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Moschetti A, Giangreco M, Ronfani L, Cervellera S, Ruffilli MP, Nume C, Barbi E, Servidio AG. An ecological study shows increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in children living in a heavily polluted area. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17159. [PMID: 39060326 PMCID: PMC11282186 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67980-0] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The burden of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing worldwide with genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors being possibly responsible for the observed epidemiological figures. In the setting of environmental exposure, the city of Taranto, in Southern Italy, represents an interesting case study as it hosts well inside the city one of the biggest steel plants in Europe. This is a cross-sectional ecological study carried out in the year 2020 in the province of Taranto designed to estimate the burden of ASD in the municipalities of Taranto and Statte, classified as high environmental risk areas (Contaminated Site of National Interest-SIN), compared to the other 27 municipalities of the same province. Differences have been evaluated using the Chi Square Test. Children aged 6-11 years identified in SIN municipalities had a statistically significant higher prevalence of ASD than children of other municipalities (9.58 vs. 6.66/1000 respectively, p = 0.002). No statistically significant difference was observed for the 12-18 years group (3.41 vs. 2.54/1000, p = 0.12). The findings observed in this study are suggestive of the association between urban residential proximity to industrial facilities emitting air pollutants and higher ASD prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuela Giangreco
- Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health Research Unit, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luca Ronfani
- Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health Research Unit, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefano Cervellera
- City Hall Bureau of Demographic Statistics, Municipality of Taranto, Taranto, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Ruffilli
- Medical Professional Association of Forlì-Cesena, OMCEO Forlì-Cesena, Forli, Italy
| | - Cosimo Nume
- Medical Professional Association of Taranto, OMCEO Taranto, Taranto, Italy
| | - Egidio Barbi
- University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessia Giuseppina Servidio
- Medical Professional Association of Taranto, OMCEO Taranto, Taranto, Italy.
- Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health Research Unit, Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy.
- City Hall Bureau of Demographic Statistics, Municipality of Taranto, Taranto, Italy.
- Medical Professional Association of Forlì-Cesena, OMCEO Forlì-Cesena, Forli, Italy.
- University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
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2
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Francescangeli F, Ferraro L, Frontalini F, Da Prato S, Rubino F. Exploring the underwater life in transitional environments: Benthic foraminifera, ostracods, and dinoflagellate cysts - Biotic trends and EcoQS assessment in the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (Ionian sea, southern Italy). MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 198:106545. [PMID: 38749196 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Coastal areas have historically thrived as centers of human activities due to their resources, economic opportunities, and natural allure. The rapid growth of coastal populations has however brought forth a multitude of challenges to tackle, with pollution emerging as a significant and far-reaching issue. Our study focuses on the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (Ionian Sea, Southern Italy), a lagoon-like coastal basin (separated in two sub-basins) that, since decades, has been heavily affected by human activities and aquaculture, leading to environmental deterioration. Although past studies have looked at environmental conditions in the Mar Piccolo from a chemical perspective, the biological component (e.g., biological indicators) has been mostly neglected. In this study, we firstly aim to examine the distribution and diversity of foraminifera, ostracods, and dinoflagellate cysts in December 2016 and compare our findings with data collected in December 2011. Foraminiferal and ostracod communities exhibit similar patterns in the two sampling campaigns, while the communities of encysted dinoflagellates show differences concerning both densities and diversity. Then, we evaluate the Ecological Quality Status (EcoQS) using ecological indices. While the indices in the inner basin appear to reflect an actual ecological degradation, they yield conflicting results in the outer basin. In the outer basin, indeed, the indices overestimate the EcoQS. This study highlights the potential of these indices for characterizing the EcoQS but emphasizes the need for improvements in their reliability. This research also contributes to a more holistic understanding of environmental condition in the Mar Piccolo and underscores the importance of integrating biological quality elements into ecosystem management and remediation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Francescangeli
- Department of Geosciences, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 6, 1700, Fribourg/Freiburg, Switzerland
| | - L Ferraro
- Institute of Marine Sciences, CNR Calata Porta di Massa, 80133, Naples, Italy.
