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Some years ago, we reported the generation of a Fanconi anemia (FA) microRNA signature. This study aims to develop an analytical strategy to select a smaller and more reliable set of molecules that could be tested for potential benefits for the FA phenotype, elucidate its biochemical and molecular mechanisms, address experimental activity, and evaluate its possible impact on FA therapy. In silico analyses of the data obtained in the original study were thoroughly processed and anenrichment analysis was employed to identify the classes of genes that are over-represented in the FA-miRNA population under study. Primary bone marrow mononuclear cells (MNCs) from sixFA patients and sixhealthy donors as control samples were employed in the study. RNAs containing the small RNA fractions were reverse-transcribed and real-time PCR was performed in triplicate using the specific primers. Experiments were performed in triplicate.The in-silico analysis reported six miRNAs as likely contributors to the complex pathological spectrum of FA. Among these, three miRNAs were validated by real-time PCR. Primary bone marrow mononuclear cells (MNCs) reported a significant reduction in the expression level of miRNA-1246 and miRNA-206 in the FA samples in comparison to controls.This study highlights several biochemical pathways as culprits in the phenotypic manifestations and the pathophysiological mechanisms acting in FA. A relatively low number of miRNAs appear involved in all these different phenotypes, demonstrating the extreme plasticity of the gene expression modulation. This study further highlights miR-206 as a pivotal player in regulatory functions and signaling in the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) process in FA. Due to this evidence, the activity of miR-206 in FA deserves specific experimental scrutiny. The results, here presented, might be relevant in the management of FA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serine/arginine-rich splicing factors (SRSFs) are a family of proteins involved in RNA metabolism, including pre-mRNA constitutive and alternative splicing. The role of SRSF proteins in regulating mitochondrial activity has already been shown for SRSF6, but SRSF4 altered expression has never been reported as a cause of bone marrow failure. An 8-year-old patient admitted to the hematology unit because of leukopenia, lymphopenia, and neutropenia showed a missense variant of unknown significance of the SRSF4 gene (p.R235W) found via whole genome sequencing analysis and inherited from the mother who suffered from mild leuko-neutropenia. Both patients showed lower SRSF4 protein expression and altered mitochondrial function and energetic metabolism in primary lymphocytes and Epstein–Barr-virus (EBV)-immortalized lymphoblasts compared to healthy donor (HD) cells, which appeared associated with low mTOR phosphorylation and an imbalance in the proteins regulating mitochondrial biogenesis (i.e., CLUH) and dynamics (i.e., DRP1 and OPA1). Transfection with the wtSRSF4 gene restored mitochondrial function. In conclusion, this study shows that the described variant of the SRSF4 gene is pathogenetic and causes reduced SRSF4 protein expression, which leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. Since mitochondrial function is crucial for hematopoietic stem cell maintenance and some genetic bone marrow failure syndromes display mitochondrial defects, the SRSF4 mutation could have substantially contributed to the clinical phenotype of our patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of the hydrography and biogeochemistry of the Adriatic Sea over the last century was summarized in this review to point out any changes in river runoff and provide an overview of the cause and effect of these trends on marine ecosystems. Although several rivers flow into the Adriatic, the most affected area is the northern Adriatic, where the Po River loads into the basin half of the total freshwater input, carrying river runoff and causing algal blooms and hypoxia phenomena. These fresh waters of the northern Adriatic flow predominantly along the entire western side, reaching the southernmost part of the basin up to the Mediterranean Sea. Here, and in the whole basin, variations in river runoff and nutrient concentration have been observed through the years. Starting from 1960 until the end of the century, an increase in nutrient discharge and phytoplankton activity was reported, with negative repercussions on local fisheries, species richness, and recreational activities within the basin. However, a recent decrease in river inflow has been observed along the coastal belt, which can trigger negative consequences for the food web of the marine ecosystem. These trends, more broadly, corroborate the vulnerability of the Adriatic Sea and stress the importance of implementing strategies for the defense of the relevant ecosystems within its confines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last two decades of the 21st century, a gradual decrease in nitrogen and phosphorus has been observed along the coastal area of the Northern Adriatic Sea. This depletion is attributed to reduced river flows. Studies conducted over the past four decades have indicated that the N/P ratio in the open sea is unlikely to undergo significant change. In fact, it tends to increase due to the unique characteristics of the Northern Adriatic Sea, which experiences slow water turnover and is influenced by strong winds. Additionally, the Northern Adriatic Sea receives a substantial amount of freshwater from rivers, accounting for about one-third of the total freshwater flow into the Mediterranean. These rivers carry nutrient loads that contribute to the high productivity and abundance of fish in this sea, making it one of the most productive areas in the Mediterranean. It has been observed that the cessation of anthropogenic phosphorus input, which has been regulated since the late 1980s with legislation limiting its use in detergents, has significantly affected the trophic chain. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the eutrophication trend in the Northern Adriatic Sea, highlighting the importance long-term data series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deposition of stem cells at sites of injury is a clinically relevant approach to facilitate tissue repair and angiogenesis. However, insufficient cell engraftment and survival require the engineering of novel scaffolds. Here, a regular network of microscopic poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) filaments was investigated as a promising biodegradable scaffold for human Adipose-Derived Stem Cell (hADSC) tissue integration. Via soft lithography, three different microstructured fabrics were realized where 5 × 5 and 5 × 3 μm PLGA 'warp' and 'weft' filaments crossed perpendicularly with pitch distances of 5, 10 and 20 μm. After hADSC seeding, cell viability, actin cytoskeleton, spatial organization and the secretome were characterized and compared to conventional substrates, including collagen layers. On the PLGA fabric, hADSC re-assembled to form spheroidal-like structures, preserving cell viability and favoring a nonlinear actin organization. Moreover, the secretion of specific factors involved in angiogenesis, the remodeling of the extracellular matrix and stem cell homing was favored on the PLGA fabric as compared to that which occurred on conventional substrates. The paracrine activity of hADSC was microstructure-dependent, with 5 μm PLGA fabric enhancing the expression of factors involved in all three processes. Although more studies are needed, the proposed PLGA fabric would represent a promising alternative to conventional collagen substrates for stem cell implantation and angiogenesis induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is one of the main problems currently strongly conditioning ecosystems all over the world. Coastal lagoons are amongst the most vulnerable habitats, and they are undergoing extensive human impact due to their high production rates and the close proximity of urban and agricultural centers. The Mar Menor, the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe, is an example of a highly impacted ecosystem. In December 2016 and September 2019, climate change-induced DANA (upper-level isolated atmospheric depression) flooding events took place there, temporarily altering the lagoon oceanographic properties. Data gathered throughout the lagoon (11 stations inside and 1 outside the lagoon) from 2016 to 2021 were analyzed in order to assess the variability of seawater parameters: salinity, density, chlorophyll-a, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen, due to DANA events. Results showed a change in seawater parameters that were reestablished at different rates, 4 and 10 months in 2016 and 2019, respectively, following a description of the environmental conditions and effects that have been reported after extreme rainfall in the lagoon. The amount of rainfall correlated with changes in the analyzed seawater parameters, such as an increase in turbidity and chlorophyll-a values. Furthermore, turbidity correlated with chlorophyll-a and oxygen saturation, while density correlated with salinity. Such extreme weather events are worsened by climate change, growing more frequent and between shorter intervals in time. In order to decelerate ecosystem decline, comprehensive management plans are needed to address the various factors that might add to anthropic impacts in natural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundance and distribution of commercial marine resources are influenced by environmental variables, which together with fishery patterns may also influence their catchability. However, Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) can be standardized in order to remove most of the variability not directly attributable to fish abundance. In the present study, Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) were used to investigate the effect of some environmental and fishery covariates on the spatial distribution and abundance of the Norway lobster Nephrops norvegicus within the Pomo/Jabuka Pits (Central Adriatic Sea) and to include those that resulted significant in a standardization process. N. norvegicus is a commercially important demersal crustacean, altering its catchability over the 24-h cycle and seasons according to its burrowing behavior. A historically exploited fishing ground for this species, since 2015 subject to specific fisheries management measures, is represented by the meso-Adriatic depressions, which are also characterized by particular oceanographic conditions. Both the species behaviour and the features of this study area influence the dynamics of the population offering a challenging case study for a standardization modelling approach. Environmental and catch data were obtained during scientific trawl surveys properly designed to catch N. norvegicus, thus improving the quality of the model input data. Standardization of CPUE from 2 surveys from 2012 to 2019 was conducted building two GAMs for both biomass and density indices. Bathymetry, fishing pressure, dissolved oxygen and salinity proved to be significant drivers influencing catch distribution. After cross validations, the tuned models were then used to predict new indices for the study area and the two survey series by means of informed spatial grids, composed by constant surface cells, to each of which are associated average values of environmental parameters and specific levels of fishing pressure, depending on the management measures in place. The predictions can be used to better describe the structure and the spatio-temporal distribution of the population providing