Microplastics increase susceptibility of amphibian larvae to the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis.

Microplastics (MPs), a new class of pollutants that pose a threat to aquatic biodiversity, are of increasing global concern. In tandem, the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) causing the disease chytridiomycosis is emerging worldwide as a major stressor to amphibians. We here assess whether synergies exist between this infectious disease and MP pollution by mimicking natural contact of a highly susceptible species (midwife toads, Alytes obstetricans) with a Bd-infected reservoir species (fire salamanders, Salamandra salamandra) in the presence and absence of MPs. We found that MP ingestion increases the burden of infection by Bd in a dose-dependent manner. However, MPs accumulated to a greater extent in amphibians that were not exposed to Bd, likely due to Bd-damaged tadpole mouthparts interfering with MP ingestion. Our experimental approach showed compelling interactions between two emergent processes, chytridiomycosis and MP pollution, necessitating further research into potential synergies between these biotic and abiotic threats to amphibians.

Natural recovery of a marine foundation species emerges decades after landscape-scale mortality.

Globally, the conditions and time scales underlying coastal ecosystem recovery following disturbance remain poorly understood, and post-disturbance examples of resilience based on long-term studies are particularly rare. Here, we documented the recovery of a marine foundation species (turtlegrass) following a hypersalinity-associated die-off in Florida Bay, USA, one of the most spatially extensive mortality events for seagrass ecosystems on record. Based upon annual sampling over two decades, foundation species recovery across the landscape was demonstrated by two ecosystem responses: the range of turtlegrass biomass met or exceeded levels present prior to the die-off, and turtlegrass regained dominance of seagrass community structure. Unlike reports for most marine taxa, recovery followed without human intervention or reduction to anthropogenic impacts. Our long-term study revealed previously uncharted resilience in subtropical seagrass landscapes but warns that future persistence of the foundation species in this iconic ecosystem will depend upon the frequency and severity of drought-associated perturbation.

Health impacts of environmental contamination of micro- and nanoplastics: a review.

Plastics are extensively used in our daily life. However, a significant amount of plastic waste is discharged to the environment directly or via improper reuse or recycling. Degradation of plastic waste generates micro- or nano-sized plastic particles that are defined as micro- or nanoplastics (MNPs). Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles with a diameter less than 5 mm, while nanoplastics (NPs) range in diameter from 1 to 100 or 1000 nm. In the current review, we first briefly summarized the environmental contamination of MNPs and then discussed their health impacts based on existing MNP research. Our review indicates that MNPs can be detected in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide and be ingested and accumulated by animals along the food chain. Evidence has suggested the harmful health impacts of MNPs on marine and freshwater animals. Recent studies found MPs in human stool samples, suggesting that humans are exposed to MPs through food and/or drinking water. However, the effect of MNPs on human health is scarcely researched. In addition to the MNPs themselves, these tiny plastic particles can release plastic additives and/or adsorb other environmental chemicals, many of which have been shown to exhibit endocrine disrupting and other toxic effects. In summary, we conclude that more studies are necessary to provide a comprehensive understanding of MNP pollution hazards and also provide a basis for the subsequent pollution management and control.

Odors from marine plastic debris elicit foraging behavior in sea turtles.

Pfaller et al. report that sea turtles respond to odors from biofouled plastic debris with the same behavior that is elicited by food odors, providing a possible unifying explanation for why sea turtles interact with marine plastic.

Host-microbiota interactions shed light on mortality events in the striped venus clam Chamelea gallina.

Mass mortalities due to disease outbreaks have recently affected a number of major taxa in marine ecosystems. Climate- and pollution-induced stress may compromise host immune defenses, increasing the risk of opportunistic diseases. Despite growing evidence that mass mortality events affecting marine species worldwide are strongly influenced by the interplay of numerous environmental factors, the reductionist approaches most frequently used to investigate these factors hindered the interpretation of these multifactorial pathologies. In this study, we propose a broader approach based on the combination of RNA-sequencing and 16S microbiota analyses to decipher the factors underlying mass mortality in the striped venus clam, Chamelea gallina, along the Adriatic coast. On one hand, gene expression profiling and functional analyses of microbial communities showed the over-expression of several genes and molecular pathways involved in xenobiotic metabolism, suggesting potential chemical contamination in mortality sites. On the other hand, the down-regulation of several genes involved in immune and stress response, and the over-representation of opportunistic pathogens such as Vibrio and Photobacterium spp. indicates that these microbial species may take advantage of compromised host immune pathways and defense mechanisms that are potentially affected by chemical exposure, resulting in periodic mortality events. We propose the application of our approach to interpret and anticipate the risks inherent in the combined effects of pollutants and microbes on marine animals in today's rapidly changing environment.