| | - F Frontalini
- Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, Urbino University, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - S Da Prato
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources, CNR Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Rubino
- Institute for Water Research, CNR, via Roma 3, 74123, Taranto, Italy
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Antunes P, Gama A, Pereira M, Gaspar EMM. Spatiotemporal bioavailability of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs in wild mussels from the Portuguese Atlantic coast. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2023; 40:576-587. [PMID: 36947716 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2023.2186711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the spatiotemporal bioavailability of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) in wild adult mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, collected along the Portuguese Atlantic coast between 2009 and 2020. The work is part of a national environmental monitoring program. The purpose was to evaluate the dioxins' temporal trends, the human and ecological risks, and the correlation between mussels' location and the main pollutant sources in Portugal. The levels and congener patterns of the most toxicity-relevant 17 PCDD/Fs and 12 dl-PCBs were determined, with the dl-PCBs dominant. The sum of Σ17PCDD/Fs and Σ12dl-PCBs values ranged from 2.0 to 4.0 ng WHO-TEQ kg-1, (wet weight basis), below the limits established by the European Commission for contamination in fish and fishery products (6.5 ng per kg-1). The study included five years - 2009, 2010, 2016, 2018 and 2020 -, allowing to verify the impact of European Directive 2013/39/UE against the pollution of water in Portugal; it was observed that dioxin levels in mussels diminished over the time. Statistical analysis allowed verification of different spatial trends of dl-PCB profiles along the Portuguese Atlantic coast. The mono-ortho dl-PCB pentachlorinated congener IUPAC #118 prevailed in 2009 and 2018 in all sampling sites, and it was predominant in 2010, 2016 and 2020, followed by the congeners IUPAC #105, #156 and #167. The IUPAC #167, #169 and #123 were the most abundant hexachlorinated congeners, and the IUPAC #77 the most abundant tetrachlorinated congener. This work emphasises the importance of monitoring dioxins and mapping the congeners in Atlantic coastal ecosystems, to contribute to their elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Antunes
- Reference Laboratory of Environmental Portuguese Agency, Rua da Mugueira, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Ana Gama
- Reference Laboratory of Environmental Portuguese Agency, Rua da Mugueira, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Margarida Pereira
- Reference Laboratory of Environmental Portuguese Agency, Rua da Mugueira, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Elvira M M Gaspar
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, New University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
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4
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Rizzo A, De Giosa F, Donadio C, Scardino G, Scicchitano G, Terracciano S, Mastronuzzi G. Morpho-bathymetric acoustic surveys as a tool for mapping traces of anthropogenic activities on the seafloor: The case study of the Taranto area, southern Italy. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 185:114314. [PMID: 36356344 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In this study, an investigation procedure for mapping the traces of anthropogenic activities on the seafloor is proposed. Analyses are based on the interpretation of acoustic data (Multibeam Echosounder and Side Scan Sonar) acquired in the Taranto coastal area. Specific GIS tools supported the acoustic data analysis, interpretation, and mapping. These analyses highlighted that the seafloor of both coastal basins included in the investigated area is affected by a high distribution of traces related to different anthropogenic activities such as dredging, shipping, and mussel farming activities. Such kind of traces resulted efficiently detectable from morpho-bathymetric acoustic data. In particular, groove traces resulted highly distributed in both basins, while sunken mussel farm facilities are widely distributed in the Mar Grande basin. The results highlight as acoustic surveys represent a useful tool for orienting effective coastal management actions. This study points out how geophysical surveys support the geo-environmental characterization of highly urbanized coastal sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Rizzo
- Department of Earth and Geo-environmental Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center for Coastal Dynamics, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy.
