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Translingual identities between Germany and Namibia: a contrastive analysis of language attitudes in the german-speaking community in Namibia and the german-namibian diaspora in Germany
Get PDFQuesta ricerca esamina le intersezioni che si instaurano tra repertori linguistici e costruzioni identitarie in contesti translinguistici prendendo come caso studio la comunità tedescofona in Namibia e la diaspora tedesco-namibiana in Germania. Adottando un quadro teorico che integra lo studio degli atteggiamenti linguistici con l’epistemologia decoloniale, viene esaminato come le pratiche linguistiche medino processi di identificazione e appartenenza in contesti con passato coloniale e diasporici. La metodologia si avvale di un approccio mixed-methods, combinando l’analisi quantitativa e qualitativa di dati raccolti mediante questionari con un’indagine etnografica basata su interviste sociolinguistiche. L’indagine cerca di rispondere a quesiti che riguardano le modalità di identificazione etnolinguistica, gli atteggiamenti metalinguistici e linguistici verso il tedesco e l’inglese e l’interrelazione tra identità linguistica e senso di appartenenza a comunità non dominanti e diasporiche. I risultati ottenuti dall’analisi contrastiva delle pratiche translinguistiche nelle due comunità evidenziano come, mentre in Namibia il tedesco funga da marcatore identitario saliente, la diaspora in Germania manifesti configurazioni identitarie più fluide. Il translanguaging emerge come pratica semiotica fondamentale per negoziare appartenenze multiple, consentendo di oltrepassare confini linguistici e culturali. I dati suggeriscono un’evoluzione nelle identità linguistiche delle nuove generazioni all’interno di entrambe le comunità, dove i repertori translinguistici giocano un ruolo fondamentale. Lo studio problematizza inoltre come le asimmetrie di potere ereditate dal periodo coloniale continuino a permeare gli atteggiamenti (meta)linguistici e le autoidentificazioni cercando di destabilizzare le narrative egemoniche. Si propone così una prospettiva che valorizza la complessità delle identità translinguistiche e il potenziale decolonizzante delle pratiche linguistiche fluide. Il contributo teorico si inserisce nel dibattito contemporaneo sulle identità translinguistiche e sul ruolo del linguaggio come risorsa semiotica per la costruzione dell’appartenenza in contesti transculturali.This research examines the intersections between linguistic repertoires and identity constructions in translingual contexts, using the German-speaking community in Namibia and the German-Namibian diaspora in Germany as case studies. Adopting a theoretical framework that integrates language attitude studies with decolonial epistemology, this research investigates how linguistic practices mediate processes of identification and belonging in minority and migration context. The methodology employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis of questionnaire data with ethnographic research based on sociolinguistic interviews. The study addresses questions concerning: ethnolinguistic identification patterns in both communities, metalinguistic and linguistic attitudes toward German and English, and the interrelation between linguistic identity and sense of belonging in non-dominant and diasporic language communities. The findings, based on a contrastive analysis of translingual practices in both communities, reveal that while German functions as a salient identity marker in Namibia, the diaspora in Germany shows more fluid identity configurations. Translanguaging emerges as a fundamental semiotic practice for negotiating multiple belongings, enabling speakers to traverse linguistic and cultural boundaries. The data suggests an evolution in linguistic identities among newer generations within both communities, where translingual repertoires play a crucial role. The study also problematises how power asymmetries inherited from the colonial period continue to permeate (meta)linguistic attitudes and self-identification, aiming to destabilise hegemonic narratives. It proposes a perspective that values the complexity of translingual identities and the decolonising potential of fluid linguistic practices. The theoretical contribution engages with contemporary debates on translingual identities and language's role as a semiotic resource for negotiating belonging in transcultural contexts
CFD solutions for the floating offshore structures in OpenFOAM®
No full textThis dissertation focuses on a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) study of offshore floating structures, particularly floating Wave Energy Converter (WEC) devices. The open-source CFD software, OpenFOAM®, is evaluated for its effectiveness in simulating relevant phenomena.
The study presents the hydrodynamic analysis and optimization of a novel axisymmetric single cylindrical WEC equipped with a moonpool, called MoonWEC. The primary aim is to optimize the design of a small-scale model of the MoonWEC device by minimizing pitch rotations, enhancing heave motion, and facilitating its moonpool oscillations using CFD.
