UV Exposure Research Articles

Assessing cancer prevention literacy among European population: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Cancer prevention literacy (CPL) is essential for empowering individuals to make health-informed decisions and adopt preventive measures to reduce their cancer risk. This study aims to measure CPL among the European population. Methods A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted from February to March 2024 among European residents over 18 years old (N = 2312) in the context of BUMPER Project (https://bumper.cancer.eu/). An online self-administered questionnaire was developed including: sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, country of residence, educational level), and CPL (general and by European Code Against Cancer -ECAC- topics). A descriptive analysis was performed and the chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis test were calculated to examine the relationship between CPL and sociodemographic variables. Results 44.2% showed a high level of CPL, followed by 39.5% with medium, and 16.3% with low level. 61.1% of participants are not aware of ECAC. ECAC topics with higher levels of knowledge are: UV exposure (88.3%), pollution (81.6%), tobacco (78.7%), second-hand smoking (60.9%). ECAC topics with lower levels are: hormone replacement therapy (47.9%), breastfeeding (41.6%), and vaccination (32.9%). Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) are observed in CPL level by gender, country of residence, and educational level. Those with a higher % of low CPL levels are men (22.8%), people from West and South Europe (20.8% and 18.1%), and primary education level (34.7%). Conclusions CPL level is medium-high among the European population, with social and gender inequalities. Further studies are needed to delve into these inequalities. Key messages • The cancer prevention literacy level is medium-high among the European population, with social and gender inequalities. • There is a need of tailored interventions to address social inequalities in cancer prevention literacy among European population.

Exploring the Physicochemical, Antioxidant and Sensory Properties of the Flavoured Virgin Olive Oil With Chavir Extract During Storage

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to study the impact of Ferulago angulata (Schlecht) Boiss (known as an antioxidant known as Chavir) extract, obtained through ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE), on the physicochemical, antioxidant and sensory properties of virgin olive oil (VOO) during a 90‐day storage period at room temperature. For this purpose, different concentrations of Chavir extract (100, 200 and 300 ppm) were added to VOO. Key parameters, including total phenol content (TPC), extract composition by HPLC‐DAD and quality indicators like acidity value (AV), p‐anisidine value (p‐AV) and UV indices (parameters: K232, K270 and ΔK), were determined. AVs increased overall during the storage period, but adding Chavir extract at 300 ppm appeared to counteract the rise in free fatty acids, suggesting a potential role in reducing hydrolysis. p‐AVs decreased in unflavoured and flavoured samples, indicating reduced oxidation in Chavir‐flavoured VOO. K232 values exhibited a decline in the presence of flavouring agents and their concentrations. In contrast, the values of K270 showed an increase over the storage period, which indicated the formation of aldehyde and ketones in the second oxidation step. All samples maintained ΔK values below permissible limits (≥ 0.01), signifying good stability. The sensory evaluation emphasised positive attributes such as bitterness, fruitiness and pungency, indicating the high quality of VOO. The addition of Chavir extract further enhanced all of these positive characteristics, particularly at the 300 ppm concentration. However, a gradual decline was observed in all these attributes over time. Notably, the Chavir extract played a crucial role in delaying the formation of secondary oxidation products, which contribute to negative attributes like rancidity in VOO. Moreover, adding Chavir extract increases oxidative stability, infuses the positive qualities in VOO and provides valuable insights into its potential applications for enhancing the overall quality of VOO during storage. This enhancement not only helps maintain high quality and nutritional value but also makes the product more appealing to consumers.

