Lead Poisoning Research Articles

Growth, physiological and molecular response of calcium and salicylic acid primed wheat under lead stress.

Heavy metal contamination, particularly from lead (Pb), poses a significant threat to plant agriculture worldwide,adversely affectinggrowth, physiological functions, and yield.Signalling molecules such ascalcium and salicylic acid are known to mitigate various stresses in plants, prompting this study to explore theirinteractionwithPbstress in wheat. A pot experiment was conductedin whichwheat grains wereprimedwith either distilled water, 5mM calcium (Ca), or 0.05mM salicylic acid (SA) for 12h. Following germination, seedlings were exposed to 100mMPbsix days later, while the control group received water irrigation. Growth parameters, physiological changes, molecular responses, and yield characteristics were assessed to understand the impact of the treatments. The application of Ca and SA acid significantly amelioratedPb-induced reductions in growth parameters, yield criteria, and phenolic content. These treatments also reduced oxidative stress by restoringosmoprotectants,Pbion content, and antioxidant enzyme activities to normal levels. Additionally, theydownregulatedgenes that were overexpressed inPb-stressed wheat. Ca and SA treatments effectively mitigate lead toxicity in wheat by protecting growth, enhancing physiological resilience, and maintaining productivity. These findings suggest that leveraging chemical stimulants such as calcium and salicylic acidconstitutesa viable strategy for reducing the detrimental impacts of heavy metal stress on crop yields.

Modification strategies of bismuth-based halide perovskites for solar to fuel conversion by photocatalytic CO2 reduction.

In light of the increasingly pressing energy and environmental challenges, the use of photocatalysis to convert solar energy into chemical energy has emerged as a promising solution. Halide perovskites have recently attracted considerable interest as photocatalysts due to their outstanding properties. Early developments focused on Lead-based perovskites, but their use has been severely restricted due to the toxicity of Lead. Consequently, researchers have introduced non-toxic elements to replace Lead, with common substitutes being transition metals such as Tin (Sn), Bismuth (Bi), and Antimony (Sb). Among them, Bi-based perovskites have demonstrated superior photocatalytic performance. Nevertheless, the inherent instability of perovskites and the severe recombination of charge carriers have necessitated the development of various modification strategies to enhance their performance. This Review discusses the modification strategies for Bi-based halide perovskites and illustrates the impact of these strategies on the photocatalytic performance. Finally, future modification strategies of Bi-based perovskites for photocatalysis are proposed.

Ameliorative role of bioactive compounds against lead-induced neurotoxicity.

Lead (Pb) is an environmental toxin ubiquitously present in the human environment due to anthropogenic activities and industrialization. Lead can enter the human body through various sources and pathways, such as inhalation, ingestion and dermal contact, leading to detrimental health effects. The majority of lead that enters the body is removed by urine or feces; however, under chronic exposure conditions, lead is not efficient, as lead is absorbed and transferred to numerous organs, such as the brain, liver, kidney, muscles, and heart, and it is ultimately stored in mineralizing tissues such as bones and teeth. The central nervous system is the most affected among all the organs and systems affected, as lead is a known neurotoxin. Lead absorption is elevated in the fasting state than in the fed state. Chelation therapy, which is used to treat lead poisoning, has various adverse effects, making this treatment detrimental because it disrupts the levels of other essential elements and redistributes lead to various tissues. One of the main mechanisms by which lead induces toxicity is through the generation of reactive oxygen species. Hence, bioactive compounds that are the source of antioxidants if consumed along with ongoing lead exposure can ameliorate the toxic effects of lead.

