Use Of Pesticides Research Articles

Relationships of residential distance to greenhouse floriculture and organophosphate, pyrethroid, and neonicotinoid urinary metabolite concentration in Ecuadorian Adolescents

BackgroundAdolescents living in agricultural areas are at higher risk of secondary pesticide exposure; however, there is limited evidence to confirm exposure by pesticide drift for greenhouse floriculture, like rose production.Methods525 adolescents (12–17, 49% male) living in Pedro Moncayo, Ecuador were assessed in 2016. Urinary concentrations of creatinine and pesticide biomarkers (organophosphates, neonicotinoids, and pyrethroids) were measured using mass-spectrometry. Home distance to the nearest greenhouse and surface area of greenhouses within various buffer sizes around the home were calculated. Linear regression assessed whether home distance and surface area of greenhouses was associated with creatinine-adjusted metabolite concentration, adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic, and anthropometric variables. Geospatially weighted regression (GWR) was conducted, adjusting for similar covariates. Getis-ord Gi* identified hot and cold spots using a 1994 m distance band.ResultsThe associations between residential distance to greenhouses and urinary pesticide metabolites differed by metabolite type. The adjusted mean concentrations of OHIM (neonicotinoid) were greater (p-difference = 0.02) among participants living within 200 m (1.08 ug/g of creatinine) vs > 200 m (0.64 ug/g); however, the opposite was observed for 3,5,6-Trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy, organophosphate; 0-200 m: 3.63 ug/g vs > 200 m: 4.30 ug/g, p-diff = 0.05). In linear models, greater distances were negatively associated with para-nitrophenol (PNP, organophosphate; percent difference per 50% greater distance [95% CI]: − 2.5% [− 4.9%, − 0.1%]) and somewhat with 2-isopropyl-4-methyl-6-hydroxypyrimidine (IMPy, organophosphate; − 4.0% [− 8.3%, 0.4%]), among participants living within 200 m of greenhouses. Concurring with the adjusted means analyses, opposite (positive) associations were observed for TCPy (2.1% [95%CI 0.3%, 3.9%]). Organophosphate and pyrethroid hotspots were found in parishes with greater greenhouse density, whereas neonicotinoid hot spots were in parishes with the lowest greenhouse density.ConclusionWe observed negative associations between residential distance to greenhouses with OHIM, PNP and to some extent IMPy, suggesting that imidacloprid, parathion and diazinon are drifting from floricultural greenhouses and reaching children living within 200 m. Positive TCPy associations suggest greenhouses weren't the chlorpyrifos source during this study period, which implies that non-floricultural open-air agriculture (e.g. corn, potatoes, strawberries, grains) may be a source. Further research incorporating diverse geospatial constructs of pesticide sources, pesticide use reports (if available), participant location tracking, and repeated metabolite measurements is recommended.

A transfer learning approach to classify insect diversity based on explainable AI

Insect identification is crucial for agriculture, entomology, and ecological monitoring, where accurate pest detection can avoid crop damage and reduce pesticide use. To assure model transparency and dependability, this work suggests an improved method for automated insect categorization that combines explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques with transfer learning. The main goal is to create a high-accuracy, easily deployable classification system with excellent interpretability by utilizing the ResNet152v2 architecture. Nine different classes of insects totaling 4509 photos were gathered and pre-processed for noise reduction, resolution standardization, and data normalization. The ResNet152v2 model was trained, and Grad-CAM (gradient-weighted class activation mapping) was applied to illustrate significant characteristics driving model decisions. With a 96% classification accuracy, the model proved useful in practical applications, minimizing the need for big labeled datasets while preserving transparency. Using this model in agricultural contexts can help farmers protect crops from pests, use less pesticides, and improve farmland fertility, among other practical uses. This system, which uses a web-based application, is accessible, inexpensive, and simple to use. It provides farmers with timely information so they may take preventive measures against pest infestations. This work contributes significantly to the field by providing a scalable and trustworthy solution for real-time insect identification, laying the groundwork for future AI-driven innovations in sustainable agriculture and ecological monitoring.

