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Advancing the Taxonomy of the Diatom Pseudo-nitzschia Through an Integrative Study Conducted in the Central and Southeastern Adriatic Sea
Get PDFThe marine diatom genus Pseudo-nitzschia comprises cosmopolitan phytoplankton species commonly present in the Adriatic Sea. Species within the genus Pseudo-nitzschia have been of significant concern because they produce domoic acid (DA), which can cause amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP). In this study, we identified Pseudo-nitzschia species along the Central and Southeastern Adriatic Sea, where monthly sampling carried out from February 2022 to February 2024 allowed for comprehensive species documentation. Pseudo-nitzschia species cell cultures isolated from the study areas were morphologically and molecularly analysed. Morphological analyses were performed using a scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM/STEM), while molecular analyses were conducted, targeting the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2, LSU, and rbcL regions, to confirm species identity. This integrative approach led to the identification of eight species: Pseudo-nitzschia allochrona, Pseudo-nitzschia calliantha, Pseudo-nitzschia delicatissima, Pseudo-nitzschia fraudulenta, Pseudo-nitzschia mannii, Pseudo-nitzschia multistriata, Pseudo-nitzschia pseudodelicatissima, and Pseudo-nitzschia subfraudulenta. Our findings underscore the value of a combined approach for reliable species identification and contribute to the development of genetic sequence databases that support the advancement of next-generation methods such as metabarcoding. This research emphasises the importance of combined morphological and molecular methods for the differentiation of the cryptic and pseudo-cryptic Pseudo-nitzschia species
Clozapine blunts mitochondrial biogenesis in differentiating adipocytes: The increased ATP demand is met via stimulation of electron transport chain expression and activity in residual mitochondria
No full textClozapine (CLZ), a second-generation antipsychotic, is associated with an elevated risk of metabolic syndrome, the underlying mechanism of which remains poorly understood. We recently showed that CLZ inhibits lipid accumulation and CAAT/enhancer-binding protein β and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ expression in early differentiating SW872 liposarcoma cells. Additionally, while not affecting viability, CLZ disrupts the cellular redox state of these cells by inhibiting NADPH oxidase-dependent ROS formation, thereby leading to nuclear factor (erythroid-derived2)-like 2 downregulation, reduced antioxidant defence and increased mitochondrial ROS emission.
We confirmed and extended these results by showing that, under the same conditions, CLZ reduces the size of the lipid droplets, inhibits the otherwise increased expression of transcription factors regulating mitochondrial biogenesis, as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1-α, and prevents the increase in mitochondrial DNA and mass. Consistently, decreased expression of mitochondrial proteins as thioredoxin 2, 2-oxoglutarate/malate carrier, and translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 20 was also observed. However, the expression of various components of the electron transport chain was unexpectedly increased, and this event was accompanied by enhanced mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity, coupled oxygen consumption, mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP synthesis and ROS production. Moreover, residual mitochondria appeared remarkably enlarged and functional, with dense and organized cristae and uniform electron density.
Thus, early adipocytes differentiated with or without CLZ meet the increased ATP demand by switching from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation, respectively via enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis, and increased activity of residual mitochondria
Improvement of the resilience of historic areas to climate change and other risks. The role of rock substrate and masonry stone quality on earthquake damage: the contribution to seismic risk in historic centres
No full textThe seismic sequence that occurred in Central Italy during the 2016-2017 period resulted in significant destruction, leading to the loss of invaluable artistic and architectural heritage in numerous historic centres across four Italian regions. Camerino – Marche region, heavily affected during this event, represents a case study to explore the geological and material factors that influenced earthquake damage. The present study investigates the interaction between the quality of masonry stone, the variability of the underlying rock substrate, and the subsequent amplification in case of seismic events, providing scientific foundations for risk mitigation and cultural heritage preservation.
