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This work is a first assessment of the role of Doppler Weather radar (DWR) data in a mesoscale model for the prediction of a heavy rainfall. The study analyzes the event occurred during 19–22 May 2008 in the urban area of Rome. The impact of the radar reflectivity and radial velocity acquired from Monte Midia Doppler radar, on the assimilation into the Weather Research Forecasting (WRF) model version 3.2, is discussed. The goal is to improve the WRF high resolution initial condition by assimilating DWR data and using ECMWF analyses as First Guess thus improving the forecast of surface rainfall. Several experiments are performed using different set of Initial Conditions (ECMWF analyses and warm start or cycling) and a different assimilation strategy (3 h-data assimilation cycle). In addition, 3DVAR (three-dimensional variational) sensitivity tests to outer loops are performed for each of the previous experiment to include the nonlinearity in the observation operators. In order to identify the best ICs, statistical indicators such as forecast accuracy, frequency bias, false alarm rate and equitable threat score for the accumulated precipitation are used. The results show that the assimilation of DWR data has a positive impact on the prediction of the heavy rainfall of this event, both assimilating reflectivity and radial velocity, together with conventional observations. Finally, warm start results in more accurate experiments as well as the outer loops strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a new outsourcing model for materials management related to the operating theatre of hospitals. Two distinguishing features characterize the model: the long-term collaborative network established among the supplying companies (the “Network factor”), and the implementation of the RFID technology along the supply chain (the “RFID factor”). The network factor allows sharing transportation costs, while the RFID factor allows implementing a continuous review policy, instead of the periodic review policy normally utilized in hospitals. In the paper the effect of these two factors on the minimization of total materials management costs is investigated.Design/methodology/approach An analytical model, validated through a simulation study, is proposed to calculate total management costs of materials, depending on the presence of the network and the RFID factors. Throughout the model it is possible to perform a scenario analysis and individuate the inventory management policy that allows minimizing total costs. The procedure has been applied to a real case study of a long-term collaborative network of supplying companies in the healthcare sector that operates in Central Italy.Findings The optimal inventory management policy strongly depends on the mutual distances of supplying companies and the hospital. Both of the two factors have an impact on the reduction of total annual costs. The analysis of the scenario shows that a positive interaction effect exists between the two factors, so that higher savings are obtained when both factors are present.Originality/value The outsourcing model presented in the paper is new, and the managerial insights that can be drawn from the application of the model to the healthcare sector can be extended to many other industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Origini is the property of Gangemi Editore S.P.A. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Several new records for 10 species of moth flies from central Italy are discussed in this paper. Three species, namely Sycorax similis (Müller, 1927), Pneumia sanae (Krek, 1990), and Jungiella (Jungiella) parvula (Vaillant, 1960), are new to the Italian fauna. Distribution of each species is provided, together with ecological and taxonomic remarks, where relevant. Diagnostic characters currently used to separate the taxa belonging to the Pericoma pannonica Szabó, 1960 species group are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides results from a suite of analyses made on human dental material from the Late Palaeolithic to Neolithic strata of the cave site of Grotta Continenza situated in the Fucino Basin of the Abruzzo region of central Italy. The available human remains from this site provide a unique possibility to study ways in which forager versus farmer lifeways affected human odonto-skeletal remains. The main aim of our study is to understand palaeodietary patterns and their changes over time as reflected in teeth. These analyses involve a review of metrics and oral pathologies, micro-fossils preserved in the mineralized dental plaque, macrowear, and buccal microwear. Our results suggest that these complementary approaches support the assumption about a critical change in dental conditions and status with the introduction of Neolithic foodstuff and habits. However, we warn that different methodologies applied here provide data at different scales of resolution for detecting such changes and a multipronged approach to the study of dental collections is needed for a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of diachronic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: We present the results of a phytosociological investigation of segetal plant communities colonizing winter arable fields, olive groves, and vineyards in selected traditional agricultural areas of central Italy. Some of these communities have great environmental and cultural value and are threatened by changes in agriculture. Given the lack of knowledge, this paper aims to introduce the recent diversity of traditional agriculture weed vegetation in this part of Italy by means of the collection of original data. Study area: Latium and Abruzzo regions (central Italy). Methods: Hierarchical classification of 132 unpublished relevés, carried out with fixed area plots in 44 cultivated patches, and their characterization in phytosociological, chorological, structural, and ecological terms. Results: The numerical analyses detected the presence of 10 vegetation types, attributable to four phytosociological classes: Chenopodietea, Festuco-Ononidetea striatae, Molinio-Arrhenatheretea, and Papaveretea rhoeadis. Two Natura 2000 Habitats were recognized. Conclusions: The study allowed the detection and classification of well-preserved communities of traditional agricultural systems, some of which are disappearing in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a software architecture based on open source technologies, implemented by the authors in an experience of processing spatio-temporal data gathered by rain gauges spread across two regions of central Italy. The interest in the automatic processing of data about precipitation is widespread, however, today only an inner circle of stakeholders can think of taking advantage of the available open source libraries because a strong programming skill is required to use them. It is opinion of the authors that the implemented software architecture is suitable for expanding the community of users able to process "by themselves" historical precipitation data. The centre of the architecture is the technology of the spatial database management systems. They offer full support for the creation and management of a spatial database suitable to store the rainfall data usually spread out in several files. Moreover, they allow adding to such a repository a large set of ad hoc "objects" oriented to carrying out spatio-temporal computations on the precipitation. The stakeholders are only required to familiarize with the database's objects and invoke their execution. A large part of the paper is devoted to show how the adopted conceptual setting can assist nontechnical users in carrying out personalized computations on rain gauges data. The computing needs posed by the experience described in this paper are common to many other areas of high social impact that involve spatio-temporal data, hence we believe that the implemented framework can be exported to them, keeping unaltered operational effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies oriented to restoration and conservation of historical monumental buildings have recourse to structural analysis as a way to investigate the genuine structural features of the construction, to better understand its present condition and actual causes of existing damage, to estimate its safety conditions and to determine necessary remedial measures. Based on this background, this paper discusses on the seismic vulnerability of masonry fortresses by means of an analysis methodology based on three different analytical procedures, according to an increased knowledge of the structure. As a relevant case study the