Association between diabetes and pesticides: a case-control study among Thai farmers

Microbial Disturbances Caused by Pesticide Exposure and Their Predictive Implications for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Previous studies have suggested that pesticide exposure and gut microbiome alterations are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk. Understanding the complex interactive effect of these factors on GDM is essential. In a cohort of 852 pregnant women, we assessed pesticide levels in serum and analyzed the gut microbiota using 16S rRNA and shotgun metagenomic sequencing. We explored the interactions between pesticides and gut microbiota, assessed their roles in GDM development, and proposed a predictive model based on identified biomarkers. We identified an environmental risk score (ERS), denoting the pesticide mixture level significantly associated with GDM, with the gut microbiota, particularly involving the Dorea branch, playing a crucial mediating role. In addition, we found an interactive effect of pesticide exposure and gut microbiota on GDM risk. Notably, low Prevotella enrichment combined with high ERS arisen from pesticide levels led to a 10.36-fold increased GDM risk. The identified pesticide and gut microbial biomarkers achieved high predictive accuracy for GDM (AUC: 0.833, 95% CI: 0.748-0.918). Collectively, maternal pesticide exposure may induce disrupted microbiome-dependent glycemic alteration, necessitating future assessment of clinical implications. Potential GDM markers can serve as targets for therapeutic intervention caused by pesticides, leading to prevention.

Food supply toxicants and additives alter the gut microbiota and risk of metabolic disease

Metabolic disease is rising along with both global industrialization and the use of new commercial, agricultural, and industrial chemicals and food additives. Exposure to these compounds may contribute to aspects of metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. Ingesting compounds in the food supply is a key route of human exposure, resulting in the interaction between toxicants or additives and the intestinal microbiota. Toxicants can influence the composition and function of the gut microbiota, and these microbes can metabolize and transform toxicants and food additives. Microbe-toxicant interactions in the intestine can alter host mucosal barrier function, immunity, and metabolism, which may contribute to the risk or severity of metabolic disease development. Targeting the connection between toxicants, food, and immunity in the gut using strategies such as fermentable fiber (i.e., inulin) may mitigate some of the effects of these compounds on host metabolism. Understanding causative factors in the microbe-host relationship that promote toxicant-induced dysmetabolism is an important goal. This review highlights the role of common toxicants (i.e., persistent organic pollutants, pesticides, and fungicides) and food additives (emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners) found in our food supply that alter the gut microbiota and promote metabolic disease development.

Impact of pesticides exposure and type 2 diabetes risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies that assessed the relationship between pesticides exposure and type 2 diabetes. We also examined the presence of heterogeneity and biases across the available studies.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search of peer-reviewed studies published from 2011 to 2023, without language limitations. A random-effects model was employed to calculate the overall odds ratio (OR) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

We included 19 studies (n = 12 case-control and n = 7 cross-sectional) for a total of 45,813 participants in our analysis. Our findings revealed a notable correlation between pesticide exposure and type 2 diabetes (non-specific definition) when not limiting pesticide types (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.11-1.28). Subgroup analysis identified associations between pyrethroid (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.05-1.30) and type 2 diabetes, as well as between organochlorine (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.11-1.43) and type 2 diabetes. However, no statistically significant association was observed between herbicide exposure and the onset of type 2 diabetes (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 0.91-1.75). In the elderly group, pesticide exposure significantly heightened the risk of type 2 diabetes (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.14-1.38), with no statistically significant heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 14.2%, p = 0.323).

CONCLUSIONS

Pesticide (organochlorine and pyrethroid) exposure constitutes a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Multiple pesticide exposure and impaired glucose regulation in U.S. non-diabetic population

Prediabetes is a serious metabolic disorder that is often overlooked and 70% of individuals with prediabetes would eventually develop type 2 diabetes. The diabetogenic effects of pesticides have been reported in toxicological studies but their association with prediabetes is rarely investigated. We aimed to evaluate the association between pesticide exposure and impaired glucose regulation (IGR), including prediabetes (defined as impaired fasting glucose [IFG] and/or impaired glucose tolerance [IGT]) and insulin resistance, in a general U.S. non-diabetic population. Three classes of urinary pesticides, including organophosphorus pesticides (OPs), pyrethroid, and herbicides were measured. Generalized linear regression, restricted cubic spline, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models were combined to evaluate their associations. 3,5,6-trichloropyridinol (TCPY) was positively associated with prediabetes and IGT (highest vs lowest TCPY quartile: prediabetes: OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.18, 3.31; IGT: OR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.14, 3.66) in a linear dose-response manner (P for nonlinear<0.05). Another two metabolites of OPs, malathion dicarboxylic acid (MDCA) diacid and para-nitrophenol (PNP), were found to increase the odds ratio of insulin resistance (PNP: OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.42; MDCA: OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.70) with linear dose-response curves (P for nonlinear<0.05). Considering mutual exposure to multiple pesticides, TCPY, MDCA, and PNP made the most contributions in the mixture exposure and IGR. No obvious interactions among pesticides were found in the multiple exposure settings. The odds ratio of TCPY exposure and prediabetes was increased with advancing age but not related to body mass index (BMI). The results remained robust in sensitivity analysis with restricted participants without abnormal urinary creatinine and unsteady glucose or insulin levels. Our findings suggested the close relationship between OPs and impaired glucose regulation, especially in older adults, which provides insights into the prevention of diabetes at the earlier stage.

Adjustment for sparse data bias in odds ratios: Significance to appraisal of risk of diabetes due to occupational trichlorfon insecticide exposure

Background

Bias away from the null in odds ratios (OR), aggravated by low power, is a well-known phenomenon in statistics (sparse data bias). Such bias increases in presence of selection of "significant" results on the basis of null hypothesis testing (effect size magnification, ESM).

Objectives

We seek to illustrate these issues and adjust for suspected sparse data bias in the context of a reported more than doubling of the odds of new onset type 2 diabetes in presence of occupational trichlorfon insecticide exposure reported in the Agricultural Health Study.

Methods

We performed ESM analysis on the crude ORs extracted from the contingency table in the published report, which is done by simulating selected OR given a posited true OR. Next, we applied easily accessible methods that adjust for sparse data bias to the extracted contingency tables, including data augmentation, bootstrap, Firth's regression, and Bayesian methods with weakly informative priors.

Results

During the ESM analysis, we observed that there was a reasonable chance that a "statistically significant" OR of around 2.5-2.6 would be observed for true OR of 1.2. Adjustment for sparse data bias revealed that Bayesian methods outperformed alternative approaches in terms of yielding more precise inference, while not making unjustified distributional assumptions about estimates of OR. The OR in the original paper of about 2.5-2.6 was reduced on average to OR of 1.9 to 2.2, with 95% (Bayesian) credible intervals that included the null.

Discussion

It is reasonable to adjust ORs for sparse data bias when the reported association has societal importance, because policy must be informed by the least biased estimates of the effect. We think that such adjustment would lead to a more appropriate evaluation of the extent of evidence on the contribution of occupational exposure to trichlorfon pesticide to risk of new onset diabetes.