Two Decades of Insights: Comprehensive Histopathological and Epidemiological Analysis of Conjunctival Tumors

This study analyzed 2102 conjunctival lesions excised between 1981 and 2003 at a single tertiary center in Serbia, with the aim of evaluating their histopathological characteristics, anatomical localization, and demographic distribution. Of the total cases recorded, 55.1% were male, indicating a slight male predominance. The bulbar conjunctiva was the most commonly affected site (34.5%), with 39.3% of tumors extended to multiple regions of the conjunctiva, including areas such as the plica and caruncula. The most common benign lesion was compound conjunctival nevus (16.7%), while squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (11.4%) and melanoma (11.3%) were the most prevalent malignant tumors. Tumor incidence peaked in the 61–70 and 51–60 year age groups, with malignant tumors such as SCC being more frequent in males. Comparisons with similar global studies reveal that our findings align with worldwide trends, such as the predominance of SCC, which has been linked to UV exposure, and the frequency of melanoma in fair-skinned populations. However, the lower prevalence of fibrodegenerative lesions like pterygia and pinguecula in our cohort likely reflects Serbia’s cooler climate compared to regions with higher UV exposure. These findings underscore the diverse nature of conjunctival tumors, the critical role of histopathological examination for diagnosis, and the influence of environmental factors. This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of conjunctival tumors, contributing to global understanding and guiding future diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

The Physiological Effect Of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Nanopesticide On Aedes aegypti Larvae

Aedes aegypti is responsible for transmitting various mosquito-borne diseases. Recently, there have been concerns about the negative impacts of the insecticides used in vector control including insecticide resistance development in the mosquito population. These circumstances lead to efforts to develop other strategies for controlling mosquito vectors. As technology in nanoparticles advances, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have the potential as the alternative for chemical pesticides for mosquito larvicides due to their optical properties and widespread usage in different industries. The purpose of this study was to determine the toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles towards Ae. aegypti larvae and to examine the physiologies of Ae. aegypti mosquito larvae treated with ZnO nanoparticles at LC50 level. Toxicity bioassays were carried out to determine LC50 and LC90 values. The larvae surface and midgut treated with LC50 ZnO were examined using the Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The LC50 and LC90 concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles after 4 hr of direct UV exposure against Ae. aegypti larvae were 49.141 mg/L and 64.195 mg/L, respectively. After exposure to ZnO nanoparticles, Ae. aegypti larvae showed morphological abnormalities, including distorted and shrunk body parts as well as midgut rupture. Overall, the findings suggest that ZnO nanoparticles have the potential to replace chemical pesticides as a means of reducing the populations of Ae. aegypti mosquitoes.

Litter Chemistry Is a Main Driver of Inorganic Nitrogen in Disturbed Soils in the Arid Patagonian Monte

ABSTRACTChanges in plant cover and soil characteristics induced by grazing may affect litter quality and nitrogen (N) release under varying abiotic conditions. Our study was focused on the importance of litter chemistry as a main driver of inorganic N (ammonium‐N: NH4+‐N and nitrate‐N: NO3−‐N) release to soil. Both inorganic N forms are important components for N availability to plants and soil processes, and the long‐term conservation of soil‐N fertility. We analyzed the effect of secondary compounds and the C/N ratio in litter under varying soil water, and UV exposure on soil inorganic N (NH4+‐N and NO3−‐N) in Patagonian Monte degraded soils. We hypothesized that secondary compounds and C/N ratio in litter are main drivers of soil inorganic N under varying abiotic conditions. We conducted a microcosm experiment (13 months) using intact upper soil blocks from denuded soil areas. Surface soils were added with shrub (SL), and mixed grass and shrub (GSL) litter with high versus low secondary metabolites concentration and low vs. high C/N ratio, respectively. Microcosms were maintained under ambient and reduced UV exposure, and high and low soil water. We used microcosms without litter as controls. Monthly, we assessed NH4+‐N and NO3−‐N concentrations in upper and sub‐superficial soils. Litter chemistry interacting with abiotic factors did not significantly influence soil NH4+‐N at any soil depth while litter chemistry was a main driver of NO3−‐N in upper soil. SL enhanced NO3−‐N in upper soil compared with GSL independently of abiotic factors. In upper soils without litter and in those with GSL, the highest NO3−‐N concentration occurred mostly under high soil water and exposition to UV. We concluded that litter chemistry was a main driver of soil N fertility in disturbed rangelands. Shrub litter may enhance N fertility (NO3−‐N) in degraded soils.

