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The NEREA (Naples Ecological REsearch for Augmented observatories) initiative aims to establish an augmented observatory in the Gulf of Naples (GoN), designed to advance the understanding of marine ecosystems through a holistic approach. Inspired by the Tara Oceans expedition and building on the scientific legacy of the MareChiara Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER-MC) site, NEREA integrates traditional physical, chemical, and biological measurements with state-of-the-art methodologies such as metabarcoding and metagenomics. Here we present the first 10 months of NEREA data, collected from April 2019 to January 2020, encompassing physico-chemical parameters, plankton biodiversity (e.g., microscopy and flow cytometry), prokaryotic and eukaryotic metabarcoding, a prokaryotic gene catalogue, and a collection of 3818 prokaryotic Metagenome-Assembled Genomes (MAGs). NEREA's efforts produce a significant volume of multifaceted data, which enhances our understanding of marine ecosystems and promotes the development of scientific hypotheses and ideas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate changes may include variations in salinity concentrations at sea by changing ocean dynamics. These variations may be especially challenging for marine photosynthetic organisms, affecting their growth and distribution. Chlamydomonas spp. are ubiquitous and are often found in extreme salinity conditions. For this reason, they are considered good model species to study salinity adaptation strategies. In the current study, we used an integrated approach to study the Chlamydomonas sp. CCMP225 response to salinities of 20‰ and 70‰, by combining physiological, morphological, and transcriptomic analyses, and comparing differentially expressed genes in the exponential and stationary growth phases under the two salinity conditions. The results showed that the strain is able to grow under all tested salinity conditions and maintains a surprisingly high photosynthetic efficiency even under high salinities. However, at the highest salinity condition, the cells lose their flagella. The transcriptomic analysis highlighted the up- or down-regulation of specific gene categories, helping to identify key genes responding to salinity stress. Overall, the findings may be of interest to the marine biology, ecology, and biotechnology communities, to better understand species adaptation mechanisms under possible global change scenarios and the potential activation of enzymes involved in the synthesis of bioactive molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agathon: International Journal of Architecture, Art & Design is the property of DEMETRA CE.RI.MED 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.)

Copepods dominate marine zooplankton in abundance and play key roles in pelagic food webs. These small crustaceans show high taxonomic and functional diversity. Although there has been considerable research on their taxonomy, only a few studies have focused on their functional traits. In this study, we analyzed the functional traits of 95 copepod species, considering their body size, trophic regime, feeding behavior, and spawning strategy. Based on samples collected during two surveys (autumn 2020 and summer 2021) located in the coastal waters of three gulfs (Gaeta, Naples, and Salerno) in the highly populated Campania region (the central Tyrrhenian Sea, NW Mediterranean), we identified nine functional groups of copepods with different characteristics. The group that comprised herbivorous copepods with feeding currents and a broadcast strategy was the most abundant in both seasons and all gulfs. This group was dominated by Acartia clausi, Centropages typicus, Temora stylifera, and the Paracalanus parvus complex. The other functional groups showed differences in their temporal and spatial distribution. Our study reports the functional diversity of copepods along the Campania coast, thus contributing to advancing our knowledge of the planktonic trophic structure in a region of considerable importance due to its marine resources and services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia is an age-related disease characterized by loss of muscle strength, mass and performance. Malnutrition contributes to sarcopenia pathogenesis. The aim of this systematic review is to analyze existing evidence on the efficacy of nutritional supplementation on muscle and mitochondrial health among sarcopenic or malnourished older adults. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA), vitamin D and/or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) on muscle mass, strength and performance and/or on mitochondrial activity and redox state in older sarcopenic and/or malnourished adults. The literature search was on MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Central, restricted to articles published in the last 10 years (2012–2022). Twelve RCTs with a total of 1337 subjects were included. BCAA with vitamin D significantly ameliorates appendicular muscle mass (4 RCTs), hand grip strength (4 RCTs), gait speed (3 RCTs), short physical performance battery (3 RCTs) or chair stand test (3 RCTs) among six out of nine RCTs. BCAA alone (2 RCTs) or PUFA (1 RCT) were not effective in improving muscle health. Mitochondrial function was significantly improved by the administration of BCAA alone (1 RCT) or in association with vitamin D (1 RCT). In conclusion, BCAA in association with vitamin D may be useful in the treatment of sarcopenia and boost mitochondrial bioenergetic and redox activity. PROSPERO CRD42022332288. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is associated with changes in the immune system, increased inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. The relationship between these phenomena and the clinical phenotype of frailty is unclear. Here, we evaluated the immune phenotypes, T cell functions and mitochondrial functions of immune cells in frail and robust older subjects. We enrolled 20 frail subjects age- and gender-matched with 20 robust controls, and T cell phenotype, response to immune stimulation, cytokine production and immune cell mitochondrial function were assessed. Our results showed that numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were decreased in frail subjects, without impairment to their ratios. Memory and naïve T cells were not significantly affected by frailty, whereas the expression of CD28 but not that of ICOS was decreased in T cells from frail subjects. T cells from robust subjects produced more IL-17 after CD28 stimulation. Levels of serum cytokines were similar in frail subjects and controls. Mitochondrial bioenergetics and ATP levels were significantly lower in immune cells from frail subjects. In conclusion, we suggest that changes in T cell profiles are associated with aging rather than with frailty syndrome; however, changes in T cell response to immune stimuli and reduced mitochondrial activity in immune cells may be considered hallmarks of frailty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fistula in ano is a common anorectal disease in adults. Currently, surgery remains the definitive therapeutic approach, but in some cases, it can lead to serious complications as faecal or gas incontinence. Therefore, sphincter sparing treatments should be considered for complex fistulas. One of the sphincteric preserving treatment is the filling with a dermal extract commonly called “collagen glue” as Salvecoll-E® gel. This is a multicentric, prospective, observational study on the use of Salvecoll-E® gel in treatment