Persistent organic pollutants and metabolic diseases: From the perspective of lipid droplets

The characteristic of semi-volatility enables persistent organic pollutants (POPs) almost ubiquitous in the environment. There is increasing concern about the potential risks of exposure to POPs due to their lipophilicity and readily bioaccumulation. Lipid droplets (LDs) are highly dynamic lipid storage organelles, alterations of intracellular LDs play a vital role in the progression of many prevalent metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This article systematically reviewed the biological processes involved in LDs metabolism, the role of LDs proteins and LDs in metabolic diseases, and summarized updating researches on involvement of POPs in the progression of LDs-related metabolic diseases and potential mechanisms. POPs might change the physiological functions of LDs, also interfere the processes of adipogenesis and lipolysis by altering LDs synthesis, decomposition and function. However, further studies are still needed to explore the underlying mechanism of POPs-induced metabolic diseases, which can offer scientific evidences for metabolic disease prevention.

Unraveling the pesticide-diabetes connection: A case-cohort study integrating Mendelian randomization analysis with a focus on physical activity's mitigating effect

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

There is no evidence on the longitudinal and causal associations between multiple pesticides and the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the Chinese rural population, and whether physical activity (PA) modified these associations remains unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate the longitudinal and causal associations between pesticides mixture and T2DM, and determine whether PA modified these associations.

METHODS

A total of 925 subjects with normal glucose and 925 subjects with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) were enrolled in this case-cohort study. A total of 51 targeted pesticides were quantified at baseline. Logistic regression, quantile g-computation, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were used to assess the individual and combined effects of pesticides on IFG and T2DM. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was employed to obtain the causal association between pesticides and T2DM.

RESULTS

After 3-year follow-up, one-unit increment in ln-isofenphos, ln-malathion, and ln-deltamethrin were associated with an increase conversion of IFG to T2DM (FDR-P<0.05). One quartile increment in organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), organophosphorus pesticides (OPs), herbicides and pyrethroids mixtures were related to a higher incidence of T2DM among IFG patients (P<0.05). The BKMR results showed a positive trend between exposure to pesticides mixture and T2DM. The MR analysis indicated a positive association between exposure to pesticides and T2DM risk (P<0.05). No any significant association was found between pesticides and IFG. In addition, compared to subjects with high levels of PA, those with low levels of PA were related to increased risk of T2DM with the increased levels of pesticides among IFG patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Individual and combined exposure to pesticides increased the incidence of T2DM among IFG patients. MR analysis further supported the causal association of pesticides exposure with T2DM risk. Our study furtherly indicated that high levels of PA attenuated the diabetogenic effect of pesticides exposure.

Biodegradable Schiff bases: a novel approach for the management of pathogenic fungi (Sclerotium rolfsii and Rhizoctonia bataticola) and stored grain insect (Callosobruchus maculatus) in green gram (Vigna radiata)

Twenty-two eco-friendly, novel Schiff bases were synthesized from 2,4,5-trichloro aniline and characterized by using FT-IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR techniques. Fungicidal activity against pathogenic fungi Sclerotium rolfsii and Rhizoctonia bataticola and insecticidal activity against the stored grain insect pest Callosobruchus maculatus of the test compounds were evaluated under control condition. All of the investigated compounds, according to the study, exhibited moderate to good antifungal and insecticidal activities. The best antifungal activity against both pathogenic fungi was demonstrated by C15 and C16 whose ED50 values were recorded 11.4 and 10.4 μg/mL against R. bataticola and 10.6 and 11.9 μg/mL against S. rolfsii, respectively. They were further screened in for disease suppression against both pathogenic fungi under pot condition through different methods of applications in green gram (Vigna radiata L.) crop. The compounds C10 and C18 had the highest insecticidal activity, with LD50 values of 0.024 and 0.042 percentages, respectively. Stepwise regression analysis using root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient (R) method used to validate the quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) of synthesized compounds in addition to their fungicidal and insecticidal actions. To the best of our knowledge, this investigation on the 22 new Schiff bases as possible agrochemicals is the first one that has been fully reported.

Diabetes mellitus and serum organochlorine pesticides mixtures in Mexican women

BACKGROUND

Very recently, it has been reported that exposure to different mixtures of organochlorine pesticides (OCP) is associated with the development of diabetes mellitus (DM). In Mexico, DM is a public health problem that might be related to the historical intense use of OCP. We aimed to evaluate, the association between DM and serum concentrations of OCP mixtures, and identify the main contributors within them.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary cross-sectional analysis on the control group from a breast cancer population-based case-control study conducted from 2007 to 2011 in Northern Mexico. We identified 214 self-reported diabetic women and 694 non-diabetics. We obtained direct information about sociodemographic, lifestyle and reproductive characteristics. We determined 24 OCP and metabolites in serum by gas chromatography using an electron capture micro detector. We used Weighted Quantile Sum regression to assess the association of DM and exposure to multiple OCP, and the contribution of each compound within the mixture.

RESULTS

We found a positive adjusted association between DM and an OCP mixture (OR: 2.63, 95%CI: 1.85, 3.74), whose primary contribution arose from p, p'-DDE (mean weight 23.3%), HCB (mean weight 17.3%), trans nonachlor (mean weight 15.4%), o, p'-DDE (mean weight 7.3%), heptachlor epoxide (mean weight 5.9%), oxychlordane (mean weight 4.7%), and heptachlor (mean weight 4.5%). In addition, these OCP along with p, p'-DDT and cis chlordane, were of concern and remained associated when excluding hypertensive women from the analysis (OR 2.55; 95% CI 1.56, 4.18).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate, for the first time in a Latin-American population, that the concomitant exposure to multiple OCP is associated with DM. Further research is needed since the composition of OCP mixtures may vary according to regional pesticides use patterns.

Factors affecting safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists in northeastern Thailand

BACKGROUND

Pesticide poisoning is a major public health problem in Thailand and is the result of intensive inappropriate and unsafe use of pesticides. This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to determine the factors affecting safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists in northeastern Thailand.

METHODS

The study sample included 427 farm plant agriculturists in Loei Province, northeastern Thailand. Individuals were randomly selected by a multistage random sampling technique. The following data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire consisting of 8 parts: (1) sociodemographic characteristics, (2) knowledge about pesticide use, (3) perceived severity of impact from pesticide use among farm plant agriculturists, (4) perceived susceptibility to pesticide use, (5) perceived self-efficacy in the modification of safe pesticide-use behaviors, (6) perceived outcome of the modification of safe pesticide-use behaviors, (7) social support, and (8) safe pesticide-use behaviors. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple regression analyses were employed for data analysis.

RESULTS

The majority of participants (79.4%) had high scores for safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists (scores of 112-150). Factors that significantly affected safe pesticide-use behaviors included knowledge about pesticide use (β = 0.282), social support (β = 0.217), reading information from pesticide labels before pesticide use (β = 0.207), perceived self-efficacy (β = 0.186), female sex (β = -0.140), rice farmer status (β = 0.129), corn farmer status (β = 0.127), perceived susceptibility (β = 0.126), having received information from the internet (β = -0.124), and perceived severity (β = -0.098). Together, these 10 factors were found to explain 32.5% of the safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that there is a need to increase the number of promotional activities related to the safe use of pesticides through social support and training, with the aim of increasing the overall level of knowledge, perceived self-efficacy, perceived susceptibility, and modification of the perceived impact severity of pesticide use. Thus, relevant agencies should promote and support the safe use of pesticides by farm plant agriculturists. This study revealed that the factors affecting safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists included knowledge about pesticide use, social support, reading pesticide container labels, perceived self-efficacy in the modification of pesticide-use behaviors, sex, rice farmer status, corn farmer status, perceived susceptibility to pesticide use, having received information from the internet, and perceived severity of impact from pesticide use.

