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Hamano T, Yanagisawa M, Hobo S. Expression and basic biochemical characteristics of recombinant surfactant protein D of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiopstruncatus). Protein Expr Purif 2024; 222:106523. [PMID: 38880192 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2024.106523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
We previously identified surfactant protein D (SP-D) in the bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus as a unique evolutionary factor of the cetacean pulmonary immune system. In this short report, recombinant SP-D of bottlenose dolphin (dSP-D) was synthesized in mammalian cells, and its properties were analyzed in vitro. The recombinant proteins were purified using Ni-carrier or Co-carrier. Sodium dodecyl sulfate poly-acrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting revealed a 50 kDa major band with minor secondary bands. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-like methods revealed that recombinant dSP-D bonded to gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial walls. Our findings suggest the clinical usefulness of dSP-D for cetacean pneumonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahisa Hamano
- Kagoshima City Aquarium, 3-1 Honkoshin-machi, Kagoshima, 892-0814, Japan; Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Makio Yanagisawa
- Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago, 3078-22 Kanzaki-uto, Oita, 870-0100, Japan
| | - Seiji Hobo
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan.
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2
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Le-Bert CR, Bukoski A, Downs J, Hodgson DS, Thombs L, Ridgway SH, Bailey J. Apneustic anesthesia ventilation improves pulmonary function in anesthetized bottlenose dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus). Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1287478. [PMID: 38645641 PMCID: PMC11027569 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1287478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Use of mechanical ventilation during general anesthesia is a necessary practice in the anesthetization of small cetaceans as spontaneous ventilation fails to provide adequate gas exchange. Currently available methods of ventilation do not account for the intermittent breathing strategy of representative species within this infraorder of fully aquatic mammals and may have a significant effect on cardiac and respiratory physiology. Methods To understand the impact of mechanical ventilation on cardiopulmonary function in one small species of cetacean, the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), we compared controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV) to a novel ventilation method known as apneustic anesthesia ventilation (AAV). AAV simulates the normal inspiratory breath-hold pattern of dolphins. Ten anesthetic procedures (dental procedure, n = 9; bronchoscopy, n = 2) were performed on nine dolphins (age range: 10-42 years; mean = 32 years; median = 37 years; female = 3, 40%; male = 6, 60%). In a cross-over study design, dolphins were instrumented and randomly assigned to AAV or CMV as the initial mode of ventilation, then switched to the alternate mode. Baseline cardiopulmonary data were collected and again after 30 min on each mode of ventilation. Cardiac index, stroke volume index, systemic vascular resistance, alveolar dead space, alveolar-arterial oxygen tension gradient, arterial oxygen content, oxygen delivery index, and dynamic respiratory system compliance index were calculated at each of the four time points. Results During AAV, dolphins had higher arterial oxygen tension, higher mean airway pressure, reduced alveolar dead space ventilation and lower alveolar-arterial oxygen difference. Cardiovascular performance was not statistically different between the two modes. Discussion Our study suggests AAV, which more closely resembles the conscious intermittent respiratory pattern phenotype of dolphins, improves ventilation and pulmonary function in the anesthetized dolphin. Future studies should evaluate the cardiopulmonary effects of neutral buoyancy and cardiopulmonary sparing drug protocols to reduce the need for hemodynamic support of current protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina R. Le-Bert
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Alex Bukoski
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - John Downs
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- Innovative Veterinary Medicine, Ponte Vedra, FL, United States
| | - David S. Hodgson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Lori Thombs
- Department of Statistics, College of Arts and Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Sam H. Ridgway
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - James Bailey
- Innovative Veterinary Medicine, Ponte Vedra, FL, United States
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Guo B, Sun Y, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Zheng Y, Xu S, Yang G, Ren W. Evolutionary genetics of pulmonary anatomical adaptations in deep-diving cetaceans. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:339. [PMID: 38575860 PMCID: PMC10993460 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10263-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cetaceans, having experienced prolonged adaptation to aquatic environments, have undergone evolutionary changes in their respiratory systems. This process of evolution has resulted in the emergence of distinctive phenotypic traits, notably the abundance of elastic fibers and thickened alveolar walls in their lungs, which may facilitate alveolar collapse during diving. This structure helps selective exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, while minimizing nitrogen exchange, thereby reducing the risk of DCS. Nevertheless, the scientific inquiry into the mechanisms through which these unique phenotypic characteristics govern the diving behavior of marine mammals, including cetaceans, remains unresolved. RESULTS This study entails an evolutionary analysis of 42 genes associated with pulmonary fibrosis across 45 mammalian species. Twenty-one genes in cetaceans exhibited accelerated evolution, featuring specific amino acid substitutions in 14 of them. Primarily linked to the development of the respiratory system and lung morphological construction, these genes play a crucial role. Moreover, among marine mammals, we identified eight genes undergoing positive selection, and the evolutionary rates of three genes significantly correlated with diving depth. Specifically, the SFTPC gene exhibited convergent amino acid substitutions. Through in vitro cellular experiments, we illustrated that convergent amino acid site mutations in SFTPC contribute positively to pulmonary fibrosis in marine mammals, and the presence of this phenotype can induce deep alveolar collapse during diving, thereby reducing the risk of DCS during diving. CONCLUSIONS The study unveils pivotal genetic signals in cetaceans and other marine mammals, arising through evolution. These genetic signals may influence lung characteristics in marine mammals and have been linked to a reduced risk of developing DCS. Moreover, the research serves as a valuable reference for delving deeper into human diving physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boxiong Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Yixuan Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuehua Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Shixia Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenhua Ren
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioaffiliationersity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, 210023, Nanjing, China.
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Kamio T, Odani Y, Ohtomo W, Ogushi A, Akune Y, Kurita M, Okada A, Inoshima Y. Bronchial Tree System Analysis of Live Beluga Whale ( Delphinapterus leucas) Using Bronchoscopy. Vet Sci 2024; 11:33. [PMID: 38250939 PMCID: PMC10818570 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11010033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cetaceans, including beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), have high morbidity and mortality rates due to bacterial or fungal lower respiratory infections. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) collection by bronchoscopy is beneficial for detecting pathogenic microorganisms in the lower respiratory tract. Efficient and safe bronchoscopy requires characterizing the bronchial tree systems of beluga whales, as no reports exist on bronchial length and bifurcation. In this study, bronchoscopy was performed on five captive beluga whales (9-44 years old) to detect bronchial length and bifurcation. The lengths from the blowhole to the scope impassable points due to the minimized bronchi diameters of the left principal bronchus (LPB), right principal bronchus (RPB), and tracheal bronchus (TB) were 110-155, 110-150, and 80-110 cm, respectively, and were correlated with the body length. Bronchoscopy identified more than 10, 10, and 6 bifurcated bronchi from the LPB, RPB, and TB, respectively. This is the first report to clarify the differences in bronchial tree systems between beluga whales and other cetaceans, as well as the differences for each individual beluga whale. These results could be useful for obtaining BALF via bronchoscopy to detect pathogenic microorganisms causing infections in the lower respiratory tract of beluga whales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kamio
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455-0033, Japan
- Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Yukako Odani
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455-0033, Japan
| | - Wataru Ohtomo
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455-0033, Japan
| | - Akira Ogushi
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455-0033, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Akune
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455-0033, Japan
| | - Masanori Kurita
- Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455-0033, Japan
| | - Ayaka Okada
- Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Yasuo Inoshima
- Laboratory of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
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Tashiro K, Hikobe K, Segawa T, Suzuki M, Maeda K, Itou T. Establishment and characterization of a novel lung cell line derived from the common bottlenose dolphin. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2024; 60:98-105. [PMID: 38148353 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-023-00831-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Cetaceans are specialized marine mammals with a unique respiratory system adapted for diving behavior. Furthermore, respiratory diseases are commonly observed in these mammals. Nevertheless, much of their respiratory physiology remains unknown due to the limited supply and poor quality of their biological samples for research. In this study, we established a novel lung cell line, dLu, derived from the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), which can prove useful in cetacean research, including for understanding the pathogenesis of respiratory diseases in cetaceans. The cells were cultured in a simple medium consisting of Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum. The morphology of the cells was fibroblast-like. dLu was produced by transfecting the simian virus 40 large T antigen into primary cultured cells. Although dLu exhibited approximately 80 cell divisions, it was unable to achieve complete immortalization, as the cells stopped proliferating beyond this number. dLu cells expressed toll-like receptor 3 but not toll-like receptor 4. Immunostimulation with poly(I:C) altered the gene expressions of interferon beta 1 and tumor necrosis factor alpha in dLu cells. In summary, dLu established in this study is a novel cetacean cell resource that can be easily cultured and is a useful in vitro tool in cetacean research, particularly for studying host immune responses in the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaede Tashiro
- Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
- Nihon University Veterinary Research Center, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Kyosuke Hikobe
- Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
- Nihon University Veterinary Research Center, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Takao Segawa
- Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
- Nihon University Veterinary Research Center, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Miwa Suzuki
- Department of Marine Science, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan
| | - Ken Maeda
- Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, 1677-1 Yoshida, Yamaguchi, 753-8515, Japan
| | - Takuya Itou
- Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan.