Construction of Durable, Colored, Superhydrophobic Wood-Based Surface Coatings Using the Sand-In Method.

Highly durable color superhydrophobic coatings have attracted much attention in indoor and outdoor decorative applications. In this paper, colorful superhydrophobic coatings with excellent durability were prepared using silane coupling agent-modified iron oxide as the pigment and polydimethylsiloxane-compounded epoxy resin as the base material by the three-step method of "spraying-sanding-spraying". The method is low cost, has a simple preparation process, enables large-area preparation, and has a restorative function. The use of red, yellow, blue, and green four kinds of modified iron oxides through the single color or multicolor into the sand can be obtained by a variety of color coatings, and silica mixed with a variety of colors can be obtained from light to dark coatings. The coating has excellent superhydrophobicity and self-cleaning ability to withstand sandpaper abrasion, water impact, sand impact, UV exposure, and environmental testing. The coating is suitable for interior and exterior decoration and for protection of wooden buildings.

Impact of UV Light Exposure During Printing on Thermomechanical Properties of 3D-Printed Polyurethane-Based Orthodontic Aligners

Aim: Polyurethane-based aligners, created through photoinitiated free-radical polymerization, have been the subject of numerous studies focusing solely on their mechanical properties. In contrast, we investigate their thermomechanical properties, which are crucial for their efficacy. This paper aims to investigate the effects of different UV light exposure durations on the complex modulus of elasticity, tan delta, glass transition temperature, and the degree of conversion (DC). Methods: Aligners were printed using Tera Harz TC-85 and NextDent Ortho Flex resin with specific exposure times (2, 2.4, 3, 4, and 4.5 s for Tera Harz; 5, 6, 7, and 8 s for NextDent) and processed per manufacturer guidelines. The degree of conversion was analyzed using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, while Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) characterized the mechanical properties (complex modulus and tan delta) and the glass transition. Results: Tera Harz TC-85 showed a higher degree of conversion (90.29–94.54%), suggesting fewer residual monomers, which is potentially healthier for patients. However, its lower glass transition temperature (35.60–38.74 °C) might cause it to become rubbery in the mouth. NextDent Orto Flex, with a higher storage modulus (641.85–794.55 MPa) and Tg (49.36–50.98 °C), offers greater rigidity and stability at higher temperatures (greater than temperature in the oral cavity), ideal for orthodontic forces, though its lower degree of conversion raises health concerns. Conclusions: Tera Harz TC 85 generally achieves higher DC and more stable polymerization across different UV exposure times than NextDent Orto Flex. Optimal polymerization times significantly impact both the mechanical and thermal properties of these dental resins, with NextDent showing optimal properties at 7 s and Tera Harz benefiting from both very short and extended exposure times.

Discovery of Kuraridin as a Potential Natural Anti-Melanogenic Agent: Focusing on Specific Target Genes and Multidirectional Signaling Pathways.

Abnormal melanogenesis upon UV exposure causes excessive oxidative stress, leading to hyperpigmentation disorders. As a key rate-limiting enzyme in melanogenesis, tyrosinase is considered a primary target for depigmenting agents. Sophora flavescens is used as a food and in traditional medicine as a valuable source of prenylated flavonoids. The present study aimed to elucidate the anti-melanogenic effect and potential mechanism of kuraridin, one of the major prenylated flavonoids. Kuraridin showed anti-tyrosinase activity with an IC50 value in the nanomolar range, superior to that of kojic acid, a positive control. It significantly reduced tyrosinase activity with the least cytotoxicity, suppressing melanogenesis in α-MSH-induced B16F10 cells. Furthermore, kuraridin considerably reduced melanogenesis in a 3D human skin model. To elucidate the anti-melanogenic mechanism of kuraridin, target genes (KIT, MAP2K1, and PRKCA) and pathways (c-KIT and ETB-R pathways) were identified using network pharmacology. KIT and MAP2K1 are simultaneously involved in the c-KIT cascade and are considered the most important in melanogenesis. PRKCA acts directly on MITF and its downstream enzymes through another pathway. Docking simulation showed strong interactions between kuraridin and c-KIT, ERK1/2, and PKC encoded by target genes. Overall, the present study showed kuraridin to be a novel natural anti-melanogenic agent in hyperpigmentation disorders.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Lepidium sativum seed mucilage as a bioreductant/capping agent for efficient antibacterial and photocatalytic activities

