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de Souza Pereira W, Kelecom A, Lopes JM, Charles-Pierre M, do Carmo AS, Paiva AK, Pelegrinelli SQ, Filho WSS, Silva LF, da Silva AX. Internal dose rate due to intake of uranium and thorium by fish from a dam reservoir associated with a uranium mine in Brazil. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2024; 63:97-107. [PMID: 38197922 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-023-01051-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Uranium mining can cause environmental impacts on non-human biota around mine sites. Because of this, the reduction in non-human biota exposure becomes an important issue. Environmental radioprotection results from the evolution of human radioprotection; it is based on dose rate to non-human biota and uses, as a biological target, and has harmful effects on populations. In the present study, a flooded impoundment created following dam construction in a uranium mine plant undergoing decommissioning was investigated. Internal dose rates due to activity concentration of natural uranium (Unat) and 232Th in omnivorous, phytophagous, and carnivorous fish species were estimated. Radionuclide activity concentrations were obtained by spectrophotometry with arsenazo III in the visible range. The dose rate contribution of 232Th was lower than that of Unat. There were no differences between the internal dose rates to studied fish species due to 232Th, but there were differences for Unat. A dose rate of 2.30·10-2 µGy∙d-1 was found due to the two studied radionuclides. Although this value falls below the benchmark for harmful effects, it is important to acknowledge that the assessment did not account for other critical radionuclides from uranium mining, which also contribute to the internal dose. Moreover, the study did not assess external doses. As a result, the possibility cannot be excluded that dose rates at the study area overcome the established benchmarks for harmful effects.
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2
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Tanaka T, Thiry Y. How dynamic transfer models can complement an equilibrium-based approach: Case studies of radiocesium transfer to forest trees following accidental atmospheric release. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 884:163715. [PMID: 37137358 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Accidental release of radionuclides caused by nuclear accidents like those in Fukushima and Chernobyl can result in pulses of radioactivity entering the forest environment. Due to intense recycling in the forest, equilibrium between radioactivity concentrations in trees and in soil may not be reached during the period of severe short-term radionuclide transport following the accident. Another question arises as to whether the equilibrium hypothesis using empirical concentration ratios (CRs) can be applied to the long-term period. Using two atmospheric 137Cs fallout scenarios in the Fukushima and Chernobyl sites, this study investigated whether the CR approach could provide conservative predictions of 137Cs levels in trees following 137Cs fallout events by comparing predictions from the CR approach using data gathered for trees by the IAEA to those from dynamic transfer models and actual measured data. The inter-comparisons also aimed to investigate whether the CR approach could account for the variability of 137Cs levels across different tree organs. The results showed that caution may be necessary when using the CR approach, which relies on the IAEA dataset, to estimate 137Cs accumulation in forest trees in the short - and long term following atmospheric 137Cs fallout events. A calculation by TRIPS 2.0 demonstrated the importance of considering the distribution within tree organs for in-depth analysis of radiological impact of forest trees. Our findings suggest that it may be preferable to use CR values based on site-specific data rather than generic data collected from various sites. This is particularly relevant when studying the sites where the bioavailability of 137Cs for trees and thus possible exposures are higher. This study also showed that dynamic modeling approaches could offer an alternative means of estimating CR values of the entire tree or specific tree organs in situations where empirically derived values are not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Tanaka
- EDF R&D, LNHE, 6 Quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France.
| | - Yves Thiry
- French National Radioactive Waste Management Agency (Andra) - Research and Development Division, 92298 Chatenay-Malabry, France
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3
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Beresford NA, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Barnett CL, Brown J, Doering C, Caffrey E, Johansen MP, Melintescu A, Ruedig E, Vandenhove H, Vives I Batlle J, Wood MD, Yankovich TL, Copplestone D. Ensuring robust radiological risk assessment for wildlife: insights from the International Atomic Energy Agency EMRAS and MODARIA programmes. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2022; 42:020512. [PMID: 35502472 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6498/ac6043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In response to changing international recommendations and national requirements, a number of assessment approaches, and associated tools and models, have been developed over the last circa 20 years to assess radiological risk to wildlife. In this paper, we summarise international intercomparison exercises and scenario applications of available radiological assessment models for wildlife to aid future model users and those such as regulators who interpret assessments. Through our studies, we have assessed the fitness for purpose of various models and tools, identified the major sources of uncertainty and made recommendations on how the models and tools can best be applied to suit the purposes of an assessment. We conclude that the commonly used tiered or graded assessment tools are generally fit for purpose for conducting screening-level assessments of radiological impacts to wildlife. Radiological protection of the environment (or wildlife) is still a relatively new development within the overall system of radiation protection and environmental assessment approaches are continuing to develop. Given that some new/developing approaches differ considerably from the more established models/tools and there is an increasing international interest in developing approaches that support the effective regulation of multiple stressors (including radiation), we recommend the continuation of coordinated international programmes for model development, intercomparison and scenario testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - K Beaugelin-Seiller
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire, PSE/ENV/SRTE, Centre de Cadarache, Saint-Pual-Les-Durance, BP3 13115, France
| | - C L Barnett
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - J Brown
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), PO Box 55, No-1332 Østerås, Norway
| | - C Doering
- Environmental Research Institute of the Supervising Scientist, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - E Caffrey
- Radian Scientific, LLC, Huntsville, AL, United States of America
| | - M P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Sydney, Australia
| | - A Melintescu
- 'Horia Hulubei' National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 30 Reactorului St., POB MG-6, Magurele, Bucharest, RO-077125, Romania
| | - E Ruedig
- BHP, 201 CW Santa Fe Av., Grants, NM 87404, United States of America
| | - H Vandenhove
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - J Vives I Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - M D Wood
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, United Kingdom
| | - T L Yankovich
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Assessment and Management of Environmental Releases Unit, PO Box 100, Vienna, 1400, Austria
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
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4
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Goulet RR, Newsome L, Vandenhove H, Keum DK, Horyna J, Kamboj S, Brown J, Johansen MP, Twining J, Wood MD, Černe M, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Beresford NA. Best practices for predictions of radionuclide activity concentrations and total absorbed dose rates to freshwater organisms exposed to uranium mining/milling. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2022; 244-245:106826. [PMID: 35134696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2022.106826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Predictions of radionuclide dose rates to freshwater organisms can be used to evaluate the radiological environmental impacts of releases from uranium mining and milling projects. These predictions help inform decisions on the implementation of mitigation measures. The objective of this study was to identify how dose rate modelling could be improved to reduce uncertainty in predictions to non-human biota. For this purpose, we modelled the activity concentrations of 210Pb, 210Po, 226Ra, 230Th, and 238U downstream of uranium mines and mills in northern Saskatchewan, Canada, together with associated weighted absorbed dose rates for a freshwater food chain using measured activity concentrations in water and sediments. Differences in predictions of radionuclide activity concentrations occurred mainly from the different default partition coefficient and concentration ratio values from one model to another and including all or only some 238U decay daughters in the dose rate assessments. Consequently, we recommend a standardized best-practice approach to calculate weighted absorbed dose rates to freshwater biota whether a facility is at the planning, operating or decommissioned stage. At the initial planning stage, the best-practice approach recommend using conservative site-specific baseline activity concentrations in water, sediments and organisms and predict conservative incremental activity concentrations in these media by selecting concentration ratios based on species similarity and similar water quality conditions to reduce the uncertainty in dose rate calculations. At the operating and decommissioned stages, the best-practice approach recommends relying on measured activity concentrations in water, sediment, fish tissue and whole-body of small organisms to further reduce uncertainty in dose rate estimates. This approach would allow for more realistic but still conservative dose assessments when evaluating impacts from uranium mining projects and making decision on adequate controls of releases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard R Goulet
- CanmetMINING, Natural Resources Canada, Canada; Department of Earth Sciences, University of Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Laura Newsome
- Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
| | | | - Dong-Kwon Keum
- Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Republic of Korea
| | - Jan Horyna
- State Office for Nuclear Safety, Czech Republic; Moskevska 74, 10100, Prague 10, Czech Republic
| | | | - Justin Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Norway
| | | | - John Twining
- Australian Nuclear Science & Technology Organization, Australia
| | | | - Marko Černe
- Institute of Agriculture and Tourism, Poreč, Croatia; Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Nicholas A Beresford
- University of Salford, United Kingdom; UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, United Kingdom
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5
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Burraco P, Car C, Bonzom JM, Orizaola G. Assessment of exposure to ionizing radiation in Chernobyl tree frogs (Hyla orientalis). Sci Rep 2021; 11:20509. [PMID: 34654841 PMCID: PMC8519934 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00125-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation can damage organic molecules, causing detrimental effects on human and wildlife health. The accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant (1986) represents the largest release of radioactive material to the environment. An accurate estimation of the current exposure to radiation in wildlife, often reduced to ambient dose rate assessments, is crucial to understand the long-term impact of radiation on living organisms. Here, we present an evaluation of the sources and variation of current exposure to radiation in breeding Eastern tree frogs (Hyla orientalis) males living in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Total absorbed dose rates in H. orientalis were highly variable, although generally below widely used thresholds considered harmful for animal health. Internal exposure was the main source of absorbed dose rate (81% on average), with 90Sr being the main contributor (78% of total dose rate, on average). These results highlight the importance of assessing both internal and external exposure levels in order to perform a robust evaluation of the exposure to radiation in wildlife. Further studies incorporating life-history, ecological, and evolutionary traits are needed to fully evaluate the effects that these exposure levels can have in amphibians and other taxa inhabiting radio-contaminated environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Burraco
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Clément Car
- Research Laboratory on the Effects of Radionuclides on Ecosystems (LECO), Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), PSE-ENV/SRTE/LECO, 13115, Cadarache, Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - Jean-Marc Bonzom
- Research Laboratory on the Effects of Radionuclides on Ecosystems (LECO), Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), PSE-ENV/SRTE/LECO, 13115, Cadarache, Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - Germán Orizaola
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden.
- IMIB-Biodiversity Research Institute (Univ. Oviedo-CSIC-Princip. Asturias), University of Oviedo, 33600, Mieres-Asturias, Spain.
- Zoology Unit, Department of Biology of Organisms and Systems, University of Oviedo, 33071, Oviedo-Asturias, Spain.