Treatment of Arsenic-Induced Bowen's Disease With Topical 5-Fluorouracil

Here, we present a case of arsenic-induced Bowen's disease treated with a regimen consisting of topical 5-fluouracil and oral nicotinamide. The use of this therapy modality resulted in near complete resolution of all of the patient's lesions except for those on her palms, soles, and scalp. Excellent wound care and treatment adherence were major factors contributing to the success of this treatment option. Our results ultimately provide an alternative approach to treating multiple arsenical keratoses in patients who are limited to a drug plan involving 5-FU and oral nicotinamide and who are able to be rigorously compliant with application of medication and wound care. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(5):477-479.

Chronic Interstitial Nephritis in Agricultural Communities (CINAC) in Sri Lanka.

A significant increase in cases of chronic kidney disease has been observed in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. This unusual chronic kidney disease was first reported in the early 1990s among middle-aged paddy farmers. Considering epidemiologic and histopathologic findings, the disease recently was named chronic interstitial nephritis in agricultural communities (CINAC). Twenty-five years after the first report, CINAC is the most significant public health issue in the paddy farming areas with more than 70,000 estimated patients and many deaths. Histopathologically, this disease is a tubular interstitial nephritis associated with glomerular sclerosis and mild vascular changes. Morphologic and biochemical characteristics of CINAC in Sri Lanka share many similarities with Mesoamerican nephropathy. Certain natural and man-made toxins, heat stress with repeated volume and salt depletion, infections such as hantavirus and leptospirosis, and a genetic origin have been proposed and investigated as possible etiologies, and an association between CINAC and herbicides is widely discussed. Several preventive measures already have been implemented by health authorities in Sri Lanka to minimize nephrotoxin exposure and well hydrate the inhabitants in the disease-endemic region. The impact of these interventions will be watched with anticipation.

Plastic debris on Pacific Islands: Ecological and health implications.

Plastic debris is a worldwide problem. This is particularly acute in the Pacific region, where its scale is a reason for serious concerns. There is an obvious need for studies to assess the extent to which plastic debris affects the Pacific. Therefore, this research aims to address this need by undertaking a systematic assessment of the ecological and health impacts of plastic debris on Pacific islands. Using pertinent historical qualitative and quantitative data of the distribution of plastic debris in the region, this study identified pollution and contamination trends and risks to ecosystems, and suggests some measures which may be deployed to address the identified problems. The study illustrates the fact that Pacific Island States are being disproportionately affected by plastic, and reiterates that further studies and integrated strategies are needed, involving public education and empowerment, governmental action, as well as ecologically sustainable industry leadership. It is also clear that more research is needed in respect of developing alternatives to conventional plastic, by the production of bio-plastic, i.e. plastic which is produced from natural (e.g. non-fossil fuel-based sources) materials, and which can be fully biodegradable.

The effect of seasonal and human pressure on macrobenthic fauna in the Caroni Swamp Ramsar Site, Trinidad and Tobago / Efecto de la presión estacional y humana en la fauna macrobentónica del sitio Ramsar pantano Caroní, Trinidad y Tobago

Abstract Human pressures have placed many tropical estuaries in developing countries under increased levels of stress. The Caroni Swamp Ramsar Site, the largest mangrove swamp along the west coast of Trinidad, has been subjected to high levels of anthropogenic impacts including hydrological alteration and pollution from land-based sources since the 1920's. While most of these impacts have been well documented, limited information exists on the macrobenthic communities in the swamp. This study addresses the paucity of information. The macrobenthic fauna in the main waterways of Caroni Swamp was sampled at 12 locations using a Van Veen 0.025 m2 grab, once in the dry (April) and wet (August) season of 2015 with a total of 144 samples. The samples were sorted, counted and species were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level. A total of 55 taxa were identified with polychaetes being the most abundant taxa. The ecological status of the macrobenthos was assessed using AZTI's Marine Biotic Index (AMBI) and the multivariate-AMBI (M-AMBI). Physicochemical parameters were measured with a YSI multiparameter metre. Chemical analyses were also conducted on nitrates, nitrites, ammonia and reactive phosphates using standard methods. Overall, AMBI characterised the Caroni Swamp as "slightly disturbed" with a macrobenthic community of "poor" ecological status according to M-AMBI. Generally, the quality of the environment improves from the dry season to the wet season. However, seasonal variations in AMBI and M-AMBI were found to be site specific as some showed improvement in ecological status and macrozoobenthos quality while others showed degradation from the dry season to the wet season. The stations to the North of the swamp showed improvement from the dry season to the wet season while the opposite was observed in the more Southern stations. One notable characteristic of the swamp was the high levels of pollutants, particularly ammonia, recorded in one of its major waterways, the Caroni River. This is in contrast to the other waterways within the swamp which experience much lower levels of pollutant input from land-based sources. The assessment of the Caroni Swamp using AMBI and M-AMBI may be useful for informing management strategies to conserve the wetland and improve environmental quality. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(3): 1101-1117. Epub 2018 September 01.

