Pesticides are Associated with Allergic and Non-Allergic Wheeze among Male Farmers

Association of pyrethroids exposure with asthma in US children and adolescents: a nationally representative cross-sectional study

Pyrethroids (PYR) are among the most widely used insecticides in households, leading to substantial exposure. Children and adolescents, especially during growth spurts, have a reduced capacity to effectively metabolize these insecticides. The relationship between PYR exposure and asthma in these age groups remains poorly understood, highlighting the need for further research.We used data from the 2007-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which included 1181 children aged 6-11 years and 1258 adolescents aged 12-19 years. The concentration of the PYR metabolite 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) in urine was quantified using solid-phase extraction-high-performance liquid chromatography-heated electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Asthma was defined based on self-reported doctor diagnoses from the questionnaire. PYR exposure was measured using urine samples collected simultaneously with the questionnaire. We explored the association between PYR exposure and asthma using multiple logistic regression analyses, adjusting for potential confounders.Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed no significant association between PYR exposure and asthma in children and adolescent boys (all P > 0.05). In contrast, PYR exposure was significantly associated with asthma in adolescent girls aged 12-19 years. Specifically, for "ever asthma," the odds ratios (ORs) were 2.49 (95% CI = 1.03-5.97) in the second quartile of PYR exposure and 2.48 (95% CI = 1.04-5.91) in the third quartile, each in comparison to the first quartile. For "current asthma," in comparison to the first quartile, the ORs were 3.99 (95% CI = 1.55-10.26) in the second quartile of PYR exposure, 3.39 (95% CI = 1.32-8.70) in the third quartile, and 2.93 (95% CI = 1.24-6.90) in the fourth quartile.Conclusions:Our study found a significant association between PYR exposure and asthma in adolescent girls, whereas no significant association was observed in children and adolescent boys. These findings suggest potential sex and age differences in susceptibility to PYR exposure. Further research is warranted to confirm these results and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Association of pesticide exposure with respiratory health outcomes and rhinitis in avocado farmworkers from Michoacán, Mexico

BACKGROUND

A growing literature suggests associations between occupational pesticide exposure and respiratory health. In this study, we aimed to examine the association of exposure to insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, individually and as a mixture, with respiratory health outcomes and rhinitis in avocado farmworkers from Michoacán, Mexico.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 105 avocado farmworkers between May and August 2021. We quantified 12 insecticide, fungicide, and herbicide metabolites in urine samples collected during two study visits (8-10 weeks apart). We collected survey data on self-reported pesticide use during the 12 months prior to the baseline survey and estimated annual exposure-intensity scores (EIS) using a semi-quantitative exposure algorithm. We also assessed respiratory symptoms, including wheezing, chest tightness, wheezing after exercise, and night cough. We used generalized linear regression models to examine associations of individual urinary metabolite concentrations and annual EIS with respiratory health outcomes and rhinitis. Mixture effects were assessed using Bayesian Weighted Quantile Sum (BWQS) regression.

RESULTS

After adjusting for multiple comparisons, we observed mostly null associations of individual pesticide metabolite concentrations and annual EIS with the outcomes of interest. However, in BWQS analyses, we found evidence of a mixture association of urinary pesticide metabolites with increased odds of night cough (OR: 5.34, 95 % CrI: 1.67, 20.62). Pyrethroid metabolites 3-phenoxybenzoic acid and cis- and trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid were the main contributors to this association (43 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that exposure to a mixture of pesticides, particularly pyrethroid insecticides, may be associated with night cough in avocado farmworkers.

Exposure to agricultural pesticides and wheezing among 5-12-year-old children in the Imperial Valley, CA, USA

Background

Exposure to pesticides has been linked to adverse respiratory health outcomes in children.

Methods

We leveraged the Children's Assessing Imperial Valley Respiratory Health and the Environment cohort located in the rural community of Imperial Valley near the US-Mexico border. We calculated the kilograms of total pesticides applied within 400 m of children's residential addresses for the years 2016-2020. Estimated pesticide usage near homes was categorized into three groups (none vs. low vs. high [split at the median]). All health variables (i.e., asthma status and wheezing) were derived from a parent-reported questionnaire on respiratory health. We used generalized linear models, controlling for child sex, the language of survey, health insurance, respondents' highest education, and exposure to environmental secondhand smoking, to calculate prevalence differences between none versus low and high exposure to agricultural pesticides.

Results

Approximately 62% of the 708 children (aged 5-12 years) lived within 400 m of at least one pesticide application within 12 months prior to survey administration. Exposure to pesticides within 400 m of children's residences was associated with 12-month prior wheeze. Those in the "high" exposure group had a prevalence of wheezing that was 10 (95% confidence interval: 2%, 17%) percentage points higher than among children not exposed to pesticide applications. Associations for high exposure to specific categories of pesticide applications, sulfur only, all pesticides except sulfur, chlorpyrifos, and glyphosate, also were observed with a higher prevalence of wheezing than among children not exposed to pesticide applications.

Conclusions

We observed associations between living near pesticide applications and more wheeze symptoms among children.

Reduced bioenergetics and mitochondrial fragmentation in human primary cytotrophoblasts induced by an EGFR-targeting chemical mixture

Exposures to complex environmental chemical mixtures during pregnancy reach and target the feto-placental unit. This study investigates the influence of environmental chemical mixtures on placental bioenergetics. Recognizing the essential role of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in placental development and its role in stimulating glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration in trophoblast cells, we explored the effects of chemicals known to disrupt EGFR signaling on cellular energy production. Human primary cytotrophoblasts (hCTBs) and a first-trimester extravillous trophoblast cell line (HTR-8/SVneo) were exposed to a mixture of EGFR-interfering chemicals, including atrazine, bisphenol S, niclosamide, PCB-126, PCB-153, and trans-nonachlor. An RNA sequencing approach revealed that the mixture altered the transcriptional signature of genes involved in cellular energetics. Next, the impact of the mixture on cellular bioenergetics was evaluated using a combination of mitochondrial and glycolytic stress tests, ATP production, glucose consumption, lactate synthesis, and super-resolution imaging. The chemical mixture did not alter basal oxygen consumption but diminished the maximum respiratory capacity in a dose-dependent manner, indicating a disruption of mitochondrial function. The respiratory capacity and ATP production were increased by EGF, while the Chem-Mix reduced both EGF- and non-EGF-mediated oxygen consumption rate in hCTBs. A similar pattern was observed in the glycolytic medium acidification, with EGF increasing the acidification, and the Chem-Mix blocking EGF-induced glycolytic acidification. Furthermore, direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM) imaging demonstrated that the Chem-Mix led to a reduction of the mitochondrial network architecture, with findings supported by a decrease in the abundance of OPA1, a mitochondrial membrane GTPase involved in mitochondrial fusion. In conclusion, we demonstrated that a mixture of EGFR-disrupting chemicals alters mitochondrial remodeling, resulting in disturbed cellular bioenergetics, reducing the capacity of human cytotrophoblast cells to generate energy. Future studies should investigate the mechanism by which mitochondrial dynamics are disrupted and the pathological significance of these findings.

Association between exposure to organophosphate pesticides and cytokine levels in a population of flower workers in Mexico

The ability of organophosphate pesticides to disturb immune function has been demonstrated by in vivo and in vitro studies, but evidence of such effects on humans remains scarce. To assess the association between organophosphate pesticides exposure and cytokine levels in Mexican flower workers, a cross-sectional study was carried out. A questionnaire was provided to 121 male flower workers, and urine and blood samples were collected. Using gas chromatography, urinary concentrations of dialkylphosphate metabolites were determined. The serum cytokine levels, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, were measured using multiplex analysis, and levels of INF-γ and TNF-α by ELISA. We found that a higher dialkylphosphate concentration decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokines INF-γ (β = -0.63; 95 % CI: -1.22, -0.05), TNF-α (β= -1.18; 95 % CI: -2.38, 0.02), and IL-6 (β= -0.59; 95 % CI: -1.29, 0.12), and increased IL-10 (β=0.56; 95 % CI: 0.02, 1.09), the main anti-inflammatory cytokine, suggesting an imbalance of the immune response in flower workers.

[Pesticide exposure and chronic respiratory diseases]

INTRODUCTION

Pesticides are used worldwide, mainly in agriculture as a means of controlling pests and protecting crops. That said, the entire world population is ultimately subject to pesticide exposure (consumption of fruits and vegetables, living near treated fields…), with varying degrees of toxicity involved.

