1
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Copplestone D, Coates CJ, Lim J. Low dose γ-radiation induced effects on wax moth (Galleria mellonella) larvae. Sci Total Environ 2023; 876:162742. [PMID: 36906041 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Larvae of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella are common pests of beehives and commercial apiaries, and in more applied settings, these insects act as alternative in vivo bioassays to rodents for studying microbial virulence, antibiotic development, and toxicology. In the current study, our aim was to assess the putative adverse effects of background gamma radiation levels on G. mellonella. To achieve this, we exposed larvae to low (0.014 mGy/h), medium (0.056 mGy/h), and high (1.33 mGy/h) doses of caesium-137 and measured larval pupation events, weight, faecal discharge, susceptibility to bacterial and fungal challenges, immune cell counts, activity, and viability (i.e., haemocyte encapsulation) and melanisation levels. The effects of low and medium levels of radiation were distinguishable from the highest dose rates used - the latter insects weighed the least and pupated earlier. In general, radiation exposure modulated cellular and humoral immunity over time, with larvae showing heightened encapsulation/melanisation levels at the higher dose rates but were more susceptible to bacterial (Photorhabdus luminescens) infection. There were few signs of radiation impacts after 7 days exposure, whereas marked changes were recorded between 14 and 28 days. Our data suggest that G. mellonella demonstrates plasticity at the whole organism and cellular levels when irradiated and offers insight into how such animals may cope in radiologically contaminated environments (e.g. Chornobyl Exclusion Zone).
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Affiliation(s)
- David Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK
| | - Christopher J Coates
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, Wales, UK; Zoology, Ryan Institute, School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Jenson Lim
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK.
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2
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MacIntosh A, Koppel DJ, Johansen MP, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Penrose B, Cresswell T. Radiological risk assessment to marine biota from exposure to NORM from a decommissioned offshore oil and gas pipeline. J Environ Radioact 2022; 251-252:106979. [PMID: 35963215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2022.106979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Scale residues can accumulate on the interior surfaces of subsea petroleum pipes and may incorporate naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM). The persistent nature of 'NORM scale' may result in a radiological dose to the organisms living on or near intact pipelines. Following a scenario of in-situ decommissioning of a subsea pipeline, marine organisms occupying the exteriors or interiors of petroleum structures may have close contact with the scale or other NORM-associated contaminated substances and suffer subsequent radiological effects. This case study used radiological dose modelling software, including the ERICA Tool (v2.0), MicroShield® Pro and mathematical equations, to estimate the likely radiological doses and risks of effects from NORM-contaminated scale to marine biota from a decommissioned offshore oil and gas pipeline. Using activity concentrations of NORM (226Ra, 210Po, 210Pb, 228Ra, 228Th) from a subsea pipeline from Australia, environmental realistic exposure scenarios including radiological exposures from both an intact pipe (external only; accounting for radiation shielding by a cylindrical carbon steel pipe) and a decommissioned pipeline with corrosive breakthrough (resulting in both internal and external radiological exposure) were simulated to estimate doses to model marine organisms. Predicted dose rates for both the external only exposure (ranging from 26 μGy/h to 33 μGy/h) and a corroded pipeline (ranging from 300 μGy/h to 16,000 μGy/h) exceeded screening levels for radiological doses to environmental receptors. The study highlighted the importance of using scale-specific solubility data (i.e., Kd) values for individual NORM radionuclides for ERICA assessments. This study provides an approach for conducting marine organism dose assessments for NORM-contaminated subsea pipelines and highlights scientific gaps required to undertake risk assessments necessary to inform infrastructure decommissioning planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy MacIntosh
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Darren J Koppel
- Curtin University Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Mathew P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | | | - David Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Penrose
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
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3
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Burrows JE, Copplestone D, Raines KE, Beresford NA, Tinsley MC. Ecologically relevant radiation exposure triggers elevated metabolic rate and nectar consumption in bumblebees. Funct Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.14067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E. Burrows
- Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Stirling Stirling UK
| | - David Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Stirling Stirling UK
| | | | | | - Matthew C. Tinsley
- Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Stirling Stirling UK
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4
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Beresford NA, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Barnett CL, Brown J, Doering C, Caffrey E, Johansen MP, Melintescu A, Ruedig E, Vandenhove H, Vives I Batlle J, Wood MD, Yankovich TL, Copplestone D. Ensuring robust radiological risk assessment for wildlife: insights from the International Atomic Energy Agency EMRAS and MODARIA programmes. J Radiol Prot 2022; 42:020512. [PMID: 35502472 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6498/ac6043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In response to changing international recommendations and national requirements, a number of assessment approaches, and associated tools and models, have been developed over the last circa 20 years to assess radiological risk to wildlife. In this paper, we summarise international intercomparison exercises and scenario applications of available radiological assessment models for wildlife to aid future model users and those such as regulators who interpret assessments. Through our studies, we have assessed the fitness for purpose of various models and tools, identified the major sources of uncertainty and made recommendations on how the models and tools can best be applied to suit the purposes of an assessment. We conclude that the commonly used tiered or graded assessment tools are generally fit for purpose for conducting screening-level assessments of radiological impacts to wildlife. Radiological protection of the environment (or wildlife) is still a relatively new development within the overall system of radiation protection and environmental assessment approaches are continuing to develop. Given that some new/developing approaches differ considerably from the more established models/tools and there is an increasing international interest in developing approaches that support the effective regulation of multiple stressors (including radiation), we recommend the continuation of coordinated international programmes for model development, intercomparison and scenario testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - K Beaugelin-Seiller
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire, PSE/ENV/SRTE, Centre de Cadarache, Saint-Pual-Les-Durance, BP3 13115, France
| | - C L Barnett
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - J Brown
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), PO Box 55, No-1332 Østerås, Norway
| | - C Doering
- Environmental Research Institute of the Supervising Scientist, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - E Caffrey
- Radian Scientific, LLC, Huntsville, AL, United States of America
| | - M P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Sydney, Australia
| | - A Melintescu
- 'Horia Hulubei' National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 30 Reactorului St., POB MG-6, Magurele, Bucharest, RO-077125, Romania
| | - E Ruedig
- BHP, 201 CW Santa Fe Av., Grants, NM 87404, United States of America
| | - H Vandenhove
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - J Vives I Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - M D Wood
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - T L Yankovich
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Assessment and Management of Environmental Releases Unit, PO Box 100, Vienna, 1400, Austria
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
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5
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Vives I Batlle J, Biermans G, Copplestone D, Kryshev A, Melintescu A, Mothersill C, Sazykina T, Seymour C, Smith K, Wood MD. Towards an ecological modelling approach for assessing ionizing radiation impact on wildlife populations. J Radiol Prot 2022; 42:020507. [PMID: 35467551 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6498/ac5dd0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The emphasis of the international system of radiological protection of the environment is to protect populations of flora and fauna. Throughout the MODARIA programmes, the United Nations' International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has facilitated knowledge sharing, data gathering and model development on the effect of radiation on wildlife. We present a summary of the achievements of MODARIA I and II on wildlife dose effect modelling, extending to a new sensitivity analysis and model development to incorporate other stressors. We reviewed evidence on historical doses and transgenerational effects on wildlife from radioactively contaminated areas. We also evaluated chemical population modelling approaches, discussing similarities and differences between chemical and radiological impact assessment in wildlife. We developed population modelling methodologies by sourcing life history and radiosensitivity data and evaluating the available models, leading to the formulation of an ecosystem-based mathematical approach. This resulted in an ecologically relevant conceptual population model, which we used to produce advice on the evaluation of risk criteria used in the radiological protection of the environment and a proposed modelling extension for chemicals. This work seeks to inform stakeholder dialogue on factors influencing wildlife population responses to radiation, including discussions on the ecological relevance of current environmental protection criteria. The area of assessment of radiation effects in wildlife is still developing with underlying data and models continuing to be improved. IAEA's ongoing support to facilitate the sharing of new knowledge, models and approaches to Member States is highlighted, and we give suggestions for future developments in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vives I Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Boeretang 200, Mol, 2400, Belgium
