1
|
Liu H, Wang SY, Zhu JH, Kong M, Zhou SS, Li SL, Zhu H. Effects and contributory factors of sulfur-fumigation on the efficacy and safety of medicinal herbs evaluated by meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol 2022; 293:115250. [PMID: 35367331 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sulfur-fumigation undoubtedly alters the chemical and metabolic profiles, but controversially affects the efficacy and safety of medicinal herbs. AIM OF THE STUDY To comprehensively evaluate the effects of sulfur-fumigation on the efficacy and safety of medicinal herbs using a meta-analysis approach and further investigate the potential contributory factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literatures were retrieved on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese VIP Information and Wanfang, and the outcomes involved activities and toxicities were extracted using standard data extraction forms. The effects of sulfur-fumigation on the efficacy and safety of medicinal herbs were evaluated by meta-analysis approaches. RESULTS A total of sixteen studies were included in this study. Sulfur-fumigation reduced the efficacies of medicinal herbs with immune activity [thymus index (SMD = -1.81; P < 0.00001); spleen index (SMD = -1.11; P < 0.0001)], anti-oxidative activity [MDA (SMD = 2.60; P = 0.04); SOD (SMD = -2.21; P < 0.00001)], analgesic activity [heat tolerate time (SMD = -2.51; P = 0.001); writhing time (SMD = 0.36; P = 0.006)], anti-platelet aggregation activity (SMD = -1.84; P = 0.001), and anti-inflammatory activity [ear swelling degree (SMD = 0.47; P = 0.006)]. The reductions might be ascribed to sulfur-fumigation significantly reduced the contents of active ingredients in medicinal herbs, leading to dramatic decrease in the absorption of these ingredients and their metabolites in vivo. Furthermore, sulfur-fumigation induced the toxicities of medicinal herbs, mainly on hepatotoxicity, which might due to fumigation-induced residues of sulfur dioxide and heavy metal, and generations of sulfur-containing derivatives and toxic metabolites. Besides, administrated with sulfur-fumigated medicinal herbs with high sulfur ratio and/or higher dosage showed more significant toxicity. CONCLUSION Sulfur-fumigation reduced the efficacy and safety of medicinal herbs, indicating sulfur-fumigation might not a feasible approach to process medicinal herbs. However, with obvious limitations, much more rigorous designed-trials are still needed to confirm the conclusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Si-Yu Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Jin-Hao Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Ming Kong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China; Department of Metabolomics, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Shan-Shan Zhou
- Department of Metabolomics, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China
| | - Song-Lin Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China; Department of Metabolomics, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.
| | - He Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China; Department of Metabolomics, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210028, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jiang J, Xiao S, Yan S, Zhang J, Xu X. The effects of sulfur fumigation processing on Panacis Quinquefolii Radix in chemical profile, immunoregulation and liver and kidney injury. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 249:112377. [PMID: 31707050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The influence of sulfur fumigation processing on chemical profile, pharmacological activity and safety of Chinese herbs has attracted great attention. Panacis Quinquefolii Radix (PQR) was more widely used as edible and medicinal than Ginseng because of its tonifying effect and characteristic of not getting inflamed. The disadvantage of sulfur fumigated (SF) Ginseng has been reported, but the systematic study of SF-PQR is deficient and urgently needed. AIM OF THE STUDY To systematically describe the influence of sulfur fumigation on chemical profile, characteristic products, immunoregulation and liver and kidney injury of PQR. MATERIALS AND METHODS ICP-MS and HPLC-DAD were used to detect 11 inorganic elements and 3 ginsenosides, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to distinguish SF-PQR from non-sulfur fumigated (NSF)-PQR by combining the content changes of inorganic elements and ginsenosides. UPLC/Orbitrap-MS was applied to screen the characteristic products (m/z) after sulfur fumigation. For the effectiveness and safety, male KM mice were used to compare the immunomodulatory effects of NSF-PQR or SF-PQR under both healty and cyclophosphamide induced immunosuppressive conditions by net growth rate of body weight, thymus and spleen indices, serum IL-6, SOD, BUN, AST levels, and HE staining of liver and kidney. RESULTS Sulfur fumigation processing significantly reduced the contents of ginsenosides Rb1, Re and Rg1 with the elevation of inorganic elements in 20 batches PQR. Based on the scatter distribution of PCA, SF-PQR and NSF-PQR can be distinguished. According to the Rt, Precursor ion (m/z) and Product ion (m/z) produced by UPLC/Orbit trap-MS, R1-SO3 (m/z, 1059.53), Re-SO3 (m/z, 1025.55), Rg1-SO3 (m/z, 878.47), Ro-SO3 (m/z, 1035.32), Rb1-SO3 (m/z, 1179.58), and Rk3-SO3 (m/z, 745.40) could be confirmed as important markers for identifying SF-PQR. The effect of SF-PQR on reversing immunosuppression induced by cyclophosphamide was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) evidenced by the inhibition of net growth rate of body weight, immune organ index, IL-6 level and SOD activity. For healthy mice, SF-PQR not only failed to maintain the normal indexes, but also reduced the indexes to lower levels. After 2 weeks of continuous gastric administration, the abnormal liver and kidney functions in healthy mice were damaged and manifested by the increasing of BUN and AST levels, which was consistent with hepatic lesion area and renal tubular injury observed by HE staining. CONCLUSION Sulfur fumigation processing not only reduced the immunomodulatory effect of PQR, but also brought the hidden danger in liver and kidney injury. The sulfonated products provided in this paper can be applied for the identification of SF-PQR accurately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301(#) Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shichang Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301(#) Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shu Yan
- ADR Monitoring Center, Zhenjiang Food and Drug Supervision and Inspection Center, Jiangsu, Zhenjiang, 212000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jinxuan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301(#) Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ximing Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301(#) Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chen YJ, Wen MX, Sui JX, Yan YQ, Yuan W, Hong L, Zhang L. Ameliorating Effects of Leaf Water Extract of Three Aromatic Plant Species on Ozone-Polluted Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. 'Jiangjunyoudou'). Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2018; 100:849-855. [PMID: 29572555 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-018-2331-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Ozone (O3) is one of the major pollutants in near-surface air. In order to protect sensitive plants from O3 pollution, many kinds of protectants including synthetic ones, were assessed in previous studies. Although they have certain protective effects, some of them are not environment-friendly. In the present study, leaf water extracts of aromatic plants [Plectranthus hadiensis var. tomentosus (PHT), Pelargonium hortorum (PHB), Tagetes patula (TP)] were compared for mitigating the damages caused by O3 (150 ppb for 3 days, 8 h day-1) on snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris 'Jiangjunyoudou'). Our results showed that O3 fumigation impaired plasma membrane, decreased chlorophyll content, increased contents of malondialdehyde and superoxide anion, inhibited photosynthesis, and caused visible injury. Leaf water extracts of PHT, PHB or TP ameliorated the negative effects of O3. Among them, extract of PHT showed the greatest potential to alleviate the O3-caused injury, followed by PHB and TP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y J Chen
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - M X Wen
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - J X Sui
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Y Q Yan
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - W Yuan
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - L Hong
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - L Zhang
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Northeast Agricultural University, Changjiang Road 600, Harbin, 150030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu R, Alarcon WA, Calvert GM, Aubin KG, Beckman J, Cummings KR, Graham LS, Higgins SA, Mulay P, Patel K, Prado JB, Schwartz A, Stover D, Waltz J. Acute Illnesses and Injuries Related to Total Release Foggers — 10 States, 2007–2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018; 67:125-130. [PMID: 29389914 PMCID: PMC5794345 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6704a4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
|
5
|
Austel N, Schubert J, Gadau S, Jungnickel H, Budnik LT, Luch A. Influence of fumigants on sunflower seeds: Characteristics of fumigant desorption and changes in volatile profiles. J Hazard Mater 2017; 337:138-147. [PMID: 28514707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2017.04.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Fumigation of transport containers is common practice to protect stored products from pests. Yet little is known about the desorption times and effects of the highly toxic gases used in this process. To shed light on the behavior of fumigants in real food, we treated sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus L.) with 100ppm phosphine (PH3), methyl bromide (MeBr) or 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE) for 72h. The compound concentrations in the air were then analyzed by thermal desorption/2D gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and flame photometric detection (TD-2D-GC-MS/FPD). A desorption time of several months was observed for DCE, whereas PH3 and MeBr were outgassed in a matter of days. To investigate possible interactions between gases and constituents of the seeds, non-fumigated, fumigated and outgassed samples were analyzed by headspace solid-phase microextraction GC-MS. We observed significantly different volatile profiles in fumigated and subsequently outgassed seeds compared to non-fumigated seeds. Whereas PH3-treated seeds released far more terpenoids, the volatile pattern of seeds exposed to DCE revealed significantly fewer terpenoids but more aldehydes. These changes are likely to affect food aroma characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Austel