STATE OF THE ART

In recent decades, epidemiological studies have contributed to the identification of chemical pesticide families with detrimental effects on human health: cognitive disorders, Parkinson's disease, prostate cancer… and impairment in respiratory functioning. Current scientific evidence points to the implication of the active substances in insecticides, herbicides and fungicides in chronic respiratory diseases, two examples being chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in exposed workers, and asthmatic wheezing in children during prenatal or postnatal exposure.

PERSPECTIVES

The safety of individuals exposed to pesticides is of key importance in public health. Further epidemiological investigations are needed to identify the chemical families affecting certain populations.

CONCLUSIONS

The scientific literature suggests strong links between pesticide exposure and respiratory health. Whether it be environmental or occupational, pesticide exposure can lead to respiratory disorders and symptoms of varying severity.

Pesticide exposure and rhinitis: A cross-sectional study among farmers in Pitsanulok, Thailand

Background

Pesticide exposure has been suspected as a cause of rhinitis, a common disease that affects the health and well-being of millions of people around the world. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association between pesticide use and rhinitis prevalence among farmers in Phitsanulok province, Thailand.

Methods

Data on historical pesticide use and rhinitis were collected by an in-person interview questionnaire. Data from 9,649 participants were included in the analysis. The association between pesticide exposure and rhinitis was determined by multiple variable logistic regression, adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

The study found an association between pesticide exposure and the prevalence of rhinitis. The association was consistent across various types of pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, rodenticides, and molluscicides) and individual pesticides. Some of the relationships were in a dose-response pattern. This finding was new as previous studies often reported the association of only a few specific pesticides.

Conclusions

The results from this large cross-sectional study supports existing literature on the potential effects of pesticides on rhinitis. In addition, the analysis showed that the rhinitis effect might be in fact related to the properties of the types of pesticides rather than individual chemical toxicity. The impact of pesticides on rhinitis should receive more attention from public health and other organizations responsible for the farmers' health.

Association of urinary organophosphate metabolites with adult asthma patients: a cross-sectional population-based study

Human health is adversely affected by exposure to organophosphate (OP) pesticides. This study aims to investigate the correlation between urinary OP metabolites and the prevalence of asthma. In cross-sectional studies, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) projects conducted between 2003-2008, 2011-2012, and 2015-2018 were analyzed. Multiple logistic regressions and restricted cubic spline (RCS) regressions were utilized to examine the relationship between four urinary OP metabolites, namely dimethyl phosphate (DMP), diethyl phosphate (DEP), dimethyl phosphorothioate (DMTP), and diethyl phosphorothioate (DETP), and the prevalence of asthma. Additionally, quantile g-computation (QG-C) regression was employed to evaluate the association between urinary OP metabolites (both individual and combined exposures) and asthma prevalence. The results showed that a total of 9316 adults, including 1298 participants with asthma, were included in the analysis. The median age of the participants was 47.37 years, and 50.27% were female. In the comprehensive model, the third tertile of DMP and DEP exhibited a positive association with asthma prevalence compared to the first tertile (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.26 [1.01-1.57], Ptrend = 0.036; and 1.25 [1.07-1.51], Ptrend = 0.008, respectively). Moreover, a linear relationship was observed between DMP, DEP, and asthma prevalence (P for nonlinearity = 0.320 and 0.553, respectively). The QG-C regression revealed a positive association between the mixture of urinary OP metabolites and asthma prevalence (OR = 1.04 [1.01-1.07], P = 0.025), with DEP contributing the most substantial effect (weight = 0.564). Our findings suggest that exposure to OP pesticides is associated with an increased prevalence of asthma, with DEP demonstrating the strongest impact.

Glyphosate and environmental toxicity with "One Health" approach, a review

The herbicide Glyphosate (GLY), or N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine was synthesized in 1950 and applied to control weeds in agricultural production. For a long time, it was believed that it was an inert compound, but many studies have instead demonstrated over the years the dangers of GLY to the ecosystem and human health. Among the best-known effects, it is known that GLY interferes with the metabolic pathways of plants and the main groups of microorganisms, negatively influencing their growth. GLY interferes with the metabolic pathways of plants and major groups of microorganisms negatively affecting their growth. The extensive GLY application on fields results in a "slow death" of plants through the minor resistance to root pathogens and in increasing pollution of freshwaters and soils. Unfortunately, however, unlike the old beliefs, GLY can reach non-target destinations, in this regard, ecological studies and environmental epidemiology are of significant interest. In this review, we focus on the effects of acute and chronic exposure to GLY on the health of plants, animals, and humans from a One Health perspective. GLY has been linked to neurological and endocrine issues in both humans and animals, and behavioral modification on specific bioindicators, but the knowledge about the ratio cause-and-effect still needs to be better understood and elucidated. Environmental GLY residues analysis and policy acts will both require new criteria to protect environmental and human health.

Obstructive Lung Disease Linked to Occupational Exposures in Malawian Tobacco Farmers

Nicotine and pesticide exposure in agricultural settings have been linked to the development of chronic respiratory disease in workers. However, this has not been extensively studied in Africa. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the prevalence of obstructive lung disease and its relationship to concurrent nicotine and pesticide exposure among small-scale tobacco farmers in Malawi. For this purpose, sociodemographic characteristics, occupational and environmental exposures were evaluated in relation to work-related respiratory symptoms and lung function impairment. A cross-sectional study was conducted enrolling 279 workers in flue-cured tobacco farms in Zomba, Malawi. The study instruments used for assessing the health outcomes were a standardised European Community Respiratory Health Survey II (ECRHS) questionnaire and Spirometry testing. The questionnaires were aimed at collecting relevant data on sociodemographic factors and self-reported respiratory health outcomes. Data were also collected on potential pesticide and nicotine exposures. Spirometry was done to evaluate objective respiratory impairment in accordance with American Thoracic Society guidelines. The mean age of participants was 38 years with 68% being male. The prevalence of work-related ocular nasal symptoms, chronic bronchitis, and work-related chest symptoms was 20%, 17%, and 29%, respectively. Airflow limitation (FEV1/FVC <70%) was found in 8% of workers. Self-reported exposure to pesticides varied from 72%- to 83%, whilst the prevalence of recent green tobacco sickness was 26%. Tasks linked to nicotine exposure, such as sowing (OR: 2.5; CI 1.1-5.7) and harvesting (OR: 2.6; CI 1.4-5.1), were significantly associated with work-related chest symptoms. Pesticide application (OR:1.96; CI 1.0-3.7) was associated with an increased risk of work-related oculonasal symptoms. Duration of pesticide exposure was also associated with obstructive impairment FEV1/FVC Collapse

Key Words

• Obstructive lung disease
• nicotine
• pesticides
• tobacco farming

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MESH Headings

• Humans
• Male
• Adult
• Female
• Tobacco
• Farmers
• Nicotine
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Risk Factors
• Occupational Exposure/adverse effects
• Pesticides/adverse effects
• Spirometry
• Lung Diseases, Obstructive/chemically induced
• Lung
• Prevalence

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Grants

• D43 TW009609 FIC NIH HHS

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Affiliation(s)

Yotam M Moyo Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
Mohamed F Jeebhay Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
Roslynn Baatjies Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental & Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa Department of Environmental and Occupational Studies, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), Cape Town, South Africa
Sufia Dadabhai Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
Shahieda Adams Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa

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Associations between prenatal organophosphate pesticide exposure and placental gene networks

BACKGROUND

Exposure to organophosphate (OP) pesticides during pregnancy has been linked to deficiencies of neurobehavioral development in childhood; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying this association remain elusive. The placenta plays a crucial role in protecting the fetus from environmental insults and safeguarding proper fetal development including neurodevelopment. The aim of our study is to evaluate changes in the placental transcriptome associated with prenatal OP exposure.

METHODS

Pregnant farm workers from two agricultural districts in northern Thailand were recruited for the Study of Asian Women and Offspring's Development and Environmental Exposures (SAWASDEE) from 2017 to 2019. For 254 participants, we measured maternal urinary concentrations of six nonspecific dialkyl phosphates (DAP) metabolites in early, middle, and late pregnancy. In parallel, we profiled the term placental transcriptome from the same participants using RNA-Sequencing and performed Weighted Gene co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). Generalized linear regression modeling was used to examine associations of urinary OP metabolites and placental co-expression module eigenvalues.

