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Microbeads and fragments have been widely studied, while glitter remains neglected by the literature although found in a variety product (e.g., body paints, nail polish, cosmetics, craft products). The main aim of this study was to assess the effects of different types and concentrations of glitter particles on Mytilus galloprovincialis after 7 days of exposure. The experiment was divided into a preliminary test and a confirmatory test. Our findings support the hypothesis for a link between concentration and type of glitter particles, percentage of recovery and oxidative stress in M. galloprovincialis. There was a significant correlation between particle length and percentage of particles recovered in water, suggesting that the digestive tract of M. galloprovincialis retains smaller particles more. In addition, we noted an increase in antioxidant defense induced by smaller particles. Moreover, certain types of glitter crumbled and shortened in length, resulting in higher levels of oxidative stress biomarkers. Finally, the star-shaped glitter particles had a different effect on oxidative stress biomarkers. Further studies are needed to clarify the toxic effects of glitter on aquatic organisms and to quantify its proportion to other microplastics in the environment.

Macrophytes represent interesting matrices for oil extraction with biodiesel production purposes, particularly in eutrophic coastal lagoons. This short note reported results on bio-oil extraction efficiency in two different species of macrophytes in a Mediterranean lagoon (Lesina lagoon, south-eastern Italy), by testing effects of different factors (year, season, species of macrophytes) on oil production and oil quality. Extracted total oils values ranged from 0.65 % (Chara spp.) to 2.35 % (Chaetomorpha linum) and a significant difference (p < 0.01) between the two species was reported in relation to the variability of diene production with seasons. Compared to the available literature, higher oil extraction efficiencies are reported in this paper for the species C. linum, mainly due to the pressure optimization before extractions.

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants that have also been detected in the aquatic ecosystems at high concentrations. The use of shellfish as bioindicators is widespread for assessing and monitoring the environmental quality in both freshwater and marine environments. On this path, biomarkers represent an effective tool in monitoring programs. This minireview would broaden the existing knowledge on biomarkers of MPs in the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. This species was selected as it is widely distributed across the Mediterranean Sea and used as a bioindicator to monitor the presence of MPs in the marine environment. The literature search returned only 11 studies, mainly related to oxidative stress biomarkers. Although certain biomarkers were explored to estimate the effects of MPs on M. galloprovincialis, a battery of standardized and validated biomarkers as well as the inclusion of new ones are needed in future studies to obtain more comparable and robust findings across the Mediterranean Sea.

The aim of biomechanics applied to implantology is to determine the deformative and tensional states by solving the equilibrium equations within the mandibular bone and the osseointegrated implant to ensure its stability and improve the success rate. The finite element method is a powerful numerical technique that uses computing power to derive approximate solutions for the analysis of components with very complex geometry, loads, materials, and especially the biomechanical problems analysis, which is challenging to find in vivo or in vitro. This study performs a complete FEA survey on 3 implants Cono-in with 3 different diameters 3.4 mm, 4.5 mm, and 5.2 mm with abutments inclined to 15° and evaluates the tensions that are generated in the system as a result of the application of chewing loads. In this study, the extent of the stresses developed in the peri-crestal zone of the implants with the variation of the occlusal overstress acting on them was also evaluated. Autodesk Inventor Nastran Software was used to perform this type of localized finite element analysis; With this type of analysis, it was possible to analyze the peri-crestal area of the implant more precisely through a more accurate reconstruction of the mesh element, which allowed us to solve the FEA solution mathematically. The results showed how the application of the inclined load with respect to the vertical load on a larger diameter system leads to an increase in stress.

Environmental diagnostics are commonly used to identify anthropogenic influences in various environmental settings. However, the use of a single survey technique is limiting and leads to an incomplete and often inaccurate picture of reality. In this study, three real cases analyzing impacts on marine ecosystems have been presented to prove how the integration of different diagnostic techniques can be very beneficial to better understand the phenomena that occur as well as the impacts and associated damages. Studies combining classical diagnostics based on the determination of contaminant levels by chemical analysis, ecotoxicological tests and stress biomarkers with diagnostics by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy-FESEM and X-ray diffraction-XRD microscopy are reported. Findings suggest that the embedding of chemical analyses, ecotoxicology and microchemical FESEM and XRD analyses allow us to hit the mark and give precise and effective responses in environmental management.

