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Abstract Background Toxicity by pesticide has become a global health issue and leaves a harmful impact on human health via various ways. The people exposed to pesticides in the rural population get affected by the harmful effects of it as they enter the human body system through skin, inhalation, oral administration, food chain and many more ways. The present work is designed to study the toxic effect of endosulfan in male (n=30) and female (n=30) Swiss albino mice. Endosulfan was administered by oral gavage (oral administration) method, at the dose of 3.5 mg/Kg body weight daily for period of 3 weeks, 5 weeks and 7 weeks. After the completion of the treatment, the mice were sacrificed and their ovary and testis tissues were dissected out to check the degeneration. The blood was collected for karyotyping, biochemical and hormonal analysis of pesticide induced genotoxicity. After 7 weeks of administration with Endosulfan, various abnormalities were observed in male and female mice. Results Treatment with endosulfan at the dose of 3.5 mg/Kg body weight caused a higher degree of degeneration in the reproductive organ of Swiss albino mice . Treatment by this pesticide generated degeneration in long duration of dosage for 3,5 and 7 weeks. Ovaries of endosulfan administered groups showed degenerated germinal epithelium, Graffian follicles and corpus luteum. In testis of endosulfan treated mice, microscopic examination showed that there is significant damage and reduction in the tissue of seminiferous tubules and primordial germ cells. High degree of degeneration caused the disarrangement and deformation of spermatogonia with the decrease in the number of Sertoli cells. Biochemical and hormonal properties was also affected by endosulfan treatment. There was significant 5 folds decrease in the testosterone value of endosulfan in 7 weeks treated mice in comparison to control (p

Maternal and prenatal exposure to organochlorine pesticides (OCP), arsenic (As), and fluoride (F−) is a critical public health concern. The present study assessed serum OCP residues and urinary As and F− levels in mother and newborn pairs who are residents of rural areas of Durango State, Mexico, from August 2018 to February 2019. Levels of OCP, As, and F− were measured in serum and urine samples by Gas chromatography – Tandem mass spectrometry (GC – MS/MS), Hydride generation – Atomic fluorescent spectrometry (HG-AFS, and ion-selective electron analysis (ISE), respectively, in 60 binomial mothers – newborns. Dieldrin, endrin aldehyde, and endosulfan-II were significantly higher in newborns than in mothers (p ˂0.05). Meanwhile, no significant differences were observed for As and F− concentrations between mother – newborn pairs. Differences were observed in ∑Dienes and ∑DDTs comparing newborns with normal and low birth weights and a positive relationship in ƩDienes, ƩChlordanes, and ƩDDTs between mother and newborn pairs (p ˂ 0.05). These findings highlight the importance of extensive research regarding the influence of pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents experimental results on the adsorption of endosulfan in new natural zeolite deposits from Mexico. The adsorption of this herbicide was evaluated using inverse gas chromatography with a thermal conductivity detector and helium as the carrier gas. The experimental adsorption data were analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich equations in their linear form over a temperature range of 413–573 K. The study also estimated thermodynamic parameters such as the Free Energy of Gibbs (ΔG), isosteric enthalpy of adsorption (ΔH), and entropy change (ΔS) within this temperature range. The results indicated that the zeolites studied had a low adsorption capacity for this herbicide under the experimental conditions. The study also quantitatively determined the presence of starting minerals, with Na-Mordenite and Na-Clinoptilolite being the most prevalent, followed by Ca-Chabazite, Ca-Clinoptilolite, and Montmorillonite, with Quartz being present in low amounts. The NMOR zeolite underwent ion exchanges with AgNO3 to produce the Ag-MOR zeolite and assess its herbicide adsorption capacity. Another mineral, Ca-Stilbite, was present in higher quantities than Ca-Clinoptilolite and Quartz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventeen surface water sampling sites were set up in the Pubugou Hydropower Station Basin of Dadu River, Sichuan Province. After soxhlet extraction, the samples were extracted by solid phase extraction and nitrogen blowing treatment. The content of porganochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the surface water was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer, and the distribution characteristics and environmental risk assessment were studied, for the purpose to provide scientific advice for the management and environmental protection of hydropower stations. The results showed that the detection rates of γ-HCH, δ-HCH, endosulfan sulfat, endrin, endrin aldehyde, endrin ketone, heptachlor epoxide, aldrin, dieldrin and endosulfan were 5.88%, 11.77%, 5.88%, 41.18%, 35.29%, 70.59%, 11.77%, 17.65%, 17.65%, 41.18%. The other indexes were not detected. Compared with previous studies, endosulfan and δ-HCH were at a high level, γ-HCH, isodieldrin and heptachloride epoxide were at a medium level, and α-HCH, β-HCH, isodieldrin aldehyde and isodieldrin ketone were at a low level. The heptachlor epoxide of Wujiawan point exceeded the category I of Environmental Quality Standard for Surface Water (GB 3838-2002), and the pollution was serious. OCPs components were detected and the carcinogenic risk was unacceptable. It is recommended to strictly prohibit the use of this pesticide in the farmland surrounding the sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular pathways involved in oviductal adenogenesis are highly conserved among vertebrates. In this work, we study the histomorphological changes and molecular pathways involved in Caiman latirostris oviductal adenogenesis and the effects of in ovo exposure to environmentally relevant doses of endosulfan (END) and atrazine (ATZ) on these processes. To this end, the histomorphological changes at epithelial and subepithelial compartments, the protein expressions of β-catenin and Wnt-7a, and the gene expression of metalloproteinases (MMPs) and its inhibitors (TIMPs) were evaluated as biomarkers of oviductal adenogenesis in prepubertal juvenile C. latirostris. Exposure to END altered adenogenesis-related epithelium characteristics and mRNA expression of MMP2, MMP9, and TIMP1. Exposure to ATZ increased the width of the subepithelial stroma with loosely arranged collagen fibers and increased β-catenin expression in buds (invaginated structures that precede glands). The results demonstrate that in ovo exposure to ATZ and END alters oviductal adenogenesis at tissue, cellular, and molecular levels. An altered oviductal adenogenesis could impair fertility, raising concern on the effects of pesticide pollution in wildlife and domestic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to examine the responses of pollution biomarkers in feral fish from Astyanax genus collected at three hydrographic regions in southern Brazil and the capacity of these tools to differentiate between various levels of contamination. To achieve this, levels of organochlorine pesticides (liver), as well as the biomarkers AChE (muscle and brain), TBARS (liver), and EROD (liver) were assessed. Collections were conducted in four municipalities (Alegrete, Caraá, Lavras, and Santa Vitória) during 1 year, encompassing winter and summer. Fish from Alegrete were the most contaminated overall, but animals sampled in Caraá, and Lavras also displayed elevated levels of current-use pesticides. Elevated levels of endosulfans, DDTs, HCHs, and current-use pesticides were accompanied by elevated levels of TBARS in the liver. Conversely, fish from Santa Vitória exhibited the highest levels of PAHs, accompanied by elevated levels of EROD in the liver and reduced levels of AChE in muscle and brain. TBARS proved to be a reliable biomarker for assessing impacts arising from pesticide accumulation, while EROD and AChE served as valuable indicators of impacts resulting from PAHs accumulation. Ultimately, the results obtained in this study demonstrate the reliable use of the proposed biomarkers for tracking biological impacts stemming from aquatic pollution using feral Astyanax as biomonitoring species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosulfan and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) were previously widely used organochlorine pesticides. Much attention has been paid to trends in human exposure to endosulfan and HCB and to the transport and distribution of endosulfan and HCB within the body. We determined endosulfan I, endosulfan II, and HCB concentrations in serum samples collected from the general population of Wuxi in Jiangsu Province (China) between 2012 and 2016. The endosulfan concentrations varied little throughout the study period, but the HCB concentrations increased. The HCB concentrations were significantly higher in serum from overweight people and smokers than in serum from normal weight people (p = 0.028) and non-smokers (p = 0.011), respectively. HCB binds to human serum albumin (HSA) and can form halogen bonds to CYS-461 and ARG-484 at site II (subdomain IIIA). Fatty acids and nicotine increase the affinity between HCB and HSA, explaining the higher HCB concentrations in serum from overweight people and smokers than normal weight people and non-smokers, respectively.

