Cadmium (Cd) is one of the highly toxic heavy metals that restricts plant growth, affects crop yields, and triggers food crises. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is frequently used solvent in biological studies, and its potential application in resistance to Cd toxicity in plants and animals has not been reported. Here, low concentrations of DMSO alone were demonstrated to increase the biomass of pak choi seedlings; more importantly, under Cd stress conditions, DMSO was shown to reduce Cd accumulation, and thereby alleviate Cd-induced damages. Specifically, DMSO could enhance plant defense mechanisms against Cd stress by strengthening the activities of endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging enzymatic or non-enzymatic antioxidants, regulating the expression of key stress-responsive genes, as well as activating autophagy and apoptosis protection in root cells, thereby scavenging excessive ROS, restoring integration of cell membranes, and conferring tolerance to Cdinduced phytotoxicity. Our results showed that DMSO could play a vital role in mitigating Cd-induced oxidative damage by activating the protective mechanisms generated by the synergistic effects of both autophagy and antioxidants. These findings will help to formulate strategies to mitigate Cd contamination and to ensure the safety of cabbage production, an important vegetable source.

Loess has high water sensitivity and exhibits poor characteristics such as weak cementation and high porosity. Under heavy rainfall, loess fill slopes are prone to erosion and landslides, posing serious threats to public safety and property. In light of these serious threats, this study employed the method of spraying polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution to improve loess fill slopes and systematically examine its protective effects. Through field investigations and combined laboratory and outdoor tests, this study comprehensively evaluated the mechanical properties, anti-aging and anti-erosion performance of loess after PVA solution spraying. Scanning electron microscopy was used to reveal the mechanism of PVA action at the microscopic level. The results showed that after treatment with PVA solutions of varying concentrations, the mechanical properties of loess samples were significantly enhanced, while also exhibiting excellent anti-aging and water resistance performance. Additionally, PVA-treated loess fill slopes exhibited excellent rain erosion resistance. A microscopic structural analysis showed that PVA fills the internal pores of loess, strengthens inter-particle bonding, and uses its hydrophobic groups' water-repellent action to effectively enhance slope stability and erosion resistance. In conclusion, PVA treatment not only significantly enhances the protective effects of loess fill slopes but also holds important value in improving soil sustainability and environmental protection.