valuable information to evaluate the status of such an important marine resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transfer of communication and knowledge from science and research to the general public is a paramount step to raise people's awareness about environmental issues and their negative and positive impacts on each of us. Many projects and initiatives seek to raise awareness among citizens, with particular attention to young people, about the importance of maintaining clean and healthy oceans. With this paper, we aim to present the successful communication initiatives developed during two Interreg projects, AdSWiM and WATERCARE, with schools and educational organisations on the local and national levels in Italy and Croatia. Both projects make a special effort to realize dedicated communication strategies with the objective of raising the awareness of environmental topics and issues among young people (i.e., students of different school grades) and teachers. The promotion of ocean literacy among students is crucial, as children and young people represent the future citizens and consumers who will develop attitudes and make decisions that will inevitably affect the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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). • Data on abiotic parameters were gathered in 12 Adriatic ports. • Seasonal Adriatic circulation patterns were modelled. • The seasonal circulation patterns from each port towards the open sea were modelled. • The barrier effect between port and adjacent open sea was analysed. • Possible scenarios for secondary HAOP spread from the 12 ports are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Port baseline surveys (PBS) provide species inventories in and around ports, with a focus on non-indigenous species that may have been introduced by vessels, primarily via ballast water. PBS are an essential tool to support effective management strategies for non-indigenous as well as native harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens (HAOP). This paper describes the methodology of PBS that were conducted in 12 Adriatic ports. The PBS employed existing protocols that were adapted to meet the characteristics of the Adriatic sites. Their results are reported in several papers included in this special issue, each of which is devoted to a specific community. An overview of existing surveys protocols – which provide valuable support to decision-making and to design effective monitoring of non-indigenous species – is also supplied. • Existing port baseline surveys protocols and their pros and cons are discussed. • The port baseline survey protocol for the Adriatic is described. • Recommendations based on the Adriatic PBS experience are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ports are subject to a variety of anthropogenic impacts, and there is mounting evidence of faecal contamination through several routes. Yet, little is known about pollution in ports by faecal indicator bacteria (FIB). FIB spatio-temporal dynamics were assessed in 12 ports of the Adriatic Sea, a semi-enclosed basin under strong anthropogenic pressure, and their relationships with environmental variables were explored to gain insight into pollution sources. FIB were abundant in ports, often more so than in adjacent areas; their abundance patterns were related to salinity, oxygen, and nutrient levels. In addition, a molecular method, quantitative (q)PCR, was used to quantify FIB. qPCR enabled faster FIB determination and water quality monitoring that culture-based methods. These data provide robust baseline evidence of faecal contamination in ports and can be used to improve the management of routine port activities (dredging and ballast water exchange), having potential to spread pathogens in the sea. • Ports are faecally polluted. • EC and ENT abundance is higher in sediments than the overlying water. • Abundance of microbial pollutants varies considerably across time and space. • Patterns in faecal pollution appear to be related with salinity, oxygen and nutrients. • Molecular methods permit more rapid quantification of FIB than cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An inventory of phytoplankton diversity in 12 Adriatic ports was performed with the port baseline survey. Particular emphasis was put on the detection of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens (HAOP) because of their negative impact on ecosystem, human health, and the economy. Phytoplanktonic HAOP are identified as species, either native or non-indigenous (NIS), which can trigger harmful algal blooms (HAB). A list of 691 taxa was prepared, and among them 52 were classified as HAB and five as NIS. Records of toxigenic NIS (Pseudo-nitzschia multistriata , Ostreopsis species including O. cf. ovata) indicate that the intrusion of non-native invasive phytoplankton species has already occurred in some Adriatic ports. The seasonal occurrence and abundance of HAOP offers a solid baseline for a monitoring design in ports in order to prevent ballast water uptake and possible expansion of HAOP outside their native region. • Port baseline survey of phytoplankton was carried out in 12 Adriatic ports. • 691 taxa were identified and typical seasonal community patterns were outlined. • Pseudo-nitzschia , Alexandrium , and Dinophysis were the most frequent and abundant HAB. • P. multistriata and Ostreopsis cf. ovata are NIS of the greatest harmful potential. • The phytoplankton list provides grounds for monitoring HAOP in Adriatic ports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ross Sea is one of the most productive areas of the Southern Ocean and includes several functionally different marine ecosystems. With the aim of identifying signs and patterns of microbial response to current climate change, seawater microbial populations were sampled at different depths, from surface to