Contamination of aquatic resources with organic dyes and pathogenic bacteria ranks among the most serious threats to human survival and the environment. The current work investigated L. sativum seed mucilage as a reducing and capping agent for Ag NPs. From UV–vis spectroscopy, the characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak and the band gap energy of as-fabricated NPs were 440 nm and 2.07 eV, respectively. SEM revealed irregular-shaped NPs with an average diameter of 73.85 nm and EDX disclosed Ag along with C, O, and Si from mucilage’s biomolecules. The antibacterial and antibiofilm results showed higher inhibitory effects against the Gram-positive (B. cereus) than the Gram-negative (E. coli, and E. aerogenes) bacteria. The biosynthesized NPs were impressive in degrading methylene blue (MB, 89.45 %) and methyl orange (MO, 84.78 %) under optimized conditions viz., dye solution (20 ppm), photocatalyst dose (5 mg), light intensity (UV index of 10 +), and irradiation time (120 min). The kinetic data strongly supported the pseudo-first order model with maximum adsorption capacities of 787.40 and 724.64 mg/g for MB and MO, respectively as determined through the Langmuir isotherm model. The photocatalyst exhibited sufficient stability even after six repeated cycles, highlighting its suitability for industrial and commercial applications.

Renewable Photo-Cross-Linkable Polyester-Based Biomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Cytocompatibility Assessment.

The present work consist of the synthesis of photo-cross-linkable materials, based on unsaturated polyesters (UPs), synthesized from biobased monomers from renewable sources such as itaconic acid and 1,4-butanediol. The UPs were characterized to assess the influence of polycondensation reaction temperature and cross-linking time on their final properties. For this purpose, different UV irradiation exposure periods were tested. Homogeneous, uniform, and transparent films were obtained after 1, 3, and 5 min of UV exposure. These cross-linked films were then characterized. All materials presented high gel content, which was dependent on the reaction's temperature. The thermal behaviors of the UPs were shown to be similar. In vitro hydrolytic degradation tests showed that the materials can undergo degradation in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at pH 7.4 and 37 °C, ensuring their biodegradability over time. Finally, to assess the applicability of the polyesters as biomaterials, their cytocompatibility was determined by using human dermal fibroblasts.

Transparent Photochromic Coatings for Smart Windows and Information Storage

AbstractOrganic–inorganic composite photochromic coatings receive significant attention in energy utilization and conservation due to their easy application and rapid photoresponse. However, their high sensitivity to moisture limits practical applications. This study fabricates organic–inorganic composite functional coatings using a simple one‐pot method, producing materials with excellent photoresponsive, water resistance, and thermal insulation. Unmodified phosphotungstic acid serves as the inorganic photochromic filler, while methacrylate derivatives act as the polymer matrix, resulting in coatings with high initial transparency (over 85%). After 5 min of UV exposure, the samples shift to nearly non‐transmittable states in the visible range and maintain color depth through 14 coloring‐erasing cycles. Unlike polyvinylpyrrolidone substrates, which absorb moisture and soften quickly, this coating has a static water contact angle of up to 91.7°, showing excellent water resistance. Additionally, the composite material provides effective heat insulation in simulated chamber experiments, lowering the temperature by 15 °C compared to untreated chambers. In summary, this composite coating, with its excellent thermal insulation, rapid light responsiveness, stable cycling performance, and outstanding waterproof capabilities, proves highly suitable for applications such as smart windows, information storage, and building energy efficiency.

