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Keenan M, Misarti N, Horstmann L, Crawford SG, O'Hara T, Rea LD, Avery JP. Total mercury concentrations in Steller sea lion bone: Variability among locations and elements. Mar Pollut Bull 2024; 203:116471. [PMID: 38754323 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116471] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Mercury is a global contaminant that bioaccumulates in a tissue-specific manner in long-lived predators such as Steller sea lions (SSL). Bone is a well-preserved material amenable for studying millennial scale trends; however, little is known about the distribution and variability of total mercury concentrations ([THg]) within individual bones and among bone elements in SSL. We assessed SSL bone [THg] variability with respect to physiologic age, bone type, longitudinally within a bone, and among bone elements. Pup bones (mean ± SD; 31.4 ± 13.58 ppb) had greater [THg] than adults (7.9 ± 1.91 ppb). There were greater and more variable [THg] within individual long bones near epiphyses compared to mid-diaphysis. Pup spongy bone in ribs (62.7 ± 44.79 ppb) had greater [THg] than long bones (23.5 ± 8.83 ppb) and phalanges (19.6 ± 10.78 ppb). These differences are likely due to variability in bone composition, growth, and turnover rate. This study informs standardized sampling procedures for [THg] in bone to improve interpretations of mercury variability over time and space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Keenan
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska, 1764 Tanana Loop, PO Box 75 5910, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA; College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, PO Box 757220, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - Nicole Misarti
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska, 1764 Tanana Loop, PO Box 75 5910, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
| | - Lara Horstmann
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, PO Box 757220, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
| | - Stephanie G Crawford
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska, 1764 Tanana Loop, PO Box 75 5910, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 402 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Lorrie D Rea
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska, 1764 Tanana Loop, PO Box 75 5910, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
| | - Julie P Avery
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska, 1764 Tanana Loop, PO Box 75 5910, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
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2
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Cyr AP, Drew KA, Corsetti S, Seitz AC, Sutton TM, López JA, Wooller MJ, O'Hara T. Ecotoxicology of mercury concentrations in arctic lamprey (Lethenteron camtschaticum). Environ Res 2023; 237:116955. [PMID: 37643685 PMCID: PMC10838160 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116955] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Arctic lamprey (Lethenteron camtschaticum) is an important dietary resource for rural and indigenous communities in parts of Alaska, with some commercial use. As with many fish species harvested for human consumption, there are concerns regarding mercury concentrations ([Hg]) in Arctic lamprey that may impact human health. To date, information regarding the life cycle and diet of Arctic lamprey is scarce, with no published studies examining [Hg] in Arctic lamprey tissues. Our goals were to investigate the feeding ecology of Arctic lamprey from the Bering Sea, determine how diet and potential dietary shifts might influence [Hg] in muscle, and determine if current [Hg] may pose a human health risk. The mean total [Hg] in Arctic lamprey muscle (n = 98) was 19 ng/g wet-weight. Log transformed total [Hg] were not associated with any measured biological variables including length, mass, δ13C values, or δ15N values. A stable isotope mixing model estimated that capelin (Mallotus villosus) accounted for 40.0 ± 4.0% of the Arctic lamprey diet, while Pacific sand lance (Ammodytes hexapterus) and Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii) accounted for 37.8 ± 3.1% and 22.2 ± 3.5% respectively. Finally, diet percentage compositions shifted based on size class (i.e., medium versus large). These results indicated that feeding location, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification are not important drivers of [Hg] in Arctic lamprey and current [Hg] do not pose a human health risk. Taken together, this research further expands our knowledge of Arctic lamprey trophic ecology in the eastern Bering Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Cyr
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 901 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA.
| | - Katie A Drew
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA
| | - Sierra Corsetti
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, PO Box 756100, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6100, USA
| | - Andrew C Seitz
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA
| | - Trent M Sutton
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA
| | - J Andrés López
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA; University of Alaska Museum of the North, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, 907 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6960, USA
| | - Matthew J Wooller
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, 2150 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA; Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, 306 Tanana Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, USA; Alaska Stable Isotope Facility, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, 907 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, USA
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, 306 Tanana Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, USA; Bilingual Laboratory of Toxicology, Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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Cyr A, Murillo-Cisneros DA, López JA, Furin C, O'Hara T. Comparison of Two Total Mercury Screening and Assessment Methods in Fishes: Biopsy Punch and Dried Muscle Samples. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 2023; 85:119-128. [PMID: 37573269 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-023-01020-2] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Rapid and effective quantification of total mercury concentrations ([THg]) in fish muscle is an important part of ongoing monitoring to provide reliable and near real-time public health guidance. Methods for quantifying THg in fish muscle frequently require the use of large sample mass and numerous preparation steps. Wet (aka fresh weight) biopsy punch samples of fish muscle have been used to quantify THg directly, without drying and homogenization. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages. We compare the use of fresh weight biopsy punches for quantifying THg to using larger, dried homogenized samples. The [THg] determination for the two sampling methods was EPA method 7473. Three separate biopsy punch samples and a large muscle sample were taken from each fish and analyzed on a Direct Mercury Analyzer. There were no statistical differences between mean log transformed wet weight [THg] from biopsy punches and homogenized muscle across all samples or within individual species. Similarly, across the range of [THg] (7.5-612.7 ng/g ww), linear regression of [THg] from biopsy punch and homogenized muscle samples was not different from a 1:1 linear relationship. Linear regression statistics of [THg] with fish fork length produced similar results for both biopsy punch and homogenized muscle samples. However, the coefficient of variation among biopsy punch replicates for individual fish was frequently above the acceptable threshold of 15%. We recommend biopsy punches be used as an effective tool for broad-scale rapid monitoring of fish resources for Hg, while homogenized muscle samples be used for fine-scale ecological and health questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Cyr
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2141 Koyukuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7750, USA.