A novel, non-destructive approach using the Equotip hardness tester was developed to evaluate weathering deterioration in sandstone monuments. Applied to a sandstone column in Camerino, the analysis revealed a 15% reduction in hardness from depth to surface and a 25% overall reduction compared to fresh sandstone from the original quarry site. This method, coupled with granulometric, porosimetric, and mineralogical analyses, identified key weathering processes, including freeze-thaw cycles and pyrite oxidation which led to pores expansion and carbonation of the outer surfaces. The methodology was then extended to masonry blocks across Camerino’s historic centre, combining sedimentological and mechanical analyses to link building materials to ancient quarry sites. This work provided a framework for selecting compatible materials for restoration, balancing structural integrity and aesthetic coherence.
The study also investigated the role of subsurface litho-stratigraphy in seismic amplification. By integrating geological, geotechnical, and geophysical data, a detailed engineering-geological model was developed. Two buildings with similar construction characteristics but contrasting earthquake damage were analysed. Differences in subsurface stratigraphy—alternating stiff and soft layers beneath one building and a weathered homogeneous profile beneath the other—resulted in varying amplification factors which can justify the different damage levels. Equotip data on outcrops and seismic velocities highlighted reduced mechanical performance in weathered units, correlating with higher damage levels.
This research underscores the importance of integrating material characterisation, geological modelling, and provenance studies to enhance seismic risk assessment and conservation strategies. The proposed methodologies provide transferable tools for preserving cultural heritage, identifying the possible contributions to seismic risk and improving the resilience of historic centres in seismically active regions.The seismic sequence that occurred in Central Italy during the 2016-2017 period resulted in significant destruction, leading to the loss of invaluable artistic and architectural heritage in numerous historic centres across four Italian regions. Camerino – Marche region, heavily affected during this event, represents a case study to explore the geological and material factors that influenced earthquake damage. The present study investigates the interaction between the quality of masonry stone, the variability of the underlying rock substrate, and the subsequent amplification in case of seismic events, providing scientific foundations for risk mitigation and cultural heritage preservation.
A novel, non-destructive approach using the Equotip hardness tester was developed to evaluate weathering deterioration in sandstone monuments. Applied to a sandstone column in Camerino, the analysis revealed a 15% reduction in hardness from depth to surface and a 25% overall reduction compared to fresh sandstone from the original quarry site. This method, coupled with granulometric, porosimetric, and mineralogical analyses, identified key weathering processes, including freeze-thaw cycles and pyrite oxidation which led to pores expansion and carbonation of the outer surfaces. The methodology was then extended to masonry blocks across Camerino’s historic centre, combining sedimentological and mechanical analyses to link building materials to ancient quarry sites. This work provided a framework for selecting compatible materials for restoration, balancing structural integrity and aesthetic coherence.
The study also investigated the role of subsurface litho-stratigraphy in seismic amplification. By integrating geological, geotechnical, and geophysical data, a detailed engineering-geological model was developed. Two buildings with similar construction characteristics but contrasting earthquake damage were analysed. Differences in subsurface stratigraphy—alternating stiff and soft layers beneath one building and a weathered homogeneous profile beneath the other—resulted in varying amplification factors which can justify the different damage levels. Equotip data on outcrops and seismic velocities highlighted reduced mechanical performance in weathered units, correlating with higher damage levels.
This research underscores the importance of integrating material characterisation, geological modelling, and provenance studies to enhance seismic risk assessment and conservation strategies. The proposed methodologies provide transferable tools for preserving cultural heritage, identifying the possible contributions to seismic risk and improving the resilience of historic centres in seismically active regions
WELFARE, FAMIGLIA E DIRITTO PRIVATO
Get PDFIl saggio, premessa la carenza delle risorse necessarie al fine di realizzare gli obiettivi di assistenza posti dal welfare state, nonché l’abrogazione dell’art. 1 della legge 3 dicembre 1931, n. 1580, che al terzo comma prevedeva la rivalsa dei comuni verso quei congiunti dei ricoverati «tenuti agli alimenti durante il periodo del ricovero che si trovano in condizioni di sostenere, in tutto o in parte, l’onere delle degenze, nonchè verso le persone civilmente responsabili delle ferite e delle malattie che resero necessaria l’assistenza nell’ospedale e nel manicomio», analizza alcuni istituti civilistici che potrebbero dimostrarsi comunque idonei a giustificare la rivalsa su quei familiari dotati di un reddito adeguato e più in generale idonei a generare risorse e servizi
Beyond the unique evidence. A Philosophy of Extraterrestrial Life
Get PDFIn the 21st century, interest in astrobiology and the possibility of extraterrestrial life has grown exponentially, supported by technological advancements and the exploration of exoplanets. However, despite astronomical discoveries, the search for life beyond Earth remains an unresolved issue. This work addresses a fundamental epistemic question: can we go beyond the only evidence of life we possess, that of Earth? Our biological knowledge is based on a single example, which implies the so-called N=1 problem—the impossibility of determining whether Earth’s biosphere is representative of life on a universal scale.
