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Melica V, Thornton SJ. Killer whale fecal samples: How to get the most out of a single extraction. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 354:114544. [PMID: 38705419 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Fecal samples are a non-invasive and relatively accessible matrix for investigating physiological processes in resident killer whale (Orcinus orca) populations. The high lipid content of the diet (primarily salmonids) leads to lower density fecal material and slower dispersion, facilitating sample collection. As fecal discharge is relatively infrequent and the volume of sample is variable, maximizing analytical options is an important consideration. Here we present an extraction methodology to measure hormones and lipid content from the same fecal aliquot. Lipid extractions are commonly conducted using chloroform and methanol from Folch or Bligh and Dyer (B&D), while alcohol is the primary solvent for hormone extraction. We evaluated the possibility of using the methanol layer from lipid extractions to assess fecal steroid hormone levels. Folch and B&D methanol residues were assayed form metabolites of progesterone (PMs) and corticosterone (GCs), and results were compared to aliquots extracted in 70 % ethanol. Hormone concentrations measured in the methanol layer from Folch and B&D extractions were 55 % to 79 % lower than concentrations in 70 % ethanol. We developed mathematical corrections, using linear regression models fitted to Folch or B&D methanol vs 70 % ethanol hormone concentrations (p < 0.01). Fecal concentrations of PMs and GCs from methanol extractions were biologically validated and are significantly higher in confirmed pregnant females compared to non-pregnant individuals (p < 0.05). This study demonstrates that lipid extraction protocols may be used for the analysis of multiple biomarkers, maximizing the use of small-volume samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Melica
- Marine Mammal Conservation Physiology Program, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 4160 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - S J Thornton
- Marine Mammal Conservation Physiology Program, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 4160 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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2
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Bean TG, Beasley VR, Berny P, Eisenreich KM, Elliott JE, Eng ML, Fuchsman PC, Johnson MS, King MD, Mateo R, Meyer CB, Salice CJ, Rattner BA. Toxicological effects assessment for wildlife in the 21st century: Review of current methods and recommendations for a path forward. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024; 20:699-724. [PMID: 37259706 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4795] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Model species (e.g., granivorous gamebirds, waterfowl, passerines, domesticated rodents) have been used for decades in guideline laboratory tests to generate survival, growth, and reproductive data for prospective ecological risk assessments (ERAs) for birds and mammals, while officially adopted risk assessment schemes for amphibians and reptiles do not exist. There are recognized shortcomings of current in vivo methods as well as uncertainty around the extent to which species with different life histories (e.g., terrestrial amphibians, reptiles, bats) than these commonly used models are protected by existing ERA frameworks. Approaches other than validating additional animal models for testing are being developed, but the incorporation of such new approach methodologies (NAMs) into risk assessment frameworks will require robust validations against in vivo responses. This takes time, and the ability to extrapolate findings from nonanimal studies to organism- and population-level effects in terrestrial wildlife remains weak. Failure to adequately anticipate and predict hazards could have economic and potentially even legal consequences for regulators and product registrants. In order to be able to use fewer animals or replace them altogether in the long term, vertebrate use and whole organism data will be needed to provide data for NAM validation in the short term. Therefore, it is worth investing resources for potential updates to existing standard test guidelines used in the laboratory as well as addressing the need for clear guidance on the conduct of field studies. Herein, we review the potential for improving standard in vivo test methods and for advancing the use of field studies in wildlife risk assessment, as these tools will be needed in the foreseeable future. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:699-724. © 2023 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada and The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC). Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Val R Beasley
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Karen M Eisenreich
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - John E Elliott
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Margaret L Eng
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Mark S Johnson
- US Defense Centers for Public Health-Aberdeen, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, USA
| | - Mason D King
- Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | | | | | - Barnett A Rattner
- US Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Laurel, Maryland, USA
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3
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Ross ARS, Liao X, Brown TM. Simultaneous determination of steroid hormones and pharmaceuticals in killer whale ( Orcinus orca) faecal samples by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad081. [PMID: 38026807 PMCID: PMC10660373 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
We describe a non-invasive method for profiling selected hormones, pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in killer whales (Orcinus orca) based on analysis of faecal samples by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The method targets 21 compounds of interest including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, progestogens, selective serotonin uptake inhibitors and an antibacterial/antifungal agent. This method is suitable for routine simultaneous determination of target compounds in killer whale faecal samples as well as validation of immunoassays for the detection and measurement of steroid hormones in faeces. The optimized method involves extraction of freeze-dried faecal material with reagent alcohol and water followed by isolation of the analytes using solid phase extraction with hydrophilic-lipophilic balance cartridges and liquid-liquid extraction with methyl tertiary-butyl ether. Reconstituted extracts were analysed by LC-MS/MS using an electrospray ionization interface. Method limit of quantification ranged from 0.06 to 45.2 ng/g in freeze-dried faecal samples. Except for sertraline, triclosan and estradiol (which was not recovered at the lowest spiked concentration), average intra- and inter-day precisions were within 10%, and average recoveries were between 89.3% and 129.3%, for faecal samples spiked with 5.3, 26.7 or 133 ng/g of each analyte. The method was applied successfully to the analysis of hormones and PPCPs in whale faeces during which 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, a common intermediate in steroid biosynthesis that cross-reacts with precursors and sulphated conjugates in immunoassays, was identified and quantified in all samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R S Ross