of complex anal fistulas. We treated 70 patients from May 2016 to May 2017. In the first phase, we debrided the fistula tract using a loose seton kept for 4–6 weeks. In the second phase, the seton was removed and the fistula tract was filled with Salvecoll-E® gel. In this article, we report results at 36 months of follow-up. Fifty patients (71.4%) had completely healed fistula within 36 months of follow-up. Twenty-eight patients (28.2%) had recurrences. Among these failures, 65% were within 6 months. All low transphincteric fistulas healed. Recurrences occurred only in median and high transphincteric fistulas. No patient had a worsening of continence status measured with Cleveland Clinic Florida Incontinence Severity score. Salvecoll-E® gel is a recent finding among sphincter-sparing treatments. In this study, we demonstrate that it is a safe option in the treatment of complex fistulas. Final results are satisfactory and in line with the best results published in literature among mini-invasive treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This project produced an online astronomy course based on the free, online OpenStax textbook. When this project was conceived, about a year before the Covid-19 pandemic, the authors had no idea that in a short period of time, most college and university classes would be online. This abrupt change in modalities of courses, from traditional, face-to-face lectures and laboratories to a more modern online format, sparked energetic discussions about the effectiveness of online courses. This paper describes the online astronomy course and its creation and evaluates the success of the course at conveying the concepts and theories studied in astronomy courses. The success of this course is examined using a 100-question pre-test and post-test based on content knowledge. A survey was also completed of the students to evaluate the perceived success of the online course and the acceptance of online courses. The survey was adjusted to include opinions about the in-person labs that were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vitamin D and microRNA (miR) systems may play a role in the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic disorders, including hypertension. The HYPODD study was a double-blind placebo-controlled trial aiming to assess the effects of cholecalciferol treatment in patients with well-controlled hypertension and hypovitaminosis D (25OHD levels < 50 nmol/L). In addition to this clinical trial, we also evaluated the effects of cholecalciferol and calcitriol treatment on miR-21 expression in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Changes in the cardiovascular risk profiles were evaluated in HYPODD patients treated with cholecalciferol (C-cohort) or with placebo (P-cohort). The miR-21circulating levels were measured in four C-cohort patients and five P-cohort patients. In vitro, the miR-21 levels were measured in HEK-293 cells treated with calcitriol or with ethanol vehicle control. Cholecalciferol treatment increased 25OHD levels and reduced parathormone, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in C-cohort patients, whereas no significant changes in these parameters were observed in P-cohort patients. The miR-21 circulating levels did not change in the C- or the P-cohort patients upon treatment. Calcitriol treatment did not affect miR-21 levels in HEK-293 cells. In conclusion, hypovitaminosis D correction ameliorated the cardiovascular risk profiles in hypertensive patients treated with cholecalciferol but did not influence the miR-21 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plankton communities include both unicellular and multicellular organisms. An important unicellular component is represented by those protists (i.e., unicellular eukaryotes) that consume bacteria, other protists, and even small animals. These organisms are an important link between primary producers and metazoans, and they can also be 'mixotrophic', coupling phagotrophic and photoautotrophic behaviours. In this note, we report on the diversity of heterotrophic protists, or protozoo-plankton (from 'protozoan plankton'), and mixotrophic protists, or mixo-plankton, which were sampled at two sites (coastal and offshore stations), at two depths (0 and 10 m), in the Gulf of Naples during the early autumn of 2020. Our survey identified dinoflagellates and oligotrich ciliates as the most abundant groups, while tintinnids (choreotrich ciliates) were less quantitatively relevant. The taxonomic composition of samples investigated herein remarked that reported by previous studies, except for the tintinnid Ascampbeliella armilla, which was never reported in the area of study. A coast-to-offshore differentiation in the taxonomical composition of heterotrophic and mixotrophic protists was also observed, with some species more abundant within coastal waters and other better thriving in offshore ones. These differences were associated with distinct environmental and trophic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agathon: International Journal of Architecture, Art & Design is the property of DEMETRA CE.RI.MED 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.)

Doxorubicin is one of the most effective drugs for the first-line treatment of high-grade osteosarcoma. Several studies have demonstrated that the major cause for doxorubicin resistance in osteosarcoma is the increased expression of the drug efflux transporter ABCB1/P-glycoprotein (Pgp). We recently identified a library of H2S-releasing doxorubicins (Sdox) that were more effective than doxorubicin against resistant osteosarcoma cells. Here we investigated the molecular mechanisms of the higher efficacy of Sdox in human osteosarcoma cells with increasing resistance to doxorubicin. Differently from doxorubicin, Sdox preferentially accumulated within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and its accumulation was only modestly reduced in Pgp-expressing osteosarcoma cells. The increase in doxorubicin resistance was paralleled by the progressive down-regulation of genes of ER-associated protein degradation/ER-quality control (ERAD/ERQC), two processes that remove misfolded proteins and protect cell from ER stress-triggered apoptosis. Sdox, that sulfhydrated ER-associated proteins and promoted their subsequent ubiquitination, up-regulated ERAD/ERQC genes. This up-regulation, however, was insufficient to protect cells, since Sdox activated ER stress-dependent apoptotic pathways, e.g., the C/EBP-β LIP/CHOP/PUMA/caspases 12-7-3 axis. Sdox also promoted the sulfhydration of Pgp that was subsequently ubiquitinated: this process further enhanced Sdox retention and toxicity in resistant cells. Our work suggests that Sdox overcomes doxorubicin resistance in osteosarcoma cells by at least two mechanisms: it induces the degradation of Pgp following its sulfhydration and produces a huge misfolding of ER-associated proteins, triggering ER-dependent apoptosis. Sdox may represent the prototype of innovative anthracyclines, effective against doxorubicin-resistant/Pgp-expressing osteosarcoma cells by perturbing the ER functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in patients older than 65 years. Emergency presentation represents about 30% of cases, with increased morbidity and mortality rates. The aim of this study is to compare the perioperative outcome between elderly and non-elderly patients undergoing emergency surgery. Method. We retrospectively analysed CRC patients that underwent emergency surgery at the Departments of Surgery of the Sapienza University Sant’Andrea Hospital in Rome, and at San Donato Hospital in Arezzo, between June 2012 and June 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: non-elderly (< 65 years) and elderly (≥ 65 years). Variables analysed were sex, onset symptoms, associated disease, ASA score, tumor site and TNM stage, surgical procedures and approach, and morbidity and mortality. Results. Of a total of 123 patients, 29 patients were non-elderly and 94 patients were elderly. No significant differences were observed in sex, onset symptoms and tumor site between the two groups. Comorbidities were significantly higher in elderly patients (73.4% vs 41.4%, p<0.001). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in surgical approach and the rate of one-stage procedures. Elderly patients were more frequently treated by Hartmann’s procedure compared to non-elderly patients (20.2% vs 6.9%). Left colorectal resection with protective ileostomy was most frequent in the non-elderly group (27.6% vs 11.7%). No significant differences were found in the pT and pN categories of the TNM system between the two groups. However, a higher number of T3 in non-elderly patients was observed. A consistent number of non-oncologically adequate resections were observed in the elderly (21.3% vs 3.5%; p<0.03). The morbidity rate was significantly higher in the elderly group (31.9 % vs 3.4%, p<0.001). No significant difference was found in the mortality rate between the two groups, being 13.8% in the elderly and 6.9% in the non-elderly. Conclusions. Emergency colorectal surgery for cancer still presents significant morbidity and mortality rates, especially in elderly patients. More aggressive tumors and advanced stages were more frequent in the non-elderly group and as a matter it should be taken into account when treating such patients in the emergency setting in order to perform a radical procedure as much as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Teriparatide is a bone anabolic treatment for osteoporosis, modeled in animals by intermittent PTH (iPTH) administration, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of iPTH are largely unknown. Here, we show that Teriparatide and iPTH cause a ~two‐threefold increase in the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in humans and mice. Attesting in vivo relevance, blockade of the Treg increase in mice prevents the increase in bone formation and trabecular bone volume and structure induced by iPTH. Therefore, increasing the number of Tregs is a pivotal mechanism by which iPTH exerts its bone anabolic activity. Increasing Tregs pharmacologically may represent a novel bone anabolic therapy, while iPTH‐induced Treg increase may find applications in inflammatory conditions and transplant medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in T helper cell sub-types and osteoclast (OCs) precursors in peripheral blood between patients affected by early rheumatoid arthritis (eRA) and healthy controls. The effect of administration of cholecalcipherol on clinical and laboratory parameters was subsequently evaluated, by a parallel, randomized double blind, placebo controlled trial. Thirty nine eRA patients and 31 age-matched controls were enrolled and compared for levels of 25OH vitamin D, T helper cell sub-types, OCs precursors including both classical and non-classical and pro-inflammatory cytokines at baseline. Eligible patients were female ≥18 years of age with a diagnosis of RA, as defined by the American College of Rheumatology 2010 criteria for <6 months prior to inclusion in the study. Patients with auto-immune or inflammatory diseases other than RA were excluded. Patients treated with glucocorticoids (GCs), disease modifying activity drugs and biologic agents within the past 6 months were also excluded. In the second phase of the study, eRA patients were randomly assigned to standard treatment with methotrexate (MTX) and GCs with (21) or without (18) cholecalcipherol (300,000 IU) and followed for 3 months; the randomization was done by computer generated tables to allocate treatments. Three patients didn’t come back to the follow up visit for personal reasons. None of the patients experienced adverse events. The main outcome measures were T cells phenotypes, OCs precursors and inflammatory cytokines. Secondary outcome measure were clinical parameters. In eRA, 25OH vitamin D levels were significantly lower. CD4+/IFNγ+,CD4+/IL4+, CD4+/IL17A+ and CD4+IL17A+IFNγ+, cells were increased in eRA as well as non-classical OCs precursors, whereas T regulatory cells were not altered. TNFα, TGFβ1, RANKL, IL-23 and IL-6 were increased in eRA. Non-classical OCs, IL-23 and IL-6 correlated with disease severity and activity. Standard treatment with MTX and GC ameliorated clinical symptoms and reduced IL-23, whereas it did not affect CD4+ cells sub-sets nor OCs precursors. After 3 months, the combined use of cholecalcipherol significantly ameliorated the effect of treatment on global health. In eRA, a significant imbalance in T CD4+ sub-types accompanied by increased levels of non-classical OCs precursors and pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed. A single dose of cholecalcipherol (300,000 IU) combined with standard treatment significantly ameliorates patients general health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nutrient deprivation, hypoxia, radiotherapy and chemotherapy induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which activates the so-called unfolded protein response (UPR). Extensive and acute ER stress directs the UPR towards activation of death-triggering pathways. Cancer cells are selected to resist mild and prolonged ER stress by activating pro-survival UPR. We recently found that drug-resistant tumor cells are simultaneously resistant to ER stress-triggered cell death. It is not known if cancer cells adapted to ER stressing conditions acquire a chemoresistant phenotype. Methods: To investigate this issue, we generated human cancer cells clones with acquired resistance to ER stress from ER stress-sensitive and chemosensitive cells. Results: ER stress-resistant cells were cross-resistant to multiple chemotherapeutic drugs: such multidrug resistance (MDR) was due to the overexpression of the plasma-membrane transporter MDR related protein 1 (MRP1). Gene profiling analysis unveiled that cells with acquired resistance to ER stress and chemotherapy share higher expression of the UPR sensor protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), which mediated the erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2)-driven transcription of MRP1. Disrupting PERK/Nrf2 axis reversed at the same time resistance to ER stress and chemotherapy. The inducible silencing of PERK reduced tumor growth and restored chemosensitivity in resistant tumor xenografts. Conclusions: Our work demonstrates for the first time that the adaptation to ER stress in cancer cells produces a MDR phenotype. The PERK/Nrf2/MRP1 axis is responsible for the resistance to ER stress and chemotherapy, and may represent a good therapeutic target in aggressive and resistant tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is potentially curative in a variety of hematological malignancies. Graft-vs.