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Mollier M, Bustamante P, Martinez-Alvarez I, Schull Q, Labadie P, Budzinski H, Cherel Y, Carravieri A. Blood Kinetics of Lipophilic and Proteinophilic Pollutants during Two Types of Long-Term Fast in King Penguins. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6138-6148. [PMID: 38533664 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
In vertebrates, fasting is an intricate physiological process associated with strong metabolic changes, yet its effect on pollutant residue variation is poorly understood. Here, we quantified long-term changes in plasma concentrations of 20 organochlorine and 16 perfluoroalkyl pollutants in king penguins Aptenodytes patagonicus during the breeding and molting fasts, which are marked by low and high levels of protein catabolism, respectively, and by strong lipid use. The profile of measured pollutants in plasma was dominated by perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS, initial relative contribution of 60%). Initial total pollutant concentrations were similar in molting (3.3-5.7 ng g-1 ww) and breeding penguins (range of 4.2-7.3 ng g-1 wet weight, ww). Long-term fasting (25 days) for molting and breeding led, respectively, to a 1.8- and 2.2-fold increase in total plasma pollutant concentrations, although the rate and direction of change were compound-specific. Hexachlorbenzene (HCB) and PFOS concentrations increased in plasma (net mobilization) during both types of fasting, likely due to lipid use. Plasma perfluoroundecanoate (PFUnDA) and perfluorotridecanoate (PFTrDA) concentrations increased in breeders (net mobilization) but decreased in molting individuals (net excretion), suggesting a significant incorporation of these pollutants into feathers. This study is a key contribution to our understanding of pollutant variation in blood during long-term fasting in wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaux Mollier
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Paco Bustamante
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Ignacio Martinez-Alvarez
- CNRS, UMR 5805 EPOC (LPTC Research Group), Université de Bordeaux, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33405 Cedex Talence, France
| | - Quentin Schull
- MARBEC, Université de Montpellier, IFREMER, IRD, CNRS, Avenue Jean Monnet CS 30171, 34203 Sète, France
| | - Pierre Labadie
- CNRS, UMR 5805 EPOC (LPTC Research Group), Université de Bordeaux, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33405 Cedex Talence, France
| | - Hélène Budzinski
- CNRS, UMR 5805 EPOC (LPTC Research Group), Université de Bordeaux, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33405 Cedex Talence, France
| | - Yves Cherel
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 405 Route de Prissé la Charrière, 79360 Villiers-en-Bois, France
| | - Alice Carravieri
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
- Centre d'Etudes Biologiques de Chizé (CEBC), UMR 7372 CNRS-La Rochelle Université, 405 Route de Prissé la Charrière, 79360 Villiers-en-Bois, France
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Barratclough A, Ferguson SH, Lydersen C, Thomas PO, Kovacs KM. A Review of Circumpolar Arctic Marine Mammal Health-A Call to Action in a Time of Rapid Environmental Change. Pathogens 2023; 12:937. [PMID: 37513784 PMCID: PMC10385039 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The impacts of climate change on the health of marine mammals are increasingly being recognised. Given the rapid rate of environmental change in the Arctic, the potential ramifications on the health of marine mammals in this region are a particular concern. There are eleven endemic Arctic marine mammal species (AMMs) comprising three cetaceans, seven pinnipeds, and the polar bear (Ursus maritimus). All of these species are dependent on sea ice for survival, particularly those requiring ice for breeding. As air and water temperatures increase, additional species previously non-resident in Arctic waters are extending their ranges northward, leading to greater species overlaps and a concomitant increased risk of disease transmission. In this study, we review the literature documenting disease presence in Arctic marine mammals to understand the current causes of morbidity and mortality in these species and forecast future disease issues. Our review highlights potential pathogen occurrence in a changing Arctic environment, discussing surveillance methods for 35 specific pathogens, identifying risk factors associated with these diseases, as well as making recommendations for future monitoring for emerging pathogens. Several of the pathogens discussed have the potential to cause unusual mortality events in AMMs. Brucella, morbillivirus, influenza A virus, and Toxoplasma gondii are all of concern, particularly with the relative naivety of the immune systems of endemic Arctic species. There is a clear need for increased surveillance to understand baseline disease levels and address the gravity of the predicted impacts of climate change on marine mammal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Barratclough
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, 2240 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
| | - Steven H. Ferguson
- Arctic Aquatic Research Division, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N6, Canada;
| | - Christian Lydersen
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, 9296 Tromsø, Norway; (C.L.); (K.M.K.)
| | - Peter O. Thomas
- Marine Mammal Commission, 4340 East-West Highway, Room 700, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA;
| | - Kit M. Kovacs
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, 9296 Tromsø, Norway; (C.L.); (K.M.K.)
