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.

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.

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 [...].

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.

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

Avaliação da contaminação por cobre e chumbo do lago Aratimbó - Umuarama - Pr / Evaluation of copper and lead contamination of the Aratimbó lake in Umuarama - Paraná

Este trabalho teve como objetivo quantificar os metais Cobre e Chumbo presentes na água e no sedimento do lago Aratimbó, localizado na cidade de Umuarama-PR e analisar os indicadores abióticos de temperatura e pH da água. As coletas foram feitas em triplicatas, em três pontos distintos, em dois diferentes dias, sendo o primeiro em tempo seco, anterior a chuva e outro logo após a primeira chuva. As amostras tiveram sua temperatura e pH verificado in loco e a determinação dos metais ocorreu por meio de Espectrofotometria de Absorção Atômica por chama. Os resultados de pH obtiveram valores satisfatórios em todos os pontos. Em relação à concentração de metais, na água, houve maior concentração de chumbo antes da chuva e uma concentração abaixo do limite apenas para o cobre no ponto 1. No sedimento, a concentração de ambos metais foi maior antes da chuva, exceto no ponto três, onde a concentração foi maior após a chuva. É possível que os maiores valores de concentração para os metais tenham sido superiores no período de seca em virtude do volume aumentado de água após a chuva, com maior diluição. Assim, podendo atribuir a contaminação às atividades antropogênicas, uma vez que o lago se localiza em região urbana central.

The purpose of this paper was to quantify the copper and lead present in the water and sediments of the Aratimbó lake, located in the city of Umuarama, in the state of Paraná, and to analyze the abiotic indicators of temperature and pH of the water. The samples were taken in triplicate at three different points, on two different days - the first during dry weather, before the rain, and the other after the first rain. The temperature and pH of the samples were verified in locu and the metals were determined through Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry by flame. The pH results obtained satisfactory values ​​at all points. Regarding the concentration of metals in the water, a higher concentration of lead was observed before the rain and a concentration below the limit was observed only for copper in point 1. In the sediment, the concentration of both metals was higher before the rain, except in point three, where the concentration was also higher after the rain. It is possible that the highest concentration values ​​for the metals were higher in the dry period due to the increased volume of water after rainfall, with higher dilution of the metals, as well as the attribution of contamination to the anthropogenic activities, since the lake is located in a central urban region.

Evaluación toxicológica y de metales (Cu, Pb, Ni, Zn y Cd) en el sedimento del reservorio Paiva Castro en Mairiporã-SP, Brasil / Toxicological and metal evaluation (Cu, Pb, Ni, Zn and Cd) in the sediment of Paiva Castro reservoir, in Mairiporã-SP, Brasil

El hombre ha cambiado el ambiente para sostener la demanda global de recursos naturales como el agua. La gestión de los cuerpos hídricos tiene que ser constante, con el propósito preventivo y correctivo, dependiendo del estado de antropización de cada sistema. El objetivo de este artículo fue analizar la toxicidad del sedimento y los metales Mn, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cd y Cu, en el reservorio Paiva Castro, que abastece la Region Metropolitana de São Paulo. Se realizaron 2 muestreos (Mayo 2011, estación seca y Enero de 2012, estación húmeda) y se analizaron 5 puntos próximos a la captación de agua por la Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo. Se realizaron ensayos de toxicidad aguda y crónica en sedimento, a través de ensayos biológicos con el cladócero Daphnia similis y el insecto Chironomus xanthus. El tratamiento de datos se realizó con el test de Fisher (mortalidad). El nivel de asociación entre las variables en sedimento y en los test ecotoxicológicos fueron evaluados por test no-paramétricos, a través del coeficiente de correlación de Spearman's. Los resultados del presente trabajo señalaron bajas concentracones de metales en el sedimento del área de estudio y ausencia de toxicidad en los organismos ensayados. Se puede concluir que área estudiada del reservorio Paiva Castro se encuentra poco impactada por los metales, sin efectos directos sobre la calidad de vida los organismos bentónicos: D. similis y C. xanthus.

