Association of blood heavy metal levels with osteocalcin abnormality and incidence of osteoporosis in Saudi subjects / Associação de anormalidades de osteocalcina nos níveis de metais pesados no sangue e incidência de osteoporose em indivíduos sauditas

Abstract Serum toxic metals have been implicated in development of many diseases. This study investigated the association between blood levels of lead and cadmium with abnormal bone mineral density (BMD) and incidence of osteoporosis. Sixty Saudi male adults age matching were assigned into two groups: A healthy control group (n = 30) and osteoporosis patients diagnosed according to T-score (n = 30). Serum calcium, vitamin D, osteocalcin, lead, cadmium were measured. Osteoporotic group showed a highly significant elevation of blood lead and cadmium levels compared to the control group (p <0.001). BMD was negatively correlated with serum osteocalcin level compared with control. There was a significant negative correlation between the cadmium and lead levels (r=-0.465 and p-value = 0.01) and calcium (p < 0.004). Our findings suggested that high cadmium and lead were negative correlated to BMD and increased the risk factor for osteoporosis.

Resumo Os metais tóxicos do soro têm sido implicados no desenvolvimento de muitas doenças. Este estudo investigou a associação entre os níveis sanguíneos de chumbo e cádmio com densidade mineral óssea anormal (DMO) e incidência de osteoporose. Sessenta adultos sauditas do sexo masculino com idades iguais foram divididos em dois grupos: um grupo de controle saudável (n = 30) e pacientes com osteoporose diagnosticados de acordo com o T-score (n = 30). Cálcio sérico, vitamina D, osteocalcina, chumbo, cádmio foram medidos. O grupo osteoporótico apresentou elevação altamente significativa dos níveis de chumbo e cádmio no sangue em comparação ao grupo controle (p < 0,001). A DMO foi negativamente correlacionada com o nível de osteocalcina sérica em comparação com o controle. Houve correlação negativa significativa entre os níveis de cádmio e chumbo (r = -0,465 ep = 0,01) e cálcio (p < 0,004). Nossos achados sugeriram que cádmio e chumbo elevados foram correlacionados negativamente à DMO e aumentaram o fator de risco para osteoporose.

The impact of cow dung augmentation on soil restoration and bio-accumulation of metals (Lead and Cadmium) in Pheretima posthuma (Annelida: Clitellata) / O impacto do aumento de esterco de vaca na restauração do solo e bioacumulação de metais (chumbo e cádmio) em Pheretima posthuma (Annelida: Clitellata)

To investigate the role of cow dung in soil reclamation and bio assimilation along with bio accumulation of heavy metals in earthworm (P. posthuma) (N=900) earthworms were used and treatment groups of CD-soil mixture of different proportion of cow dung were designed. Nonlethal doses of lead acetate and cadmium chloride were added in treatment groups. Mature P. posthuma were released in each experimental pot maintaining the favorable conditions. The pH, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, exchangeable cations, and heavy metal level of each mixture was evaluated. The results indicated that bio-assimilation of Pb and Cd by P. posthuma were significantly (P ˂ 0.01) higher in different soil-CD treatments compared to control. Highest bio-assimilation of both metals was observed in T¹ of both groups (Pb = 563.8 mg/kg and Cd = 42.95 mg/kg). The contents of both metals were significantly (P ˂ 0.05) lowered in casting. The nutrient concentration in the final castings of all soil-CD treatments were also equally transformed from less or insoluble to more soluble and available for plants, except for carbon level which increased with CD proportion. It is concluded that cow dung as organic matter has a positive effect on soil reclamation and bio-assimilation of metals by P. posthuma.

Para investigar o papel do esterco de vaca na recuperação do solo e bioassimilação, juntamente com a bioacumulação de metais pesados em minhocas (P. posthuma) (N = 900), minhocas foram usadas e grupos de tratamento de mistura CD-solo de diferentes proporções de esterco de vaca foram projetados. Doses não letais de acetato de chumbo e cloreto de cádmio foram adicionadas aos grupos de tratamento. P. posthuma maduros foram liberados em cada vaso experimental, mantendo as condições favoráveis. Foram avaliados o pH, carbono, nitrogênio, fósforo, cátions trocáveis e nível de metais pesados de cada mistura. Os resultados indicaram que a bioassimilação de Pb e Cd por P. posthuma foi significativamente (P ˂ 0,01) maior em diferentes tratamentos de solo-CD em relação ao controle. A maior bioassimilação de ambos os metais foi observada em T1 de ambos os grupos (Pb = 563,8 mg / kg e Cd = 42,95 mg / kg). O conteúdo de ambos os metais foi significativamente (P ˂ 0,05) reduzido na fundição. A concentração de nutrientes nas fundições finais de todos os tratamentos de solo-CD também foi igualmente transformada de menos ou insolúvel para mais solúvel e disponível para as plantas, exceto o nível de carbono que aumenta com a proporção de CD. Conclui-se que o esterco de vaca como matéria orgânica tem um efeito positivo na recuperação do solo e na bioassimilação de metais por P. posthuma.

Association of blood heavy metal levels with osteocalcin abnormality and incidence of osteoporosis in Saudi subjects / Associação de anormalidades de osteocalcina nos níveis de metais pesados no sangue e incidência de osteoporose em indivíduos sauditas

Serum toxic metals have been implicated in development of many diseases. This study investigated the association between blood levels of lead and cadmium with abnormal bone mineral density (BMD) and incidence of osteoporosis. Sixty Saudi male adults age matching were assigned into two groups: A healthy control group (n = 30) and osteoporosis patients diagnosed according to T-score (n = 30). Serum calcium, vitamin D, osteocalcin, lead, cadmium were measured. Osteoporotic group showed a highly significant elevation of blood lead and cadmium levels compared to the control group (p <0.001). BMD was negatively correlated with serum osteocalcin level compared with control. There was a significant negative correlation between the cadmium and lead levels (r=-0.465 and p-value = 0.01) and calcium (p < 0.004). Our findings suggested that high cadmium and lead were negative correlated to BMD and increased the risk factor for osteoporosis.

