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Abstract Individuals with Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have difficulties in the recollection of past experiences (Episodic Memory). Accumulating evidence suggests that they might have also difficulties in the ability to imagine potential future scenarios (Episodic Future Thinking, EFT) and in narrative generation skills. This investigation aimed to determine 1) whether impairments of EFT can be identified in a large cohort of children with high functioning ASD using a task with minimal narrative demands; and 2) if such impairments are related to the ability to generate a narrative's scenario. 77 children with high-functioning ASD and 77 children with typical development were recruited for the study. The two groups were balanced for age, level of formal education, and IQ. EFT was assessed by administering a task with minimal narrative demands, whereas narrative generation skills were assessed with three tasks requiring children to generate past, middle or future episodes in a narrative discourse. With respect to control participants, a subgroup of children with ASD had impaired EFT skills and also showed significant impairments in the ability to generate adequate narratives. On the contrary, participants with spared EFT had normal performance on the narrative generation task. Interestingly, EFT skills predicted narrative generation abilities in both groups. The results of this study support the hypothesis that EFT may be impaired in some but not all children with ASD and of a relation between difficulties with EFT and impairments in the process of narrative generation. The assessment of EFT should employ tasks that do not require narrative production, as children with impaired EFT may also have reduced narrative skills. Highlights • We analyzed EFT and narrative generation skills in children with ASD. • We found a subgroup of children with ASD with normal and one with impaired EFT skills. • Those with impaired EFT had also difficulties in narrative generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a new High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC–MS) method to rapidly detect and quantify meglumine by-products (specifically reducing sugar(s) and nitrogen impurities) that could be present in the meglumine samples. Meglumine is a secondary amine obtained from glucose and it is an excipient used as counter-ion in several pharmaceutical formulations, especially when the concentration of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) is so high that the sodium is not a suitable option. Moreover, the increased use of meglumine is related to its ability to improve solubility in aqueous solutions due to the presence of a large number of hydroxyl groups. Thus, even if meglumine is widely used as excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, its impurity profile has never been fully evaluated. Here, we propose the use of a commercial agent that specifically reacts with carbonyl compounds, 1-(4-aminobenzyl)-1,2,4-triazole, with the aim of improving the detection of reducing sugars, such as glucose, after an easy derivatization procedure. Finally, we describe the method validation and the analysis of the impurity profile of meglumine samples from different manufacturers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we propose a narrative account for the origin of language. Such a proposal is based on two assumptions. The first is conceptual and concerns the idea that the distinctive feature of human language (what sets it apart from other forms of animal communication) has to be traced to its inherently narrative character. The second assumption is methodological and connected to the idea that the study of language origin is closely related to the analysis of the cognitive systems at the base of narrative. Research on narrative abilities of subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorder has shown that storytelling requires the capability to link events causally connected to one another, and especially events which are remote from one another on the temporal axis of a story. Based on this research, we hypothesize that an important cognitive device involved in narrative is Mental Time Travel (MTT), that is, the system that allows humans to project themselves into the past and future. We show that such a system is present (to a greater or lesser extent) even in non-human animals. By virtue of this, we argue that MTT is independent of language and that it may be considered a cognitive precursor for the origin of language. Specifically, we propose that MTT allowed our ancestors to develop a form of pantomimic communication that might be considered as the foundation of the narrative origin of language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This brief report is a partial replication of the study by Jackson and Atance (J Dev Disabil 14:40-45, 2008) assessing nonverbal Self-based and Mechanical-based future thinking (FT) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In a first step, these tasks were administered to 30 children with ASD. The two Self-based tasks were then modified as a verbal component could not be completely ruled out. Consequently, 77 children with ASD and 77 children with typical development received the modified Self-based FT tasks and the Mechanical-based FT tasks. We partially replicated the previous findings. Participants with ASD had impaired FT in both kinds of tasks and both groups performed better on tasks assessing Mechanical-based FT than Self-based FT. These results suggest that impairments of FT in ASD are not limited to Self-Projection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reintroductions are commonly used to restore the local biological diversity and/or save threatened taxa. In human-altered landscapes, we may expect that reintroduced species affect taxa already present. In Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park (central Apennines, Italy), a 30% decline in the abundance of 'vulnerable' Apennine chamois (2005: c. 650 individuals, 2010: c. 450 individuals) has been recorded, whereas red deer (reintroduced in 1972-1987: 81 individuals) have greatly increased (2010: > 2500 individuals). We investigated space and diet overlaps between red deer and Apennine chamois, and their effects on foraging behaviour of the latter. We also compared the composition of grasslands with that recorded when the former were absent. In 2010-2011, we found out: (1) a great space (> 75%) and diet (> 90%) overlap between deer and chamois; (2) a significant increase of unpalatable plant species and a decreasing trend of the nutritious, most grazed species by chamois, in respect to when deer were absent; (3) irrespective from vegetation type, a significantly reduced bite rate of adult female chamois in patches used also by deer, compared with areas without deer. Our results suggest a negative effect of red deer on the availability of nutritious plant species in summer-autumn, possibly because of grazing and physical damage on the grassland caused by trampling. Environmental conditions and access to high-quality forage in the warm season influence the winter survival of offspring of mountain ungulates. Our results indicate that interspecific overlap in resource use with an increasing, reintroduced population can threaten rare taxa. Reintroductions of potentially competing species should be avoided in areas where populations of threatened taxa exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red deer of the Bosco Mesola Nature Reserve (northern Italy) constitute a population with relevance for zoogeography, genetics and conservation. We have analysed morphometrics of Mesola red deer (body weight, craniometry, stature, antler conformation and size) over ac.30 year period (1980–2012), to (i) describe in detail their physical traits, (ii) compare them with those of other European populations and (iii) assess the effects of conservation actions on biometric measures of individuals. Mesola red deer were on average 15–50% lighter and at least 8–15% smaller than other European red deer. The sexual size dimorphism was low and significant only for adults. Body growth rate was also slower than that of the other European populations. While the average relative production of antler bone tissue appeared not to be different from that of other European red deer, antlers of Mesola stags were small and scarcely branched, with short trez tines. Bez tine and crown were rare and present almost exclusively in fully mature stags (2.2 and 3.6% of antler beams in adult stags, respectively). Environmental improvements led to significant favourable effects on antler size and complexity. All observed individuals had a distinct but slight spotting of the summer coat. These morphological characteristics, coupled with genetic peculiarities, make the Mesola red deer unique, deserving special protection. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In spite of its wide distribution, little information has been published on factors affecting space use of northern chamois Rupicapra rupicapra. We radio-tracked 12 (≥ 4 years old) adult male and nine adult female chamois, for 2 years (from April to December), in an area of the south-western Italian Alps. Eight males occupied stable and small home ranges (“resident” males), while four moved between seasonal areas (“migrant” males). Residents showed smaller, stable home ranges, at lower altitudes than those of adult females, and selected forest, scrub, bush and meadow, avoiding rocks and scree. Females increased home range size in July-August, when they moved to rocky areas at the higher altitudes, and decreased it in November-December, at rut time. In spring and autumn, females selected both meadows and larch forest/scrub. Sexual and seasonal differences in space use, which reflected a marked sexual segregation, may have been linked to energetic and mating requirements, with females selecting high-quality feeding areas because of their energy demands during gestation and lactation. From spring to autumn, males remained at lower altitudes, in lower-quality habitats, only visited by females in the mating season. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background Thyroid autoimmunity (TA) is often associated with coeliac disease (CD). Objective To evaluate, in children and adolescents with CD on a gluten-free diet (GFD): (1) the prevalence of TA; (2) the impact of TA on growth and the need for L-thyroxine (L-T4) treatment, during a longitudinal survey. Method Between January and December 2005, 545 patients with CD, prospectively followed up until December 2007, and 622 controls were screened for TA. Antithyroperoxidase and antithyroglobulin antibodies were assayed and, if positive, serum free tri-iodothyronine, free thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) assays and thyroid ultrasound were performed. L-T4 was started if TSH was >5.5 mU/ml at two successive measurements. Results There was no significant difference in TA prevalence between patients with CD on a GFD (10%) and controls (8.2%). Duration of GFD differed significantly in coeliac patients with TA in comparison with those without TA (7.9±0.9 and 10.2±0.3 years, p<0.001), but no significant difference was found for weight and height gain (1.8±1.0 vs 3.7±1.5 and 2.1±1.2 kg/year vs 4.0±1.1 cm/year, respectively). At the end of the follow-up an increase of 7% in the prevalence of patients with CD with TA requiring L-T4 was found. Conclusions TA seems no more common in paediatric and adolescent patients with CD on a GFD than in controls; its clinical evolution does not seem to impact on growth. Therefore, a long-term regular screening programme for thyroid disease may not be necessary for all patients with CD on a GFD, but only for those who are suspected of having thyroid diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on interspecific aggression is scarce for wild ungulates. I described patterns and sex/age correlates of interspecific aggression between wild roe deer Capreolus capreolus and fallow deer Dama dama at feeding sites in Maremma Regional Park, central Italy. A previous study showed that fallow deer can actively exclude roe from feeding areas. Here I show that 81% out of 42 aggressive interactions were fallow-roe deer aggressions, whereas 19% were roe-fallow aggressions. No aggressive interaction involved physical contact between opponents and roe deer were displaced in all events. When roe deer avoided fallow deer, the probability of remaining feeding increased significantly with respect to when aggression occurred. Fallow deer males, especially yearlings, were more aggressive than females to all roe deer sexes/age classes. For fallow deer, aggression was an efficient way to monopolise the access to foraging space. For roe deer, spatial avoidance of fallow was a way to remain at feeding areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a consequence of the spread of technology, also the forest sector needs to develop methods and tools capable to integrate the new available technology (Geographical Information Systems, databases, Decision Support Systems, GPS, satellite imaging, laser etc.) with the traditional tools. In specific the present paper refers to the context of forest planning and management and to the implementation of a nationally standardized method and tool for monitoring and supporting forest planning and forest policy choices from a local to a national scale. Within this framework and according to the definition of a Data-Driven Decision Support Systems, a method aimed at optimising the data collection on forest and forest management of Italy was developed. With ProgettoBosco a unique, participated and shared information system effective for all forest typologies existing in Italy was accomplished. The paper focuses on the working methodology which is innovative and original for the sector of forest planning. The methodology, characterized by a bottom-up approach, is structured in three main steps: cooperation, successive approximation and experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three coppiced chestnut stands near Florence (Tuscany, Italy) were monitored for 15 years. Presence of blight, damage, evaluation of different types of cankers and their relationship with stand structure were assessed. Disease incidence ranged from 67% to 99% of infected shoots, and mortality caused by blight was between 6% and 12%. Canker types were defined in the study sites; healing and healed cankers represented 70–88% of the total infections recorded, whereas normal cankers represented 9–12.5%. In general, more than one infection was detected for each shoot, and on some trunks up to nine cankers were observed. During the entire investigation period, a constant trend of hypovirulence spread was observed that was symptomatic of a substantial stability of the phenomenon: most (63.5%) undifferentiated new infections evolved into healing and healed cankers, compared with 6.5% that developed into normal infections. Isolations confirmed that a mixed inoculum (normal, intermediate and white strains) of the pathogen was spreading in the coppices. Inocula produced by pycnidia from healing cankers were examined and tested in an artificial inoculation trial. dsRNA was detected in white strains isolated from healing cankers. In this natural condition and in the complete absence of silvicultural treatments, this inoculum seems capable of ensuring both the spread of hypovirulence and its persistence over the years. Data suggest that hypovirulence and its spread are complex phenomena based on the interaction between fungal inoculum, host resistance and site conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The function of inter-specific interactions in large herbivore assemblies is under debate. We have studied inter-specific interactions between roe and fallow deer on pastures, to assess whether competition between these Cervidae occurs through behavioural interference. Roe were displaced by fallow deer (i.e. the former moved away from the latter at a distance of >50m) in 