Various agrochemicals have been shown to affect diatom growth, physiology, and the structure and diversity of the assemblage. This research aims to study the structural and functional parameters of the benthic diatom assemblage, including indices, ecological traits, nuclear, and frustule abnormalities during the colonization period when exposed to different levels of agricultural impact in lowland streams. To achieve this objective, an experiment was conducted in the Pescado watershed (La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina), where the colonization process of artificial glass substrates by diatoms was followed for 75 days in two streams with different intensities of agricultural land use. The results show that the Pampean Diatom Index and diversity reflect water quality in agricultural sites, and there is an increase in diversity and richness during the colonization process, which stabilizes after 20 days. Considering the ecological guilds, the motile guild (fast-moving species) dominated the assemblages, while the low-profile guild (species of short stature, including prostate, adnate, and erect diatoms resistant to physical disturbance and low tolerance to nutrient enrichment) was more abundant in the most impacted stream. However, the variations in the size classes did not produce a consistent trend representing environmental quality. The nuclear alterations were sensitive enough to show the differences in water quality, while the deformed frustules were not significantly different between the studied sites. These results show that measuring the impact of human activities on freshwater bodies under multiple-stressor scenarios has to consider multiple endpoints of the assemblage rather than a single structural or functional metric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Insect RDL (resistant to dieldrin) receptors are essential pentameric ligand‐gated chloride channels that mediate the neuroinhibitory effect of GABA, the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. These receptors serve as primary targets for various insecticides, including noncompetitive antagonists (NCAs) such as cyclodiene organochlorines and phenylpyrazoles, as well as allosteric modulators like meta‐diamides and isoxazolines. This study focuses on a newly discovered A2′N mutation within the RDL receptors, identified in fipronil‐resistant planthoppers. Despite in vitro electrophysiological studies have proposed its role in conferring target‐site resistance, in vivo genetic functional validation of this mutation remains unexplored. RESULTS: Our research employed toxicity bioassays, assessing various Rdl genotypes against a spectrum of insecticides, including fipronil, α‐endosulfan, broflanilide, and isocycloseram. Results revealed distinct resistance profiles for A2′N and A2′S mutants, indicating different binding interactions of RDL receptors with NCAs. Significantly, the A2′N heterozygote showed substantial resistance to fipronil, despite its homozygous lethality. Molecular modeling and docking simulations further supported these findings, highlighting unique binding poses for fipronil and α‐endosulfan. CONCLUSION: This study confirmed that A2′N mutation of the RDL GABA receptor confer high resistance to fipronil in vivo. The observed resistance in A2′N mutants is likely attributable to a steric hindrance mechanism, wherein the introduction of larger side chains hampers fipronil binding, even in a heterozygous state. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the efficiency of the synthesised Ag/TiO2/Fe3O4 catalyst in the removal of endosulfan and metabolite formation by the photocatalysis process, the effect, and optimisation of the ambient conditions were investigated under UV–C light source. Photocatalysis process for endosulfan removal and degradation to metabolites was optimised with Taguchi experimental design method and the results were evaluated statistically by analysis of variance. Light intensity, amount of catalyst, initial endosulfan concentration, pH, and time were chosen as controllable parameters. The highest S/N ratios on the based on parameters were obtained at 27 W light power, pH 4, 0.5 g/L catalyst amount, 60 min reaction time and 4 mg/L initial endosulfan concentration. Since these values, at which the highest removal rate will be achieved, were not found in the experimental design, a confirmation experiment was performed and the removal was obtained as 93.2%. It was found that the most effective parameters on the removal efficiency were the initial endosulfan concentration and pH, respectively. As a result of analysis of variance, Fcritical values showed that the effects of light power, catalyst amount and reaction time on endosulfan removal were not statistically significant. When the P values are examined, it is seen that there is a significant difference between the initial endosulfan concentration and the levels of the pH factor for endosulfan removal. No formations of endosulfan sulphate, endosulfan ether, and endosulfan lactone were observed at high concentrations while endosulfan was removed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are chemical substances widely distributed in the environment by the runoff from anthropic activities and can be distributed and bioaccumulated or biomagnified in the environment, affecting the health of organisms. The sea turtle, Lepidochelys olivacea, is a long-lived organism, with migratory habits and feeding behaviors that allow exposure to various pollutants. This work aimed to determine long-term exposure to POPs in adult olive ridley turtles (L. olivacea), sampled during the nesting season, in "La Escobilla" Sanctuary. Blood samples were collected and processed to obtain plasma. The quantification of POPs in blood was carried out with an extraction technique with a focused ultrasound probe. Twenty-seven POP analytes were determined. The concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexane, endosulfan isomers, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, total polychlorinated biphenyls, and the total sum of POPs found in plasma are higher than those reported in other studies, which reported effects such as hematological and biochemical changes in blood, changes in immune system cells and enzymatic activity related to oxidative stress. These results are important to demonstrate the chronic exposure to POPs in olive ridley turtles in marine ecosystems and to highlight the importance of assessing the associated health risks, considering that these contaminants could be transferred to the offspring and affect future generations of this reptile. It is important to carry out studies that develop conservation strategies for the olive ridley turtle. Also, it is necessary to control the emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere, as well as reduce urban, agricultural, and industrial waste in the environment and marine ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the efficiency of conventional drinking water treatment processes (coagulation-flocculation and chlorination) for endosulfan removal and metabolite formation were investigated. Taguchi experimental design and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were applied using Minitab program. The highest removal efficiency was obtained as 65% at 6 mg/L initial endosulfan concentration, 30 mg/L aluminium sulfate dose and pH 7, in the coagulation-flocculation experiments. In chlorination experiments, it was determined that the variables of initial endosulfan concentration, chlorine dose, pH and contact time contributed 55.84%, 21.25%, 5.74% and 3.48% to the endosulfan removal, respectively, according to the ANOVA results. The presence of endosulfan metabolites like endosulfan ether, sulfate, and lactone were also detected and measured. P values were obtained only in endosulfan sulfate formation as a result of chlorination, lower than 0.05 for initial endosulfan concentration, chlorine dose and time parameters; apart from this, P values were not statistically significant in all other experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides increase the yield in agriculture by controlling pests. Pesticides are applied during production, storage, transportation and distribution of food. Pesticide residues from food stuffs have been monitored in different parts of the country under the pesticide