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Hoondert RPJ, Ragas AMJ, Hendriks AJ. Simulating changes in polar bear subpopulation growth rate due to legacy persistent organic pollutants - Temporal and spatial trends. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 754:142380. [PMID: 33254886 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Although atmospheric concentrations of many conventional persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have decreased in the Arctic over the past few decades, levels of most POPs and mercury remain high since the 1990s or start to increase again in Arctic areas, especially polar bears. So far, studies generally focused on individual effects of POPs, and do not directly link POP concentrations in prey species to population-specific parameters. In this study we therefore aimed to estimate the effect of legacy POPs and mercury on population growth rate of nineteen polar bear subpopulations. We modelled population development in three scenarios, based on species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) derived for POPs based on ecotoxicity data for endothermic species. In the first scenario, ecotoxicity data for polar bears were based on the HC50 (the concentration at which 50% of the species is affected). The other two scenarios were based on the HC5 and HC95. Considerable variation in effects of POPs could be observed among the scenarios. In our intermediate scenario, we predicted subpopulation decline for ten out of 15 polar bear subpopulations. The estimated population growth rate was least reduced in Gulf of Boothia and Foxe Basin. On average, PCB concentrations in prey (in μg/g toxic equivalency (TEQ)) posed the largest threat to polar bear subpopulations, with negative modelled population growth rates for the majority of subpopulations. We did not find a correlation between modelled population changes and monitored population trends for the majority of chemical-subpopulation combinations. Modelled population growth rates increased over time, implying a decreasing effect of PCBs, DDTs, and mercury. Polar bear subpopulations are reportedly still declining in four out of the seven subpopulations for which sufficient long-term monitoring data is available, as reported by the IUCN-PBSG. This implies that other emerging pollutants or other anthropogenic stressors may affect polar bear subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renske P J Hoondert
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Wetland and Water Research, Faculty of Science, Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Ad M J Ragas
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Wetland and Water Research, Faculty of Science, Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Faculty of Management, Science and Technology, Open University, the Netherlands
| | - A Jan Hendriks
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Wetland and Water Research, Faculty of Science, Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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4
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Bourque J, Desforges JP, Levin M, Atwood TC, Sonne C, Dietz R, Jensen TH, Curry E, McKinney MA. Climate-associated drivers of plasma cytokines and contaminant concentrations in Beaufort Sea polar bears (Ursus maritimus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 745:140978. [PMID: 32738684 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Assessing polar bear (Ursus maritimus) immune function in relation to environmental stressors, including habitat change, nutritional stress, pathogen prevalence, and pollution, has been identified as critical for improved understanding of the species' health. The objectives of this study were two-fold: 1) to assess the role of climate-associated factors (habitat use, body condition) in explaining the plasma concentrations of contaminants in southern Beaufort Sea (SB) polar bears, and 2) to investigate how climate-associated factors, contaminant concentrations, and pathogen sero-prevalence influence the plasma concentrations of immune-signaling proteins called cytokines. A commercially available multiplex canine cytokine panel was validated for the quantification of five pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in polar bear plasma: tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, IL-10, and interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10). This panel was then used to measure cytokine concentrations in 49 SB polar bears sampled in the springs of 2013 and 2014. Mean ∑PCBs (plasma), ∑OCs (plasma), and THg (hair) were 13.01 ± 1.52 ng g-1 w.w. (range: 0.17-52.63), 19.46 ± 1.17 ng g-1 w.w. (range: 6.63-45.82), and 0.49 μg g-1 d.w. (range: 0.99-15.18), respectively. Top models explaining variation in concentrations of plasma PCBs, plasma OC pesticides, and hair THg in SB polar bears included body mass index and/or habitat use (onshore versus offshore), with higher contaminant concentrations in leaner and/or offshore bears. Plasma cytokine concentrations were influenced most strongly by plasma PCBs and age, with little to no influence found for plasma OCs or hair THg concentrations, habitat use, or pathogen sero-prevalence. The lack of association between cytokines and these latter variables is likely due to a temporal disconnect between measured endpoints. The change of polar bear habitat use, feeding ecology, and body condition with ongoing climate warming is affecting exposure to contaminants and pathogens, with potential adverse consequences on a well-balanced immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Bourque
- Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Center, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment and Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada
| | - Milton Levin
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Todd C Atwood
- US Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Roskilde 4000, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Roskilde 4000, Denmark
| | - Trine H Jensen
- Aalborg Zoo/Aalborg University, Mølleparkvej 63, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Erin Curry
- Center for Conservation & Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Melissa A McKinney
- Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Center, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment and Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada.
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5
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Bechshoft T, Wright AJ, Styrishave B, Houser D. Measuring and validating concentrations of steroid hormones in the skin of bottlenose dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus). CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa032. [PMID: 32431813 PMCID: PMC7221262 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
A previously published analytical method demonstrated the quantification of the hormone cortisol in cetacean skin. However, little is known about the transfer of hormones between blood and skin. Recognizing that such information is essential to effectively using skin samples within marine mammal stress research, the primary goals of this study were to (i) expand on the number of steroid hormones proved quantifiable in the cetacean skin matrix and (ii) validate the use of cetacean skin as a matrix for measuring stress-related hormones. Five adult bottlenose dolphins were subjected to an out of water stress test. Non-invasive sloughed skin samples were collected from each dolphin: once ~3 and once ~1 week prior to the stress test; at the time of the stress test; and twice weekly for 11 to 17 weeks subsequent to the stress test. LCMS/MS analysis of the samples recovered consistent data on three corticosteroids (cortisol, aldosterone, corticosterone), two androgens (testosterone, DHEA) and one progestagen (progesterone). A range of other hormones were also quantifiable, although not consistently so across samples. Results demonstrated that the hormonal response to an acute stressor could be detected in skin: the time from stress test to skin cortisol peak was an average of 46 days, whereas it was 55 days for corticosterone and 47 days for aldosterone. Results also showed that baseline hormonal concentrations were obtainable from skin samples collected during or immediately after the animals were subjected to the acute stressor. This study further develops and validates a non-invasive method for measuring cortisol and other hormones related to stress, health, and reproduction in the skin of cetaceans, potentially supporting investigations of acute and chronic stress, such as cetacean endocrine responses to distinct (e.g. naval sonar exposure) or prolonged stressors (e.g. shipping noise).