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Department of Chemical & Product Safety, Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany; Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Applied Zoology/Animal Ecology, Haderslebener Str. 9, 12163 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Jens Schubert
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Department of Chemical & Product Safety, Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabrina Gadau
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Division of Occupational Toxicology and Immunology, Marckmannstraße 129b, 20539 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Harald Jungnickel
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Department of Chemical & Product Safety, Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lygia T Budnik
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Division of Occupational Toxicology and Immunology, Marckmannstraße 129b, 20539 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Luch
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Department of Chemical & Product Safety, Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Svedberg U, Johanson G. Occurrence of Fumigants and Hazardous Off-gassing Chemicals in Shipping Containers Arriving in Sweden. Ann Work Expo Health 2017; 61:195-206. [PMID: 28395344 PMCID: PMC5388188 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxw022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Containerized cargo shipment makes up the backbone of international trade. The principal aim of this cross-sectional study was to establish a qualitative and quantitative description of gaseous fumigants and volatile off-gassing substances facing workers tasked with entering shipping containers. A total of 372 packed and 119 empty shipping containers were sampled in six ports and two distribution centers in Sweden. Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and photoionization detection (PID) were the analytical methods applied to the bulk of samples. A small number of adsorbent samples were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The results were compared to Swedish occupational exposure limits (OELs), the closest parallel to relevant work situations. Based on the FTIR analyses, 30 of 249 (12%) containers arrived with concentrations of fumigants and off-gassing substances above the 8-h OELs and close to 7% were above the short-term exposure limits. Eight detected chemicals were classified as carcinogens and 4% of the containers arrived with levels of carcinogens above the OELs, at a maximum 30 times the 8-h OEL. Considerable differences were observed between ports, ranging from 0 to 33% of containers arriving with concentrations above the OELs. It is believed that all observation results, apart from a single instance of a confirmed fumigant, phosphine, at 3 p.p.m., and possibly three instances of carbon dioxide, can be attributed to off-gassing substances. The FTIR methodology proved useful for quick preliminary checks and in-depth screening and identification. The PID method produced both false-negative and false-positive results where only 48% matched the FTIR observations. Adsorbent sampling with GC–MS analysis was useful for confirming volatile organic compounds but was deemed too slow for day-to-day screening. The high frequency of contaminated containers, the detection of several carcinogens, and the sporadic occurrences of high levels of fumigants are serious concerns that need to be properly recognized in order to protect the workers at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Urban Svedberg
- Work Environment Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, IMM, Box 210, Nobels väg 13, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Johanson
- Work Environment Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, IMM, Box 210, Nobels väg 13, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Thang K, Au K, Rakovski C, Prakash A. Effect of phytosanitary irradiation and methyl bromide fumigation on the physical, sensory, and microbiological quality of blueberries and sweet cherries. J Sci Food Agric 2016; 96:4382-4389. [PMID: 26805024 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.7648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine whether irradiation could serve as a suitable phytosanitary treatment alternative to methyl bromide (MB) fumigation for blueberries and sweet cherry and also to determine the effect of phytosanitary irradiation treatment on survival of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes on these fruit. 'Bluecrop' blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) and 'Sweetheart' cherries (Prunus avium) were irradiated at 0.4 kGy or fumigated with methyl bromide and evaluated for quality attributes during storage. RESULTS Irradiation caused an immediate decrease in firmness of both fruit without further significant change during storage. Fumigated fruit, in contrast, softened by 11-14% during storage. Irradiation did not adversely affect blueberry and cherry shelf-life. MB fumigation did not impact blueberry and cherry quality attributes initially; however, fumigated fruit exhibited greater damage and mold growth than the control and irradiated samples during storage. Irradiation at 400 Gy resulted in a ∼1 log CFU g(-1) reduction in Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes counts, indicating that this treatment cannot significantly enhance safety. CONCLUSION This study indicates that irradiation at a target dose of 0.4 kGy for phytosanitary treatment does not negatively impact blueberry and cherry quality and can serve as an alternative to methyl bromide fumigation. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Thang
- Food Science Program, Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866, USA
| | - Kimberlee Au
- Food Science Program, Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866, USA
| | - Cyril Rakovski
- Faculty of Mathematics, Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866, USA
| | - Anuradha Prakash
- Food Science Program, Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kulkarni PA, Duncan MA, Watters MT, Graziano LT, Vaouli E, Cseh LF, Risher JF, Orr MF, Hunte-Ceasar TC, Ellis EM. Severe Illness from Methyl Bromide Exposure at a Condominium Resort — U.S. Virgin Islands, March 2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015. [PMID: 26203630 PMCID: PMC4584862 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6428a4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Prathit A. Kulkarni
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, CDC
- Corresponding author: Prathit A. Kulkarni, , 609-826-5964
| | - Mary Anne Duncan
- Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | - Michelle T. Watters
- Division of Community Health Investigations, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | - Leah T. Graziano
- Division of Community Health Investigations, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | - Elena Vaouli
- Division of Community Health Investigations, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | - Larry F. Cseh
- Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | - John F. Risher
- Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | - Maureen F. Orr
- Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sonker N, Pandey AK, Singh P. Efficiency of Artemisia nilagirica (Clarke) Pamp. essential oil as a mycotoxicant against postharvest mycobiota of table grapes. J Sci Food Agric 2015; 95:1932-9. [PMID: 25199920 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.6901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to get a potent botanical fungicide for the management of fungal decay of table grapes, an experiment was conducted in which 20 essential oils of higher plants were screened at 0.33 µL mL(-1) against dominant fungi causing decay of table grapes, including Aspergillus flavus, A. niger and A. ochraceus. Furthermore, the minimum inhibitory/fungicidal concentration, fungitoxic spectrum and mycotoxin inhibition activity of the most potent oil were determined. The efficacy of the most potent oil in preservation of table grapes, along with organoleptic evaluation, was also carried out by storing 1 kg of grapes in the oil vapour. RESULTS Artemisia nilagirica oil was found to be most toxic, exhibiting 100% mycelia inhibition of all test fungi. Moreover, 0.29 µL mL(-1) A. nilagirica oil was fungistatic and 0.58 µL mL(-1) was fungicidal for all tested species of Aspergillus. The oil exhibited a broad range of fungitoxicity against other grape berry-rotting fungi. Artemisia nilagirica oil completely suppressed the growth and mycotoxin (AFB1 and OTA) secretion of aflatoxigenic and ochratoxigenic strains of Aspergillus at 1.6 µL mL(-1) . During the in vivo experiment, fumigation of 1 kg of table grapes with 200 and 300 µL dosage of A. nilagirica oil enhanced the shelf life for up to 9 days. The oil did not show any phytotoxic effect. Besides, oil application did not substantively change the sensory properties of the fruits. CONCLUSION Artemisia nilagirica oil can be used as an alternative botanical fungicide for the control of fruit-rotting fungi of stored grapes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nivedita Sonker
- Bacteriology and Natural Pesticide Laboratory, Department of Botany, DDU Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, 273009, UP, India
| | - Abhay K Pandey
- Bacteriology and Natural Pesticide Laboratory, Department of Botany, DDU Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, 273009, UP, India
| | - Pooja Singh
- Bacteriology and Natural Pesticide Laboratory, Department of Botany, DDU Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, 273009, UP, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hall WA, Bellamy DE, Walse SS. Activated carbons from end-products of tree nut and tree fruit production as sorbents for removing methyl bromide in ventilation effluent following postharvest chamber fumigation. J Agric Food Chem 2015; 63:3094-3103. [PMID: 25758836 DOI: 10.1021/jf505193e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
