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Uribe C, Nery MF, Zavala K, Mardones GA, Riadi G, Opazo JC. Evolution of ion channels in cetaceans: a natural experiment in the tree of life. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17024. [PMID: 39043711 PMCID: PMC11266680 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66082-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cetaceans represent a natural experiment within the tree of life in which a lineage changed from terrestrial to aquatic habitats. This shift involved phenotypic modifications, representing an opportunity to explore the genetic bases of phenotypic diversity. Among the different molecular systems that maintain cellular homeostasis, ion channels are crucial for the proper physiological functioning of all living species. This study aims to explore the evolution of ion channels during the evolutionary history of cetaceans. To do so, we created a bioinformatic pipeline to annotate the repertoire of ion channels in the genome of the species included in our sampling. Our main results show that cetaceans have, on average, fewer protein-coding genes and a higher percentage of annotated ion channels than non-cetacean mammals. Signals of positive selection were detected in ion channels related to the heart, locomotion, visual and neurological phenotypes. Interestingly, we predict that the NaV1.5 ion channel of most toothed whales (odontocetes) is sensitive to tetrodotoxin, similar to NaV1.7, given the presence of tyrosine instead of cysteine, in a specific position of the ion channel. Finally, the gene turnover rate of the cetacean crown group is more than three times faster than that of non-cetacean mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristóbal Uribe
- Department of Bioinformatics, Program in Sciences Mention Modeling of Chemical and Biological Systems, School of Bioinformatics Engineering, Center for Bioinformatics, Simulation and Modeling, CBSM, Faculty of Engineering, University of Talca, Campus Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Mariana F Nery
- Departamento de Genética, Evolução, Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas-UNICAMP, Cidade Universitária, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Kattina Zavala
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gonzalo A Mardones
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Valdivia, Chile
- Integrative Biology Group, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Riadi
- Department of Bioinformatics, Center for Bioinformatics, Simulation and Modeling, Faculty of Engineering, CBSM, University of Talca, Talca, Chile.
- Millennium Nucleus of Ion Channel-Associated Diseases (MiNICAD), Valdivia, Chile.
| | - Juan C Opazo
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Valdivia, Chile.
- Integrative Biology Group, Valdivia, Chile.
- Millennium Nucleus of Ion Channel-Associated Diseases (MiNICAD), Valdivia, Chile.
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2
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Saito A, Kinoshita C, Sakai K, Sato K, Sakamoto KQ. Heart rate reduction during voluntary deep diving in free-ranging loggerhead sea turtles. J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb246334. [PMID: 38442390 PMCID: PMC10949068 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Air-breathing vertebrates exhibit cardiovascular responses to diving including heart rate reduction (diving bradycardia). Field studies on aquatic mammals and birds have shown that the intensity of bradycardia can vary depending on diving behaviour, such as the depth of dives and dive duration. However, in aquatic reptiles, the variation in heart rate during deep dives under natural conditions has not been fully investigated. In this study, we released five loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) outfitted with recorders into the sea and recorded their electrocardiogram, depth, water temperature and longitudinal acceleration. After 3 days, the recorders automatically detached from the turtles. The heart rate signals were detected from the electrodes placed on the surface of the plastron. The mean (±s.d.) heart rate of 12.8±4.1 beats min-1 during dives was significantly lower than that of 20.9±4.1 beats min-1 during surface periods. Heart rate during dives varied with dive depth, although it remained lower than that at the surface. When the turtle dived deeper than 140 m, despite the relatively high flipper stroke rate (approximately 19 strokes min-1), the heart rate dropped rapidly to approximately 2 beats min-1 temporarily. The minimum instantaneous heart rate during dives was lower at deeper dive depths. Our results indicate that loggerhead sea turtles show variations in the intensity of diving bradycardia depending on their diving behaviour, similar to that shown by marine mammals and birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Saito
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kinoshita
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Kino Sakai
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Kentaro Q. Sakamoto
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
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3
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Motani R, Pyenson ND. Downsizing a heavyweight: factors and methods that revise weight estimates of the giant fossil whale Perucetus colossus. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16978. [PMID: 38436015 PMCID: PMC10909350 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Extremes in organismal size have broad interest in ecology and evolution because organismal size dictates many traits of an organism's biology. There is particular fascination with identifying upper size extremes in the largest vertebrates, given the challenges and difficulties of measuring extant and extinct candidates for the largest animal of all time, such as whales, terrestrial non-avian dinosaurs, and extinct marine reptiles. The discovery of Perucetus colossus, a giant basilosaurid whale from the Eocene of Peru, challenged many assumptions about organismal extremes based on reconstructions of its body weight that exceeded reported values for blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus). Here we present an examination of a series of factors and methodological approaches to assess reconstructing body weight in Perucetus, including: data sources from large extant cetaceans; fitting published body mass estimates to body outlines; testing the assumption of isometry between skeletal and body masses, even with extrapolation; examining the role of pachyostosis in body mass reconstructions; addressing method-dependent error rates; and comparing Perucetus with known physiological and ecological limits for living whales, and Eocene oceanic productivity. We conclude that Perucetus did not exceed the body mass of today's blue whales. Depending on assumptions and methods, we estimate that Perucetus weighed 60-70 tons assuming a length 17 m. We calculated larger estimates potentially as much as 98-114 tons at 20 m in length, which is far less than the direct records of blue whale weights, or the 270 ton estimates that we calculated for body weights of the largest blue whales measured by length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Motani
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Nicholas D. Pyenson
- Department of Paleobiology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, District of Columbia, United States
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4
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Morris JA, Bardsley OJ, Salvage SC, Jackson AP, Matthews HR, Huang CLH. Nernst-Planck-Gaussian modelling of electrodiffusional recovery from ephaptic excitation between mammalian cardiomyocytes. Front Physiol 2024; 14:1280151. [PMID: 38235384 PMCID: PMC10791825 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1280151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In addition to gap junction conduction, recent reports implicate possible ephaptic coupling contributions to action potential (AP) propagation between successive adjacent cardiomyocytes. Here, AP generation in an active cell, withdraws Na+ from, creating a negative potential within, ephaptic spaces between the participating membranes, activating the initially quiescent neighbouring cardiomyocyte. However, sustainable ephaptic transmission requires subsequent complete recovery of the ephaptic charge difference. We explore physical contributions of passive electrodiffusive ion exchange with the remaining extracellular space to this recovery for the first time. Materials and Methods: Computational, finite element, analysis examined limiting, temporal and spatial, ephaptic [Na+], [Cl-], and the consequent Gaussian charge differences and membrane potential recovery patterns following a ΔV∼130 mV AP upstroke at physiological (37°C) temperatures. This incorporated Nernst-Planck formalisms into equations for the time-dependent spatial concentration gradient profiles. Results: Mammalian atrial, ventricular and purkinje cardiomyocyte ephaptic junctions were modelled by closely apposed circularly symmetric membranes, specific capacitance 1 μF cm-2, experimentally reported radii a = 8,000, 12,000 and 40,000 nm respectively and ephaptic axial distance w = 20 nm. This enclosed an ephaptic space containing principal ions initially at normal extracellular [Na+] = 153.1 mM and [Cl-] = 145.8 mM, respective diffusion coefficients D Na = 1.3 × 109 and D Cl = 2 × 109 nm2s-1. Stable, concordant computational solutions were confirmed exploring ≤1,600 nm mesh sizes and Δt≤0.08 ms stepsize intervals. The corresponding membrane voltage profile changes across the initially quiescent membrane were obtainable from computed, graphically represented a and w-dependent ionic concentration differences adapting Gauss's flux theorem. Further simulations explored biological variations in ephaptic dimensions, membrane anatomy, and diffusion restrictions within the ephaptic space. Atrial, ventricular and Purkinje cardiomyocytes gave 40, 180 and 2000 ms 99.9% recovery times, with 720 or 360 ms high limits from doubling ventricular radius or halving diffusion coefficient. Varying a, and D Na and D Cl markedly affected recovery time-courses with logarithmic and double-logarithmic relationships, Varying w exerted minimal effects. Conclusion: We thereby characterise the properties of, and through comparing atrial, ventricular and purkinje recovery times with interspecies in vivo background cardiac cycle duration data, (blue whale ∼2000, human∼90, Etruscan shrew, ∼40 ms) can determine physical limits to, electrodiffusive contributions to ephaptic recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A. Morris