Antifungal activity of surfactin produced by Bacillus subtilis against phytopathogenic fungi in apple and strawberry: an in vitro and in vivo study

Abstract Agricultural losses due to infections caused by phytopathogenic fungi are a threat to global food security. The use of chemical pesticides to combat these pathogens raises environmental concerns, making it necessary to seek more environmentally friendly alternatives. The aim of this work was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the cyclic lipopeptide surfactin, produced by Bacillus subtilis isolated from the intestine of honey bees. Specifically, the efficacy of surfactin against the phytopathogenic fungi Monilinia spp. and Aspergillus sp. was examined. First, in vitro assays were performed, showing that surfactin inhibited fungal growth by 88.39% for Monilinia polystroma, 67.40% for Monilinia fructigena, 49.56% for Monilinia laxa, and 33.02% for Aspergillus sp.. Subsequent in vivo tests demonstrated its antifungal activity in apples and strawberries. In apples inoculated with Monilinia laxa, surfactin application led to a 67.53% reduction in fungal growth and a 65.71% decrease in disease severity. Moreover, in strawberries, surfactin not only inhibited Aspergillus sp. growth but also extended the fruit’s shelf life, reducing disease severity by 80% after 15 days of storage at 4°C. Additionally, treated strawberries retained higher firmness (up to 30% increase) and higher sugar content compared to untreated controls. These findings suggest that surfactin has potential applications in integrated pest and disease management as an alternative to agrochemicals, promoting more sustainable agricultural practices.

Acaricidal Properties of Billygoat Weed Ageratum conyzoides L. Essential Oil on Polyphagous Two-Spotted Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch.

Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), commonly known as the two-spotted spider mite, is a major polyphagous pest that affects a wide range of vegetable crops. Infestation of T. urticae is more prominent on eggplant which causes 50-80% yield loss if no control measures initiated. The economic threat posed by T. urticae is constantly increasing because of the development of pesticide resistance and resurgence. One of best alternative management strategies is use of plant-based pesticides like secondary metabolites and essential oils (EOs) which provides sustainable and long-term protection. In the present study, EO extracted from a billygoat weed, Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asterales: Asteraceae), and its binary compounds were evaluated against T. urticae. The A. conyzoides EOs showed highest mortality (97.5% with the LC50 10.61 µL/mL), due to the presence of Precocene I (32.32%), Geraniol (1.23%), and Neral (0.55%). Among the binary compounds, Geraniol (95%) showed highest mortality having LC50 (95%) of 9.59 µL/mL followed by Citronellol (77.5%) and Alpha-pipene (75%). Significant increase in the activity of esterases, glutathione S-transferase, and acetylcholine esterases contributed for the toxicity in T. urticae following exposure to essential oils (EO) and their binary compounds. SEM images revealed shrinking of the bodies of treated T. urticae along with reduced body measurements compared to the untreated individuals. The present study indicates that A. conyzoides EO could be used for development of new acaricides for sustainable management of T. urticae.

Working smarter, not harder: silencing LAZY1 in Prunus domestica causes outward, wandering branch orientations with commercial and ornamental applications

Abstract Controlling branch orientation is a central challenge in tree fruit production, as it impacts light interception, pesticide use, fruit quality, yield, and labor costs. To modify branch orientation, growers use many different management practices, including tying branches to wires or applying growth regulator sprays. However, these practices are often costly and ineffective. In contrast, altering the expression of genes that control branch angles and orientations would permanently optimize tree architecture and reduce management requirements. One gene implicated in branch angle control, LAZY1, has potential for such applications as it is a key modulator of upward branch orientations in response to gravity. Here we describe the phenotypes of transgenic plum (Prunus domestica) trees containing an antisense vector to silence LAZY1. We found that LAZY1 silencing significantly increased branch and petiole angles. LAZY1-antisense lines also displayed “wandering” or weeping branch trajectories. These phenotypes were not associated with decreases in branch strength or stiffness. We evaluated the utility of LAZY1-antisense trees for use in two planar orchard systems by training them according to super slender axe and espalier methods. We found that the LAZY1-antisense trees had more open canopies and were easier to constrain to the trellis height. This work illustrates the power of manipulating gene expression to optimize plant architecture for specific horticultural applications

The case for microbiome stewardship: what it is and how to get there.