The extent of public awareness and use of the Global Solar UV Index as a worldwide health promotion instrument to improve sun protection: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Thirty years ago, the Global Solar UV Index (UVI) has been introduced as a health promotion instrument to improve sun protection. We assessed systematically global levels of awareness and use of the UVI as a prerequisite for the preventive effectiveness of this public health tool. We conducted a comprehensive literature search across 10 databases, including PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection, as well as clinical trial registries and gray literature databases. The risk of bias of studies was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies. In addition to narrative and descriptive analysis, we performed meta-analyses with geographical subgroup analyses to statistically summarize the results. In total, we identified 40 publications from 39 different studies across multiple global regions. However, the number of studies in the analyses varies depending on the outcome. The results, especially the awareness of the UVI, were largely dependent on the specific geographical location of the studies. While the prevalence of awareness of the UVI is high among Australian populations, there is considerable variability in levels of awareness across other global regions. At the same time, the use of the UVI is at a low level across all regions, demonstrating the need for enhanced dissemination of knowledge about the perils associated with ultraviolet radiation and the advantages of using the UVI.

Residential exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation and risk of childhood hematological malignancies in Switzerland: A census-based cohort study.

Still little is known about possible environmental risk factors of childhood hematological malignancies (CHM). Previous studies suggest that ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is associated with a lower risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. We investigated the association between solar UVR exposure and risk of CHM in Switzerland, a country with greatly varying topography and weather conditions. We included all resident children aged 0-15 years from the Swiss National Cohort during 1990-2016 and identified incident cancer cases through probabilistic record linkage with the Swiss Childhood Cancer Registry. We estimated the overall annual mean UV level and the mean level for the month of July during 2004-2018 at children's homes using a climatological model of the midday (11 am-3 pm) UV-index (UVI) with a spatial resolution of 1.5-2 km. Using risk-set sampling, we obtained a nested case-control data set matched by birth year and fitted conditional logistic regression models (virtually equivalent to analyzing full cohort data using proportional hazards models) adjusting for sex, neighborhood socio-economic position, urbanization, air pollution, and background ionizing radiation. Our analyses included 1446 cases of CHM. Estimated adjusted hazard ratios (HR) per unit increase in UVI in July were 0.76 (95% CI 0.59-0.98) for leukemia and 0.74 (0.55-0.98) for ALL. Results for annual exposure were similar but confidence intervals were wider and included one. We found no evidence for an association for lymphoma overall (HR 1.14, 95% CI 0.59-2.19 for annual exposure) or diagnostic subgroups. Our study provides further support for an inverse association between exposure to ambient solar UVR and childhood ALL.

Reusable Microfluidic Chambers for Single-Molecule Microscopy.

Maintaining a consistent environment in single-molecule microfluidic chambers containing surface-bound molecules requires laborious cleaning and surface passivation procedures. Despite such efforts, variations in nonspecific binding and background signals commonly occur across different chambers. Being able to reuse the chambers without degrading the surface promises significant practical and fundamental advantages; however, this necessitates removing the molecules attached to the surface, such as DNA, proteins, lipids, or nanoparticles. Biotin-streptavidin attachment is widely used for such attachments, as biotin can be readily incorporated into these molecules. In this study, we present single-molecule fluorescence experiments that demonstrate effective resetting and recycling of the chambers at least 10 times by using photocleavable biotin (PC-biotin) and UV-light exposure. This method differs from alternatives as it does not utilize any harsh chemical treatment of the surface. We show that all bound molecules (utilizing various PC-biotin attachment chemistries) can be removed from the surface by a 5 min UV exposure of a specific wavelength. Nonoptimal wavelengths and light sources showed varying degrees of effectiveness. Our approach does not result in any detectable degradation of surface quality as assessed by the nonspecific binding of fluorescently labeled DNA and protein samples and the recovery of the DNA secondary structure and protein activity. The speed and efficiency of the resetting process, the cost-effectiveness of the procedure, and the widespread use of biotin-streptavidin attachment make this approach adaptable for a wide range of single-molecule applications.