Os metais tóxicos do soro têm sido implicados no desenvolvimento de muitas doenças. Este estudo investigou a associação entre os níveis sanguíneos de chumbo e cádmio com densidade mineral óssea anormal (DMO) e incidência de osteoporose. Sessenta adultos sauditas do sexo masculino com idades iguais foram divididos em dois grupos: um grupo de controle saudável (n = 30) e pacientes com osteoporose diagnosticados de acordo com o T-score (n = 30). Cálcio sérico, vitamina D, osteocalcina, chumbo, cádmio foram medidos. O grupo osteoporótico apresentou elevação altamente significativa dos níveis de chumbo e cádmio no sangue em comparação ao grupo controle (p < 0,001). A DMO foi negativamente correlacionada com o nível de osteocalcina sérica em comparação com o controle. Houve correlação negativa significativa entre os níveis de cádmio e chumbo (r = -0,465 ep = 0,01) e cálcio (p < 0,004). Nossos achados sugeriram que cádmio e chumbo elevados foram correlacionados negativamente à DMO e aumentaram o fator de risco para osteoporose.

Spatial correlation between the prevalence of dental fluorosis and the chemical elemental composition of drinking water sources in a typical coal-fired pollution fluorosis area / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective: To investigate the spatial distribution characteristics and correlation between the prevalence of dental fluorosis and the chemical elemental composition of drinking water sources in coal-fired fluorosis areas. Methods: Based on the survey data on the prevalence of dental fluorosis at CDC in Guizhou Province in 2022, 274 original surface drinking water sources were collected in typical coal-fired fluorosis areas, and fluoride (F), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), selenium (Se), molybdenum (Mo), cadmium (Cd), barium (Ba), lead (Pb) 17 elements; apply Moran's I index, Getis-Ord Gi* hotspot analysis of the global spatial autocorrelation of chemical elements in drinking water and the degree of aggregation of each element on the local area, and correlation analysis with the prevalence of dental fluorosis in the region. Results: Except for Cu, Zn, and Cd, global spatial autocorrelation Moran's I was negative, and all other elements were positive. F, Ca, Al, Ti, As, Mo, Cd, and Cu elements showed high values of aggregation in the southeastern low-altitude area; Mg, Ba, Pb, Cr, Mn, and Fe elements were mainly aggregated in the central altitude terrain transition area, Zn and Se elements in water sources are significantly positively correlated with the prevalence of dental fluorosis (P<0.05). In contrast, F, Mg, Al, Ti, As, Mo, Cd, Ba, and Pb elements negatively correlate (P<0.05). Elements in the central region were high-high aggregation, as a hot spot aggregation area with high disease incidence, while F, Al, Mn, Mo, Cd, and Ba elements in the western region were low-low aggregation, as a cold spot aggregation area with a low incidence of fluorosis. Conclusions: The risk of population fluoride exposure in surface drinking water sources is shallow. However, the chemical element content of drinking water sources in coal-fired polluted endemic fluorosis areas has prominent spatial geographical distribution characteristics. There is a significant spatial aggregation effect with the prevalence of dental fluorosis, which may play a synergistic or antagonistic effect on the occurrence and prevalence of dental fluorosis.

Exposición ambiental a plomo y biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en niños sanos de La Plata, Argentina / Environmental exposure to lead and oxidative stress biomarkers among healthy children in La Plata, Argentina

Introducción. La exposición ambiental a plomo (Pb) aún constituye un problema de salud pública, particularmente para los niños. El estrés oxidativo podría representar un mecanismo primario asociado a su toxicidad. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar los niveles de Pb en sangre (Pb-S) en niños de 1 a 6 años de La Plata y alrededores con exposición ambiental, y su relación con biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo. Población y métodos. Estudio analítico de corte transversal. Se evaluaron niños clínicamente sanos de 1 a 6 años. Se determinaron los niveles de Pb-S, las actividades de enzimas antioxidantes y el grado de peroxidación lipídica. Se utilizó el paquete estadístico R versión 3.5.1. Resultados. Participaron 131 niños, mediana de edad 2,33 años. La media geométrica de los niveles de Pb-S fue 1,90 µg/dL; el 32 % presentó plombemias cuantificables y el 3 %, niveles ≥5 µg/dL (referencia internacional). Al comparar los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo según los niveles de Pb-S, solo se observó diferencia significativa entre las medianas de las sustancias reactivas al ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS): 12,0 versus 10,0 nmol MDA/mL plasma; p = 0,02. Asimismo, la correlación entre las plombemias y las TBARS fue positiva (r = 0,24; p = 0,012). Conclusiones. La mayoría de los niños mostraron niveles de Pb-S menores a los límites recomendados por agencias internacionales, que si bien, no producen alteraciones en la actividad de enzimas antioxidantes, sí inducen peroxidación lipídica. Estos resultados reflejan la utilidad de este biomarcador como una herramienta diagnóstica temprana para evaluar los efectos subtóxicos del Pb.

Introduction. Environmental exposure to lead is still a major public health problem, especially in children. Oxidative stress may be a primary mechanism associated with toxicity. Theobjective of this study was to measure blood lead levels (BLLs) in children aged 1 to 6 years expos to lead in La Plata and suburban areas and their relation to oxidative stress biomarkers. Population and methods. Cross-sectional,analytical study. Clinically healthy children aged1 to 6 years were analyzed. BLLs, antioxidant enzyme activity, and extent of lipid peroxidation were measured. The statistical softwarepackage R, version 3.5.1, was used. Results. A total of 131 children participated; their median age was 2.33 years. The geometric mean of BLLs was 1.90 µg/dL; 32% showed a measurable BLL and 3%, BLLs ≥ 5 µg/dL (international reference). The comparison ofoxidative stress biomarkers based on BLshowed a significant difference in median thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS):12.0 versus 10.0 nmol MDA/mL of plasma;p = 0.02. In addition, the correlation between BLLs and TBARS was positive (r = 0.24; p = 0.012 Conclusions. Most children had a BLL below the limit recommended by international agencies; although such BLLs do not affantioxidant enzyme activity, they can induce lipid peroxidation. These results demonstrate theusefulness of this biomarker as an early diagnosistool to assess subtoxic lead effects.