| | - G Biermans
- Federal Agency for Nuclear Control, Rue Ravensteinstraat 36, Brussels, 1000, Belgium
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - A Kryshev
- Research and Production Association 'Typhoon', 4 Pobedy Str., Obninsk, Kaluga Region 249038, Russia
| | - A Melintescu
- Horia Hulubei National Institute of Physics & Nuclear Engineering, Bucharest - Magurele, Romania
| | - C Mothersill
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - T Sazykina
- Research and Production Association 'Typhoon', 4 Pobedy Str., Obninsk, Kaluga Region 249038, Russia
| | - C Seymour
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - K Smith
- RadEcol Consulting Ltd, 5 The Chambers, Vineyard, Abingdon OX14 3PX, United Kingdom
| | - M D Wood
- School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, United Kingdom
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6
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Raines KE, Whitehorn PR, Copplestone D, Tinsley MC. Chernobyl-level radiation exposure damages bumblebee reproduction: a laboratory experiment. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20201638. [PMID: 33081610 PMCID: PMC7661291 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.1638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The consequences for wildlife of living in radiologically contaminated environments are uncertain. Previous laboratory studies suggest insects are relatively radiation-resistant; however, some field studies from the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone report severe adverse effects at substantially lower radiation dose rates than expected. Here, we present the first laboratory investigation to study how environmentally relevant radiation exposure affects bumblebee life history, assessing the shape of the relationship between radiation exposure and fitness loss. Dose rates comparable to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (50-400 µGy h-1) impaired bumblebee reproduction and delayed colony growth but did not affect colony weight or longevity. Our best-fitting model for the effect of radiation dose rate on colony queen production had a strongly nonlinear concave relationship: exposure to only 100 µGy h-1 impaired reproduction by 30-45%, while further dose rate increases caused more modest additional reproductive impairment. Our data indicate that the practice of estimating effects of environmentally relevant low-dose rate exposure by extrapolating from high-dose rates may have considerably underestimated the effects of radiation. If our data can be generalized, they suggest insects suffer significant negative consequences at dose rates previously thought safe; we therefore advocate relevant revisions to the international framework for radiological protection of the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Penelope R. Whitehorn
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology KIT, Institute of Meteorology and Climate Research Atmospheric Environmental Research (IMK-IFU), Kreuzeckbahnstraße 19, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
| | - David Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Matthew C. Tinsley
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
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Abstract
The International Commission on Radiological Protection's (ICRP) system to protect the living components of the environment is designed to provide a broad and practical framework across different exposure situations. The framework recognises the need to be able to demonstrate an adequate level of protection in relation to planned exposure situations, whilst also providing an ability to manage existing and emergency situations in an appropriate way. In all three exposure situations, the release of radionuclides into the natural environment leads to exposures of non-human biota (wildlife), as well as having the potential for exposures of the public. How the key principles of the ICRP system of radiological protection apply in each of these exposure situations will be discussed. Using examples, we will demonstrate how the overall approach provides a mechanism for industry to assess and demonstrate compliance with the environmental protection objectives of relevant (national) legislation, and to meet stakeholder expectations that radiological protection of the environment is taken into consideration in accordance with international best practice. However, several challenges remain, and these will be discussed in the context of the need for additional guidance on the protection of the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - G A Hirth
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, 619 Lower Plenty Rd, Yallambie, 3085 Victoria, Australia
| | - T Cresswell
- ANSTO, New Illawarra Road, Lucas Heights, NSW 2234, Australia
| | - M P Johansen
- ANSTO, New Illawarra Road, Lucas Heights, NSW 2234, Australia
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8
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McGuire C, Dale P, Copplestone D, Wilson C, Tyler A. Characterising radium-226 particles from legacy contamination to support radiation dose assessments. J Environ Radioact 2020; 212:106127. [PMID: 31885362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.106127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Radioactive particles are physically discrete sources of radioactivity that have been released into the environment as a result of past emergencies, events and practices. As the release of radioactive particles is often unplanned, the source term has not been characterised, and the potential radiation doses have not been prospectively assessed. If a plausible exposure pathway exists, radioactive particles in the environment may present a hazard to the public depending on their radiological, physical and chemical characteristics. Given their physically discrete nature, standard assessment approaches such as dispersion and transfer modelling of liquid and gaseous radioactive releases, are not appropriate for radioactive particles. The challenge for national regulatory authorities is to calculate potential radiation doses from unplanned releases of radioactive particles into the environment, assess whether the doses are relevant to radiological protection and decide whether actions are required to reduce potential doses. To address this challenge, this paper presents the approach being adopted to radiologically, physically and chemically characterise Ra-226 particles from a contaminated legacy site using gamma spectrometry, optical macroscopy and SEM-EDS. The use of particle characterisation data to support radiation dose assessments is discussed and consideration is given to radioactive particles in the context of radiological protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- C McGuire
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom; Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Strathallan House, Castle Business Park, Stirling, FK9 4TZ, United Kingdom.
| | - P Dale
- Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Strathallan House, Castle Business Park, Stirling, FK9 4TZ, United Kingdom
| | - D Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - C Wilson
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - A Tyler
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
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9
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Beresford NA, Horemans N, Copplestone D, Raines KE, Orizaola G, Wood MD, Laanen P, Whitehead HC, Burrows JE, Tinsley MC, Smith JT, Bonzom JM, Gagnaire B, Adam-Guillermin C, Gashchak S, Jha AN, de Menezes A, Willey N, Spurgeon D. Towards solving a scientific controversy - The effects of ionising radiation on the environment. J Environ Radioact 2020; 211:106033. [PMID: 31451195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.106033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, CEH Lancaster, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom; School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom.
| | - N Horemans
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK●CEN), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - K E Raines
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - G Orizaola
- Universidad de Oviedo - Campus de Mieres, Edificio de Investigación 5a Planta, C/ Gonzalo Gutiérrez Quirós s/n, 33600, Mieres-Asturias, Spain
| | - M D Wood
- School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - P Laanen
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK●CEN), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium; University of Hasselt, Martelarenlaan 42, 3500, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - H C Whitehead
- School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - J E Burrows
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - M C Tinsley
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - J T Smith
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO1 3QL, United Kingdom
| | - J-M Bonzom
- IRSN, Centre de Cadarache, 13115, St Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - B Gagnaire
- IRSN, Centre de Cadarache, 13115, St Paul Lez Durance, France
| | | | - S Gashchak
- Chornobyl Center for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste & Radioecology, International Radioecology Laboratory, 77th Gvardiiska Dyviiya Str.11, P.O. Box 151, 07100, Slavutych, Kiev Region, Ukraine
| | - A N Jha
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
| | - A de Menezes
- Ryan Institute, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
| | - N Willey
- Centre for Research in Bioscience, Dept. of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Frenchay, BS16 1QY, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - D Spurgeon
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8BB, United Kingdom
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Lecomte-Pradines C, Adam-Guillermin C, Gashchak S, Bradshaw C, Copplestone D, Beresford NA. More than thirty years after the Chernobyl accident: What do we know about the effects of radiation on the environment? J Environ Radioact 2020; 211:106108. [PMID: 31753471 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.106108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - S Gashchak
