Sestri Levante Research Articles

Sustainability charter for innovative cities and safe mobility. Case study: Sestri Levante

In order to make our cities more innovative and responsive, the paper reports a study aimed at defining a new sustainability tool, in the context of Agenda 2030, to be adopted in urban realities. It has to do with the ‘Sustainability Charter’, a city decision-making process, designed with researchers, local communities and companies.The research analyses the Sustainability Charter and develops a methodological approach aiming at the systemization of all sustainable actions related to different urban topics. In particular, indicators were identified to assess the sustainability of these topics, graphically represented by chart and defined as sustainability maps. In the paper, among the priority issues at urban level, sustainable mobility is explored.The current health emergency has highlighted all the problems related to urban mobility. This situation can represent an opportunity to improve, revise or update cities’ governance tools. It is necessary to build safe soft mobility infrastructures, and to reorganize the existing ones -redesigning urban space-, by promoting a new culture of sustainable mobility. The Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), should integrate the Urban Sustainability Charter and all the underlying strategies to promote sustainable mobility.The case study described in the paper is the city of Sestri Levante in Liguria.

Evidence of pyrite dissolution by Telephora terrestris Ehrh in the Libiola mine (Sestri Levante, Liguria, Italy)

Evidence of pyrite dissolution by Telephora terrestris Ehrh were observed for the first time in the abandoned sulphide Libiola mine in May 2017 (Sestri Levante, Liguria, Italy). This fungus is an ectomycorrhizal species able to colonize this extreme environment and bioaccumulate metals such as copper and silver in its fruiting bodies, and it is known to establish symbiosis with maritime pines present in the area, thus favouring their recolonization of the site. This paper presents evidence of T. terrestris promoted dissolution of sulphide minerals. This species can remove from soil not only metals possibly toxic to the pine trees, but it can also contribute to the ions bioaccumulation through the bioweathering of sulphide mineral grains (especially pyrite).

Environmental implications of metal mobility in marine sediments receiving input from a torrent affected by mine discharge

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is one of the most important sources of pollution in fluvial systems and can enrich rivers in dissolved and suspended metals of environmental concern. Colloidal particles may favour the transport of metals to the sea, where metals can be accumulated in bottom sediments.The aim of this paper was to evaluate the mobility of metals in the “Baia delle Favole” bottom sediments (Sestri Levante, Italy), which receive the input of the AMD impacted Gromolo Torrent, using chemical speciation (BCR sequential extraction).Basing on the Risk Assessment Code (RAC), our results showed a systematic and widespread high risk classification for Mn, whereas a medium risk is associated to Co, Cu, and Zn in the sediments collected near the mouth of the Gromolo Torrent. Moreover, in these sediments the occurrence of Fe oxyhydroxides has been observed, reflecting an increase of metals in the reducible fraction obtained with BCR.

The early years of the ESHG leading to the reform of 1988 and the spirit of the Sestri Levante school.

The early years of the ESHG leading to the reform of 1988 and the spirit of the Sestri Levante school.

Preface

This special issue of the Logic Journal of the IGPL ‘Formal Representations in Model-Based Reasoning and Abduction’ is based on a selection of the papers that were presented at the International Conference Model-Based Reasoning in Science and Technology. Models and Inferences: Logical, Epistemological, and Cognitive Issues (MBR015_ITALY), held at the Centro Congressi Mediaterraneo, Sestri Levante, Italy, June 25–27, 2015, chaired by Lorenzo Magnani. A previous volume, Model-Based Reasoning in Scientific Discovery , edited by L.~Magnani, N. J. Nersessian, and P. Thagard (Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers, New York, 1999; Chinese edition, China Science and Technology Press, Beijing, 2000), was based on the papers presented at the first ‘model-based reasoning’ international conference, held at the University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy, in December 1998. Other two volumes were based on the papers presented at the second ‘model-based reasoning’ international conference, held at the same place in May 2001: Model-Based Reasoning. Scientific Discovery, Technological Innovation, Values , edited by L. Magnani and N. J. Nersessian (Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers, New York, 2002) and Logical and Computational Aspects of Model-Based Reasoning , edited by L. Magnani, N. J. Nersessian, and C. Pizzi (Kluwer Academic, Dordrecht, 2002). Another volume, Model-Based Reasoning in Science and Engineering , edited by L. Magnani (College Publications, London, 2006), was based on the papers presented at the third ‘model-based reasoning’ international conference, held at the same place in December 2004. The volume Model-Based Reasoning in Science and Medicine , edited by L. Magnani and P. Li (Springer, Heidelberg/Berlin 2006), was based on the papers presented at the fourth ‘model-based reasoning’ conference, held at Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P. R. China. The volume Model-Based Reasoning in Science and Technology. Abduction, Logic, and Computational Discovery , edited by L. Magnani, W. Carnielli and C. Pizzi (Springer, Heidelberg/Berlin 2010), was based on the papers presented at the fifth ‘model-based reasoning’ conference, held at the University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil, in December 2009. Finally, the volume Model-Based Reasoning in Science and Technology. Theoretical and Cognitive Issues , edited by L. Magnani (Springer, Heidelberg/Berlin 2013), was based on the papers presented at the sixth ‘model-based reasoning’ conference, held at Fondazione Mediaterraneo, Sestri Levante, Italy, June 2012.