RESULTS

We identified 21 gene co-expression modules in the placenta. From the six DAP metabolites assayed, diethylphosphate (DEP) and diethylthiophosphate (DETP) were detected in more than 70% of the urine samples. Significant associations between DEP at multiple time points and two specific placental gene modules were observed. The 'black' module, enriched in genes involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and hypoxia, was negatively associated with DEP in early (p = 0.034), and late pregnancies (p = 0.016). The 'lightgreen' module, enriched in genes involved in myogenesis and EMT, was negatively associated with DEP in late pregnancy (p = 0.010). We observed 2 hub genes (CELSR1 and PYCR1) of the 'black' module to be negatively associated with DEP in early and late pregnancies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that prenatal OP exposure may disrupt placental gene networks in a time-dependent manner. Such transcriptomic effects may lead to down-stream changes in placental function that ultimately affect the developing fetus.

Adhesion Molecules in Lung Inflammation from Repeated Glyphosate Exposures

Glyphosate is an active ingredient in herbicides. Exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides has been associated with respiratory dysfunctions in agricultural workers. The ability of inhaled glyphosate to induce lung inflammation is not well understood. Further, the role of adhesion molecules in glyphosate-induced lung inflammation has not been studied. We evaluated lung inflammatory responses from single and repeated glyphosate exposures. Male C57BL/6 mice were intranasally exposed to glyphosate (1 μg/40 μL) for 1 day or once daily for 5 days or 10 days. Lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were collected and analyzed. Repeated exposure to glyphosate for 5 days and 10 days resulted in an increase in neutrophils in BAL fluid and higher eosinophil peroxidase levels in lungs, with leukocyte infiltration further confirmed through lung histology. Repetitive exposure to glyphosate increased IL-33 and Th2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13. A single glyphosate treatment revealed expression for ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and vWF adhesion molecules in the perivascular region of lung sections; with repeated treatment (5 and 10 days), adhesion molecule expression was found in the perivascular, peribronchiolar, and alveolar regions of the lungs. Repetitive exposure to glyphosate induced cellular inflammation in which adhesion molecules may be important to the lung inflammatory process.

Lung Health in Farming: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

Lung disease is now recognized as an associated occupational hazard among farming and agricultural communities, however limited research surrounds lung health knowledge within our farming population. It is clear from this limited lack of knowledge that farming practices, perceptions and ideas relating to lung health are yet to be uncovered. This scoping review was conducted to identify what is known about lung health within farming and agricultural communities globally and to map the available evidence relating to lung health and lung health decline within this population. The objectives of this review were (1) focus on available lung health research from a global perspective specific to farming and agriculture relating to occupational lung exposures and (2) consolidate current knowledge, clearly identifying gaps within the literature.

METHODS

This systematic scoping review of the literature is guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology framework. There were 22 studies eligible for inclusion within the scoping review, providing an up-to-date review of research conducted on lung health and lung disease in farming occupations.

RESULTS

Results were grouped into three categories emerging from included studies: (1) focused on the prevalence of respiratory symptoms/disease within farming and agricultural occupations, (2) measurements of dust and particulate matter and correlating these with respiratory conditions, (3) common respiratory conditions linked to a decline in lung health among farming and agricultural occupations. Results identified no study focused on or referred to lung health, lung health knowledge or lung health awareness as an outcome, with all studies focusing on respiratory symptoms, development of lung disease and the common occupational hazards this population are exposed to.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review demonstrates the lack of literature to specifically map available evidence relating to lung health and farming occupations. Many respiratory symptoms and conditions can arise directly and indirectly from agricultural environments, however many of these cases could be prevented by lung health knowledge within the farming population. The results of this scoping review will be used to inform knowledge, awareness, education, health promotion and future research within this population.

Effect of zinc supplementation on immunotoxicity induced by subchronic oral exposure to glyphosate-based herbicide (GOBARA®) in Wistar rats

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of zinc supplementation on immunotoxicity induced by subchronic oral exposure to glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH).

METHODS

Sixty adult male Wistar rats randomly divided equally into six groups were exposed to GBH by gavage daily for 16 weeks with or without zinc pretreatment. Group DW rats received distilled water (2 mL/kg), group Z rats received zinc (50 mg/kg), and group G1 and G2 rats received 187.5 and 375 mg/kg GBH, respectively. Group ZG1 and ZG2 rats were pretreated with 50 mg/kg zinc before exposure to 187.5 and 375 mg/kg GBH, respectively. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM, IgE) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Spleen, submandibular lymph node, and thymus samples were processed for histopathology.

RESULTS

Exposure to GBH (G1 and G2) significantly increased serum TNF-α concentrations and significantly decreased serum IgG and IgM concentrations compared with the control levels. Moderate-to-severe lymphocyte depletion occurred in the spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus in the GBH-exposed groups. Zinc supplementation mitigated the immunotoxic effects of GBH exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

GBH exposure increased pro-inflammatory cytokine responses, decreased immunoglobulin production, and depleted lymphocytes in lymphoid organs in rats, but zinc supplementation mitigated this immunotoxicity.

Co-Benefits of Largescale Organic farming On huMan health (BLOOM): Protocol for a cluster-randomised controlled evaluation of the Andhra Pradesh Community-managed Natural Farming programme in India

The BLOOM study (co-Benefits of Largescale Organic farming On huMan health) aims to determine if a government-implemented agroecology programme reduces pesticide exposure and improves dietary diversity in agricultural households. To achieve this aim, a community-based, cluster-randomised controlled evaluation of the Andhra Pradesh Community-managed Natural Farming (APCNF) programme will be conducted in 80 clusters (40 intervention and 40 control) across four districts of Andhra Pradesh state in south India. Approximately 34 households per cluster will be randomly selected for screening and enrolment into the evaluation at baseline. The two primary outcomes, measured 12 months post-baseline assessment, are urinary pesticide metabolites in a 15% random subsample of participants and dietary diversity in all participants. Both primary outcomes will be measured in (1) adult men ≥18 years old, (2) adult women ≥18 years old, and (3) children <38 months old at enrolment. Secondary outcomes measured in the same households include crop yields, household income, adult anthropometry, anaemia, glycaemia, kidney function, musculoskeletal pain, clinical symptoms, depressive symptoms, women's empowerment, and child growth and development. Analysis will be on an intention-to-treat basis with an a priori secondary analysis to estimate the per-protocol effect of APCNF on the outcomes. The BLOOM study will provide robust evidence of the impact of a large-scale, transformational government-implemented agroecology programme on pesticide exposure and dietary diversity in agricultural households. It will also provide the first evidence of the nutritional, developmental, and health co-benefits of adopting agroecology, inclusive of malnourishment as well as common chronic diseases. Trial registration: Study registration: ISRCTN 11819073 (https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN11819073). Clinical Trial Registry of India CTRI/2021/08/035434.

Respiratory and allergic outcomes among 5-year-old children exposed to pesticides

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the effects of pesticides on children's respiratory and allergic outcomes. We evaluated associations of prenatal and current pesticide exposures with respiratory and allergic outcomes in children from the Infants' Environmental Health Study in Costa Rica.

METHODS

Among 5-year-old children (n=303), we measured prenatal and current specific gravity-corrected urinary metabolite concentrations of insecticides (chlorpyrifos, pyrethroids), fungicides (mancozeb, pyrimethanil, thiabendazole) and 2,4-D. We collected information from caregivers on respiratory (ever doctor-diagnosed asthma and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI), wheeze and cough during last 12 months) and allergic (nasal allergies, itchy rash, ever eczema) outcomes. We fitted separate multivariable logistic regression models for high (≥75th percentile (P75)) vs low (<P75) metabolite concentrations with respiratory and allergic outcomes. We also ran models including metabolite concentrations as continuous exposure variables.