Microbiomes are essential for human, animal, plant, and ecosystem health. Despite widespread recognition of the importance of microbiomes, there is little attention paid to monitoring and safeguarding microbial ecologies on policy levels. We observe that microbiomes are deteriorating owing to practices at societal levels such as pesticide use in agriculture, air and water pollution, and overuse of antibiotics. Potential policy on these issues would cross multiple domains such as public health, environmental protection, and agriculture. We propose microbiome stewardship as a foundational concept that can act across policy domains to facilitate healthy microbiomes for human and ecosystem health. We examine challenges to be addressed and steps to take toward developing meaningful microbiome stewardship.

Understanding the factors behind non-adherence to pesticide safety guidelines among smallholder farmers in Fogera and MEcha districts, northwestern Ethiopia

ObjectiveThe objective of the research was to identify key factors influencing smallholder farmers’ why not follow the recommended pesticide safety practices in northwestern Ethiopia. The study conducted in 2020/2021 investigated factors influencing smallholder farmers’ adherence to recommended pesticide safety practices in northwestern Ethiopia. The survey involving 50 farmers in Fogera and 53 in Mecha assessed pesticide use practices and perceptions, aiming to reveal common challenges in pesticide management. Survey data highlighted significant pesticide application and barriers related to adopting personal protective equipment (PPE), proper pesticide storage, integrated pest management (IPM), and safe disposal of containers.ResultStatistical analyses indicated non-significant differences between districts regarding these practices, underscoring universal issues such as economic constraints, limited resource access, and inadequate awareness. Crops like maize, faba bean, and cabbage showed high pesticide usage rates in both districts without statistically significant differences, emphasizing their cumulative impact on food safety. This finding underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions. Measures such as subsidized PPE, infrastructure development for safe pesticide storage, enhanced educational campaigns, and strengthened regulatory frameworks are crucial to promote sustainable agricultural practices and mitigate health and environmental risks. In conclusion, the study identifies widespread barriers to effective pesticide management among smallholder farmers in Fogera and Mecha, including economic limitations and resource constraints. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted strategy that includes subsidized PPE, improved storage infrastructure, and intensified educational initiatives to foster sustainable practices and safeguard both human health and the environment.

Worldviews and values of key societal actors influencing decision‐making around nature: The case of wild pollinator conservation in Europe

Abstract Biodiversity is vital for life on earth but faces many anthropogenic pressures. Mitigating these pressures and improving biodiversity status requires understanding the worldviews and values of actors involved in conservation or responsible for creating pressures on biodiversity. This paper contributes to the theoretical understanding of the interplay between worldviews and values and their potential influence on effective policy or practice actions. We investigated the worldviews and values of key European actors influencing a specific component of biodiversity conservation: wild pollinators and pollination. We collected qualitative and quantitative data through in‐depth interviews with 27 individuals from business, policymaking, NGOs and research. Bio‐ecocentric worldviews prevailed in our sample of interviews, with a consensus over the intrinsic value of all living beings, that human activities are negatively impacting nature, the existence of biophysical limits to economic growth and the need for environmental regulation. Furthermore, anthropocentric and relationship‐centred perspectives emerged on the use of pesticides, modes of economic growth (conventional vs. sustainable), the ability of human ingenuity and technological innovation to solve ecological problems and the fundamental resilience of nature to rapid change. Irrespective of overall worldviews on human–nature relationships, all stakeholder groups in our sample agreed on the irreplaceability of pollinators and their many benefits, their decline and that their conservation is a priority for which all sectors of society are responsible and should contribute. Interviewees agreed that in addition to the widely recognised ecological, nutritional, economic and cultural values that pollinators provide, there also exist relational values and moral responsibility to conserve pollinators. Non‐use values (e.g. ecological role) were highlighted by all stakeholder groups as being at least as important as use values (e.g. supporting human diets). Cultural use values (e.g. aesthetic) of pollinators were typically regarded as being less important relative to their non‐use relationship‐centred and moral values (e.g. responsibility to future generations). Policy implications. The diverse values of biodiversity create a complex conservation challenge amid competing societal priorities. The efficacy of public policy instruments critical to facilitate conservation actions can be improved by further integrating ecological, economic, social and moral‐ethical levers to achieve the long‐term sustainable management of biodiversity. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