In open regions of the Ross Sea, the role of the microbial community in the turnover of organic matter has scarcely been investigated; indeed, very little is known on how microbial distribution and functional diversity respond to environmental conditions and hydrographic structures. During the austral summer of 2017, two pelagic areas of the Ross Sea [the Drygalski Ice Tongue and the nearby Terra Nova Bay polynya (A area), and the continental Shelf Break area near Cape Adare (C area)] were studied at selected depths [surface, Deep Chlorophyll Maximum (DCM), Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW), deep waters]. Trophic properties [nutrient concentrations, particulate (POC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and its optically significant fraction (CDOM) were measured, together with the main hydrological variables. Microbial community abundance [total prokaryotes, living, dead, and actively respiring fraction, high- and low nucleic acid cells (HNA and LNA), pico- and nano-eukaryotes, culturable heterotrophic bacteria], composition, and metabolism (as whole community and as isolated bacteria) were also assessed. Through a multidisciplinary dataset, this study highlighted the variable response of microbial abundance, diversity, and metabolism of the microbial community to the changing local environmental conditions of the Ross Sea. Different forces, such as organic matter inputs (mostly of detrital nature) released from the Drygalski glacier in the A area, and a coastal-to-offshore gradient in the C area, coexisted within this extreme ecosystem. This resulted in a significant spatial segregation of the edaphic parameters, and of the microbial community distribution and metabolic activity patterns.

Marine litter levels were measured in the stomach contents, hepatopancreas, and gonad tissues of crustacea decapod (Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896; n = 6), a widespread alien species affecting the Lesina lagoon. Results highlight a mean of 2.5 (SD = 1.6) items/animal and indicate the presence of metals fragments (13%) and plastics (13% PE; 6.7% PET) in the stomach contents of collected individuals. No microplastic particles were detected in the hepatopancreas or in muscle tissue, while microplastic fibres (nylon, rayon, polyester) were found present in female specimen gonads. The presence of synthetic fibres in the investigated species reflects the relative contamination level in this habitat type and suggests that the blue crab could be considered a model organism for evaluating the contamination status of the study area.

Transitional environments are among the richest ecosystems in the world in terms of biodiversity and productivity. Lesina lagoon is one of the largest wetlands in southern Italy and it has always represented an important fishing ground for local communities. It is exploited by small vessels using traditional fishing gears and targeting a wide spectrum of species. Local fishery is mainly based on the use of “paranza”, a traditional fishing system made up of net walls fixed on stakes and retaining devices (fyke-nets). The nets are placed shore-to-shore in north-south direction and provide a fence which convey the fish into fyke-nets positioned at regular intervals along them. Fishing activities include also the use of gillnets, trammel nets and harpoon. Despite artisanal fishing is widely recognized as a sustainable activity, it could greatly impact ecologically sensitive environments, such as Lesina lagoon, as it is characterized by a low selectivity and high efficiency. In addition, it produces a considerable amount of by-catch, including juveniles of commercial species and species without commercial value. Unfortunately, no quantitative data are to date available on the selectivity of gear used in artisanal fishing activities in Lesina lagoon and the contribution of by-catch to total captures. The present study provides a comprehensive historical review of the fishing techniques in Lesina lagoon in accord with the actions of the “CatchUpFish” (PO FEAMP, funded by the Apulia Region). The main scope is to contribute to the identification of the main determinants of the observed decline of traditional production activities and to the formulation of effective strategies for a sustainable fishery management. Increasing stakeholders awareness on the environmental consequences and reducing the by-catch by improving gear selectivity and experimenting innovative fishing gears are urgent matters for the sustainable use of lagoon resources

The blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Portunidae), is native to the western coasts of the Atlantic Ocean, and was first recorded in Europe in 1900 on the Atlantic coast of France; in the Mediterranean Sea, the species was reported in the 50's (but probably as early as in the 30's). Subsequently, the species has progressively expanded its distribution, and is to date recorded in most coastal areas of the Mediterranean basin. Here we present an state-ofart overview of the investigations made in the last decade to monitor the distribution of C. sapidus, assess the structure and dynamics of established populations, and to investigate its functional role in invaded food webs in terms of trophic impact on native prey, vector of parasites, and involvement in the transfer of contaminants. The results of the synthesis are contextualized within the current efforts carried out in different European countries with a focus on Italy, as regards to the actions proposed for the Lesina Lagoon (FG) in the PO-FEAMP project “Catch Up Fish”, and the national project “Ecology and Impact of the Atlantic Blue Crab in the Spanish Mediterranean Coastal Lagoons and Adjacent Waters” (ECESIS) currently under evaluation in Spain. In addition, the ongoing collaboration with the University of Regensburg (Germany) aiming at investigating the molecular phylogeny of C. sapidus to assess the connectivity of Mediterranean blue crab populations is presented. The synthesis is expected to provide a robust basis for the identification of current Mediterranean-scale knowledge voids that necessitate to be addressed to support an effective risk assessment of the species in European waters, as well as future project proposals integrating effective policies of mitigation, control, and management of the species