The first chapter explores the definition of life and the difficulties in establishing a single identification criterion. It examines the history of life on Earth, debates on its origins, and the role of the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA). Additionally, it analyzes the relationship between living organisms and their environment, considering metabolism, biochemical communication, and autopoietic processes. The definition of life is thus approached from an epistemological perspective, avoiding a rigid ontological framework and accepting the possibility of contextual definitions.
The second chapter delves into the concept of extraterrestrial life and the limitations of the geocentric paradigm. The epistemic problem of generalizing Earth-based life is discussed through the concept of the "shadow biosphere" and the principle of mediocrity. The role of astrochemistry, the environmental conditions that may support life, and the heterogeneity of extrasolar contexts are examined. A distinction is proposed between a geocentric paradigm of life and a heliocentric paradigm, which considers the relationship between life and the evolution of planetary systems as a whole. Additionally, the oxygen bottleneck for the development of technospheres and communicative civilizations is explored.
The third chapter focuses on the astrobiological and philosophical implications of the search for intelligent life. It analyzes Fermi’s Paradox and the so-called "Great Silence," evaluating the Great Filter hypothesis and the limitations of assumptions about the longevity of technological civilizations. The Drake equation and its extensions are discussed, introducing stochastic models and Poisson processes to describe the emergence of communicative civilizations over time. In particular, an extension of homogeneous Poisson process models is proposed, considering the evolution of galactic habitability probability over cosmic time scales.
Overall, this work highlights the epistemological limitations in the search for extraterrestrial life, proposing a philosophical-astrobiological approach that integrates probabilistic, biological, and cosmological considerations. It underscores the need for a more flexible paradigm regarding current definitions of life and extraterrestrial civilizations, to overcome the constraints of the N=1 problem and develop more suitable models for astrobiological investigation
Elites' Brexit from a Civilisational Perspective
Get PDFThis dissertation presents a novel exploration of British politics and culture, asserting that the phenomenon of Brexit can be reassessed from a cultural-philosophical point of view, adopting the perspective of elites, and that this allows us to understand the UK as a civilisation state. After a conceptual introduction, chapters 1 and 2 undertake a literature review of the perspectives from which Brexit, and the causes and effects of the EU referendum in Britain, have been most frequently studied. They have been mainly analysed from political, economic, legal and sociological perspectives, whereas culture remains less investigated. Chapter 3 completes the literature review examining the concept of civilisation state, which provides a theoretical framework for the research. Civilisation states have recently received increasing attention due to the actions and pronouncements of the leaders of the world’s main powers, who are increasingly depicting their countries as belonging to such a category. The civilisation state is conceptually deconstructed in order to identify its component dimensions, and a broad summary definition is provided starting from how it has been described by scholars and authors. Chapter 4 is dedicated to the methodological decisions and strategies informing the research, the reasons for them, and the issues and limitations that arose when they were applied. Explanations are given concerning the choice of elites to interrogate and the reason for our choice, as well as for the combination of the three research methods employed, namely a case-study, qualitative elite interviewing, and quantitative elite questionnaires. In chapter 5, the civilisational dimensions identified in civilisation states are then sought in the British context. In addition to a long history, a common language, religion and culture, blurred borders and a peculiar geography, civilisation states have been found to substantially rely on their citizens’ self-perception and imagination, as well as on their elites’ narratives and the confrontation with another civilisational entity. By means of a case-study, in chapter 6 we compare Britain with the Russian Federation in civilisational terms, with particular attention to their relationship to the EU. Both countries are restructuring their identities as post-imperial powers, separated from Europe by a peculiar geography - insular for the UK, and a ‘revived’ geopolitical Iron Curtain for Russia. Finally, the thesis explores the elite’s cultural beliefs, values and ideas: through the analysis of elite interviews and questionnaires, chapters 7 and 8 shed light on their belief in the existence of a British civilisation, on their long-standing Euroscepticism, on their ambiguity towards a conception of Britain as a civilisation state, and on their assumption that Brexit was a manifestation of British cultural identity. The findings are then summarised and discussed in the concluding part of this work.
