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Employing post-harvest treatments to maintain pomegranate fruit quality during storage is a prevalent practice within the food industry. IMAZALIL (IMZ), a fungicide, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing both the incidence of chilling injury symptoms and the presence of pathogenic fungi. This study aims to assess the impact of IMZ treatment on the technological quality (weight loss, color attributes (C* and h°), pH, titratable acidity, and total soluble solids), nutritional properties (total sugars content), and functional properties (total phenolic compounds (TPC) and total anthocyanin content (TAC)) in pomegranate fruits of the 'Sefri Ouled Abdellah' and 'Kingdom' cultivars. These fruits were collected in the Beni Mellal region and immediately stored at 4 °C for 120 days. Untreated pomegranates exhibited significant degradation in overall quality when stored in cold conditions. The fruits treated with IMZ are characterized by a major loss in weight (3.41% to 20.11%) compared to the control fruits (1.62% to 13.19%). This was accompanied by more pronounced color degradation in the IMZ-treated fruits relative to the control. This study substantiates the effectiveness of IMZ treatment in prolonging the post-harvest quality of pomegranates during cold storage, demonstrating superior efficacy in delaying losses in bioactive compounds by 39.44% and enhancing nutritional properties by 18.84%. This finding initiates the exploration of optimal IMZ concentrations and the best treatments to maintain the overall quality of pomegranate fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to evaluate the dietary risk of imazalil and prochloraz residues in whole fruit, peel and pulp of litchi, this study reported a gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) to determine the residue of imazalil, prochloraz and their metabolites simultaneously. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation of this method were 2.0 and 6.0 µg/kg for imazalil, 3.0 and 10.0 µg/kg for prochloraz, 6.0 and 20.0 µg/kg for imidazole ethanol, as well as 0.3 and 1.0 µg/kg for 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, respectively. The average recoveries in whole fruit, peel and pulp of litchi were 78.9%~107%. The relative standard deviation (RSD) ranges from 2.6% to 5.8%. The results of preservation showed that the higher the concentration of imazalil and prochloraz the higher the residual amount. The residue gradually migrated from peel to pulp with the increases in storage time. After freshness processing, the residues of imazalil and prochloraz in whole fruit and peel decreased, while the pulp increased to the maximum value on the 7th day, and then gradually decreased. Imidazole ethanol and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol increased with the increase of storage time. The risk of chronic and acute dietary intake within 14 days of safe interval was within acceptable range.

Abstract Background The Xylogone ganodermophthora is a pathogenic bacterium that poses a significant challenge to the continuous cultivation of the Ganoderma lucidum fungus. This study aims to identify and investigate specific agents for the effective prevention and control of X. ganodermophthora, establishing a theoretical foundation for overcoming this persistent challenge in G. lucidum cultivation. Results Using different G. lucidum soil as materials to study the presence of X. ganodermophthora in the soil. Additionally, the plate confrontation test was employed to investigate the impact of X. ganodermophthora on G. lucidum growth. The impact of physical factors and antibacterial agents on pathogenic bacteria was successfully carried out, with a further exploration of the effectiveness of field control. PCR amplification experiment and sequencing analysis verified that X. ganodermophthora existed in G. lucidum continuous cropping obstacle soil. This pathogenic bacteria has a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of G. lucidum, with an inhibition rate of up to 52.23%. High temperature, low temperature, light and other physical factors have no obvious inhibitory effect on this pathogen. Further investigation revealed that specific drugs, such as low concentrations (10 μL/mL) of Acticide DB20 and Imazalil, could effectively inhibit X. ganodermophthora growth in G. lucidum. Among them, Imazalil has a notable inhibitory effect on the growth of X. ganodermophthora. Conclusions Indoor toxicity test and field control results showed that Imazalil could effectively control the growth of pathogen X. ganodermophthora in G. lucidum continuous cropping obstacle, and promote the growth of G. lucidum. Graphical Abstract

Employing post-harvest treatments to maintain pomegranate fruit quality during storage is a prevalent practice within the food industry. IMAZALIL (IMZ), a fungicide, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing both the incidence of chilling injury symptoms and the presence of pathogenic fungi. This study aims to assess the impact of IMZ treatment on the technological quality (weight loss, color attributes (C* and h°), pH, titratable acidity, and total soluble solids), nutritional properties (total sugars content), and functional properties (total phenolic compounds (TPC) and total anthocyanin content (TAC)) in pomegranate fruits of the ‘Sefri Ouled Abdellah’ and ‘Kingdom’ cultivars. These fruits were collected in the Beni Mellal region and immediately stored at 4 °C for 120 days. Untreated pomegranates exhibited significant degradation in overall quality when stored in cold conditions. The fruits treated with IMZ are characterized by a major loss in weight (3.41% to 20.11%) compared to the control fruits (1.62% to 13.19%). This was accompanied by more pronounced color degradation in the IMZ-treated fruits relative to the control. This study substantiates the effectiveness of IMZ treatment in prolonging the post-harvest quality of pomegranates during cold storage, demonstrating superior efficacy in delaying losses in bioactive compounds by 39.44% and enhancing nutritional properties by 18.84%. This finding initiates the exploration of optimal IMZ concentrations and the best treatments to maintain the overall quality of pomegranate fruits.

Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The Xylogone ganodermophthora is a pathogenic bacterium that poses a significant challenge to the continuous cultivation of the Ganoderma lucidum fungus. This study aims to identify and investigate specific agents for the effective prevention and control of X. ganodermophthora, establishing a theoretical foundation for overcoming this persistent challenge in G. lucidum cultivation. Results: Using different G. lucidum soil as materials to study the presence of X. ganodermophthora in the soil. Additionally, the plate confrontation test was employed to investigate the impact of X. ganodermophthora on G. lucidum growth. The impact of physical factors and antibacterial agents on pathogenic bacteria was successfully carried out, with a further exploration of the effectiveness of field control. PCR amplification experiment and sequencing analysis verified that X. ganodermophthora existed in G. lucidum continuous cropping obstacle soil. This pathogenic bacteria has a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of G. lucidum, with an inhibition rate of up to 52.23%. High temperature, low temperature, light and other physical factors have no obvious inhibitory effect on this pathogen. Further investigation revealed that specific drugs, such as low concentrations (10 μL/mL) of Acticide DB20 and Imazalil, could effectively inhibit X. ganodermophthora growth in G. lucidum. Among them, Imazalil has a notable inhibitory effect on the growth of X. ganodermophthora. Conclusions: Indoor toxicity test and field control results showed that Imazalil could effectively control the growth of pathogen X. ganodermophthora in G. lucidum continuous cropping obstacle, and promote the growth of G. lucidum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current investigation was to assess the hepatoprotective capabilities of two algal species, Ulva lactuca and Spirulina platensis, in carp (Cyprinus carpio) fingerlings subjected to imazalil exposure. Consequently, the experimental groups were simultaneously exposed to the fungicide (5mg/kg feed) and provided with feed containing either Ulva lactuca alone (IMZ-Uv variants - 5 g/kg ulva), Spirulina platensis alone (IMZ-Sp variants - 5 g/kg spirulina), or a combination of both algae (IMZ-Uv-Sp variants - 2.5 g/kg ulva and 2.5 g/kg spirulina). Two control variants were employed in the experiments: a negative control receiving normal feed and a positive control receiving feed with 5mg/kg imazalil. Each variant involved 15 fish per tank, and after the experiment, five fish from each tank were utilized for biological samples. The assessment of biochemical serum parameters and oxidative stress markers for each specimen revealed that imazalil induced alterations in biochemical parameters, resulting in physiological dysfunctions in carp. However, the administration of algae, in particular Spirulina platensis, demonstrated significant potential in mitigating the adverse effects of imazalil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a fungicide with the characteristics of high effectiveness, internal absorption and broad spectrum, imazalil is widely used to prevent and treat in fruits and vegetables. Here, pregnant C57BL/6 mice were exposed to imazalil at dietary levels of 0, 0.025‰, and 0.25‰ through drinking water during pregnancy and lactation. We then analyzed the phenotype, metabolome, and expression of related genes and proteins in the livers of mice. There was a marked decrease in the body and liver weights of male offspring mice after maternal imazalil exposure, while this effect on the dam and female offspring was slight. Metabolomics analyses revealed that imazalil significantly altered the metabolite composition of liver samples from both dams and offspring. The preliminary results of the analysis indicated that glucolipid metabolism was the pathway most significantly affected by imazalil. We performed a coabundance association analysis of metabolites with significant changes in the pathway of glycolipid metabolism, and IMZ altered the networks of both dams and offspring compared with the network in control mice, especially in male offspring. The hepatic triglyceride, non-esterified fatty acid and glucose levels were increased significantly in the dams but decreased significantly in male offspring after maternal imazalil exposure. Furthermore, the expression levels of genes associated with glycolipid metabolism and m6A RNA methylation were significantly affected by maternal intake of imazalil. Imazalil-induced glucolipid metabolism disturbance was highly correlated with m6A RNA methylation. In conclusion, maternal imazalil exposure resulted in glucolipid metabolism disturbance and abnormal m6A RNA methylation in the livers of dams and offspring mice. We expected that the information acquired in this study will provide novel evidence for understanding the effect of maternal imazalil exposure on potential health risks.

