Andrzej Reindl - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Andrzej Reindl

Research paper thumbnail of Halogenated organic compounds in the eggs of aquatic birds from the Gulf of Gdansk and Wloclawek Dam (Poland)

Chemosphere, Dec 1, 2019

h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorin... more h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorinated furans have the lowest concentration in birds' eggs. Chlorinated compounds dominated in tern eggs, brominated in gull eggs.

Research paper thumbnail of Hexabromocyclododecane contamination of herring gulls in the coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 1, 2020

© Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k... more © Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k , Po l a n d. A l l r i g h t s re s e r ve d.

Research paper thumbnail of Methane flux from sediment into near-bottom water and its variability along the Hel Peninsula—Southern Baltic Sea

Continental Shelf Research, Feb 1, 2014

Methane in the sediments of the Bay of Puck occurs in the form of free gas bubbles and is release... more Methane in the sediments of the Bay of Puck occurs in the form of free gas bubbles and is released from the sediments into near-bottom water in the form of a flux. The sediments of the Bay of Puck also contain methanogens whose biological activity results in the production of methane. Research carried out in the coastal areas of the bay along the Hel Peninsula proved the existence of a methane flux ranging from 0.81 mmol m À 2 d À 1 to 33.41 mmol m À 2 d À 1 in 2011, while in 2010 ranged from 0.91 mmol m À 2 d À 1 to 49.15 mmol m À 2 d À 1. Seasonal and annual fluctuations were also observed. Other factors contributing to the change in methane flux are water temperature and other environmental factors. An increase in temperature causes an increase in the flux. Fluctuations of the flux within individual sampling sites were also observed. A test performed with specific methanogenic inhibitor-sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) unexpectedly revealed higher methane concentrations (10-13%) in samples to which SDS was added. We speculate that these higher methane concentration result from the lysis of methane-forming bacteria cells when exposed to SDS.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of claws as an alternative route of mercury elimination from the herring gull (<i>Larus argentatus</i>)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 1, 2019

© Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k... more © Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k , Po l a n d. A l l r i g h t s re s e r ve d.

Research paper thumbnail of Alimentary exposure and elimination routes of rare earth elements (REE) in marine mammals from the Baltic Sea and Antarctic coast

Science of The Total Environment, Feb 1, 2021

Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species e... more Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species eliminate REE in similar LREE/HREE proportions. • Excretion via faeces is a more effective way to eliminate REE than molting. • Presence of REE in lanugo indicates placental transfer. • Excretion of trace element by animals can result in local ecosystem pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Sources, deposition flux and carcinogenic potential of PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the coastal zone of the Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland)

Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, Sep 5, 2019

Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in... more Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in PM2.5 aerosols collected in the coastal zone of southern Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland) during the end of the heating and beginning of the non-heating season of 2012. Obtained results showed that coal combustion (pyrogenic source) contributed to the highest emission of PAHs during the heating season. However, similar concentrations of highly carcinogenic PAHs were detected in the non-heating period. The analysis of prevailing wind directions, air mass trajectories and diagnostic PAH ratios revealed that in addition to land transport emission (mainly from diesel vehicles), the increase in sea shipping traffic during the non-heating season contributed to the high concentrations of detected carcinogenic PAHs. We conclude that the increasing maritime activity in the southern Baltic Sea region might have an adverse effect on both environmental and human health. Therefore, it should receive more attention by the Polish government as a pollutant source.

Research paper thumbnail of Organochlorine contaminants in the muscle, liver and brain of seabirds (Larus) from the coastal area of the Southern Baltic

Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Nov 1, 2016

The presence of persistent organic pollutants in the environment manifests itself most strongly i... more The presence of persistent organic pollutants in the environment manifests itself most strongly in the marine trophic chain, where the highest link is comprised of seabirds. At the same time, seabirds are excellent indicators of contamination in their habitat. The present study concentrates on toxic substances: polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and chlorinated organic pesticides (OCPs) accumulated in the livers, pectoral muscles and brains of dead gulls collected along the Polish coast of the Baltic Sea in the years 2010-12. The highest toxic equivalence was determined in the livers of Larus argentatus (TEQ (birds TEF) À 28.3 pg g À 1 ww) and Larus marinus (TEQ (birds TEF) À 29.9 pg g À 1 ww.). However, the toxic equivalence of muscles was lower and amounted to 3.9 pg g À 1 ww. and 7.8 pg g À 1 ww. respectively for the two species. The lowest toxic equivalence was found in the brains of birds, where only one, the most toxic, 2,3,7,8 TCDD congener was found (TEQ (birds TEF) 0.87 pg g À 1 ww). The highest concentration of chloroorganic pesticides was determined in the brains of the birds (total OCP 167.8 pg g À 1 ww.), lower concentrations were found in the livers (total OCP 92.1 pg g À 1 ww.) and muscles (total OCP 43.1 pg g À 1 ww.). With regard to pesticides, the highest proportion in the total OCP content was constituted by DDT and its isomers (liver 81%, muscles 77% and brain 55%). High concentrations of the studied pollutants in the livers of gulls found dead on the coast of the Southern Baltic could have been effected by levels of contamination in the birds' last meals, which resulted in a seven-fold increase of the liver's toxic equivalence and a twofold increase in OCP concentration in relation to muscles.

Research paper thumbnail of Methanogenic microbial communities in sediment from the coastal area of puck bay (Southern Baltic)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 29, 2012

In this work, data on methanogenic Archaea communities in sediment from the coastal area of Puck ... more In this work, data on methanogenic Archaea communities in sediment from the coastal area of Puck Bay were investigated. Sediments were collected along the Hel Peninsula from areas characterized by the occurrence of gas bubbles. Based on the analysis of molecular markers, the presence of a specific methanogenic Archaea gene was detected at all stations. Further research involved the cloning and sequencing of methanogenic DNA. Based on the comparison of obtained genetic sequences with existing genetic databases, it was confirmed that all of the nucleotide sequences belonged to the domain Archaea. Furthermore, in the investigated sediment certain sequences had certain similarities to the sequences of organisms from the families Methanosarcinaceae, Methanospirillaceae and Methanocorpusculaceae.

Research paper thumbnail of Food source as a factor determining birds' exposure to hazardous organic pollutants and egg contamination

Marine and Freshwater Research, 2020

Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wild... more Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wildlife, with birds' eggs recognised as bioindicators of these contaminants and often used as a non-invasive monitoring tool. Comparisons of bird species from two aquatic environments, namely a marine coastal area (Gdansk Bay) and an inland reservoir (Włocławek Dam on the Vistula River), indicated significant differences in egg contamination. Herring gull eggs from Włocławek Dam had high concentrations of highly chlorinated dioxin (i.e. octachlorodibenzodioxin, which accounted for 37% of all polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzo furans, PCDD/Fs). In contrast, eggs from terns feeding along the coastal area of the Southern Baltic contained high concentrations of lowly chlorinated furans (i.e. pentachlorodibezofuran, which accounted for 46 and 45% of all PCDD/Fs in eggs from the sandwich tern and common tern respectively). The congener patterns in terns' eggs were similar to those reported previously for Baltic fish. Polychlorinated biphenyl congener 180 had the highest concentrations among the mono-ortho chlorinated biphenyls, whereas concentrations of non-dioxin-like chlorinated biphenyls were 10-fold higher than those of the other congeners analysed, but the congener pattern in eggs from both species (sandwich and common tern) was similar to that reported in other studies. Among the hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers, a-HBCD dominated in all eggs analysed (accounting for .97% of all HBCDs). The total HBCD concentration in gulls' eggs from the inland reservoir was approximately half that in eggs from the common and sandwich terns (mean AE s.d. 47.33 AE 33.22 v. 97.98 AE 59.69 and 104.00 AE 63.66 ng g À1 lipid weight respectively).