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 9860 West Saanich Road, Sidney, BC, V8L 4B2, Canada
| | - Xiangjun Liao
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 9860 West Saanich Road, Sidney, BC, V8L 4B2, Canada
| | - Tanya M Brown
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 9860 West Saanich Road, Sidney, BC, V8L 4B2, Canada
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Lee K, Alava JJ, Cottrell P, Cottrell L, Grace R, Zysk I, Raverty S. Emerging Contaminants and New POPs (PFAS and HBCDD) in Endangered Southern Resident and Bigg's (Transient) Killer Whales ( Orcinus orca): In Utero Maternal Transfer and Pollution Management Implications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:360-374. [PMID: 36512803 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c04126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Killer whales (Orcinus orca) have been deemed one of the most contaminated cetacean species in the world. However, concentrations and potential health implications of selected 'contaminants of emerging concern' (CECs) and new persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in endangered Southern Resident and threatened Bigg's (Transient) killer whales in the Northeastern Pacific (NEP) have not yet been documented. Here, we quantify CECs [alkylphenols (APs), triclosan, methyl triclosan, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)] and new POPs [hexabromocyclododecane (HBCCD), PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS] in skeletal muscle and liver samples of these sentinel species and investigate in utero transfer of these contaminants. Samples were collected from necropsied individuals from 2006 to 2018 and analyzed by LC-MS/MS or HRBC/HRMS. AP and PFAS contaminants were the most prevalent compounds; 4-nonylphenol (4NP) was the predominant AP (median 40.84 ng/g ww), and interestingly, 7:3-fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (7:3 FTCA) was the primary PFAS (median 66.35 ng/g ww). Maternal transfer ratios indicated 4NP as the most transferred contaminant from the dam to the fetus, with maternal transfer rates as high as 95.1%. Although too few killer whales have been screened for CECs and new POPs to infer the magnitude of contamination impact, these results raise concerns regarding pathological implications and potential impacts on fetal development and production of a viable neonate. This study outlines CEC and new POP concentrations in killer whales of the NEP and provides scientifically derived evidence to support and inform regulation to mitigate pollutant sources and contamination of Southern Resident killer whale critical habitat and other marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiah Lee
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Juan José Alava
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Paul Cottrell
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Fisheries and Aquaculture Management, 401 Burrard Street, Vancouver V6C 3S4, Canada
| | - Lauren Cottrell
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Cunningham Building 202, Victoria V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Richard Grace
- SGS AXYS Analytical Services Ltd, 2045 Mills Road W, Sidney V8L 5X2, Canada
| | - Ivona Zysk
- SGS AXYS Analytical Services Ltd, 2045 Mills Road W, Sidney V8L 5X2, Canada
| | - Stephen Raverty
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford V3G 2M3, Canada
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Palmer EI, Betty EL, Murphy S, Perrott MR, Smith ANH, Stockin KA. Reproductive biology of female common dolphins ( Delphinus delphis) in New Zealand waters. MARINE BIOLOGY 2022; 169:158. [PMID: 36466079 PMCID: PMC9705467 DOI: 10.1007/s00227-022-04139-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Reproductive biology was assessed in 106 female common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) examined post-mortem from stranding and bycatch events along the New Zealand coastline between 1997 and 2019. The average age (ASM) and length (LSM) at sexual maturity was estimated at 7.5 years and 183.5 cm, respectively. The total number of corpora in mature individuals increased with age and appeared to persist throughout life. Ovarian asymmetry was apparent, with the left ovary displaying higher rates of ovulation, and a maximum of 19 corpora recorded for a 24-year-old female. The estimated ovulation and annual pregnancy rates for mature females were 0.39 year-1 and 30%, respectively. Conception and calving occurred year-round, with a weak seasonal increase observed in late austral spring and early austral summer. As these data did not clearly show whether seasonality was present, the gestation, lactation, and resting periods were calculated as either 12.6 or 12.8 months based on the presence/absence of seasonality, respectively. Similarly, calving interval ranged from 3.15 to 3.2 years, depending upon whether seasonality was considered. The estimated LSM of the New Zealand population aligns with other populations globally, although the estimated ASM is younger by approximately 6 months. Other reproductive parameters align with Northern Hemisphere populations, although demonstrate variation, which may reflect adaptations to local conditions such as water temperature and prey availability. As the species is subject to anthropogenic impacts including pollution and bycatch, we suggest our findings be used as a baseline with which to monitor trends in population parameters. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00227-022-04139-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily I. Palmer
- Cetacean Ecology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, 0745 New Zealand
| | - Emma L. Betty
- Cetacean Ecology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, 0745 New Zealand
| | - Sinéad Murphy
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, School of Science and Computing, Atlantic Technological University, ATU Galway City, Old Dublin Road, Galway, H91 T8NW Ireland
| | - Matthew R. Perrott
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4472 New Zealand
| | - Adam N. H. Smith
- School of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, 0745 New Zealand
| | - Karen A. Stockin
- Cetacean Ecology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, 0745 New Zealand