- Nihon University Veterinary Research Center, 1866 Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 252-0880, Japan.
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Shil SK, Zahangir MM, Das BC, Rahman MM, Yadav SK, Kibria MM, Zonaed Siddiki A. Macro and microanatomy of some organs of a juvenile male Ganges River dolphin (Platanista gangetica spp. gangetica). Anat Histol Embryol 2023; 52:180-189. [PMID: 36197312 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ganges River dolphins (Platanista gangetica spp. gangetica) are air-breathing, warm-blooded mammals endemic to the Ganges and Karnaphuli rivers of the Indian subcontinent. Nevertheless, very little basic histomorphological research has been conducted on this endangered species. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the morphological features of different organs of P. gangetica. Despite becoming aquatic animals, they showed similarities with terrestrial mammals, such as the pair of lungs and an apical bronchus in the respiratory system, which are pretty standard in ruminants and pigs. However, unlike the terrestrial animal, the tracheobronchial tree was stiffer due to circularly arranged anastomosing plates of the hyaline cartilaginous ring in the trachea, cartilaginous plates in the bronchiole, and thick alveolar septa. The digestive system showed a three-chambered mechanical and glandular stomach similar to the artiodactyles. However, the intestine showed smaller caecum like the monogastric mammal. The urogenital system showed lobulated kidneys, a urinary bladder, a fibroelastic penis with sigmoid flexure, and a long urethral process similar to some terrestrial ruminants. Considering the aquatic environment, all those modifications, unlike terrestrial mammals, are necessary for their adaptation. Thus, this research will broadly help our clinicians and conservationist to take further steps toward disease diagnosis and monitoring of marine health of this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subrata Kumar Shil
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mahiuddin Zahangir
- Department of Fish Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Fisheries, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Bhajan Chandra Das
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Saroj Kumar Yadav
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Md Manzoorul Kibria
- Halda River Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Amam Zonaed Siddiki
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
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The Respiratory System of the Arctocephalus australis in Comparison to the Dog as a Land-Carnivore: Are There Adaptations to Marine Life? Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020199. [PMID: 36670739 PMCID: PMC9855070 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine mammals are divided into three groups, with similar adaptations resulting from their aquatic lifestyle: sirenians, pinnipeds, and cetaceans. The present work focused on the South American fur seal, or Arctocephalus australis, a carnivore included in the pinnipeds group. We assessed whether the anatomical features of the Arctocephalus australis' respiratory system are comparable to those of other land-carnivores or whether these individuals show anatomical adaptations related to their ability to dive or their breath-holding capacities. We studied 11 cadavers of Arctocephalus australis, which included adult (n = 2) and juvenile (n = 9) individuals, by anatomically dissecting their isolated entire respiratory system. Although it is generally similar to that in land-carnivores, we demonstrated that the Arctocephalus australis's respiratory apparatus shows several specific characteristics. Therefore, our results are of great importance for clinical diagnostic and wildlife conservation purposes.
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8
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Lillie MA, Vogl AW, Gerard SG, Raverty S, Shadwick RE. Retia mirabilia: Protecting the cetacean brain from locomotion-generated blood pressure pulses. Science 2022; 377:1452-1456. [PMID: 36137023 DOI: 10.1126/science.abn3315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Cetaceans have massive vascular plexuses (retia mirabilia) whose function is unknown. All cerebral blood flow passes through these retia, and we hypothesize that they protect cetacean brains from locomotion-generated pulsatile blood pressures. We propose that cetaceans have evolved a pulse-transfer mechanism that minimizes pulsatility in cerebral arterial-to-venous pressure differentials without dampening the pressure pulses themselves. We tested this hypothesis using a computational model based on morphology from 11 species and found that the large arterial capacitance in the retia, coupled with the small extravascular capacitance in the cranium and vertebral canal, could protect the cerebral vasculature from 97% of systemic pulsatility. Evolution of the retial complex in cetaceans-likely linked to the development of dorsoventral fluking-offers a distinctive solution to adverse locomotion-generated vascular pulsatility.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Lillie
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - A W Vogl
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - S G Gerard
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - S Raverty
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Animal Health Centre, Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, BC, Canada
| | - R E Shadwick
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Nazario EC, Cade DE, Bierlich K, Czapanskiy MF, Goldbogen JA, Kahane-Rapport SR, van der Hoop JM, San Luis MT, Friedlaender AS. Baleen whale inhalation variability revealed using animal-borne video tags. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13724. [PMID: 35880219 PMCID: PMC9308462 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Empirical metabolic rate and oxygen consumption estimates for free-ranging whales have been limited to counting respiratory events at the surface. Because these observations were limited and generally viewed from afar, variability in respiratory properties was unknown and oxygen consumption estimates assumed constant breath-to-breath tidal volume and oxygen uptake. However, evidence suggests that cetaceans in human care vary tidal volume and breathing frequency to meet aerobic demand, which would significantly impact energetic estimates if the findings held in free-ranging species. In this study, we used suction cup-attached video tags positioned posterior to the nares of two humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and four Antarctic minke whales (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) to measure inhalation duration, relative nares expansion, and maximum nares expansion. Inhalation duration and nares expansion varied between and within initial, middle, and terminal breaths of surface sequences between dives. The initial and middle breaths exhibited the least variability and had the shortest durations and smallest nares expansions. In contrast, terminal breaths were highly variable, with the longest inhalation durations and the largest nares expansions. Our results demonstrate breath-to-breath variability in duration and nares expansion, suggesting differential oxygen exchange in each breath during the surface interval. With future validation, inhalation duration or nares area could be used alongside respiratory frequency to improve oxygen consumption estimates by accounting for breath-to-breath variation in wild whales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C. Nazario
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America
| | - David E. Cade
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA, United States of America
| | - K.C. Bierlich
- Marine Mammal Institute, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University, Newport, OR, United States of America
| | - Max F. Czapanskiy
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA, United States of America
| | - Jeremy A. Goldbogen
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA, United States of America
| | - Shirel R. Kahane-Rapport
- Department of Biological Science, California State University, Fullerton, Fullerton, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Merceline T. San Luis
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America
| | - Ari S. Friedlaender
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States of America
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Bottlenose Dolphins Produce Underwater Bubbles Linked to Cognitive Task Engagement but Not Success. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg2020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Captive mammals respond emotionally toward cognitive challenges, but research has precluded marine mammals. A potential indicator of emotion in toothed cetaceans is a large singular bubble (‘burst’) emitted from the blowhole, previously linked to surprise and excitement. Our study analysed bursts from a published study on dolphin cognitive enrichment. Bursts were only produced by task-engaged (72%) or task-spectating (28%) dolphins (n = 6 males in total). Burst frequency increased with the proportion of task engagement and spectator frequency, but not task progress or success (providing no evidence for an instantaneous ‘Eureka moment’). Bursts were reduced in frequency over three weeks, consistent with a decrease in task-engagement. Bursts were significantly more likely to come at the start of a bout of task-engagement than in the middle or end. We suggest bursts were an emotional response signaling dolphins’ instantaneous judgement of the task, more likely related to positive affect (interest, curiosity) than negative affect (frustration). They appear unrelated to respiration. It was unclear whether bursts were produced consciously and had a social function. We call for further dedicated research on the emotional valence of cetacean bursts. This will require simultaneous behavioural and acoustic measurements under different levels of more controlled challenge.