Albornoz fortress, a 14th stone masonry construction located in central Italy, was selected. Initially, the strategy proposed to perform this task was aimed at testing and developing an expeditious and non-destructive procedure to evaluate both the seismic vulnerability and the main mechanical properties of the different masonry typologies. The macroscale structural behavior of the fortress was then evaluated through a nonlinear static analysis (pushover) and a more simple approach based on the kinematic theorems of the limit analysis. From this point of view, by comparing the capacity of the construction to withstand lateral loads with the expected demands resulting from seismic actions, these methods provided a highly effective means of verifying the safety of the masonry structure and its vulnerability to extensive damage and collapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of drought phenomena in the Region of Abruzzo (Central Italy) using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) computed at different time scales (3, 6, 12, 24 months). The study is based on monthly precipitation data collected from 1951 to 2009 at 69 climatic stations uniformly distributed over the region. According to the trend analysis, most stations are characterized by increments in both drought severity and variability, particularly at the longer time scales. A principal component analysis applied to SPI time series enabled to identify two main patterns: the first more correlated to the coastal areas, the second more correlated to the inland, mountainous areas. However, the spatial patterns become less defined as the time scale increases, making more uncertain the definition of homogenous areas to be used in drought management plans. In most cases, the identified drought patterns have similar negative overall tendencies, but different trend directions in some sub-periods. In particular, the first drought pattern is clearly characterized by a trend reversal (from decreasing to increasing) during the last decade. This temporal evolution, consistent with that observed by large-scale analyses in the corresponding (or near) grid points, was not detected for the second pattern, which is probably influenced by local topographic and/or orographic factors. The results confirm the complexity of drought phenomenon in a typical Mediterranean region and the necessity of high-resolution datasets to capture its temporal and spatial variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural background levels (NBL) and threshold values (TV) derivation is an important task for EU Member States to correctly assess the chemical status of groundwater bodies within the context of the recently adopted Groundwater Directive. Attempts are being made both by water authorities and scientific community to test application viability of proposed methods to different real situations and to develop tailored adjustments and refinements. The aim of this paper is to describe a methodological case study of NBL and TV determination in a large area (5,500 km2) located in Central Italy where both natural and anthropogenic contamination occurs, resulting in several substances be detected in ground waters with concentration frequently exceeding drinking water standards. This paper shows the key role played in the determination process by knowledge on the hydrogeological setting and hydrogeochemical features. The adoption of appropriate pre-selection criteria of samples, the establishment of TV at the groundwater body scale for natural origin substances, and the evaluation of TVs exceedances in a multiparameter context are experimentally discussed. Beyond the critical evaluation of NBL and TV determination method, this research aims at increasing consciousness in the water management agencies that groundwater status assessment should be conceived as a scientific evaluation procedure and not as a mere technical/administrative exercise to be performed using any set of available data. As such, it should be supported by adequate knowledge of hydrogeological setting, hydrochemical processes occurring in groundwater bodies, and human activities acting overland to be progressively verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Origini is the property of Gangemi Editore S.P.A. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Bollettino della Società Entomologica Italiana is the property of PAGEPress and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Traditional farming systems and other activities such as craftsmanship (e.g. manufacturing activities, local food production), represent a sustainable example of human integration with nature. Their maintenance and development, with opportune adaptations to the current socio-economic situation and cultural/technological advancements, are therefore valuable. Under the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), preference will be given to projects with a participative approach presented for funding covered by the Common Strategic Framework 2014–2020 programming. The challenge is to integrate participatory planning, people’s attitude to traditional work with the European strategy for rural development. LEADER actions are an effective tool suitable for the implementation of such local development policies. In this paper, a ground-breaking attitude model to traditional activities has been developed. A questionnaire was compiled on the basis of current literature on attitude models and distributed to the community of a rural area in Central Italy (six municipalities). The data gathered were statistically analysed by structural equation modelling (SEM). The results obtained allow several factors influencing attitude to be identified as well as highlighting the difference in the responses of farmers and artisans compared with those of the rest of the community. In addition, several strategies (leverage points) have been defined for an efficient rural development of the study area in line with peoples’ perception. Such strategies would be capable of strengthening residents’ sense of place and transforming the local community into a more resilient and adaptive socio-ecological system, capable in turn of ensuring and preserving the ecosystem services provided. Specifically, all the suggested actions aim to increase cohesion among citizens and institutions, to strengthen the sense of community and to promote the creation of local networks, an essential prerequisite to the setting up of Local Action Groups, as programmed by the European Strategy for Rural Development. The novelty of the work lies in the use of SEM for the definition of leverage points, following Meadows’ classification proposed within systems theory (Meadows, 2009). This paper, by focusing on local traditional activities as a leverage point, puts forward recommendations for planners and policy makers, and opens a different perspective on today’s increased need for rural re-development and social innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contribution of the European food sector to the total amount of greenhouse gases emissions is equal to 15%. The main environmental impact is due to the cultivation phase while the transformation has limited consequences. The sustainability of the food sector can be traced using an important indicator: Product Carbon Footprint. In this framework this paper presents the case of a traditional product: truffle sauce, which is a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and truffle. Its carbon footprint has been calculated based on ISO 14067, through the use of specific Product Category Rules, able to describe theoretical pre-requisites and practical rules to be followed during the analysis in order to make results comparable with other studies. Different allocation techniques have been analyzed: system expansion has been compared with allocation based on mass and economical value. It was shown that 3% variation in the mass yield of olive oil implies 2% variation in the final carbon footprint. Different harvesting techniques were considered and their energy consumption was measured on site. Final carbon footprint for truffle sauce, assuming allocation based on system expansion, is equal to 1.93 kg CO 2 eq/kg. Truffle sauce has a lower impact compared to other similar commodities (extra virgin olive oil for example). The final result of the Product Carbon Footprint is not the only scientific value added by this paper, because Product Category Rules can be used by other researchers to calculate emissions released during truffle sauce or olive oil life cycle in other particular environments. Knowing the value of these emissions, reduction measures can be designed. The limits of this study are