-host disease (GvHD) remains a life-threatening complication. Standard treatment is high-dose (HD) corticosteroids. Steroid-refractory (SR) GvHD is associated with poor prognosis. At present, second-line treatment is ill-defined and includes a number of agents. Novel insights into the pathophysiology of acute GvHD (aGvHD) highlight the relevant role of the host inflammatory response governed by several kinase families, including Janus kinases (JAK) 1/2. Ruxolitinib, a JAK1/2 inhibitor approved for intermediate-2/high-risk myelofibrosis, was recently employed in SR-GvHD with encouraging overall response rates. Clinical experience however remains limited. Case presentation: A 51-year-old male with refractory anemia with excess blast type-2 underwent a myeloablative allogeneic HSCT from a 9/10 HLA-matched unrelated donor after conditioning with busulfan and cyclophosphamide. GvHD prophylaxis consisted of cyclosporine, methotrexate, and thymoglobulin. CD34+ cells/kg infused were 8.69 × 106 kg. On day 29, the patient developed overall grade IV aGvHD with biopsy proven stage IV gastrointestinal (GI) GvHD refractory to HD corticosteroids. Patient conditions rapidly deteriorated and became critical despite the addition of mycophenolate mofetil and budesonide. On day 33, Ruxolitinib was started, and on day 39 the patient clinical conditions gradually improved. Complete resolution of aGvHD was also confirmed by histology on day 54. Conclusions: At 5 months from HSCT, the patient is well and in continuous hematological complete remission without flare of GvHD. Ruxolitinib was discontinued on day 156. Ruxolitinib is feasible and effective in SR-aGvHD though large prospective clinical trials are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The increasing need for disposal of lake-dredged material (LDM) as a consequence of intensified natural and/or anthropogenically mediated erosion processes has lead the scientific community to find new strategies for its reuse. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of LDM use on the biochemical and functional performance of a degraded soil affected by erosion and entisolization processes. Materials and methods: As a paradigmatic case study, a hydrographic basin located in Sardinia (Italy) was investigated. Severe soil degradation processes affect this area and have resulted in intensive sheet and rill water erosion. In contrast, an increase in sedimentation has been recorded on the bottom of an artificial lake. A degraded soil, collected in this area, were treated by co-utilization of LDM, other mineral matrices (a zeolitized tuff), organic amendment (a commercial manure), and mineral fertilizer (urea, triple superphosphate, and potassium sulfate) for the growth of a pasture grass under controlled (pot) conditions. The evolution of nine different model proto-horizons (MPH) was monitored through a series of biochemical parameters and techniques (total/extracellular enzymatic activity, isoelectric focusing, and gas chromatography) to assess the potential of LDM in soil biochemical recovery. Results and discussion: On the whole, treatments containing LDM resulted in good recovery of degraded soils, as shown by a general enhancement in biochemical functionality. Application of LDM increased the more stable fraction of organic matter and its active biochemical fraction, showing the highest stable humic carbon content and humic activity. Such outcomes seem to represent a long-term beneficial effect on soil functionality. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that LDM could be a useful pedotechnomaterial (PTM) for improving the biochemical functionality of extremely degraded soils. Additionally, the use of LDM as a PTM has the ecological advantage of recycling what is often considered as a 'waste material.' From a socioeconomic point of view, the reuse of LDM in pedotechnique could represent a new low-cost alternative to the complex and expensive management and disposal of this material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Admittance controllers have been widely implemented in physical human/robot interaction (pHRI). The stability criteria and the parameter adaptation methods for admittance control have been well-studied. However, the established methods have mainly focused on human/manipulator interaction, and cannot be directly extended to mobile robot-based pHRI, in which the nonlinearity cannot be cancelled by feedback linearizations and the measurements of the relative human/robot position and orientation are usually lacking. In this paper, we study the pHRI between a human user and a mobile robot under admittance control. We develop a robotic system which can measure the relative chest/ankle positions of the human user with respect to the robot. Using the measured human position, a human frame admittance controller is proposed to remove the nonlinearity in the system dynamics. Based on the human-frame admittance control, a stability criterion is derived. By using a human arm stiffness estimator along with the derived stability criterion, a stiffness-based variable admittance controller is designed. The effectiveness of the proposed methods in improving the pHRI performance is tested and supported by simulations and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We evaluated the effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on Wnt10b production by immune system cells in humans. We showed that bone anabolic effect of intermittent PTH treatment may be amplified by T cells through increased production of Wnt10b. Chronic increase in PTH as in primary hyperparathyroidism does not increase Wnt10b expression. Introduction: The aim of this study is to assess the effect of PTH on Wnt10b production by immune system cells in humans. We assessed both the effect of intermittent PTH administration (iPTH) and of chronic PTH hypersecretion in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP). Methods: Eighty-two women affected by post-menopausal osteoporosis were randomly assigned to treatment with calcium and vitamin D alone (22) or plus 1-84 PTH (42), or intravenous ibandronate (18). Wnt10b production by unfractioned blood nucleated cells and by T, B cells and monocytes was assessed by real-time RT-PCR and ELISA at baseline, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months of treatment. The effect of chronic elevation of PTH was evaluated in 20 patients affected by PHP at diagnosis and after surgical removal of parathyroid adenoma. WNT10b from both osteoporotic and PHP patients was compared to healthy subjects matched for age and sex. Results: iPTH increases Wnt10b production by T cells, whereas PHP does not. After surgical restoration of normal parathyroid function, WNT10b decreases, although it is still comparable with healthy subjects' level. Thus, chronic elevation of PTH does not significantly increase WNT10b production as respect to control. Conclusions: This is the first work showing the effect of both intermittent and chronic PTH increase on Wnt10b production by immune system cells. We suggest that, in humans, T cells amplified the anabolic effect of PTH on bone, by increasing Wnt10b production, which stimulates osteoblast activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This review focuses on what are referred to as 'anthropogenic soils' (AS). It investigates and clarifies their descriptions, definitions, and classifications in terms of the following: (i) historical temporal trends in AS research worldwide, (ii) geographic distribution at various scales, (iii) dominant research themes, (iv) main site features, and (v) dominant anthropogenic processes. Materials and methods: To assess the current status of AS research from an international perspective, an inventory of published studies on AS and related grey literature was prepared and compiled in an annotated bibliography, supported by an electronic database and coupled with a geographic information system. From an initial raw collection of over 3000 issues, 925 references published in the last 70 years (1945-2014) were considered a 