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Affiliation(s)
- Thea Bechshoft
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Andrew J Wright
- Ocean and Ecosystem Sciences Division, Maritimes Region Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 1 Challenger Dr., PO Box 1006, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4A2, Canada
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University, 400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - Bjarne Styrishave
- Toxicology and Drug Metabolism Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen OE, Denmark
| | - Dorian Houser
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, 2240 Shelter Island Drive Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
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Capturing a Complexity of Nutritional, Environmental, and Economic Impacts on Selected Health Parameters in the Russian High North. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12052151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The rapid pace of economic exploration of the Arctic against the backdrop of progressing environmental change put a high priority on improving understanding of health impacts in the northern communities. Deficiencies in the capability to capture the complexity of health-influencing parameters along with a lack of observations in circumpolar territories present major challenges to establishing credible projections of disease incidence across varying northern environments. It is thus crucial to reveal the relative contributions of coacting factors to provide a basis for sustainable solutions in the sphere of public health. In order to better understand the adverse effects associated with public health, this study employed six-stage multiple regression analysis of incidence rates of fourteen diseases (International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) codes most widespread in the Russian Arctic) against a set of environmental, nutritional, and economic variables. Variance inflationary factor and best-subsets regression methods were used to eliminate collinearity between the parameters of regression models. To address the diversity of health impacts across northern environments, territories of the Arctic zone of Russia were categorized as (1) industrial sites, (2) urban agglomerations, (3) rural inland, and (4) coastline territories. It was suggested that, in Type 1 territories, public health parameters were most negatively affected by air and water pollution, in Type 2 territories—by low-nutrient diets, in Type 3 and Type 4 territories—by economic factors. It was found that in the Western parts of the Russian Arctic, poor quality of running water along with low access to the quality-assured sources of water might increase the exposure to infectious and parasitic diseases and diseases of the circulatory, respiratory, and genitourinary systems. Low living standards across the Russian Arctic challenged the economic accessibility of adequate diets. In the cities, the nutritional transition to low-quality cheap market food correlated with a higher incidence of digestive system disorders, immune diseases, and neoplasms. In indigenous communities, the prevalence of low diversified diets based on traditional food correlated with the increase in the incidence rates of nutritional and metabolic diseases.
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7
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Blévin P, Aars J, Andersen M, Blanchet MA, Hanssen L, Herzke D, Jeffreys RM, Nordøy ES, Pinzone M, de la Vega C, Routti H. Pelagic vs Coastal-Key Drivers of Pollutant Levels in Barents Sea Polar Bears with Contrasted Space-Use Strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:985-995. [PMID: 31823610 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b04626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In the Barents Sea, pelagic and coastal polar bears are facing various ecological challenges that may explain the difference in their pollutant levels. We measured polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ethers in fat, and perfluoroalkyl substances in plasma in pelagic and coastal adult female polar bears with similar body condition. We studied polar bear feeding habits with bulk stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen. Nitrogen isotopes of amino acids were used to investigate their trophic position. We studied energy expenditure by estimating field metabolic rate using telemetry data. Annual home range size was determined, and spatial gradients in pollutants were explored using latitude and longitude centroid positions of polar bears. Pollutant levels were measured in harp seals from the Greenland Sea and White Sea-Barents Sea as a proxy for a West-East gradient of pollutants in polar bear prey. We showed that pelagic bears had higher pollutant loads than coastal bears because (1) they feed on a higher proportion of marine and higher trophic level prey, (2) they have higher energy requirements and higher prey consumption, (3) they forage in the marginal ice zones, and (4) they feed on prey located closer to pollutant emission sources/transport pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Blévin
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre , Tromsø 9296 , Norway
| | - Jon Aars
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre , Tromsø 9296 , Norway
| | - Magnus Andersen
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre , Tromsø 9296 , Norway
| | | | - Linda Hanssen
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Fram Centre , Tromsø 9296 , Norway
| | - Dorte Herzke
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Fram Centre , Tromsø 9296 , Norway
| | - Rachel M Jeffreys
- School of Environmental Science , University of Liverpool , Liverpool L69 7ZX , United Kingdom
| | | | - Marianna Pinzone
- Laboratory of Oceanology, Department of Biology, Ecology & Evolution , University of Liège , Liège B-4000 , Belgium
| | - Camille de la Vega
- School of Environmental Science , University of Liverpool , Liverpool L69 7ZX , United Kingdom
| | - Heli Routti
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre , Tromsø 9296 , Norway
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North Pacific Baleen Whales as a Potential Source of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in the Diet of the Indigenous Peoples of the Eastern Arctic Coasts. TOXICS 2019; 7:toxics7040065. [PMID: 31861083 PMCID: PMC6958457 DOI: 10.3390/toxics7040065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Among marine mammals, gray and bowhead whales contain large amounts of fat and thereby constitute crucial dietary components of the traditional diet of indigenous peoples of the Eastern Arctic. Despite the high nutritional and cultural value of gray and bowhead whales, there is a risk of persistent organic pollutant (POP) intake by indigenous individuals who use marine mammals as their main source of fat. POPs are lipophilic pollutants and are known to accumulate and magnify along the marine food web. Consumption of foods contaminated by POPs can perturb the endocrine, reproductive, and immune systems, and can potentially cause cancer. Moderate to relatively high concentrations of POPs have indeed been reported in the edible tissues of gray and bowhead whales consumed by indigenous peoples of the North Pacific Ocean. Even though their consumption is potentially harmful, there is no regular monitoring of eco-toxicants in the foods consumed by the indigenous peoples of the Eastern Arctic. In our view, the routine analyses of consumable parts of whales and of comparable nutritional items need to be included in the Russian Arctic Biomonitoring Programme.