Resumen Los estuarios tropicales de países en desarrollo han experimentado un aumento en los niveles de estrés debido a la presión humana. El sitio Ramsar pantano Caroní, el manglar más grande de la costa oeste de Trinidad, ha estado sujeto a altos niveles de impacto antropogénico, incluyendo alteraciones hidrológicas y contaminación de fuentes terrestres desde la década de 1920. Aunque la mayoría de estos impactos han sido bien documentados, existe información limitada sobre las comunidades macrobentónicas en el pantano. Este estudio aborda esta escasez de información. Se muestreó la fauna macrobentónica en el canal principal del pantano Caroní en 12 localidades utilizando una draga Van Veen de 0.025 m2, una vez durante la época seca (Abril) y la época lluviosa (Agosto) 2015, con un total de 144 muestras. Las muestras fueron ordenadas, contadas y las especies se identificaron al menor nivel taxonómico posible. Se identificaron un total de 55 taxa, siendo los poliquetos el taxa más abundante. El estatus ecológico del macrobentos se evaluó utilizando el Índice Marino Biótico de AZTI (AMBI) y el AMBI-multivariado (M-AMBI). Los parámetros fisicoquímicos se midieron con un multiparámetro YSI. Los análisis químicos también se realizaron para nitratos, nitritos, amonio y fostatos activos utilizando métodos estándar. En conjunto, el índice AMBI caracterizó el pantano Caroní como "levemente alterado" con una comunidad macrobentónica de categoría "pobre" de acuerdo al M-AMBI. Generalmente, la calidad de los ambientes incrementa desde la época seca hasta la época lluviosa. Sin embargo, las variaciones estacionales en los índices AMBI y M-AMBI fueron específicas a la localidad, mostrando algunas un incremento en el estatus ecológico y calidad del macrozoobentos, mientras que otros mostraron una degradación de la época seca a la época lluviosa. Las estaciones al norte del pantano mostraron una mejora de la época seca a la época lluviosa, mientras que se presentó lo contrario en las estaciones más al sur. Una característica notable del pantano fueron los altos niveles de contaminantes, particularmente amonio, registrado en uno de los canales principales del río Caroní. Esto contrasta con los otros canales del pantano que experimentan niveles menores de aporte de contaminantes de fuentes terrestres. La evaluación del pantano Caroní utilizando los índíces AMBI y M-AMBI puede ser una base útil de información para las estrategias de manejo y conservación del humedal y mejorar su calidad ambiental.

Distribution and phytotoxicity of soil labile aluminum fractions and aluminum species in soil water extracts and their effects on tall fescue.

Soil acidification can alter the biogeochemistry of ecosystems and adversely affect biota; however, there are still many debates about the toxicity of aluminum (Al) fractions and Al species in soil:water extracts to plants. In this study, five crude soils with different pH values (4.92-8.51) were collected, seeded with tall fescue and grown in rhizosphere boxes for 120 days. Then, soil properties, labile Al fractions and Al species in soil:water extracts were determined, and their toxicities to plants were analyzed. Our study showed that a stable exchangeable Al fraction (ExAl) pool exists and is supplied by other labile Al fractions. Dissolution of Al from adsorbed hydroxyl-Al fraction (HyAl) and organic-Al fraction (OrAl) may play important roles in soil Al toxicity, as HyAl and OrAl account for major parts of soil labile Al. Additionally, Al3+ and mononuclear hydroxyl-Al species in soil:water extracts have few effects to plants. Nevertheless, high negative correlations were found between Al-F- complexes and tall fescue biomass, indicating their toxicity in the natural soil environment. Thus, in many cases, Al3+ toxicity should not be emphasized because of its lower activity in soil water extracts. Moreover, toxicities of AlF3(aq) and AlF4- to plants should be emphasized, because they have been confirmed in soil water extracts in this study.

Oxidative stress index is increased in children exposed to industrial discharges and is inversely correlated with metabolite excretion of voc.