residues coordinated research project in India of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi. Apart from the benefits of pesticide, there may be great potential impact of trace amounts of pesticide residues on food commodities. Pesticides can broadly classify on chemical structure as organochlorine pesticide, organophosphate pesticide and synthetic pyrethroids. Liver plays an important role in metabolism to maintain energy level and structural stability of body. It is also a place of biotransformation where a toxic substance has been transformed to less dangerous form to minimize liver damage. Alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphate (ALP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) are some hepatotoxicity markers, and an alternate in their activities in liver may be an indicator of liver damage or disease. To my study were selected endosulfan, phorate and fenvalerate representing each of the three main classes of insecticide to study various toxic effects induced by pesticides in mammalian system. Observed decrease in glutathione and GST levels in rats treated with pesticides demonstrates the oxidative damage produced by pesticide treatment. LDH activity also enhanced due to enzyme leakage. Increase in the activity of ACP, ALT and ALP indicates damage in liver tissues and function. Detection of GGT indicates oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, inexpensive and eco‐friendly approach for the green synthesis of silver‐doped metal hexacyanoferrates (Ag@MHCFs) nanocomposite using green tea extract has been reported. Silver‐doped MHCF nanocatalysts were used to photo‐degradation endocrine disruptor pesticides, namely endosulfan (ES) and atrazine (AT), from water under direct Sunlight. Spectroscopic and electron microscopic techniques confirmed the successful synthesis of nanomaterials. Ag@FeHCF observed maximum degradation efficiency due to their high surface area (89.3 m2g−1), significant zeta potential (−43.4 mV), lower band gap (1.5 eV), and low photoluminescence intensity as compared to other Ag doped MHCFs. Best degradation results showed with concentration amount (5 mg L−1), dose (20 mg of ES; 15 mg of AT), at neutral pH under sunlight irradiation. Degradation up to 98% for ES and 96% for AT was reported. The degradation ensued by Langmuir adsorption and first‐order kinetics. GC–MS analysis showed the degradation of pesticides into CO2, H2O, and harmless minor metabolites under Sunlight. Ag@FeHCF have indicated high reusability (n = 10), ensuring their charge separation, stability, and sustainability. Ag@MHCF nanoparticles may show as substitute catalysts for industrial use with a fervent scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the removal efficiency of endosulfan as a persistent organic pollutant and formation of its metabolites were investigated using Ag/TiO2/Fe3O4 photocatalyst under visible and UV-A light. Light intensity, catalyst amount, initial endosulfan concentration, initial pH and time were determined as controllable factors for Taguchi experimental design. The highest removal efficiencies of endosulfan were achieved as 86.14% and 85.46% for visible and UV–A light sources, respectively. According to the greatest best criterion, the level at which the highest S/N ratio was obtained for each parameter was accepted as the optimum value. As a result of the validation experiments, 94.2% and 91.9% efficiency were obtained for visible and UV-A light, respectively. The metabolite formations of endosulfan (endosulfan sulfate, ether, and lactone) remained below 7% in all experiments on a concentration basis. In the reuse experiments of the magnetically recovered photocatalyst, high removal efficiency of around 80% was obtained after four cycles. The removal efficiencies were found to be 86.7% and 84.8%, for real samples taken from the drinking water treatment plant inlet and the spring water network injected with endosulfan under optimal photocatalysis experimental conditions, respectively. It has been shown that nitrate and sulfate anions, which are in significant concentrations in raw water samples, have very little effects on endosulfan removal. The overall results showed that the Ag/TiO2/Fe3O4 photocatalyst was produced successfully, the catalyst was highly effective in the mineralization of endosulfan in synthetic and real water samples under UV and visible light, and effective yields could be obtained even with reuse. Highlights: Endosulfan removal efficiencies of 94.2%, 86.7% and 84.8% were achieved in synthetic, raw water and spring water samples, respectively, and no formation any metabolites under visible light. 77.23% removal efficiency was obtained even after five consecutive uses of the catalyst. A major advantage of this technology is that no chemical oxidants are added in the process and no sludge is produced as a reaction residue. Taguchi and ANOVA analyzes showed that the most effective parameters in endosulfan removal were initial endosulfan dose and pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurotoxic pesticides: Cyfluthrin (CYF), βCYF, endosulfan (ENDO) and chlorpyrifos-oxon (CPFO) were examined using new approach methodologies (NAM) to assess ToxCast in vitro neurotoxic assay activities (50% concentration–AC50s), chemical-target specificity (Z-Scores) and in vitro to in vivo extrapolation with ToxCast assay AC50s as inputs to calculate human Administered Equivalent Dose (AEDHuman mg/kg) through Integrated Chemical Environment (ICE) models. Fold differences (FD) between AEDHuman NAM predictions and adjusted (animal to human interspecies extrapolation) in vivo regulatory neurotoxicity points of departure (POD) were calculated to assess modeled predictions against measured in vivo data. Interspecies (animal to human) in vivo adjusted PODs were 0.147 mg/kg/d (CYF/βCYF), 0.180 mg/kg/d (ENDO) and 0.106 mg/kg/d (CPFO). ToxCast neurotoxicity assay results supported in vivo observations: CYF, βCYF and CPFO showed depressed neuroactivity, while ENDO showed increased neuroactivity. βCYF is known to have twice the toxicity of CYF in vivo but was less toxic in the in vitro assays. Percent assays with Z-Scores greater than 3 for CYF, βCYF, ENDO and CPFO were 100%, 100%, 67% and 71% respectively. Most AEDHuman were less than 10-FD indicating good predictivity of the in vivo adjusted PODs with ICE models. The NAMs were useful for characterizing the main neurotoxic activities and the ICE models were highly predictive of in vivo PODs to support mechanisms in risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To ensure the risk level of hazardous substances in chili pepper, and analyze the unqualified situation of hazardous substances in chili pepper by combing spatial with temporal perspectives. Finally, by acquiring high- risk substances in chili pepper, and providing suggestions for efficient supervision of chili pepper safety. Methods: To evaluate the risk value of risk substances in chili pepper, the entropy method was used to calculate the risk level, and the 28 principles were used to classify and rank the risk level. In order to conduct spatiotemporal analysis of the risk substances in chili pepper, descriptive statistical methods were used for statistical description to conduct spatiotemporal analysis of the risks. Global and local autocorrelation analysis methods were used to analyze and explore the national spatial distribution patterns of high risk and high-risk substances in chili pepper. Results: Cadmium, lead, chromium, endosulfan, carbofuran and monocrotophos were high-risk substances in chili pepper; the overall change in the failure rate of chili pepper was stable from 2016--2020, and the failure rate of chili pepper in Hubei was the highest among the national provinces, and the failure of chili pepper in sampling places mainly occurs in supermarkets and farmers' markets. Conclusion: The classification results of chili pepper risk substances could improve the efficiency of government supervision, while providing a reference for enterprise self-regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents experimental results on the adsorption of endosulfan in new natural zeolite deposits from Mexico. The adsorption of this herbicide was evaluated using inverse gas chromatography with a thermal conductivity detector and helium as the carrier gas. The experimental adsorption data were analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich equations in their linear form over a temperature range of 413–573 K. The study also estimated thermodynamic parameters such as the Free Energy of Gibbs (ΔG), isosteric enthalpy of adsorption (ΔH), and entropy change (ΔS) within this temperature range. The results indicated that the zeolites studied had a low adsorption capacity for this herbicide under the experimental conditions. The study also quantitatively determined the presence of starting minerals, with Na-Mordenite and Na-Clinoptilolite being the most prevalent, followed by Ca-Chabazite, Ca-Clinoptilolite, and Montmorillonite, with Quartz being present in low amounts. The NMOR zeolite underwent ion exchanges with AgNO3 to produce the Ag-MOR zeolite and assess its herbicide adsorption capacity. Another mineral, Ca-Stilbite, was present in higher quantities than Ca-Clinoptilolite and Quartz.

