12 research outputs found
Pesticide use in urban environment and food safety
No full textPesticides are the most cost-effective way of pest management; nevertheless, the concern is about the non-target impacts due to their extensive and intensive use in urban agricultural and non-agricultural settings. The current research investigated the fate and behaviour of four extensively used pesticides, glyphosate, 2,4-D, chlorothalonil, and dimethoate, in terms of sorption-desorption, degradation (half-life), and plant uptake from soils to assess potential human and environmental health hazards. Mostly, the rate-determining step of pesticide sorption in urban landscape soils involved chemisorption processes through exchanging or sharing electrons that followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. As evidenced by the Freundlich isotherm model, pesticides get partitioned into heterogeneous surfaces of soil organic matter (OM) and clay minerals and then diffused into soil micropores. Soil OM, oxides of Al and Fe, and contents of clay and silt were positively correlated with the distribution coefficient (Kd) of pesticides in urban soils, while alkaline pH and sand content negatively correlated with Kd values. Well-decomposed soil OM, consisting of C–H and C–O functional groups, enhanced pesticide sorption, whereas partially decomposed/undecomposed OM facilitated the desorption process. Desorption of pesticides was favoured in almost all the selected urban soils due to adverse hysteresis effects. In contrast, the degradation rate constant (k) values (day−1) for the studied pesticides were inversely proportional to those of organic carbon (OC), silt, clay, and Fe and Al oxides and directly proportional to pH and sand content in soils. The half-life (DT50) values (days) of all four pesticides in five soils positively correlated with OC, clay, silt, and oxides of Fe and Al, whereas soil pH and sand content exhibited a negative correlation. The calculated values of environmental indices, groundwater ubiquity score (GUS), and leachability index (LIX), for the selected pesticides, indicate their potential portability into water bodies, affecting non-target organisms as well as food safety. The evaluation for human non-cancer risk of these pesticides, based on hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI), suggested that exposure of adults and children to soils contaminated with 50% of initially applied concentrations through ingestion, dermal, and inhalation pathways might cause negligible or no non-carcinogenic risks. In case of plant growth study, the detected leftover residue (LoR) of glyphosate, 2,4-D, chlorothalonil, and dimethoate were above EU-MRLs in almost all the spinach and lettuce samples. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between LoR of selected pesticides in leafy salad vegetables and soil properties, particularly OC, silt, Fe, and Al oxides. In contrast, LoR positively correlated with pH, sand and clay content. The calculated values of aHI indicated that the consumption of leafy salad vegetables grown in soils spiked at 10 times higher (D10×) than the recommended doses (DR) of dimethoate and chlorothalonil poses a potential acute health hazard (aHI >100%) to children, whereas chronic health hazards based on hazard quotient (HQ >1) pointed out the potential threat for both adults and children. Our present study, for the first time, provides awareness of the non-target impacts of pesticide contamination in urban environments so that legislators can set new guidelines for the safe application of pesticides in urban landscapes, particularly in home gardens, to ensure food safety. Therefore, pesticides should be applied judiciously at recommended concentrations in urban landscapes, mainly on impervious surfaces, to minimize their impacts on human and environmental health
EFFECT OF ORGANIC MANURES AND MULCHING ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF BROCCOLI
No full textA Thesis
Submitted to the Dept. of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture,
Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka-1207
in partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the degree
of
MASTER OF SCIENCE (MS)
IN
HORTICULTUREAn experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Farm, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural
University, Dhaka, during October 2011 to March 2012. The experiment consisted of
two factors, Factor A: Three levels of organic manures, viz. O
0
= Control; O
=
Cowdung (25 t ha
-1
) and O
2
= Spent Mushroom compost (17 t ha
-1
), and Factor B:
Four types of mulching, viz. M
0
= Control, M
1
= Black polythene, M
= Water
hyacinth and M
= Rice straw. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete
block design with three replications. The highest stem length of curd, crown length,
diameter and weight of primary curd plant
3
-1
, number and weight of secondary curds
plant
-1
and yield (16.99 t/ha) were obtained from O
2
while the lowest from O
. The
highest stem length of curd, crown length, diameter and weight of primary curd plant
1
, number and weight of secondary curds plant
-1
and yield (14.58 t/ha) were obtained
from M
2
while the lowest from M
For combined effect, the highest curd yield (18.28
t/ha) was obtained from O
2
M
2
0.