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver J. Bardsley
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha C. Salvage
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Antony P. Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hugh R. Matthews
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher L-H. Huang
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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5
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Meyer M, Infeld M, Habel N, Lustgarten D. Personalized accelerated physiologic pacing. Eur Heart J Suppl 2023; 25:G33-G43. [PMID: 37970518 PMCID: PMC10637836 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartjsupp/suad117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is increasingly prevalent with a high socioeconomic burden. Pharmacological heart rate lowering was recommended to improve ventricular filling in HFpEF. This article discusses the misperceptions that have resulted in an overprescription of beta-blockers, which in all likelihood have untoward effects on patients with HFpEF, even if they have atrial fibrillation or coronary artery disease as a comorbidity. Directly contradicting the lower heart rate paradigm, faster heart rates provide haemodynamic and structural benefits, amongst which lower cardiac filling pressures and improved ventricular capacitance may be most important. Safe delivery of this therapeutic approach is feasible with atrial and ventricular conduction system pacing that aims to emulate or enhance cardiac excitation to maximize the haemodynamic benefits of accelerated pacing. This conceptual framework was first tested in the myPACE randomized controlled trial of patients with pre-existing pacemakers and preclinical or overt HFpEF. This article provides the background and path towards this treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Meyer
- Department of Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, 111 Colchester Avenue, McClure Level 1, Burlington, VT 05401, USA
- Department of Medicine, Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota College of Medicine, 2231 6th St. SE, 4-165 CCRB, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Margaret Infeld
- Department of Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, 111 Colchester Avenue, McClure Level 1, Burlington, VT 05401, USA
- Cardiovascular Center, Tufts Medical Center and Tufts University School of Medicine, 800 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Nicole Habel
- Department of Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, 111 Colchester Avenue, McClure Level 1, Burlington, VT 05401, USA
| | - Daniel Lustgarten
- Department of Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, 111 Colchester Avenue, McClure Level 1, Burlington, VT 05401, USA
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6
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Werth AJ, Crompton AW. Cetacean tongue mobility and function: A comparative review. J Anat 2023; 243:343-373. [PMID: 37042479 PMCID: PMC10439401 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cetaceans are atypical mammals whose tongues often depart from the typical (basal) mammalian condition in structure, mobility, and function. Their tongues are dynamic, innovative multipurpose tools that include the world's largest muscular structures. These changes reflect the evolutionary history of cetaceans' secondary adaptation to a fully aquatic environment. Cetacean tongues play no role in mastication and apparently a greatly reduced role in nursing (mainly channeling milk ingestion), two hallmarks of Mammalia. Cetacean tongues are not involved in drinking, breathing, vocalizing, and other non-feeding activities; they evidently play no or little role in taste reception. Although cetaceans do not masticate or otherwise process food, their tongues retain key roles in food ingestion, transport, securing/positioning, and swallowing, though by different means than most mammals. This is due to cetaceans' aquatic habitat, which in turn altered their anatomy (e.g., the intranarial larynx and consequent soft palate alteration). Odontocetes ingest prey via raptorial biting or tongue-generated suction. Odontocete tongues expel water and possibly uncover benthic prey via hydraulic jetting. Mysticete tongues play crucial roles driving ram, suction, or lunge ingestion for filter feeding. The uniquely flaccid rorqual tongue, not a constant volume hydrostat (as in all other mammalian tongues), invaginates into a balloon-like pouch to temporarily hold engulfed water. Mysticete tongues also create hydrodynamic flow regimes and hydraulic forces for baleen filtration, and possibly for cleaning baleen. Cetacean tongues lost or modified much of the mobility and function of generic mammal tongues, but took on noteworthy morphological changes by evolving to accomplish new tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Werth
- Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney, Virginia, USA
| | - A W Crompton
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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7
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Watanabe YY, Papastamatiou YP. Biologging and Biotelemetry: Tools for Understanding the Lives and Environments of Marine Animals. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2023; 11:247-267. [PMID: 36790885 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-050322-073657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Addressing important questions in animal ecology, physiology, and environmental science often requires in situ information from wild animals. This difficulty is being overcome by biologging and biotelemetry, or the use of miniaturized animal-borne sensors. Although early studies recorded only simple parameters of animal movement, advanced devices and analytical methods can now provide rich information on individual and group behavior, internal states, and the surrounding environment of free-ranging animals, especially those in marine systems. We summarize the history of technologies used to track marine animals. We then identify seven major research categories of marine biologging and biotelemetry and explain significant achievements, as well as future opportunities. Big data approaches via international collaborations will be key to tackling global environmental issues (e.g., climate change impacts), and curiosity about the secret lives of marine animals will also remain a major driver of biologging and biotelemetry studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuuki Y Watanabe
- National Institute of Polar Research, Tachikawa, Tokyo, Japan; .,Department of Polar Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Tachikawa, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yannis P Papastamatiou
- Institute of Environment, Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, North Miami, Florida, USA
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8
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Ehlman SM, Scherer U, Bierbach D, Francisco FA, Laskowski KL, Krause J, Wolf M. Leveraging big data to uncover the eco-evolutionary factors shaping behavioural development. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20222115. [PMID: 36722081 PMCID: PMC9890127 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.2115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Mapping the eco-evolutionary factors shaping the development of animals' behavioural phenotypes remains a great challenge. Recent advances in 'big behavioural data' research-the high-resolution tracking of individuals and the harnessing of that data with powerful analytical tools-have vastly improved our ability to measure and model developing behavioural phenotypes. Applied to the study of behavioural ontogeny, the unfolding of whole behavioural repertoires can be mapped in unprecedented detail with relative ease. This overcomes long-standing experimental bottlenecks and heralds a surge of studies that more finely define and explore behavioural-experiential trajectories across development. In this review, we first provide a brief guide to state-of-the-art approaches that allow the collection and analysis of high-resolution behavioural data across development. We then outline how such approaches can be used to address key issues regarding the ecological and evolutionary factors shaping behavioural development: developmental feedbacks between behaviour and underlying states, early life effects and behavioural transitions, and information integration across development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M. Ehlman
- SCIoI Excellence Cluster, 10587 Berlin, Germany,Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt University, 10117 Berlin, Germany,Department of Fish Biology, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Scherer
- SCIoI Excellence Cluster, 10587 Berlin, Germany,Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt University, 10117 Berlin, Germany,Department of Fish Biology, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - David Bierbach
- SCIoI Excellence Cluster, 10587 Berlin, Germany,Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt University, 10117 Berlin, Germany,Department of Fish Biology, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - Fritz A. Francisco
- SCIoI Excellence Cluster, 10587 Berlin, Germany,Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt University, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kate L. Laskowski
- Department of Evolution and Ecology, University of California – Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Jens Krause
- SCIoI Excellence Cluster, 10587 Berlin, Germany,Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt University, 10117 Berlin, Germany,Department of Fish Biology, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - Max Wolf
- SCIoI Excellence Cluster, 10587 Berlin, Germany,Department of Fish Biology, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, 12587 Berlin, Germany