An Autonomous Dual-Fan Pollination Device: Mathematical Modeling, Trajectory Optimization, and Distribution Analysis for Enhanced Crop Yield

The decline of natural pollinators, exacerbated by climate change and pesticide use, poses a critical threat to global food security. Innovative solutions are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure sustainable agricultural practices. This study addresses the urgent need for effective, autonomous pollination systems to enhance crop productivity and resilience. This research introduces a novel artificial pollination device designed for autonomous pollen collection and dispersal. It features a custom 3D-printed funnel, a suction fan, precise artificial pollination brushes, and a blowing fan to ensure robust performance in various agricultural settings. The primary objective is to evaluate the device’s accuracy and efficiency under both controlled and environmental conditions. The device was tested in a model testbed using turmeric and mustard seeds as pollen simulants. Initial tests achieved a 61% success rate, which improved to 79% after a hardware upgrade. Further analysis using the Tracker: Video Analysis and Modeling Tool, Python, and AI tools revealed a cone-shaped pollen distribution range influenced by environmental factors. Optimized dispersion angles led to a pollen dispersal rate of 93-100%. Under typical Los Angeles weather conditions, the device’s adjusted success rate was 87.6%. This innovative artificial pollination system marks a significant leap forward in agricultural technology. It offers a scalable solution for crop pollination and urban farming, enhancing productivity in controlled environments. Future research will focus on integrating advanced sensors and AI algorithms to optimize the device’s positioning and movement in dynamic field conditions, further improving accuracy and efficiency.

Effect of short time exposure to magnetic on biology and DNA mutagenicity of the black cutworm Agrotisipsilon (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Agrotis ipsilon is a significant pest of various crops, and the widespread use of chemical pesticides has led to numerous environmental issues, including pollution and the destruction of natural predators. Therefore, developing alternative pest control methods is essential. This study evaluates impact of short-term magnetic field exposure on the biological (life cycle duration) and genetic changes in A. ipsilon larvae. Larvae were exposed to a 180-milliTesla magnetic field for 20, 40, and 60 min using a Magnetizing Battery apparatus. The results showed that prolonged exposure significantly extended the larvae’s life cycle, with a 23.9% increase observed in the 60-min group compared to the control. Genetic analysis using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers revealed mutagenic changes, with a polymorphism rate of 74.13%, indicating genetic alterations such as insertions and deletions. These findings suggest that magnetic fields may influence insect development and genetics, offering a potential alternative to chemical pesticides. Further research is needed to explore its broader applications in sustainable pest management to reduce environmental impacts.

The Ecological Risks of Heavy Metals in the Estuarine Wetland Ecosystem and Their Impacts on Human Health: A Case from Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve, China

Nature reserves are integral to sustaining ecological balance, functioning like a precise ecological regulator, where various species depend on and constrain one another to collectively form a stable ecosystem. Nevertheless, in the wake of economic development, pollutants like heavy metal contamination have insidiously emerged, imperceptibly influencing all these processes. To understand the ecological risk of heavy metals in an estuarine nature reserve, this study focused on the Yellow River Delta Nature Reserve (YRDNNR) and analyzed the distribution, potential environmental risks, and possible sources of heavy metals (Mn, Cu, Zn, Cr, As, Cd, Pb) in the surface sediments of this region. The results indicated that YRDNNR was rich in As and Cd, with Cd presenting the most substantial ecological risk. Further analysis suggested that the high levels of As and Cd could be ascribed to agricultural activities. This study also found that agricultural practices have made a significant contribution to the carcinogenic risk and pose certain risks to the natural environment and human health. More in-depth monitoring and testing of As and Cd levels in YRDNNR should be carried out, and measures should be adopted in accordance with their development. Moreover, the systematic regulation of fertilizer and pesticide use, along with enhancements to farmers’ ecological awareness, is of great significance to alleviating pollution hazards. The findings of this study carry significant implications for the ecological conservation of coastal wetlands, serving as a critical alert to the potential proliferation of heavy metal contamination in other areas of the delta.