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Sonne C, Alstrup AKO, Jenssen BM, Dietz R. Nunavut's ill-advised hunting proposal. Science 2019; 364:539. [PMID: 31073058 DOI: 10.1126/science.aax3322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bjørn Munro Jenssen
- Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark.,Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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10
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Routti H, Berg MK, Lille-Langøy R, Øygarden L, Harju M, Dietz R, Sonne C, Goksøyr A. Environmental contaminants modulate the transcriptional activity of polar bear (Ursus maritimus) and human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARA). Sci Rep 2019; 9:6918. [PMID: 31061404 PMCID: PMC6502799 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43337-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alfa (PPARA/NR1C1) is a ligand activated nuclear receptor that is a key regulator of lipid metabolism in tissues with high fatty acid catabolism such as the liver. Here, we cloned PPARA from polar bear liver tissue and studied in vitro transactivation of polar bear and human PPARA by environmental contaminants using a luciferase reporter assay. Six hinge and ligand-binding domain amino acids have been substituted in polar bear PPARA compared to human PPARA. Perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCA) and perfluorosulfonic acids induced the transcriptional activity of both human and polar bear PPARA. The most abundant PFCA in polar bear tissue, perfluorononanoate, increased polar bear PPARA-mediated luciferase activity to a level comparable to that of the potent PPARA agonist WY-14643 (~8-fold, 25 μM). Several brominated flame retardants were weak agonists of human and polar bear PPARA. While single exposures to polychlorinated biphenyls did not, or only slightly, increase the transcriptional activity of PPARA, a technical mixture of PCBs (Aroclor 1254) strongly induced the transcriptional activity of human (~8-fold) and polar bear PPARA (~22-fold). Polar bear PPARA was both quantitatively and qualitatively more susceptible than human PPARA to transactivation by less lipophilic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Routti
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, NO-9296, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Mari K Berg
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, NO-9296, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, NO-5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Roger Lille-Langøy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, NO-5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lene Øygarden
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, NO-9296, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, NO-5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mikael Harju
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Fram Centre, NO-9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Rune Dietz
- Aarhus University, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Anders Goksøyr
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, NO-5020, Bergen, Norway
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11
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Routti H, Diot B, Panti C, Duale N, Fossi MC, Harju M, Kovacs KM, Lydersen C, Scotter SE, Villanger GD, Bourgeon S. Contaminants in Atlantic walruses in Svalbard Part 2: Relationships with endocrine and immune systems. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 246:658-667. [PMID: 30611942 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.11.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Marine mammals in the Barents Sea region have among the highest levels of contaminants recorded in the Arctic and the Atlantic walrus (Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus) is one of the most contaminated species within this region. We therefore investigated the relationships bewteen blubber concentrations of lipophilic persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and plasma concentrations of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and markers of endocrine and immune functions in adult male Atlantic walruses (n = 38) from Svalbard, Norway. To do so, we assessed plasma concentrations of five forms of thyroid hormones and transcript levels of genes related to the endocrine and immune systems as endpoints; transcript levels of seven genes in blubber and 23 genes in blood cells were studied. Results indicated that plasma total thyroxine (TT4) concentrations and ratio of TT4 and reverse triiodothyronine decreased with increasing blubber concentrations of lipophilic POPs. Blood cell transcript levels of genes involved in the function of T and B cells (FC like receptors 2 and 5, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 and protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22) were increased with plasma PFAS concentrations. These results suggest that changes in thyroid and immune systems in adult male walruses are linked to current levels of contaminant exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Routti
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway; University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Béatrice Diot
- UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Nur Duale
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Mikael Harju
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kit M Kovacs
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
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12
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Bradley MM, Perra M, Ahlstrøm Ø, Jenssen BM, Jørgensen EH, Fuglei E, Muir DCG, Sonne C. Mandibular shape in farmed Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) exposed to persistent organic pollutants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 646:1063-1068. [PMID: 30235592 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We investigated if dietary exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) affect mandibular asymmetry and periodontal disease in paired male-siblings of Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus). During ontogeny, one group of siblings was exposed to the complexed POP mixture in naturally contaminated minke whale (Balaenoptere acutorostarta) blubber (n = 10), while another group was given wet feed based on pig (Sus scrofa) fat as a control (n = 11). The ∑POP concentrations were 802 ng/g ww in the whale-based feed compared to 24 ng/g ww in the control diet. We conducted a two-dimensional geometric morphometric (GM) analysis of mandibular shape and asymmetry in the foxes and compared the two groups. The analyses showed that directional asymmetry was higher than fluctuating asymmetry in both groups and that mandibular shape differed significantly between the exposed and control group based on discriminant function analysis (T2 = 58.52, p = 0.04, 1000 permutations). We also found a non-significantly higher incidence of periodontal disease (two-way ANOVA: p = 0.43) and greater severity of sub-canine alveolar bone deterioration similar to periodontitis (two-way ANOVA: p = 0.3) in the POP-exposed group. Based on these results, it is possible that dietary exposure to a complexed POP mixture lead to changes in jaw morphology in Arctic foxes. This study suggests that extrinsic factors, such as dietary exposure to POPs, may affect mandibular shape and health in a way that could be harmful to wild Arctic populations. Therefore, further studies using GM analysis as an alternative to traditional morphometric methods should be conducted for wild Arctic fox populations exposed to environmental contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison M Bradley
- Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive N.W., Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Megan Perra
- Independent Researcher, 97231 Portland, OR, USA
| | - Øystein Ahlstrøm
- Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1433 Ås, Norway.
| | - Bjørn M Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway; Department of Arctic Technology, The University Centre in Svalbard, PO Box 156, NO-9171 Longyearbyen, Norway; Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Even H Jørgensen
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, N, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Eva Fuglei
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Derek C G Muir
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington L7S 1A1, ON, Canada.