Man had changed the natural environment in an attempt trying to supply the global demand for resources. The management of the hydric bodies has to be constant, with preventive and corrective purpose, depending on the eutrophization state of each one. The objective of this article was to analyze the sediment toxicity and the metals Mn, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cd and Cu, in the Paiva Castro reservoir, that supply the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo. It was made 2 collections (May 2011, dry season and January 2012, wet season). It was analyzed 5 points next to the water captation station by the Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo. The sediment was analyzed as for acute and chronic toxicity through bioassays with the cladocerans Daphnia similis and the insect Chironomus xanthus. Data treatment was done with Fisher Exact Test (mortality). The association level between the variables in sediment and ecotoxicological tests was available in non-parametric tests, through the Spearman's correlation coefficient. Oriented on the results presented in this work, pointing low concentrations of heavy metals in the sediments presented in the collect local, and the absence of toxicity, we can say that at this reservoir, at least in the collect area, it's low impacted, not implicating in direct interferences in the quality of life of benthonic organisms.

The maturation state of the auditory nerve and brainstem in rats exposed to lead acetate and supplemented with ferrous sulfate / Estado de maturação do nervo auditivo e tronco encefálico em ratos expostos a acetato de chumbo e suplementados com sulfato ferroso

Abstract Introduction The literature has reported the association between lead and auditory effects, based on clinical and experimental studies. However, there is no consensus regarding the effects of lead in the auditory system, or its correlation with the concentration of the metal in the blood. Objective To investigate the maturation state of the auditory system, specifically the auditory nerve and brainstem, in rats exposed to lead acetate and supplemented with ferrous sulfate. Methods 30 weanling male rats (Rattus norvegicus, Wistar) were distributed into six groups of five animals each and exposed to one of two concentrations of lead acetate (100 or 400 mg/L) and supplemented with ferrous sulfate (20 mg/kg). The maturation state of the auditory nerve and brainstem was analyzed using Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential before and after lead exposure. The concentration of lead in blood and brainstem was analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry. Results We verified that the concentration of Pb in blood and in brainstem presented a high correlation (r = 0.951; p < 0.0001). Both concentrations of lead acetate affected the maturation state of the auditory system, being the maturation slower in the regions corresponding to portion of the auditory nerve (wave I) and cochlear nuclei (wave II). The ferrous sulfate supplementation reduced significantly the concentration of lead in blood and brainstem for the group exposed to the lowest concentration of lead (100 mg/L), but not for the group exposed to the higher concentration (400 mg/L). Conclusion This study indicate that the lead acetate can have deleterious effects on the maturation of the auditory nerve and brainstem (cochlear nucleus region), as detected by the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials, and the ferrous sulphate can partially amend this effect.

Resumo Introdução A literatura relatou a associação entre o chumbo e os efeitos auditivos, com base em estudos clínicos e experimentais. No entanto, não há consenso em relação aos efeitos do chumbo no sistema auditivo, ou sua correlação com a concentração do metal no sangue. Objetivo Investigar o estado de maturação do sistema auditivo, especificamente do nervo auditivo e do tronco encefálico, em ratos expostos ao acetato de chumbo e suplementados com sulfato ferroso. Método 30 ratos machos desmamados (Rattus norvegicus, Wistar) foram distribuídos em seis grupos de cinco animais e expostos a uma de duas concentrações de acetato de chumbo (100 ou 400 mg/L) e suplementados com sulfato ferroso (20 mg/kg). O estado de maturação do nervo auditivo e do tronco encefálico foi analisado pelo Potencial Evocado Auditivo do Tronco Encefálico antes e após a exposição ao chumbo. A concentração de chumbo no sangue e tronco encefálico foi analisada utilizando-se Espectrometria de Massa com Plasma Indutivamente Acoplado. Resultados Verificamos que as concentrações de Pb no sangue e no tronco encefálico apresentaram alta correlação (r = 0,951, p < 0,0001). Ambas as concentrações de acetato de chumbo afetaram o estado de maturação do sistema auditivo, a maturação foi mais lenta nas regiões correspondentes à porção do nervo auditivo (onda I) e dos núcleos cocleares (onda II). A suplementação com sulfato ferroso reduziu significativamente a concentração de chumbo no sangue e no tronco encefálico no grupo exposto à menor concentração de chumbo (100 mg/L), mas não para o grupo exposto à maior concentração (400 mg/L). Conclusão Esse estudo indica que o acetato de chumbo pode ter efeitos deletérios na maturação do nervo auditivo e do tronco encefálico (região do núcleo coclear), como detectado pelos potenciais evocados auditivos do tronco encefálico, e que o sulfato ferroso pode diminuir parcialmente esse efeito.