Pesticides impacts on human health and the environment with their mechanisms of action and possible countermeasures

Pesticides are chemical constituents used to prevent or control pests, including insects, rodents, fungi, weeds, and other unwanted organisms. Despite their advantages in crop production and disease management, the use of pesticides poses significant hazards to the environment and public health. Pesticide elements have now perpetually entered our atmosphere and subsequently contaminated water, food, and soil, leading to health threats ranging from acute to chronic toxicities. Pesticides can cause acute toxicity if a high dose is inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with the skin or eyes, while prolonged or recurrent exposure to pesticides leads to chronic toxicity. Pesticides produce different types of toxicity, for instance, neurotoxicity, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, and endocrine disruption. The toxicity of a pesticide formulation may depend on the specific active ingredient and the presence of synergistic or inert compounds that can enhance or modify its toxicity. Safety concerns are the need of the hour to control contemporary pesticide-induced health hazards. The effectiveness and implementation of the current legislature in providing ample protection for human health and the environment are key concerns. This review explored a comprehensive summary of pesticides regarding their updated impacts on human health and advanced safety concerns with legislation. Implementing regulations, proper training, and education can help mitigate the negative impacts of pesticide use and promote safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.

Associations of chronic exposure to a mixture of pesticides and type 2 diabetes mellitus in a Chinese elderly population

Epidemiological studies have related exposure to pesticides to increased risk of diabetes. However, few studies have evaluated the health effects of mixed pesticides exposure, especially in an elderly population. Here, we utilized gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to quantify the levels of 39 pesticides in 4 categories in a Chinese elderly population. Then we used general linear models to explore the association between individual pesticide exposure and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were fitted to identify potential non-linearities between those associations. Furthermore, stratified analysis by gender was conducted to explore the gender-specific associations. Finally, we used weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, quantile-based g computation (qgcomp), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) to evaluate the effects of mixed exposure to 39 pesticides. The results showed that exposure to pesticides was associated with high risk of T2DM, with β-Hexachlorocyclohexane (β-BHC) and oxadiazon being the most significant independent contributors, which was pronounced among elderly women. Moreover, the association of β-BHC and oxadiazon with T2DM was linear. These indicated that it is an urgent need to take practical measures to control these harmful pesticides.

Pesticide exposure and lung cancer risk: A case-control study in Nakhon Sawan, Thailand

Background

Pesticide exposure might increase risk of lung cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the historical use of pesticides and lung cancer using a case-control design.

Methods

This case-control study compared a lifetime pesticide exposure of 233 lung cancer cases, and 447 healthy neighbours matched for gender, and age (±5 years). Data on demographic, pesticide exposure and other related factors were collected using a face-to-face interview questionnaire. Associations between lung cancer and types of pesticides as well as individual pesticides were analysed using logistic regression adjusted for gender, age, cigarette smoking, occupation, cooking fumes exposure, and exposure to air pollution.

Results

It was found that lung cancer was positively associated with the lifetime use of herbicides and insecticides. Compared to people in the non-exposed groups, those in Q3-Q4 days of using herbicides and insecticides had an elevated risk of lung cancer, with odds ratio (OR) between 2.20 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24-3.89), and 3.99 (95% CI 1.62-7.11) (p < 0.001). For individual pesticides, those presenting a significant association with lung cancer were dieldrin (OR = 2.56; 95% CI 1.36-4.81), chlorpyrifos (OR = 3.29; 95 % CI 1.93-5.61), and carbofuran (OR = 2.10; 95% CI 1.28-3.42). It was also found, for the first time, carbofuran, glyphosate, and paraquat to be significantly associated with lung cancer.

Conclusions

The study confirmed dieldrin, and chlorpyrifos as risk factors and suggested carbofuran, glyphosate, and paraquat as potential risk factors for the disease. The paper stands as a noteworthy contribution to literature, particularly because the majority of publications on the topic originate from developed Western countries. However, further studies are imperative to validate the results and pinpoint additional individual pesticides that may be associated with lung cancer.

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

Background

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusions

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

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Associations between urinary glyphosate and diabetes mellitus in the US general adult: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2013-2016

Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are used extensively around the world and have become the leading agrochemicals. However, study about the association between glyphosate exposure and the risk of diabetes mellitus (DM) is scarce. This study used 4 years of NHANES data (2013-2016) to further investigate the association. A total of 2535 participants were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The baseline information and urinary glyphosate levels in diabetic and non-diabetic groups were compared. Using multivariable logistic regression mode, we explored the association between both the continuous and categorical forms of urinary glyphosate and DM risk. Further subgroup analyses based on categorical covariates were also conducted. Urinary glyphosate levels were 0.42 ng/ml in participants with diabetes and 0.34 ng/ml in participants without diabetes (P < 0.05). As a continuous variable, ln-transformed urinary glyphosate was significantly associated with an increased risk of DM in the most adjusted model (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.03-1.57). However, the association was not significant in the most adjusted categorical model (P > 0.05).In further subgroup analyses, the associations remained significant in several subgroups. This study provides new evidence that glyphosate exposure was associated with a higher risk of diabetes in the American general adult population.

Organophosphorus and carbamate pesticides: Molecular toxicology and laboratory testing

Population and food requirements are increasing daily throughout the world. To fulfil these requirements application of pesticides is also increasing. Organophosphorous (OP) and Organocarbamate (OC) compounds are widely used pesticides. These pesticides are used for suicidal purposes too. Both inhibit Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and cholinergic symptoms are mainly used for the diagnosis of pesticide poisoning. Although the symptoms of the intoxication of OP and OC are similar, recent research has described different targets for OP and OC pesticides. Researchers believe the distinction of OP/OC poisoning will be beneficial for the management of pesticide exposure. OP compounds produce adducts with several proteins. There is a new generation of OP compounds like glyphosate that do not inhibit AChE. Therefore, it's high time to develop biomarkers that can distinguish OP poisoning from OC poisoning.

Toxicity effects of pesticides based on zebrafish (Danio rerio) models: Advances and perspectives

Pesticides inevitably enter aquatic environments, posing potential risks to organisms. The common aquatic model organism, zebrafish (Danio rerio), are widely used to evaluate the toxicity of pesticides. In this review, we searched the Web of Science database for articles published between 2012 and 2022, using the keywords "pesticide", "zebrafish", and "toxicity", retrieving 618 publications. Furthermore, we described the main pathways by which pesticides enter aquatic environments and the fate of their residues in these environments. We systematically reviewed the toxicity effects of pesticides on zebrafish, including developmental toxicity, endocrine-disrupting effects, reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and genotoxicity. Importantly, we summarized the latest research progress on the toxicity mechanism of pesticides to zebrafish based on omics technologies, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics. Finally, we discussed future research prospects, focusing on the combined exposure of multiple pollutants including pesticides, the risk of multigenerational exposure to pesticides, and the chronic toxicity of aquatic nanopesticides. This review provides essential data support for ecological risk assessments of pesticides in aquatic environments, and has implications for water management in the context of pesticide pollution.

Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane for Malaria and Agricultural Uses and Its Impacts on Human Health

Pesticides are widely used in agriculture and disease control, and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is one of the most used pesticides in human history. Besides its significant contributions in pest control in agriculture, DDT was credited as having saved millions of human lives for controlling malaria and other deadly insect-transmitted diseases. Even today, the use of DDT in some countries for malaria control cannot be replaced without endangering people who live there. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives and reminded us of the challenges in dealing with infectious diseases, especially deadly ones including malaria. However, DDT and its metabolites are stable, persist long, are found in almost every corner of the world, and their persistent effects on humans, animals, and the environment must be seriously considered. This review will focus on the history of DDT use for agriculture and malaria control, the pathways for the spread of DDT, benefits and risks of DDT use, DDT exposure to animals, humans, and the environment, and the associated human health risks. These knowledge and findings of DDT will benefit the selection and management of pesticides worldwide.

Pesticides and insulin resistance-related metabolic diseases: Evidences and mechanisms

The use of pesticides in the past century has lot helped humankind in improving crops' field and general hygiene level. Nevertheless, there has been countless evidences on the toxic effects of pesticides on the living systems. The link of exposure to pesticides with different human chronic diseases in the context of carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, developmental toxicity, etc., have been evaluated in various types of studies. There are also some evidences on the link of exposure to pesticides with higher incidence of metabolic diseases associated with insulin resistance like diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, polycystic ovary syndrome and chronic kidney diseases. Physiologically, weakening intracellular insulin signaling is considered as a compensatory mechanism for cells to cope with cellular stresses like xenobiotic effects, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, but it can pathologically lead to a defective cycle with lowered sensitivity of the cells to insulin which happens in metabolic disorders. In this work, the data related to metabolic toxicity of pesticides categorized in the mentioned metabolic diseases with a focus on the effects of pesticides on insulin signaling pathway and the mechanisms of development of insulin resistance will be systematically reviewed and presented.

The Associations between Organophosphate Pesticides (OPs) and Respiratory Disease, Diabetes Mellitus, and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Although some epidemiological studies have identified the associations between exposure to organophosphate pesticides (Ops) and respiratory diseases, diabetes mellitus (DM), and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), controversial results still exist. In this review and meta-analysis, we aimed to investigate the overall pooled effect estimates and the possible mechanisms of the relationship between OP exposure and adverse health outcomes. In this study, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, OVID, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched until September 2022. Nineteen observational studies that focused on the general population or occupational populations examined the associations between OP exposure and respiratory diseases, DM, and CVD were included. Based on the overall pooled results, a significantly positive association was observed between OP exposure and respiratory diseases (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.06-1.19). A significant link was also observed between various individual species of OP exposure and respiratory diseases, with an OR value of 1.11 (95% CI: 1.05-1.18). In particular, there was a significant association of OPs with wheezing and asthma, with OR values of 1.19 (95% CI: 1.08-1.31) and 1.13 (95% CI: 1.05-1.22), respectively. In addition, a significant association was also observed between OP exposure and DM (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.07-1.29). However, no significant association was observed between OP exposure and CVD (OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.94-1.05). Exposure to OPs was associated with a significantly increased risk of respiratory diseases and DM, but there was no evidence of a significant association between OP exposure and CVD. Considering the moderate strength of the results, further evidence is needed to confirm these associations.

Exposure to herbicides mixtures in relation to type 2 diabetes mellitus among Chinese rural population: Results from different statistical models

BACKGROUND

Although it has been reported that herbicides exposure is related to adverse outcomes, available evidence on the associations of quantitatively measured herbicides with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prediabetes is still scant. Furthermore, the effects of herbicides mixtures on T2DM and prediabetes remain unclear among the Chinese rural population.

AIMS

To assess the associations of plasma herbicides with T2DM and prediabetes among the Chinese rural population.

METHODS

A total of 2626 participants were enrolled from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. Plasma herbicides were measured with gas chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry. Generalized linear regression analysis was employed to assess the associations of a single herbicide with T2DM, prediabetes, as well as indicators of glucose metabolism. In addition, the quantile g-computation and environmental risk score (ERS) structured by adaptive elastic net (AENET), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were used to estimate the effects of herbicides mixtures on T2DM and prediabetes.

RESULTS

After adjusting for covariates, positive associations of atrazine, ametryn, and oxadiazon with the increased odds of T2DM were obtained. As for prediabetes, each 1-fold increase in ln-transformed oxadiazon was related to 8.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.033, 1.138) higher odds of prediabetes. In addition, several herbicides were significantly related to fasting plasma glucose, fasting insulin, and HOMA2-IR (false discovery rates adjusted P value < 0.05). Furthermore, the quantile g-computation analysis showed that one quartile increase in multiple herbicides was associated with T2DM (OR (odds ratio): 1.099, 95%CI: 1.043, 1.158), and oxadiazon was assigned the largest positive weight, followed by atrazine. In addition, the ERS calculated by the selected herbicides from AENET were found to be associated with T2DM and prediabetes, and the corresponding ORs and 95%CIs were 1.133 (1.108, 1.159) and 1.065 (1.016, 1.116), respectively. The BKMR analysis indicated a positive association between mixtures of herbicides exposure and the risk of T2DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to mixtures of herbicides was associated with an increased risk of T2DM among Chinese rural population, indicating that the impact of herbicides exposure on diabetes should be paid attention to and measures should be taken to avoid herbicides mixtures exposure.

Co-exposure of organophosphorus pesticides is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in a Chinese population

OBJECTIVE

The epidemiological evidence of human exposure to organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prediabetes (PDM) is scarce. We aimed to examine the association of T2DM/PDM risk with single OPP exposure and multi-OPP co-exposure.

METHODS

Plasma levels of ten OPPs were measured using the gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) among 2734 subjects from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. We used generalized linear regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) or β with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and constructed quantile g-computation and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models to investigate the association of OPPs mixture with the risk of T2DM and PDM.

RESULTS

High detection rates ranged from 76.35% (isazophos) to 99.17% (malathion and methidathion) for all OPPs. Several plasma OPPs concentrations were in positive correlation with T2DM and PDM. Additionally, positive associations of several OPPs with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) values and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were observed. In the quantile g-computation, we identified significantly positive associations between OPPs mixtures and T2DM as well as PDM, and fenthion had the greatest contribution for T2DM, followed by fenitrothion and cadusafos. As for PDM, the increased risk was largely explained by cadusafos, fenthion, and malathion. Furthermore, BKMR models suggested that co-exposure to OPPs was linked to an increased risk of T2DM and PDM.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that the individual and mixture of OPPs exposure were associated with an increased risk of T2DM and PDM, implying that OPPs might act an important role in the development of T2DM.