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Certis Europe B.V. submitted a request to the competent national authority in the Netherlands to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance imazalil in cucumbers, courgettes and gherkins. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive an MRL proposal of 0.08 mg/kg for the whole group of cucurbits with edible peel. It is noted that the derived MRL is proposed to replace the existing tentative MRL of 0.1 mg/kg for courgettes, thus also addressing the data gap identified in the context of the MRL review. As regards to cucumbers and gherkins, it is noted that the MRL proposal derived in the current application is covered by the MRL of 0.5 mg/kg currently in place for these commodities. Nevertheless, it is also noted that the aforementioned MRLs are based on Codex maximum residue limits (CXLs) which were revoked in 2019 following the JMPR proposal. Should this proposal be implemented in the EU regulation in the future, the proposed MRL of 0.08 mg/kg as derived in the current application would be considered an appropriate fall‐back option for the whole group of cucurbits with edible peel. Further risk management considerations are therefore required. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of imazalil on the commodities under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.005 mg/kg (QuEChERS method based on LC–MS/MS) and 0.01 mg/kg (HPLC–MS/MS method). Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of imazalil according to the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health. However, it should be noted that a high degree of uncertainty on the overall long‐term exposure calculation remains due to the data gaps identified in the context of the MRL review on full toxicological assessment of the metabolite R014821, which is expected to occur following post‐harvest uses of imazalil, and animal metabolites FK‐772 and FK‐284. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imazalil (IMZ), a major surface water contaminant characterised by high environmental recalcitrance and toxicity, is used in fruit-packaging plants to control fungal infestations during storage. This leads to the production of wastewaters which should be treated on site before their environmental release. We previously isolated a Cladosporium herbarum strain, the first microorganism that could degrade IMZ. Here we describe the genetic network utilised by the fungus to degrade IMZ and its detailed transformation. Genomic and transcriptomic analysis of C. herbarum pointed to the involvement of strongly upregulated CYP450s in IMZ degradation, as further verified by cessation of its biodegradation by CYP450 inhibitors. LC-QTOF-HRMS analysis and suspect/non-target screening identified nine transformation products (TPs) of IMZ. IMZ biotransformation mainly proceeded through O-dealkylation, while other less important paths, most probably controlled by upregulated oxidases, were operative involving successive hydroxylation reactions. These lead to the formation of TPs like IMZ_313 and IMZ_331, with the former being further transformed through imidazole ring scission to IMZ_288, a TP reported for the first time. We provide first evidence for the transformation mechanism of IMZ by C. herbarum and the potential genes/enzymes involved, paving the way for the use of C. herbarum in the biodepuration of agro-industrial effluents., (© 2025 The Author(s). Microbial Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Imazalil is a chiral fungicide widely used to protect strawberries against gray mold, which may pose threats to food safety. This study aims to investigate the stereoselective behavior of imazalil during strawberry growth and strawberry wine production. A method was proposed and validated for the extraction and quantitative analysis of imazalil residues in strawberry, strawberry pomace, and strawberry wine by using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The method exhibited mean recoveries ranging from 86.2% to 119.7% with relative standard deviations of 0.1–11.3%. The dissipation curve of imazalil during strawberry growth followed the first-order kinetic model with a half-life ranging from 6.5 to 7.1 days. Significant enantioselectivity of imazalil was observed in strawberry grown under field conditions and strawberry wine production process, with enantiomeric fraction values ranging from 0.51 (2 h) to 0.42 (27d) and from 0.48 (0d) to 0.52 (10d), respectively. (+)-imazalil was preferentially degraded in strawberry under field conditions, while (−)-imazalil was preferentially degraded during the fermentation process. The processing factor was lower than 1 for each procedure, indicating that the wine-making process can reduce imazalil residue in strawberry. These findings may facilitate a more accurate risk assessment of imazalil and provide important guidance for the safe and efficacious use of imazalil in agriculture.