Environmental impact of lead in soybeans (Glycine max L.) marketed in the canton of Quevedo, Ecuador

The bioaccumulation of lead in soybean crops, originating in contaminated soils, represents a significant environmental problem and a risk to public health due to the inherent toxic metal. The objective of this study was to evaluate the environmental impact of lead in samples of soybeans (Glycine max L.) marketed in the canton of Quevedo, Ecuador. Grain samples were collected randomly, in triplicate, from four local markets during a period of [indicate period] and a control sample from a non-contaminated cultivation area. The samples were subjected to a preparation process that included drying, grinding, acid digestion with concentrated HNO₃ and HCl, and dilution. Lead determination was carried out by electrothermal atomization atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). The calculation of the lead contamination index was performed using a standardized equation, contrasting the results obtained with the maximum allowable limits established by national (NTE INEN 452:2013) and international (Codex Alimentarius, European Union) regulations. The results evidenced an average concentration of lead in the soybean samples of 1.15 ± 0.13 mg.kg-1, significantly exceeding the maximum allowable limits. The calculated contamination index indicated a high level of contamination in the analyzed grains, which represents a risk to both the ecosystem and human health when consumed. These findings underscore the need to implement environmental and food management strategies to reduce lead contamination in soybean crops, thus ensuring food safety and public health protection.

Evaluation and treatment of lead toxicosis in rehabilitated avian species: 95 cases (2014-2023).

To evaluate avian patients presented to a wildlife rehabilitation facility with confirmed lead toxicity for clinical signs associated with blood lead level groups, efficacy of subcutaneous chelation therapy with calcium disodium EDTA, and case outcome based on presenting blood lead levels. A retrospective record review of 95 avian cases representing 19 species treated for lead toxicosis from a wildlife rehabilitation center in Wisconsin between 2014 and 2023 was conducted. Data were evaluated for presenting complaints, clinical signs, radiographic findings, chelation therapy protocol, clinical pathology data, and case outcome. A low lead level of < 20 µg/dL was the most commonly diagnosed level in avian patients. The presence of neurologic disease was found most commonly in birds with higher blood lead levels, whereas poor body condition, trauma, and anemia were most common in birds with low lead levels. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and tundra swans (Cygnus columbianus) were the most prevalent species presented. All methods of chelation therapy evaluated resulted in a reduction of blood lead levels. Patients with intake blood lead levels > 60 µg/dL were more likely to die or be euthanized while in care. A bird with a blood lead level > 60 µg/dL is more likely to present with neurologic disease and have a poor case outcome. Diluted calcium disodium EDTA was clinically effective when administered SC. Initial blood lead level, in conjunction with species, clinical signs, and radiographic changes, can help guide clinical decision-making for avian patients with lead toxicosis.

Foliar application of nitrates limits lead uptake by Cucumis sativus L. plants.

Lead is a toxic heavy metal, which accumulates in the soil and is readily absorbed by plant roots. The uptake of toxic elements by crops is a serious threat to human health. For this reason, it is important to prevent the incorporation of heavy metals into the food chain. Our previous study showed that foliar application of calcium nitrate reduces the intensity of lead uptake by different plant species. A significant decrease in metal concentration was observed both in the roots and in the shoots of three crops: tomato, cucumber, and flax. The present research investigated the mechanism for limiting lead accumulation in plant tissues. The experiments were conducted on Cucumis sativus L. seedlings, grown in hydroponic conditions. To compare the role of Ca2 + and NO3- ions in the restriction of lead uptake three different calcium salts (nitrate, chloride, and formate), and two nitrates (calcium and potassium) were applied foliarly to plants. The results show that Ca(NO3)2 is more efficient in decreasing lead accumulation in tissues than other calcium salts which suggests an important role of NO3- ions in the process. In addition, the study demonstrated that the exogenous supply of nitrates helps compensate for nitrogen deficiency caused by lead action and supports the mineral balance. The reduction in lead toxicity to plants after foliar application of nitrates may be due to the stimulation of the biosynthesis of nitric oxide - a key molecule responsible for stress response.