the bottom, at two Ross Sea mooring areas southeast of Victoria Land in Antarctica. This oceanographic experiment, the XX Italian Antarctic Expedition, 2004-05, was carried out in the framework of the ABIOCLEAR project as part of LTER-Italy. Here, microbial biogeochemical rates of respiration, carbon dioxide production, total community heterotrophic energy production, prokaryotic heterotrophic activity, production (by 3H-leucine uptake) and prokaryotic biomass (by image analysis) were determined throughout the water column. As ancillary parameters, chlorophyll a, adenosine-triphosphate concentrations, temperature and salinity were measured and reported. Microbial metabolism was highly variable amongst stations and depths. In epi- and mesopelagic zones, respiratory rates varied between 52.4-437.0 and 6.3-271.5 nanol O2 l-1 h-1; prokaryotic heterotrophic production varied between 0.46-29.5 and 0.3-6.11 nanog C l-1 h-1; and prokaryotic biomass varied between 0.8-24.5 and 1.1-9.0 µg C l-1, respectively. The average heterotrophic energy production ranged between 570 and 103 mJ l-1 h-1 in upper and deeper layers, respectively. In the epipelagic layer, the Prokaryotic Carbon Demand and Prokaryotic Growth Efficiency averaged 9 times higher and 2 times lower, respectively, than in the mesopelagic one. The distribution of plankton metabolism and organic matter degradation was mainly related to the different hydrological and trophic conditions. In comparison with previous research, the Ross Sea results, here, evidenced a relatively impoverished oligotrophic microbial community, throughout the water column. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of empirical band ratio models were evaluated for the estimation of Coloured Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) using MODIS ocean colour sensor images and data collected on the North-Central Western Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean Sea). Relationships between in situ measurements (2013-2016) of CDOM absorption coefficients at 355 nm (aCDOM355) with several MODIS satellite band ratios were evaluated on a test data set. The prediction capability of the different linear models was assessed on a validation data set. Based on some statistical diagnostic parameters (R2, APD and RMSE), the best MODIS band ratio performance in retrieving CDOM was obtained by a simple linear model of the transformed dependent variable using the remote sensing reflectance band ratio Rrs(667)/Rrs(488) as the only independent variable. The best-retrieved CDOM algorithm provides very good results for the complex coastal area along the North-CentralWestern Adriatic Sea where the Po River outflow is the main driving force in CDOM and nutrient circulation, which in winter mostly remains confined to a coastal boundary layer, whereas in summer it spreads to the open sea as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 80% of wastewaters are discharged into rivers or seas, with a negative impact on water quality along the coast due to the presence of potential pathogens of faecal origin. Escherichia coli and enterococci are important indicators to assess, monitor, and predict microbial water quality in natural ecosystems. During rainfall events, the amount of wastewater delivered to rivers and coastal systems is increased dramatically. This study implements measures capable of monitoring the pathways of wastewater discharge to rivers and the transport of faecal bacteria to the coastal area during and following extreme rainfall events. Spatio-temporal variability of faecal microorganisms and their relationship with environmental variables and sewage outflow in an area located in the western Adriatic coast (Fano, Italy) was monitored. The daily monitoring during the rainy events was carried out for two summer seasons, for a total of five sampling periods. These results highlight that faecal microbial contaminations were related to rainy events with a high flow of wastewater, with recovery times for the microbiological indicators varying between 24 and 72 h and influenced by a dynamic dispersion. The positive correlation between ammonium and faecal bacteria at the Arzilla River and the consequences in seawater can provide a theoretical basis for controlling ammonium levels in rivers as a proxy to monitor the potential risk of bathing waters pathogen pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the upper ocean thermal structure and surface nutrient concentrations between New Zealand and Antarctica along five transects that cross the Subantarctic Front, the Polar Front (PF) and the southern Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) front. The surface water thermal structure is coupled with variations in surface nutrient concentrations, making water masses identifiable by both temperature and nutrient ranges. In particular, a strong latitudinal gradient in orthosilicate concentration is centred at the PF. On the earlier sections that extend south-west from the Campbell Plateau, orthosilicate increases sharply southward from 10-15 to 50-55 µmol-1 between 58° S and 60° S, while surface temperature drops from 7°C to 2°C. Nitrate increases more regularly toward the south, with concentrations ranging from 10-12 µmol 1-1 at 54° S to 25-30 µmol l-1 at 66° S. The same features are observed during the later transects between New Zealand and the Ross Sea, but the sharp silica and surface temperature gradients are shifted between 60° S and 64° S. Both temporal and spatial factors may influence the observed variability. The January transect suggests an uptake of silica, orthophosphate and nitrate between 63° S and 70° S over the intervening month, with an average depletion near 37%, 44% and 29%, respectively. An N/P (nitrite+nitrate/orthophosphate) apparent drawdown ratio of 8.8 ± 4.1 and an Si/N (silicic acid/nitrite+nitrate) apparent drawdown ratio >1 suggest this depletion