CI 77491

Visible light (VL, 400-700 nm) and long wavelength UVA1 (VL + UVA1, 370-700 nm) have been reported to cause erythema in light skin phototypes, Fitzpatrick skin types I-III (FST I-III), and to exacerbate pigmentary dermatologic conditions (e.g., melasma, hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) in individuals with dark skin phototypes (FST IV-VI). Until recently, limited options existed for photoprotection against VL + UVA1, including tinted formulations containing iron oxides (Fe 2 O 3 ) or pigmentary titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ), as well as antioxidant-enriched sunscreen systems. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and TiO 2 are often utilized in the development of mineral-based (inorganic) sunscreens as the active ingredients to protect against broad spectrum Ultraviolet (UV) radiation via their absorption properties. However, some of these products often leave a white cast, particularly on dark skin, making these products unfavorable, altering skin tone appearance leading to concerns for sunscreen compliance. Tinted sunscreens (Fe 2 O 3 ) are designed to enhance cosmetic elegance and improve compliance across diverse skin tones. This study aims to evaluate the photoprotection properties of a novel Zn-based inorganic tinted sunscreen enriched with five antioxidants (5 AOX) against VL + UVA1 induced biologic effects (hyperpigmentation and erythema). Twelve healthy adult subjects with FST IV-VI were enrolled and the effectiveness of the new Zn/Fe 2 O 3 /5 AOX sunscreen, compared to several commercially available tinted and non-tinted mineral sunscreens, was evaluated. The erythema and pigmentation assessments were performed by diffused reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), polarized photography, and investigator global scoring immediately, 24 h, and 7 days after irradiation (320 J/cm 2 ). DRS results demonstrated that the novel Zn/Fe 2 O 3 /5 AOX effectively reduced immediate erythema and pigmentation as well as delayed pigmentation when compared with formulas containing ZnO only (p < 0.05). Not all inorganic/Fe 2 O 3 formulas significantly reduced erythema and pigmentation induced by VL + UVA1 when compared with the ZnO only formula. These results highlight the enhanced effects of 5 AOX-enriched tinted mineral sunscreen to be photoprotective against VL + UVA1, with a blendable tint designed for use on skin of all colors aimed at improving patient compliance and overall sunscreen use.

Natural and human activities, such as mining for gold, coal-fired power stations, coal burning, and different industrial processes, have contributed to the emission of mercury into the environment. This necessitates regular monitoring of mercury in the environment. The requirement of skilled personnel, high costs, and time-consuming processes make the conventional techniques used in the detection of mercury unsuitable for routine analysis. Colorimetric methods overcome these limitations. In this study, silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-loaded ZnO/Fe 3 O 4 (ZMN) composites (AgZMN) with peroxidase-like activity are produced. Ferrous sulphate is used to reduce Ag + to Ag 0 because of the difference in the reduction potentials of the two reacting species. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is used indirectly to investigate the formation of AgNPs. Using 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) as a chromogenic peroxidase substrate, a colorimetric method for the detection of Hg 2+ is developed. The sensing relies on the enhancement of the peroxidase-like activity of AgZMN upon the addition of Hg 2+ to the catalytic oxidation reaction system. By relating the absorbance of oxTMB and the concentration of Hg 2+ , a relation that fits a linear equation in the concentration range of 0-65 μM is obtained. The limit of detection (LOD) is predicted from the calibration curve and found to be 0.937 μM. The assay exhibits a high selectivity towards Hg 2+ detection. The applicability of this method for the determination of Hg 2+ from tap and borehole ground water shows its practicality for real sample analysis. The green reduction method and deposition of AgNPs could be generalized to other metal ions with different reduction potentials from those of ferrous ions that favor reduction.

Hyperpigmentation disproportionately affects skin of color, often exacerbated by visible light (VL) exposure. Photoprotection in these populations remains underused due to the cosmetic incompatibility of sunscreens and the lack of targeted education. Iron oxides have emerged as essential VL blockers in tinted sunscreens for hyperpigmentation management. To evaluate the role of iron oxide in tinted sunscreens for hyperpigmentation and assess commercial sunscreen product labeling regarding iron oxide content. A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to assess clinical studies on iron oxide for hyperpigmentation. A product analysis of 37 tinted sunscreens was also performed, including ingredient review and direct manufacturer contact regarding iron oxide content. Literature supports that iron oxide-containing sunscreens improve VL-induced pigmentation outcomes. Most products (97.3%) did not list iron oxide as an active ingredient, and only 9.6% of responding brands disclosed iron oxide percentages when contacted, with disclosed concentrations ranging from <1.4% to 10.4%. Although 6 brands (19.3%) claimed their product protects against VL, only one brand publicly detailed any specific corresponding testing performed. Iron oxides enhance VL protection in sunscreens for skin prone to hyperpigmentation. Standardized reporting of iron oxide content and/or measurement of VL protection is essential to guide evidence-based photoprotection.