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Is Harbor Porpoise ( Phocoena phocoena) Exhaled Breath Sampling Suitable for Hormonal Assessments? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030907. [PMID: 33810041 PMCID: PMC8004923 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The progress of animal welfare in wildlife conservation and research calls for more non-invasive sampling techniques. In cetaceans, exhaled breath condensate (blow)—a mixture of cells, mucus and fluids expelled through the force of a whale’s exhale—is a unique sampling matrix for hormones, bacteria and genetic material, among others. Especially the detection of steroid hormones, such as cortisol, is being investigated as stress indicators in several species. As the only native cetacean in Germany, harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are of special conservation concern and research interest. So far, strandings and live captures have been the only method to obtain samples from free-ranging individuals, and novel, non-invasive monitoring methods are desirable for this small cetacean species. Hence, three different blow collection devices were tested on harbor porpoises. All samples were analyzed for cortisol using a commercially available immunosorbent assay. The most suitable protocol for sampling, storage and processing is using a sterile 50 mL centrifuge tube. This pilot study shows that cortisol can be detected in the exhale of harbor porpoises, thus paving the way for future studies and most likely successful non-invasive small cetacean health monitoring through blow. Abstract Over the last decades, exhaled breath sampling has been established for laboratory analysis in various cetacean species. Due to their small size, the usability of respiratory vapor for hormone assessments was questionable in harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). This pilot study compared three different blow collection devices for their suitability in the field and during laboratory processing: a sterile petri dish covered by a Nitex membrane, as well as sterile 50 mL centrifuge tubes with or without manganese(II) chloride as a stabilizer. Collected exhales varied between three, five or ten, depending on feasibility. Hormones were extracted through an ether mix, followed by centrifugal evaporation and cortisol analysis using an immunoassay. Although close to the lower end of the assay’s dynamic range, the ELISA produced results (n = 110, 0.102–0.937 ng/mL). Hence, a simple 50 mL centrifuge tube was determined as the best suited blow collection device, while three consecutive exhales proved sufficient to yield results. These findings are promising regarding the suitability of exhaled breath as a matrix for future endocrine and immune system-related studies in harbor porpoises. If further advanced, blow sampling can become an important, non-invasive tool for studying and monitoring health, stress levels and diseases in harbor porpoises.
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Borque-Espinosa A, Ferrero-Fernández D, Capaccioni-Azzati R, Fahlman A. Lung function assessment in the Pacific walrus ( Odobenus rosmarus divergens) while resting on land and submerged in water. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:jeb227389. [PMID: 33188062 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.227389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we examined lung function in healthy resting adult (born in 2003) Pacific walruses (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) by measuring respiratory flow ([Formula: see text]) using a custom-made pneumotachometer. Three female walruses (670-1025 kg) voluntarily participated in spirometry trials while spontaneously breathing on land (sitting and lying down in sternal recumbency) and floating in water. While sitting, two walruses performed active respiratory efforts, and one animal participated in lung compliance measurements. For spontaneous breaths, [Formula: see text] was lower when walruses were lying down (e.g. expiration: 7.1±1.2 l s-1) as compared with in water (9.9±1.4 l s-1), while tidal volume (VT, 11.5±4.6 l), breath duration (4.6±1.4 s) and respiratory frequency (7.6±2.2 breaths min-1) remained the same. The measured VT and specific dynamic lung compliance (0.32±0.07 cmH2O-1) for spontaneous breaths were higher than those estimated for similarly sized terrestrial mammals. VT increased with body mass (allometric mass-exponent=1.29) and ranged from 3% to 43% of the estimated total lung capacity (TLCest) for spontaneous breaths. When normalized for TLCest, the maximal expiratory [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]exp) was higher than that estimated in phocids, but lower than that reported in cetaceans and the California sea lion. [Formula: see text]exp was maintained over all lung volumes during spontaneous and active respiratory manoeuvres. We conclude that location (water or land) affects lung function in the walrus and should be considered when studying respiratory physiology in semi-aquatic marine mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Borque-Espinosa
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005 Valencia, Spain
- Universitat de València, Av. de Blasco Ibáñez 13, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Andreas Fahlman
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005 Valencia, Spain
- Global Diving Research, Inc., Ottawa, ON, Canada, K2J 5E8
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13
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Otero-Sabio C, Centelleghe C, Corain L, Graïc JM, Cozzi B, Rivero M, Consoli F, Peruffo A. Microscopic anatomical, immunohistochemical, and morphometric characterization of the terminal airways of the lung in cetaceans. J Morphol 2020; 282:291-308. [PMID: 33338275 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The lungs of cetaceans undergo anatomical and physiological adaptations that facilitate extended breath-holding during dives. Here, we present new insights on the ontogeny of the microscopic anatomy of the terminal portion of the airways of the lungs in five cetacean species: the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus); the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), the Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris); the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus); and the striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba). We (a) studied the histology of the terminal portion of the airways; (b) used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to characterize the muscle fibers with antibodies against smooth muscle (sm-) actin, sm-myosin, and desmin; (c) the innervation of myoelastic sphincters (MESs) with an antibody against neurofilament protein; and (d) defined the diameter of the terminal bronchioles, the diameter and length of the alveoli, the thickness of the septa, the major and minor axis, perimeter and section area of the cartilaginous rings by quantitative morphometric analyses in partially inflated lung tissue. As already reported in the literature, in bottlenose and striped dolphins, a system of MESs was observed in the terminal bronchioles. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of smooth muscle in the terminal bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveolar septa in all the examined species. Some neurofilaments were observed close to the MESs in both bottlenose and striped dolphins. In fin, sperm, and Cuvier's beaked whales, we noted a layer of longitudinal smooth muscle going from the terminal bronchioles to the alveolar sacs. The morphometric analysis allowed to quantify the structural differences among cetacean species by ranking them into groups according to the adjusted mean values of the morphometric parameters measured. Our results contribute to the current understanding of the anatomy of the terminal airways of the cetacean lung and the role of the smooth muscle in the alveolar collapse reflex, crucial for prolonged breath-holding diving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Otero-Sabio
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Livio Corain
- Department of Management and Engineering, University of Padova, Vicenza, Padova, Italy
| | - Jean-Marie Graïc
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Bruno Cozzi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Miguel Rivero
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Francesco Consoli
- Veterinary Histology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Antonella Peruffo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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14
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Serres A, Hao Y, Wang D. Contextual impacts on individual and synchronous breathing rate variations in three captive odontocete groups. Zoo Biol 2020; 40:20-32. [PMID: 33188717 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Breathing rates are often collected both in the wild and in captivity to inform on cetaceans' internal state. However, few studies have investigated the effect of various factors on this breathing rate. We investigated the variations of individual and synchronous breathing rates depending on individual features (species, sex, age), displayed behavior, social parameters (social grouping), and environmental parameters (diurnal variation, presence of enrichment, unusual events, and presence of visitors in three groups of captive odontocetes (Yangtze finless porpoises, Neophocaena asiaeorentalis asiaeorientalis, East-Asian finless porpoises, Neophocaena asiaeorentalis sunameri, bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus). Both individual and synchronous breathing rates were the highest when animals engaged in energetic or social behaviors. Individual breathing rate decreased but synchronous breathing rate increased with the presence of enrichment. Both rates increased during unusual events (e.g., pool cleaning, presence of a diver in the pool, noise, transport) and when public was present for Yangtze finless porpoises. Finally, synchronous breathing rate increased for Yangtze finless porpoises when experiencing social separation. We suggest that individual and synchronous breathing rates are useful parameters to measure, both in wild and captive animals, to obtain information on their arousal/stress state. However, these rates should be interpreted with caution and should be used together with other parameters to allow more accurate inferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Serres
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yujiang Hao
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Ding Wang
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
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15
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Fahlman A, Sato K, Miller P. Improving estimates of diving lung volume in air-breathing marine vertebrates. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:223/12/jeb216846. [PMID: 32587107 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.216846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The air volume in the respiratory system of marine tetrapods provides a store of O2 to fuel aerobic metabolism during dives; however, it can also be a liability, as the associated N2 can increase the risk of decompression sickness. In order to more fully understand the physiological limitations of different air-breathing marine vertebrates, it is therefore important to be able to accurately estimate the air volume in the respiratory system during diving. One method that has been used to do so is to calculate the air volume from glide phases - periods of movement during which no thrust is produced by the animal - which many species conduct during ascent periods, when gases are expanding owing to decreasing hydrostatic pressure. This method assumes that there is conservation of mass in the respiratory system, with volume changes only driven by pressure. In this Commentary, we use previously published data to argue that both the respiratory quotient and differences in tissue and blood gas solubility potentially alter the mass balance in the respiratory system throughout a dive. Therefore, near the end of a dive, the measured volume of gas at a given pressure may be 12-50% less than from the start of the dive; the actual difference will depend on the length of the dive, the cardiac output, the pulmonary shunt and the metabolic rate. Novel methods and improved understanding of diving physiology will be required to verify the size of the effects described here and to more accurately estimate the volume of gas inhaled at the start of a dive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Fahlman