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
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13
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Scheiber IBR, Weiß BM, de Jong ME, Braun A, van den Brink NW, Loonen MJJE, Millesi E, Komdeur J. Stress behaviour and physiology of developing Arctic barnacle goslings ( Branta leucopsis) is affected by legacy trace contaminants. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:20181866. [PMID: 30963902 PMCID: PMC6304058 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.1866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural populations are persistently exposed to environmental pollution, which may adversely impact animal physiology and behaviour and even compromise survival. Responding appropriately to any stressor ultimately might tip the scales for survival, as mistimed behaviour and inadequate physiological responses may be detrimental. Yet effects of legacy contamination on immediate physiological and behavioural stress coping abilities during acute stress are virtually unknown. Here, we assessed these effects in barnacle goslings ( Branta leucopsis) at a historical coal mine site in the Arctic. For three weeks we led human-imprinted goslings, collected from nests in unpolluted areas, to feed in an abandoned coal mining area, where they were exposed to trace metals. As control we led their siblings to feed on clean grounds. After submitting both groups to three well-established stress tests (group isolation, individual isolation, on-back restraint), control goslings behaved calmer and excreted lower levels of corticosterone metabolites. Thus, legacy contamination may decisively change stress physiology and behaviour in long-lived vertebrates exposed at a young age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella B. R. Scheiber
- Behavioural and Physiological Ecology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Behavioural Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Brigitte M. Weiß
- Behavioural Ecology Research Group, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Margje E. de Jong
- Arctic Centre, University of Groningen, 9718 CW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Braun
- Behavioural and Physiological Ecology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nico W. van den Brink
- Department of Toxicology, Wageningen University, 6700 EA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Eva Millesi
- Department of Behavioural Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan Komdeur
- Behavioural and Physiological Ecology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands
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14
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Grønnestad R, Villanger GD, Polder A, Kovacs KM, Lydersen C, Jenssen BM, Borgå K. Effects of a complex contaminant mixture on thyroid hormones in breeding hooded seal mothers and their pups. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 240:10-16. [PMID: 29729564 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.04.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is a general lack of information on the possible effects of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) on thyroid hormones (THs) in wildlife species. The effects of PFASs, which are known endocrine disruptors, on the TH homeostasis in hooded seals (Cystophora cristata) have yet to be investigated. Previously, correlations were found between plasma thyroid hormone (TH) concentrations in hooded seals, and organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) and hydroxyl (OH)-metabolites. Because animals are exposed to multiple contaminants simultaneously in nature, the effects of the complex contaminant mixtures that they accumulate should be assessed. Herein, we analyse relationships between plasma concentrations of multiple contaminants including protein-associated PFASs, hydroxylated metabolites of polychlorinated biphenyls (OH-PCBs) and lipid soluble OHCs and plasma concentrations of free and total THs, i.e. triiodothyronine (FT3, TT3) and thyroxine (FT4, TT4) in hooded seal mothers and their pups. The perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) were the most important predictors for FT3 concentrations and TT3:FT3 ratios in the mothers. The FT3 levels decreased with increasing PFCA levels, while the TT3:FT3 ratios increased. In the pups, hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) were the most important predictors for TT3:FT3 ratios, increasing with increasing HCHs levels. Additionally, perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs) and PFCAs were important predictors for FT4:FT3 ratios in hooded seal pups, and the ratio increased with increasing concentrations. The study suggests that PFASs contribute to thyroid disruption in hooded seals exposed to complex contaminant mixtures that include chlorinated and fluorinated organic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randi Grønnestad
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gro D Villanger
- Department of Child Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Kit M Kovacs
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Bjørn M Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Arctic Biology, The University Centre in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway
| | - Katrine Borgå
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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15
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Hamilton SG, Derocher AE. Assessment of global polar bear abundance and vulnerability. Anim Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S. G. Hamilton
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Alberta Edmonton AB Canada
| | - A. E. Derocher
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Alberta Edmonton AB Canada
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16
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Multiple-stressor effects in an apex predator: combined influence of pollutants and sea ice decline on lipid metabolism in polar bears. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16487. [PMID: 29184161 PMCID: PMC5705648 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16820-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence from experimental and human epidemiological studies that many pollutants can disrupt lipid metabolism. In Arctic wildlife, the occurrence of such compounds could have serious consequences for seasonal feeders. We set out to study whether organohalogenated compounds (OHCs) could cause disruption of energy metabolism in female polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from Svalbard, Norway (n = 112). We analyzed biomarkers of energy metabolism including the abundance profiles of nine lipid-related genes, fatty acid (FA) synthesis and elongation indices in adipose tissue, and concentrations of lipid-related variables in plasma (cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides). Furthermore, the plasma metabolome and lipidome were characterized by low molecular weight metabolites and lipid fingerprinting, respectively. Polychlorinated biphenyls, chlordanes, brominated diphenyl ethers and perfluoroalkyl substances were significantly related to biomarkers involved in lipid accumulation, FA metabolism, insulin utilization, and cholesterol homeostasis. Moreover, the effects of pollutants were measurable at the metabolome and lipidome levels. Our results indicate that several OHCs affect lipid biosynthesis and catabolism in female polar bears. Furthermore, these effects were more pronounced when combined with reduced sea ice extent and thickness, suggesting that climate-driven sea ice decline and OHCs have synergistic negative effects on polar bears.