| | - Daniella A Murillo-Cisneros
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Del Noroeste, S.C. Planeación Ambiental Y Conservación, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita Sur, 23096, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - J Andrés López
- University of Alaska Museum of the North, University of Alaska, 907 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-6960, USA
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 905 N Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7220, USA
| | - Christoff Furin
- Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, 5251 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Anchorage, AK, 99507, USA
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Bilingual Laboratory of Toxicology, Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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Houde M, Krümmel EM, Mustonen T, Brammer J, Brown TM, Chételat J, Dahl PE, Dietz R, Evans M, Gamberg M, Gauthier MJ, Gérin-Lajoie J, Hauptmann AL, Heath JP, Henri DA, Kirk J, Laird B, Lemire M, Lennert AE, Letcher RJ, Lord S, Loseto L, MacMillan GA, Mikaelsson S, Mutter EA, O'Hara T, Ostertag S, Robards M, Shadrin V, Smith M, Stimmelmayr R, Sudlovenick E, Swanson H, Thomas PJ, Walker VK, Whiting A. Contributions and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples to the study of mercury in the Arctic. Sci Total Environ 2022; 841:156566. [PMID: 35697218 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Arctic Indigenous Peoples are among the most exposed humans when it comes to foodborne mercury (Hg). In response, Hg monitoring and research have been on-going in the circumpolar Arctic since about 1991; this work has been mainly possible through the involvement of Arctic Indigenous Peoples. The present overview was initially conducted in the context of a broader assessment of Hg research organized by the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme. This article provides examples of Indigenous Peoples' contributions to Hg monitoring and research in the Arctic, and discusses approaches that could be used, and improved upon, when carrying out future activities. Over 40 mercury projects conducted with/by Indigenous Peoples are identified for different circumpolar regions including the U.S., Canada, Greenland, Sweden, Finland, and Russia as well as instances where Indigenous Knowledge contributed to the understanding of Hg contamination in the Arctic. Perspectives and visions of future Hg research as well as recommendations are presented. The establishment of collaborative processes and partnership/co-production approaches with scientists and Indigenous Peoples, using good communication practices and transparency in research activities, are key to the success of research and monitoring activities in the Arctic. Sustainable funding for community-driven monitoring and research programs in Arctic countries would be beneficial and assist in developing more research/monitoring capacity and would promote a more holistic approach to understanding Hg in the Arctic. These activities should be well connected to circumpolar/international initiatives to ensure broader availability of the information and uptake in policy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Houde
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Eva M Krümmel
- Inuit Circumpolar Council - Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tero Mustonen
- Snowchange Cooperative, Selkie, North Karelia, Finland
| | - Jeremy Brammer
- Vuntut Gwitchin Government, Old Crow, YT, Canada; Environment and Climate Chance Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tanya M Brown
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, West Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - John Chételat
- Environment and Climate Chance Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Rune Dietz
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Marlene Evans
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Joel P Heath
- The Arctic Eider Society, Sanikiluaq, NU, Canada
| | | | - Jane Kirk
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, ON, Canada
| | - Brian Laird
- University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Lord
- Gwich'in Renewable Resources Board, Inuvik, NWT, Canada
| | - Lisa Loseto
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | - Edda A Mutter
- Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council, Anchorage, AK, United States
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | | | - Martin Robards
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Fairbanks, AK, United States
| | | | - Merran Smith
- Council of Yukon First Nations, Whitehorse, YT, Canada
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5
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Pancaldi F, Páez-Osuna F, Marmolejo-Rodríguez AJ, Whitehead DA, González-Armas R, Soto-Jiménez MF, O'Hara T, Vazquéz-Haikin A, Galván-Magaña F. Variation of essential and non-essential trace elements in whale shark epidermis associated to two different feeding areas of the Gulf of California. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2021; 28:36803-36816. [PMID: 33710489 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13364-0] [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: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of California represents an important hotspot for whale shark (Rhincodon typus) aggregation. Anthropogenic activities and natural sources could expose sharks to high levels of trace elements (TEs). To determinate these levels in this endangered species, concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn (in ng/g ww) were measured in 130 whale shark skin biopsies and 44 zooplankton samples collected from two areas of the Gulf of California, Bahía de Los Angeles (BLA) and Bahía de La Paz (LAP) during 2016-2018. For biopsies, Zn exhibited highest concentrations in BLA (2016-2017, 298 ± 406; 2017-2018, 1959 ± 2545) and at LAP (in 2016-2017, 595 ± 554; in 2017-2018, 2642 ± 1261). On the other hand, Cd (BLA 2016-2017, 3 ± 3; LAP 2016-2017, 4 ± 3; BLA 2017-2018, 17 ± 14; LAP 2017-2018, 13 ± 10) and Pb (BLA 2016-2017, 7 ± 7; LAP 2016-2017, 15 ± 32; BLA 2017-2018, 69 ± 76; LAP 2017-2018, 7 ± 5) showed lowest concentrations. Significant differences in TE concentrations between sites and periods occurred. Arsenic found in shark biopsies from La Paz suggested enrichment and/or increased bioavailability in this area. Sex alone was not a significant factor in TE concentration; nevertheless, a sex-dependent difference in correlation of TE concentration and size was noted (negative in males, positive in females). This indicates feeding strategies of whale shark may be sex and size segregated. During 2017-2018, zooplankton and sharks showed enrichment in all TEs. Essential elements were not biomagnified by sharks. Lead was biomagnified through zooplankton. Strong positive correlation between selected elements indicates that Zn, Cd and Pb follow the same metabolic route in the sharks' body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pancaldi
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional. Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096, La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Federico Páez-Osuna
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 82040, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
- Miembro de El Colegio de Sinaloa, Antonio Rosales 435 Poniente, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | | | | | - Rogelio González-Armas
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional. Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096, La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Martin Federico Soto-Jiménez
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 82040, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Abraham Vazquéz-Haikin
- Asociación de pesca deportiva y ecoturismo de Bahía de Los Ángeles, Domicilio conocido, 22980, Bahía de Los Ángeles, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Felipe Galván-Magaña
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional. Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096, La Paz, BCS, Mexico.
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6
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Lian M, Castellini JM, Kuhn T, Rea L, Bishop L, Keogh M, Kennedy SN, Fadely B, van Wijngaarden E, Maniscalco JM, O'Hara T. Assessing oxidative stress in Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus): Associations with mercury and selenium concentrations. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2020; 235:108786. [PMID: 32413494 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2020.108786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) bioavailability is required for synthesis and function of essential Se-dependent antioxidants, including the enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Strong interactions between monomethyl mercury and Se impair the critical antioxidant role of Se. Approximately 20% of Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus, SSL) pups sampled in the western Aleutian Islands, Alaska, had total Hg concentrations ([THg]) measured in hair and whole blood above thresholds of concern for adverse physiologic effects in pinnipeds. Importantly, low molar ratios of TSe:THg, in some cases < 1 in several tissues (hair, liver, pelt, muscle, spleen, intestine, heart, lungs, brain) were documented for one SSL pup with [THg] above threshold of concern, which may lead to antioxidant deficiency. Our aim with this study was to evaluate the relationship between circulating [THg], [MeHg+], [TSe] and TSe:THg molar ratio status relative to oxidative stress and antioxidants measured during general anesthesia in free-ranging SSL. We captured, anesthetized and sampled newborn SSL pups at rookeries located in the Aleutian Islands or Gulf of Alaska. Biomarkers analyzed for oxidative stress included 4-hydroxynenonal and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (4-HNE and TBARS, respectively, lipid peroxidation), protein carbonyl content (PCC, protein oxidation), and GPx activity as a key indicator for Se-dependent antioxidant defense levels. We found a negative association between TBARS and [TSe], and SSL with low [TSe] had higher concentrations of 4-HNE than those with intermediate [TSe]. These results suggest that SSL with lower [TSe] experience increased lipid peroxidation potentially associated with [THg] status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Lian
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2141 Koyokuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 900 Yukon Dr Rm. 194, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6160, USA.
| | - J Margaret Castellini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2141 Koyokuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA.
| | - Thomas Kuhn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 900 Yukon Dr Rm. 194, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6160, USA.
| | - Lorrie Rea
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 1764 Tanana Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - Louise Bishop
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2090 Koyokuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - Mandy Keogh
- Division of Wildlife Conservation, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, P.O. Box 110024, Douglas, AK 99811-0024, USA.
| | - Stephanie N Kennedy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 900 Yukon Dr Rm. 194, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6160, USA; Harvard Medical School and Division of Gastroenterology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave. Enders 6th Floor, RM 650, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Brian Fadely
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115, USA.
| | - Edwin van Wijngaarden
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
| | - John M Maniscalco
- Alaska SeaLife Center, 301 Railway Avenue, P.O. Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664, USA.