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Booth CG, Brannan N, Dunlop R, Friedlander A, Isojunno S, Miller P, Quick N, Southall B, Pirotta E. A sampling, exposure and receptor framework for identifying factors that modulate behavioural responses to disturbance in cetaceans. J Anim Ecol 2022; 91:1948-1960. [PMID: 35895847 PMCID: PMC9804311 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of behavioural disturbance in cetacean species (e.g. resulting from exposure to anthropogenic sources such as military sonar, seismic surveys, or pile driving) is important for effective conservation and management. Disturbance effects can be informed by Behavioural Response Studies (BRSs), involving either controlled exposure experiments (CEEs) where noise exposure conditions are presented deliberately to meet experimental objectives or in opportunistic contexts where ongoing activities are monitored in a strategic manner. In either context, animal-borne sensors or in situ observations can provide information on individual exposure and disturbance responses. The past 15 years of research have greatly expanded our understanding of behavioural responses to noise, including hundreds of experiments in nearly a dozen cetacean species. Many papers note limited sample sizes, required knowledge of baseline behaviour prior to exposure and the importance of contextual factors modulating behavioural responses, all of which in combination can lead to sampling biases, even for well-designed research programs. It is critical to understand these biases to robustly identify responses. This ensures outcomes of BRSs help inform predictions of how anthropogenic disturbance impacts individuals and populations. Our approach leverages concepts from the animal behaviour literature focused on helping to avoid sampling bias by considering what shapes an animal's response. These factors include social, experience, genetic and natural changes in responsiveness. We developed and applied a modified version of this framework to synthesise current knowledge on cetacean response in the context of effects observed across marine and terrestrial taxa. This new 'Sampling, Exposure, Receptor' framework (SERF) identifies 43 modulating factors, highlights potential biases, and assesses how these vary across selected focal species. In contrast to studies that identified variation in 'Exposure' factors as a key concern, our analysis indicated that factors relating to 'Sampling' (e.g. deploying tags on less evasive individuals, which biases selection of subjects), and 'Receptor' (e.g. health status or coping style) have the greatest potential for weakening the desired broad representativeness of BRSs. Our assessment also highlights how potential biases could be addressed with existing datasets or future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cormac G. Booth
- SMRU Consulting, Scottish Oceans InstituteUniversity of St AndrewsSt AndrewsUK
| | - Naomi Brannan
- Southeast Asia Marine Mammal ResearchHong KongHong Kong
| | - Rebecca Dunlop
- Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics LaboratoryMoreton Bay Research Station and School of Biological SciencesUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Ari Friedlander
- Southall Environmental Associates, Inc.AptosCaliforniaUSA,University of California, Institute of Marine ScienceSanta CruzCaliforniaUSA
| | - Saana Isojunno
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans InstituteUniversity of St AndrewsSt AndrewsUK
| | - Patrick Miller
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans InstituteUniversity of St AndrewsSt AndrewsUK
| | - Nicola Quick
- School of Biological and Marine SciencesUniversity of PlymouthPlymouthUK,Nicholas School of the EnvironmentDuke UniversityBeaufortNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Brandon Southall
- Southall Environmental Associates, Inc.AptosCaliforniaUSA,University of California, Institute of Marine ScienceSanta CruzCaliforniaUSA
| | - Enrico Pirotta
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental ModellingUniversity of St AndrewsSt AndrewsUK
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Hongjamrassilp W, Zhang R, Natterson-Horowitz B, Blumstein DT. Glaucoma through Animal’s Eyes: Insights from the Evolution of Intraocular Pressure in Mammals and Birds. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12162027. [PMID: 36009617 PMCID: PMC9404445 DOI: 10.3390/ani12162027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Understanding how a disease evolved across the animal kingdom could help us better understand the disease and might lead to novel methods for treatment. Here, we studied the evolution of glaucoma, an irreversible eye disease, in mammals and birds, by studying the evolution of intraocular pressure (IOP), a central driver of glaucoma, and searching for associations between life history traits and IOP. Our results revealed that IOP is a taxa-specific trait that is higher in some species than in others. Higher IOPs appear to have evolved multiple times in mammals and birds. Higher IOPs were found in mammals with higher body mass and in aquatic birds. We also found that higher IOPs evolved through stabilizing selection, with the optimum IOP in mammals and birds being 17.67 and 14.31 mmHg, respectively. This supports the hypothesis that higher IOPs may be an adaptive trait for certain animals. Focusing on species with higher IOPs but no evidence of glaucoma may help identify glaucoma-resistant adaptations, which could be developed into human therapies. Abstract Glaucoma, an eye disorder caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in humans. Understanding how IOP levels have evolved across animal species could shed light on the nature of human vulnerability to glaucoma. Here, we studied the evolution of IOP in mammals and birds and explored its life history correlates. We conducted a systematic review, to create a dataset of species-specific IOP levels and reconstructed the ancestral states of IOP using three models of evolution (Brownian, Early burst, and Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU)) to understand the evolution of glaucoma. Furthermore, we tested the association between life history traits (e.g., body mass, blood pressure, diet, longevity, and habitat) and IOP using phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS). IOP in mammals and birds evolved under the OU model, suggesting stabilizing selection toward an optimal value. Larger mammals had higher IOPs and aquatic birds had higher IOPs; no other measured life history traits, the type of tonometer used, or whether the animal was sedated when measuring IOP explained the significant variation in IOP in this dataset. Elevated IOP, which could result from physiological and anatomical processes, evolved multiple times in mammals and birds. However, we do not understand how species with high IOP avoid glaucoma. While we found very few associations between life history traits and IOP, we suggest that more detailed studies may help identify mechanisms by which IOP is decoupled from glaucoma. Importantly, species with higher IOPs (cetaceans, pinnipeds, and rhinoceros) could be good model systems for studying glaucoma-resistant adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Watcharapong Hongjamrassilp
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Phayathai Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, 621 Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: or (W.H.); (D.T.B.)
| | - Roger Zhang
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, 621 Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - B. Natterson-Horowitz
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, 621 Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Division of Cardiology, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, A2-237, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Daniel T. Blumstein
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, 621 Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: or (W.H.); (D.T.B.)
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11
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Abramochkin DV, Filatova TS, Pustovit KB, Voronina YA, Kuzmin VS, Vornanen M. Ionic currents underlying different patterns of electrical activity in working cardiac myocytes of mammals and non-mammalian vertebrates. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 268:111204. [PMID: 35346823 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The orderly contraction of the vertebrate heart is determined by generation and propagation of cardiac action potentials (APs). APs are generated by the integrated activity of time- and voltage-dependent ionic channels which carry inward Na+ and Ca2+ currents, and outward K+ currents. This review compares atrial and ventricular APs and underlying ion currents between different taxa of vertebrates. We have collected literature data and attempted to find common electrophysiological features for two or more vertebrate groups, show differences between taxa and cardiac chambers, and indicate gaps in the existing data. Although electrical excitability of the heart in all vertebrates is based on the same superfamily of channels, there is a vast variability of AP waveforms between atrial and ventricular myocytes, between different species of the same vertebrate class and between endothermic and ectothermic animals. The wide variability of AP shapes is related to species-specific differences in animal size, heart rate, stage of ontogenetic development, excitation-contraction coupling, temperature and oxygen availability. Some of the differences between taxa are related to evolutionary development of genomes, which appear e.g. in the expression of different Na+ and K+ channel orthologues in cardiomyocytes of vertebrates. There is a wonderful variability of AP shapes and underlying ion currents with which electrical excitability of vertebrate heart can be generated depending on the intrinsic and extrinsic conditions of animal body. This multitude of ionic mechanisms provides excellent material for studying how the function of the vertebrate heart can adapt or acclimate to prevailing physiological and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis V Abramochkin
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye gory, 1, 12, Moscow 119234, Russia.