End-products of tree nuts and tree fruits grown in California, USA were evaluated for the ability to remove methyl bromide (MB) from ventilation effluent following postharvest chamber fumigation. Activated carbon sorbents from walnut and almond shells as well as peach and prune pits were prepared using different methods of pyrolysis, activation, and quenching. Each source and preparation was evaluated for yield from starting material (%, m/m) and performance on tests where MB-containing airstreams were directed through a columnar bed of the activated carbon in an experimental apparatus, termed a parallel adsorbent column tester, which was constructed as a scaled-down model of a chamber ventilation system. We report the number of doses needed to first observe the breakthrough of MB downstream of the bed and the capacity of the activated carbon for MB (%, m/m) based on a fractional percentage of MB mass sorbed at breakthrough relative to mass of the bed prior to testing. Results were based on a novel application of solid-phase microextraction with time-weighted averaging sampling of MB concentration in airstreams, which was quantitative across the range of fumigation-relevant conditions and statistically unaffected by relative humidity. Activated carbons from prune pits, prepared either by steam activation or carbon dioxide activation coupled to water quenching, received the greatest number of doses prior to breakthrough and had the highest capacity, approximately 12-14%, outperforming a commercially marketed activated carbon derived from coconut shells. Experimental evidence is presented that links discrepancy in performance to the relative potential for activated carbons to preferentially sorb water vapor relative to MB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wiley A Hall
- Agricultural Research Service, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, United States Department of Agriculture, 9611 South Riverbend Avenue, Parlier, California 93648-9757, United States
| | - David E Bellamy
- Agricultural Research Service, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, United States Department of Agriculture, 9611 South Riverbend Avenue, Parlier, California 93648-9757, United States
| | - Spencer S Walse
- Agricultural Research Service, San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center, United States Department of Agriculture, 9611 South Riverbend Avenue, Parlier, California 93648-9757, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lu TL, Shan X, Li L, Mao CQ, Ji D, Yin FZ, Lang YY. [Progress of sulfur fumigation and modern processing technology of Chinese traditional medicines]. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 2014; 39:2791-2795. [PMID: 25423810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Infestation, moldy and other phenomenon in the processing and storage of Chinese herbal medicines is a problem that faced in the production of Chinese traditional medicine. The low productivity of traditional processing methods can not guarantee the quality of Chinese herbal medicines. Sulfur fumigation is the first choice of grassroots to process the Chinese herbal medicine with its low cost and easy operation. Sulfur fumigation can solve some problems in the processing and storage of Chinese herbal medicines, but modern pharmacological studies show that long-term use of Chinese traditional medicine which is fumigated by sulfur can cause some serious harm to human liver, kidney and other organs. This paper conducts a review about the application history of sulfur fumigation, its influence to the quality of Chinese herbal medicines as well as domestic and foreign limits to sulfur quantity, and a brief introduction of the status of modern processing technologies in the processing of food and some Chinese herbal medicines, the problems ex- isting in the Chinese herbal medicines processing, which can provide a reference basis for the further research, development and application of investigating alternative technologies of sulfur fumigation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ji L, Mao CQ, Lu TL, Li L, Ji D, Ning ZW, Liu J. [Effect of different processing methods on active ingredient contents and sulfur dioxide residue in Astragali Radix]. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 2014; 39:2819-2822. [PMID: 25423815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
To compare the differences of the active ingredient contents and the sulfur dioxide residue in Astragali Radix before and after sulfur fumigation and provide a basis for establishing an alternative processing method. Astragali Radix, harvested at the same time in Longxi Gansu, were processed with different methods. high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the contents of the active ingredients in Astragali Radix and the revised method of the pharmacopoeia of China in 2011 was applied to determine the sulfur dioxide residue. The results show that the three-fold sulfur-fumigation group has the highest level of astragaloside IV and the dried sulfur-fumigation group with 10% water has the lowest level; the content of calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside is the highest in naturally dried group and the lowest in the group of sulfur fumigating for 3 times; the sulfur dioxide residue of all sulfur-fumigation groups exceeds certain limit significantly and the group of sulfur fumigating for 3 times reaches the highest level.
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang S, Li N. Effects of carbon monoxide on quality, nutrients and antioxidant activity of post-harvest jujube. J Sci Food Agric 2014; 94:1013-1019. [PMID: 24037960 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.6364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Revised: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To effectively extend the shelf life of fresh jujube, carbon monoxide (CO), as a small molecular gas, was applied to fumigate fresh jujube. The quality and antioxidant activity of jujubes fumigated with carbon monoxide at concentrations of 0 (control), 5, 10, 20 and 40 µmol L⁻¹ for 1 h under ambient temperature were investigated. RESULTS The jujube fumigated with 10 µmol L⁻¹ CO showed the best preserving effect amongst all samples. At 30 days, the decay incidence of jujube fumigated with 10 µmol L⁻¹ CO is only two-thirds of that of control sample; its red index and weight loss rate were 22.8% and 19.4% lower, and its firmness, soluble solids content (SSC) and acidity were 18.7%, 5.4% and 12.2% higher than that of control samples, respectively. Its vitamin C and total flavonoid contents were also the highest. However, no significant difference in total polyphenol content was found. The jujubes treated with 10 µmol L⁻¹ CO exhibited the highest antioxidant activity in terms of reducing power and 2,2-diphenyl-1-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)hydrazyl radical scavenging activity. However, the jujubes fumigated with 40 µmol L⁻¹ CO showed inferior characteristics compared with the control sample. CONCLUSION Fumigating jujubes with proper concentration of CO probably is a potential novel method for post-harvest jujube preservation in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoying Zhang
- College of Engineering, Shanxi Normal University, Linfen City, Shanxi, 041004, China
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Armbrust K, Burns M, Crossan AN, Fischhoff DA, Hammond LE, Johnston JJ, Kennedy I, Rose MT, Seiber JN, Solomon K. Perspectives on communicating risks of chemicals. J Agric Food Chem 2013; 61:4676-4691. [PMID: 23662936 DOI: 10.1021/jf305281c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The Agrochemicals Division symposium "Perfecting Communication of Chemical Risk", held at the 244th National Meeting and Exposition of the American Chemical Society in Philadelphia, PA, August 19-23, 2012, is summarized. The symposium, organized by James Seiber, Kevin Armbrust, John Johnston, Ivan Kennedy, Thomas Potter, and Keith Solomon, included discussion of better techniques for communicating risks, lessons from past experiences, and case studies, together with proposals to improve these techniques and their communication to the public as effective information. The case studies included risks of agricultural biotechnology, an organoarsenical (Roxarsone) in animal feed, petroleum spill-derived contamination of seafood, role of biomonitoring and other exposure assessment techniques, soil fumigants, implications of listing endosulfan as a persistant organic pollutant (POP), and diuron herbicide in runoff, including use of catchment basins to limit runoff to coastal ecozones and the Great Barrier Reef. The symposium attracted chemical risk managers including ecotoxicologists, environmental chemists, agrochemists, ecosystem managers, and regulators needing better techniques that could feed into better communication of chemical risks. Policy issues related to regulation of chemical safety as well as the role of international conventions were also presented. The symposium was broadcast via webinar to an audience outside the ACS Meeting venue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Armbrust
- Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
|
16
|
Jiang X, Huang LF, Zheng SH, Chen SL. Sulfur fumigation, a better or worse choice in preservation of Traditional Chinese Medicine? Phytomedicine 2013; 20:97-105. [PMID: 23127540 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Revised: 09/01/2012] [Accepted: 09/29/2012] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Sulfur fumigation (SF) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a highly efficient and important traditional preservation method in China. This method has generated a great deal of concern and has been disputed in the last few years because of its uncertain safety. SF can alter the quality of TCMs by damaging the bioactive compounds, changing chemical profiles, and generating detrimental exogenous materials. However, SF is still widely used in the herbal medicinal industry because of its various benefits, such as its pesticidal and anti-bacterial effects, easy operation, and low-cost. This review contains the current situation, chemical mechanism and reactions during SF, the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic research, and the influence of quality caused by SF. In addition, a quantification-operation sulfur fumigation device (QOSFD), which can maintain the quality of TCMs by controlling the SF processing parameters, has been designed and introduced. The key technologies of this device involve controlling the O(2) content and the temperature of SO(2) as well as the quantification of sulfur in SF. This device can reduce the possibility of reaction between bioactive compounds and sulfur/sulfurous acid, as well as control the limitation of SO(2) residues. The QOSFD is regarded as a promising preservation technique in the field of TCM, medicinal materials, agriculture, and fruit industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Jiang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Díaz-de-Quijano M, Schaub M, Bassin S, Volk M, Peñuelas J. Ozone visible symptoms and reduced root biomass in the subalpine species Pinus uncinata after two years of free-air ozone fumigation. Environ Pollut 2012; 169:250-257. [PMID: 22410242 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2012.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Revised: 02/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/17/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of ozone often exceed the thresholds of forest protection in the Pyrenees, but the effect of ozone on Pinus uncinata, the dominant species in subalpine forests in this mountainous range, has not yet been studied. We conducted an experiment of free-air ozone fumigation with saplings of P. uncinata fumigated with ambient O(3) (AOT40 May-Oct: 9.2 ppm h), 1.5 × O(3amb) (AOT40 May-Oct: 19.2 ppm h), and 1.8 × O(3amb) (AOT40 May-Oct: 32.5 ppm h) during two growing seasons. We measured chlorophyll content and fluorescence, visible injury, gas exchange, and above- and below-ground biomass. Increased exposures to ozone led to a higher occurrence and intensity of visible injury from O(3) and a 24-29% reduction of root biomass, which may render trees more susceptible to other stresses such as drought. P. uncinata is thus a species sensitive to O(3), concentrations of which in the Pyrenees are already likely affecting this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Díaz-de-Quijano