Lambda-cyhalothrin-induced pancreatic toxicity in adult albino rats

Lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) is one of the most frequently utilized pyrethroids. This study aimed to explore the toxic effects of subacute exposure to LCT on the pancreas and the hepatic glucose metabolism in adult male albino rats. 20 rats were equally grouped into; Control group and LCT group. The latter received LCT (61.2 mg/kg b.wt.), orally on a daily basis for 28 days. At the end of experiment, blood samples were collected for the determination of serum glucose and insulin levels. Pancreases were harvested and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA); catalase (CAT); superoxide dismutase (SOD); reduced glutathione (GSH); tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α); interleukin-6 (IL-6); nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2); heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1); and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) were assessed. Also, liver samples were analyzed for the activity of glucose metabolism enzymes, glycogen content, and pyruvate and lactate concentrations. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations of pancreatic tissues were undertaken as well. Results revealed hyperglycemia, hypoinsulinemia, increased MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB levels, in association with reduced CAT, SOD, GSH, Nrf2, and HO-1 levels in LCT group. Liver analyses demonstrated a clear disturbance in the hepatic enzymes of glucose metabolism, diminished glycogen content, decreased pyruvate, and increased lactate concentrations. Besides, pancreatic islets displayed degenerative changes and β-cells loss. Immunohistochemistry revealed diminished area percentage (%) of insulin and Nrf2 and increased TNF-α immunoreaction. In conclusion, subacute exposure to LCT induces pancreatic toxicity, mostly via oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms, and dysregulates hepatic glucose metabolism in albino rats.

The diabetogenic effects of pesticides: Evidence based on epidemiological and toxicological studies

While the use of pesticides has improved grain productivity and controlled vector-borne diseases, the widespread use of pesticides has resulted in ubiquitous environmental residues that pose health risks to humans. A number of studies have linked pesticide exposure to diabetes and glucose dyshomeostasis. This article reviews the occurrence of pesticides in the environment and human exposure, the associations between pesticide exposures and diabetes based on epidemiological investigations, as well as the diabetogenic effects of pesticides based on the data from in vivo and in vitro studies. The potential mechanisms by which pesticides disrupt glucose homeostasis include induction of lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, acetylcholine accumulation, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. The gaps between laboratory toxicology research and epidemiological studies lead to an urgent research need on the diabetogenic effects of herbicides and current-use insecticides, low-dose pesticide exposure research, the diabetogenic effects of pesticides in children, and assessment of toxicity and risks of combined exposure to multiple pesticides with other chemicals.

Can Sulfonylureas for Agricultural Use Cause Diabetes? A Report of Three Cases

Sulfonylureas (SUs) are commonly used as herbicides. Many farmers and other professionals use SUs for cereal, strawberry, and grape crops. This study examines the possible association between exposure to SUs herbicides and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study presents three cases of unrelated agronomists who had used SUs for more than three decades and developed T2D. The objective was to investigate the association between occupational dermal and inhalation exposure to herbicides and T2D. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to determine the association and to help develop prevention strategies.

Dietary zinc intake and body mass index as modifiers of the association between household pesticide exposure and infertility among US women: a population-level study

Clinical studies on the relationship between pesticide exposure at home and infertility in the general population are scarce. Whether the antioxidant nutrients or other health-related factors affect the pesticide-infertility relationship remains unknown. This nationwide study screened 29,400 participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted between 2013 and 2018. The participants were subdivided according to dietary zinc intake based on the recommended dietary allowances as the low-zinc and high-zinc groups (< 8 and ≥ 8 mg/day, respectively), and according to body mass index (BMI; cut-off 28 kg/m²) as the low-BMI and high-BMI groups. Participants who were exposed to pesticides at home had an increased risk of infertility (odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.06-2.29). The incidence of infertility differed in low-zinc and high-zinc groups (OR, 95% CI: 2.38, 1.40-4.06 vs. 0.98, 0.53-1.79, respectively), indicating an interaction between pesticide exposure and zinc intake in households (P = 0.047), which suggests that a zinc-rich diet may reduce the risk of pesticide-induced infertility. Similarly, the relationship between pesticide exposure and infertility risk differed in the low-BMI and high-BMI groups (OR, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.42-1.93 vs. 2.23, 1.39-3.58, respectively; P = 0.045), suggesting that high BMI may intensify the infertility risk caused by pesticide exposure. These new findings reveal the antagonistic and synergistic effect of zinc and obesity, respectively, in pesticide-induced infertility risk and suggest that individuals who are obese and on a low-zinc diet may be more susceptible to infertility induced by household pesticide exposure.

Natural Plant Extracts: An Update about Novel Spraying as an Alternative of Chemical Pesticides to Extend the Postharvest Shelf Life of Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables, being the source of important vitamins, minerals, and other plant chemicals, are of boundless importance these days. Although in agriculture, the green revolution was a milestone, it was accompanied by the intensive utilization of chemical pesticides. However, chemical pesticides have hazardous effects on human health and the environment. Therefore, increasingly stimulating toward more eco-friendly and safer alternatives to prevent postharvest losses and lead to improving the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables. Proposed alternatives, natural plant extracts, are very promising due to their high efficacy. The plant-based extract is from a natural source and has no or few health concerns. Many researchers have elaborated on the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals on human life. People are now much more aware of safety and health concerns than ever before. In the present review, we discussed the latest research on natural alternatives for chemical synthetic pesticides. Considering that the use of plant-based extracts from aloe vera, lemongrass, or neem is non-chemical by-products of the fruits and vegetable industry, they are proved safe for human health and may be integrated with economic strategies. Such natural plant extracts can be a good alternative to chemical pesticides and preservatives.

Organophosphate esters exposure in relation to glucose homeostasis and type 2 diabetes in adults: A national cross-sectional study from the national health and nutrition survey

BACKGROUND

Exposure to organophosphate esters (OPEs) may be associated with impaired glucose homeostasis and increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in adolescent. However, the evidence in general population is scarce, especially for glucose homeostasis. We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2008 and 2011-2012 to investigate the relationship of urinary OPEs with glucose homeostasis and T2D in adults.

METHODS

A total of 5347 participants aged ≥20 years were included. The exposures were the concentrations of urinary OPEs metabolites [dimethyl phosphate (DMP), dimethyl thiophosphate (DMTP), dimethyl dithiophosphate (DMDTP), diethyl phosphate (DEP), diethyl thiophosphate (DETP), and diethyl dithiophosphate (DEDTP)]. The health outcomes were prevalence of T2D and glucose homeostasis [i.e., fasting glucose, 2-h plasma glucose during a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (2 h-OGTT), serum insulin, HemoglobinA1c (HbA1c), HOMA-IR, and HOMA-β]. The multivariable linear regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between OPEs and glucose homeostasis. The multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between OPEs and prevalence of T2D.

RESULTS

The OPEs compound DMTP was significantly associated with higher levels of serum insulin [β (95%confidence interval, CI) = 0.21 (0.06,0.36), for one unit increase in log₂-transformed exposure] and HOMA IR [β (95%CI) = 0.08 (0.02,0.14)], and increased odds of T2D [odds ratio (95% CI) = 1.05 (1.01-1.08)]. Other OPEs were not statistically associated with the serum markers for glucose homeostasis or T2D prevalence.

CONCLUSION

Our study found that the OPEs compound DMTP might be associated with impaired glucose homeostasis and may increase the prevalence of T2D in U.S. adults. Further longitudinal or experimental studies are warranted to verify our findings in different populations and different OPEs concentrations.