| | - Tatiana S Filatova
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye gory, 1, 12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Ksenia B Pustovit
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye gory, 1, 12, Moscow 119234, Russia
| | - Yana A Voronina
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye gory, 1, 12, Moscow 119234, Russia; Laboratory of Cardiac Electrophysiology, National Medical Research Center for Cardiology, 3(rd) Cherepkovskaya str., 15A, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladislav S Kuzmin
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye gory, 1, 12, Moscow 119234, Russia; Department of Physiology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ostrovityanova str., 1, Moscow, Russia
| | - Matti Vornanen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu, Finland
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12
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Czapanskiy MF, Ponganis PJ, Fahlbusch JA, Schmitt TL, Goldbogen JA. An accelerometer-derived ballistocardiogram method for detecting heartrates in free-ranging marine mammals. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:275276. [PMID: 35502794 PMCID: PMC9167577 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Physio-logging methods, which use animal-borne devices to record physiological variables, are entering a new era driven by advances in sensor development. However, existing datasets collected with traditional bio-loggers, such as accelerometers, still contain untapped eco-physiological information. Here, we present a computational method for extracting heart rate from high-resolution accelerometer data using a ballistocardiogram. We validated our method with simultaneous accelerometer–electrocardiogram tag deployments in a controlled setting on a killer whale (Orcinus orca) and demonstrate the predictions correspond with previously observed cardiovascular patterns in a blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), including the magnitude of apneic bradycardia and increase in heart rate prior to and during ascent. Our ballistocardiogram method may be applied to mine heart rates from previously collected accelerometery data and expand our understanding of comparative cardiovascular physiology. Highlighted Article: Validation of a computational method for extracting heart rate in free-ranging cetaceans from high-resolution accelerometer data using a ballistocardiogram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max F Czapanskiy
- Hopkins Marine Station, Department of Biology, Stanford University, USA
| | - Paul J Ponganis
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, USA
| | - James A Fahlbusch
- Hopkins Marine Station, Department of Biology, Stanford University, USA
| | - T L Schmitt
- Animal Health Department, SeaWorld of California, USA
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13
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Yoshida M, Miyoshi K, Tajima T, Wada A, Ueda H, Kooriyama T. Anatomical features of ossa cordis in the Steller sea lion. J Vet Med Sci 2022; 84:660-665. [PMID: 35387952 PMCID: PMC9177389 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.21-0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Irregular triangular cartilage or bone fragments are sometimes found in the fibrous triangle of the heart. Ossa cordis and/or cartilago cordis has been demonstrated in various terrestrial
animal species. Regarding marine mammals, sperm whales lack heart bones, and there have been no studies on bones or cartilage in pinniped hearts. Therefore, we examined the ossa cordis
and/or cartilago cordis of the Steller sea lion. Eleven Steller sea lion hearts were examined morphologically and histologically. Before dissection, some hearts were imaged by CT to confirm
the presence of ossa cordis or cartilago cordis. As a result, ossa cordis-like fragments were confirmed in four adults and one pup. All of the fragments were found at the right fiber
triangle, and one adult had ossified tissue, including adipose tissue in the bone marrow cavity. The ossa cordis probably support the aorta because they surround the aorta as in other
terrestrial animals. Steller sea lions can dive to a few hundred meters, but they need to rest on land frequently. Hence, their ossa cordis help maintain heart function during the
tachycardia that occurs upon repeated surfacing and movements on land after diving in water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Yoshida
- Laboratory of Companion animal behavior and Wildlife ecology, Department of Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Kenjiro Miyoshi
- Veterinary Ophthalmology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Tomohiko Tajima
- Laboratory of Companion animal behavior and Wildlife ecology, Department of Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Akihiko Wada
- Central Fisheries Research Institute, Fisheries Research Department, Hokkaido Research Organization
| | - Hiromi Ueda
- Veterinary Anatomy and Histology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Takanori Kooriyama
- Laboratory of Companion animal behavior and Wildlife ecology, Department of Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
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14
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Kinoshita C, Saito A, Sakamoto KQ, Yasuaki N, Sato K. Heart rate as a proxy for estimating oxygen consumption rates in loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). Biol Open 2022; 11:274558. [PMID: 35225332 PMCID: PMC8988048 DOI: 10.1242/bio.058952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart rates of air-breathing diving animals can change on a short time scale due to the diving response during submergence. Heart rate is used frequently as a proxy for indirectly estimating metabolic rates on a fine time scale. However, most studies to date have been conducted on endothermic diving animals, and the relationships between metabolic rates and heart rates in ectothermic diving animals have not been well studied. Sea turtles are unique model organisms of diving ectotherms because they spend most of their life in the ocean and perform deep and/or long dives. In this study, we examined the relationship between heart rates and metabolic rates in captive loggerhead turtles, Caretta caretta, to estimate oxygen consumption rates during each dive based on heart rates. The oxygen consumption rates (V̇O2: mlO2 min−1 kg−1) and average heart rates (fH: beats min−1) were measured simultaneously in indoor tanks at water temperatures of 15–25°C. Our results showed that oxygen consumption rate was affected by heart rate and water temperature in loggerhead turtles. Based on the collected data, we formulated the model equation as V̇O2=0.0124fH+0.0047Tw - 0.0791. The equation can be used for estimating fine-scaled field metabolic rates in free-ranging loggerhead turtles. The results of this study will contribute to future comparative studies of the physiological states of ectothermic diving animals. Summary: The relationship between oxygen consumption rate and heart rate in the loggerhead turtle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Kinoshita
- International Coastal Research Center, The Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 1-19-8 Akahama, Otsuch, Iwate 028-1102, Japan
| | - Ayaka Saito
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Kentaro Q Sakamoto
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Niizuma Yasuaki
- Faculty of Agriculture, Meijo University, 1-501 Shiogamaguchi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 468-8502, Japan
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
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15
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Kinoshita C, Saito A, Kawai M, Sato K, Sakamoto KQ. A Non-Invasive Heart Rate Measurement Method Is Improved by Placing the Electrodes on the Ventral Side Rather Than the Dorsal in Loggerhead Turtles. Front Physiol 2022; 13:811947. [PMID: 35250617 PMCID: PMC8889138 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.811947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart rate measurement is an essential method for evaluating the physiological status of air-breathing diving animals. However, owing to technical difficulties, many marine animals require an invasive approach to record an electrocardiogram (ECG) in water, limiting the application of this approach in a wide range of marine animals. Recently, a non-invasive system was reported to measure the ECG of hard-shelled sea turtles by pasting the electrodes on the dorsal side of the shell, although the ECG obtained from the moving turtle contains noise produced by muscle contraction. Here, we report that clear ECGs can be obtained by placing the electrodes on the ventral side rather than the dorsal side in loggerhead sea turtles. Using our method, clearer ECG signals were obtained with less electrical noise, even when turtles are swimming. According to the anatomical features, the electrode position on the ventral side is closer to the heart than the dorsal side, minimizing the effects of noise generated by the skeletal muscle. This new biologging technique will elucidate the functioning of the circulatory system of sea turtles during swimming and their adaptabilities to marine environments. This article is part of the theme issue “Methods and Applications in Physio-logging.”
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Kinoshita
- International Coastal Research Center, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Otsuchi, Japan
- *Correspondence: Chihiro Kinoshita,
| | - Ayaka Saito
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Megumi Kawai
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Kentaro Q. Sakamoto
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
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16
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Linnehan BK, Gomez FM, Huston SM, Hsu A, Takeshita R, Colegrove KM, Harms CA, Barratclough A, Deming AC, Rowles TK, Musser WB, Zolman ES, Wells RS, Jensen ED, Schwacke LH, Smith CR. Cardiac assessments of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Northern Gulf of Mexico following exposure to Deepwater Horizon oil. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261112. [PMID: 34905585 PMCID: PMC8670661 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill profoundly impacted the health of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Barataria Bay, LA (BB). To comprehensively assess the cardiac health of dolphins living within the DWH oil spill footprint, techniques for in-water cardiac evaluation were refined with dolphins cared for by the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program in 2018 and applied to free-ranging bottlenose dolphins in BB (n = 34) and Sarasota Bay, Florida (SB) (n = 19), a non-oiled reference population. Cardiac auscultation detected systolic murmurs in the majority of dolphins from both sites (88% BB, 89% SB) and echocardiography showed most of the murmurs were innocent flow murmurs attributed to elevated blood flow velocity [1]. Telemetric six-lead electrocardiography detected arrhythmias in BB dolphins (43%) and SB dolphins (31%), all of which were considered low to moderate risk for adverse cardiac events. Echocardiography showed BB dolphins had thinner left ventricular walls, with significant differences in intraventricular septum thickness at the end of diastole (p = 0.002), and left ventricular posterior wall thickness at the end of diastole (p = 0.033). BB dolphins also had smaller left atrial size (p = 0.004), higher prevalence of tricuspid valve prolapse (p = 0.003), higher prevalence of tricuspid valve thickening (p = 0.033), and higher prevalence of aortic valve thickening (p = 0.008). Two dolphins in BB were diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension based on Doppler echocardiography-derived estimates and supporting echocardiographic findings. Histopathology of dolphins who stranded within the DWH oil spill footprint showed a significantly higher prevalence of myocardial fibrosis (p = 0.003), regardless of age, compared to dolphins outside the oil spill footprint. In conclusion, there were substantial cardiac abnormalities identified in BB dolphins which may be related to DWH oil exposure, however, future work is needed to rule out other hypotheses and further elucidate the connection between oil exposure, pulmonary disease, and the observed cardiac abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K. Linnehan
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Forrest M. Gomez
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Sharon M. Huston
- San Diego Veterinary Cardiology, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Adonia Hsu
- San Diego Veterinary Cardiology, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Ryan Takeshita
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Kathleen M. Colegrove
- Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Craig A. Harms
- North Carolina State University, Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, Morehead City, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Ashley Barratclough
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Alissa C. Deming
- Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Teri K. Rowles
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Protected Resources, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Whitney B. Musser
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Eric S. Zolman
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, Florida, United States of America
| | - Eric D. Jensen
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Lori H. Schwacke
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Cynthia R. Smith
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, United States of America
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17
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Enhancing the ecological realism of evolutionary mismatch theory. Trends Ecol Evol 2021; 37:233-245. [PMID: 34802715 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2021.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Following rapid environmental change, why do some animals thrive, while others struggle? We present an expanded, cue-response framework for predicting variation in behavioral responses to novel situations. We show how signal detection theory can be used when individuals have three behavioral options (approach, avoid, or ignore). Based on this theory, we outline predictions about which animals are more likely to make mistakes around novel conditions (i.e., fall for a trap or fail to use an undervalued resource) and the intensity of that mismatch (i.e., severe versus moderate). Explicitly considering three options provides a more holistic perspective and allows us to distinguish between severe and moderate traps, which could guide management strategies in a changing world.