Effect of ascorbic acid on reproductive function of male rats exposed to lead acetate

Abstract Background: The anti-oxidant ascorbic acid [AA] is known as a chelating agent in treatment of lead [Pb] toxicity, and has been reported to protect the cells from oxidative stress

Objective[s]: This work aims to study the efficiency of ascorbic acid on semen quality, sex hormone, antioxidant parameters and testis histology in rats treated with lead acetate

Methods: A total of 50 male rats were divided into five equal groups; control group [received tap water only], Pb group [received 0.2% lead acetate/kg, BW] and the other three groups [received 500, 1000 and 1500 mg/kg BW AA along with 0.2% lead acetate/kg BW], respectively. Doses [as solutions] were orally administered every day for 8 weeks. Motility, validity, abnormal and dead sperm were assessed. Testosterone, luteinizing [LH] and follicle- stimulating [FSH] hormones were measured. Antioxidant activity [glutathione [GSH], thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS], total antioxidant capacity [TAC] and the level of nitric oxide [NO]] were determined. Histopathological examination was done for testis

Results: The results showed that Pb caused a significant increase in number of abnormal and dead sperms in Pb group [43.0%, 67.2%] comparing to the control group [6.0%, 18.6%] respectively. Motility and validity of the sperm were significantly decreased in Pb group [16.0%, 32.8%] comparing to the control group [84.2%, 81.4%] respectively. Pb caused a significant increase in FSH [1.99 mIU/L] and LH [1.2 mIU/L] and a decrease in Testosterone hormones [0.86 nmol/L] comparing to the control group [0.64 mIU/L, 1.2 mIU/L, 5.24 nmol/L] respectively. On the other hand, AA caused a significant decrease in numbers of abnormal and dead sperms than in Pb group. AA also caused an increase in motility and viability of the sperms at all levels. Testosterone hormone showed a marked increased with AA and the best effect was found with the high level [1500 mg /kg BW]. For antioxidant activity it was found that Pb caused a significant increase in NO and TBARS levels comparing to the control group, while it decreased significantly GSH and TAC levels. The significant effect for AA was found with the high level [1500 mg] on NO [28.5 micro mol/ml] and GSH [4.9 micro mol/ml]. Also, it was found that AA significantly affected TBARS and TAC at all levels. Histopathological examination showed the presence of AA reduced the harmful effect of lead acetate on testis

Conclusion: High daily intake of AA from rich sources or from supplementation can protect reproductive system of male rats from lead toxicity

effect of hydro ethanol extract of parsley leaves [petroselinum crispum] on spermatogenesis in male wistar rats receiving lead acetate

Background: Lead [Pb] is a one of the well-known dangerous contaminant Lead can cause disorders in the .process of spermatogenesis. Using medicinal plants to cure impotence and lack of sex cells can have a positive effect. In this study, parsley extract on spermatogenesis in male rats which have received lead acetate is investigated

Methods: In the present study, 36 rats were divided into 6 groups of 6. Animals received lead acetate and extract of parsley for a period of 28 days. After 28 days, animals were weighted and were anesthetized by ether, then the body and testis were weighted and numbers of spermatocytes, spermatogonia, Leydig cells were studied. The obtained results were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey tests

Results: Lead acetate significantly decreased the spermatocytes, spermatogonia, Leydig cells. Parsley extract with 200 mg/kg dose could lead to a significant increase of sperms in the tube lumen [p<0.05]

Conclusion: Parsley's extract effect on spermatogenesis in male rats which received lead acetate was justified

Ecotoxicological evaluation of sediments applied to environmental forensic investigation / Avaliação ecotoxicológica de sedimentos aplicada à perícia criminal ambiental