Transitional water ecosystems are targeted by the European Union (EU) Water Framework Directive (WFD, CE 2000/60) monitoring programs in coastal zones. Concerning sediments, activities performed for the WFD focus on a few variables concerning the biochemical composition of organic matter. Our research reports the effects of oxygen availability on the biochemical composition of organic matter in sediments to highlight levels of targeted variables in time and, according to the depth of sediment layer, both under oxygenated and anoxic conditions in a mesocosm study on sediment cores. Results provide evidence that tested factors of interest (i.e., disturbance type, oxygenic versus anoxic conditions, persistence time of disturbance, 0&ndash, 14 days, penetration through sedimentary layers, 0&ndash, 10 cm depth) are able to significantly affect the biochemical composition of organic matter in sediments. Large part of the variables considered in this study (total organic carbon (TOC), total phosphorous (TP), total sulphur (TS), Fe, carbohydrates (CHO), total proteins (PRT), biopolymeric carbon (BPC), chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) are significantly affected and correlated to the oxygenation levels and could be good early indicators of important changes of environmental conditions. Monitoring activities performed under WFD guidelines and management strategies of Mediterranean coastal lagoon ecosystems shall include the biochemical composition of organic matter in sediment to provide an exhaustive picture of such dynamic ecosystems.

Marine litter impacts oceans and affects marine organisms, representing a potential threat for natural stocks of pelagic fish species located at the first levels of the marine food webs. In 2013-2014, on a seasonal basis, marine litter and microplastics in stomach contents from Sardinia pilchardus and Engraulis encrasicolus were evaluated. Selected species are plankitivores of great ecological and commercial importance in the Adriatic Sea. Collected data were correlated to possible factors able to affect ingested levels as well as species, season of sampling, biometry and sex of animals. Almost all tested samples (80 organisms for each species) contained marine litter (over 90% of samples from both species) and also microplastics; while any meso- or macroplastics were recorded. On average, recorded items were as follows: 4.63 (S. plichardus) and 1.25 (E. encrasicolus) per individual. Sardines evidenced a higher number of microplastics characterised by a smaller size than those recorded in anchovies. For sardines, sex, Gastro Somatic Index and sampling season showed negligible effects on the number of ingested litter; conversely, anchovies showed differences related with both sex of animals and dominant colour of ingested materials with prevalence for black and blue colours.

The occurrence of the Chinese pond mussel Sinanodonta woodiana is reported for the first time in the Molise region (Southeast Italy). Details of the mussel’s invasion history in Italy are also given. A total of 24 S. woodiana specimens were collected after a long drought period in October 2017 from an emerged beach on the southwest side of the Guardialfiera artificial lake and their main morphometric features were quantified. No young individuals were found, only large adults, whose survival could ensure population subsistence in more suitable environmental conditions. The present study provides evidence of a massive die-off affecting invasive bivalves during an extreme climatic event, producing decaying biomass with negative impacts on the water quality of the lake. Further investigations of the population dynamics of this species and the environmental quality of the water body are needed to develop an appropriate management plan in relation to the ecosystem services it delivers.

The occurrence of the protozoan parasites Toxoplasma gondii and Cyclospora cayetanensis was molecularly investigated in the hemolymph, gills, stomach, hepatopancreas and gonads of the eleven invasive Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus from the Lesina Lagoon (Mediterranean Sea). Out of 11 blue crabs, 6 (54.5%) and 4 (36.4%) were found positive to T. gondii and C. cayetanenis, respectively; parasites were found only in the six females analysed, while the remaining five males resulted negative. Moreover, out of 55 tissues samples, 7 (12.7%) and 8 (14.5%) were positive to T. gondii and C. cayetanensis, respectively with hemolymph and gills being the most infected tissues. This is the first report of the presence of protozoan pathogens in wild crab species collected from a Mediterranean lagoon. The present results may provide a baseline reference on microbial infection in the species for invaded Mediterranean waters, and on the potential health risks related with its consumption if eaten raw.

An 8-year-old girl was admitted during the night in our emergency department for an acute episode of seizures. The patient underwent computed-tomography (CT) brain scan (Toshiba ® Aquilion 64-TSX-101A/HC) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan (Philips® Achieva 1.5T). CT scan showed left frontal calcified nodules and calcified periventricular subependymal nodules. Subsequently, MRI evaluation revealed cortical and subcortical nodules that showed low signal with respect to the white matter on T1-weighted imaging sequences and high signal both in T2-weighted imaging sequences and in fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequences. We also showed a herniation of cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum (Chiari malformation Type I [CMI]) with the associated hydrosyringomyelic cavity. Our report showed a rare association between tuberous sclerosis complex and CMI.

Marine pollution is known and investigated. In the case of economic exploitation of marine waters, i.e. aquaculture and recreational activities, continuous monitoring of their quality is necessary. Commercial sensors may be used for speditive water monitoring but are usually used as stand-alone systems with limited applications. In this article, after a brief review of commercial sensors as real time detectors of the relevant chemical/biological parameters, experimental data on aquaculture plants are presented. The final objective is to produce through techniques of data fusion from heterogeneous sources with a synthetic representation of the information that may be also used for early warning. Both data format and data architecture are covered.