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Rhodes LD, Emmons CK, Wisswaesser G, Wells AH, Hanson MB. Bacterial microbiomes from mucus and breath of southern resident killer whales ( Orcinus orca). CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac014. [PMID: 35492424 PMCID: PMC9041426 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Opportunities to assess odontocete health are restricted due to their limited time at the surface, relatively quick movements and large geographic ranges. For endangered populations such as the southern resident killer whales (SKRWs) of the northeast Pacific Ocean, taking advantage of non-invasive samples such as expelled mucus and exhaled breath is appealing. Over the past 12 years, such samples were collected, providing a chance to analyse and assess their bacterial microbiomes using amplicon sequencing. Based on operational taxonomic units, microbiome communities from SRKW and transient killer whales showed little overlap between mucus, breath and seawater from SRKW habitats and six bacterial phyla were prominent in expelled mucus but not in seawater. Mollicutes and Fusobacteria were common and abundant in mucus, but not in breath or seawater, suggesting these bacterial classes may be normal constituents of the SRKW microbiome. Out of 134 bacterial families detected, 24 were unique to breath and mucus, including higher abundances of Burkholderiaceae, Moraxellaceae and Chitinophagaceae. Although there were multiple bacterial genera in breath or mucus that include pathogenic species (e.g. Campylobacter, Hemophilus, Treponema), the presence of these bacteria is not necessarily evidence of disease or infection. Future emphasis on genotyping mucus samples to the individual animal will allow further assessment in the context of that animal's history, including body condition index and prior contaminants burden. This study is the first to examine expelled mucus from cetaceans for microbiomes and demonstrates the value of analysing these types of non-invasive samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda D Rhodes
- Corresponding author: Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA.
| | - Candice K Emmons
- Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - GabrielS Wisswaesser
- Lynker Technologies, under contract to Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - Abigail H Wells
- Lynker Technologies, under contract to Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
| | - M Bradley Hanson
- Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA
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van den Heuvel-Greve MJ, van den Brink AM, Kotterman MJJ, Kwadijk CJAF, Geelhoed SCV, Murphy S, van den Broek J, Heesterbeek H, Gröne A, IJsseldijk LL. Polluted porpoises: Generational transfer of organic contaminants in harbour porpoises from the southern North Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 796:148936. [PMID: 34328906 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) and hexachlorobenzene (HCB), bioaccumulate in marine ecosystems. Top predators contain high levels of POPs in their lipid-rich tissues, which may result in adverse effects on their reproductive, immune and endocrine functions. Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) are among the smallest of cetaceans and live under high metabolic demand, making them particularly vulnerable to environmental pressures. Using samples from individuals of all maturity classes and sexes stranded along the southern North Sea (n = 121), we show the generational transfer of PCBs, PBDEs and HCB from adults to foetuses. Porpoise placentas contained 1.3-8.2 mg/kg lipid weight (lw) Sum-17PCB, <dl-0.08 mg/kg lw Sum-17PBDE and 0.14-0.16 mg/kg lw HCB, which were similar to concentrations in foetus blubber. Contaminant levels increased significantly after birth through suckling. Milk samples contained 0.20-33.8 mg/kg lw Sum-17PCB, 0.002-0.51 mg/kg lw Sum-17PBDE and 0.03-0.21 mg/kg lw HCB. Especially lower halogenated and more toxic contaminants were transferred to calves, exposing them to high levels of contaminants early in life. Of all animals included in this study, 38.5% had PCB concentrations exceeding a threshold level for negative health effects (>9 mg/kg lw). This was particularly true for adult males (92.3% >9 mg/kg lw), while adult females had relatively low PCB levels (10.5% >9 mg/kg lw) due to offloading. Nutritional stress led to higher offloading in the milk, causing a greater potential for toxicity in calves of nutritionally stressed females. No correlation between PCB concentration and parasite infestation was detected, although the probability of a porpoise dying due to infectious disease or debilitation increased with increasing PCB concentrations. Despite current regulations to reduce pollution, these results provide further evidence of potential health effects of POPs on harbour porpoises of the southern North Sea, which may consequently increase their susceptibility to other pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine J van den Heuvel-Greve
- Wageningen Marine Research, P.O. Box 77, 4400 AB Yerseke, the Netherlands; Wageningen University, Marine Animal Ecology, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | - Steve C V Geelhoed
- Wageningen Marine Research, P.O. Box 77, 4400 AB Yerseke, the Netherlands
| | - Sinéad Murphy
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Jan van den Broek
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 7, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Heesterbeek
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 7, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea Gröne
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lonneke L IJsseldijk
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Stewart JD, Durban JW, Fearnbach H, Barrett‐Lennard LG, Casler PK, Ward EJ, Dapp DR. Survival of the fattest: linking body condition to prey availability and survivorship of killer whales. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D. Stewart
- National Research Council Postdoctoral Fellow for Marine Mammal and Turtle Division Southwest Fisheries Science Center National Marine Fisheries Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration La Jolla California 92037 USA
| | - John W. Durban
- Marine Mammal and Turtle Division Southwest Fisheries Science Center National Marine Fisheries Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration La Jolla California 92037 USA
- Southall Environmental Associates Aptos California USA
| | - Holly Fearnbach
- SR3, SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation and Research Des Moines Washington USA
| | | | | | - Eric J. Ward
- Conservation Biology Division Northwest Fisheries Science Center National Marine Fisheries Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Seattle Washington 98112 USA
| | - Derek R. Dapp
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Olympia Washington USA