| | | | - Carlo Donadio
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Resources Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scardino
- Department of Earth and Geo-environmental Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center for Coastal Dynamics, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scicchitano
- Department of Earth and Geo-environmental Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center for Coastal Dynamics, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Terracciano
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Resources Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mastronuzzi
- Department of Earth and Geo-environmental Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center for Coastal Dynamics, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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Benedetti M, Romano E, Ausili A, Fattorini D, Gorbi S, Maggi C, Salmeri A, Salvagio Manta D, Sesta G, Sprovieri M, Regoli F. 10-year time course of Hg and organic compounds in Augusta Bay: Bioavailability and biological effects in marine organisms. Front Public Health 2022; 10:968296. [PMID: 36211646 PMCID: PMC9532743 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.968296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last century, many Mediterranean coastal areas have been subjected to anthropogenic disturbances from industrial activities, uncontrolled landfills, shipyards, and high maritime traffic. The Augusta Bay (eastern Sicily, Italy) represents an example of a strongly impacted coastal environment with an elevated level of sediments contamination due to the presence of one of the largest European petrochemical plants, combined with an extensive commercial and military harbor. The most significant contaminants were represented by mercury (Hg) and hexachlorobenzene (HCB), derived from a former chlor-alkali plant, and other organic compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs). Since the 1970s, Augusta Bay has become internationally recognized as a contaminated marine environment, although very little information is available regarding the temporal trend of contaminants bioavailability and biological impacts on aquatic organisms. In this study, the Hg and HCB concentrations were investigated over 10 years (from 2003 to 2013) in sediments and invertebrate and vertebrate organisms; these two contaminants' ecotoxicity was further evaluated at a biochemical and cellular level by analyzing the induction of organic biotransformation processes and DNA damages. The results showed high concentrations of Hg and HCB in sediments and their strong bioaccumulation in different species with significantly higher values than those measured in reference sites. This trend was paralleled by increased micronuclei frequency (DNA damage biomarker) and activity of the biotransformation system. While levels of chemicals in sediments remained elevated during the time course, their bioavailability and biological effects showed a gradual decrease after 2003, when the chlor-alkali plant was closed. Environmental persistence of Hg and HCB availability facilitates their bioaccumulation and affects the health status of marine organisms, with possible implications for environmental risk, pollutants transfer, and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Benedetti
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy,CoNISMa, Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Romano
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy,*Correspondence: Elena Romano
| | - Antonella Ausili
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Fattorini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy,CoNISMa, Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorbi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Chiara Maggi
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Salmeri
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Salvagio Manta
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council, Trapani, Italy
| | - Giulio Sesta
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Sprovieri
- Institute of Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council, Trapani, Italy
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy,CoNISMa, Consorzio Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Rome, Italy
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Giannico OV, Baldacci S, Desiante F, Basile FC, Franco E, Fragnelli GR, Diletti G, Conversano M. PCDD/Fs and PCBs in Mytilus galloprovincialis from a contaminated area in Italy: the role of mussel size, temperature and meteorological factors. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2022; 39:1123-1135. [PMID: 35389328 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2022.2059108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mussels represent a food at risk of contamination because they are filter-feeding organisms with high bioaccumulation and low biotransformation potential for organic contaminants. Taranto, Southern Italy, is of particular relevance in this context due to the presence of industrial sources of POPs. The aim of this study was to analyse the role of mussel size, temperature and other meteorological factors in determining PCDD/Fs and PCBs concentrations in mussels. Mussels were collected on a monthly basis with random sampling between 2012 and 2020 according to the extraordinary monitoring plan of the Prevention Department. Samples were analysed by the National Reference Laboratory for Halogenated POPs in food and feed. A total of 787 mussel samples were collected between 2012 and 2020. Higher median concentrations were observed in Mar Piccolo First Inlet: PCDD/Fs 1.49 pg WHO-TEQ/g ww; PCDD/Fs + DL-PCBs 6.35 pg WHO-TEQ/g ww; DL-PCBs 4.74 pg WHO-TEQ/g ww; NDL-PCBs 65.10 ng/g ww. In all basins, PCDD/Fs + DL-PCBs, DL-PCBs and NDL-PCBs showed higher concentrations in mussels ≥ 5 cm. Temperature showed positive association with all pollutants in all basins. Higher relative humidity was associated with higher concentrations of some pollutants, while number of rain days was associated with lower values. Our findings showed higher PCDD/Fs and PCBs concentrations in adult mussels, with dependence on temperature and some other meteorological factors. These results could help guide public health strategies and mussel sampling according to mussel size and meteorological conditions in areas affected by POPs contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simona Baldacci
- Prevention Department, Local Health Authority of Taranto, Taranto, Italy
| | - Francesco Desiante
- Prevention Department, Local Health Authority of Taranto, Taranto, Italy
| | | | - Ettore Franco
- Prevention Department, Local Health Authority of Taranto, Taranto, Italy
| | | | - Gianfranco Diletti
- National Reference Laboratory for Halogenated POPs in Food and Feed, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, Italy
| | - Michele Conversano
- Prevention Department, Local Health Authority of Taranto, Taranto, Italy
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7
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A geo-chemo-mechanical study of a highly polluted marine system (Taranto, Italy) for the enhancement of the conceptual site model. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4017. [PMID: 33597633 PMCID: PMC7889905 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82879-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The paper presents the results of the analysis of the geo-chemo-mechanical data gathered through an innovative multidisciplinary investigation campaign in the Mar Piccolo basin, a heavily polluted marine bay aside the town of Taranto (Southern Italy). The basin is part of an area declared at high environmental risk by the Italian government. The cutting-edge approach to the environmental characterization of the site was promoted by the Special Commissioner for urgent measures of reclamation, environmental improvements and redevelopment of Taranto and involved experts from several research fields, who cooperated to gather a new insight into the origin, distribution, mobility and fate of the contaminants within the basin. The investigation campaign was designed to implement advanced research methodologies and testing strategies. Differently from traditional investigation campaigns, aimed solely at the assessment of the contamination state within sediments lying in the top layers, the new campaign provided an interpretation of the geo-chemo-mechanical properties and state of the sediments forming the deposit at the seafloor. The integrated, multidisciplinary and holistic approach, that considered geotechnical engineering, electrical and electronical engineering, geological, sedimentological, mineralogical, hydraulic engineering, hydrological, chemical, geochemical, biological fields, supported a comprehensive understanding of the influence of the contamination on the hydro-mechanical properties of the sediments, which need to be accounted for in the selection and design of the risk mitigation measures. The findings of the research represent the input ingredients of the conceptual model of the site, premise to model the evolutionary contamination scenarios within the basin, of guidance for the environmental risk management. The study testifies the importance of the cooperative approach among researchers of different fields to fulfil the interpretation of complex polluted eco-systems.