Marine sediment contamination and dynamics at the mouth of a contaminated torrent: The case of the Gromolo Torrent (Sestri Levante, north-western Italy)

In this study we have examined the currents and hydrological characteristics of the water column off the mouth of the Gromolo Torrent (north-western Italy) in relation to the grain-size, mineralogical characteristics and metal distribution in the marine sediment sampled. Our purpose was to quantify and map the contamination that was carried out to sea from the abandoned Libiola Fe-Cu sulphide mine that has heavily impacted the torrent.Our results show high concentrations of Cu and Zn, and relatively high concentrations of Cd and Ni inside the bay into which the Gromolo Torrent flows. However, high concentrations of As, Cr, Hg, Mn, Pb, and V found in the northern and/or eastern parts of the study area originated from other sources. The subdivision of study stations in terms of metal and mineral contents in the bottom sediments highlighted the clear influence of the currents on their dispersion and distribution in the area.

Seventh European Workshop on Cannabinoid Research and IACM Eighth Conference on Cannabinoids in Medicine

The joint 7th European Workshop on Cannabinoid Research and IACM 8th Conference on Cannabinoids in Medicine was held in the beach town of Sestri Levante, Italy, on September 17–19, 2015. In this beautiful setting, world-leading investigators in the field of (endo)cannabinoid research presented exciting new data spanning a broad array of preclinical and clinical topics—from cellular electrophysiology to drug discovery and from potential indications for the therapeutic use of cannabis to treatments for cannabis use disorder. The sheer breadth of interests represented at the meeting generated a lively debate, which filled not only the question–answer time after the talks, but also the coffee and lunch breaks in the sunny courtyard of the ancient monastery where the conference was held. The (endo)cannabinoid research field is varied and expanding, and many participants voiced their support for having a forum where diverse (and sometimes contrasting) ideas can be exchanged, and new collaborations can be started. The active participation of both basic and clinical scientists was unanimously recognized as a major strength of this important scientific event.

Guest Editorial: Special Collection of Papers Arising From UComms14

The special issue showcases selected papers arising out of the Underwater Communications and Networking Conference held in Sestri Levante, Italy, September 3–5, 2014 (UComms14), second in a series of focused meetings intended to bring the best in the field together to present, discuss, and review the state of the art. Major topics span from physical-layer issues to higher layer considerations such as adaptive power strategies and scheduling to optimize channel throughput, clock synchronisation, and network simulation using physical-layer replay.

O conceito de "novidade" no projeto do Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano

Este artigo aborda o projeto de desenvolvimento cinematografico conhecido como Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano a partir de uma analise do conceito de novidade. Ele esta centrado nas razoes que levaram alguns cineastas, no final dos anos 1960, a considerar que seus filmes eram novos. Analisa assim suas particularidades em relacao aos novos cinemas europeus, com foco no vies revolucionario que adquire o termo novo na America Latina. Por fim, o conceito e estudado utilizando como fonte as declaracoes e os debates publicos dos festivais do Sodre, em Montevideu (1958), Sestri Levante (1962 e 1963) e Vina del Mar (1967).

Chest radiological findings of influenza A H1N1 pneumonia

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to review chest radiographs (CXR) and chest computer tomography (CT) findings in patients with influenza A H1N1 virus pneumonia. Materials and methodsOf ninety-eight patients with influenza A H1N1 infections seen in the General Hospitals of Villa Scassi, Genoa, and Sestri Levante from September 2009 to December 2009, twenty-eight developed pneumonia. The initial CXR were evaluated for radiological patterns: (ground-glass, consolidation, nodules, reticulation), distribution, and extent of the disease. Chest CT scans were reviewed for the same findings. A new radiographic score (CXR score) was used to evaluate the severity of the illness. ResultsThe predominant radiological findings on chest CT in the patients at presentation were unilateral or bilateral multifocal ground glass opacities (84.5% of the patients).Consolidation areas had a peribronchovascular and subpleural predominance and were found mainly in the middle and upper zones of the lung. Reticular opacities were found in about 20% of the cases. The most outstanding CXR and chest CT features of the disease were basal and axial alveolar consolidation and ground-glass opacities. The severity of disease as determinate by need for mechanical ventilation was greater in patients with a greater number of lobes involved and a higher CXR score. ConclusionBilateral ground-glass opacities and areas of consolidation were the predominant radiological findings of influenza A (H1N1) virus pneumonia. Multifocal bilateral opacities and CXR score are strictly correlated with the severity of the illness.