Based on high surface areas, adjustable porosity and microbicide activity, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) HKUST-1 are widely used as drug release carriers for their slow degradation characteristics under slightly acidic conditions. In this work, porous HKUST-1 was reacted rapidly by cholinium salt (as the deprotonation agent and template) in an aqueous solution at room temperature. A novel antimicrobial system based on an imazalil encapsulated metal organic framework (imazalil IL-3@HKUST-1) was established. Imazalil IL-3@HKUST-1 could achieve synergism in inhibiting pathogenic fungi and bacteria. Moreover, six days after treatment, the slow and constant release of imazalil from imazalil IL@HKUST-1 exhibited better sustainability and microbicidal activity than imazalil. We believe that the method may provide a new strategy for related plant diseases caused by bacteria or fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imazalil, a preservative for navel orange in the process of postharvest processing, is easy to seep into the flesh through the peel and produce residues in the flesh, which is vulnerable to cause endanger to human body if it was eaten accidentally. Base on this, a fast detection method of imazalil residues in navel orange peel ,namely surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was proposed in this study. Firstly, the SERS detection conditions of imazalil residues in navel orange peel were optimized, and the optimal detection conditions were determined as follows: Reaction time of 2 min, gold colloid of 400 µL, NaBr as electrolyte solution, NaBr dosage of 25 µL. Based on the above optimal conditions, 6 groups of spectral data processed by adaptive iterative penalized least squares (air PLS), air PLS combination with normalization, air PLS combination with baseline correction, air PLS combination with first derivative, air PLS combination with standard normal distribution (SNV), air PLS combination with multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) were used to establish support vector regression (SVR) models and compare the models prediction performance. And air PLS method was selected as the spectral pretreatment method, because the value of correlation coefficient computed value of prediction set (RP) is the largest, and the value of root mean square error calculated value of the prediction set (RMSEP) is the smallest. Then, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to extract the features from spectral data, and the first seven principal component scores were selected as the input values of SVR prediction model. SVR, multiple linear regression (MLR) and partial least squares regression (PLSR) were used to analyze and compare the prediction performances. The RP value of prediction set of SVR prediction model could reach 0.9156, the RMSEP value of their prediction set was 4.8407 mg/kg, and the relative standard deviation computation value (RPD) was 2.3103, which indicated that the closer the predicted value of imazalil residue on navel orange surface based on SVR algorithm was to the measured value, the more effective the prediction accuracy of the model could be. The above data indicated that the speedy detection of imazalil residues in navel orange peel could be emploied by SERS coupled with PCA and SVR modeling method.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of preservatives on storage quality of orah fruits, so as to reduce the use of preservatives during its planting. Methods: The weight loss rate, vitamin C content, soluble solid content and titratable acid content of fruits were determined under different storage conditions, by using different concentrations of preservative. Results: At 4 ℃ and room temperature, the weight loss rate of fruits treated with preservatives was lower than that of the control group, and preservative treatment had different fresh-keeping effects on orah fruits. At 4 ℃, significant differences in vitamin C content among different treatments at 5, 28 and 42 days of storage were found, but no significant differences in other storage time. No significant difference in soluble solids and titratable acid contents among different treatments appeared. Among the treatment groups (treatment 1, treatment 2 and treatment 3), the weight loss rate, vitamin C content, soluble solid content and titratable acid content of orah fruit in treatment 2 were better than those in treatment 1 and 3. At room temperature, vitamin C content was significantly different among different treatments on the third day of storage. After 14 days of storage, the soluble solid content of treatment groups 1 and 2 was significantly different. On the 14th day of storage time, titratable acid content in treatment group 2 was significantly higher than that in treatment group 3. The contents of vitamin C, soluble solids and titratable acid in treatment group 2 were higher than those in other treatment groups, during most storage time. Conclusion: At 4 ℃, each preservative treatment has different degrees of preservation effect on orah fruits. 450 g/L midazamine +500 g/kg statin +100 g/kg 2,4-D+400 g/kg bellkute has better preservation effect on orah fruit.