represented by the fact that these values are deeply influenced by seasonal variability, so this aspect should be evaluated by further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil erosion is an open topic, not only because soil fertility is lost, but also because nutrients are spilled into water bodies, thereby causing pollution. Research carried out in this field has amply described this process, but the interaction between these factors is complex and experimental research is needed to understand the production of loads of nutrients for different land uses. This paper describes a long-term monitoring case study using high-resolution rainfall data and runoff samples, carried out in the Lake Vico basin (Central Italy) to determine the phosphorus (P) export during erosive rainfall events. State of the art GIS-based basin characterization and advanced rainfall-runoff models are employed in order to describe the relationship between nutrient export and rainfall or runoff time distribution. Results show that the phosphorus export is strongly related to such time distributions, and less to the cumulative amount of rainfall or runoff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a procedure to map subsidence at the regional scale by means of persistent scatterer interferometry (PSI). Subsidence analysis is usually restricted to plain areas and where the presence of this phenomenon is already known. The proposed procedure allows a fast identification of subsidences in large and hilly-mountainous areas. The test area is the Tuscany region, in Central Italy, where several areas are affected by natural and anthropogenic subsidence and where PSI data acquired by the Envisat satellite are available both in ascending and descending orbit. The procedure consists of the definition of the vertical and horizontal components of the deformation measured by satellite at first, then of the calculation of the "real" displacement direction, so that mainly vertical deformations can be individuated and mapped. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the relationships between breeding site selection of red-backed shrikes Lanius collurio and land-use features using GIS. We examine the habitat preference of this species in areas characterised by a temperate climate and by a prevailing agricultural cover. We focused on the occurrence of red-backed shrike in relation to fragmentation, patch diversity and a few habitat features of the farmlands, as a surrogate for functional heterogeneity. We also studied several parameters such as the number of closely located nests, minimum distance between the nests and elevation above sea level of the breeding sites. Our results confirm the importance of the marginal elements such as shrubs, hedgerows and scatter patches in farmlands, and could add an effective method for studying suitable habitats for L. collurio using few environmental parameters. Our results suggest that breeding sites of the species are located mainly in cultivated zones, characterised by the presence of dispersal shrub patches and high edge density values and in proximity to the roads. Our results confirm also that landscape heterogeneity is one of the key factors in the selection of breeding habitat for red-backed shrikes in farmland of Central Italy, and therefore should be subject to agricultural policies aimed at conservation and maintenance of these environmental features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A magnetic and Ground Penetrating Radar joint survey was carried out in the framework of the R.I.M.E.M. project that has the aim of supporting the archaeological prospections and drive the selection of the excavation areas related to the Late Roman Period and Early Middle Ages in the Central and Southern Italy. In particular, this papers deals with the magnetic surveys acquired near "Madonna della Valle" and GPR and magnetic joint surveys carried out in "Monastero" site. Most of magnetic maps carried out in "Madonna della Valle" site shown the absence of structured magnetic anomalies, despite of the presence of archaeological signs. Several hypothesis were given to explain this evidence. Joint interpretation performed in "Monastero" site shown more intense magnetic anomalies related with shallower reflections due to probably to buried pipes. Other reflections are related with magnetic anomalies compatible with archaeological targets, but some significant reflections do not correspond to any magnetic anomaly, indicating magnetic method could be "blind" respect the archaeological target. New field surveys including the electrical resistivity tomography could be carried out in order to overcome these acquisition and interpretation difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The September–October 1997 seismic sequence in the Umbria–Marche regions of Central Italy has been one of the best studied from the seismological, macroseismic and geological point of view. Numerous papers have been published in the period immediately after the seismic sequence, providing a significant database of effects triggered by the earthquake on natural environment. In the following years, further studies have provided additional pieces of evidence that allow to better relate the seismic sequence with its geological background. Moreover, recent developments in the characterization of coseismic environmental effects provide new horizons in seismic hazard assessment (SHA) procedures, which should take into account even long term geomorphological and geological features resulting from repeated characteristic earthquakes (concept of “seismic landscape”). This paper reviews the current state of knowledge on the 1997 Umbria–Marche seismic sequence, with particular regard to coseismic environmental effects (primary and secondary), that have been used for ESI seismic intensity assessment, in order to verify if i) they are consistent with geological, seismological and macroseismic data in the location and characterization of the seismogenic structure, and ii) if they fit the “seismic landscape” features that mark the epicentral area of Colfiorito. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In connectivity conservation and ecological network planning, the selection of focal fragmentation-sensitive species represents an a priori step. Despite their strategic role, selection of focal species has often been carried out following non-objective approaches. If this is done, actions of planning and conservation, especially in relation to biodiversity conservation, could be ineffective. We propose an expert-based approach to select focal species on the basis of sensitivity to three components of habitat fragmentation (habitat area reduction, increase of habitat isolation, increase of edge effect and landscape matrix disturbance) and of intrinsic ecological traits of the species (trophic level, dispersal ability, body size, niche breadth, rarity). A case study on terrestrial mammals of an area in Central Italy (province of Rome) shows that the species selected through this approach largely coincide with the species recognized in the literature as being fragmentation-sensitive. In this paper we present a conceptual framework to select focal species and to define a schematic methodology for ecological network planning and monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to analyse the territorial disparities in some socio-economic and environmental factors involved in land degradation (LD) processes in a dry Mediterranean region. A simplified framework in which ecological and economic factors may increase inequality in natural resource distribution along the elevation gradient and accelerate LD is illustrated. To test at a local scale if territorial disparities observed in such factors have increased in the last period, we studied changes in LD sensitivity over thirty years in Latium, central Italy, a region prone to soil degradation phenomena. An estimate of LD sensitivity at the municipality level was obtained through a synthetic index (ISD) composed by three partial indicators analysing respectively climate and soil conditions (CLI), land use characteristics (LAN), and human pressure (POP). ISD and the three partial indicators were computed separately for 1970 and 2000. The divergence in LD sensitivity among coastal and inland areas significantly increased over the study period. In the former zones, median ISD increased with a reduction in score variability among municipalities; the reverse pattern was observed in the latter zones. Differences in ISD score among the elevation gradient are especially due to human factors affecting land use changes and agriculture intensification. New findings to be achieved