RESULTS

Children's respiratory outcomes were common (39% cough, 20% wheeze, 12% asthma, 5% LRTI). High current pyrethroid metabolite concentrations (∑pyrethroids) were associated with wheeze (OR=2.37, 95% CI 1.28 to 4.34), itchy rash (OR=2.74, 95% CI 1.33 to 5.60), doctor-diagnosed asthma and LRTI. High current ethylene thiourea (ETU) (specific metabolite of mancozeb) was somewhat associated with LRTI (OR=2.09, 95% CI 0.68 to 6.02). We obtained similar results when modelling ∑pyrethroids and ETU as continuous variables. We saw inconsistent or null associations for other pesticide exposures and health outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Current pyrethroid exposure may affect children's respiratory and allergic health at 5 years of age. Current mancozeb exposure might contribute to LRTI. These findings are important as pyrethroids are broadly used in home environments and agriculture and mancozeb in agriculture.

Glyphosate differentially affects the allergic immune response across generations in mice

Exposure to environmental pollutants via food, particularly during the prenatal and early postnatal periods, has been linked to adverse effects on the immune system. Among these pollutants, the widely used pesticide glyphosate has been associated with endocrine disruption, autism, and cancer. Occupational high exposure to glyphosate has also been shown to influence immune function and exacerbate allergic asthma. However, there are no studies investigating the effect of a common low-dose glyphosate exposure on the allergic immune response - neither directly nor across generations. We therefore explored the impact of oral low-dose glyphosate exposure (0.5 and 50 mg/kg body weight/day) on airway inflammation in dams (F0) and the offspring (F1 and F2 generations) using a murine multi-generational asthma model. While exposure to 50 mg/kg glyphosate induced a mild eosinophilic infiltration in the bronchoalveolar lavage and T_H2 cytokine production in the dams, the F1 offspring developed a reduced immune response after maternal exposure to 0.5 mg/kg glyphosate. In particular, decreased lung inflammation, HDM-specific IgE levels, and asthma-relevant cytokine production were primarily observed in the female F1 offspring. However, not only the T_H2 cytokines IL-13 and IL-5 but also the T_H17 cytokine IL-17 and T_H1 cytokine IFN-γ were reduced indicating a more general immunosuppressive function. Notably, the dampened immune response was no longer observed in the female F2 generation. Furthermore, female F1 offspring showed an increased abundance of bacteria in the gut, which have been associated with probiotic-mediated reduced allergic immune responses. Our results suggest a potential immunosuppressive effect of low-dose maternal glyphosate exposure in the F1 offspring that might be mediated by an altered microbiota composition. Further studies are needed to explore if this type of immune response modulation might also be associated with impairments in immune defense upon infectious diseases or even cancer pathology.

Influence of Rural Environmental Factors in Asthma

PURPOSE

The objective of this article is to review recent literature on the implications of agricultural factors including pesticides, animal/livestock production facilities, agricultural dust, endotoxin, biomass/crop burning, and nutritional factors with respiratory health.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL literature searches for the years 2016 to 2021 were conducted with librarian assistance.

RESULTS

Several studies suggest increased risk for asthma or wheeze with certain rural exposures, particularly for pesticides, livestock production facilities, agricultural dust, and biomass and crop burning.

CONCLUSION

A complex network of environmental factors exists, which may have detrimental effects on the respiratory health of rural residents.

Regulation of Paraquat for wheat crop contamination

Paraquat is a highly toxic and persistent pesticide in soil but is still used for wheat crops in many countries. Paraquat can pose potential health hazards if it is translocated from soil into wheat grains, but no study is available for its possible translocation causing wheat grain contamination. The present study aimed at finding out Paraquat residue in wheat grains under field conditions for two crop seasons to explore the sustainability of this pesticide. The experiments were conducted scientifically under field conditions at agricultural fields Pusa, Delhi, India. The soil texture was classified as sandy loam. Paraquat dichloride 24% SL (herbicide) was applied on five fields except for control field. Paraquat in wheat grains was analyzed using HPLC equipped with a photodiode array (PDA) detector. The method of analysis was validated for the pesticide residue recovery. The results showed that there was an alarming concentration of Paraquat in wheat grains ranging between 21.6 and 49.02 mg kg^-1 against maximum residue level of 0.1 mg kg^-1. Paraquat was also found in control crop (3.1 mg kg^-1) due to background residue in soil even when no Paraquat was applied. Furthermore, wheat flour samples from market also gave alarming Paraquat residue (20.39, 25.88, and 27.68 mg kg^-1). Paraquat residue was primarily dependent on % clay in field soils. More the % clay lesser was Paraquat residue in wheat grain. Thus, Paraquat was translocated from soil into wheat grains and resulted in worrying concentration of Paraquat residue in wheat grains. Consequently, use of Paraquat for wheat crops needs to be regulated as it contaminated the soil and resulted in the wheat grain contamination posing severe health hazards for humans.

Allergic and non-allergic wheeze among farm women in the Agricultural Health Study (2005-2010)

BACKGROUND

Farms represent complex environments for respiratory exposures including hays, grains and pesticides. Little is known about the impact of these exposures on women's respiratory health. We evaluated the association of farm exposures with allergic and non-allergic wheeze among women in the Agricultural Health Study, a study of farmers and their spouses based in Iowa and North Carolina.

METHODS

We used self-reported data (2005-2010) on current use (≤12 months) of 15 pesticides (selected based on frequency of use) and occupational farm activities from 20 164 women. We defined allergic wheeze as reporting wheeze and doctor-diagnosed hay fever (7%) and non-allergic wheeze as wheeze but not hay fever (8%) in the past 12 months. Using polytomous logistic regression, we evaluated associations of wheeze subtypes with pesticides and other farm exposures (eg, raising farm animals) using no wheeze/hay fever as the referent, adjusting for age, body mass index, state, current asthma, glyphosate use and smoking.

RESULTS

Current use of any pesticide, reported by 7% of women, was associated with both allergic (OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.67) and non-allergic (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.51) wheeze. Four pesticides were associated with at least one wheeze subtype: glyphosate, with both wheeze subtypes; diazinon and fly spray with only allergic wheeze; carbaryl with only non-allergic wheeze. Working weekly with mouldy hay was associated with allergic (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.26 to 2.80) and non-allergic wheeze (OR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.18 to 2.42).

CONCLUSION

Use of specific pesticides and certain farm activities may contribute to wheeze among farm women.

Allergy from perspective of environmental pollution effects: from an aspect of atopic dermatitis, immune system, and atmospheric hazards-a narrative review of current evidences

Environmental pollution has become more diversified in recent years as technologies for urbanization is increasingly more advanced. Several environmental factors such as air and water pollutants have been linked to allergic symptoms. For instance, because of industrialization for city development in many countries, polluted soil or tiny particles in the air could result in an even more hazardous environment for people to reside. Aside from the aspects of environmental issues, other newly emerging factors such as the electromagnetic field (EMF) also require further investigation. Here, in this narrative review, we focused on allergens from atmospheric and water pollution, hygiene improvement, changes in food trend, and residential environmental pollution. Current evidences regarding the association between various pollutants and the potential clinical diseases could be induced. For people with high skin exposure to air pollutants such as PM 2.5, PM 10, or sulfur dioxide, potential onset of dermatological allergic events should be alerted. The mechanisms involved in allergic diseases are being discussed and summarized. Interactions between immunological mechanisms and clinical implications could potentially provide clearer view to the association between allergic status and pollutants. Moreover, understanding the mechanistic role of allergens can raise awareness to global environment and public health.

Effects of exposure to glyphosate on oxidative stress, inflammation, and lung function in maize farmers, Northern Thailand

BACKGROUND

Glyphosate is a herbicide which is commonly used in agricultural areas. However, previous studies on glyphosate exposure in farmers and their health are still scarce.

METHODS

A longitudinal pre-post study was performed among maize farmers. Information from questionnaires, urine and blood samples, and lung function were collected a day before and a day after glyphosate application in the morning. The urine samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to detect glyphosate levels. Serum samples were analyzed to detect malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GHS), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels using thiobarbituric acid, dithiobisnitrobenzoic acid, and nephelometry, respectively. Lung function performances were measured using a spirometer.

RESULTS

A total of 180 maize farmers met the study inclusion criteria. After glyphosate application, it was found that increased urinary glyphosate levels contributed to increased serum MDA (β = 0.024, 95% CI = 0.000, 0.0047) and decreased serum GHS (β = -0.022, 95% CI = -0.037, -0.007), FEV1 (β = -0.134, 95% CI = -0.168, -0.100), FEV1/FVC (β = -0.062, 95% CI = -0.082, -0.042) and PEF (β = -0.952, 95% CI = -1.169, -0.735).