Protective effect of Rheum ribes extract against lead-induced hepatotoxicity in male rats

Abstract The effects of Rheum ribes on lead acetate levels and hepatic biochemical factors due to lead acetate toxicity were investigated. Forty male Wistar rats were designated into four groups: Control; lead acetate (receiving in drinking water at 0.6 g/L, daily); hydroalcoholic extract groups (200 and 400 mg/kg doses, gavage, once daily). Treatments were conducted for 10 days. On the 11th day, blood samples were collected to measure lead acetate levels and biochemical factors. Liver tissue samples were examined for histopathological changes. Lead serum levels were increased in lead acetate-treated rats (p<0.001). Lead acetate treatment was associated with a significant increase in liver tissue damage (p<0.001), while R. ribes extract prevented liver tissue damage (p<0.05). The levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were significantly lower in the groups lead acetate + extract (two doses) than in the lead acetate group (p<0.001 and P<0.01, respectively), but alkaline phosphatase level, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time and international normalized ratio were not different between the lead acetate + extract groups and the lead acetate group. The results showed the inhibitory role of R. ribes on lead-induced hepato-toxicity. The results make Rhubarb a good candidate to protect against the deleterious effect of chronic lead intoxication after complementary studies

Meta-analysis on the contents of trace elements in workers with occupational exposure to lead / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To quantitatively evaluate the content differences of trace elements in workers with occupational exposure to lead. Methods: In January 2021, relevant literatures on the contents of trace elements in workers with occupational exposure to lead published from 1990 to 2020 were searched through CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, PubMed, web of science and Embase. Screened and extracted the literatures, and evaluated the quality of the included literatures with Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Meta analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.3 software, and standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval were used as effect indicators. Results: A total of 20 literatures were included, and the quality scores were 5-7. The results of Meta-analysis showed that compared with the control group, the contents of blood zinc (SMD=-1.01, 95%CI: -1.53, -0.49) , hair zinc (SMD=-0.17, 95%CI: -0.33, -0.01) , hair copper (SMD=-0.50, 95%CI: -1.01, 0) , hair iron (SMD=-3.91, 95%CI: -5.80, -2.03) and hair manganese (SMD=-1.09, 95%CI: -2.02, -0.15) in occupational lead exposure group were significantly lower (P<0.05) . Compared with the control group, the content of cobalt in hair of occupational lead exposure group (SMD=1.41, 95%CI: 0.72, 2.10) was higher, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) . There was no significant difference in the contents of blood chromium, blood copper, blood iron, blood manganese, blood selenium and hair nickel between the two groups (P>0.05) . Conclusion: Workers with occupational exposure to lead have abnormal trace elements.

A Physiological behavior and tolerance of Lactuca sativa to lead nitrate and silver nitrate heavy metals / Comportamento fisiológico e tolerância de Lactuca sativa aos metais pesados nitrato de chumbo e nitrato de prata

This study goal to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of lead (Pb) and silver (Ag) on germination, initial growth and anatomical alterations of Lactuca sativa L. Plants use various mechanisms to reduce the impacts caused by anthropic action, such as xenobiotic elements of soils and water contaminated by heavy metals. These metals were supplied as lead nitrate and silver nitrate and the following treatments were established: control for both metals, maximum dose of heavy metals, for arable soils, allowed by the National Council of the Environment (Ag = 25 mg. Kg-1, Pb = 180 mg. Kg-1), double (Ag = 50 mg. Kg-1, Pb = 360 mg. Kg-1) and triple (Ag = 75 mg. Kg-1, Pb = 540 mg. Kg -1) of this dosage. Vigor and germination tests of the seeds and possible anatomical changes in the leaves and roots of lettuce plants were performed. The species showed a high capacity to germinate under Pb and Ag stress, and the germination was never completely inhibited; however, the germination decreased with increasing Pb concentrations, but not under Ag stress. The use of increasing doses of metals reduced seed vigor and increased chlorophyll content. An increase in biomass was also observed in plants from treatments submitted to Pb. The phytotoxic effects of metals were more pronounced at 15 days after sowing. Anatomically, L. sativa was influenced by metal concentrations, and had a reduction of up to 79.9% in root epidermis thickness at the highest Pb concentration, although some structures did not suffer significant changes. The results suggest that L. sativa presents tolerance to high concentrations of heavy metals, showing possible mechanisms to overcome the stress caused by these metals. In this research lettuce possibly used the mechanism of exclusion of metals retaining Pb and Ag in the roots preserving the photosynthetic apparatus in the aerial part of the plants. In general, the chemical element Pb was more toxic than Ag, in these experimental conditions.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de diferentes concentrações de chumbo (Pb) e prata (Ag) na germinação, crescimento inicial e alterações anatômicas de Lactuca sativa L. As plantas utilizam vários mecanismos para reduzir os impactos causados pela ação antrópica, como elementos xenobióticos de solos e água contaminada por metais pesados. Esses metais foram fornecidos como nitrato de chumbo e nitrato de prata e foram estabelecidos os seguintes tratamentos: controle para ambos os metais, dose máxima de metais pesados, para solos cultiváveis, permitida pelo Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente (Ag = 25mg.Kg-1, Pb = 180mg.Kg-1), dobro (Ag = 50mg.Kg-1, Pb = 360mg.Kg-1) e triplo (Ag = 75mg.Kg-1, Pb = 540 mg.Kg -1) desta dosagem. Foram realizados testes de vigor e germinação das sementes e possíveis alterações anatômicas nas folhas e raízes das plantas de alface. A espécie apresentou alta capacidade de germinar sob estresse de Ag e Pb, e a germinação nunca foi completamente inibida; entretanto, a germinação diminuiu com o aumento das concentrações de Pb, mas não sob estresse de Ag. O uso de doses crescentes dos metais, reduziu o vigor das sementes e aumentou o teor de clorofila. Também foi observado aumento da biomassa nas plantas a partir dos tratamentos submetidos ao Pb. Os efeitos fitotóxicos dos metais foram mais acentuados aos 15 dias após a semeadura. Anatomicamente, L. sativa foi influenciada pelas concentrações de metais, e teve uma redução de até 79,9% na espessura da epiderme radicular na maior concentração de Pb, embora algumas estruturas não tenham sofrido alterações significativas. Os resultados sugerem que L. sativa apresenta tolerância a altas concentrações de metais pesados, mostrando possíveis mecanismos para superar o estresse causado por esses metais. Nesta pesquisa a alface possivelmente utilizou o mecanismo de exclusão de metais retendo Pb e Ag nas raízes preservando o aparato fotossintético na parte aérea das plantas. De forma geral o elemento químico Pb se mostrou mais tóxico que Ag, nestas condições experimentais.

