Search Results (315)

Background/Objectives: Biological ageing is accompanied by progressive alterations in mitochondrial metabolism, microvascular function, and thermoregulation. These processes collectively influence tissue heat production and dissipation, reflecting integrated metabolic, vascular, and thermoregulatory activity measurable at the physiological level. Passive microwave radiometry (MWR) provides a non-invasive, radiation-free method for detecting deep-tissue bioenergy emissions, complementing surface infrared thermography. To evaluate a thermophysiological Bioenergetic Index (BEI), derived from deep-tissue microwave emission, surface temperature, and their spatial and deep–surface relationships, as a candidate age-referenced thermophysiological marker associated with chronological ageing. Methods: Breast thermophysiology measurements from 36,391 women aged 20–80 years were analysed using data collected during routine clinical assessments. Supervised machine-learning models were trained exclusively on thermal features, with chronological age used only as the prediction target. Model performance was assessed using mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and coefficient of determination (R²). In addition, data were aggregated into 5-year age bins to evaluate population-level ageing trajectories. Results: At the individual level, models predicted chronological age with MAE ≈ 3.5 years, RMSE ≈ 5.4 years, and R² ≈ 0.76. Aggregation into 5-year age bins revealed a robust nonlinear ageing trajectory characterised by midlife decline and late-life stabilisation. The increased correspondence at the grouped level reflects reconstruction of the population-level ageing trajectory rather than improved individual-level prediction accuracy, as averaging reduces inter-individual variability. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate a strong ageing-related signal in female breast thermophysiology and support thermophysiology as a candidate age-referenced physiological marker, pending longitudinal and outcome-based validation. The present analysis is cross-sectional and requires longitudinal validation before diagnostic or prognostic interpretation. Full article

Carbon/inorganic hybrid composites have evolved from filler-reinforced materials into design platforms for coupled electromagnetic, thermal, sensing, environmental, protective and energy-related functions. Their distinctive value lies in the possibility of combining a conductive, polarizable or porous carbon phase with an inorganic phase that contributes dielectric, magnetic, catalytic, ionic, thermally conductive or barrier behavior. This review examines carbon/inorganic hybrid multifunctional composites from the viewpoint of structure–property relationships, with emphasis on interfacial design, percolation, anisotropy, hierarchical architecture, processing and metrology. Selected graphitic composite studies are discussed as case studies for broadband dielectric spectroscopy, microwave shielding, high-frequency contact metrology, thermal diffusivity analysis and impedance-monitored graphene filters; these case studies are integrated with the broader international literature on CNT and graphene polymer composites, MXene films and foams, graphene/metal oxide photocatalysts, boron nitride/carbon thermal networks, biochar–graphene adsorbents, smart coatings, sensors, supercapacitors and water remediation systems. The central argument is that credible multifunctionality requires more than measuring several properties on the same material. It requires simultaneous or service-relevant co-optimization under constraints of thickness, density, processability, aging, humidity, corrosive media, regeneration, toxicity, economic feasibility and scalable fabrication. The review concludes with design rules and reporting recommendations intended to help move the field from impressive property demonstrations toward application-ready hybrid material systems. Full article

Promising network materials with controllable porosity and tunable structures have demonstrated numerous advantages in oil–water separation applications. However, existing preparation methods generally have problems such as complex processes and adverse environmental impacts. Therefore, inspired by lotus leaves and rose petals, we have successfully designed an efficient oil–water separator based on copper meshes using in situ chemical etching, environmentally friendly fatty acid modification, and mild microwave curing treatment. Characterization results from FESEM, EDX, and XRD demonstrate that the product has high purity and a relatively uniform structure. In addition, this efficient oil–water separator has low surface energy, high hydrophobicity, and excellent oil–water separation efficiency (>98%). Moreover, after aging tests, the product has excellent structural stability and repeatable recyclability. Therefore, this research provides a convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach for designing feasible superhydrophobic metal mesh-based devices, highlighting their wide application potential in treating industrial oily wastewater. Full article