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18
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McDonald BI, Elmegaard SL, Johnson M, Wisniewska DM, Rojano-Doñate L, Galatius A, Siebert U, Teilmann J, Madsen PT. High heart rates in hunting harbour porpoises. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20211596. [PMID: 34753357 PMCID: PMC8580435 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.1596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The impressive breath-hold capabilities of marine mammals are facilitated by both enhanced O2 stores and reductions in the rate of O2 consumption via peripheral vasoconstriction and bradycardia, called the dive response. Many studies have focused on the extreme role of the dive response in maximizing dive duration in marine mammals, but few have addressed how these adjustments may compromise the capability to hunt, digest and thermoregulate during routine dives. Here, we use DTAGs, which record heart rate together with foraging and movement behaviour, to investigate how O2 management is balanced between the need to dive and forage in five wild harbour porpoises that hunt thousands of small prey daily during continuous shallow diving. Dive heart rates were moderate (median minimum 47-69 bpm) and relatively stable across dive types, dive duration (0.5-3.3 min) and activity. A moderate dive response, allowing for some perfusion of peripheral tissues, may be essential for fuelling the high field metabolic rates required to maintain body temperature and support digestion during diving in these small, continuously feeding cetaceans. Thus, despite having the capacity to prolong dives via a strong dive response, for these shallow-diving cetaceans, it appears to be more efficient to maintain circulation while diving: extreme heart rate gymnastics are for deep dives and emergencies, not everyday use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte I. McDonald
- Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, San Jose State University, Moss Landing, CA 93933, USA
| | - Siri L. Elmegaard
- Zoophysiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark,Marine Mammal Research, Bioscience to Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Mark Johnson
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Danuta M. Wisniewska
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, UMR7372 CNRS-Université La Rochelle, 79360 Villiers en Bois, France
| | - Laia Rojano-Doñate
- Zoophysiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anders Galatius
- Marine Mammal Research, Bioscience to Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Jonas Teilmann
- Marine Mammal Research, Bioscience to Ecoscience, Aarhus University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Peter T. Madsen
- Zoophysiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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19
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Storlund RL, Rosen DAS, Trites AW. Electrocardiographic Scaling Reveals Differences in Electrocardiogram Interval Durations Between Marine and Terrestrial Mammals. Front Physiol 2021; 12:690029. [PMID: 34630134 PMCID: PMC8493095 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.690029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the ability of marine mammals to lower heart rates for extended periods when diving is well documented, it is unclear whether marine mammals have electrophysiological adaptations that extend beyond overall bradycardia. We analyzed electrocardiographic data from 50 species of terrestrial mammals and 19 species of marine mammals to determine whether the electrical activity of the heart differs between these two groups of mammals. We also tested whether physiological state (i.e., anesthetized or conscious) affects electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters. Analyses of ECG waveform morphology (heart rate, P-wave duration, and PQ, PR, QRS, and QT intervals) revealed allometric relationships between body mass and all ECG intervals (as well as heart rate) for both groups of mammals and specific differences in ECG parameters between marine mammals and their terrestrial counterparts. Model outputs indicated that marine mammals had 19% longer P-waves, 24% longer QRS intervals, and 21% shorter QT intervals. In other words, marine mammals had slower atrial and ventricular depolarization, and faster ventricular repolarization than terrestrial mammals. Heart rates and PR intervals were not significantly different between marine and terrestrial mammals, and physiological state did not significantly affect any ECG parameter. On average, ECG interval durations of marine and terrestrial mammals scaled with body mass to the power of 0.21 (range: 0.19–0.23) rather than the expected 0.25—while heart rate scaled with body mass to the power of –0.22 and was greater than the widely accepted –0.25 derived from fractal geometry. Our findings show clear differences between the hearts of terrestrial and marine mammals in terms of cardiac timing that extend beyond diving bradycardia. They also highlight the importance of considering special adaptations (such as breath-hold diving) when analyzing allometric relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhea L Storlund
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Marine Mammal Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David A S Rosen
- Marine Mammal Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Vancouver Aquarium, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew W Trites
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Marine Mammal Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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20
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Smith AB, Madsen PT, Johnson M, Tyack P, Wahlberg M. Toothed whale auditory brainstem responses measured with a non-invasive, on-animal tag. JASA EXPRESS LETTERS 2021; 1:091201. [PMID: 36154211 DOI: 10.1121/10.0006454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Empirical measurements of odontocete hearing are limited to captive individuals, constituting a fraction of species across the suborder. Data from more species could be available if such measurements were collected from unrestrained animals in the wild. This study investigated whether electrophysiological hearing data could be recorded from a trained harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) using a non-invasive, animal-attached tag. The results demonstrate that auditory brainstem responses to external and self-generated stimuli can be measured from a stationary odontocete using an animal-attached recorder. With additional development, tag-based electrophysiological platforms may facilitate the collection of hearing data from freely swimming odontocetes in the wild.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam B Smith
- Marine Research Centre, University of Southern Denmark, 5300 Kerteminde, Denmark
| | - Peter T Madsen
- Zoophysiology, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Mark Johnson
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Peter Tyack
- Scottish Oceans Institute, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, KY16 8LB St. Andrews, United Kingdom , , , ,
| | - Magnus Wahlberg
- Marine Research Centre, University of Southern Denmark, 5300 Kerteminde, Denmark
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21
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Ponganis PJ. A Physio-Logging Journey: Heart Rates of the Emperor Penguin and Blue Whale. Front Physiol 2021; 12:721381. [PMID: 34413792 PMCID: PMC8369151 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.721381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Physio-logging has the potential to explore the processes that underlie the dive behavior and ecology of marine mammals and seabirds, as well as evaluate their adaptability to environmental change and other stressors. Regulation of heart rate lies at the core of the physiological processes that determine dive capacity and performance. The bio-logging of heart rate in unrestrained animals diving at sea was infeasible, even unimaginable in the mid-1970s. To provide a historical perspective, I review my 40-year experience in the development of heart rate physio-loggers and the evolution of a digital electrocardiogram (ECG) recorder that is still in use today. I highlight documentation of the ECG and the interpretation of heart rate profiles in the largest of avian and mammalian divers, the emperor penguin and blue whale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Ponganis
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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22
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Hawkes LA, Fahlman A, Sato K. What is physiologging? Introduction to the theme issue, part 2. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20210028. [PMID: 34176329 PMCID: PMC8237167 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological mechanisms by which animals regulate energy expenditure, respond to stimuli and stressors, and maintain homeostasis at the tissue, organ and whole organism levels can be described by 'physiologging'-that is, the use of onboard miniature electronic devices to record physiological metrics of animals in captivity or free-living in the wild. Despite its origins in the 1960s, physiologging has evolved more slowly than its umbrella field of biologging. However, the recording of physiological metrics in free-living animals will be key to solving some of the greatest challenges in biodiversity conservation, issues pertaining to animal health and welfare, and for inspiring future therapeutic strategies for human health. Current physiologging technologies encompass the measurement of physiological variables such as heart rate, brain activity, body temperature, muscle stimulation and dynamic movement, yet future developments will allow for onboard logging of metrics relating to organelle, molecular and genetic function. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part II)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. A. Hawkes
- University of Exeter, Hatherly Laboratories, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter, EX4 4PS, UK
| | - A. Fahlman
- Global Diving Research Inc. Ottawa ON K2J 5E8, USA
| | - K. Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture 277-8564, Japan
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23