In this work, three pesticides of different physicochemical properties: glyphosate (GLY, herbicide), imidacloprid (IMD, insecticide), and imazalil (IMZ, fungicide), were selected to assess their cytotoxicity against Caco-2 and HepG2 cells. Cell viability was assessed by the Alamar Blue assay, after 24 and 48 h exposure to different concentrations, and IC50 values were calculated. The mechanisms underlying toxicity, namely cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) content, lipid peroxidation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and apoptosis/necrosis induction were assessed by flow cytometry. Cytotoxic profiles were further correlated with the molecular physicochemical parameters of pesticides, namely: water solubility, partition coefficient in an n-octanol/water (Log Pow) system, topological polar surface area (TPSA), the number of hydrogen-bonds (donor/acceptor), and rotatable bonds. In vitro outputs resulted in the following toxicity level: IMZ (Caco-2: IC50 = 253.5 ± 3.37 μM, and HepG2: IC50 = 94 ± 12 μM) > IMD (Caco-2: IC50 > 1 mM and HepG2: IC50 = 624 ± 24 μM) > GLY (IC50 >>1 mM, both cell lines), after 24 h treatment, being toxicity time-dependent (lower IC50 values at 48 h). Toxicity is explained by oxidative stress, as IMZ induced a higher intracellular ROS increase and lipid peroxidation, followed by IMD, while GLY did not change these markers. However, the three pesticides induced loss of MMP in HepG2 cells while in Caco-2 cells only IMZ produced significant MMP loss. Increased ROS and loss of MMP promoted apoptosis in Caco-2 cells subjected to IMZ, and in HepG2 cells exposed to IMD and IMZ, as assessed by Annexin-V/PI. The toxicity profile of pesticides is directly correlated with their Log Pow, as affinity for the lipophilic environment favours interaction with cell membranes governs, and is inversely correlated with their TPSA; however, membrane permeation is favoured by lower TPSA. IMZ presents the best molecular properties for membrane interaction and cell permeation, i.e., higher Log Pow, lower TPSA and lower hydrogen-bond (H-bond) donor/acceptor correlating with its higher toxicity. In conclusion, molecular physicochemical factors such as Log Pow, TPSA, and H-bond are likely to be directly correlated with pesticide-induced toxicity, thus they are key factors to potentially predict the toxicity of other compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides affect different organs and tissues according to their bioavailability, chemical properties and further molecular interactions. In animal models exposed to several classes of pesticides, neurotoxic effects have been described, including the reduction of acetylcholinesterase activity in tissue homogenates. However, in homogenates, the reduction in enzymatic activity may also result from lower enzymatic expression and not only from enzymatic inhibition. Thus, in this work, we aimed to investigate the neurotoxic potential of four distinct pesticides: glyphosate (herbicide), imazalil (fungicide), imidacloprid (neonicotinoid insecticide) and lambda-cyhalothrin (pyrethroid insecticide), by assessing their inhibitory effect on the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and tyrosinase, by using direct in vitro enzymatic inhibition methods. All pesticides dose-dependently inhibited AChE activity, with an inhibition of 11 ± 2% for glyphosate, 48 ± 2% for imidacloprid, 49 ± 3% for imazalil and 50 ± 3% for lambda-cyhalothrin, at 1 mM. Only imazalil inhibited BChE. Imazalil induced dose-dependent inhibition of BChE with identical pattern as that observed for AChE; however, for lower concentrations (up to 500 μM), imazalil showed higher specificity for AChE, and for higher concentrations, the same specificity was found. Imazalil, at 1 mM, inhibited the activity of BChE by 49 ± 1%. None of the pesticides, up to 1 mM, inhibited tyrosinase activity. In conclusion, the herbicide glyphosate shows specificity for AChE but low inhibitory capacity, the insecticides imidacloprid and λ-cyhalothrin present selective AChE inhibition, while the fungicide IMZ is a broad-spectrum cholinesterase inhibitor capable of inhibiting AChE and BChE in an equal manner. Among these pesticides, the insecticides and the fungicide are the ones with higher neurotoxic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, three pesticides of different physicochemical properties, namely, glyphosate (herbicide), imidacloprid (insecticide) and imazalil (fungicide), were selected to assess their cytotoxicity against distinct cell models (Caco-2, HepG2, A431, HaCaT, SK-MEL-5 and RAW 264.7 cells) to mimic gastrointestinal and skin exposure with potential systemic effect. Cells were subjected to different concentrations of selected pesticides for 24 h or 48 h. Cell viability was assessed by Alamar Blue assay, morphological changes by bright-field microscopy and the IC50 values were calculated. Cytotoxic profiles were analysed using the physico-chemical parameters of the pesticides, namely: molecular weight, water solubility, the partition coefficient in the n-octanol/water (Log Pow) system, the topological polar surface area (TPSA), and number of hydrogen-bonds (donor/acceptor) and rotatable bonds. Results showed that glyphosate did not reduce cell viability (up to 1 mM), imidacloprid induced moderate toxicity (IC50 > 1 mM for Caco-2 cells while IC50 = 305.9 ± 22.4 μM for RAW 264.7 cells) and imazalil was highly cytotoxic (IC50 > 253.5 ± 3.37 for Caco-2 cells while IC50 = 31.3 ± 2.7 μM for RAW 264.7 cells) after 24 h exposure. Toxicity was time-dependent as IC50 values at 48 h exposure were lower, and decrease in cell viability was accompanied by changes in cell morphology. Pesticides toxicity was found to be directly proportional with their Log Pow, indicating that the affinity to a lipophilic environment such as the cell membranes governs their toxicity. Toxicity is inverse to pesticides TPSA, but lower TPSA favours membrane permeation. The lower toxicity against Caco-2 cells was attributed to the physiology and metabolism of cell barriers equipped with various ABC transporters. In conclusion, physicochemical factors such as Log Pow, TPSA and H-bond are likely to be directly correlated with pesticide-induced toxicity, thus being key factors to potentially predict the toxicity of other compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The absolute configuration of imazalil and its metabolite imidazol ethanol was determined. A chiral analysis method based on high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was established for the determination of imazalil and imidazol ethanol in different parts of citrus. The selective degradation behavior of imazalil during citrus storage was studied. Orange pulp, whole fruit and orange peel(Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Ponkan) samples were extracted by acetonitrile (containing 1% acetic acid by volume). Enantiomers of imazalil and imidazol ethanol were separated by chiral column of Lux Cellulose-2 and Chiralpak IG-3, respectively. The linear range of imazalil and imidazol ethanol enantiomers was 0.001~0.5 mg/L (R ² >0.991 5, >0.999 1). The limit of quantification (LOQ) of the method was 0.0005 mg/kg. The average recoveries of the four supplemental levels (0.0005, 0.05, 0.125 and 0.25 mg/kg) in different substrates were 78%-101% and 73%-105%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 0.4%-2.9% and 0.4%-5.6%, respectively. The storage and degradation of imazalil in orange conforms to the first-order kinetic equation. The half-lives of R-imazalil in whole orange and orange peel were 136 d and 158 d, respectively, while those of S-imazalil in whole orange and orange peel were 77 d and 82 d, respectively. The degradation rate of S-imazalil was significantly faster than that of R-imazalil. The accumulation velocity of S-imidazole ethanol was higher than that of Rimidazole ethanol in different parts of orange fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Smart Agriculture is the property of Smart Agriculture Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Few published studies are reported for the neurobehavioral toxicity of combined exposure to fungicides in mammals. This study was aimed to re‐evaluate the reproductive and neurobehavioral effects of maternal exposure to combined imazalil (IMZ) and thiabendazole (TBZ) with fixed‐dose of IMZ in mice. Methods: IMZ/TBZ was given in the diet to provide levels of 0%/0% (control), 0.006%/0.006% (IMZ/TBZ), 0.006%/0.018%, and 0.006%/0.054% during the gestation and lactation periods. Selected reproductive and neurobehavioral parameters were measured in the F1 generation. Results: No adverse effect of IMZ/TBZ was observed in litter size, litter weight, or sex ratio at birth. Concerning behavioral developmental parameters, the time required of olfactory orientation was accelerated significantly in higher‐dose groups in female offspring on postnatal day 14 in a dose‐related manner. Exploratory behavior examination indicated that the frequency of mice with urination increased in a significantly dose‐related manner in male offspring. After weaning, any variables of exploratory behavior indicated no significant effects in both sexes of adult mice in the F1 generation. In spontaneous behavior, the longitudinal pattern of total distance was not parallel (different pattern) among the control and IMZ/TBZ treatment groups in adult males. Conclusions: The results from these series of combined exposure studies of IMZ/TBZ suggest that the main effects on exploratory and spontaneous behavior of adult mice in the F1 generation after finishing chemical administration have been caused by the IMZ concentration of maternal exposure, with TBZ's effects being complementary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Imazalil is widely used in agriculture, which may pose a threat to food safety. This study aimed to investigate the fate of imazalil and its main metabolite, R14821 (imazalil‐M), in field grapes and apples, and in the processing of fruit wine at the enantiomeric level. RESULTS: Analysis method was established to determine imazalil and imazalil‐M enantiomers in grape, apple, fruit wine and pomace. The method showed acceptable recoveries of 71.6–99.9% and precision with relative standard deviation of 0.3–11.7%. Processing factors (PFs) were 0.15–0.40 (for imazalil enantiomers) and <0.13–0.83 (for imazalil‐M enantiomers) during the wine‐making process. The PFs after individual steps including washing, peeling, fermentation, and clarification were all less than 1. No enantioselective dissipation of imazalil was found in grapes under field conditions with half‐lives of 23.82–24.49 days. R‐(−)‐imazalil degraded slightly faster than S‐(+)‐imazalil in apples under field conditions with half‐lives of 9.82–10.09 days. S‐(+)‐imazalil‐M preferentially degraded in field grapes and apple. No significant enantioselectivity of imazalil and imazalil‐M was observed during the wine‐making process. The enantiomeric fraction (EF) values of imazalil were 0.484–0.511 and 0.509–0.522 in grape wine and cider, respectively. The EFs were 0.484–0.501(in grape wine) and 0.484–0.504 (in cider) for imazalil‐M. CONCLUSION: The results showed that the wine‐making process could reduce imazalil and imazalil‐M residues in grapes and apples. The finding of non‐enantioselectivity of imazalil during the processing of fruit wine was useful for accurate risk assessment for imazalil in raw and processing fruits. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genotoxicity of the mixture of generic pesticides imidacloprid + imazalil + tebuconazole in a ratio of 14.0/1.7/1.0 by weight was assessed using Ames test (Salmonella typhimurium) and micronucleus test in vivo on mammalian bone marrow erythrocytes (CD-1 mice) supporting the data creation for the Real Life Risk Simulation (RLRS) approach. This pesticides’ combination is used in the commercial formulation for seed treatment in advance of or immediately before sowing. Tested pesticides’ technical grade active ingredients (TGAIs) showed no evidence of genotoxicity upon separate treatments. In combination, the three pesticides demonstrated negative results in the Ames test but induced a statistically significant, dose-depended increase in MN-PCEs in mice bone marrow at doses lower than those used separately. The observed effect may be mediated by the synergistic action of the tested TGAIs, their metabolites or impurities.

This study was conducted during two successive seasons 2017 and 2018 to study the effect of some oils immersing on the storability and quality of Balady mandarin (Citrus reticulate L.) fruits during the storage period. The post-harvest treatments were immersed with camphor oil, linen oil and imazalil either singly or in combination. The fruits were stored at cold condition 8±1°C with 85-90% RH. Samples of each treatment were randomly withdrawn monthly for 4 months. The results showed that fruit weight loss %, fruit decay %, total soluble solids %, sugar contents and TSS/acid ratio were significantly increased with prolonging the storage period. On other hand, the advanced storage period induced a gradual decrease of fruit juice percentage, fruits firmness, acidity % and vitamin C. All treatments caused a decrease in fruit weight and fruit decay percentage, fruits firmness, acidity % and vitamin C. Using oils resulted in the least fruit weight loss, whereas, imazalil treatment had the least fruit decay percentage. Also, all treatments improved the fruit quality during the storage period compared control. It could be concluded that oils plus imazalil coating maintained fruit freshness without negative effects of fruit quality parameters and seems to be the proper and ideal treatment to prolong cold storage of Balady mandarin fruits without great reduction in fruit quality.