Satellite measurement data-based assessment of spatiotemporal characteristics of ultraviolet index (UVI) over the state of Johor, Malaysia

The study examines the spatiotemporal and statistical characteristics of the daily ultraviolet index (UVI) over the Johor state of Malaysia. The datasets utilized in this study are the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI)/Aura satellite’s daily UVI observations between October 2004 and March 2023. The innovative trend analysis (ITA) method is employed to identify the statistical trend of daily UVI. Basic statistics of daily, monthly, and seasonal UVI are also carried out to better characterize UVI in the study area. The daily UVI data collected for the analysis exhibit wide variability, with more than 80% of the daily UVI data falling above UVI 8, indicating the severity of UV radiation (UVR) reaching the study area. The monthly and seasonal UVI also display highly varying characteristics, as observed in the daily data. The pixel-based analysis of ITA results indicates a significant increasing and decreasing trend of daily UVI in the region, with values varying between − 9.42 × 10−6 and 3.79 × 10−5. However, for the study area as a whole, UVI shows a significant increasing trend of 4.50 × 10−5. The influence of parameters such as cloud optical thickness (COT), solar zenith angle (SZA), and O3 column on the strength of UVR reaching the study area is also investigated. Based on the results, the study area is characterized by low thickness, broken clouds, and sometimes cloudless conditions. Overall, the results show that UVI in the study area is increasing, and therefore, proper health guidelines and direct UVR exposure regulations need to be implemented to reduce serious health risks associated with UVR exposure.Graphical

Machine Learning-Aided 3D Dynamic SERS Strategy for Physiological Mapping: Biotoxicity of Environmentally Dimensional Aged Nanoplastics and Corresponding Protein Corona Complexes.

Nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging pollutants that undergo inevitable aging in the environment, raising concerns about human exposure and health hazards. Research on the cytotoxicity of various polymer types of NPs, aged nanoplastics (aNPs), and their interactions with proteins (aNPs-protein corona) is still nascent. Traditional cytotoxicity detection methods often rely on end point assays with restricted temporal resolution and analysis of single or multiple biomarkers. Here, we propose a novel approach integrating the 3D dynamic SERS strategy (DSS) with machine learning to rapidly analyze the cell fate and death modes induced by NPs, aNPs, and aNPs-protein corona complexes at the molecular level. PS, PVC, PMMA, and PC products from the water environment were used to prepare the corresponding NPs, and the impact of UV irradiation on their physicochemical properties was examined. DSS systematically maps the molecular changes in the cellular secretome caused by these NPs. Machine learning effectively extracts information from complex spectra, differentiating between biological samples. Results show prolonged UV exposure increases cell sensitivity to ferroptosis and cytotoxicity in various aNPs, while the protein corona on aNPs significantly mitigates toxicity associated with surface oxygen-containing functional groups, resulting in a reduced similarity to ferroptosis signatures. 3D DSS with machine learning technique analyzes the overall metabolite profile at the molecular level rather than individual biomarkers. This study is the first attempt to compare the biotoxicity of diverse polymer NPs, aNPs, and aNPs-protein coronas at cellular and molecular levels in human hepatocytes, enhancing our understanding of the complex biological impacts of NPs.

Skin cancer in Europe today and challenges for tomorrow.

One in every three cancers diagnosed is a skin cancer. Europe has the global lead in the number of UV-attributable cancer cases with the highest number of melanoma cases worldwide and the second highest number of keratinocyte cancers (KC). Further increases are expected in Europe for the coming decades. Projected increases are highest for KC with increases in incidence around 40% and increases in mortality around 50%, with KC mortality in males approximating melanoma mortality in females. The two main drivers for this skin cancer epidemic are ageing of the population but especially UV exposure. In conclusion, skin cancer represents a major challenge in the cancer field in Europe today and will continue to do so in the coming decades. This calls for a European skin cancer action plan intended to reduce avoidable UV exposure and to prepare the healthcare system to safeguard early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

Investigating the Effect of UV Irradiation and TiO2 Addition on Heavy Metal Adsorption by Inverse Vulcanized Sulfur Polymers.