- Chornobyl Centre for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste and Radioecology, International Radioecology Laboratory, 77th Gvardiiska Dyviiya Str.11, P.O. Box 151, 07100, Slavutych, Kiev Region, Ukraine
| | - C Bradshaw
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE-10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - N A Beresford
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, CEH Lancaster, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
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11
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Beresford NA, Scott EM, Copplestone D. Field effects studies in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone: Lessons to be learnt. J Environ Radioact 2020; 211:105893. [PMID: 30718022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In the initial aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl accident there were detrimental effects recorded on wildlife, including, mass mortality of pine trees close to the reactor, reduced pine seed production, reductions in soil invertebrate abundance and diversity and likely death of small mammals. More than 30 years after the Chernobyl accident there is no consensus on the longer-term impact of the chronic exposure to radiation on wildlife in what is now referred to as the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Reconciling this lack of consensus is one of the main challenges for radioecology. With the inclusion of environmental protection in, for instance, the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), we need to be able to incorporate knowledge of the potential effects of radiation on wildlife within the regulatory process (e.g. as a basis on which to define benchmark dose rates). In this paper, we use examples of reported effects on different wildlife groups inhabiting the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) as a framework to discuss potential reasons for the lack of consensus, consider important factors influencing dose rates organisms receive and make some recommendations on good practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - E M Scott
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QW, UK
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
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12
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Goodman J, Copplestone D, Laptev GV, Gashchak S, Auld SKJR. Variation in chronic radiation exposure does not drive life history divergence among Daphnia populations across the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:2640-2650. [PMID: 30891205 PMCID: PMC6405491 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation is a mutagen with known negative impacts on individual fitness. However, much less is known about how these individual fitness effects translate into population-level variation in natural environments that have experienced varying levels of radiation exposure. In this study, we sampled genotypes of the freshwater crustacean, Daphnia pulex, from the eight inhabited lakes across the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ). Each lake has experienced very different levels of chronic radiation exposure since a nuclear power reactor exploded there over thirty years ago. The sampled Daphnia genotypes represent genetic snapshots of current populations and allowed us to examine fitness-related traits under controlled laboratory conditions at UK background dose rates. We found that whilst there was variation in survival and schedules of reproduction among populations, there was no compelling evidence that this was driven by variation in exposure to radiation. Previous studies have shown that controlled exposure to radiation at dose rates included in the range measured in the current study reduce survival, or fecundity, or both. One limitation of this study is the lack of available sites at high dose rates, and future work could test life history variation in various organisms at other high radiation areas. Our results are nevertheless consistent with the idea that other ecological factors, for example competition, predation or parasitism, are likely to play a much bigger role in driving variation among populations than exposure to the high radiation dose rates found in the CEZ. These findings clearly demonstrate that it is important to examine the potential negative effects of radiation across wild populations that are subject to many and varied selection pressures as a result of complex ecological interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Goodman
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural SciencesStirling UniversityStirlingUK
| | - David Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural SciencesStirling UniversityStirlingUK
| | | | - Sergey Gashchak
- International Chornobyl Center 11SlavutychKyiv RegionUkraine
| | - Stuart K. J. R. Auld
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural SciencesStirling UniversityStirlingUK
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13
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Mothersill C, Abend M, Bréchignac F, Copplestone D, Geras'kin S, Goodman J, Horemans N, Jeggo P, McBride W, Mousseau TA, O'Hare A, Papineni RVL, Powathil G, Schofield PN, Seymour C, Sutcliffe J, Austin B. The tubercular badger and the uncertain curve:- The need for a multiple stressor approach in environmental radiation protection. Environ Res 2019; 168:130-140. [PMID: 30296640 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This article presents the results of a workshop held in Stirling, Scotland in June 2018, called to examine critically the effects of low-dose ionising radiation on the ecosphere. The meeting brought together participants from the fields of low- and high-dose radiobiology and those working in radioecology to discuss the effects that low doses of radiation have on non-human biota. In particular, the shape of the low-dose response relationship and the extent to which the effects of low-dose and chronic exposure may be predicted from high dose rate exposures were discussed. It was concluded that high dose effects were not predictive of low dose effects. It followed that the tools presently available were deemed insufficient to reliably predict risk of low dose exposures in ecosystems. The workshop participants agreed on three major recommendations for a path forward. First, as treating radiation as a single or unique stressor was considered insufficient, the development of a multidisciplinary approach is suggested to address key concerns about multiple stressors in the ecosphere. Second, agreed definitions are needed to deal with the multiplicity of factors determining outcome to low dose exposures as a term can have different meanings in different disciplines. Third, appropriate tools need to be developed to deal with the different time, space and organisation level scales. These recommendations permit a more accurate picture of prospective risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmel Mothersill
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4K1.
| | - Michael Abend
- Bundeswehr Institute of Radiobiology, Neuherbergstrasse 11, 80937 Munich, Germany.
| | - Francois Bréchignac
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) & International Union of Radioecology, Centre du Cadarache, Bldg 229, St Paul-lez-Durance, France.
| | - David Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK.
| | - Stanislav Geras'kin
- Russian Institute of Radiology & Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109km, Obninsk 249020, Russia.
| | - Jessica Goodman
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK.
| | - Nele Horemans
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol, Belgium.
| | - Penny Jeggo
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RQ, UK.
| | - William McBride
- University of California Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Timothy A Mousseau
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
| | - Anthony O'Hare
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK.
| | - Rao V L Papineni
- Department of Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center - KUMC (Adjunct), and PACT & Health, Branford, CT, USA.
| | - Gibin Powathil
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales SA2 8PP, UK.
| | - Paul N Schofield
- Dept of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
| | - Colin Seymour
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4K1.
| | - Jill Sutcliffe
- Low Level Radiation and Health Conference, Ingrams Farm Fittleworth Road, Wisborough Green RH14 0JA, West Sussex, UK.
| | - Brian Austin
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK.
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Abstract
Abstract – The diversity of non-human biota is a specific challenge when developing and applying dosimetric models for assessing exposures of flora and fauna from radioactive sources in the environment. Dosimetric models, adopted in Publication 108, provide dose coefficients (DCs) for a group of reference entities [Reference Animals and Plants (RAPs)]. The DCs can be used to evaluate doses and dose rates, and to compare the latter with derived consideration reference levels (DCRLs), which are bands of dose rate where some sort of detrimental effect in a particular RAP may be expected to occur following chronic, long-term radiation exposure, as outlined in Publication 124. These dosimetric models pragmatically assume simple body shapes with uniform composition and density, homogeneous internal contamination, limited sets of idealised sources of external exposure to ionising radiation for aquatic and terrestrial animals and plants, and truncated radioactive decay chains. This pragmatic methodology is further developed and systematically extended in this publication, which supersedes the DC values of Publication 108. Significant methodological changes since Publication 108 include: implementation of a new approach for external exposure of terrestrial animals with an extended set of environmental radioactive sources in soil and in air; considering an extended range of organisms and locations in contaminated terrain; transition to the contemporary radionuclide database of Publication 107; assessment-specific consideration of the contribution of radioactive progeny to DCs of parent radionuclides; and use of generalised allometric relationships in the estimation of biokinetic or metabolic parameter values. These methodological developments result in changes to previously published tables of DCs for RAPs, and revised values are provided in this publication. This publication is complemented by a new software tool, called ‘BiotaDC’, which enables the calculation of DCs for internal and external exposures of organisms with user-defined masses, shapes, and locations in the environment and for all radionuclides in Publication 107.