Life expectancy in high-income countries is increasing, leading to a higher incidence of age-related neurodegenerative diseases. To address this urgent medical need, several molecular targets have been identified, including advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and tyrosinase. Given the well-established role of diet in counteracting degenerative processes, this study aimed to identify a potential food ingredient with combined anti-tyrosinase and anti-glycative properties. Acanthus mollis L. was selected based on its inclusion in the BelFrIt list and its known content of tyrosinase inhibitors, such as benzoxazinones and verbascoside. Extraction of A. mollis leaves was optimized using a design of experiments approach, comparing microwave- and ultrasound-assisted techniques. Optimal conditions were achieved using microwave-assisted extraction with ethanol 80%, 80 °C, one cycle, drug-to-solvent ratio of 10 mL/g. The optimized extract (at 5 mg/mL) inhibited tyrosinase activity by approximately 47%, increasing to 58% after chlorophyll removal. Moreover, the extract reduces AGEs formation in presence of methylglyoxal, with an activity at 1 mg/mL comparable with that of a well-known anti-glycative agent. A similar trend was observed in the reduction in methylglyoxal and glyoxal levels. Overall, these results support the potential of the optimized A. mollis extract as a functional food ingredient to counteract aging-related neurodegeneration. Full article

This review synthesises current knowledge on five non-conventional technologies—high-power ultrasound, microwave treatment, pulsed electric fields, high hydrostatic pressure, and microbe-driven precision enology. These technologies have been applied at various stages of wine production, from pre-fermentative maceration to microbial stabilisation and ageing, with the aim of enhancing wine quality, processing efficiency, and stability. Reported achievements include faster and more selective extraction of colour and flavour compounds, improved clarity and chromatic intensity, and more consistent fermentation performance. Specifically, ultrasound treatment enhances phenolic and aromatic extraction through cavitation, accelerating maceration and improving colour and flavour complexity, while microwave treatment rapidly heats grape tissues via dipole rotation and ionic conduction, promoting pigment and aroma release and reducing fermentation or ageing time. Pulsed electric fields induce electroporation of grape cells, facilitating anthocyanin and tannin extraction, whereas high hydrostatic pressure stabilises finished wines by inactivating spoilage microorganisms and enzymes while preserving freshness, aroma, and sensory balance. Finally, microbe-driven precision enology provides a promising approach to producing distinctive wines with regional identity, representing an emerging experimental trend. Recent studies demonstrate that combining these technologies with established enological practices can result in measurable improvements in wine quality. The findings summarised in this review are of great importance for wineries aiming to enhance microbial control, reduce sulphur dioxide dosage in line with the growing demand for low-additive wines, shorten production time, and support more efficient and sustainable winemaking. Full article

Background: Liver metastases from breast cancer (BCLM) are associated with poor prognosis and represent a significant clinical challenge in the era of modern systemic therapies. Local ablative therapies (LATs), including microwave ablation (MWA) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), have emerged as potentially beneficial locoregional approaches in selected patients. However, data on survival outcomes and prognostic determinants of LAT in BCLM remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the survival outcomes and prognostic factors of LAT in patients with breast cancer liver metastases at a tertiary care center. Methods: Patients with de novo or metachronous breast cancer liver metastases who underwent LAT (MWA and/or TACE) between 2013 and October 2023 at a single tertiary center were retrospectively analyzed. Primary endpoints were overall survival (OS), defined as the time from LAT initiation to death from any cause, and progression-free survival (PFS), defined as the time from LAT initiation to the first radiographically confirmed progression. Treatment response was assessed per RECIST 1.1 criteria. Results: A total of 20 female patients were included. Median age at diagnosis was 42 years (IQR: 37–53). The majority had invasive ductal carcinoma (90%) and grade 3 disease (60%). Hormone receptor-positive, HER2-positive, and triple-negative subtypes comprised 45%, 25%, and 30% of the cohort, respectively. MWA was performed in 16 patients (80%), TACE was performed in 2 patients (10%), and both modalities were performed in 2 patients (10%). Complete response per RECIST 1.1 was achieved in 40% of patients. No grade 3–4 adverse events were recorded. Median OS was 20 months (95% CI: 14.9–25.1), and median PFS was 6 months (95% CI: 0–17.5). In univariate analysis, factors associated with improved OS included LM size < 18 mm (23 vs. 11 months, p < 0.001), unilateral lobar involvement (23 vs. 5 months, p = 0.025), and LAT application during first-line therapy (48 vs. 19 months, p = 0.021). Factors associated with improved PFS included LM size < 18 mm (19 vs. 5 months, p < 0.001) and achievement of complete ablative response per RECIST 1.1 (18 vs. 5 months, p = 0.005). Conclusions: LAT is a safe and feasible treatment modality in selected BCLM patients. In univariate analysis, smaller lesion size, unilateral hepatic involvement, and early-line LAT applications are associated with improved OS, while complete ablative response is associated with improved PFS. These findings warrant validation in prospective studies with larger cohorts. Multidisciplinary patient selection is essential to optimize outcomes. Full article

