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UV Irradiation (uv + irradiation)
Selected AbstractsThe Influence of UV Irradiation on Ketonic Defect Emission in Fluorene-Based Copolymers,ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2008Horst Scheiber Abstract The influence of UV irradiation in inert atmosphere on the emission spectrum of fluorenone containing poly[9,9-bis(2-ethyl)hexylfluorene] (PF2/6) has been investigated by means of optical absorption, photoluminescence (PL) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. It is shown that a substantial reduction of green emission arising from ketonic defect sites can be achieved by irradiation of thin films with UV light. This is found to be accompanied by partial cross-linking of the films. FTIR measurements show no reduction of the C=O stretching mode upon irradiation, and, moreover, the degree of cross-linking does not scale with the relative fluorenone content (0.1, 0.5, and 5%). Therefore, the reduced emission intensity in the green spectral region is rather associated with the occurrence of interruptions in the polymer backbone, which reduce the effective conjugation length and subsequently inhibit the energy transfer onto the ketonic defect sites. The found results enabled us to build organic light emitting devices (OLEDs) that can be structured by selective illumination of the emitting layer with an intense UV light source. This method allows for the fabrication of rather efficient (2000,cd,m,2 at 7,V) two-color OLEDs. [source] Controlled Radical Polymerization of Vaporized Vinyl Monomers on Solid Surfaces under UV IrradiationMACROMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS, Issue 4 2004Mikio Yasutake Abstract Summary: In order to prepare well-defined polymers on solid surfaces in the gas phase, a gas phase-assisted surface polymerization (GASP) of vinyl monomers was carried out on solid surfaces pre-coated with a photoiniferter, 2-cyanoprop-2-yl N,N,-dimethyldithiocarbamate, under UV irradiation. The GASP of methyl methacrylate (MMA) resulted in the formation of polymer on the surfaces and showed a proportional relationship between and polymer yield. Consecutive copolymerization of MMA and styrene led to the formation of a block copolymer, which was confirmed by a selective solvent fractionation method. These results demonstrate that controlled radical polymerization of vaporized monomer occurred on the solid surfaces. Expected mechanism of GASP under UV irradiation. [source] Novel Method of Producing Polymer Gels in Aqueous Solution Using UV IrradiationMACROMOLECULAR RAPID COMMUNICATIONS, Issue 16 2004Fumiyoshi Ikkai Abstract Summary: We developed a novel method of producing polymer gels in aqueous solution using UV irradiation. Persulfates were effective photosensitive initiators of polymerization and/or gelation of acryloyl-type monomers/polymers. The gelation was confirmed by an abrupt increase in light scattering intensity, ,I(q),T, at the gelation point. The gelation method entails significant advantages: it does not need any cross-linkers, temperature control (heating), and additives except the persulfate. The UV irradiation time dependence of light scattering intensity, ,I(q),T, for pre-gel solutions containing N -isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) and/or ammonium persulfate (APS). [source] Electron Transfer from Photoexcited TiO2 to Chelating Alizarin Molecules: Reversible Photochromic Effect in Alizarin@TiO2 under UV IrradiationCHEMPHYSCHEM, Issue 7 2009Yesica Di Iorio Abstract Reduction of alizarin molecules coupled to TiO2 nanoparticles occurs on UV irradiation in the presence of a sacrificial electron donor. Reduction is mediated by conduction-band electrons and yields a 1,2,9,10-tetrahydroxyanthracene species which remains coupled to the TiO2 nanoparticles (see figure). The process can be reversed by addition of an acceptor (i.e. oxygen). Reduction of alizarin molecules coupled to TiO2 nanoparticles (A@TiO2) occurs on UV irradiation in the presence of a sacrificial electron donor. Evidence is presented that reduction is mediated by conduction-band electrons and yields a 1,2,9,10-tetrahydroxyanthracene species which remains coupled to the TiO2 nanoparticles. The spectrum of the reduced complex displays two overlapping broad bands centred at 480 and 650 nm which can harvest visible photons besides 900 nm, in agreement with theoretical predictions by TDDFT. The potential relevance of the dual-redox behaviour of strongly TiO2 coupled anthraquinone dyes in the field of photocatalysis and in connection with their utilization in the development of dye-sensitized TiO2 solar cells is briefly discussed. [source] Monocyclic 1,2,3-Triazin-4(3H)-ones: Synthesis, Structure and Photochemical BehaviourEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 13 2006Angela Maria Celli Abstract Oxidation of the easily available 1-(alkylamino)pyrazolones allows the preparation of the title compounds, which are a new class of heterocycles, in good yields. The structure of these compounds is assigned on the basis of HR mass spectroscopy and sodium borohydride reduction to (Z,E)-2-methyl-3-phenyl- N -(1-phenylethyl)acrylamide. Ring contraction/rearrangement to 2-alkyl- 2H -1,2,3-triazole is observed under UV irradiation. A possible mechanistic rationalisation of the observed processes is proposed.