly distributed across sites without significant habitat specificity. Alpha diversity analysis revealed that the marine platform area (C) had the highest Shannon index (3.32 ± 0.22) and Pielou index (0.54 ± 0.04), while the mussel culture area (E) had the highest Chao1 index (578.96 ± 10.25). All diversity indices were lowest in the cage culture area (A). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and ANOSIM tests indicated significant differences (p < 0.05) in eukaryotic community structures among different habitats. Samples from the seaweed bed clustered separately and were distant from other habitats. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that pH was the key environmental factor driving the differentiation of eukaryotic community structure. Temperature was negatively correlated with dissolved oxygen, while salinity was positively correlated with pH. The combined differences in environmental factors were the main drivers of eukaryotic community structure differentiation. In conclusion, this study clarifies the regulatory role of habitat type on the eukaryotic community structure in the nearshore waters of Ma’an Archipelago, confirming a negative correlation between human activity intensity and biodiversity, and a positive correlation between natural habitat complexity and biodiversity. The research findings provide scientific support for assessing the health of the marine ecosystem and formulating ecological conservation and management strategies in this region. Full article

Energy consumption and environmental pollution pose significant challenges to sustainable development. This study develops a comprehensive coupled framework model that advances the quantitative integration of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) cycles driven by multiple anthropogenic pollution sources. This paper used Panjin city as a case study to analyze the dynamic changes and interconnections among C, N, and P. Results indicated that net anthropogenic carbon inputs (NAI_C) increased by 33% from 2016–2020, while net anthropogenic nitrogen inputs (NAI_N) and net anthropogenic phosphorus inputs (NAI_P) decreased by 14% and 28%, respectively. The primary driver of NAI_C was energy consumption, while wetlands were the dominant carbon sequestration sink. Agricultural production was identified as the primary source of NAI_N and NAI_P, and approximately 4.5% of NAI_N and 2.9% of NAI_P were discharged into receiving water bodies. We demonstrate that human activities and natural processes exhibit dual attributes, producing positive and negative environmental effects. The increase in carbon emissions drives economic growth and industrial restructuring; however, the enhanced economic capacity also strengthens the ability to mitigate pollution through environmental protection measures. Similarly, natural ecosystems, including forests and grasslands, contribute to carbon sequestration and the release of non-point source pollution. The comprehensive environmental impact assessment of C, N, and P revealed that the comprehensive environmental index for Panjin city exhibited an improved trend. The factors of energy structure, energy efficiency, and economic scale promoted NAI_C growth, with the economic scale factor alone accounting for 93% of the total increment. Environmental efficiency factor and population size factor were the primary drivers in reducing NAI_N and NAI_P discharges into the receiving water bodies. We propose a novel management model, ecological restoration, clean energy utilization, resource recycling, and pollution source reduction to achieve systemic governance of C, N, and P inputs. Full article

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is a widely used photocatalyst, yet its activity is limited to ultraviolet light due to its large band gap. To extend absorption into the visible spectrum, this study developed a dual-sensitizer strategy by coupling perylene tetracarboxylic acid (PTCA) and copper phthalocyanine tetracarboxylic acid (CuPcTC) onto TiO₂. Both dyes were selected for their strong visible light absorption, photostability, and efficient charge transfer properties. Hybrid photocatalysts were prepared via an ultrasonication–coprecipitation method and incorporated into coatings. Optical, morpho-structural, thermal, and electrochemical methods were used to characterize the hybrid photocatalysts, while photocatalytic performances were evaluated by UV–Vis spectroscopy, hydroxyl radical generation, and Methylene Blue degradation under simulated solar light. The dual-sensitized TiO₂ composites exhibited broadened absorption across 400–750 nm, effective charge separation, and stable radical generation. Among the tested samples, the PTCA–CuPcTC hybrid (P3) demonstrated the highest activity, achieving efficient degradation of Methylene Blue with sustained performance over repeated cycles. Characterization confirmed uniform distribution of sensitizers, high crystallinity, and adequate thermal stability. These findings indicate that combining PTCA and CuPcTC provides synergistic benefits in light harvesting, charge transfer, and durability. The dual-sensitizer approach offers a promising route for visible-light-responsive photocatalysts in environmental remediation. Full article

Urban–rural mountainous regions face persistent challenges in reconciling ecological conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and recreational demands, all of which are vital to advancing social sustainability. This study develops an integrated corridor framework for the Qinling–Daba region that couples ecological, heritage, and recreational networks within a socially sustainable planning perspective. Ecological sources were identified using Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA) combined with connectivity indices (IIC, PC, dPC). Heritage and recreation resources were inventoried through field surveys and prioritized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Function-specific corridors were modelled with a Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) approach, and the three networks were synthesized through GIS overlay and hotspot analysis. The results indicate that there are 19 ecological sources and 28 corridors, 34 heritage nodes and 41 corridors, and 29 recreation nodes and 50 corridors. The composite network comprises 69 key nodes and 141 segments, classified into four node categories and three corridor types. Derived planning directives include graded buffer zones, continuity of riparian and forest belts, remediation of breakpoints with wildlife-friendly crossings, and universal accessibility standards for high-demand sites. By aligning ecological integrity, cultural values, and equitable access, the proposed framework offers a reproducible pathway to integrate people and places through multifunctional corridors. Beyond regional application, this research provides transferable insights for socially sustainable governance of urban–rural built environments in mountainous territories, supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 11. Full article