Bovine milk is a primary dietary source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, its safety is increasingly under threat due to contamination from mining and intensive agriculture. In the Peruvian Andes, where small-scale dairy farming coexists with historical environmental liabilities, identifying the transfer of metals into the food chain is essential for public health. This study quantifies the concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in raw milk from small-scale producers in rural districts in the province of Huancayo. Non-carcinogenic risks for populations aged 2–85 years were assessed under three consumption scenarios. Forty-five samples were analyzed using microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry (MP-AES). The mean concentrations of Pb and Cd were 11.30 ± 18.94 µg/kg and 7.85 ± 18.11 µg/kg, respectively, which are below the maximum permissible limits (MPL). However, spatial analysis identified critical hotspots near smelters, where Pb levels reached 103 µg/kg, which is a significant exceedance of the MPL of 20 µg/kg. Toxicological modelling showed that the Hazard Index (HI) remained below the unity threshold (HI < 1) for all scenarios, ruling out immediate systemic risks. Nevertheless, the highest HI (0.78) was observed in two-year-old children in the high-consumption scenario, highlighting a localized neurodevelopmental concern. These findings emphasize the importance of georeferenced environmental monitoring and differentiated public health policies to mitigate the chronic low-level exposure to metals in vulnerable, high-altitude populations. Full article

With the rapid development of electronic devices and wireless communication systems, electromagnetic interference pollution has become a critical concern, driving the urgent demand for high-performance, lightweight, and flexible electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. To endow fabrics with excellent electromagnetic shielding, a Fe₃O₄/Ag/RGO ternary nanocomposite-coated cotton fabric for electrical conductivity and EMI shielding application was developed. The cotton fabric pretreated with dopamine was coated with graphene oxide (GO), followed by silver nanoparticles (Ag) via a microwave-assisted chemical reduction method, and Ag/reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-coated cotton. Subsequently, nano-ferroferric oxide was deposited on Ag/RGO-coated cotton fabric using a coprecipitation method. The results show that the surface resistance of Fe₃O₄/Ag/RGO-coated cotton fabric arrives at 1.68 Ω/sq, demonstrating excellent electrically conductive performance. Fe₃O₄/Ag/RGO-coated cotton fabric demonstrates outstanding electromagnetic shielding performance, with SE values exceeding 45 dB across the entire 1–18 GHz range. The flexibility and superior electromagnetic shielding performance of Fe₃O₄/Ag/RGO-coated cotton fabric render it a promising candidate for applications in wearable electronics, aerospace, advanced protective systems, and military protective clothing. Full article

Nitronyl nitroxides (NNs) are widely employed in chemistry, physics, and materials science due to their inherently high stability and magnetic properties. However, the synthesis of C(2)-organoelement derivatives remains a challenging task. This paper reports on the efficient synthesis and characterization of an unusual organosilver complex consisting of the [Ag–(IPr)₂]⁺ cation and the [Ag–(NN)₂]⁻ anion. The salt [Ag–(IPr)₂][Ag–(NN)₂] was prepared in high yields (88–96%) by two synthetic routes: by reacting the carbene ligand precursor IPr·HCl with Ag₂O and nitronyl nitroxide NN–H, or by addition of NN–H/^tBuONa to a THF solution of IPrAgCl (generated in situ from IPr·HCl and Ag₂O) under microwave irradiation. Electrochemical analysis of [Ag–(IPr)₂][Ag–(NN)₂] revealed a reversible one-electron oxidation peak at E_1/2 = −0.258 V and an irreversible reduction peak at E_p = −2.169 V, which is likely related to the electrochemical transformation of the nitronyl nitroxide moieties. Crystallization from an acetone/benzene solution yielded crystals of [Ag–(IPr)₂][Ag–(NN)₂]·2H₂O solvate, in which the diradical anion [Ag–(NN)₂]⁻ is bound to two water molecules by hydrogen bonds. These hydrogen bonds stabilize a planar conformation of the [Ag–(NN)₂]⁻ anion, in which both NN fragments lie in the same plane and, according to DFT calculations, are linked by fairly strong antiferromagnetic interaction. DFT calculations also predict the dissociation of the complex with water in toluene solution and a conformational change leading to the appearance of about 90° between NN fragments and a significant decrease in exchange interaction. Full article