Altered regional brain activity and functional connectivity in relation to blood lead levels

BackgroundLead is a prevalent heavy metal pollutant in the environment, and chronic lead exposure in occupational settings has been linked to cognitive decline. Our objective was to delineate lead-induced changes in brain functional activity through the assessment of regional homogeneity (ReHo), degree centrality (DC) and seed-based functional connectivity (FC) using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we recruited 76 participants from a smelting company. Based on their blood lead levels, 26 participants were assigned to the lead exposure group (≥ 300 μg/L), whereas 23 were assigned to the control group (≤ 100 μg/L). Neuropsychological assessments included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Mini-Mental State Examination, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, and Self-rating Depression Scale. Participants underwent rs-fMRI for ReHo, DC, and FC analyses. Brain regions demonstrating significant differences in ReHo and DC were identified as regions of interest for subsequent FC analysis. We also examined the relationships between lead levels, FC values, and neuropsychological scores.ResultsCompared to the control group, individuals with high lead exposure exhibited increased ReHo in the bilateral insula and vermis and elevated DC in the left olfactory cortex. Notably, the left insula demonstrated reduced FC with the right cerebellar crus I, left fusiform gyrus, left superior frontal gyrus, and left middle frontal gyrus. The right insula also displayed reduced FC with the right middle frontal gyrus but increased FC between the left olfactory cortex and right insula. Furthermore, negative correlations were observed between lead levels and FC of the left insula with the left fusiform gyrus (r = − 0.586), left superior frontal gyrus (r = − 0.556), and left middle frontal gyrus (r = − 0.626), as well as between FC of the right insula and the right middle frontal gyrus (r = − 0.587). Conversely, there was a positive association between FC of the left olfactory cortex with the right insula and lead levels (r = 0.609), whereas an inverse relationship was noted with neurocognitive assessments.ConclusionsThe disruption in insula coordination may significantly impair long-range FC and contribute to cognitive deficits resulting from lead exposure. The insula appears to be a pivotal region in lead-associated neurocognitive impairment.

Role of polyethylene glycol to alleviate lead stress in Raphanus sativus.

The continuous contamination of heavy metals (HMs) in our ecosystem due to industrialization, urbanization and other anthropogenic activities has become a serious environmental constraint to successful crop production. Lead (Pb) toxicity causes ionic, oxidative and osmotic injuries which induce various morphological, physiological, metabolic and molecular abnormalities in plants. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is widely used to elucidate drought stress induction and alleviation mechanisms in treated plants. Some recent studies have unveiled the potential of PEG in regulating plant growth and developmental procedures including seed germination, root and shoot growth and alleviating the detrimental impacts of abiotic stresses in plants. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the effects of seed priming with various concentrations (10%, 20%, 30% and 40%) of PEG on the growth and development of radish plants growing under Pb stress (75 mg/kg soil). Lead toxicity reduced root growth (32.89%), shoot growth (32.81%), total chlorophyll (56.25%) and protein content (58.66%) in treated plants. Similarly, plants showed reduced biomass production of root (35.48%) and shoot (31.25%) under Pb stress, while 30% PEG seed priming enhanced biomass production of root (28.57%) and shoot (35.29%) under Pb contaminated regimes. On the other hand, seedlings obtained from 30% PEG priming demonstrated a notable augmentation in the concentrations of photosynthetic pigments, antioxidative activity and biomass accumulation of the plants. PEG-treated plants showed modulations in the enzymatic activities of peroxidase (PO), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These changes collectively played a role in mitigating the adverse effects of Pb on plant physiology. Our data revealed that PEG interceded stress extenuation encompasses numerous regulatory mechanisms including scavenging of ROS through antioxidant and non-antioxidants, improved photosynthetic activity and appropriate nutrition. Hence, it becomes necessary to elucidate the beneficial role of PEG in developing approaches for improving plant growth and stress tolerance.