Vessels, specifically ballast water and hull fouling, are a major vector for the introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS) in European seas. The Mediterranean is one of the world's marine regions where their invasion is heaviest. The shallow Adriatic basin is a highly sensitive area that is already experiencing its consequences. The secondary spread of NIS over a wider area through natural dispersion is a complex process that depends on a wide range of oceanographic factors. This work analysed the dataset of the BALMAS project, in whose framework twelve ports in the Adriatic Sea were subjected to a Port Baseline Survey (PBS), to estimate the natural spread of NIS organisms from their port of arrival to the wider Adriatic basin. Its findings indicate that the prevailing water circulation patterns facilitate the natural dispersal of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens (HAOP).

This study investigates how multiple forcing factors such as rivers, surface marine circulation and winds affect hydrology and biogeochemical processes in the Gulf of Manfredonia and the seas around the Gargano peninsula, in the south-western Adriatic Sea. The study adopted an integrated approach, using in situ and remote sensing data, as well as the output of current models. The data reveal variability in the area's hydrography induced by local freshwater sources, the Western Adriatic Current (WAC) flowing from the north along the Italian coast, and the current patterns under different wind regimes. Specifically, exchange with offshore waters in the gulf induces variability in salinity and biogeochemical content, even within the same season, i.e. winter, in our case. This strong dependence on physical and biogeochemical factors makes the Manfredonia-Gargano ecosystem vulnerable to climate change, which could compromise its important role as a nursery area for the Adriatic Sea.

Changes in environmental stressors inevitably lead to an increasing need for innovative and more flexible monitoring tools. The aim of this work has been the characterization of the motility pattern of the cryopreserved sea bream semen after exposure to a dumpsite leachate sample, for the identification of the best representative parameters to be used as endpoints in an ecotoxicological bioassay. Sperm motility has been evaluated either by visual and by computer-assisted analysis; parameters concerning motility on activation and those describing it in the times after activation (duration parameters) have been assessed, discerning them in terms of sensitivity, reliability and methodology of assessment by means of multivariate analyses. The EC50 values of the evaluated endpoints ranged between 2.3 and 4.5 ml/L, except for the total motile percentage (aTM, 7.0 ml/L), which proved to be the less sensitive among all the tested parameters. According to the multivariate analyses, a difference in sensitivity among "activation" endpoints in respect of "duration" ones can be inferred; on the contrary, endpoints seem to be equally informative either describing total motile sperm or the rapid sub-population, as well as the assessment methodology seems to be not discriminating. In conclusion, the CRYO-Ecotest is a multi-endpoint bioassay that can be considered a promising innovative ecotoxicological tool, characterized by a high plasticity, as its endpoints can be easy tailored each time according to the different needs of the environmental quality assessment programs. (C) 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Coastal lagoons are highly vulnerable to climate change-related pressures, such as floods and increasing temperatures, which lead to higher oxygen consumption, anaerobic metabolism and dystrophic events. Although these factors have a significant impact on the carbon cycle, the dynamics of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in these systems have not been extensively investigated. DOM can be analytically determined from the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and/or from the spectral properties of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM), which is the light-absorbing fraction of DOM. In the present study, we investigated the spatio-temporal distribution of surface water trophic variables (Chl a and DOC) and CDOM in two Mediterranean lagoon systems, the Oristano Lagoon-Gulf system (OLG) and the Varano Lagoon (VL), in order to provide quantitative information on the dynamics of DOM in these systems. Furthermore, we assessed the value of CDOM-related indices (i.e. absorption coefficients, spectral slopes and Specific UV Absorbance at 254 nm [SUVA254]) as tools for describing the dynamics of DOM in coastal lagoons, irrespective of geographical settings, environmental conditions and anthropogenic pressures. In OLG, spatial heterogeneity and compartmentalization, with salinity varying from 50 (Mistras Lagoon), affected the distribution of DOC and CDOM, with the lowest values on the south side and at sites far from riverine input. In OLG, the highest DOC and CDOM values were found in the sediment pore-water of the organic-rich Cabras Lagoon, where they were nearly double those of the water column. In VL, salinity was homogeneously distributed throughout the lagoon, which indicated a mixing of freshwater with marine waters. DOC and CDOM values were on average lower in VL than in OLG. However, in VL, DOC and CDOM showed strong peaks following a flood (September 2014) and a dystrophic event (July 2015), demonstrating the quick response of the system to environmental perturbation. In OLG, absorption coefficients at 280 nm and 350 nm were slightly negatively correlated with salinity, which indicated the influence of terrigenous inputs at riverine sites. In contrast, in VL, CDOM varied linearly and positively with salinity as a result of the in situ input of organic matter from phytoplankton during the dry season. Segment analysis showed that besides the differences between the two investigated systems, the trophic variables and optical parameters analyzed in the present study shared a common relationship. These results suggest that CDOM indices can be good predictors for the estimation of DOM. Overall, the present study provides insight into the dynamics of DOC and CDOM in little-studied Mediterranean lagoons and demonstrates that the CDOM indices can be a valuable, cost-effective and simple tool for describing the trophic conditions of these systems.]