and lowest from O
0
M
. So, it can be concluded that 17
t/ha spent mushroom compost with water hyacinth mulch is suitable for broccoli
cultivation
Editorial: Agrochemicals in agricultural and non-agricultural settings: fate, distribution, and potential human and environmental health hazards
No full textAgrochemicals in agricultural and non-agricultural settings: fate, distribution, and potential human and environmental health hazards
Global concerns over the extensive use of agrochemicals, including pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, have intensified due to their significant impacts on ecological and human health (Parven et al., 2024). Agrochemicals are widely used in agricultural and non-agricultural settings to enhance productivity and manage pests, but their improper use and persistence in the environment pose serious risks (Ramakrishnan et al., 2019). The articles in this Research Topic delve into various aspects of agrochemical use, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to mitigate their adverse effects.
He et al. presents an evolutionary game approach to promoting the reduction of pesticide and fertilizer use by agricultural enterprises. This study analyses the decision-making processes of different stakeholders, including the government, agricultural enterprises, and consumers, under varying influencing factors. The findings suggest that reward measures by the government significantly impact the adoption of sustainable practices by agricultural enterprises. This research provides valuable insights into policy mechanisms that can encourage the reduction of agrochemical use, contributing to food safety and environmental protection.
Chen et al. focus on the residue determination and dietary risk assessment of mesotrione, nicosulfuron, atrazine, and its metabolites in maize. Using advanced analytical methods, this study evaluates the residues of these herbicides in maize from different locations in China and assesses the chronic dietary risks. The results indicate that the residues are within acceptable limits, guiding the rational use of these herbicides to ensure safe maize production. This research underscores the importance of monitoring and managing agrochemical residues to protect human health.
Dione et al. investigate the levels of pesticide residues in tomatoes sold in urban markets of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. This study reveals significant contamination, with a high percentage of samples containing residues of commonly used pesticides, some exceeding maximum residue levels. The findings highlight the urgent need for better pesticide regulation and consumer safety measures to address the health risks associated with pesticide residues in vegetables. This research emphasizes the importance of stringent monitoring and regulation of pesticide use in urban agriculture.
Phan et al. examine the pesticide regulatory environment for pollinator protection across different geographical regions. Comparing approaches in the United States, the European Union, and selected Asian countries, this perspective highlights the diverse regulatory frameworks and their effectiveness in safeguarding pollinators. The study advocates for comprehensive and proactive pesticide regulations to mitigate non-target risks and protect pollinator populations. This research is crucial for informing global pesticide policies and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
The articles in this Research Topic collectively address the complex challenges associated with agrochemical use in various settings. They emphasize the need for integrated pest management practices, innovative policy mechanisms, and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe and sustainable use of agrochemicals. By understanding the fate and distribution of these chemicals and their potential health and environmental impacts, we can develop strategies to mitigate risks and promote a healthier future for both humans and ecosystems.
In conclusion, while agrochemicals have played a vital role in enhancing agricultural productivity, their widespread use presents significant challenges. The research presented in this Research Topic provides valuable insights into the risks associated with agrochemicals and offers potential solutions to address these challenges. It is imperative to continue exploring sustainable alternatives and regulatory measures to safeguard human health and the environment
Vitamin-A enriched yogurt through fortification of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima): A potential alternative for preventing blindness in children
No full textVitamin-A deficiency associated with night blindness in children is a global health problem that could be prevented or reduced by promoting the intake of β-carotene in food. The fortification of β-carotene in yogurt using pumpkin flesh (PF) could be a very cost-effective public health intervention. The current study aimed to analyze the proximate, functional, microbial, textural, and sensory properties of yogurt fortified with PF to evaluate its suitability as a β-carotene enriched food. The research was conducted with three treatments, control set-type yogurt (CSY) with no PF, 15% PF-fortified set-type yogurt (15PFSY), and 20% PF-fortified set-type yogurts (20PFSY) followed by pumpkin pie spice and ground pumpkin seed to improve consumer acceptability. The fortified yogurt with 20PFSY and 15PFSY contained a higher amount of β-carotene, protein, fiber, and ash, and lower carbohydrate, fat, and energy in compression with CSY, which might attract health-conscious people. In addition, viable bacterial count, firmness, consistency, cohesiveness, and viscosity index were found better in fortified yogurt. Based on reports of sensory panellists, 15PFSY achieved a significantly (p < 0.01) highest overall acceptability than 20PFSY and CSY. These findings suggest that pumpkin-fortified yogurt could be used widely as a nutrient-enriched fermented food. In addition, as a β-carotene (vitamin-A) fortified yogurt, it could be a potential alternative to prevent or reduce blindness in children with minimal cost
