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Nzabanita D, Hampton JO, Toop SD, Bengsen AJ, Specht AJ, Flesch JS, Hufschmid J, Nugegoda D. Expanding the use of portable XRF to monitor lead exposure in an Australian duck species two decades after a ban on lead shot. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 869:161803. [PMID: 36708833 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is growing worldwide recognition of the threat posed by toxic lead for wildlife and humans. Lead toxicity from ammunition has been shown to be a threat to waterbirds across the globe. Lead shot was banned for all waterfowl hunting in Victoria, Australia, in 2002. However, no assessments of lead exposure in Australian waterfowl have been published since the 1990s. Our aim was to estimate contemporary lead exposure via measuring bone lead concentrations in a harvested dabbling duck, the Pacific black duck (Anas superciliosa). We collected wings from 77 Pacific black ducks, spanning 2018 (n = 30) and 2021 (n = 47), from nine sites with long-term histories of regular waterfowl hunting. We sought to validate portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for this purpose by taking a piece of humerus bone from each bird, and measuring lead concentration (mg/kg), first via non-destructive XRF and then via destructive inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and validated the relationship via regression analysis. Portable XRF bone lead measurement demonstrated a strong correlation with ICP-MS results using root-transformed regression (R2 = 0.85). Greater than 92 % of ducks had only background lead exposure (<10 mg/kg). When compared to historical studies in the same species at similar field sites from the 1990s, lead exposure levels were considerably lower, with mean lead concentrations ∼2-fold lower (3.7 c.f. 7.7 mg/kg), and the frequency of birds with severe lead exposure (>20 mg/kg) ∼3-fold lower (2.6 c.f. 7.5 %). Our results confirm that portable XRF is a useful option for measurement of bone lead in Australasian waterbird species. Our findings also demonstrate that a ban on the use of lead shot around 20 years ago has been associated with a substantial reduction in lead exposure in at least one species of waterfowl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Nzabanita
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia.
| | - Jordan O Hampton
- Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Simon D Toop
- Game Management Authority, Bourke St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Andrew J Bengsen
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, Department of Primary Industries, 1447 Forest Road, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia; Biosphere Environmental Consultants, Tamworth, NSW 2340, Australia
| | - Aaron J Specht
- Purdue University, 610 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States
| | - Jason S Flesch
- Game Management Authority, Bourke St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Jasmin Hufschmid
- Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Dayanthi Nugegoda
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
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Goff JL, Chen Y, Thorgersen MP, Hoang LT, Poole FL, Szink EG, Siuzdak G, Petzold CJ, Adams MWW. Mixed heavy metal stress induces global iron starvation response. THE ISME JOURNAL 2023; 17:382-392. [PMID: 36572723 PMCID: PMC9938188 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-022-01351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Multiple heavy metal contamination is an increasingly common global problem. Heavy metals have the potential to disrupt microbially mediated biogeochemical cycling. However, systems-level studies on the effects of combinations of heavy metals on bacteria are lacking. For this study, we focused on the Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR; Oak Ridge, TN, USA) subsurface which is contaminated with several heavy metals and high concentrations of nitrate. Using a native Bacillus cereus isolate that represents a dominant species at this site, we assessed the combined impact of eight metal contaminants, all at site-relevant concentrations, on cell processes through an integrated multi-omics approach that included discovery proteomics, targeted metabolomics, and targeted gene-expression profiling. The combination of eight metals impacted cell physiology in a manner that could not have been predicted from summing phenotypic responses to the individual metals. Exposure to the metal mixture elicited a global iron starvation response not observed during individual metal exposures. This disruption of iron homeostasis resulted in decreased activity of the iron-cofactor-containing nitrate and nitrite reductases, both of which are important in biological nitrate removal at the site. We propose that the combinatorial effects of simultaneous exposure to multiple heavy metals is an underappreciated yet significant form of cell stress in the environment with the potential to disrupt global nutrient cycles and to impede bioremediation efforts at mixed waste sites. Our work underscores the need to shift from single- to multi-metal studies for assessing and predicting the impacts of complex contaminants on microbial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Goff
- grid.213876.90000 0004 1936 738XDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA USA
| | - Yan Chen
- grid.184769.50000 0001 2231 4551Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA USA
| | - Michael P. Thorgersen
- grid.213876.90000 0004 1936 738XDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA USA
| | - Linh T. Hoang
- grid.214007.00000000122199231Scripps Center for Metabolomics, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Farris L. Poole
- grid.213876.90000 0004 1936 738XDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA USA
| | - Elizabeth G. Szink
- grid.213876.90000 0004 1936 738XDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA USA
| | - Gary Siuzdak
- grid.214007.00000000122199231Scripps Center for Metabolomics, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Christopher J. Petzold