In the Ross Sea the dissolved organic matter and the role of culturable heterotrophic microbes in its degradation are almost unknown. In the carbon cycle, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration and its optically significant fraction, the chromophoric component (CDOM) are important for DOM budget estimates. Within the CELEBeR project [Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW) Effects on glaciaL mElting and on Bulk of Fe in the Western Ross sea - PNRA], DOC and CDOM, culturable heterotrophic bacteria and the enzymatic activities, expressed by bacterial isolates, were examined in the Ross Sea during the austral summer 2017, in relation to CDW contribution. The covered areas were the Drygalski Ice Tongue and the nearby Terra Nova Bay polynya (A) and the continental Shelf Break area near Cape Adare (B). Within the area A, the lowest DOC (38.33 µM), CDOM (a280 of 0.27 m-1) and SUVA254 (0.54 L mg-1 m-1) were measured at 225 m (CDW); the highest DOC (63.29 µM), CDOM (a280 of 1.39 m-1) and SUVA254 (1.6 L mg-1 m-1) were recorded at the northernmost area B (DCM), also characterized by the lowest spectral slopes (SR= 1.37). Heterotrophic bacteria ranged from 5.0x101 (CDW) to 7.0x103 CFU/ml (DCM); aminopeptidase and alkaline phosphatase were the most expressed enzymes. Based on microbial cells counting, the distribution of heterothrophic bacteria seems to be not affected by DOC concentration and its composition, as highlighted by the lack of correlations between the two variable sets.

Xanthones represent a class of naturally occurring compounds with valuable and promising reported pharmacological activities. One of the main disadvantages in the use of such products is related to the difficulties in their chemical synthesis. In this Letter a new and improved method for the chemical synthesis of xanthones is described. The title compounds have been synthesized in good yields under microwave irradiation from substituted 2-hydroxybenzoic acids and phenols in the presence of Yb(OTf)3 hydrate as the catalyst.

Integrated classification maps were produced by combining sediment grain-size and hydrological data (water renewal time, WRT) from two Mediterranean lagoons, Lesina (LL) and Varano (LV), Italy. The geophysical characteristics of the two basins, derived from detailed bathymetric charts, are quite distinct: ∼30% of LL (mean depth ∼1 m) but only 3% of LV (mean depth ∼3 m) is shallower than 1 m. The sediments of both lagoons are mainly composed of mud (∼80%). A detailed multivariate analysis of grain-size data by EntropyMax classified the lagoon beds of LL and LV into five sedimentary facies. WRT data, computed by a hydrodynamic model, indicated different hydrological conditions in the two lagoons: LL showed a sharp west–east gradient, with a basin-wide average of ∼190 days, whilst LV showed a fairly uniform distribution and a higher basin-wide average (∼260 days). The distribution of sedimentary facies and water renewal times were combined in a composite map representing the distribution of environmental patterns. The approach outlined in this study can be used to improve zonation schemes by providing a hydromorphological perspective on transitional and coastal environments., This is the accepted version/post-print of the article Molinaroli, E.; Sarretta, A.; Ferrarin, C.; Masiero, E.; Specchiulli, A.; Guerzoni, S. Sediment grain size and hydrodynamics in mediterranean coastal lagoons: Integrated classification of abiotic parameters. Journal of Earth System Science 2014, 123, 1097-1114. Available online: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12040-014-0445-9

The effects on the microtidal lagoon of Lesina of runoff and the discharge of water and material from agricultural activities were investigated combining chemical analyses of pollutants [11 metals and 16 priority polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAHs)], determination of organic matter and grain size, and performance of innovative ecotoxicological tests. For metals, enrichment factors >3 for arsenic, nickel, and copper (Cu) were observed in the eastern zone of the lagoon, which is affected by nearby urban activities with discharge of water and domestic waste and by agricultural input with waters rich in fertilizers. Cu was correlated with no other metal, and its high concentrations (≤77 µg g(-1)) may result from the use of Cu-based fungicides in vineyards. Total PAHs (2,230 ± 3,150 ng g(-1)) displayed a wide range of concentrations with hot spots near freshwater inputs from the part of the catchment area exploited for wheat crops. Pyrolitic contamination also emerged, with higher-mass PAH congeners, such as asphalt, bitumen or coal, usually present in higher fractions as the dominant components. Ecotoxicological evaluations recorded moderate to high toxicity levels; the innovative MOT test bioassay showed good discriminatory ability because it identified a lagoon area whose inputs mainly depend on agricultural activities and which is impacted by metals rather than PAHs. Floods during periods of heavy rain and the discharge of water and material from agricultural activities may impact vulnerable systems, such as the lagoon of Lesina, where the presence of hot spots with remarkably high pollution values was observed.