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Copplestone D, Hirth G, Johansen M, Lazo E, Takala J, Sakai K, Yankovich T. Implementation of the integrated approach in different types of exposure scenarios. Ann ICRP 2018; 47:304-312. [PMID: 29648459 DOI: 10.1177/0146645318756837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recognises three types of exposure situations: planned, existing, and emergency. In all three situations, the release of radionuclides into the natural environment leads to exposures of non-human biota, as well as the potential for exposures of the public. This paper describes how the key principles of the ICRP system of radiological protection apply to non-human biota and members of the public in each of these exposure situations. Current work in this area within ICRP Task Group 105 is highlighted. For example, how simplified numeric criteria may be used in planned exposure situations that are protective of both the public and non-human biota. In emergency exposure situations, the initial response will always be focused on human protection; however, understanding the potential impacts of radionuclide releases on non-human biota will likely become important in terms of communication as governments and the public seek to understand the exposures that are occurring. For existing exposure situations, there is a need to better understand the potential impacts of radionuclides on animals and plants, especially when deciding on protective actions. Understanding the comparative impacts from radiological, non-radiological, and physical aspects is often important in managing the remediation of legacy sites. Task Group 105 is making use of case studies of how exposure situations have been managed in the past to provide additional guidance and advice for the protection of non-human biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Copplestone
- a Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - G Hirth
- b Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, Australia
| | - M Johansen
- c Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Australia
| | - E Lazo
- d Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development - Nuclear Energy Agency, France
| | | | - K Sakai
- f Tokyo Healthcare University, Japan
| | - T Yankovich
- g International Atomic Energy Agency, Austria
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16
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Vives I Batlle J, Ulanovsky A, Copplestone D. A method for assessing exposure of terrestrial wildlife to environmental radon ( 222Rn) and thoron ( 220Rn). Sci Total Environ 2017; 605-606:569-577. [PMID: 28672245 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.06.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A method is presented to calculate radiation dose rates arising from radon, thoron and their progeny to non-human biota in the terrestrial environment. The method improves on existing methodologies for the assessment of radon to biota by using a generalised allometric approach to model respiration, calculating dose coefficients for the ICRP reference animals and plants, and extending the approach to cover thoron in addition to radon-derived isotopes. The method is applicable to a range of environmental situations involving these radionuclides in wildlife, with an envisaged application being to study the impact of human activities, which bring NORM radionuclides to the biosphere. Consequently, there is a need to determine whether there is an impact on non-human biota from exposure to anthropogenically enhanced radionuclides.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Ulanovsky
- Institute of Radiation Protection, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
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17
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Dale P, Copplestone D, Peredo-Alvarez V, Tyler A. Multiple authorisation radiological assessment tool. J Radiol Prot 2017; 37:804-805. [PMID: 28857051 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6498/aa7872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Dale
- SEPA, Erskine Court, Castle Business Park, Stirling, FK9 4TR, United Kingdom
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18
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Abstract
The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) described its approach to the protection of the environment and how it should be applied in Publication 124 The report expanded on the Commission's objectives for environmental protection, and how the Derived Consideration Reference Levels (DCRLs) apply within different exposure situations. DCRLs relate radiation effects to doses over and above their normal local background radiation levels, and consider different potential pathways of exposure for animals and plants. This paper will describe how the DCRLs may be used within existing exposure situations to better understand the potential impacts on animals and plants. In these circumstances, the Commission recommends that the aim be to reduce exposures to levels that are within the DCRL bands (or even below, depending upon the potential cost/benefits), but with full consideration of the radiological and non-radiological consequences of doing so. Using examples, this paper will demonstrate how this may be achieved in practice, bearing in mind the potential exposure of humans, animals and plants during and following any remediation attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
| | - C-M Larsson
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, Australia
| | - P Strand
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority/Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norway
| | - M K Sneve
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority/Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norway
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19
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Brown JE, Alfonso B, Avila R, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Hosseini A. A new version of the ERICA tool to facilitate impact assessments of radioactivity on wild plants and animals. J Environ Radioact 2016; 153:141-148. [PMID: 26773508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A new version of the ERICA Tool (version 1.2) was released in November 2014; this constitutes the first major update of the Tool since release in 2007. The key features of the update are presented in this article. Of particular note are new transfer databases extracted from an international compilation of concentration ratios (CRwo-media) and the modification of 'extrapolation' approaches used to select transfer data in cases where information is not available. Bayesian updating approaches have been used in some cases to draw on relevant information that would otherwise have been excluded in the process of deriving CRwo-media statistics. All of these efforts have in turn led to the requirement to update Environmental Media Concentration Limits (EMCLs) used in Tier 1 assessments. Some of the significant changes with regard to EMCLs are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Department of Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Radioactivity, Grini næringspark 13 Postbox 55, NO-1332, Østerås, Norway.
| | - B Alfonso
- Facilia AB, Gustavslundsvägen 151C, 167 51, Bromma, Sweden
| | - R Avila
- Facilia AB, Gustavslundsvägen 151C, 167 51, Bromma, Sweden
| | - N A Beresford
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Center, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA14AP, UK
| | - D Copplestone
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - A Hosseini
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Department of Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Radioactivity, Grini næringspark 13 Postbox 55, NO-1332, Østerås, Norway
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20
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Abstract
The International Commission on Radiological Protection's (ICRP) system to protect the living components of the environment is designed to provide a broad and practical framework across all exposure situations. The objectives of ICRP are therefore also set in fairly broad terms, recognising that national and local environmental protection requirements may need to be set within them. The framework recognises the need to be able to demonstrate an adequate level of protection in relation to planned exposure situations, whilst also providing an ability to manage existing situations and accidents, as well as emergency situations, in a rational way. The objects of protection are always real biota in real exposure situations, and the scientific basis for their protection needs to be based on data originating from studies on the relationships between exposure and dose, dose and effects, and effects and consequences in real animals and plants. The framework that has been developed has therefore had to take such realities into account to make the optimum use of the data currently available, whilst being sufficiently flexible to accommodate new scientific information as it arises without having to alter the framework as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Pentreath
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, The Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK
| | - C-M Larsson
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, Miranda, NSW, Australia
| | - D Copplestone
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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21
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Vives I Batlle J, Jones SR, Copplestone D. A method for estimating (41)Ar, (85)(,88)Kr and (131m,133)Xe doses to non-human biota. J Environ Radioact 2015; 144:152-161. [PMID: 25863225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A method is presented for estimating (41)Ar, (85,88)Kr and (131m,133)Xe dose rates to terrestrial wildlife without having to resort to comparisons with analogue radionuclides. The approach can be used to calculate the dose rates arising from external exposures to given ambient air concentrations of these isotopes. Dose conversion coefficient (DCC) values for a range of representative organisms are calculated, using a Monte Carlo approach to generate absorbed fractions based on representing animals as reference ellipsoid geometries. Plume immersion is the main component of the total DCC. DCC values calculated for a human-sized organism are compared with human dose conversion factors from ICRP Publication 119, demonstrating the consistency of the biota approach with that for humans. An example of application is provided for hypothetical nuclear power plant atmospheric discharges with associated exposures to birds and insects. In this example, the dose rates appear to be dominated by (133)Xe and (88)Kr, respectively. The biota considered would be protected from the effects of noble gas radiation from a population protection perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vives I Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.
| | - S R Jones
- Dalton Nuclear Institute, University of Manchester, UK
| | - D Copplestone
- School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Stirling, UK
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22
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Joseph P, Bhat NN, Copplestone D, Narayana Y. Production of gamma induced reactive oxygen species and damage of DNA molecule in HaCaT cells under euoxic and hypoxic condition. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-014-3375-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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23
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Barnett CL, Beresford NA, Walker LA, Baxter M, Wells C, Copplestone D. Transfer parameters for ICRP reference animals and plants collected from a forest ecosystem. Radiat Environ Biophys 2014; 53:125-149. [PMID: 24173444 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-013-0493-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/15/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) have suggested the identification of a series of terrestrial, marine and freshwater sites from which samples of each Reference animal and plant (RAP) could be systematically collected and analysed. We describe the first such study in which six of the eight terrestrial RAPs, and associated soil samples, were collected from a site located in a managed coniferous forestry plantation in north-west England. Adult life stages of species representing six of the terrestrial RAPs (Wild grass, Pine tree, Deer, Rat, Earthworm and Bee) were sampled and analysed to determine concentrations of 60 elements and gamma-emitting radionuclides. The resultant data have been used to derive concentration ratios (CR(wo-soil)) relating element/radionuclide concentrations in the RAPs to those in soil. This paper presents the first-reported transfer parameters for a number of the RAP-element combinations. Where possible, the derived CR(wo-soil) values are compared with the ICRPs-recommended values and any appreciable differences discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Barnett
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK,
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24
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Pentreath RJ, Lochard J, Larsson CM, Cool DA, Strand P, Simmonds J, Copplestone D, Oughton D, Lazo E. ICRP Publication 124: Protection of the Environment under Different Exposure Situations. Ann ICRP 2014; 43:1-58. [PMID: 25915706 DOI: 10.1177/0146645313497456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In this report, the Commission describes its framework for protection of the environment and how it should be applied within the Commission’s system of protection. The report expands upon its objectives in relation to protection of the environment, in so far as it relates to the protection of animals and plants (biota) in their natural environment, and how these can be met by the use of Reference Animals and Plants (RAPs); their Derived Consideration Reference Levels (DCRLs), which relate radiation effects to doses over and above their normal local background natural radiation levels; and different potential pathways of exposure. The report explains the different types of exposure situations to which its recommendations apply; the key principles that are relevant to protection of the environment; and hence how reference values based on the use of DCRLs can be used to inform on the appropriate level of effort relevant to different exposure situations. Further recommendations are made with regard to how the Commission’s recommendations can be implemented to satisfy different forms of environmental protection objectives, which may require the use of representative organisms specific to a site, and how these may be compared with the reference values. Additional information is also given with regard to, in particular, communication with other interested parties and stakeholders. Issues that may arise in relation to compliance are also discussed, and the final chapter discusses the overall implications of the Commission’s work in this area to date. Appendices A and B provide some numerical information relating to the RAPs. Annex C considers various existing types of environmental protection legislation currently in place in relation to large industrial sites and practices, and the various ways in which wildlife are protected from various threats arising from such sites.