- grid.184769.50000 0001 2231 4551Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA USA
| | - Michael W. W. Adams
- grid.213876.90000 0004 1936 738XDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA USA
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Petherbridge G, Gadzhiev AA, Shestopalov АМ, Alekseev AY, Sharshov KA, Daudova MG. An early warning system for highly pathogenic viruses borne by waterbird species and related dynamics of climate change in the Caspian Sea region: Outlines of a concept. SOUTH OF RUSSIA: ECOLOGY, DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.18470/1992-1098-2022-2-233-263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Aim. Formulation of the outlines of the concept of ViEW (Viral Early Warning) which is intended as a long term system of multidisciplinary transboundary cooperation between specialist institutions of all five Caspian region states to research, regularly monitor and share data about the generation, transmission and epidemiology of avian‐borne pathogens and their vectors in the region, and the ways climate change may affect these processes.Material and Methods. The concept is based on the multidisciplinary experience of the authors in researching the processes incorporated in the ViEW concept and on an in‐depth survey of the literature involved.Results. The outlines of the ViEW concept are presented in this study for review and comment by interested parties and stakeholders.Conclusion. Review of activities and opinions of specialists and organizations with remits relating to the development, establishment and maintenance of ViEW, indicates that such a system is a necessity for global animal and human health because of the role that the Caspian region plays in the mass migration of species of waterbird known as vectors for avian influenza and the already evident impacts of climate change on their phenologies. Waterbirds frequenting the Caspian Sea littorals and their habitats together constitute a major potential global hotspot or High Risk region for the generation and transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and other dangerous zoonotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - А. М. Shestopalov
- Research Institute of Virology, Federal Research Centre of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - A. Yu. Alekseev
- Research Institute of Virology, Federal Research Centre of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
| | - K. A. Sharshov
- Research Institute of Virology, Federal Research Centre of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
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Dahmardeh Behrooz R, Burger J. Heavy Metals in the Liver, Kidney, Brain, and Muscle: Health Risk Assessment for the Consumption of Edible Parts of Birds from the Chahnimeh Reservoirs Sistan (Iran). Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:4098-4113. [PMID: 34735689 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02995-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
The concentrations of four heavy metals, zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and cadmium (Cd), were determined in the liver, kidney, muscle, and brain of nine species of birds from the Chahnimeh Sistan from Iran to assess the metal levels and the potential risk to birds and to the people who eat them. Significantly higher levels of all metals were found in the brain than in the other tissues of other birds. There were no significant gender differences in heavy metals in all tissue. The levels of Pb, Cd, Ni, and Zn in the liver and kidney varied as a function of feeding habitats; the median levels were significantly higher in invertebrate predators than they were for fish predators and omnivorous species. Short-distance migrant birds had significantly higher median levels of heavy metals in the liver and kidney than long-distance migrant birds. Ni levels in the liver and kidney tissues in 56% of birds were higher than the critical threshold levels for effects in birds. Our data indicate that environmental exposures to metals were higher in the wintering populations of birds in the Chahnimeh of Sistan from Iran than elsewhere. Concentrations of Zn, Pb, and Cd in a small percentage of birds were above toxicity levels. However, 56% of liver and kidney samples for nickel were above toxicity levels. Determining the exposure frequency and daily intake of birds, the hazard quotient for edible tissues (kidney, liver, and muscle) of these birds showed that their consumption may provide health risk to people consuming them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Dahmardeh Behrooz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan, Iran.
| | - Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8082, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
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Abstract
Microplastic debris is a persistent, ubiquitous global pollutant in oceans, estuaries, and freshwater systems. Some of the highest reported concentrations of microplastics, globally, are in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM), which is home to the majority of plastic manufacturers in the United States. A comprehensive understanding of the risk microplastics pose to wildlife is critical to the development of scientifically sound mitigation and policy initiatives. In this review, we synthesize existing knowledge of microplastic debris in the Gulf of Mexico and its effects on birds and make recommendations for further research. The current state of knowledge suggests that microplastics are widespread in the marine environment, come from known sources, and have the potential to be a major ecotoxicological concern for wild birds, especially in areas of high concentration such as the GoM. However, data for GoM birds are currently lacking regarding typical microplastic ingestion rates uptake of chemicals associated with plastics by avian tissues; and physiological, behavioral, and fitness consequences of microplastic ingestion. Filling these knowledge gaps is essential to understand the hazard microplastics pose to wild birds, and to the creation of effective policy actions and widespread mitigation measures to curb this emerging threat to wildlife.