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to glyphosate during glyphosate application had significant effects on oxidative stress and lung function in maize farmers.

Overview of Environmental and Health Effects Related to Glyphosate Usage

Since the introduction of glyphosate (N-(phosphomethyl) glycine) in 1974, it has been the most used nonselective and broad-spectrum herbicide around the world. The widespread use of glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides is due to their low-cost efficiency in killing weeds, their rapid absorption by plants, and the general mistaken perception of their low toxicity to the environment and living organisms. As a consequence of the intensive use and accumulation of glyphosate and its derivatives on environmental sources, major concerns about the harmful side effects of glyphosate and its metabolites on human, plant, and animal health, and for water and soil quality, are emerging. Glyphosate can reach water bodies by soil leaching, runoff, and sometimes by the direct application of some approved formulations. Moreover, glyphosate can reach nontarget plants by different mechanisms, such as spray application, release through the tissue of treated plants, and dead tissue from weeds. As a consequence of this nontarget exposure, glyphosate residues are being detected in the food chains of diverse products, such as bread, cereal products, wheat, vegetable oil, fruit juice, beer, wine, honey, eggs, and others. The World Health Organization reclassified glyphosate as probably carcinogenic to humans in 2015 by the IARC. Thus, many review articles concerning different glyphosate-related aspects have been published recently. The risks, disagreements, and concerns regarding glyphosate usage have led to a general controversy about whether glyphosate should be banned, restricted, or promoted. Thus, this review article makes an overview of the basis for scientists, regulatory agencies, and the public in general, with consideration to the facts on and recommendations for the future of glyphosate usage.

Insights on the bioremediation technologies for pesticide-contaminated soils

The fast pace of increasing human population has led to enhanced crop production, due to which a significant increase in the application of pesticides has been recorded worldwide. Following the enhancement in the utilization of pesticides, the degree of environmental pollution, particularly soil pollution, has increased. To address this challenge, different methods of controlling and eliminating such contaminants have been proposed. Various methods have been reported to eradicate or reduce the degree of contamination of pesticides in the soil. Several factors are crucial for soil contamination, including pH, temperature, the number, and type/nature of soil microorganisms. Among the accessible techniques, some of them respond better to contamination removal. One of these methods is bioremediation, and it is one of the ideal solutions for pollution reduction. In this innovative technique, microorganisms are utilized to decompose environmental pollutants or to curb pollution. This paper gives detailed insight into various strategies used for the reduction and removal of soil pollution.

Direct Effects of Glyphosate on In Vitro T Helper Cell Differentiation and Cytokine Production

Glyphosate (G) is the active ingredient of the most used herbicides worldwide. Its use is currently very debated, as several studies indicating its hazard and toxicity are emerging. Among them, there is evidence of adverse effects on the immune system. The aim of this work was to investigate if G could directly affect immune cells. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained from healthy donors were used as experimental model. PBMC were expose to G and stimulated with PMA/ionomycin, T helper (Th) cell differentiation and cytokine production were assessed by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. A reduction of Th1/Th2 ratio, mainly due to a decrease in Th1 cells, was observed following G exposure. Results show an enhancement of IL-4 and IL-17A production, and a reduction of IFN-γ. Based on literature evidence that suggest G being an endocrine disruptor, we investigated the role of nuclear estrogen receptors (ER). ERα/ERβ inhibition by ICI 182,780 abolished the effects of G on IFN-γ and IL-4 release, suggesting a role of ER in the observed effects. To further characterize the mechanism of action of G, miRNAs, both in exosome and intracellular, were investigated. A statistically significant increase in miR-500a-5p was observed following G treatment. The blockage of miR-500a-5p, using a specific antagomir, prevented G-induced reduction of IFN-γ production. Finally a relationship between miR-500a-5p up-regulation and ER was observed. Overall, these results suggest that G can directly act on T cells, altering T cell differentiation and cytokines production.

Association between increasing agricultural use of 2,4-D and population biomarkers of exposure: findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001-2014

BACKGROUND

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is one of the most extensively used herbicides in the United States. In 2012, 2,4-D was the most widely used herbicide in non-agricultural settings and the fifth most heavily applied pesticide in the US agricultural sector. The objective of this study was to examine trends in 2,4-D urinary biomarker concentrations to determine whether increases in 2,4-D application in agriculture are associated with increases in biomonitoring levels of urine 2,4-D.

METHODS

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) with available urine 2,4-D biomarker measurements from survey cycles between 2001 and 2014 were utilized. Urine 2,4-D values were dichotomized using the highest limit of detection (LOD) across all cycles (0.40 μg/L or 0.4 ppb). Agricultural use of 2,4-D was estimated by compiling publicly available federal and private pesticide application data. Logistic regression models adjusted for confounders were fitted to evaluate the association between agricultural use of 2,4-D and urine 2,4-D level above the dichotomization threshold.

RESULTS

Of the 14,395 participants included in the study, 4681 (32.5%) had urine 2,4-D levels above the dichotomization threshold. The frequency of participants with high 2,4-D levels increased significantly (p < .0001), from a low of 17.1% in 2001-2002 to a high of 39.6% in 2011-2012. The adjusted odds of high urinary 2,4-D concentrations associated with 2,4-D agricultural use (per ten million pounds applied) was 2.268 (95% CI: 1.709, 3.009). Children ages 6-11 years (n = 2288) had 2.1 times higher odds of having high 2,4-D urinary concentrations compared to participants aged 20-59 years. Women of childbearing age (age 20-44 years) (n = 2172) had 1.85 times higher odds than men of the same age.

CONCLUSIONS

Agricultural use of 2,4-D has increased substantially from a low point in 2002 and it is predicted to increase further in the coming decade. Because increasing use is likely to increase population level exposures, the associations seen here between 2,4-D crop application and biomonitoring levels require focused biomonitoring and epidemiological evaluation to determine the extent to which rising use and exposures cause adverse health outcomes among vulnerable populations (particularly children and women of childbearing age) and highly exposed individuals (farmers, other herbicide applicators, and their families).

Antifungal Peptides and Proteins to Control Toxigenic Fungi and Mycotoxin Biosynthesis

The global challenge to prevent fungal spoilage and mycotoxin contamination on food and feed requires the development of new antifungal strategies. Antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) with antifungal activity are gaining much interest as natural antifungal compounds due to their properties such as structure diversity and function, antifungal spectrum, mechanism of action, high stability and the availability of biotechnological production methods. Given their multistep mode of action, the development of fungal resistance to AMPs is presumed to be slow or delayed compared to conventional fungicides. Interestingly, AMPs also accomplish important biological functions other than antifungal activity, including anti-mycotoxin biosynthesis activity, which opens novel aspects for their future use in agriculture and food industry to fight mycotoxin contamination. AMPs can reach intracellular targets and exert their activity by mechanisms other than membrane permeabilization. The mechanisms through which AMPs affect mycotoxin production are varied and complex, ranging from oxidative stress to specific inhibition of enzymatic components of mycotoxin biosynthetic pathways. This review presents natural and synthetic antifungal AMPs from different origins which are effective against mycotoxin-producing fungi, and aims at summarizing current knowledge concerning their additional effects on mycotoxin biosynthesis. Antifungal AMPs properties and mechanisms of action are also discussed.

Pesticide-loaded colloidal nanodelivery systems; preparation, characterization, and applications

The fast developments in pesticide-loaded nanodelivery systems over the last decade have inspired many companies and research organizations to highlight potential applications by employing encapsulation approaches in order to protect the agricultural crops. This approach is being used to retard the indiscriminate application of conventional pesticides, as well as, to make ensure the environmental safety. This article shed light on the potential of colloidal delivery systems, particularly controlled releasing profiles of several pesticides with enhanced stability and improved solubility. Colloidal nanodelivery systems, being efficient nanoformulations, have the ability to boost up the pest-control competence for prolonged intervals thru averting the early degradation of active ingredients under severe ecofriendly circumstances. This work is thus aimed to provide critical information on the meaningful role of nanocarriers for loading of pesticides. The smart art of pesticide-loaded nanocarriers can be more fruitful owing to the use of lower amount of active ingredients with improved efficiency along with minimizing the pesticide loss. Also, the future research gaps regarding nano-pesticide formulations, such as role of nanomaterials as active ingredients are discussed briefly. In addition, this article can deliver valuable information to the readers while establishing novel pesticide-loaded nanocarriers for a wide range of applications in the agriculture sectors.