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17
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Ciesielski TM, Hansen IT, Bytingsvik J, Hansen M, Lie E, Aars J, Jenssen BM, Styrishave B. Relationships between POPs, biometrics and circulating steroids in male polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from Svalbard. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 230:598-608. [PMID: 28710978 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.06.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and biometric variables on circulating levels of steroid hormones (androgens, estrogens and progestagens) in male polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from Svalbard, Norway (n = 23). Levels of pregnenolone (PRE), progesterone (PRO), androstenedione (AN), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone (TS), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estrone (E1), 17α-estradiol (αE2) and 17β-estradiol (βE2) were quantified in polar bear serum by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), while POPs were measured in plasma. Subsequently, associations between hormone concentrations (9 steroids), POPs (21 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 8 OH-PCBs, 8 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and OCP metabolites, and 2 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)) and biological variables (age, head length, body mass, girth, body condition index), capture date, location (latitude and longitude), lipid content and cholesterol levels were examined using principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projections to latent structures (OPLS) modelling. Average concentrations of androgens, estrogens and progestagens were in the range of 0.57-83.7 (0.57-12.4 for subadults, 1.02-83.7 for adults), 0.09-2.69 and 0.57-2.44 nmol/L, respectively. The steroid profiles suggest that sex steroids were mainly synthesized through the Δ-4 pathway in male polar bears. The ratio between androgens and estrogens significantly depended on sexual maturity with androgen/estrogen ratios being approximately 60 times higher in adult males than in subadult males. PCA plots and OPLS models indicated that TS was positively related to biometrics, such as body condition index in male polar bears. A negative relationship was also observed between POPs and DHT. Consequently, POPs and body condition may potentially affect the endocrinological function of steroids, including development of reproductive tissues and sex organs and the general condition of male polar bears.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz M Ciesielski
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ingunn Tjelta Hansen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jenny Bytingsvik
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Martin Hansen
- Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Lie
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Jon Aars
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bjørn M Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Arctic Technology, The University Centre in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway
| | - Bjarne Styrishave
- Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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18
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Pertoldi C, Jensen LF, Alstrup AKO, Munk OL, Pedersen TB, Sonne C, Dietz R, Daugaard-Petersen T, Kortegaard HE, Olsen MT, Hårding KC, Jensen TH. Prevalence of skull pathologies in European harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) during 1981–2014. MAMMAL RES 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-017-0340-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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19
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Bourgeon S, Riemer AK, Tartu S, Aars J, Polder A, Jenssen BM, Routti H. Potentiation of ecological factors on the disruption of thyroid hormones by organo-halogenated contaminants in female polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from the Barents Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 158:94-104. [PMID: 28614731 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
As apex predators, polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are among the most heavily polluted organisms in the Arctic. In addition to this anthropogenic stressor, climate warming has been shown to negatively affect their body condition, reproductive output and survival. Among potential underlying physiological mechanisms, thyroid hormones (THs), which control thermoregulation, metabolism and reproduction, can be affected by a variety of both natural and anthropogenic factors. While THs have been extensively used as proxies for pollution exposure in mammals, including polar bears, there is a lack of knowledge of their natural variations. In this context, we examined seasonal variations in body condition and circulating TH concentrations in free-ranging female polar bears. Females with variable reproductive status (i.e., solitary, with cubs of the year or with yearlings) were sampled from locations with contrasted sea ice conditions. Furthermore, we studied THs in relation to levels of organo-halogenated contaminants. As predicted, solitary females were in better condition than females caring for offspring, especially in spring. In addition, TH levels were lower in autumn compared to spring, although this seasonal effect was mainly observed in solitary females. Finally, the negative relationships between organochlorine and perfluoroalkyl substances and some THs suggest a possible alteration of homeostasis of THs. Since the latter relationships were only observed during spring, we emphasize the importance of considering the ecological factors when using THs as proxies for pollution exposure. Yet, the combined effects of natural and anthropogenic stressors on THs might impair the ability of polar bears to adapt to ongoing climate changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Bourgeon
- The Arctic University of Norway, UiT, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, Tromsø, Norway; Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Astrid Kolind Riemer
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU, Department of Biology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Sabrina Tartu
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Jon Aars
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Anuschka Polder
- Norwegian University of Life Science, NMBU, Campus Adamstua, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Bjørn Munro Jenssen
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU, Department of Biology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Heli Routti
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway.