Abstract The present study aimed to evaluate the potential for using toxicity assays with sediment samples for the detection of water pollution caused by the discharge of tannery effluents into water bodies and its application to environmental forensic investigation. The study included ecotoxicological evaluation of sediments, survey of benthic organisms in the field, as well as chromium, cadmium and lead dosage which provided data for a sediment quality triad evaluation. The sediment samples showed acute and chronic toxicity to the bioindicators, low biodiversity of benthic macrofauna and high chromium concentration, reaching up to 4365 mg.Kg–1. A close relationship was observed between the separate results of ecotoxicological sediment evaluation and the sediment quality triad. The sediment ecotoxicological assessment proved to be applicable to tracking sources of contamination related to tanneries and similar activities in environmental forensics.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o potencial de aplicação de ensaios de toxicidade com amostras de sedimento para constatação de poluição aquática causada por lançamentos de efluentes de curtumes em cursos d’água e seu emprego na perícia criminal ambiental. O estudo incluiu avaliação ecotoxicológica de sedimentos, avaliação da fauna bentônica local e dosagem de cromo, cádmio e chumbo que forneceram dados para avaliação da tríade de qualidade dos sedimentos. As amostras de sedimentos mostraram efeito de toxicidade aguda e crônica aos bioindicadores, baixa biodiversidade da macrofauna bentônica e altas concentrações de cromo que chegaram a 4365 mg.Kg–1. Houve uma estreita relação entre os resultados isolados da avaliação ecotoxicológica e a tríade de qualidade de sedimentos. A avaliação ecotoxicológica demonstrou ser aplicável na identificação de fontes de contaminação relacionadas a curtumes e atividades similares em perícias ambientais.

Lead tolerance and accumulation in initial sporophytes of Regnellidium diphyllum Lindm. (Marsileaceae) / Tolerância e acumulação de chumbo em esporófitos jovens de Regnellidium diphyllum Lindm. (Marsileaceae)

Regnellidium diphyllum Lindm. is a heterosporous fern which grows in shallow waters and wetlands, and water pollution contributes to its vulnerability. Environmental lead contamination is mostly caused by industrial and agricultural residues as well as domestic sewage. Given its persistence in the environment, lead can cause important toxicity in living organisms. Megaspore germination and the initial growth of R. diphyllum sporophytes were assessed in Meyer's solution with lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) concentrations of 0 (control), 1, 5, 10 and 50 mg L–1. The study was conducted in a growth chamber at 25±1°C and a 12 hour photoperiod with a nominal irradiance of 100 μmol m–2 s–1, for 28 days. Lead concentration in sporophytes was assessed using atomic absorption spectrometry. In the absence of lead, 74% of spores germinated, while significantly lower germination percentages were observed in Pb(NO3)2 concentrations of 1, 10 and 50 mg L–1. The presence of lead did not significantly influence root growth. At 28 days, primary leaf development was significantly lower in Pb(NO3)2 concentrations of 5 mg L–1 and higher in relation to the control. The length of secondary leaves did not significantly differ between sporophytes exposed to different concentrations of lead and those of the control at 28 days. Sporophytes exposed to 10 and 50 mg L–1 Pb(NO3)2 accumulated 1129 mg kg–1 and 5145 mg kg–1 of Pb, respectively. The presence of high levels of lead in R. diphyllum sporophytes did not prevent initial development. Future studies should investigate the ability of the species to accumulate and tolerate high levels of lead in advanced stages of its development and in environmental conditions.

Regnellidium diphyllum Lindm. é uma samambaia heterosporada que se desenvolve em águas rasas ou em solos úmidos, sendo que a poluição da água contribui para sua vulnerabilidade. A contaminação ambiental por chumbo ocorre principalmente por resíduos industriais e agrícolas, bem como por efluentes domésticos. Devido à sua persistência no ambiente, esse metal pode apresentar importante toxicidade aos organismos vivos. A germinação de megásporos e o desenvolvimento inicial de esporófitos de R. diphyllum foram avaliados em solução de Meyer com concentrações de 0 (controle), 1, 5, 10 e 50 mg L–1 de nitrato de chumbo (Pb(NO3)2). O estudo foi conduzido em câmara de germinação a 25±1 °C e fotoperíodo de 12 horas sob irradiância nominal de 100 μmol m–2 s–1, por 28 dias. A concentração de chumbo em esporófitos foi analisada por espectrometria de absorção atômica. Na ausência de chumbo, 74% dos esporos germinaram, enquanto que porcentagens de germinação significantemente menores foram observadas nas concentrações de 1, 10 e 50 mg L–1 de Pb(NO3)2. A presença de chumbo não influenciou significativamente o crescimento das raízes. O desenvolvimento das folhas primárias foi significativamente menor em relação ao controle a partir de 5 mg L–1 de Pb(NO3)2 aos 28 dias. O comprimento das folhas secundárias não diferiu significativamente entre esporófitos expostos às diferentes concentrações de chumbo e aqueles do controle, aos 28 dias. Esporófitos expostos a 10 e 50 mg L–1 de Pb(NO3)2 acumularam 1129 mg kg–1 e 5145 mg kg–1 de Pb, respectivamente. A presença de altas concentrações de chumbo nos esporófitos de R. diphyllum não impediu seu desenvolvimento inicial. Estudos futuros deverão investigar a capacidade de a espécie acumular e tolerar altas concentrações de chumbo em estádios avançados de desenvolvimento e também em condições ambientais.