results from a seasonal diatom bloom. A southward movement of the oceanic fronts between New Zealand and the Ross Sea relative to prior measurements is consistent with reports of recent warming and changes in the ACC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) close to water bodies are a cause of grave environmental concern. In the past few decades, major storm events have become increasingly common in some regions, and the meteorological scenarios predict a further increase in their frequency. Consequently, CSO control and treatment according to best practices, the adoption of innovative treatment solutions and careful sewer system management are urgently needed. A growing number of publications has been addressing the quality, quantity and types of available water management and treatment options. In this study, we describe the construction of an innovative detention reservoir along the Arzilla River (Fano, Italy) whose function is to store diluted CSO wastewater exceeding the capacity of a combined drain system. River water sampling and testing for microbial contamination downstream of the tank after a heavy rain event found a considerable reduction of fecal coliform concentrations, which would have compounded the impact of stormwater on the bathing site. These preliminary results suggest that the detention tank exerted beneficial environmental effects on bathing water by lowering the microbial load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nutrient concentrations (orthophosphate, orthosilicate and dissolved inorganic nitrogen—DIN) were measured on three transects in the northern Adriatic approximately monthly in the period June 1999–July 2002. The net nutrient transports across the three transects were estimated from these concentration values and calculated water fluxes [Grilli F, Paschini E, Russo A, Precali R, Supić N. Circulation and horizontal fluxes in the Northern Adriatic Sea in the period June 1999_July 2002. Part I: geostrophic circulation and current measurement. Sci Total Environ 2005—this issue], with the aim to verify their possible role in the mucilage phenomenon. The nutrient transports in the northern Adriatic were very variable, seasonally and from year to year, both in intensity and direction. Some differences were noticed also among the nutrient species. At the northernmost transect Po Delta–Rovinj minimal values and variable directions were recorded, probably due to the prevailing of eastward transversal transports, observed already in late winter, and generally dominant in spring and summer. Northward transport was often measured at the central transect Cesenatico–Cape Kamenjak, particularly in spring 2000 and 2002, and summer 2001, as well as for only DIN in summer 1999. In contrast, southward directions prevailed at the southernmost transect Senigallia–Susak Island. In October significant southward transports occurred at all transects and for all nutrients, particularly strong in 2000, when exceptionally high Po River discharges occurred, and the Western Adriatic Current (WAC) was well developed. However, the nutrient transports in the upper water column were low or northwards at both transect Cesenatico–Cape Kamenjak and Senigallia–Susak Island in June and July 2000, 2001, and 2002, when the mucilage phenomenon developed, but were opposite in 1999, a year without events. The results suggest that high variations of nutrient fluxes and their ratios, in conditions of reduced water dynamics, are essential for the development of the phenomenon, rather than the absolute amounts of the nutrient inputs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The dramatic increase in the occurrence of massive mucilage events in the northern Adriatic (NA) since their recent conspicuous reappearance in the late 1980s prompted a study of circulation and horizontal fluxes. Three transects with equidistant stations (10 km) were thus monitored monthly between June 1999 and July 2002. The geostrophic method was used to compute currents across the three transects from the CTD data, and dynamic heights provided a picture of the horizontal surface circulation. Currentmeter data records were used to adjust the reference surface and to validate the results for the southernmost and deeper (up to 70 m) transect (Senigallia–Susak Island). Geostrophic currents allowed estimation of monthly water fluxes across the transect. Different circulation regimes in the NA were observed, which may have affected mucilage events. When mucilage was absent (1999) or reduced (2001) in the western sector, the Western Adriatic Current (WAC, carrying water out of the NA) was found to be active, whilst the WAC was very weak or reversed when massive mucilage events occurred (2000 and 2002). Opposite behaviour has been observed for the Istrian Coastal Counter-Current (ICCC, retaining freshwater water in the NA) which was more intense during or after massive mucilage events and did not appear when mucilage was absent. Both WAC weakening and ICCC strengthening indicate a longer residence time of riverine waters in the NA, which favours mucilage development. Conclusively, WAC and ICCC result as key elements in controlling massive mucilage phenomena in the NA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