in the context of human impacts on the environment as an original contribution to the study of LD at a local scale were finally delineated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the trophic niche of a poorly studied cave salamander, Speleomantes italicus. We examined Central Appennine hypogean populations that inhabit seven caves situated in three limestone areas in Umbria Region (Italy). Adults displayed feeding activity from May to December and the Vacuity Index analysis revealed a discontinuous trophic activity pattern throughout the year related to prey phenology. According to the qualitative analysis of the trophic spectrum, the populations in question can be defined as euryphagous, while the quantitative analysis (in terms of number and volume of preyed taxa) revealed a specialist strategy with a clear preference towards Diptera Limnobiidae. Both sexes presented similar trophic niche breadth and a high diet overlap, showing no intersexual differences. The hypogean populations of S. italicus, similarly to S. strinatii, showed a narrower trophic niche than epigeans of the same species, probably due to the limited food availability in the cave habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report an improved slip model for the 1997 September–October Umbria-Marche earthquake sequence in central Italy. The model is based on coseismic displacements estimated by differential synthetic aperture radar (DInSAR) interferometry using an advanced inverse modelling approach that enables the characteristics of the SAR data, especially their dense spatial sampling, to be fully exploited. The paper first looks at DInSAR analysis using the simplest configuration, that is, a single-image pair that temporally covers the earthquake sequence. Yet, given that this DInSAR configuration is often used for coseismic studies and the limited availability of SAR data, we duly consider the limitations of the DInSAR results and discuss the rigorous DInSAR procedure carried out, highlighting key errors associated with such observations. We then focus on the inversion of the estimated DInSAR displacements and on our advanced heterogeneous slip model for this earthquake sequence's main shocks, emphasizing its most significant features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Following the Mw 6.3 earthquake that hit the city of L'Aquila (Central Italy) on the 6th April 2009, a scientific project was proposed with the aim of investigating the Abruzzo area by means of different disciplinary approaches including geological, seismic, and physical studies. Electromagnetic field monitoring in the 0.01–500 mHz frequency band was implemented for the investigation of electromagnetic signals in the Earth's crust. Three measurement stations were installed in a tectonically active area with a radius of about 10 km. Each site was equipped with a fluxgate magnetometer with a 1 Hz sampling rate. This paper describes a long term geomagnetic deep sounding analysis for each site, aimed at investigating the dimensionality of the electrical structure of the subsurface in the area involved in the survey. According to a very simplified RL circuit model, some electrical properties of subsurface are also deduced. Highlights • A long term geomagnetic deep sounding analysis was made in central Italy using data from a two-dimensional magnetometer array • The induction arrow analysis shows a 2D electrical structure of subsurface in the area investigated by the magnetic survey • The geoelectric strike orientation is found to be located at ∼160° from the magnetic North • Some electrical properties of subsurface are deduced according to a very simplified RL electrical circuit model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, surface and borehole geophysical surveys are employed to improve the effectiveness of a rehabilitation intervention (cut-off wall) to be executed on the right abutment of a leaking concrete dam (Penne, Central Italy). In a first step, surface geophysical measurements (electrical resistivity and P-wave velocity data), were collected to provide a geophysical model to be compared to the preliminary geological model available before the geophysical survey. Because significant differences emerged between the geophysical and the preliminary geological models, a second phase of borehole investigations was planned to validate the geophysical reconstruction obtained from surface data. The final geological model resulting from the geophysical results differs significantly from the preliminary model available at the time of the geophysical survey. Therefore, the planned cut-off wall needs to be extended both laterally and in depth beyond the position estimated before the geophysical campaign, so that the low-permeability bedrock is intercepted at a depth equal or lower than the critical one. At the end, the low-cost geophysical campaign (1.5% of the entire costs of the intervention) was highly beneficial to this project, minimizing subsurface geological uncertainty to design an effective anti-seepage intervention and stressing the importance of a representative geological model for engineering design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climatic oscillations at the Gelasian/Calabrian transition modified terrestrial palaeoenvironmental settings in the European region. A gradual drop in global temperatures beginning about 2.7 Ma led to drier conditions and to a reduction in, and subsequent disappearance of, sub-tropical vegetation in the central Mediterranean area by ca 1.2 Ma. Large ungulates are sensitive to vegetation changes and faced with harsher environmental settings may shift their feeding strategies to exploit available food resources in different ecosystems. In fossil assemblages such dietary adaptations are reflected by tooth morphology (a phylogenetic signal) and tooth wear degree (a direct signal of the species' diet). In this paper, we investigate how large herbivores responded to palaeoenvironmental changes that occurred at the passage between the Gelasian and Calabrian ages in the Italian Peninsula, analysing the dental wear patterns and hypsodonty of the early Pleistocene fossil ungulates assemblage of Olivola (Aulla, Central Italy). We found that while ungulate feeding behaviours during the Gelasian spanned from browsers to grazers, in the locality of Olivola this group of herbivores display a narrower range of diet types with many taxa adopting a mixed feeding behaviour. Cervids in particular, whose fossils are often associated only with wooded environments, as a response to the reduction of covered sub-tropical vegetation, shifted from a strict browsing diet in mostly closed habitats to a more abrasive one taking advantage of the spread of open landscapes. We also provide new data on the feeding behaviour of the rare fossil caprines, Procamptoceras and Gallogoral meneghinii , suggesting a grass-rich mixed diet for the former and a certain degree of dietary plasticity for the latter. Our research thus contributes to the better understanding of how ungulates adapted in the past to exploit different resource types during pivotal climatic changes and how environments changed in Central Italy on the onset of colder and more arid conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the general profile of the first farming communities of Central Italy in the Early Neolithic Era. Data shows the spread of early Neolithic cultures in the Italian peninsula at the beginning of the VI millennium B.C. The first Neolithic groups appeared in the southern regions of the peninsula and moved northwards following two trajectories along the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts. The process of Neolithisation was initiated by peoples who probably came from different areas and traditions creating, over time, two distinct areas within the Italian peninsula, each with its own specific cultural features. Finally the article looks at how intensive exchanges both of complex knowledge and raw materials occurred between these two distinct cultural worlds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karst aquifers are characterized by different types of groundwater flow, related to different types of permeability due to the simultaneous presence of matrix, fractures and conduits. The presence of a well-developed karst conduit system leads to a rapid circulation of groundwater within the aquifer and a pulse-type response of the spring flow to the rainfall inputs, with a potential fast transport of contaminants from the hydrogeological basin surface to the discharge zones. Supported by hydro chemical analyses of spring water samples and single discharge measurements, it was possible to develop