An Overview of Diabetes Mellitus in Egypt and the Significance of Integrating Preventive Cardiology in Diabetes Management

In Egypt, diabetes mellitus (DM) is a significant public health concern, and the disease is considered a modern pandemic throughout the world. The incidence of diabetes is steadily climbing, which is causing grave concern. As a result, it is essential to take into consideration the risk factors that are pervasive in Egyptian society and have led to the worsening of this problem. These risk factors include sedentary lifestyles, obesity, hepatitis C infections, pesticides, smoking, and bad cultural habits. In this review, we aim to demonstrate the possible solutions to fight diabetes mellitus and overcome its serious health and socioeconomic burdens in Egypt. A multidisciplinary, team-based approach is highly recommended in diabetes management. Primary care physicians, endocrinologists, nephrologists, and preventive cardiologists all play a crucial role in providing the highest possible level of care to diabetic patients by collaborating closely with one another. The assessment of cardiovascular risk and the prevention of life-threatening cardiovascular events, common among diabetic patients, warrant the introduction of preventive cardiology, a new and significant concept in diabetes care that demands adoption. The integration of preventive cardiology into the treatment of diabetic patients is expected to significantly cut down the morbidity and mortality rates associated with diabetes mellitus and provide them with a better quality of life.

Prospective association between dietary pesticide exposure profiles and type 2 diabetes risk in the NutriNet-Santé cohort

BACKGROUND

Studies focusing on dietary pesticides in population-based samples are scarce and little is known about potential mixture effects. We aimed to assess associations between dietary pesticide exposure profiles and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) among NutriNet-Santé cohort participants.

METHODS

Participants completed a Food Frequency Questionnaire at baseline, assessing conventional and organic food consumption. Exposures to 25 active substances used in European Union pesticides were estimated using the Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Stuttgart residue database accounting for farming practices. T2D were identified through several sources. Exposure profiles were established using Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (NMF), adapted for sparse data. Cox models adjusted for known confounders were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), for the associations between four NMF components, divided into quintiles (Q) and T2D risk.

RESULTS

The sample comprised 33,013 participants aged 53 years old on average, including 76% of women. During follow-up (median: 5.95 years), 340 incident T2D cases were diagnosed. Positive associations were detected between NMF component 1 (reflecting highest exposure to several synthetic pesticides) and T2D risk on the whole sample: HR_Q5vsQ1 = 1.47, 95% CI (1.00, 2.18). NMF Component 3 (reflecting low exposure to several synthetic pesticides) was associated with a decrease in T2D risk, among those with high dietary quality only (high adherence to French dietary guidelines, including high plant foods consumption): HR_Q5vsQ1 = 0.31, 95% CI (0.10, 0.94).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest a role of dietary pesticide exposure in T2D risk, with different effects depending on which types of pesticide mixture participants are exposed to. These associations need to be confirmed in other types of studies and settings, and could have important implications for developing prevention strategies (regulation, dietary guidelines).

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT03335644 ).

Dietary Magnesium Intake Ameliorates the Association Between Household Pesticide Exposure and Type 2 Diabetes: Data From NHANES, 2007-2018

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

This study aimed to explore whether household pesticide exposure in the general population increased the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and whether intake of dietary magnesium could lower type 2 diabetes from household pesticide exposure.

METHODS

For this cross-sectional study, we obtained the data of 9,187 United States adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2007-2018. Participants were subdivided into two groups based on the amount of daily dietary magnesium in the population: low group: <175 mg/day and high group: ≥175 mg/day. Using multivariable logistic regression analysis, we evaluated the relationship between pesticide exposure in the home and type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

Compared to those unexposed at home, individuals who were exposed to pesticides in their households had a relatively higher odds ratio for type 2 diabetes (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.04-1.44). The association of pesticide exposure in the home with the incidence of type 2 diabetes was different for low and high dietary magnesium groups, OR = 1.66, 95% Cl: 1.19-2.33 vs. OR = 1.1, 95% Cl: 0.92-1.32, respectively. An interaction (P = 0.035) between household pesticide exposure and magnesium intake, suggested that high dietary magnesium intake may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes from pesticide exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Household pesticide exposure in the general population is associated with an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. We report for the first time possible clinical relevance in that high magnesium intake may ameliorate the increased risk of type 2 diabetes from pesticide exposure.

Association between pesticide exposure and obesity: A cross-sectional study of 20,295 farmers in Thailand

Background: Obesity is a serious condition because it is associated with other chronic diseases which affect the quality of life. In addition to problems associated with diet and exercise, recent research has found that pesticide exposure might be another important risk factor. The objective of this study was to determine the association between pesticide exposure and obesity among farmers in Nakhon Sawan and Phitsanulok province, Thailand. 

Methods: This study was a population-based cross-sectional study. Data on pesticide use and obesity prevalence from 20,295 farmers aged 20 years and older were collected using an in-person interview questionnaire. The association was analysed using multivariable logistic regression, adjusted for its potential confounding factors. 

Results: Obesity was found to be associated with pesticide use in the past. The risk of obesity was significantly predicted by types of pesticides, including insecticides (OR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.00-4.38), herbicides (OR = 4.56, 95% CI 1.11-18.62), fungicides (OR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.34-3.36), rodenticides (OR = 2.55, 95% CI 1.61-4.05), and molluscicides (OR = 3.40, 95% CI 2.15-5.40). Among 35 surveyed individual pesticides, 22 were significantly associated with higher obesity prevalence (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.10-2.88 to OR = 8.30, 95% CI 2.54-27.19), including herbicide butachlor, 15 insecticides (two carbamate insecticides, five organochlorine insecticides, and eight organophosphate insecticides), and six fungicides. 

Conclusion: This study found obesity in farmers in Nakhon Sawan and Phitsanulok province, Thailand, to be associated with the long-term use of several types of pesticides. The issue should receive more public attention, and pesticide use should be strictly controlled.

Persistent organic pollutants and β-cell toxicity: a comprehensive review

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are a diverse family of contaminants that show widespread global dispersion and bioaccumulation. Humans are continuously exposed to POPs through diet, air particles, and household and commercial products; POPs are consistently detected in human tissues, including the pancreas. Epidemiological studies show a modest but consistent correlation between exposure to POPs and increased diabetes risk. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of epidemiological evidence and an in-depth evaluation of the in vivo and in vitro evidence that POPs cause β-cell toxicity. We review evidence for six classes of POPs: dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), organophosphate pesticides (OPPs), flame retardants, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The available data provide convincing evidence implicating POPs as a contributing factor driving impaired glucose homeostasis, β-cell dysfunction, and altered metabolic and oxidative stress pathways in islets. These findings support epidemiological data showing that POPs increase diabetes risk and emphasize the need to consider the endocrine pancreas in toxicity assessments. Our review also highlights significant gaps in the literature assessing islet-specific endpoints after both in vivo and in vitro POP exposure. In addition, most rodent studies do not consider the impact of biological sex or secondary metabolic stressors in mediating the effects of POPs on glucose homeostasis and β-cell function. We discuss key gaps and limitations that should be assessed in future studies.