Hydroponics: An Innovative Approach to Sustainable High-Value Crop Cultivation

Hydroponics is an innovative and sustainable agricultural technique that enables the cultivation of high-value crops without soil using nutrient-rich water solutions. This method has gained prominence due to its ability to enhance crop yield, optimize resource utilization and contribute to food security. Hydroponic systems including Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), Deep Water Culture (DWC), aeroponics and aquaponics provide controlled environments that minimize the use of water, pesticides and fertilizers while ensuring faster plant growth and superior nutritional quality. This review explores the characteristics of hydroponic farming the economic viability of high-value crops and the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT and precision agriculture. The findings indicate that hydroponics can significantly reduce dependency on arable land, mitigate environmental degradation and support urban agriculture. Despite its advantages, challenges such as high initial investment costs and energy consumption and the need for technical expertise remains the key barriers to widespread adoption. With growing global food demands and climate change concerns; hydroponics presents a viable solution for sustainable agriculture. Future advancements in automation and renewable energy integration can further enhance its feasibility. This study underscores the potential of hydroponic farming as a transformative approach to modern agriculture ensuring long-term sustainability and economic profitability in global food production.

Assessing the Modulatory Effects of Biochar on Soil Health Status in Response to Pesticide Application

Considering the global competition to increase food productivity due to the increasing population growth, the use of chemical pesticides has become the quick solution, but by increasing awareness about the serious dangers of wasteful chemicals in various areas of life, it has become necessary to move immediately, albeit gradually, towards safe biological treatments. From this point of view, the use of biochar is one of the trends in reducing soil pollution with chemical pesticides. Therefore, the main objectives of this work are (i) to assess if the application of three pesticides based on imidacloprid, methyl thiophanate, and glyphosate has detectable adverse consequences on soil organisms’ activity and (ii) to evaluate if the addition of biochar modifies the effects of these chemicals. An agricultural soil was amended with different doses of biochar. The treated soil received realistic amounts of currently used pesticides. Samples were stored at 21 °C and 50% WHC (water holding capacity) for a period of 28 days under dark conditions. Oxygen consumption was measured for 12 consecutive hours after the addition of 2.5 g glucose kg−1 as a stimulant for soil organisms. Biomass C was estimated from the difference between the amount of C in 0.5 M K2SO4 extracts of CHCl3 fumigated soil and the extractable C in non-fumigated samples. Specific respiration was computed as the amount of O2 consumed per unit of Biomass Carbon. The results of this work proved that the tested biochar could modulate the effects produced by the agrochemicals on soil biomass.

Feeding responses of cladocerans exposed to pesticides: comparison between Ceriodaphnia silvestrii and Ceriodaphnia dubia

ABSTRACT The frequent use of pesticides in different agricultural crops, such as fipronil and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), is reported to affect the non-target organisms in ecosystems, including aquatic biota. It is important to assess sensitive parameters of individuals, such as ingestion rates as they are related to secondary production and ecological interactions. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of Regent® 800 WG (active ingredient – a.i. fipronil) and DMA® 806 BR (a.i. 2,4-D) on the feeding responses (filtration and ingestion rates) and the recovery (post-exposure) of the cladocerans Ceriodaphnia silvestrii (Brazilian standardised species) and Ceriodaphnia dubia (International standardised species). Results show different responses of these two species: fipronil increased and decreased, respectively, the filtration and ingestion rates of C. silvestrii and C. dubia; while 2,4-D increased the filtration and ingestion rates of the two species. In post-exposure, we did not observe significant effects on C. silvestrii nor C. dubia exposed to both pesticides, indicating a recovery response. Our study emphasises species-specific responses of cladoceran species to the fipronil and 2,4-D pesticides, highlighting the importance of studying and comparing the toxicity of compounds to both species, even if monophyletic, as they may have different physiological responses and sensitivity.