- Global Diving Research Inc., Ottawa, ON, Canada, K2J 5E8 .,Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005 Valencia, Spain
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Patrick Miller
- SMRU (Sea Mammal Research Unit), University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB, UK
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16
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Denk M, Fahlman A, Dennison-Gibby S, Song Z, Moore M. Hyperbaric tracheobronchial compression in cetaceans and pinnipeds. J Exp Biol 2020; 223:jeb217885. [PMID: 32041809 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.217885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Assessment of the compressibility of marine mammal airways at depth is crucial to understanding vital physiological processes such as gas exchange during diving. Very few studies have directly assessed changes in cetacean and pinniped tracheobronchial shape, and none have quantified changes in volume with increasing pressure. A harbor seal, gray seal, harp seal, harbor porpoise and common dolphin were imaged promptly post mortem via computed tomography in a radiolucent hyperbaric chamber. Volume reconstructions were performed of segments of the trachea and bronchi of the pinnipeds and bronchi of the cetaceans for each pressure treatment. All specimens examined demonstrated significant decreases in airway volume with increasing pressure, with those of the harbor seal and common dolphin nearing complete collapse at the highest pressures. The common dolphin bronchi demonstrated distinctly different compression dynamics between 50% and 100% lung inflation treatments, indicating the importance of air in maintaining patent airways, and collapse occurred caudally to cranially in the 50% treatment. Dynamics of the harbor seal and gray seal airways indicated that the trachea was less compliant than the bronchi. These findings indicate potential species-specific variability in airway compliance, and cessation of gas exchange may occur at greater depths than those predicted in models assuming rigid airways. This may potentially increase the likelihood of decompression sickness in these animals during diving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Denk
- Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | - Andreas Fahlman
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Zhongchang Song
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
- Key Laboratory of Underwater Acoustic Communication and Marine Information Technology of the Ministry of Education, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, People's Republic of China
| | - Michael Moore
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
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17
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Fahlman A, Borque-Espinosa A, Facchin F, Fernandez DF, Caballero PM, Haulena M, Rocho-Levine J. Comparative Respiratory Physiology in Cetaceans. Front Physiol 2020; 11:142. [PMID: 32194433 PMCID: PMC7063064 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the current study, we used breath-by-breath respirometry to evaluate respiratory physiology under voluntary control in a male beluga calf [Delphinapterus leucas, body mass range (M b): 151-175 kg], an adult female (estimated M b = 500-550 kg) and a juvenile male (M b = 279 kg) false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) housed in managed care. Our results suggest that the measured breathing frequency (f R) is lower, while tidal volume (V T) is significantly greater as compared with allometric predictions from terrestrial mammals. Including previously published data from adult bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) beluga, harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), killer whale (Orcinus orca), pilot whale (Globicephala scammoni), and gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus) show that the allometric mass-exponents for V T and f R are similar to that for terrestrial mammals (V T: 1.00, f R: -0.20). In addition, our results suggest an allometric relationship for respiratory flow ( V . ), with a mass-exponent between 0.63 and 0.70, and where the expiratory V . was an average 30% higher as compared with inspiratory V . . These data provide enhanced understanding of the respiratory physiology of cetaceans and are useful to provide proxies of lung function to better understand lung health or physiological limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Fahlman
- Research Department, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
- Global Diving Research Inc., Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Alicia Borque-Espinosa
- Research Department, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
- University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Federico Facchin
- Research Department, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
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18
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Bernaldo de Quirós Y, Fernandez A, Baird RW, Brownell RL, Aguilar de Soto N, Allen D, Arbelo M, Arregui M, Costidis A, Fahlman A, Frantzis A, Gulland FMD, Iñíguez M, Johnson M, Komnenou A, Koopman H, Pabst DA, Roe WD, Sierra E, Tejedor M, Schorr G. Advances in research on the impacts of anti-submarine sonar on beaked whales. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 286:20182533. [PMID: 30963955 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.2533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mass stranding events (MSEs) of beaked whales (BWs) were extremely rare prior to the 1960s but increased markedly after the development of naval mid-frequency active sonar (MFAS). The temporal and spatial associations between atypical BW MSEs and naval exercises were first observed in the Canary Islands, Spain, in the mid-1980s. Further research on BWs stranded in association with naval exercises demonstrated pathological findings consistent with decompression sickness (DCS). A 2004 ban on MFASs around the Canary Islands successfully prevented additional BW MSEs in the region, but atypical MSEs have continued in other places of the world, especially in the Mediterranean Sea, with examined individuals showing DCS. A workshop held in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, in September 2017 reviewed current knowledge on BW atypical MSEs associated with MFAS. Our review suggests that the effects of MFAS on BWs vary among individuals or populations, and predisposing factors may contribute to individual outcomes. Spatial management specific to BW habitat, such as the MFAS ban in the Canary Islands, has proven to be an effective mitigation tool and mitigation measures should be established in other areas taking into consideration known population-level information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Bernaldo de Quirós
- 1 Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Veterinary School , C/Transmontaña s/n, 35416, Arucas, Las Palmas , Spain
| | - A Fernandez
- 1 Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Veterinary School , C/Transmontaña s/n, 35416, Arucas, Las Palmas , Spain
| | - R W Baird
- 2 Cascadia Research Collective , 218½ W. 4th Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501 , USA
| | - R L Brownell
- 3 NOAA Fisheries, Southwest Fisheries Science Center , Monterey, CA 93940 , USA
| | - N Aguilar de Soto
- 4 BIOECOMAC. Dept. Animal Biology, Geology and Edaphology, University of La Laguna , Tenerife , Spain
| | - D Allen
- 5 US Marine Mammal Commission , 4340 East-West Highway, Suite 700, Bethesda, MD 20814 , USA
| | - M Arbelo
- 1 Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Veterinary School , C/Transmontaña s/n, 35416, Arucas, Las Palmas , Spain
| | - M Arregui
- 1 Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Veterinary School , C/Transmontaña s/n, 35416, Arucas, Las Palmas , Spain
| | - A Costidis
- 6 Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Stranding Response Program , 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 , USA
| | - A Fahlman
- 7 Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana , Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia , Spain
| | - A Frantzis
- 8 Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute , Terpsichoris 21, 16671 Vouliagmeni , Greece
| | - F M D Gulland
- 5 US Marine Mammal Commission , 4340 East-West Highway, Suite 700, Bethesda, MD 20814 , USA.,9 The Marine Mammal Center , 2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito, CA 94965 , USA
| | - M Iñíguez
- 10 Fundación Cethus and WDC , Cap J. Bermúdez 1598, (1636), Olivos, Prov. Buenos Aires , Argentina
| | - M Johnson
- 11 Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews , St Andrews , UK
| | - A Komnenou
- 12 School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki , Greece
| | - H Koopman
- 13 Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington , Wilmington, NC 28403 , USA
| | - D A Pabst
- 13 Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington , Wilmington, NC 28403 , USA
| | - W D Roe
- 14 Massey University , Palmerston North, PN4222 , New Zealand
| | - E Sierra
- 1 Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Veterinary School , C/Transmontaña s/n, 35416, Arucas, Las Palmas , Spain
| | - M Tejedor
- 15 Canary Islands Stranding Network , Irlanda 7, Playa Blanca, 35580, Lanzarote , Spain
| | - G Schorr
- 16 Marine Ecology & Telemetry Research , 2468 Camp McKenzie Tr NW, Seabeck, WA 98380 , USA
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19
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Lauriano E, Pergolizzi S, Lo Cascio P, Kuciel M, Zizzo N, Guerrera M, Aragona M, Capillo G. Expression of Langerin/CD207 in airways, lung and associated lymph nodes of a stranded striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba). Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151471. [PMID: 31784234 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2019.151471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The airways and lungs of vertebrates are an entrance way for several microbial pathogens. Cetaceans present an upper and lower respiratory anatomy that allows the rapid flow of large air volumes, which may lead to high susceptibility to respiratory infections. Mortality and stranding rate of Cetaceans increased dramatically, so wide the knowledge about the immune system and specific antibodies identifying immune cells populations, is of fundamental importance to monitor and document cetacean health. The aim of this study was to identify the localization of dendritic cells marked by Langerin/CD207 in airways, lungs and associated lymph nodes, of the striped dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba. Samples of trachea, bronchi, lungs and lung-associated lymph nodes were obtained from a stranded adult male of Stenella coeruleoalba. Our results showed abundant lymphoid aggregates (LAs) in the lung of S. ceruleoalba. Langerhans-like dendritic cells were well distributed along the epithelium and interstitium of respiratory tract and in associated lymph nodes. The present study deepens the knowledge about the cetacean's immune system and report about the exploitability of a commercial antibody (Langerin/CD207) for cetacean species.