Health Behavior, Level of Hemoglobin A1c, and Quality of Life Among Agricultural Workers of Various Ethnicities in Thai Border Communities

Background

Little is known about the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and quality of life (QoL) in ethnic minority agricultural workers. We investigated the links among health behaviors, HbA1c levels, and QoL ethnic agricultural workers living in rural areas.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in three northern Provinces of Thailand. Agricultural workers of Indigenous, Hmong, Karen, and Lua communities were recruited. The number of 468 samples were selected using multistage sampling. Data collection was done from interviews using questionnaires, and blood samples were taken.

Results

We revealed 56.8% of participants to be female, with an average age of 49.6 years. Also, 56.0 and 34.8% of participants had low and moderate levels of knowledge on non-communicable diseases, respectively. In addition, 56.8 and 30.6% of participants had moderate and low health behaviors, respectively. Also, 51.5% had a HbA1c level (≥6.5%). We found that 64.7, 22.9, and 12.4% had moderate, low, and high QoL, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that having an underlying disease and knowledge score were both significantly related to the health behaviors score (p < 0.05), accounting for 68.6% of the variance. Five variables (ethnicity, BMI, having an underlying disease, smoking, and health behaviors) were significantly related to the HbA1c level (p < 0.05), accounting for 24.6% of the variance. Education, health behaviors, and HbA1c level were significantly associated with QoL (p < 0.05). These three factors could explain 79.4% of the variance in QoL among ethnic agricultural workers.

Conclusion

Health behaviors of ethnic minority agricultural workers influenced their HbA1c level and QoL. Effective health behaviors modification programs should be developed in accordance with the problems and needs among ethnic minority agricultural workers to enhance their QoL.

Antifungal and Antiaflatoxinogenic Effects of Cymbopogon citratus, Cymbopogon nardus, and Cymbopogon schoenanthus Essential Oils Alone and in Combination

The antifungal and antiaflatoxinogenic activities of the essential oils (EOs) from the leaves of Cymbopogon schoenanthus, Cymbopogon citratus, Cymbopogon nardus, and their pair combinations were investigated. Antifungal susceptibility and the efficacy of paired combinations of EOs were assessed using agar microdilution and checkerboard methods, respectively. Identification and quantification of chemical components of the EOs were carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-MS and GC-FID), respectively. Aflatoxins were separated and identified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and then quantified by spectrofluorescence. The EO of C. nardus exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The combination of C. citratus and C. nardus and that of C. nardus and C. schoenanthus exhibited a synergistic effect against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus, respectively. Both C. citratus and C. schoenanthus EOs totally inhibited the synthesis of aflatoxin B1 at 1 µL/mL. C. citratus blocked the production of aflatoxins B2 and G2 at 0.5 µL/mL. Both C. citratus and C. schoenanthus totally hampered the production of the aflatoxin G1 at 0.75 µL/mL. The combination of C. citratus and C. schoenanthus completely inhibited the production of the four aflatoxins. The study shows that the combinations can be used to improve their antifungal and antiaflatoxinogenic activities.

Associations of neonicotinoids with insulin and glucose homeostasis parameters in US adults: NHANES 2015-2016

Neonicotinoids are replacement insecticides increasingly used for organophosphates, methylcarbamates, and pyrethroids. Experimental evidence suggests neonicotinoids may affect glucose metabolism and insulin secretion through pancreatic β cell dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. However, no epidemiologic study has investigated neonicotinoids as potential diabetogens. We examined associations between neonicotinoids with insulin and glucose homeostasis parameters among 1381 non-diabetic adults in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015-2016). Urinary concentrations of acetamiprid, clothianidin, imidacloprid, N-desmethyl-acetamiprid, and 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid were quantified. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and hemoglobin A_1c (HbA_1c) were assessed. Insulin resistance was defined as a homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance ≥2.5. We used weighted linear and logistic regression to estimate associations between detectable neonicotinoids with insulin and glucose homeostasis parameters compared to non-detectable neonicotinoid concentrations. Weighted detection frequencies for imidacloprid, 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid, and N-desmethyl-acetamiprid were 4.4 %, 21.5 %, and 32.8 %, respectively. Detectable imidacloprid (β = -4.7 μIU/mL, 95 % confidence interval [CI] -8.5, -0.8) and 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid (β = -2.4 μIU/mL, 95 % CI -4.6, -0.2) were associated with lower fasting plasma insulin levels. Individuals with detectable 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid had lower odds of insulin resistance (odds ratio [OR] = 0.3, 95 % CI 0.2, 0.7). We observed evidence of sexually dimorphic associations between N-desmethyl-acetamiprid with glucose (p_int = 0.079) and 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid with HbA_1c (p_int = 0.038), with patterns suggesting positive associations in males and negative associations in females. Associations between 5-hydroxy-imidacloprid and insulin were modified by body mass index (BMI) (p_int = 0.013). We additionally observed age modified associations between 5-hydyroxy-imidacloprid and glucose (p_int = 0.048). Results suggest neonicotinoids may be associated with insulin and glucose homeostasis indices and call for prospective studies to examine the metabolic impact of these replacement insecticides in humans.

Antifungal Peptides and Proteins to Control Toxigenic Fungi and Mycotoxin Biosynthesis

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

Endosulfan promotes cell proliferation and extracellular matrix accumulation through TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in HRMCs

Endosulfan is an organochlorine pesticide, which poses a potential danger to human health and safety. It is known that dysfunction of glomerular mesangial cells causes glomerular sclerosis, associated with chronic kidney diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effects of endosulfan on cell proliferation and extracellular matrix accumulation (ECM) in human renal mesangial cells (HRMCs). Cells were treated with endosulfan, endosulfan (10 μM) plus specific inhibitor of TGF-β signaling (LY2109761) or antioxidant (NAC). The results showed that endosulfan significantly promoted cell proliferation, accompanied with the decrease of p27 mRNA expression and the increase in the mRNA expression levels of p21 and inflammatory factors IL-6/IL-8. qRT-PCR results showed that matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and tissue metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP3) were down-regulated whereas laminin was up-regulated when exposure to endosulfan. Western blot results showed that p-Smad2/3 was up-regulated, while Smad7 was down-regulated when exposure to endosulfan, which were reversed in the presence of LY2109761. Endosulfan significantly decreased the activity of SOD and increased the MDA level and CAT activity, which were reversed in the presence of NAC. These findings suggest that endosulfan can cause excessive proliferation and massive accumulation of ECM through TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, and also induced oxidative stress and inflammation in HRMCs.

Organophosphate pesticides and new-onset diabetes mellitus: From molecular mechanisms to a possible therapeutic perspective

Organophosphate is a commonly used pesticide in the agricultural sector. The main action of organophosphate focuses on acetylcholinesterase inhibition, and it therefore contributes to acute cholinergic crisis, intermediate syndrome and delayed neurotoxicity. From sporadic case series to epidemiologic studies, organophosphate has been linked to hyperglycemia and the occurrence of new-onset diabetes mellitus. Organophosphate-mediated direct damage to pancreatic beta cells, insulin resistance related to systemic inflammation and excessive hepatic gluconeogenesis and polymorphisms of the enzyme governing organophosphate elimination are all possible contributors to the development of new-onset diabetes mellitus. To date, a preventive strategy for organophosphate-mediated new-onset diabetes mellitus is still lacking. However, lowering reactive oxygen species levels may be a practical method to reduce the risk of developing hyperglycemia.