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Liedtke TL, Conn KE. Maternal transfer of polychlorinated biphenyls in Pacific sand lance (Ammodytes personatus), Puget Sound, Washington. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 764:142819. [PMID: 33129542 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142819] [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: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We measured polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in multiple age and size classes of Pacific sand lance (Ammodytes personatus), including eggs, young-of-the year, and adults to evaluate maternal transfer as a pathway for contaminant uptake and to add to the limited information on the occurrence of PCBs in sand lance in Puget Sound. Sampling was replicated at an urban embayment (Eagle Harbor) and a state park along an open shoreline (Clayton Beach), during spring and fall. Lipid-normalized concentrations of PCBs in sand lance at Eagle Harbor were 5-11 times higher than PCB concentrations in comparable samples at Clayton Beach. This was true for every life stage and size class of sand lance, including eggs removed from females. The same trend was observed in environmental samples. In Eagle Harbor, PCB concentrations in unfiltered water (0.19 ng/L), sieved (<63 μm) nearshore bed sediments (0.78 ng/g dw) and suspended particulate matter (1.69 ng/g dw) were 2-3 times higher than equivalent samples from near Clayton Beach. Sand lance collected in the fall (buried in sediment during presumed winter dormancy) had lower lipid content and up to four times higher PCB concentrations than comparably sized fish collected in the spring (by beach seine). Lipid content was 5-8% in spring fish and was reduced in fall fish (1-3%). Male sand lance had higher PCB concentrations than comparable females. All egg samples contained PCBs, and the lipid normalized egg/female concentration ratios were close to 1 (0.87-0.96), confirming that maternal transfer of PCBs occurred, resulting in sand lance eggs and early life stages being contaminated with PCBs even before they are exposed to exogenous sources. These life stages are prey for an even wider range of species than consume adult sand lance, creating additional exposure pathways for biota and increasing the challenges for mitigation of PCBs in the food web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa L Liedtke
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Fisheries Research Center, Columbia River Research Laboratory, 5501A Cook-Underwood Road, Cook, WA, USA.
| | - Kathleen E Conn
- U.S. Geological Survey, Washington Water Science Center, 934 Broadway, Suite 300, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
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Conn KE, Liedtke TL, Takesue RK, Dinicola RS. Legacy and current-use toxic contaminants in Pacific sand lance (Ammodytes personatus) from Puget Sound, Washington, USA. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 158:111287. [PMID: 32753166 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Forage fish are primary prey for seabirds, fish and marine mammals. Contaminant transfer and biomagnification of the toxic compounds measured in this study likely contribute to elevated levels in Puget Sound, Washington, salmon and killer whale tissues that could be sufficiently high to elicit adverse effects and hamper population recovery efforts. Polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, chlorinated pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, alkylphenols, and chlorinated paraffins were detected in all Pacific sand lance tissue samples generally below available health effect levels. Residual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon tissue concentrations near a former creosote site suggest ongoing contaminant exposure. Biomagnification calculations suggest that concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls in some forage fish could result in predator tissue concentrations exceeding effect levels. The emerging contaminants alkylphenols and chlorinated paraffins are first reported here in Puget Sound forage fish, and their frequent detection, high production volumes and endocrine-disrupting properties highlight the need for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Conn
- U.S. Geological Survey, Washington Water Science Center, 934 Broadway Suite 300, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States of America.
| | - T L Liedtke
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Fisheries Research Center, Columbia River Research Laboratory, 5501A Cook-Underwood Road, Cook, WA 98605, United States of America.
| | - R K Takesue
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, 2885 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, United States of America.
| | - R S Dinicola
- U.S. Geological Survey, Washington Water Science Center, 934 Broadway Suite 300, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States of America.
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11
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Kratofil MA, Ylitalo GM, Mahaffy SD, West KL, Baird RW. Life history and social structure as drivers of persistent organic pollutant levels and stable isotopes in Hawaiian false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 733:138880. [PMID: 32446048 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138880] [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: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
False killer whales are long-lived, slow to mature, apex predators, and therefore susceptible to bioaccumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Hawaiian waters are home to three distinct populations: pelagic; Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) insular; and main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) insular. Following a precipitous decline over recent decades, the MHI population was listed as "endangered" under the Endangered Species Act in 2012. This study assesses the risk of POP exposure to these populations by examining pollutant concentrations and ratios from blubber samples (n = 56) related to life history characteristics and MHI social clusters. Samples were analyzed for PCBs, DDTs, PBDEs, and some organochlorine pesticides. Skin samples (n = 52) were analyzed for stable isotopes δ13C and δ15N to gain insight into MHI false killer whale foraging ecology. Pollutant levels were similar among populations, although MHI whales had a significantly higher mean ratio of DDTs/PCBs than NWHI whales. The ∑PCB concentrations of 28 MHI individuals (68%) sampled were equal to or greater than suggested thresholds for deleterious health effects in marine mammals. The highest POP values among our samples were found in four stranded MHI animals. Eight of 24 MHI adult females have not been documented to have given birth; whether they have yet to reproduce, are reproductive senescent, or are experiencing reproductive dysfunction related to high POP exposure is unknown. Juvenile/sub-adults had significantly higher concentrations of certain contaminants than those measured in adults, and may be at greater risk of negative health effects during development. Multivariate analyses, POP ratios, and stable isotope ratios indicate varying risk of POP exposure, foraging locations and potentially prey items among MHI social clusters. Our findings provide invaluable insight into the ongoing risk POPs pose to the MHI population's viability, as well as consideration of risk for the NWHI and pelagic stocks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gina M Ylitalo
- Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, 2725 Montlake Boulevard East, Seattle, WA 98112, USA.