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Dahmardeh Behrooz R, Burger J. Heavy metals in liver, kidney, brain, and muscle slender-billed gull (Chroicocephalus genei) from south-eastern Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:10319-10331. [PMID: 34523093 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16029-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The concentrations of four heavy metals nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were determined in liver, kidney, muscle, and brain tissues of 40 slender-billed gulls (Chroicocephalus genei) from the Chahnimeh water reservoirs of Sistan and the Oman Sea coast of Iran. There were significant differences between Ni, Cd, Pb, and Zn concentrations observed in the liver and brains of birds from the Oman Sea coast than in the liver and brains of gulls from the Chahnimeh water reservoirs (P < 0.05). Higher levels of Pb, Cd, and Zn were found in the brain and liver of gulls than in the kidney and muscles tissues. There were significant gender differences in heavy metals in liver and brain tissue. In gulls from the coast of Oman Sea, all four elements (Cd, Pb, Ni, and Zn) were positively correlated with levels in all organs, and except for muscle, the elements were positively correlated with the other elements in the other tissues (except Ni in the brain). Thus, the pathways and sources of entry for the elements are similar, and the pathways for accumulation of these elements, and the reactions of different organs of the body to these elements, are very similar. Also, 40% of gulls in Oman Sea coast had levels of lead in the brain (>5 μg g-1 -1 d.w) that were above the adverse effect levels, Ni concentrations in the liver of slender-billed gull in Oman Sea coast (100 %) and Chahnimeh water reservoirs (90 %) were above toxic levels (> 3 μg g-1 d.w), and 80% of Ni concentration in kidneys in gulls from the Oman Sea coast and Chahnimeh water reservoirs were higher than the toxicity levels (> 10 μg g-1 d.w).
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Dahmardeh Behrooz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan, Iran.
| | - Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8082, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, and NIEHS Center, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
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Varagiya D, Jethva B, Pandya D. Feather heavy metal contamination in various species of waterbirds from Asia: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2021; 194:26. [PMID: 34907468 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-09678-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The amounts of certain heavy metals in waterfowl fluctuate depending on a number of factors. The use of feathers in heavy metal contamination studies is gaining popularity for several reasons, including the lack of need for deep freezing for sample preservation, the fact that it is a non-destructive, non-invasive method that does not require killing an individual, and the ability to predict lead and cadmium concentrations in internal tissues. A total of 22 publications from eight Asian countries including Pakistan, China, Hong Kong, India, Iran, South Korea, Indonesia, and Japan were identified and analysed in this study. The highest number of study sites were found from Pakistan (n = 12), followed by China (n = 9), Hong Kong, South Korea, and India (n = 7) each. A total of 10 heavy metals, viz cadmium, chromium, lead, copper, nickel, zinc, iron, mercury, selenium, and arsenic, have been identified for the review. Mercury (0.17-79.66 ppm) has been studied in all 44 species, whereas selenium (0.98-4.88 ppm) has only been studied in five species. Mercury (8.6 ppm) contamination is highest in Painted Stork from India. Cadmium, lead, copper, and arsenic contamination was detected in the highest concentrations in Cattle Egret and Indian Pond Heron. The highest contamination of cadmium (41.1 ppm), lead (296 ppm), and arsenic (20 ppm) were found in Cattle Egret from Pakistan. Chromium, nickel, and zinc contamination was highest in waders such as Marsh Sandpiper (114.7 ppm), Little Ringed Plover (114.8 ppm), and Little Stint (328.4 ppm), respectively from India. Black-tailed Gull from South Korea had the highest contamination of Iron (4055.55 ppm) and selenium (7.55 ppm). Feather analysis is not an alternative of internal tissue analysis. It should be considered as an initial warning of the hazardous effects of the heavy metals in the waterbirds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhavalkumar Varagiya
- School of Pharmacy, RK University, Bhavnagar Highway, Kasturbadham, Rajkot, Gujarat, India, PIN 360020.
- Center for Sustainable Conservation Action and Protection of Ecosystems of the Seas (C-SCAPES), Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development, C/O Tata Chemicals Limited, Mithapur, Dwarka, Gujarat, India, PIN 361345.
| | - Bharat Jethva
- Green Support Services, Sargasan Circle, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, PIN 382421
| | - Devang Pandya
- School of Pharmacy, RK University, Bhavnagar Highway, Kasturbadham, Rajkot, Gujarat, India, PIN 360020