Research paper thumbnail of Polychlorinated Dibenzo-P-Dioxins (PCDD), Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans (PCDF) and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls (Dl-PCB) in the Baltic and Arctic Fish and the Further Trophic Transfer of these Pollutants to Seabirds

Journal of Marine Science: Research & Development, 2017

The study presents the analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/F) and ... more The study presents the analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/F) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCB) in fish and seabirds from the Baltic Sea area and the Arctic region (the Svalbard Archipelago). Long-time studies revealed no significant temporal trends in PCDD/F and dl-PCB concentrations in fish from the Baltic Sea. Trace amounts of PCDD/F were detected in the Arctic fish as an evidence of their anthropogenic sources from the temperate zone, however congener profile in the cod was entirely different than in the Baltic fish. On the contrary, both concentrations and profiles of dl-PCB were comparable in cod from the Baltic Sea and from the polar region. PCDD/F`s congener profile in African penguin`s tissues breed in captivity and fed only by herring exhibited a clear resemblance to the profiles measured in herring. This indicates a relevant impact of diet (fish) on PCDD/F`s level in seabirds. Diet impact on the further transfer of these xenobiotics in the trophic chain, evidenced in the presented study, appears to be of the particular relevance due to the human health.

Research paper thumbnail of Biological factor controlling methane production in surface sediment in the Polish part of the Vistula Lagoon

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, May 31, 2017

© Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k... more © Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k , Po l a n d. A l l r i g h t s re s e r ve d.

Research paper thumbnail of Methane flux from sediment into near-bottom water in the coastal area of the Puck Bay (Southern Baltic)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 29, 2012

This work presents the results of the study on methane emission from the sea bottom in the coasta... more This work presents the results of the study on methane emission from the sea bottom in the coastal zone of Puck Bay. The investigations were conducted from June through September 2010 at seven sampling sites located along the Hel Peninsula. The research results indicate that the methane flux rates vary periodically. Methane emission from seabed into nearbottom water in the coastal zone of Puck Bay along the Hel Peninsula ranged from 0.91 mmol m-2 d-1 to 49.15 mmol m-2 d-1 .

Research paper thumbnail of Związki cynoorganiczne w Zalewie Wiślanym

Research paper thumbnail of Trace elements in the muscle, ova and seminal fluid of key clupeid representatives from the Gdansk Bay (South Baltic Sea) and Iberian Peninsula (North-East Atlantic)

Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2021

BACKGROUND Baltic herring and European sardine are pelagic, fish of particular ecological importa... more BACKGROUND Baltic herring and European sardine are pelagic, fish of particular ecological importance, on the one hand control numbers of planktonic organisms, and on the other hand exist as food for predators on higher trophic levels. Moreover, these fish are among the main species caught for human consumption. Rare earth elements (REEs) come mainly from geogenic sources but, due to their use in technology, agriculture and medicine, the importance of anthropogenic sources is growing steadily. METHODS Samples used for the study were available on the market. Fresh materials of fish muscle, ova and seminal fluid were mineralized and elements were determined by means of inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). RESULTS The conducted research indicated the presence of REEs in the muscles of the Baltic herring (∑REE = 0.076 ± 0.047 mg/kg) and European sardine (∑REE = 0.191 ± 0.163 mg/kg), with a clear dominance of heavy REEs in both fish species. Trace elements (TE) in the muscles of the tested fish demonstrated a similar system of concentration (Baltic herring: Zn > As > Se > Cu > Cr > Ni > Pb > Cd; European sardine: Zn > As > Se > Cu > Ni > Cr > Pb > Cd). REEs and TEs in these fish were presence in ova and seminal fluid indicates intergenerational transfer. CONCLUSION Changes in the concentrations of some trace elements (As, Cu, Cd) in the muscles of herring indicate increases compared to the historical data. The availability of metals in the aquatic environment may be determined by ongoing climate changes, effected water salinity and warming increased availability of labile forms of trace metals. Decline trends in the condition of pelagic fish need to extend the research in the context of contemporary environmental threats.

Research paper thumbnail of Alimentary exposure and elimination routes of rare earth elements (REE) in marine mammals from the Baltic Sea and Antarctic coast

Science of The Total Environment, 2021

Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species e... more Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species eliminate REE in similar LREE/HREE proportions. • Excretion via faeces is a more effective way to eliminate REE than molting. • Presence of REE in lanugo indicates placental transfer. • Excretion of trace element by animals can result in local ecosystem pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Hexabromocyclododecane contamination of herring gulls in the coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, 2020