Factors Influencing Practice of Pesticide Use and Acute Health Symptoms among Farmers in Nakhon Sawan, Thailand

Information on knowledge (K), attitude (A), and practice (P) in terms of pesticide use is essential for an effective exposure control program. The objectives of this study were to survey the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice in terms of pesticide use, and the prevalence of acute health symptoms (AHSs) among farmers in Nakhon Sawan Province, Thailand. The study also tried to identify factors affecting the practice of pesticide use. Data from 680 farmers were collected using a face-to-face interview questionnaire. The relationship between safety practices and related factors was analyzed using ordinal logistic regression. This study found about 40% of the farmers had a good level of practice. Factors affecting practice were education, work experience, level of knowledge, or attitudes. Many participants experienced acute health symptoms in the past 24 h, and these symptoms were significantly associated with poor practice (p < 0.05). Public health organizations should provide farmers with more information, especially on chronic effects of pesticides.

Investigation of the association between pesticide exposure and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Shahedieh population in Yazd

This study aimed to investigate the effect of exposure to pesticides and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D). In a cross-sectional study with a population of 9088, the data were collected through Persian Adult Cohort Questionnaire in Shahedieh area of Yazd, Iran. Based on the results, variables such as age, gender, body mass index, physical activity, and education level in the studied population had a significant association with the prevalence of diabetes. Although the obtained data in this study did not show a relationship between exposure to pesticides and the risk of developing T2D, further prospective studies are needed to determine the association between exposure to pesticides and the development of T2D.

Environmental pollution and diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chromic metabolic disease that affects a large segment of the population worldwide. Physical inactivity, poor nutrition, and genetic predisposition are main risk factors for disease development. In the last decade, it was clear to the scientific community that DM development is linked to a novel disease inducer that was later defined as diabetogenic factors of pollution and endocrine disrupting agents. Environmental pollution is exponentially increasing in uncontrolled manner in several countries. Environmental pollutants are of diverse nature and toxicities, including polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, and heavy metals. In the current review, we shed light on the impact of each class of these pollutants and the underlined molecular mechanism of diabetes induction and biological toxicities. Finally, a brief overview about the connection between coronavirus disease 2019 and diabetes pandemics is presented.

Association between pesticide exposure and obesity: A cross-sectional study of 20,295 farmers in Thailand

Background: Obesity is a serious condition because it is associated with other chronic diseases which affect the quality of life. In addition to problems associated with diet and exercise, recent research has found that pesticide exposure might be another important risk factor. The objective of this study was to determine the association between pesticide exposure and obesity among farmers in Nakhon Sawan and Phitsanulok province, Thailand.  Methods: This study was a population-based cross-sectional study. Data on pesticide use and obesity prevalence from 20,295 farmers aged 20 years and older were collected using an in-person interview questionnaire. The association was analysed using multivariable logistic regression, adjusted for its potential confounding factors.  Results: Obesity was found to be associated with pesticide use in the past. The risk of obesity was significantly predicted by types of pesticides, including insecticides (OR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.00-4.38), herbicides (OR = 4.56, 95% CI 1.11-18.62), fungicides (OR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.34-3.36), rodenticides (OR = 2.55, 95% CI 1.61-4.05), and molluscicides (OR = 3.40, 95% CI 2.15-5.40). Among 35 surveyed individual pesticides, 22 were significantly associated with higher obesity prevalence (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.10-2.88 to OR = 8.30, 95% CI 2.54-27.19), including herbicide butachlor, 15 insecticides (two carbamate insecticides, five organochlorine insecticides, and eight organophosphate insecticides), and six fungicides.  Conclusion: This study found obesity in farmers in Nakhon Sawan and Phitsanulok province, Thailand, to be associated with the long-term use of several types of pesticides. The issue should receive more public attention, and pesticide use should be strictly controlled.

Chronic oral exposure to pesticides and their consequences on metabolic regulation: role of the microbiota

Pesticides have long been used in agriculture and household treatments. Pesticide residues can be found in biological samples for both the agriculture workers through direct exposure but also to the general population by indirect exposure. There is also evidence of pesticide contamination in utero and trans-generational impacts. Whilst acute exposure to pesticides has long been associated with endocrine perturbations, chronic exposure with low doses also increases the prevalence of metabolic disorders such as obesity or type 2 diabetes. Dysmetabolism is a low-grade inflammation disorder and as such the microbiota plays a role in its etiology. It is therefore important to fully understand the role of microbiota on the genesis of subsequent health effects. The digestive tract and mostly microbiota are the first organs of contact after oral exposure. The objective of this review is thus to better understand mechanisms that link pesticide exposure, dysmetabolism and microbiota. One of the key outcomes on the microbiota is the reduced Bacteroidetes and increased Firmicutes phyla, reflecting both pesticide exposure and risk factors of dysmetabolism. Other bacterial genders and metabolic activities are also involved. As for most pathologies impacting microbiota (including inflammatory disorders), the role of prebiotics can be suggested as a prevention strategy and some preliminary evidence reinforces this axis.

Prevalence of Diagnosed Diabetes Among Employed US Adults by Demographic Characteristics and Occupation, 36 States, 2014 to 2018

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes among employed US adults from 36 states by occupation group using data from 2014 to 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

METHODS

Prevalence of diabetes was calculated by 22 broad and 93 detailed occupation groups among a sample of 366,633 employed respondents. Wald chi-square values were used to determine the significance of associations between diabetes and occupation groups after adjusting for sex, age, and race/ethnicity.

RESULTS

The prevalence of diabetes was 6.4% among employed US adults. The three broad occupation groups with the highest adjusted prevalence of diabetes were protective services (8.9%), farming, fishing, and forestry (8.8%), and community and social services (8.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of diabetes differed by occupation. Work-related factors (eg, shift work, job stress) should be further examined in relation to risk of developing diabetes.

Correlation Study Between Erythrocyte Acetylcholinesterase Activity, Serum Malondialdehyde and Insulin Sensitivity in Agricultural Workers and Non-agricultural Workers in Nat-Kan Village, Magway Township

Objective

This study determined the correlation between erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and insulin sensitivity in agricultural workers and non-agricultural workers.

Methodology

The cross-sectional comparative study was undertaken in 45 agricultural and 45 non-agricultural workers from Nat-Kan Village, Magway Township. Erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase activity and serum malondialdehyde were measured by spectrophotometric method. Insulin sensitivity was calculated by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR).

Results

Mean erythrocyte AChE activity was significantly lower in agricultural (3553.99 IU/L) compared with nonagricultural workers (4432.68 IU/L) (p<0.001). A significant high level of mean serum MDA was observed in agricultural workers (0.74 versus 0.28 μmol/L, p<0.001). Median HOMA-IR value was significantly higher in agricultural (2.74) than that of non-agricultural workers (2.28) (p<0.05). The risk of insulin resistance was 2.8 times greater in agricultural workers than non-agricultural workers (OR 2.8, 95% CI, 1.18 to 6.72). Erythrocyte AChE activity had weak negative correlation with serum MDA level (r=-0.357, p<0.001) and HOMA-IR (ρ= -0.305, p<0.05). There was a significant but weak positive correlation between serum MDA level and HOMA-IR (ρ=0.355, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Organophosphate pesticide exposure lowered erythrocyte AChE activity and increased oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is partly attributed to the development of insulin resistance.