Comparison of chest CT scan findings between COVID-19 and pulmonary contusion in trauma patients based on RSNA criteria: Established novel criteria for trauma victims / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

PROPOSE@#In this study, we re-assessed the criteria defined by the radiological society of North America (RSNA) to determine novel radiological findings helping the physicians differentiating COVID-19 from pulmonary contusion.@*METHODS@#All trauma patients with blunt chest wall trauma and subsequent pulmonary contusion, COVID-19-related signs and symptoms before the trauma were enrolled in this retrospective study from February to May 2020. Included patients (Group P) were then classified into two groups based on polymerase chain reaction tests (Group Pa for positive patients and Pb for negative ones). Moreover, 44 patients from the pre-pandemic period (Group PP) were enrolled. They were matched to Group P regarding age, sex, and trauma-related scores. Two radiologists blindly reviewed the CT images of all enrolled patients according to criteria defined by the RSNA criteria. The radiological findings were compared between Group P and Group PP; statistically significant ones were re-evaluated between Group Pa and Group Pb thereafter. Finally, the sensitivity and specificity of each significant findings were calculated. The Chi-square test was used to compare the radiological findings between Group P and Group PP.@*RESULTS@#In the Group PP, 73.7% of all ground-glass opacities (GGOs) and 80% of all multiple bilateral GGOs were detected (p < 0.001 and p = 0.25, respectively). Single bilateral GGOs were only seen among the Group PP. The Chi-square tests showed that the prevalence of diffused GGOs, multiple unilateral GGOs, multiple consolidations, and multiple bilateral consolidations were significantly higher in the Group P (p = 0.001, 0.01, 0.003, and 0.003, respectively). However, GGOs with irregular borders and single consolidations were more significant among the Group PP (p = 0.01 and 0.003, respectively). Of note, reticular distortions and subpleural spares were exclusively detected in the Group PP.@*CONCLUSION@#We concluded that the criteria set by RSNA for the diagnosis of COVID-19 are not appropriate in trauma patients. The clinical signs and symptoms are not always useful either. The presence of multiple unilateral GGOs, diffused GGOs, and multiple bilateral consolidations favor COVID-19 with 88%, 97.62%, and 77.7% diagnostic accuracy.

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the tissues of Schizothorax plagiostomus at River Swat / Bioacumulação de metais pesados nos tecidos de Plagiostomo esquizotórax em River Swat

Snow trout (Schizothorax plagiostomus) is an economically important freshwater fish, mostly found in northern areas of water reservoirs of Pakistan. The current study was conducted in River Swat to analyze the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Ni, and Zn) in tissues of Schizothorax plagiostomus. Tissues were extracted and dissolved in perchloric acid (HClO4) and nitric acid (HNO3) along with hotplate. The heavy metals, zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), and Nickel (Ni) were determined using Perkin Elmer 2380 atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results shows great variation in the content of the metal related to tissue type and sampling sites. A high concentration of bioaccumulation was reported at Charbagh, whereas lowest at Odigram: Charbagh>Landakai>Odigram. In the same way, Cr was the most accumulated heavy metal followed by lead, nickel, and Zinc.

A truta das neves (Schizothorax plagiostomus) é um peixe de água doce economicamente importante, encontrado principalmente nas áreas ao norte de reservatórios de água do Paquistão. O presente estudo foi realizado em River Swat para analisar a bioacumulação de metais pesados (Pb, Cr, Ni e Zn) em tecidos de Schizothorax plagiostomus. Os tecidos foram extraídos e dissolvidos em ácido perclórico (HClO4) e ácido nítrico (HNO3) com placa de aquecimento. Os metais pesados zinco (Zn), chumbo (Pb), cromo (Cr) e níquel (Ni) foram determinados usando espectrofotômetro de absorção atômica Perkin Elmer 2380. Os resultados mostram grande variação no conteúdo do metal relacionado ao tipo de tecido e locais de amostragem. Uma alta concentração de bioacumulação foi relatada em Charbagh, enquanto a mais baixa, em Odigram: Charbagh > Landakai > Odigram. Da mesma forma, Cr foi o metal pesado mais acumulado, seguido por Pb, Ni e Zn.