Muscles and livers of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) found in the coastal area of the southern ... more Muscles and livers of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) found in the coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea were tested for the presence of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers. They were detected in the muscles (ΣHBCD = 42.82 ± 30.65 ng g−1 l.w.) and livers (ΣHBCD = 65.51±27.96 ng g−1 l.w.) of all examined gulls. The α-HBCD isomer dominates in all types of samples. Our study has shown that bodies of gulls are less contaminated with HBCD than bodies of aquatic birds from other regions of the world. There was no clear correlation between HBCD concentrations and sex and age of birds. Nevertheless, it was indicated that the highest concentrations of HBCD and the α-HBCD isomer were found in the livers of immature females (mean = 89.31 ± 21.63 ng g−1 l.w. and mean = 76.72±24.54 ng g−1 l.w., respectively). The highest liver sequestration rates of the α-HBCD isomer were found in both adult and immature males (mean = 7.7 ± 13.7 and mean = 6.2 ± 11.9, respectively).

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of claws as an alternative route of mercury elimination from the herring gull (Larus argentatus)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, 2019

Mercury enters the body of seabirds in its most toxic organic form, i.e. methylmercury, mainly vi... more Mercury enters the body of seabirds in its most toxic organic form, i.e. methylmercury, mainly via the alimentary tract. Inside the body, mercury is transformed into less toxic forms and accumulates in the internal organs. The process of mercury removal from the body, most effective during the formation of new feathers and claws, is beneficial for the bird. The presented research was undertaken on account of the high affinity of mercury to keratin – a protein that forms feathers and claws – to compare the concentration levels (HgTOT) in these structures and to assess their contribution to the purification of the body of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) Bird feathers are the only epidermal structure that is extensively described in the literature, whereas the claws have so far been poorly researched. The study has shown that mercury in claws is built in as effectively as in feathers, and the obtained concentrations were within a wide range of 127.2–5341.5 ng HgTOT g–1 of dry weight. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Sources, deposition flux and carcinogenic potential of PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the coastal zone of the Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland)

Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 2019

Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in... more Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in PM2.5 aerosols collected in the coastal zone of southern Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland) during the end of the heating and beginning of the non-heating season of 2012. Obtained results showed that coal combustion (pyrogenic source) contributed to the highest emission of PAHs during the heating season. However, similar concentrations of highly carcinogenic PAHs were detected in the non-heating period. The analysis of prevailing wind directions, air mass trajectories and diagnostic PAH ratios revealed that in addition to land transport emission (mainly from diesel vehicles), the increase in sea shipping traffic during the non-heating season contributed to the high concentrations of detected carcinogenic PAHs. We conclude that the increasing maritime activity in the southern Baltic Sea region might have an adverse effect on both environmental and human health. Therefore, it should receive more attention by the Polish government as a pollutant source.

Research paper thumbnail of Food source as a factor determining birds' exposure to hazardous organic pollutants and egg contamination

Marine and Freshwater Research, 2019

Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wild... more Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wildlife, with birds’ eggs recognised as bioindicators of these contaminants and often used as a non-invasive monitoring tool. Comparisons of bird species from two aquatic environments, namely a marine coastal area (Gdansk Bay) and an inland reservoir (Włocławek Dam on the Vistula River), indicated significant differences in egg contamination. Herring gull eggs from Włocławek Dam had high concentrations of highly chlorinated dioxin (i.e. octachlorodibenzodioxin, which accounted for 37% of all polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzo furans, PCDD/Fs). In contrast, eggs from terns feeding along the coastal area of the Southern Baltic contained high concentrations of lowly chlorinated furans (i.e. pentachlorodibezofuran, which accounted for 46 and 45% of all PCDD/Fs in eggs from the sandwich tern and common tern respectively). The congener patterns in terns’ eggs were simil...

Research paper thumbnail of Halogenated organic compounds in the eggs of aquatic birds from the Gulf of Gdansk and Wloclawek Dam (Poland)

Chemosphere, 2019

h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorin... more h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorinated furans have the lowest concentration in birds' eggs. Chlorinated compounds dominated in tern eggs, brominated in gull eggs.

Research paper thumbnail of Halogenated organic compounds in the eggs of aquatic birds from the Gulf of Gdansk and Wloclawek Dam (Poland)

Chemosphere, Dec 1, 2019

h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorin... more h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorinated furans have the lowest concentration in birds' eggs. Chlorinated compounds dominated in tern eggs, brominated in gull eggs.