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Flores-Santin J, Burggren WW. Beyond the Chicken: Alternative Avian Models for Developmental Physiological Research. Front Physiol 2021; 12:712633. [PMID: 34744759 PMCID: PMC8566884 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.712633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomedical research focusing on physiological, morphological, behavioral, and other aspects of development has long depended upon the chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) as a key animal model that is presumed to be typical of birds and generally applicable to mammals. Yet, the modern chicken in its many forms is the result of artificial selection more intense than almost any other domesticated animal. A consequence of great variation in genotype and phenotype is that some breeds have inherent aberrant physiological and morphological traits that may show up relatively early in development (e.g., hypertension, hyperglycemia, and limb defects in the broiler chickens). While such traits can be useful as models of specific diseases, this high degree of specialization can color general experimental results and affect their translational value. Against this background, in this review we first consider the characteristics that make an animal model attractive for developmental research (e.g., accessibility, ease of rearing, size, fecundity, development rates, genetic variation, etc.). We then explore opportunities presented by the embryo to adult continuum of alternative bird models, including quail, ratites, songbirds, birds of prey, and corvids. We conclude by indicating that expanding developmental studies beyond the chicken model to include additional avian groups will both validate the chicken model as well as potentially identify even more suitable avian models for answering questions applicable to both basic biology and the human condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josele Flores-Santin
- Facultad de Ciencias, Biologia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Mexico, Toluca, Mexico
| | - Warren W Burggren
- Developmental Integrative Biology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas Denton, Denton, TX, United States
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Pappalardo L, Silvanose CD, Beaufrère H, Binoy A, Azmanis P. Reference intervals for Cu, Mg, and Zn in captive gyrfalcons and other falcon species in the United Arab Emirates. J Vet Diagn Invest 2021; 33:797-800. [PMID: 34009071 DOI: 10.1177/10406387211015655] [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: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Falconry is a long-standing tradition in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and in 2016, falconry was included by UNESCO in the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The health and wellness of falconry raptors is a priority for the local culture; plasma chemistry analysis plays an important role in monitoring, assessing, and managing diseases in avian patients. Imbalances of Cu, Mg, and Zn have been linked to several diseases in avian species; therefore, determining the reference intervals (RIs) of these minerals has important implications in the clinical management of falcons. We determined the RIs in plasma for Cu, Mg, and Zn in captive (falconry-managed) falcons according to the Quality Assurance and Laboratory Standards Committee of the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology, and the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Blood chemistry analyses were carried out on 252 clinically healthy falcons examined at the Dubai Falcon Hospital in the UAE: 124 gyrfalcons (Falco rusticolus) and 128 falcons of other species. We observed no significant variation in RIs of Cu (1.5-7.0 µmol/L), Mg (0.49-0.78 mmol/L), or Zn (11.8-34.1 µmol/L) based on different species or sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Pappalardo
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Hugues Beaufrère
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Pulscher LA, Gray R, McQuilty R, Rose K, Welbergen JA, Phalen DN. Evidence of chronic cadmium exposure identified in the critically endangered Christmas Island flying-fox (Pteropus natalis). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 766:144374. [PMID: 33421794 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The Christmas Island flying-fox (Pteropus natalis) is the last native mammal on Christmas Island and its population is in decline. Phosphate mining occurs across much of the eastern side of Christmas Island. The phosphate deposits are naturally rich in cadmium, and potentially other metals, which may be threatening the Christmas Island flying-fox population. To test this, concentrations of metals (cadmium, copper, iron, mercury, lead, and zinc) were measured in fur and urine collected from Christmas Island flying-foxes and interpreted concurrently with urinalysis and serum biochemistry data. In addition, metal concentrations in liver and kidney samples from two Christmas Island flying-foxes and associated histological findings from one of these individuals are reported. Fur cadmium concentrations were significantly higher in the Christmas Island flying-fox compared to concentrations found in flying-foxes in mainland Australia. Additionally, 30% of Christmas Island flying-foxes had urine cadmium concentrations exceeding maximum concentrations previously reported in flying-foxes in mainland Australia. Glucosuria and proteinuria were identified in two Christmas Island flying-foxes, suggestive of renal dysfunction. In one aged flying-fox, kidney cadmium concentrations were four-fold higher than toxic thresholds reported for domestic mammals. Microscopic evaluation of this individual identified bone lesions consistent with those described in laboratory animals with chronic cadmium poisoning. These results suggest that Christmas Island flying-foxes are being exposed to cadmium and identification of these sources is recommended as a focus of future research. Unexpectedly, urine iron concentrations in Christmas Island flying-foxes were higher compared to previous studies of Australian mainland flying-foxes, which suggests that urinary excretion of iron may be an important aspect of iron homeostasis in this species whose diet is iron rich.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Pulscher
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Rachael Gray
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Robert McQuilty
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Level 7 Building 65, Missenden Rd, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Karrie Rose
- Australian Registry of Wildlife Health, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia.
| | - Justin A Welbergen
- Hawksbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Richmond, NSW 2753, Australia.