A Physiological behavior and tolerance of Lactuca sativa to lead nitrate and silver nitrate heavy metals / Comportamento fisiológico e tolerância de Lactuca sativa aos metais pesados nitrato de chumbo e nitrato de prata

This study goal to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of lead (Pb) and silver (Ag) on germination, initial growth and anatomical alterations of Lactuca sativa L. Plants use various mechanisms to reduce the impacts caused by anthropic action, such as xenobiotic elements of soils and water contaminated by heavy metals. These metals were supplied as lead nitrate and silver nitrate and the following treatments were established: control for both metals, maximum dose of heavy metals, for arable soils, allowed by the National Council of the Environment (Ag = 25 mg. Kg-¹, Pb = 180 mg. Kg-¹), double (Ag = 50 mg. Kg-¹, Pb = 360 mg. Kg-¹) and triple (Ag = 75 mg. Kg-¹, Pb = 540 mg. Kg-¹) of this dosage. Vigor and germination tests of the seeds and possible anatomical changes in the leaves and roots of lettuce plants were performed. The species showed a high capacity to germinate under Pb and Ag stress, and the germination was never completely inhibited; however, the germination decreased with increasing Pb concentrations, but not under Ag stress. The use of increasing doses of metals reduced seed vigor and increased chlorophyll content. An increase in biomass was also observed in plants from treatments submitted to Pb. The phytotoxic effects of metals were more pronounced at 15 days after sowing. Anatomically, L. sativa was influenced by metal concentrations, and had a reduction of up to 79.9% in root epidermis thickness at the highest Pb concentration, although some structures did not suffer significant changes. The results suggest that L. sativa presents tolerance to high concentrations of heavy metals, showing possible mechanisms to overcome the stress caused by these metals. In this research lettuce possibly used the mechanism of exclusion of metals retaining Pb and Ag in the roots preserving the photosynthetic apparatus in the aerial part of the plants. In general, the chemical element Pb was more toxic than Ag, in these experimental conditions.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de diferentes concentrações de chumbo (Pb) e prata (Ag) na germinação, crescimento inicial e alterações anatômicas de Lactuca sativa L. As plantas utilizam vários mecanismos para reduzir os impactos causados pela ação antrópica, como elementos xenobióticos de solos e água contaminada por metais pesados. Esses metais foram fornecidos como nitrato de chumbo e nitrato de prata e foram estabelecidos os seguintes tratamentos:controle para ambos os metais, dose máxima de metais pesados, para solos cultiváveis, permitida pelo Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente (Ag = 25mg.Kg-¹, Pb = 180mg.Kg-¹), dobro (Ag = 50mg.Kg-¹, Pb = 360mg.Kg-¹) e triplo (Ag = 75mg.Kg-¹, Pb = 540 mg.Kg-¹) desta dosagem. Foram realizados testes de vigor e germinação das sementes e possíveis alterações anatômicas nas folhas e raízes das plantas de alface. A espécie apresentou alta capacidade de germinar sob estresse de Ag e Pb, e a germinação nunca foi completamente inibida; entretanto, a germinação diminuiu com o aumento das concentrações de Pb, mas não sob estresse de Ag. O uso de doses crescentes dos metais, reduziu o vigor das sementes e aumentou o teor de clorofila. Também foi observado aumento da biomassa nas plantas a partir dos tratamentos submetidos ao Pb. Os efeitos fitotóxicos dos metais foram mais acentuados aos 15 dias após a semeadura. Anatomicamente, L. sativa foi influenciada pelas concentrações de metais, e teve uma redução de até 79,9% na espessura da epiderme radicular na maior concentração de Pb, embora algumas estruturas não tenham sofrido alterações significativas. Os resultados sugerem que L. sativa apresenta tolerância a altas concentrações de metais pesados, mostrando possíveis mecanismos para superar o estresse causado por esses metais. Nesta pesquisa a alface possivelmente utilizou o mecanismo de exclusão de metais retendo Pb e Ag nas raízes preservando o aparato [...].

Mechanism of paeoniflorin inhibiting apoptosis of hippocampal neurons of rats induced by lead acetate / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To investigate the effect and underlying mechanism of paeoniflorin on hippocampal neuron apoptosis induced by lead acetate. Methods: In September 2020, primary hippocampal neuronal cells were isolated and cultured from fetal rats, and identified using cellular immunofluorescent. MTT assay was used to measure the cell viability to determine the concentration and time of lead acetate-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis. MTT was also used to evaluate the effect of paeoniflorin concentration on the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons induced by lead acetate. According to the results, different concentrations of paeoniflorin were selected to intervene hippocampal neuron cells, after 24 h, lead acetate was added to the cells, meanwhile, blank and model groups were set up, the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) , superoxide dismutase (SOD) , lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) , malondialdehyde (MDA) and Caspase-3 were measured. Extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) , phosphorylated ERK (p-ERK) , p38 mitogen -activated protein kinases (p38MAPK) , phosphorylated p38MAPK (p-p38MAPK) , c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and phosphorylated JNK (p-JNK) protein expression in hippocampal neuronal cells were determined by Western blotting. Results: The isolated and cultured hippocampal neurons were identified by immunofluorescence chemical staining and then treated with lead acetate, MTT results showed that lead acetate had the best toxicity effect when treated for 24 h at a concentration of 25 μmol/L. Paeoniflorin showed no cytotoxic effect on hippocampal neuronal cells when the concentrations below 80 μmol/L. Compared with the model group, the activity of hippocampal neuronal cells was significantly increased after treating with 20, 40 or 80 μmol/L paeoniflorin (P<0.05) . Compared with the blank group, the ROS activity, LDH release level, MDA content and caspase-3 content were significantly increased (P<0.01) , and the SOD activity was significantly decreased (P< 0.01) in the hippocampal neuronal cells of the model group. Compared with the model group, the ROS activity, LDH release level, MDA content and caspase-3 content were obviously decreased (P<0.05) , SOD activity was significantly increased (P <0.01) after hippocampal neuronal cells were treated with 40 or 80 μmol/L paeoniflorin. Relative to the model group, the ratio of p-ERK/ERK were significantly up-regulated (P<0.01) , while the ratios of p-p38MAPK/p38MAPK and p-JNK/JNK were significantly down-regulated after hippocampal neuronal cells were treated with 40 or 80 μmol/L paeoniflorin (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Paeoniflorin may down-regulate the expression of p-p38MAPK and p-JNK protein, up-regulate the expression of p-ERK protein, and inhibit the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons induced by lead acetate through the MAPK signaling pathway.