Research paper thumbnail of Hexabromocyclododecane contamination of herring gulls in the coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 1, 2020

© Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k... more © Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k , Po l a n d. A l l r i g h t s re s e r ve d.

Research paper thumbnail of Methane flux from sediment into near-bottom water and its variability along the Hel Peninsula—Southern Baltic Sea

Continental Shelf Research, Feb 1, 2014

Methane in the sediments of the Bay of Puck occurs in the form of free gas bubbles and is release... more Methane in the sediments of the Bay of Puck occurs in the form of free gas bubbles and is released from the sediments into near-bottom water in the form of a flux. The sediments of the Bay of Puck also contain methanogens whose biological activity results in the production of methane. Research carried out in the coastal areas of the bay along the Hel Peninsula proved the existence of a methane flux ranging from 0.81 mmol m À 2 d À 1 to 33.41 mmol m À 2 d À 1 in 2011, while in 2010 ranged from 0.91 mmol m À 2 d À 1 to 49.15 mmol m À 2 d À 1. Seasonal and annual fluctuations were also observed. Other factors contributing to the change in methane flux are water temperature and other environmental factors. An increase in temperature causes an increase in the flux. Fluctuations of the flux within individual sampling sites were also observed. A test performed with specific methanogenic inhibitor-sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) unexpectedly revealed higher methane concentrations (10-13%) in samples to which SDS was added. We speculate that these higher methane concentration result from the lysis of methane-forming bacteria cells when exposed to SDS.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of claws as an alternative route of mercury elimination from the herring gull (<i>Larus argentatus</i>)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 1, 2019

© Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k... more © Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k , Po l a n d. A l l r i g h t s re s e r ve d.

Research paper thumbnail of Alimentary exposure and elimination routes of rare earth elements (REE) in marine mammals from the Baltic Sea and Antarctic coast

Science of The Total Environment, Feb 1, 2021

Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species e... more Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species eliminate REE in similar LREE/HREE proportions. • Excretion via faeces is a more effective way to eliminate REE than molting. • Presence of REE in lanugo indicates placental transfer. • Excretion of trace element by animals can result in local ecosystem pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Sources, deposition flux and carcinogenic potential of PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the coastal zone of the Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland)

Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, Sep 5, 2019

Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in... more Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in PM2.5 aerosols collected in the coastal zone of southern Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland) during the end of the heating and beginning of the non-heating season of 2012. Obtained results showed that coal combustion (pyrogenic source) contributed to the highest emission of PAHs during the heating season. However, similar concentrations of highly carcinogenic PAHs were detected in the non-heating period. The analysis of prevailing wind directions, air mass trajectories and diagnostic PAH ratios revealed that in addition to land transport emission (mainly from diesel vehicles), the increase in sea shipping traffic during the non-heating season contributed to the high concentrations of detected carcinogenic PAHs. We conclude that the increasing maritime activity in the southern Baltic Sea region might have an adverse effect on both environmental and human health. Therefore, it should receive more attention by the Polish government as a pollutant source.

Research paper thumbnail of Organochlorine contaminants in the muscle, liver and brain of seabirds (Larus) from the coastal area of the Southern Baltic

Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Nov 1, 2016

The presence of persistent organic pollutants in the environment manifests itself most strongly i... more The presence of persistent organic pollutants in the environment manifests itself most strongly in the marine trophic chain, where the highest link is comprised of seabirds. At the same time, seabirds are excellent indicators of contamination in their habitat. The present study concentrates on toxic substances: polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and chlorinated organic pesticides (OCPs) accumulated in the livers, pectoral muscles and brains of dead gulls collected along the Polish coast of the Baltic Sea in the years 2010-12. The highest toxic equivalence was determined in the livers of Larus argentatus (TEQ (birds TEF) À 28.3 pg g À 1 ww) and Larus marinus (TEQ (birds TEF) À 29.9 pg g À 1 ww.). However, the toxic equivalence of muscles was lower and amounted to 3.9 pg g À 1 ww. and 7.8 pg g À 1 ww. respectively for the two species. The lowest toxic equivalence was found in the brains of birds, where only one, the most toxic, 2,3,7,8 TCDD congener was found (TEQ (birds TEF) 0.87 pg g À 1 ww). The highest concentration of chloroorganic pesticides was determined in the brains of the birds (total OCP 167.8 pg g À 1 ww.), lower concentrations were found in the livers (total OCP 92.1 pg g À 1 ww.) and muscles (total OCP 43.1 pg g À 1 ww.). With regard to pesticides, the highest proportion in the total OCP content was constituted by DDT and its isomers (liver 81%, muscles 77% and brain 55%). High concentrations of the studied pollutants in the livers of gulls found dead on the coast of the Southern Baltic could have been effected by levels of contamination in the birds' last meals, which resulted in a seven-fold increase of the liver's toxic equivalence and a twofold increase in OCP concentration in relation to muscles.