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20
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Alava JJ, Cheung WWL, Ross PS, Sumaila UR. Climate change-contaminant interactions in marine food webs: Toward a conceptual framework. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2017; 23:3984-4001. [PMID: 28212462 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.13667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is reshaping the way in which contaminants move through the global environment, in large part by changing the chemistry of the oceans and affecting the physiology, health, and feeding ecology of marine biota. Climate change-associated impacts on structure and function of marine food webs, with consequent changes in contaminant transport, fate, and effects, are likely to have significant repercussions to those human populations that rely on fisheries resources for food, recreation, or culture. Published studies on climate change-contaminant interactions with a focus on food web bioaccumulation were systematically reviewed to explore how climate change and ocean acidification may impact contaminant levels in marine food webs. We propose here a conceptual framework to illustrate the impacts of climate change on contaminant accumulation in marine food webs, as well as the downstream consequences for ecosystem goods and services. The potential impacts on social and economic security for coastal communities that depend on fisheries for food are discussed. Climate change-contaminant interactions may alter the bioaccumulation of two priority contaminant classes: the fat-soluble persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), as well as the protein-binding methylmercury (MeHg). These interactions include phenomena deemed to be either climate change dominant (i.e., climate change leads to an increase in contaminant exposure) or contaminant dominant (i.e., contamination leads to an increase in climate change susceptibility). We illustrate the pathways of climate change-contaminant interactions using case studies in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean. The important role of ecological and food web modeling to inform decision-making in managing ecological and human health risks of chemical pollutants contamination under climate change is also highlighted. Finally, we identify the need to develop integrated policies that manage the ecological and socioeconomic risk of greenhouse gases and marine pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan José Alava
- Global Fisheries Cluster, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Ocean Pollution Research Program, Coastal Ocean Research Institute, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William W L Cheung
- Global Fisheries Cluster, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peter S Ross
- Ocean Pollution Research Program, Coastal Ocean Research Institute, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - U Rashid Sumaila
- Global Fisheries Cluster, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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21
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Mudumbi JBN, Ntwampe SKO, Matsha T, Mekuto L, Itoba-Tombo EF. Recent developments in polyfluoroalkyl compounds research: a focus on human/environmental health impact, suggested substitutes and removal strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:402. [PMID: 28721589 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-6084-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Between the late 1940s and early 1950s, humans manufactured polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) using electrochemical fluorination and telomerisation technologies, whereby hydrogen atoms are substituted by fluorine atoms, thus conferring unnatural and unique physicochemical properties to these compounds. Presently, there are wide ranges of PFCs, and owing to their bioaccumulative properties, they have been detected in various environmental matrices and in human sera. It has thus been suggested that they are hazardous. Hence, this review aims at highlighting the recent development in PFC research, with a particular focus on perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), the most studied and predominantly found PFCs in various environmental matrices, although recent reports have included perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS), which was previously regarded as innocuously harmless, when compared to its counterparts, PFOA and PFOS. As such, proper investigations are thus required for a better understanding of short-chain PFC substitutes, which have been suggested as suitable replacements to long-chained PFCs, although these substitutes have also been suggested to pose various health risks comparable to those associated with long-chain PFCs. Similarly, several novel technologies, such as PFC reduction using zero-valent iron, including removal at point of use, adsorption and coagulation, have been proposed. However, regardless of how efficient removers some of these techniques have proven to be, short-chain PFCs remain a challenge to overcome for scientists, in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Baptist Nzukizi Mudumbi
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
| | - Seteno Karabo Obed Ntwampe
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Tandi Matsha
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Science, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 1906, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
| | - Lukhanyo Mekuto
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Elie Fereche Itoba-Tombo
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
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22
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McKinney MA, Atwood TC, Pedro S, Peacock E. Ecological Change Drives a Decline in Mercury Concentrations in Southern Beaufort Sea Polar Bears. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:7814-7822. [PMID: 28612610 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b00812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated total mercury (THg) concentrations and trends in polar bears from the southern Beaufort Sea subpopulation from 2004 to 2011. Hair THg concentrations ranged widely among individuals from 0.6 to 13.3 μg g-1 dry weight (mean: 3.5 ± 0.2 μg g-1). Concentrations differed among sex and age classes: solitary adult females ≈ adult females with cubs ≈ subadults > adult males ≈ yearlings > cubs-of-the-year ≈ 2 year old dependent cubs. No variation was observed between spring and fall samples. For spring-sampled adults, THg concentrations declined by 13% per year, contrasting recent trends observed for other Western Hemispheric Arctic biota. Concentrations also declined by 15% per year considering adult males only, while a slower, nonsignificant decrease of 4.4% per year was found for adult females. Lower THg concentrations were associated with higher body mass index (BMI) and higher proportions of lower trophic position food resources consumed. Because BMI and diet were related, and the relationship to THg was strongest for BMI, trends were re-evaluated adjusting for BMI as the covariate. The adjusted annual decline was not significant. These findings indicate that changes in foraging ecology, not declining environmental concentrations of mercury, are driving short-term declines in THg concentrations in southern Beaufort Sea polar bears.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A McKinney
- Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Center, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment and Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut , Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Todd C Atwood
- United States Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center , Anchorage, Alaska 99508, United States
| | - Sara Pedro
- Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation Center, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment and Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut , Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Elizabeth Peacock
- United States Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center , Anchorage, Alaska 99508, United States
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23
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Nuijten RJM, Hendriks AJ, Jenssen BM, Schipper AM. Circumpolar contaminant concentrations in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) and potential population-level effects. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 151:50-57. [PMID: 27450999 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) currently receive much attention in the context of global climate change. However, there are other stressors that might threaten the viability of polar bear populations as well, such as exposure to anthropogenic pollutants. Lipophilic organic compounds bio-accumulate and bio-magnify in the food chain, leading to high concentrations at the level of top-predators. In Arctic wildlife, including the polar bear, various adverse health effects have been related to internal concentrations of commercially used anthropogenic chemicals like PCB and DDT. The extent to which these individual health effects are associated to population-level effects is, however, unknown. In this study we assembled data on adipose tissue concentrations of ∑PCB, ∑DDT, dieldrin and ∑PBDE in individual polar bears from peer-reviewed scientific literature. Data were available for 14 out of the 19 subpopulations. We found that internal concentrations of these contaminants exceed threshold values for adverse individual health effects in several subpopulations. In an exploratory regression analysis we identified a clear negative correlation between polar bear population density and sub-population specific contaminant concentrations in adipose tissue. The results suggest that adverse health effects of contaminants in individual polar bears may scale up to population-level consequences. Our study highlights the need to consider contaminant exposure along with other threats in polar bear population viability analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J M Nuijten