Relationships between lead-induced learning and memory impairments and gut microbiota disturbance in mice / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To explore the effect of lead exposure on the neurobehavior and gut microbiota community structure in mice. Methods: In August 2019, 64 C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (0 ppm) , low lead exposure group (20 mg/l) , medium lead exposure group (100 mg/l) and high lead exposure group (500 mg/l) . During the experiment, they were free to eat and drink. The drinking water of the lead exposure group was mixed with lead acetate, and sodium acetate was added in the control group. After 10 weeks of exposure, the Morris water maze was used to test the learning and memory ability of each group of mice, and then they were sacrificed for sampling. ICP-MS was used to detect lead content in whole blood and brain tissue. ELISA was used to determine the level of IL-1β in mouse serum. 16S rRNA sequencing was used to detect the structural diversity of the intestinal flora in feces, and then the correlation between the flora and behavior indicators was analyzed. Results: In the Morris water maze experiment, compared with the control group, there was no significant difference in the body weight and swimming speed of the mice in the lead exposure groups. The escape latency of the mice in the 100 mg/l and 500 mg/l dose groups was prolonged, and the number of platform crossings decreased (P<0.05) ; meanwhile, the staying time of the mice in the 500 mg/l Pb-treated group in the target quadrant was lower than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) . Compared with the control group, the blood lead content of the mice in each lead exposure group was significantly increased, and the brain lead content of mice in the 500 mg/l dose group was significantly elevated (P<0.05) . The serum IL-1β levels of mice in each lead exposure group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05) . At the phylum level, the relative abundance of the Proteobacteria phylum in all of Pb-treated groups was significantly increased (P<0.05) ; at the genus level, Allobaculum, Desulfovibrio, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Turicibacter and Ureaplasma were significantly increased (P<0.05) . Among them. The relative abundance of Desuffaoibrio, Turici bacter, and Ureaplasma was negatively correlated with the residence time of mice in the quadrant of the platform (r=-0.32, -0.29, -0.44, P<0.05) . Conclusion: Lead exposure induced learning and memory impairments in mice, which may be related to the disturbance of the gut microbiota.

Analysis of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning reported online and subsequent diagnosis in Jiangsu Province from 2014 to 2018 / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To understand the distribution and characteristics of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning reported online by Jiangsu Province, and to track the final diagnosis of suspected cases. Methods: The suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning cases in Jiangsu Province reported online from 2014 to 2018 were collected as the survey objects. Based on the reporting of the Occupational Disease Report Card from January 1, 2014 to November 5, 2019, the distribution characteristics and reporting institutions of suspected cases and final confirmed cases were analyzed. Results: From 2014 to 2018, 312 cases of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning were reported online in Jiangsu Province. There were significant differences in the number of online reported cases of occupational chronic lead poisoning, online reported cases of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning and confirmed cases of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning in different years (P<0.05) , especially in 2015. Among the suspected occupational lead poisoning cases reported online, 236 cases (75.6%) were male, mainly distributed in the manufacturing industry, and 246 cases (79.1%) were operators. All the suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning cases reported online were concentrated in private enterprises, 229 cases (73.4%) in small and medium-sized enterprises. The top three cities were Suqian with 111 cases (35.6%) , Yangzhou with 79 cases (25.3%) and Huai'an with 50 cases (16.0%) . From 2014 to 2018, 19 suspected cases of occupational chronic lead poisoning were finally confirmed in Jiangsu Province, with a diagnosis rate of 6.1%. Conclusion: The majority of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning cases reported online in Jiangsu Province are men, manufacturing and small and medium-sized enterprises, and the final diagnosis rate of suspected occupational chronic lead poisoning cases reported online is low.

Pollution characteristics, source analysis, and risk assessment of metal and metalloid in PM2.5 of Shijiazhuang city / 中华预防医学杂志

In 2020, the mass concentration of PM2.5 in Shijiazhuang urban area was(80.30±71.43)μg/m3. The Spearman correlation analysis between metals and metalloids showed that Sb with Cd, Pb, Ni, Se, Cd with Pb, Ni, Se, Pb with Ni, Se, Ni with Se, and Se with Tl were positively correlated, with a coefficient greater than 0.5. The main sources of metals and metalloids of PM2.5 were traffic emissions, fuel combustion, metal smelting and dust. The HQ values of Pb, Hg and Mn for each population were less than 1, with lower non-carcinogenic risk. The R values of carcinogenic risk of Ni and Cd in each population were less than 1×10-6, which could be acceptable risk level for the population. The R values of carcinogenic risk of As and Cr in different populations were between 1×10-6 and 1×10-4, with potential carcinogenic risk, particularly higher in adult males.

Avaliação de risco à saúde humana associada a exposição inalatória de arsênio, níquel e chumbo no MP10 de fonte veicular, na cidade de São Paulo, SP / Assessment of human health risks associated with airborne arsenic, nickel and lead exposure in PM10 from vehicular sources in Sao Paulo city