Open access new approach methods (NAM) in the US EPA ToxCast program and NTP Integrated Chemical Environment (ICE) were used to investigate activities of four neurotoxic pesticides: endosulfan, fipronil, propyzamide and carbaryl. Concordance of in vivo regulatory points of departure (POD) adjusted for interspecies extrapolation (AdjPOD) to modelled human Administered Equivalent Dose (AEDHuman) was assessed using 3-compartment or Adult/Fetal PBTK in vitro to in vivo extrapolation. Model inputs were from Tier 1 (High throughput transcriptomics: HTTr, high throughput phenotypic profiling: HTPP) and Tier 2 (single target: ToxCast) assays. HTTr identified gene expression signatures associated with potential neurotoxicity for endosulfan, propyzamide and carbaryl in non-neuronal MCF-7 and HepaRG cells. The HTPP assay in U-2 OS cells detected potent effects on DNA endpoints for endosulfan and carbaryl, and mitochondria with fipronil (propyzamide was inactive). The most potent ToxCast assays were concordant with specific components of each chemical mode of action (MOA). Predictive adult IVIVE models produced fold differences (FD)

The uncontrolled use of organochlorine insecticides in the agricultural sector has an impact on water pollution and threatens the lives of organisms in it. Pollutants can reduce water quality and interfere with the performance of fish organ systems, triggering stress and even death. The purpose of the study was to determine the sublethal effects of the organochlorine insecticide endosulfan on the level of oxygen consumption and histopathology of tilapia seed gills. The research was conducted at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Airlangga, from March to May 2021. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) experimental method. The treatment used was exposure to organochlorine endosulfan doses of 10%, 30%, 50%, and 70% with LC50-96 hours, which was observed for 28 days. Oxygen consumption data were analyzed by Analysis of Variance, followed by DMRT (Duncan's Multiple Range Test). While gill histopathology data were analyzed descriptively by comparing normal and abnormal gill histopathology. The results showed that the sublethal toxicity of the organochlorine insecticide endosulfan had a significant effect (p<0.05) on the level of oxygen consumption and had an impact on the histopathological condition of the tilapia seed gills. The types of gill damage found were oedema, hyperplasia, lamellar fusion, hemorrhage, and necrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In accordance with Article 43 of Regulation (EC) 396/2005, EFSA received a request from the European Commission to review the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the non‐approved active substance endosulfan in view of the possible lowering of the MRLs. EFSA investigated the origin of the current EU MRLs. For existing EU MRLs that reflect previously authorised uses in the EU, or that are based on obsolete Codex maximum residue limits, or import tolerances that are not required any longer, EFSA proposed the lowering to the limit of quantification or to an alternative MRL. EFSA performed an indicative chronic and acute dietary risk assessment for the revised list of MRLs to allow risk managers to take the appropriate decisions. For all commodities, further risk management discussions are required to decide which of the risk management options proposed by EFSA should be implemented in the EU MRL legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to investigate endosulfan effects on the Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme and gene in albino mice. Thirty selected male albino mice were randomly divided into 3 groups. The first group was control group (G1), while the other two treated groups were injected intraperitoneally twice per week with two doses of endosulfanG2 (3 mg/kg) and G3 (17 mg/kg) for 21 and 45 days respectively. The results recorded a significant decrease in AChE enzyme in the group treated with 17 mg/kg b.wt. (3986.67 ±170.32 U/L),compared to the control (5584.33 ±140.35 U/L)and treatment group with 3 mg/kg b.wt.(5556.00 ±341.01) U/L for 21 days. Also, there was a significant decrease in the enzyme level between the two treated groups (4688.00 ±221.49 U/L)and (3413.67 ±305.42 U/L) for the duration of 45 days of the dose, compared with the control group (5584.33 ±140.35 U/L), and increased expression of AChE gene in the treated groups. Gene expression fold in all treated groups was higher than in the control group with the highest recorded value of 14.320at 17 mg/kg for 45 days, compared with the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we determined the developmental toxicity of endosulfan at an elevated ambient temperature using the zebrafish animal model. Zebrafish embryos of various developmental stages were exposed to endosulfan through E3 medium, raised under two selected temperature conditions (28.5 °C and an elevated temperature of 35 °C), and monitored under the microscope. Zebrafish embryos of very early developmental stages (cellular cleavage stages, such as the 64-cell stage) were highly sensitive to the elevated temperature as 37.5% died and 47.5% developed into amorphous type, while only 15.0% of embryos developed as normal embryos without malformation. Zebrafish embryos that were exposed concurrently to endosulfan and an elevated temperature showed stronger developmental defects (arrested epiboly progress, shortened body length, curved trunk) compared to the embryos exposed to either endosulfan or an elevated temperature. The brain structure of the embryos that concurrently were exposed to the elevated temperature and endosulfan was either incompletely developed or malformed. Furthermore, the stress-implicated genes hsp70, p16, and smp30 regulations were synergistically affected by endosulfan treatment under the elevated thermal condition. Overall, the elevated ambient temperature synergistically enhanced the developmental toxicity of endosulfan in zebrafish embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides are traditionally analyzed using conventional gas chromatography. When fast chromatography is associated with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC), the resulting method presents high-resolution separation associated with a higher chromatographic speed. In the present work, a method for pesticide analysis in sediment samples was developed using quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe extraction (QuEChERS) and a hyperspeed GC × GC separation. The QuEChERS procedure reported in the literature was extended to incorporate the analytes tetrachloro-m-xylene, decachlorobiphenyl, trans-chlordane, chlordane, endosulfan lactone, and endosulfan ether. To understand the chromatographic method improvement achieved, the recent concept of average theoretical peak time (ATPT) was used. The ATPT improved from that of the traditional GC × GC separation to the proposed method, and the separation speed can be classified as a hyperspeed separation. The limit of detection and quantitation of the compounds in the standard mix ranged from 0.39 to 17.96 µg L−1 and 1.18 to 54.43 µg L−1, respectively. The method showed acceptable RSD% (relative standard deviation) values and little interference of the sediment matrix in the extraction procedure. The developed method was applied to the determination of a mixture of 19 compounds in 16 sediment samples from the Pirapetinga River and