- Global Ecology Unit CREAF-CEAB-CSIC, CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications), Edifici C, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Duan B, Huang L, Chen S. Study on the destructive effect to inherent quality of Fritillaria thunbergii Miq. (Zhebeimu) by sulfur-fumigated process using chromatographic fingerprinting analysis. Phytomedicine 2012; 19:562-568. [PMID: 22326548 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2011.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2011] [Revised: 12/01/2011] [Accepted: 12/26/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The after-harvesting sun-dried processing of Fritillariae thunbergii bulbus (Zhebeimu) was the traditional treatment for commodity. Over recent decades the natural drying process for bulbus of Fritillariae has been replaced by sulfur-fumigation for reducing the drying duration and pest control. We used ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection (UPLC-ELSD) fingerprinting analysis and major alkaloids determination to investigate the potential damaging effect of the sulfur-fumigating process. The experimental conditions were as follows: Chromatography was proceeded on Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C(18) column; the linear gradient elution was conducted with mobile phase prepared from acetonitrile-0.02% triethylamine; the drift tube temperature was set at 40°C with a nitrogen flow-rate of 30psi, and the spray parameter was set 40%. All calibration curves showed good linear regression (R>0.9991) within the tested range. The method was validated for precision, accuracy, limit of detection and quantification. The study also has shown that sulfur-fumigated samples had significant loss of the main active compounds and a more destructive fingerprint profile when compared to the sun-dried samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baozhong Duan
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Torres López TM, Guerrero Cordero JL, Salazar Estrada JG. [Cultural dimensions of dengue that help or hinder its prevention in Mexico]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2012; 31:197-203. [PMID: 22569693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the cultural dimensions that might help or hinder dengue prevention in two Mexican localities having different experiences related to this disease. METHODS A cognitive-cultural anthropological study was conducted involving the participation of 160 adults selected through purposeful sampling. The techniques of free lists and pile-sorting were used for investigating terms associated with the concept "dengue." A consensus analysis was carried out by the factoring of principal components, hierarchical cluster analysis, and multidimensional scaling. RESULTS Greater consensus was observed among participants from the population having more historical experience with dengue-Santiago Ixcuintla, Nayarit-as well as more structured cultural and complex dimensions than in Guadalajara. In the latter case, participants showed a more fragmented conception of dengue, with insufficient information on its symptoms, mechanisms of transmission, and vector reservoirs. Three cultural dimensions were identified as hindering dengue prevention: confusing and insufficient information, placing responsibility for prevention on other people or on public agencies, and excessive confidence in fumigation as a preventive measure. CONCLUSIONS These obstacles will need to be taken into account in the design and implementation of future prevention campaigns, disseminating information that explains the risks of fumigation and the importance of citizens and authorities jointly participating in the search for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the dengue problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa M Torres López
- Universidad de Guadalajara, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Salud Pública, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Preisser AM, Budnik LT, Baur X. Health effects due to fumigated freight containers and goods: how to detect, how to act. Int Marit Health 2012; 63:133-139. [PMID: 23129094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Headache, concentration and memory disorders, dizziness and nausea, skin irritation, respiratory distress, and muscle cramps - isolated or in various combinations - may be the result of acute or chronic intoxication by fumigants. The occurrence of these symptoms in workers who are engaged in the opening and unloading of containers, unpacking of imported goods, ventilating of containers, or working on bulk carriers are urgent indications of intoxication by fumigants or other toxic chemical residues in the transported goods. The severity of the disorder depends on the concentration and duration of exposure, distribution and release of the fumigant, its kinetics, the individual susceptibility of the person, as well as any simultaneous exposure to other toxic substances. Physical symptoms, acute and chronic health effects due to contact with fumigants, are complex and difficult to discover. In this article we explain how to identify the guiding symptoms and describe the appropriate diagnostic steps and the prevention of such events on cargo vessels as well as in the logistics and the handling of imported goods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Preisser
- Institute for Occupational Medicine and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Preisser AM, Budnik LT, Hampel E, Baur X. Surprises perilous: toxic health hazards for employees unloading fumigated shipping containers. Sci Total Environ 2011; 409:3106-3113. [PMID: 21636109 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2011.04.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 04/01/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The fumigation of freight containers to protect transported goods from fungal and pest infestation has increased worldwide in the last five years due to international regulations requiring fumigation or heat treatment of wooden packaging material and dunnage. We have found in 2008 that every sixth container and its contents do retain harmful concentrations of various fumigants and chemicals, representing a significant health risk for port and transport workers, customs officials, warehousemen, store employees and consumers. The shipping documents of these containers did not provide any information about the fumigation procedure or the used fumigant. We report here the cases of 26 patients introduced to our outpatient clinic with presumed intoxication to fumigants, or with symptoms due to inhaling the air out of fumigated containers. All patients were examined from 2007 to 2010 according to a standardized comprehensive diagnostic program. We were able to confirm the diagnosis based on typical symptoms and extensive clinical examination; by laboratory analysis we identified ethylene dichloride, methyl bromide, phosphine and methylene chloride. The predominant symptoms were headaches, concentration and memory problems, dizziness and nausea, irritation of the skin and mucous membranes and a reduced ability to do exercise. In addition to the neurological and neuropsychological impairments our analyses verified the development of reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS) in 14 of 26 patients with long lasting symptoms due to their contact with fumigants. Intoxications with fumigants are serious and could be avoided. These systematical explored cases show the sustainable impact for health and socio-economic wellbeing. These findings also emphasize the necessity for international standards on permitted fumigants, appropriate labeling in the shipping documents and handling of fumigated containers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Preisser
- Department of Clinical Occupational Medicine, Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Seewartenstrasse 10, D-20459 Hamburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Juan LW, Lucia A, Zerba EN, Harrand L, Marco M, Masuh HM. Chemical composition and fumigant toxicity of the essential oils from 16 species of Eucalyptus against Haematobia irritans (Diptera: Muscidae) adults. J Econ Entomol 2011; 104:1087-1092. [PMID: 21735933 DOI: 10.1603/ec09431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Oils extracted from various species of Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus badjensis Beuzev & Welch, Eucalyptus badjensis x Eucalyptus nitens, Eucalyptus benthamii variety dorrigoensis Maiden & Cambage, Eucalyptus botryoides Smith, Eucalyptus dalrympleana Maiden, Eucalyptus fastigata Deane & Maiden, Eucalyptus nobilis L.A.S. Johnson & K. D. Hill, Eucalyptus polybractea R. Baker, Eucalyptus radiata ssp. radiata Sieber ex Spreng, Eucalyptus resinifera Smith, Eucalyptus robertsonii Blakely, Eucalyptus rubida Deane & Maiden, Eucalyptus smithii R. Baker, Eucalyptus elata Dehnh, Eucalyptus fraxinoides Deane & Maiden, E. obliqua L'Hér) were obtained by hydrodistillation. The chemical composition of essential oils was determined by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Essential oils were mainly composed of 1,8-cineole, alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol, 4-terpineol, and p-cymene. Vapors from these essential oils and their major components were found to be toxic to Haematobia irritans (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae) adults. An aliquot of each oil was placed in a cylindrical test chamber, and the number of knocked down flies was recorded as a function of time. Knockdown time 50% was then calculated. Results showed that essential oil of E. polybractea had the highest knockdown activity of 3.44 min. A correlation was observed between the content of 1,8-cineole in the Eucalyptus essential oils and the corresponding toxic effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura W Juan