Chest radiological findings of influenza A H1N1 pneumonia

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to review chest radiographs (CXR) and chest computer tomography (CT) findings in patients with influenza A H1N1 virus pneumonia. Materials and methodsOf ninety-eight patients with influenza A H1N1 infections seen in the General Hospitals of Villa Scassi, Genoa, and Sestri Levante from September 2009 to December 2009, twenty-eight developed pneumonia. The initial CXR were evaluated for radiological patterns: (ground-glass, consolidation, nodules, reticulation), distribution, and extent of the disease. Chest CT scans were reviewed for the same findings. A new radiographic score (CXR score) was used to evaluate the severity of the illness. ResultsThe predominant radiological findings on chest CT in the patients at presentation were unilateral or bilateral multifocal ground glass opacities (84.5% of the patients).Consolidation areas had a peribronchovascular and subpleural predominance and were found mainly in the middle and upper zones of the lung. Reticular opacities were found in about 20% of the cases. The most outstanding CXR and chest CT features of the disease were basal and axial alveolar consolidation and ground-glass opacities. The severity of disease as determinate by need for mechanical ventilation was greater in patients with a greater number of lobes involved and a higher CXR score. ConclusionBilateral ground-glass opacities and areas of consolidation were the predominant radiological findings of influenza A (H1N1) virus pneumonia. Multifocal bilateral opacities and CXR score are strictly correlated with the severity of the illness.

Pneumonia associada a influenza A (H1N1)

To describe the characteristics of patients with influenza A (H1N1)-associated pneumonia treated at two hospitals in the region of Liguria, Italy, as well as to describe their treatment and outcomes. This was a prospective observational study including all patients older than 16 years of age with a confirmed diagnosis of influenza A (H1N1) who were admitted to Villa Scassi Hospital, in the city of Genoa, Italy, or to the Sestri Levante General Hospital, in the city of Sestri Levante, Italy, between September of 2009 and January of 2010. The primary outcome measure was mortality within 60 days after diagnosis. Secondary outcome measures were the need for mechanical ventilation and the length of hospital stay. Of the 40 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of influenza A (H1N1), 27 presented pneumonia during the study period. The mean age of the 27 patients was 42.8 ± 14.8 years, and the mean length of hospital stay was 11.6 ± 8.2 days. Of the 27 patients, 20 had respiratory failure, 4 underwent invasive mechanical ventilation, and 5 underwent noninvasive ventilation. One patient had comorbidities, developed multiple organ failure, and died. During the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic, the associated mortality rate was lower in Italy than in other countries, and cases reported in the country typically had a milder course than did those reported elsewhere. Nevertheless, 9 of our cases (33%) rapidly evolved to respiratory failure, requiring mechanical ventilation.

Abstracts of the VIII Annual Meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology | Sestri Levante, October 27-29, 2011

Not available.

Abstracts of the VIII Annual Meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology | Sestri Levante, October 27-29, 2011

Abstracts of the VIII Annual Meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology | Sestri Levante, October 27-29, 2011

Stressin' Sestrins take an aging fight

Sestrins (Sesns) are a family of highly conserved stress-responsive proteins, transcriptionally regulated by p53 and forkhead transcription factor that exhibit oxidoreductase activity in vitro and can protect cells from oxidative stress. However, their major biochemical and physiological function does not appear to depend on their redox (reduction and oxidation) activity. Sesns promote activation of adenosine-5′-monophosphate (AMP)-dependent protein kinase in both mammals and flies. Stress-induced Sesn expression results in inhibition of the target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) and the physiological and pathological implications of disrupting the Sesns-TORC1 crosstalk are now being unravelled. Detailing their mechanism of action and exploring their roles in human physiology point to exciting new insights to topics as diverse as stress, cancer, metabolism and aging.