. An assessment is made of the dominant processes governing the circulation in a 30 × 30 km area off the coast of Ancona, where surface current velocity vectors have been obtained using an HF Coastal Dynamics Applications Radar (CODAR). Throughout one year of measurements (September 1997-August 1998), certain aspects of the surface dynamics in this area have been analysed. In winter the surface circulation is intensified and mainly concentrated close to the coast (within 15-20 km from it); in the spring and summer months, surface currents are much weaker, and between summer and autumn, a single cyclonic eddy further offshore often dominates surface circulation. In this paper the CODAR velocity data have been used to compute the surface vorticity and divergence fields offshore Ancona. The vorticity field is shown to have generally well-defined patterns that are trackable in time despite the influence of winds and tides. The divergence field tends to be more variable spatially and temporally. However, it is an important descriptor of the irrotational motion and it is used, together with vorticity of the rotational flow, to illustrate the regional dynamics. In order to better visualize the rotary nature of the semidiurnal currents over the whole first year of study, these are presented in terms of ellipses. The direction of the semi-major axis shows a preferential behaviour parallel to the coastline over the entire study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to develop a relocatable modelling system able to describe the microbial contamination that affects the quality of coastal bathing waters. Pollution events are mainly triggered by urban sewer outflows during massive rainy events, with relevant negative consequences on the marine environment and tourism and related activities of coastal towns. A finite element hydrodynamic model was applied to five study areas in the Adriatic Sea, which differ for urban, oceanographic and morphological conditions. With the help of transport-diffusion and microbial decay modules, the distribution of Escherichia coli was investigated during significant events. The numerical investigation was supported by detailed in situ observational datasets. The model results were evaluated against water level, sea temperature, salinity and E. coli concentrations acquired in situ, demonstrating the capacity of the modelling suite in simulating the circulation in the coastal areas of the Adriatic Sea, as well as several main transport and diffusion dynamics, such as riverine and polluted waters dispersion. Moreover, the results of the simulations were used to perform a comparative analysis among the different study sites, demonstrating that dilution and mixing, mostly induced by the tidal action, had a stronger effect on bacteria reduction with respect to microbial decay. Stratification and estuarine dynamics also play an important role in governing microbial concentration. The modelling suite can be used as a beach management tool for improving protection of public health, as required by the EU Bathing Water Directive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term data series (1971–2015) of physical and biogeochemical parameters were analyzed in order to assess trends and variability of oceanographic conditions in the northern Adriatic Sea (NAS), a mid-latitude shallow continental shelf strongly impacted by river discharges, human activities and climate changes. Interpolation maps and statistical models were applied to investigate seasonal and spatial variability, as well as decadal trends of temperature, salinity, chlorophyll-a and nutrients. This analysis shows that sea surface temperature increased by +0.36% year−1 over four decades. Annual mean flow of the Po River markedly changed due to the occurrence of periods of persistent drought, whereas the frequency of flow rates higher than 3000 m3 s−1 decreased between 2006 and 2015. Moreover, we observed a long-term decrease in surface phosphate concentrations in Po River water (−1.34% year−1) and in seawater (in summer −2.56% year−1) coupled, however, to a significant increase in nitrate concentration in seawater (+3.80% year−1) in almost all seasons. These changes indicate that the nutrient concentrations in the NAS have been largely modulated, in the last forty years, by the evolution of environmental management practices and of the runoff. This implies that further alteration of the marine environment must be expected as a consequence of the climate changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study the interannual variability of phytoplankton over a ~30-years period in the coastal site of LTER-Senigallia transect (N Adriatic Sea) was investigated to document patterns potentially related to environmental/climatic drivers. Comparing physical and chemical data of the periods 1988–2002 and 2007–2016 periods, we showed that phytoplankton abundance and biomass and inorganic nutrient concentrations increased in the last decade, indicating that the tendency to oligotrophication due to the drop of the Po River outflow in the years 2002–2007 was reversed in the period 2007–2016. The typical P-limited conditions of the N Adriatic Sea seem to have been attenuated in the study area. P levels were not explained by the P concentrations in the Po River waters, suggesting the possible influence of other local P sources that could be related to the anomalous meteorological events (intense rainfalls) that took place in the 2007–2016 period. In the last decade, the community structure and seasonality of phytoplankton markedly changed, as highlighted by the different indicator species for each season: the blooms of Skeletonema marinoi shifted from winter to spring. A significant decrease of coccolithophores was observed particularly in winter months in the 2007–2016 period: some indicator species among the most relevant in the 1988–2002 period (such as Emiliania huxleyi in winter, and Syracosphaera pulchra in spring) have lost this role in 2007–2016. Dinoflagellate abundances decreased, except in spring when the occasional proliferation of large sized species caused biomass peaks. The phytoplankton annual cycle became irregular with sudden diatom blooms, reflecting the variability of meteorological events in recent years. It is noteworthy that in the last decade, an allochthonous species, i.e. the diatom Pseudo-nitzschia multistriata , became a regular inhabitant of the autumn phytoplankton communities of the NW Adriatic Sea. Highlights • Nutrient concentration significantly