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20
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Huelsmann M, Hecker N, Springer MS, Gatesy J, Sharma V, Hiller M. Genes lost during the transition from land to water in cetaceans highlight genomic changes associated with aquatic adaptations. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2019; 5:eaaw6671. [PMID: 31579821 PMCID: PMC6760925 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaw6671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The transition from land to water in whales and dolphins (cetaceans) was accompanied by remarkable adaptations. To reveal genomic changes that occurred during this transition, we screened for protein-coding genes that were inactivated in the ancestral cetacean lineage. We found 85 gene losses. Some of these were likely beneficial for cetaceans, for example, by reducing the risk of thrombus formation during diving (F12 and KLKB1), erroneous DNA damage repair (POLM), and oxidative stress-induced lung inflammation (MAP3K19). Additional gene losses may reflect other diving-related adaptations, such as enhanced vasoconstriction during the diving response (mediated by SLC6A18) and altered pulmonary surfactant composition (SEC14L3), while loss of SLC4A9 relates to a reduced need for saliva. Last, loss of melatonin synthesis and receptor genes (AANAT, ASMT, and MTNR1A/B) may have been a precondition for adopting unihemispheric sleep. Our findings suggest that some genes lost in ancestral cetaceans were likely involved in adapting to a fully aquatic lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Huelsmann
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Nikolai Hecker
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Mark S. Springer
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - John Gatesy
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
- Division of Vertebrate Zoology and Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY 10024, USA
| | - Virag Sharma
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Hiller
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Corresponding author.
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21
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Fahlman A, Miedler S, Rocho-Levine J, Jabois A, Arenarez J, Marti-Bonmati L, García-Párraga D, Cauture F. Re-evaluating the significance of the dive response during voluntary surface apneas in the bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8613. [PMID: 31197193 PMCID: PMC6565721 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45064-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The dive response is well documented for marine mammals, and includes a significant reduction in heart rate (fH) during submersion as compared while breathing at the surface. In the current study we assessed the influence of the Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA) while estimating the resting fH while breathing. Using transthoracic echocardiography we measured fH, and stroke volume (SV) during voluntary surface apneas at rest up to 255 s, and during recovery from apnea in 11 adult bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus, 9 males and 2 females, body mass range: 140–235 kg). The dolphins exhibited a significant post-respiratory tachycardia and increased SV. Therefore, only data after this RSA had stabilized were used for analysis and comparison. The average (±s.d.) fH, SV, and cardiac output (CO) after spontaneous breaths while resting at the surface were 44 ± 6 beats min−1, 179 ± 31 ml, and 7909 ± 1814 l min−1, respectively. During the apnea the fH, SV, and CO decreased proportionally with the breath-hold duration, and after 255 s they, respectively, had decreased by an average of 18%, 1–21%, and 12–37%. During recovery, the fH, SV, and CO rapidly increased by as much as 117%, 34%, and 190%, respectively. Next, fH, SV and CO rapidly decreased to resting values between 90–110 s following the surface apnea. These data highlight the necessity to define how the resting fH is estimated at the surface, and separating it from the RSA associated with each breath to evaluate the significance of cardiorespiratory matching during diving.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fahlman
- Research Group on Biomedical Imaging (GIBI230), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain. .,Departamento de Investigación, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain.
| | - S Miedler
- Departamento de Investigación, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain.,Veterinary Cardiology, Plaza Mayor 7/10, 46120 Alboraya, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - A Jabois
- Departamento de Biología, Avanqua-Oceanográfic SL, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Arenarez
- Departamento de Biología, Avanqua-Oceanográfic SL, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain
| | - L Marti-Bonmati
- Research Group on Biomedical Imaging (GIBI230), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - D García-Párraga
- Departamento de Investigación, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain.,Departamento de Biología, Avanqua-Oceanográfic SL, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain
| | - F Cauture
- Departamento de Investigación, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Gran Vía Marqués del Turia 19, 46005, Valencia, Spain
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22
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Cieri RL. Pulmonary Smooth Muscle in Vertebrates: A Comparative Review of Structure and Function. Integr Comp Biol 2019; 59:10-28. [DOI: 10.1093/icb/icz002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Although the airways of vertebrates are diverse in shape, complexity, and function, they all contain visceral smooth muscle. The morphology, function, and innervation of this tissue in airways is reviewed in actinopterygians, lungfish, amphibians, non-avian reptiles, birds, and mammals. Smooth muscle was likely involved in tension regulation ancestrally, and may serve to assist lung emptying in fishes and aquatic amphibians, as well as maintain internal lung structure. In certain non-avian reptiles and anurans antagonistic smooth muscle fibers may contribute to intrapulmonary gas mixing. In mammals and birds, smooth muscle regulates airway caliber, and may be important in controlling the distribution of ventilation at rest and exercise, or during thermoregulatory and vocal hyperventilation. Airway smooth muscle is controlled by the autonomic nervous system: cranial cholinergic innervation generally causes excitation, cranial non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic innervation causes inhibition, and spinal adrenergic (SA) input causes species-specific, often heterogeneous contractions and relaxations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Cieri
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Utah, 247 South 1400 East, 201 South Biology, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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23
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Bonato M, Bagnoli P, Centelleghe C, Maric M, Brocca G, Mazzariol S, Cozzi B. Dynamics of blood circulation during diving in the bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus): the role of the retia mirabilia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 222:jeb.198457. [PMID: 30760548 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.198457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The retia mirabilia are vascular nets composed of small vessels dispersed among numerous veins, allowing blood storage, regulation of flow and pressure damping effects. Here, we investigated their potential role during the diving phase of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). To this effect, the whole vertebral retia mirabilia of a series of dolphins were removed during post-mortem analysis and examined to assess vessel diameters, and estimate vascular volume and flow rate. We formulated a new hemodynamic model to help clarify vascular dynamics throughout the diving phase, based on the total blood volume of a bottlenose dolphin, and using data available about the perfusion of the main organs and body systems. We computed the minimum blood perfusion necessary to the internal organs, and the stroke volume and cardiac output during the surface state. We then simulated breath-holding conditions and perfusion of the internal organs under the diving-induced bradycardia and reduction of stroke volume and cardiac output, using 10 beats min-1 as the limit for the heart rate for an extended dive of over 3 min. Within these simulated conditions, the retia mirabilia play a vital role as reservoirs of oxygenated blood that permit functional performances and survival of the heart and brain. Our theoretical model, based on the actual blood capacity of the retia mirabilia and available data on organ perfusion, considers the dynamic trend of vasoconstriction during the diving phase and may represent a baseline for future studies on the diving physiology of dolphins and especially for the blood supply to their brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bonato
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35100 Padova (PD), Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Technology Transfer Office, Politecnico di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Mike Maric
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia (PV), Italy
| | - Ginevra Brocca
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Sandro Mazzariol
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Bruno Cozzi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
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Ponganis PJ. State of the art review: from the seaside to the bedside: insights from comparative diving physiology into respiratory, sleep and critical care. Thorax 2019; 74:512-518. [PMID: 30826734 DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2018-212136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Anatomical and physiological adaptations of animals to extreme environments provide insight into basic physiological principles and potential therapies for human disease. In that regard, the diving physiology of marine mammals and seabirds is especially relevant to pulmonary and cardiovascular function, and to the pathology and potential treatment of patients with hypoxaemia and/or ischaemia. This review highlights past and recent progress in the field of comparative diving physiology with emphasis on its potential relevance to human medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Ponganis
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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25
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Cauture F, Sterba-Boatwright B, Rocho-Levine J, Harms C, Miedler S, Fahlman A. Using Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia to Estimate Inspired Tidal Volume in the Bottlenose Dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus). Front Physiol 2019; 10:128. [PMID: 30837895 PMCID: PMC6390636 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Man-made environmental change may have significant impact on apex predators, like marine mammals. Thus, it is important to assess the physiological boundaries for survival in these species, and assess how climate change may affect foraging efficiency and the limits for survival. In the current study, we investigated whether the respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) could estimate tidal volume (V T) in resting bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). For this purpose, we measured respiratory flow and electrocardiogram (ECG) in five adult bottlenose dolphins at rest while breathing voluntarily. Initially, an exponential decay function, using three parameters (baseline heart rate, the change in heart rate following a breath, and an exponential decay constant) was used to describe the temporal change in instantaneous heart rate following a breath. The three descriptors, in addition to body mass, were used to develop a Generalized Additive Model (GAM) to predict the inspired tidal volume (V Tinsp). The GAM allowed us to predict V Tinsp with an average ( ± SD) overestimate of 3 ± 2%. A jackknife sensitivity analysis, where 4 of the five dolphins were used to fit the GAM and the 5th dolphin used to make predictions resulted in an average overestimate of 2 ± 10%. Future studies should be used to assess whether similar relationships exist in active animals, allowing V T to be studied in free-ranging animals provided that heart rate can be measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien Cauture
- Departamento de Investigación, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
| | - Blair Sterba-Boatwright
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TX, United States
| | | | - Craig Harms
- Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Morehead City, NC, United States