| | - Sabre D Mahaffy
- Cascadia Research Collective, 218½ W. 4th Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
| | - Kristi L West
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, PO Box 1346, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA; Human Nutrition Food and Animal Sciences, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, 1955 East West Road, Ag Sci 216, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
| | - Robin W Baird
- Cascadia Research Collective, 218½ W. 4th Avenue, Olympia, WA 98501, USA; Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, PO Box 1346, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA.
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12
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Schlingermann M, Berrow S, Craig D, McHugh B, Marrinan M, O'Brien J, O'Connor I, Mudzatsi E, White P. High concentrations of persistent organic pollutants in adult killer whales (Orcinus orca) and a foetus stranded in Ireland. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 151:110699. [PMID: 31780087 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.110699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Bio-accumulation of persistent organic pollutants including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants and organochlorine pesticides continue to be of major concern for marine apex predators such as killer whales. The concentrations of 16 polychlorinated biphenyls, 7 poly-brominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), 1 poly-brominated biphenyl (PBB) and a range of 19 organochlorine compounds (OCs) was investigated in blubber samples from a mother-foetus pair, an adult female and an adult male killer whale stranded in Ireland between 2010 and 2017. Concentrations ranged from 1.5 mg/kg to 49.3 mg/kg lipid weight and 0.04-1.2 mg/kg lipid weight for Σ16PCBs and Σ7PBDEs respectively. Concentrations of organochlorine compounds were also investigated in the male killer whale; a Σ19OC concentration of 49.4 mg/kg lipid weight was recorded. This study shows high levels of persistent organic pollutants occur in this species of whales stranded in Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moira Schlingermann
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Simon Berrow
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland; Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare, Ireland
| | - Darren Craig
- Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare, Ireland
| | | | - Michael Marrinan
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Joanne O'Brien
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland; Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare, Ireland
| | - Ian O'Connor
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Engelberth Mudzatsi
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Philip White
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
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13
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Mondol S, Booth RK, Wasser SK. Fecal stress, nutrition and reproductive hormones for monitoring environmental impacts on tigers ( Panthera tigris). CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coz091. [PMID: 31942242 PMCID: PMC6955020 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Non-invasive stress and nutritional hormone analysis in relation to ecological and other biological indices have tremendous potential to address environmental disturbance impacts on wildlife health. To this end, we examined the relation between glucocorticoid (GC) and thyroid (T3) hormone indices of disturbance and nutritional stress in response to ACTH and TSH challenges in captive tigers, as well as how reproductive hormones vary by sex and reproductive condition. Glucocorticoid, thyroid, progesterone and androgen assays conducted on high-performance liquid chromatography separated fractions of biologically relevant fecal extracts revealed high cross-reactivity of these assays for their respective biologically relevant fecal hormone metabolites. Both adrenal and thyroid hormone metabolites were elevated in response to ACTH and TSH challenges. However, the adrenal and thyroid hormone responses to ACTH challenge were concurrent, whereas the adrenal response to TSH challenge was delayed relative to thyroid hormone elevation in both males and females. The concurrently elevated T3 in response to ACTH may serve to raise metabolic rate to maximize use of GC-mobilized glucose, whereas the relatively delayed GC rise following TSH challenge may be a response to glucose depletion due to increased metabolic rate associated with elevated T3. Progesterone, testosterone and androstenedione hormone metabolites were significantly elevated during gestation compared to lactation in a female monitored from conception through early lactation. Results suggest that the glucocorticoid, thyroid and reproductive hormone assays we tested can accurately measure the stress, nutrition and reproductive response from tiger feces, providing useful non-invasive tools to assess physiological responses to environmental stressors and their reproductive consequences in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samrat Mondol
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Box 351800, Seattle Washington 98195-1800
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun 248001, India
| | - Rebecca K Booth
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Box 351800, Seattle Washington 98195-1800
| | - Samuel K Wasser
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Box 351800, Seattle Washington 98195-1800
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14
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Lundin JI, Ylitalo GM, Giles DA, Seely EA, Anulacion BF, Boyd DT, Hempelmann JA, Parsons KM, Booth RK, Wasser SK. Pre-oil spill baseline profiling for contaminants in Southern Resident killer whale fecal samples indicates possible exposure to vessel exhaust. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 136:448-453. [PMID: 30509828 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The Southern Resident killer whale population (Orcinus orca) was listed as endangered in 2005 and shows little sign of recovery. Exposure to contaminants and risk of an oil spill are identified threats. Previous studies on contaminants have largely focused on legacy pollutants. Here we measure polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in whale fecal (scat) samples. PAHs are a diverse group of hazardous compounds (e.g., carcinogenic, mutagenic), and are a component of crude and refined oil as well as motor exhaust. The central finding from this study indicates low concentrations of the measured PAHs (<10 ppb, wet weight), as expected; however, PAHs were as high as 104 ppb prior to implementation of guidelines mandating increased distance between vessels and whales. While causality is unclear, the potential PAH exposure from vessels warrants continued monitoring. Historical precedent similarly emphasizes the importance of having pre-oil spill exposure data available as baseline to guide remediation goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica I Lundin
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States of America.