83% of cases (N =127). Ninety-four percentage (N =83) of displacement events occurred while roe deer were feeding; in 50% of these cases (N =78), roe stopped grazing and left the feeding ground. Even when fallow deer did not show any sign of direct aggression to roe, these moved away from fallow in 72% of cases (N =127). Vigilance rate was significantly greater in roe than in fallow deer, irrespectively of the presence of the other species. When roe and fallow deer grazed within 50m from each other, vigilance rate increased significantly in roe, but not in fallow deer. Roe deer, in a group, were significantly more tolerant of the presence of fallow deer (even in group), than when solitary. Fallow deer seemed to be able to exclude roe deer from feeding sites through behavioural intolerance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Polygamous species vary in alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs) in relation to individual or environmental factors. Individuals may adopt fixed ARTs consistently across years, or may show flexible behaviour, changing tactic in different years. Different cost–benefit trade-offs should occur in relation to the adoption of each ART, possibly also influencing spatial behaviour and thus leading to alternative spatial tactics. Fixed ARTs are rare in mammals, whereas environmental variability is expected to favour flexibility in ARTs. We evaluated the potential for fixed versus flexible ARTs, and their correspondence with different spatial tactics, in a polygynous herbivore, the Alpine chamois, Rupicapra rupicapra rupicapra. We collected data on mating behaviour of 31 individually recognizable adult males during five rutting seasons and on their spatial behaviour throughout the same years. Fifteen males were classified as territorial and 16 as nonterritorial. No individual changed ART during our research. Moreover, we report a previously undocumented occurrence of different patterns of spatial behaviour across territorial males. Half of these individuals had overlapping or continuous winter and summer ranges, whereas the others moved between different areas (in winter, immediately after the rut, or between summer and autumn). No differences between males adopting diverse ARTs were found in age or body mass, or in their respective frequencies of intrasexual aggressive interactions. On the other hand, territorial males, dominant over nonterritorial individuals in aggressive interactions, had more mating opportunities than nonterritorial ones. Further work should test for the consistency of our results across broader spatial and temporal scales, as well as species. Differences in key aspects of behaviour (e.g. space use) and life history (e.g. reproductive success) would help explain ART evolution and coexistence in a population. If ARTs were fixed in male chamois, neither ART should have been selected against long enough to determine its extinction, over evolutionary times. • Alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs) have been described in male Alpine chamois. • Almost 50% of adult males were territorial and the others were nonterritorial. • No individual changed ART during our study, suggesting fixed ARTs in mature males. • Age and body size are not determinants of the adoption of ARTs in adult chamois. • We report two spatial behaviours in territorial males: residents versus migrants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niche partitioning according to time, space, or resources is the key to interspecific coexistence. Interactions among carnivore species are complex: interference is common, although positive relationships may develop through trophic facilitation. In turn, different behavioral responses to coexistence may be reported, ranging from avoidance to attraction, the outcome of which is highly dependent on the local environmental context. Here, we evaluated the temporal partitioning by analyzing spatiotemporal relationships between the red fox Vulpes vulpes and the European badger Meles meles in a Mediterranean?protected area for three full years, using intensive camera trapping. The two species showed similar temporal activity patterns, with a nocturnal activity and peaks at dawn and dusk. We found a substantial temporal overlap between red fox and badger (Δ > 0.78, on a 0‐1 scale). However, we detected some differences in temporal activity patterns across these species and no evidence of interspecific spatiotemporal avoidance. Previous work provided no evidence supporting spatial avoidance among the study species. Our results suggest a role of temporal partitioning at a finer scale during the night to facilitate interspecific coexistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under an optimal foraging scenario, prey selection would be expected to occur when food resources are abundant. A positive frequency‐dependent prey selection would elicit prey switching when the abundance of main food resources decreases, potentially favouring community resilience to the effects of intensive, selective predation on a single prey. We assessed whether a positive frequency‐dependent prey selection by the wolf Canis lupus occurred in two areas hosting abundant populations of wild ungulates, one in northern (Słowiński National Park, Poland) and the other one in southern (Maremma Regional Park, Italy) Europe, throughout a cold semester. In Słowiński, ungulate community was dominated by red deer Cervus elaphus (57% availability) over wild boar Sus scrofa (35%) and roe deer Capreolus capreolus (8%); wild boar and fallow deer Dama dama (43–37%) were more abundant than roe deer (20%) in Maremma. In both areas, wolf diet was dominated by wild ungulates, with a major use of red deer in Słowiński and wild boar in Maremma. Prey selection occurred in both areas, and it was addressed towards the most abundant prey in Słowiński, that is, the red deer, but only towards the wild boar in Maremma, where the fallow deer was used according to availability. In Slowinski, high red deer density may have driven wolf prey selection, while the shifting of activity rhythms of the fallow deer in the Maremma as antipredator response to wolf presence may have reduced predation. Despite its comparable densities between the two areas, the wild boar was selected in Maremma and under‐used in Słowiński. Results provide partial support to positive frequency‐dependent selection, emphasising the spatiotemporal plasticity of wolf–prey relationships. The relative role of prey density and other factors (e.g., antipredator behavioural responses) should be assessed at longer temporal scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nest predation is reported as a cause of reproductive failure of ground‐nesting bird species whose populations in Europe are declining. Conversely, European populations of the wild boar Sus scrofa have been expanding, leading to increasing threats to habitats and ecological communities. The impacts of wild boar on ground‐nesting bird species are poorly known and have never been explicitly assessed. We conducted an artificial ground‐nest experiment in Mediterranean habitats of central Italy using camera traps to assess predator identities. Deployed nests contained quail or chicken eggs, and predation occurred within one week for 47/48 deployments carried out during March‐July 2020. The wild boar was the most common predator (36% deployments), followed by the magpie Pica pica (18%), the red fox Vulpes vulpes (10%) and the pine marten Martes martes (10%). Predation by other species was occasionally observed. Egg type and deployment habitat did not significantly influence time to predation or the likelihood that a nest was preyed upon by wild boar, respectively. The presence of a stuffed gull close to the nests significantly delayed predation. Nests preyed by birds and mammals other than wild boar were often subsequently scavenged by wild boar, which consumed the remaining eggs or eggshells. Time to predation increased from spring to summer, suggesting a reduction of predation intensity during periods when the