Keywords: Brexit, civilisation states, United Kingdom, political elites, British cultural identity.This dissertation presents a novel exploration of British politics and culture, asserting that the phenomenon of Brexit can be reassessed from a cultural-philosophical point of view, adopting the perspective of elites, and that this allows us to understand the UK as a civilisation state. After a conceptual introduction, chapters 1 and 2 undertake a literature review of the perspectives from which Brexit, and the causes and effects of the EU referendum in Britain, have been most frequently studied. They have been mainly analysed from political, economic, legal and sociological perspectives, whereas culture remains less investigated. Chapter 3 completes the literature review examining the concept of civilisation state, which provides a theoretical framework for the research. Civilisation states have recently received increasing attention due to the actions and pronouncements of the leaders of the world’s main powers, who are increasingly depicting their countries as belonging to such a category. The civilisation state is conceptually deconstructed in order to identify its component dimensions, and a broad summary definition is provided starting from how it has been described by scholars and authors. Chapter 4 is dedicated to the methodological decisions and strategies informing the research, the reasons for them, and the issues and limitations that arose when they were applied. Explanations are given concerning the choice of elites to interrogate and the reason for our choice, as well as for the combination of the three research methods employed, namely a case-study, qualitative elite interviewing, and quantitative elite questionnaires. In chapter 5, the civilisational dimensions identified in civilisation states are then sought in the British context. In addition to a long history, a common language, religion and culture, blurred borders and a peculiar geography, civilisation states have been found to substantially rely on their citizens’ self-perception and imagination, as well as on their elites’ narratives and the confrontation with another civilisational entity. By means of a case-study, in chapter 6 we compare Britain with the Russian Federation in civilisational terms, with particular attention to their relationship to the EU. Both countries are restructuring their identities as post-imperial powers, separated from Europe by a peculiar geography - insular for the UK, and a ‘revived’ geopolitical Iron Curtain for Russia. Finally, the thesis explores the elite’s cultural beliefs, values and ideas: through the analysis of elite interviews and questionnaires, chapters 7 and 8 shed light on their belief in the existence of a British civilisation, on their long-standing Euroscepticism, on their ambiguity towards a conception of Britain as a civilisation state, and on their assumption that Brexit was a manifestation of British cultural identity. The findings are then summarised and discussed in the concluding part of this work.
Keywords: Brexit, civilisation states, United Kingdom, political elites, British cultural identity
Exploring Environmental Justice and Climate Awareness in Italy: Citizen Perspectives on Sustainability and Policy
No full textUnderstanding the extent of community awareness and engagement regarding government efforts concerning the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies is vital for identifying areas where effective interventions can be applied. This study aimed to achieve this by conducting an online quantitative survey among Italian citizens over three months in 2023. 231 Italian respondents participated in the survey. The results of the study show that despite the growing urgency of environmental chal
lenges, there persists a significant gap between European citizens’ knowledge and their participation in shaping these crucial policies. There is a notable disparity between citizen awareness of climate change and their limited understanding of European initiatives designed to tackle these issues. While public awareness of climate change has increased in recent years, many individuals remain unaware of the specific plans and policies that the European Union (EU) has implemented or proposed to address this global challenge. This gap in knowledge highlights a crucial communication and education challenge. Effective communication strategies are needed to bridge this gap and ensure that citizens are informed about EU climate action initiatives, such as the European Green Deal and related policies
Virtual Reality: A New Frontier of Physical Rehabilitation
Get PDFImmersive virtual reality (VR) technology has enhanced the field of physical rehabilitation by offering a novel approach to motor recovery and serving as an effective assessment tool. It enables the simulation of various actions, including activities of daily living, within immersive, safe, and controlled environments. Although numerous studies have examined the efficacy of immersive VR for upper limb motor recovery in patients with various conditions, this review aimed to summarize current evidence, highlight benefits and limitations, and provide directions for future research. The review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Studies involving individuals over 18 years old with stroke, Parkinson’s disease, amputation, or fibromyalgia were included. The findings demonstrate improvements in strength, dexterity, range of motion, and coordination. Additional benefits included enhanced neuroplasticity and pain reduction. Immersive VR-based exercise sessions were often perceived as more enjoyable and engaging, and less complex, than conventional therapy. The technology proved to be safe, adaptable across age groups, and customizable. Furthermore, the integration of immersive VR into telerehabilitation programs improved accessibility for both patients and healthcare providers. However, not all populations may benefit equally from this method due to variability in disease severity and the presence of comorbidities
Innovative LC-MS Approaches for PFAS Detection and Quantification.