| | - Gina M Ylitalo
- Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2725 Montlake Blvd E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States of America
| | - Deborah A Giles
- University of Washington Friday Harbor Labs, Friday Harbor, WA 98250, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A Seely
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States of America
| | - Bernadita F Anulacion
- Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2725 Montlake Blvd E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States of America
| | - Daryle T Boyd
- Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2725 Montlake Blvd E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States of America
| | - Jennifer A Hempelmann
- Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2725 Montlake Blvd E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States of America
| | - Kim M Parsons
- Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way N.E., Building 4, Seattle, WA 98115, United States of America; Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2725 Montlake Blvd E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States of America
| | - Rebecca K Booth
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States of America
| | - Samuel K Wasser
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States of America
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15
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Projected amplification of food web bioaccumulation of MeHg and PCBs under climate change in the Northeastern Pacific. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13460. [PMID: 30194394 PMCID: PMC6128847 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31824-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change increases exposure and bioaccumulation of pollutants in marine organisms, posing substantial ecophysiological and ecotoxicological risks. Here, we applied a trophodynamic ecosystem model to examine the bioaccumulation of organic mercury (MeHg) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in a Northeastern Pacific marine food web under climate change. We found largely heterogeneous sensitivity in climate-pollution impacts between chemicals and trophic groups. Concentration of MeHg and PCBs in top predators, including resident killer whales, is projected to be amplified by 8 and 3%, respectively, by 2100 under a high carbon emission scenario (Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5) relative to a no-climate change control scenario. However, the level of amplification increases with higher carbon emission scenario for MeHg, but decreases for PCBs. Such idiosyncratic responses are shaped by the differences in bioaccumulation pathways between MeHg and PCBs, and the modifications of food web dynamics between different levels of climate change. Climate-induced pollutant amplification in mid-trophic level predators (Chinook salmon) are projected to be higher (~10%) than killer whales. Overall, the predicted trophic magnification factor is ten-fold higher in MeHg than in PCBs under high CO2 emissions. This contribution highlights the importance of understanding the interactions with anthropogenic organic pollutants in assessing climate risks on marine ecosystems.
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16
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Zhang S, Adrian L, Schüürmann G. Interaction Mode and Regioselectivity in Vitamin B 12-Dependent Dehalogenation of Aryl Halides by Dehalococcoides mccartyi Strain CBDB1. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:1834-1843. [PMID: 29283566 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b04278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The bacterium Dehalococcoides, strain CBDB1, transforms aromatic halides through reductive dehalogenation. So far, however, the structures of its vitamin B12-containing dehalogenases are unknown, hampering clarification of the catalytic mechanism and substrate specificity as basis for targeted remediation strategies. This study employs a quantum chemical donor-acceptor approach for the Co(I)-substrate electron transfer. Computational characterization of the substrate electron affinity at carbon-halogen bonds enables discriminating aromatic halides ready for dehalogenation by strain CBDB1 (active substrates) from nondehalogenated (inactive) counterparts with 92% accuracy, covering 86 of 93 bromobenzenes, chlorobenzenes, chlorophenols, chloroanilines, polychlorinated biphenyls, and dibenzo-p-dioxins. Moreover, experimental regioselectivity is predicted with 78% accuracy by a site-specific parameter encoding the overlap potential between the Co(I) HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) and the lowest-energy unoccupied sigma-symmetry substrate MO (σ*), and the observed dehalogenation pathways are rationalized with a success rate of 81%. Molecular orbital analysis reveals that the most reactive unoccupied sigma-symmetry orbital of carbon-attached halogen X (σC-X*) mediates its reductive cleavage. The discussion includes predictions for untested substrates, thus providing opportunities for targeted experimental investigations. Overall, the presently introduced orbital interaction model supports the view that with bacterial strain CBDB1, an inner-sphere electron transfer from the supernucleophile B12 Co(I) to the halogen substituent of the aromatic halide is likely to represent the rate-determining step of the reductive dehalogenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangwei Zhang
- UFZ Department of Ecological Chemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg , Institute for Organic Chemistry, Leipziger Straße 29, 09596 Freiberg, German y
| | - Lorenz Adrian
- UFZ Department of Isotope Biogeochemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Technische Universität Berlin , Chair of Geobiotechnology, Ackerstraße 76, 13355 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerrit Schüürmann
- UFZ Department of Ecological Chemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research , Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg , Institute for Organic Chemistry, Leipziger Straße 29, 09596 Freiberg, German y
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17
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Alava JJ, Cheung WWL, Ross PS, Sumaila UR. Climate change-contaminant interactions in marine food webs: Toward a conceptual framework. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2017; 23:3984-4001. [PMID: 28212462 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is reshaping the way in which contaminants move through the global environment, in large part by changing the chemistry of the oceans and affecting the physiology, health, and feeding ecology of marine biota. Climate change-associated impacts on structure and function of marine food webs, with consequent changes in contaminant transport, fate, and effects, are likely to have significant repercussions to those human populations that rely on fisheries resources for food, recreation, or culture. Published studies on climate change-contaminant interactions with a focus on food web bioaccumulation were systematically reviewed to explore how climate change and ocean acidification may impact contaminant levels in marine food webs. We propose here a conceptual framework to illustrate the impacts of climate change on contaminant accumulation in marine food webs, as well as the downstream consequences for ecosystem goods and services. The potential impacts on social and economic security for coastal communities that depend on fisheries for food are discussed. Climate change-contaminant interactions may alter the bioaccumulation of two priority contaminant classes: the fat-soluble persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), as well as the protein-binding methylmercury (MeHg). These interactions include phenomena deemed to be either climate change dominant (i.e., climate change leads to an increase in contaminant exposure) or contaminant dominant (i.e., contamination leads to an increase in climate change susceptibility). We illustrate the pathways of climate change-contaminant interactions using case studies in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean. The important role of ecological and food web modeling to inform decision-making in managing ecological and human health risks of chemical pollutants contamination under climate change is also highlighted. Finally, we identify the need to develop integrated policies that manage the ecological and socioeconomic risk of greenhouse gases and marine pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan José Alava