1 - This study related recent distribution changes in seven macroalgae taxa (Acetabularia acetabulum, Chaetomorpha linum, Cladophora sp., Gracilariopsis longissima, Spyridia sp., Ulva laetevirens, Valonia aegagrophyla) to spatial (basin) and temporal (time) trophic differences in a meso-eutrophic Mediterranean coastal lagoon (Orbetello, Italy). 2 - In July 2003 and July 2009, the coverage percentage (CP) of each considered taxon was measured in 38 stations equally distributed in the Western and Eastern lagoon basins. All data were analysed using SURFER v8.0 software along with ANOVA, ANOSIM and multivariate analyses to produce geostatistical spatial distribution maps and to estimate statistical probabilities for "basin" and "time" factors. 3 - Data from this study were integrated with data on phanerogams reported by Giovani et al. (2010) to evaluate changes occurring at a functional group level from 2003-2009 using the Ecological Evaluation Index (EEI). 4 - Observed macroalgae changes may have been due to lagoon management activities performed during the study period. The removal of direct nitrate inputs seems to have forced specie-specific shifts that were highly significant only in the Western basin. 5 - Statistically significant differences at the taxon level have been indicated for Spyridia sp. (basin and time) and Cladophora sp. (time) taxa. Other non-significant changes included a rarefaction of Chaetomorpha linumin the Western basin and Spyridia sp. in the Eastern basin, and an increase of Gracilariopsis longissima, C. linum and Valonia aegagrophyla in the Eastern basin. 6 - EEI application indicated a general improvement in water quality due to management measures applied in Western basin, whereas the Eastern basin evidences stability/slight degradation from 2003-2009.

Abra segmentum is a common and frequently abundant species in the Mediterranean coastal lagoons, playing a dominant role, both in numbers and biomass, in the infauna of these habitats and is an important food for a variety of species. 2 - The main objective of this work is to describe the renewal time of Abra segmentum in Lesina lagoon. The insurgence of hydrogen sulphide which exterminated the benthic macrofauna in an area of Lesina lagoon during July 2008 allowed us to accurately observe the re-colonization time of this bivalve. In order to achieve this aim, the population structure and spatial distribution of A. segmentum before and after the dystrophic crisis were investigated in the entire Lesina lagoon and, in detail, in the area affected by the crisis. 3 - 51 sampling units were collected in Lesina lagoon in May and October 2008, allowing to compare the situation before and after the dystrophic crisis. The length-frequency distribution showed the existence of two size groups in both May and October 2008. The individuals were counted, their individual length measured and their total wet biomass weighed. 4 - The total number of individuals decreased after the crisis in the entire lagoon, but this drop was strongly observed in the perturbed area. The length-frequency distribution showed the existence of two size groups in both May and October 2008. After dystrophic crisis, the two size groups were clearly separated and juveniles group (2-5 mm) was located in the area interested by dystrophic event. 5 - The results obtained in this study highlight the rapidity of re-colonisation of A. segmentum after the strong disturbance caused by the insurgence of dystrophic crisis. The dynamics of the population was particularly clear when considering the area affected by the dystrophic crisis. In May the population was structured as in the rest of the lagoon, but in October there was a marked difference. The insurgence of a dystrophic crisis in Lesina lagoon allowed to clearly observe the resilience of A. segmentum to environmental stress, confirming it as an r strategy species.

There has been a worldwide increase in the number of Marine Protected Areas and marine reserves over the last decade. In these areas, the protection measures adopted are related to specific management goals; nevertheless, actual knowledge of the effectiveness of the restrictions is far from exhaustive. This article aims to contribute to knowledge of the environmental quality of the marine reserves in the Tuscan Archipelago (Mediterranean central area) which is composed of seven islands at different levels of protection. A monitoring programme spanning multiple years was performed on water and sediment samples to finalise a definition of the trophic levels and the response of microbiological indicators (total heterotrophic bacteria, Actynomyces, hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria) to persistent organic pollutants (polychlorinated biphenyls, 1,1-bis-(4-chlorophenyl)-2,2-dichloroethene, hexachlorobenzene and polybrominated diphenyl ethers) was assessed. The results showed that these reserves were generally of good quality. A clear fingerprint produced by human activities along the coast and significant differences relating to the level of protection were observed. There exists the need to also consider basin dynamics when planning the protection management strategies adopted for marine reserves.