Paraíba do Sul River in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis is considered as promising methodology for the removal of pesticides from wastewater given its cost‐effective and environmental benignity. Pesticide toxicity and bioaccumulation have brought up environmental issues, underlining the necessity for efficient removal techniques based on novel nanomaterials. Herein, biochar (BC) synthesized by using waste peels of citrus limetta embedded with green synthesized Fe2O3 nanoparticle by using green tea extract. By using PXRD analysis, the α phase of Fe2O3 confirmed. Endosulfan (ES) and Ethion (ET) pesticides are degraded photocatalytically using a sequential, BC@ Fe2O3 nanohybrid. At the pollutant concentration (50 mg L−1), with catalytic dose (25 mg) in acidic condition under natural sunlight, BC@ Fe2O3 showed to be extremely effective in the breakdown of pesticides. The higher removal of pesticides by BC@ Fe2O3 supported by higher value of zeta potential (−22.5 mV), enhanced surface area (74 m2 g−1) and lower value of band gap (1.8 eV) as an effect of interactive characteristic and semiconducting behaviour. The fast decline in pesticide concentration followed by a gradual decrease demonstrated Ist order kinetics triggered by Langmuir adsorption. The availability of active species such as oxygen, hydroxyl radicals and holes, which are liable for pesticide breakdown, proved by scavenger analysis. Formation of safer metabolites during the photocatalytic studies confirmed by the LC‐MS studies. Finally, modified BC@ Fe2O3 nanohybrid may prove to be a viable alternative catalyst for industrial applications due to their reusability (n=7), charge separation, stability and high surface activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits and vegetables have nutritional value, but they can also be source of toxic contaminants such as pesticide residues. The aim of this study was to estimate the contamination level of pesticide residues in summer season fruits and vegetables. The constant use of pesticides contaminated fruits and vegetables pose a major risk to community health. An electron capture detector was used in Gas chromatography analysis to monitor 20 organochlorine pesticides including a-chlordane, γ-chlordane, isomers of benzene hexachloride (α-BHC, ß-BHC, γ-BHC, δ-BHC), 4,4'-DDT, 4,4'-DDE, 4,4'-DDD, aldrin, dieldrin, endrin, endrin aldehyde, endrin ketone, heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide, endosulfan-I, endosulfan II, endosulfan sulfate and methoxychlor in six types of fruits and vegetables (bottle gourd, sponge gourd, brinjal, plum, kiwi and pineapple) of summer season. It was found that plum and pineapple were found contaminated with 4,4'-DDD and other fruits and vegetables were found contaminated with more than one pesticides. During the tracing it was noticed that the estimated pesticides concentrations were lower than the (MRL) values but constant eating of infected pesticide fruits and vegetables may produce severe health complications. The findings of the present research showed that the existence of strict rules and observance of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables is a basic need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali-activated municipal waste incineration fly ash (MWFA)-based geopolymers (GPA, GPB, and GPC) were synthesized under different sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide (SS/SH) ratios. The geopolymers were applied in the removal of endosulfan, a persistent and toxic chemical, from water. The adsorbents were characterized by XRD, SEM-EDX, and FTIR. Variation of SS/SH ratios resulted in morphologically distinguishable geopolymers with different compositions. The adsorption equilibrium data were best described by the Langmuir isotherm. The maximum adsorption capacities increased with an increase in SS/SH ratios in the order 1.87, 15.89, 16.97, and 20.01 mg/g for MWFA, GPA, GPB, and GPC, respectively. The kinetic data were best described by the pseudo-first-order model wherein the adsorption rate (k1) was independent of the SS/SH ratios and the geopolymer composition. The thermodynamic parameters, that is, enthalpy (H > 0), Gibbs free energy (G < 0), entropy (S > 0), and activation energy (Ea > 0), show that the processes were endothermic, spontaneous, physical (Ea and H < 40 kJ/mol), and entropy-driven. Alkalination was beneficial since the geopolymers had a higher adsorption capacity (~8-10 times) and affinity for endosulfan (~30 times) than the precursor material (MWFA). The adsorption mechanism entailed electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding. The MWFA-based geopolymers are, therefore, potential alternative low-cost adsorbents for the removal of endosulfan from water and a strategy for the valorization of MWFA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosulfan is an endocrine disruptor that negatively affects the human central nervous system. Although perennial root vegetable crops have high risks of endosulfan absorption and transfer in soil, safety management studies addressing this problem are lacking. We evaluated endosulfan absorption and transition, as well as plant growth in ginseng cultivation soil, and developed a safety management method for field application. Total endosulfan residual concentrations in the soil and biochar 0.1–1.0% treatment groups were 52–73% after 532 d of spraying, and there was no reduction effect owing to biochar treatment. However, the endosulfan sulfate conversion rate decreased by 21.6–47.1% as the biochar amount increased. Further, there was a 47–95% reduction in the absorption and migration of endosulfan into ginseng in the biochar treatment compared to the control, demonstrating a reduction effect (p < 0.05). Ginseng grown in soil treated with 0.1% biochar showed no growth parameter differences compared to the control (p > 0.05); however, germination rates decreased to <59% when the soil was treated with ≥0.3% biochar. Soil treatment with 0.1% biochar can reduce endosulfan absorption and migration without adversely affecting crop growth. This treatment can be used at the cultivation site, depending on soil conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosulfan, as an effective broad-spectrum insecticide, has been banned in agricultural areas because of the potential harmful effects on human health. This study aimed to develop an indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ic-ELISA) and colloidal gold immunochromatographic (ICA) strip based on a prepared monoclonal antibody (mAb) for quantitative and qualitative detection of endosulfan. A new mAb with high sensitivity and affinity was designed and screened. The ic-ELISA showed a 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) value of 5.16 ng/mL for endosulfan. Under optimum conditions, the limit of detection (LOD) was determined to be 1.14 ng/mL. The average recoveries of endosulfan in spiked pear and apple samples ranged from 91.48–113.45% and 92.39–106.12% with an average coefficient of variation (CV) of less than 7%, respectively. The analysis of colloidal gold ICA strip could be completed within 15 min by naked eye and the visual limit of detection (vLOD) was both 40 ng/mL in pear and apple samples. In conclusion, both developed immunological methods were suitable and reliable for the on-site detection of endosulfan in real samples at trace levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In accordance with Article 43 of Regulation (EC) 396/2005, EFSA received a request from the European Commission to review the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the non‐approved active substance endosulfan in view of the possible lowering of the MRLs. EFSA investigated the origin of the current EU MRLs. For existing EU MRLs that reflect previously authorised uses in the EU, or that are based on obsolete Codex maximum residue limits, or import tolerances that are not required any longer, EFSA proposed the lowering to the limit of quantification or to an alternative MRL. EFSA performed an indicative chronic and acute dietary risk assessment for the revised list of MRLs to allow risk managers to take the appropriate decisions. For all commodities, further risk management discussions are required to decide which of the risk management options proposed by EFSA should be implemented in the EU MRL legislation.