| | | | - Andreas Fahlman
- Departamento de Investigación, Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
- Research Group on Biomedical Imaging (GIBI2), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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26
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Fahlman A, Epple A, García-Párraga D, Robeck T, Haulena M, Piscitelli-Doshkov M, Brodsky M. Characterizing respiratory capacity in belugas (Delphinapterus leucas). Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2019; 260:63-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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27
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Fetherston T, Turner S, Mitchell G, Guzas E. Marine Mammal Lung Dynamics when Exposed to Underwater Explosion Impulse. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2018; 302:718-734. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Fetherston
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center 1176 Howell St., Newport Rhode Island 02841
| | - Stephen Turner
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center 1176 Howell St., Newport Rhode Island 02841
| | - Glenn Mitchell
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center 1176 Howell St., Newport Rhode Island 02841
| | - Emily Guzas
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center 1176 Howell St., Newport Rhode Island 02841
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28
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Burgess EA, Hunt KE, Kraus SD, Rolland RM. Quantifying hormones in exhaled breath for physiological assessment of large whales at sea. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10031. [PMID: 30018379 PMCID: PMC6050234 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28200-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Exhaled breath analysis is a non-invasive assessment tool that has shown promise in human diagnostics, and could greatly benefit research, management, and conservation of large whales. However, hormone assessment of whale respiratory vapor (blow) has been challenged by variable water content and unknown total volume of collected samples. To advance this technique, we investigated urea (a compound present in narrow range in circulation) as a normalizing factor to correct for blow sample concentration. Normalized progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol concentrations of 100 blow samples from 46 photo-identified North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis) were more biologically relevant compared to absolute estimates, varying by sex, age class, or individual. Progesterone was elevated in adult females compared with other cohorts and highest in one independently confirmed pregnant female. For both sexes, testosterone was two-fold higher in reproductively mature whales but studied adult females showed the widest variation. Cortisol was present in relatively low concentrations in blow and demonstrated variation between individual whales, suggesting potential for studies of individual differences in adrenal activity. Incorporation of methodologies that normalize sample concentration are essential for blow hormone analysis of free-swimming whales, and measurement of urea could be used to optimize non-invasive physiological assessment of whales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Burgess
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, 02110, USA.
| | - Kathleen E Hunt
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Scott D Kraus
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, 02110, USA
| | - Rosalind M Rolland
- Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, 02110, USA
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29
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Narazaki T, Isojunno S, Nowacek DP, Swift R, Friedlaender AS, Ramp C, Smout S, Aoki K, Deecke VB, Sato K, Miller PJO. Body density of humpback whales (Megaptera novaengliae) in feeding aggregations estimated from hydrodynamic gliding performance. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200287. [PMID: 30001369 PMCID: PMC6042725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Many baleen whales undertake annual fasting and feeding cycles, resulting in substantial changes in their body condition, an important factor affecting fitness. As a measure of lipid-store body condition, tissue density of a few deep diving marine mammals has been estimated using a hydrodynamic glide model of drag and buoyancy forces. Here, we applied the method to shallow-diving humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in North Atlantic and Antarctic feeding aggregations. High-resolution 3-axis acceleration, depth and speed data were collected from 24 whales. Measured values of acceleration during 5 s glides were fitted to a hydrodynamic glide model to estimate unknown parameters (tissue density, drag term and diving gas volume) in a Bayesian framework. Estimated species-average tissue density (1031.6 ± 2.1 kg m-3, ±95% credible interval) indicates that humpback whale tissue is typically negatively buoyant although there was a large inter-individual variation ranging from 1025.2 to 1043.1 kg m-3. The precision of the individual estimates was substantially finer than the variation across different individual whales, demonstrating a progressive decrease in tissue density throughout the feeding season and comparably high lipid-store in pregnant females. The drag term (CDAm-1) was estimated to be relatively high, indicating a large effect of lift-related induced drag for humpback whales. Our results show that tissue density of shallow diving baleen whales can be estimated using the hydrodynamic gliding model, although cross-validation with other techniques is an essential next step. This method for estimating body condition is likely to be broadly applicable across a range of aquatic animals and environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Narazaki
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Saana Isojunno
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas P. Nowacek
- Nicholas School of the Environment and Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Rene Swift
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Ari S. Friedlaender
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America
| | - Christian Ramp
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- Mingan Island Cetacean Study, Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, Québec, Canada
| | - Sophie Smout
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Kagari Aoki
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
| | - Volker B. Deecke
- Department of Science, Natural Resources and Outdoor Studies, University of Cumbria, Ambleside, United Kingdom
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
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30
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Goldbogen JA, Cade DE, Boersma AT, Calambokidis J, Kahane-Rapport SR, Segre PS, Stimpert AK, Friedlaender AS. Using Digital Tags With Integrated Video and Inertial Sensors to Study Moving Morphology and Associated Function in Large Aquatic Vertebrates. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2018; 300:1935-1941. [PMID: 28971623 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The anatomy of large cetaceans has been well documented, mostly through dissection of dead specimens. However, the difficulty of studying the world's largest animals in their natural environment means the functions of anatomical structures must be inferred. Recently, non-invasive tracking devices have been developed that measure body position and orientation, thereby enabling the detailed reconstruction of underwater trajectories. The addition of cameras to the whale-borne tags allows the sensor data to be matched with real-time observations of how whales use their morphological structures, such as flukes, flippers, feeding apparatuses, and blowholes for the physiological functions of locomotion, feeding, and breathing. Here, we describe a new tag design with integrated video and inertial sensors and how it can be used to provide insights to the function of whale anatomy. This technology has the potential to facilitate a wide range of discoveries and comparative studies, but many challenges remain to increase the resolution and applicability of the data. Anat Rec, 300:1935-1941, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Goldbogen
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, California
| | - D E Cade
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, California
| | - A T Boersma
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, California
| | | | - S R Kahane-Rapport
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, California
| | - P S Segre
- Department of Biology, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, California
| | - A K Stimpert
- Vertebrate Ecology Laboratory, Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, Moss Landing, California
| | - A S Friedlaender
- Marine Mammal Institute, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University, Newport, Oregon
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31
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Garcia Párraga D, Moore M, Fahlman A. Pulmonary ventilation-perfusion mismatch: a novel hypothesis for how diving vertebrates may avoid the bends. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:20180482. [PMID: 29695441 PMCID: PMC5936736 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.0482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrostatic lung compression in diving marine mammals, with collapsing alveoli blocking gas exchange at depth, has been the main theoretical basis for limiting N2 uptake and avoiding gas emboli (GE) as they ascend. However, studies of beached and bycaught cetaceans and sea turtles imply that air-breathing marine vertebrates may, under unusual circumstances, develop GE that result in decompression sickness (DCS) symptoms. Theoretical modelling of tissue and blood gas dynamics of breath-hold divers suggests that changes in perfusion and blood flow distribution may also play a significant role. The results from the modelling work suggest that our current understanding of diving physiology in many species is poor, as the models predict blood and tissue N2 levels that would result in severe DCS symptoms (chokes, paralysis and death) in a large fraction of natural dive profiles. In this review, we combine published results from marine mammals and turtles to propose alternative mechanisms for how marine vertebrates control gas exchange in the lung, through management of the pulmonary distribution of alveolar ventilation ([Formula: see text]) and cardiac output/lung perfusion ([Formula: see text]), varying the level of [Formula: see text] in different regions of the lung. Man-made disturbances, causing stress, could alter the [Formula: see text] mismatch level in the lung, resulting in an abnormally elevated uptake of N2, increasing the risk for GE. Our hypothesis provides avenues for new areas of research, offers an explanation for how sonar exposure may alter physiology causing GE and provides a new mechanism for how air-breathing marine vertebrates usually avoid the diving-related problems observed in human divers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Moore
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Andreas Fahlman
- Fundación Oceanogràfic, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, 46013 Valencia, Spain
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32
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History of the Development of Anesthesia for the Dolphin: A Quest to Study a Brain as Large as Man's. Anesthesiology 2018; 129:11-21. [PMID: 29664886 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000002213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It is important for academic-minded human anesthesiologists to have an interdisciplinary perspective when engaging in cutting-edge research as well as the practice of human anesthesiology. This was a philosophy promoted by Dr. Robert Dripps, former pioneering Chairman of the Anesthesiology Department at the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania). Many human and veterinary anesthesiologists as well as biomedical engineers and neuroscientists benefited from Dr. Dripps's constructive outlook personified in the quest to develop dolphin anesthesiology.The motivation to anesthetize dolphins came from the fact that scientists and physicians wanted to study the brain of the dolphin, a brain as large as man's. Also, investigators wanted to develop anesthesia for the dolphin in order to study the electrophysiology of the dolphin's highly sophisticated auditory system, which facilitates the dolphin's amazing echolocation capability.Dolphin anesthesia involves a complex matter of unique neural control, airway anatomy, neuromuscular control of respiration, and sleep behavior.