| | - David N Phalen
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Adde A, Darveau M, Barker N, Imbeau L, Cumming S. Environmental covariates for modelling the distribution and abundance of breeding ducks in northern North America: a review. ECOSCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/11956860.2020.1802933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Adde
- Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Marcel Darveau
- Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Canards Illimités Canada, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Nicole Barker
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Louis Imbeau
- Institut de recherche sur les forêts, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Steven Cumming
- Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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12
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Soliman KM, Mohallal EME, Alqahtani ARM. Little egret (Egretta garzetta) as a bioindicator of heavy metal contamination from three different localities in Egypt. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:23015-23025. [PMID: 32329003 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08736-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This work aimed at using Little Egrets (Egretta garzetta), for the first time in Egypt, as a bioindicator of heavy metal contamination from three different Egyptian land use types (Qillin within Kafr El-Sheikh (S1, agricultural), Toukh within Qalyubia (S2, semi-rural area), and Abu Rawash within Giza (S3, urban)). Concentrations of aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were analyzed in liver and kidney samples of twenty-six adult Little Egrets collected from the three localities during winter 2018. Moreover, the study calculated the Metal Pollution Index (MPI) to highlight the health of the surrounding environment using birds' internal organs as a mirror. Results revealed that, throughout the three sampling sites, the total metal concentrations in liver samples exceeded that of the kidney, indicating that the liver is the target organ of metal accumulation. The Little Egret's liver was found to be the best-recommended organ to use in future biomonitoring of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Ni, whereas Al, Co, Cr, Ba, Pb, and Cd can be monitored in the kidney. Cu and Pb were higher in the Little Egret's tissues collected from the agricultural site (S1), whereas Ba, Ni, and Fe were higher in the semi-rural site (S2), followed finally by Cd in the urbanized site (S3). The concentrations of trace elements reported in Little Egrets were within the known background level for water birds. However, alarming concentrations were found for Ni levels in liver (from Qillin and Toukh), as well as Pb and Cr levels in kidney samples (from the three localities). MPI of the eleven studied metals in both liver and kidney of the studied species decreased in the order Qillin (24.36) > Abu Rawash (17.98) > Toukh (3.90). In the three investigated localities, the overall calculated MPI values were higher than one, indicating that the ecosystem is polluted. The study suggested using Little Egrets as a bioindicator of metal contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kareem M Soliman
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Khalifa El-Maamon St., El-Qobba Bridge, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
| | - Eman M E Mohallal
- Department of Animal and Poultry Physiology, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
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Leaphart JC, Oldenkamp RE, Bryan AL, Kennamer RA, Beasley JC. Patterns of Trace Element Accumulation in Waterfowl Restricted to Impoundments Holding Coal Combustion Waste. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2020; 39:1052-1059. [PMID: 32096287 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Waterfowl are often exposed to and readily accumulate anthropogenic contaminants when foraging in polluted environments. Settling impoundments containing coal combustion waste (CCW) enriched in trace elements such as arsenic (As), selenium (Se), and mercury (Hg) are often used by free-ranging migratory and resident waterfowl and represent potential sources for contaminant uptake. To assess accumulation of CCW contaminants, we experimentally restricted waterfowl to a CCW-contaminated impoundment and quantified trace element burdens in blood, muscle, and liver tissues over known periods of exposure (between 3 and 92 d). From these data we developed models 1) to predict elemental bioaccumulation with increased exposure time, and 2) to predict muscle/liver burdens based on concentrations in blood as a nondestructive sampling method. Although Hg and As did not bioaccumulate in our waterfowl, we observed an increase in Se concentrations in muscle, liver, and blood tissues over the duration of our experiment. Furthermore, we found that blood may be used as an effective nondestructive sampling alternative to predict muscle and liver tissue concentrations in birds contaminated with Se and As through dietary exposure. These data provide unique insights into accumulation rates of contaminants for waterfowl utilizing habitats contaminated with CCW and demonstrate the efficacy of nonlethal sampling of waterfowl to quantify contaminant exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1052-1059. © 2020 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Leaphart
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ricki E Oldenkamp
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Albert L Bryan
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, USA
| | - Robert A Kennamer
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, USA
| | - James C Beasley
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, South Carolina, USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Aazami J, KianiMehr N. Survey of heavy metals in internal tissues of Great cormorant collected from southern wetlands of Caspian Sea, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 190:52. [PMID: 29288418 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-6433-1] [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: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The level of mercury, iron, copper, and zinc was measured in 18 Great cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) collected from Anzali and Gomishan wetlands in the south of the Caspian Sea. The mean level of metals in dried tissues of the muscle, liver, and kidney was 2.26, 5.71, 3.79-Hg; 943.54, 379.97, 348.05-Fe; 42.64, 14.78, 60.79-Cu, and 71.97, 134.63, 77.82-Zn, respectively (mg/kg). There was no significant different between genders in terms of accumulation of metals, except for copper in the kidney. The results of Pearson correlation showed a positive and strong relationship between the fat in the liver and mercury (r = 0.95, R2 = 0.90). Also, there was a significant difference between the values of all metals with the allowable limits presented in EPA, WHO, and CCME, where all of values were above standard levels. Thus, as the muscles of the bird are sometimes eaten by humans, this result is a serious warning. Nevertheless, the relatively high levels of heavy metals accumulated in different tissues of Great cormorant at that time are a result of their high weight and nourishment they have at the terminal days of their migration due to lack of natural physical activity. Regarding to the importance of heavy metals in birds, we suggest the same study to be conducted on the species in other seasons and wetlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaber Aazami