- Global Fisheries Cluster, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Ocean Pollution Research Program, Coastal Ocean Research Institute, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William W L Cheung
- Global Fisheries Cluster, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peter S Ross
- Ocean Pollution Research Program, Coastal Ocean Research Institute, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - U Rashid Sumaila
- Global Fisheries Cluster, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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18
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Eskandarloo H, Kierulf A, Abbaspourrad A. Nano- and micromotors for cleaning polluted waters: focused review on pollutant removal mechanisms. NANOSCALE 2017; 9:13850-13863. [PMID: 28920114 DOI: 10.1039/c7nr05494g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Nano- and micromotors are machines designed to self-propel and-in the process of propelling themselves-perform specialized tasks like cleaning polluted waters. These motors offer distinct advantages over conventionally static decontamination methods, owing to their ability to move around and self-mix-which heightens the interaction between their active sites and target pollutants-thus improving their speed and efficiency, which could potentially decrease treatment times and costs. In the last decade, considerable research efforts have been expended on exploring various mechanisms by which these motors can self-propel and remove pollutants, proving that the removal of oil droplets, heavy metals, and organic compounds using these synthetic motors is possible. This review highlights recent progress in the design of these nano- and micromotors for cleaning polluted waters, and gives an overview of their structure, fabrication, and propulsion methods, with a special focus on the mechanisms by which they remove pollutants-namely, either by adsorption or by degradation. A fundamental understanding of these removal mechanisms, with their attendant advantages and disadvantages, can help researchers fine-tune motor design in the future so that technical issues can be resolved before they are scaled-up for a wide variety of environmental applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Eskandarloo
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Cornell University, 243 Stocking Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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19
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Wasser SK, Lundin JI, Ayres K, Seely E, Giles D, Balcomb K, Hempelmann J, Parsons K, Booth R. Population growth is limited by nutritional impacts on pregnancy success in endangered Southern Resident killer whales (Orcinus orca). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179824. [PMID: 28662095 PMCID: PMC5491047 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Southern Resident killer whale population (Orcinus orca) was listed as endangered in 2005 and shows little sign of recovery. These fish eating whales feed primarily on endangered Chinook salmon. Population growth is constrained by low offspring production for the number of reproductive females in the population. Lack of prey, increased toxins and vessel disturbance have been listed as potential causes of the whale’s decline, but partitioning these pressures has been difficult. We validated and applied temporal measures of progesterone and testosterone metabolites to assess occurrence, stage and health of pregnancy from genotyped killer whale feces collected using detection dogs. Thyroid and glucocorticoid hormone metabolites were measured from these same samples to assess physiological stress. These methods enabled us to assess pregnancy occurrence and failure as well as how pregnancy success was temporally impacted by nutritional and other stressors, between 2008 and 2014. Up to 69% of all detectable pregnancies were unsuccessful; of these, up to 33% failed relatively late in gestation or immediately post-partum, when the cost is especially high. Low availability of Chinook salmon appears to be an important stressor among these fish-eating whales as well as a significant cause of late pregnancy failure, including unobserved perinatal loss. However, release of lipophilic toxicants during fat metabolism in the nutritionally deprived animals may also provide a contributor to these cumulative effects. Results point to the importance of promoting Chinook salmon recovery to enhance population growth of Southern Resident killer whales. The physiological measures used in this study can also be used to monitor the success of actions aimed at promoting adaptive management of this important apex predator to the Pacific Northwest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel K. Wasser
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Jessica I. Lundin
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Katherine Ayres
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Seely
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Deborah Giles
- Center for Whale Research, Friday Harbor, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kenneth Balcomb
- Center for Whale Research, Friday Harbor, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Hempelmann
- Northwest Fisheries Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Kim Parsons
- Northwest Fisheries Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Booth
- Center for Conservation Biology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
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20
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Mann J, Karniski C. Diving beneath the surface: long-term studies of dolphins and whales. J Mammal 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyx036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Mann
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Caitlin Karniski
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, NW, Washington, DC, USA
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21
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Docea AO, Vassilopoulou L, Fragou D, Arsene AL, Fenga C, Kovatsi L, Petrakis D, Rakitskii VN, Nosyrev AE, Izotov BN, Golokhvast KS, Zakharenko AM, Vakis A, Tsitsimpikou C, Drakoulis N. CYP polymorphisms and pathological conditions related to chronic exposure to organochlorine pesticides. Toxicol Rep 2017; 4:335-341. [PMID: 28959657 PMCID: PMC5615117 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2017.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Organochlorine compounds (OCs) are persistent organic pollutants acting as endocrine disruptors. Exposure to OCs is a risk factor for several severe pathologies. Specific CYP polymorphisms could affect the clinical impact of OCs exposure.