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Yankovich T, Beresford NA, Fesenko S, Fesenko J, Phaneuf M, Dagher E, Outola I, Andersson P, Thiessen K, Ryan J, Wood MD, Bollhöfer A, Barnett CL, Copplestone D. Establishing a database of radionuclide transfer parameters for freshwater wildlife. J Environ Radioact 2013; 126:299-313. [PMID: 23103210 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Environmental assessments to evaluate potentials risks to humans and wildlife often involve modelling to predict contaminant exposure through key pathways. Such models require input of parameter values, including concentration ratios, to estimate contaminant concentrations in biota based on measurements or estimates of concentrations in environmental media, such as water. Due to the diversity of species and the range in physicochemical conditions in natural ecosystems, concentration ratios can vary by orders of magnitude, even within similar species. Therefore, to improve model input parameter values for application in aquatic systems, freshwater concentration ratios were collated or calculated from national grey literature, Russian language publications, and refereed papers. Collated data were then input into an international database that is being established by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The freshwater database enables entry of information for all radionuclides listed in ICRP (1983), in addition to the corresponding stable elements, and comprises a total of more than 16,500 concentration ratio (CRwo-water) values. Although data were available for all broad wildlife groups (with the exception of birds), data were sparse for many organism types. For example, zooplankton, crustaceans, insects and insect larvae, amphibians, and mammals, for which there were CRwo-water values for less than eight elements. Coverage was most comprehensive for fish, vascular plants, and molluscs. To our knowledge, the freshwater database that has now been established represents the most comprehensive set of CRwo-water values for freshwater species currently available for use in radiological environmental assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yankovich
- Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC), Environment and Forestry, #125, 15 Innovation Blvd., Saskatoon, SK S7N 2X8, Canada.
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26
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Copplestone D, Beresford NA, Brown JE, Yankovich T. An international database of radionuclide concentration ratios for wildlife: development and uses. J Environ Radioact 2013; 126:288-298. [PMID: 23815858 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A key element of most systems for assessing the impact of radionuclides on the environment is a means to estimate the transfer of radionuclides to organisms. To facilitate this, an international wildlife transfer database has been developed to provide an online, searchable compilation of transfer parameters in the form of equilibrium-based whole-organism to media concentration ratios. This paper describes the derivation of the wildlife transfer database, the key data sources it contains and highlights the applications for the data.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Copplestone
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom.
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27
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Wood MD, Beresford NA, Howard BJ, Copplestone D. Evaluating summarised radionuclide concentration ratio datasets for wildlife. J Environ Radioact 2013; 126:314-325. [PMID: 24090717 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Concentration ratios (CR(wo-media)) are used in most radioecological models to predict whole-body radionuclide activity concentrations in wildlife from those in environmental media. This simplistic approach amalgamates the various factors influencing transfer within a single generic value and, as a result, comparisons of model predictions with site-specific measurements can vary by orders of magnitude. To improve model predictions, the development of 'condition-specific' CR(wo-media) values has been proposed (e.g. for a specific habitat). However, the underlying datasets for most CR(wo-media) value databases, such as the wildlife transfer database (WTD) developed within the IAEA EMRAS II programme, include summarised data. This presents challenges for the calculation and subsequent statistical evaluation of condition-specific CR(wo-media) values. A further complication is the common use of arithmetic summary statistics to summarise data in source references, even though CR(wo-media) values generally tend towards a lognormal distribution and should, therefore, be summarised using geometric statistics. In this paper, we propose a statistically-defensible and robust method for reconstructing underlying datasets to calculate condition-specific CR(wo-media) values from summarised data and deriving geometric summary statistics. This method is applied to terrestrial datasets from the WTD. Statistically significant differences in sub-category CR(wo-media) values (e.g. mammals categorised by feeding strategy) were identified, which may justify the use of these CR(wo-media) values for specific assessment contexts. However, biases and limitations within the underlying datasets of the WTD explain some of these differences. Given the uncertainty in the summarised CR(wo-media) values, we suggest that the CR(wo-media) approach to estimating transfer is used with caution above screening-level assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Wood
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK.
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Howard BJ, Wells C, Beresford NA, Copplestone D. Exploring methods to prioritise concentration ratios when estimating weighted absorbed dose rates to terrestrial Reference Animals and Plants. J Environ Radioact 2013; 126:326-337. [PMID: 23866262 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The ICRP and IAEA have recently reported Concentration Ratio values (CRwo-media--equilibrium radionuclide activity concentration in whole organism divided by that in media) for Reference Animals and Plants (RAPs) and a wide range of organism groups, respectively, based on a common online database. Given the large number of data gaps in both publications, there is a need to develop methods for identifying the relative importance of improving currently available CR(wo-media) values. A simple, transparent approach involving the derivation and comparison of predicted internal and external weighted absorbed dose rates for radionuclides considered by ICRP (2009) for terrestrial RAPs is presented. Using the approach of applying a reference value of CR(wo-soil) = 1 or using the maximum reported values where CR(wo-soil) >1, we provisionally identify terrestrial radionuclide RAP combinations which could be considered low priority, notably: Ca, Cr and Ni consistently; Mn for all RAPs except Deer and Pine Tree; and Tc for all RAPs but Wild Grass. Equally, we can systematically identify high priority elements and radioisotopes, which largely, but not exclusively, consist of alpha-emitters (especially isotopes of Ra and Th, but also consistently Am, Cf, Cm, Np, Pa, Po, Pu, U). The analysis highlights the importance of the radiation weighting factor default assumption of 10 for alpha-emitters in the ERICA Tool when comparing the magnitude of the internal dose and trying to identify high priority RAP-isotope combinations. If the unweighted Dose Conversion Coefficient (DCC) values are considered, those for alpha-emitters are often one order of magnitude higher than those due to some beta-gamma emitters for terrestrial RAPs, whereas with the radiation weighting factor applied they are two orders of magnitude higher.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Howard
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom.
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Tyler AN, Dale P, Copplestone D, Bradley S, Ewen H, McGuire C, Scott EM. The radium legacy: Contaminated land and the committed effective dose from the ingestion of radium contaminated materials. Environ Int 2013; 59:449-455. [PMID: 23933503 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2013.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Revised: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The manufacture and use of radium in the early to mid-20th century within industrial, medicinal and recreational products have resulted in a large number of contaminated sites across a number of countries with notable examples in the USA and Europe. These sites, represent a significant number of unregulated sources of potential radiological exposure that have collectively and hitherto not been well characterised. In 2007, the Radioactive Contaminated Land (RCL) Regulations came into force in the UK, providing the statutory guidance for regulators to classify and deal with RCL. Here we report on results derived from digestion experiments to estimate committed effective dose, a key aspect of the RCL Regulations, from the ingestion of radium contaminated sources that can be found in the environment. This case study includes particles, clinker and artefacts that arise from past military activities on a site that was once an airfield at Dalgety Bay on the Firth of Forth, UK. Since 2011 the number of radium contaminated finds has increased by one order of magnitude on the foreshore areas of Dalgety Bay. The increase in finds may in large part be attributed to a change in monitoring practice. A subsample of sixty sources was selected, on the basis of their activity and dimensions, and subjected to digestion in simulated stomach and lower intestine solutions. The study demonstrated that more radium-226 ((226)Ra) and lead-210 ((210)Pb; driven by Polonium solubility) are dissolved from sources in artificial 'stomach' solutions compared with 'lower intestine' solutions. The combined 'gut' solubility for (226)Ra and apparent (210)Pb varied from less than 1% to up to 35% ICRP 72 conversion factors were used to convert the activities measured in solution to committed effective dose. A little over 10% of the sources tested dissolved sufficient radioactivity to result in 100mSv committed effective dose to an infant. Using the solubility of 35% as a worst case, minimum source activities necessary to deliver 100mSv to the full age range of users of the foreshore were estimated. All the estimated activities have been detected and recovered through routine monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Tyler
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom.