- Department of Environment Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Naser KianiMehr
- Department of Environment Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
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Jinming L, Yongjie W, Zhongyan G, Wenfeng W. The excessive enrichment of trace elements in migratory and breeding red-crowned cranes (Grus japonensis) in China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:16351-16363. [PMID: 28547377 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9258-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The excessive enrichment of trace elements, such as Pb and Cd, from food may contribute to the decline of migratory red-crowned cranes (Grus japonensis) in China. To test this prediction, we determined the concentrations of Pb and Cd, as well as further macro and trace elements (Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn) in the target species and their prey (sediment, reed root, mollusk, arthropods, and common fish species) in both the wintering (Yancheng wetland) and breeding sites (Zhalong wetland) of cranes in China. The maximum concentrations of Pb (130 mg kg-1 dry weight (dw)) and Cd (10.60 mg kg-1 dw) in the sediments of breeding site and the maximum concentration of Cd (4.50 mg kg-1 dw) in the sediments of wintering site exceeded the probable effect level values (91.30 mg kg-1 for Pb and 3.53 mg kg-1for Cd), suggesting the potential exposure risk of the examined species. Indeed, Pb and Cd contents of essential foods, i.e., aquatic animals, sampled in two sites were above the limit of allowable concentration recommended by the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization food standards program. Approximately 80, 31.4, and 60.3 mg kg-1 dw of Pb were detected in the eggshells, liver, and kidney, respectively, of the target species, and the values are above the levels of concern (1.7 mg kg-1 for eggshell and 30 mg kg-1 for liver and kidney) in common birds. Nevertheless, the increased Pb and Cd levels in the prey and bodies of the red-crowned cranes did not induce the levels of Ca and Mg depletion. Average contents of the macronutrients, Ca (1.38 g kg-1 dw) and Mg (1.32 g kg-1 dw), in the liver of the examined species exceeded the background concentrations (0.2-0.4 g kg-1 for Ca and 0.4-0.8 g kg-1 for Mg) in the liver of birds. Consumption of Ca-rich foods, e.g., grits and exoskeleton species, may aid in compensating the possible loss caused by the increased Pb and Cd concentrations in the bodies of the cranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luo Jinming
- Department of Science, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wang Yongjie
- Department of Science, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006, People's Republic of China
| | - Gao Zhongyan
- Zhalong National Natural Reserve, Qiqihar, 161002, People's Republic of China
| | - Wang Wenfeng
- Zhalong National Natural Reserve, Qiqihar, 161002, People's Republic of China
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Koeppel KN, Kemp LV. Lead Toxicosis in a Southern Ground Hornbill Bucorvus leadbeateri in South Africa. J Avian Med Surg 2016; 29:340-4. [PMID: 26771324 DOI: 10.1647/2014-037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) has been classified as globally vulnerable and, in South Africa, regionally endangered, with a negative population trend. Factors contributing to the population decline in South Africa are poisoning, electrocution, and illegal capture for trade, coupled with slow reproductive rates and extensive habitat requirements. Lead toxicosis is a previously undescribed threat for the population. An adult southern ground hornbill presented with acute lead toxicosis due to lead particles in the gizzard, which required intensive treatment. Two other hornbills were likely exposed. The source of the lead in these cases was likely a carcass of a porcupine that was killed with lead shot. This report highlights the importance of the use of lead-free ammunition within the habitat of the southern ground hornbill in South Africa.
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Luo J, Ye Y, Gao Z, Wang W. Trace element enrichment in the eggshells of Grus japonensis and its association with eggshell thinning in Zhalong Wetland (Northeastern China). Biologia (Bratisl) 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/biolog-2016-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Kim J, Oh JM. Trace element contamination in nestling black-tailed gulls (Larus crassirostris) in Korea. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2015; 24:770-778. [PMID: 25763522 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-015-1422-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
At Hongdo Island, Gyeongsangnam-do, Korea, a breeding site of black-tailed gull (Larus crassirostris), we collected nestlings from two locations: a "reference" site (n = 10) with no known source of lead contamination and "lighthouse" site (n = 10) with suspected lead contamination from leaded paint. Iron concentrations in the kidney and bone, manganese in the muscle, copper in the bone, lead in the muscle and bone, and cadmium in the liver, muscle, and bone at the reference site were significantly higher than at the lighthouse. Manganese concentrations in the liver and kidney, and lead in the kidney were significantly greater at the lighthouse than at the reference site. Iron, zinc, manganese, copper, lead and cadmium concentrations had tissue-specific accumulation at both sites. Lead concentrations in 10 % of livers and in 80 % of kidneys at the lighthouse, and in 20 % of livers from the reference were within a range considered toxic (>6.00 μg/g dw in the liver and kidney). Lead concentrations in 50 % of black-tailed gull nestlings at the reference and 80 % nestlings at the lighthouse were greater in livers than in bones, which is suggestive of acute lead exposure. For cadmium, all liver and kidney concentrations from two sites were at a level considered background in birds. Cadmium concentrations of every sample were higher in kidneys than in livers, suggestive of chronic cadmium exposure. Lead concentrations in gull nestlings in the present study were relatively higher than other gull species worldwide, but cadmium concentrations were relatively lower.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungsoo Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 446-701, Republic of Korea,