Blue light component of visible light spectrum, between the wavelengths of 400-500 nm, specifically from 415 to 455 nm, known as high energy visible (HEV) light, has the greatest photobiological capability, including biological and cutaneous effects. Currently, there are no regulatory guidelines for assessing sunscreens protection against HEV. In this study, we evaluated the HEV-blocking potential of various tinted sunscreens after blue light irradiation using transmittance spectroscopy in vitro technique. We compared various commercialized tinted sunscreen formulations with SPF levels ranging from 30 to 50, varying UV filter systems, antioxidant types, and iron oxide (FeO) concentrations to account for different shades. HEV (415-455 nm) transmittance for each sunscreen applied on PMMA plates was measured using an OL756 spectroradiometer, before and after blue light irradiation (200 J/cm 2 ) with solar simulator. The HEV-blocking potential percentage of each formulation was calculated before and after irradiation. Overall, sunscreens formulated with FeO and both inorganic filters, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, demonstrated higher HEV absorbance profiles and blocking potential than darker-tinted organic sunscreens or hybrid, where one inorganic UV filter was present. Consistent with prior reports, the HEV absorbance and blocking potential also correlated with the FeO levels. This study's findings suggest that depending on their formulations, commercialized tinted sunscreens exhibit different levels of blue light protection. Given the relative newness of tinted sunscreens, plus a lack of regulatory standards, there is a need for more research developing methods to measure protection efficacy of products against visible/blue light exposure.

Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] rich tannery wastewater has negative impacts on physiological functions and growth of plants. We examined the effectiveness of foliar application of metal oxide nanoparticles including magnesium oxide, zinc oxide and iron oxide in mitigating chromium induced toxicity in Spinacia oleracea under 0%, 50%, and 100% tannery wastewater irrigation levels. The results reveal that chromium stress notably reduced plant growth, chlorophyll content, increased oxidative stress (H 2 O 2 and MDA), electrolyte leakage and build up of Cr both in roots and shoots of plants. The stress also reduced mineral nutrient acquisition including Mg, Fe and Zn. However, foliar application of MgO, FeO and ZnO nanoparticles strengthened the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD and CAT) thus resulting in lowered oxidative stress and concentration of Cr within plant body. Application of nanoparticles helped the plants to absorb more mineral nutrients (Mg, Fe and Zn) as well. ZnO nanoparticles proved to be the most effective in mitigating Cr stress in Spinacia oleracia followed by MgO and FeO. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of ZnO NPs along with MgO and FeO in preventing Cr-actuated pressure in degraded conditions.

Therapeutic peptides have emerged as promising tools in oncology due to their high specificity, favorable safety profile, and capacity to target molecular hallmarks of cancer. Their clinical translation, however, remains limited by poor stability, rapid proteolytic degradation, and inefficient biodistribution. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) offer a compelling solution to these challenges. Owing to their biocompatibility, magnetic properties, and ability to serve as both drug carriers and imaging agents, IONPs have become a versatile platform for precision nanomedicine. The integration of peptides with IONPs has generated a new class of hybrid systems that combine the biological accuracy of peptide ligands with the multifunctionality of magnetic nanomaterials. Peptide functionalization enables selective tumor targeting and deeper tissue penetration, while the IONP core supports controlled delivery, MRI-based tracking, and activation of therapeutic mechanisms such as magnetic hyperthermia. These hybrids also influence the tumor microenvironment (TME), facilitating stromal remodeling and improved drug accessibility. Importantly, the iron-driven redox chemistry inherent to IONPs can trigger regulated cell death pathways, including ferroptosis and autophagy, inhibiting opportunities to overcome resistance in aggressive or refractory tumors. As advances in peptide engineering, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence accelerate design and optimization, peptide-IONP conjugates are poised for translational progress. Their combined targeting precision, imaging capability, and therapeutic versatility position them as promising candidates for next-generation cancer theranostics.