Get PDFPer- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) comprise a large group of synthetics perfluorinated aliphatic compounds, with over 3,000 known variations. Often referred to as "forever chemicals," these substances are recognized for their exceptional persistence in the environment. They are categorized as contaminants of concern (CECs) and are frequently produced as byproducts in various industrial processes, raising potential environmental and health concerns. Traditional analytical methods often fall short in addressing the unique challenges posed by PFAS due to their complex chemistry, wide variety, and low concentrations typically encountered in environmental samples. Moreover, the growing regulatory scrutiny surrounding PFAS compounds highlights the urgency for advanced detection methodologies. Regulatory agencies and environmental organizations are increasingly setting stringent limits on PFAS levels, necessitating analytical approaches that can reliably detect low concentrations, often in parts per trillion (ppt).
The first part of the dissertation presents the optimization of an advanced method utilizing UHPLC coupled with LEI-NCI-MS for the analysis of PFAS. The adaptability of the LEI interface is highlighted, effectively facilitating the NCI process of the target compounds after chromatographic separation. The investigation examines NCI fragmentations and proposes a series of fragmentation pathways that clarify the mechanisms governing the NCI ionization of PFAS, as well as the processes occurring during ionization. The use of ACN as the sole reagent gas enhances these findings. Through the optimization of the UHPLC-LEI-NCI-MS approach, this research contributes to the understanding of PFAS analysis, focusing on the interactions that occur during NCI ionization. For all samples analyzed, corresponding methyl esters were formed, which can be considered specific ions for PFAS detection and identification.
In the second part, preliminary studies investigate the adsorption and desorption mechanisms associated with ion-exchange extraction phases for 18 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The solid-phase microextraction (SPME) device equipped with blade geometry coated in HLB-WAX/PAN exhibited superior extraction efficiency for most of the analyzed compounds. However, non-polar PFAS demonstrated reduced extraction rates, attributed to their hydrophobic properties leading to significant adsorption onto sample container surfaces, which interferes with extraction efficiency. Various desorption parameters were optimized to enhance analysis effectiveness. The determination of the extraction time profile indicated that 30 minutes is optimal for effective PFAS extraction, ensuring adequate quantity extraction and improving throughput for environmental analytical applications. The pre-experiment calibration curve achieved a detection limit of 1 ppt for MOI-MS.Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) comprise a large group of synthetics perfluorinated aliphatic compounds, with over 3,000 known variations. Often referred to as "forever chemicals," these substances are recognized for their exceptional persistence in the environment. They are categorized as contaminants of concern (CECs) and are frequently produced as byproducts in various industrial processes, raising potential environmental and health concerns. Traditional analytical methods often fall short in addressing the unique challenges posed by PFAS due to their complex chemistry, wide variety, and low concentrations typically encountered in environmental samples. Moreover, the growing regulatory scrutiny surrounding PFAS compounds highlights the urgency for advanced detection methodologies. Regulatory agencies and environmental organizations are increasingly setting stringent limits on PFAS levels, necessitating analytical approaches that can reliably detect low concentrations, often in parts per trillion (ppt).