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Kim J, Oh JM. Tissue distribution of heavy metals in heron and egret chicks from Pyeongtaek, Korea. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2015; 68:283-91. [PMID: 25504523 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-014-0110-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Iron, zinc, manganese, lead and cadmium were measured in the liver, kidney and bone of Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), Intermediate Egret (Egretta intermedia), Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and Black-crowned Night Herons (Nycticorax nycticorax) from Korea. Iron, zinc, manganese, lead and cadmium concentrations had species- and tissue- specific accumulation. Lead concentrations in all tissues of Black-crowned Night Heron and cadmium in kidneys of Intermediate Egret chicks were relatively higher than in other species. Iron and manganese in the liver, zinc in the bone, and lead and cadmium in the kidney were relatively higher than other tissues and these results have been reported in other birds. Lead concentrations in all species were at a level associated with acute lead poisoning and cadmium concentrations except for Grey Heron chicks were at a level associated with chronic cadmium exposure. Lead concentrations in livers and bones of heron and egret chicks were within a range considered background level (<6.00 μg/g dw). But, lead concentrations in kidneys of 12 of 37 heron and egret chicks were at concentrations associated with lethal lead poisoning (6.00-18 μg/g dw) and 7 of 37 chicks were compatible with death (>18.0 μg/g dw). For cadmium, all liver and kidney concentrations were at a level considered background for birds (<3.00 μg/g dw). Essential elements such as iron, zinc and manganese concentrations were within the range observed in other birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungsoo Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 446-701, Republic of Korea,
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Rees AB, Turner A, Comber S. Metal contamination of sediment by paint peeling from abandoned boats, with particular reference to lead. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 494-495:313-9. [PMID: 25062307 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.06.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Revised: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/15/2014] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Fragments of flaking paint have been sampled from eighteen boats (including sailing barges, houseboats, a trawler and a ferry) abandoned on the intertidal mudflats of two estuaries in eastern England and analysed for Cu, Pb and Zn by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry. Median concentrations of Pb on each boat ranged from about 350 to 35,000 μg g(-1), with individual concentrations exceeding 200,000 μg g(-1) in several cases. Median concentrations of Cu and Zn ranged from about 50 to 1900 μg g(-1) and 50 to 10,000 μg g(-1), respectively, with respective maxima of 172,000 μg g(-1) and 239,000 μg g(-1). Because of peeling paint, local sediment (analysed by ICP following acid digestion) was often measurably contaminated by the metals and, based on median, Al-normalised enrichment factors, in the order Pb>Zn>Cu. Due to its abundance and persistence in old paints, Pb is of greatest concern from both environmental and human health perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldous B Rees
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Sean Comber
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
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Dolka B, Włodarczyk R, Zbikowski A, Dolka I, Szeleszczuk P, Kluciński W. Hematological parameters in relation to age, sex and biochemical values for mute swans (Cygnus olor). Vet Res Commun 2014; 38:93-100. [PMID: 24458848 PMCID: PMC4021158 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-014-9589-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The knowledge of the correct morphological and biochemical parameters in mute swans is an important indicator of their health status, body condition, adaptation to habitat and useful diagnostic tools in veterinary practice and ecological research. The aim of the study was to obtain hematological parameters in relation to age, sex and serum biochemistry values in wild-living mute swans. We found the significant differences in the erythrocyte count, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in relation to age of mute swans. There were no differences in hematological values between males and females. The leukogram and H/L ratio did not vary by age and sex in swans. Among of biochemical parameters the slightly increased AST, ALP, CK, K, urea, decreased CHOL and TG values were recorded. As far as we know, this is the first study in which the morphometric parameters of blood cells in mute swans were presented. We found extremely low concentration of lead in blood (at subtreshold level). No blood parasites were found in blood smears. The analysis of body mass and biometric parameters revealed a significant differences dependent on age and sex. No differences in the scaled mass index were found. Our results represent a normal hematologic and blood chemistry values and age-sex related changes, as reference values for the mute swan.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Dolka
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159c St., 02-776, Warsaw, Poland,
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Orłowski G, Kamiński P, Kasprzykowski Z, Zawada Z, Koim-Puchowska B, Szady-Grad M, Klawe JJ. Essential and nonessential elements in nestling rooks Corvus frugilegus from eastern Poland with a special emphasis on their high cadmium contamination. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2012; 63:601-611. [PMID: 22945854 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-012-9794-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Concentration of minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium [Ca], magnesium, iron [Fe], copper, zinc [Zn], manganese [Mn], and cobalt) as well as toxic metals (cadmium [Cd], lead [Pb]) were determined in five tissues (liver, lung, kidney, muscle, and bone) of nestling rooks (Corvus frugilegus; 1 to 13 days old) found dead in seven breeding colonies in eastern Poland. Cd concentration in all analyzed tissues was in the narrow range of 17.0-17.2 mg/kg dry weight (dw) Cd, which in the light of the literature data indicates acute contamination by this toxic metal. Similarly, we found increased levels of Pb, which in all tissues ranged between 5.0 and 6.2 mg/kg dw. Results of multivariate general linear model (GLM) testing of the effect of three variables (tissue type, colony, and nestling age) on tissue concentrations of various metals showed significance for Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn. Only concentrations of Ca, Fe, and Zn differed significantly between the analyzed tissues. GLM analysis did not show any statistically significant differences in tissue levels of minerals and both toxic metals among examined rookeries, which indicates the widespread presence of nonpoint Cd and Pb pollution linked to agricultural activity and similar levels of these inorganic contaminants on crop fields (feeding grounds) around breeding colonies. We concluded that high levels of both toxic metals, Cd and Pb, probably resulting from the diet of nestling rooks, are based mainly on a diet of ground-dwelling beetles gathered on crop fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Orłowski
