Matter Effects in Atmospheric Neutrino Oscillations and Radon Anomalies

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:13:24 +0000

Anomalies in radon activity have been discovered and debated by several organizations worldwide during radon monitoring. Based on the theory of neutrino oscillations and the latest results of the study of neutrino oscillation-induced radioactive decay, the material effects of high-energy atmospheric neutrinos oscillating in the atmosphere and their impact on the decay rate of radon have been analyzed. The results show that there is a possibility of Mikheyev-Smirnov-Wolfenstein (MSW) resonance with atmospheric materials when high-energy atmospheric neutrinos propagate oscillations in the atmosphere. This resonance has an excitation effect on radioactive radon and can increase the decay probability of radon. Simultaneously, we demonstrate that the amplitude of radon radioactivity fluctuations is positively correlated with the atmospheric neutrino flux and the intensity (or amplitude) of the MSW resonance. The atmospheric neutrino flux participating in MSW resonance and its oscillation intensity (or amplitude) are primarily influenced by two factors: (1) Air density. When air density increases due to factors like humidity rise or temperature decrease, the atmospheric neutrino flux participating in MSW resonance and the oscillation amplitude both increase (strengthening the signal). (2) Variations in cosmic ray intensity, solar activity, and atmospheric thickness fluctuations can alter the atmospheric neutrino flux, causing the MSW resonance to exhibit oscillation periods similar to those of cosmic ray intensity, solar activity, and lunar tides. Consequently, fluctuations in radon radioactivity correlate with atmospheric temperature, humidity, and solar activity.

The Gruesomeness of Microplastics: Food Contamination, Human Exposure, and Health Risks

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 02:16:23 +0000

Plastics, once addressed as a revolutionary, effective, and beneficial invention, have now become a global environmental nightmare due to the alarming rise of microplastic pollution. This form of pollution is increasingly being recognized as a serious global disorder. Microplastics, whether originating directly from primary sources or from the degradation of larger plastic waste, are now pervasive in the air, soil, and aquatic environments. These microscopic particles are easily ingested both directly and indirectly by a wide range of organisms, including humans, eventually entering the human food chain through bioaccumulation. Owing to their minuscule size, microplastics can infiltrate the human body through multiple exposure routes primarily via food and water consumption, inhalation, and dermal contact. These exposure pathways raise significant health concerns, as microplastics are linked to various adverse effects, including inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, and potential long-term toxicity. The objective of this review article is to comprehensively explore the entry pathways of microplastics into the human body and examine their associated biotoxicity and health risks. For this purpose, over 200 relevant studies were reviewed to gather a well-rounded understanding of the growing threat posed by microplastic contamination.

Environment and Pollution, Issue: Vol.15, No.2

Matter Effects in Atmospheric Neutrino Oscillations and Radon Anomalies

The Gruesomeness of Microplastics: Food Contamination, Human Exposure, and Health Risks