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2141 Koyokuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA; Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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Levin M, Jasperse L, Desforges JP, O'Hara T, Rea L, Castellini JM, Maniscalco JM, Fadely B, Keogh M. Methyl mercury (MeHg) in vitro exposure alters mitogen-induced lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine expression in Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) pups. Sci Total Environ 2020; 725:138308. [PMID: 32302832 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus, SSLs) are managed as two distinct population segments within U.S. waters: the endangered western distinct population segment and the recently delisted eastern distinct population segment. Recent studies reported concentrations of mercury in several tissues collected from young SSLs in the Aleutian Islands that were at or above concentrations found to negatively impact health in other fish-eating mammals. However, there are limited studies which have investigated the range of mercury concentrations that may negatively influence the SSL immune system. This study assessed relationships between methyl mercury (MeHg+) concentrations and two immune functions, lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine expression. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and cryopreserved from pups on three rookeries within the western distinct population segment: Chiswell Island, Ulak, and Agattu Islands. Lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine expression were assessed in vitro using thawed PBMCs with exposure to MeHg+ (unexposed control, 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 μg/ml). Lymphocyte proliferation was measured without and with stimulation with a T cell mitogen (ConA) and B cell mitogen (LPS) and the concentration of cytokines was measured in the cell culture supernatant (with and without ConA or LPS). Spontaneous lymphocyte proliferation was significantly increased at 0.01 and 0.1 μg/ml. T lymphocyte proliferation was significantly increased at 0.001 μg/ml and 0.1 μg/ml, while B lymphocyte proliferation was decreased at 0.1 μg/ml. Cytokine concentrations for INFγ, IL-10, IL-6, and TNFα were reduced at 0.1 μg/ml upon either T or B cell mitogen stimulation, with the exception for IL-10, where 0.1 μg/ml reduced IL-10 concentration compared to unstimulated cells. These data suggest immune functions were affected by MeHg+ exposure requiring in vivo follow up investigations. The observed modulation of immune functions is of concern as any toxicant-induced modulation may adversely affect the health of individuals, particularly younger animals undergoing periods of critical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milton Levin
- University of Connecticut, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, 61 N. Eagleville Road U-3089, Storrs, CT 06269, United States of America.
| | - Lindsay Jasperse
- University of Connecticut, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, 61 N. Eagleville Road U-3089, Storrs, CT 06269, United States of America
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, United States of America; Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, United States of America
| | - Lorrie Rea
- Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, United States of America
| | - J Margaret Castellini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-5910, United States of America
| | - John M Maniscalco
- Alaska SeaLife Center, P.O. Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664, United States of America
| | - Brian Fadely
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115, United States of America
| | - Mandy Keogh
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Marine Mammal Program. 1300 College Rd., Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States of America
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8
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Pancaldi F, Páez-Osuna F, Soto-Jiménez MF, González-Armas R, O'Hara T, Marmolejo-Rodríguez AJ, Vázquez A, Galván-Magaña F. Trace Elements in Tissues of Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) Stranded in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2019; 103:515-520. [PMID: 31143976 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-019-02640-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Concentration of essential (Se, Zn and Cu) and non-essential (As, Cd, Hg and Pb) trace elements were measured in selected tissues of two dead whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) stranded in the Gulf of California (GC) in 2017 and 2018. Concentrations of Cd and Pb in the skeletal muscle of the whale shark from La Paz Bay, GC were higher compared to a previous study on whale shark from China. The shark from La Paz Bay also presented higher concentration of Pb in the epidermis, compared to the same tissue of the other whale shark stranded in Punta Bufeo, GC. The Hg in all analysed tissues was lower than those documented in carnivorous sharks. Molar ratio Se:Hg shows an excess of Se over Hg in all the tissues sampled in both sharks.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pancaldi
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, La Paz, BCS, 23096, Mexico
| | - F Páez-Osuna
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar Y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - M F Soto-Jiménez
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar Y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - R González-Armas
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, La Paz, BCS, 23096, Mexico
| | - T O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7000, USA
| | - A J Marmolejo-Rodríguez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, La Paz, BCS, 23096, Mexico
| | - A Vázquez
- Asociación de Pesca Deportiva Y Ecoturismo de Bahía de Los Ángeles, Domicilio Conocido, Bahía de Los Ángeles, Baja California, 22980, Mexico
| | - F Galván-Magaña
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, La Paz, BCS, 23096, Mexico.
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Cyr AP, López JA, Wooller MJ, Whiting A, Gerlach R, O'Hara T. Ecological drivers of mercury concentrations in fish species in subsistence harvests from Kotzebue Sound, Alaska. Environ Res 2019; 177:108622. [PMID: 31419713 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The State of Alaska assesses human exposure to mercury (Hg) via fish consumption producing consumption guidelines for fish tailored for children and women of childbearing age. Under these guidelines, unrestricted consumption is suggested for many fish species, while limited consumption is recommended for others. Subsequent questions have arisen regarding ecological drivers influencing [Hg] in fishes consumed by Alaskans. This community-assisted public health study evaluates [Hg] in fishes from Kotzebue Sound to examine factors that may drive observed [Hg]. We examined eight species of subsistence harvested fish (least cisco, chum salmon, Pacific herring, humpback whitefish, sheefish, starry flounder, Pacific tomcod, and fourhorn sculpin) from Kotzebue Sound. We report total Hg concentrations ([THg]) and monomethyl Hg+ concentrations ([MeHg+]) in the context of various factors (such as species, fork length, carbon and nitrogen stable isotope (δ15N or δ13C)) values that may influence [Hg] and [MeHg+]. Across all 297 fish, [THg] ranged from 3.4 - 235.2 ng/g ww. [THg] was positively correlated with fork length in six of eight fish species, as well as with trophic level (indicated by δ15N values) in five species. [MeHg+] was positively correlated with fork length in four species, and with δ15N values over all specimens examined, and specifically for three individual species. In six of the seven species analyzed, %MeHg was >80% of [THg]. This value decreased with fork length in three species, with no relationship for δ15N values in any species. Among top ranked models based on Akaike Information Criterion correction (AICc), fork length was more frequently included as an explanatory factor for [Hg] than δ15N or δ13C values. The food web magnification factor for [THg] was 11.3, and 12.6 for [MeHg+]. Biomagnification is likely driving [THg] and [MeHg+] over the entire food web, while within species, bioaccumulation is likely a stronger driver of [THg] and [MeHg+] than feeding ecology or trophic position. The [THg] for all species fell within the established unrestricted consumption guideline of 200 ng/g weight wet as established by the State of Alaska's fish consumption guidelines for Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Cyr
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 905 N Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7220, USA.