Although the Atoyac River has been classified as highly polluted by environmental authorities, several communities are settled on its banks, affecting around 1.5 million persons, as well as farmland, due to an environmental distribution of toxics in the area. Our aim was to demonstrate that this environment affects important physiological processes that have an impact in health, so we conducted a study of schoolchildren from small communities on the banks of the river and in another similar town located far from it. 91 and 93 students, boys and girls, were studied from each site for oxidative stress index (OSI), calculated from the total antioxidant capacity and the total oxidative status, BTEX metabolite excretion and relevant metabolic polymorphisms participating in the bioactivation-detoxification of most VOC: CYP2E1 RsaI, NQO1 C609T, and null polymorphisms of GSTT1 and GSTM1. Results showed that OSI was significantly higher in children living by the river (5.23 ± 3.4 vs 2.59 ± 1.46, 95% C.I.). At this site, OSI was correlated with diminished metabolite excretion and a diminished antioxidant capacity; an association with genotypes CYP2E1RsaI (c2c2), GSTT1 present and NQO1*2 (CC) was also observed. Furthermore, boys at this site exhibited a diminished BMI compared to boys from the other community who were younger. IN CONCLUSION: children living at polluted sites like this, show early biological effects that might lead to health problems in their adult life. Environmental protection should be enforced to protect people's health in these sites where not even environmental monitoring is done. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:639-652, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Episodic records of jellyfish ingestion of plastic items reveal a novel pathway for trophic transference of marine litter.

Invertebrates represent the most plentiful component of marine biodiversity. To date, only few species have been documented for marine litter intake. Here, we report for the first time the presence of macroplastic debris in a jellyfish species. Such novel target to plastic pollution highlights an under studied vector of marine litter along marine trophic web, raising further concern over the impact on marine wildlife.

Microplastics: No Small Problem for Filter-Feeding Megafauna.

Microplastic pollution can impact filter-feeding marine megafauna, namely mobulid rays, filter-feeding sharks, and baleen whales. Emerging research on these flagship species highlights potential exposure to microplastic contamination and plastic-associated toxins. Research and its wide communication are needed to understand the magnitude of the issue and improve marine stewardship.

Plastic bag and facial cleanser derived microplastic do not affect feeding behaviour and energy reserves of terrestrial isopods.

Current data regarding the effects of microplastic (MP) on terrestrial organisms are very scarce. Isopods play an important role in plant litter decomposition processes and are commonly used test species in terrestrial ecotoxicity studies. Their altered feeding behaviour and energy reserves are established biomarkers of adverse effects upon stressor exposure. For this study we assessed the effects of MP derived from plastic bag film (mean size 183±93µm) and particles from a facial cleanser (mean size 137±51µm) on the terrestrial isopod, Porcellio scaber. Isopods were exposed to MP via feeding on food pellets (4mgg-1 dry weight; 0.4% w w-1) for 14days under laboratory conditions. A control group was exposed to food pellets with no MP added. In line with previously suggested modes of MP action on animal ingestion, we assessed the food ingestion rate, defecation rate, food assimilation rate and efficiency, body mass change, mortality and energy reserves (proteins, carbohydrates, and triglycerides) in the digestive glands (hepatopancreas) of individual isopods. Contrary to our expectations, no effects on either end-point were observed under the given exposure conditions. Further work should be carried out to investigate the potential longer-term effects of such exposure. We conclude that 14days exposure to plastic bag and facial cleanser MP is not severely hazardous to isopods.

Additive negative effects of anthropogenic sedimentation and warming on the survival of coral recruits.

Corals worldwide are facing population declines due to global climate change and local anthropogenic impacts. Global climate change effects are hard to tackle but recent studies show that some coral species can better handle climate change stress when provided with additional energy resources. The local stressor that most undermines energy acquisition is sedimentation because it impedes coral heterotrophic feeding and their ability to photosynthesize. To investigate if reducing local sedimentation will enable corals to better endure ocean warming, we quantitatively assessed the combined effects of increased temperature and sedimentation (concentration and turbidity) on the survival of coral recruits of the species, Porites astreoides. We used sediment from a reef and a boat basin to mimic natural sediment (coarse) and anthropogenic (fine) sediment (common in dredging), respectively. Natural sediment did not negatively impact coral survival, but anthropogenic sediment did. We found that the capacity of coral recruits to survive under warmer temperatures is less compromised when anthropogenic sedimentation is maintained at the lowest level (30 mg.cm-2). Our study suggests that a reduction of US-EPA allowable turbidity from 29 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) above background to less than 7 NTU near coral reefs would facilitate coral recruit survival under current and higher temperatures.