'representative population' of research focused on AS proper. Analysis of this source of information reveals that AS research is becoming increasingly consolidated. Indeed, it now represents an innovative field among soil sciences, expanding its conceptual scope and scientific production. Results and discussion: AS research is spread over 64 different countries, mainly in Europe and North America. The USA is the most investigated country, with AS studies becoming extremely popular from 1965 to 1974 and increasing considerably thereafter. In all other countries, AS investigations only became very popular in the decade 1995-2004. On a worldwide scale, the most investigated urban areas (UA) are Berlin, Moscow, and New York City, while several important metropolises have been partially or entirely neglected. Interestingly, the review shows that although humans are able to significantly alter, transform, manipulate, and damage soil, with an incredible number of negative effects, the transformation of 'natural' soils into AS may also have unexpected benefits. Conclusions: It is hypothesized that AS research will become increasingly popular within the international scientific community over the next decades, with particular reference to those characterizing UA (such as Technosols). Finally, it is scientifically recognized worldwide how much AS can deviate from natural soils (in terms of physicochemical features, pedogenic processes, matter and energy fluxes). Therefore, we suggest definitively highlighting such differences, defining those parts of the pedosphere characterized by AS cover as the 'anthropedosphere.' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multidrug resistant cancer cells are hard to eradicate for the inefficacy of conventional anticancer drugs. Besides escaping the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy, they also bypass the pro-immunogenic effects induced by anticancer drugs: indeed they are not well recognized by host dendritic cells and do not elicit a durable anti-tumor immunity. It has not yet been investigated whether multidrug resistant cells have a different ability to induce immunosuppression than chemosensitive ones. We addressed this issue in human and murine chemosensitive and multidrug resistant cancer cells. Results: We found that the activity and expression of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), which catalyzes the conversion of tryptophan into the immunosuppressive metabolite kynurenine, was higher in all the multidrug resistant cells analyzed and that IDO1 inhibition reduced the growth of drug-resistant tumors in immunocompetent animals. In chemoresistant cells the basal activity of JAK1/STAT1 and JAK1/STAT3 signaling was higher, the STAT3 inhibitor PIAS3 was down-regulated, and the autocrine production of STAT3-target and IDO1-inducers cytokines IL-6, IL-4, IL-1β, IL-13, TNF-α and CD40L, was increased. The disruption of the JAK/STAT signaling lowered the IDO1 activity and reversed the kynurenine-induced pro-immunosuppressive effects, as revealed by the restored proliferation of T-lymphocytes in STAT-silenced chemoresistant cells. Conclusions: Our work shows that multidrug resistant cells have a stronger immunosuppressive attitude than chemosensitive cells, due to the constitutive activation of the JAK/STAT/IDO1 axis, thus resulting chemo- and immune-evasive. Disrupting this axis may significantly improve the efficacy of chemo-immunotherapy protocols against resistant tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporary ponds (TPs) are shallow water bodies characterized by alternating phases of drought and flooding. They exhibit a small-scale zonation with a central belt (CB), an intermediate belt, and an outer belt (OB). Starting from the hypothesis that plant assemblage composition is affected by the position within TPs, our aims were to define the small-scale patterns of plant functional types, soil evolution, and soil physicochemical properties and to analyze their relationships and how they were affected by pond characteristics (i.e., elevation, substratum, total size, belt size, maximum water depth, and hydroperiod). Our results pointed out that patterns of plant functional types and soil evolution followed the position within the pond, soil physicochemical properties were weakly affected, and there was a relationship between plant functional types, soil small-scale patterns, and pond characteristics. Principal component analysis showed a positive correlation of Alfisols with CB, aquatic and amphibious species, maximum water depth, and hydroperiod, and of Entisols with OB and terrestrial species. A combined microtopography–hydrology effect was the primary factor controlling soil evolution and plant functional type patterns. As a consequence, modification in topographic shape and/or hydrologic parameters could alter TP environments. The results provide information for management strategies as an answer to the concerns surrounding continued worldwide TP decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The suitability of the “iron‐impregnated paper‐strip”; (Pi) methodology for the assessment of phosphate (P) availability in soils has been tested on the basis of a comparison with the classical Olsen method as well as with the new‐generation electro‐ultrafiltration (EUF) and Mehlich No. 3 (M3) extraction procedure. The EUF extractions were performed by a first 30 min run at low (L) energy conditions (20°C, max 15 mA, and 200V), followed by a 10 min run at high (H) energy conditions (80°C, max 150 mA, and 400V). The total EUF‐P extracted (T‐EUF‐P), given by the sum L‐EUF‐P + H‐EUF‐P, was also considered. The investigation was carried out on twenty samples of representative Alfisols ("Terra Rossa") from the pedoclimatic environments of the Mediterranean area. The soil samples were characterized by a large variability of their available‐P values, whose ranges were, as mg‐kg‐1 soil, 0.1–34.0 for L‐EUF‐P, 0.2–39.3 for HEUF‐P, 0.3–73.3 for T‐EUF‐P, 0.8–113.6 for Olsen‐P, 1.0–122.4 for Pi‐P, 1.1–224.6 for M3‐P. The respective mean values were 4.6, 5.1, 9.6, 17.2, 20.1, and 29.7 mg P/kg soil, with ratios L‐EUF‐P:H‐EUF‐P:T‐EUF‐P:Olsen‐P:Pi‐P:M3‐P increasing as 0.27:0.29:0.56: 1.00:1.17:1.73. A good compliance among all methods was verified; the most significant correlations were determined for Pi‐P versus M3‐P (R2=0.993***) and for Pi‐P versus Olsen‐P (R2=0.988***), clearly indicating the liability of the Pi procedure for the assessment of the P fertility in Alfisols. A multiple linear regression analysis revealed that all the available P values, afar from the individual procedure, were significantly (P<0.01) dependent on M3 exchangeable iron (Fe) (positively) and aluminum (Al) (negatively). This could lead one to argue that the prevailing available soil P source in the investigated Alfisol samples was that connected with the labile Fe‐P pool. Withal, one could infer that the A1‐M3 and Fe‐M3 parameters should also be considered for the making of P fertilizer recommendations. From this standpoint, the M3 is a well‐proved multielement extractant suitable for the simultaneous determination of available P and exchangeable Fe and Al as well. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Presents a study which investigated soils at the site of a dismantled iron and steel production plant in Naples, Italy, to assess soil content due to human activity. What results in the dormant morphology of disturbed soils; Indication that problems emerged during the classification process of the investigated soils; Methodology used to conduct study; Implications of findings.