Lung inflammation from repeated exposure to LPS and glyphosate

Agricultural workplaces consist of multiple airborne contaminants and inhalation exposures induce respiratory effects in workers. Endotoxin (LPS) and glyphosate are two common airborne contaminants in agricultural environments. We have previously shown that exposure to a combination of LPS and glyphosate synergistically modulates immune reactions as compared to individual exposures. The immunopathogenesis of acute and chronic exposure to complex agricultural exposures including LPS and glyphosate is not known; therefore, we further investigated the lung cellular inflammatory differences in mice exposed to either a combination, or individual, LPS, and glyphosate for 1 day, 5 days, and 10 days. Exposure to a combination of LPS and glyphosate resulted in greater cellular inflammatory effects in lungs as compared to individual exposures to LPS or glyphosate. Repeated exposures to the combination of LPS and glyphosate resulted in robust infiltration of inflammatory cells in the perivascular, peribronchiolar, and alveolar regions, and increases of alveolar septal thicknesses and perivascular spaces in the lungs with intense intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) - 1 staining in the perivascular region, but minimal staining in the pulmonary artery endothelium.

Using the Matrix to bridge the epidemiology/risk assessment gap: a case study of 2,4-D

BACKGROUND

The Matrix is designed to facilitate discussions between practitioners of risk assessment and epidemiology and, in so doing, to enhance the utility of epidemiology research for public health decision-making. The Matrix is comprised of nine fundamental "asks" of epidemiology studies, focusing on the types of information valuable to the risk assessment process.

OBJECTIVE

A 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) case study highlights the extent to which existing epidemiology literature includes information generally needed for risk assessments and proffers suggestions that would assist in bridging the epidemiology/risk assessment gap.

METHODS

Thirty-one publications identified in the US Environmental Protection Agency 2,4-D epidemiology review were assessed. These studies focused on associations between 2,4-D exposure and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), respiratory effects, and birth outcomes.

RESULTS

Many of the papers met one or more specific elements of the Matrix. However, from this case study, it is clear that some aspects of risk assessment, such as evaluating source-to-intake pathways, are generally not considered in epidemiology research. Others are incorporated, but infrequently (e.g. dose-response information, harmonization of exposure categories). We indicated where additional analyses or modifications to future study design could serve to improve the translation.

DISCUSSION

Interaction with risk assessors during the study design phase and using the Matrix "asks" to guide the conversations could shape research and provide the basis for requests for funds to support these additional activities. The use of the Matrix as a foundation for communication and education across disciplines could produce more impactful and consequential epidemiology research for robust risk assessments and decision-making.

Pulmonary inflammatory response from co-exposure to LPS and glyphosate

Agricultural airborne work exposures are complex in nature and workplace exposures are a risk for respiratory outcomes in workers. Endotoxin and glyphosate are two common agents in agricultural exposures. While endotoxin (lipopolysaccaride, LPS) is a potent inflammatory agent it explains only a portion of the respiratory inflammatory response. The inflammatory potential when LPS is presented with another common agricultural respiratory agent, glyphosate, is not known.

METHODS

Mice were assigned to four treatment groups: control, LPS alone, glyphosate alone, glyphosate and LPS combined. Treatments were for 1, 5 or 10 days.

RESULTS

Five days of repeated exposure to the comintation of LPS and glyphosate resulted in higher neutrophil counts, myloperoxidase, TNF-α, IL-6, KC levels, and ICAM-1 and TLR-2 expression compared to the same length of treatment to LPS or glyphosate alone. After 10-days of exposure, inflammatory responses decreased, however leukocyte infiltration persisted along with increases in IL-4.

CONCLUSIONS

Glyphosate exposure modified LPS induced lung inflammatory responses and TLR-2 may be important in the modulated inflammatory response.

Labelling and denominating lung toxicity effects of pesticides

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

With the development and use of pesticide products increasing, information on the safe handling of pesticides becomes increasingly important. In this article, the denomination of lung toxicity on labelling is reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

The results highlight that whereas hazards, warning statements and instructions for safe use are broadly defined, the different categories of products used as pesticides are associated with different types of clinical manifestations of toxicity. These clinical manifestations are however not directly warned for by means of information provided on the label: more overarching terminology is used to describe hazards associated with acute toxicity, respiratory sensitization, specific lung toxicity after single or repeated exposure, as well as hazards from aspiration.

SUMMARY

This misalignment between hazard labelling and experienced issues increases the difficulty for users of products and clinicians in dealing with adverse events. Together with ensuring that in risk assessment, an integrated approach is taken to study pesticide products, improving the labels will support the safe handling of pesticides.

Glyphosate-based herbicides: Evidence of immune-endocrine alteration

Glyphosate (G) is the active ingredient of the most widely used herbicide products. It targets the enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS), which lacks in humans, suggesting to confer a low mammalian toxicity to G-based herbicides (GBHs). Despite this, the use of G is currently under intense debate. Many studies indicating its hazard and toxicity on non-target organisms are emerging, and associations between GBHs and immune-endocrine disturbances have been described. This review aims to investigate, based on recent epidemiological studies and studies performed in vitro and in vivo in animals, the possible association between GBHs and immune-endocrine alterations. Published data suggest that GBHs have endocrine disrupting potentiality targeting sex and thyroid hormones, although its relevance for humans will require further investigations. Evidence of immunotoxicity are limited compared to those on endocrine effects, but overall highlight possible noxious effects, including lung inflammation and rhinitis. An attractive hypothesis could be the one that connects microbiota dysbiosis with possible immune-endocrine outcomes. Indeed, several intestinal microorganisms express the enzyme EPSPS and, studies are emerging that highlight a possible G-induced dysbiosis. Considering the wide use of GBHs in agriculture, further studies investigating their noxious effects at levels relevant for human exposure should be performed. A critical analysis of emerging evidence of G toxicity is required to better characterize its safety profile. In addition, attention should be paid to the differences between G alone and its formulations, which, containing substances able to increase G absorption, may present a different toxicity profile.

Farming, pesticide exposure and respiratory health: a cross-sectional study in Thailand

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association of lung function and respiratory symptoms with farming, particularly pesticide use, in an agricultural province in Thailand.

METHODS

We undertook a cross-sectional survey of adults aged 40-65 in Nan province, Thailand, between May and August 2019. We randomly recruited 345 villagers and enriched the sample with 82 government employees. All participants performed post-bronchodilator spirometry and completed a questionnaire covering information on respiratory symptoms, farming activities, pesticide use and known risk factors for respiratory disease. Associations of respiratory outcomes with farming and pesticide exposures were examined by multivariable regression analysis.

RESULTS

The response rate was 94%. The prevalence of chronic airflow obstruction among villagers was 5.5%. Villagers had, on average, a lower percent predicted post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV₁/FVC) than government employees (98.3% vs 100.3%; p=0.04). There was no evidence of association of lung function with farming activities, the use of specific herbicides (glyphosate and paraquat), insecticides (organophosphates and pyrethroids) or fungicides. The exceptions were poultry farming, associated with chronic cough and an increase of FEV₁/FVC, and atrazine, for which duration (p-trend <0.01), intensity (p-trend <0.01) and cumulative hours (p-trend=0.01) of use were all associated with higher FEV₁/FVC in an exposure-response manner. Cumulative hours (-280 mL/hour), low duration (-270 mL/year) and intensity (-270 mL/hour/year) of atrazine use were associated with lower FVC.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic airflow obstruction is uncommon among villagers of an agricultural province in Nan, Thailand. Farming and pesticide use are unlikely to be major causes of respiratory problems there.