A set of new laboratory experiments was conducted to characterize the hydrodynamic response of the device. These experiments were numerically reproduced in OpenFOAM. A detailed explanation of the numerical setup in OpenFOAM is provided in the thesis for the readers to reproduce the CFD model for any moored floating structure.
The heave and pitch responses were analyzed by comparing experimental and numerical data, showing good agreement. The results showed that the MoonWEC device can achieve the preferred excitation in heave, but it can also undergo the unpreferred excitation in pitch. By shifting the centre of mass, MoonWEC was numerically optimized to reduce the pitch rotations without affecting the heave oscillations. The moonpool motion was also analyzed for the optimized small-scale model.
The study concludes that the CFD model in OpenFOAM, coupled with the MooDy library, can accurately simulate the hydrodynamics of the MoonWEC. The optimization study shows that the centre of mass of the device is a key parameter in controlling the natural period of the device in pitch. The analysis of the moonpool shows that the MoonWEC has the potential to generate significant power. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop wave energy as a sustainable and renewable energy source
Body composition and human movement: from experimental approaches to interventional benefits
Get PDFAnimal species evolved in response to environmental features. Humans need to move to interact with world space and the time interaction reveals the body's requirements. Body composition is globed within human physiology and its study took great interest during the last two centuries. Although it applies to many fields such as anthropometry, ergonomy, epidemiology, medicine and others, sports sciences and human performance need daily upgrades to lead to success. Several methods have been explored to detect body composition, from the more sophisticated ones that request advanced laboratories, staff and high costs, to simpler ones based on different assumptions decreasing in estimation reliability. This escalates if investigators do not account for specific people characteristics, sports demands, exercise responses and adaptations. So, the following thesis aims to interweave study design methodologies to provide new approaches and details that extoll the body composition knowledge in sporty samples. Four cross-sectional, one observational (two years) and two interventional (eight weeks) studies have been conducted. Football adolescents ( 10-14 years; n= 240) and adults (18-30 years; n= 23) have been mainly investigated, but pieces of evidence were highlighted also in Padel (16-40 years; n= 15), Volleyball (11-14 years; n= 94) and mixed (18-30 years; n=18). Many laboratory and field methods have been assessed to evaluate both body composition and physical performance. Maturity status and gender differences have been considered. Coaches and trainers may always consider human variability related to age, sex, sports and maturation before evaluating athletes, and searching for specific methods. In addition, selecting and monitoring training periodizations depends on exercise types and modalities, which lead to appropriate stimulation only with rational plans. Many sports lack specific approaches to assess body composition and several training methodologies need more attention. Exercise physiologists and kinesiologists should walk in this direction to contribute to developing sports sciences
Precautionary principle: does it play a role in EU decision-making?
Get PDFThe thesis answers the question what role, if any, does the precautionary principle play in actual decision making when there is uncertainty regarding potential adverse effects to human health. In the about 30 years since its formulation in the Rio Declaration, there has been a rich academic discussion on whether the principle is actually needed as also its efficacy. Proponents and detractors have been equally active in understanding its potential impact on environmental decision-making. Proponents justify its use pointing to the inadequacy of a Cost Benefit Analysis to address irreversible serious threats whose probability of occurrence cannot be truly determined. Additionally, they claim that it allows to minimize regret, reallocate risk more efficiently and make regulatory process more inclusive and cognizant of the underlying assumptions of any risk analysis. On the other hand, critics argue that it is too vague to help and would rather cause a regulatory standstill. Moreover, it would also lead to risk-aversion/excessive precaution in the bureaucracy resulting in an innovation standstill ignoring risk/risk trade-offs. The thesis uses the case of glyphosate authorization in the EU to understand if these theoretical arguments can be seen to occur in actual practice. The decision of authorization is studied at the EU level followed by a comparative case study of the national policy and regulation measures in France, Germany and the Netherlands. The case study shows that the precautionary principle has played a minimal role in its intended form in these decisions. It has neither added nor detracted from the decision-making. Additionally, though the risk gets assessed differently at the EU level and the national level, the precautionary principle is not relied on for adapting the regulations. The primary role played by the precautionary principle is to make public concerns more salient
The role of GDF15 in aging and age-related diseases (ARDs): studies on ex vivo and in vitro models
Get PDFAging is a complex phenomenon and the main risk factor for various age-related diseases (ARDs), which share common molecular mechanisms with aging. Among these mechanisms, two are of particular interest for our group: chronic inflammation (inflammaging) and mitochondrial dysfunction, both of which are present in several ARDs. In this context, the role of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15), one of the most upregulated protein during aging and in ARDs, was studied. GDF15 is a stress-responsive protein involved in inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, with protective effects on mitochondria and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its precise role in aging and ARDs is still unclear.