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006) [source] Antimelanogenesis effect of Tunisian herb Thymelaea hirsuta extract on B16 murine melanoma cellsEXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 12 2007Mitsuko Kawano Abstract:, Skin pigmentation is the result of melanogenesis that occurs in melanocytes and/or melanoma cells. Although melanogenesis is necessary for the prevention of DNA damage and cancer caused by UV irradiation, excessive accumulation of melanin can also cause melanoma. Thus, we focused on the antimelanogenesis effect of an extract from Thymelaea hirsuta, a Tunisian herb. Murine melanoma B16 cells were treated with T. hirsuta extract, and then cell viability and synthesized melanin content were measured. We found that the T. hirsuta extract decreased the synthesized melanin content in B16 cells without cytotoxicity. Tyrosinase is a key enzyme of melanogenesis and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 phosphorylation is known to be related to melanogenesis inhibition. To clarify its mechanism, we also determined ERK1/2 phosphorylation and tyrosinase expression level. ERK1/2 was immediately phosphorylated in cells just after treatment with the extract. The tyrosinase expression was inhibited after 24 h of stimulation with the extract. The T. hirsuta extract was fractionated, and we found that one fraction considerably decreased the melanin synthesis in B16 cells and that this fraction contains daphnanes as the main component. This indicates that our findings might be attributable to daphnanes. [source] Metal-Free Alkyne Polyhydrothiolation: Synthesis of Functional Poly(vinylenesulfide)s with High Stereoregularity by Regioselective Thioclick PolymerizationADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 8 2010Cathy K. W. Jim Abstract A new synthetic route to sulfur-rich polymers has been developed. The alkyne polyhydrothiolations of 4,4,-thiodibenzenethiol (1) and arylene dipropiolates (2,5) mediated by amines proceed at room temperature in a regioselective fashion, furnishing sole anti-Markovnikov products of poly(vinylenesulfide)s (P1/2,P1/5) with high molecular weights (Mw up to 32 300) and high stereoregularities (Z content up to 81.4%) in high yields (up to 98.2%). Polymers P1/2,P1/4 are soluble in common organic solvents. They are optically transparent, allowing almost all visible and IR light to transmit through. Thanks to the high sulfur contents of the polymers, their films show high refractive indices (n,=,1.73,1.70) in the wavelength region of 500,1700 nm as well as high Abbé numbers (,D' up to 539) and low optical dispersions (D' down to 0.002) at wavelengths important for telecommunications. Their refractivities can be further enhanced (n up to 2.06) by metal complexation and their films can be crosslinked by UV irradiation, which enables ready fabrication of fluorescent photopatterns. [source] High-Performance Multifunctional TiO2 Nanowire Ultrafiltration Membrane with a Hierarchical Layer Structure for Water TreatmentADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 23 2009Xiwang Zhang Abstract A novel, multifunctional TiO2 nanowire ultrafiltration (UF) membrane with a layered hierarchical structure is made via alkaline hydrothermal synthesis, followed by a filtration and hot-press process. The TiO2 UF membrane has high surface porosity (21.3%) and pore size values around 20,nm. The membrane possesses multifunctional capabilities under UV irradiation, such as anti-fouling, anti-bacterial, concurrent separation, and photocatalytic oxidation. The unique properties of the membrane indicate its potential in applications for environmental purification. [source] Liquid-Crystalline Polymer with a Block Mesogenic Side Group: Photoinduced Manipulation of Nanophase-Separated StructuresADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 23 2009Kunihiko Okano Abstract In this report, a novel type of photoresponsive liquid crystalline polymer with a block mesogenic side-group is demonstrated. The block mesogene is an amphipathic molecule containing a hydrophobic mesogene (azotolane moiety) and hydrophilic oligooxyethylene moieties in the same unit. The block mesogene in the polymer plays a role in liquid crystalline, amphiphilic and photoresponsive properties. As expected, a film prepared from the polymer exhibits phase separation of a lamellar structure due to cooperative motion between liquid crystal assembly and nanophase separation. The morphology of the lamellae can be aligned upon irradiation of linearly polarized light. Moreover, a photochemical phase transition induced by unpolarized UV irradiation erases the surface morphology. The erased nanostructure can be recovered by annealing or irradiation of linearly polarized light, meaning that the surface morphology is rewritable via a photochemical process. [source] Multilayer Hybrid Films Consisting of Alternating Graphene and Titania Nanosheets with Ultrafast Electron Transfer and Photoconversion PropertiesADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 22 2009Kiran Kumar Manga Abstract Alternating graphene (G) and titania (Ti0.91O2) multilayered nanosheets are fabricated using layer-by-layer electrostatic deposition followed by UV irradiation. Successful assemblies of graphene oxide (GO) and titania nanosheets in sequence with polyethylenimine as a linker is confirmed by UV,vis absorption and X-ray diffraction. Photocatalytic reduction of GO into G can be achieved upon UV irradiation. Ultrafast photocatalytic electron transfer between the titania and graphene is demonstrated using femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. Efficient exciton dissociation at the interfaces coupled with cross-surface charge percolation allows efficient photocurrent conversion in the multilayered Ti0.91O2/G films. [source] hScrib, a human homologue of Drosophila neoplastic tumor suppressor, is a novel death substrate targeted by caspase during the process of apoptosisGENES TO CELLS, Issue 7 2008Kenbun Sone hScrib, human homologue of Drosophila neoplastic tumor suppressor, was identified as a target of human papillomavirus E6 oncoprotein for the ubiquitin-mediated degradation. Here, we report that hScrib is a novel death substrate targeted by caspase. Full-length hScrib was cleaved by caspase during death ligands-induced apoptosis, which generates a p170 C-terminal fragments in Hela cells. In vitro cleavage assay using recombinant caspases showed that hScrib is cleaved by the executioner caspases. DNA damage-induced apoptosis caused loss of expression of full-length hScrib, which was recovered by addition of capase-3 inhibitor in HaCat cells. TUNEL positive apoptotic cells, which were identified 4 h after UV irradiation in HaCat cells, showed loss of hScrib expression at the adherens junction. Mutational analysis identified the caspase-dependent cleavage site of hScrib at the position of Asp-504. Although MDCK cells transfected with GFP-fused wild-type hScrib showed