| | - J Andrés López
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 905 N Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7220, USA; University of Alaska Museum of the North, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, 907 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-6960, USA
| | - Matthew J Wooller
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 905 N Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7220, USA; Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, 306 Tanana Loop, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-5860, USA; Alaska Stable Isotope Facility, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, 907 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-6960, USA
| | - Alex Whiting
- Native Village of Kotzebue, 600 Fifth Ave., Kotzebue, AK, 99752, USA
| | - Robert Gerlach
- Office of the State Veterinarian, Alaska Division of Environmental Health, 5251 Drive. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Anchorage, AK, 99507, USA
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 901 Koyukuk Drive, Fairbanks, AK, 99775-7750, USA
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10
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Pancaldi F, Galván-Magaña F, González-Armas R, Soto-Jimenez MF, Whitehead DA, O'Hara T, Marmolejo-Rodríguez AJ, Vázquez-Haikin A, Páez-Osuna F. Mercury and selenium in the filter-feeding whale shark (Rhincodon typus) from two areas of the Gulf of California, Mexico. Mar Pollut Bull 2019; 146:955-961. [PMID: 31426243 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Mercury and selenium were measured for first time in the endangered species whale shark (Rhyncodon typus) from two areas of the Gulf of California, Bahía Los Angeles (BLA) and Bahía La Paz (LAP) using dermal biopsies of seventy specimens. Additionally, nineteen zooplankton samples from LAP were analysed. Concentrations (ng/g, wet weight (ww)) in biopsies of BLA ranged from 1 to 40 for Hg and 100 to 680 for Se; while in LAP varied from 1 to 9 for Hg and 11 to 850 for Se. A positive correlation was found for Hg in BLA males biopsies with length. Hg and Se concentrations in the zooplankton from LAP were 1.6 ± 1.8 and 770 ± 930 ng/g, respectively. Hg biomagnification factor ranged from 0.8 to 5.3 in sharks. A molar excess of Se over Hg was found in the biopsies and the zooplankton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pancaldi
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096 La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Felipe Galván-Magaña
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096 La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Rogelio González-Armas
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096 La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Martin F Soto-Jimenez
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mazatlán, Sinaloa 82040, Mexico
| | - Darren A Whitehead
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096 La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7000, United States
| | - Ana J Marmolejo-Rodríguez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. IPN s/n, 23096 La Paz, BCS, Mexico
| | - Abraham Vázquez-Haikin
- Asociación de Pesca Deportiva y Ecoturismo de Bahía de los Ángeles, Domicilio conocido Bahía de los Ángeles, Baja California 22980, Mexico
| | - Federico Páez-Osuna
- Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mazatlán, Sinaloa 82040, Mexico; Miembro de El Colegio de Sinaloa, Antonio Rosales 435 Poniente, Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico.
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Cyr A, Sergeant CJ, Lopez JA, O'Hara T. Assessing the influence of migration barriers and feeding ecology on total mercury concentrations in Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) from a glaciated and non-glaciated stream. Sci Total Environ 2017; 580:710-718. [PMID: 27979620 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Assimilation of mercury (Hg) into food webs is directly influenced by ecological factors such as local habitat characteristics, species feeding behavior, and movement patterns. Total Hg concentrations ([THg]) in biota from Subarctic latitudes are driven both by broad spatial processes such as long-range atmospheric transport and more local influences such as biovectors and geology. Thus, even relatively pristine protected lands such as national parks are experiencing Hg accumulation. We analyzed [THg] and stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in 104 Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) collected from two rivers in southeastern Alaska, upstream and downstream of apparent anadromous migration barriers in watersheds with and without glacial coverage. To assess the potential magnitude of marine-derived THg returning to freshwater, we analyzed [THg] in ten adult pink salmon from each study system. There were no differences in Dolly Varden mean [THg] between sites after the data were standardized for fork length, but unadjusted [THg] varied relative to fish size and δ15N values. While previous studies generally show that [THg] increases with higher δ15N values, we found that Dolly Varden below migration barriers and foraging on salmon eggs had the highest δ15N values among all sampled individuals, but the lowest [THg]. Dolly Varden residing below anadromous barriers had δ13C values consistent with marine influence. Since salmon eggs typically have low [Hg], our results suggest that abundant salmon populations and the dietary subsidy they provide may reduce the annual exposure to [Hg] in egg-eating stream fishes such as Dolly Varden. In addition to identifying a suitable species for freshwater Hg monitoring in southeastern Alaska, our study more broadly implies that river characteristics, location within a river, fish size, and feeding ecology are important factors influencing Hg accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Cyr
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 905 N Koyukuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA.
| | - Christopher J Sergeant
- National Park Service, Inventory and Monitoring Program, 3100 National Park Road, Juneau 99801, AK, USA
| | - Juan Andres Lopez
- College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 905 N Koyukuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7220, USA; University of Alaska Museum of the North, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 907 Yukon Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6960, USA
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 901 Koyukuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA
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Bentzen R, Castellini JM, Gerlach R, Dykstra C, O'Hara T. Mercury concentrations in Alaska Pacific halibut muscle relative to stable isotopes of C and N and other biological variables. Mar Pollut Bull 2016; 113:110-116. [PMID: 27612930 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.08.068] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury concentrations ([THg]), δ15N and δ13C values were determined in muscle of 693 Pacific halibut caught in International Pacific Halibut Commission setline surveys in Alaska (2002-2011). Project goals were to evaluate whether 1) δ15N and δ13C varied with region, age, sex and length of halibut, and 2) muscle [THg] varied with δ15N and δ13C (feeding ecology) while accounting for sex, length, and region. Variation in [THg] was explained, in part, by halibut feeding ecology as [THg] increased with trophic position (increasing δ15N). Halibut from the western Aleutian Island region were the exception, with overall lower δ15N values and significantly higher [THg] than halibut from other Alaskan waters. This [THg] pattern has been observed in other Aleutian biota, possibly the result of northeasterly atmospheric movement of mercury emissions from Asia and/or other local sources and processes. The significantly lower δ15N values for these halibut warrants further investigation of halibut prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Bentzen
- Institute of Arctic Biology, P.O. Box 757000, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7000, USA; Arctic Beringia Program, Wildlife Conservation Society, P.O. Box 751110, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - J Margaret Castellini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 757750, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA.
| | - Robert Gerlach
- Office of the State Veterinarian, Alaska Dept. of Environmental Conservation, 5251 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Anchorage, AK 99507, USA.
| | - Claude Dykstra
- International Pacific Halibut Commission, 2320 W. Commodore Way, Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98199-1287, USA.
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 757750, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-7750, USA.
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13
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Montrose L, Noonan CW, Cho YH, Lee J, Harley J, O'Hara T, Cahill C, Ward TJ. Evaluating the effect of ambient particulate pollution on DNA methylation in Alaskan sled dogs: potential applications for a sentinel model of human health. Sci Total Environ 2015; 512-513:489-494. [PMID: 25644845 PMCID: PMC4339619 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.12.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM) is known to be associated with increased morbidity and mortality in human populations. During the winter months in Fairbanks, Alaska, severe temperature inversions lead to elevated concentrations of ambient PM smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5). Sled dogs represent an easily accessible environmentally exposed population that may yield findings informative for human health risk assessment. OBJECTIVES In this pilot study, we evaluated whether ambient PM was associated with markers of global methylation in sled dogs. METHODS Kennels were strategically recruited to provide a wide PM2.5 exposure gradient for the Fairbanks area. Continuous monitoring of ambient PM2.5 was conducted at each kennel during the winter of 2012/13 using a DustTrak 8530. Dogs received a physical examination and assessment of standard hematology and clinical chemistries. Global methylation was determined using the LUminometric Methylation Assay (LUMA) and 5-Methycytosine (5-mC) quantification. RESULTS Three sled dog kennels (n~30 dogs/kennel) were evaluated and sampled. The average PM2.5 concentrations measured for kennels A, B, and C were 90 μg/m(3), 48 μg/m(3), 16 μg/m(3) (p<0.0001), respectively. The average (standard deviation) global methylation percentage for each kennel measured by LUMA was 76.22 (1.85), 76.52 (1.82), and 76.72 (2.26), respectively. The average (standard deviation) global methylation percentage for each kennel measured by 5-mC was 0.16 (0.04), 0.15 (0.04), and 0.15 (0.05), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the three kennels and their average global methylation percentage either by LUMA or 5-mC. CONCLUSIONS In this study we evaluated global methylation using LUMA and 5-mC and found no differences between kennels, though exposure to ambient PM2.5 was significantly different between kennels. As more information becomes available regarding immunologically-related canine genes and functionally active promoter subunits, the utility of this surrogate could increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Montrose
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, United States.