availability of natural eggs is lowest. The likelihood of a nest being preyed upon by the wild boar compared to other predators increased when wild boar frequency of occurrence in 1‐week camera trap shootings was the highest, suggesting that higher abundance/activity of this species triggered increased egg predation. The wild boar might act as major predators of ground‐nesting bird species in Mediterranean habitats and the large‐scale population increase of this ungulate should be considered a significant threat to ground‐nesting species of European conservation concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predator–prey relationships can influence community processes, and a rich prey spectrum is important to favour carnivore conservation, as well as to buffer single prey towards intensive predation. Antipredator behavioural responses can occur and can be dynamic in time and space, which may generate counter‐responses in predators. However, data are scarce on their role in modulating carnivore diet and behaviour. Data are especially needed for European landscapes that are largely anthropized and have been recently recolonized by large carnivores. In a protected area in central Italy recently recolonized by the wolf and hosting a rich community of wild ungulates, we studied the interactions between this predator and three ungulate species. At the initial stage of wolf recovery, the fallow deer and the wild boar were the main prey, while the roe deer was a minor food item. Through camera‐trapping and predator food habits, we assessed temporal changes in wolf–prey relationships throughout 5 years (2017–2022). Wolf detection rates were spatially associated with those of fallow deer and wild boar, but shrub cover was positively related to predator and negatively to prey, suggesting possible prey avoidance of sites with lower visibility and greater predation risk. Throughout the years, the fallow deer increased its diurnal activity, with a decreasing temporal overlap with the predator. The wolf showed crepuscular/nocturnal activity, with an increased synchronization with the wild boar, which replaced the fallow deer as first prey. No support for major spatiotemporal responses was reported for wild boar and roe deer. With the ongoing recovery of carnivores across Europe, conservation priorities may emphasize the need to maintain an efficient ecological role of predators. Our results support the role of antipredator responses in modulating predator behaviour and diet and emphasize the importance of a diverse spectrum of wild prey to ensure the conservation of the ecological role of carnivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean Sea is a hotspot for shark conservation. A decline in large pelagic shark populations has been observed in this vast region over the last 50 years and a lack of data on the local population status of various species has been pointed out. Throughout history, the relation between people and sharks has been revolving around a mixture of mystery, fear, and attraction. Recently, however, a remunerative ecotourism industry has been growing in areas of shark aggregation globally. This growth has been accompanied by the establishment of a citizen science (CS) movement aimed to engage and recruit ecotourists in data collection for shark research. Several CS projects have generated interesting results in terms of scientific findings and public engagement. In the Mediterranean Sea, shark aggregations are not as relevant to support locally-focused CS actions on shark diving sites as in other parts of the world. However, a series of other initiatives are taking place and CS could offer an excellent opportunity for shark conservation in the Mediterranean Sea. The dramatic decline of shark populations shown in the region calls for alternative ways to collect data on species distributions and abundance. Obtaining such data to set proper conservation and management plans for sharks in the Mediterranean Sea will be possible if existing CS initiatives collaborate and coordinate, and CS is widely acknowledged and deployed as a valuable tool for public education, engagement, and scientific discovery. After providing an overview of multiple facets of the relationship between humans and sharks, we focus on the possibility of exploiting new technologies and attitudes toward sharks among some groups of ocean users to boost participatory research. CS is a great opportunity for shark science, especially for areas such as the Mediterranean Sea and for large pelagic sharks whose populations are highly impacted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Female density and distribution are dependent on resource phenology and female availability strongly influences male mating behaviour and success. When a male adopts a 'resource defence' tactic, his reproductive success depends on the location and attractiveness of his territory. Environmental factors associated with territory quality are expected to influence mating success, for example, through territory features or male–male competition. In a protected population of a mountain‐dwelling polygynous herbivore, the Alpine chamois Rupicapra r. rupicapra, we investigated the relationships among mating opportunities, some environmental variables (snow depth, topographic features and size of territories) and male intra‐sexual competition for mating. We recorded the mating behaviour and territory size of 15 GPS‐GSM radio‐tagged territorial males, during five rutting seasons (early November to early December: N = 8 individuals in 2011, N = 9 in 2012, N = 8 in 2015, N = 11 in 2016, N = 7 in 2017; 80% of them were observed for more than one mating season) and related them to snow depth and topography of territories. In ruts with deep snow cover, territorial males had smaller territories and higher number of mating opportunities than in ruts with lower snow cover. Smaller territories showed the highest values of terrain roughness, in turn with little or no snow cover in the mating season, and were visited by a greater number of females, than larger territories. Number of wins was positively influenced by snow depth and negatively related to the frequency of aggressions. The frequency of male–male aggressive interactions was greater during ruts with deep snow cover and for males with territories at higher elevations; additionally, it was negatively related to interactions won. Thus, snow depth, which influences resource distribution and female movements, is confirmed as a strong determinant of male mating opportunities and mating behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mechanism for the aziridination of olefins by aryl azides (ArN3), promoted by ruthenium(ii) porphyrin complexes, is proposed on the basis of kinetic and theoretical studies. All the recorded data support the involvement of a mono-imido ruthenium complex as the active intermediate in the transfer of the nitrene moiety “ArN” to the olefin. The selectivity of the aziridination vs. the uncatalysed triazoline formation can be enhanced by fine-tuning the electronic features of the porphyrin ligand and the olefin/azide catalytic ratio. The DFT study highlights the importance of an accessible triplet ground state of the intermediate ruthenium mono-imido complex to allow the evolution of the aziridination process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most likely, the red deerCervus elaphusLinnaeus, 1758 from the Bosco della Mesola Nature Reserve are the last autochthonous red deer in the Italian peninsula. In the 20thcentury, they nearly became extinct and have only recently recovered to higher numbers (at leastc.150 head in 2010). Apart from their historical relevance to the Italian fauna, they are also evolutionarily distinct at both the genetic and the morphological level. However, taxonomically, they are classified as part of the Central European red deer subspecies (Cervus elaphus hippelaphus), which encompasses most of the red deer from the European mainland. While we are fully aware of the high degree of arbitrariness of subspecific