Five fungicides, with active ingredients azoxystrobin, imazalil, thiabendazole, azoxystrobin + difenoconazole and fludioxonil + difenoconazole, were tested against two isolates of Fusarium solani and two isolates of F. oxysporum, causing potato dry rot in Mashhad region. PDA media amended with the fungicides significantly inhibited the mycelia growth of all Fusarium isolates incubated at 25 °C for 7 days; however only Imazalil and Thiabendazole completely stopped the mycelia growth of all fungal isolates even at their lower concentration (40 and 5ppm respectively). The mean penetration of F. solani FPO-67 and F. oxysporum FPO-39, the more virulent of the four isolates, after 21 days of incubation at 25-27 °C indicated that imazalil and thiabendazole at concentrations of 1.5 and 2/1000, completely inhibited the penetration of F. oxysporum FPO-39 into potato tubers, but in the case of F. solani FPO-67 all treatments (1, 1.5 and 2/1000) significantly reduced the development of dry rot compared to untreated control. In natural condition, tuber treatment with Imazalil and Thiabendazole (2/1000), prior storage, reduced F. solani FPO-67 development by 68 and 71.69% respectively. According to the results, these fungicides could play a role in integrated pest management against tuber-borne fungal pathogens.

This study was aimed at testing the integrated use of a natural biostimulant based on seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) and plant (alfalfa and sugarcane) extracts and reduced dosages of the conventional synthetic fungicide Imazalil (IMZ) to manage postharvest rots of orange fruits. The following aspects were investigated: (i) the effectiveness of postharvest treatment with natural biostimulant alone or in mixture with IMZ at a reduced dose against green mold caused by Penicillium digitatum; (ii) the differential expression of defense genes in orange fruits treated with the natural biostimulant both alone and in combination with a reduced dose of IMZ; (iii) the persistence of the inhibitory activity of both biostimulant and the mixture biostimulant/IMZ against green mold; and (iv) the residue level of fungicide in citrus peel when applied alone or in combination with the biostimulant. Treatments with the chemical plant resistance-inducer potassium phosphite, alone or with a reduced dose of IMZ, were included for comparison. The mixture of natural biostimulant and IMZ at a low dose consistently reduced the incidence and severity of fruit green mold and induced a significant increase of the expression level of β-1,3-glucanase-, peroxidase (PEROX)-, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL)-encoding genes in fruit peel, suggesting that the natural biostimulant elicits a long-lasting resistance of citrus fruits to infections by P. digitatum. Interestingly, the residual concentration of IMZ in fruits treated with the biostimulant/fungicide mixture was significantly lower than that of IMZ in fruits treated only with the fungicide at the same dose and by far below the threshold values set by the European Union. This study laid the foundations for (i) conceiving a practical and more eco-friendly alternative to the conventional postharvest management of green mold of citrus fruits, based almost exclusively on the use of synthetic fungicide IMZ, alone or mixed with potassium phosphite and (ii) providing a better insight into the mechanisms of disease resistance induction by biostimulants.

Pesticides affect different organs and tissues according to their bioavailability, chemical properties and further molecular interactions. In animal models exposed to several classes of pesticides, neurotoxic effects have been described, including the reduction of acetylcholinesterase activity in tissue homogenates. However, in homogenates, the reduction in enzymatic activity may also result from lower enzymatic expression and not only from enzymatic inhibition. Thus, in this work, we aimed to investigate the neurotoxic potential of four distinct pesticides: glyphosate (herbicide), imazalil (fungicide), imidacloprid (neonicotinoid insecticide) and lambda-cyhalothrin (pyrethroid insecticide), by assessing their inhibitory effect on the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and tyrosinase, by using direct in vitro enzymatic inhibition methods. All pesticides dose-dependently inhibited AChE activity, with an inhibition of 11 ± 2% for glyphosate, 48 ± 2% for imidacloprid, 49 ± 3% for imazalil and 50 ± 3% for lambda-cyhalothrin, at 1 mM. Only imazalil inhibited BChE. Imazalil induced dose-dependent inhibition of BChE with identical pattern as that observed for AChE; however, for lower concentrations (up to 500 μM), imazalil showed higher specificity for AChE, and for higher concentrations, the same specificity was found. Imazalil, at 1 mM, inhibited the activity of BChE by 49 ± 1%. None of the pesticides, up to 1 mM, inhibited tyrosinase activity. In conclusion, the herbicide glyphosate shows specificity for AChE but low inhibitory capacity, the insecticides imidacloprid and λ-cyhalothrin present selective AChE inhibition, while the fungicide IMZ is a broad-spectrum cholinesterase inhibitor capable of inhibiting AChE and BChE in an equal manner. Among these pesticides, the insecticides and the fungicide are the ones with higher neurotoxic potential.

In this work, three pesticides of different physicochemical properties, namely, glyphosate (herbicide), imidacloprid (insecticide) and imazalil (fungicide), were selected to assess their cytotoxicity against distinct cell models (Caco-2, HepG2, A431, HaCaT, SK-MEL-5 and RAW 264.7 cells) to mimic gastrointestinal and skin exposure with potential systemic effect. Cells were subjected to different concentrations of selected pesticides for 24 h or 48 h. Cell viability was assessed by Alamar Blue assay, morphological changes by bright-field microscopy and the IC50 values were calculated. Cytotoxic profiles were analysed using the physico-chemical parameters of the pesticides, namely: molecular weight, water solubility, the partition coefficient in the n-octanol/water (Log Pow) system, the topological polar surface area (TPSA), and number of hydrogen-bonds (donor/acceptor) and rotatable bonds. Results showed that glyphosate did not reduce cell viability (up to 1 mM), imidacloprid induced moderate toxicity (IC50 > 1 mM for Caco-2 cells while IC50 = 305.9 ± 22.4 μM for RAW 264.7 cells) and imazalil was highly cytotoxic (IC50 > 253.5 ± 3.37 for Caco-2 cells while IC50 = 31.3 ± 2.7 μM for RAW 264.7 cells) after 24 h exposure. Toxicity was time-dependent as IC50 values at 48 h exposure were lower, and decrease in cell viability was accompanied by changes in cell morphology. Pesticides toxicity was found to be directly proportional with their Log Pow, indicating that the affinity to a lipophilic environment such as the cell membranes governs their toxicity. Toxicity is inverse to pesticides TPSA, but lower TPSA favours membrane permeation. The lower toxicity against Caco-2 cells was attributed to the physiology and metabolism of cell barriers equipped with various ABC transporters. In conclusion, physicochemical factors such as Log Pow, TPSA and H-bond are likely to be directly correlated with pesticide-induced toxicity, thus being key factors to potentially predict the toxicity of other compounds.