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33
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A genomics approach reveals insights into the importance of gene losses for mammalian adaptations. Nat Commun 2018; 9:1215. [PMID: 29572503 PMCID: PMC5865188 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-03667-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying the genomic changes that underlie phenotypic adaptations is a key challenge in evolutionary biology and genomics. Loss of protein-coding genes is one type of genomic change with the potential to affect phenotypic evolution. Here, we develop a genomics approach to accurately detect gene losses and investigate their importance for adaptive evolution in mammals. We discover a number of gene losses that likely contributed to morphological, physiological, and metabolic adaptations in aquatic and flying mammals. These gene losses shed light on possible molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie these adaptive phenotypes. In addition, we show that gene loss events that occur as a consequence of relaxed selection following adaptation provide novel insights into species' biology. Our results suggest that gene loss is an evolutionary mechanism for adaptation that may be more widespread than previously anticipated. Hence, investigating gene losses has great potential to reveal the genomic basis underlying macroevolutionary changes.
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34
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Lillie MA, Vogl AW, Raverty S, Haulena M, McLellan WA, Stenson GB, Shadwick RE. Controlling thoracic pressures in cetaceans during a breath-hold dive: importance of the diaphragm. J Exp Biol 2017; 220:3464-3477. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.162289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Internal pressures change throughout a cetacean's body during swimming or diving, and uneven pressures between the thoracic and abdominal compartments can affect the cardiovascular system. Pressure differentials could arise from ventral compression on each fluke downstroke or by a faster equilibration of the abdominal compartment with changing ambient ocean pressures compared with the thoracic compartment. If significant pressure differentials do develop, we would expect the morphology of the diaphragm to adapt to its in vivo loading. Here, we tested the hypothesis that significant pressure differentials develop between the thoracic and abdominal cavities in diving cetaceans by examining diaphragms from several cetacean and pinniped species. We found that: (1) regions of cetacean diaphragms possess subserosal collagen fibres that would stabilize the diaphragm against craniocaudal stretch; (2) subserosal collagen covers 5–60% of the thoracic diaphragm surface, and area correlates strongly with published values for swimming speed of each cetacean species (P<0.001); and (3) pinnipeds, which do not locomote by vertical fluking, do not possess this subserosal collagen. These results strongly suggest that this collagen is associated with loads experienced during a dive, and they support the hypothesis that diving cetaceans experience periods during which abdominal pressures significantly exceed thoracic pressures. Our results are consistent with the generation of pressure differentials by fluking and by different compartmental equilibration rates. Pressure differentials during diving would affect venous and arterial perfusion and alter transmural pressures in abdominal arteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo A. Lillie
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - A. Wayne Vogl
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3
| | - Stephen Raverty
- Animal Health Centre, 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC, Canada V3G 2M3
| | - Martin Haulena
- Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, PO Box 3232, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6G 3E2
| | - William A. McLellan
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
| | | | - Robert E. Shadwick
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
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35
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Fahlman A, Moore MJ, Garcia-Parraga D. Respiratory function and mechanics in pinnipeds and cetaceans. J Exp Biol 2017; 220:1761-1773. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.126870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
In this Review, we focus on the functional properties of the respiratory system of pinnipeds and cetaceans, and briefly summarize the underlying anatomy; in doing so, we provide an overview of what is currently known about their respiratory physiology and mechanics. While exposure to high pressure is a common challenge among breath-hold divers, there is a large variation in respiratory anatomy, function and capacity between species – how are these traits adapted to allow the animals to withstand the physiological challenges faced during dives? The ultra-deep diving feats of some marine mammals defy our current understanding of respiratory physiology and lung mechanics. These animals cope daily with lung compression, alveolar collapse, transient hyperoxia and extreme hypoxia. By improving our understanding of respiratory physiology under these conditions, we will be better able to define the physiological constraints imposed on these animals, and how these limitations may affect the survival of marine mammals in a changing environment. Many of the respiratory traits to survive exposure to an extreme environment may inspire novel treatments for a variety of respiratory problems in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Fahlman
- Fundación Oceanográfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Gran Vía Marques del Turia 19, Valencia 46005, Spain
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
| | - Michael J. Moore
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Daniel Garcia-Parraga
- Fundación Oceanográfic de la Comunidad Valenciana, Gran Vía Marques del Turia 19, Valencia 46005, Spain
- Oceanográfic-Avanqua, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, Valencia 46013, Spain
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36
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Respiratory Microbiome of Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales and Microbiota of Surrounding Sea Surface Microlayer in the Eastern North Pacific. Sci Rep 2017; 7:394. [PMID: 28341851 PMCID: PMC5428453 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00457-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In the Salish Sea, the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whale (SRKW) is a high trophic indicator of ecosystem health. Three major threats have been identified for this population: reduced prey availability, anthropogenic contaminants, and marine vessel disturbances. These perturbations can culminate in significant morbidity and mortality, usually associated with secondary infections that have a predilection to the respiratory system. To characterize the composition of the respiratory microbiota and identify recognized pathogens of SRKW, exhaled breath samples were collected between 2006–2009 and analyzed for bacteria, fungi and viruses using (1) culture-dependent, targeted PCR-based methodologies and (2) taxonomically broad, non-culture dependent PCR-based methodologies. Results were compared with sea surface microlayer (SML) samples to characterize the respective microbial constituents. An array of bacteria and fungi in breath and SML samples were identified, as well as microorganisms that exhibited resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents. The SML microbes and respiratory microbiota carry a pathogenic risk which we propose as an additional, fourth putative stressor (pathogens), which may adversely impact the endangered SRKW population.
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37
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Suárez-Santana CM, Fernández-Maldonado C, Díaz-Delgado J, Arbelo M, Suárez-Bonnet A, Espinosa de Los Monteros A, Câmara N, Sierra E, Fernández A. Pulmonary carcinoma with metastasis in a long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas). BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:229. [PMID: 27729046 PMCID: PMC5057411 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0855-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed neoplasm in humans, however this does not apply to other animal species. Living in an aquatic environment the respiratory system of cetaceans had to undergo unique adaptations in order to them to survive and cope with totally different respiratory pathogens and potentially carcinogens from those affecting humans. Case presentation This article discusses not only macroscopical, histopathological and immunohistochemical features of a pulmonary carcinoma with disseminated metastases in a long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas), as well as the immunohistochemical analysis performed on various tissues of cetaceans belonging to the genus Globicephala. On the necropsy examination of the carcass, multiple pulmonary nodules and generalised thoracic lymphadenomegaly were noted. Histologically, a malignant epithelial neoplasia was identified in the lung, thoracic lymph nodes, and adrenal gland. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a pulmonary carcinoma. Vasculogenic mimicry and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition phenotype, as suggested by cytomorphological and immunohistochemical characteristics, were observed. Conclusions A diagnosis of metastatic pulmonary carcinoma was determined, which to the author’s knowledge, appears to be not previously recorded in long-finned pilot whale species. This is also the first report of vasculogenic mimicry and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition event in a spontaneous cancer from a cetacean species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian M Suárez-Santana
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain.