Alkali-activated municipal waste incineration fly ash (MWFA)-based geopolymers (GPA, GPB, and GPC) were synthesized under different sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide (SS/SH) ratios. The geopolymers were applied in the removal of endosulfan, a persistent and toxic chemical, from water. The adsorbents were characterized by XRD, SEM-EDX, and FTIR. Variation of SS/SH ratios resulted in morphologically distinguishable geopolymers with different compositions. The adsorption equilibrium data were best described by the Langmuir isotherm. The maximum adsorption capacities increased with an increase in SS/SH ratios in the order 1.87, 15.89, 16.97, and 20.01 mg/g for MWFA, GPA, GPB, and GPC, respectively. The kinetic data were best described by the pseudo-first-order model wherein the adsorption rate (k1) was independent of the SS/SH ratios and the geopolymer composition. The thermodynamic parameters, that is, enthalpy (∆H > 0), Gibbs free energy (∆G < 0), entropy (∆S > 0), and activation energy (Ea > 0), show that the processes were endothermic, spontaneous, physical (Ea and ∆H < 40 kJ/mol), and entropy-driven. Alkalination was beneficial since the geopolymers had a higher adsorption capacity (∼8–10 times) and affinity for endosulfan (∼30 times) than the precursor material (MWFA). The adsorption mechanism entailed electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding. The MWFA-based geopolymers are, therefore, potential alternative low-cost adsorbents for the removal of endosulfan from water and a strategy for the valorization of MWFA.

Endosulfan, an organochlorine pesticide, has been understudied in the literature on thyroid cancer. The aim of this ecological study was to assess the correlation between endosulfan exposure and thyroid cancer incidence rates (IRs) in the United States (US). Age-adjusted thyroid cancer IRs per 100,000 people per state for the years 1999 to 2019 were obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To assess the state-level use of endosulfan, data were obtained from the US Geological Survey (USGS). Endosulfan usage estimates (kilograms/acres cropland; quintiles) and thyroid cancer IRs were mapped together. The correlation between age-adjusted thyroid cancer IRs and statewide endosulfan use was calculated using the Spearman correlation. Overall endosulfan usage in the US trended downwards between 1992 and 2007 (T = −0.77; P < 0.001), while thyroid cancer IR trended upwards between 1999 and 2019 (T = 0.69; P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant correlation between 1992 endosulfan use and 2012 (r = 0.32; P = 0.03) and 2014 (r = 0.32; P = 0.03) thyroid cancer IRs. Although restrictions on endosulfan use seem effective, the potential impact of endosulfan exposure remains due to the persistent, semi-volatile, bioaccumulative, and biomagnifying properties of endosulfan metabolites in particular, indicating the need for future thyroid research of highly exposed populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to have an insight into the different crops grown, gain information about the different pesticides used, the various practices adopted for the storage, application, and disposal of pesticides, and to know the awareness status of the farmers of in and around Udaipur region regarding the harmful effects of pesticides. An explicit and detailed questionnaire was prepared and formal interviews and field observations were used to gather information on farmers' knowledge of pesticides and safety practices. The survey was conducted between February, 2021 to September, 2021. The survey questionnaire was developed to document the information regarding types of crops grown, pesticides used, their dosage and application pattern, and associated hazards. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and getting a questionnaire filled by 304 farmers. The target of the study was explained to these respondents and the questionnaire was duly signed to seek their consent in order to ensure their cooperation, which was very important for the study. It was evident from the survey that 59% of respondents had ensured safe storage and 31% stored them in open fields, 59.44% of respondents placed the empty containers in the trash; 11.24% discarded them in the field and 25.30% burnt them at the farm itself, 87.56% respondents ensured that they washed hands properly with soap after using pesticides; 33.31% ensured the use of face mask and 72.54% respondents were aware of pesticide associated risk and contamination and 27.46% didn't have many ideas about it. The results reveal that the most commonly used pesticides were 2,4-D, profenofos, phorate, atrazine, endosulfan, chlorpyrifos, dimethoate, glyphosate, etc. some of these pesticides are under restricted use and belong to the highly toxic group as classified by World Health Organization. Summing up the results obtained, it is suggested that proper monitoring of pesticides along with awareness amongst the farmers of the Udaipur region is needed to minimize the dangerous effect of pesticides on humans and the environment as 27.46% of respondents which could be either farm owners or farm laborers are unaware about the pesticide associated risks. However, the remaining 72.54% were not fully aware of the proper usage of pesticides of the proper all pesticides. Furthermore, it is suggested that in addition to extensive awareness drive, alternatives to chemical control of pests like integrated pest management, use of biopesticides, etc., should be developed, disseminated, and reinforced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although many countries banned the insecticide endosulfan, it is still an environmental pollutant. Plants metabolize the two diastereomers of the formulations known as technical grade endosulfan (TGE) by two phase I pathways: hydrolysis leading to less toxic derivatives and oxidation giving endosulfan sulfate which is as toxic as endosulfan itself. We assessed the removal, bioaccumulation and phase I metabolization of TGE from water matrices using hairy root clones (HRs) of three edible species, Brassica napus, Raphanus sativus and Capsicum annuum. B. napus and C. annuum HRs removed 86% of TGE from the bioreaction media in 2 and 96 h, respectively, whereas R. sativus HRs removed 91% of TGE within 6 h of biotreatment. In the experiments with B. napus, only endosulfan sulfate was detected in both biomass and medium, whereas R. sativus and C. annuum accumulated endosulfan sulfate and endosulfan alcohol. Besides, endosulfan lactone was detected in C. annuum reaction medium. Acute ichthyotoxicity assays toward Poecilia reticulata showed that media contaminated with TGE lethal levels did not produce mortality after the phytotreatments. This research highlights the feasibility of using HRs to evaluate plant enzymatic abilities toward xenobiotics and their potential for the design of ex situ decontamination processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Afoxolaner is a novel representative of the isoxazolines, a class of ectoparasiticides which has been commercialized for the control of tick and flea infestations in dogs. In this study, the biological efficacy of afoxolaner against the two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae was evaluated. Furthermore, as isoxazolines are known inhibitors of γ‐aminobutyric acid‐gated chloride channels (GABACls), the molecular mode of action of afoxolaner on T. urticae GABACls (TuRdls) was studied using functional expression in Xenopus oocytes followed by two‐electrode voltage‐clamp (TEVC) electrophysiology, and results were compared with inhibition by fluralaner, fipronil and endosulfan. To examine the influence of known GABACl resistance mutations, H301A, I305T and A350T substitutions in TuRdl1 and a S301A substitution in TuRdl2 were introduced. RESULTS: Bioasassays revealed excellent efficacy of afoxolaner against all developmental stages and no cross‐resistance was found in a panel of strains resistant to most currently used acaricides. Laboratory selection over a period of 3 years did not result in resistance. TEVC revealed clear antagonistic activity of afoxolaner and fluralaner for all homomeric TuRdl1/2/3 channels. The introduction of single, double or triple mutations to TuRdl1 and TuRdl2 did not lower channel sensitivity. By contrast, both endosulfan and fipronil had minimal antagonistic activities against TuRdl1/2/3, and channels carrying single mutations, whereas the sensitivity of double and triple TuRdl1 mutants was significantly increased. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that afoxolaner is a potent antagonist of GABACls of T. urticae and has a powerful mode of action to control spider mites. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemicals are comprehensively used worldwide to control herbs, weeds, pests, and other competing agents with various growing crops. The consumption of crops grown with these chemicals (even in small quantities) can upshot into accumulation in the human body. People can accidentally inhale these hazardous chemicals if they are in an area where they were applied. These chemicals can be ingested in a human with contaminated food and drinks. Ultimately it causes various adverse effects (chronic toxicity, teratogenic, mutagenic, carcinogenic effect, reproductive, and organ toxicity) on human health. Among the pool of these chemicals used as pesticides in the environment, exposure of endosulfan to humans has a potential health risk throughout the globe. The poisoning of endosulfan is reported frequently in society, therefore, this article highlights the toxicological and other harmful properties of endosulfan to humans and emphasized its essential biomonitoring. Its quick monitoring and effective hazard evaluation are possible with multiomics technologies and some other analytical approaches. This review summarizes the introduction and mechanism of action of endosulfan along with some other toxic chemicals used in the agriculture work, the toxicity of endosulfan in human/environment, and importantly its biomonitoring (detection of chemicals and their metabolites in a biological sample) in human because biomonitoring is often considered as the most preferred method. Biomonitoring could be easily done in human samples (blood, hair, milk, and urine) with a multi-omics approach, which is a quick, reliable, and state-of-the-art technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased infertility in humans is attributed to the increased use of environmental chemicals in the last several decades. Various studies have identified pesticides as one of the causes of reproductive toxicity. In a previous study, infertility was observed in male mice due to testicular atrophy and decreased sperm count when a sublethal dose of endosulfan (3 mg/kg) with a serum concentration of 23 µg/L was used. However, the serum concentration of endosulfan was much higher (up to 500 µg/L) in people living in endosulfan-exposed areas compared to the one used in the investigation. To mimic the situation in an experimental setup, mice were exposed to 5 mg/kg body weight of endosulfan, and reproductive toxicity and long-term impact on the general biology of animals were examined. HPLC analysis revealed a serum concentration of ~50 µg/L of endosulfan after 24 h endosulfan exposure affected the normal physiology of mice. Histopathological studies suggest a persistent, severe effect on reproductive organs where vacuole degeneration of basal germinal epithelial cells and degradation of the interstitial matrix were observed in testes. Ovaries showed a reduction in the number of mature Graafian follicles. At the same time, mild vacuolation in liver hepatocytes and changes in the architecture of the lungs were observed. Endosulfan exposure induced DNA damage and mutations in germ cells at the molecular level. Interestingly, even after 8 months of endosulfan exposure, we observed increased DNA breaks in reproductive tissues. An increased DNA Ligase III expression was also observed, consistent with reported elevated levels of MMEJ-mediated repair. Further, we observed the generation of tumors in a few of the treated mice with time. Thus, the study not only explores the changes in the general biology of the mice upon exposure to endosulfan but also describes the molecular mechanism of its long-term effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Navachiste complex (NAV) is impacted by neighbored human activities and is located in the southwestern coastal zone of the Gulf of California. The study determines the trace metal (TM) and organochlorine pesticides (OCP) health risk content in the edible tissue of Sphoeroides spp. from NAV. The daily intakes (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks were calculated. Twenty OCP and seven TM were detected. Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn were above MRLs. The γ‒Chlordane was the most frequent OCP. The highest average concentration was for α‒HCH, followed by γ‒chlordane. With the high ratios of γ‒HCH, p, p′‒ DDD and p, p′‒DDD, and the absence of p, p′‒ DDT, the higher ratios for dieldrin and endrin than for aldrin, α‒ chlordane, γ‒chlordane, heptachlor, and heptachlor epoxide indicates historical contamination. In contrast, the residual products of methoxychlor, endosulfan, and its isomers indicate endosulfan's recent use. The TM EDI, THQ > 1 (at 120 g day−1), and the ILCR (> 1 × 10–6) were above minimum levels, showing a high-risk potential for cancer development in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, surface soil samples were collected from cotton fields in Shawan and Shihezi areas in northern Xinjiang and tested for endosulfan residues using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results showed endosulfan sulfate was the predominant compound in the surface soil studied, followed by β-endosulfan and α-endosulfan with detection rates of 86.9%, 55.7%, and 49.2%, respectively, for the 61 soil samples collected. The average concentrations of endosulfan sulfate, α-endosulfan, and β-endosulfan were 0.743, 0.166, and 0.073 µg/kg, respectively. The ratios of α-/β-endosulfan were below 2.33 in all samples tested, suggesting no new endosulfan was added to the soil and the presence of endosulfan residues in this region was due to historical application in the past. According to the health risk assessment model recommended by the USA Environmental Protection Agency, the health risk of endosulfan residues in the studied area was low, and the maximum values of noncarcinogenic risks for children and adults were 2.30 × 10−5 and 2.70 × 10−6, respectively. Folsomia candida was the most sensitive organism to total endosulfan residues, with 38% of the total sampling sites classified as high risk. For earthworms, the proportion of high risk site was 13%. Lactuca sativa was the most tolerant