specific mass balance models, correlating ion content to spring flowrates. Specifically, Mg2+ content revealed a reliable application for spring baseflow separation in karst settings. Once the local model has been set, its conservative behaviour, in mostly limestone-dominant aquifers, allows using Mg2+ as a natural tracer of groundwater flow, distinguishing conduit flow (overflow) and diffuse flow (baseflow) occurrence in the spring outlet, without additional discharge measurements. In karst settings, the difficulty in continuously monitoring the spring discharge values makes this application interesting for exploitation management. This study shows the results obtained for two springs located in Central Italy, confirming that monitoring groundwater quality in karst environments is often the key for successfully characterizing springs and assessing the total yield when direct measurements are not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raw counts of archaeological sites, estimates of changing settlement size and summed radiocarbon probability distributions have all become popular ways to investigate long-term regional trends in human population. Nevertheless, these three archaeological proxies have rarely been compared. This paper therefore explores the strengths and weaknesses of different kinds of archaeological evidence for population patterns, as well as how they address related issues such as taphonomic loss, chronological uncertainty and uneven sampling. Our overall substantive goal is to reconstruct demographic fluctuations in central Italy from the Late Mesolithic to the fall of the Roman Empire (7500 BC-AD 500), and with this in mind, we bring to bear an unusually detailed and extensive dataset of published central Italian archaeological surveys, consisting of some 10,971 occupation phases at 7383 different sites. The comparative results demonstrate reassuring consistency in the suggested demographic patterns, and where such patterns diverge across different proxies (e.g. Late Bronze Age/Iron Age) they often do so in useful ways that suggest changes in population structure such as site nucleation or dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to provide a complete and reliable macroseismic knowledge of the events that stroke a large area in Central Italy on 7 and 11 May 1984. Previous studies, together with original accounts integrated with new and unpublished information, have been gathered and examined in order to re-evaluate macroseismic intensities in terms of the European Macroseismic Scale (EMS98). New intensity maps have been compiled; the total number of localities with available information for both the shocks increases from 1254 of the previous study to 1576. On the basis of the new dataset, the macroseismic magnitude of the first shock is M 5.6 which is lower than the previous macroseismic computation (M 5.7). Moreover, the topic of assessing macroseismic intensity in the presence of multiple shocks has been also investigated, proposing an unconventional approach to presenting the macroseismic data: an overall picture of the cumulative effects produced by all the seismic sequence is given to support a partial but faithful reconstruction of the second shock. This approach is inspired by the common experience in interpreting historical seismic sequences and gives a picture of the impact of the 1984 events on the territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the GHG (greenhouse gas) inventory of the integrated waste management system of the Province of Siena (central Italy), for the years 2008–2011, according to the “2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories”. The study presents the detailed calculation of GHG emissions from different plants (landfills, incinerators, composting plants, selection and valorization lines, etc.), which may orient emission reduction strategies and decrease the environmental impact of the waste sector. Total emissions decreased from 2009 to 2011 mainly through better management of landfills. Production of electricity from renewable ( in situ photovoltaic panel installation) and alternative resources (incinerated waste and biogas recovery from landfills) avoids GHG emissions because it limits import of electricity from thermoelectric power stations. The experience presented in this study can be used as a waste sector model, since the evaluations can be repeated in time and concern different interacting waste disposal methodologies. Various public and private organizations may take part in the analysis, so as to calibrate the waste management system according to the results obtained by GHG inventories. The results of the analysis can be verified and validated according to international standards (e.g. ISO 14064 or 14067) by an independent organization in order to systematically facilitate the link between GHG computation and political action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The archaeological site of Guado San Nicola (Monteroduni, Central Italy), under excavation since 2008, is located in the Upper Volturno Valley, near the top of a fluvial terrace attributed to the Middle Pleistocene. Several anthropic levels have been recognized within a stratigraphic sequence of more than two meters in thickness, characterized by alternating gravelly and sandy fluvial layers rich in pyroclastic materials, attributable to the end of MIS 11–beginning of MIS 10, according to the obtained radiometric dates ( 40 Ar/ 39 Ar and ESR/U-series). In this paper we discuss the chrono-stratigraphic record, the paleontological and zooarchaeological data and we provide a detailed techno-economic analysis of the lithic industry, characterized by the coexistence of handaxes and Levallois debitage. The site of Guado San Nicola represents the oldest evidence of the emergence of prepared-core technologies in the Italian Peninsula, adding new data to the debate on the Lower/Middle Palaeolithic transition in Western Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a biomonitoring study to evaluate the environmental impact of airborne emissions from a municipal solid waste landfill in central Italy. Concentrations of 11 heavy elements, as well as photosynthetic efficiency and cell membrane integrity were measured in Evernia prunastri lichens transplanted for 4 months in 17 monitoring sites around the waste landfill. Heavy element contents were also determined in surface soils. Analytical data indicated that emissions from the landfill affected Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Sb and Zn concentrations in lichens transplanted within the landfill and along the fallout direction. In these sites moderate to severe accumulation of these heavy elements in lichens was coupled with an increase in cell membrane damage and decrease in photosynthetic efficiency. Nevertheless, results indicated that landfill emissions had no relevant impact on lichens, as heavy element accumulation and weak stress symptoms were detected only in lichen transplants from sites close to solid waste. The appropriate management of this landfill poses a low risk of environmental contamination by heavy elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Oxford classification of Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy ( IgAN) identifies four pathological features as predictors of renal outcome ( MEST-score): mesangial proliferation ( M); endocapillary proliferation ( E); segmental glomerulosclerosis ( S); tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis ( T). In particular extracapillary proliferation ( Ex) was not considered as an independent histological variable predicting renal outcome. Recently the VALIGA study provided a validation of the Oxford classification in a large European cohort of IgAN patients and re-stated that Ex is not associated with a worse renal prognosis. We propose a retrospective study to evaluate the predictive value of the MEST-score in a multi-centre, single region group of patients from central Italy and in addition, to investigate Ex as a marker predicting renal outcome. Methods One hundred and seven patients were enrolled in this study. Clinical data of each patient were available at diagnosis and follow-up. The median age at diagnosis was 36.7 years; 72% of the patients were males. Histological parameters were those included in the MEST-score of the Oxford classification; in addition, Ex was also assessed. Results Multiple linear regression models for survey were used. Statistical analysis showed a correlation between the progression of renal decline, in terms of estimated glomerular filtration rate (slope eGFR), and M, S, T. Differently from Oxford and VALIGA studies, no correlation was found with E, while