Environmental Health Risk Assessment of Consumption of Foodstuffs Containing Organophosphate Residues among Farmers

The use of pesticides in the agricultural sector results in contamination of foodstuffs by pesticide residues, thus becoming a source of exposure to the body and resulting in health problems. The purpose of this study was to analyse the health risks due to the consumption of foodstuffs containing organophosphate residues in farmers. The design of this study was cross-sectional, employing the Environmental Health Risk Assessment (EHRA). The study population was farmers in the North Dempo District of Pagar Alam. A total of 117 farmers were sampled randomly. Environmental samples consisted of five red chilies and five tomatoes, which were selected purposively. Organophosphate residues were quantified using liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Body weight was measured using calibrated body scales. Activity pattern data were collected through interviews using a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using the EHRA formulas. The results demonstrated the presence of Chlorpyriphos in red chillies at a concentration of 3,05 mg/kg, while Profenofos was found at 0.0731 mg/kg and 0.0118 mg/kg. The presence of Chlorpyriphos in tomatoes samples at a concentration of 0.4439 mg/kg, while Profenofos was found at 0.0112 mg/kg and 0.2043 mg/kg. The risk quotient for consumption of red chillies containing Chlorpyriphos was found to be 0.0447, while that for Profenofos was 0.2476. The risk quotient for consumption of tomatoes containing Chlorpyriphos was found to be 0.0302, while that for Profenofos was 2.92. It can be concluded that respondents were at non-carcinogenic health risk due to consumption of tomatoes containing Profenofos.

Effect of pesticide use alteration on phytoseiid mite species composition and subsequent spider mite control using commercialized Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae) in Japanese pear orchards

Abstract Our earlier study revealed that pesticide use considering the preservation of phytoseiid mites is crucially important for the effective utilization of commercialized Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) release materials for spider mite control in Japanese pear orchards. Pesticide use alteration corresponding to commercialized N. californicus release material installation might change phytoseiid mite species composition and affect the efficacy of commercialized N. californicus in spider mite control. This study evaluated the effect of pesticide use alteration on phytoseiid mite species composition and subsequent spider mite control using commercialized N. californicus at Japanese pear orchards. We examined the population dynamics of spider mites and phytoseiid mites in Japanese pear orchards during 2019–2023. In 2022 and 2023, commercialized N. californicus release materials were installed at a Japanese pear orchard under conditions limiting the use of pesticides with adverse effects on phytoseiid mites. The results demonstrated that the most dominant species was shifted from N. californicus to Amblyseius eharai Amitai et Swirski (Acari: Phytoseiidae) with no significant suppression effects of commercialized N. californicus in spider mite control. The results also demonstrated a decline in the distribution of commercialized N. californicus to pear leaves. Amblyseius eharai and indigenous N. californicus dominantly existed in that order before commercialized N. californicus distribution to pear leaves. These results suggest that intraguild predation by A. eharai and competition with indigenous N. californicus might be involved in the less efficient distribution of commercialized individuals as major and minor factors, respectively.

Assessment of the sources and health risks of heavy metals in the soil-rice system based on positive matrix factorization and Monte Carlo simulation

In recent years, the harmful effects of heavy metal pollution in soil and rice on public health have garnered widespread attention. However, most studies focus only on the evaluation of heavy metal pollution in either soil or rice, often overlooking the fact of the combined effects of heavy metal pollution. We conducted an integrated assessment of the heavy metal pollution levels in both soil and rice. This study examined eight common heavy metals (Cd, Ni, As, Cu, Hg, Pb, Cr, and Zn) within the soil-rice system of Wanzhou District, Chongqing City. We employed Positive Matrix Factorization and Monte Carlo simulation to identify the sources of soil pollution and assess associated health risks. The findings revealed an average Impact Index of Comprehensive Quality (IICQ) value of 3.60 for the soil-rice system, indicating a pollution level exceeding “slight pollution”. The primary contributors to soil heavy metal contamination were identified as metal smelting and processing, pesticide and fertilizer use, manure application, geological background and rock weathering, agricultural activities, and coal combustion. Among the assessed metals, As, Cr, Cd, and Ni posed the greatest health risks and should be prioritized for monitoring and control. Given the heightened health risks associated with prolonged consumption of rice contaminated by heavy metals, addressing pollution in the agricultural soil-rice system is an urgent necessity.