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Rea MAD, Johansen MP, Payne TE, Hirth G, Hondros J, Pandelus S, Tucker W, Duff T, Stopic A, Green L, Pring A, Lenehan CE, Popelka-Filcoff RS. Radionuclides and stable elements in vegetation in Australian arid environments: Concentration ratios and seasonal variation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2021; 234:106627. [PMID: 33964669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2021.106627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Data on the uptake of elements and radionuclides by flora from soils in arid environments are underrepresented in international databases, especially when comparing across seasons. This study improved the understanding on the uptake of natural uranium-series radionuclides, as well as more than 30 elements, in a range of Australian native flora species that are internationally representative of an arid/semi-arid zone (e.g. Acacia, Astrebla, Atriplex, and Dodonea). Results indicate that the soil-to-plant uptake ratios were generally higher when compared with international data for grasses and shrubs from more temperate environments. The majority of the elemental concentrations in grasses were higher in winter than in summer and the opposite trend was found in shrubs, which suggests that the season of collection potentially introduces variability in the reported concentration ratios. The data also suggest that grasses, being dominant and widespread species in arid zones, may be effective as a reference organism to ensure comparative assessment across sites of interest. The results of this study will improve the confidence of environmental assessments in arid zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Angelica D Rea
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia.
| | - Mathew P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, 2234, Australia.
| | - Timothy E Payne
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, 2234, Australia.
| | - Gillian Hirth
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), 619 Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie, VIC, 3085, Australia.
| | - Jim Hondros
- JRHC Enterprises Pty. Ltd., Stirling, SA, 5152, Australia.
| | - Samantha Pandelus
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia.
| | - William Tucker
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia
| | - Tim Duff
- National Energy Resources Australia, Kensington, WA, 6151, Australia.
| | - Attila Stopic
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, 2234, Australia.
| | - Liesel Green
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), 619 Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie, VIC, 3085, Australia.
| | - Allan Pring
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia.
| | - Claire E Lenehan
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia.
| | - Rachel S Popelka-Filcoff
- Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia; University of Melbourne, School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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7
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Nguyen Phuong T, Kaneko S, Koya S, Ohira H, Tsukada H. Radiation dose rate to Japanese cedar and plants collected from Okuma, Fukushima Prefecture. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 779:146350. [PMID: 33744576 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
After the 2011 Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS) accident, wild populations of animals and plants living in the evacuation zone received additional ionizing radiation of both internal and external radiation doses. Morphological abnormalities of pine and fir trees near the FDNPS were reported. In order to evaluate dose-effect relationships, it is necessary to quantify the radiation doses to trees and plants. In this study, the internal and external dose rates to Japanese cedar and plants collected at three sites in Okuma, approximately 4 km southwest of FDNPS were estimated applying the ERICA Assessment Tool. The activity concentrations of 134Cs and 137Cs in soils, cedar trunks, and plants were determined. The total dose rates to cedar ranged from 2.2 ± 1.2 to 6.1 ± 2.2 μGy h-1. These rates were within the derived consideration reference levels (DCRLs) reported by ICRP 108 as 4-40 μGy h-1 for pine trees. The highest estimate for plants was 7.1 ± 2.7 μGy h-1, much smaller than the DCRLs reported for grasses and herbs (40-400 μGy h-1). On average, the internal radiation dose rates to cedars at the two sites accounted for 5% and 29% of the external dose rates, respectively, while the value in another site was only 0.4% for cedar. This was attributed to differences in the crown area between the three sites. The trunk diameter of cedars shows a positive correlation with the ratio of internal to external radiation dose rates. It indicates that the total dose rate to cedars is easily estimated with the soil radiocaesium inventory and trunk diameter. The internal radiation dose rate to the plant varied depending on the plant species. This variation was considerably large in plants due to the presence of two species, including Solidago altissima and Artemisia indica var. maximowiczii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thoa Nguyen Phuong
- Graduate School of Symbiotic Systems Science and Technology, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan; Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan
| | - Shingo Kaneko
- Faculty of Symbiotic Systems Science, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan; Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan
| | - Shishido Koya
- Graduate School of Symbiotic Systems Science and Technology, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan
| | - Hajime Ohira
- Graduate School of Symbiotic Systems Science and Technology, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Tsukada
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-1296, Japan.
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8
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Burraco P, Bonzom JM, Car C, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Gashchak S, Orizaola G. Lack of impact of radiation on blood physiology biomarkers of Chernobyl tree frogs. Front Zool 2021; 18:33. [PMID: 34187507 PMCID: PMC8240299 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-021-00416-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human actions have altered natural ecosystems worldwide. Among the many pollutants released to the environment, ionizing radiation can cause severe damage at different molecular and functional levels. The accident in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (1986) caused the largest release of ionizing radiation to the environment in human history. Here, we examined the impact of the current exposure to ionizing radiation on blood physiology biomarkers of adult males of the Eastern tree frog (Hyla orientalis) inhabiting within and outside the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. We measured the levels of eight blood parameters (sodium, potassium, chloride, ionized calcium, total carbon dioxide, glucose, urea nitrogen, and anion gap), physiological markers of homeostasis, as well as of liver and kidney function. RESULTS Levels of blood physiology biomarkers did not vary in function of the current exposure of tree frogs to ionizing radiation within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Physiological blood levels were similar in frogs inhabiting Chernobyl (both in areas with medium-high or low radiation) than in tree frogs living outside Chernobyl exposed only to background radiation levels. CONCLUSIONS The observed lack of effects of current radiation levels on blood biomarkers can be a consequence of the low levels of radiation currently experienced by Chernobyl tree frogs, but also to the fact that our sampling was restricted to active breeding males, i.e. potentially healthy adult individuals. Despite the clear absence of effects of current radiation levels on physiological blood parameters in tree frogs, more research covering different life stages and ecological scenarios is still needed to clarify the impact of ionizing radiation on the physiology, ecology, and dynamics of wildlife inhabiting radioactive-contaminated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Burraco
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ, Glasgow, UK.
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Jean-Marc Bonzom
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), PSE-ENV/SRTE/LECO, Cadarache, 13115, Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - Clément Car
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), PSE-ENV/SRTE/LECO, Cadarache, 13115, Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - Karine Beaugelin-Seiller
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), PSE-ENV/SRTE/LECO, Cadarache, 13115, Saint Paul Lez Durance, France
| | - Sergey Gashchak
- Chornobyl Center for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste and Radioecology, Slavutych, 07100, Ukraine
| | - Germán Orizaola
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden
- IMIB-Biodiversity Research Institute (Univ. Oviedo-CSIC-Princip. Asturias), University of Oviedo, 33600, Mieres, Asturias, Spain
- Zoology Unit, Department of Biology of Organisms and Systems, University of Oviedo, 33071, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
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9
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Johansen MP, Anderson D, Child D, Hotchkis MAC, Tsukada H, Okuda K, Hinton TG. Differentiating Fukushima and Nagasaki plutonium from global fallout using 241Pu/ 239Pu atom ratios: Pu vs. Cs uptake and dose to biota. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 754:141890. [PMID: 32916482 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Plutonium (Pu) has been released in Japan by two very different types of nuclear events - the 2011 Fukushima accident and the 1945 detonation of a Pu-core weapon at Nagasaki. Here we report on the use of Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) methods to distinguish the FDNPP-accident and Nagasaki-detonation Pu from worldwide fallout in soils and biota. The FDNPP-Pu was distinct in local environmental samples through the use of highly sensitive 241Pu/239Pu atom ratios. In contrast, other typically-used Pu measures (240Pu/239Pu atom ratios, activity concentrations) did not distinguish the FDNPP Pu from background in most 2016 environmental samples. Results indicate the accident contributed new Pu of ~0.4%-2% in the 0-5 cm soils, ~0.3%-3% in earthworms, and ~1%-10% in wild boar near the FDNPP. The uptake of Pu in the boar appears to be relatively uninfluenced by the glassy particle forms of fallout near the FDNPP, whereas the 134,137Cs uptake appears to be highly influenced. Near Nagasaki, the lasting legacy of Pu is greater with high percentages of Pu sourced from the 1945 detonation (~93% soils, ~88% earthworm, ~96% boar). The Pu at Nagasaki contrasts with that from the FDNPP in having proportionately higher 239Pu and was distinguished by both 240Pu/239Pu and 241Pu/239Pu atom ratios. However, compared with the contamination near the Chernobyl accident site, the Pu amounts at all study sites in Japan are orders of magnitude lower. The dose rates from Pu to organisms in the FDNPP and Nagasaki areas, as well as to human consumers of wild boar meat, have been only slightly elevated above background. Our data demonstrate the greater sensitivity of 241Pu/239Pu atom ratios in tracing Pu from nuclear releases and suggest that the Nagasaki-detonation Pu will be distinguishable in the environment for much longer than the FDNPP-accident Pu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Donovan Anderson
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan; Symbiotic Systems Science and Technology, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan
| | - David Child
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Hirofumi Tsukada
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan
| | - Kei Okuda
- Faculty of Human Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Shudo University, 731-3195, Hiroshima Prefecture, Asaminami-ku, Ozuka-higashi, Japan
| | - Thomas G Hinton
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan; CERAD CoE, Norwegian University of Life sciences, Faculty for Environmental Sciences and Nature Research Management, Aas, Norway
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10
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Sotiropoulou M, Florou H. Radiological risk assessment in the terrestrial ecosystem: comparative study of two software tools used for dose rate calculations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:18488-18497. [PMID: 32193736 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08186-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In this study, two software tools, namely the ERICA Assessment Tool and the RESRAD-BIOTA code, are used for the calculation of the radiological exposure of non-human organisms. For the purposes of the analysis, data retrieved from field studies are used. The site-specific measurements were performed on organisms (mammals-sheep and goats of Bovidae spp.) collected from free-ranged grazing regions in Greece. Plants (grass) of Poaceae spp. and soil samples were also collected from these regions. Natural radionuclides (226Ra, 228Ra, and 228Th) of lithogenic origin and 137Cs, resulted from human activities (Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear power plant accidents and global fallout), were detected in all samples. The measured activity concentrations were used as input to the two software tools, the ERICA Assessment Tool and the RESRAD-BIOTA code. The results of the simulations provided the external, internal, and total dose rates received by the organisms due to the exposure to the radionuclides. The assessments indicated that out of all detected radionuclides, 228Th is the main contributor to the external dose and 226Ra and 228Ra are the main contributors to the internal dose. The comparative analysis of the two tools revealed significant differences in the calculated doses. In fact, external and internal doses calculated by RESRAD-BIOTA are higher than the values calculated by the ERICA Tool, due to the dose conversion coefficients (DCCs) used for the dose calculation. RESRAD-BIOTA provides more conservative values, but ERICA Tool provides lower uncertainty due to the higher flexibility in the design of the phantom organism. On a risk assessment basis, there is no significant impact, due to organisms' exposure to radioactivity. However, further consideration of the exposure levels is required due to the potential effects of protracted low-level ionizing radiation on the various levels of life's organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sotiropoulou
- Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory (ERL), I.N.RA.S.T.E.S, National Centre for Scientific Research 'Demokritos' (NCSR'D'), Agia Paraskevi, Greece.
| | - Heleny Florou
- Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory (ERL), I.N.RA.S.T.E.S, National Centre for Scientific Research 'Demokritos' (NCSR'D'), Agia Paraskevi, Greece
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11
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Bolsunovsky A, Dementyev D, Trofimova E. Biomonitoring of radioactive contamination of the Yenisei River using aquatic plants. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 211:106100. [PMID: 31739227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.106100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The Yenisei River is contaminated by artificial radionuclides released by one of the Russian facilities producing weapons-grade plutonium (the Mining-and-Chemical Combine, MCC), which has been in operation for 60 years. The paper presents results of long-term monitoring of radionuclide concentrations in six aquatic plant species collected from the 1400 km Yenisei River stretch downstream of the city of Krasnoyarsk. Before the last MCC reactor was shut down (in 2010), up to 30 artificial radionuclides were detected in the plant biomass, and 2 and 5 years after the reactor shutdown, 11 and 3-5 radionuclides, respectively, were detected. The highest concentrations of radionuclides were recorded in Fontinalis antipyretica. The aquatic plant Elodea canadensis, which commonly occurs in the Yenisei River, was used in the cytogenetic study. High frequencies of chromosomal aberrations (up to 33%) were revealed in cells of Elodea canadensis roots from the Yenisei region affected by the MCC radioactive discharge, at dose rates of 45-72 μGy/d, while in the cells of the plant roots from the reference areas, the frequency of chromosomal aberrations was 5-7%, at dose rates below 2 μGy/d. The higher frequencies of chromosomal aberrations in Elodea canadensis collected from the parts of the River with increased concentrations of artificial radionuclides are associated with the radiation factor. The aquatic plant Elodea canadensis can be recommended as a bio-indicator for radioactively contaminated aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bolsunovsky
- Radioecology Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 50-50 Akademgorodok, Krasnoyarsk, 660036, Russia.
| | - Dmitry Dementyev
- Radioecology Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 50-50 Akademgorodok, Krasnoyarsk, 660036, Russia
| | - Elena Trofimova
- Radioecology Laboratory, Institute of Biophysics Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 50-50 Akademgorodok, Krasnoyarsk, 660036, Russia
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12
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Beresford NA, Scott EM, Copplestone D. Field effects studies in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone: Lessons to be learnt. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 211:105893. [PMID: 30718022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In the initial aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl accident there were detrimental effects recorded on wildlife, including, mass mortality of pine trees close to the reactor, reduced pine seed production, reductions in soil invertebrate abundance and diversity and likely death of small mammals. More than 30 years after the Chernobyl accident there is no consensus on the longer-term impact of the chronic exposure to radiation on wildlife in what is now referred to as the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Reconciling this lack of consensus is one of the main challenges for radioecology. With the inclusion of environmental protection in, for instance, the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), we need to be able to incorporate knowledge of the potential effects of radiation on wildlife within the regulatory process (e.g. as a basis on which to define benchmark dose rates). In this paper, we use examples of reported effects on different wildlife groups inhabiting the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) as a framework to discuss potential reasons for the lack of consensus, consider important factors influencing dose rates organisms receive and make some recommendations on good practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - E M Scott
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QW, UK
| | - D Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
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13
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Hinton TG, Byrne ME, Webster SC, Love CN, Broggio D, Trompier F, Shamovich D, Horloogin S, Lance SL, Brown J, Dowdall M, Beasley JC. GPS-coupled contaminant monitors on free-ranging Chernobyl wolves challenge a fundamental assumption in exposure assessments. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 133:105152. [PMID: 31518927 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Measurements of external contaminant exposures on individual wildlife are rare because of difficulties in using contaminant monitors on free-ranging animals. Most wildlife contaminant exposure data are therefore simulated with computer models. Rarely are empirical exposure data available to verify model simulations, or to test fundamental assumptions inherent in exposure assessments. We used GPS-coupled contaminant monitors to quantify external exposures to individual wolves (Canis lupus) living within the Belarus portion of Chernobyl's 30-km exclusion zone. The study provided data on animal location and contaminant exposure every 35 min for 6 months, resulting in ~6600 individual locations and 137Cs external exposure readings per wolf, representing the most robust external exposure data published to date on free ranging animals. The data provided information on variation in external exposure for each animal over time, as well as variation in external exposure among the eight wolves across the landscape of Chernobyl. The exposure data were then used to test a fundamental assumption in screening-level risk assessments, espoused in guidance documents of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy, - Mean contaminant concentrations conservatively estimate individual external exposures. We tested this assumption by comparing our empirical data to a series of simulations using the ERICA modeling tool. We found that modeled simulations of mean external exposure (10.5 mGy y-1), based on various measures of central tendency, under-predicted mean exposures measured on five of the eight wolves wearing GPS-contaminant monitors (i.e., 12.3, 26.3, 28.0, 28.8 and 35.7 mGy y-1). If under-prediction of exposure occurs for some animals, then arguably the use of averaged contaminant concentrations to predict external exposure is not as conservative as proposed by current risk assessment guidance. Thus, a risk assessor's interpretation of simulated exposures in a screening-level risk analysis might be misguided if contaminant concentrations are based on measures of central tendency. We offer three suggestions for risk assessors to consider in order to reduce the probability of underestimating exposure in a screening-level risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Hinton
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima 960-1296, Japan.
| | - Michael E Byrne
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
| | - Sarah C Webster
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Cara N Love
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - David Broggio
- Institute of Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety, PSE-SANTE/SDOS/LEDI, 92262 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
| | - Francois Trompier
- Institute of Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety, PSE-SANTE/SDOS/LDRI, 92262 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France.
| | | | - Sergay Horloogin
- Polessye State Radioecological Reserve, Choiniki, Gomel Region, Belarus.
| | - Stacey L Lance
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA.
| | - Justin Brown
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, 1361 Østerås, Norway.
| | - Mark Dowdall
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, 1361 Østerås, Norway.
| | - James C Beasley
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, Aiken, SC, USA; Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
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14
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Aramrun K, Beresford NA, Skuterud L, Hevrøy TH, Drefvelin J, Bennett K, Yurosko C, Phruksarojanakun P, Esoa J, Yongprawat M, Siegenthaler A, Fawkes R, Tumnoi W, Wood MD. Measuring the radiation exposure of Norwegian reindeer under field conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 687:1337-1343. [PMID: 31412467 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.06.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Models and approaches have been developed to predict radiation exposure of wildlife under field conditions. However, there have been few attempts to directly measure radiation exposure of wildlife in the field and confirm the doses predicted by models. This is a potential issue for stakeholder acceptance of modelling-based assessments. Here is presented a comprehensive study comparing the results of different dosimeters fitted to free-ranging reindeer inhabiting an area that received comparatively high radiocaesium deposition from the 1986 Chernobyl accident. The external dose of reindeer was measured using the four dosimeter types in aluminium box mounted on the GPS collar. The measurements were compared with two model predictions: (i) external dose to reindeer across the entire range area of the herd; and (ii) external doses of individual reindeer predicted using GPS tracking data to determine locations. It was found that although significant differences between the estimates of the various dosimeters were found these were small with no practical implication. Also, the mean predicted external doses using the GPS tracking data were not significantly different to estimates from two of the four passive dosimeter results. The average external dose predicted across the herd area was significantly lower than doses recorded by the dosimeters and also estimates using GPS data to determine reindeer location (and hence exposure). For 137Cs the average external dose from the GPS tracking data was about twice that predicted across the herd area, because collared animals favoured the more contaminated area of the study site. This suggests that in some circumstances the assumption of averaging contamination over an assumed home range within assessments may be inadequate though this would need to be balanced against other uncertainties. Natural radiation was the greatest contribution to reindeer exposure and a function of the high altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kitkawin Aramrun
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, Peel Building, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK; Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP), 16 Vibravadi Rangsit road, Ladyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Nicholas A Beresford
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, Peel Building, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK; NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, CEH Lancaster, Lancaster Environment Centre, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Lavrans Skuterud
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), Grini Næringspark 13, 1361 Østerås, Norway
| | - Tanya H Hevrøy
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), Grini Næringspark 13, 1361 Østerås, Norway
| | - Jon Drefvelin
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), Grini Næringspark 13, 1361 Østerås, Norway
| | - Kip Bennett
- Mirion Technologies, 2652 McGaw Avenue, Irvine, CA 92614, USA
| | - Craig Yurosko
- Mirion Technologies, 2652 McGaw Avenue, Irvine, CA 92614, USA
| | - Phiphat Phruksarojanakun
- Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP), 16 Vibravadi Rangsit road, Ladyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Jeerawa Esoa
- Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT), 9/9 Moo 7, Sai Moon, Ongkharak, Nakorn Nayok, 26120, Thailand
| | - Monthon Yongprawat
- Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT), 9/9 Moo 7, Sai Moon, Ongkharak, Nakorn Nayok, 26120, Thailand; University of Goettingen, Geoscience Centre of the University of Göttingen, Dept. Applied Geology, Goldschmidtstr. 3, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andjin Siegenthaler
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, Peel Building, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK
| | - Ross Fawkes
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, Peel Building, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK
| | - Wanwiwa Tumnoi
- Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Rajamankha Nai, Muang, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand
| | - Michael D Wood
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, Peel Building, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK
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15
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Fuma S, Soeda H, Watanabe Y, Kubota Y, Aono T. Dose rate estimation of freshwater wildlife inhabiting irrigation ponds in the exclusion zone of the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2019; 203:172-178. [PMID: 30921607 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
To assess the risks of ionising radiation to freshwater environments in the exclusion zone of the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, the absorbed dose rates to aquatic organisms possibly inhabiting the irrigation ponds were estimated using the ERICA Assessment Tool from 134Cs and 137Cs radioactivity monitoring data for the period 2013 to 2017. In each year, the total dose rates to benthic organisms were in the same or higher levels compared with those to pelagic organisms. Among pelagic organisms, the total dose rates to amphibians, birds, and pelagic fish were two orders of magnitude higher than those to plankton. The total dose rates to insect larvae, which attained a maximum of 130 μGy h-1, were higher than those to the other benthic organisms. The dose rates to benthic organisms increased from 2013 to 2015 and remained constant thereafter. In 50-93% of ponds, the dose rates to at least one taxon of freshwater organism, all of which were benthic organisms, exceeded the ERICA screening level (10 μGy h-1). Comparison of the estimated dose rates with the ICRP's derived consideration reference levels (DCRLs) suggests that radioactive contamination was not likely to damage amphibians, birds, pelagic fish, benthic fish, crustaceans, and insect larvae inhabiting most of the irrigation ponds in the exclusion zone. However, this comparison also suggests that there was some chance of deleterious effects occurring to birds and benthic fish in a limited number of the most severely contaminated irrigation ponds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoichi Fuma
- Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan.
| | - Haruhi Soeda
- Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Yoshito Watanabe
- Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Kubota
- Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Aono
- Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
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16
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Park SM, Alessi DS, Baek K. Selective adsorption and irreversible fixation behavior of cesium onto 2:1 layered clay mineral: A mini review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 369:569-576. [PMID: 30818121 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.02.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we reviewed the selective adsorption and irreversible fixation of cesium (Cs+) on clay minerals. The selective adsorption of Cs+ results from reactions with frayed edge sites (FES) of clay minerals. The content of FES is about 0.1-2.0% of the total cation exchange capacity (CEC). The fractionation of Cs+ in actual accident sites mainly exists as a residue, which is important because it is closely related to the strong binding between Cs+ and soils. Cs+ adsorbed onto FES can move into the deeper interlayer via weathering processes, thereby Cs+ can be irreversibly fixed in the interlayer of non-expanding 2:1 layered clay mineral. Additionally, Cs+ can be adsorbed in the interlayer of the expanding clay mineral and can be fixed by interlayer collapse. For this reason, Cs+ adsorption onto FES is defined as 'selective adsorption' subsequent sorption in the interlayer as 'irreversible fixation'. Furthermore, the extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analysis can confirm that Cs+ bound to illite is coordinated with the outer surface (OOS) and interlayer surface oxygens (OIS) through FES or interlayer sites. Through these processes, Cs+ is adsorbed selectively onto FES, while Cs+ can subsequently move into the interlayer and become more strongly fixed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Min Park
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Soil Environment Research Center, Chonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo, 561-756, Republic of Korea
| | - Daniel S Alessi
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E3, Canada
| | - Kitae Baek
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Soil Environment Research Center, Chonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo, 561-756, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Anderson D, Okuda K, Hess A, Nanba K, Johnson T, Takase T, Hinton T. A comparison of methods to derive aggregated transfer factors using wild boar data from the Fukushima Prefecture. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2019; 197:101-108. [PMID: 30544019 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Aggregated transfer factors (Tag; m2 kg-1) are often used to predict radionuclide activity concentrations in biota (Bq kg-1) from soil contamination levels (Bq m-2). Inherently large uncertainties in Tag values severely limit their predictive power. Many published Tag values have been derived from radionuclide deposition onto soil following weapons fallout, or the accidents at Chernobyl and Fukushima. In many cases the soil data used to derive a Tag value were collected for other purposes, and the spatial resolution of the soil data is much less than that of the biota data to which it is paired. We hypothesized that this disassociation and imprecision in paring deposition density and biota data may contribute to the large variations observed in Tag values. We tested the hypothesis by deriving Tag values for Japanese wild boar in two ways. One method used paired deposition density-biota contamination levels, with the soil data collected from each boar trap site. The second method used a soil radioactivity density map, of relatively low spatial resolution, generated by the Japanese government agency MEXT for fallout from the Fukushima accident. We hypothesized that Tag values derived from the method using paired deposition density-wild boar data would have less variation. Initial statistical test suggested significant differences in the predictive power of the two methods. However, removal of suspected outliers in the MEXT data set decreased the statistical differences and indicated that collecting 137Cs soil deposition density measurements in the field did not reduce the large variation in our Tag values. More importantly, both methods revealed that soil contamination levels are a poor predictor of radiocesium concentrations in boar (r2 < 0.23). The inadequacies of Tag to predict wild boar 137Cs concentrations is an ominous indication of the lack of applicability of the Tag model as a rigorous research parameter. Tag values are best suited for their original intended purpose: upper tier, screening level computations. Further studies on how to reduce uncertainty when predicting 137Cs concentrations in biota are needed to thoroughly understand the transfer of radiocesium within the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donovan Anderson
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan.
| | - Kei Okuda
- Faculty of Human Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Shudo University, 731-3195, Hiroshima Prefecture, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ann Hess
- Department of Statistics, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Kenji Nanba
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan; Symbiotic Systems Science and Technology Faculty, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan
| | - Thomas Johnson
- Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences Faculty, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Tsugiko Takase
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan
| | - Thomas Hinton
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 960-1248, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Kanayagawa, Japan
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18
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Beaugelin-Seiller K, Howard BJ, Garnier-Laplace J. An approach to identifying the relative importance of different radionuclides in ecological radiological risk assessment: Application to nuclear power plant releases. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2019; 197:116-126. [PMID: 30553229 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
There is a need to prioritise the requirements for data to assess the radiological risk for fauna and flora, as inevitable large data gaps occur due to the large number of combinations of radionuclides and organisms for which doses need to be assessed. The potentially most important dose-forming radionuclide-pathways combinations need to be identified to optimize filling these gaps. Few attempts have been made to classify the importance of isotopes with regard to radiation protection of the environment. A hierarchical approach is described here for radionuclides that are potentially present in generic ecosystems (freshwater, marine or terrestrial) and is applied for scenarios considering ecologically relevant chronic exposure. In each ecosystem, the top ten radionuclides that may contribute to doses were identified using a qualitative Chronic Hazard Index. Including quantitative aspects by incorporating discharge quantities changed the priority list, and increased the relative importance of radionuclides contributing most to the authorized releases of nuclear facilities (14C and 3H followed by 60C). The potentially most important dose-contributing radionuclides in the framework of environmental radiation protection under a chronic exposure situation included isotopes of about 20 elements. The five most important in order of decreasing importance were: carbon, hydrogen, caesium, cobalt and americium. Consideration of acute exposure situations was hampered by data gaps that were even greater than that for chronic exposure situations, so it was only possible to consider the feasibility of developing a consistent approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brenda J Howard
- NERC, Centre for Ecology & Hydrology CEH Lancaster, United Kingdom
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19
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Kamboj S. Nonhuman biota dose rate estimation from liquid effluent releases during normal operations of light water reactors using the LADTAP II computer code. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2019; 196:141-149. [PMID: 30449540 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2018.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The LADTAP II computer code was used to estimate the dose rates to seven nonhuman biota (fish, algae, invertebrate, muskrat, raccoon, heron, and duck) from liquid effluent releases during the normal operations of new light water reactor facilities in the United States. The estimated dose rates to nonhuman biota depended on the nuclear power plant design but were orders of magnitude less than the 'derived consideration reference levels' (DCRL) in International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) Publication 108. The estimated dose rates were at least three orders of magnitude lower than the guideline values identified by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements to cause observable changes in populations of biota. Radionuclides that contributed most of the dose rates for seven nonhuman biota depended on the nuclear power plant design. The differences in the estimated dose rates to seven nonhuman biota calculated from the default bioaccumulation factors used in the LADTAP II computer code and the dose rates calculated from the concentration ratios of radionuclides in the IAEA Technical Report Series (TRS) wildlife handbook were less than one order of magnitude for most default biota in LADTAP. The concentration ratios for some radionuclides in liquid effluent releases from nuclear power plant designs that contributed more than 5% of the internal dose rates for invertebrates (P, and Ru) and algae (La and Pr) were not available in the IAEA TRS wildlife handbook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Kamboj
- Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 Cass Avenue, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA.
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20
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Aramrun P, Beresford NA, Wood MD. Selecting passive dosimetry technologies for measuring the external dose of terrestrial wildlife. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2018; 182:128-137. [PMID: 29227874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Dosimeters attached to wild animals can be used to validate regulatory assessment approaches and models for estimating radiation exposure of wild animals. Such measurements are also necessary to ensure that robust dose-effect relationships can be developed from the results of field research programmes. This paper presents the first comprehensive evaluation of the different dosimetry technologies available for specifically measuring the external exposure of wildlife. Guidance is provided on the selection of appropriate passive dosimetry approaches for directly measuring external exposure of terrestrial wildlife under field conditions. The characteristics and performance of four available dosimetry technologies (thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD), optically stimulated luminescent dosimeter (OSLD), radiophotoluminescent dosimeter (RPLD) and direct ion storage, (DIS)) are reviewed. Dosimeter properties, detection limit and dose range, study organisms and the intended application are variables that need to be considered when selecting a suitable dosimetry technology. Evaluated against these criteria, it is suggested that LiF based and Al2O3:C TLDs, OSLD and RPLD could all be used to estimate doses to wildlife. However, only LiF based TLDs have been used to directly measure wildlife doses in field studies to date. DIS is only suitable for comparatively large species (e.g. medium to large mammals), but has the advantage that temporal variation in dose can be recorded. In all cases, dosimeter calibration is required to ensure that the dose measurements reported can be interpreted appropriately for the organisms of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phakphum Aramrun
- School of Environment and Life Science, University of Salford, Manchester, M4 4WT, UK.
| | - Nicholas A Beresford
- School of Environment and Life Science, University of Salford, Manchester, M4 4WT, UK; NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA14AP, UK
| | - Michael D Wood
- School of Environment and Life Science, University of Salford, Manchester, M4 4WT, UK
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21
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Andersson P, Stark K, Xu S, Nordén M, Dverstorp B. The Swedish radiological environmental protection regulations applied in a review of a license application for a geological repository for spent nuclear fuel. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2017; 178-179:439-445. [PMID: 28427815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
For the first time, a system for specific consideration of radiological environmental protection has been applied in a major license application in Sweden. In 2011 the Swedish Nuclear Fuel & Waste Management Co. (SKB) submitted a license application for construction of a geological repository for spent nuclear fuel at the Forsmark site. The license application is supported by a post-closure safety assessment, which in accordance with regulatory requirements includes an assessment of environmental consequences. SKB's environmental risk assessment uses the freely available ERICA Tool. Environmental media activity concentrations needed as input to the tool are calculated by means of complex biosphere modelling based on site-specific information gathered from site investigations, as well as from supporting modelling studies and projections of future biosphere conditions in response to climate change and land rise due to glacial rebound. SKB's application is currently being reviewed by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). In addition to a traditional document review with an aim to determine whether SKB's models are relevant, correctly implemented and adequately parametrized, SSM has performed independent modelling in order to gain confidence in the robustness of SKB's assessment. Thus, SSM has used alternative stylized reference biosphere models to calculate environmental activity concentrations for use in subsequent exposure calculations. Secondly, an alternative dose model (RESRAD-BIOTA) is used to calculate doses to biota that are compared with SKB's calculations with the ERICA tool. SSM's experience from this review is that existing tools for environmental dose assessment are possible to use in order to show compliance with Swedish legislation. However, care is needed when site representative species are assessed with the aim to contrast them to generic reference organism. The alternative modelling of environmental concentrations resulted in much lower concentrations compared to SKB's results. However, SSM judges that SKB's in this part conservative approach is relevant for a screening assessment. SSM also concludes that there are big differences in dose rates calculated to different organisms depending on which tool that is used, although not systematically higher for either of them. Finally, independent regulatory modelling has proven valuable for SSM's review in gaining understanding and confidence in SKB's assessment presented in the license application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pål Andersson
- Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten, 171 16 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | - Shulan Xu
- Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten, 171 16 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Nordén
- Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten, 171 16 Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Strand P, Sundell-Bergman S, Brown JE, Dowdall M. On the divergences in assessment of environmental impacts from ionising radiation following the Fukushima accident. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2017; 169-170:159-173. [PMID: 28119209 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The accident at the Fukushima-Daiichi Nuclear Power Station on March 11, 2011, led to significant contamination of the surrounding terrestrial and marine environments. Whilst impacts on human health remain the primary concern in the aftermath of such an accident, recent years have seen a significant body of work conducted on the assessment of the accident's impacts on both the terrestrial and marine environment. Such assessments have been undertaken at various levels of biological organisation, for different species, using different methodologies and coming, in many cases, to divergent conclusions as to the effects of the accident on the environment. This article provides an overview of the work conducted in relation to the environmental impacts of the Fukushima accident, critically comparing and contrasting methodologies and results with a view towards finding reasons for discrepancies, should they indeed exist. Based on the outcomes of studies conducted to date, it would appear that in order to avoid the fractured and disparate conclusions drawn in the aftermath of previous accidents, radioactive contaminants and their effects can no longer simply be viewed in isolation with respect to the ecosystems these effects may impact. A combination of laboratory based and field studies with a focus on ecosystem functioning and effects could offer the best opportunities for coherence in the interpretation of the results of studies into the environmental impacts of ionising radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Strand
- CERAD, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1430 Ås, Norway.
| | - S Sundell-Bergman
- Department of Soil and Environment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7014, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - J E Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Grini næringspark 13, 1332 Østerås, Norway
| | - M Dowdall
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Grini næringspark 13, 1332 Østerås, Norway
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23
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Brown JE, Alfonso B, Avila R, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Hosseini A. A new version of the ERICA tool to facilitate impact assessments of radioactivity on wild plants and animals. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2016; 153:141-148. [PMID: 26773508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A new version of the ERICA Tool (version 1.2) was released in November 2014; this constitutes the first major update of the Tool since release in 2007. The key features of the update are presented in this article. Of particular note are new transfer databases extracted from an international compilation of concentration ratios (CRwo-media) and the modification of 'extrapolation' approaches used to select transfer data in cases where information is not available. Bayesian updating approaches have been used in some cases to draw on relevant information that would otherwise have been excluded in the process of deriving CRwo-media statistics. All of these efforts have in turn led to the requirement to update Environmental Media Concentration Limits (EMCLs) used in Tier 1 assessments. Some of the significant changes with regard to EMCLs are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Department of Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Radioactivity, Grini næringspark 13 Postbox 55, NO-1332, Østerås, Norway.
| | - B Alfonso
- Facilia AB, Gustavslundsvägen 151C, 167 51, Bromma, Sweden
| | - R Avila
- Facilia AB, Gustavslundsvägen 151C, 167 51, Bromma, Sweden
| | - N A Beresford
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Center, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA14AP, UK
| | - D Copplestone
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - A Hosseini
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Department of Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Radioactivity, Grini næringspark 13 Postbox 55, NO-1332, Østerås, Norway
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24
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Beresford NA, Wood MD, Vives i Batlle J, Yankovich TL, Bradshaw C, Willey N. Making the most of what we have: application of extrapolation approaches in radioecological wildlife transfer models. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2016; 151 Pt 2:373-386. [PMID: 25850783 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We will never have data to populate all of the potential radioecological modelling parameters required for wildlife assessments. Therefore, we need robust extrapolation approaches which allow us to make best use of our available knowledge. This paper reviews and, in some cases, develops, tests and validates some of the suggested extrapolation approaches. The concentration ratio (CRproduct-diet or CRwo-diet) is shown to be a generic (trans-species) parameter which should enable the more abundant data for farm animals to be applied to wild species. An allometric model for predicting the biological half-life of radionuclides in vertebrates is further tested and generally shown to perform acceptably. However, to fully exploit allometry we need to understand why some elements do not scale to expected values. For aquatic ecosystems, the relationship between log10(a) (a parameter from the allometric relationship for the organism-water concentration ratio) and log(Kd) presents a potential opportunity to estimate concentration ratios using Kd values. An alternative approach to the CRwo-media model proposed for estimating the transfer of radionuclides to freshwater fish is used to satisfactorily predict activity concentrations in fish of different species from three lakes. We recommend that this approach (REML modelling) be further investigated and developed for other radionuclides and across a wider range of organisms and ecosystems. Ecological stoichiometry shows potential as an extrapolation method in radioecology, either from one element to another or from one species to another. Although some of the approaches considered require further development and testing, we demonstrate the potential to significantly improve predictions of radionuclide transfer to wildlife by making better use of available data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Beresford
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Center, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster LA14AP, UK; School of Environment & Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester M4 4WT, UK.
| | - Michael D Wood
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester M4 4WT, UK
| | | | - Tamara L Yankovich
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna International Centre, 1400 Vienna, Austria
| | - Clare Bradshaw
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE-10691, Sweden
| | - Neil Willey
- Centre for Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Frenchay, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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Beaugelin-Seiller K. Effects of soil water content on the external exposure of fauna to radioactive isotopes. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2016; 151 Pt 1:204-208. [PMID: 26492396 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 10/03/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Within a recent model intercomparison about radiological risk assessment for contaminated wetlands, the influence of soil saturation conditions on external dose rates was evidenced. This issue joined concerns of assessors regarding the choice of the soil moisture value to input in radiological assessment tools such as the ERICA Tool. Does it really influence the assessment results and how? This question was investigated under IAEA's Modelling and Data for Radiological Impacts Assessments (MODARIA) programme via 42 scenarios for which the soil water content varied from 0 (dry soil) to 100% (saturated soil), in combination with other parameters that may influence the values of the external dose conversion coefficients (DCCs) calculated for terrestrial organisms exposed in soil. A set of α, β, and γ emitters was selected in order to cover the range of possible emission energies. The values of their external DCCs varied generally within a factor 1 to 1.5 with the soil water content, excepted for β emitters that appeared more sensitive (DCCs within a factor of about 3). This may be of importance for some specific cases or for upper tiers of radiological assessments, when refinement is required. But for the general purpose of screening assessment of radiological impact on fauna and flora, current approaches regarding the soil water content are relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Beaugelin-Seiller
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), PRP-ENV, SERIS, LM2E, Cadarache, France.
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26
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Kubota Y, Takahashi H, Watanabe Y, Fuma S, Kawaguchi I, Aoki M, Kubota M, Furuhata Y, Shigemura Y, Yamada F, Ishikawa T, Obara S, Yoshida S. Estimation of absorbed radiation dose rates in wild rodents inhabiting a site severely contaminated by the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant accident. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2015; 142:124-131. [PMID: 25666988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2015.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The dose rates of radiation absorbed by wild rodents inhabiting a site severely contaminated by the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident were estimated. The large Japanese field mouse (Apodemus speciosus), also called the wood mouse, was the major rodent species captured in the sampling area, although other species of rodents, such as small field mice (Apodemus argenteus) and Japanese grass voles (Microtus montebelli), were also collected. The external exposure of rodents calculated from the activity concentrations of radiocesium ((134)Cs and (137)Cs) in litter and soil samples using the ERICA (Environmental Risk from Ionizing Contaminants: Assessment and Management) tool under the assumption that radionuclides existed as the infinite plane isotropic source was almost the same as those measured directly with glass dosimeters embedded in rodent abdomens. Our findings suggest that the ERICA tool is useful for estimating external dose rates to small animals inhabiting forest floors; however, the estimated dose rates showed large standard deviations. This could be an indication of the inhomogeneous distribution of radionuclides in the sampled litter and soil. There was a 50-fold difference between minimum and maximum whole-body activity concentrations measured in rodents at the time of capture. The radionuclides retained in rodents after capture decreased exponentially over time. Regression equations indicated that the biological half-life of radiocesium after capture was 3.31 d. At the time of capture, the lowest activity concentration was measured in the lung and was approximately half of the highest concentration measured in the mixture of muscle and bone. The average internal absorbed dose rate was markedly smaller than the average external dose rate (<10% of the total absorbed dose rate). The average total absorbed dose rate to wild rodents inhabiting the sampling area was estimated to be approximately 52 μGy h(-1) (1.2 mGy d(-1)), even 3 years after the accident. This dose rate exceeds 0.1-1 mGy d(-1) derived consideration reference level for Reference rat proposed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihisa Kubota
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Takahashi
- Tokyo Nuclear Services Co., Ltd., 1-3-5 Taito, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0016, Japan
| | - Yoshito Watanabe
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Shoichi Fuma
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Isao Kawaguchi
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Masanari Aoki
- Japan Wildlife Research Center, 3-3-7 Koutoubashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-8606, Japan
| | - Masahide Kubota
- Japan Wildlife Research Center, 3-3-7 Koutoubashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-8606, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Furuhata
- Japan Wildlife Research Center, 3-3-7 Koutoubashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-8606, Japan
| | - Yusaku Shigemura
- Japan NUS Co., Ltd., 7-5-25 Nishi-shinjyuku, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Fumio Yamada
- Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8687, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ishikawa
- Department of Technical Support and Development, Research, Development and Support Centre, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Obara
- Medical Radiation Exposure Project, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yoshida
- Project for Environmental Dynamics and Radiation Effects, Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
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27
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Stark K, Andersson P, Beresford NA, Yankovich TL, Wood MD, Johansen MP, Vives i Batlle J, Twining J, Keum DK, Bollhöfer A, Doering C, Ryan B, Grzechnik M, Vandenhove H. Predicting exposure of wildlife in radionuclide contaminated wetland ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2015; 196:201-213. [PMID: 25463715 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2014.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Many wetlands support high biodiversity and are protected sites, but some are contaminated with radionuclides from routine or accidental releases from nuclear facilities. This radiation exposure needs to be assessed to demonstrate radiological protection of the environment. Existing biota dose models cover generic terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, not wetlands specifically. This paper, which was produced under IAEA's Environmental Modelling for Radiation Safety (EMRAS) II programme, describes an evaluation of how models can be applied to radionuclide contaminated wetlands. Participants used combinations of aquatic and terrestrial model parameters to assess exposure. Results show the importance of occupancy factor and food source (aquatic or terrestrial) included. The influence of soil saturation conditions on external dose rates is also apparent. In general, terrestrial parameters provided acceptable predictions for wetland organisms. However, occasionally predictions varied by three orders of magnitude between assessors. Possible further developments for biota dose models and research needs are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Stark
- Department of Ecology, Environment, and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
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28
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Beresford NA, Wood MD. A new simplified allometric approach for predicting the biological half-life of radionuclides in reptiles. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2014; 138:116-121. [PMID: 25218982 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A major source of uncertainty in the estimation of radiation dose to wildlife is the prediction of internal radionuclide activity concentrations. Allometric (mass-dependent) relationships describing biological half-life (T1/2b) of radionuclides in organisms can be used to predict organism activity concentrations. The establishment of allometric expressions requires experimental data which are often lacking. An approach to predict the T1/2b in homeothermic vertebrates has recently been proposed. In this paper we have adapted this to be applicable to reptiles. For Cs, Ra and Sr, over a mass range of 0.02-1.5 kg, resultant predictions were generally within a factor of 6 of reported values demonstrating that the approach can be used when measured T1/2b data are lacking. However, the effect of mass on reptilian radionuclide T1/2b is minimal. If sufficient measured data are available for a given radionuclide then it is likely that these would give a reasonable estimate of T1/2b in any reptile species.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Beresford
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK; School of Environment & Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester M4 4WT, UK.
| | - M D Wood
- School of Environment & Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester M4 4WT, UK
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29
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Beaugelin-Seiller K. The assumption of heterogeneous or homogeneous radioactive contamination in soil/sediment: does it matter in terms of the external exposure of fauna? JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2014; 138:60-67. [PMID: 25170547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2014.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The classical approach to environmental radioprotection is based on the assumption of homogeneously contaminated media. However, in soils and sediments there may be a significant variation of radioactivity with depth. The effect of this heterogeneity was investigated by examining the external exposure of various sediment and soil organisms, and determining the resulting dose rates, assuming a realistic combination of locations and radionuclides. The results were dependent on the exposure situation, i.e., the organism, its location, and the quality and quantity of radionuclides. The dose rates ranged over three orders of magnitude. The assumption of homogeneous contamination was not consistently conservative (if associated with a level of radioactivity averaged over the full thickness of soil or sediment that was sampled). Dose assessment for screening purposes requires consideration of the highest activity concentration measured in a soil/sediment that is considered to be homogeneously contaminated. A more refined assessment (e.g., higher tier of a graded approach) should take into consideration a more realistic contamination profile, and apply different dosimetric approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Beaugelin-Seiller
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), PRP-ENV, SERIS, LM2E, Cadarache, France.
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30
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Lecomte-Pradines C, Bonzom JM, Della-Vedova C, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Villenave C, Gaschak S, Coppin F, Dubourg N, Maksimenko A, Adam-Guillermin C, Garnier-Laplace J. Soil nematode assemblages as bioindicators of radiation impact in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 490:161-170. [PMID: 24852614 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.04.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In radioecology, the need to understand the long-term ecological effects of radioactive contamination has been emphasised. This requires that the health of field populations is evaluated and linked to an accurate estimate of received radiological dose. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of current radioactive contamination on nematode assemblages at sites affected by the fallout from the Chernobyl accident. First, we estimated the total dose rates (TDRs) absorbed by nematodes, from measured current soil activity concentrations, Dose Conversion Coefficients (DCCs, calculated using EDEN software) and soil-to-biota concentration ratios (from the ERICA tool database). The impact of current TDRs on nematode assemblages was then evaluated. Nematodes were collected in spring 2011 from 18 forest sites in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) with external gamma dose rates, measured using radiophotoluminescent dosimeters, varying from 0.2 to 22 μGy h(-1). These values were one order of magnitude below the TDRs. A majority of bacterial-, plant-, and fungal-feeding nematodes and very few of the disturbance sensitive families were identified. No statistically significant association was observed between TDR values and nematode total abundance or the Shannon diversity index (H'). The Nematode Channel Ratio (which defines the relative abundance of bacterial- versus fungal-feeding nematodes) decreased significantly with increasing TDR, suggesting that radioactive contamination may influence nematode assemblages either directly or indirectly by modifying their food resources. A greater Maturity Index (MI), usually characterising better soil quality, was associated with higher pH and TDR values. These results suggest that in the CEZ, nematode assemblages from the forest sites were slightly impacted by chronic exposure at a predicted TDR of 200 μGy h(-1). This may be imputable to a dominant proportion of pollutant resistant nematodes in all sites. This might result from a selection at the expense of sensitive species after the accident.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lecomte-Pradines
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, LECO, Building 186, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France.
| | - J-M Bonzom
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, LECO, Building 186, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France
| | | | - K Beaugelin-Seiller
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, LM2E, Building 159, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France
| | - C Villenave
- ELISOL Environment, Building 12, Campus de la Gaillarde, 2 place Viala, 34060 Montpellier cedex 2, France
| | - S Gaschak
- Chernobyl Center for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste and Radioecology, International Radioecology Laboratory, 07100 Slavutych, Ukraine
| | - F Coppin
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, L2BT, Building 186, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France
| | - N Dubourg
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, GARM Building 186, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France
| | - A Maksimenko
- Chernobyl Center for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste and Radioecology, International Radioecology Laboratory, 07100 Slavutych, Ukraine
| | - C Adam-Guillermin
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, LECO, Building 186, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France
| | - J Garnier-Laplace
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, IRSN/PRP-ENV/SERIS, Building 159, Cadarache 13115 Saint Paul lez Durance cedex, France
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31
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Brown JE, Hosseini A, Dowdall M. On the application of an environmental radiological assessment system to an anthropomorphic surrogate. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2014; 10:125-132. [PMID: 23775896 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.1454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Revised: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments have seen the expansion of the system of radiological protection for humans to one including protection of the environment against detrimental effects of radiation exposure, although a fully developed framework for integration of human and ecological risk assessment for radionuclides is only at an early stage. In the context of integration, significant differences exist between assessment methodologies for humans and the environment in terms of transfer, exposure, and dosimetry. The aim of this elaboration was to explore possible implications of the simplifications made within the system of environmental radiological protection in terms of the efficacy and robustness of dose-rate predictions. A comparison was conducted between human radiological assessment and environmental radiological assessment for an anthropomorphic surrogate, the results for which, produced by both the environmental and human-oriented risk assessment systems, were critically compared and contrasted. The adopted approach split the calculations into several parts, these being 1) physical transfer in an ecosystem, 2) transfer to humans, 3) internal doses to humans, and 4) external doses to humans. The calculations were carried out using both a human radiological assessment and ecological risk assessment system for the same surrogate. The results of this comparison provided indications as to where the 2 systems are amenable to possible integration and where such integration may prove difficult. Initial stage transport models seem to be an obvious component amenable for integration, although complete integration is arguably unattainable as the differences between endpoints mean that the relevant outputs from the models will not be the same. For the transfer and dosimetry components of 2 typical methodologies, it seems that the efficacy of the environmental system is radionuclide-dependent, the predictions given by the environmental system for (90) Sr and (60) Co being unsatisfactory and those for (239) Pu and (210) Po being evidently poor. Integration in this context might take the form of exploring the biokinetic models developed for humans with regard to selected animals and radionuclides. External dose assessment for environmental and human systems provide results for the surrogate that correspond quite closely providing an indication that integration in this regard is perhaps unnecessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin E Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Østerås, Norway
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Yankovich T, Beresford NA, Fesenko S, Fesenko J, Phaneuf M, Dagher E, Outola I, Andersson P, Thiessen K, Ryan J, Wood MD, Bollhöfer A, Barnett CL, Copplestone D. Establishing a database of radionuclide transfer parameters for freshwater wildlife. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 126:299-313. [PMID: 23103210 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Environmental assessments to evaluate potentials risks to humans and wildlife often involve modelling to predict contaminant exposure through key pathways. Such models require input of parameter values, including concentration ratios, to estimate contaminant concentrations in biota based on measurements or estimates of concentrations in environmental media, such as water. Due to the diversity of species and the range in physicochemical conditions in natural ecosystems, concentration ratios can vary by orders of magnitude, even within similar species. Therefore, to improve model input parameter values for application in aquatic systems, freshwater concentration ratios were collated or calculated from national grey literature, Russian language publications, and refereed papers. Collated data were then input into an international database that is being established by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The freshwater database enables entry of information for all radionuclides listed in ICRP (1983), in addition to the corresponding stable elements, and comprises a total of more than 16,500 concentration ratio (CRwo-water) values. Although data were available for all broad wildlife groups (with the exception of birds), data were sparse for many organism types. For example, zooplankton, crustaceans, insects and insect larvae, amphibians, and mammals, for which there were CRwo-water values for less than eight elements. Coverage was most comprehensive for fish, vascular plants, and molluscs. To our knowledge, the freshwater database that has now been established represents the most comprehensive set of CRwo-water values for freshwater species currently available for use in radiological environmental assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yankovich
- Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC), Environment and Forestry, #125, 15 Innovation Blvd., Saskatoon, SK S7N 2X8, Canada.
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Brown JE, Beresford NA, Hosseini A. Approaches to providing missing transfer parameter values in the ERICA Tool--how well do they work? JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 126:399-411. [PMID: 22664380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Revised: 05/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
A required parameter for the ERICA Tool is the concentration ratio (CR), which is used to describe the transfer from environmental media to a range of organisms. For the original parameterisation of the ERICA Tool, 60% of these values were derived using a variety of extrapolation approaches, including the application of allometric models, the use of values for a similar organism or element with similar biogeochemical behaviour and the use of values from a different ecosystem. Although similar approaches are applied in other assessment systems, there has been little attempt to see how well these approaches perform. In this paper, CR values in the ERICA Tool derived using extrapolation approaches are compared to more recently available empirical data from the IAEA wildlife transfer database. The primary purpose of the default CR database in the ERICA Tool, and other models, is to enable the user to conduct conservative screening assessments. Conservatism was therefore introduced to the analyses by selecting the 95th percentile CR values for subsequent calculations. The extrapolation methodologies are not guaranteed to provide conservative estimates of empirical 95th percentile CRs. For the terrestrial ecosystem, the extrapolation methods provide underpredictions of empirical 95th percentiles as often as they produce overpredictions. In a few cases the underestimation of CR values, when considering all ecosystems, is substantial - by orders of magnitude - which is clearly unacceptable for a screening assessment. Thus, although extrapolation approaches will remain an essential component of screening assessments in the future, because data gaps will always be present, diligence is important in their application. Finally, by synthesizing the results from the current analyses and through other considerations, some recommendations are provided with regards to modifying the original guidance on use of extrapolation approaches in the ERICA Tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Department of Emergency Preparedness and Environmental Radioactivity, Grini næringspark 13, Postbox 55, NO-1332 Østerås, Norway.
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Howard BJ. A new IAEA handbook quantifying the transfer of radionuclides to wildlife for assessment tools. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 126:284-287. [PMID: 24321845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- B J Howard
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom.
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Karimullina E, Antonova E, Pozolotina V. Assessing radiation exposure of herbaceous plant species at the East-Ural Radioactive Trace. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 124:113-120. [PMID: 23694686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Revised: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The East-Ural Radioactive Trace (EURT) is a result of the Mayak Production Association accident that occurred in 1957 in Russia. Radiological assessment improves the interpretation of biological effects of exposure to ionizing radiation. Therefore a modeling approach was used to estimate dose rates on Leonurus quinquelobatus, Silene latifolia, Stellaria graminea and Bromus inermis. Soil-to-organism transfer parameter values are delivered from empirical data of (90)Sr and (137)Cs soil and vegetative plant mass activity concentrations. External and internal whole-body dose rates were calculated using deterministic (The ERICA Tool-Tier 2 and R&D 128/SP1a) and probabilistic (The ERICA Tool-Tier 3) methods. The total dose rate for herbs was under 100 μGy h(-1) at the most polluted site. The total absorbed dose rates increased 43-110 times (Tier 3) for different herbaceous plant species along the pollution gradient. Based on these data, it can be concluded that herbaceous plant populations currently exist under low-level chronic exposure at the EURT area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Karimullina
- Institute of Plant & Animal Ecology, Ural Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta, 202, Yekaterinburg 620144, Russian Federation.
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Giardi MT, Touloupakis E, Bertolotto D, Mascetti G. Preventive or potential therapeutic value of nutraceuticals against ionizing radiation-induced oxidative stress in exposed subjects and frequent fliers. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:17168-92. [PMID: 23965979 PMCID: PMC3759958 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140817168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans are constantly exposed to ionizing radiation deriving from outer space sources or activities related to medical care. Absorption of ionizing radiation doses over a prolonged period of time can result in oxidative damage and cellular dysfunction inducing several diseases, especially in ageing subjects. In this report, we analyze the effects of ionizing radiation, particularly at low doses, in relation to a variety of human pathologies, including cancer, and cardiovascular and retinal diseases. We discuss scientific data in support of protection strategies by safe antioxidant formulations that can provide preventive or potential therapeutic value in response to long-term diseases that may develop following exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eleftherios Touloupakis
- Biosensor, Via Olmetti 44 Formello, Rome 00060, Italy; E-Mail:
- Department of Chemistry, University of Crete, P.O. Box 2208, Voutes-Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Delfina Bertolotto
- Agenzia Spaziale Italiana (ASI), Viale Liegi 26, Rome 00198, Italy; E-Mails: (D.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Gabriele Mascetti
- Agenzia Spaziale Italiana (ASI), Viale Liegi 26, Rome 00198, Italy; E-Mails: (D.B.); (G.M.)
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37
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Howard BJ, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Telleria D, Proehl G, Fesenko S, Jeffree RA, Yankovich TL, Brown JE, Higley K, Johansen MP, Mulye H, Vandenhove H, Gashchak S, Wood MD, Takata H, Andersson P, Dale P, Ryan J, Bollhöfer A, Doering C, Barnett CL, Wells C. The IAEA handbook on radionuclide transfer to wildlife. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 121:55-74. [PMID: 22513215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
An IAEA handbook presenting transfer parameter values for wildlife has recently been produced. Concentration ratios (CRwo-media) between the whole organism (fresh weight) and either soil (dry weight) or water were collated for a range of wildlife groups (classified taxonomically and by feeding strategy) in terrestrial, freshwater, marine and brackish generic ecosystems. The data have been compiled in an on line database, which will continue to be updated in the future providing the basis for subsequent revision of the Wildlife TRS values. An overview of the compilation and analysis, and discussion of the extent and limitations of the data is presented. Example comparisons of the CRwo-media values are given for polonium across all wildlife groups and ecosystems and for molluscs for all radionuclides. The CRwo-media values have also been compared with those currently used in the ERICA Tool which represented the most complete published database for wildlife transfer values prior to this work. The use of CRwo-media values is a pragmatic approach to predicting radionuclide activity concentrations in wildlife and is similar to that used for screening assessments for the human food chain. The CRwo-media values are most suitable for a screening application where there are several conservative assumptions built into the models which will, to varying extents, compensate for the variable data quality and quantity, and associated uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Howard
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK.
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Nedveckaite T, Gudelis A, Vives i Batlle J. Impact assessment of ionizing radiation on human and non-human biota from the vicinity of a near-surface radioactive waste repository. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2013; 52:221-234. [PMID: 23377320 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-013-0459-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 01/12/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This work describes the radiological assessment of the near-surface Maisiagala radioactive waste repository (Lithuania) over the period 2005-2012, with focus on water pathways and special emphasis on tritium. The study includes an assessment of the effect of post-closure upgrading, the durability of which is greater than 30 years. Both human and terrestrial non-human biota are considered, with local low-intensity forestry and small farms being the area of concern. The radiological exposure was evaluated using the RESRAD-OFFSITE, RESRAD-BIOTA and ERICA codes in combination with long-term data from a dedicated environmental monitoring programme. All measurements were performed at the Lithuanian Institute of Physics as part of this project. It is determined that, after repository upgrading, radiological exposure to humans are significantly lower than the human dose constraint of 0.2 mSv/year valid in the Republic of Lithuania. Likewise, for non-human biota, dose rates are below the ERICA/PROTECT screening levels. The potential annual effective inhalation dose that could be incurred by the highest-exposed human individual (which is due to tritiated water vapour airborne release over the most exposed area) does not exceed 0.1 μSv. Tritium-labelled drinking water appears to be the main pathway for human impact, representing about 83 % of the exposure. Annual committed effective dose (CED) values for members of the public consuming birch sap as medical practice are calculated to be several orders of magnitude below the CEDs for the same location associated with drinking of well water. The data presented here indicate that upper soil-layer samples may not provide a good indication of potential exposure to terrestrial deep-rooted trees, as demonstrated by an investigation of stratified (3)H in soil moisture, expressed on a wet soil mass basis, in an area with subsurface contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Nedveckaite
- Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Physics, Savanoriu Ave 231, 02300 Vilnius, Lithuania
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39
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Johansen MP, Barnett CL, Beresford NA, Brown JE, Černe M, Howard BJ, Kamboj S, Keum DK, Smodiš B, Twining JR, Vandenhove H, Vives i Batlle J, Wood MD, Yu C. Assessing doses to terrestrial wildlife at a radioactive waste disposal site: inter-comparison of modelling approaches. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2012; 427-428:238-246. [PMID: 22578842 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2012.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2011] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Radiological doses to terrestrial wildlife were examined in this model inter-comparison study that emphasised factors causing variability in dose estimation. The study participants used varying modelling approaches and information sources to estimate dose rates and tissue concentrations for a range of biota types exposed to soil contamination at a shallow radionuclide waste burial site in Australia. Results indicated that the dominant factor causing variation in dose rate estimates (up to three orders of magnitude on mean total dose rates) was the soil-to-organism transfer of radionuclides that included variation in transfer parameter values as well as transfer calculation methods. Additional variation was associated with other modelling factors including: how participants conceptualised and modelled the exposure configurations (two orders of magnitude); which progeny to include with the parent radionuclide (typically less than one order of magnitude); and dose calculation parameters, including radiation weighting factors and dose conversion coefficients (typically less than one order of magnitude). Probabilistic approaches to model parameterisation were used to encompass and describe variable model parameters and outcomes. The study confirms the need for continued evaluation of the underlying mechanisms governing soil-to-organism transfer of radionuclides to improve estimation of dose rates to terrestrial wildlife. The exposure pathways and configurations available in most current codes are limited when considering instances where organisms access subsurface contamination through rooting, burrowing, or using different localised waste areas as part of their habitual routines.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW, 2232, Australia.
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Brown JE, Gjelsvik R, Roos P, Kålås JA, Outola I, Holm E. Levels and transfer of 210Po and 210Pb in Nordic terrestrial ecosystems. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2011; 102:430-437. [PMID: 20650552 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2010.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 06/23/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments regarding environmental impact assessment methodologies for radioactivity have precipitated the need for information on levels of naturally occurring radionuclides within and transfer to wild flora and fauna. The objectives of this study were therefore to determine activity concentrations of the main dose forming radionuclides (210)Po and (210)Pb in biota from terrestrial ecosystems thus providing insight into the behaviour of these radioisotopes. Samples of soil, plants and animals were collected at Dovrefjell, Central Norway and Olkiluoto, Finland. Soil profiles from Dovrefjell exhibited an approximately exponential fall in (210)Pb activity concentrations from elevated levels in humus/surface soils to "supported" levels at depth. Activity concentrations of (210)Po in fauna (invertebrates, mammals, birds) ranged between 2 and 123 Bq kg(-1)d.w. and in plants and lichens between 20 and 138 Bq kg(-1)d.w. The results showed that soil humus is an important reservoir for (210)Po and (210)Pb and that fauna in close contact with this media may also exhibit elevated levels of (210)Po. Concentration ratios appear to have limited applicability with regards to prediction of activity concentrations of (210)Po in invertebrates and vertebrates. Biokinetic models may provide a tool to explore in a more mechanistic way the behaviour of (210)Po in this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, PO Box 55, N-1332, Østerås, Norway.
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41
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Vives i Batlle J, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Horyna J, Hosseini A, Johansen M, Kamboj S, Keum DK, Kurosawa N, Newsome L, Olyslaegers G, Vandenhove H, Ryufuku S, Vives Lynch S, Wood MD, Yu C. The estimation of absorbed dose rates for non-human biota: an extended intercomparison. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2011; 50:231-251. [PMID: 21113609 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0346-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
An exercise to compare 10 approaches for the calculation of unweighted whole-body absorbed dose rates was conducted for 74 radionuclides and five of the ICRP's Reference Animals and Plants, or RAPs (duck, frog, flatfish egg, rat and elongated earthworm), selected for this exercise to cover a range of body sizes, dimensions and exposure scenarios. Results were analysed using a non-parametric method requiring no specific hypotheses about the statistical distribution of data. The obtained unweighted absorbed dose rates for internal exposure compare well between the different approaches, with 70% of the results falling within a range of variation of ±20%. The variation is greater for external exposure, although 90% of the estimates are within an order of magnitude of one another. There are some discernible patterns where specific models over- or under-predicted. These are explained based on the methodological differences including number of daughter products included in the calculation of dose rate for a parent nuclide; source-target geometry; databases for discrete energy and yield of radionuclides; rounding errors in integration algorithms; and intrinsic differences in calculation methods. For certain radionuclides, these factors combine to generate systematic variations between approaches. Overall, the technique chosen to interpret the data enabled methodological differences in dosimetry calculations to be quantified and compared, allowing the identification of common issues between different approaches and providing greater assurance on the fundamental dose conversion coefficient approaches used in available models for assessing radiological effects to biota.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vives i Batlle
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium.
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Beresford NA. The transfer of radionuclides to wildlife. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2010; 49:505-508. [PMID: 20711840 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0325-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Wood MD, Beresford NA, Semenov DV, Yankovich TL, Copplestone D. Radionuclide transfer to reptiles. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2010; 49:509-530. [PMID: 20725838 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0321-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Reptiles are an important, and often protected, component of many ecosystems but have rarely been fully considered within ecological risk assessments (ERA) due to a paucity of data on contaminant uptake and effects. This paper presents a meta-analysis of literature-derived environmental media (soil and water) to whole-body concentration ratios (CRs) for predicting the transfer of 35 elements (Am, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Ce, Cm, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, Po, Pu, Ra, Rb, Sb, Se, Sr, Th, U, V, Y, Zn, Zr) to reptiles in freshwater ecosystems and 15 elements (Am, C, Cs, Cu, K, Mn, Ni, Pb, Po, Pu, Sr, Tc, Th, U, Zn) to reptiles in terrestrial ecosystems. These reptile CRs are compared with CRs for other vertebrate groups. Tissue distribution data are also presented along with data on the fractional mass of bone, kidney, liver and muscle in reptiles. Although the data were originally collected for use in radiation dose assessments, many of the CR data presented in this paper will also be useful for chemical ERA and for the assessments of dietary transfer in humans for whom reptiles constitute an important component of the diet, such as in Australian aboriginal communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Wood
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK.
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44
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Gashchak S, Beresford NA, Maksimenko A, Vlaschenko AS. Strontium-90 and caesium-137 activity concentrations in bats in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2010; 49:635-644. [PMID: 20714905 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-010-0322-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Bats are a protected species and as such may be an object of protection in radiological assessments of the environment. However, there have previously been only few radioecological studies of species of bats. In this paper, results for >140 measurements of (90)Sr and (137)Cs in 10 species of bats collected within the Chernobyl zone are presented. There was some indication of a decreasing transfer of (90)Sr with increasing deposition, although this was inconsistent across species and explained little of the observed variability. There was no difference between male and female bats in the transfer (expressed as the ratio of whole-body activity concentrations to those in soil) of either radionuclide. There was considerable variability in transfer across all species groups. At two sites where there were sufficient data, Eptesicus serotinus was found to have higher transfer than other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey Gashchak
- International Radioecology Laboratory, Chernobyl Center for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste and Radioecology, Slavutych, Ukraine.
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45
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Howard BJ, Beresford NA, Andersson P, Brown JE, Copplestone D, Beaugelin-Seiller K, Garnier-Laplace J, Howe PD, Oughton D, Whitehouse P. Protection of the environment from ionising radiation in a regulatory context--an overview of the PROTECT coordinated action project. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2010; 30:195-214. [PMID: 20530867 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/30/2/s01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The outcome of the PROTECT project (Protection of the Environment from Ionising Radiation in a Regulatory Context) is summarised, focusing on the protection goal and derivation of dose rates which may detrimentally affect wildlife populations. To carry out an impact assessment for radioactive substances, the estimated dose rates produced by assessment tools need to be compared with some form of criteria to judge the level of risk. To do this, appropriate protection goals need to be defined and associated predefined dose rate values, or benchmarks, derived and agreed upon. Previous approaches used to estimate dose rates at which there may be observable changes in populations or individuals are described and discussed, as are more recent derivations of screening benchmarks for use in regulatory frameworks. We have adopted guidance and procedures used for assessment and regulation of other chemical stressors to derive benchmarks. On the basis of consultation with many relevant experts, PROTECT has derived a benchmark screening dose rate, using data on largely reproductive effects to derive species sensitivity distributions, of 10 microGy h(-1) which can be used to identify situations which are below regulatory concern with a high degree of confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Howard
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK.
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46
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Strand P, Beresford N, Copplestone D, Godoy J, Jianguo L, Saxén R, Yankovich T, Brown J. ICRP Publication 114. Environmental protection: transfer parameters for reference animals and plants. Ann ICRP 2009; 39:1-111. [PMID: 22108188 DOI: 10.1016/j.icrp.2011.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In Publication 103 (ICRP, 2007), the Commission included a section on the protection of the environment, and indicated that it would be further developing its approach to this difficult subject by way of a set of Reference Animals and Plants (RAPs) as the basis for relating exposure to dose, and dose to radiation effects, for different types of animals and plants. Subsequently, a set of 12 RAPs has been described in some detail (ICRP, 2008), particularly with regard to estimation of the doses received by them, at a whole-body level, in relation to internal and external radionuclide concentrations; and what is known about the effects of radiation on such types of animals and plants. A set of dose conversion factors for all of the RAPs has been derived, and the resultant dose rates can be compared with evaluations of the effects of dose rates using derived consideration reference levels (DCRLs). Each DCRL constitutes a band of dose rates for each RAP within which there is likely to be some chance of the occurrence of deleterious effects. Site-specific data on Representative Organisms (i.e. organisms of specific interest for an assessment) can then be compared with such values and used as a basis for decision making. It is intended that the Commission's approach to protection of the environment be applied to all exposure situations. In some situations, the relevant radionuclide concentrations can be measured directly, but this is not always possible or feasible. In such cases, modelling techniques are used to estimate the radionuclide concentrations. This report is an initial step in addressing the needs of such modelling techniques. After briefly reviewing the basic factors relating to the accumulation of radionuclides by different types of biota, in different habitats, and at different stages in the life cycle, this report focuses on the approaches used to model the transfer of radionuclides through the environment. It concludes that equilibrium concentration ratios (CRs) are most commonly used to model such transfers, and that they currently offer the most comprehensive data coverage. The report also reviews the methods used to derive CRs, and describes a means of summarising statistical information from empirical data sets. Emphasis has been placed on using data from field studies, although some data from laboratory experiments have been included for some RAPs. There are, inevitably, many data gaps for each RAP, and other data have been used to help fill these gaps. CRs specific to each RAP were extracted from a larger database, structured in terms of generic wildlife groups. In cases where data were lacking, values from taxonomically-related organisms were used to derive suitable surrogate values. The full set of rules which have been applied for filling gaps in RAP-specific CRs is described. Statistical summaries of the data sets are provided, and CR values for 39 elements and 12 RAP combinations are given. The data coverage, reliance on derived values, and applicability of the CR approach for each of the RAPs is discussed. Finally, some consideration is given to approaches where RAPs and their life stages could be measured for the elements of interest under more rigorously controlled conditions to help fill the current data gaps.
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