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DPSIR Model Applied to the Remediation of Contaminated Sites. A Case Study: Mar Piccolo of Taranto. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10155080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The study critically analyses the complex situation of the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (South of Italy), considered one of the most polluted marine ecosystems in Europe. In order to investigate possible cause–effect relationships, useful to plan appropriate planning responses or remediation technologies to be adopted, the Driver–Pressure–State–Impact–Response (DPSIR) model was applied. Methodologically, about 100 references have been considered, whose information was organized according to the logical scheme of the DPSIR. The results showed how the Mar Piccolo is the final receptor of pollutants coming from all industrial and agricultural activities, especially due to its natural hydrogeological network conformation. The anthropic activity represents a critical impact on the ecosystem due to the subsequent marine litter. The mobility of contaminants from sediments to the water column showed the potential risk related to the bioaccumulation of organisms from different trophic levels, posing a threat of unacceptable magnitude to human safety. The paper concludes by discussing the actions currently implemented by the authorities in response to the anthropogenic impacts as well as the need for new ones concerning both plans, programs, and remediation interventions. The case study shows how the DPSIR is a useful framework to organize extensive and heterogeneous information about a complex environmental system, such as the one investigated. This preliminary organization of the available data can represent the starting point for the development of a DPSIR-based Environmental Decision Support System (EDSS) with robust cause–effect relationships.
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9
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ÇOLAKOĞLU S, KÜNİLİ İE, ÇOLAKOĞLU F. Bioaccumulation monitoring of chemical contaminants in musselsMytilus galloprovincialis from the southern coast of the Marmara Sea, Turkey. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.3906/vet-1905-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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10
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Fujii Y, Gerdol M, Kawsar SMA, Hasan I, Spazzali F, Yoshida T, Ogawa Y, Rajia S, Kamata K, Koide Y, Sugawara S, Hosono M, Tame JRH, Fujita H, Pallavicini A, Ozeki Y. A GM1b/asialo-GM1 oligosaccharide-binding R-type lectin from purplish bifurcate mussels Mytilisepta virgata and its effect on MAP kinases. FEBS J 2019; 287:2612-2630. [PMID: 31769916 PMCID: PMC7317968 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A 15‐kDa lectin, termed SeviL, was isolated from Mytilisepta virgata (purplish bifurcate mussel). SeviL forms a noncovalent dimer that binds strongly to ganglio‐series GM1b oligosaccharide (Neu5Acɑ2‐3Galβ1‐3GalNAcβ1‐4Galβ1‐4Glc) and its precursor, asialo‐GM1 (Galβ1‐3GalNAcβ1‐4Galβ1‐4Glc). SeviL also interacts weakly with the glycan moiety of SSEA‐4 hexaose (Neu5Acα2‐3Galβ1‐3GalNAcβ1‐3Galα1‐4Galβ1‐4Glc). A partial protein sequence of the lectin was determined by mass spectrometry, and the complete sequence was identified from transcriptomic analysis. SeviL, consisting of 129 amino acids, was classified as an R(icin B)‐type lectin, based on the presence of the QxW motif characteristic of this fold. SeviL mRNA is highly expressed in gills and, in particular, mantle rim tissues. Orthologue sequences were identified in other species of the family Mytilidae, including Mytilus galloprovincialis, from which lectin MytiLec‐1 was isolated and characterized in our previous studies. Thus, mytilid species contain lectins belonging to at least two distinct families (R‐type lectins and mytilectins) that have a common β‐trefoil fold structure but differing glycan‐binding specificities. SeviL displayed notable cytotoxic (apoptotic) effects against various cultured cell lines (human breast, ovarian, and colonic cancer; dog kidney) that possess asialo‐GM1 oligosaccharide at the cell surface. This cytotoxic effect was inhibited by the presence of anti‐asialo‐GM1 oligosaccharide antibodies. With HeLa ovarian cancer cells, SeviL showed dose‐ and time‐dependent activation of kinase MKK3/6, p38 MAPK, and caspase‐3/9. The transduction pathways activated by SeviL via the glycosphingolipid oligosaccharide were triggered apoptosis. Database Nucleotide sequence data have been deposited in the GenBank database under accession numbers MK434191, MK434192, MK434193, MK434194, MK434195, MK434196, MK434197, MK434198, MK434199, MK434200, and MK434201.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Fujii
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Japan
| | - Marco Gerdol
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy
| | - Sarkar M A Kawsar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Chittagong, Bangladesh.,School of Sciences, Yokohama City University, Japan
| | - Imtiaj Hasan
- School of Sciences, Yokohama City University, Japan.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | | | - Tatsusada Yoshida
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Ogawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Japan
| | - Sultana Rajia
- School of Sciences, Yokohama City University, Japan.,Department of Pharmacy, Varendra University, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Kenichi Kamata
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Japan
| | | | - Shigeki Sugawara
- Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masahiro Hosono
- Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Jeremy R H Tame
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Japan