- Centro de Investigaciones de Plagas e Insecticidas (CITEFA-CONICET), Juan Bautista de La Salle 4397 (B1603ALO), Villa Martelli, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fahrenholtz S, Hühnerfuss H, Baur X, Budnik LT. Determination of phosphine and other fumigants in air samples by thermal desorption and 2D heart-cutting gas chromatography with synchronous SIM/Scan mass spectrometry and flame photometric detection. J Chromatogr A 2010; 1217:8298-307. [PMID: 21084090 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2010.10.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2010] [Revised: 09/27/2010] [Accepted: 10/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fumigants and volatile industrial chemicals are particularly hazardous to health when a freight container is fumigated or the contaminated material is introduced into its enclosed environment. Phosphine is now increasingly used as a fumigant, after bromomethane--the former fumigant of choice--has been banned by the Montreal Protocol. We have enhanced our previously established thermal desorption-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD-GC-MS) method by integrating a second gas chromatographic dimension and a flame photometric detector to allow the simultaneous detection of phosphine and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), providing a novel application. A thermal desorption system is coupled to a two dimensional gas chromatograph using both mass spectrometric and flame photometric detection (TD-2D-GC-MS/FPD). Additionally, the collection of mass spectrometric SIM and Scan data has been synchronised, so only a single analysis is now sufficient for qualitative scanning of the whole sample and for sensitive quantification. Though detection limits for the herewith described method are slightly higher than in the previous method, they are in the low μL m(-3) range, which is not only below the respective occupational exposure and intervention limits but also allows the detection of residual contamination after ventilation. The method was developed for the separation and identification of 44 volatile substances. For 12 of these compounds (bromomethane, iodomethane, dichloromethane, 1,2-dichlorethane, benzene, tetrachloromethane, 1,2-dichloropropane, toluene, trichloronitromethane, ethyl benzene, phosphine, carbon disulfide) the method was validated as we chose the target compounds due to their relevance in freight container handling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svea Fahrenholtz
- Institute for Occupational Medicine and Maritime Medicine, Division of Occupational Toxicology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Hamburg, Marckmannstraße 129b, 20539 Hamburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ibekwe AM, Papiernik SK, Grieve CM, Yang CH. Influence of fumigants on soil microbial diversity and survival of E. coli O157:H7. J Environ Sci Health B 2010; 45:416-426. [PMID: 20512732 DOI: 10.1080/03601231003800073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of soil fumigation with methyl bromide (MeBr; CH(3)Br) and methyl iodide (MeI, iodomethane; CH(3)I) on the microbial community structure and diversity in two soils and determine the effects of microbial diversity on the survival of Escherichia coli O157:H7 from contaminated irrigation water. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify 16S rRNA from total bacterial community composition and the products were subjected to denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The Shannon-Weaver index of diversity (H') was used to determine the effects of both fumigants on soil microbial diversity. The effect was more severe in sandy soil than in clay soil at the normal application rate of MeBr and MeI. Our results showed that MeBr and MeI have about the same effects on soil microbial diversity. The two fumigants had greater impact on microbial diversity in sandy soil than in clay soil and this resulted in higher survival of E. coli O157:H7 in sandy soil than in clay soil during the 50 days that the study was conducted. MeBr has been used as soil fumigant for >40 years with no serious detrimental effects on agricultural production and our research also suggests that the use of MeI may also produce no long-term detrimental effects on agricultural production since both fumigants had about the same effects on soil microbial communities. Therefore, soil systems with reduced microbial diversity may offer greater opportunities for the survival of pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Ibekwe
- USDA-ARS, U.S. Salinity Laboratory, Riverside, California 92507, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Dojchinov G, Damcevski KA, Woodman JD, Haritos VS. Field evaluation of vaporised ethyl formate and carbon dioxide for fumigation of stored wheat. Pest Manag Sci 2010; 66:417-424. [PMID: 20014076 DOI: 10.1002/ps.1893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vapormate is a cylinderised non-flammable mixture of ethyl formate (16.7% by weight) and carbon dioxide (CO(2)) that has been developed as a rapid fumigant of stored grain. Four field trials were undertaken on wheat in 50 t farm silos to demonstrate the feasibility of dynamic application. To assess treatment efficacy, each trial tested mixed stages of Rhyzopertha dominica F. (>11,000), Tribolium castaneum (Herbst.) (>1500) and Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (>13,000) in mesh cages positioned through the centre of the grain bulk and on the grain surface. Ethyl formate and CO(2) concentrations were measured in the silo during fumigation and in ambient air outside the 6 m fumigation zone. Application rates of 420, 660 and 940 g m(-3) of ethyl formate/CO(2) formulation and exposure times of 24, 3 and 72 h, respectively, were examined using wheat of 10.4-11.7% moisture content and grain temperatures between 2 and 32 degrees C. RESULTS All life stages of R. dominica and T. castaneum were fully controlled under all conditions tested, and mortality of all life stages of S. oryzae was greater than 98%. CONCLUSION Dynamic application of vaporised ethyl formate and CO(2) to 50 t silos proved safe to operators and rapidly effective against stored-grain insects on cold to warm grain.
Collapse
|
26
|
Goldner WS, Sandler DP, Yu F, Hoppin JA, Kamel F, Levan TD. Pesticide use and thyroid disease among women in the Agricultural Health Study. Am J Epidemiol 2010; 171:455-64. [PMID: 20061368 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwp404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid disease is common, and evidence of an association between organochlorine exposure and thyroid disease is increasing. The authors examined the cross-sectional association between ever use of organochlorines and risk of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism among female spouses (n = 16,529) in Iowa and North Carolina enrolled in the Agricultural Health Study in 1993-1997. They also assessed risk of thyroid disease in relation to ever use of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and fumigants. Prevalence of self-reported clinically diagnosed thyroid disease was 12.5%, and prevalence of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism was 6.9% and 2.1%, respectively. There was an increased odds of hypothyroidism with ever use of organochlorine insecticides (adjusted odds ratio (OR(adj)) = 1.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0, 1.6) and fungicides (OR(adj) = 1.4 (95% CI: 1.1, 1.8) but no association with ever use of herbicides, fumigants, organophosphates, pyrethroids, or carbamates. Specifically, ever use of the organochlorine chlordane (OR(adj) = 1.3 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.7), the fungicides benomyl (OR(adj) = 3.1 (95% CI: 1.9, 5.1) and maneb/mancozeb (OR(adj) = 2.2 (95% CI: 1.5, 3.3), and the herbicide paraquat (OR(adj) = 1.8 (95% CI: 1.1, 2.8) was significantly associated with hypothyroidism. Maneb/mancozeb was the only pesticide associated with both hyperthyroidism (OR(adj) = 2.3 (95% CI: 1.2, 4.4) and hypothyroidism. These data support a role of organochlorines, in addition to fungicides, in the etiology of thyroid disease among female spouses enrolled in the Agricultural Health Study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Whitney S Goldner
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE68198-3020, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Oriel M, Edmiston S, Beauvais S, Barry T, O'Malley M. Illnesses associated with chloropicrin use in California agriculture, 1992-2003. Rev Environ Contam Toxicol 2009; 200:1-31. [PMID: 19680609 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-0028-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
With limitations imposed on the use of methyl bromide by international treaty, use of metam-sodium, chloropicrin, and other fumigants have increased; this increase has been accompanied by multiple community illness episodes. In this review we address the California experience of direct or indirect exposures to chloropicrin, after use of this fumigant as an active ingredient in agricultural pest control, from the years 1992-2003. The best available toxicology data demonstrate that, for brief exposures (5-30 sec), eye irritation (or at least "chemesthesis"--detection of exposure by the eye) occurred in 50% of volunteer subjects exposed to 700 ppb of chloropicrin. Of 62 subjects tested, 10-15% (depending upon the site of exposure) failed to detect 1200 ppb of chloropicrin (the highest concentrations tested). For exposures lasting 20 min, the minimum concentration detectable by 50% of the subjects was 75 ppb; the no-observed-effect-level (NOEL) for eye irritation was 50 ppb. Exposures for 1 hr, at 100 and 150 ppb, produced subjective eye irritation in most subjects. Using a standard tenfold uncertainty factor (Extoxnet 2006), an estimated NOEL for a 1-hr exposure to chloropicrin (calculated from the 100 ppb lowest-observed-effect-level) would be 10 ppb. The few monitoring studies conducted for agricultural use of chloropicrin demonstrate that the most sensitive effect to chloropicrin exposure is sensory irritation. The use of chloropicrin for field fumigation presents a difficult problem, both because of the extreme degree to which it is irritating, and because of the very low concentrations that cause such irritation. The cases summarized in this report, especially those resulting from applications that adhere to label and permit standards, suggest that additional mitigation measures are needed to minimize off-site human exposure associated with chloropicrin applications in California. Examination of the previously discussed Pesticide Illness Surveillance Program cases revealed that conducting the applications according to label directions and local permit conditions was not always adequate to prevent off-site exposure or resultant irritation or other symptoms. This suggests that current methods of fumigant containment and/or buffer zone requirements are insufficient under some circumstances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Oriel