This study was aimed at testing the integrated use of a natural biostimulant based on seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) and plant (alfalfa and sugarcane) extracts and reduced dosages of the conventional synthetic fungicide Imazalil (IMZ) to manage postharvest rots of orange fruits. The following aspects were investigated: (i) the effectiveness of postharvest treatment with natural biostimulant alone or in mixture with IMZ at a reduced dose against green mold caused by Penicillium digitatum ; (ii) the differential expression of defense genes in orange fruits treated with the natural biostimulant both alone and in combination with a reduced dose of IMZ; (iii) the persistence of the inhibitory activity of both biostimulant and the mixture biostimulant/IMZ against green mold; and (iv) the residue level of fungicide in citrus peel when applied alone or in combination with the biostimulant. Treatments with the chemical plant resistance-inducer potassium phosphite, alone or with a reduced dose of IMZ, were included for comparison. The mixture of natural biostimulant and IMZ at a low dose consistently reduced the incidence and severity of fruit green mold and induced a significant increase of the expression level of β-1,3-glucanase-, peroxidase (PEROX)-, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL)-encoding genes in fruit peel, suggesting that the natural biostimulant elicits a long-lasting resistance of citrus fruits to infections by P. digitatum. Interestingly, the residual concentration of IMZ in fruits treated with the biostimulant/fungicide mixture was significantly lower than that of IMZ in fruits treated only with the fungicide at the same dose and by far below the threshold values set by the European Union. This study laid the foundations for (i) conceiving a practical and more eco-friendly alternative to the conventional postharvest management of green mold of citrus fruits, based almost exclusively on the use of synthetic fungicide IMZ, alone or mixed with potassium phosphite and (ii) providing a better insight into the mechanisms of disease resistance induction by biostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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En 2007 se detectó una pudrición del pedúnculo, con presencia de micelio, en frutos de limón almacenados en empaques comerciales en Tucumán, República Argentina. Esta enfermedad, conocida como "Fusarium rot", puede ser causada por diferentes especies del género Fusarium. Es considerada de baja importancia por su aparición ocasional, aunque en otros países existen antecedentes de pérdidas significativas de frutos de naranja y pomelo. Los objetivos del presente estudio fueron identificar el agente causal de esta pudrición, evaluar el daño en el fruto y estimar la eficacia in vitro contra el agente causal de la pudrición de los fungicidas de poscosecha utilizados actualmente para el control de otras pudriciones. Durante las campañas de 2007 a 2011 se aislaron 22 cepas, las que fueron todas identificadas como Fusarium oxysporum mediante caracterización morfológica y cultural, PCR y secuenciación. Se realizaron pruebas de patogenicidad inoculando frutos de limón y re-aislamientos en APG. Se evaluó incidencia y tipo de daño, almacenando en condiciones predisponentes para el desarrollo de la pudrición frutos de limón sin tratar, o tratados con hipoclorito de sodio solo o con etefon, observándose una incidencia del 14,0%, 22,5% y el 41,0%, respectivamente. La pudrición del pedúnculo no avanzó hacia la cáscara o a tejidos internos del fruto. La mayor eficacia in vitro, para inhibir el crecimiento del micelio en APG, se obtuvo con carbendazim (EC95 de 1,5 mg/L) y propiconazole (EC95 de 7,2 mg/L). Azoxistrobina+fludioxonil, imazalil, tiabendazol e imazalil+pirimetanil mostraron menor eficacia (EC95 de 46,6 mg/L, 56,3 mg/L, 84,3 mg/L y 93,9 mg/L, respectivamente). Se confirmó que Fusarium oxysporum causa la podredumbre del pedúnculo en limón en Tucumán. El principal daño fue el desarrollo de micelio blanco sobre el pedúnculo, sin que la pudrición avanzara hacia la cáscara. Entre los fungicidas más eficaces, carbendazim tiene restricciones para su uso en la fruta fresca y para la industria, resultando de interés propiconazole para ser evaluado en pruebas in vivo.

Background: Few published studies are reported for the neurobehavioral toxicity of combined exposure to fungicides in mammals. This study was aimed to re‐evaluate the reproductive and neurobehavioral effects of maternal exposure to combined imazalil (IMZ) and thiabendazole (TBZ) with fixed‐dose of TBZ in mice. Methods: IMZ/TBZ were given in the diet to provide levels of 0%/0% (control), 0.0015%/0.018% (IMZ/TBZ), 0.006%/0.018% and 0.024%/0.018% during the gestation and lactation periods. Selected reproductive and neurobehavioral parameters were measured in the F1 generation. Results: No adverse effect of IMZ/TBZ was observed in litter size, litter weight, or sex ratio at birth. Concerning behavioral developmental parameters, the cliff avoidance on PND 7 of male offspring was restrained significantly in the treatment groups in a dose‐related manner. Exploratory behavior examination indicated that the average time of rearing significantly lengthened in the high‐dose group of male offspring. After weaning, the average time of rearing in exploratory behavior lengthened in a significant dose‐related trend in adult females of the F1 generation. Spontaneous behavior examination indicated that the average speed decreased significantly through 120 min in the high‐dose group of the F1‐generation males. In females, the average time of rearing lengthened significantly through 120 min in the high‐dose group. In the longitudinal patterns, the parallel lines of the control and treatment groups indicated a significant distance in the average time of rearing in the F1‐generation females. Conclusions: The results from two combined exposure studies of IMZ/TBZ suggest that TBZ concentrations have caused major effects on exploratory and spontaneous behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although considered an emerging contaminant and detected in the environment, the systematic and penetration fungicide imazalil ((RS)-1-(β-allyloxy-2,4-dichlorophenylethyl) imidazole) has received relatively little scientific attention with regard to its possible negative effects in the environment. Only a few toxicological studies have assessed the potential environmental effect of imazalil and its impact on organisms. In this context, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of the pesticide imazalil on the earthworm Eisenia andrei in acute contact and chronic tests in natural soil. Moreover, several endpoints, such as biomass loss or gain, reproduction, behavior, effects on immune system cells, and oxidative stress were also evaluated. Imazalil toxicity to E. andrei was determined by three approaches: a filter paper contact test (0, 0.16, 1.66, 16.6, 166 μg.cm−2), an avoidance (0, 0.1, 1, and 10 mg.kg−1), and a chronic test for 45 days (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 mg.kg−1). All organisms exposed to the filter paper contact and chronic tests were submitted to two endpoint analyses: first, coelomic fluid collection by the extrusion method to determine density, viability, and cell type; second, oxidative stress assessments by determining GST and CAT enzymatic activities. This study allows for the conclusion that imazalil does not cause immediate earthworm death after exposure (LC50 > 166 μg.cm−1). However, due to several complementary factors, this compound may compromise earthworm health and lead to death, as E. andrei individuals did not avoid the contaminated soil, thus contributing to longer exposure periods and consequent cumulative damage to their systems. Decreased immunocompetent cellular viability (p < 0.05) and density (p < 0.05) in the chronic test are noteworthy, leading to susceptibility to exogenous factors, as well as irreversible cellular damage provoked by oxidative stress, such as cellular membrane rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imazalil (IMZ), a fungicide containing imidazole group, is extensively used for the prevention and treatment of fungal diseases in plants. Current study was performed to examine cyto-genotoxic potential of IMZ on Allium cepa roots by following Allium ana-telophase and single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assays. The concentration which reduced the growth of the root tips of IMZ by 50% compared to the negative control group (EC50) was found to be 1 μg/mL by Allium root growth inhibition test. 0.5, 1, and 2 μg/mL concentrations of IMZ were exposed to Allium roots for intervals of 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. 10 μg/mL of methyl methane sulfonate (MMS) and distilled water were used as control groups, both positive and negative. Statistical analysis was performed by using one-way ANOVA with Duncan's multiple comparison tests at p ≤ 0.05 and Pearson correlation test at p = 0.01. IMZ showed cytotoxic effect by statistically decreasing root growth and mitotic index (MI) and also genotoxic effect by statistically increasing chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and DNA damage compared to the negative control group. With these cyto-genotoxic effects, it should be used carefully and further cyto-genotoxic mechanisms should be investigated along with other toxicity tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Due to its deleterious effects on health, development of new methods for detection and removal of pesticide residues in primary and derived agricultural products is a research topic of great importance. Among them, imazalil (IMZ) is a widely used post‐harvest fungicide with good performances in general, and is particularly applied to prevent green mold in citrus fruits. In this work, a composite film for the impedimetric sensing of IMZ built from metal‐organic framework nanocrystallites homogeneously distributed on a conductive poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT) layer is presented. The as‐synthetized thin films are produced via spin‐coating over poly(ethylene terephtalate (PET) substrate following a straightforward, cost‐effective, single‐step procedure. By means of impedance spectroscopy, electric transport properties of the films are studied, and high sensitivity towards IMZ concentration in the range of 15 ppb to 1 ppm is demonstrated (featuring 1.6 and 4.2 ppb limit of detection, when using signal modulus and phase, respectively). The sensing platform hereby presented could be used for the construction of portable, miniaturized, and ultrasensitive devices, suitable for pesticide detection in food, wastewater effluents, or the assessment of drinking‐water quality.