In taking an integrated ethnopedological approach, this study aims to investigate the meaning of the distribution of the toponyms used in traditional and recent cartography of Sardinia (southern Italy). It is particularly, but not only, focused on those related to soil resources. Sardinia is particularly interesting in this respect, as its unique history, geography, and linguistic position makes it one of the Italian and Mediterranean regions with the greatest number of toponyms. This research investigated the toponyms belonging to an important sub-region of Sardinia, called Ogliastra (central-eastern Sardinia). The research was conducted through the following integrated approach: i) toponymy research and collection from different sources; ii) database creation and translation of toponyms from the Sardinian language (SL); iii) categorization of toponyms; and iv) graphical, statistical, and cartographic data processing. Distribution and diversity of toponyms were assessed using the compiled database, coupled with a geographical information system (GIS). Of around 7700 toponyms collected, 79% had already been reported in SL, while just 21% were in Italian. Of the toponyms in SL, 77% are of known meaning and 54% of these toponyms were characterized by a meaning directly and/or indirectly connected to specific environmental features. On the whole, morphology would appear to be the primary environmental factor able to explain the complex, articulated presence, distribution, and typology of the investigated toponyms. A least squares regression analysis of pedodiversity vs. topodiversity shows a very closed distribution, with an impressive high correlation index (R2 = 0.824). The principal factor analysis (PFA) shows that such a connection may be morphologically based, thereby confirming that pedodiversity and topodiversity are strongly linked each other. Overall, the research shows that an integrated ethnopedological approach, combining indigenous and scientific knowledge may be of great interest in order to mitigate the impressive phenomena of the indigenous knowledge lost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Anthropic-accelerated erosion processes have led to an increase in reported loss of soil surface horizons worldwide. Lake-dredged materials (LDMs) have often been considered suitable for upland disposal. This study aimed to assess the potential beneficial use of LDMs in soil rebuilding strategies for Mediterranean soils affected by the loss of surface horizons with consequent erosion/entisolization processes. Materials and methods: Different model proto-horizons (MPHs) were assembled by means of the co-utilization of LDMs, other mineral matrices, organic amendment, and mineral fertilizer for the growth of a pasture grass under controlled (pot) conditions. The evolution of nine different MPHs was monitored by means of an evaluation/comparison of several physical-chemical parameters (texture, pH, electrical conductivity, N, P, K, and cation-exchange capacity) and the stability-modification of organic matter (OM) quality in relation to plant development (dry matter production, agronomic efficiency, and plant cover). Results and discussion: The addition of LDM resulted in statistically significant ( p < 0.05) improvement to both plant performance and several soil physical-chemical properties. Compared with the reference soil (degraded soil without any additional treatment), the model proto-horizons treated with the highest LDM content (50 % w LDM without any additional treatment) showed the largest total dry matter production, the highest agronomic efficiency, and a quali-quantitative increase in plant cover. A more balanced texture (loamy) and a generalized increase in total organic carbon, cation-exchange capacity, N, and K were also detected with particular reference to models treated with the higher LDM content. Humic substances greatly increased in the treatment with the higher LDM amounts showing a generalized soil organic matter equilibrium, i.e., no mineralization or humification process prevalence. Conclusions: This study showed that there is indeed the possibility of turning what is currently an awkward refuse material into a commodity that can be properly and advantageously used in pedotechniques for soil rebuilding and land recovery and protection. From this standpoint, LDM would appear to be apt for inclusion on a possible list of useful pedotechnomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many Mediterranean regions industrial activities have drastically affected soil evolution. As a case study, reference is made to an important Chemical Industrial District of southern Italy (Sardinia). Its setting up and development resulted in the formation of human-altered and human-transported (HAHT) soils, largely through physical-mechanical excavation, transportation and rolling out the original soils (Palexeralfs, Haploxeralfs), as well as mixing and covering them with innocuous artifacts referred to as human-transported materials (HTM). On this basis, research began with a view to evaluating the anthropogenic processes in addition to the main morphological and physical-chemical characteristics of HAHT soils as compared with reference soils (RefS), their pedovariability and the classification of HAHT soils through Soil Taxonomy. The anthro-pedoturbation induced by mixing HTM to preexisting-presently buried- soils has dramatically disturbed the "natural" pedogenetic evolution, and driven the pro-isotropic processes leading the HAHT soils to much more simplified morphology and homogenization of chemical-physical features, with an impressive loss of pedovariability. They currently meet the requirements for a "mantle" classifiable as Alfic Xerarents, as an expression of the "entisolization" that induced a taxonomic shift from Alfisols to anthropogenic Entisols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental pedology research project, based on a “process-system” pedogenetic model, was initiated to investigate the weathering of Phlegraean Yellow Tuff (PYT) the yellow facies of the Campanian Ignimbrite with phillipsite > chabazite as representative of the parent rock material as the soil-forming factor. PYT was weathered by water (W) and tannic acid solutions (TA) at concentrations ranging from 3 × 101to 3 × 104m mol l1. The most concentrated TA solution (3 × 104m mol l1) showed the greatest extracting efficiency. Na and K were continually solubilized by W; Al, Ca and Mg contributed to the ionic composition of all the TA supernatants. A significant dissolution of the amorphous component and an associated decrease of the zeolite content, especially phillipsite, were noted. The features of PYT weathered outcomes fitted the “process-system” model very well. PYT showed a pedogenic potential, in being prone to weathering, as well as in releasing elements of importance for plant settlement and development, such as K, Ca, Mg and Fe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two zeolitized tuffs (ZTs), viz. a Neapolitan yellow tuff (NYT) and a clinoptilolite-bearing tuff (ZCL), were tested as pedotechnical materials to improve soil resilience against the impact of treatment by a 'dirty' municipal sewage system (DSW). Soils (surface horizon) were a sandy, alkaline Entisol (Typic Xeropsamment), and a sandy-loam, sub-acidic Alfisol (Ultic Palexeralf). Results showed that the presence of ZTs resulted in several favourable effects. Electrical conductivity (EC) decreased and pH was buffered. Ammonium was selectively taken up from the DSW, making the zeolitized tuffs almost saturated by NH4+, by exchanging both beneficial cations, such as K+and Ca2+, thus improving their potential availability to plants, and undesirable cations such as Na+, thereby hindering the exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) increase and concurrent soil salinization-alkalinization. At the same time, NH4+was stored as a potentially slow-release nitrogen fertilizer. The mobility of Pb, Cu and Zn dropped off to a large extent. NYT produced the best effects, and the Entisol gained the greatest benefit from treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is issued by the Italian Society of Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Molecular Biology (SIBioC) and a number of other National Scientific Societies and Associations in order to promote a coordinated plan for implementing the standardization of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measurement in Italy according to the recommendations by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC). Changes in reporting HbA1c results, new units, how to relate old and new units, a timeline for changes and definition of the analytical goals are the main issues discussed. Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:623–6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  With the purpose to evaluate the possible use of a phillipsite-rich tuff, in place of the naturally occurring clay minerals, as inorganic ion-exchanger component of organo-mineral aggregates of pedotechnical interest, the ion-exchange behavior of Neapolitan yellow tuff and a reference montmorillonite-rich material towards some nutrient cations was investigated. Accordingly, exchange kinetics and isotherms of Na+, K+, and NH4 + for Ca2+, at 25 °C and 0.1 total normality, were determined, and the related kinetic and thermodynamic quantities computed. The obtained results point out that the zeolitic material, apart from a higher cation exchange capability, exhibits selectivity performances towards nutrient cations comparable or even better than those of the montmorillonitic material, confirming, on the basis of the previous data concerning noxious cations, that phillipsite-rich tuffs can be considered potential substitutes of clay materials to recover and/or rebuild polluted and degraded soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which assessed the soil quality in the Asa-Picentino-Tusciano rivers basin in Italy using geostatistics. The proposed approach has allowed partitioning an area in south Italy into zones with different soil properties. The global quality index should be coupled with individual indicators for useful information about the main causes of a poor soil quality performance. The definition of quality indices for a given land area are critical for characterising the area and for establishing the best management to exploit the soil potential.