Brainstem auditory evoked potentials in children with lead exposure / Potencial evocado auditivo de tronco encefálico em crianças com exposição ao chumbo

Introduction: Earlier studies have demonstrated an auditory effect of lead exposure in children, but information on the effects of low chronic exposures needs to be further elucidated. Objective: To investigate the effect of low chronic exposures of the auditory system in children with a history of low blood lead levels, using an auditory electrophysiological test. Methods: Contemporary cross-sectional cohort. Study participants underwent tympanometry, pure tone and speech audiometry, transient evoked otoacoustic emissions, and brainstem auditory evoked potentials, with blood lead monitoring over a period of 35.5 months. The study included 130 children, with ages ranging from 18 months to 14 years, 5 months (mean age 6 years, 8 months ± 3 years, 2 months). Results: The mean time-integrated cumulative blood lead index was 12 µg/dL (SD ± 5.7, range:2.433). All participants had hearing thresholds equal to or below 20 dBHL and normal amplitudes of transient evoked otoacoustic emissions. No association was found between the absolute latencies of waves I, III, and V, the interpeak latencies I-III, III-V, and I-V, and the cumulative lead values. Conclusion: No evidence of toxic effects from chronic low lead exposures was observed on the auditory function of children living in a lead contaminated area. .

Introdução: Estudos anteriores têm demonstrado efeitos da exposição ao chumbo no sistema auditivo em crianças, porém a exposição deste metal em níveis baixos ainda precisa ser investigada. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos da exposição crônica ao chumbo no sistema auditivo de crianças com histórico de baixo nível sanguíneo de chumbo por meio de um teste eletrofisiológico. Método: Estudo de coorte transversal contemporânea. Foram realizados imitanciometria, audiometria tonal liminar e vocal, emissões otoacústicas evocadas transientes e potenciais evocados auditivos de tronco encefálico, com o monitoramento sanguíneo de chumbo durante um período de 35,5 meses. Participaram 130 crianças na faixa etária de 18 meses a 14 anos e 5 meses (6a8 m ± 3a2 m). Resultados: A média estimada do índice de pumblemia foi 12 mg/dL (DP ± 5,7). Todos os participantes apresentaram limiares auditivos iguais ou inferiores a 20 dBNA e amplitude normal das emissões otoacústicas evocadas transientes. Não foi encontrada associação entre as latências absolutas das ondas I, III e V e interpicos I-III, III-V e I-V e os valores cumulativos de chumbo. Conclusão: Não foi observada evidência de efeitos tóxicos em baixas exposições crônicas ao chumbo sobre a função auditiva de crianças que vivem em uma área contaminada por este metal. .

Níveis de metais no solo e na água da microbacia do distrito Industrial do Pequiá, município de Açailândia, MA / Levels of metals in soil and water catchment Industrial District Pequiá, municipality of Açailândia, MA