- Institute of Agricultural and Forest Environment, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
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Sonne C, Alstrup AKO, Therkildsen OR. A review of the factors causing paralysis in wild birds: Implications for the paralytic syndrome observed in the Baltic Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2012; 416:32-39. [PMID: 22226396 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2011.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We reviewed paralysis in wild birds with a special focus on the Baltic Sea paralytic syndrome recently described by Balk et al. (2009) by assessing multiple causative factors. The review showed that paralysis may occur in various species and that the aetiology can be divided into biotoxins, nutritional deficiencies, environmental contaminants and infectious diseases. The review also showed that the symptoms are influenced by age, sex and species of the affected individual. It seemed that paralysis may be treated or relieved by e.g. thiamine injections or additives. Due to a lack of extensive diagnostic studies, the potentially negative effects of paralysis at the population level of wild birds remain unsolved. We recommend that when investigating paralysis in wild birds, a holistic study approach including multiple factors are undertaken in order to pinpoint cause-and-effect relationships as well as the potential impacts on wild bird populations including those in the Baltic Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
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de Boer WF, Cao L, Barter M, Wang X, Sun M, van Oeveren H, de Leeuw J, Barzen J, Prins HHT. Comparing the community composition of European and eastern Chinese waterbirds and the influence of human factors on the China waterbird community. AMBIO 2011; 40:68-77. [PMID: 21404825 PMCID: PMC3357726 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-010-0088-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
We compared the European and eastern Chinese waterbird assemblages and checked whether the effects of human disturbance could be detected in the assemblages' composition. For the different Chinese provinces, we expected to find a negative effect of economic development on the mean bird species mass and on the proportion of bentivorous, piscivorous and insectivorous bird species. We also expected to find relatively fewer large species in the Chinese assemblage. Species rank-abundance curves were relatively similar, but China had significantly more species with smaller body masses. The China assemblage was characterized by relatively higher abundance of heavy-bodied species, contrary to our expectations. Mean bird body mass decreased in China with increasing disturbance and increasing gross domestic product (GDP). For coastal provinces in China the percentage of bentivorous, piscivorous and insectivorous bird species declined with increasing GDP, maybe through the increased use of pesticides or fertilizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem F. de Boer
- Resource Ecology Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3a, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lei Cao
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 96 Jinzhai Road, Anhui Hefei, 30027 People’s Republic of China
| | - Mark Barter
- 21 Chivalry Avenue, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150 Australia
| | - Xin Wang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 96 Jinzhai Road, Anhui Hefei, 30027 People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Sun
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, No. 96 Jinzhai Road, Anhui Hefei, 30027 People’s Republic of China
| | - Herman van Oeveren
- Resource Ecology Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3a, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan de Leeuw
- International Institute for Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation, Hengelosestraat 9, P.O. Box 6, 7500 AA Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jeb Barzen
- International Crane Foundation, E-11376 Shady Lane Road, Baraboo, WI 53913 USA
| | - Herbert H. T. Prins
- Resource Ecology Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3a, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Clostridia produce the highest number of toxins of any type of bacteria and are involved in severe diseases in humans and other animals. Most of the clostridial toxins are pore-forming toxins responsible for gangrenes and gastrointestinal diseases. Among them, perfringolysin has been extensively studied and it is the paradigm of the cholesterol-dependent cytolysins, whereas Clostridium perfringens epsilon-toxin and Clostridium septicum alpha-toxin, which are related to aerolysin, are the prototypes of clostridial toxins that form small pores. Other toxins active on the cell surface possess an enzymatic activity, such as phospholipase C and collagenase, and are involved in the degradation of specific cell-membrane or extracellular-matrix components. Three groups of clostridial toxins have the ability to enter cells: large clostridial glucosylating toxins, binary toxins and neurotoxins. The binary and large clostridial glucosylating toxins alter the actin cytoskeleton by enzymatically modifying the actin monomers and the regulatory proteins from the Rho family, respectively. Clostridial neurotoxins proteolyse key components of neuroexocytosis. Botulinum neurotoxins inhibit neurotransmission at neuromuscular junctions, whereas tetanus toxin targets the inhibitory interneurons of the CNS. The high potency of clostridial toxins results from their specific targets, which have an essential cellular function, and from the type of modification that they induce. In addition, clostridial toxins are useful pharmacological and biological tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel R Popoff
- Institut Pasteur, Bactéries Anaérobies et Toxines, 75724 Paris cedex 15, France.
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