The study focused on two typical ARDs: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and sarcopenia, both of which are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation. Brain samples and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from AD patients were analyzed, alongside skeletal muscle biopsies and plasma from patients with lower limb mobility impairment. In AD, no significant differences in CSF GDF15 levels were found, but GDF15 expression was observed in various brain regions, mainly in neurons, with higher levels of the mature form in AD patients and centenarians compared to non-demented subjects. In sarcopenia, patients with muscle atrophy had higher plasma GDF15 levels but lower intramuscular GDF15 expression (SM-GDF15) compared to healthy subjects.
In vitro experiments showed that GDF15 knockdown in dermal fibroblasts led to increased inflammation and mitochondrial alterations, while in tumor cell lines, it appeared to affect cell cycle regulation.
These findings suggest that GDF15 in brain could be part of a stress response aimed at counteract mitochondrial stress and inflammation. GDF15 expression in muscle appears to be stimulated by muscle contraction and may be crucial for maintaining mitochondrial function in healthy, active individuals. In vitro data on dermal fibroblasts confirmed the role of GDF15 in protecting cells from mitochondrial stress and inflammation
Literary tourism in rural areas and small towns: development and governance of destinations associated with children's literature
Get PDFEuropean rural areas face several significant challenges. Cultural heritage, particularly literary heritage, is often overlooked in rural development strategies. However, its protection and valorisation can play a pivotal role in rural regeneration.
This research first undertakes a comprehensive exploration of how rurality is defined, analysing key European strategies and policies related to rural development.
Secondly, it investigates how literary heritage is preserved and promoted by international organizations (Council of Europe, UNESCO). Furthermore, it reviews the current state of research on literary tourism, with special emphasis on literary tourism associated with children's literature.
Thirdly, the research introduces an analytical framework to examine the development and governance of literary destinations in rural areas.
Through four case studies, this thesis explores how literary heritage is managed and valorised at the local level, demonstrating that the effective utilisation of literary resources can contribute to the economic, social, and cultural development of certain rural areas and small towns. The thesis focuses specifically on children's literature, analysing the following case studies: (1) Sarmede (Italy), associated with the writer, painter, and illustrator Štěpán Zavřel, (2) Collodi (Pescia, Italy), linked to Carlo Lorenzini, better known by his pen name Carlo Collodi, author of Pinocchio, (3) Near Sawrey and the Lake District (United Kingdom), connected with Beatrix Potter, whose The Tale of Peter Rabbit is among her most famous works, and (4) Hartfield (United Kingdom), associated with Alan Alexander Milne, creator of Winnie-the-Pooh.
Finally, through a comparative analysis of these case studies, this thesis identifies common challenges and opportunities, highlights best practices, and uncovers unique approaches across the different literary destinations. In conclusion, this thesis aims to provide practical recommendations for local stakeholders, offering a roadmap for leveraging literary heritage as a catalyst for rural regeneration.Le aree rurali europee si trovano ad affrontare numerose sfide. Il patrimonio culturale, in particolare il patrimonio letterario, è spesso trascurato nelle strategie di sviluppo rurale. Tuttavia, la sua tutela e valorizzazione possono svolgere un ruolo fondamentale nella rigenerazione rurale.
Questa ricerca intraprende un’esplorazione comprensiva di come viene definita la ruralità, analizzando le principali strategie e politiche europee relative allo sviluppo rurale.
Inoltre, indaga il modo in cui il patrimonio letterario viene preservato e promosso dalle organizzazioni internazionali. Inoltre, passa in rassegna lo stato attuale della ricerca sul turismo letterario, con particolare attenzione al turismo letterario associato alla letteratura per l’infanzia.
La ricerca introduce un quadro analitico per esaminare lo sviluppo e la governance delle destinazioni letterarie nelle aree rurali.