THE NOVEL branching regulators fluridone and imazalil (IMA) were examined for micropropagation of Paco (Zantedeschia sprengeri). IMA concentrations were 0, 4.5, 13.5 and 45µM in combination with 5µM benzylaminopurine (BAP). The shoots were transferred after 8 weeks to standard MS medium without IMA but with 5µM BAP. IMA resulted in a strong increase of new shoots from which the outgrowth was inhibited when IMA was present but that did grow out when IMA had been removed. Fluridone inhibits the biosynthesis of the endogenous regulator strigolactone. Increasing concentrations of fluridone were applied in combination with 13.5µM IMA for 8 weeks. Then the shoots were subcultured on standard medium without IMA and fluridone but with 5µM BAP for 8 weeks. Again a strong increase of new shoots occurred from which outgrowth was inhibited when IMA and fluridone were present but that did grow out when these regulators had been removed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few published studies are reported for neurobehavioral toxicity of combined exposure to fungicides in mammals. This study was aimed to evaluate reproductive and neurobehavioral effects of maternal exposure to combined fungicides in mice. Methods: Imazalil (IMZ) and thiabendazole (TBZ) were given in the diet to provide levels of 0/0% (control), 0.0015/0.006% (IMZ/TBZ), 0.006/0.018%, and 0.024/0.054% during the gestation and lactation periods. Selected reproductive and neurobehavioral parameters were measured in the F1 generation. Results: No adverse effect of IMZ/TBZ was observed in litter size, litter weight, or sex ratio at birth. The average body weight of male and female offspring was increased significantly in treatment groups during the lactation period. With respect to behavioral developmental parameters, the swimming head angle on PND 7 of male offspring was significantly accelerated in the treatment groups. After weaning, the movement time of exploratory behavior shortened in a significant dose‐related manner in adult males of the F1 generation. In adult females, the rearing time of exploratory behavior lengthened in a significant dose‐related manner in the F1 generation. Spontaneous behavior examination indicated that longitudinal patterns of each of the total distance and number of rearing were different during the control and treatment groups in the F1‐generation females. Parallel width of the control and treatment groups was significantly different in the average time of movement and rearing in the F1‐generation females. Conclusions: The high‐dose level of IMZ/TBZ in the present study produced several adverse effects in neurobehavioral parameters after weaning without concurrent chemical administration in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enantioseparation of imazalil was conducted by capillary electrophoresis, and the effects of chiral selector β-cyclodextrin(β-CD), organic additives, NaH2PO4, NH4H2PO4 and separation voltage on the resolution were studied. And the effects of the injection pressure and preconcentration times on the on-column preconcentration of imazalil were studied by the stacking method. The results showed that the best resolution was achieved under the following conditions: separation voltage 20 kV, β-CD 5 mmol/L and a buffer system of 2.5 % isopropanol + 75 mmol/L NaH2PO4 + 5 mmol/L NH4H2PO4 . And the resolution was up to 3.0. The highest enrichment factor was obtained at the separation voltage of 20 kV using 5 mmol/L β-CD, a buffer system of 75 mmol/L NaH2PO4 + 5 mmol/L NH4H2PO4 + 50 mmol/L H3PO4, and the injection conditions of 13.8 kPa×99.9 s. And the enrichment factor was up to 91-92 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The fungicide imazalil (IMZ), an AR antagonist, has been linked to endocrine disruption in animals. Here, adult female C57BL/6 mice were administered IMZ through their drinking water at levels of 0, 0.025‰ and 0.25‰ during the gestation and lactation periods (the exposed females are marked as F 0 , and the offspring are marked as F 1). Then, we evaluated the physiological, biochemical and gene expression levels in mice after maternal IMZ exposure. The genes involved in sex hormone receptors, cholesterol synthesis and T synthesis were generally inhibited, and the serum total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were also decreased in the F 0 generation female mice. In addition, after F 0 IMZ exposure, ovarian androgen receptor (AR) expression was significantly inhibited, and the androgen levels in the serum increased significantly. This may lead to the appearance of progressive virilization during pregnancy. This phenomenon leads to an aromatase deficiency in the F 1 generation mice, which results in a decrease in androgen conversion into estrogen and androgen accumulation. In addition, the mRNA expression of key genes and the serum TC, HDL-C, and LDL-C levels increased in the F 1 generation after maternal exposure to IMZ. In addition, testicular TC and LDL-C levels also decreased in the F 1 generation male mice. Molecular docking analysis revealed that key hydrogen bonds were formed by nitrogen atoms of the imidazole bonds with Trp751 of the ARs. Our data suggests that maternal IMZ exposure could induce endocrine disruption in the next generation of mice. Highlights • Maternal imazalil exposure damaged the testicular structure and impaired spermatogenesis in the F 1 generation male mice. • Imazalil exposure decreased serum TC, HDL-C and LDL-C levels in the F 0 generation and increased them in F 1 generation mice. • Imazalil exposure affected the serum estrogen and androgen levels as well as the activity of aromatase. • Imazalil exposure affected the genes expression involved in sex hormone receptors, cholesterol synthesis and T synthesis. • Imazalil had binding characteristics with AR proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a fungicide with the characteristics of high effectiveness, internal absorption and broad spectrum, imazalil is widely used to prevent and treat in fruits and vegetables. Here, pregnant C57BL/6 mice were exposed to imazalil at dietary levels of 0, 0.025‰, and 0.25‰ through drinking water during pregnancy and lactation. We then analyzed the phenotype, metabolome, and expression of related genes and proteins in the livers of mice. There was a marked decrease in the body and liver weights of male offspring mice after maternal imazalil exposure, while this effect on the dam and female offspring was slight. Metabolomics analyses revealed that imazalil significantly altered the metabolite composition of liver samples from both dams and offspring. The preliminary results of the analysis indicated that glucolipid metabolism was the pathway most significantly affected by imazalil. We performed a coabundance association analysis of metabolites with significant changes in the pathway of glycolipid metabolism, and IMZ altered the networks of both dams and offspring compared with the network in control mice, especially in male offspring. The hepatic triglyceride, non-esterified fatty acid and glucose levels were increased significantly in the dams but decreased significantly in male offspring after maternal imazalil exposure. Furthermore, the expression levels of genes associated with glycolipid metabolism and m6A RNA methylation were significantly affected by maternal intake of imazalil. Imazalil-induced glucolipid metabolism disturbance was highly correlated with m6A RNA methylation. In conclusion, maternal imazalil exposure resulted in glucolipid metabolism disturbance and abnormal m6A RNA methylation in the livers of dams and offspring mice. We expected that the information acquired in this study will provide novel evidence for understanding the effect of maternal imazalil exposure on potential health risks. • Maternal IMZ exposure altered hepatic metabolic and coabundance network in the dams and offspring. • Maternal IMZ exposure affected biochemical indicators and related genes expression involved in glucolipid metabolism. • Maternal IMZ exposure induced the abnormal expression of m6A RNA methylation. • IMZ-induced glucolipid metabolism disturbance was highly correlated with m6A RNA methylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In compliance with Article 43 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA received a mandate from the European Commission to provide an update of the reasoned opinion on the review of existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for imazalil published on 5 September 2017, taking into account the additional information provided on the toxicity of the metabolites R014821, FK‐772 and FK‐284. EFSA did not derive MRL proposals from the post‐harvest uses reported on citrus fruits, apples, pears, potatoes, bananas and melons because the assessment of the toxicological properties of the metabolite R014821 (expected to occur following post‐harvest application of imazalil) could not be finalised. Risk managers should be made aware that the genotoxic potential of the metabolite R014821 could not be ruled out. For all these commodities, a decision on the residue definition for risk assessment could not be taken, which is a perquisite to perform a reliable dietary risk assessment. For the other commodities and considering fall‐back Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) when possible, some information required by the regulatory framework was missing. Hence, although no apparent risk to consumers was identified, the consumer risk assessment is considered indicative only and some MRL proposals derived by EFSA still require further consideration by risk managers. It is noted that MRL proposals in commodities of animal origin were not derived because, provided that GAPs with post‐harvest applications would be withdrawn, the livestock exposure is not expected to exceed the trigger value. Nevertheless, it is noted that lacking of information/data (in particular on the toxicity of metabolites FK‐772 ad FK‐284) was also identified, which prevent from proposing residue definition for enforcement and risk assessment in livestock commodities.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the Imazalil Task Force submitted a request to the competent national authority in the Netherlands to change the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance imazalil in products of plant and animal origin. The evaluating Member State (EMS) proposed to modify the existing MRLs only in citrus fruits and bananas and, due to transfer of residues, in bovine and equine livers. EFSA assessed the intended uses in citrus fruits, but not the use in bananas, since compared with the previously performed MRL review no new information was provided in the context of the MRL application. For the intended uses in citrus fruits and for animal products, EFSA did not derive MRL proposals. A decision on the amendment of MRL for the intended uses needs to be postponed, until the risk assessment for the plant metabolite R014821 and for the metabolites identified in livestock (i.e. FK‐772 and FK‐284) is completed with regard to genotoxicity and general toxicity; data need to be provided to derive a conclusion whether the toxicological reference values derived for imazalil are also applicable for the metabolites. Until a conclusion on the toxicological properties of the metabolites is reached, a decision on the residue definition for risk assessment cannot be made which is a prerequisite to perform a reliable dietary risk assessment.