organism to ∑ESs, with all sampling sites identified as negligible risk. This study provided current status of endosulfan residues and related risk in cotton fields, which could be used to support decision makers to prepare relevant regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosulfan was widely used as an insecticide in the agricultural sector before its environmental persistence was fully understood. Although its fate and transport in the environment have been studied, the effects of historic endosulfan residues in soil and its bioaccumulation in crops are not well understood. This knowledge gap was addressed by investigating the dissipation and bioaccumulation of endosulfan in ginseng as a perennial crop in fresh and aged endosulfan-contaminated fields. In addition, the effect of granular biochar (GBC) treatment on the bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of endosulfan residue in ginseng was assessed. The 50% dissipation time (DT50) of the total endosulfan was over 770 days in both the fresh and aged soils under mulching conditions. This was at least twofold greater than the reported (6– > 200 days) in arable soil. Among the endosulfan congeners, the main contributor to the soil residue was endosulfan sulfate, as observed from 150 days after treatment. The BAF for the 2-year-old ginseng was similar in the fresh (1.682–2.055) and aged (1.372–2.570) soils, whereas the BAF for the 3-year-old ginseng in the aged soil (1.087–1.137) was lower than that in the fresh soil (1.771–2.387). The treatment with 0.3 wt% GBC extended the DT50 of endosulfan in soil; however, this could successfully suppress endosulfan uptake, and reduced the BAFs by 66.5–67.7% in the freshly contaminated soil and 32.3–41.4% in the aged soil. Thus, this adsorbent treatment could be an effective, financially viable, and sustainable option to protect human health by reducing plant uptake of endosulfan from contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of pesticides in fogwater plays a major role in accumulating relatively substantial levels of trace compounds due to their unique physico-chemical characteristics. The radiation wintertime fog in Alsace has been studied in the past few years (between 2015 and 2021) at four sites (Geispolsheim, Erstein, Strasbourg, and Cronenbourg). Fog samples are extracted using the liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) performed on the XTR Chromabond cartridge coupled with gas/liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS). The samples are found to be contaminated by 25 semi- and non-volatile currently-used and previously-banned pesticides (like procymidone) and 16 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) at notable levels and high detection frequency (DF). The analysis also reveals that Cronenbourg is the most contaminated site (31.5 ± 3.0 μg. L−1), followed by Erstein (23.1 ± 17.0 μg. L−1), Strasbourg (23.0 ± 3.5 μg. L−1), and Geispolsheim (22.8 ± 7.7 μg. L−1). Pearson and principal component analyses (PCA) prove the simultaneous application of fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, and their atmospheric transport, mainly through west-southern air currents, from highly impacted sites to near-by urban and less impact sites (Strasbourg and Cronenbourg). The levels of OCPs are found at lower concentrations at all sites than other pesticides, of which dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites have the highest contribution (27%), while hexachlorobenzene (HCB) has the least contribution (3%). Ratio analysis indicates the historical emission of DDTs, whereas a recent and local input of lindane and endosulfan has been observed. [Display omitted] • Fogwater proves its ability to scavenge pesticides including organochlorine. • Fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides are highly correlated with each other. • Pesticide's transport through air currents contaminates non-agricultural areas. • Significant intra-site and year variabilities are detected in many cases. • Sixteen organochlorine pesticides out of twenty-two are still found even their ban. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nodding syndrome (NS) is a neurologic disorder of unknown etiology characterized by vertical head nodding that has affected children aged 5–18 years in East Africa. Previous studies have examined relationships with biological agents (e.g., nematodes, measles, and fungi), but there is limited data on the possible contributions of neurotoxic environmental chemicals frequently used as pesticides/insecticides to the development and progression of this disorder. We examined the levels of persistent organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in children (5–18 years old) from Kitgum District, Northern Uganda. These children previously lived in internally displaced people's (IDP) camps, where they were exposed to various health risks, including contaminated food and water. Exposure to OCPs through contaminated food and water is postulated here as a potential contributor to NS etiology. We analyzed serum (n = 75) and urine (n = 150) samples from children diagnosed with NS, and from seizure-free household controls (HC), and community controls (CC). Samples were extracted using solid-phase extraction (SPE) and extracts were analyzed for OCPs using gas chromatography with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Mean levels of total (∑) ∑OCPs in serum samples from NS, HC and CC subjects were 23.3 ± 2.82, 21.1 ± 3.40 and 20.9 ± 4.24 ng/mL, respectively, while in urine samples were 1.86 ± 1.03, 2.83 ± 1.42, and 2.14 ± 0.94 ng/mL, respectively. Correlation and linear regression analysis indicated that potential markers for ∑hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs), ∑chlordane compounds (CHLs), ∑endosulfan and ∑dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) were γ-HCH, heptachlor- exo -epoxide, endosulfan-α and p,pʹ-DDD in NS cases while in controls were α –HCH, heptachlor, endosulfan-α and p,pʹ-DDE, respectively. Since, in some instances, higher OCP levels were found in controls vs. NS cases, we conclude that exposure to organochlorine pesticides is unlikely to be associated with the etiology of NS. [Display omitted] • First study of persistent organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in children from a nodding syndrome (NS) hotspot. • OCPs in serum and urine samples were analyzed by GC-MS/MS. • Markers of exposure in NS cases and controls were different. • OCPs are unlikely to be associated with the etiology of NS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper attempts to read the Endosulfan disaster in Kerala as an instance of the Anthropocene wherein the unscientific use of a pesticide resulted in the persistent misery of a population and the ecology in which they struggle to survive. The suffering is further presented to a larger audience through the film Valiya Chirakulla Pakshikal (2015, Dir. Dr Biju) by assimilating the reel and the real to bear testimony to their struggles amidst the toxicity of the chemical. The film, as the paper argues, becomes a representative text in the eco-trauma genre that on the one hand displays the disaster while on the other offers a cultural resistance against the unchecked use of chemicals around us. The film situates the Endosulfan disaster amongst the global movements against the pesticides and emphasises the need of a healthy environment.