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30
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Howard BJ, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Telleria D, Proehl G, Fesenko S, Jeffree RA, Yankovich TL, Brown JE, Higley K, Johansen MP, Mulye H, Vandenhove H, Gashchak S, Wood MD, Takata H, Andersson P, Dale P, Ryan J, Bollhöfer A, Doering C, Barnett CL, Wells C. The IAEA handbook on radionuclide transfer to wildlife. J Environ Radioact 2013; 121:55-74. [PMID: 22513215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
An IAEA handbook presenting transfer parameter values for wildlife has recently been produced. Concentration ratios (CRwo-media) between the whole organism (fresh weight) and either soil (dry weight) or water were collated for a range of wildlife groups (classified taxonomically and by feeding strategy) in terrestrial, freshwater, marine and brackish generic ecosystems. The data have been compiled in an on line database, which will continue to be updated in the future providing the basis for subsequent revision of the Wildlife TRS values. An overview of the compilation and analysis, and discussion of the extent and limitations of the data is presented. Example comparisons of the CRwo-media values are given for polonium across all wildlife groups and ecosystems and for molluscs for all radionuclides. The CRwo-media values have also been compared with those currently used in the ERICA Tool which represented the most complete published database for wildlife transfer values prior to this work. The use of CRwo-media values is a pragmatic approach to predicting radionuclide activity concentrations in wildlife and is similar to that used for screening assessments for the human food chain. The CRwo-media values are most suitable for a screening application where there are several conservative assumptions built into the models which will, to varying extents, compensate for the variable data quality and quantity, and associated uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Howard
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK.
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31
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Beresford NA, Barnett CL, Howard BJ, Howard DC, Wells C, Tyler AN, Bradley S, Copplestone D. Observations of Fukushima fallout in Great Britain. J Environ Radioact 2012; 114:48-53. [PMID: 22206699 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2011.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Revised: 12/07/2011] [Accepted: 12/09/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Following the Fukushima accident in March 2011, grass samples were collected from 42 sites around Great Britain during April 2011. Iodine-131 was measurable in grass samples across the country with activity concentrations ranging from 10 to 55 Bq kg(-1) dry matter. Concentrations were similar to those reported in other European countries. Rainwater and some foodstuffs were also analysed from a limited number of sites. Of these, (131)I was only detectable in sheep's milk (c. 2 Bq kg(-1)). Caesium-134, which can be attributed to releases from the Fukushima reactors, was detectable in six of the grass samples (4-8 Bq kg(-1) dry matter); (137)Cs was detected in a larger number of grass samples although previous release sources (atmospheric weapons test and the 1986 Chernobyl and 1957 Windscale accidents) are likely to have contributed to this.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom.
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Beresford NA, Adam-Guillermin C, Bonzom JM, Garnier-Laplace J, Hinton T, Lecomte C, Copplestone D. Comment on "Abundance of birds in Fukushima as judged from Chernobyl" by Møller et al. (2012). Environ Pollut 2012; 169:136-142. [PMID: 22682305 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2012.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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33
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Beresford NA, Barnett CL, Vives i Batlle J, Potter ED, Ibrahimi ZF, Barlow TS, Schieb C, Jones DG, Copplestone D. Exposure of burrowing mammals to 222Rn. Sci Total Environ 2012; 431:252-261. [PMID: 22687435 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2012.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Revised: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Estimates of absorbed dose rates to wildlife from exposure to natural background radionuclides are required to put estimates of dose rates arising from regulated releases of radioactivity and proposed benchmarks into context. Recent review papers have estimated dose rates to wildlife from (40)K, and (238)U and (232)Th series radionuclides. However, only one study previous has considered the potential dose rates to burrowing animals from inhaled (222)Rn and its daughter products. In this paper we describe a study conducted at seven sites in northwest England. Passive track etch detectors were used to measure the (222)Rn concentrations in artificial burrows over a period of approximately one year. Results suggest that absorbed dose rates to burrowing mammals as a consequence of exposure to (222)Rn are likely to be at least an order of magnitude higher than those suggested in previous evaluations of natural background exposure rates which had omitted this radionuclide and exposure pathway. Dose rates in some areas of Great Britain will be considerably in excess of incremental no-effects benchmark dose rates suggested for use as screening levels. Such advised benchmark dose rates need to be better put into context with background dose rates, including exposure to (222)Rn, to ensure credibility; although the context will be determined by the purpose of the benchmark and the assessment level.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av. Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom.
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Vives i Batlle J, Copplestone D, Jones SR. Allometric methodology for the assessment of radon exposures to terrestrial wildlife. Sci Total Environ 2012; 427-428:50-59. [PMID: 22575373 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2012.03.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Revised: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/31/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A practical approach to calculate (222)Rn daughter dose rates to terrestrial wildlife is presented. The method scales allometrically the relevant parameters for respiration in different species of wildlife, allowing inter-species calculation of the dose per unit radon concentration in air as simple base-and-exponent power functions of the mass. For plants, passive gas exchange through the leaf surface is assumed, also leading to specific power relationships with mass. The model generates conservative predictions in which the main contributor to the dose rate of target tissues of the respiratory system is from α radiation arising from (222)Rn daughters. Tabulated (222)Rn DPURn values are given for 69 species used by the England & Wales Environment Agency for habitats assessments. The approach is then applied to assess the authorised discharges of (222)Rn from sites in England, demonstrating that, from a whole-body dose perspective, the biota considered are protected from effects at the population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vives i Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium.
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35
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Geras'kin SA, Oudalova AA, Dikarev VG, Dikareva NS, Mozolin EM, Hinton T, Spiridonov SI, Copplestone D, Garnier-Laplace J. Effects of chronic exposure in populations of Koeleria gracilis Pers. from the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site, Kazakhstan. J Environ Radioact 2012; 104:55-63. [PMID: 22115436 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2011.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Morphological and cytogenetic abnormalities were examined in crested hairgrass (Koeleria gracilis Pers.) populations inhabiting the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site (STS), Kazakhstan. Sampling of biological material and soil was carried out during 3 years (2005-2007) at 4 sites within the STS. Activity concentrations of 10 radionuclides and 8 heavy metals content in soils were measured. Doses absorbed by plants were estimated and varied, depending on the plot, from 4 up to 265 mGy/y. The frequency of cytogenetic alterations in apical meristem of germinated seeds from the highly contaminated plot significantly exceeded the level observed at other plots with lower levels of radioactive contamination during all three years of the study. A significant excess of chromosome aberrations, typical for radiation exposure, as well as a dependence of the frequency of these types of mutations on dose absorbed by plants were revealed. The results indicate the role radioactive contamination plays in the occurrence of cytogenetic effects. However, no radiation-dependent morphological alterations were detected in the progeny of the exposed populations. Given that the crested hairgrass populations have occupied the radioactively contaminated plots for some 50 years, adaptation to the radiation stress was not evident. The findings obtained were in agreement with the benchmark values proposed in the FASSET and ERICA projects to restrict radiation impacts on biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Geras'kin
- Department of Radioecology, Russian Institute of Agricultural Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, Zvezdnaya str., 6-11 109 km, 249032 Obninsk, Kaluga Region, Russia.
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36
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Vives i Batlle J, Smith A, Vives-Lynch S, Copplestone D, Pröhl G, Strand T. Model-derived dose rates per unit concentration of radon in air in a generic plant geometry. Radiat Environ Biophys 2011; 50:513-529. [PMID: 21739195 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-011-0376-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2010] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A model for the derivation of dose rates per unit radon concentration in plants was developed in line with the activities of a Task Group of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), aimed at developing more realistic dosimetry for non-human biota. The model considers interception of the unattached and attached fractions of the airborne radon daughters by plant stomata, diffusion of radon gas through stomata, permeation through the plant's epidermis and translocation of deposited activity to plant interior. The endpoint of the model is the derivation of dose conversion coefficients relative to radon gas concentration at ground level. The model predicts that the main contributor to dose is deposition of (214)Po α-activity on the plant surface and that diffusion of radon daughters through the stomata is of relatively minor importance; hence, daily variations have a small effect on total dose.