Gonadal health benefits of black cumin (Nigella sativa) seed oil on chronic lead-exposed male Wistar rats

Lead (Pb) is a highly toxic heavy metal that can cause harm even at extremely low concentrations and damage various organs, including those of reproduction. Medical herbs like Nigella sativa include antioxidants that have been shown to enhance spermatogenesis and male fertility. This research aimed to investigate the gonadal health benefits of Nigella sativa seed oil (NSO) as an antidote in male rats exposed to chronic Pb toxicity. Forty rats were divided into four groups: a control group, a group exposed to Pb acetate (75 mg/kg body weight), a group given NSO (1ml/kg feed), and a group exposed to Pb acetate (75 mg/kg body weight) along with NSO (1ml/kg feed). Pb was administered through water, while NSO with fed for 16 weeks. Rats were euthanized, blood was obtained, and serum was prepared to perform hormonal study. Sperm concentration and motility along with testis weight and diameter were measured. The testes were collected for histology. The findings indicated a significant drop in serum concentrations of testosterone and thyroxin (T4) in Pb-exposed rats, whereas NSO demonstrated a remarkable ability to restore these hormone levels. Moreover, Pb exposure led to a notable reduction in sperm motility, sperm concentration, testis weight, and testis diameter, accompanied by seminiferous tubule degeneration. However, the administration of NSO effectively counteracted the adverse effects induced by chronic Pb exposure in rats. Together, these findings revealed the gonadoprotective effects of NSO against lead toxicity, suggesting its preventive as well as therapeutic potential in preserving the testicular function of rats exposed to chronic Pb toxicity.

Health risk assessment of lead and cadmium contamination in raw cow’s milk from eastern Algeria

Abstract To assess potential health risks from heavy metal exposure through raw cow’s milk, we investigated lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) levels in milk samples from eastern Algeria using atomic absorption spectrometry and estimated dietary risks for adults and children. In 2021, 99 milk samples were collected from various regions. Average Pb and Cd levels were 0.332 ± 0.097 and 0.016 ± 0.011 mg kg−1, respectively, with Pb exceeding the MRL in 99% and Cd in 87% of samples. Estimated daily intake (EDI) values for both metals were below established limits, indicating acceptable average exposure levels. However, the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI) assessments revealed significant concerns. For adults, THQ and HI remained below 1, and carcinogenic risk (CR) values for Pb were below 10−4. In children, Cd posed minimal risk (THQ &lt; 1), but Pb was problematic. While average THQ for Pb was below 1, 39% of samples exceeded this limit. HI for both metals surpassed 1 in 51% of samples, and CR for Pb exceeded 10−4 in 17 samples. These findings highlight the need for further analysis of milk from various Algerian regions to ensure consumer safety.

Enhanced Pb immobilization by CaO/MgO-modified soybean residue (okara) in phosphate mining wasteland soil: Mechanism and microbial community structure.

Lead (Pb) contamination is an inevitable consequence of phosphate mining, necessitating the development of effective remediation strategies. This study investigated the use of CaO/MgO-modified okara (CMS) as an eco-friendly approach to remediate Pb-contaminated soils from phosphate mining wastelands. In the present study, following 30d of CMS application, the exchangeable Pb content was significantly decreased to 10.46%, with the majority of Pb transforming into more stable forms: carbonate-bound Pb (56.44%), Fe/Mn oxide-bound Pb (11.03%), and organic-bound Pb (19.58%). Additionally, the treatment led to a substantial enhancement in total phosphorus, available phosphorus, ammonium, and soil organic matter, thereby improving soil fertility. The microbial community structure was also significantly influenced by CMS, with a notable increase in Firmicutes to 45%. Key genera within the microbial community included Azospirillum, Pseudoxanthomonas, Sphingomonas, and Microvirga, with Pseudoxanthomonas and Massilia being the main differential species. These genera were significantly positively correlated, contributing to the maintenance of microbial community homeostasis and promoting the production of CO32- and PO43-, which further accelerated Pb immobilization. The results indicate that CMS is an effective amendment for Pb immobilization in contaminated soils, enhancing soil fertility and modulating the microbial community to promote Pb stabilization. This provides valuable insights into the ecological remediation of Pb-contaminated soils and water bodies, highlighting the potential of waste reuse in environmental management.