We examined the clinical and radiographic results of 93 patients affected by knee arthritis or osteonecrosis subjected to unilateral cementless mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty with the LCS prothesis (Depuy/Johnson & Johnson). The mean follow-up was 9.5 years (range, 7–12 years). Clinical evaluation was performed using the Knee Society rating system, while radiographic evaluation was done according to the Knee Society roentgenographic system. At the latest follow-up, the mean knee score was 87 points: the functional score improved from 40 to 90. Radiolucent lines were small and not progressive. The implant survival at 12 years was 88%. Six knees (7%) required revision for implant-related problems. We conclude that the mobile-bearing prosthesis is a successful device even at long-term follow-up.

1 - Total levels of persistent organic pollutants (polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) in sediments and edible tissues (muscle and liver) from a fish species of great local commercial interest (Anguilla anguilla L., yellow phase) were determined in Varano and Orbetello lagoons, Italy. 2 - The aim of this study was to improve knowledge on relationships occurring among levels of chemicals in sediments and fish tissues relating them reciprocally and to different intensities of human pressure. 3 - Studied ecosystems were selected due to the notable scientific knowledge acquired by previous detailed research on meteorology, geomorphology, hydrodynamics, types and distribution of local factors linked to different sources of human-made pollution. Samplings were performed in July 2009 according to a logic model based on a priori defined factors of interest and obtained results were statistically analysed in order to evaluate the significance of observed data segregation related to the selected factors. 4 - Concerning levels measured in sediments, significant differences were observed between lagoons in terms of ΣPAHs and ΣOCPs. According to National and international recognised sediment quality guidelines, results evidenced the occurrence of non-critical POPs values in sediments. 5 - Results on sediments are associated to very high levels in eel's tissues. Concerning eels, Orbetello lagoon is characterized by significant higher values of ΣOCPs than Varano, evidencing the presence of an important OCPs local source. 6 - Different human pressure levels produce significant differences in both sediments and eel's tissues in Varano and Orbetello lagoons. © 2013 University of Salento- SIBA.

1 - Mediterranean lagoons are naturally exposed, during the dry season, to dystrophic and hypoxic events determining dis-equilibrium conditions along temporal and spatial scales, which are linked to metabolism and life cycle of the biotic components. 2 - In summer 2008, Lesina lagoon (SE Italian coastline) was interested by a geographically localized dystrophic crisis which affected up to 8% of the total lagoon surface. 3 - Temporal dynamics of principal descriptors of abiotic (water, sediment) and biotic (phytoplankton, benthic macroinvertebrate) compartments have been followed during the 2008 by collecting data inside stressed and control lagoon areas before a dystrophic event and in the six months after the dystrophic event. 4 - The aim of the study was to analyse the pathways of ecosystem responses to dystrophic stress, searching for the characteristic scales of ecosystem compartment resistance and resilience. 5 - The characteristic time-scale of abiotic and biotic component time responses varied from days, for the selected markers of the water column, to year, for the benthic ones. Short-term biotic and abiotic responses in the water column were strongly coupled while biotic and abiotic responses at the sediment level were remarkably un-coupled. Dynamics and recovery time of water column and benthic components do not match in Lesina following the dystrophic crisis, highlighting an intrinsic individualistic behavior within the lagoon community driving ecosystem processes and ecosystem level responses. 6 - Taxonomic and non-taxonomic descriptors of both phytoplankton and benthic macroinvertebrates showed different response patterns as early warning signals and overall resilience. The emphasized differences in the stability components, i.e., resistance and resilience, of water column and sediment abiotic and biotic characteristics as well as of taxonomic and non-taxonomic descriptors has key implication in planning monitoring strategies and programs for transitional waters in the Mediterranean and Black Sea EcoRegions. © 2013 University of Salento - SIBA.

Xanthones represent a class of naturally occurring compounds with valuable and promising reported pharmacological activities. One of the main disadvantages in the use of such products is related to the difficulties in their chemical synthesis. In this Letter a new and improved method for the chemical synthesis of xanthones is described. The title compounds have been synthesized in good yields under microwave irradiation from substituted 2-hydroxybenzoic acids and phenols in the presence of Yb(OTf)3 hydrate as the catalyst.

Presentazione attività e risultati del progetto SSD Pesca, Sistema di Supporto alle Decisioni per la gestione sostenibile della Pesca

Samples of surface sediments and tissues (liver and muscle) of commercially available European silver eels (Anguilla anguilla L.) collected from Varano lagoon (Italy) were analysed to determine trace element contents. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to highlight both the differences between sampling sites and the influence of channel discharges. Atomic ratios indices for sediment data and biological enrichment factors (BEF) for eel tissues were calculated in order to evaluate the enrichment factor due to human activities. The highest levels of As (11.9 mu g g(-1)) and Zn (14.1 mu g g(-1)) were observed in the south-eastern zone of the lagoon, which is influenced by urban and agricultural discharges. The low levels of Hg observed in this study (0.04 mu g g(-1)) led us to exclude both natural and human local sources of this element. Trace element concentrations of all elements were lower in muscle than in liver tissue. Significant enrichment of Cu and Zn was found in livers.