- Occupational Health Services, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Valmas N, Ebert PR. Comparative toxicity of fumigants and a phosphine synergist using a novel containment chamber for the safe generation of concentrated phosphine gas. PLoS One 2006; 1:e130. [PMID: 17205134 PMCID: PMC1762414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0000130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2006] [Accepted: 11/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the phasing out of ozone-depleting substances in accordance with the United Nations Montreal Protocol, phosphine remains as the only economically viable fumigant for widespread use. However the development of high-level resistance in several pest insects threatens the future usage of phosphine; yet research into phosphine resistance mechanisms has been limited due to the potential for human poisoning in enclosed laboratory environments. Principal Findings Here we describe a custom-designed chamber for safely containing phosphine gas generated from aluminium phosphide tablets. In an improvement on previous generation systems, this chamber can be completely sealed to control the escape of phosphine. The device has been utilised in a screening program with C. elegans that has identified a phosphine synergist, and quantified the efficacy of a new fumigant against that of phosphine. The phosphine-induced mortality at 20°C has been determined with an LC50 of 732 ppm. This result was contrasted with the efficacy of a potential new botanical pesticide dimethyl disulphide, which for a 24 hour exposure at 20°C is 600 times more potent than phosphine (LC50 1.24 ppm). We also found that co-administration of the glutathione depletor diethyl maleate (DEM) with a sublethal dose of phosphine (70 ppm, <LC5), results in a doubling of mortality in C. elegans relative to DEM alone. Conclusions The prohibitive danger associated with the generation, containment, and use of phosphine in a laboratory environment has now been substantially reduced by the implementation of our novel gas generation chamber. We have also identified a novel phosphine synergist, the glutathione depletor DEM, suggesting an effective pathway to be targeted in future synergist research; as well as quantifying the efficacy of a potential alternative to phosphine, dimethyl disulphide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Valmas
- School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul R. Ebert
- School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- School of Integrative Biology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rodríguez AD, Penilla RP, Rodríguez MH, Hemingway J, Trejo A, Hernández-Avila JE. Acceptability and perceived side effects of insecticide indoor residual spraying under different resistance management strategies. Salud Publica Mex 2006; 48:317-24. [PMID: 16913456 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-36342006000400006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess household acceptability and perceived side effects of residual indoor pyrethroid (PYR), carbamate and organophosphate insecticides sprayed by annual rotation (ROT), spatial mosaic (MOS), and a single insecticide (DDT or PYR) in communities of the coastal plain of Chiapas, Mexico. MATERIAL AND METHODS A questionnaire to assess the acceptability and perceived side effects of indoor insecticides was administered to one member of 30% of the families in eight villages of Chiapas. The association of different insecticide treatments with their responses was evaluated (Chi-square). The intensity of side effects indicated under different treatments was compared in an ordered logistic model, using a severity index as the response variable. RESULTS Insecticide spraying as a probable cause of symptoms was identified by 2.1% of interviewees. A significantly high percentage of persons with blurred vision, dizziness, sneezing, coughing, numbness, watery eyes, and itching lived in villages under MOS and ROT and a high severity index was significantly associated with ROT treatment. Reduction of mosquito bites and cockroaches were the perceived main benefits, and most villagers that perceived no benefits lived in DDT treated villages. Most of the interviewees welcomed spraying (83.7%), but the smell and having to remove furniture from houses were the main arguments against it. CONCLUSIONS Acceptability correlated with insecticide spray coverage, although the most frequent suggestion for improvement was to increase the understanding of the objectives of spraying in the communities. The frequency of side effects was low, but higher in localities where a combination of insecticides was applied. This is a limitation for the use of this type of resistance management strategy in public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Américo David Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigación de Paludismo, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Tapachula, Chiapas, México.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Yamano Y, Nakadate T. Three Occupationally Exposed Cases of Severe Methyl Bromide Poisoning: Accident Caused by a Gas Leak during the Fumigation of a Folklore Museum. J Occup Health 2006; 48:129-33. [PMID: 16612042 DOI: 10.1539/joh.48.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Yamano
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Baur X, Yu F, Poschadel B, Veldman W, Vos TKD. Health risks by bromomethane and other toxic gases in import cargo ship containers. Int Marit Health 2006; 57:46-55. [PMID: 17312693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Containers are increasingly used for the worldwide transport of all kinds of goods. Consistent with national and international regulations on pest controls, a growing proportion of these containers undergoes fumigation. Frequently, the prescribed labelling is missing. According to literature, this situation may lead to accidents and represents a significant health risk to dock workers, inspectors and custom workers. Furthermore, warehouse workers and even consumers may come in contact with these toxic fumigants. Presented measurement data underline this health risks due to bromomethane but also due to other fumigants and, surprisingly, due to further noxious gases. So far, no routine method for sensitive and specific measurements on the spot has been available. The consequences of container fumigation should always be carefully weighed up, and alternatives to pesticides, e.g. heat treatment or atmospheres with reduced oxygen and for high CO2 concentrations should be considered. In addition, stringent international controls as well as sanctions if IMO's "Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships" are disregarded are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xaver Baur
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Hamburg Port Health Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Shaw I. Could exposure to methyl bromide cause motor neurone disease? N Z Med J 2005; 118:U1273. [PMID: 15682220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
|
33
|
Abstract
Methyl bromide (MB) is used to fumigate diverse commodities. During fumigation, the commodity can sorb a substantial mass of MB, which does not chemically react and is termed a residue. During subsequent commodity handling, the residue offgasses and can lead to MB inhalation exposure among processing workers. Although MB has a low 1 ppm 8-hr TLV-TWA as recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH(R)) and is considered a potential occupational carcinogen by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the recent industrial hygiene literature contains no pertinent exposure data. Limited measurements made in 1992 by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation are summarized here, but associated information on exposure determinants is lacking. In this article, mathematical models are used to integrate data on MB residue offgassing with several processing scenarios to estimate potential exposure levels. The main finding is that if a large volume of commodity rapidly offgasses MB and is handled under conditions of low ventilation, the potential exists for MB exposures above the 1 ppm TLV-TWA value. However, the combination of handling a smaller commodity volume and less rapid offgassing may be the more typical scenario. It is recommended that a pilot study be conducted to measure current MB exposure levels, test the validity of the mathematical models, and collect industry-wide data on exposure determinants. By using the latter data as inputs for validated models, public health scientists could estimate the distribution of MB exposure levels across the commodity processing industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Nicas
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Herrmann R. Life rafts--ventillation is vital. Int Marit Health 2003; 54:86-91. [PMID: 14974781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
|
35
|
Low A, Hüsing UP, Preisser A, Baur X. Regulations and control of in-transit fumigated containers as well as of fumigated cargo ships. Int Marit Health 2003; 54:77-85. [PMID: 14974780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to IMO's international regulations, e.g. "Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships", fumigated containers and ship cargoes must be labeled giving specifications about dates of fumigation and the fumigation gas used. Furthermore, appropriate certificates are necessary and these records have to be forwarded to the Port Health Authorities without their explicitly asking for them. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES According to IMO (DSC/Circ.8.24.7.2001) a recent inspection of containers unloaded in ports showed that some were under fumigation, but not declared as such and in a few cases these ventilated containers arrive with "Degas Certificates" stating that fumigant has been removed, but still have a high fumigant concentration inside when opened. There are similar reports from The Netherlands, where 21% of the fumigated containers had missing or false declarations and contained measurable amounts of toxic gas. In England 6% were mentioned to be allegedly false. Reports exist of a number of other incidents with containers under fumigation arriving in English ports with no accompanying documents on the ship or at the port of discharge as to the type of cargo. In one case several people were hospitalized after exposure to phosphine gas because the fumigant tablets were not yet totally decomposed before the ship arrived at its destination port. In Bavaria, Germany, a bad accident recently occurred through a non declared fumigated container (see press release). Our sample: a large container ship in the Port of Hamburg where 27 of the cargo's containers were found fumigated with 27 non/incomplete/false declarations. These examples show that missing/false labelling is frequent. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Clearance of in-transit fumigated containers in ports is complicated and time-consuming for the captain and shipping company. The above mentioned accident and also the results of our spot check prove, as do the experiences in The Netherlands and England, that false declarations of fumigated containers seem commonplace. This coincides with a considerable danger for ship crews, port workers and end users. More stringent controls, including gas analysis, are necessary as well as a systematic study. As a first step in that direction, we included the question "Are fumigated containers on board?", in the form of the Maritime Declaration of Health we demand. A computer controlled information and communication system network between ports and its link with the Waterways and Shipping Directorate would enable comprehensive plausibility monitoring and thus help achieve a better surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Low