Dynamic Simulation of a Hybrid Energy System for Powering a Water Treatment Facility in McCallum, Newfoundland and Labrador

Clean water, a basic human need, is in short supply in McCallum, Newfoundland and Labrador, primarily due to lead contamination, forcing residents to rely on collected rainwater. Reverse Osmosis (RO) has been identified as the most suitable desalination method because of its lower energy requirements and high effectiveness in treating lead-contaminated water. Powering the RO system with renewable energy sources (RES) offers a promising solution for this remote, off-grid area, currently powered by a diesel generator. The proposed hybrid energy system (HES) provides not only the most economically optimal configuration but also greater reliability. The system consists of a 3.6 kW solar array, a 2-kW wind turbine, a 3-kW DC diesel generator, and a 680 Ah 48 V battery bank to supply the single-phase water treatment system, which includes a 0.3 kW resistive load, lighting, and two asynchronous machines rated at 0.5 hp and 0.75 hp, respectively. A dynamic simulation of the proposed system, based on calculation done in Kafrashi and Iqbal [1], is presented in this paper. All system components are modeled in MATLAB/Simulink. Simulation results show expected dynamics in the system. Results indicate proper system operation with reasonable within-range system voltage and current during normal operation.

Zinc Deficiency Exacerbates Lead-Induced Interleukin-2 Suppression by Regulating CREM Expression.

Lead, a prevalent heavy metal, impairs the immune system by affecting T cell function. Similarly, zinc deficiency adversely affects T cells, with zinc deficiency and lead exposure being linked to reduced interleukin-2 (IL-2) production. Zinc deficiency has been associated with increased expression of the transcription factor CREM 100 kDa, which downregulates IL-2. Previous research suggests zinc may mitigate lead's toxic effects. This study explored the molecular mechanism underlying IL-2 reduction in lead-exposed T cells and examined the role of zinc status. The effects of lead exposure were investigated in Jurkat T cells in zinc-adequate, zinc-deficient, and zinc-supplemented conditions. Results showed that lead exposure increased CREM 100 kDa expression, which was amplified under zinc-deficient conditions. Consequently, IL-2 production was significantly lower in cells exposed to both lead and zinc deficiency compared to lead exposure alone. However, zinc supplementation counteracted these effects, preventing CREM 100 kDa overexpression and restoring IL-2 levels. In conclusion, we identified CREM 100 kDa as a potential molecular mechanism behind the lead-induced IL-2 decrease in Jurkat T cells, with zinc deficiency exacerbating this effect. These findings highlight the protective role of zinc in counteracting lead toxicity and emphasize the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for immune health.

Oxidized yeast glucan alleviates lead-induced toxicity in mice by improving intestinal health to inhibit Pb absorption and reducing kidney oxidative stress.

This study investigated the protective effects and Pb-excretion mechanisms of yeast glucans (YG) with varying oxidation degrees in Pb-exposed mice. Results demonstrated that all three glucans effectively reduced blood lead levels, alleviated inflammation, and mitigated liver damage in Pb-exposed mice, with highly oxidized yeast glucan (OYG2) exhibiting the greatest efficacy. Furthermore, the glucans attenuated Pb-induced oxidative stress and pathological changes in the kidney by elevating glutathione and superoxide dismutase levels, thereby restoring renal excretory function (blood urea nitrogen and creatinine). This restoration contributed to maintaining electrolyte homeostasis (Na+, Cl-, K+) and significantly enhanced lead excretion efficiency via urine. Additionally, the glucans modulated intestinal microbiota balance, promoted short-chain fatty acid production, and repaired Pb-induced intestinal barrier damage by upregulating tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1). In conclusion, yeast glucans, particularly OYG2, effectively inhibited Pb absorption and facilitated its excretion through feces, highlighting their potential as a therapeutic strategy for lead toxicity.

Toxic Effects of Lead Exposure on Freshwater Climbing Perch, Anabas testudineus, and Bioremediation Using Ocimum sanctum Leaf Powder.