loss of E-cadherin expression and shrinkage of cytoplasm by UV irradiation, cells transfected with hScrib with Ala substitution of Asp-504 showed resistance to caspase-dependent cleavage of hScrib and intact expression of E-cadherin. These results indicate that caspase-dependent cleavage of hScrib is a critical step for detachment of cell contact during the process of apoptosis. [source] Context-specific regulation of LINE-1GENES TO CELLS, Issue 10 2007Ivo Teneng The present study was conducted to evaluate the contextual specificity of long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) activation by cellular stress and the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) transcription factor and oxidative stress in the gene activation response. Activation of the AHR by the genotoxic carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) increased L1 expression in human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells, human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC), mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (mVSMC) and mouse embryonic kidney cells (mK4). In contrast, challenge with a different AHR ligand 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD), or UV irradiation (10,20 J/m2), induced L1 only in HeLa cells. Transactivation of the mouse L1Md-A5 promoter was observed in all cell types challenged with BaP, while TCDD was without effect, and UV only activated L1 in HeLa cells. Genetic and pharmacological experiments implicated the AHR and oxidative stress as contextual determinants of L1 inducibility by cellular stress. [source] Analyses of ultraviolet-induced focus formation of hREV1 proteinGENES TO CELLS, Issue 3 2006Yoshiki Murakumo Translesional DNA synthesis (TLS) is one of the DNA damage tolerance mechanisms that allow cells with DNA damage to continue DNA replication. Each of the mammalian Y-family DNA polymerases (Pol ,, Pol ,, Pol ,, and REV1) has been shown to carry out TLS by itself or in combination with another enzyme in vitro. Recently, the C-terminal region of mammalian REV1 (the total 1251 residues in human) was found to interact with Pol ,, Pol ,, and Pol ,, as well as with the REV7 subunit of another TLS enzyme, Pol ,. Thus, it is proposed that REV1 plays a pivotal role in TLS in vivo. We here describe our study on the localization of human REV1 protein (hREV1) in nondamaged and ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated cells. Ectopically expressed hREV1 in mammalian cells was localized to the nucleus and exhibited dozens of tiny foci in approximately 3% of nondamaged cells. The percentage of focus-forming cells markedly increased after UV irradiation in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The focus formation was associated with UV-induced DNA damage. Interestingly, although the hREV1 foci in S-phase cells colocalized with PCNA foci, suggesting the association of hREV1 with the replication machinery, hREV1 focus formation was observed not only in the S phase but also outside S phase. Furthermore, it was found that the hREV1 focus formation after UV irradiation required a region near the C-terminal (826,1178). [source] Rep helicase suppresses short-homology-dependent illegitimate recombination in Escherichia coliGENES TO CELLS, Issue 11 2005Kouya Shiraishi To study roles of Rep helicase in short-homology-dependent illegitimate recombination, we examined the effect of a rep mutation on illegitimate recombination and found that the frequency of spontaneous illegitimate recombination is enhanced by the rep mutation. In addition, illegitimate recombination was synergistically enhanced by the rep mutation and UV irradiation, showing that Rep helicase plays a role in suppression of spontaneous as well as UV-induced illegitimate recombination. The defect in RecQ helicase also has a synergistic effect on the increased illegitimate recombination in the rep mutant. It was also found that the illegitimate recombination induced by the rep mutation is independent of the RecA function with or without UV irradiation. Nucleotide sequence analyses of the recombination junctions showed that the illegitimate recombination induced by the rep mutation mostly takes place between short homologous sequences. Based on the fact that the defect of Rep helicase induces replication arrest during replication, resulting in the formation of DNA double-strand breaks, we propose a model for illegitimate recombination, in which double-strand breaks caused by defect of Rep helicase promotes illegitimate recombination via short-homology-dependent-end-joining. In addition, the mechanism of synergistic action between the rep mutation and UV irradiation on illegitimate recombination is discussed. [source] Metal-Free Click Polymerization: Synthesis and Photonic Properties of Poly(aroyltriazole)sADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 12 2009Anjun Qin Abstract Regioselective 1,3-dipolar polycycloadditions of tetraphenylethene (TPE)-containing diazides 1,3 and bis(aroylacetylene) 4 are initiated by simple heating, affording poly(aroyltriazole)s (PATAs) PI,PIII with high molecular weights in high yields. The PATAs are completely soluble in common organic solvents and stable at temperatures up to 358,°C. Thanks to their TPE units, the polymers show aggregation-induced emission and work as explosive sensors with high sensitivity. The PATAs are optically transparent in the whole visible spectral region. Their refractive indexes can be tuned to a great extent (,n,,,0.08) by simply changing their alkyl spacer lengths. The modified Abbé numbers of the PATAs are very high (up to 273), indicative of very low optical dispersions in the telecommunication-important wavelength region. UV irradiation through a photomask quenches the light emissions of the polymers, enabling the generation of two-dimensional fluorescent images without development. The polymers can be readily photo-crosslinked, yielding three-dimensional patterns with high resolutions. [source] The Influence of UV Irradiation on Ketonic Defect Emission in Fluorene-Based Copolymers,ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 17 2008Horst Scheiber Abstract