| | - Hideaki Fujita
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Japan
| | - Alberto Pallavicini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy.,Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn Napoli, Italy
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11
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Marquès M, Nadal M, Díaz-Ferrero J, Schuhmacher M, Domingo JL. Concentrations of PCDD/Fs in the neighborhood of a hazardous waste incinerator: human health risks. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:26470-26481. [PMID: 29987468 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2685-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In 1996-1998, a wide surveillance program was initiated in the vicinity of a new hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) placed in Constantí (Catalonia, Spain), which started its regular operations in 1999. The program was aimed at assessing the environmental impact of the facility on the surrounding environment, as well as to evaluate the potential risks for the population living in the neighborhood. Since then, among other measurements, the concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs) have been periodically determined in soil and herbage samples. This study shows the results, corresponding to the period 2013-2016. Data were compared with those obtained in the baseline survey (1996-1998), as well as with those of the previous survey (2011-2012). The median PCDD/F concentrations in soils were 0.44 and 0.33 ng toxic equivalent (I-TEQ)/kg in 2015 and 2016, respectively, with a significant decrease in relation to the baseline survey, and a non-significant decrease between 2015 and 2016. In turn, PCDD/F levels in vegetation showed some fluctuations over time, being the concentrations of PCDD/Fs in 2013 very similar to those found in 2012 (1.11 and 1.23 ng I-TEQ/kg, respectively). These concentrations notably decreased along the three last campaigns (0.16, 0.23, and 0.17 ng I-TEQ/kg in 2014, 2015, and 2016, respectively). These changes would be more related to a number of environmental factors rather than to a variation of PCDD/F emissions by the HWI. With respect to human health risks, exposure to PCDD/Fs in the area under potential influence of the HWI is not of concern, as the current environmental concentrations of PCDD/Fs do not mean additional carcinogenic or non-carcinogenic risks for the local population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montse Marquès
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Martí Nadal
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Díaz-Ferrero
- Analytical and Applied Chemistry Department, Institut Químic de Sarrià - Universitat Ramon Llull, Via Augusta 390, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - José L Domingo
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Catalonia, Spain
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12
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Guidi P, Corsolini S, Bernardeschi M, Rocco L, Nigro M, Baroni D, Mottola F, Scarcelli V, Santonastaso M, Falleni A, Della Torre C, Corsi I, Pozo K, Frenzilli G. Dioxin-like compounds bioavailability and genotoxicity assessment in the Gulf of Follonica, Tuscany (Northern Tyrrhenian Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 126:467-472. [PMID: 29421127 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of Follonica (Italy) is impacted by the chemical pollution from ancient mining activity and present industrial processes. This study was aimed to determine the bioavailability of dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) in coastal marine environment and to assess the genotoxic potential of waste waters entering the sea from an industrial canal. Moderately high levels of DCLs compounds (∑ PCDDs + PCDFs 2.18–29.00 pg/g dry wt) were detected in Mytilus galloprovincialis transplanted near the waste waters canal and their corresponding Toxic Equivalents (TEQs) calculated. In situ exposed mussels did not show any genotoxic effect (by Comet and Micronucleus assay). Otherwise, laboratory exposure to canal waters exhibited a reduced genomic template stability (by RAPD-PCR assay) but not DNA or chromosomal damage. Our data reveal the need to focus on the levels and distribution of DLCs in edible species from the study area considering their potential transfer to humans through the consumption of sea food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simonetta Corsolini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical, Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Davide Baroni
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical, Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marianna Santonastaso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical, Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Falleni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Camilla Della Torre
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Karla Pozo
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Masaryk University, Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Brno, Czech Republic; Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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13