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research (IWWR), Radboud University (RU), NL-6500 GL Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Animal Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), 7608 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - A J Hendriks
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research (IWWR), Radboud University (RU), NL-6500 GL Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - B M Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway; Department of Arctic Technology, The University Centre in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway
| | - A M Schipper
- Department of Environmental Science, Institute for Water and Wetland Research (IWWR), Radboud University (RU), NL-6500 GL Nijmegen, The Netherlands; PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, PO Box 303, 3720 AH Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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24
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Bechshoft T, Derocher AE, Richardson E, Lunn NJ, St Louis VL. Hair Mercury Concentrations in Western Hudson Bay Polar Bear Family Groups. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:5313-5319. [PMID: 27095340 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b00483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury is one of the more toxic forms of mercury (Hg), the biomagnification of which is prevalent in the Arctic where apex predators such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus) can carry high loads. The maternal transfer of contaminants to offspring is a concern, as offspring may be particularly sensitive to the effects of environmental pollutants during early development. However, few studies of polar bears report on Hg in dependent young. We examined hair total Hg (THg) concentrations in 24 polar bear family groups in western Hudson Bay: mother, cub-of-the-year (COY), yearling, and 2 year old. THg concentrations increased with bear age, with COYs having lower concentrations than other offspring groups (p ≤ 0.008). Using AICc-based regression models, we found maternal THg to be positively related to body condition and litter size, while overall offspring THg was positively related to maternal body condition in addition to being dependent on the sex and age of the offspring. COY THg concentrations were positively related to maternal THg while also depending on the sex of the offspring. Considering our results, future studies in polar bear ecotoxicology are encouraged to include offspring of different ages and sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thea Bechshoft
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Andrew E Derocher
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Evan Richardson
- Wildlife Research Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, University of Alberta , CW405, Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Nicholas J Lunn
- Wildlife Research Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, University of Alberta , CW405, Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Vincent L St Louis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
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Desforges JPW, Sonne C, Levin M, Siebert U, De Guise S, Dietz R. Immunotoxic effects of environmental pollutants in marine mammals. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 86:126-139. [PMID: 26590481 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Due to their marine ecology and life-history, marine mammals accumulate some of the highest levels of environmental contaminants of all wildlife. Given the increasing prevalence and severity of diseases in marine wildlife, it is imperative to understand how pollutants affect the immune system and consequently disease susceptibility. Advancements and adaptations of analytical techniques have facilitated marine mammal immunotoxicology research. Field studies, captive-feeding experiments and in vitro laboratory studies with marine mammals have associated exposure to environmental pollutants, most notable polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals, to alterations of both the innate and adaptive arms of immune systems, which include aspects of cellular and humoral immunity. For marine mammals, reported immunotoxicology endpoints fell into several major categories: immune tissue histopathology, haematology/circulating immune cell populations, functional immune assays (lymphocyte proliferation, phagocytosis, respiratory burst, and natural killer cell activity), immunoglobulin production, and cytokine gene expression. Lymphocyte proliferation is by far the most commonly used immune assay, with studies using different organic pollutants and metals predominantly reporting immunosuppressive effects despite the many differences in study design and animal life history. Using combined field and laboratory data, we determined effect threshold levels for suppression of lymphocyte proliferation to be between b0.001-10 ppm for PCBs, 0.002-1.3 ppm for Hg, 0.009-0.06 for MeHg, and 0.1-2.4 for cadmium in polar bears and several pinniped and cetacean species. Similarly, thresholds for suppression of phagocytosis were 0.6-1.4 and 0.08-1.9 ppm for PCBs and mercury, respectively. Although data are lacking for many important immune endpoints and mechanisms of specific immune alterations are not well understood, this review revealed a systemic suppression of immune function in marine mammals exposed to environmental contaminants. Exposure to immunotoxic contaminants may have significant population level consequences as a contributing factor to increasing anthropogenic stress in wildlife and infectious disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre W Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Milton Levin
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, University of Connecticut, 61 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269-3089, United States
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Sylvain De Guise
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, University of Connecticut, 61 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269-3089, United States
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
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Bowen L, Miles AK, Stott J, Waters S, Atwood T. Enhanced biological processes associated with alopecia in polar bears (Ursus maritimus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 529:114-120. [PMID: 26005754 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Populations of wildlife species worldwide experience incidents of mass morbidity and mortality. Primary or secondary drivers of these events may escape classical detection methods for identifying microbial insults, toxin exposure, or additional stressors. In 2012, 28% of polar bears sampled in a study in the southern Beaufort Sea region of Alaska had varying degrees of alopecia that was concomitant with reduced body condition. Concurrently, elevated numbers of sick or dead ringed seals were detected in the southern Beaufort, Chukchi, and Bering seas in 2012, resulting in the declaration of an unusual mortality event (UME) by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The primary and possible ancillary causative stressors of these events are unknown, and related physiological changes within individual animals have been undetectable using classical diagnostic methods. Here we present an emerging technology as a potentially guiding investigative approach aimed at elucidating the circumstances responsible for the susceptibility of certain polar bears to observed conditions. Using transcriptomic analysis we identified enhanced biological processes including immune response, viral defense, and response to stress in polar bears with alopecia. Our results support an alternative mechanism of investigation into the causative agents that, when used proactively, could serve as an early indicator for populations and species at risk. We suggest that current or classical methods for investigation into events of unusual morbidity and mortality can be costly, sometimes unfocused, and often inconclusive. Advances in technology allow for implementation of a holistic system of surveillance and investigation that could provide early warning of health concerns in wildlife species important to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizabeth Bowen
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Davis, CA 95826, USA.
| | - A Keith Miles
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Davis, CA 95826, USA
| | - Jeffrey Stott
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Shannon Waters
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Davis, CA 95826, USA
| | - Todd Atwood
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA
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Gabrielsen KM, Krokstad JS, Obregon MJ, Villanger GD, Sonne C, Dietz R, Jenssen BM. Thyroid hormones and deiodinase activities in plasma and tissues from East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus) during winter season. Polar Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-015-1694-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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