designations, it is also a fact that taxonomic recognition supports conservation, because subspecies are a legal category whereas other designations (such as evolutionarily significant units, ESUs) are not. We therefore argue that the Mesola red deer should be assigned to a subspecies of their own, and give an official description ofCervus elaphus italicusnova ssp., including the designation of a holo- and a paratype specimen. Given the evolutionary status of the Mesola red deer, subspecific recognition is certainly much better founded than is the case for many other so-called subspecies in present red deer taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The chamois Rupicapra spp. is the most abundant mountain ungulate of Europe and the Near East, where it occurs as two species, the northern chamois R. rupicapra and the southern chamois R. pyrenaica. Here, we provide a state‐of‐the‐art overview of research trends and the most challenging issues in chamois research and conservation, focusing on taxonomy and systematics, genetics, life history, ecology and behavior, physiology and disease, management and conservation. Research on Rupicapra has a longstanding history and has contributed substantially to the biological and ecological knowledge of mountain ungulates. Although the number of publications on this genus has markedly increased over the past two decades, major differences persist with respect to knowledge of species and subspecies, with research mostly focusing on the Alpine chamois R. r. rupicapra and, to a lesser extent, the Pyrenean chamois R. p. pyrenaica. In addition, a scarcity of replicate studies of populations of different subspecies and/or geographic areas limits the advancement of chamois science. Since environmental heterogeneity impacts behavioral, physiological and life history traits, understanding the underlying processes would be of great value from both an evolutionary and conservation/management standpoint, especially in the light of ongoing climatic change. Substantial contributions to this challenge may derive from a quantitative assessment of reproductive success, investigation of fine‐scale foraging patterns, and a mechanistic understanding of disease outbreak and resilience. For improving conservation status, resolving taxonomic disputes, identifying subspecies hybridization, assessing the impact of hunting and establishing reliable methods of abundance estimation are of primary concern. Despite being one of the most well‐known mountain ungulates, substantial field efforts to collect paleontological, behavioral, ecological, morphological, physiological and genetic data on different populations and subspecies are still needed to ensure a successful future for chamois research and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resource exploitation and behavioural interference underlie competition among carnivores. Competition is reduced by specializing on different prey and/or spatio-temporal separation, usually leading to different food habits. We predicted that two closely related species of large cats, the endangered snow leopard and the near-threatened common leopard, living in sympatry, would coexist through habitat separation and exploitation of different prey species. In central Himalaya, we assessed (2006-2010) habitat and diet overlap between these carnivores. The snow leopard used grassland and shrubland, whereas the common leopard selected forest. Contrary to our prediction, snow leopard and common leopard preyed upon similar wild ( Himalayan tahr, musk deer) and domestic species ( Bos spp., dogs). Dietary overlap between snow leopard and common leopard was 69% (yearly), 76% (colder months) and 60% (warmer months). Thus, habitat separation should be the result of other factors, most likely avoidance of interspecific aggression. Habitat separation may not always lead to the use of different prey. Avoidance of interspecific aggression, rather than exploitation of different resources, could allow the coexistence of potentially competing large predators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a forest cover analysis over a time span of 150 years in a protected area of Eastern Trentino (Northern Italy), Paneveggio Pale di S. Martino Nature Park. With the aid of GRASS GIS two historical maps (1859 and 1936) and a set of aerial photographs taken from 1945 to 2006 have been analysed, orthorectified and classified with a supervised method, in order to derive a series of forest cover maps. Techniques applied and problems encountered in using heterogeneous material are discussed. The research shows that from 1859 to the present the increase of forest cover is about 25%, due to the reduced impact of forestry and farming. Timberline dynamics have also been considered; an average growth of about 1 m/year has been estimated for the last 150 years and the data have been compared with the timberline cartography and to field surveys. Timberline estimation for recent years appears to be affected mainly by lower human pressure while the relationship with climate changes is difficult to evaluate. Landscape metrics were used to quantify the changes in forest fragmentation and to identify three core areas that have remained unchanged over time. This case study fills a gap of knowledge about the history of forest cover in the area, shows how multi temporal analysis can support protected area management. This study has been requested by the Park managers, a sign t that landscape planners are becoming aware of past landscape importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: analyze the hospitalizations prevalence for Ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions (ACSCs) and its main causes in elderly according to the healthy macroregions in Santa Catarina State. Methods: this is a descriptive ecological study where were picked Hospitalizations System data (SIH - DATASUS). Results: in the study period, there were 262.104 hospitalizations of elderly for ambulatory Care Sensitive Conditions in Santa Catarina. The most frequent diseases were Heart Failure Lung Diseases, Cerebrovascular Diseases, Angina and Diabetes Mellitus. The regions from the state that had more hospitalizations were the South and West. However, it was found that there was a decrease in the total number of elderly hospitalizations during the study period, suggesting a good resolution of primary health care in the State. Conclusion: the ACSCs in elderly is relevant when it is compared to the total number of hospitalizations made by the Unified Health System, in this population, in the state of Santa Catarina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species diversity assessments are an important step to evaluate the conservation status of a community, both in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. These assessments are pivotal if related to both, the constant increase of human pressure on ecosystems and the anthropogenic climate change occurring nowadays. Sharks and rays are globally threatened, and the situation is particularly alarming in the Mediterranean Sea where more than 50% of species are listed at risk of extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In this paper, we revise and discuss the chondrichthyan species richness of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Through an accurate review of published taxonomic studies, historical data on species occurrence, analyses of scientific survey data and biodiversity databases and other scientific papers, we produced a revised list of species whose presence in the Mediterranean Sea is confirmed or highly probable and discussed on current taxonomic and occurrence disputes on the species that are instead rarer or claimed to be locally extinct. We listed a total of 88 species, representing 30 families and 48 genera that are currently present in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. This number includes 48 shark species, 38 batoids, and 2 chimaeras. The review represents a reference for future conservation assessments of cartilaginous fish in the region and a