The influence of UV irradiation in inert atmosphere on the emission spectrum of fluorenone containing poly[9,9-bis(2-ethyl)hexylfluorene] (PF2/6) has been investigated by means of optical absorption, photoluminescence (PL) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. It is shown that a substantial reduction of green emission arising from ketonic defect sites can be achieved by irradiation of thin films with UV light. This is found to be accompanied by partial cross-linking of the films. FTIR measurements show no reduction of the C=O stretching mode upon irradiation, and, moreover, the degree of cross-linking does not scale with the relative fluorenone content (0.1, 0.5, and 5%). Therefore, the reduced emission intensity in the green spectral region is rather associated with the occurrence of interruptions in the polymer backbone, which reduce the effective conjugation length and subsequently inhibit the energy transfer onto the ketonic defect sites. The found results enabled us to build organic light emitting devices (OLEDs) that can be structured by selective illumination of the emitting layer with an intense UV light source. This method allows for the fabrication of rather efficient (2000,cd,m,2 at 7,V) two-color OLEDs. [source] Efficient and Photostable ZnS-Passivated CdS:Mn Luminescent Nanocrystals,ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 2 2004H. Yang Abstract Efficient and photostable ZnS-passivated CdS:Mn (CdS:Mn/ZnS core/shell) nanocrystals were synthesized using reverse micelle chemistry. CdS:Mn/ZnS core/shell nanocrystals exhibited much improved luminescent properties (quantum yield and photostability) over organically (n -dodecanethiol-) capped CdS:Mn nanocrystals. This is the result of effective, robust passivation of CdS surface states by the ZnS shell and consequent suppression of non-radiative recombination transitions. The dependence of photoluminescence (PL) intensity has been observed as a function of UV irradiation time for both organically and inorganically capped CdS:Mn nanocrystals. Whereas organically capped CdS:Mn nanocrystals exhibit a significant reduction of PL intensity, CdS:Mn/ZnS core/shell nanocrystals exhibit an increased PL intensity with UV irradiation. XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) studies reveal that UV irradiation of CdS:Mn/ZnS nanocrystals in air atmosphere induces the photo-oxidation of the ZnS shell surface, leading to the formation of ZnSO4. This photo-oxidation product is presumably responsible for the enhanced PL emission, serving as a passivating layer. [source] Preen waxes do not protect carotenoid plumage from bleaching by sunlightIBIS, Issue 2 2008ADRIAN SURMACKI The plumage coloration of wild birds often changes during the breeding season. One of the possible reasons for this is that sunlight, and particularly ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, degrades the pigments responsible for plumage coloration. It has been suggested that birds may apply preen wax to feathers to protect feathers from bleaching. This hypothesis is tested by exposing carotenoid-based breast feathers of Great Tits to ambient light, light filtered to exclude UV and darkness. Preen waxes were experimentally removed from feather samples and the effect of light on coloration of treatment and control feathers compared. Ambient light had an effect on feather colour but preen wax did not. Feathers exposed to sun gradually became less saturated and hues shifted towards shorter wavelengths. This was not apparent in control feathers kept in darkness. Feathers exposed to full-spectra sunlight faded more than those that were kept in light with UV wavelengths removed. There was a decrease in brightness of feathers in both experimental and control groups, which was assumed to be an effect of dirt accumulation. This experiment confirmed earlier suspicions regarding the detrimental effects of UV irradiation on carotenoid-based coloration of avian feathers but failed to show any protective function of preen waxes. The possible consequences of these mechanisms of colour change for birds with regard to mating strategies are discussed. [source] Fabrication of a High-Brightness Blue-Light-Emitting Diode Using a ZnO-Nanowire Array Grown on p-GaN Thin FilmADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 27 2009Xiao-Mei Zhang Bright n-ZnO nanowire/p-GaN film hybrid heterojunction light-emitting-diode (LED) devices are fabricated by directly growing n-type ZnO-nanowire arrays on p-GaN wafers. UV,blue electroluminescence emission was observed from the heterojunction diodes, and the heterojunction LED device exhibited a high sensitivity in responding to UV irradiation. [source] Kinetics of the gas-phase reaction of CF3OC(O)H with OH radicals at 242,328 KINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL KINETICS, Issue 6 2004L. Chen The rate constants, k1, of the reaction of CF3OC(O)H with OH radicals were measured by using a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic technique in an 11.5-dm3 reaction chamber at 242,328 K. OH radicals were produced by UV photolysis of an O3,H2O,He mixture at an initial pressure of 200 Torr. Ozone was continuously introduced into the reaction chamber during UV irradiation. With CF3OCH3 as a reference compound, k1 at 298 K was (1.65 ± 0.13) × 10,14 cm3 molecule,1 s,1. The temperature dependence of k1 was determined as (2.33 ± 0.42) × 10,12 exp[,(1480 ± 60)/T] cm3 molecule,1 s,1; possible systematic uncertainty could add an additional 20% to the k1 values. The atmospheric lifetime of CF3OC(O)H with respect to reaction with OH radicals was calculated to be 3.6 years. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36: 337,344 2004 [source] Rate constants for the gas-phase reaction of CF3CF2CF2CF2CF2CHF2 with OH radicals at 250,430 KINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL KINETICS, Issue 1 2004L. Chen The rate constants k1 for the reaction of CF3CF2CF2CF2CF2CHF2 with OH radicals were determined by using both absolute and relative rate methods. The absolute rate constants were measured at 250,430 K using the flash photolysis,laser-induced fluorescence (FP-LIF) technique and the laser photolysis,laser-induced fluorescence (LP-LIF) technique to monitor the OH radical concentration. The relative rate constants were measured at 253,328 K in an 11.5-dm3 reaction chamber with either CHF2Cl or CH2FCF3 as a reference compound. OH radicals were produced by UV photolysis of an O3,H2O,He mixture at an initial pressure of 200 Torr. Ozone was continuously introduced into the reaction chamber during the UV irradiation. The k1 (298 K) values determined by the absolute method were (1.69 ± 0.07) × 10,15 cm3 molecule,1 s,1 (FP-LIF method) and (1.72 ± 0.07) × 10,15 cm3 molecule,1 s,1 (LP-LIF method), whereas the K1 (298 K) values determined by the relative method were (1.87 ± 0.11) × 10,15 cm3 molecule,1 s,1 (CHF2Cl reference) and (2.12 ± 0.11) × 10,15 cm3 molecule,1 s,1 (CH2FCF3 reference). These data are in agreement with each other within the estimated experimental uncertainties. The Arrhenius rate constant determined from the kinetic data was K1 = (4.71 ± 0.94) × 10,13 exp[,(1630 ± 80)/T] cm3 molecule,1 s,1. Using kinetic data for the reaction of tropospheric CH3CCl3 with OH radicals [k1 (272 K) = 6.0 × 10,15 cm3 molecule,1 s,1, tropospheric lifetime of CH3CCl3 = 6.0 years], we estimated the tropospheric lifetime of CF3CF2CF2CF2CF2CHF2 through reaction with OH radicals to be 31 years. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36: 26,33, 2004 [source] Fading of artificial hair colour and its prevention by photofiltersINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 3 2006B. Locke Fading of artificial hair colour has been investigated by simulating actual usage conditions through exposure to artificial radiation in a weatherometer, with 0.35 mW (m2nm),1 at 340 nm, for 16,48 h, and by periodical washing. Hair colour was produced by using commercial two-part, permanent hair dyes with light auburn, medium auburn and dark auburn shades. Formulations based on red couplers, such as 4-amino-2-hydroxytoluene and 1-naphthol, as well as primary intermediates, such as 1-hydroxyethyl-4,5-diamino pyrazole sulphate, were employed. Results indicate that the extent of fading, as measured by the total colour change parameter, dE, is greatest for coloured hair subjected to both irradiation and shampooing, and significantly smaller for hair undergoing only irradiation or washing. Colour loss has been also found to be dependent upon the hair type employed, with coloured natural white and bleached hair undergoing much greater change than coloured brown hair. It has been also shown that hair colour based on pyrazole intermediates displayed the deepest fading as a result of shampooing (dE 4,6 after 10 shampooings) and irradiation per shampooing (dE 14,16 after 32 h of light exposure and four shampooings). The contribution of UV light (UVB + UVA) to the artificial hair-colour loss was found experimentally to be dependent upon the irradiation dose and varied from 63% at 16 h of irradiation time to 27% at 48 h of light exposure. The theoretical extent of photoprotection by a formulation was assessed by calculating the percentage of UV light it attenuates in the wavelength range from 290 to 400 nm. The results indicate that UVB photofilters, such as octyl methoxy cinnamate, absorb <25% of the total UV irradiation at concentrations as high as 30 mg (g hair),1. UVA absorbers were found to be more effective, with benzophenone-3 and benzophenone-4 absorbing about 40% of UV at the same concentration. Corresponding experimental data were in reasonable agreement with the theoretical predictions. The data are also presented for colour protection with treatments containing two photo-absorbers: benzophenone-3,ZnO; benzophenone-4,ZnO; octyl methoxy cinnamate,ZnO; and dimethylpabaimidopropyl laurdimonium tosylate-benzophenone-3. [source] Technological strategies to improve photostability of a sunscreen agentINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 2 2006P. Perugini Due to the reduction of the ozone layer, there is an increasing need of effective UV protection systems with minimized side-effects. Trans-2-ethylhexyl- p -methoxycinnamate (trans -EHMC) represents one of the most widely used sunscreen compound. Several studies demonstrated that trans -EHMC is unstable following UV irradiation both in solution and in emulsion formulations. Moreover, various reports of photocontact sensitization induced by trans -EHMC have appeared in the literature. Consequently, in order to ensure adequate efficacy and safety for this sunscreen agent, there is a need for new carrier systems to enhance trans -EHMC photostability. In the present study the photostability of the filter in different formulation types (emulsion,gel, gel and emulsion) with various ingredients is evaluated. In addition, nanoparticles based on poly- D,L -lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) as carrier for trans -EHMC are investigated. The influence of nanoparticle matrix on the photochemical stability of the sunscreen agent is also presented. The results obtained demonstrated that PLGA nanoparticles are effective in reducing the light-induced degradation of the sunscreen agent. Moreover, the choice of formulation type and the excipients used play an important role in order to obtain a stable cosmetic product containing trans -EHMC. [source] Adaptive response of the skin to UVB damage: role of the p53 proteinINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2006L. Verschooten Synopsis Different adaptation mechanisms like heat shock response, cell cycle arrest and DNA repair, melanin pigmentation and thickening of the epidermis are present in the human skin to protect against the adverse effects of solar UV irradiation. When DNA damage is beyond repair, cells undergo apoptosis to prevent their replication. We discuss the current knowledge on these different adaptation mechanisms to UVB damage, the most energetic fraction of solar UV that reaches the skin. As p53 protein, the guardian of the genome, plays a key role in protective response to genotoxic damage, its role in this adaptive response of the skin to UV will be further discussed. Résumé Pour se protéger contre les effets néfastes de l'irradiation UV