Este estudo determinou a concentração de vários metais no solo e na água da microbacia do distrito industrial do Pequiá, Açailândia-MA, e investigou a variação das concentrações dos metais no solo em função da distância às indústrias. Os metais investigados os metais foram Arsênio (As), Cádmio (Cd), Manganês (Mn), Mercúrio (Hg), Chumbo (Pb) e Níquel (Ni), que podem acarretar diversos agravos na saúde em virtude da sua toxicidade em diferentes alvos biológicos. O distrito industrial do Pequiá é caracterizado por indústrias siderúrgicas e rodovias com intenso tráfego de veículos a combustão, o que desperta a necessidade de se conhecer as concentrações ambientais desses metais. Metodologia: Foram coletadas 44 amostras de solo do entorno das indústrias nos período seco e chuvoso, respectivamente, e água de três pontos do córrego Pequiá no período chuvoso. A determinação da concentração de metais em solo foi realizada por Espectrometria de Emissão Atômica por Plasma Acoplado Indutivamente (ICP-OES), e em água por meio de Espectrometria de Massa com Plasma Acoplado Indutivamente (ICP-MS). (...) O único metal detectado em todas as amostras no período seco foi o Hg. A análise de correlação entre as concentrações no solo em cada período revelou correlação positiva estatisticamente significativa entre Pb e Mn no período chuvoso e correlação negativa com significância limítrofe entre Mn e Hg. Em relação ao gradiente de concentração, se observou diminuição apenas da concentração de Pb ao longo da linha reta entre as indústrias e o bairro Pequiá. A diminuição da concentração de Pb com a distância foi estatisticamente significativa, tanto no período chuvoso quanto no seco. Conclusão: Os metais Mn e Pb foram os mais frequentemente encontrados e com as concentrações mais elevadas tanto no solo quanto na água, muito provavelmente devido ao processo de fabricação do ferro gusa e ao intenso tráfego de veículos...

This study determined the concentration of heavy metals in soil and surface water in the industrial district of Pequiá, Açailândia-MA, as well as investigated the variation in concentration of metals in soil with the distance to the industries. Metals investigated were Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Manganese (Mn), Mercury (Hg), Lead (Pb) and Niquel (Ni), which may cause several health effects. The Pequiá industrial district is composed by several steel plants and roads with heavy vehicle traffic. Methods: Soil samples were collected from 44 points around the industrial district in the dry and rainy season, respectively, and water samples were collected at three points of the Pequiá stream during the rainy season. Concentrations of metals in soil were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). (...) Hg was the only metal detected in all soil samples in the dry season. Correlation analysis between concentrations of metals in soil showed a statistically significant positive correlation between Pb e Mn in the rainy season. Pb was the only metal showing a reduction in concentration across the straight line between the industries and Pequiá neighborhood. Reduction in Pb concentration with increasing distance was statistically significant in both seasons. Conclusions: Mn e Pb were the metals most frequently found and those presenting the highest concentrations in soil and water, suggesting that the main sources of these metals in the study area may be iron manufacturing process and motor vehicle traffic...

Avaliação da exposição ao chumbo e cádmio de jovens adultos residentes na região metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro / lead exposure assessment and cadmium residents young adults in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro

O biomonitoramento humano é considerado o padrão ouro nos modelos de estimativa de exposição a poluentes. A determinação de substâncias químicas fornecem estimativas diretas da concentração de exógenos ou dos seus metabólitos em: sangue, soro, urina,cabelo, dentina, hemoglobina, entre outros. E estimativas indiretas da concentração em tecidos e órgãos. A aplicação do biomonitoramento contínuo permite identificar as tendências e mudanças da exposição à substâncias químicas e poluentes em determinadas populações. Deste modo, poderão ser subsidiadas ações de vigilância cada vez mais efetivas, tendo em vista a possibilidade de identificação de prioridades quanto às substâncias frequentemente encontradas e quanto às características das populações submetidas a tais exposições. Este estudo tem como objetivos avaliar o nível da exposição humana à substâncias químicas de interesse à Saúde Pública, cádmio e chumbo, e a identificação das populações sob risco de exposição aumentada. Para tanto, foram analisados sangue e cabelo jovens do sexo masculino que se apresentaram para o serviço militar. Estes indivíduos representam um grupo diferenciado da população, quanto ao“status” de saúde: jovens de 18 anos, em geral, saudáveis. Além da distribuição geográfica dos postos de recrutamento possibilita à obtenção de uma amostra formada por indivíduos de vários locais do município do Rio de Janeiro. O valor de referência,para as matrizes sangue e cabelo, foi calculado através da metodologia proposta pelo IFCC, baseado no Percentil 95. Para chumbo sanguíneo o valor foi de 44,45 unidades de Micrograma por litro e, para cabelo 3,94 unidades de Grama em Micrograma. Já para o cádmio os valores foram de 0,62 unidades de Micrograma por litro e 0,16 unidades de Grama em Micrograma para sangue e cabelo respectivamente. Esses valores são compatíveis com outros estudos de biomonitoramento mundiais...