| | - Carolina Fernández-Maldonado
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Josué Díaz-Delgado
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Manuel Arbelo
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Alejandro Suárez-Bonnet
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Antonio Espinosa de Los Monteros
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Nakita Câmara
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Eva Sierra
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, Institute for Animal Health and Food Security, Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, C/Transmontana, 35413, Canary Islands, Spain
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Burgess EA, Hunt KE, Kraus SD, Rolland RM. Get the most out of blow hormones: validation of sampling materials, field storage and extraction techniques for whale respiratory vapour samples. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 4:cow024. [PMID: 27928506 PMCID: PMC5001149 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cow024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Revised: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2016] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Studies are progressively showing that vital physiological data may be contained in the respiratory vapour (blow) of cetaceans. Nonetheless, fundamental methodological issues need to be addressed before hormone analysis of blow can become a reliable technique. In this study, we performed controlled experiments in a laboratory setting, using known doses of pure parent hormones, to validate several technical factors that may play a crucial role in hormone analyses. We evaluated the following factors: (i) practical field storage of samples on small boats during daylong trips; (ii) efficiency of hormone extraction methods; and (iii) assay interference of different sampler types (i.e. veil nylon, nitex nylon mesh and polystyrene dish). Sampling materials were dosed with mock blow samples of known mixed hormone concentrations (progesterone, 17β-estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, aldosterone and triiodothyronine), designed to mimic endocrine profiles characteristic of pregnant females, adult males, an adrenal glucocorticoid response or a zero-hormone control (distilled H2O). Results showed that storage of samples in a cooler on ice preserved hormone integrity for at least 6 h (P = 0.18). All sampling materials and extraction methods yielded the correct relative patterns for all six hormones. However, veil and nitex mesh produced detectable assay interference (mean 0.22 ± 0.04 and 0.18 ± 0.03 ng/ml, respectively), possibly caused by some nylon-based component affecting antibody binding. Polystyrene dishes were the most efficacious sampler for accuracy and precision (P < 0.001), but required an ethanol rinse for improved progesterone recovery (increased 81%; P < 0.001). Awareness of assay interference from exogenous materials is crucial to future studies. This study establishes critical groundwork to help ensure that hormones can be measured accurately in samples obtained from field collections of whale blow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Burgess
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | - Kathleen E. Hunt
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | - Scott D. Kraus
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | - Rosalind M. Rolland
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA
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Miller P, Narazaki T, Isojunno S, Aoki K, Smout S, Sato K. Body density and diving gas volume of the northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus). J Exp Biol 2016; 219:2458-68. [PMID: 27296044 PMCID: PMC5004977 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.137349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Diving lung volume and tissue density, reflecting lipid store volume, are important physiological parameters that have only been estimated for a few breath-hold diving species. We fitted 12 northern bottlenose whales with data loggers that recorded depth, 3-axis acceleration and speed either with a fly-wheel or from change of depth corrected by pitch angle. We fitted measured values of the change in speed during 5 s descent and ascent glides to a hydrodynamic model of drag and buoyancy forces using a Bayesian estimation framework. The resulting estimate of diving gas volume was 27.4±4.2 (95% credible interval, CI) ml kg(-1), closely matching the measured lung capacity of the species. Dive-by-dive variation in gas volume did not correlate with dive depth or duration. Estimated body densities of individuals ranged from 1028.4 to 1033.9 kg m(-3) at the sea surface, indicating overall negative tissue buoyancy of this species in seawater. Body density estimates were highly precise with ±95% CI ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 kg m(-3), which would equate to a precision of <0.5% of lipid content based upon extrapolation from the elephant seal. Six whales tagged near Jan Mayen (Norway, 71°N) had lower body density and were closer to neutral buoyancy than six whales tagged in the Gully (Nova Scotia, Canada, 44°N), a difference that was consistent with the amount of gliding observed during ascent versus descent phases in these animals. Implementation of this approach using longer-duration tags could be used to track longitudinal changes in body density and lipid store body condition of free-ranging cetaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Miller
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9QQ, UK Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Tomoko Narazaki
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9QQ, UK Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Saana Isojunno
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9QQ, UK
| | - Kagari Aoki
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9QQ, UK Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Sophie Smout
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9QQ, UK
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
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Goldbogen JA, Shadwick RE, Lillie MA, Piscitelli MA, Potvin J, Pyenson ND, Vogl AW. Using morphology to infer physiology: case studies on rorqual whales (Balaenopteridae). CAN J ZOOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2014-0311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Whales are important model systems for understanding the physiological and ecological consequences of extreme body size. However, whales are also some of the most difficult animals to study because their large size precludes experimental studies under controlled conditions. Here we review a wide range of morphological studies that enable greater inference of physiological processes. In particular, we focus on baleen whales that exhibit extensive diving and foraging adaptations. Using morphological data, we (i) explore the biomechanics and sensory physiology of lunge-feeding rorqual whales (Balaenopteridae), (ii) determine the effects of scale and diving pressures on the circulatory physiology of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus (L., 1758)), and (iii) better understand the adaptations of the cetacean respiratory system that facilitate a fully aquatic life history. These studies underscore the value of understanding functional morphology in animals that cannot be studied using traditional laboratory techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert E. Shadwick
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Margo A. Lillie
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Marina A. Piscitelli
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jean Potvin
- Department of Physics, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
| | - Nicholas D. Pyenson
- Department of Paleobiology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20013-7012, USA
| | - A. Wayne Vogl
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Fahlman A, Loring SH, Levine G, Rocho-Levine J, Austin T, Brodsky M. Lung mechanics and pulmonary function testing in cetaceans. J Exp Biol 2015; 218:2030-8. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.119149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
We measured esophageal pressures, respiratory flow rates, and expired O2 and CO2 in six adult bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) during voluntary breaths and maximal (chuff) respiratory efforts. The data were used to estimate the dynamic specific lung compliance (sCL), the O2 consumption rate (V̇O2) and CO2 production rates (V̇CO2) during rest. Our results indicate that bottlenose dolphins have the capacity to generate respiratory flow rates that exceed 130 l s−1 and 30 l s−1 during expiration and inspiration, respectively. The esophageal pressures indicated that expiration is passive during voluntary breaths, but active during maximal efforts, whereas inspiration is active for all breaths. The average sCL of dolphins was 0.31±0.04 cmH2O−1, which is considerably higher than that of humans (0.08 cmH2O−1) and that previously measured in a pilot whale (0.13 cmH2O−1). The average estimated V̇O2 and V̇CO2 using our breath-by-breath respirometry system ranged from 0.857 to 1.185 l O2 min−1 and 0.589 to 0.851 l CO2 min−1, respectively, which is similar to previously published metabolic measurements from the same animals using conventional flow-through respirometry. In addition, our custom-made system allows us to approximate end tidal gas composition. Our measurements provide novel data for respiratory physiology in cetaceans, which may be important for clinical medicine and conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Fahlman
- Department of Life Science, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
| | - Stephen H. Loring
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Gregg Levine
- Dolphin Quest, Oahu, 5000 Kahala Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
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Chen XH, Motani R, Cheng L, Jiang DY, Rieppel O. A carapace-like bony 'body tube' in an early triassic marine reptile and the onset of marine tetrapod predation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94396. [PMID: 24718682 PMCID: PMC3981804 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Parahupehsuchus longus is a new species of marine reptile from the Lower Triassic of Yuan’an County, Hubei Province, China. It is unique among vertebrates for having a body wall that is completely surrounded by a bony tube, about 50 cm long and 6.5 cm deep, comprising overlapping ribs and gastralia. This tube and bony ossicles on the back are best interpreted as anti-predatory features, suggesting that there was predation pressure upon marine tetrapods in the Early Triassic. There is at least one sauropterygian that is sufficiently large to feed on Parahupehsuchus in the Nanzhang-Yuan’an fauna, together with six more species of potential prey marine reptiles with various degrees of body protection. Modern predators of marine tetrapods belong to the highest trophic levels in the marine ecosystem but such predators did not always exist through geologic time. The indication of marine-tetrapod feeding in the Nanzhang-Yuan’an fauna suggests that such a trophic level emerged for the first time in the Early Triassic. The recovery from the end-Permian extinction probably proceeded faster than traditionally thought for marine predators. Parahupehsuchus has superficially turtle-like features, namely expanded ribs without intercostal space, very short transverse processes, and a dorsal outgrowth from the neural spine. However, these features are structurally different from their turtle counterparts. Phylogeny suggests that they are convergent with the condition in turtles, which has a fundamentally different body plan that involves the folding of the body wall. Expanded ribs without intercostal space evolved at least twice and probably even more among reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-hong Chen
- Wuhan Center of China Geological Survey, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Ryosuke Motani
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Long Cheng
- Wuhan Center of China Geological Survey, Wuhan, Hubei, P. R. China
| | - Da-yong Jiang
- Laboratory of Orogenic Belt and Crustal Evolution, Ministry of Education, Department of Geology and Geological Museum, Peking University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Olivier Rieppel
- Center of Integrative Research, The Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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