A novel GGCMC@ZnO-Fe 2 O 3 nanocomposite was green-synthesized using Murraya koenigii leaf extract and incorporated into a guar gum-carboxymethyl cellulose (GGCMC) biopolymer matrix for efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under natural sunlight. Structural and morphological analysis confirmed nanoscale crystallinity and homogeneous dispersion of metal oxides within the hydrogel framework. Optical characterization revealed enhanced visible-light absorption and reduced electron-hole (e - - h + pairs) recombination. The effects of key operational parameters- including pollutant concentration, catalyst dosage, solution pH, and irradiation source- were systematically examined. Optimal conditions yielded degradation efficiencies of 95 % for methylene blue (MB) and 92 % for crystal Violet (CV) within 120 min. Kinetic modeling showed that the degradation followed first-order kinetics (R 2  > 0.98), whereas, adsorption isotherm studies revealed a strong fit to the Langmuir model, indicating monolayer adsorption prior to photocatalysis. Radical scavenging experiments indicated that hydroxyl radicals (·OH) played a dominant role in the degradation of MB, while superoxide radicals (O 2 ·- ) played a dominant role in the degradation of CV. The nanocomposite demonstrated excellent reusability, maintaining photocatalytic performance over six consecutive cycles with minimal loss in activity. These findings suggest that the GGCMC@ZnO-Fe 2 O 3 nanocomposite is a sustainable and efficient photocatalyst with significant potential for environmental remediation of dye-contaminated wastewater.

The escalating challenge of soil salinization necessitates the development of innovative and sustainable agricultural solutions. Recently, the integration of biochar and nanoparticles has emerged as a promising approach to mitigate salinity stress and enhance plant resilience. This study explored the effectiveness of rice straw biochar (20 t ha -1 ) combined with ZnO and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles (10 mg L -1 and 20 mg L -1 ) in improving the salt (EC ≈ 10.5 dS m -1 ) tolerance of rice plants by examining the physiological and biochemical responses of two contrasting rice genotypes: JL534 (salt-sensitive) and XL900 (salt-tolerant). This study seeks to elucidate the underlying mechanism contributing to enhanced salt tolerance. A semi-field experiment was conducted, applying rice straw biochar (BC) at a rate of 20 t ha -1 alone and in conjunction with ZnO and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles at concentrations of 10 mg L -1 and 20 mg L -1 . These treatments were designated as FeBC@1, FeBC@2, ZnBC@1, and ZnBC@2. The application of ZnBC@2 resulted in significant improvements in rice shoot biomass by 79.8 % (JL534) and 59 % (XL900), relative chlorophyll concentration by 68.2 %, 30.1 %, SPAD-index by 53.4 %, 35.2 %, relative water content by 60 %, 53.3 % and K+ content by 131.5 %, 76 % in JL534 and XL900, respectively. Additionally, ZnBC@2 increased the tolerance index and mitigated oxidative damage caused by salinity-induced over accumulation of ROS by reducing H 2 O 2 and MDA levels while enhancing the activities of antioxidant enzymes. In contrast, high rate of Fe 2 O 3 (FeBC@2) with biochar exhibits a notably lower response compared to lower rate of Fe 2 O 3 (FeBC@1) due to its hormesis effect. In summary, this study highlights the potential of biochar and nanoparticles combination in enhancing plant salt tolerance.

Superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles are non-inferior as a tracer for sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) detection in breast cancer patients compared to the standard radioactive tracer (technetium-99m, Tc 99m ) with or without blue dye (Patent blue V ® , BD). Sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection has been successful using an ultra-low dose of 0.1 mL SPIO injected intradermally in patients with breast cancer, and this study aims to assess the potential reduction of SPIO-related skin discoloration and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) artifacts at 6 and 12 months after breast-conserving surgery using the ultra-low dose of SPIO. Skin discoloration and MRI artifact were pre-planned endpoints in the prospective MAGSNOW feasibility study. MRI follow-ups were scheduled 6 and 12 months after surgery, and MRI artifacts were classified into six grades. SPIO-induced skin discoloration was assessed at baseline, 1, 6, and 12 months by photography. Thirty-six patients had 6- and 12-month MRI follow-up performed, revealing no MRI artifacts impairing breast assessment. At 12 months, 75.0% (27/36) of the patients had minimal MRI artifacts, primarily in the subcutaneous tissue, or <5 mm in the fibro-glandular tissue. At 12 months, 54% (27/50) of the patients had a skin discoloration with a median area of 0.79 cm 2 (interquartile range (IQR) 0.14-1.41). An ultra-low dose of SPIO may offer a solution to the concerns of MRI artifacts and skin discoloration associated with the present recommended dose of 1-2 mL of SPIO.