| | - Curtis W Noonan
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, United States
| | - Yoon Hee Cho
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, United States
| | - Joongwon Lee
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, United States
| | - John Harley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, United States
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, United States
| | - Catherine Cahill
- International Artic Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, United States
| | - Tony J Ward
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, United States
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14
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van Wijngaarden E, Harrington D, Kobrosly R, Thurston SW, O'Hara T, McSorley EM, Myers GJ, Watson GE, Shamlaye CF, Strain JJ, Davidson PW. Prenatal exposure to methylmercury and LCPUFA in relation to birth weight. Ann Epidemiol 2014; 24:273-8. [PMID: 24525104 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2013] [Revised: 12/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiologic studies have been inconclusive regarding the impact of coexposure to long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) and methylmercury (MeHg) from fish consumption during pregnancy on measures of fetal development. OBJECTIVES We evaluated the association between birth weight and prenatal maternal LCPUFA status and MeHg exposure in the Republic of Seychelles. METHODS We measured LCPUFA in maternal whole blood collected at 28 weeks of gestation and following delivery and MeHg in maternal hair obtained at delivery. There were 230 births with complete data on birth weight and covariates. Multiple linear regression models controlled for infant sex, gestational age, maternal age, smoking during pregnancy, intrapartum weight gain, prepregnancy body mass index, maternal socioeconomic status, parity, gestational diabetes, and alcohol use during pregnancy. RESULTS The average birth weight was 3252 g (range 1654-4450) and the average gestational age was 39 weeks (range 34-41). Prenatal MeHg exposure and maternal LCPUFA status were not associated with birth weight. Infant sex and length of gestation were the only predictors, with male sex and increased gestational age consistently associated with greater birth weight. CONCLUSIONS These findings do not support a relationship between prenatal exposure to LCPUFA and/or MeHg from fish consumption and birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin van Wijngaarden
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY.
| | - Donald Harrington
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY
| | - Roni Kobrosly
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY
| | - Sally W Thurston
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY
| | - Todd O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Alaska Fairbanks, AK
| | - Emeir M McSorley
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
| | - Gary J Myers
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY
| | - Gene E Watson
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Eastman Department of Dentistry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY
| | | | - J J Strain
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
| | - Philip W Davidson
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY
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15
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Correa L, Castellini JM, Wells RS, O'Hara T. Distribution of mercury and selenium in blood compartments of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from Sarasota Bay, Florida. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013; 32:2441-2448. [PMID: 23861289 DOI: 10.1002/etc.2327] [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: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/14/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury and selenium concentrations ([THg], [Se]) in serum, plasma, whole blood, and packed cells were examined in a resident population of free-ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from Sarasota Bay, Florida, USA. The authors determined how these elements partition in blood and assess compartment-specific associations. Determining the distribution of Se and THg can provide physiologic insight into potential association of Hg with selenol-containing biomolecules (e.g., antioxidants) in blood compartments. Concentrations of THg were ranked serum < plasma < whole blood < packed cells; whereas for Se concentrations, plasma < serum < whole blood < packed cells. The Se:THg molar ratio was greater than 1 in all compartments, with the higher ratios found in serum and plasma (plasma < serum) and the lower in whole blood and packed cells (packed cells < whole blood). Age was positively correlated with [THg] in all blood compartments and with [Se] in serum, plasma, and whole blood. Age was negatively correlated with Se:THg molar ratios in all blood compartments, driven by low [THg] in young animals. Although [THg] was highly correlated among all blood compartments, this was not the case for [Se]. The feasibility of calculating packed cell [THg], [Se], and Se:THg molar ratios using hematocrit measurements in combination with whole blood and plasma [THg] and [Se] was validated, allowing routine assessment of compartmentalization within erythrocytes using standard clinical measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucero Correa
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
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16
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Barrera-García A, O'Hara T, Galván-Magaña F, Méndez-Rodríguez LC, Castellini JM, Zenteno-Savín T. Trace elements and oxidative stress indicators in the liver and kidney of the blue shark (Prionace glauca). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2013; 165:483-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2013.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Revised: 01/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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17
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Dietz R, Sonne C, Basu N, Braune B, O'Hara T, Letcher RJ, Scheuhammer T, Andersen M, Andreasen C, Andriashek D, Asmund G, Aubail A, Baagøe H, Born EW, Chan HM, Derocher AE, Grandjean P, Knott K, Kirkegaard M, Krey A, Lunn N, Messier F, Obbard M, Olsen MT, Ostertag S, Peacock E, Renzoni A, Rigét FF, Skaare JU, Stern G, Stirling I, Taylor M, Wiig Ø, Wilson S, Aars J. What are the toxicological effects of mercury in Arctic biota? Sci Total Environ 2013; 443:775-90. [PMID: 23231888 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2012.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Revised: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 11/10/2012] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
This review critically evaluates the available mercury (Hg) data in Arctic marine biota and the Inuit population against toxicity threshold values. In particular marine top predators exhibit concentrations of mercury in their tissues and organs that are believed to exceed thresholds for biological effects. Species whose concentrations exceed threshold values include the polar bears (Ursus maritimus), beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas), pilot whale (Globicephala melas), hooded seal (Cystophora cristata), a few seabird species, and landlocked Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus). Toothed whales appear to be one of the most vulnerable groups, with high concentrations of mercury recorded in brain tissue with associated signs of neurochemical effects. Evidence of increasing concentrations in mercury in some biota in Arctic Canada and Greenland is therefore a concern with respect to ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rune Dietz
- Aarhus University, Department for Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, P.O. Box 358, Roskilde, DK-4000, Denmark.