Abstract  Within a research program aimed to utilize natural zeolites for pedotechnical purposes, such as to rebuild degraded soils, to improve soil fertility and to remove soil pollutants, the adsorption process of humic acids (HAs) on untreated Neapolitan Yellow Tuff and on Ca2+-enriched samples was investigated in the temperature range 1–45°C. Experimental data showed a negligible temperature effect indicating that ΔH ≈ 0. Moreover, Scatchard-like plots suggested the occurrence of more than one adsorption sites for both samples. A good fit of the adsorption isotherms was obtained by two-site Langmuir equation. For both sites the HAs affinity was not modified by Ca2+-enrichment and ΔS° was >0. The adsorption of HAs on tuff is an entropy-driven process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  With the purpose to set up a convenient strategy to rehabilitate degraded soils by recovering their functionality, the possibility of using zeolitized tuff as inorganic ion-exchanger components of organo-mineral aggregates, in place of the naturally occurring clay materials was estimated. Accordingly, after the evaluation of a suitable method for measuring the cation exchange capacity of both materials (a phillipsite-rich tuff from the surroundings of Naples, Italy, and a bentonite, from Wyoming, USA), exchange kinetics and isotherms of Cu2+, Pb2+ and Zn2+ for Ca2+ at 25°C and 0.1 total normality, were determined and the related kinetic and thermodynamic quantities computed. Comparative results demonstrate that phillipsite-rich tuffs exhibit higher cation exchange capability and selectivity performances towards noxious cations than the montmorillonite clay does, and therefore that they can be considered good substitutes of clay materials to recover and/or rebuild polluted and degraded soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable literature reflects the range of HIV-related neurocognitive complications, including relatively poor performance on tests of: movement and coordination; attention and concentration; reaction time; and mental flexibility. Efforts to develop appropriate screening techniques include the HIV Dementia Scale (HDS), a brief measure that has demonstrated promise but is lacking extensive independent evaluation. The present study examines the utility of the HDS in a sample of HIV-seropositive adults with a co-morbid history of psychiatric and substance use disorders. Forty subjects (65% male; mean age 41 years; mean education 12.2 years; 55% African American, 30% Caucasian) recruited for a study of the impact of brief psychotherapy on adherence to medications and medical appointments, relapse prevention, and/or enhancement of mental health functioning completed a battery of neuropsychological measures, including the HDS. Forty percent were identified as at high risk for significant cognitive-motor disorder (HDS total score ≤ 10). After controlling for age, education, illness (absolute CD 4 ), and depressed mood, high-risk participants performed significantly worse on measures of simple and sustained divided attention, psychomotor speed, and working memory. However, only 25 of 40 (63%) were correctly classified based on their performance on traditional tests of neuropsychological functioning. Implications and limitations of the study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many individuals living with HIV have been exposed to some type of traumatic event during their lives and may be living with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A substantial number of these individuals are also likely to show evidence of a co-morbid substance use disorder (SUD). There is reason to believe that the co-occurrence of HIV and PTSD or co-morbid PTSD and SUD (PTSD/SUD) may predict poorer health outcomes. There are several pathways through which PTSD or PTSD/SUD might adversely impact the health of individuals living with HIV, including participation in negative health behaviours, low levels of adherence to antiretroviral medications, and/or a direct, deleterious effect on immune function. Psychological interventions are needed to treat PTSD and PTSD/SUD in HIV-positive individuals, and reduce the negative impact of these conditions on health outcomes. This article will explore data on the prevalence of trauma exposure, PTSD, and PTSD/SUD among individuals living with HIV, the pathways through which these conditions might affect health, possible interventions for PTSD and PTSD/SUD for individuals living with HIV, and methods for integrating care for individuals with these disorders. Future directions for research related to HIV, PTSD, and PTSD/SUD will also be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many individuals living with HIV have been exposed to some type of traumatic event during their lives and may be living with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A substantial number of these individuals are also likely to show evidence of a co-morbid substance use disorder (SUD). There is reason to believe that the co-occurrence of HIV and PTSD or co-morbid PTSD and SUD (PTSD/SUD) may predict poorer health outcomes. There are several pathways through which PTSD or PTSD/SUD might adversely impact the health of individuals living with HIV, including participation in negative health behaviours, low levels of adherence to antiretroviral medications, and/or a direct, deleterious effect on immune function. Psychological interventions are needed to treat PTSD and PTSD/SUD in HIV-positive individuals, and reduce the negative impact of these conditions on health outcomes. This article will explore data on the prevalence of trauma exposure, PTSD, and PTSD/SUD among individuals living with HIV, the pathways through which these conditions might affect health, possible interventions for PTSD and PTSD/SUD for individuals living with HIV, and methods for integrating care for individuals with these disorders. Future directions for research related to HIV, PTSD, and PTSD/SUD will also be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzes vertic soils in alluvion-reclaimed areas in Volturno River Plain in Spain. Morphological characteristics of the soil; Chemical and physical properties; Historical records in classifying the soils in the reclaimed areas.