Highlights • Preparation and evaluation of DMIP for imidazole fungicides using DCE as the fragment dummy template. • High selective solid phase extraction of CBZ, CMZ and MNZ from river water. • Good recovery and reproducibility of the developed DMISPE-HPLC method. • Superiority selectivity compared to commercial MCX sorbent. Abstract Dummy molecularly imprinted polymer (DMIP) for imidazole fungicides was prepared for the first time using alpha-(2,4-Dichlorophenyl)-1H-imidazole-1-ethanol (DCE) as the fragment template. The imprinting selectivity of DCE-DMIP was evaluated for climbazole (CBZ), clotrimazole (CMZ) and miconazole (MNZ) by liquid chromatography, imprinting factors of 10.9, 10.8 and >10.7 were achieved, respectively. Heterogeneous binding sites were found in the DCE-DMIP, the corresponding saturation capacity and dissociation constant for the high affinity binding sites were 13.05 μmol g–1 and 0.4701 mmol L–1. High efficient method based on dummy molecularly imprinted solid phase extraction (DMISPE) coupled with HPLC was established for the selective enrichment of CBZ, CMZ and MNZ in river water using DCE-DMIP as sorbent. DMISPE conditions including sample loading pH/volume, selective washing and elution solvents were carefully optimized. The developed method showed good recoveries (84.2–95.0%) and precision (RSDs 1.7–5.0%, n = 5) for samples spiked at two different concentration levels (0.5 and 2.5 μg L–1). The detection limits were ranged from 0.023 to 0.031 μg L–1. The results demonstrated good potential of this method for sample pretreatment of azole fungicides in environmental water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simultaneous adsorption of both imazalil (IMZ) and thiabendazole (TBZ) fungicides in a Cu2+-exchanged Mt was studied in this work. Kinetic studies were used to determine the rate law which describes the adsorption of individual fungicides onto the adsorbent. Adsorption isotherm of individual and combined fungicides was done to evaluate synergic or antagonistic effects. The Mt-Cu material considerably improved TBZ and/or IMZ adsorption from aqueous suspensions with respect to raw Mt, leading to removal efficiencies higher than 99% after 10 min of contact time for TBZ and IMZ Ci = 15 and 40 mg/L, respectively, when a solid dosage = 1 g/L was used. The adsorption sites involved were determined by a combination of X-ray diffraction (XRD) determinations and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), indicating that fungicides were bonded to Cu2+ cations, while the rate limiting step was the formation of coordination bonds. The adsorption mechanism proposed is that of ligand exchange between water and fungicide molecules in the metal coordination sphere. The single-crystal structure for the IMZ-Cu2+ complex indicated that four molecules were bounded to the copper centers, while two molecules of TBZ are bounded to copper explaining the higher IMZ uptake capacity for the Mt-Cu material.Graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus green mold, a postharvest disease caused by Penicillium digitatum , provokes important economic losses on lemon production. Here, the effectiveness of polyhexamethylene guanidine (PHMG) to inhibit P. digitatum growth and to control green mold on artificially infected lemons was evaluated. At sublethal concentrations, PHMG inhibited conidia germination and infectivity (5 mg L −1 ), and mycelial growth (50 mg L −1 ). Viability of conidia was completely suppressed by treatment with 500 mg L −1 PHMG. In this condition, membrane integrity loss, cell wall disruption and ultrastructural alterations were detected, as well as conidia distortion, deformation and collapse. In artificially inoculated lemons, a 30 s-immersion in 500 mg L −1 PHMG completely inhibited green mold. PHMG also exhibited a high disinfectant activity, even in the presence of 1% organic matter, with a better performance than the standard NaClO disinfectant. In addition, 500 mg L −1 PHMG protected wounds against infection. Taken together, our results indicate that PHMG is a promising fungicide for the postharvest control of green mold in lemon packinghouses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Black rot caused by Alternaria alternata in yellow pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus) is a significant postharvest disease that is difficult to control. Sodium bicarbonate (SBC) treatments were tested in order to incorporate them into an integrated disease management program and to reduce postharvest use of synthetic fungicide. The control of black rot on fruit treated with 298 mM (2.5%) sodium bicarbonate (SBC) was superior to that resulting from other SBC treatments on fruit examined after 21 d at 12 °C plus 5 d of shelf-life at 20 °C. Treatment with 298 mM reduced weight loss, retained color and firmness, slowed changes in total soluble solids, titratable acid content, and pH of yellow pitahaya during storage and shelf-life. After storage, the general appearance of fruit treated with 298 mM SBC was significantly better than that of those treated with imazalil or non-treated fruit. Treatment with 298 mM SBC is potentially useful in controlling postharvest black rot in yellow pitahaya without harming its sensory quality. Highlights • Sodium bicarbonate (SBC) significantly reduced black rot in yellow pitahaya fruit. • SBC delayed ripening in yellow pitahaya fruit during storage and shelf-life period. • SBC treatment improved general appearance of yellow pitahaya. • The postharvest export life of yellow pitahaya was extended by SBC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]