We present an experimentally validated, engineering-oriented framework for the design and operation of pin-to-water (PTW) atmospheric discharges to produce hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) on demand. Motivated by industrial needs for safe, point-of-use oxidant supply, we combine time-resolved diagnostics (FTIR, OES), liquid-phase analysis (ion chromatography, pH, conductivity), and coupled plasma-chemistry/fluid simulations to link plasma state to aqueous H₂O₂ yield. Under the tested conditions (14.3 kHz, 0.2 kW; electrode to quartz wall distance 12–14 mm; coolant setpoints 0–40 °C), H₂O₂ concentration follows a reproducible non-monotonic trajectory: rapid accumulation during the early treatment (typical peak at ~15–25 min), followed by decline with continued operation. The decline coincides with a robust vibrational-temperature (T_vib) threshold near ~4900 K measured from N₂ emission, and with concurrent NO_X accumulation and bulk acidification. Global chemistry modeling and Fluent flow fields reproduce the observed trend and show that both vibrational excitation (kinetics) and convective transport (mass/heat transfer) determine the productive time window. Based on these results, we formulate practical design rules—electrode gap (power density), discharge current control, thermal/flow management, water quality, and OES-based T_vib monitoring with an automated stop rule—that maximize H₂O₂ yield while avoiding NO_X-dominated suppression. The study provides a clear path for transforming mechanistic plasma insights into deployable, industrial H₂O₂ generator designs. Full article

Urbanization generates large quantities of arsenic-contaminated excavated soils that pose environmental risks due to arsenic volatilization during high-temperature sintering processes. While these soils have potential for recycling into construction materials, their reuse is hindered by arsenic release. This study demonstrated calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) as a highly effective additive for suppressing arsenic volatilization during soil sintering, while simultaneously improving material properties. Through comprehensive characterization using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microtomography (μCT), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), results demonstrated that Ca(OH)₂ addition (0.5–2 wt.%) reduces arsenic volatilization by 57% through formation of thermally stable calcium arsenate (Ca₃(AsO₄)₂). Ca(OH)₂ acted via two mechanisms: (a) chemical immobilization through Ca-As-O compound formation, (b) physical encapsulation in a calcium-aluminosilicate matrix during liquid-phase sintering, and (c) pH buffering that maintains arsenic in less volatile forms. Optimal performance was achieved at 0.5% Ca(OH)₂, yielding 9.14 MPa compressive strength (29% increase) with minimal arsenic leaching (<110 ppb). Microstructural analysis showed Ca(OH)₂ promoted densification while higher doses increased porosity. This work provides a practical solution for safe reuse of arsenic-contaminated soils, addressing both environmental concerns and material performance requirements for construction applications. Full article

Moringa oleifera, renowned for its medicinal potency, was investigated to discern the impact of varying storage temperatures (4 °C, 25 °C, 40 °C) and light conditions (dark and light) on the quality attributes of its leaf powder during a 12-month storage period. The study encompassed comprehensive analyses of phytochemical levels, nutritional properties, microbial contamination, and colour changes in response to these diverse storage environments. The lightness L* colour value changed significantly (40 to 60) from baseline tests when stored at 40 °C in transparent packaging. Results highlighted distinct variations in phytochemical composition and nutritional content based on the interplay between temperature and light conditions. Lower temperatures, particularly 4 °C, in both dark and light environments, demonstrated superior preservation of bioactive compounds, with mean values for quercetin-3-rutinoside of 3.34 µg/g and 3.19 µg/g, respectively; both are significantly higher compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). This trend was also observed for rutin, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin. Conversely, higher temperatures (25 °C, 40 °C) coupled with light exposure hastened degradation, notably impacting phytochemical stability. Microbial proliferation was evident in elevated temperatures, indicating potential safety risks. Further observations unveiled significant colour changes within the leaf powder, notably influenced by storage temperatures and light exposure. Lower temperatures exhibited diminished colour alterations compared to higher temperatures, underscoring their impact on product quality. This study underscores the critical role of controlled storage conditions, especially cooler temperatures and reduced light exposure, in maintaining the potency and quality of M. oleifera leaf powder. Recommendations advocate for stringent temperature control (preferably 4 °C) and light shielding during storage to uphold phytochemical stability and mitigate microbial proliferation. While this study provides valuable insights into temperature-mediated alterations, future research avenues should delve deeper into elucidating the underlying mechanisms of colour changes and long-term temperature effects on phytochemical and nutritional integrity. Full article