Research paper thumbnail of Methanogenic microbial communities in sediment from the coastal area of puck bay (Southern Baltic)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 29, 2012

In this work, data on methanogenic Archaea communities in sediment from the coastal area of Puck ... more In this work, data on methanogenic Archaea communities in sediment from the coastal area of Puck Bay were investigated. Sediments were collected along the Hel Peninsula from areas characterized by the occurrence of gas bubbles. Based on the analysis of molecular markers, the presence of a specific methanogenic Archaea gene was detected at all stations. Further research involved the cloning and sequencing of methanogenic DNA. Based on the comparison of obtained genetic sequences with existing genetic databases, it was confirmed that all of the nucleotide sequences belonged to the domain Archaea. Furthermore, in the investigated sediment certain sequences had certain similarities to the sequences of organisms from the families Methanosarcinaceae, Methanospirillaceae and Methanocorpusculaceae.

Research paper thumbnail of Food source as a factor determining birds' exposure to hazardous organic pollutants and egg contamination

Marine and Freshwater Research, 2020

Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wild... more Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wildlife, with birds' eggs recognised as bioindicators of these contaminants and often used as a non-invasive monitoring tool. Comparisons of bird species from two aquatic environments, namely a marine coastal area (Gdansk Bay) and an inland reservoir (Włocławek Dam on the Vistula River), indicated significant differences in egg contamination. Herring gull eggs from Włocławek Dam had high concentrations of highly chlorinated dioxin (i.e. octachlorodibenzodioxin, which accounted for 37% of all polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzo furans, PCDD/Fs). In contrast, eggs from terns feeding along the coastal area of the Southern Baltic contained high concentrations of lowly chlorinated furans (i.e. pentachlorodibezofuran, which accounted for 46 and 45% of all PCDD/Fs in eggs from the sandwich tern and common tern respectively). The congener patterns in terns' eggs were similar to those reported previously for Baltic fish. Polychlorinated biphenyl congener 180 had the highest concentrations among the mono-ortho chlorinated biphenyls, whereas concentrations of non-dioxin-like chlorinated biphenyls were 10-fold higher than those of the other congeners analysed, but the congener pattern in eggs from both species (sandwich and common tern) was similar to that reported in other studies. Among the hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers, a-HBCD dominated in all eggs analysed (accounting for .97% of all HBCDs). The total HBCD concentration in gulls' eggs from the inland reservoir was approximately half that in eggs from the common and sandwich terns (mean AE s.d. 47.33 AE 33.22 v. 97.98 AE 59.69 and 104.00 AE 63.66 ng g À1 lipid weight respectively).

Research paper thumbnail of Polychlorinated Dibenzo-P-Dioxins (PCDD), Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans (PCDF) and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls (Dl-PCB) in the Baltic and Arctic Fish and the Further Trophic Transfer of these Pollutants to Seabirds

Journal of Marine Science: Research & Development, 2017

The study presents the analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/F) and ... more The study presents the analysis of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/F) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCB) in fish and seabirds from the Baltic Sea area and the Arctic region (the Svalbard Archipelago). Long-time studies revealed no significant temporal trends in PCDD/F and dl-PCB concentrations in fish from the Baltic Sea. Trace amounts of PCDD/F were detected in the Arctic fish as an evidence of their anthropogenic sources from the temperate zone, however congener profile in the cod was entirely different than in the Baltic fish. On the contrary, both concentrations and profiles of dl-PCB were comparable in cod from the Baltic Sea and from the polar region. PCDD/F`s congener profile in African penguin`s tissues breed in captivity and fed only by herring exhibited a clear resemblance to the profiles measured in herring. This indicates a relevant impact of diet (fish) on PCDD/F`s level in seabirds. Diet impact on the further transfer of these xenobiotics in the trophic chain, evidenced in the presented study, appears to be of the particular relevance due to the human health.