The Goal 11 <> is crucial in the increasing Europe urbanization context. By altering cities and the surrounding countryside, urban growth is having several consequences on ecosystem and human health. The urban density alludes to the idea of the cities as a ‘sick bodies’, now reemerging because of the recent climatic and health crises. This concept should be contrasted with the idea of the ‘city as a cure’, that can limit the consumption of soil and energy, reducing our ecological burden on the environment. Recently, in Europe many urban development projects have been implemented according to sustainability principles as the Eindhoven demonstration case where, a central square was transformed into a small green oasis. Reforesting, even at the cost of demolishing to create large avenues for green area, is essential for air quality and for intervening on the climate. To intervene on abandoned urban canals by creating new waterways may redevelop entire areas and affect traffic and temperature. To contain the negative impact of the built space on the environment is in fact aimed at increasing the green space. However, recent studies demonstrate the criticalities of the fragmentation of landscapeto analyze the link between urban form and landscape heterogeneity to establish renewed relationships between the forms of architecture and the natural void and to devise urban projects to control building density and population. In particular, to develop models for redeveloping the suburbs by building new urban parts from scratch, with a view to urban polycentrism. The recomposition of ecological corridors and of the municipal, provincial and regional environmental network may connect to the great ‘green lungs’ of natural parks and to areas with a high degree of naturalness in a progressive succession of habitats to mitigate ever new forms of overall mutations of natural and anthropised environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soil availability index, “F”, showed to be a suitable tool to assess the fraction of phosphorus (P) added to soil remaining available after a given time. However, the classical F determination methods are laborious and time‐consuming; so we devised more quick and simple procedure. This paper deals with the reliability of Olsen, Mehlich 3 (M3), and the innovative “iron‐impregnated paper‐strip” (Pi) methods to evaluate the F index by short‐term, double‐point soil+P equilibration procedures. Representative Italian Alfisol were examined: they were characterized by from low to high P Sorption Index (SI) values (4.6 to 35.4, mean 22.0) and from low to sufficient available Olsen‐P contents (2.0 to 33.0 ppm, mean 11.3). The samples were supplied with 0 or 50 mg P per kg soil (P0 or P50, respectively), and then incubated for 2 or 24 hours (short term soil+P incubation periods), or 90 days (long‐term period). At the balance, the available P was extracted by the compared methods and the respective F indexes were calculated in relation to the different amounts of available P extracted from P50 and P0 samples. For both P0 and P50 samples, and after the different incubation periods, all the compared methods provided consistent and homogeneous extractable‐P values (p<0.001). The following global conversion equations were calculated: M3‐P =‐1.264*1.021 Olsen‐P; Pi‐P =‐1.921*0.916 Olsen‐P. For each set of experiments, the extractable P values increased after P addition, but decreased the longer the incubation time: for P50 samples they were 36.9, 29.6, and 22.0 mg P kg‐1 soil on the average after 2 h, 24 h, or 90 d, respectively, while for P0 samples they did not vary significantly over time (10.7,10.0,9.7 mg P kg‐1 after 2 h, 24 h, or 90 d). The largest reduction in P availability occurred within 2 hours from P addition. For all the methods, the F indexes were inversely depending on the SI and both the F‐2h and F‐24h values were directly correlated to the respective F‐90d. Our findings show that the F index determined after the shortest 2h‐equilibration time is a quicker and cheaper soil test to evaluate changes in soil P availability. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The conventional Bray 1, Égner‐Riehm, Olsen, and the innovative cation/ anion exchange resin membranes (CAERM) and iron oxide‐impregnated filter paper strips (Pi) procedures were compared as phosphorus (P) extradants from 73 represîntative Portuguese soils. The soils were characterized by wide variability of their pedological, physical, and chemical properties. Eleven FAO‐UNESCO soil units, with prevailing Anthrosol, Calcisol, Cambisol, Fluvisol, Leptosol, Luvisol, and 10 different textural classes, with prevailing loamy sand, sandy loam, loam, silty loam, clay loam, silty clay loam, were recognized. The soils showed the following properties: CaCO3 0.0–50.9 g100 g‐1, organic matter 0.4–8.4 g 100 g‐1, pH‐CaCl2 3.9 to 7.9, cation exchange capacity 1.5–57.6 cmolc kg‐1 Soil‐P (mg kg‐1) ranges were: 0.2–185.9 for Bray 1, 0.6–307.7 for Égner‐Riehm, 1.0–100.5 for Olsen, 1.1–69.4 for Pi, and 0.4–48.8 for CAERM. The P extraction efficiency decreased along with the order Bray 1 > Égner‐Riehm > Olsen > Pi > CAERM, with mean values of 39.7, 34.6, 20.5, 19.0, and 14.8 mg P kg‐1 soil, respectively. All methods, with the relevant exception of Égner‐Riehm, were almost uniformly affected by the considered pedological, chemical and physical features of soils, and well correlated each other. The following conversion equations, by simple linear regressions, were calculated: Olsen‐P=4.118+0.412*Bray 1‐P, R2=0.737; Olsen‐P=‐1.300+1.144*Pi‐P, R2=0.677; Olsen‐P=0.760+1.330* CAERM‐P, R2=0.559; Bray 1‐P=‐3.064+2.249*Pi‐P, R2=0.602; Bray 1‐P=‐0.630+2.722*CAERM‐P, R2=0.538; Pi‐P=3.417+1.053*CAERM‐P, R2=0.677. After performing multiple regressions including the CEC as accessory variable, we obtained significant equations only for the conversions between Égner‐Riehm‐P and Pi‐P or CAERM‐P values, as it follows: Égner‐Riehm‐P=‐24.600+1.630*Pi‐P+1.928*CEC, adj. R2=0.587; Égner‐Riehm‐P=‐23.303+2.183*CAERM‐P+1.747*CEC, adj. R2=0.606. Thus, the innovative Pi‐strips and the cation/anion exchange resin membranes procedures could represent suitable tools for the assessment of soil‐P status and for P fertilizer recommendations. As the future research step, we will verify the reliability of the contrasted soil‐P tests in predicting plant P uptake and yield response. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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A phosphate (P) availability index “F”; (F) is proposed as a parameter to evaluate the fraction of P added to soil which remains actually available after a given time. A quick test to measure the F is also discussed. Twenty soils from the typical Mediterranean pedoclimatic environments, with contrasting chemical and physical properties, were utilized in this investigation. Three different soil+P incubation periods, i.e., 16 and 48 hours and 60 days were considered. After equilibrium, the available P was extracted by both Olsen (Olsen‐P) and M3 (M3‐P) reactants. The F were given by the values of the b slopes of the respective linear regressions: extracted‐P = a + b added‐P, obtained by the various soil+P equilibrium procedures and the two P extraction methods. The F were compared among them as well as with the classical Sorption Index (SI) parameter. The F obtained after 16 and 48 hours or 60 days by Olsen‐P measurements (F‐Olsen) ranged from 0.25 to 0.75, 0.19 to 0.56, and 0.17 to 0.56, with mean values of 0.55, 0.38, and 0.36, respectively. The corresponding F by M3‐P (F‐M3) showed ranges from 0.19 to 0.89, 0.11 to 0.85, and 0.07 to 0.78, with mean values of 0.54, 0.40, and 0.41. The SI ranged from 4.7 to 65.7, with a mean value of 21.7. We found that both the F and the SI parameters were consistently correlated to some soil properties effective in soil‐P adsorption phenomena, with special reference to the cation exchange capacity (CEC). However, the F‐Olsen and the F‐M3 indexes calculated after 48 hours were strictly correlated, and practically coincident, to those calculated after 60 days, but not with the respective SI. Differently, the F‐M3 after 16 hours showed the best correlations with both the other F values after 48 hours (r = 0.938) and 60 days (r = 0.955) and the SI (r = 0.861), thus providing a reliable index for the P availability evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]