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18
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Barrera-García A, O'Hara T, Galván-Magaña F, Méndez-Rodríguez LC, Castellini JM, Zenteno-Savín T. Oxidative stress indicators and trace elements in the blue shark (Prionace glauca) off the east coast of the Mexican Pacific Ocean. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2012; 156:59-66. [PMID: 22560986 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2012.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Trace element concentrations and oxidative stress indicators (including production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzyme activities and oxidative damage) were measured in muscle of blue sharks collected along the west coast of Baja California Sur to determine potential differences by sex and maturity cohorts. Mercury (Hg) concentration in muscle samples from larger sharks (>200 cm LT) exceeded the permissible limit (>1 ppm wet weight) for human consumption set by numerous international agencies. Significant differences were found in Hg concentrations (mature>immature; males>females), and in protein carbonyl concentrations (male>female); however, except for carbonyl protein levels, no significant differences by sex or maturity stage were found in the oxidative stress indicators. Differences between sexes and maturity stages in trace element concentration and carbonyl protein levels in blue shark muscle may be related to variations in diet within different cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Barrera-García
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, Playa Palo Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
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Li Chen T, Wise SS, Kraus S, Shaffiey F, Levine KM, Thompson WD, Romano T, O'Hara T, Wise JP. Particulate hexavalent chromium is cytotoxic and genotoxic to the North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) lung and skin fibroblasts. Environ Mol Mutagen 2009; 50:387-393. [PMID: 19230002 DOI: 10.1002/em.20471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Hexavalent chromium compounds are present in the atmosphere and oceans and are established mutagens and carcinogens in human and terrestrial mammals. However, the adverse effects of these toxicants in marine mammals are uncertain. Previously, we reported that North Atlantic right whales, one of the most endangered great whales, have tissue chromium levels that are high, levels that may pose a risk to the whale's health. Furthermore, the study suggested that inhalation may be an important exposure route. Exposure to chromium through inhalation is mainly because of particulate compounds. However, the toxicity of particulate chromium compounds in marine mammal cells is unknown. Accordingly, in this study, we tested the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of particulate hexavalent chromium in primary cultured lung and skin fibroblasts from the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Cytotoxicity was measured by clonogenic survival assay, and genotoxicity was measured as production of chromosome aberrations. Particulate hexavalent chromium induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner in both right whale lung and skin fibroblasts. Lung fibroblasts were more resistant to chromium cytotoxicity, but presented with more chromosome damage than skin fibroblasts. These data further support the hypothesis that chromium may be a health concern for the endangered North Atlantic right whale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia Li Chen
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, Portland, Maine 04103, USA
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Woshner V, Knott K, Wells R, Willetto C, Swor R, O'Hara T. Mercury and selenium in blood and epidermis of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from Sarasota Bay, FL: interaction and relevance to life history and hematologic parameters. Ecohealth 2008; 5:360-370. [PMID: 19165553 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-008-0164-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2007] [Revised: 01/11/2008] [Accepted: 02/03/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Blood and epidermal biopsies from free-ranging Tursiops truncatus captured and released during either summer or winter health assessments in Sarasota Bay, FL, were evaluated for concentrations of mercury, selenium, stable isotopes (d(13)C and d(15)N), and blood glutathione peroxidase activity in conjunction with routine hematology and serum chemistry panels. Major objectives were to: 1) quantify and describe relationships among mercury, selenium, glutathione peroxidase, and stable isotopes of C and N in blood and epidermis; 2) elucidate major parameters that influence blood mercury and glutathione peroxidase activity; 3) relate measures of tissue mercury, selenium, and glutathione peroxidase to specific ecological, hematological, morphological, or life history parameters, including season, sex, age, and trophic level. Mercury in both tissues examined is almost exclusively methylmercury. Epidermal concentrations of mercury and selenium reflect their respective amounts in blood, albeit at several times blood concentrations of mercury. The strong association between blood mercury and serum selenium, in conjunction with a lack of significant correlation between blood mercury and glutathione peroxidase, implies that a substantial proportion of blood mercury is affiliated with another selenium-containing moiety or is related to recent dietary intakes (e.g., trophic level, intensive fish consumption). Circulating blood mercury may be described in terms of serum selenium concentration, along with interaction terms among serum selenium, blood d(15)N, and age. Current selenium concentrations in Sarasota Bay dolphins appear adequate for maintenance of blood glutathione peroxidase activity. However, dolphins evidently are subject to seasonal exacerbation of oxidative stress, which might render them more vulnerable to toxic effects of mercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Woshner
- Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
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21
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Godard CAJ, Wise SS, Kelly RS, Goodale B, Kraus S, Romano T, O'Hara T, Wise JP. Benzo[a]pyrene cytotoxicity in right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) skin, testis and lung cell lines. Mar Environ Res 2006; 62 Suppl:S20-4. [PMID: 16698075 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2006.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The North Atlantic right whale (NARW) is one of the most endangered great whales. The NARW population consists of only about 300 individuals and is reproducing at an insufficient rate. There is growing concern about the potential effects of environmental contaminants on the reproductive and overall health of NARW. High contaminant burdens can accumulate in tissues of great whales but toxicological studies of their effects are limited due to legal, logistical and ethical restrictions and specific in vitro models are critically needed. Cell lines from NARW skin and internal organs were previously created in our laboratory. In this study, skin, testis and lung primary fibroblast cell lines were exposed to benzo[a]pyrene (BP) as part of a multi-chemical toxicity testing project in NARW. Cells were exposed for 24-72 h to 10 nM-10 microM BP dissolved in dimethylsulfoxide. Cytotoxicity was measured with a clonogenic assay using standard methods. Some cytotoxicity was observed after 24 h, the highest concentration (10 microM BP) resulting in 77, 74 and 51 percent relative survival in testis, skin and lung cells, respectively, and indicating a higher cytotoxicity in the lung (p < 0.05). After 48 and 72-h exposure, 10 microM BP resulted in 24 and 3, 74 and 27, and 42 and 23 percent relative survival in testis, skin and lung cells, respectively. Cytotoxicity significantly increased with exposure time in all three tissues (p < 0.05 for skin and p < 0.01 for lung and testis), suggesting metabolic activation of BP in the three organs. Fibroblast cytotoxicity observed in the testis was higher than that observed either in the skin or lung after 48 h (p < 0.01) and was close to 100% after 72 h, warranting further investigation of the potential effects of PAHs on reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A J Godard
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, Portland, ME 04104, USA
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22
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Riget F, Muir D, Kwan M, Savinova T, Nyman M, Woshner V, O'Hara T. Circumpolar pattern of mercury and cadmium in ringed seals. Sci Total Environ 2005; 351-352:312-22. [PMID: 16005942 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2004.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 03/18/2004] [Revised: 05/02/2004] [Accepted: 05/11/2004] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) concentrations in ringed seal liver and kidney were compared from 11 locations across the Arctic, from Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Svalbard to the White Sea. Adult and sub adult seals were evaluated separately to account for age accumulations of Hg and Cd. Only recently (1995-2001) collected samples were included to minimize influence of changes over time. The Hg and Cd concentrations in ringed seal liver and kidney differed significantly among the studied locations. The Hg concentrations in liver of ringed seals was highest in the western Canadian Arctic locations, while Cd in liver was highest in the eastern Canadian and West Greenland locations. In general, Hg and Cd concentrations in liver and kidney were significantly higher in adult ringed seals than in sub adults and the circumpolar patterns were most pronounced in adult ringed seals. The Hg and Cd concentrations in kidney of ringed seals in general supported the geographical pattern found in livers although the coverage was more limited. The most likely explanation for the observed circumpolar pattern appears mainly to be related to natural geological differences in mineral (Hg and Cd) among regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Riget
- National Environmental Research Institute, Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000 Denmark.
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23
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Abstract
We identified Echinococcus multilocularis for the first time in brown lemmings (Lemmus trimucronatus) from Barrow, Alaska, USA. Of 467 brown lemmings trapped between 1995 and 2000, two males and two females (0.9%; 95% confidence interval=0.9+/-0.9%) were found to be infected with metacestodes of E. multilocularis. No metacestodes were found in 17 collared lemmings (Dicrostonyx rubricatus) also trapped at Barrow. In humans, E. multilocularis causes alveolar echinococcosis, which is potentially fatal. Knowledge of the distribution of this parasite is important to protect the public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denver W Holt
- Owl Research Institute, PO Box 39, Charlo, Montana 59824, USA.