- Hamburg Port Health Center, Institute of Occupational Health, Seewartenstrasse 10. D-20459 Hamburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kutywayo V. Chemical alternatives for soil fumigation with methyl bromide on tobacco seedbeds in nematode and weed control. Commun Agric Appl Biol Sci 2003; 68:115-22. [PMID: 15149099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
The proposed phase out of methyl bromide necessitated the evaluation of a number of chemical alternatives to replace it. The recommended rate of application for methyl bromide, 50 g/m2 was evaluated over three years against various rates of 65% 1,3-Dichloropropene mixed with 35% chloropicrin (1,3-D/C-35); a combination of metham sodium and ethylene dibromide (EDB) and 65% 1,3-Dichloropropene (1,3-D) alone. Chloropicrin and 1,3-D have long been registered and used in Zimbabwe as individual chemicals and their combination as a single product had never been tested. 1,3-D/C-35 at 36.9 ml/m2 was as effective as methyl bromide in nematode and weed control and led to similar seed germination and seedling growth rate. A combination of EDB at 21 ml/m2 and metham sodium at 35 ml/m2 was also equally effective. The use of 1,3-D alone at 35 ml/m2 gave unsatisfactory weed control and led to a reduced seedling growth rate. Metham sodium alone at 35 ml/m2 gave comparable weed control, seed germination and seedling growth comparable with methyl bromide. However nematode control evaluated using a gall rating scale was reduced. 1,3-D/C-35 at 36.9 ml/m2 and metham sodium at 35 ml/m2 used in combination with EDB at 21 ml/m2 are therefore, possible replacements for methyl bromide soil fumigation in tobacco seedbeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Kutywayo
- Kutsaga Research Station, PO Box 1909, Harare, Zimbabwe
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
|
38
|
Verplanke AJ, Bloemen LJ, Brouwer EJ, Boogaard PJ, Herber RF. Occupational exposure to cis-1,3-dichloropropene: biological effect monitoring of kidney and liver function. Occup Environ Med 2000; 57:745-51. [PMID: 11024198 PMCID: PMC1739883 DOI: 10.1136/oem.57.11.745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the possible effects of occupational exposure to the nematocide cis-1,3-dichloropropene (cis-DCP) on function of the kidney and liver in the starch potato growing region in The Netherlands. METHODS The study involved 13 commercial application workers exposed to cis-DCP for 117 days, and 22 matched control workers. The inhalatory exposure of the application workers was estimated from biological monitoring data. All workers collected urine and serum samples before, during, and after the fumigation season for monitoring of variables for kidney and liver function. Renal effect variables were alanine aminopeptidase (AAP), N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), retinol binding protein (RBP), and albumin (ALB) in urine, and beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2)M-S) and creatinine in serum (Creat-S). Liver variables were alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin (TBIL) in serum and the urinary ratio of 6-beta-hydroxycortisol to free cortisol (betaOHC/COR). RESULTS The geometric mean exposure of the application workers was 2.7 mg/m(3) (8 hour time weighted average (8 hour TWA)); range 0.1-9.5 mg/m(3). No differences were found between the values of the renal effect variables or the liver variables of the exposed group and the control group, except a lower urinary ratio of betaOHC/COR in the exposed group. This was not considered to be related to the exposure to cis-DCP. No dose-effect relations were found between the exposure indices and the effect variables. CONCLUSIONS The present study does not provide evidence that occupational exposure to cis-DCP in the starch potato growing region causes adverse effects on the kidney or liver at 8 hour TWA exposure concentrations below 9.5 mg/m(3) (2 ppm).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Verplanke
- Coronel Laboratory for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Human Toxicology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Exposure to fumigants may have severe or persistent health effects. Washington State's fumigant-related illnesses were reviewed to better understand the circumstances surrounding exposure and resultant health effects. METHODS Fumigant-related illnesses reported to and investigated by the Washington State Department of Health were reviewed. Illnesses considered by Department of Health to be definitely, probably, or possibly related to pesticide exposure were then analyzed. RESULTS From 1992-1996, 39 (3.3%) of 1192 definite, probable, or possible cases of pesticide-related illnesses involved exposures to fumigants. Fumigant exposures during this period were to aluminum phosphide (15), methyl bromide (12), metam-sodium (9), and zinc phosphide (3). Symptoms included respiratory problems and eye and/or skin irritation for the majority of exposures, and no deaths were reported. The nature of exposure for these cases included exposure to applicators (17), reentry into a fumigated structure (9), improper storage or disposal (6), reentry into treated agricultural fields (4), drift from treated fields (2), and other (1). CONCLUSIONS Review of fumigant exposures should be used to prevent future events through continued enforcement of established regulations and training of applicators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J L Burgess
- Environmental/Occupational Health Unit, University of Arizona Prevention Center, Tucson 85719-4197, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Lillo A, Usó J, Gil MJ, Prada PL, Simón E. [Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in an immunocompetent patient after paraquat spraying]. An Med Interna 1999; 16:381. [PMID: 10481343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
|
41
|
Zulkifli I, Fauziah O, Omar AR, Shaipullizan S, Siti Selina AH. Respiratory epithelium, production performance and behaviour of formaldehyde-exposed broiler chicks. Vet Res Commun 1999; 23:91-9. [PMID: 10359153 DOI: 10.1023/a:1006202418092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of formaldehyde vaporization of a hatcher on the tracheal epithelium of chick embryos, and on the production performance and behaviour of commercial broiler chicks. In experiment 1, chick embryos were exposed to 23.5 ppm of formaldehyde vapour during the last 3 days of incubation. Tracheal samples were taken at 0, 6, 30 and 54 h after exposure to formaldehyde and examined by scanning electron microscopy for pathological changes. Observable lesions included excessive accumulation of mucus, matted cilia, loss of cilia and sloughing of the epithelium. The lesions were more severe in chicks exposed for 54 h as compared to those exposed for 6 or 30 h. In experiment 2, 60 chicks that had been exposed to formaldehyde vapour as above and 60 control chicks were used to investigate the effect of formaldehyde fumigation on production performance and behaviour. Formaldehyde vaporization resulted in higher weekly (days 0-6 and 21-27) and total (days 0-41) feed intake and poorer weekly (days 0-6, 7-13, 21-27 and 28-34) and overall (days 0-41) feed conversion ratios. Body weight, mortality and behaviour (eating, drinking, sitting and standing activities) were not affected by formaldehyde fumigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Zulkifli
- Department of Animal Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor DE
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Calvert GM, Mueller CA, Fajen JM, Chrislip DW, Russo J, Briggle T, Fleming LE, Suruda AJ, Steenland K. Health effects associated with sulfuryl fluoride and methyl bromide exposure among structural fumigation workers. Am J Public Health 1998; 88:1774-80. [PMID: 9842373 PMCID: PMC1509053 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.88.12.1774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study assessed the health effects associated with occupational exposure to methyl bromide and sulfuryl fluoride among structural fumigation workers. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 123 structural fumigation workers and 120 referents in south Florida was conducted. Nerve conduction, vibration, neurobehavioral, visual, olfactory, and renal function testing was included. RESULTS The median lifetime duration of methyl bromide and sulfuryl fluoride exposure among workers was 1.20 years and 2.85 years, respectively. Sulfuryl fluoride exposure over the year preceding examination was associated with significantly reduced performance on the Pattern Memory Test and on olfactory testing. In addition, fumigation workers had significantly reduced performance on the Santa Ana Dexterity Test of the dominant hand and a nonsignificantly higher prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome than did the referents. CONCLUSIONS Occupational sulfuryl fluoride exposures may be associated with subclinical effects on the central nervous system, including effects on olfactory and some cognitive functions. However, no widespread pattern of cognitive deficits was observed. The peripheral nerve effects were likely caused by ergonomic stresses experienced by the fumigation workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G M Calvert
- Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field Studies, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Methyl bromide has been responsible for deaths that usually occur from its accidental inhalation during fumigation. CASE REPORT We report an accidental fatality that occurred after methyl bromide seeped through underground conduits from a fumigated building to an adjacent guest house on the same property. The patient developed refractory seizures, intermittent fever, and multiorgan system failure before dying 19 days after exposure. The initial serum bromide was 27 mg/dL. Postmortem analysis detected methyl bromide concentrations of 2.9 mg/dL in the blood, 1.7 mg/dL in the bile, 24 micrograms/g in the liver, and 28 micrograms/g in the adipose tissue. CONCLUSION Methyl bromide, although applied under acceptable safety standards, led to the inadvertent death of a young woman. Extreme care must be used when fumigating to insure no unsuspected seepage routes exist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Z Horowitz
- California Poison Control System, Sacramento Division, University of California Davis Medical Center, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sander JE, Steffens WL. Transmission electron microscopic demonstration of abnormalities on the tracheal cilia of chicks exposed to formaldehyde during hatching. Avian Dis 1997; 41:977-80. [PMID: 9454936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Formaldehyde gas used to fumigate hatcheries for control of microbial contamination has an adverse effect on tracheal cilia function and morphology. Evaluation of the changes revealed alterations in the ultrastructure of the axoneme with the absence of B subfibers and the production of additional A subfibers. Spikes and vesicular blebs in the cilia walls were evident in formaldehyde-exposed cilia. These changes could result in ciliastasis and cilia loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J E Sander
- Department of Avian Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens 30602, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Acuña MC, Díaz V, Tapia R, Cumsille MA. [Assessment of neurotoxic effects of methyl bromide in exposed workers]. Rev Med Chil 1997; 125:36-42. [PMID: 9336067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methyl bromide is an aliphatic hydrocarbon derivative used as a pesticide that causes skin, kidney, respiratory, liver and neurological damage. AIM To assess the neurological and psychiatric damage caused by methyl bromide in exposed workers of seed and fruit export industries in a rural area near Santiago. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We studied prospectively 15 male middle age workers before and after a fumigation period with methyl bromide, that lasted two to four weeks. According to the initial assessment, 5 of these subjects had a chronic exposure to the chemical. As controls, 10 non exposed workers matched for age, sex and working conditions were studied in two occasions. The evaluation included the WHO Neuro Behavior Core Test Battery, dynamometric and vibrator assessment of peripheral nerve function, the Nothingham test for psychological functioning and Titmus test for visual acuity. Methyl bromide levels were measured in blood and urine. RESULTS Blood methyl bromide levels increased from 13.3 to 30 mg/dl after exposure. Symptoms that appeared with a higher frequency in exposed workers were insomnia, headache, paresthesiae, mood changes and loss of memory and concentration. In these subjects, the threshold for the Vibraton test increased from 2.4 to 2.85 sec, dynamometry showed a strength reduction in the right side from 51.4 to 47.2 kg and there was an increase in the score for negative auto-perception in the Nothingham test from 11.2 to 13.6. No deterioration in these tests were observed in unexposed workers. CONCLUSIONS Acute and chronic methyl bromide exposure causes important psychological and neurological derangement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M C Acuña
- Hospital Clínico JJ Aguirre, Santiago de Chile
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Sataloff RT, Hawkshaw M, Spiegel JR. Vocal fold masses related to inhalation of fumes. Ear Nose Throat J 1996; 75:456-8. [PMID: 8828268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- R T Sataloff
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Abstract
1. Hatching chicks were exposed to 10.9 ppm of formaldehyde vapour during the last 3 d of incubation in a commercial situation. 2. Samples from pre-selected regions of the entire respiratory tract, taken at 0, 6, 30 and 54 h post-vaporisation of formaldehyde, were examined by scanning electron microscopy for surface morphological features and associated pathological changes. 3. Clumping of cilia, blebs on the cilial wall, deciliation and exfoliation of the epithelium were all observed under the scanning electron microscope. 4. Lesions were more severe in chicks exposed for 54 h as compared to those exposed for 6 and 30 h. There were no regional differences in the lesions throughout the respiratory tract of all the chicks. 5. Limited observations suggest that the passage of formaldehyde vapour across the egg shell wall may influence the morphology of the respiratory lining of the developing embryo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O Fauziah
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Glasgow Veterinary School, Scotland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Garnier R, Rambourg-Schepens MO, Müller A, Hallier E. Glutathione transferase activity and formation of macromolecular adducts in two cases of acute methyl bromide poisoning. Occup Environ Med 1996; 53:211-15. [PMID: 8704864 PMCID: PMC1128446 DOI: 10.1136/oem.53.3.211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the activity of glutathione transferase and to measure the S-methylcysteine adducts in blood proteins, after acute inhalation exposure to methyl bromide. To examine the influence of the polymorphism of glutathione-S-transferase theta (GSTT1) on the neurotoxicity of methyl bromide. METHODS Two workers acutely exposed to methyl bromide with inadequate respiratory protective devices were poisoned. Seven weeks after the accident, blood samples were drawn from both patients, for measurement of glutathione transferase activity in erythrocytes (conjugator status--that is, GSTT1 phenotype) and measurement of binding products of methyl bromide with blood proteins. Conjugator status was determined by a standard procedure. The binding product of methyl bromide, S-methylcysteine, was measured in globin and albumin. RESULTS Duration and intensity of exposure were identical for both patients as they worked together with the same protective devices and with similar physical effort. However, one patient had very severe poisoning, whereas the other only developed mild neurotoxic symptoms. The first patient was a "conjugator" with normal glutathone transferase activity, whereas this activity was undetectable in the erythrocytes of the second patient, who consequently had higher concentrations of S-methylcysteine adduct in albumin (149 v 91 nmol/g protein) and in globin (77 v 30 nmol/g protein). CONCLUSIONS Methyl bromide is genotoxic and neurotoxic. Its genotoxicity seems to be the consequence of the alkylating activity of the parent compound, and conjugation to glutathione has a protective effect. The data presented here suggest a different mechanism for methyl bromide neurotoxicity which could be related to the transformation of methylglutathione into toxic metabolites such as methanethiol and formaldehyde. If such metabolites are the ultimate toxic species, N-acetylcysteine treatment could have a toxifying rather than a detoxifying effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Garnier
- Centre Anti-poisons, Clinique, Interuniversitaire de Médicine du Travail, Paris, France
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
There have been over 300 cases of methyl bromide poisoning reported in the literature. The first objective of this case report was to bring out an experience with the false belief that work in a closed space is safe when accompanied by the use of a cartridge respirator with activated charcoal. The second objective of this article was to demonstrate the marked toxicity of methyl bromide with the potential to cause long-term neurological damage. Two experienced fumigation workers (equipped with rapidly saturable respiratory cartridges) entered a building where the concentration of methyl bromide was 17g x m-3 instead of the advised 20mg x m-3. They felt rapidly unwell and complained of nausea and shortness of breath, followed for one them by generalized convulsions. Five months later this last man was still bedridden. The other worker had almost no after-effects. The highest bromide level was found in the blood and also in the activated charcoal cartridge of the most injured worker. There was a relationship between methyl bromide level exposure and neurological damage importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F J Deschamps
- Department of Occupational Diseases, Hopital Maison Blanche, Reims, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
Methyl bromide is widely used as an insecticidal fumigant in food supplies, warehouses, barges, buildings, and furniture. Its popularity as a fumigant is largely attributable to its high toxicity to many pests, the variety of settings in which it can be applied, its ability to penetrate the fumigated substances, and its rapid dissipation following application. Because of its frequent use around humans and human-related activities and its high acute toxicity, methyl bromide-related fatal accidents have occurred. The primary route for human exposure to methyl bromide is inhalation. In California, the most frequent cause of death from methyl bromide exposure in recent years has been unauthorized entry into structures under fumigation. The most frequently reported lesions included pulmonary edema, congestion, and hemorrhage. In recent years, a great deal of effort has been given to the characterization of the toxicity of methyl bromide because of its commercial value and its direct and indirect economic importance. Methyl bromide is acutely very toxic. Subchronically and chronically, the principal target site for methyl bromide appears to be the central nervous system. However, there was no evidence for carcinogenic activity of methyl bromide following the normal environmental exposure routes of inhalation or oral intake through residue on foods. Methyl bromide is clearly genotoxic in vitro and in vivo, as evidenced by the positive results from various tests. The mechanism of toxicity for methyl bromide is currently uncertain, although its alkylating property as well as the possibility of forming a reactive intermediate through metabolic transformation remain attractive hypotheses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R S Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|