de la lumière solaire, la peau humaine dispose de différents mécanismes de protection adaptatifs: résistance au choc thermique, arrêt du cycle cellulaire et réparation de l'ADN, pigmentation mélanique et épaississement de l'épiderme. Quand les altèrations dépassent les capacités de réparation, les cellules entrent en apoptose pour empêcher la réplication d'une cellule avec de l'ADN endommagé. Dans cet article, on passe en revue les connaissances actuelles sur les différents mécanismes d'adaptation de la peau aux altérations provoquées par les UVB, la fraction la plus énergétique des UV solaires qui atteint la peau. Puisque la protéine P53, gardienne du génome, joue un rôle clé dans la réponse de protection aux altérations génotoxiques, son rôle dans la réponse d'adaptation de la peau aux UV sera discuté en détail. [source] Characteristics of skin aging in Korean men and womenINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2005J. H. Chung Introduction Korea is located between Japan and Mainland China. The people of these three countries have similar appearances and it is difficult to differentiate between them. Although the population of Asia is more than half of the total population of the Earth, the inherent characteristics of Asian skin have not been well investigated. Commercial markets for cosmetics and drugs for photoaged skin are rapidly expanding in many Asian countries. Therefore, many investigators in the field of dermatology and cosmetology have become interested in brown Asian skin. Clinical characteristics of skin aging and photoaging in Asians Skin aging can be divided into two basic processes: intrinsic aging and photoaging [1]. Intrinsic aging is characterized by smooth, dry, pale, and finely wrinkled skin, whereas photoaging, which indicates premature skin aging in chronically photodamaged skin, is characterized by severe wrinkling and irregular pigmentation. The pattern of wrinkling in Asians seems to differ from that in Caucasians. Asians have coarser, thicker and deep wrinkles, particularly in the forehead, perioral and Crow's foot areas. In contrast, Caucasians usually have relatively fine cheek and Crow's foot wrinkles. The reasons for these differences are not known and need further investigation. There are racial, ethnic and genetic differences, and differences of skin structure and function, between the brown skin of Asians and the white skin of Caucasians. As Asian skin is more pigmented, acute and chronic cutaneous responses to UV irradiation differ from those in white skin. Many people believe, based on clinical impressions, that the main process of photoaging in Asians involves pigmentary changes, rather than wrinkling. However, no study has been performed to confirm this belief. Risk factors for skin wrinkles and their relative risks in Korean skin [2] Various factors such as age, sun-exposure, and smoking are known to be important risk factors for wrinkles. However, the relative risks of each factor on wrinkles in the brown skin of Asians have not been investigated, and they could differ from those in Caucasians. An evaluation system for skin wrinkling is necessary for Asian skin [3]. Thus, we developed an eight-point photographic scale for assessing wrinkles in both Korean genders [2]. This scale can probably be applied to the populations of other Asian countries, at least to the Japanese and Chinese. The pattern of wrinkles in both genders appears to be similar. Age Age is an important risk factor for wrinkling in Asians, as in Caucasians. Korean subjects in their 60s showed a 12-fold increased risk of wrinkling, while subjects in their 70s have a 56-fold increased risk compared with young age group. UV light It is well known that the UV component in sunlight can cause and accelerate photoaging. The pigmented skin of Asian may better protect skin from acute and chronic UV damage. However, we found a strong association between sun-exposure and the development of wrinkling in Koreans. It was found that sun exposure of more than 5 h per day was associated with a 4.8-fold increased risk in wrinkling versus less than 2 h of sun-exposure in Koreans. Estrogen deficiency Korean females have more wrinkles than men, after controlling for age, sun exposure, and smoking, it was found that they have a 3.6-fold increased risk of developing wrinkles than their male counterparts [2]. It has also been reported, that the relative risk for wrinkling in women is higher than in men as for in white Caucasians [4]. The reason why women show more wrinkles remains to be determined. It is possible that a reduction in skin collagen because of estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal woman may aggravate wrinkling severity. Korean women with more than 10 years since menopause showed a 3.9-fold higher risk of wrinkling than the women 5 years of beyond menopause [5]. We demonstrated that women with a history of HRT have a significantly lower risk, more specifically, one fifth of the risk of facial wrinkling relative to those who had no history of HRT. Interestingly, we found that wrinkle severity significantly increased with an increasing number of full term pregnancies. The relative risk for severe wrinkling is increased by approximately 1.8-fold per full term pregnancy. Smoking It is known that smoking causes skin wrinkling in Caucasians, and that it plays no role in Blacks [6, 7]. Koreans with have a smoking history of more than 30 pack years showed a more than 2.8-fold increased risk of wrinkles [2]. The relative risks of wrinkles associated with a 30,50 pack-years history of smoking were 2.8- and 5.5-fold, respectively. Dyspigmentation in Asian skin To follow pigmentary changes, six photographic standards for both genders were developed for Korean skin, to produce a 6-point scale [2, 8]. Hyperpigmented spots, mostly lentigines, were prominent among women, while seborrheic keratosis tended to be more prominent in men. Seborrheic keratosis in Korean men Seborrheic keratoses (SKs) are benign cutaneous tumors. They have diverse clinical and histopathological appearances and are very common in the elderly (over 50 years old). The etiology of SKs is not well understood, although