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Tittlemier S, Borrell A, Duffe J, Duignan PJ, Fair P, Hall A, Hoekstra P, Kovacs KM, Krahn MM, Lebeuf M, Lydersen C, Muir D, O'Hara T, Olsson M, Pranschke J, Ross P, Siebert U, Stern G, Tanabe S, Norstrom R. Global distribution of halogenated dimethyl bipyrroles in marine mammal blubber. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 2002; 43:244-255. [PMID: 12115051 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-002-1175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [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] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Four halogenated dimethyl bipyrroles (HDBPs), hypothesized to be naturally produced, were quantitated in marine mammal blubber from a number of species obtained from various locations worldwide. HDBPs were found in samples from all locations studied. Concentrations of total HDBPs (SigmaHDBPs) ranged from 0.4 ng/g lipid weight in ringed seals (Phoca hispida) from the White Sea to 2,540 ng/g lipid weight in Dall's porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli) from the northwestern North Pacific Ocean. At their highest levels, SigmaHDBPs made up 11% of the total quantitated organohalogen body burden of adult male Dall's porpoises. In two beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) data subsets, it was found that males contained significantly higher concentrations of SigmaHDBPs than females. No significant effects of age or sex on SigmaHDBPs were observed in harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) and bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) data subsets. The geographical distribution of concentrations did not resemble that of the ubiquitous anthropogenic organohalogen, polychlorinated biphenyl congener CB-153. Higher concentrations of HDBPs and different patterns of congeners were observed in samples from Pacific as opposed to non-Pacific Ocean influenced environments. Concentrations of HDBPs in beluga from the Arctic and St. Lawrence River were similar. Their high abundance in north Pacific Ocean biota and widespread occurrence suggest that HDBPs undergo extensive transport from a source located primarily in the Pacific Ocean. Evidence from HDBP congener patterns indicates that both ocean currents and atmospheric transport likely play a role in the movement of HDBPs. These results imply that HDBPs and anthropogenic organohalogens have different sources and support the natural production hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Tittlemier
- Centre for Analytical and Environmental Chemistry, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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O'Hara T, Hayes S, Davis J, Devane J, Smart T, Dunne A. In vivo-in vitro correlation (IVIVC) modeling incorporating a convolution step. J Pharmacokinet Pharmacodyn 2001; 28:277-98. [PMID: 11468941 DOI: 10.1023/a:1011531226478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of in vivo-in vitro correlation (IVIVC) modeling is described. These models are usually fitted to deconvoluted data rather than the raw plasma drug concentration/time data. Such a two-stage analysis is undesirable because the deconvolution step is unstable and because the fitted model predicts the fraction of a dosage unit dissolved/absorbed in vivo which generally is not the primary focus of our attention. Interest usually centers on the plasma drug concentration or some function of it (e.g., AUC, Cmax). Incorporation of a convolution step into the model overcomes these difficulties. Odds, hazards, and reversed hazards models which include a convolution step are described. The identity model (which states that average in vivo and in vitro dissolution/time curves are coincident or directly superimposable) is a special case of these models. The odds model and the identity model were fitted to data sets for two different products using nonlinear mixed effects model fitting software. Results show that the odds model describes both data sets reasonably well and is a significantly better fit than the identity model in each case.
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Affiliation(s)
- T O'Hara
- Elan Corporation plc, Athlone, Ireland
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27
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George JC, Bada J, Zeh J, Scott L, Brown SE, O'Hara T, Suydam R. Age and growth estimates of bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) via aspartic acid racemization. CAN J ZOOL 1999. [DOI: 10.1139/z99-015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A total of 48 eye globes were collected and analyzed to estimate ages of bowhead whales using the aspartic acid racemization technique. In this technique, age is estimated based on intrinsic changes in the D and L enantiomeric isomeric forms of aspartic acid in the eye lens nucleus. Age estimates were successful for 42 animals. Racemization rate (kAsp) for aspartic acid was based on data from earlier studies of humans and fin whales; the estimate used was 1.18 10-3/year. The D/L ratio at birth ((D/L)0) was estimated using animals less than or equal to 2 years of age (n = 8), since variability in the D/L measurements is large enough that differences among ages in this range are unmeasurable. The (D/L)0 estimate was 0.0285. Variance of the age estimates was obtained using the delta method. Based on these data, growth appears faster for females than males, and age at sexual maturity (age at length 12-13 m for males and 13-13.5 m for females) occurs at around 25 years of age. Growth slows markedly for both sexes at roughly 40-50 years of age. Four individuals (all males) exceed 100 years of age. Standard error increased with estimated age, but the age estimates had lower coefficients of variation for older animals. Recoveries of traditional whale-hunting tools from five recently harvested whales also suggest life-spans in excess of 100 years of age in some cases.
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Dunne A, O'Hara T, Devane J. A new approach to modelling the relationship between in vitro and in vivo drug dissolution/absorption. Stat Med 1999; 18:1865-76; discussion 1877. [PMID: 10407257] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
A major goal of the pharmaceutical scientist is finding a relationship between an in vitro characteristic of an oral dosage form and its in vivo performance. One such relationship between drug dissolution (or absorption) in vivo and that in vitro is known as an 'in vitro-in vivo correlation' (IVIVC) whose importance stems from the fact that it may be used to minimize the number of human studies required during product development, assist in setting meaningful in vitro dissolution specifications and justify biowaivers for scale-up and post approval changes. A number of ways of describing an IVIVC have been reported with 'level A' being the most informative and therefore most desirable. In the majority of cases reported to date, both the model and the statistical methods employed for level A IVIVC are very simplistic. The model assumes that the rate and extent of dissolution in vivo are the same as those in vitro. The statistical methods ignore the repeated measures nature of the data and use a response variable as an independent variable without accounting for measurement error. This paper describes some new models which include the simple model as a special case. The modelling approach is based on considering the time at which a drug molecule enters solution (in vitro or in vivo) to be a random variable. The in vitro and in vivo distributions are then related to one another using a proportional odds, proportional hazards or proportional reversed hazards model. The models can be extended by adding a linear time component which describes a time varying relationship. Following the addition of random effects to these structural models in order to account for the repeated measures nature of the data collected, the models may be described as generalized linear mixed effects models. The models were fitted to some data sets using a maximum likelihood based method and the results indicate that these models have potential for describing an in vitro-in vivo relationship which cannot be described using the currently available models.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dunne
- Department of Statistics, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
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29
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George JC, Bada J, Zeh J, Scott L, Brown SE, O'Hara T, Suydam R. Age and growth estimates of bowhead whales ( Balaena mysticetus) via aspartic acid racemization. CAN J ZOOL 1999. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-77-4-571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
Some new nonlinear models for the relationship between the fraction of drug dose dissolved (absorbed) in vivo and that dissolved in vitro are described. The models are empirical in nature and are generalizations of the linear model that, at present, is the most commonly used model. The modeling approach is based on considering the time at which a drug molecule goes into solution (in vitro or in vivo) to be a random variable and relating the distribution functions using proportional odds, proportional hazards, and proportional reversed hazards models. The models are further extended by allowing the parameter that relates in vivo and in vitro to be a function of time. A statistical model for the data is developed and used as the basis for a statistical methodology for fitting these models. The methods are shown to be generalized linear mixed effects model (GLMM) methods. The models are fitted to some data sets, and the results demonstrate that these models have potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dunne