Skin aging is characterized by fibroblast senescence, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and impaired wound healing, driven by oxidative stress and telomere dysfunction. Here, we investigated the anti-aging effects of a standardized microwave-assisted propolis extract (MAPE) in both H₂O₂-induced and replicative senescence models of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). MAPE significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and enhanced antioxidant gene expression (NQO1, GCLM), indicating activation of NRF2-dependent defense pathways. It suppressed senescence markers (CDKN2A, CDKN1A, IL6), decreased SA-β-gal activity, and attenuated inflammaging. Moreover, MAPE inhibited MMP1 expression, restored COL1A1, and improved fibroblast wound closure, thereby maintaining ECM homeostasis. Importantly, MAPE modulated Wnt/β-catenin signaling by upregulating WNT3A and LEF1 while suppressing DKK1, and increased TERT expression, suggesting involvement of telomerase-related regulatory pathways. These effects resembled those of CHIR99021, a canonical Wnt activator, while providing additional antioxidant protection. Together, our findings suggest that MAPE is a propolis-derived bioactive ingredient that counteracts fibroblast senescence through coordinated modulation of NRF2 and Wnt/β-catenin–TERT signaling pathways, supporting its potential as a cosmeceutical ingredient for mitigating skin aging. Full article

This study investigated the effects of microwave irradiation on the particle size distribution, rheological properties, fluorescent characteristics, and sensory characteristics of wine. Wine samples were treated under varying microwave power (100–500 W), temperature (20–60 °C), and time (1–5 min). Results indicated that microwave treatment modified the particle size distribution, especially the proportion of particles in the range of 0.3–0.5 μm, which increased with microwave power, temperature, and time. Rheological analysis indicated that the behaviour followed the Power-law model, with all samples exhibiting expansion fluid properties (n > 1). Fitting with the Casson model revealed that microwave treatment increased the yield stress (τ₀) and viscosity coefficient (K), with optimal improvements observed at 300 W, 30 °C, and 3 min (τ₀ = 0.7769 Pa, K = 2.9367 × 10⁻³ Pa s^0.5). These changes contributed to enhanced leg phenomenon and thickening effect. Furthermore, microwave treatment elevated the fluorescence intensity of wine, indicating accelerated formation of fluorescent substances. Sensory evaluation demonstrated that microwave treatment, particularly at 400 W, 40 °C, and 3 min, significantly improved colour, clarity, and mouthfeel while reducing astringency and bitterness. In conclusion, microwave treatment effectively modifies the sensory characteristics of wine, offering a viable technological approach to accelerate wine ageing and supporting its potential application in winemaking. Full article

Reliable detection of microplastics by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is often hindered by poor particle–substrate contact and limited access to plasmonic hotspots on conventional planar substrates optimized for molecular adsorption. Here, we report a rapid microwave-assisted carbothermal shock strategy to fabricate silver nanoparticle-decorated electrospun carbon fibers (AgNPs@ECF) as a three-dimensional plasmonic platform tailored for solid microplastic sensing. Localized microwave-induced heating in a mixed ethanol–hexane system enables Ag nanoparticle nucleation and anchoring on conductive carbon fibers within 45 s, yielding a mechanically compliant, junction-rich architecture without chemical reductants or vacuum processing. The AgNPs@ECF composite was evaluated using morphologically weathered polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics, along with size-controlled PS bead standards ranging from ~50 nm to 45 μm. Across these models, SERS response is governed primarily by particle–substrate contact geometry and near-field accessibility rather than polymer type. The strongest enhancement occurs in the sub-micrometer regime, where particles can engage multiple AgNP-decorated fiber junctions, while ultrasmall and large, smooth particles show reduced enhancement due to limited contact or rapid field decay. Spatially resolved Raman mapping and finite-difference time-domain simulations support a contact-dominated enhancement mechanism, revealing localized field confinement at particle–fiber interfaces. These results establish the design principles for three-dimensional SERS substrates targeting heterogeneous solid particulates, demonstrating that contact-accessible plasmonic architectures are critical for reliable microplastic detection under realistic solid-particle measurement conditions. Full article