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Okay OS, Karacık B, Güngördü A, Yılmaz A, Koyunbaba NC, Yakan SD, Henkelmann B, Schramm KW, Ozmen M. Monitoring of organic pollutants in marine environment by semipermeable membrane devices and mussels: accumulation and biochemical responses. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:19114-19125. [PMID: 28660514 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9594-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study involves the monitoring of organic pollutants using transplanted mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) as bioindicator organisms and semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs) as passive samplers. Mussels and SPMDs were deployed to marinas, shipyards and shipbreaking yards on the coastal area of Turkey and retrieved after 60 days. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and organochlorine pesticide (OCP) compounds were analysed with high-resolution GC-MS. Total PAH concentrations in SPMDs and mussels ranged from 200 to 4740 ng g sampler-1 and from 7.0 to 1130 ng g-1 in wet weight (ww). PCB and OCP concentrations in SPMDs changed between 0.04-200 and 4.0-26 ng g sampler-1, respectively. The highest PCB (190 ng g-1 ww) and OCP (200 ng g-1 ww) concentrations in mussels were measured at shipyard stations. A strong correlation was observed between the PAH and PCB concentrations in SPMDs and mussels. Enzyme assays (acetylcholinesterase, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathion reductase and carboxylesterase activities) were performed as biomarkers to reveal the effects of pollution on the mussels. There was no clear relationship found between the enzyme levels and the pollutant concentrations in mussels. Integrated biomarker responses were calculated to interpret the overall effect of pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oya S Okay
- Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Burak Karacık
- Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abbas Güngördü
- Arts and Sciences Faculty, Department of Biology, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Inönü University, 44069, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Atilla Yılmaz
- Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nazmi C Koyunbaba
- Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevil D Yakan
- Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bernhard Henkelmann
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Ecological Chemistry, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Karl-Werner Schramm
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Ecological Chemistry, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department für Biowissenschaften, TUM, Wissenschaftszentrum Weihenstephan für Ernährung und Landnutzung, Weihenstephaner Steig 23, 85350, Freising, Germany
| | - Murat Ozmen
- Arts and Sciences Faculty, Department of Biology, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Inönü University, 44069, Malatya, Turkey
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14
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Pascalis FD, Petrizzo A, Ghezzo M, Lorenzetti G, Manfè G, Alabiso G, Zaggia L. Estuarine circulation in the Taranto Seas. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:12515-12534. [PMID: 26408109 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5389-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The Taranto basin is a shallow water marine system in the South of Italy characterized by the presence of a lagoon environment together with a semi-enclosed bay connected to the Ionian Sea. This marine system experienced over the last few decades strong biochemical pollution and environmental degradation, and it is considered a hotspot study site for economic, ecological and scientific reasons. The aim of this study was to examine, on an annual temporal scale and with high spatial resolution, the main hydrodynamical processes and transport scales of the system by means of a 3D finite element numerical model application, adopting the most realistic forcing available. The model allowed us to assess the role played by baroclinic terms in the basin circulation, describing its estuarine nature. In particular, the main features of water circulation, salinity and temperature distribution, water renewal time and bottom stress were investigated. Our results allowed us to equate this system dynamic to that of a weakly stratified estuary, identifying the main driving sources of this mechanism. The vertical stratification over the whole year was proved to be stable, leading to a dual circulation flowing out on the surface, mainly through Porta Napoli channel, and inflowing on the bottom mainly through Navigabile channel. This process was responsible also for the renewal time faster on the bottom of the Mar Piccolo basin than the surface. Due to the great importance of the Taranto basin for what concerns sediment pollution, also the effect of currents in terms of bottom stress was investigated, leading to the conclusion that only in the inlets area the values of bottom stress can be high enough to cause erosion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Petrizzo
- Institute of Marine Sciences-National Research Council (ISMAR-CNR), Venice, Italy
| | - Michol Ghezzo
- Institute of Marine Sciences-National Research Council (ISMAR-CNR), La Spezia, Italy
| | - Giuliano Lorenzetti
- Institute of Marine Sciences-National Research Council (ISMAR-CNR), Venice, Italy
| | - Giorgia Manfè
- Institute of Marine Sciences-National Research Council (ISMAR-CNR), Venice, Italy
| | - Giorgio Alabiso
- Institute for Coastal Marine Environment-National Research Council (IAMC-CNR), Taranto, Italy
| | - Luca Zaggia
- Institute of Marine Sciences-National Research Council (ISMAR-CNR), Venice, Italy
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15