Introdução. O material particulado (MP) emitido pela queima de combustíveis fósseis de origem veicular é a principal fonte de exposição ambiental à elementos potencialmente tóxicos (EPTs) presentes no ar atmosférico dos centros urbanos, entre eles arsênio, níquel e chumbo. Objetivos. Este estudo avaliou os riscos à saúde humana de efeitos não carcinogênicos e efeitos carcinogênicos associados a exposição inalatória de arsênio, níquel e chumbo no MP10 de origem veicular, coletado em uma das estações de monitoramento da qualidade do ar, na cidade de São Paulo, ao longo dos anos 2002, 2006, 2009 e 2012. Métodos. Os dados de concentração dos EPTs foram obtidos pela Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo (CETESB) e estão disponíveis no website da agência. As amostras semanais foram coletadas em todas as estações do ano, durante 2002, 2006, 2009 e 2012 na estação de monitoramento Cerqueira César, localizada próximo a uma via de intenso tráfego veicular. A análise estatística foi realizada utilizando o Software R (versão 4.0.5) e RStudio (versão 1.2). O software ProUCL foi usado para estimar os valores UCL95%. A avaliação de risco à saúde humana foi realizada de acordo com os métodos da United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Resultados. As concentrações de arsênio e chumbo no ar apresentaram médias mais elevadas durante o inverno do que nas outras estações (p <0,05). O chumbo apresentou o maior risco de efeitos não carcinogênicos (HQ> 1,0). Arsênio e níquel apresentaram o maior risco de efeitos carcinogênicos, inclusive acima de 1E-06. O risco para ambos os efeitos foi maior no inverno. Conclusão. Esses achados destacam a importância da poluição do ar como fator de risco para a saúde da população, principalmente em centros urbanos com intenso tráfego veicular. Ações para reduzir a exposição à poluição do ar ambiente devem ser priorizadas nas agendas de políticas ambientais e de saúde.

Background. Particulate matter (PM) emitted from the burning of fuels by vehicles is the main source of environmental exposure to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) present in atmospheric air in urban centers, between them arsenic, nickel and lead. Objective. This study evaluated the risk to human health from non-carcinogenic effects and carcinogenic effects associated with airborne arsenic, nickel and lead in PM10 exposure of the vehicular source collected at one of the air quality monitoring stations in the city of Sao Paulo over the years 2002, 2006, 2009 and 2012. Methods. The concentration data of the PTEs were obtained by the Sao Paulo State Environmental Protection Agency (CETESB) and are available on the agency's website. The statistical analysis was performed using the Software R (version 4.0.5) and RStudio (version 1.2). ProUCL software was used to estimate UCL95% values. The risk assessment for human health was carried out according to the methods of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Results. Airborne arsenic and lead concentrations showed higher means during the winter than in other seasons (p<0.05). Lead had the greatest risk of non-carcinogenic effects (HQ>1.0). Arsenic and nickel had the highest risk of carcinogenic effects, including above 1E-06. The risk for both effects was greatest in winter. Conclusion. These findings highlight the importance of air pollution as a risk factor for population health, especially in urban centers with high vehicular traffic. Actions to reduce air pollution exposure should be prioritized in environmental and health policies agendas.

Synthesis of New Thiazole Derivatives Bearing Thiazolidin-4(5H)-One Structure and Evaluation of Their Antimicrobial Activity

The first report about antimicrobial resistance was published in the 1940s. And today, the antimicrobial resistance has become a worldwide problem. Because of this problem, there is a need to develop new drugs. That's why we synthesized some novel thiazolidine-4-one derivatives and evaluated their antimicrobial activity. The final compounds were obtained by reacting 2-[(4,5-diphenylthiazol-2-yl)imino]thiazolidin-4-one with some aryl aldehydes. The synthesized compounds were investigated for their antimicrobial activity against four Candida species, five gram-negative and four gram-positive bacterial species. The lead compounds (4a- h) were obtained with a yield of at least 70%. All compounds showed antimicrobial activity. Compound 4f (MIC: 31.25 µg/ml) exhibited more efficacy than the other compounds against C. glabrata (ATCC 24433). Compound 4b (MIC: 62.5 µg/ml) was the most active compound against all bacterial species, particularly K. pneumoniae (NCTC 9633). Whereas, compound 4c (MIC: <31.25 µg/ml) was observed as the most active compound against E. coli (ATCC 25922). In general, all compounds (4a-4h) showed antimicrobial activity against all fungi and bacterial species. Compounds 4b (2,6-dichlorobenzylidene), 4c (2,6-dihydroxybenzylidene), 4f (1H-pyrrol-2- yl)methylene), 4g (4-triflouromethylbenzylidene) and 4h (2,3,4-trimethoxybenzylidene) were determined as the most active compounds

Uma reflexão sobre o uso da tomografia computadorizada em Endodontia / Considerations on the use of computed tomography in Endodontics

Será o exame de tomografia computadorizada realmente de alto custo para o paciente, ou existe uma resistência por grande parte dos profissionais em indicá-lo? Paradigmas já foram quebrados com relação à dose de radiação. Ela é tão pequena que, em muitas universidades nos EUA, o paciente não utiliza avental de chumbo durante o exame. Isso se dá porque o exame usado para Endodontia tem algumas diferenças em relação à tomografia médica (AU).

Is the CT scan really a high cost for the patient, or is there a resistance on the part of most professionals to indicate it? Paradigms have already been broken with regard to the radiation dose. In many universities in the USA, the patient does not wear a lead apron during the exam because the dose is so small. The reason for this is that the exam used for Endodontics has some differences in relation to medical tomography (AU).

Relação entre níveis de chumbo e cádmio no sangue e a prisão de ventre crônica refratária entre crianças iranianas / Relationship between lead and cadmium levels in blood and refractory chronic constipation among iranian children