[Uncontrolled asthma in children and adolescents exposed to pesticides in an area of intense agribusiness activity]

The study aimed to analyze factors associated with uncontrolled asthma in schoolchildren exposed to pesticides in a medium-sized municipality in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. This was a case-control study of children 6 to 7 and 13 to 14 years old in Primavera do Leste, in 2016. Cases were defined as schoolchildren that met the criteria for uncontrolled asthma based on International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questions, and controls were selected from the same schools as the cases, after randomization, at a 1:1 ratio. Data collection used the questionnaires from Phases I and II of ISAAC and an additional questionnaire on pesticide exposure. Descriptive, bivariate, and logistic da e regression analyses were performed with the individual and environmental sociodemographic, and economic variables. 319 cases and 319 controls were selected, totaling 638 participants in the study. In the final da logistic model, the variables family income greater than 4 minimum wages (OR = 14.36; 95%CI: 8.89-23.20), maternal schooling up to incomplete secondary (OR = 16.32; 95%CI: 8.96-29.75), prematurity (OR = 13.25; 95%CI: 4.83-36.41), and low birthweight (OR = 17.08; 95%CI: 5.52-52.90) remained associated with uncontrolled asthma. Of the pesticide exposure variables, presence of household member working in agriculture (OR = 5.91; 95%CI: 2.11-16.53), living near farming activities (OR = 3.98; 95%CI: 1.47-11.76), and spraying areas near the household (OR = 4.20; 95%CI: 1.49-11.87) were related to the outcome. In this study, pesticides and sociodemographic, neonatal, and childhood conditions proved related to uncontrolled asthma in schoolchildren.

Highly Branched Pillar[5]arene-Derived Porous Aromatic Frameworks (PAFs) for Removal of Organic Pollutants from Water

The adsorption process is widely used for the treatment of wastewater containing organic pollutants. We fabricated highly branched pillar[5]arene-based porous aromatic frameworks (PAFs), PAF-P5, for the adsorption and removal of organic pollutants (short-chain alkyl derivatives 1-3 and pesticide molecules 4-6) from water with high removal efficiency (RE). However, PAF-P5 was incapable of adsorbing aromatic organic dyes 7-9. Adsorption kinetic studies indicated that the adsorption is mainly driven by strong host-guest interactions between 1-3 and the pillar[5]arene units in PAF-P5, while 4-6 only weakly interacted with the pillar[5]arene units in PAF-P5. Moreover, chemically breaking down the pillar[5]arene rings in PAF-P5 caused changes in the pore size, the microenvironment inside of the pores, and the frame morphology, and the resultant frameworks, PAF-DeP5, exhibited poor adsorption toward 1-6 but adsorbed 7-9 possibly through physical adsorption as implied by fitting the experimental data into the adsorption kinetic models.

Environmental Health Threats to Latino Migrant Farmworkers

Approximately 75% of farmworkers in the United States are Latino migrants, and about 50% of hired farmworkers do not have authorization to work in the United States. Farmworkers face numerous chemical, physical, and biological threats to their health. The adverse effects of these hazards may be amplified among Latino migrant farmworkers, who are concurrently exposed to various psychosocial stressors. Factors such as documentation status, potential lack of authorization to work in the United States, and language and cultural barriers may also prevent Latino migrants from accessing federal aid, legal assistance, and health programs. These environmental, occupational, and social hazards may further exacerbate existing health disparities among US Latinos. This population is also likely to be disproportionately impacted by emerging threats, including climate change and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Latino migrant farmworkers are essential to agriculture in the United States, and actions are needed to protect this vulnerable population.

Factors associated with respiratory symptoms among herbicide applicators and assistant applicators in maize field

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 3,291 maize farmers enrolled whose main roles were herbicide applicators and assistant applicators. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) between herbicide applicators and assistant applicators, and determine factors associated with respiratory symptoms. Our results suggest that wheeze and dyspnea were associated with the task on the farm (adj. OR = 10.33 for wheeze and 24.13 for dyspnea), amount of herbicide use (adj. OR = 1.95 for wheeze and 1.41 for dyspnea), frequency of herbicide use (adj. OR = 2.87 for wheeze and 4.08 for dyspnea), not always wearing a mask (adj. OR = 1.49 for wheeze and 3.17 for dyspnea), not always wearing gloves (adj. OR = 2.63 for wheeze and 2.44 for dyspnea), and not always wearing goggles (adj.OR = 2.01 for dyspnea) after adjusting for confounding factors.

Health problems in agricultural workers occupationally exposed to pesticides

Agricultural workers are susceptible to several health problems as a result of occupational exposure to toxic substances, especially pesticides. The aim of this review was to describe the health issues associated with occupational exposure to pesticides in agricultural workers. A descriptive study, in the form of an integrative literature review, was conducted based on articles retrieved from the LILACS, SciELO and PubMed databases, published between January 2015 and October 2018. The searches were conducted using the keywords "pesticides," "workers' health," "occupational exposure" and "agricultural workers." The study was guided by the following research question: what health problems do agricultural workers experience as a result of occupational exposure to pesticides? The screening process led to the selection of 35 studies performed in several countries and continents, all of which shed light on the vulnerability of agricultural workers, especially due to the misuse of personal protective equipment and lack of knowledge about the correct use of these devices. The studies investigated a variety of health issues, and most reported a positive association between these conditions, which include cancer, and the use of pesticides. Educational and preventive measures must be implemented to promote the health of rural workers. Furthermore, it is crucial that governments play an active role in these initiatives and provide alternatives to pesticides for pest control.

Emerging nanobiotechnology in agriculture for the management of pesticide residues

Utilization of pesticides is often necessary for meeting commercial requirements for crop quality and yield. However, incessant global pesticide use poses potential risks to human and ecosystem health. This situation increases the urgency of developing nano-biotechnology-assisted pesticide formulations that have high efficacy and low risk of side effects. The risks associated with both conventional and nanopesticides are summarized in this review. Moreover, the management of residual pesticides is still a global challenge. The contamination of soil and water resources with pesticides has adverse impact over agricultural productivity and food security; ultimately posing threats to living organisms. Pesticide residues in the eco-system may be treated via several biological and physicochemical processes, such as microbe-based degradation and advanced oxidation processes. With these issues in mind, we present a review that explores both existing and emerging techniques for management of pesticide residues and environmental risks. These techniques can offer a sustainable solution to revitalize the tarnished water/soil resources. Further, state-of-the-art research approaches to investigate biotechnological alternatives to conventional pesticides are discussed along with future prospects and mitigation techniques are recommended.

Chloro-s-triazines-toxicokinetic, Toxicodynamic, Human Exposure, and Regulatory Considerations

Chloro-s-triazines-atrazine, cyanazine, propazine, simazine, and terbuthylazine-are structurally similar herbicides, differing only in specific s-triazine4-and 6-N alkyl substituents. It is generally regarded that their toxicokinetics, such as, metabolic pathways, biological effects and toxicities, also share more similar features than the differences. Consequently, it is useful to compare their characteristics to potentially find useful structure-activity relationships or other similarities or differences regarding different active compounds, their metabolites, and biological effects including toxic outcomes. The ultimate goal of these exercises is to apply the summarized knowledge-as far as it is possible regarding a patchy and often inadequate database-to cross the in vitro-in vivo and animal-human borders and integrate the available data to enhance toxicological risk assessment for the benefit of humans and ecosystems.

Synthetic Pesticides and Health in Vulnerable Populations: Agricultural Workers

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to summarize epidemiological literature published between May 15, 2018, and May 14, 2019, that examines the relationship between exposure to synthetic pesticides and health of agricultural workers.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current research suggests that exposure to synthetic pesticides may be associated with adverse health outcomes. Agricultural workers represent a potentially vulnerable population, due to a combination of unique social and cultural risk factors as well as exposure to hazards inherent in agricultural work. Pesticide exposure among agricultural workers has been linked to certain cancers, DNA damage, oxidative stress, neurological disorders, and respiratory, metabolic, and thyroid effects. This review describes literature suggesting that agricultural workers exposed to synthetic pesticides are at an increased risk of certain cancers and neurological disorders. Recent research on respiratory effects is sparse, and more research is warranted regarding DNA damage, oxidative stress, metabolic outcomes, and thyroid effects.

Combining Biocontrol Agents with Chemical Fungicides for Integrated Plant Fungal Disease Control

Feeding a rising population of currently 7.8 billion people globally requires efficient agriculture, which is preferably sustainable. Today, farmers are largely dependent on synthetic fungicides to avoid food losses caused by fungal diseases. However, the extensive use of these has resulted in the emergence of fungicide-resistant pathogens and concerns have been raised over the residual effects on the environment and human health. In this regard, biocontrol agents (BCAs) have been proposed as an alternative to standard fungicides but their disease management capacity is usually incomplete and heavily relies on uncontrollable environmental conditions. An integrated approach combining BCAs with fungicides, which is the focus of this review, is put forward as a way to reduce the fungicide doses to manage plant diseases and thereby their residue on harvested crops. In addition, such a strategy of combining antifungal treatments with different modes of action reduces the selection pressure on pathogens and thereby the chances of resistance development. However, to allow its large-scale implementation, further knowledge is needed, comprising timing, number and interval of repeated BCA applications and their compatibility with fungicides. The compatibility of BCAs with fungicides might differ when applied in a mixture or when used in alternation.