Organomercury contamination in wastewater is a longstanding global concern, prompting the establishment of the Mi-namata Convention in 2013, following the tragic Minamata Bay incident in Japan. Despite numerous proposed solutions, the development of an affordable and convenient adsorbent remains a challenge. Sulfur, being one of the most abundant elements globally, has shown promise in mercury adsorption in previous research. This study delves into the influence of light exposure on the process of mercury adsorption. Our findings reveal that exposure to UV-A wavelengths (315 nm - 400 nm), in combination with the addition of titanium dioxide (TiO2), enhances the adsorption capacity of a sulfur-rich polymer. The maximum observed adsorption capacity reached 47 mg/g under these conditions. Notably, the presence of TiO2 and UV exposure did not significantly impact the adsorption of inorganic mercury and gold.

Food hydroxycinnamic acids alleviate ageing in dermal cells

Dermal damage is inducible by several factors including UV exposure, oxidative stress and inflammation exacerbating skin senescence and degradation of the skin elastic fibers accumulated in ageing accordingly. Which, phenolics of food hydroxycinnamates with a myriad of health benefits are potentially applicable for ageing treatment. Particularly those of food hydroxycinnamic acids, i.e., caffeic, sinapic and rosmarinic acids, that would be efficient against skin ageing. Effectiveness of caffeic, sinapic and rosmarinic acids alleviating ageing was indicated in human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and co-culture of human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and HDF. Caffeic acid was exhibited as the strongest (p < 0.01) anti-senescent phenolic examined. The studied food hydroxycinnamic acids were shown to induce collagen synthesis in aged HDF with the noted activities inhibiting MMP-1 and IL-6. Their photoaging protections were proved in the co-culture model with significant (p < 0.001) inhibitions against IL-6, IL-8, MMP-1 and MMP-9 (collagen and elastin degrading enzymes). Which, caffeic acid was demonstrated as the most potent photoaging agent among its counterparts. Caffeic, sinapic and rosmarinic acids were proved to be the efficient nutrients for ageing treatment. These functional food hydroxycinnamates are proven on their anti-senescent and photoprotection activities, and capable to maintain homeostasis of dermal cells. Food-derived hydroxycinnamic acids are therefore recommended for innovative product alleviates skin ageing.Graphical

Photocatalytic Degradation of Mancozeb Pesticide Residue using Nanoceria Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles under Natural Solar Irradiation

Introduction: Excessive applications of agrochemicals to meet the high food demand from ever-increasing populations are becoming a major issue for both health practitioners and environmental managers. Chemicals such as ethylene bis-dithiocarbamate pesticide mancozeb (MCZ) are known to have deleterious effects on the ecosystem. AIM: This study, aimed at assessing the suitability of cerium-doped zinc oxide (Ce-ZnO) for efficient degradation of MCZ fungicide. Method: The photocatalysts were synthesized using the coprecipitation method with zinc nitrate hexahydrate, cerium nitrate hexahydrate, and sodium hydroxide. The synthesized nanocomposites were further characterized by Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDAX). The average crystallite size of the as-synthesized particles was found to be 31.42 nm, with very sharp PXRD peaks revealing the pure crystal nature of the particles. The photocatalytic degradation activity was evaluated following a series of experiments under natural environmental conditions. The optimal conditions for the degradation of MCZ fungicide using Ce-ZnO were found to be 10 ppm initial concentration of MCZ, 20 mg dose of the Ce- ZnO photocatalyst, 180 minutes irradiation time, and 10-11 atmospheric UV index. Result: At the optimum conditions, the degradation efficiency was found to be about 90% after 180 minutes. The reported photocatalytic degradation of MCZ using Ce-ZnO fits a pseudo-firstorder kinetic model with an R2 value of 0. 9677. Similarly, the reusability of the as-synthesized photocatalyst was evaluated and found to be active for five rounds with little change in the activity. Conclusion: Thus, the degradation method in the current study can be suitable for the degradation and removal of MCZ in agricultural runoff in the field.