Assessing the Sources and Risks of Heavy Metals in Agricultural Soils: A Comprehensive Review

Heavy metals in agricultural soils pose a significant environmental and health risk, impacting both soil quality and food safety. These contaminants primarily originate from anthropogenic sources, such as industrial activities, improper waste disposal, and the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers. Natural sources, including mineral weathering, also contribute to the accumulation of heavy metals in soil. Influencing factors, such as soil pH, organic matter content, and climate conditions, can affect the mobility and bioavailability of these metals, exacerbating the risks. The primary heavy metals of concern include lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and chromium (Cr) (di pa sure to mga heavy metals), which can accumulate in the food chain through crop uptake. Understanding the sources, distribution, and influencing factors of heavy metals is crucial for mitigating risks associated with their presence in agricultural soils. Effective management strategies, including soil remediation, controlled use of fertilizers, and monitoring programs, are essential for reducing the exposure of both humans and ecosystems to these toxic metals.

The determinants of the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in agriculture: insights from Ecuador.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is important to reduce the adverse effects of pesticides on human health. Nevertheless, there are several factors why farmers decide not to use PPE. With official data from the Continuous Area and Agricultural Production Survey (ESPAC) 2022, this paper analyzes the determinants of the use of PPE in Ecuadorian agriculture. This large data set (n = 10,039) with national representation provides a complete picture of the country's diverse ethnicities, geographies, and crops. The results reveal that a majority of operators in the sample (96.53%) used at least one PPE item while handling pesticides, with long sleeve shirts and rubber boots the most frequently used PPE items. The results of a Poisson regression model show that the use of PPE is strongly influenced by ethnicity, with indigenous, afro-Ecuadorian, and montubio operators wearing fewer PPE items than their mestizo peers. Overall, wealthier and more educated operators who have received training on the use of pesticides are more willing to wear PPE. Similarly, those who use less toxic (Class II and Class III) pesticides wear more PPE items. Operators engaged in the production of rice, plantains, and potatoes are less willing to wear PPE items, while those growing bananas, oil palm, and broccoli tend to use more PPE items. Developing ethnic-specific training programs that observe indigenous knowledge, cultural beliefs, and practices and increasing theavailability of low-cost PPE are explored as alternatives to promote the use of PPE in Ecuadorian agriculture.

Structural Features of Coumarin-1,2,4-Triazole Hybrids Important for Insecticidal Effects Against Drosophila melanogaster and Orius laevigatus (Fieber)

Although the present use of pesticides in plant protection has limited the occurrence and development of plant diseases and pests, resistance to pesticides and their environmental and health hazards indicates an urgent need for new active ingredients in plant protection products. Recently synthesized coumarin-1,2,4-triazole hybrid compounds have been proven effective against plant pathogenic fungi and safe for soil-beneficial bacteria. Drosophila melanogaster, the common fruit fly, has been used as a model organism for scientific research. Additionally, it is considered a pest since it damages fruits and serves as a carrier for various plant diseases. On the contrary, Orius laevigatus is a beneficial true bug that biologically controls harmful arthropods in agricultural production. In the present study, we performed an adulticidal bioassay against D. melanogaster and O. laevigatus using coumarin-1,2,4-triazole hybrids. Quantitative structure–activity relationship studies (QSARs) and in silico ecotoxicity evaluation elucidated the structural features underlying the compounds’ insecticidal activity. The derivative of 4-methylcoumarin-1,2,4-triazole with a 3-bromophenyl group showed great insecticidal potential. A molecular docking study indicated that the most active compound probably binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels.