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Marine Pathology - all > Mazzariol - PMI > Flashcards

Mazzariol - PMI Flashcards

1
Q

What is the Decomposition Condition Code (DCC)?

A

The DCC is a classification system used to evaluate the state of decomposition of animal carcasses, particularly cetaceans and sea turtles. It assigns numerical codes from 1 to 5 to indicate levels of preservation or decomposition.

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2
Q

What characterizes a Code 1 carcass in the DCC?

A

Code 1 represents an extremely fresh carcass. Features include:
* Recently dead, often live-stranded and euthanized cases
* No post-mortem changes such as bloating or skin sloughing
* Clear, glassy eyes; firm and white blubber; muscles dark red and well-defined
* Organs and brain intact and easily distinguishable.

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3
Q

What defines a Code 2 carcass in the DCC?

A

Code 2 signifies a fresh carcass with minimal decomposition:
* Slight drying or wrinkling of skin and mucous membranes
* Eyes and tongue may appear normal or only slightly sunken
* No bloating; blubber firm and sometimes blood-tinged.

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4
Q

What does a Code 3 classification indicate?

A

Code 3 denotes moderate decomposition:
* Visible bloating with possible protrusion of tongue and penis
* Skin sloughing and mild characteristic odor
* Organs are intact but softer; brain consistency is reduced
* Blood appears thin and black.

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5
Q

Describe the features of a Code 4 carcass in the DCC.

A

Code 4 represents advanced decomposition

  • Carcass may collapse with significant skin sloughing
  • Strong odor; muscles liquefied and viscera friable
  • Brain dark red, liquefied, and may contain gas pockets.
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6
Q

What is a Code 5 classification in the DCC?

A

Code 5 refers to a mummified or skeletal remains carcass

  • Skin may drape over bones
  • Remaining tissues are desiccated
  • Organs are partially or completely absent.
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7
Q

Why is the DCC important in post-mortem investigations?

A

The DCC guides sample collection and helps assess the reliability of histology, microbiology, and toxicology analyses based on the decomposition stage.

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8
Q

What are the key steps in tissue sampling during post-mortem investigations?

A

Steps include:

  • Identify the organ or tissue of interest
  • Collect samples using sterile instruments to avoid contamination
  • Store samples appropriately (e.g., formalin for histology, freezing for microbiology or toxicology)
  • Label samples clearly with collection details.
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9
Q

What tissues are sampled for histopathology?

A

Tissues include:
* Skin
* Blubber
* Internal organs (liver, lungs, kidneys, heart)
* Central nervous system (brain, spinal cord).

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10
Q

What is the purpose of collecting tissue for toxicology?

A

Toxicology samples help detect:
* Heavy metals (e.g., mercury, lead)
* Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like PCBs and DDT
* Biotoxins such as domoic acid.

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11
Q

Which storage methods are recommended for microbiological samples?

A

Recommended methods include:
* Samples should be stored in sterile containers
* Maintain samples at cool temperatures (e.g., ice packs or refrigeration) if immediate processing isn’t possible
* Use cryopreservation for long-term storage.

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12
Q

What are common diagnostic tools used in virology investigations?

A

Common tools include:
* PCR and RT-PCR for viral RNA/DNA detection
* Viral culture for pathogen growth and identification
* Immunohistochemistry for locating viral antigens in tissues.

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13
Q

What is the role of gross examination in post-mortem analysis?

A

Gross examination provides an initial assessment of:
* External and internal anatomical abnormalities
* Signs of trauma or disease
* General condition (e.g., nutritional state, organ integrity).

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14
Q

Why is histopathology critical in PMIs?

A

Histopathology identifies microscopic cellular changes that reveal:
* Disease processes
* Infections or inflammations
* Tumors or toxic effects.

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15
Q

How does the Nutritional Condition Code (NCC) complement DCC?

A

The NCC evaluates an animal’s health prior to death based on fat reserves, muscle mass, and external appearance.

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16
Q

What diagnostic techniques are used to identify parasitic infections?

A

Techniques include:
* Microscopic examination of tissues for larval or adult parasites
* PCR for detecting parasitic DNA
* Morphological identification of external parasites (e.g., ectoparasites).

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17
Q

What is Virtopsy, and why is it used?

A

Virtopsy refers to a virtual autopsy using imaging techniques like CT or MRI. It’s non-invasive and useful for:
* Studying skeletal injuries
* Detecting internal abnormalities without dissection.

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18
Q

What is the utility of diatoms in determining drowning as a cause of death?

A

Diatoms are found in the bloodstream and organs when drowning occurs in water containing these microorganisms.

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19
Q

What role do forensic entomology studies play in PMI?

A

Forensic entomology involves studying insect activity on carcasses to estimate time since death or decomposition stage.

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20
Q

What are the critical considerations for gastrointestinal tract sampling?

A

Considerations include:
* Ensure sterile collection methods to avoid contamination
* Note the presence of foreign objects, parasites, or lesions
* Segment the tract for microbiology, toxicology, and histology tests.

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21
Q

How are brain samples handled during a PMI?

A

Brain tissue is removed intact when possible, fresh samples are frozen or preserved in formalin, and sections are taken for histopathology and virology analysis.

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22
Q

What considerations are important for skeletal system examination?

A

Important considerations include:
* Assess fractures, deformations, or signs of disease
* Collect bone samples for DNA analysis or age estimation
* Use imaging techniques like X-rays or CT scans for internal inspection.

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23
Q

Why is blubber sampling significant in toxicology?

A

Blubber acts as a storage site for lipophilic toxins like PCBs and DDT, providing insights into long-term pollutant exposure.

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24
Q

How should blubber thickness be measured during a post-mortem investigation?

A

Measure at standardized anatomical locations (e.g., dorsal midline, cranial to the dorsal fin), use a caliper for precise measurement, and record depth in millimeters to indicate nutritional status.

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25
Q

What is the significance of the eye lens in cetacean investigations?

A

The eye lens is often preserved in decomposed carcasses and can be analyzed for age estimation by studying incremental growth layers.

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26
Q

Why is fecal sample collection important in PMIs?

A

Fecal samples provide information on:
* Diet composition
* Presence of parasites
* Environmental contaminant exposure.

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27
Q

How are gastrointestinal contents analyzed in dietary studies?

A

Analyze for prey remains such as bones, squid beaks, or otoliths, use microscopy for microscopic prey, and identify marine litter to assess anthropogenic impacts.

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28
Q

What are the procedures for collecting liver samples for toxicological analysis?

A

Procedures include:
* Dissect the liver using sterile instruments
* Store samples in cryovials at -20°C or lower
* Avoid contamination to ensure reliable results.

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29
Q

What methods are used to determine age in cetaceans?

A

Methods include:
* Growth Layer Groups (GLGs) in teeth or ear plugs
* Incremental growth layers in bones
* Correlate age estimates with body length and reproductive maturity.

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30
Q

What are common findings in cetacean skeletal analysis?

A

Common findings include:
* Fractures indicating trauma (e.g., ship strikes)
* Bone density changes due to malnutrition or disease
* Pathological lesions such as osteomyelitis.

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31
Q

How is the nutritional condition of a carcass assessed during external examination?

A

Assess by evaluating blubber thickness and subcutaneous fat deposits, inspecting muscle mass, especially around scapulae and vertebrae, and noting signs of emaciation.

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32
Q

What are the primary goals of microbiological investigations in PMIs?

A

Goals include:
* Detect infectious agents like bacteria, fungi, and viruses
* Assess disease spread in marine ecosystems
* Identify zoonotic pathogens for public health considerations.

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33
Q

What are sterile techniques essential for tissue sampling?

A

Essential techniques include:
* Use autoclaved or single-use instruments
* Change gloves between sample collections
* Avoid contact with non-sterile surfaces.

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34
Q

What is the protocol for virology sampling during PMIs?

A

Protocol includes:
* Collect swabs from blowhole, genital slit, and lesions
* Preserve samples in viral transport media
* Keep samples frozen until analysis.

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35
Q

Why is histopathology crucial in post-mortem investigations?

A

Histopathology reveals microscopic changes in tissues not visible during gross examination, identifies inflammation, necrosis, fibrosis, or neoplasia, and correlates lesions with potential causes of death.

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36
Q

What are common pathogens identified in marine mammal PMIs?

A

Common pathogens include:
* Bacterial: Brucella spp., Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
* Viral: Morbillivirus, Herpesvirus
* Fungal: Candida spp. or aspergillosis.

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37
Q

How is marine debris documented during PMIs?

A

Document by recording the type, size, and quantity of ingested debris, photographing debris in situ before removal, and collecting samples for material composition analysis.

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38
Q

What findings indicate bycatch as a cause of death?

A

Findings include:
* Evidence of net marks or abrasions
* Ropes or fishing gear entangled around the body
* Injuries consistent with forced submersion.

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39
Q

What procedures are followed for assessing chemical pollutants?

A

Procedures include:
* Collect blubber, liver, and muscle samples
* Analyze for persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like PCBs and DDT
* Measure heavy metal concentrations in tissues.

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40
Q

What are biotoxins, and how are they detected in PMIs?

A

Biotoxins are naturally occurring poisons from harmful algal blooms (e.g., domoic acid, saxitoxins). They are detected by analyzing stomach contents and tissues using ELISA or mass spectrometry.

41
Q

How can forensic imaging aid in PMIs?

A

Forensic imaging techniques such as CT and MRI are non-invasive methods to examine internal structures, useful for detecting fractures, gas embolism, and organ displacements without dissection.

42
Q

What is the protocol for collecting blood samples in PMIs?

A

Blood is typically collected from the heart or major vessels using heparinized syringes to prevent coagulation and stored at -20°C for biochemical and toxicological analysis.

43
Q

How are injuries consistent with ship strikes identified?

A

Identified by looking for linear or parallel incisions, fractures in ribs or skull consistent with blunt force trauma, and deep tissue hemorrhages indicating ante-mortem injury.

44
Q

What are common diagnostic markers of drowning in cetaceans?

A

Markers include:
* Foam in airways and lungs
* Presence of diatoms in lung tissue and systemic circulation
* Water in the stomach without signs of trauma.

45
Q

How can bone density studies help in PMIs?

A

Bone density studies can assess nutritional deficiencies, detect chronic diseases such as osteomyelitis, and identify age-related changes or bone metabolism abnormalities.

46
Q

What is the importance of genetic sampling in PMIs?

A

Genetic sampling identifies species and population origin, detects genetic predispositions to diseases, and provides data for conservation strategies.

47
Q

Describe the use of stable isotope analysis in dietary studies.

A

Stable isotope analysis analyzes ratios of isotopes like carbon-13 and nitrogen-15 in tissues to determine trophic level and foraging habitats, tracking long-term dietary habits.

48
Q

How is blubber biopsy used in live cetaceans for research?

A

Blubber biopsy provides data on pollutant loads and hormonal levels, requires minimally invasive tools and proper aseptic techniques, and helps monitor health and stress indicators.

49
Q

What role do baleen plates play in pollutant analysis?

A

Baleen records exposure to contaminants over time, layers can be analyzed for heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, and provides longitudinal environmental data.

50
Q

Why is examining stomach contents important in marine mammals?

A

Examining stomach contents identifies prey species and dietary preferences, detects marine debris ingestion, and assesses feeding behavior and nutritional health.

51
Q

How does water temperature influence carcass decomposition?

A

Higher temperatures accelerate decomposition by promoting bacterial activity, while cold water slows autolysis and putrefaction processes, impacting the reliability of time-of-death estimations.

52
Q

What is the significance of algal bloom analysis in PMIs?

A

Algal bloom analysis identifies exposure to harmful biotoxins like domoic acid or brevetoxins, indicates environmental factors affecting local marine ecosystems, and correlates bloom events with unusual mortality rates.

53
Q

How are contaminants in cetacean tissues linked to human activities?

A

Contaminants include:
* Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) originating from industrial and agricultural sources
* Heavy metals like mercury are byproducts of mining and fossil fuel use
* Plastic debris contributes to chemical contamination through leaching.

54
Q

How does noise pollution affect marine mammals?

A

Noise pollution disrupts communication and navigation, causes stress responses and potential strandings, and may lead to physical trauma like barotrauma from explosions.

55
Q

What are sentinel species, and why are marine mammals considered as such?

A

Sentinel species provide early warnings of ecosystem health. Marine mammals accumulate toxins due to their trophic position, and their health reflects changes in marine environmental conditions.

56
Q

How is population health monitored using marine mammal PMIs?

A

Monitored through:
* Long-term tissue archives for trends in pollutants
* Analysis of disease prevalence and emerging health threats
* Genetic studies to assess population connectivity and diversity.

57
Q

What role do PMIs play in understanding climate change impacts?

A

PMIs document shifts in prey availability and foraging patterns, identify changes in disease distribution due to warming seas, and monitor the effects of habitat loss and altered migration routes.

58
Q

Why is the study of epibionts on carcasses important?

A

Epibionts like barnacles can indicate migration routes and residency periods, help reconstruct the life history of stranded individuals, and provide insights into the ecological role of the host species.

59
Q

What role do PMIs play in understanding climate change impacts?

A

Documenting shifts in prey availability and foraging patterns
Identifying changes in disease distribution due to warming seas
Monitoring the effects of habitat loss and altered migration routes

PMIs refer to post-mortem investigations that provide insights into the health and environmental conditions affecting marine mammals.

60
Q

Why is the study of epibionts on carcasses important?

A

Epibionts like barnacles can indicate migration routes and residency periods
They help reconstruct the life history of stranded individuals
Provide insights into the ecological role of the host species

Epibionts are organisms that live on the surface of another living organism, and their study can reveal ecological relationships.

61
Q

How are harmful algal blooms (HABs) assessed through PMIs?

A

Stomach contents and liver samples are tested for biotoxins
Correlations are made between stranding events and HAB occurrences
Analysis helps predict future risks to marine life and ecosystems

HABs can lead to significant ecological and economic impacts, making monitoring essential.

62
Q

What is the significance of bone lesions in forensic investigations?

A

Indicate chronic conditions like infections or nutrient deficiencies
Reveal trauma from anthropogenic interactions such as entanglements
Provide clues about long-term health issues prior to death

Bone lesions can provide critical information about the life and health of marine mammals.

63
Q

What molecular tools are used in identifying pathogens?

A

PCR and qPCR for specific pathogen DNA/RNA
Metagenomic sequencing for identifying unknown microbial communities
Immunohistochemistry for visualizing pathogen presence in tissues

These tools enhance the ability to detect and understand pathogens affecting marine mammals.

64
Q

How are environmental DNA (eDNA) samples utilized in marine research?

A

Detecting species presence and biodiversity in water samples
Monitoring population dynamics through DNA traces
Assessing ecosystem health with minimal disturbance

eDNA analysis is a non-invasive method that helps in biodiversity assessments.

65
Q

How does transcriptomics contribute to PMI studies?

A

Examines gene expression profiles in response to stress or disease
Identifies biomarkers for pollutant exposure and immune responses
Provides insights into molecular pathways affected by environmental stressors

Transcriptomics helps in understanding the biological responses of marine mammals to environmental changes.

66
Q

What is CRISPR technology’s potential in marine biology?

A

Editing genes to study their function in disease resistance
Identifying genetic factors that influence species adaptability
Creating diagnostic tools for specific pathogens or conditions

CRISPR technology offers innovative approaches to explore genetic functions in marine species.

67
Q

How does proteomics complement other molecular approaches?

A

Analyzes protein expression and modifications in tissues
Reveals physiological impacts of disease or toxins
Correlates protein markers with health and stress indicators

Proteomics provides a broader understanding of health and disease mechanisms in marine mammals.

68
Q

How are PMI findings used in legal cases?

A

Provide evidence of human-induced injuries (e.g., ship strikes, entanglement)
Support enforcement of marine protection laws
Establish liability in cases of pollution or illegal fishing activities

PMI findings can play a crucial role in legal frameworks for wildlife protection.

69
Q

What is CITES, and how does it relate to marine mammal PMIs?

A

CITES regulates the trade of endangered species and their parts
PMI findings contribute to understanding population impacts of trade
Data inform conservation measures and international agreements

CITES is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.

70
Q

How do PMI results influence marine conservation policies?

A

Identify critical threats like pollution or bycatch
Support the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
Guide species-specific recovery plans and habitat restoration efforts

Conservation policies are shaped by data obtained from PMIs to protect marine ecosystems.

71
Q

Why is public reporting of strandings essential for conservation?

A

Enhances real-time data collection and rapid response
Increases public awareness of marine conservation issues
Provides a larger dataset for analyzing trends and threats

Public engagement is vital for effective conservation efforts.

72
Q

What international collaborations exist for PMI standardization?

A

ASCOBANS and ACCOBAMS harmonize protocols in Europe
IWC supports global efforts for whale and dolphin conservation
Regional networks share data and expertise to improve practices

International collaborations help streamline research and conservation efforts across regions.

73
Q

How does plastic pollution impact marine mammals?

A

Ingestion leads to blockages, malnutrition, and exposure to toxic chemicals
Entanglement causes injuries and restricts movement
Microplastics accumulate in tissues, affecting physiological processes

Plastic pollution poses severe risks to marine life and ecosystems.

74
Q

What are key strategies to mitigate bycatch?

A

Use of exclusion devices in fishing gear
Implementing seasonal fishing restrictions
Encouraging the use of acoustic deterrents or visual cues

Bycatch mitigation is crucial for the conservation of non-target species.

75
Q

What is the importance of baseline health data in PMIs?

A

Establishes normal ranges for physiological and biochemical parameters
Aids in distinguishing natural variations from pathological conditions
Provides reference points for assessing environmental impacts

Baseline data is essential for effective monitoring and assessment.

76
Q

How are diseases in marine mammals linked to human activities?

A

Pathogens like Brucella and morbillivirus can be exacerbated by pollution
Habitat degradation increases stress and susceptibility to infections
Close interactions with humans lead to cross-species transmission

Understanding these linkages is vital for addressing health issues in marine mammals.

77
Q

What role does community engagement play in stranding responses?

A

Provides critical data on strandings through citizen science
Raises public awareness and support for marine conservation
Helps in rapid identification and response to unusual mortality events

Community involvement is key for effective conservation actions.

78
Q

How does acoustic pollution affect marine mammals?

A

Disrupts echolocation and communication in cetaceans
Causes stress and behavioral changes, such as avoidance of feeding areas
May lead to physical injuries like ear barotrauma

Acoustic pollution is a significant threat to marine mammal health and behavior.

79
Q

What are the challenges of studying deep-diving marine mammals?

A

Limited access to carcasses due to deep-sea habitat
Decomposition occurs rapidly at depth, complicating analyses
Specialized adaptations make pathology interpretation complex

Studying deep-diving species requires specialized techniques and resources.

80
Q

Why is collaboration with fisheries crucial for marine mammal conservation?

A

Promotes adoption of sustainable fishing practices
Helps develop gear modifications to reduce bycatch
Encourages data sharing to identify high-risk areas

Collaborative efforts with fisheries can significantly enhance conservation outcomes.

81
Q

How is satellite tracking used in marine mammal research?

A

Monitors migration patterns and habitat use
Identifies critical feeding and breeding areas
Tracks movements post-release in rehabilitation cases

Satellite tracking provides valuable insights into marine mammal behaviors.

82
Q

What is the significance of thermal imaging in PMIs?

A

Identifies temperature anomalies indicative of infections or inflammation
Non-invasive method to assess live animals prior to necropsy
Useful in detecting heat-related injuries

Thermal imaging enhances the ability to monitor marine mammal health.

83
Q

How can AI enhance marine mammal research?

A

Automates the identification of individuals using photo-ID databases
Analyzes large datasets for patterns in strandings and migrations
Improves accuracy in predicting mortality hotspots

AI applications can streamline research processes and improve outcomes.

84
Q

What are the benefits of 3D modeling in PMIs?

A

Provides detailed reconstructions of injuries and anatomy
Assists in visualizing trauma mechanisms
Facilitates training and education in virtual environments

3D modeling enhances understanding and communication of complex biological concepts.

85
Q

How do climate change models inform marine conservation?

A

Predict shifts in species distributions and migration routes
Assess impacts of rising sea temperatures on prey availability
Guide adaptive management strategies for vulnerable populations

Climate models are crucial for proactive conservation planning.

86
Q

What role does long-term monitoring play in conservation?

A

Tracks population trends and the success of conservation measures
Detects emerging threats such as new pathogens or pollutants
Provides robust datasets for policy advocacy

Long-term data is essential for informed decision-making in conservation.

87
Q

How is drone technology used in marine mammal studies?

A

Captures aerial images for population surveys and behavior analysis
Collects blow samples for hormonal and microbial studies
Monitors strandings in remote or inaccessible locations

Drone technology offers innovative solutions for challenging research environments.

88
Q

What challenges exist in rehabilitating stranded marine mammals?

A

Limited knowledge of optimal care and treatment protocols
High financial and logistical costs of rehabilitation facilities
Potential stress and reduced survival post-release

Rehabilitation efforts require significant resources and expertise.

89
Q

Why is interdisciplinary collaboration important in PMI research?

A

Combines expertise in pathology, ecology, and molecular biology
Enhances understanding of multifactorial causes of death
Promotes holistic approaches to marine conservation

Interdisciplinary teams can tackle complex conservation challenges more effectively.

90
Q

What is the role of marine mammal sanctuaries in conservation?

A

Protect critical habitats from human activities
Serve as research sites for studying natural behaviors
Support rehabilitation and release efforts for injured animals

Sanctuaries provide safe environments for marine mammal recovery and research.

91
Q

How do bioinformatics tools support PMI studies?

A

Analyze genetic and proteomic data for identifying health indicators
Facilitate comparisons across populations and species
Predict impacts of environmental changes on genetic diversity

Bioinformatics enhances the analysis and interpretation of complex biological data.

92
Q

How are biomarkers used in monitoring marine mammal health?

A

Indicate stress, exposure to pollutants, or disease states
Measured in blood, blubber, or blowhole samples
Provide non-lethal means of health assessment

Biomarkers are critical for evaluating the health of marine populations.

93
Q

What innovations exist for non-invasive sampling?

A

Collection of exhaled air (blow) for microbiome analysis
Use of fecal samples for dietary and hormonal studies
Skin swabs for genetic and pathogen investigations

Non-invasive methods minimize stress and harm to marine mammals during research.

94
Q

Why is the study of maternal transfer in pollutants important?

A

Identifies toxin accumulation passed to offspring through lactation
Assesses impacts on juvenile survival and development
Highlights the long-term effects of environmental contamination

Understanding maternal transfer is vital for assessing the impacts of pollutants on future generations.

95
Q

How can marine mammal ecotourism contribute to conservation?

A

Provides funding for research and conservation efforts
Raises awareness of marine ecosystem health
Encourages sustainable practices in coastal communities

Ecotourism can support conservation initiatives while benefiting local economies.

96
Q

What are the risks of disease transmission between humans and marine mammals?

A

Pathogens like Mycobacterium and Brucella pose zoonotic risks
Close interactions during stranding responses increase exposure
Monitoring health of responders is essential to mitigate risks

Understanding zoonotic risks is critical for both human and marine mammal health.

97
Q

How is stress measured in marine mammals?

A

Cortisol levels in blubber, blood, or feces
Behavioral observations during capture or release events
Analysis of heat shock proteins as physiological stress markers

Measuring stress is essential for understanding the impacts of environmental changes on marine mammals.

98
Q

What role does policy advocacy play in marine mammal conservation?

A

Drives implementation of stricter regulations on fishing practices
Secures funding for research and conservation programs
Promotes international agreements to protect migratory species

Advocacy is crucial for ensuring effective legal frameworks and support for conservation efforts.

Marine Pathology - all (18 decks)

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