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Williams CL, Ponganis PJ. Diving physiology of marine mammals and birds: the development of biologging techniques. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200211. [PMID: 34121464 PMCID: PMC8200650 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the 1940s, Scholander and Irving revealed fundamental physiological responses to forced diving of marine mammals and birds, setting the stage for the study of diving physiology. Since then, diving physiology research has moved from the laboratory to the field. Modern biologging, with the development of microprocessor technology, recorder memory capacity and battery life, has advanced and expanded investigations of the diving physiology of marine mammals and birds. This review describes a brief history of the start of field diving physiology investigations, including the invention of the time depth recorder, and then tracks the use of biologging studies in four key diving physiology topics: heart rate, blood flow, body temperature and oxygen store management. Investigations of diving heart rates in cetaceans and O2 store management in diving emperor penguins are highlighted to emphasize the value of diving physiology biologging research. The review concludes with current challenges, remaining diving physiology questions and what technologies are needed to advance the field. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part I)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassondra L. Williams
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, 2240 Shelter Island Drive, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
| | - Paul J. Ponganis
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0204, USA
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Sakamoto KQ, Miyayama M, Kinoshita C, Fukuoka T, Ishihara T, Sato K. A non-invasive system to measure heart rate in hard-shelled sea turtles: potential for field applications. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200222. [PMID: 34121465 PMCID: PMC8200654 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To measure the heart rate of unrestrained sea turtles, it has been believed that a probe must be inserted inside the body owing to the presence of the shell. However, inserting the probe is invasive and difficult to apply to animals in the field. Here, we have developed a non-invasive heart rate measurement method for some species of sea turtles. In our approach, an electrocardiogram (ECG) was performed using an animal-borne ECG recorder and two electrodes-which were electrically insulated from seawater-pasted on the carapace. Based on the measured ECG, the heartbeat signals were identified with an algorithm using a band-pass filter. We implemented this algorithm in a user-friendly program package, ECGtoHR. In experiments conducted in a water tank and in a lagoon, we successfully measured the heart rate of loggerhead, olive ridley and black turtles, but not green and hawksbill turtles. The average heart rate of turtles when resting underwater was 6.2 ± 1.9 beats min-1 and that when moving at the surface was 14.0 ± 2.4 beats min-1. Our approach is particularly suitable for endangered species such as sea turtles, and has the potential to be extended to a variety of other free-ranging species. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part I)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Q. Sakamoto
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Masaru Miyayama
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kinoshita
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Takuya Fukuoka
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Takashi Ishihara
- Sea Turtle Association of Japan, 5-17-18-302 Nagaomotomachi, Hirakata, Osaka 573-0163, Japan
| | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
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Blawas AM, Nowacek DP, Rocho-Levine J, Robeck TR, Fahlman A. Scaling of heart rate with breathing frequency and body mass in cetaceans. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200223. [PMID: 34121456 PMCID: PMC8200651 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasticity in the cardiac function of a marine mammal facilitates rapid adjustments to the contrasting metabolic demands of breathing at the surface and diving during an extended apnea. By matching their heart rate (fH) to their immediate physiological needs, a marine mammal can improve its metabolic efficiency and maximize the proportion of time spent underwater. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is a known modulation of fH that is driven by respiration and has been suggested to increase cardiorespiratory efficiency. To investigate the presence of RSA in cetaceans and the relationship between fH, breathing rate (fR) and body mass (Mb), we measured simultaneous fH and fR in five cetacean species in human care. We found that a higher fR was associated with a higher mean instantaneous fH (ifH) and minimum ifH of the RSA. By contrast, fH scaled inversely with Mb such that larger animals had lower mean and minimum ifHs of the RSA. There was a significant allometric relationship between maximum ifH of the RSA and Mb, but not fR, which may indicate that this parameter is set by physical laws and not adjusted dynamically with physiological needs. RSA was significantly affected by fR and was greatly reduced with small increases in fR. Ultimately, these data show that surface fHs of cetaceans are complex and the fH patterns we observed are controlled by several factors. We suggest the importance of considering RSA when interpreting fH measurements and particularly how fR may drive fH changes that are important for efficient gas exchange. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part I)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M. Blawas
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
| | - Douglas P. Nowacek
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA
- Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | | | | | - Andreas Fahlman
- Fundación Oceanogràfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain 46005
- Global Diving Research, Inc., Ottawa, Canada, K2 J 5E8
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Watanabe YY, Goldbogen JA. Too big to study? The biologging approach to understanding the behavioural energetics of ocean giants. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:270831. [PMID: 34232316 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.202747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Wild animals are under selective pressure to optimise energy budgets; therefore, quantifying energy expenditure, intake and allocation to specific activities is important if we are to understand how animals survive in their environment. One approach toward estimating energy budgets has involved measuring oxygen consumption rates under controlled conditions and constructing allometric relationships across species. However, studying 'giant' marine vertebrates (e.g. pelagic sharks, whales) in this way is logistically difficult or impossible. An alternative approach involves the use of increasingly sophisticated electronic tags that have allowed recordings of behaviour, internal states and the surrounding environment of marine animals. This Review outlines how we could study the energy expenditure and intake of free-living ocean giants using this 'biologging' technology. There are kinematic, physiological and theoretical approaches for estimating energy expenditure, each of which has merits and limitations. Importantly, tag-derived energy proxies can hardly be validated against oxygen consumption rates for giant species. The proxies are thus qualitative, rather than quantitative, estimates of energy expenditure, and have more limited utilities. Despite this limitation, these proxies allow us to study the energetics of ocean giants in their behavioural context, providing insight into how these animals optimise their energy budgets under natural conditions. We also outline how information on energy intake and foraging behaviour can be gained from tag data. These methods are becoming increasingly important owing to the natural and anthropogenic environmental changes faced by ocean giants that can alter their energy budgets, fitness and, ultimately, population sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuuki Y Watanabe
- National Institute of Polar Research, Tachikawa, Tokyo 190-8518, Japan.,Department of Polar Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Tachikawa, Tokyo 190-8518, Japan
| | - Jeremy A Goldbogen
- Hopkins Marine Station, Department of Biology, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
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Williams CL, Hindle AG. Field Physiology: Studying Organismal Function in the Natural Environment. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1979-2015. [PMID: 34190338 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Continuous physiological measurements collected in field settings are essential to understand baseline, free-ranging physiology, physiological range and variability, and the physiological responses of organisms to disturbances. This article presents a current summary of the available technologies to continuously measure the direct physiological parameters in the field at high-resolution/instantaneous timescales from freely behaving animals. There is a particular focus on advantages versus disadvantages of available methods as well as emerging technologies "on the horizon" that may have been validated in captive or laboratory-based scenarios but have yet to be applied in the wild. Systems to record physiological variables from free-ranging animals are reviewed, including radio (VHF/UFH) telemetry, acoustic telemetry, and dataloggers. Physiological parameters that have been continuously measured in the field are addressed in seven sections including heart rate and electrocardiography (ECG); electromyography (EMG); electroencephalography (EEG); body temperature; respiratory, blood, and muscle oxygen; gastric pH and motility; and blood pressure and flow. The primary focal sections are heart rate and temperature as these can be, and have been, extensively studied in free-ranging organisms. Predicted aspects of future innovation in physiological monitoring are also discussed. The article concludes with an overview of best practices and points to consider regarding experimental designs, cautions, and effects on animals. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1979-2015, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassondra L Williams
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, California, USA.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Science, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Allyson G Hindle