Leena Palotie-Peltonen, 1952–2010, visionary and role model

Leena Palotie-Peltonen, 1952–2010, visionary and role model

Morphological, bathymetric and sedimentological surveys used to assess the coastline defensive measures

This paper outlines the results of a study recently carried out on the western coast of the Sestri Levante peninsula (Eastern Liguria-Italy), aiming to assess the effects of newly accomplished defensive measures against coastal erosion: the accretion of the beach with natural sand and its protection with artificial structures orthogonal and parallel to the shoreline. Through conventional and more innovative methodologies (respectively single beam echo sounders and global positioning system) the research work has resulted in a new evaluation of the morphological, bathymetric and sedimentological features that make up this shoreline and its volumetrical change over the century. The survey and the research carried out on the studied area have enabled us to give a more detailed picture of the evolution of the littoral, to assess the possible use of “non-traditional” techniques of beach development monitoring, to evaluate the volumetric variations of the emerged and submerged beaches, to establish the sedimentological activity of the beach after the latest nourishment measures, and finally, to verify the effectiveness of the protection measures implemented on this coastline. The acquired data have been stored in the database and a geographic information system has been used to process, analyze, and evaluate the results. The main findings show that the latest intervention has brought about a new phase in the evolution of the coastline, giving rise to a new pseudo-balanced condition. The re-distribution of materials used for the beach nourishment, leads us to believe that the defence underwater barrier has only partially worked. The main conclusion for a correct coastal zone management underline the necessity to plan local and more wide monitoring during at least 8–10 consecutive years.

Genetic evolution of nanocrystalline Fe oxide and oxyhydroxide assemblages from the Libiola mine (eastern Liguria, Italy): structural and microstructural investigations

The Libiola Fe-Cu-sulphide mine, near Sestri Levante (eastern Liguria), represents one of the most extensively exploited sulphide deposits in Italy. In this area, active Acid Rock Drainage (ARD) processes are evident. The major resulting mineral phases are Fe oxides and oxyhydroxides, occurring in varicoloured crusts on the surface of waste rocks and in unconsolidated muds. In this study, the Fe assemblages of the waste rock were investigated by microchemical (SEM), structural (XRD), microstructural (TEM) and spectroscopic (DRS, IR, μ-Raman) techniques, in order to determine the phase composition, the textural relations among the minerals and their genetic evolution. They are characterized by intimate intergrowths of hematite and goethite with minor quartz and lepidocrocite; in some samples, the presence of very minor schwertmannite was detected. TEM and HR-TEM observations revealed that hematite is present within pseudo-elliptical bodies as pseudo-hexagonal to subrounded nanocrystalline lamellae (from 18.9 to 26.5 nm in diameter), whereas goethite occurs either as parallel intergrowths of acicular crystals (from 10 to 16.3 μm in length) or as sheaf-like assemblages. On the basis of the present data, the studied Fe oxide and oxyhydroxide assemblages are found to represent distinct spatial and temporal stages of a nano-scale evolution process.

Controversies concerning diagnostic guidelines for anomalies of the enteric nervous system: A report from the fourth International Symposium on Hirschsprung's disease and related neurocristopathies

Intestinal Dysganglionoses (IDs) represent a heterogeneous group of Enteric Nervous System anomalies including Hirschsprung's disease (HD), Intestinal Neuronal Dysplasia (IND), Internal Anal Sphincter Neurogenic Achalasia (IASNA) and Hypoganglionosis. At present HD is the only recognised clinico-pathological entity, whereas the others are not yet worldwide accepted and diagnosed. This report describes the areas of agreement and disagreement regarding definition, diagnosis, and management of IDs as discussed at the workshop of the fourth International Meeting on “Hirschsprung's disease and related neurochristopathies.” The gold standards in the preoperative diagnosis of IDs are described, enlighting the importance of rectal suction biopsy in the diagnostic workup. The most important diagnostic features of HD are the combination of hypertrophic nerve trunks and aganglionosis in adequate specimens. Acetylcholinesterase staining is the best diagnostic technique to demonstrate hypertrophic nerve trunks in lamina propia mucosae, but many pathologist from different centers still use H&E staining effectively. Moreover, the importance of an adequate intraoperative pathological evaluation of the extent of IDs to avoid postoperative complications is stressed. Although it is not clear whether IND is a separate entity or some sort of secondary acquired condition, it is concluded that both IND and IASNA do exist. Other interesting conclusions are provided as well as detailed results of the discussion. Further investigation is needed to resolve the many controversies concerning IDs. The fourth International Conference in Sestri Levante stimulated discussion regarding these entities and led to the International guidelines to serve the best interest of our patients.

Nephrite jade from Sestri Levante, Italy

Nephrite jade from Sestri Levante, Italy