patients with a great number of lesionsshow a familial trait with an autosomal dominant pattern, and human papilloma virus has been suggested as possible cause because of verrucous appearance of the lesions. Exposure to sunlight has been suggested to be a risk factor for SKs. However, there is still some debate in terms of the role of sunlight. Recently, we have investigated the clinical characteristics of SKs and relationship between SKs and sunlight exposure in Korean males [9]. The prevalence of SKs in Koreans increases with age; it rose from 78.9% at 40 years, to 93.9% at 50 years and 98.7% in those over 60 years. Exposed areas, i.e. the face, neck and dorsum of the hands, demonstrate a significant increase in the prevalence of SKs by decade, whereas partly exposed areas, although SKs tended to increase in prevalence with age, this trend was not significant. When the estimated body surface area (BSA) is taken into account, the number of SKs on both the face and dorsum of the hands (0.51 ± 0.08 per 1% BSA) was over-represented compared with the trunk. SKs were also concentrated on the neck (0.38 ± 0.07 per 1% BSA) and in the V-area (0.47 ± 0.09 per 1% BSA). Outer forearms also showed 3-fold more SKs per unit area than neighboring arms and inner forearms, which are classified as partly exposed area (0.09 ± 0.02, 0.03 ± 0.01, respectively). The total area covered by SKs on exposed area also became significantly larger with aging than on intermittently exposed areas. These results indicate that exposure to sunlight might be related to SK growth. Our results indicated that excessive sun exposure is an independent risk factor of SKs. After controlling for age, smoking, and skin type, subjects with a sun exposure history of more than 6 hours per day showed a 2.28-fold increased risk of having severe SKs (n , 6) compared with those exposed for less that 3 h per day. These findings indicated that sun-exposure may play an important role in SK development. In summary, SKs are very common in Korean males and represent one of the major pigmentary problems. SKs concentrate on exposed skin, especially on the face and dorsum of the hands. Both age and lifetime cumulative sunlight exposure are important contributing factors and may work in a synergistic manner. Conclusion Many people tend to believe that wrinkles are not a prominent feature of Asian photoaged skin, and that dyspigmentation is a major manifestation in Asian skin. Contrary to this impression, wrinkling is also a major problem in the photoaged skin of Asians, and Korean people showing severe pigmentary changes usually tend to have severe wrinkles. In conclusion, the wrinkling patterns and pigmentary changes of photoaged skin in East Asians differ from those of Caucasians, and the relative risks of aggravating factors may be different from those of Caucasian skin. References 1.,Gilchrest, B.A. Skin aging and photoaging: an overview. J. Am. Acad. Dermatol. 21, 610,613 (1989). 2.,Chung, J.H. et al. Cutaneous photodamage in Koreans: influence of sex, sun exposure, smoking, and skin color. Arch. Dermatol. 137, 1043,1051 (2001). 3.,Griffiths, C.E. et al. A photonumeric scale for the assessment of cutaneous photodamage. Arch. Dermatol. 128, 347,351 (1992). 4.,Ernster, V.L. et al. Facial wrinkling in men and women, by smoking status. Am. J. Public Health. 85, 78,82 (1995). 5.,Youn, C.S. et al. Effect of pregnancy and menopause on facial wrinkling in women. Acta Derm. Venereol. 83, 419,424 (2003). 6.,Kadunce, D.P. et al. Cigarette smoking: risk factor for premature facial wrinkling. Ann. Intern. Med. 114, 840,844 (1991). 7.,Allen, H.B., Johnson, B.L. and Diamond, S.M. Smoker's wrinkles? JAMA. 225, 1067,1069 (1973). 8.,Chung, J.H. Photoaging in Asians. Photodermatol. Photoimmunol. Photomed. 19, 109,121 (2003). 9.,Kwon, O.S. et al. Seborrheic keratosis in the Korean males: causative role of sunlight. Photodermatol. Photoimmunol. Photomed. 19, 73,80 (2003). [source] Improving cellular function through modulation of energy metabolismINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 5 2004D. Maes The ambivalent consequences of mitochondrial stimulation on cellular activity have been well established. Mitochondria supply the cell with energy through a process of oxidative phosphorylation but thereby generate free radicals, resulting in the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide in the cytoplasm. We have investigated the impact of cellular senescence as well as UV irradiation, on the balance between these two activities. The adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level, DNA and protein synthesis in fibroblasts obtained from donors between 30 and 90 years of age appeared to be significantly influenced by the aging process. Both DNA and protein synthesis could be stimulated by increasing intracellular ATP levels. In-vitro senescent fibroblasts showed a reduction in the level of ATP as well as a shift in mitochondrial membrane potential. At the same time, there was an increase in intracellular hydrogen peroxide with increasing population doubling, indicating a clear dysfunction of the metabolic machinery in the mitochondria of senescent cells. To counteract this degradation of the energy pool, we treated cells with creatine, which is known to restore the pool of phosphocreatine in the mitochondria. Creatine treatment significantly increased cell survival after UV exposure, stimulated the repair of UVB-induced DNA damage in keratinocytes and caused a significant reduction in the number of sunburn cells in a UVB-exposed reconstituted skin model. These results clearly indicate that restoration of the energy pool in mitochondria increased cellular self-defense mechanism. These data show the important role played by the mitochondrial energy metabolism on the aging process, and indicate a possible therapy that can be used to counteract this negative effect. Treatment with creatine seems to provide the necessary boost to the cellular metabolism, which leads to an induction of a significant amount of protection and repair to human skin cells. [source] Lack of desquamation , the Achilles heel of the reconstructed epidermisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 5 2002M. Ponec Synopsis The use of human skin equivalents for screening tests aiming to assess repetitive application of various test agents is hampered by the lack of desquamation in vitro. The present study was undertaken to examine whether the desquamation can be induced by various treatments including mechanical stress, application of various agents that should decrease the surface pH and calcium level, activate the enzymes involved in desquamation process or UV irradiation. In addition, the effect of ,-hydroxyacids, known to enhance desquamation and to improve the stratum corneum barrier function in vivo, was examined as well. Human epidermis reconstructed on de-epidermized dermis or on fibroblast-populated collagen matrices during a 2-week culture at the air,liquid interface underwent various treatments during an additional 3-week period. The effects of treatments were evaluated on the basis of tissue morphology and lipid composition. The results of the present study revealed that cell shedding could only be induced by a mild repetitive mechanical treatment. The lack of desquamation, under most in vitro conditions, has a practical consequence, since it may hamper the use of reconstructed epidermis for various screening studies aiming to examine the repetitive exposure to topical agents or UV irradiation. The gradual thickening of the stratum corneum will lead to its higher resistance to the environmental stimuli and in this way affect the outcome of the tests. Furthermore, from the results obtained in the present study, it became evident that one should be careful in selecting endpoints when, for example, the effects of agents known to modulate melanogenesis are examined. Résumé L'utilization d'équivalents cutanés humains dans les procédures de criblage, afin d'estimer l'action répétée de divers agents, est entravée par l'absence de desquamation in vitro. La présente étude a été entreprise afin de déterminer dans quelle mesure la desquamation peut être induite par différents traitements tels que stress mécanique, application d'agents divers qui conduiraient à une chute du pH de surface et du taux de Calcium, activeraient les enzymes impliquées dans le processus de desquamation, ou l'irradiation UV. De plus, l'effet des , hydroxy-acides, connus pour favouriser la desquamation et d'améliorer la fonction barrière du Stratum-Corneum in vivo, a étéétudié. L'épiderme humain reconstruit sur un derme dé-épidermisé ou sur des matrices de collagène colonisées par des fibroblastes pendant 2 semaines de culture, en interface air × liquide, a subi divers traitements pendant une période additionnelle de 3 semaines. Les effets de ces traitements étaient évalués sur des critères morphologiques du tissu ainsi que la composition en lipides. Les résultats de cette étude montrent que l'élimination cellulaire ne peut être induite que par un léger traitement mécanique répété. L'absence de desquamation dans la plupart des conditions in vitro a une conséquence pratique puisqu'elle peut entraver l'utilization de l'épiderme reconstruit à des fins diverses de criblage en vue d'appréhender les expositions répétées à des agents topiques, ou l'irradiation UV. L'épaississement progressif du Stratum-Corneum lui confèrera une résistance accrue aux stimuli environnementaux qui, en retour, modifiera les résultats des tests. De plus, les résultats de cette présente étude impliquent à l'évidence une précaution dans la sélection des cinétiques de mesures lorsque, par exemple, les effets des agents connus pour moduler la mélanogénèse sont étudiés. [source] Molecule,Surface Plasmon Interactions in Hole Arrays: Enhanced Absorption, Refractive Index Changes, and All-Optical Switching,ADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 10 2006J. Dintinger Enhanced molecular absorption of dyes in the visible range, mediated by surface plasmon excitations on metallic hole arrays, is reported. The combination of these structures with a photochromic cover layer can be used to create an all-optical switching system, essential for the development of active plasmonic devices. The figure shows transmission images of the coated hole array before (left) and after (right) UV irradiation. [source] A Simple Method for the Attachment of Polymer Films on Solid Substrates,ADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 3 2003M. Yan The immobilization of polymer thin films on solid substrates has been achieved using a very simple method, involving spin coating the polymer, followed by UV irradiation. A robust film remains on the substrate surface after solvent extraction. The procedure could be employed to fabricate patterned polymer thin films via photolithography (see Figure). [source] Preparation and characterization of PDLC films formed using a two-step procedureADVANCES IN POLYMER TECHNOLOGY, Issue 1 2007Yu-Che Hsiao Abstract A novel polymer-dispersed liquid crystal composite film was prepared using liquid crystal and dual resins, namely, UV-curable urethane diacrylate and thermo-curable epoxy, with a fixed LC content of 50 wt%. A combination treatment of UV irradiation and heat was performed in sequential steps. At first, the urethane diacrylate resin was cross-linked through UV irradiation and a pre-UV-cured film was formed. Then, the pre-UV-cured film was heat treated for curing the thermo-curable epoxy resin. As the thermal polymerization continued, LC droplets were formed and became embedded within the polymer matrix. PDLC films obtained from the polymer matrix with refractive indices in a range from 1.511 to 1.523 (1.517 ± 0.006) have optimal electro-optical properties. Films with a refractive index higher than 1.523 have high contrast ratio (CR), threshold voltage (Vth), and V90, whereas those with a low refractive index of 1.508 have low CR, Vth, and V90. In this study, we found that PDLC composite films with optimal compositions prepared by dual resins (UV/thermal) have good electro-optical properties. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 26:14,20, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20087 [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||