guide for decision-makers when promoting the sustainable exploitation of fisheries resource within an ecosystem-based framework. This paper can help to set a baseline of the Mediterranean species and thus resolve some uncertainties regarding their conservation status, explaining the reasons for their prolonged absence in the reports. Indeed, failure to record over time may not be due to grubbing up, but because after careful review this species was not really part of the Mediterranean fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the spatiotemporal overlap amongst animal species living in sympatry helps to shed light on mechanisms of interspecific coexistence. We analysed the spatiotemporal coexistence in a predator–prey system through multiyear camera trapping, in a mountainous protected area of southern Italy (January 2012–January 2017). Temporal activity patterns and their interspecific overlap, as well as spatial overlap, were estimated for a top predator, that is the wolf Canis lupus, three species of wild ungulates, four mesocarnivores, one small herbivore, livestock and humans. A wide nocturnal temporal overlap was detected between the wolf and almost all the other species (71–91%). The highest temporal (91%) and spatial (63%) overlaps were reported between the wolf and the red fox Vulpes vulpes. For wolf‐ungulate pairs, the highest temporal overlap (88%) was reported for the wild boar Sus scrofa, its local main prey. Considering all the other species pairs, spatial overlap was low (i.e. lower than 45%), whereas temporal overlap was substantial (71–91%). Our findings support a significant role of interspecific spatial partitioning in shaping coexistence amongst considered species, which might be influenced by differences in spatial distribution of different food resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary lactase deficiency (PLD) is a common inherited condition caused by a reduced activity of lactase. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms C/T-13910 and G/A-22018 upstream of the lactase gene are associated with lactase nonpersistence. In celiac disease (CD) patients, lactose intolerance could be due to secondary lactase deficiency and to PLD. The aim of this study were to evaluate the association of PLD and CD using genetic test, and to define the prevalence of PLD in celiac subjects compared with a control population. A total of 188 controls and 92 biopsy-proven CD patients were included in the study. More than 70% of all subjects were found homozygous for the polymorphisms. Differences in the prevalence of PLD were not found between CD patients and controls.In conclusions, the hereditary lactase deficiency is frequent in Italian CD children as in control population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microvillous inclusion disease (MID) and epithelial dysplasia (ED) or tufting enteropathy are the most frequent causes of intractable diarrhea with persistent villous atrophy and indefinite dependence on total parenteral nutrition (PN) from early infancy. Since these are intractable diseases, they have been proposed to be elective indication for early bowel transplantation in order to avoid complications, such as PN-related liver disease, that would require a combined small bowel-liver transplant. We describe four cases of intractable diarrhea, two with MID and two with ED, seeking to discover whether these diseases are really elective, early indications for bowel transplant. Among our four patients, only one with ED underwent transplantation. The prognosis of small bowel transplant is still poor and worse than that of prolonged HPN. Further study is necessary to achieve a safe HPN program. Referral for transplant (small bowel only or combined with liver) should be considered when there is a venous access reduction and/or severe and irreversible liver disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Evidence links sedentary behaviours (SB) with poorer health outcomes; i.e. higher screen time is associated with poorer fitness and cardiometabolic health, as well as unfavourable measures of adiposity, mental health and social behaviour in children. The WHO guidelines for children recommend reaching at least an average of 60 min per day of physical activity (PA). Several studies show a correlation between parental education (PE) and children PA levels. This study aims to analyse the influence that PE has on childrens’ sedentary lifestyle and PA habits in Italian society. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis among 428 children aged 6-11 recruited in a primary school of Calderara di Reno (Italy) in 2017. Children’s and parents’ information were collected at baseline (i.e. age, BMI, occupation, instruction). PA level and SB were evaluated using a weekly diary investigating screen time (PC and TV), sports practice and active play (i.e: running, jumping, riding a bike, etc.). We investigated the relationship between lifestyles and PE (high school degree or lower vs college degree or higher) through multiple linear regression models adjusted for age and gender. Results: Our models show that fathers’ educational level is not related to children’s SB. PA habits and weekly sports activities are not related to PE. On the other hand, higher mothers’ educational level shows to be linked to a decreased TV screen time (p = 0.003) and time spent using a computer (p = 0.035). Notably, older children spend more time using PCs or devices (p = 0.001), net of confounding variables. Conclusions: Our findings show that mothers’ educational level positively influences children’s lifestyle. This result might be related to the fact that, in the Italian context, mothers are usually the principal children’s caregiver influencing their daily routine. In light of this, mothers might be considered a primary target when implementing public health interventions to reduce children’s SB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mediterranean diet (MD) is considered a healthy dietary model with several beneficial effects. A strict adherence to the MD in children, coupled with daily exercise, can prevent obesity and significantly reduce the risk of correlated chronic diseases, such metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between parents’ educational level and compliance to the MD in a convenience sample of Italian children. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 428 children aged 6-11 recruited in a primary school of Calderara di Reno (Italy) between May and June of 2017. Children’s and parents’ information were collected at baseline (i.e. age, BMI, occupation, educational level). A weekly food diary was administered to evaluate the participant’s dietary habits. The degree of adherence to MD was derived from these diaries using the KIDMED index developed in 2003 by Serra-Majem et al. We used multiple linear regression models, adjusted for age and gender, to investigate how parents’ educational level affected children’s KIDMED index. Results: Adherence to the MD was high, medium and poor in, respectively, 4%, 60% and 36% of children. Higher prevalence of overweight and obesity was observed among those with lower adherence to the MD. The linear regression model shows that fathers’ educational level is not associated to children’s KIDMED index variation. On the other hand, a higher mothers’ educational level is linked to an increased weekly KIDMED index (p = 0.012) as well as an increased weekend KIDMED index (p = 0.048). Conclusions: Mothers’ education level is associated with increased adherence to MD, both weekly and weekend. The greater difference has been observed during weekend, when children of highly educated mothers score higher at KIDMED index. Key messages: Mothers’ educational level plays an important role in children’s eating habits, with higher educational level associated with a better adherence to the MD. It is critical to implement parents’ toolkit to promote healthy dietary patterns and adherence to MD in order to correct these social differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological theory predicts that sympatric species should avoid competition through diet, spatial and/or temporal partitioning. In carnivores, interference is widespread between species with similar diets. Smaller species are expected to differentiate their diet from that of larger, dominant ones, to reduce the risk of potentially lethal encounters. Interference has been reported between tigers and common leopards, with the former dominant over the latter. In 2009-2011, in an area of Terai, South- West Nepal, we assessed food habits and prey selection of tigers and common leopards, to evaluate whether prey partitioning occurred between these large cats. Prey availability was high, both in terms of number of species (at least seven wild ungulates beside livestock, two primates and an array of smaller prey) and density (large ungulates, livestock and primates: 130.8-174.8 individuals per km2). Wild vertebrates were the staple of both cats (tigers: 82.7%; common leopards: 66.6%), but common leopards used livestock significantly more than tigers did. Diet breadth of leopards was c. 20% larger than that of tigers, indicating a broader trophic niche. Significant differences in prey use and selection occurred between tigers and leopards, with the former using large (i.e. >100 kg) prey more often and small (i.e. 5-25 kg) prey less often than the latter did. Medium-sized prey were taken in comparable proportions by the two cats, with a great overlap of diet ( Pianka index: 0.85). In conclusion, in our study area, apparently tigers and leopards did not base their coexistence on diet partitioning, suggesting a major role for spatial and/or temporal partitioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate whether food consumed by individuals working in Antarctica is adequate and sufficient, from the nutritional viewpoint, to sustain life in extreme environments. Malnutrition can be the cause of both health impairment and reduction in psychological and physiological efficiency. The study involved individuals from two subsequent expeditions in Antarctica, namely, 34 subjects (group A) from the Italian Mario Zucchelli Base (MZB) in October–November 2002 and 30 subjects (group B) from the Italian–French Concordia Station (CS) between November 2003 and January 2004. Each group of volunteers consisted of subjects with a controlled diet as well as of subjects with a free diet. Blood and hair samples were taken just before the expeditions (with the purpose of setting the baseline) and during the last week spent in Antarctica. Samples were then shipped to Italy to be analyzed, while the body composition and the hydration status were measured on the spot by Bio-Impedentiometric Assay (BIA). Anthropometrical measurements were carried out weekly. The data obtained were statistically assessed by using the Student t-test for correlated samples and showed, in all subjects, alterations of the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis, of blood parameters and of some components of the hair along with some variations of the psychological behaviour. The variations observed can probably be ascribed to environmental conditions and a combination of factors such as isolation, atmospheric conditions and prolonged presence of daylight. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The apparent acidity constant of p-hydroxybenzophenone, which is a practically insoluble drug in water but of great pharmaceutical interest, was determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography in organic solvent – water mixtures (acetonitrile–water, ethanol–water, and methanol–water), varying the reaction medium permittivity in the interval 56 to 70, at constant ionic strength (0.050) and temperature (30 °C). A combined glass electrode calibrated with aqueous standard buffers was used to obtain pH readings based on the concentration scale (swpH). The pKa values from chromatographic data were obtained using the Hardcastle–Jano equation. Moreover, excellent linear relationships between the pKa values and solvation properties of the reaction medium (relative permittivity and Acity) were used to derive acid dissociation constants in aqueous solution. It has been concluded that the pKa values extrapolated from such solvent–water mixtures are consistent with each other and with previously reported measurements. In addition, the molecular structures of all the chemical species involved in the acid–base dissociation equilibrium studied were calculated with a B3LYP/6–311++G(d,p) method that makes use of the polarizable continuum model (PCM). Taking into account the theoretical pKa values, the conclusions obtained match our experimental determinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral cyclosporin (CyA) has been widely and successfully used in adult patients with severe ulcerative colitis (UC) to delay or avoid colectomy. To determine if treatment with oral CyA is similarly effective in pediatric patients Data on all patients with severe UC treated with oral CyA in our unit were collected retrospectively. Patients were treated with CyA if dependent on or resistant to steroids, and therefore, candidates for colectomy. Thirty-two patients with severe UC were treated with CyA administered orally at a dose needed to obtain therapeutic blood levels (150–250 ng/ml). Twenty-eight of 32 patients (87%) had an immediate response within 11 days. Four (13%) did not respond and underwent colectomy. One patient had two cycles of treatment and is in remission. Two patients underwent three cycles of treatment because of relapse, but both eventually underwent elective colectomy. Three other patients underwent elective colectomy. A total of nine colectomies were performed. Treatment with oral CyA altered the course of UC in 28/32 (87%) of patients; 4/32 (13%) did not respond to oral CyA and underwent colectomy. Of the 28 patients that responded to CyA, five underwent later elective colectomy. Overall, in 72% of patients, colectomy was avoided. We, therefore, suggest a trial of oral CyA in all children with severe UC who are dependent or resistant to corticosteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Between 15 and 50% of European children aged 6-9 are overweight or obese and this number is rising dramatically over time, making it one of the most important public health challenges. Selection of healthy food and a balanced diet are key when addressing this obesity epidemic. At the same time, it is essential to consider schools’ role and parents’ influence on children’s dietary habits. This study aims to assess the adequacy of meals during the weekdays (WD) and weekends (WE), therefore highlighting the critical moments where schools’ and parents’ involvement needs to be of greater impact. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 428 children aged 6-11 recruited in a primary school of Calderara di Reno (Italy) in 2017. A weekly diary was administered between May and June 2017 to explore the dietary habits of the participants. Every day for each meal (breakfast, morning snack, lunch, dinner) it was required to report what types of food and beverages were consumed, and where (home/school). The adequacy of each meal was determined by using national guidelines. A McNemar test was performed to evaluate the differences in meal adequacy between the WD and WE. Results: Our analysis showed that meals consumed at school, i.e. morning snacks and lunches, were more adequate during WD than WE (69.6% vs 22.2%, 53.5% vs 32.5%; P-value <0.001), underlying the positive influence of school. On the other hand, breakfasts and dinners were more adequate during WE than WD (64.5% vs 51.4%, 23.8% vs 15.7%; P-value <0.001); this difference might be partially explained by the different amount of time parents have for food preparation during workdays versus weekends. Conclusions: Further preventive interventions should address childrens’ and parents’ home dietary routine as a tool to improve meal adequacy at home and therefore reduce childhood obesity. Parental school-based interventions could have a key role in changing childrens’ dietary habits. Key messages: • Our study showed a significant difference of healthy dietary habits between meals served at school during weekdays and at home during weekends, highlighting a higher dietary adequacy in the first ones. • The results underline the importance of implementing educational programs addressing childrens’ and their parents’ home meals routine and dietary habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is the only treatment for patients affected by chronic intestinal failure (CIF). Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) programs are started when patients need prolonged PN. Unfortunately, many patients on prolonged PN develop liver disease (LD). The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of LD in our series of patients on HPN. We reviewed our records of patients discharged from the hospital on HPN for CIF. HPN was started when one parent was fully trained in the use of this treatment and if the social and familial home environment was reliable. All patients received total PN by a central venous catheter. All patients with abnormal AST, ALT, ALK, γGT, and bilirubin values for more than 3 months were considered affected by PN-related LD. Thirty-six patients (23 of whom were boys and 13 girls) were discharged on HPN. During the study period, for CIF, 16 were affected by short bowel syndrome (SBS), of whom 6 had ultra-short bowel; 16 with functional intestinal failure, and 4 with chronic intestinal pseudobstruction (CIPO). Mean duration of HPN was 2.1 years/patient. Nine of 36 patients (25%) on HPN for CIF showed LD. Seven of the 16 patients (43%) with LD were affected by SBS and 2 (12.5%) patients by functional intestinal failure. No patients with CIPO developed LD. In patients affected by SBS, the onset of LD was very earlier than in patients with ID. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a case study of a 50-year-old woman with pulmonary rhodococcosis. It states that the patient was treated with levofloxacin, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and azithromycin. It says that masses in the right colon and thigh were detected thus, antibiotic therapy was prescribed. The patient underwent an emergency laparotomy and right colectomy. It also discusses rhodococcus equi infection and surgical treatment in addition to antimicrobial therapy as a cure.

Abstract: Severe and protracted or persistent diarrhea (SPD) is the most severe form of diarrhea in infancy and has also been defined as intractable diarrhea when it leads to dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). One of the rare causes of SPD is represented by autoimmune enteropathy that is characterized by life-threatening diarrhea mainly occurring within the first years of life, persistent villous atrophy in consecutive biopsies, resistance to bowel rest, and evidence of antigut autoantibodies. We evaluated 10 patients (seven boys, mean age at diagnosis 18 months; range: 0 to 160 months) fulfilling criteria of autoimmune enteropathy to assess dependence on TPN. TPN was first required in all patients to avoid dehydration and electrolytic imbalance. All patients were dependent on immunosuppressive therapy (steroid, azothioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus). Three patients died of sepsis: two during TPN while in the hospital, and one at home after he was weaned off TPN. Five patients are weaned off TPN after a mean period of 18 months; they are actually on oral alimentation with a cow milk-free diet after a period of enteral nutrition with elemental formula. One underwent total colectomy and bone marrow transplantation and one developed an IPEX syndrome. One patient is still dependent on TPN for 24 months. She is on home parenteral nutrition. Patients with diagnosis of IPEX syndrome require parenteral support with three or four infusion per week. TPN represents a fixed step in the management of autoimmune enteropathy, but it may be considered as an interim treatment while waiting for intestinal adaptation, at least in some selectioned case of autoimmune enteropathy. Bone marrow transplantation should be considered and reserved for those patients with severe complications due to home parenteral nutrition, or in those that are really dependent on parenteral nutrition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

When adequate nutrition cannot be provided by enteral route as a consequence of failure of intestinal functions, parenteral nutrition (PN) become the only way to maintain adequate nutrition; however, prolonged periods of PN can lead to severe complications. Furthermore, long hospital admissions for this form of nutrition can be detrimental for the child and the family. In the past 20 years, home parenteral nutrition (HPN) programs have been developed. The aim of our study was to retrospectively evaluate the kind and the frequency of complications in a HPN pediatric case series. We had 61 patients on HPN. Total duration of the program was 27,740 days (76 total years, mean 1.2 years per patient). We observed a total of 58 complications; mean 0.79 per patient per year with a prevalence of central venous cather–related complications (mechanical, 52%; infective, 26%). We had a very low incidence of metabolic complications (3%) and a low incidence of PN-related hepatic complications (19%). None of the complications described was the cause of death. Half of our patients have been able to stop the program. We had a low incidence (0.20 per patient per year) of septic episodes, lower than we had in patients on hospital PN in the same period (0.38 per patient per year). We had to replace 20 catheters, 18 of them for mechanical problems. Our study show that HPN still can be a valid alternative to small intestinal transplantation in patients affected by intestinal failure and that only patients with PN-related liver disease must be considered early candidates for combined liver–small bowel transplant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An abstract of the paper "Regeneration Techniques in Dentistry," by G. Delle Rose et al. is presented.

OBJECTIVES: Our goal was to evaluate the possible correspondence between antitissue transglutaminase of immunoglobulin A class levels and stage of mucosal damage in patients affected by celiac disease. In addition, we assessed clinical use of antitissue transglutaminase values to predict biopsy results. METHODS: One thousand eight hundred eighty-six consecutive patients with symptoms suggestive of celiac disease and 305 healthy controls underwent determination of serum levels of immunoglobulin A and antitissue transglutaminase. An intestinal biopsy was performed in subjects with antitissue transglutaminase levels > or = 4 IU/mL and in subjects with negative antitissue transglutaminase levels but with clinical suspicion of celiac disease. Histologic grading of celiac disease was consistent with the Marsh classification. RESULTS: One hundred eighty-six subjects with positive antitissue transglutaminase levels and 91 patients with negative antitissue transglutaminase levels were submitted to biopsy. In all healthy subjects, antitissue transglutaminase results were negative. Histologic evaluations in patients with positive antitissue transglutaminase levels gave the following results: type 0 in 25 patients, type 1 in 3 patients, type 2 in 4 patients, type 3a in 22 patients, type 3b in 74 patients, and type 3c in 58 patients. None of the patients with negative antitissue transglutaminase levels showed histologic findings suggestive of celiac disease. The mean antitissue transglutaminase values in patients without mucosal atrophy were significantly lower than in patients with mucosal atrophy. Antitissue transglutaminase values > or = 20 IU/mL were found in only 1 patient without mucosal atrophy. CONCLUSIONS: Our study found a strong correspondence between antitissue transglutaminase levels and stage of mucosal injury; antitissue transglutaminase values > 20 IU/mL seemed to be strongly predictive of mucosal atrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]