Reduction of testicular volume of albino rats in lead induced toxicity and reversal of IT with high dosages of vitamin C

Lead toxicity is a common industrial hazard. It affects all systems of the body. The study was conducted to see reduction in volume of the testes of albino rats and reversal of it with high dosages of vitamin C. Experimental study. The study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Post Graduate Medical Institute [PGMI], Lahore from May 2007 to April 2009. 90 albino rats were divided into five groups A, B, C, D and E. Each group was comprised of 18 animals and divided into 3 subgroups 1, 2 and 3 sacrificed after 5[th], 6[th] and 7[th] weeks. Groups A was given normal saline, group B was given lead acetate 10 mg/kg body weight, group C was given lead acetate with 250 mg/kg body weight of vitamin C, group D was given lead acetate with vitamin C 500 mg/kg body weight and group E was given vitamin C 1000 mg/kg body weight with lead acetate intraperitoneally. The animals sacrificed after the 5[th] week in subgroups A1, B1, C1, D1 and E1 showed insignificant changes while in subgroup A2, B2, C2, D2 and E2 sacrificed after 6[th] week, P value was 0.015 which was significant. The P value of subgroup 3 sacrificed after 7[th] week was 0.002 which was significant. This study showed that lead toxicity brought caused a significant reduction in the volume of the testes. The testes regained their normal size after heavy dosage of vitamin C

Uso del polen apícola como bioindicador ambiental en la determinación de plomo en el municipio Antonio Pinto Salinas, del estado Mérida-Venezuela / Bee pollen used as environmental bioindicator in the determination of lead in Antonio Pinto Salinas municipality, in Merida - Venezuela

El análisis polínico de las mieles proporciona información sobre las preferencias de las abejas y permiten determinar su origen botánico y geográfico. Por esta razón, el polen apícola por ser el segundo producto más consumido proveniente de la colmena, puede contener oligoelementos cuyas cantidades varían de una planta a otra, permitiéndole actuar como un bioindicador de contaminación ambiental, debido a que se puede determinar si existen trazas de minerales tóxicos como el plomo y el mercurio. En el presente trabajo se evaluó la concentración de plomo (Pb) en polen apícola producto de distintas colmenas del Municipio Pinto Salinas del estado Mérida. El análisis de Pb se realizó por espectroscopía de absorción atómica, con atomización electrotérmica (ETAAS). Se encontró una concentración promedio de Pb entre (0,198 -0,288) mg Pb /kg de polen apícola fresco. El método para el análisis de plomo fue realizado mediante estudios de recuperación, obteniéndose un valor de (97-104) %, con una desviación estándar relativa (DER %) < 3 % (n = 7), lo cual indica que el método empleado fue exacto y preciso. Lo que indica que la metodología aplicada en polen apícola podría ser utilizada como un método de rutina para evaluar la contaminación de plomo en el medio ambiente.

Pollen analysis of honey provides information about the preferences of bees and can determine its botanical and geographical origin. Therefore, bee pollen as the second most consumed product from the hive, which may contain trace amounts vary from one plant to another, enabling it to act as a biomarker of environmental pollution, because it can determine whether there are traces of toxic minerals such as lead and mercury. In this study we evaluated the concentration of Pb in bee pollen produced in different colonies of Pinto Salinas Municipality of the Mérida State. Pb analysis was performed by atomic absorption spectroscopy with electrothermal atomization (ETAAS). We found an average concentration of Pb from (0,198 -0,288) mg Pb / kg of fresh bee pollen The method for lead analysis was evaluated by recovery studies, obtaining a value of (97-104) %, with a standard relative standard (RSD%) < 3% (n=7), indicating that the method was accurate, precise. This indicates that the methodology used in bee pollen could be used as a routine method to assess lead contamination in the environment.

Assessing Lead Levels in Occupational Health : a Mini-Review

Lead is a well-established toxin that continues to pose a health risk. Blood lead levels (BLLs) and urinary chelatable lead are the tests of choice for assessing acute and chronic toxicity. We highlight some of the other tests available. As occupational exposure to lead is often accompanied by other toxic heavy metal exposure; measuring whole blood heavy metal levels should be considered for workers with chronically elevated BLLs