The acute and chronic toxicity of lead to Anabas testudineus was determined in this study using static replacement bioassay testing. During the chronic toxicity studies, an experiment on the bioremediation of lead toxicity using Ocimum sanctum leaf powder was conducted. The 96 h LC50 values of lead for Anabas testudineus was 1.08 mg/L. Different biomarkers, such as the hepatosomatic index, gonadosomatic index, and fecundity, were significantly lower in fish subjected to 10% and 20% of the 96 h LC50 values of lead, compared to controls. The 45-day chronic exposure of fish to lead concentrations of 0.2 mg/L and above significantly lowered the number of total RBC, hemoglobin content, HCT (%), plasma protein, and cholesterol while decreasing the level of total WBC, plasma glucose, creatinine, serum AST and serum ALT. The leaf powder of Ocimum sanctum plays a significant role in ameliorating lead toxicity.

Polymorphism of candidate genes MTNR1B C/G (rs10830963) and TCF7L2 C/T (rs7903146) in children as a risk factor for the development of hepatobiliary system pathology in conditions of contamination of biological media with heavy metals (using lead as an example)

Introduction. Lead impact on health considering likely pathways of its molecular interactions in the body have not been given sufficient attention by researchers. The aim of this study was to assess polymorphism of the MTNR1B C/G (rs10830963) and TCF7L2 C/T (rs7903146) genes in children as a risk factor of hepatobiliary pathology in case of heavy metal contamination in biological media (exemplified by lead). Materials and methods. We examined ninety three 3–6 years children (39 children had hepatobiliary pathology and 54 children were considered healthy) who were exposed to low-dose airborne lead (0.1MPLa.d.), the average daily dose being 0.4 ∙ 10–3 µg/kg ∙ day. We estimated frequency of alleles and genotypes of the candidate genes MTNR1B C/G (rs10830963) and TCF7L2-1 C/T (rs7903146) associated with levels of lead contamination in biological media and hepatobiliary pathology. Results. The children from the observation group were established to have authentically high frequency of the G allele (OR=1.92, CI: 1.04–3.54) and GG genotype (OR=7.80, CI: 1.58–38.51; p&lt;0.05) of the MTNR1B gene, as well as C wild type allele (OR=2.07, CI: 1.02–4.20; p&lt;0.05) and CC genotype (OR=2.42, CI: 1.02–5.70; p&lt;0.05) of the TCF7L2-1 gene, which were risk factors (RR=1.20–1.43) of developing hepatobiliary pathology aggravated by lead contamination in blood. Limitations. Limited sampling, the need to verify the results in further observations. Conclusion. The study established children with hepatobiliary pathology who lived under long-term low-dose exposure to airborne lead at the dose of 0.4 ∙ 10–3 µg/kg ∙ day (0.1MPLa.d.) to have elevated lead levels in blood and impaired biorhythms of smooth muscles in the bile duct combined with the risk (RR=1.20–1.43) of developing hepatobiliary pathology in carriers of G allele (OR=1.92, CI: 1.04–3.54; p&lt;0.05) of the MTNR1B gene as well as C wild type allele (OR=2.07, CI: 1.02–4.20; p&lt;0.05) of the TCF7L2-1 gene.

Dynamic Local Order and Ultralow Thermal Conductivity of Cs2AgBiBr6.

Lead halide perovskites are renowned for their exceptional optoelectronic properties but face concerns over lead toxicity and stability, which drives the exploration of lead-free perovskites, with Cs2AgBiBr6 standing out as a benchmark alternative. Understanding the structural dynamics and thermal transport properties of Cs2AgBiBr6 is crucial but remains an outstanding challenge due to the complex atomic fluctuations. Here, through diffuse scattering experiments and simulations, we uncover the underlying dynamic local structure in Cs2AgBiBr6, showing a unique two-dimensional spatial correlation. The inelastic X-ray scattering experiments and simulations further confirm the strong anharmonicity and short phonon lifetimes in Cs2AgBiBr6. An ultralow thermal conductivity of ∼0.36 W m-1 K-1 was measured by the frequency-domain thermoreflectance technique, with abnormal weak temperature dependence (∼ T-0.7). These results offer new insights into the lattice dynamics of lead-free double perovskites and are critical to understanding the electron-phonon and phonon-phonon couplings for their applications such as optoelectronics.