Evaluation of Growth Performance of Some Rice Varieties in Relation to Their Economic Yield
No full textThe experiment was conducted during the period of March to August (Aus season), 2013 at the experimental farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, and Dhaka to evaluate the growth performance of some rice varieties in relation to their economic yield. The performance of BRRI hybrid dhan1, BRRI hybrid dhan2, ACI hybrid2, Jagoron and Panna1 were compared with check variety, BRRI dhan48. The experiment was laid out with Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were recorded on different growth parameters, grain yield, straw yield, biological yield and harvest index. The data were recorded at 30, 45, 60 and 75 days after transplanting (DAT) as well as at final harvest and obtained data were statistically analyzed for comparisons. In term of vegetative growth parameters, plant height, tiller hill-1, leaf area index, stem dry matter hill-1, leaves dry matter hill-1 and total dry matter hill-1 at different DAT, the ACI hybrid2 was superior over the check variety, BRRI dhan48 as well as BRRI hybrid dhan1 and BRRI hybrid dhan1. Highest and statistically significant grain yield (3.05 t ha-1) straw yield (4.20 t ha-1) biological yield (7.25 t ha-1) and harvest index (42.01%) was observed in ACI hybrid2 which was statistically identical with hybrid rice Jagoron and Panna. All test hybrid varieties were superior in vegetative and yield performance over inbreed BRRI dhan48 during Aus season. 
Okra Micro-Cellulose Crystal (MCC) and Micro-Clay Composites for the Remediation of Copper, Nickel, and Dye (Basic Yellow II) from Wastewater
No full textWater pollution by contaminants such as toxic metals and dyes is now a major concern due to their high toxicity and persistence in the environment. Advances in nanotechnology have enabled the use of micro/nanomaterials to treat and purify water in various industries. In this study, Bijoypur clay was modified with ethyldiamine and incorporated into an okra fiber (Abelmoschus esculentus) micro-cellulose crystal (MCC) to produce a composite that could absorb copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and dyes like basic yellow (II) from industrial wastewater. Composites were prepared using different percentages of MCC and clay. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) was used to determine the concentrations of Cu and Ni whereas a UV–Visible spectrophotometer measured the absorbance of basic yellow (II). The synthesized composites were extensively characterized using a range of techniques including thermogravimetry (TG) and differential thermogravimetry (DTG), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results show that both the MCC and clay could absorb Cu, Ni, and basic yellow (II) from the contaminated wastewater. The MCC and clay composite showed the maximum efficiency of metals removal, which was up to 95% (24 mg/g) for Cu at pH 6, 20 min contact time, 2 g/L adsorbent dose, and 100% (31 mg/g) for Ni at pH 8, 60 min contact time, and 2 g/L adsorbent dose, respectively, at the initial concentration of 50 mg/L. The maximum dye uptake capacity of 85% (19 mg/g) was observed by the MCC and clay composite under optimized conditions at the initial concentration of 50 mg/L, pH 8, 30 min contact time, and 1 g/L adsorbent dose compared to the pure clay, which had an efficiency up to 26% for Cu and 24% for dye removal. All of the results indicate that incorporating clay into MCC increases the absorption capacity of contaminants from wastewater, which could be more effective for environmental applications compared to untreated cellulose
Degradation of four pesticides in five urban landscape soils: human and environmental health risk assessment
No full textPesticides are the most cost-effective means of pest control; however, the serious concern is about the non-target effects due to their extensive and intensive use in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings. The degradation rate constant (k) and half-life (DT50) of four commonly used pesticides, glyphosate, 2,4-D, chlorothalonil and dimethoate were determined in five Australian urban landscape soils, with varying physicochemical characteristics, to assess their environmental and human health risks. The k values (day−1) for the selected pesticides were inversely proportional to those of organic carbon (OC), silt, clay and Fe and Al oxides, and directly proportional to pH and sand content in soils. In contrast, the calculated values of DT50 (days) of all the four pesticides in five soils positively correlated with OC, clay, silt and oxides of Fe and Al, whereas soil pH and sand content exhibited a negative correlation. The calculated values of environmental indices, GUS and LIX, for the selected pesticides indicate their potential portability into water bodies, affecting non-target organisms as well as food safety. The evaluation for human non-cancer risk of these pesticides, based on the calculated values of hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI), suggested that exposure of adults and children to soils, contaminated with 50% of initially applied concentrations, through ingestion, dermal and inhalation pathways might cause negligible to zero non-carcinogenic risks. The present data might help the stakeholders in applying recommended doses of pesticides in urban landscapes and regulatory bodies concerned in monitoring the overall environmental quality and implementing safeguard policies. Our study also clearly demonstrates the need for developing improved formulations and spraying technologies for pesticides to minimize human and environmental health risks