The first part of the dissertation presents the optimization of an advanced method utilizing UHPLC coupled with LEI-NCI-MS for the analysis of PFAS. The adaptability of the LEI interface is highlighted, effectively facilitating the NCI process of the target compounds after chromatographic separation. The investigation examines NCI fragmentations and proposes a series of fragmentation pathways that clarify the mechanisms governing the NCI ionization of PFAS, as well as the processes occurring during ionization. The use of ACN as the sole reagent gas enhances these findings. Through the optimization of the UHPLC-LEI-NCI-MS approach, this research contributes to the understanding of PFAS analysis, focusing on the interactions that occur during NCI ionization. For all samples analyzed, corresponding methyl esters were formed, which can be considered specific ions for PFAS detection and identification.
In the second part, preliminary studies investigate the adsorption and desorption mechanisms associated with ion-exchange extraction phases for 18 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The solid-phase microextraction (SPME) device equipped with blade geometry coated in HLB-WAX/PAN exhibited superior extraction efficiency for most of the analyzed compounds. However, non-polar PFAS demonstrated reduced extraction rates, attributed to their hydrophobic properties leading to significant adsorption onto sample container surfaces, which interferes with extraction efficiency. Various desorption parameters were optimized to enhance analysis effectiveness. The determination of the extraction time profile indicated that 30 minutes is optimal for effective PFAS extraction, ensuring adequate quantity extraction and improving throughput for environmental analytical applications. The pre-experiment calibration curve achieved a detection limit of 1 ppt for MOI-MS
Development of a water monitoring network in the Pesaro-Urbino province (northern Marche, central Italy) aimed at seismic precursors: a three-step hydrogeochemical approach to assess sampling sites’ suitability and sensitivity
No full textIn this Ph.D. thesis, a novel hydrogeochemical approach aimed at the identification of the most suitable and sensitive sampling sites to develop a permanent water monitoring network aimed at seismic tracers and surveillance in the seismically active Pesaro-Urbino (PU) province in Central Italy is presented.
The proposed approach is divided in three step: (i) characterization, (ii) assessment and (iii) monitoring. The characterization phase involved a large-scale sampling campaign (87 samples), performed during Spring and Autumn 2022, covering as much as possible the entire study area with the aim of understanding geochemical composition and processes characterizing the groundwaters and evaluate the possible interplay between shallow aquifers and deep-seated fluids. Consequently, those sampling sites being characterized by peculiar geochemical composition (e.g.., Ca-SO4, Ca-HCO3(SO4) and NaHCO3) and a location close to major or local seismogenetic sources (e.g., faults, tectonic lineaments) were included into the assessment phase. During the latter, a detailed multi-isotopic approach (C, S, O, H, B and Sr) was carried out on a restricted number of sampling sites (21 sample) in order to better understand the water-rock interaction processes and to track the water hydrological pathways below the surface, two extremely important aspects that needs to be taken into account when dealing with seismic tracers. The combined application of the different isotopic systematics allowed to identify a restricted number of waters which are clearly interacting with the Triassic Burano evaporitic formation (TBf), hence indicating circulation patterns able to reach a depth of at least 600 m. Combing the results obtained in the first two steps, a restricted number of sampling sites were included in the final monitoring phase. The selected fifteen sampling sites were monitored periodically (on a monthly or quarterly basis) for at least one hydrological year, in order to highlight their variability and resilience with respect to seasonality, precipitation and external forcing (e.g., human activities). Those sampling sites showing the minimal variability and high resilience all over the monitoring period have to be considered the most suitable (and sensitive) to be included in a permanent water monitoring network since they are more likely to record any possible (hydro)geochemical change that may be related to an impending seismic event and to the seismic cycle. The proposed approach allowed us to identify 7 sampling sites that may be suitable for the research purpose.
Furthermore, the results from two water monitoring network deployed in the Pesaro-Fano and Mt. Conero areas, respectively, following the November 9, 2022 Marche offshore seismic sequence to evaluate the influence of the event on water geochemistry are also reported, revealing in the case of Mt. Conero area a highly sensitive site that recorded strong variations before the seismic event