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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Aoki K, Watanabe Y, Inamori D, Funasaka N, Sakamoto KQ. Towards non-invasive heart rate monitoring in free-ranging cetaceans: a unipolar suction cup tag measured the heart rate of trained Risso's dolphins. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200225. [PMID: 34176321 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart rate monitoring in free-ranging cetaceans to understand their behavioural ecology and diving physiology is challenging. Here, we developed a simple, non-invasive method to monitor the heart rate of cetaceans in the field using an electrocardiogram-measuring device and a single suction cup equipped with an electrode. The unipolar suction cup was placed on the left lateral body surface behind the pectoral fin of Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) and a false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) in captivity; their heart rate was successfully monitored. We observed large heart rate oscillations corresponding to respiration in the motionless whales during surfacing (a false killer whale, mean 47 bpm, range 20-75 bpm; Risso's dolphins, mean ± s.d. 61 ± 15 bpm, range 28-120 bpm, n = 4 individuals), which was consistent with the sinus arrhythmia pattern (eupneic tachycardia and apneic bradycardia) observed in other cetaceans. Immediately after respiration, the heart rate rapidly increased to approximately twice that observed prior to the breath. Heart rate then gradually decreased at around 20-50 s and remained relatively constant until the next breath. Furthermore, we successfully monitored the heart rate of a free-swimming Risso's dolphin. The all-in-one suction cup device is feasible for field use without restraining animals and is helpful in further understanding the diving physiology of free-ranging cetaceans. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part II)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kagari Aoki
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
| | - Yurie Watanabe
- Taiji Whale Museum and Aquarium, Wakayama 649-5171, Japan
| | - Daiki Inamori
- Taiji Whale Museum and Aquarium, Wakayama 649-5171, Japan
| | - Noriko Funasaka
- Taiji Whale Museum and Aquarium, Wakayama 649-5171, Japan.,Cetacean Research Center, Graduate School of Bioresources, Mie University, Mie 514-8507, Japan
| | - Kentaro Q Sakamoto
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-8564, Japan
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Laske TG, Garshelis DL, Iles TL, Iaizzo PA. An engineering perspective on the development and evolution of implantable cardiac monitors in free-living animals. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200217. [PMID: 34121460 PMCID: PMC8200647 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The latest technologies associated with implantable physiological monitoring devices can record multiple channels of data (including: heart rates and rhythms, activity, temperature, impedance and posture), and coupled with powerful software applications, have provided novel insights into the physiology of animals in the wild. This perspective details past challenges and lessons learned from the uses and developments of implanted biologgers designed for human clinical application in our research on free-ranging American black bears (Ursus americanus). In addition, we reference other research by colleagues and collaborators who have leveraged these devices in their work, including: brown bears (Ursus arctos), grey wolves (Canis lupus), moose (Alces alces), maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus) and southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina). We also discuss the potentials for applications of such devices across a range of other species. To date, the devices described have been used in fifteen different wild species, with publications pending in many instances. We have focused our physiological research on the analyses of heart rates and rhythms and thus special attention will be paid to this topic. We then discuss some major expected step changes such as improvements in sensing algorithms, data storage, and the incorporation of next-generation short-range wireless telemetry. The latter provides new avenues for data transfer, and when combined with cloud-based computing, it not only provides means for big data storage but also the ability to readily leverage high-performance computing platforms using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. These advances will dramatically increase both data quantity and quality and will facilitate the development of automated recognition of extreme physiological events or key behaviours of interest in a broad array of environments, thus further aiding wildlife monitoring and management. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part I)’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy G Laske
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, B172 Mayo, MMC 195, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David L Garshelis
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (retired), 1201 E Hwy 2, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, USA
| | - Tinen L Iles
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, B172 Mayo, MMC 195, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Paul A Iaizzo
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, B172 Mayo, MMC 195, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Potvin J, Cade DE, Werth AJ, Shadwick RE, Goldbogen JA. Rorqual Lunge-Feeding Energetics Near and Away from the Kinematic Threshold of Optimal Efficiency. Integr Org Biol 2021; 3:obab005. [PMID: 34104873 PMCID: PMC8179629 DOI: 10.1093/iob/obab005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Humpback and blue whales are large baleen-bearing cetaceans, which use a unique prey-acquisition strategy—lunge feeding—to engulf entire patches of large plankton or schools of forage fish and the water in which they are embedded. Dynamically, and while foraging on krill, lunge-feeding incurs metabolic expenditures estimated at up to 20.0 MJ. Because of prey abundance and its capture in bulk, lunge feeding is carried out at high acquired-to-expended energy ratios of up to 30 at the largest body sizes (∼27 m). We use bio-logging tag data and the work-energy theorem to show that when krill-feeding at depth while using a wide range of prey approach swimming speeds (2–5 m/s), rorquals generate significant and widely varying metabolic power output during engulfment, typically ranging from 10 to 50 times the basal metabolic rate of land mammals. At equal prey field density, such output variations lower their feeding efficiency two- to three-fold at high foraging speeds, thereby allowing slow and smaller rorquals to feed more efficiently than fast and larger rorquals. The analysis also shows how the slowest speeds of harvest so far measured may be connected to the biomechanics of the buccal cavity and the prey’s ability to collectively avoid engulfment. Such minimal speeds are important as they generate the most efficient lunges. Sommaire Les rorquals à bosse et rorquals bleus sont des baleines à fanons qui utilisent une technique d’alimentation unique impliquant une approche avec élan pour engouffrer de larges quantités de plancton et bancs de petits poissons, ainsi que la masse d’eau dans laquelle ces proies sont situés. Du point de vue de la dynamique, et durant l’approche et engouffrement de krill, leurs dépenses énergétiques sont estimées jusqu’à 20.0 MJ. À cause de l’abondance de leurs proies et capture en masse, cette technique d’alimentation est effectuée à des rapports d’efficacité énergétique (acquise -versus- dépensée) estimés aux environs de 30 dans le cas des plus grandes baleines (27 m). Nous utilisons les données recueillies par des capteurs de bio-enregistrement ainsi que le théorème reliant l’énergie à l’effort pour démontrer comment les rorquals s’alimentant sur le krill à grandes profondeurs, et à des vitesses variant entre 2 et 5 m/s, maintiennent des taux de dépenses énergétiques entre 10 et 50 fois le taux métabolique basal des mammifères terrestres. À densités de proies égales, ces variations d’énergie utilisée peuvent réduire le rapport d’efficacité énergétique par des facteurs entre 2x et 3x, donc permettant aux petits et plus lents rorquals de chasser avec une efficacité comparable à celle des rorquals les plus grands et rapides. Notre analyse démontre aussi comment des vitesses d’approche plus lentes peuvent être reliées à la biomécanique de leur poche ventrale extensible, et à l’habilitée des proies à éviter d’être engouffrer. Ces minimums de vitesses sont importants car ils permettent une alimentation plus efficace énergétiquement.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Potvin
- Department of Physics, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
| | - D E Cade
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of California Santa Cruz, Sant Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - A J Werth
- Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney, VA 23943, USA
| | - R E Shadwick
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - J A Goldbogen
- Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
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31
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Patrician A, Dujić Ž, Spajić B, Drviš I, Ainslie PN. Breath-Hold Diving - The Physiology of Diving Deep and Returning. Front Physiol 2021; 12:639377. [PMID: 34093221 PMCID: PMC8176094 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.639377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breath-hold diving involves highly integrative physiology and extreme responses to both exercise and asphyxia during progressive elevations in hydrostatic pressure. With astonishing depth records exceeding 100 m, and up to 214 m on a single breath, the human capacity for deep breath-hold diving continues to refute expectations. The physiological challenges and responses occurring during a deep dive highlight the coordinated interplay of oxygen conservation, exercise economy, and hyperbaric management. In this review, the physiology of deep diving is portrayed as it occurs across the phases of a dive: the first 20 m; passive descent; maximal depth; ascent; last 10 m, and surfacing. The acute risks of diving (i.e., pulmonary barotrauma, nitrogen narcosis, and decompression sickness) and the potential long-term medical consequences to breath-hold diving are summarized, and an emphasis on future areas of research of this unique field of physiological adaptation are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Patrician
- Center for Heart, Lung & Vascular Health, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Željko Dujić
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Boris Spajić
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Drviš
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Philip N Ainslie
- Center for Heart, Lung & Vascular Health, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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32