The impact and toxicity of glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides on health and immunity

Glyphosate, or N-phosphomethyl(glycine), is an organophosphorus compound and a competitive inhibitor of the shikimate pathway that allows aromatic amino acid biosynthesis in plants and microorganisms. Its utilization in broad-spectrum herbicides, such as RoundUp®, has continued to increase since 1974; glyphosate, as well as its primary metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid, is measured in soils, water, plants, animals and food. In humans, glyphosate is detected in blood and urine, especially in exposed workers, and is excreted within a few days. It has long been regarded as harmless in animals, but growing literature has reported health risks associated with glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides. In 2017, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic" in humans. However, other national agencies did not tighten their glyphosate restrictions and even prolonged authorizations of its use. There are also discrepancies between countries' authorized levels, demonstrating an absence of a clear consensus on glyphosate to date. This review details the effects of glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides on fish and mammal health, focusing on the immune system. Increasing evidence shows that glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides exhibit cytotoxic and genotoxic effects, increase oxidative stress, disrupt the estrogen pathway, impair some cerebral functions, and allegedly correlate with some cancers. Glyphosate effects on the immune system appear to alter the complement cascade, phagocytic function, and lymphocyte responses, and increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in fish. In mammals, including humans, glyphosate mainly has cytotoxic and genotoxic effects, causes inflammation, and affects lymphocyte functions and the interactions between microorganisms and the immune system. Importantly, even as many outcomes are still being debated, evidence points to a need for more studies to better decipher the risks from glyphosate and better regulation of its global utilization.

Assessment of chromosomal aberrations among agricultural workers exposed to pesticides in Punjab, India

Chromosomal aberrations (CAs) are an important tool for assessment of exposure to pesticides. Genotoxic potential of pesticides is a principal risk factor for long-term health effects. The present study was aimed toward the assessment of CAs among agricultural workers exposed to pesticides and comparison with nonagricultural workers not exposed to pesticides. A total of 296 subjects were enrolled in the study: exposed (n = 148) and nonexposed subjects (n = 148) from Punjab. A significantly high frequency of aberrations was seen in peripheral blood lymphocytes of exposed subjects as compared with nonexposed ones. Most CAs were present as loss (aneuploidy) and were observed significantly in subjects having a history of alcohol consumption. It can be, thus, concluded that agricultural workers exposed to a mixture of pesticides, in addition to being alcoholic, are at a greater risk of genotoxic damage. It is highly recommended that the agricultural workers are educated regarding the potential hazards of occupational exposure to pesticides.

Global trends in pesticides: A looming threat and viable alternatives

Pesticides are widely used chemical compounds in agriculture to destroy insects, pests and weeds. In modern era, they form an indispensable part of agricultural and health practices. Globally, nearly 3 billion kg of pesticides are used every year with a budget of ~40 billion USD. This extensive usage has increased the crop yield as well as led to significant reduction in harvest losses and thereby, enhanced food availability. On the other hand, indiscriminate usage of these chemicals has led to several environmental implications and caused adverse effects on human health. Epidemiological evidences have revealed the harmful effects of pesticides exposure on various organs including liver, brain, lungs and colon. Recent investigations have shown that pesticides can also lead to fatal consequences such as cancer among individuals. These chemicals enter ecosystem, thus hampering the sensitive environmental equilibrium through bio-accumulation. Due to their non-biodegradable nature, they can persist in nature for years and are regarded as potent biohazard. Worldwide, very few surveillance methods have been considered, which can bring awareness among the individuals, therefore the present review is an attempt to delineate consequences induced by various types of pesticide exposure on the environment. Further, the prospective of biopesticides use could facilitate the increase of crop production without compromising human health.

Risk factors associated among respiratory health and banana farming

Pesticides cause risks to the respiratory health of banana farming workers. To investigate the prevalence of ventilatory dysfunction in workers and characteristics of work in banana production in a region of the Ribeira Valley, Brazil. A questionnaire containing sociodemographic, work and health data was applied, as well as spirometry. The data were statistically analyzed with participants divided into two groups (presence or absence of ventilatory dysfunction). The majority were males, low schooling, mean age 39.6 years and 13.8 years of working time in banana farming. The prevalence of moderate obstructive disorder (10.0%), mild obstructive disorder (13.3%) and mild mixed disorder (3.3%) were observed. Obstructive disorders predominated, with decreased FEV1 and FEV1/FVC, in addition to being correlated with working time in banana farming. It was concluded that one-third of the workers had some type of ventilatory dysfunction and there was a relationship with work in banana farming.

Evaluation of the Potential Allergenicity of Strawberries in Response to Different Farming Practices

Fruit allergies are a large problem today. Many consumers suffer from food allergies or intolerances. The method of food production has a major impact on its quality. In fruit and vegetable production, three different farming systems are mainly found: conventional, integrated pest management and organic production. The latter is considered the best in terms of fruits and vegetables safety and high quality. The present experiment was performed to demonstrate the effect of the strawberry production method on its allergenic properties and flavonoid content. The strawberry 'Honeoye' cv. was used for the study. Fruits from the three cultivation systems, organic, conventional and integrated, were tested for their content of biologically active compounds and their potential allergenicity. The results obtained indicate that the strawberries from the organic system were the safest because they contained the lowest levels of Bet v1 and profilin in comparison with the fruits from the integrated and conventional systems.

Effects of glyphosate exposure on human health: Insights from epidemiological and in vitro studies

Glyphosate (GLY) is a broad-spectrum, post-emergent, non-selective and synthetic universal herbicide, whose commercial formulations are referred to as glyphosate-based-herbicides (GBHs). These chemicals and their metabolites can be found in soil, air, water, as well as groundwater and food products. This review summarizes to summarize current in vitro and epidemiological studies investigating the effects of GLY exposure on human health. Recent human cell studies have reported several GLY and GBH toxicological effects and have contributed to a better understanding of the deleterious consequences associated with their exposure. However, these detrimental effects are dependent on the cell type, chemical composition, as well as magnitude and time of exposure, among other factors. Moreover, the deleterious effects of GLY exposure on human health were observed in epidemiological studies; however, most of these studies have not determined the GLY dosage to confirm a direct effect. While GLY toxicity is clear in human cells, epidemiological studies investigating individuals exposed to different levels of GLY have reported contradictory data. Therefore, based on currently available in vitro and epidemiological data, it is not possible to confirm the complete safety of GLY use, which will require additional comprehensive studies in animal models and humans.

Exposição a agrotóxicos e agravos à saúde em trabalhadores agrícolas: o que revela a literatura?

Resumo Introdução: a relação entre agrotóxicos e agravos à saúde tem sido investigada em diferentes contextos. Objetivo: reunir evidência científica relevante sobre agravos à saúde associados à exposição ocupacional aos agrotóxicos. Métodos: revisão de literatura de estudos publicados entre 2000 e 2017, nas bases PubMed, Embase e LILACS. Estabeleceu-se como critérios de elegibilidade: a) estudos observacionais; b) população de trabalhadores agrícolas; c) exposição ocupacional; d) agravos à saúde definidos como desfecho; e) comparação estatística de expostos com não expostos; f) idioma inglês, português ou espanhol. Resultados: 59 publicações foram elegíveis - 33 estudos transversais, 22 de coorte e 4 caso-controle. Discussão: os estudos indicam que trabalhadores rurais apresentam maior risco para alguns agravos crônicos (câncer, doenças mentais, neurológicas, endócrinas, renais, auditivas, respiratórias e autoimunes), efeitos subclínicos (danos genéticos e alterações bioquímicas) e sinais e sintomas clínicos de intoxicação aguda. Também foram identificadas limitações dos estudos quanto à avaliação da exposição e do desfecho, delineamento e amostragem. Conclusão: as evidências sugerem a necessidade de se complementar a avaliação da saúde dos trabalhadores expostos aos agrotóxicos utilizando biomarcadores de efeito de genotoxicidade e citotoxicidade, a fim de promover e ampliar a vigilância da exposição e das intoxicações crônicas e suas prevenções.