Research paper thumbnail of Biological factor controlling methane production in surface sediment in the Polish part of the Vistula Lagoon

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, May 31, 2017

© Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k... more © Fa c u l t y o f O ce a n o gr a p hy a n d G e o gr a p hy, U n i ve r s i t y o f G d a ń s k , Po l a n d. A l l r i g h t s re s e r ve d.

Research paper thumbnail of Methane flux from sediment into near-bottom water in the coastal area of the Puck Bay (Southern Baltic)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, Jun 29, 2012

This work presents the results of the study on methane emission from the sea bottom in the coasta... more This work presents the results of the study on methane emission from the sea bottom in the coastal zone of Puck Bay. The investigations were conducted from June through September 2010 at seven sampling sites located along the Hel Peninsula. The research results indicate that the methane flux rates vary periodically. Methane emission from seabed into nearbottom water in the coastal zone of Puck Bay along the Hel Peninsula ranged from 0.91 mmol m-2 d-1 to 49.15 mmol m-2 d-1 .

Research paper thumbnail of Związki cynoorganiczne w Zalewie Wiślanym

Research paper thumbnail of Trace elements in the muscle, ova and seminal fluid of key clupeid representatives from the Gdansk Bay (South Baltic Sea) and Iberian Peninsula (North-East Atlantic)

Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2021

BACKGROUND Baltic herring and European sardine are pelagic, fish of particular ecological importa... more BACKGROUND Baltic herring and European sardine are pelagic, fish of particular ecological importance, on the one hand control numbers of planktonic organisms, and on the other hand exist as food for predators on higher trophic levels. Moreover, these fish are among the main species caught for human consumption. Rare earth elements (REEs) come mainly from geogenic sources but, due to their use in technology, agriculture and medicine, the importance of anthropogenic sources is growing steadily. METHODS Samples used for the study were available on the market. Fresh materials of fish muscle, ova and seminal fluid were mineralized and elements were determined by means of inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). RESULTS The conducted research indicated the presence of REEs in the muscles of the Baltic herring (∑REE = 0.076 ± 0.047 mg/kg) and European sardine (∑REE = 0.191 ± 0.163 mg/kg), with a clear dominance of heavy REEs in both fish species. Trace elements (TE) in the muscles of the tested fish demonstrated a similar system of concentration (Baltic herring: Zn > As > Se > Cu > Cr > Ni > Pb > Cd; European sardine: Zn > As > Se > Cu > Ni > Cr > Pb > Cd). REEs and TEs in these fish were presence in ova and seminal fluid indicates intergenerational transfer. CONCLUSION Changes in the concentrations of some trace elements (As, Cu, Cd) in the muscles of herring indicate increases compared to the historical data. The availability of metals in the aquatic environment may be determined by ongoing climate changes, effected water salinity and warming increased availability of labile forms of trace metals. Decline trends in the condition of pelagic fish need to extend the research in the context of contemporary environmental threats.

Research paper thumbnail of Alimentary exposure and elimination routes of rare earth elements (REE) in marine mammals from the Baltic Sea and Antarctic coast

Science of The Total Environment, 2021

Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species e... more Fur and faeces of marine mammals were used as REE bioindicators. • Both examined phocid species eliminate REE in similar LREE/HREE proportions. • Excretion via faeces is a more effective way to eliminate REE than molting. • Presence of REE in lanugo indicates placental transfer. • Excretion of trace element by animals can result in local ecosystem pollution.