Quantification of Pesticide Residues in Fresh Vegetables Available in Local Markets for Human Consumption and the Associated Health Risks
No full textHuman health risks as a result of consuming pesticide residues in fresh vegetables have drawn serious attention to the scientific community, particularly in developing countries. This study analyzed country bean (Lablab purpureus L.) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) for widely used neonicotinoid, synthetic pyrethroid, and dithiocarbamate pesticide residues in order to ensure food safety. The analyzed vegetables contained residues of acetamiprid and cypermethrin in 17% of bean and 13% of eggplant samples, respectively; among them, 3% of bean and 1% of eggplant samples had residues of acetamiprid that were above the maximum residue limits set by the European Union (EU-MRLs). None of the samples for either of the analyzed vegetables contained the residue of thiram and lambda-cyhalothrin. In contrast, 83% of bean and 87% of eggplant samples had no detectable pesticides. Thus, the findings were surprising considering the repeated and overuse of pesticides in vegetables in the investigated areas. However, this outcome supports the general claim of pesticide adulteration in terms of the active ingredients, which is another drawback to ensuring food safety. The non-cancer health risk assessment based on the acute health risk to consumer (aHI) and chronic hazard quotient (HQ) indicates that contaminated vegetables might pose a potential threat to children’s health and alarming for adults. This study reflects the overall scenario of pesticide residues in marketed vegetables of Barishal district of Bangladesh, which could help the consumers to bring awareness, and to take necessary actions by the pesticide suppliers and policymakers
Potted garden pea grown in presence of pre-emergence herbicides: impacts on soil enzymes and human health
No full textPre-emergence herbicide residues in pea cultivation can pose significant health risks to nontarget organisms, including humans. To assess the impact of these residues on soil and human health, garden peas were grown in an agricultural soil (MAT) and potting mix (POM) treated with dimethenamid-P, metazachlor, and pyroxasulfone. Dehydrogenase activity in MAT soil was not significantly affected by these herbicides. However, in POM, herbicide application resulted in significantly higher dehydrogenase levels, likely due to the higher organic matter content promoting microbial activity and moisture retention. In contrast, phosphatase activity levels remained relatively consistent across untreated and treated samples of both MAT and POM. Herbicide residues in pea pods, shoots and roots were measured to evaluate potential human health hazards. The detected residue levels were at or above the European Union's maximum residue levels. The calculated non-cancer acute health hazard index of (aHI <100 %) and hazard quotient of (HQ <1) suggested that consuming peas grown in potting medium treated with these herbicides at recommended doses does not pose a health hazard to humans. This study is the first to provide insights into the environmental impact of pre-emergence herbicide residues in soil, aiding the development of safer and more sustainable vegetable farming practices
Artificial intelligence-enabled rapid and symptom-based medication recommendation system (COV-MED) for the COVID-19 patients
No full textIn a general COVID-19 population in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, we developed a medication recommendation system based on clinical information from the electronic medical record (EMR). Our goal was also to enable deep learning (DL) strategies to quickly assist physicians and COVID-19 patients by recommending necessary medications. The general demographic data, clinical symptoms, basic clinical tests, and drug information of 8953 patients were used to create a dataset. The learning model in this COVID-MED model was created using Keras (an open-source artificial neural network library) to solve regression problems. In this study, a sequential model was adopted. In order to improve the prediction capability and achieve global minima quickly and smoothly, the COVID-MED model incorporates an adaptive optimizer dubbed Adam. The model calculated a mean absolute error of 0.0037, a mean squared error of 0.000035, and a root mean squared error of 0.0059. The model predicts the output medications, such as injections or other oral medications, with around 99% accuracy. These findings show that medication can be predicted using information from the EMR. Similar models allow for patient-specific decision support to help prevent medication errors in diseases other than COVID-19