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37
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Reinardy HC, Teyssie JL, Jeffree RA, Copplestone D, Henry TB, Jha AN. Uptake, depuration, and radiation dose estimation in zebrafish exposed to radionuclides via aqueous or dietary routes. Sci Total Environ 2011; 409:3771-3779. [PMID: 21782211 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2011.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Understanding uptake and depuration of radionuclides in organisms is necessary to relate exposure to radiation dose and ultimately to biological effects. We investigated uptake and depuration of a mixture of radionuclides to link bioaccumulation with radiation dose in zebrafish, Danio rerio. Adult zebrafish were exposed to radionuclides ((54)Mn, (60)Co, (65)Zn, (75)Se, (109)Cd, (110m)Ag, (134)Cs and (241)Am) at tracer levels (<200 Bq g(-1)) for 14 d, either via water or diet. Radioactivity concentrations were measured in whole body and excised gonads of exposed fish during uptake (14 d) and depuration phases (47 d and 42 d for aqueous and dietary exposures respectively), and dose rates were modelled from activity concentrations in whole body and exposure medium (water or diet). After 14-day aqueous exposure, radionuclides were detected in decreasing activity concentrations: (75)Se>(65)Zn>(109)Cd>(110m)Ag>(54)Mn>(60)Co>(241)Am>(134)Cs (range: 175-8 Bq g(1)). After dietary exposure the order of radionuclide activity concentration in tissues (Bq g(-1)) was: (65)Zn>(60)Co>(75)Se>(109)Cd>(110m)Ag>(241)Am>(54)Mn>(134)Cs (range: 91-1 Bq g(-1)). Aqueous exposure resulted in higher whole body activity concentrations for all radionuclides except (60)Co. Route of exposure did not appear to influence activity concentrations in gonads, except for (54)Mn, (65)Zn, and (75)Se, which had higher activity concentrations in gonads following aqueous exposure. Highest gonad activity concentrations (Bq g(-1)) were for (75)Se (211), (109)Cd (142), and (65)Zn (117), and highest dose rates (μGy h(-1)) were from (241)Am (aqueous, 1050; diet 242). This study links radionuclide bioaccumulation data obtained in laboratory experiments with radiation dose determined by application of a dosimetry modelling tool, an approach that will enable better linkages to be made between exposure, dose, and effects of radionuclides in organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena C Reinardy
- Ecotoxicology Research and Innovation Centre, School of Biomedical and Biological Sciences, The University of Plymouth, UK
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38
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Beresford NA, Copplestone D. Effects of ionizing radiation on wildlife: what knowledge have we gained between the Chernobyl and Fukushima accidents? Integr Environ Assess Manag 2011; 7:371-373. [PMID: 21608117 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The recent events at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan have raised questions over the effects of radiation in the environment. This article considers what we have learned about the radiological consequences for the environment from the Chernobyl accident, Ukraine, in April 1986. The literature offers mixed opinions of the long-term impacts on wildlife close to the Chernobyl plant, with some articles reporting significant effects at very low dose rates (below natural background dose rate levels in, for example, the United Kingdom). The lack of agreement highlights the need for further research to establish whether current radiological protection criteria for wildlife are adequate (and to determine if there are any implications for human radiological protection).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom.
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39
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Vives i Batlle J, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Horyna J, Hosseini A, Johansen M, Kamboj S, Keum DK, Kurosawa N, Newsome L, Olyslaegers G, Vandenhove H, Ryufuku S, Vives Lynch S, Wood MD, Yu C. The estimation of absorbed dose rates for non-human biota: an extended intercomparison. Radiat Environ Biophys 2011; 50:231-251. [PMID: 21113609 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0346-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
An exercise to compare 10 approaches for the calculation of unweighted whole-body absorbed dose rates was conducted for 74 radionuclides and five of the ICRP's Reference Animals and Plants, or RAPs (duck, frog, flatfish egg, rat and elongated earthworm), selected for this exercise to cover a range of body sizes, dimensions and exposure scenarios. Results were analysed using a non-parametric method requiring no specific hypotheses about the statistical distribution of data. The obtained unweighted absorbed dose rates for internal exposure compare well between the different approaches, with 70% of the results falling within a range of variation of ±20%. The variation is greater for external exposure, although 90% of the estimates are within an order of magnitude of one another. There are some discernible patterns where specific models over- or under-predicted. These are explained based on the methodological differences including number of daughter products included in the calculation of dose rate for a parent nuclide; source-target geometry; databases for discrete energy and yield of radionuclides; rounding errors in integration algorithms; and intrinsic differences in calculation methods. For certain radionuclides, these factors combine to generate systematic variations between approaches. Overall, the technique chosen to interpret the data enabled methodological differences in dosimetry calculations to be quantified and compared, allowing the identification of common issues between different approaches and providing greater assurance on the fundamental dose conversion coefficient approaches used in available models for assessing radiological effects to biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vives i Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium.
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40
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Wood MD, Beresford NA, Semenov DV, Yankovich TL, Copplestone D. Radionuclide transfer to reptiles. Radiat Environ Biophys 2010; 49:509-530. [PMID: 20725838 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0321-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Reptiles are an important, and often protected, component of many ecosystems but have rarely been fully considered within ecological risk assessments (ERA) due to a paucity of data on contaminant uptake and effects. This paper presents a meta-analysis of literature-derived environmental media (soil and water) to whole-body concentration ratios (CRs) for predicting the transfer of 35 elements (Am, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Ce, Cm, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, Po, Pu, Ra, Rb, Sb, Se, Sr, Th, U, V, Y, Zn, Zr) to reptiles in freshwater ecosystems and 15 elements (Am, C, Cs, Cu, K, Mn, Ni, Pb, Po, Pu, Sr, Tc, Th, U, Zn) to reptiles in terrestrial ecosystems. These reptile CRs are compared with CRs for other vertebrate groups. Tissue distribution data are also presented along with data on the fractional mass of bone, kidney, liver and muscle in reptiles. Although the data were originally collected for use in radiation dose assessments, many of the CR data presented in this paper will also be useful for chemical ERA and for the assessments of dietary transfer in humans for whom reptiles constitute an important component of the diet, such as in Australian aboriginal communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Wood
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK.
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41
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Yankovich TL, Vives i Batlle J, Vives-Lynch S, Beresford NA, Barnett CL, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Brown JE, Cheng JJ, Copplestone D, Heling R, Hosseini A, Howard BJ, Kamboj S, Kryshev AI, Nedveckaite T, Smith JT, Wood MD. An international model validation exercise on radionuclide transfer and doses to freshwater biota. J Radiol Prot 2010; 30:299-340. [PMID: 20530860 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/s06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'s EMRAS (Environmental Modelling for Radiation Safety) programme, activity concentrations of (60)Co, (90)Sr, (137)Cs and (3)H in Perch Lake at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited's Chalk River Laboratories site were predicted, in freshwater primary producers, invertebrates, fishes, herpetofauna and mammals using eleven modelling approaches. Comparison of predicted radionuclide concentrations in the different species types with measured values highlighted a number of areas where additional work and understanding is required to improve the predictions of radionuclide transfer. For some species, the differences could be explained by ecological factors such as trophic level or the influence of stable analogues. Model predictions were relatively poor for mammalian species and herpetofauna compared with measured values, partly due to a lack of relevant data. In addition, concentration ratios are sometimes under-predicted when derived from experiments performed under controlled laboratory conditions representative of conditions in other water bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- T L Yankovich
- AREVA Resources Canada, 817-45th Street West, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 3X5, Canada.
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42
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Beresford NA, Hosseini A, Brown JE, Cailes C, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Barnett CL, Copplestone D. Assessment of risk to wildlife from ionising radiation: can initial screening tiers be used with a high level of confidence? J Radiol Prot 2010; 30:265-281. [PMID: 20530864 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/s04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
A number of models are being used to assess the potential environmental impact of releases of radioactivity. These often use a tiered assessment structure whose first tier is designed to be highly conservative and simple to use. An aim of using this initial tier is to identify sites of negligible concern and to remove them from further consideration with a high degree of confidence. In this paper we compare the screening assessment outputs of three freely available models. The outputs of these models varied considerably in terms of estimated risk quotient (RQ) and the radionuclide-organism combinations identified as being the most limiting. A number of factors are identified as contributing to this variability: values of transfer parameters (concentration ratios and K(d)) used; organisms considered; different input options and how these are utilised in the assessment; assumptions as regards secular equilibrium; geometries and exposure scenarios. This large variation in RQ values between models means that the level of confidence required by users is not achieved. We recommend that the factors contributing to the variation in screening assessments be subjected to further investigation so that they can be more fully understood and assessors (and those reviewing assessment outputs) can better justify and evaluate the results obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Lancaster, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK.