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: There is limited research examining reasons causing refractory chronic constipation (RCC) in children. The effects of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) exposures on this condition have been even less clear. However, some related factors may contribute to evaluation of blood lead levels (BLLs) and blood cadmium levels (BCLs). OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to examine the relationship between Pb and Cd exposures and RCC in children living in the city of Ahvaz, Khuzestan Province, in Southwestern Iran. METHODS: This study was performed on a total number of 48 children aged 2-13 years, including 36 medically-diagnosed RCC cases and 12 controls referring to a pediatric clinic in the city of Ahvaz. Their BLLs and BCLs were then determined using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The data from the researcher-designed questionnaire were also recoded and the related risk factors were analyzed through Spearman's correlation and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: The findings revealed that the geometric means of Pb and Cd in blood samples in the control group were 58.95 µg/dL and 0.45 µg/dL; respectively. These values in the case group were equally 45.26 µg/dL and 0.26 µg/dL; respectively. A significant difference was additionally observed between BCLs in the case and control groups (P<0.01). All children in both groups also had BLLs greater than the permissible limit endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) (≤10 µg/dL). On the other hand, 8.3% of the individuals in the case group and 33.3% of those in the control group had BCLs higher than the acceptable range mentioned by WHO (≤0.5 µg/dL). CONCLUSION: Pb and Cd exposures due to environmental pollution and susceptibility to heavy metals may not be associated with RCC in children living in the city of Ahvaz. Although this research was the first one providing data on BLLs and BCLs in children with RCC, the findings could be useful for designing future epidemiologic studies.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Há limitadas pesquisas que procuram razões que causem constipação crônica refratária (CCR) em crianças. Os efeitos das exposições de chumbo (Pb) e cádmio (Cd) nesta condição têm sido ainda menos claros. No entanto, alguns fatores relacionados podem contribuir para a avaliação dos níveis de Pb no sangue (NPbSs) e dos níveis de Cd no sangue (NCdSs). OBJETIVO: O presente estudo teve como objetivo examinar a relação entre as exposições de Pb e Cd e a CCR em crianças residentes na cidade de Ahvaz, província de Khuzestan, no Sudoeste do Irã. MÉTODOS: Este estudo foi realizado em um número total de 48 crianças de 2 a 13 anos, incluindo 36 casos de CCR diagnosticados clinicamente, e 12 controles encaminhados a uma clínica pediátrica na cidade de Ahvaz. Seus NPbSs e NCdSs foram então determinados usando um espectrógrafo de absorção atômica do forno de grafite. Os dados do questionário projetado pelo pesquisador também foram recodificados, e os fatores de risco relacionados foram analisados por meio da análise de correlação e regressão logística de Spearman. RESULTADOS: Os achados revelaram que as médias geométricas de Pb e Cd em amostras de sangue no grupo controle foram de 58,95 μg/dL e 0,45 μg/dL; respectivamente. Esses valores no grupo constipação foram igualmente 45,26 μg/dL e 0,26 μg/dL; respectivamente. Observou-se diferença significativa entre os NCdSs nos grupos de caso e controle (P<0,01). Todas as crianças de ambos os grupos também apresentaram NPbSs maiores do que o limite permitido endossado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) (≤10 μg/dL). Por outro lado, 8,3% dos indivíduos no grupo de casos e 33,3% dos do grupo controle apresentaram NCdSs superiores à faixa aceitável mencionada pela OMS (≤0,5 μg/dL). CONCLUSÃO: As exposições de Pb e Cd por poluição ambiental e suscetibilidade a metais pesados podem não estar associadas à CCR em crianças residentes na cidade de Ahvaz. Embora esta pesquisa tenha sido a primeira a fornecer dados sobre NPbSs e NCdSs em crianças com CCR, os achados poderiam ser úteis para a concepção de futuros estudos epidemiológicos.

Bioconcentración de metales pesados (Zn, Hg, Pb) en tejidos de Ariopsis felis y Diplodus annularis en el río Ranchería, norte de Colombia / Bioconcentration of heavy metals (Zn, Hg, Pb) in tissues of Ariopsis felis and Diplodus annularis in the Ranchería river, Northern Colombia

RESUMEN La contaminación por metales pesados en los ecosistemas acuáticos en el planeta es una de las más severas problemáticas que comprometen la seguridad alimentaria a nivel local, regional y global. En este estudio, se aborda el problema específico de la bioconcentración de mercurio (Hg), plomo (Pb) y Zinc (Zn) en los tejidos orgánicos de 2 de las especies de peces (Ariopsis felis y Diplodus annularis) de mayor importancia alimenticia para los pobladores rivereños del río Ranchería, al norte de Colombia. Las muestras de tejido orgánico se sometieron a una digestión ácida (HNO3 y HClO 4 en relación 3:1) y la cuantificación de los metales se realizó por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica. Adicionalmente, se midieron los niveles de los metales en el sedimento, con el objeto de determinar índices de calidad medioambientales, lo que permitió determinar que los metales pesados no presentan riesgo para los organismos acuáticos que habitan en esta zona. Se encontraron diferentes valores de concentración de metales pesados: en orden decreciente, Zn > Hg > Pb, en sedimento, y Hg > Zn > Pb, en el tejido biológico. Los resultados muestran que las concentraciones de los metales pesados presentes en el tejido de los peces y en el sedimento guardan una correlación positiva y una regresión lineal estadísticamente significativa (p = 0,001, p < 0,05). La presencia de metales pesados en el sedimento del río y de bioconcentrados en los peces podría derivarse de fuentes puntuales y difusas relacionadas con actividades agrícolas, pecuarias, mineras y aguas residuales.

ABSTRACT Heavy metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems in the area is one of the most severe problems that compromise food security at the local, regional and global levels. In this study, the specific problem of the bioconcentration of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn) in 2 of the higher nutritional importance fish species (Ariopsis felis and Diplodus annularis) for the riverside inhabitants of the Ranchería river, in northern Colombia, is addressed. The organic tissue samples were subjected to acid digestion (HNO3 and HClO4 in a 3:1 ratio), and the quantification of metals was carried out by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Additionally, the levels of metals in the sediment were measured, in order to determine environmental quality indices. This allow to determine that heavy metals do not present a risk to the aquatic organisms that inhabit this area. Different heavy metal concentration values were found: in decreasing order, Zn> Hg> Pb in sediment, and Hg> Zn> Pb in biological tissue. The results reveal that the concentrations of heavy metals present in fish tissue and sediment show a positive correlation, and a statistically significant linear regression (p = 0,001, p < 0,05). The presence of heavy metals in river sediment and bioconcentrates in fish could derive from point and diffuse sources related to agricultural, livestock, mining and wastewater activities.