Ex correlated with a decline of eGFR. Conclusions Our results suggest that Ex represents an additional independent variable associated with a faster decline of renal function in IgAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hourly concentrations of ozone (O 3 ) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) have been measured for 16 years, from 1998 to 2013, in a seaside town in central Italy. The seasonal trends of O 3 and NO 2 recorded in this period have been studied. Furthermore, we used the data collected during one year (2005), to define the characteristics of a multiple linear regression model and a neural network model. Both models are used to model the hourly O 3 concentration, using, two scenarios: 1) in the first as inputs, only meteorological parameters and 2) in the second adding photochemical parameters at those of the first scenario. In order to evaluate the performance of the model four statistical criteria are used: correlation coefficient, fractional bias, normalized mean squared error and a factor of two. All the criteria show that the neural network gives better results, compared to the regression model, in all the model scenarios. Predictions of O 3 have been carried out by many authors using a feed forward neural architecture. In this paper we show that a recurrent architecture significantly improves the performances of neural predictors. Using only the meteorological parameters as input, the recurrent architecture shows performance better than the multiple linear regression model that uses meteorological and photochemical data as input, making the neural network model with recurrent architecture a more useful tool in areas where only weather measurements are available. Finally, we used the neural network model to forecast the O 3 hourly concentrations 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h ahead. The performances of the model in predicting O 3 levels are discussed. Emphasis is given to the possibility of using the neural network model in operational ways in areas where only meteorological data are available, in order to predict O 3 also in sites where it has not been measured yet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mud volcanoes are common geological phenomenons observed worldwide as in Italy. They are well described in the scientific literature for their morphological, tectonic and hydrogeological features. They represent not only a relevant geological and geomorphological interest but also not negligible elements of hazard and risk associated with the presence of soft and pliable sediments and with the possible unexpected emission of gas and mud. Therefore, the understanding of their structure and hydrogeological circuits in the subsurface is an important key to define hazard and risk conditions in the adjacent areas. This paper deals with a multidisciplinary study including geophysical and hydrochemical surveys undertaken at the Pineto (central Italy) mud volcano site to achieve an interpretative conceptual model explaining the shallow upward migration of deep mud fluids. Shallow electrical and seismic imaging of the mud volcano was obtained using two dimensional and three dimensional (2D–3D) electrical resistivity tomography and 2D reflection seismic surveys. The hydrochemical properties of the rising fluids were assessed by means of seasonal measurements of the chemical–physical parameters, the concentrations of major ions, and some natural isotopes. This mud volcano or mud lump appears as a dome of about 15 × 10 m in size. The height of the crater is 2 m approximately, while the diameter of the crater is 2.5 m. Emission of fluids and solids (cold brine, mud, gas) occurs from this crater. Upper Pliocene–lower Pleistocene foredeep pelitic deposits (over-compacted clays with silty–sandy levels) overlain by clayey–silty deposits crop out in the area. The survey results seem to reveal that the uprising of deep fluids does not occur exactly below the mud volcano at present. Instead, a high conductivity body is present within a fractured zone in the pelitic deposits at 60 m approximately to the ENE. The probable occurrence of a high permeability layer approximately between 20 and 30 m below ground level, confined by clay deposits, gives rise to an overpressured mud fluids reservoir. Mud fluids appear to be flowing toward the surface from the reservoir up to the mud volcano crater. The interpretative conceptual model proposed by the authors is a first attempt to explain the shallow upward migration of deep mud fluids in this central Italy mud volcano. The results can be used to identify the uprising of fluids with similar chemical–physical properties even in areas where the superficial and morphological evidence of the volcanic bodies have been obliterated or covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report an updated and expanded list of Rock Partridge (Alectoris graeca) haplotypes found in wild animals throughout the Apennines of central Italy. Samples were collected and identified during a monitoring program of autochthonous Galliformes and from a private collection. The haplotypes were identified on a longer fragment of the mitochondrial control region (D-loop) based on previously reported haplotypes. This novel evidence, based on a wider sampling area and a higher number of analyzed specimens, will be of relevance in both conservation projects and gamebird breeding for restock, as imposed by the Italian Action Plan. Studying longer fragments can also be useful for phylogeographic analysis. Dataset: Molecular data on the NCBI web site (GenBank) are available at the link https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Registration codes are ON086324, ON086325, ON086326, ON086327, ON086328, ON086329, ON086317, ON086318, ON086319, ON086320, ON086322, ON086323. Dataset License: CC0 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent fieldwork in the Coste San Giacomo site (Early Pleistocene – Gelasian; central Italy) led us to discover new fossils of the Antilopini bovids Gazella borbonica and Gazellospira torticornis that are presented and discussed in this paper. These taxa have important palaeoenvironmental and biochronological significance during the Early Pleistocene. They were the last Antilopinae that inhabited the Italian peninsula, characterizing the middle Villafranchian large mammal assemblages living in arid and open environments. Gazella is one of the most diverse and widespread genus among Antilopinae subfamily, living today in Africa and in Asia. G . borbonica was the last species that inhabited Europe. In the Italian peninsula, it has been found in three sites: Montopoli, Dianella and Coste San Giacomo. The spiral horn-cored G . torticornis , larger in size than G . borbonica , has been found in the Italian sites of Montecarlo and Coste San Giacomo. Here, we present the study of the Italian record, based in particular on the horn cores. Finally, this material is compared with the remains coming from the coeval European localities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ponte Galeria area is part of the larger “Campagna Romana” and hosted the inner delta of the Tiber River since the beginning of the Middle Pleistocene, allowing the deposition of a series of glacio-eustatically controlled fluvial–lacustrine sedimentary successions very rich in fossil mammal remains. Due to its richness of fossiliferous sites, this area represents an exceptional archive for the study and understanding of the biochronological, paleobiogeographical and paleoenvironmental evolution during the Middle Pleistocene in Europe. A series of recent studies, using the 40 Ar/ 39 Ar ages of tephra intercalated within the sedimentary deposits, provided a large amount of geochronological data linking these aggradational successions to the different Marine Isotopic Stages. In the present paper we present a complete review of the faunal assemblages identified so far in the Ponte Galeria area, and we constrain the ages of the faunal units by placing them within the new chronostratigraphic scheme. By means of this interdisciplinary approach, we re-calibrate the mammal assemblages collected in this area and reconstruct a new biochronological and paleobiogeographic framework for the Italian peninsula during the Middle Pleistocene. In particular, we distinguish six well-defined biochronological units (Slivia, Ponte Galeria, Isernia, Fontana Ranuccio, Torre in Pietra, and Vitinia) in the studied area covering a time span of ca 0.6 Myr, from the Early to Middle Pleistocene transition to at least marine isotope stage 7. This period is characterized in Europe by the Mid-Pleistocene Revolution (global climate change) and by the transition at