Research paper thumbnail of Hexabromocyclododecane contamination of herring gulls in the coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, 2020

Muscles and livers of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) found in the coastal area of the southern ... more Muscles and livers of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) found in the coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea were tested for the presence of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers. They were detected in the muscles (ΣHBCD = 42.82 ± 30.65 ng g−1 l.w.) and livers (ΣHBCD = 65.51±27.96 ng g−1 l.w.) of all examined gulls. The α-HBCD isomer dominates in all types of samples. Our study has shown that bodies of gulls are less contaminated with HBCD than bodies of aquatic birds from other regions of the world. There was no clear correlation between HBCD concentrations and sex and age of birds. Nevertheless, it was indicated that the highest concentrations of HBCD and the α-HBCD isomer were found in the livers of immature females (mean = 89.31 ± 21.63 ng g−1 l.w. and mean = 76.72±24.54 ng g−1 l.w., respectively). The highest liver sequestration rates of the α-HBCD isomer were found in both adult and immature males (mean = 7.7 ± 13.7 and mean = 6.2 ± 11.9, respectively).

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of claws as an alternative route of mercury elimination from the herring gull (Larus argentatus)

Oceanological and Hydrobiological Studies, 2019

Mercury enters the body of seabirds in its most toxic organic form, i.e. methylmercury, mainly vi... more Mercury enters the body of seabirds in its most toxic organic form, i.e. methylmercury, mainly via the alimentary tract. Inside the body, mercury is transformed into less toxic forms and accumulates in the internal organs. The process of mercury removal from the body, most effective during the formation of new feathers and claws, is beneficial for the bird. The presented research was undertaken on account of the high affinity of mercury to keratin – a protein that forms feathers and claws – to compare the concentration levels (HgTOT) in these structures and to assess their contribution to the purification of the body of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) Bird feathers are the only epidermal structure that is extensively described in the literature, whereas the claws have so far been poorly researched. The study has shown that mercury in claws is built in as effectively as in feathers, and the obtained concentrations were within a wide range of 127.2–5341.5 ng HgTOT g–1 of dry weight. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Sources, deposition flux and carcinogenic potential of PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the coastal zone of the Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland)

Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 2019

Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in... more Concentrations of 16 PAHs of different molecular weight and carcinogenic potency were measured in PM2.5 aerosols collected in the coastal zone of southern Baltic Sea (Gdynia, Poland) during the end of the heating and beginning of the non-heating season of 2012. Obtained results showed that coal combustion (pyrogenic source) contributed to the highest emission of PAHs during the heating season. However, similar concentrations of highly carcinogenic PAHs were detected in the non-heating period. The analysis of prevailing wind directions, air mass trajectories and diagnostic PAH ratios revealed that in addition to land transport emission (mainly from diesel vehicles), the increase in sea shipping traffic during the non-heating season contributed to the high concentrations of detected carcinogenic PAHs. We conclude that the increasing maritime activity in the southern Baltic Sea region might have an adverse effect on both environmental and human health. Therefore, it should receive more attention by the Polish government as a pollutant source.

Research paper thumbnail of Food source as a factor determining birds' exposure to hazardous organic pollutants and egg contamination

Marine and Freshwater Research, 2019

Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wild... more Alimentary exposure is the main factor determining halogenated organic compound pollution of wildlife, with birds’ eggs recognised as bioindicators of these contaminants and often used as a non-invasive monitoring tool. Comparisons of bird species from two aquatic environments, namely a marine coastal area (Gdansk Bay) and an inland reservoir (Włocławek Dam on the Vistula River), indicated significant differences in egg contamination. Herring gull eggs from Włocławek Dam had high concentrations of highly chlorinated dioxin (i.e. octachlorodibenzodioxin, which accounted for 37% of all polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzo furans, PCDD/Fs). In contrast, eggs from terns feeding along the coastal area of the Southern Baltic contained high concentrations of lowly chlorinated furans (i.e. pentachlorodibezofuran, which accounted for 46 and 45% of all PCDD/Fs in eggs from the sandwich tern and common tern respectively). The congener patterns in terns’ eggs were simil...

Research paper thumbnail of Halogenated organic compounds in the eggs of aquatic birds from the Gulf of Gdansk and Wloclawek Dam (Poland)

Chemosphere, 2019

h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorin... more h i g h l i g h t s Deca-BDE was found only in gull eggs from an inland reservoir. Highly chlorinated furans have the lowest concentration in birds' eggs. Chlorinated compounds dominated in tern eggs, brominated in gull eggs.