La degradazione della sostanza organica sedimentaria dipende da complessi processi fisico-chimici in grado di influenzare la disponibilità dei nutrienti in soluzione acquosa e di modulare, indirettamente, le proliferazioni macroalgali. La presenza/assenza di ossigeno rappresenta un fattore chiave interferendo a vari livelli con le reazioni chimiche in atto. Nonostante ciò, le relazioni tra il livello di ossigeno e la composizione biochimica della sostanza organica sedimentaria non sono ben documentati. In questo studio, carote di sedimento prelevate in un sistema lagunare meso-eutrofico (Orbetello), sono state incubate per un mese in condizioni di ossigenazione/anossia forzata effettuando prelievi di acqua interstiziale e di sedimento a cedenza regolare durante il periodo di studio. I risultati ottenuti hanno evidenziato che l'ossigenazione forzata riduce i livelli di carbonati e fosfati in acqua ed accelera il processo di nitrificazione producendo una dominanza di nitrati rispetto alle forme di nitriti e ammoniaca maggiormente presenti in condizioni di anossia. Un significativo incremento della sostanza organica refrattaria, associato ad una riduzione delle forme labili e del rapporto proteine/carboidrati, è osservabile nei sedimenti ossigenati. L'ossigeno agisce aumentando la conversione del ferro nella forma ferrica, riducendo i livelli degli orto fosfati in acqua mediante adsorbimento e chelazione. I trattamenti differiscono significativamente dai controlli entro i primi sei centimetri di spessore dello strato sedimentario ad indicare una diffusione limitata dell'ossigeno e dei suoi effetti sulla degradazione della sostanza organica in assenza di perturbazioni meccaniche del sedimento superficiale.

This study evaluates recent distribution changes of three phanerogam (Ruppia cirrhosa, Cymodocea nodosa, Nanozostera noltii) and seven macroalgae taxa (Acetabularia acetabulum, Chaetomorpha linum, Cladophora vagabunda, Cladophora battersii, Gracilariopsis longissima, Spyridia filamentosa., Ulva laetevirens, Valonia aegagrophyla) in a meso-eutrophic Mediterranean coastal lagoon (Orbetello, Italy). The aim of this study was to relate, on a statistical basis, distribution and dominance changes to different factors: low-range trophic differences between lagoon areas (basin), temporal changes (year), levels of surfactants (pollution). In July 2003, 2009, and 2011 the percentage of coverage of each considered species was estimated in 38 sites equally distributed inside Western and Eastern basins. Collected data were analysed using SURFER v8.0 and Primer E package v6.0 software to produce respectively geostatistical distribution maps and associated probabilities. Surfer maps evidenced changes in macroalgae distribution during the studied period and statistical analyses supported observed differences related to factors years, basin, and pollution. Major effects are due to changes recorded for only changes of Nanozostera, Cladophora and Spyridia taxa concerning both distributions and abundances. Observed changes could have been due to management activities performed during 2003-2009. The removal of direct nitrate inputs produced specie-specific shifts characterized by a rarefaction of C. linum, Cladophora sp., and Spyridia sp. and an increase of G. longissima and V. aegagrophyla.

The concentrations of 16 PAHs in surface sediments collected from four Italian lagoons, exploited for aquaculture and fishing activities, during the period 2004-2007, were analysed. Some molecular ratios and Pearson correlations were used in order to estimate the origin of the pollution and similar transport of PAH sources. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster Analysis were used in order to highlight dissimilarities among sampling sites. Concentrations of total 16 PAHs varied significantly among the lagoons as well as within the same basin. Sediments of Orbetello lagoon showed the highest level of contamination (mean of 98.78 ng g1), followed by that in Santa Giusta (48.15 ng g1), Lesina (31.06 ng g1) and Varano (25.19 ng g1). These results were linked to the greater industrialisation and urbanisation of the catchment area of both Orbetello and Santa Giusta compared with Lesina and Varano. A considerable predominance of 4-rings PAHs was observed for Lesina (52%,), Varano (77%), Orbetello (50%) and Santa Giusta (57%) and Pyrene was the dominant compound. On the other hand, phenanthrene is the dominant compound of low molecular weight contaminants for all the studied lagoons. A meaningful pyrolytic contribution to pollution was found in the sediments of Lesina lagoon, dominated by benzo[a]pyrene (7.27 ng g1) and benz[a]anthracene (4.14 ng g1), due to intensive traffic. For Varano, an evident petrogenic contamination was observed along the western area, due probably to accidental oil spillage. All 16 PAHs were found to be correlated in Orbetello and Santa Giusta lagoons and the compounds present in Santa Giusta sediments, near the urban centre, were shown to be mainly of pyrolytic origin. A much more complex situation was observed in Orbetello, where a mixed pattern of pyrolytic and petrogenic inputs was observed.