Microwave-assisted biosynthesis using marine Chlorella sp. extracts provides a green and efficient route for the production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Compared with the conventional method (24 h), microwave-assisted synthesis reduces the reaction time to less than 7 min while producing smaller and more uniformly distributed nanoparticles. AgNPs were synthesized using extracts obtained with different solvents and directly compared with those produced via the conventional method to substantiate the efficiency of the microwave-assisted approach. UV–visible spectroscopy confirmed rapid nanoparticle formation, exhibiting surface plasmon resonance peaks in the range of 405 to 427 nm. TEM analysis revealed predominantly spherical AgNPs with particle sizes of approximately 10 to 20 nm. The XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed their crystalline structure and stabilization by algal-derived functional groups. The biological activities of the AgNPs were dependent on the extraction solvent. AgNPs synthesized using hexane extracts exhibited pronounced antibacterial activity, achieving minimum inhibitory concentrations as low as 0.31 µg/mL. In addition, the AgNP induced concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects in human breast cancer cell lines. IC₅₀ values, determined via dose–response analysis, ranged from 0.18 to 0.67 μg/mL in MDA-MB-231 cells and 1.70 to 8.42 μg/mL in MCF-7 cells. These results indicate a potent cytotoxic profile, with MDA-MB-231 cells exhibiting significantly higher sensitivity to the microwave-assisted formulations. Collectively, these findings highlight microwave-assisted algal-mediated biosynthesis as a sustainable and effective platform for generating bioactive AgNPs with promising antibacterial and anticancer potential. Full article

The evaluation of local natural resources and their sustainable use as alternatives for allopathic medicines or phytosanitary treatments based on chemical syntheses, is a priority of research worldwide. The aim of this research was to obtain Prunella vulgaris L. extracts through modern, ecofriendly methods, to evaluate their ability to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), as well as the physicochemical characterization of AgNPs to determine the polyphenol content, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity as well as phytotoxicity of the resulting nanoformulations, through in vitro tests. Microscopic analysis of the extracts showed the spherical shape of AgNPs, especially in the biosynthesized samples from the microwave extracts. The sizes of the nanoparticles ranged between 8.64 and 13.84 nm. Microwave-assisted extraction favored the procurement of crude extracts from P. vulgaris herba with a high content of polyphenols (77.98 mg GAE/g dw⁻¹) and a correlated antioxidant activity. Rosmarinic acid was identified in all analyzed samples (61.8287–1.0031 mg/L). The extracts obtained using microwaves, in which the nanoparticles were also biosynthesized using microwaves, had the best antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum MUCL 791. The combination of antifungal properties with those of seedling growth stimulation are of major importance in plant culture, with the early stages of their life cycle requiring constant attention. Full article

New glass-free low-temperature co-fired microwave dielectric composites with compositions (1–4x/3)Ba₃(VO₄)₂–xBaWO₄–(2x/3)Li₃VO₄ (x = 0.3–0.7) were fabricated by reactive liquid-phase sintering of (1–x)Ba₃(VO₄)₂–xLi₂WO₄ mixtures at 850 °C. During sintering, Li₂WO₄ is fully consumed by reacting with Ba₃(VO₄)₂ to form BaWO₄ and Li₃VO₄ while providing a transient liquid phase that promotes densification. As a result, the sintered ceramics achieve high relative densities of ≈94–98% at 850 °C. The relative fractions of Ba₃(VO₄)₂, BaWO₄, and Li₃VO₄ can be systematically tailored by adjusting the initial Li₂WO₄ content, enabling effective control of the temperature coefficient of the resonant frequency (${\tau }_f$) and the quality factor (Q × f). With increasing Li₂WO₄ content, the ${\tau }_f$ values shift from +23.97 to −45.48 ppm/°C, owing to the increasing contributions of the negative ${\tau }_f$ phases BaWO₄ and Li₃VO₄, while the Q × f values increase moderately from 44,300 to 47,300 GHz. The optimal microwave dielectric properties are obtained for x = 0.5, meaning ${\epsilon }_r$ = 9.19, Q × f = 45,900 GHz, and ${\tau }_f$ = −1.15 ppm/°C when sintering at 850 °C for 1 h. Chemical compatibility tests confirmed that the composites exhibit no detectable reaction with Ag electrodes, indicating that the Ba₃(VO₄)₂–BaWO₄–Li₃VO₄ system is a promising glass-free dielectric for LTCC applications requiring low firing temperature, near-zero thermal drift, and reliable electrode compatibility. Full article