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Cibic T, Bongiorni L, Borfecchia F, Di Leo A, Franzo A, Giandomenico S, Karuza A, Micheli C, Rogelja M, Spada L, Del Negro P. Ecosystem functioning approach applied to a large contaminated coastal site: the study case of the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (Ionian Sea). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:12739-12754. [PMID: 26162444 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4997-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge on ecosystem functioning can largely contribute to promote ecosystem-based management and its application. The Mar Piccolo of Taranto is a densely populated area at a high risk of environmental crisis. Here, planktonic primary production (PP) and heterotrophic prokaryotic production (HPP) were measured as proxies of functioning in three sampling sites located in two inlets at different levels of industrial contamination, during three sampling surveys (June 2013, February and April 2014). To have a better overall view and provide some insights into the benthic-pelagic coupling, we integrated PP and HPP in the water column with those in the sediments and then discussed this with the origin of the organic matter pools based on analysis of stable isotopes. Heavy metals and polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs) were also analysed in the surface (1 cm) sediment layer and related to the overall ecosystem functioning. Multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis, based on the main data, clearly separated the second inlet from the first one, more severely impacted by anthropogenic activities. The stable isotope mixing model suggested the prevalent terrestrial/riverine origin of the particulate organic matter pools (mean 45.5 %) in all sampling periods, whereas phytoplankton contributed up to 29 % in February. Planktonic PP and HPP rates followed the same pattern over the entire study period and seemed to respond to phytoplankton dynamics confirming this community as the main driver for the C cycling in the water column. On the contrary, benthic PP rates were almost negligible while HPP rates were lower or comparable to those in the water column indicating that although the Mar Piccolo is very shallow, the water column is much more productive than the surface sediments. The sediment resuspension is likely responsible for a pulsed input of contaminants into the water column. However, their interference with the proper functioning of the pelagic ecosystem seems to be limited to the bottom layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Cibic
- OGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale), Sezione Oceanografia, Via A. Piccard 54, 34151, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Lucia Bongiorni
- CNR-Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR), Arsenale-Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122, Venezia, Italy
| | - Flavio Borfecchia
- ENEA Research Center Casaccia Roma, C.P. 2400/00123S. Maria di Galeria, Roma, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Leo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero-IAMC, 74123, Taranto, Italy
| | - Annalisa Franzo
- OGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale), Sezione Oceanografia, Via A. Piccard 54, 34151, Trieste, Italy
| | - Santina Giandomenico
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero-IAMC, 74123, Taranto, Italy
| | - Ana Karuza
- OGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale), Sezione Oceanografia, Via A. Piccard 54, 34151, Trieste, Italy
| | - Carla Micheli
- ENEA Research Center Casaccia Roma, C.P. 2400/00123S. Maria di Galeria, Roma, Italy
| | - Manja Rogelja
- OGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale), Sezione Oceanografia, Via A. Piccard 54, 34151, Trieste, Italy
- Università di Trieste, Department of Life Sciences, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Lucia Spada
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto per l'Ambiente Marino Costiero-IAMC, 74123, Taranto, Italy
| | - Paola Del Negro
- OGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale), Sezione Oceanografia, Via A. Piccard 54, 34151, Trieste, Italy
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16
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Cardellicchio N, Annicchiarico C, Di Leo A, Giandomenico S, Spada L. The Mar Piccolo of Taranto: an interesting marine ecosystem for the environmental problems studies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:12495-12501. [PMID: 26111753 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4924-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The National Project RITMARE (la Ricerca ITaliana per il MARE-Italian Research for the sea) started from 1 January 2012. It is one of the national research programs funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research. RITMARE is coordinated by the National Research Council (CNR) and involves an integrated effort of most of the scientific community working on marine and maritime issues. Within the project, different marine study areas of strategic importance for the Mediterranean have been identified: Among these, the coastal area of Taranto (Ionian Sea, Southern Italy) was chosen for its different industry settlements and the relative impact on the marine environment. In particular, the research has been concentrated on the Mar Piccolo of Taranto, a complex marine ecosystem model important in terms of ecological, social, and economic activities for the presence also of extensive mussel farms. The site has been selected also because the Mar Piccolo area is a characteristic "on field" laboratory suitable to investigate release and diffusion mechanisms of contaminants, evaluate chemical-ecological risks towards the marine ecosystem and human health, and suggest and test potential remediation strategies for contaminated sediments. In this context, within the project RITMARE, a task force of researchers has contributed to elaboration a functioning conceptual model with a multidisciplinary approach useful to identify anthropogenic forcings, its impacts, and solutions of environmental remediation. This paper describes in brief some of the environmental issues related to the Mar Piccolo basin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cardellicchio
- CNR, Institute for Marine Coastal Environment, U.O.S. Taranto, via Roma 3, 74123, Taranto, TA, Italy.