Mapping Binding Sites for Efficient Hole Extraction in Lead Halide Perovskites through Sulfur‐Based Ligand Engineering

AbstractLead halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) rapidly emerge as promising materials for photovoltaics. However, to fully harness their potential, efficient charge extraction is crucial. Despite rapid advancements, the specific active sites where acceptor molecules interact remain inadequately understood. Surface chemistry and interfacial properties are pivotal, as they directly impact charge transfer efficiency and overall device performance. This study identifies and maps binding sites for hole transporters, examining their influence on charge transfer dynamics through ligand engineering with 2,3‐dimercaptopropanol (DMP), a compound with a strong affinity for lead (Pb). DMP effectively passivates Pb sites in CsPbBr3 (CPB) NCs, enhancing photoluminescence (PL) by forming stable chelating bonds. DMP‐modified CPB nearly completely suppresses hole transfer to ─COOH‐functionalized ferrocene (FcA) and partially suppresses transfer to ─NMe2‐functionalized ferrocene (FcAm), suggesting an alternative hole extraction pathway for FcAm. This is further supported by enhanced hole transfer in bromine‐excess CPB (CPB‐Br(XS)) synthesized via SOBr2 treatment. The distinct binding interactions and charge transfer dynamics are validated through steady‐state and time‐resolved PL, along with transient absorption spectroscopy. These findings underscore the role of strategic ligand engineering in enhancing perovskite NC‐charge acceptor interactions, enabling better charge extraction, higher solar cell efficiency, and reduced lead toxicity through strong Pb binding.

Isolating and Identifying One Strain with Lead-Tolerant Fungus and Preliminary Study on Its Capability of Biosorption to Pb2.

To obtain lead-resistant microorganisms as potential strains for bioremediation, in this study, a strain of fungus with high resistance to lead was isolated and domesticated from lead-contaminated soil, which was cultured and molecularly biologically identified as the genus Sarocladium Pb-9 (GenBank No. MK372219). The optimal incubation time of strain Pb-9 was 96 h, the optimal incubation temperature was 25 °C, and the optimal incubation pH was 7. The strain Pb-9 had a good adsorption effect on Pb2+ at a lead concentration of 2000 mg/L; scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observed that the spores of the Pb-9 strain appeared to be wrinkled and deformed under Pb2+ stress, and XRD analysis showed that the mycelium of Pb-9 adsorbed Pb2+; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that the Pb-9 strain might produce substances such as esters and polysaccharides under the treatment of different Pb2+ concentrations. The above results showed that strain Pb-9 has good resistance and adsorption capacity to lead. Therefore, it has potential application value in the bioremediation of environmental heavy metal pollution, and this study provides a fundamental basis for the bioremediation of lead pollution in the environment.

Awareness and Knowledge of Lead Poisoning: A Street Survey in Three Municipalities of Georgia.

Lead poisoning is a serious public health problem, especially for children. Despite screening programs to reduce lead exposure, there is still a lack of knowledge about its harmful impact. The study aimed to analyze how aware people in Georgia are about lead poisoning and its health effects. In this street survey, 384 adults from three municipalities, Batumi, Ozurgeti, and Zugdidi, were interviewed from March to June 2024. We used descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square test for data analysis. The majority of respondents noted that children are at high risk of lead poisoning. In all selected municipalities, people know that lead can be found in toys, but they do not know it can be found in jewelry and cosmetics, especially in Ozurgeti. Many respondents are not aware that lead poisoning can cause cardiovascular disease, anemia, and kidney failure. More educational campaigns are needed to highlight lead poisoning sources and their effects on health to protect the population.