first between Villafranchian and Galerian taxa and later between the Galerian and Aurelian ones. According to the reviewed data, the persistence of Villafranchian taxa is recorded in Italy at the beginning of the Middle Pleistocene probably due to favorable climatic conditions or delay in dispersal of competitive species, while the faunal turnover between the Villafranchian and Galerian species was completed around 0.6–0.5 Ma. During this time, Bos primigenius and other temperate-warm taxa were widespread in the Peninsula earlier than in Western Europe. In contrast, typical Aurelian taxa, usually related with temperate-cold climatic conditions ( Ursus spelaeus , Megaloceros giganteus ), occurred later in Italy than in other Western European areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fractured reservoirs are of prime interest as fracture networks control most of the fluid flow and/or accumulation. However, characterizing 3D fracture patterns from subsurface data remains challenging. Studying fractures on outcrops is a good substitution to 1D data from subsurface exploration tools. In addition, outcrops allow deciphering the nature, origin and conditions for fracture formation through the geodynamic history. In this paper, we aim at characterizing the true 3D fracture patterns and determining the genetic role of facies, diagenesis and rock physical properties. We targeted a platform–slope transect within a carbonate reservoir analog, the Maiella Mountain in central Italy, where implications for analog hydrocarbon reservoir can be discussed. Fracture patterns are sorted based on geometric and kinematic criteria from field measurements and petrographic analyzes on thin-sections. Sedimentary facies, pore types and rock physical properties have been characterized in order to establish the impact of early diagenesis on rock evolution. Diagenetic sequences have been unraveled and correlated to the fractures. Fracture sequences have been determined considering the cross-cutting relationships and compared with burial–uplift history. In the two studied formations (platform and slope carbonates), we interpret a stage of fracturing perpendicular to bedding, formed at shallow depth and occurring prior to major regional tectonic events. The studied carbonates have undergone early diagenesis during fast and shallow burial, conferring early brittle behavior. The amount of stylolites is not correlated to burial depth but to fracture density, porosity and free air P–wave velocity. It means that fracture development, mechanical and petrophysical properties are acquired during early diagenesis. Both studied formations have undergone the same geodynamic history and their brittle response is different and not related to folding but to burial and early cementation. Deciphering the close relationship between sedimentary facies, diagenetic and geodynamic history has allowed unraveling the controling factors on rock properties and therefore on fracture pattern. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The landscape of the Val d'Orcia is characterized by biancane badlands that have begun to be overgrown with vegetation in recent years, thus causing a loss of the landscape's biodiversity and cultural significance. The aim of this paper is to examine the role of vegetation and associated soil properties on the erodibility and stability of biancane badlands. We attempt to identify factors that clearly distinguish the bare slope area, where erosion is particularly strong, from the vegetated slope area of a typical biancana in the Val d'Orcia. The data indicate that the vegetated area is characterized by decreased percentages of exchangeable Na+ resulting in a less dispersive character of the soil material in comparison to the bare area. Furthermore, the vegetated area exhibits an increased organic matter content and enhanced water infiltration. Changes in soil properties are probably due to the presence of a continuous vegetation cover that enhances organic matter accumulation, water infiltration, sodium leaching and subsequently soil development. It is concluded that vegetation plays a crucial role in altering soil properties to form more stable slope conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Placed at the center of the Mediterranean, the Apennines chains provide a critical water supply for people living in the Italian Peninsula. Yet, the quantification of water resources in this region is challenging given that the different components of the water cycles (i.e., snowmelt, evapotranspiration, and subsurface water recharge) are highly variable in space and time due to the specificity of the climate, the reforestation trend, and the complex landscapes and geology. In this study, we investigated the challenging hydrological river regime of a complex carbonate basin with significant external (and partially karst) groundwater contribution – the Upper Nera basin – affected by recent important seismic sequences. When dealing with such type of basins, the generic approach to delineate the basin boundaries based on the geomorphology of the area can lead to questionable results potentially yielding significant water budget imbalances. Therefore, both (hydro)geological and hydrological features have to be considered for understanding the challenging hydrological behavior of these basins. Here we proposed a specific analysis of precipitation-runoff time series corroborated with hydro-geological survey to obtain information on the basin response time and the real contribution area of the basin. Then, we integrated this information within the structure of a hydrological model (i.e., the Geoframe modelling system) by using a parsimonious type of approach to improve the description of the different components of the water balance with a specific focus on external groundwater recharge. We validated the model against in situ discharge observations and with remote sensing information of evapotranspiration and snow. Since these two variables (snow cover and evapotranspiration) play the crucial role in correct estimation of water balance in the basin, in this study we additionally focused on that. We show that the model (tested with several hydrological signatures and a new conceptual evaluation based on an empirical probability function) performs relatively well in reproducing the different water balance components (including remotely sensed evapotranspiration and snow) and that the upper river basin is significantly impacted by carbonate rock river discharge (i.e., up to 85 % in proportion to the total discharge for some stations) coming from outside the geomorphological boundary of the basin. Yet, the groundwater recharge effects on the river, gradually attenuates at the outlet of the basin (Visso station). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Since 1991, Italian free-roaming dogs have been under government protection and euthanasia is restricted by law. Management measures are regulated at the regional level and include: kennelling, adoptions, conversion of stray dogs into block dogs, and population control of owned dogs. “Block dogs” are free-roaming dogs that have been collected by the veterinary services, microchipped, sterilised, vaccinated, and released under the responsibility of the local municipalities. The present paper describes a cost-benefit model for different management options and applies it to two provinces in Abruzzo, central Italy. The model considers welfare, nuisance and direct costs to the municipality. Welfare is quantified based on the expert opinions of 60 local veterinarians, who were asked to assign a score for each dog category according to the five freedoms: freedom from pain, physical discomfort, disease, fear, and freedom to express normal behaviour. Nuisance was assessed only for comparisons between management options, using the number of free-roaming dogs per inhabitant as a proxy indicator. A community dog population model was constructed to predict the effect of management on the different subpopulations of dogs during a ten-year period. It is a user-friendly deterministic model in Excel, easily adaptable to different communities to assess the impact of their dog management policy on welfare, nuisance and direct monetary cost. We present results for Teramo and Pescara provinces. Today's management system is compared to alternative models, which evaluate the effect of specific interventions. These include either a 10% yearly increase in kennel capacity, an increase in adoptions from kennels, a doubling of the capture of stray dogs, or a stabilisation of the owned dog population. Results indicate that optimal management decisions are complex because welfare, nuisance and monetary