increased in the last decade • A significant decrease in coccolithophore density was observed in winter • The Skeletonema marinoi winter bloom shifted onward • The irregularity of meteorological events caused unexpected intense diatom blooms • The timing of the seasonal cycle of the phytoplankton groups changed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study set out to gain insights into: i) the route of dense water (DW), which leaves a morphological signature including large-scale erosion, moats, and contourite sediment drifts, and ii) the physical and chemical modifications undergone by Northern Adriatic Dense Water (NAdDW) due to its entrapment in the Mid-Adriatic Deep (MAD) for one or more years, which leads to biogeochemical transformation into Mid-Adriatic Dense Water (MAdDW), a less dense and colder water mass with reduced oxygen content as a result of prolonged biological consumption. The paper provides an accurate description of how NAdDW, on its way to the Southern Adriatic basin, mixes with MAdDW on Palagruža Sill. Analysis of water column data (CTD) collected in spring 2005 and 2012 showed that part of the NAdDW flowing down the Western Adriatic shelf swerves left, splitting into a branch that fills the western MAD pit and another flowing along the 170 m contour towards the eastern pit and then south through Palagruža Sill. Due to the density difference, the recently formed NAdDW flows as a bottom-trapped current underneath the older MAdDW, lifting and pushing it over Palagruža Sill, thereby promoting water exchange among the MAD pits. The two water masses eventually mix as they flow over Palagruža Sill, in proportions that depend on NAdDW volume and the changes undergone by MAdDW, thus generating a new mixed bottom-flowing DW with a distinctive chemical signal. The bottom water pattern disclosed by CTD transects is consistent with seafloor and sub-seafloor morphologies detected on high-resolution seismic profiles, which show both erosion and deposition features along bottom water routes. Moreover, confinement of the mixed water within structural highs as it flows southward through Palagruža Sill promotes formation of shallow water contourites and giant sediment drifts, demonstrating a significant role for topography in the flow of all Adriatic DW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamics of the physical and biogeochemical properties in a temperate coastal area in the north-western Adriatic Sea were analyzed. Multi-year (1997–2019) continuous observations allowed assessing their trends at two sites directly influenced by the discharges of two minor rivers as well as by human activities and climate change. Statistical models were applied to investigate the temporal variability and trends of seawater temperature, salinity, chlorophyll a, nutrients, river discharges and precipitations. The analysis highlighted a role for the minor river inputs and for ecological processes on interannual and seasonal biogeochemical dynamics. We found a significant trend toward more oligotrophic conditions; in particular, chlorophyll a exhibited a long-term decline (−1.38% year−1 and - 1.5% year−1 at the two Foglia and Metauro river transects, respectively) that was largely determined by low phosphate and nitrate seawater concentrations as a result of a significant reduction in the phosphate and nitrate loadings of the two minor rivers (respectively mean values of −4.65% year−1 and -2.65% year−1). In contrast, salinity showed a long-term decrease of −0.24% year−1 and -0.19% year−1 at Foglia and Metauro, respectively, corresponding to a significant increase of the freshwater discharges of the two minor rivers (+1.86% and +1.57% year−1 at Foglia and Metauro, respectively) possibly due to precipitations. Data analysis highlighted the conditions of temperate coastal areas affected by freshwater discharges. Nutrient load management and climate conditions such as precipitation regimes appear to be the main factors driving physical and biogeochemical dynamics in the north-western Adriatic Sea. • Data series allowed assessing changing biogeochemical coastal dynamics. • Role of the minor river inputs on interannual and seasonal biogeochemical dynamics. • Oligotrophic trends in NW Adriatic coastal waters by reduced P and N riverine inputs. • Nutrient load and climate changes as drivers of biogeochemical dynamics in Adriatic Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The temporal variations of temperature, salinity, fluorescence, dissolved oxygen concentration, Coloured Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) and of chemical (nutrients, chlorophyll a) and biological (phytoplankton composition) parameters in the Boka Kotorska Bay were observed during two periods. CDOM regulates the penetration of UV light into the sea and therefore plays an important role in many hydrological and biogeochemical processes in the sea surface layer including primary productivity. In the framework ADRICOSM-STAR it was possible to investigate the Boka Kotorska Bay during May and June 2008 in order to increase an understanding of optical and chemical characteristics and their evolution during these periods. In both periods station KO (located furthest from the open sea) presented different physical, chemical and biological characteristics with respect to the other stations inside the Boka Kotorska Bay. A positive correlation was found between CDOM and chlorophyll a (R = 0.7, P < 0.001, n = 15) and this implies that in this area, similarly to the open sea, the primary source of CDOM should be the biological production from phytoplankton. This is probably due to the fact that the rivers entering the Boka Kotorska Bay are not severely impacted by man. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Seasonal association between PAHs and oxidative stress biomarkers has been evaluated. • PAH levels in muscles from red mullets showed higher values in winter than in summer. • Fish showed seasonal differences in expression profiles of antioxidant genes and LPO. • CAT mRNA levels were negatively correlated to ΣPAHs (and ΣLMW-PAHs) during winter. • Our findings suggest greater susceptibility of red mullets to PAHs during winter. In this study, we examined the seasonal association between Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations and mRNA expression profiles of some antioxidant genes (i.e. CAT, GST and SOD), as well as lipid peroxidation (LPO), in muscle of sexually inactive females of red mullet (Mullus barbatus). Fish were captured in a fishery area of the Northern Adriatic Sea during both winter and summer. We found significantly (p < 0.05) higher ∑HMW-PAHs concentrations in muscle of specimens caught during winter than summer. On the basis of sampling season, red mullets exhibited different gene expression profiles of antioxidant enzymes showing lower levels of both CAT and GST in winter than in summer. Accordingly, CAT was found to be negatively associated with ∑PAH concentrations, especially ∑LMW-PAH, in individuals collected during winter. Seasonal-related downregulation of some oxidative stress biomarker expression is suggestive of greater susceptibility of red mullets to PAHs during winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The spatial and temporal distributions of different types of visible mucilaginous aggregates were investigated monthly by underwater video cameras in the northern Adriatic (NA) from June 1999 to July 2002. Small aggregates (flocs, macroflocs and stringers) were observed in all seasons with higher values in autumn and winter. Larger aggregates (ribbons, cobwebs, clouds, and false bottoms) formed only during late-spring and summer, particularly in 2000 and 2002, when the seasonal thermohaline stratification was marked. In fact, the process of mucilage formation took place mainly in the upper water column, above the main pycnocline. The spatial distribution shows that higher concentrations of small aggregates occur in the more productive coastal waters. The larger aggregates form or accumulate mainly in coastal waters in the southern part of the NA and in the central part of the Po River delta–Rovinj transect, where a gyre greatly influences the aggregates distribution. The fronts between low salinity coastal waters and high salinity waters of southern origin play an important role for accumulation and aggregation of the mucilage during spring and summer. Most of the aggregates accumulate in correspondence with strong pycnoclines with differences in density anomaly of 2 kg m−3 or higher. False bottoms formed in correspondence with strong haloclines (ΔS ≅2), while cobwebs and ribbons also occurred when the halocline was less marked (ΔS <0.5). Meteorological conditions greatly influenced the aggregate formation. Calm weather and weak winds favour aggregation processes, while strong north-easterly winds, causing intense mixing, result in the dispersion of the mucilaginous aggregates, as occurred during the Bora event in July 2000. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A first synoptic and trans-domain overview of plankton dynamics was conducted across the aquatic sites belonging to the Italian Long-Term Ecological Research Network (LTER-Italy). Based on published studies, checked and complemented with unpublished information, we investigated phytoplankton and zooplankton annual dynamics and long-term changes across domains: from the large subalpine lakes to mountain lakes and artificial lakes, from lagoons to marine coastal ecosystems. This study permitted identifying common and unique environmental drivers and ecological functional processes controlling seasonal and long-term temporal course. The most relevant patterns of plankton seasonal succession were revealed, showing that the driving factors were nutrient availability, stratification regime, and freshwater inflow. Phytoplankton and mesozooplankton displayed a wide interannual variability at most sites. Unidirectional or linear long-term trends were rarely detected but all sites were impacted across the years by at least one, but in many case several major stressor(s): nutrient inputs, meteo-climatic variability at the local and regional scale, and direct human activities at specific sites. Different climatic and anthropic forcings frequently co-occurred, whereby the responses of plankton communities were the result of this environmental complexity. Overall, the LTER investigations are providing an unparalleled framework of knowledge to evaluate changes in the aquatic pelagic systems and management options., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor system, comprised of motoneurons and associated glia. Accordingly, neuronal or glial defects in TDP-43 function provoke paralysis due to the degeneration of the neuromuscular synapses in Drosophila. To identify the responsible molecules and mechanisms, we performed a genome wide proteomic analysis to determine differences in protein expression between wild-type and TDP-43-minus fly heads. The data established that mutant insects presented reduced levels of the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase (Gad1) and increased concentrations of extracellular glutamate. Genetic rescue of Gad1 activity in neurons or glia was sufficient to recuperate flies locomotion, synaptic organization and glutamate levels. Analogous recovery was obtained by treating TDP-43-null flies with glutamate receptor antagonists demonstrating that Gad1 promotes synapses formation and prevents excitotoxicity. Similar suppression of TDP-43 provoked the downregulation of GAD67, the Gad1 homolog protein in human neuroblastoma cell lines and analogous modifications were observed in iPSC-derived motoneurons from patients carrying mutations in TDP-43, uncovering conserved pathological mechanisms behind the disease.