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The largest of August Krogh animals: Physiology and biomechanics of the blue whale revisited. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 254:110894. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2020.110894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Fahlman A, Aoki K, Bale G, Brijs J, Chon KH, Drummond CK, Føre M, Manteca X, McDonald BI, McKnight JC, Sakamoto KQ, Suzuki I, Rivero MJ, Ropert-Coudert Y, Wisniewska DM. The New Era of Physio-Logging and Their Grand Challenges. Front Physiol 2021; 12:669158. [PMID: 33859577 PMCID: PMC8042203 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.669158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Fahlman
- Fundación Oceanográfic de la Comunitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
| | - Kagari Aoki
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Gemma Bale
- Department of Physics and Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jeroen Brijs
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Manoa, HI, United States
| | - Ki H. Chon
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Colin K. Drummond
- Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Martin Føre
- Department of Engineering Cybernetics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Xavier Manteca
- Department of Animal and Food Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Birgitte I. McDonald
- Moss Landing Marine Labs at San Jose State University, Moss Landing, CA, United States
| | - J. Chris McKnight
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St. Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Kentaro Q. Sakamoto
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Ippei Suzuki
- Akkeshi Marine Station, Field Science Center for Northern Biosphere, Hokkaido University, Akkeshi, Japan
| | | | - Yan Ropert-Coudert
- Centre D'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé, La Rochelle Université, UMR7372, CNRS, France
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Iwata T, Biuw M, Aoki K, Miller PJO, Sato K. Using an omnidirectional video logger to observe the underwater life of marine animals: Humpback whale resting behaviour. Behav Processes 2021; 186:104369. [PMID: 33640487 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2021.104369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Animal-borne video loggers are powerful tools for investigating animal behaviour because they directly record immediate and extended peripheral animal activities; however, typical video loggers capture only a limited area on one side of an animal being monitored owing to their narrow field of view. Here, we investigated the resting behaviour of humpback whales using an animal-borne omnidirectional video camera combined with a behavioural data logger. In the video logger footage, two non-tagged resting individuals, which did not spread their flippers or move their flukes, were observed above a tagged animal, representing an apparent bout of group resting. During the video logger recording, the swim speed was relatively slow (0.75 m s-1), and the tagged animal made only a few strokes of very low amplitude during drift diving. We report the drift dives as resting behaviour specific to baleen whales as same as seals, sperm whales and loggerhead turtles. Overall, our study shows that an omnidirectional video logger is a valuable tool for interpreting animal ecology with improved accuracy owing to its ability to record a wide field of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Iwata
- Graduate School of Maritime Sciences, Kobe University, 5-1-1 Fukaeminami-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 658-0022, Japan; Ocean Policy Research Institute, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, 1-15-16 Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo, 105-8524, Japan; Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan; Sea Mammal Research Unit, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9TS, UK.
| | - Martin Biuw
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O box, 6404, 9294, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kagari Aoki
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan
| | | | - Katsufumi Sato
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8564, Japan
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35
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Linnehan BK, Hsu A, Gomez FM, Huston SM, Takeshita R, Colegrove KM, Rowles TK, Barratclough A, Musser WB, Harms CA, Cendejas V, Zolman ES, Balmer BC, Townsend FI, Wells RS, Jensen ED, Schwacke LH, Smith CR. Standardization of Dolphin Cardiac Auscultation and Characterization of Heart Murmurs in Managed and Free-Ranging Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus). Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:570055. [PMID: 33240948 PMCID: PMC7678442 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.570055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac auscultation is an important, albeit underutilized tool in aquatic animal medicine due to the many challenges associated with in-water examinations. The aims of this prospective study were to (1) establish an efficient and repeatable in-water cardiac auscultation technique in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), (2) describe the presence and characterization of heart murmurs detected in free-ranging and managed dolphins, and (3) characterize heart murmur etiology through echocardiography in free-ranging dolphins. For technique development, 65 dolphins cared for by the Navy Marine Mammal Program (Navy) were auscultated. The techniques were then applied to two free-ranging dolphin populations during capture-release health assessments: Sarasota Bay, Florida (SB), a reference population, and Barataria Bay, LA (BB), a well-studied population of dolphins impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Systolic heart murmurs were detected at a frequent and similar prevalence in all dolphin populations examined (Navy 92%, SB 89%, and BB 88%), and characterized as fixed or dynamic. In all three populations, sternal cranial and left cranial were the most common locations for murmur point of maximal intensity (PMI). An in-water transthoracic echocardiogram technique was refined on a subset of Navy dolphins, and full echocardiographic exams were performed on 17 SB dolphins and 29 BB dolphins, of which, 40 had murmurs. Spectral Doppler was used to measure flow velocities across the outflow tracts, and almost all dolphins with audible murmurs had peak outflow velocities ≥1.6 m/s (95%, 38/40); three dolphins also had medium mitral regurgitation which could be the source of their murmurs. The presence of audible murmurs in most of the free-ranging dolphins (88%) was attributed to high velocity blood flow as seen on echocardiography, similar to a phenomenon described in other athletic species. These innocent murmurs were generally characterized as Grade I-III systolic murmurs with PMI in the left or sternal cranial region. This study is the first to describe an efficient technique for in-water dolphin cardiac auscultation, and to present evidence that heart murmurs are common in bottlenose dolphins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adonia Hsu
- San Diego Veterinary Cardiology, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Forrest M Gomez
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Sharon M Huston
- San Diego Veterinary Cardiology, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ryan Takeshita
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Kathleen M Colegrove
- Zoological Pathology Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Brookfield, IL, United States
| | - Teri K Rowles
- Office of Protected Resources, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | | | | | - Craig A Harms
- Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, North Carolina State University, Morehead City, NC, United States
| | | | - Eric S Zolman
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Brian C Balmer
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | | | - Randall S Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL, United States
| | - Eric D Jensen
- U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Lori H Schwacke
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Cynthia R Smith
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
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Favilla AB, Costa DP. Thermoregulatory Strategies of Diving Air-Breathing Marine Vertebrates: A Review. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.555509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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37
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Okuyama J, Shiozawa M, Shiode D. Heart rate and cardiac response to exercise during voluntary dives in captive sea turtles (Cheloniidae). Biol Open 2020; 9:bio049247. [PMID: 32033966 PMCID: PMC7055368 DOI: 10.1242/bio.049247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In chelonids, oxygen is primarily stored in the lungs during a dive. Therefore, management of blood oxygen transportation to peripheral tissues by cardiovascular adjustments during submergence is crucial to maximize their dive duration, and consequently, the time spent for ecological activities such as foraging. However, the cardiac response to exercise has rarely been examined in sea turtles. In this study, heart rate and its relationship with exercise during voluntary dives were determined in six captive green turtles (19.4±1.5 kg) by simultaneously recording depth, acceleration and electrocardiogram. Our results demonstrated that the heart rate of green turtles was generally low (11.1±0.4 bpm) during resting dives, but they often exhibited instantaneously extreme tachycardia (up to 78.4 bpm). Green turtles elevated their heart rate up to 39.8±1.5 bpm during ventilation after resting dives, while up to 33.1±1.4 bpm after active dives. The heart rate immediately elevated with onset of exercise, and increased linearly with exercise. This result may indicate that turtles immediately need to transport oxygen from the lungs to peripheral tissues by pulmonary and systemic circulations to meet the metabolic demands of exercise because they mainly store oxygen in their lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Okuyama
- Research Center for Subtropical Fisheries, Seikai National Fisheries Research Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Ishigaki, Okinawa 907-0451, Japan
| | - Maika Shiozawa
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Graduate School of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Minato, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
| | - Daisuke Shiode
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Graduate School of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Minato, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
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