The association between genetic variations in the cytochrome P450 (CYP) family genes and pathological conditions related to long-term exposure to organochlorine compounds (OCs) deserves further elucidation. OCs are persistent organic pollutants with bioaccumulative and lipophilic characteristics. They can act as endocrine disruptors and perturb cellular mechanisms. Prolonged exposure to OCs has been associated with different pathological manifestations. CYP genes are responsible for transcribing enzymes essential in xenobiotic metabolism. Therefore, polymorphisms in these genetic sequences a. alter the metabolic pathways, b. induce false cellular responses, and c. may provoke pathological conditions. The main aim of this review is to define the interaction between parameters a, b and c at a mechanistic/molecular level, with references in clinical cases.
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Key Words
- ARNT, AhR nuclear translocator
- AhR, aryl hydrocarbon receptor
- CYP450, cytochrome P450
- Cytochrome P450
- DDE, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene
- DDT, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane
- Environmental pollutants
- GST, glutathione-S-transferase
- Genetic polymorphisms
- HCB, hexachlorobenzene
- HCH, hexachlorocyclohexane
- HPTE, hydroxychlor
- MXC, methoxychlor
- OBP, organochlorine by-product
- OC, organochlorine compound
- Organochlorine compounds
- PAA, phenoxyacetic acid
- PCB, polychlorinated biphenyl
- PCDD, polychlorinated dibenzodioxins
- PCDF, polychlorinated dibenzofurans
- POP, persistent organic pollutant
- Pathogenesis
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SNP, single nucleotide polymorphism
- TCDD, tetrachlorodibenzodioxin
- VCM, vinyl chloride monomer
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, 2 Petru Rares, 200349, Craiova, Romania
| | - Loukia Vassilopoulou
- Department of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Domniki Fragou
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andreea Letitia Arsene
- Department of Microbiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Concettina Fenga
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging - Occupational Medicine Section - University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Leda Kovatsi
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Valerii N Rakitskii
- Federal Scientific Center of Hygiene, F.F. Erisman, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander E Nosyrev
- Central Chemical Laboratory of Toxicology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Boris N Izotov
- Central Chemical Laboratory of Toxicology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Kirill S Golokhvast
- Scientific Educational Center of Nanotechnology, Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander M Zakharenko
- Scientific Educational Center of Nanotechnology, Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation
| | - Antonis Vakis
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Crete, Medical School, Heraklion University Hospital, Voutes, 71 021 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Christina Tsitsimpikou
- Department of Dangerous Substances, Mixtures and Articles, Directorate of Energy, Industrial and Chemical Products, General Chemical State Laboratory of Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Drakoulis
- Research Group of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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22
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Vassilopoulou L, Psycharakis C, Petrakis D, Tsiaoussis J, Tsatsakis AM. Obesity, Persistent Organic Pollutants and Related Health Problems. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 960:81-110. [PMID: 28585196 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-48382-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The present review aims to delve into persistent organic pollutants (POPs) , as xenobiotics, in correlation to human health. POPs exhibit a group of common characteristics, including lipophilicity, persistence to decomposition and bioaccumulation in tissues. POPs have been thoroughly studied by former researchers, as they offer a particular interest in the elucidation of metabolic, endocrine and immune perturbation caused by their synergy with intracellular mechanisms. Herein particular focus is attributed to the relationship of POPs with obesity provocation. Obesity nowadays receives epidemic dimensions, as its prevalence elevates in an exponential degree. POPs-induced obesity rotates around interfering in metabolic and endocrinal procedures and interacting with peroxisome-proliferator and retinoic receptors. Moreover, polymorphisms in CYP gene families exert a negative result, as they incapacitate detoxification of POPs. Obesity could be deemed as a multidimensional condition, as various factors interact to lead to an obesogenic result. Therefore, concomitant disorders may occur, from mild to lethal, and get intensified due to POPs exposure. POPs exact function mechanisms remain rather enigmatic, thus further investigation should be prospectively performed, for a more lucid picture of this issue, and, consequently for the establishment of alternative solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukia Vassilopoulou
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71409, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Christos Psycharakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71409, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Demetrios Petrakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71409, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - John Tsiaoussis
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71110, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aristides M Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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