Attraverso quattro casi studio, questa tesi esplora come il patrimonio letterario viene gestito e valorizzato a livello locale, dimostrando che l'utilizzo efficace delle risorse letterarie può contribuire allo sviluppo economico, sociale e culturale di alcune aree rurali e piccole città. La tesi si concentra specificamente sulla letteratura per l'infanzia, analizzando i seguenti casi studio: (1) Sarmede (Italia), legata allo scrittore, pittore e illustratore Štěpán Zavřel, (2) Collodi (Pescia, Italia), legata a Carlo Lorenzini, meglio conosciuto con lo pseudonimo Carlo Collodi, autore di Pinocchio, (3) Near Sawrey e il Lake District (Regno Unito), legato a Beatrix Potter, la cui Storia di Peter Rabbit è tra le sue opere più famose, e (4) Hartfield (Regno Unito), associato ad Alan Alexander Milne, creatore di Winnie-the-Pooh.
Infine, attraverso un'analisi comparativa di questi casi studio, questa tesi identifica sfide e opportunità comuni, evidenzia le migliori pratiche e scopre approcci unici nelle diverse destinazioni letterarie.
In conclusione, questa tesi mira a fornire raccomandazioni pratiche agli stakeholder locali, offrendo una tabella di marcia per sfruttare il patrimonio letterario come catalizzatore per la rigenerazione rurale
Towards a critical geography of mountain tourism: the inner areas of the Venetian Dolomites
Get PDFLo scopo di questo lavoro è indagare le trasformazioni portate dal turismo nelle aree interne delle Dolomiti venete. Nel dibattito pubblico il turismo è spesso presentato come una leva sulla quale fare affidamento per promuovere la rigenerazione territoriale delle zone considerate marginali o svantaggiate. Anche la Strategia Nazionale per le Aree Interne, ambito istituzionale oggetto di questa tesi, pone grande enfasi sul ruolo del turismo come strumento per contrastare il declino demografico dei territori lontani dai maggiori centri urbani e carenti di servizi. L’identità e la comunità locale, concetti vaghi e mai problematizzati, giocano un ruolo chiave nella visione della SNAI, affidando ad essi la capacità di attrarre flussi di individui e di capitali legati al turismo, per invertire le tendenze demografiche negative. Il quadro teorico da me adottato si compone di tre riflessioni appartenenti a diverse tradizioni di pensiero: la tesi sulla produzione della natura; la nozione di geographical imaginations e, per ultime, le riflessioni afferenti alla filosofica post-fondazionale. Questa cornice ha lo scopo di analizzare la dimensione materiale delle trasformazioni, così come quelle che rientrano nella sfera culturale. Attraverso le evidenze empiriche, mostro il legame dialettico tra turismo, ambiente e società. Una dialettica che racconta di relazioni socio-ambientali più complesse di quelle presentate dai decisori politici e da parte della geografia accademica italiana, entrambe caratterizzate da un’impostazione neocomunitaria di fondo che elude l’antagonismo che permea l’agire sociale.The aim of this work is to investigate the transformations brought about by tourism in the internal areas of the Venetian Dolomites. In the public debate, tourism is often presented as a lever to rely on to promote the territorial regeneration of areas considered marginal or disadvantaged. The theoretical framework I have adopted is composed of three theories belonging to different traditions of thought: the thesis on the production of nature; the notion of geographical imaginations and, lastly, reflections pertaining to post-foundational philosophy. This framework aims to analyze the material dimension of transformations, as well as those that fall within the cultural sphere. Through empirical evidence, I show the dialectical link between tourism, environment and society. A dialectic that tells of socio-environmental relations more complex than those presented by political decision-makers and by Italian academic geography, both characterized by an intrinsic neo-communitarian approach that eludes the antagonism that permeates social action
Design and characterization of short peptidic sequences mimicking the behavior of larger proteic entities
Get PDFThis thesis deals with the design, synthesis, and applications of short peptidic sequences capable of mimicking some behaviors of larger protein entities. Indeed, peptides can represent the minimalist functional, bioactive portion of a protein, while being more stable, less expensive, and less immunogenic. Besides, peptides have the potential to penetrate further into tissues owing to their smaller size. In the first part of the thesis, peptides have been designed to investigate the interactions between integrins and their protein ligands. we started with a systematic analysis of α4β1 integrin, integrating receptor-ligand interactions of RGD-binding integrins and computational simulations performed with homology or hybrid α4β1 receptors to explain agonism versus antagonism. Subsequently, we constructed a series of LDV-containing cyclopeptides, leading to the identification of several potent ligands against α4 integrins. Computational methods were also employed to elucidate possible models for receptor activation or blockage. Secondly, various nanoplatforms decorated with different integrin-targeting motifs, e.g. LDV- and RGD-based peptides, were prepared, aiming to expand the application of the developed ligands in tumor-targeted therapies. In the third part of the thesis, peptides have been designed to prevent the assembly of a functional protein. This part focuses on synthesizing peptides capable of inhibiting the tetramerization of hLDH 5. As a result, several linear and cyclic peptide inhibitors were identified, demonstrating selective inhibitory efficacy in cancer cells.