costs may imply conflicting interventions. Nevertheless, they clearly indicate that management actions that would act on dog ownership patterns to reduce the number of free-roaming dogs would have the most favourable outcomes. These include reducing the reproductive capacity of the owned dog population, stronger enforcement of mandatory dog identification, reducing abandonment and increasing adoptions. This would increase welfare and free resources for implementing public campaigns. Block dogs may be an important intermediary means to reduce stray dogs, but adoption would be preferable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper illustrates the results of sedimentologic and stratigraphic analyses of the upper Piacenzian–Gelasian fluvial succession exposed in the Neogene–Quaternary Valdelsa Basin (central Italy). The succession shows a cyclothemic stacking of gravelly, sandy and muddy lithofacies organized into four monogenic facies associations (A–D). These record depositional environments ranging from braided to low-sinuosity river channels to flood basins. Associations A–D attest to lowstand (A–B), transgressive and high-stand (C–D) depositions in a full cycle of base-level variations. In each association, internal erosional surfaces separate early transgressive association C from the late lowstand association B. The systematic B/C channel scouring is interpreted as the result of a high water/sediment discharge ratio determined by a decrease of coarse-grained sediment supply to the fluvial systems during rise of base level. This erosive surface is conceptually analogous to the ravinement surface sculpted by wave erosion during the transgressive, landward migration of a shoreface. The late transgressive and highstand mud-dominated association D records the flood basin, a depositional environment indicative of a high base level which transformed a former channel belt in a plain dominated by fine-grained sediment settling, bio- and pedoturbation. The studied succession records rhythmic variations of base level and sediment supply to the fluvial systems, in turn regulated by different-rank relative fluctuations of Piacenzian sea level. In this perspective, concepts of sequence stratigraphy and facies analysis are exploited for producing a reliable fluvial sequence stratigraphic model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A spatial analysis tool, a Decision Support (DS) model able to support decision-making processes related to forestry energy planning has been developed using ecological and economic parameters. In this paper, the relative performance of different forest energy chains were compared by using metrics such as net revenue from forest processes, break-even prices of wood fuels, and the price elasticity of the bioenergy supply. Working with different scenarios at a spatial level, the DS model can evaluate innovative technologies and traditional forest harvest and logistical chains across a range of products, such as firewood and woodchips. The spatial analysis lends itself easily to an analysis of the political and administrative constraints with respect to levels of administration and regional variables. As expected, applying the tool to the Tuscany region in Italy shows that local characteristics and the species composition of an area influence the economic outcome of different harvest and logistical chains. In particular, mixed species Mediterranean forests appear to be suitable for the implementation of innovative bioenergy production processes, such as Whole Tree Chipping. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work we report a GPR study across a tectonic discontinuity in Central Italy. The surveyed area is located in the Castelluccio depression, a tectonic basin in the Central Apennines, close to the western border of the Mt. Vettore. Its West flank is characterised by a set of W-dipping normal faults, considered active and capable of generating strong earthquakes (Mw =6.5, Galli et al., 2008). A secondary fault strand, already studied with paleo-seismological analysis (Galadini and Galli, 2003), has been observed in the Quaternary deposits of the Prate Pala alluvial fan. We first defined the survey site using the data available in literature and referring to topographic and geological maps, evaluating also additional methodologies, such as orthophoto interpretation, geomorphologic analysis and integrating all the information in a GIS environment. In addition, we made extensive use of GPR modelling, reproducing the geometric characteristics of the inferred fault area and interpreting the synthetic profiles to recognise local geophysical indications of faulting on the radargrams. Finally, we performed a GPR survey employing antennas with different frequencies, to record both 2D Common Offset profiles and Common Mid Point (CMP) gathers for a more accurate velocity estimation of the investigated deposits. In this paper we focus on the evaluation of the most appropriated processing techniques and on data interpretation. Moreover we compare real and synthetic data, which allow us to better highlight some characteristic geophysical signatures of a shallow fault zone. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Miocene carbonate deposits of Scontrone (Abruzzo, Central Italy) are well known among palaeontologists because of their fossil vertebrate content that exhibits striking similarities to those of the remarkable “Terre Rosse” faunal complex of the Gargano region, defining the existence of the Miocene Central Mediterranean Apulia paleobioprovince. The main goal of this paper is to establish the age and environment of the Scontrone vertebrate bonebeds. The vertebrate remains are embedded in the basal portion of the Lithothamnion Limestone, a widespread carbonate-ramp lithosome representative of the Tortonian-early Messinian transgression over the entire Apulia Platform. The bonebeds belong to marginal-marine deposits (here called “Scontrone calcarenites”) preserved in a small area below transgressive ravinement surfaces. The rapid vertical and lateral facies variations displayed by the “Scontrone calcarenites”, together with paleoenvironmental considerations deriving from the vertebrate association, document a complex wave-dominated river-mouth depositional setting developed over a large, flat and semi-arid carbonate ramp. The “Scontrone calcarenites” have been split herein into five facies associations representing the stratigraphic response to a discontinuous or punctuated transgression within an overall rise of the relative sea level. Because of the absence of age-diagnostic fossils, the age of the “Scontrone calcarenites” cannot be directly defined through their paleontological content. However, a regional stratigraphic correlation between the Lithothamnion Limestone of Scontrone and the Lithothamnion Limestone of northern Majella, which is biostratigraphically well constrained, allows the attribution of the “Scontrone calcarenites” to the Tortonian. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recent developments in the uranium–lead (U–Pb) dating of speleothems have opened up new opportunities in palaeoclimate research. An important goal in this new frontier is to produce palaeoclimate records underpinned by precise and accurate age models, which together will increase the range of palaeoclimate questions that can be addressed by the speleothem research community. In this paper, we investigate the level of age-model precision that is achievable by applying high-resolution U–Pb dating of a stalagmite (CC8) from Corchia Cave (Italy) whose period of growth spans part of the Middle Pleistocene Transition (∼970–810 ka). Focussing largely on the periods encompassing three glacial terminations, we carried out age sampling of CC8 at a density similar to that performed in many studies of younger (i.e. U–Th-dated) speleothems. Using a combination of Tera–Wasserburg isochron and model age approaches, coupled with age-depth modelling, our results show that age-model uncertainties of ∼4 kyr are possible, equivalent to a precision of about 0.4%. At this level of precision palaeoclimate time series derived from speleothems of this age can be used to test hypotheses of orbital forcing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The paper tries to investigate whether tectonics played or not a significant role in shaping a few selected relief forms, as reported in the literature. All reviewed case histories, except for the last one, deal with fault-connected relief features. It may be stated that, in general, the pervasive role of differential erosion induced by lithologic hetereogeneities is often overlooked. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]