- Department of Statistics, University College Dublin, Ireland
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31
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Stark P, Kinahan A, Cunningham S, Butler J, O'Hara T, Dunne A, Connolly J, Devane J. Determination of critical manufacturing and formulation variables for a hydrophilic matrix tablet formulation using an in vitro discriminatory dissolution method. Adv Exp Med Biol 1997; 423:137-47. [PMID: 9269489 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4684-6036-0_11] [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: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P Stark
- IVIVR Co-operative Working Group, Elan Corporation plc, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
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O'Hara T, Dunne A, Kinahan A, Cunningham S, Stark P, Devane J. Review of methodologies for the comparison of dissolution profile data. Adv Exp Med Biol 1997; 423:167-71. [PMID: 9269492 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4684-6036-0_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- T O'Hara
- IVIVR Co-operative Working Group, Elan Corporation plc, Monksland, Athlone, Ireland
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dunne
- Department of Statistics, University College Dublin, Ireland
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34
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Fairbrother A, Fix M, O'Hara T, Ribic CA. Impairment of growth and immune function of avocet chicks from sites with elevated selenium, arsenic, and boron. J Wildl Dis 1994; 30:222-33. [PMID: 8028107 DOI: 10.7589/0090-3558-30.2.222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Avocets (Recurvirostra americana) hatched from eggs collected from the south Central Valley of California (USA) were studied to determine the impact of elevated concentrations of selenium, arsenic, and boron on the immune system and growth to maturity. Corcoran ponds were the reference site with low selenium (1.2 ppb) and arsenic (29 ppb) (boron not measured). Westfarmers Pond had elevated concentrations of selenium (319 ppb), arsenic (127 ppb), and boron (109 ppm). Pryse ponds also had elevated selenium, arsenic, and boron concentrations (13.9 ppb, 1,100 ppb, and 29.4 ppm, respectively). Size at hatch was significantly reduced (P < or = 0.05) in birds from Westfarmers and Pryse ponds. The growth rate was faster, but mean adult size was reduced in birds from Pryse ponds. Avocet chicks from Pryse and Westfarmers ponds exposed solely through in ovo transfer of these elements had significantly increased heterophil:lymphocyte ratios. The phagocytic activity of macrophages also was significantly reduced in these birds, and Pryse Pond birds had an increased proliferative ability of lymphocytes in the presence of concanavalin A, a T-cell mitogen. Avocet chicks (< or = 5 wk old) were captured from the various ponds and the same morphometric and immune function measurements made. The birds that were most severely impacted by exposure to these compounds were those that were collected from Pryse ponds.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fairbrother
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Research Laboratory, Corvallis, Oregon 97333
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35
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Winter SC, Simon M, Zorn EM, Szabo-Aczel S, Vance WH, O'Hara T, Higashi L. Relative carnitine insufficiency in children with type I diabetes mellitus. Am J Dis Child 1989; 143:1337-9. [PMID: 2816861 DOI: 10.1001/archpedi.1989.02150230095030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Recognizing the similarity of type I diabetes mellitus to inborn errors of metabolism that have responded to carnitine therapy, we initiated a study of 54 children with type I diabetes mellitus. Examining a fasting blood sample for levels of carnitine, glucose, and glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, and a urine sample for levels of ketones and glucose, we found 13 children were deficient of free carnitine (less than 20 mumol/L) and 30 had elevated acyl carnitine levels (greater than 11 mumol/L). Statistical tests confirmed a significant difference between the diabetic population and normal population for reduced free carnitine, elevated acyl carnitine, and an elevated ratio of acyl carnitine to free carnitine. Also, a significant correlation was found between the levels of urine glucose and ketones and the level of acyl carnitine. Our data indicate that carnitine deficiency and relative insufficiency may be an overlooked component in the management of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Winter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco
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Winegar CP, Henderson O, White BC, Jackson RE, O'Hara T, Krause GS, Vigor DN, Kontry R, Wilson W, Shelby-Lane C. Early amelioration of neurologic deficit by lidoflazine after fifteen minutes of cardiopulmonary arrest in dogs. Ann Emerg Med 1983; 12:471-7. [PMID: 6881642 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-0644(83)80640-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A prospective, controlled, blind study was done to test the effect of a calcium entry blocker on the neurologic integrity of dogs after cardiopulmonary arrest. Ten male mongrel dogs were anesthetized, prepared with sterile technique, and instrumented for pulmonary arterial (PA) and systematic arterial pressure monitoring. A left thoracotomy and pericardotomy were performed. Cardiac arrest was produced by injecting KCl (1 mEq/kg) through the PA line, and the respirator was stopped. Full arrest was maintained for 15 minutes. Thereafter, the dogs were resuscitated with ventilation, internal massage, fluids, bicarbonate, epinephrine, and internal defibrillation. All dogs were resuscitated within 6 to 10 minutes. Five control dogs received saline placebo, and five dogs were treated with lidoflazine (1 mg/kg) IV drip immediately post resuscitation. All dogs were scored neurologically every two hours by a deficit grading scale. All treated dogs had spontaneous ventilation, reactive pupils and corneals, voluntary movements, and responses to tactile stimulation at 12 hours post resuscitation. Four of five control dogs had maximum deficit scores without improvement. The difference in neurologic scores between the treated and control groups became increasingly divergent with time, and was statistically significant (P less than .05) by four hours post resuscitation. Thus the calcium antagonist lidoflazine produces improvement in neurologic recovery in the first 12 hours after cardiopulmonary arrest in dogs.
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37
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White BC, Winegar CP, Henderson O, Jackson RE, Krause G, O'Hara T, Goodin T, Vigor DN. Prolonged hypoperfusion in the cerebral cortex following cardiac arrest and resuscitation in dogs. Ann Emerg Med 1983; 12:414-7. [PMID: 6881631 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-0644(83)80334-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [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: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Increasing cerebral vascular resistance and brain perfusion failure occur within 90 minutes following cardiac arrest and resuscitation. This study followed cortical perfusion for 18 hours after a 15-minute cardiac arrest. Six dogs were anesthetized with ketamine and gallamine and then mechanically ventilated. They were instrumented for arterial pressure, central venous pressure, and regional cerebral cortical blood flow (rCCBF) determined by thermodilution. A left thoracotomy and pericardiotomy were done. Two dogs served as non-arrest controls. Cardiac arrest was produced in four dogs with an intravenous bolus of KCl at 1 mEq/kg. After 15 minutes of cardiac arrest, the animals were resuscitated with internal massage, NaHCO3, epinephrine, and internal defibrillation. Cortical blood flow was followed for 18 hours. Arterial core temperature was never less than 35 C. Pre-arrest cortical blood flows were 0.86 cc/min/g (+/- 0.11). The two control animals had stable rCCBF (0.74 +/- 0.17) for all determinations during the 18-hour follow-up period. Determinations of rCCBF from 6 to 18 hours in post-arrest animals were 7% to 14% of pre-arrest values. We conclude that the post-resuscitation perfusion failure in the cortex is prolonged. Any potential for neuronal recovery, unless perfusion is protected, would not be realized given this phenomenon.
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O'Hara T. Clear federal strategy is emerging for cost control. Hosp Financ Manage 1979; 33:18-20. [PMID: 10243787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The author states that the purpose of governmental cost containment initiatives is to gain control over hospital capital expenditures, utilization, payment and quality assurance. He suggests that the costs of hospital operation should be completely re-examined stating that the reform of the hospital payment system is emerging as the energizing factor which will stimulate proper allocation of capital resources and effective utilization and quality assurance. O'Hare outlines the potential of the federal strategy. Recent legislation (PL 93-641 and PL 95-142) has mandated that hospital financial and statistical data be made available to federal agencies. He concludes that a dominant federal role in cost containment strategy threatens to abolish individual differences between institutions and their ability to be responsive to local needs. The author urges hospital leadership to take a more active position in implementing a cost containment strategy.
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