In the last part, hybrid peptide-phosphate nanocrystals have been validated as mini-enzymes. We explored the in-situ absorption of peptide catalysts using nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite, which serves as an insoluble solid support for peptides recovery. This strategy was validated in the 1,4-conjugate addition of aldehydes to nitrostyrene, resulted in high enantioselectivity
Active mobility and mental health: evidence-based insights and a digital framework for public health interventions
Get PDFActive Mobility (AM)—walking and cycling for transportation—contributes to mental health (MH), environmental sustainability, and quality of life. While AM offers accessible and cost-effective benefits, its relationship with MH remains underexplored due to inconsistent methodologies and fragmented evidence. This thesis adopts an interdisciplinary approach across psychology, public health, urban planning, and digital innovation to address these gaps. The first study presents a scoping review mapping global evidence on AM and MH. It highlights key gaps, particularly the underrepresentation of psychological constructs such as depressive symptoms, anxiety, and self-efficacy. Methodological inconsistencies and a dominance of non-psychological perspectives further limit the field. Italy’s lack of national studies using surveillance data led to the second investigation. The second study analyses 2021–2022 data from the Italian PASSI surveillance system, with expert input from the Emilia-Romagna region. Findings reveal significant, age-dependent associations between AM and depressive symptoms, positive in older adults but more complex in younger populations. These results expose the limitations of surveillance data in capturing individual behaviours and real-time MH states. In response, the third study develops a digital framework to integrate subjective (MH) and objective (AM) data collection. Designed with SelfLoops, the system combines a smartphone app, wearable fitness trackers, and an online platform, enabling scalable, real-time tracking of mood, activity, and environmental factors. Usability testing in Bologna confirmed its feasibility and user engagement. Together, these studies build a coherent narrative. The review identifies gaps, the PASSI study contextualises population trends, and the digital framework offers a novel research tool to bridge them. This thesis establishes AM as a lifestyle intervention relevant to MH and sustainability. It proposes scalable, evidence-based solutions for research, clinical practice, and urban policy, promoting healthier, more connected communities
Chemical tailoring of graphene oxide and related composites for enhanced adsorption of water emerging contaminants
Get PDFWater purification is a global issue and the pollution by emerging contaminants (ECs), such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and pharmaceuticals, poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Traditional water treatment methods are often insufficient to remove ECs, calling for the urgent development of new technologies. In this context, graphene related materials (GRM) have gained increasing attention due to their exceptional properties. This thesis explores the potential of GRM as sorbents for the removal of ECs from drinking water, with a focus on the development of advanced composites that exploit both biopolymers and synthetic polymers as support matrices for GRM.
This work examines the adsorption behaviour of water-dispersed GRM, in particular graphene oxide (GO), whose adsorption properties, i.e. selectivity and capacity, can be tailored by modifying its surface through covalent functionalization. Epoxide ring-opening reactions were used to graft various functional groups, including amino acids and β-cyclodextrin (βCD), onto the GO surface. In particular, functionalization with βCD was proven to be effective in the removal of perfluorobutanoic acid, a persistent PFAS.
Although GRM have excellent adsorption properties, their need for dispersion and subsequent removal from water presents challenges. To overcome these limitations, the study focused on incorporating GRM into a polymer matrix. With this aim, alginate was used as a biopolymer to produce hydrogels, incorporating GRM to form a stable composite material that was tested for the removal of a selection of ECs.
In addition to biopolymer-based composites, synthetic polymer systems were investigated, particularly polysulfone (PSU) hollow fiber membranes coextruded with GO. These membranes were developed for point-of-use water treatment technologies and tested for their efficiency in removing pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and PFAS. A novel approach was also introduced to recycle PSU-GO industrial scraps into granular sorbents, which were tested in pilot plants under real tap water conditions