Recently, the field of phyto-nanomedicines has emerged as a promising avenue of research for generating sustainable, economically viable, and medically safe plant-based metal nanoparticles (NPs) with boosted therapeutic potential. Despite advancements, the literature remains inconclusive regarding the optimal extraction protocol for these plants to yield NPs with maximized functionality. Therefore, this study pioneered the use of two diverse UAE-Salvadora persica extracts; namely, aqueous and hydro-alcoholic, in the biological synthesis of green zinc and iron oxides NPs, aiming to resolve the research gap concerning the ideal extraction protocol for biomedical green NPs' production. Our findings revealed that the alcoholic extract yielded NPs with superior phytochemical surface coating, and higher phenolic (42.94 ± 2.79 µg of GAE/mg of DW) and flavonoid (45.63 ± 1.88 µg of QU/mg of DW) contents, resulting in stronger antioxidant properties with IC 50s ranging from 69.68 µg/mL to 180.26 µg/mL. Nevertheless, the aqueous extract demonstrated superior reducing efficacy, and its corresponding zinc oxide NPs exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity against A-431 cells (IC 50 :377.39 µg/mL), surpassing the activity of its parent crude extract. These extract-dependent nanoparticle variations were further confirmed and resonated via QTOF-LC/MS/MS and Principal Component Analysis analyses. Thus, our findings emphasize that selection of appropriate extraction protocols is crucial for therapeutic plant-based NPs' development.

This study presents the fabrication of a novel quaternary heterostructure nano-photocatalyst, Fe 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 /ZnO@Bentonite, designed for the efficient photocatalysis of Clomipramine hydrochloride (CMP), a persistent pharmaceutical contaminant. The properties of the catalyst were thoroughly characterized using various techniques. Band edge positions of Fe 2 O 3 , g-C 3 N 4 , and ZnO were estimated from UV-Vis DRS data using absolute electronegativity and band gap calculations, confirming the formation of a direct Z-scheme heterojunction with CB and VB potentials facilitating effective spatial charge separation. XPS analysis further revealed strong interfacial interactions, including Fe-C bonding and Zn-O-Fe linkages, as well as oxygen vacancies that promote enhanced surface activity and electron mobility. These structural features support the proposed charge-transfer mechanism, wherein electrons in ZnO and Fe 2 O 3 recombine with holes in g-C 3 N 4 , while retained electrons in g-C 3 N 4 and holes in Fe 2 O 3 drive redox reactions, leading to enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Optimization of operational parameters via RSM-CCD identified optimal conditions (0.03 g/L catalyst dosage, pH 6, 60 min irradiation, 30 mg/L CMP), achieving 98.02 ± 1.89 % degradation efficiency. The quadratic regression model showed strong correlation (R 2  = 0.96, AIC = 234.46). LC-MS analysis confirmed the transformation of CMP into non-toxic intermediates, while scavenger experiments identified hydroxyl and superoxide radicals as the key reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the degradation mechanism. The photocatalyst exhibited remarkable reusability over 15 consecutive cycles, with negligible performance loss and maintained structural integrity confirmed by post-treatment XRD and FTIR. With a low synthesis cost of $43.12/kg, this nano-photocatalyst offers a sustainable, structurally robust, and economically viable solution for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment.

As ochre, iron oxide is among the most ancient pigments used by mankind for different purposes, including tattooing as demonstrated on tattoed mummies. Iron oxides are still used in tattooing nowadays and especially in dermopigmentation, an area of medical tattoing aiming at restoring the color of skin. This ancient use of iron oxide does not mean that it has no effect on cells, and especially on macrophages, the cells that maintain pigments particles on site in tattoos. We thus investigated in vitro the delayed/sustained effects of iron oxide pigments on macrophages, i.e. the effects occurring a few days after the exposure to pigments, on pigments-loaded macrophages but in a pigment-free medium, mimicking the status of tattooed skin after all the pigment particles have been captured. By combining proteomic and targeted approaches, we determined that red iron oxide (but not black iron oxide) induces perturbations in mitochondria, altering the mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Red iron oxide also induces oxidative stress and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor. Thus, red iron oxide induces adverse effects on macrophages that may persist over time, owing to its low intracellular dissolution.