| | - Cristina Annicchiarico
- CNR, Institute for Marine Coastal Environment, U.O.S. Taranto, via Roma 3, 74123, Taranto, TA, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Leo
- CNR, Institute for Marine Coastal Environment, U.O.S. Taranto, via Roma 3, 74123, Taranto, TA, Italy
| | - Santina Giandomenico
- CNR, Institute for Marine Coastal Environment, U.O.S. Taranto, via Roma 3, 74123, Taranto, TA, Italy
| | - Lucia Spada
- CNR, Institute for Marine Coastal Environment, U.O.S. Taranto, via Roma 3, 74123, Taranto, TA, Italy
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17
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Roscales JL, Vicente A, Muñoz-Arnanz J, Morales L, Abad E, Aguirre JI, Jiménez B. Influence of trophic ecology on the accumulation of dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs), non-ortho polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in Mediterranean gulls (Larus michahellis and L. audouinii): A three-isotope approach. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 212:307-315. [PMID: 26854700 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.01.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The impact of pollution caused by severe anthropogenic pressure in the Mediterranean Sea, an important biodiversity hotspot, requires continuous research efforts. Sources of highly toxic chemicals such as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are misunderstood in representative Mediterranean species, which limits our capability to establish proper conservation strategies. In the present study, eggs of Audouin's and yellow-legged gulls (Larus audouinii and L. michahellis) were used to investigate the trophic sources, as measured by δ(13)C, δ(15)N, and δ(34)S, of legacy POPs, in particular, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs) and non-ortho polychlorinated biphenyls (no-PCBs), as well as recently-regulated POPs, e.g., polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Special attention was paid to the usefulness of rarely-explored δ(34)S ratios in explaining POP exposure in wildlife, and δ(34)S was the isotopic ratio that best explained POP variations among gulls in most cases, thus demonstrating its usefulness for understanding POP exposure in wildlife. Significant relationships between stable isotope signatures and POP concentrations revealed increasing levels of no-PCBs and low halogenated PCDD/Fs and PBDEs in Mediterranean gulls as the consumption of marine resources increases. In contrast, highly chlorinated and brominated congeners appeared to preferentially accumulate in gulls feeding primarily on refuse from dump sites and terrestrial food webs. The use of suitable dietary tracers in the study of POPs in yellow-legged gulls revealed the importance of dump sites as a source of POPs in Mediterranean seabirds, which has not previously been reported. In contrast, the preferential accumulation through marine food webs of low chlorinated PCCD/Fs and no-PCBs, which show the highest toxic equivalents factors (TEFs), led to a significantly greater toxicological concern in Audouin's as compared to yellow-legged gulls. Audouin's gull exposure to POPs appears primarily related to the pelagic food webs commonly exploited by fisheries, highlighting the need for further research given the potential impact on human consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Roscales
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, IQOG-CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Alba Vicente
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, IQOG-CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Muñoz-Arnanz
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, IQOG-CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Morales
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteban Abad
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose I Aguirre
- Department of Zoology and Physic Anthropology, Faculty of Biology, University Complutense of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 2, Ciudad Universitaria, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Jiménez
- Department of Instrumental Analysis and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, IQOG-CSIC, Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
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