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Howard BJ, Beresford NA, Andersson P, Brown JE, Copplestone D, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Garnier-Laplace J, Howe PD, Oughton D, Whitehouse P. Protection of the environment from ionising radiation in a regulatory context--an overview of the PROTECT coordinated action project. J Radiol Prot 2010; 30:195-214. [PMID: 20530867 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/s01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The outcome of the PROTECT project (Protection of the Environment from Ionising Radiation in a Regulatory Context) is summarised, focusing on the protection goal and derivation of dose rates which may detrimentally affect wildlife populations. To carry out an impact assessment for radioactive substances, the estimated dose rates produced by assessment tools need to be compared with some form of criteria to judge the level of risk. To do this, appropriate protection goals need to be defined and associated predefined dose rate values, or benchmarks, derived and agreed upon. Previous approaches used to estimate dose rates at which there may be observable changes in populations or individuals are described and discussed, as are more recent derivations of screening benchmarks for use in regulatory frameworks. We have adopted guidance and procedures used for assessment and regulation of other chemical stressors to derive benchmarks. On the basis of consultation with many relevant experts, PROTECT has derived a benchmark screening dose rate, using data on largely reproductive effects to derive species sensitivity distributions, of 10 microGy h(-1) which can be used to identify situations which are below regulatory concern with a high degree of confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Howard
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK.
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Copplestone D, Beresford N, Howard B. Protection of the environment from ionising radiation: developing criteria and evaluating approaches for use in regulation. J Radiol Prot 2010; 30:191-194. [PMID: 20548137 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/e03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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45
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Beresford NA, Barnett CL, Brown JE, Cheng JJ, Copplestone D, Gaschak S, Hosseini A, Howard BJ, Kamboj S, Nedveckaite T, Olyslaegers G, Smith JT, Vives I Batlle J, Vives-Lynch S, Yu C. Predicting the radiation exposure of terrestrial wildlife in the Chernobyl exclusion zone: an international comparison of approaches. J Radiol Prot 2010; 30:341-373. [PMID: 20530868 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/s07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
There is now general acknowledgement that there is a requirement to demonstrate that species other than humans are protected from anthropogenic releases of radioactivity. A number of approaches have been developed for estimating the exposure of wildlife and some of these are being used to conduct regulatory assessments. There is a requirement to compare the outputs of such approaches against available data sets to ensure that they are robust and fit for purpose. In this paper we describe the application of seven approaches for predicting the whole-body ((90)Sr, (137)Cs, (241)Am and Pu isotope) activity concentrations and absorbed dose rates for a range of terrestrial species within the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Predictions are compared against available measurement data, including estimates of external dose rate recorded by thermoluminescent dosimeters attached to rodent species. Potential reasons for differences between predictions between the various approaches and the available data are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology Lancaster, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK.
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46
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Abstract
A number of tools and approaches have been developed recently to allow assessments of the environmental impact of radiation on wildlife to be undertaken. The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) has stated an intention to provide a more inclusive protection framework for humans and the environment. Using scenarios, which are loosely based on real or predicted discharge data, we investigate how radiological assessments of humans and wildlife can be integrated with special consideration given to the recent outputs of the ICRP. We highlight how assumptions about the location of the exposed population of humans and wildlife, and the selection of appropriate benchmarks for determining potential risks can influence the outcome of the assessments. A number of issues associated with the transfer component and numeric benchmarks were identified, which need to be addressed in order to fully integrate the assessment approaches. A particular issue was the lack of comparable benchmark values for humans and wildlife. In part this may be addressed via the ICRP's recommended derived consideration reference levels for their 12 Reference Animals and Plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Copplestone
- Environment Agency, PO Box 12, Richard Fairclough House, Knutsford Road, Warrington WA4 1HG, UK.
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47
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Garnier-Laplace J, Della-Vedova C, Andersson P, Copplestone D, Cailes C, Beresford NA, Howard BJ, Howe P, Whitehouse P. A multi-criteria weight of evidence approach for deriving ecological benchmarks for radioactive substances. J Radiol Prot 2010; 30:215-233. [PMID: 20530866 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/s02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Dose rate benchmarks are required in the tiered approaches used to screen out benign exposure scenarios in radiological ecological risk assessment. Such screening benchmarks, namely the predicted no-effect dose rates (PNEDR), have been derived by applying, as far as possible, the European guidance developed for chemicals. To derive the ecosystem level (or generic) PNEDR, radiotoxicity EDR(10) data (dose rates giving a 10% effect in comparison with the control) were used to fit a species sensitivity distribution (SSD) and estimate the HDR(5) (the hazardous dose rate affecting 5% of species with a 10% effect). Then, a multi-criteria approach was developed to justify using an assessment factor (AF) to apply to the HDR(5) for estimating a PNEDR value. Several different statistical data treatments were considered which all gave reasonably similar results. The suggested generic screening value of 10 microGy h(-1) (incremental dose rate) was derived using the lowest available EDR(10) value per species, an unweighted SSD, and an AF of 2 applied to the estimated HDR(5). Consideration was also given to deriving screening benchmark values for organism groups but this was not thought to be currently appropriate due to few relevant data being currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Garnier-Laplace
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire DEI/SECRE, CEN Cadarache-Bâtiment 159, BP 3, 13115 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France.
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48
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Marshall K, Watson S, McDonald P, Copplestone D, Watts SJ. Exposure of birds to radionuclides and other contaminants in Special Protection Areas (SPAs) in North-West England. Sci Total Environ 2010; 408:2567-2575. [PMID: 20334902 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2010.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2009] [Revised: 02/16/2010] [Accepted: 02/19/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
There has been a decline in the population of some bird species at Morecambe Bay and the Solway Firth Special Protected Areas in North-West England during the last fifty years. It was suggested that the declines were caused, in part, by contaminants in the food and environment, primarily from the radioactive effluent discharge from the Sellafield Ltd nuclear fuel reprocessing plant in Cumbria. This study analysed bird feathers and tissues, vegetation and sediment for radionuclides, metals and persistent organic compounds. The non-radionuclide results were all low compared to relevant action limits. The ERICA model was used with field data to estimate the radiological dose to birds from exposure to (137)Cs and (241)Am with results between 1.26 to 3.83 microGy h(-1), below the ERICA screening level of 10 microGy h(-1) and within the IAEA 40 microGy h(-1) guideline value below which potential adverse impacts on biota are unlikely. The study showed no link between bird population decline and anthropogenic discharges to the SPAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Marshall
- Environment Agency, Welsh Region, Northern Area Office, Ffordd Penlan, Parc Menai, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 4DE, UK
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49
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Wood MD, Beresford NA, Barnett CL, Copplestone D, Leah RT. Assessing radiation impact at a protected coastal sand dune site: an intercomparison of models for estimating the radiological exposure of non-human biota. J Environ Radioact 2009; 100:1034-1052. [PMID: 19447531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2009.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2008] [Revised: 03/23/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents the application of three publicly available biota dose assessment models (the ERICA Tool, R&D128/SP1a and RESRAD-BIOTA) to an assessment of the Drigg coastal sand dunes. Using measured (90)Sr, (99)Tc, (137)Cs, (238)Pu, (239+240)Pu and (241)Am activity concentrations in sand dune soil, activity concentration and dose rate predictions are made for a range of organisms including amphibians, birds, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles, plants and fungi. Predicted biota activity concentrations are compared to measured data where available. The main source of variability in the model predictions is the transfer parameters used and it is concluded that developing the available transfer databases should be a focus of future research effort. The value of taking an informed user approach to investigate the way in which models may be expected to be applied in practice is highlighted and a strategy for the future development of intercomparison exercises is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Wood
- Institute for Sustainable Water Integrated Management and Ecosystem Research (SWIMMER), Nicholson Building, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside L69 3GP, United Kingdom.
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50
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Andersson P, Garnier-Laplace J, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Howard BJ, Howe P, Oughton D, Whitehouse P. Protection of the environment from ionising radiation in a regulatory context (protect): proposed numerical benchmark values. J Environ Radioact 2009; 100:1100-1108. [PMID: 19589629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2009.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2008] [Revised: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 05/27/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Criteria are needed to be able to judge the level of risk associated with dose rates estimated for non-human biota. In this paper, European guidance on the derivation of predicted no-effect chemical concentrations has been applied to appropriate radiation sensitivity data. A species sensitivity distribution fitted to the data for all species resulted in a generic predicted no-effect dose rate of 10 microGy h(-1).Currently, data are inadequate to derive screening values for separate organism groups. A second, higher, benchmark could aid in decision making by putting results into context on the scale of no effect to a risk of 'serious' effect. The need for, meaning and use of such a value needs to be debated by the wider community. This paper explores potential approaches of deriving scientific input to this debate. The concepts proposed in this paper are broadly consistent with the framework for human protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pål Andersson
- Swedish Radiation Safety Authority, 171 16 Stockholm, Sweden.
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