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Abstract Endometrial cancer (EC) with Mismatch Repair deficiency (MMRd) is characterized by the accumulation of insertions/deletions at microsatellite sites. These mutations lead to the synthesis of frameshift peptides (FSPs) that represent tumor-specific neoantigens (nAg) proved to be shared across patients/tumors with MMRd. In this study, we explored the feasibility of a nAg-based cancer vaccination design in EC with MMRd. We adopted a whole exome sequencing approach and ad hoc bioinformatics pipelines to characterize FSPs in 35 patients with EC. A mean of 146 mutated mononucleotide repeats (MNRs) was identified with enrichment in the patients’ group with MLH1 impairment. A high coverage emerged from the comparative analysis of the EC FSPs with the content of the previously validated NOUS-209 vaccine. We obtained pieces of evidence of FSPs translation as expressed proteins from Ribo-seq, supporting the potential as the target of vaccination. The development of a nAgs-based vaccine strategy in MMRd EC may be further explored.

Abstract In recent years, it has been shown that stroma compartment can favor tumor proliferation and aggressiveness. Although extensive research with network analyses such as Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) has been conducted on pancreatic cancer and its stromal components, WGCNA has not previously been applied to isolate and identify genes associated with the abundance of stroma and survival outcome from bulk RNA data. We investigated the gene expression profile and clinical information of 140 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients from TCGA. Network analysis was performed using WGCNA and four modules were found to be associated to patients’ clinical traits. Specifically, one module of 2459 genes, was associated to stromal sample content. Subsequently, those genes were further analyzed for survival association through log-rank test and Cox regression. HPGDS and ITGA9-AS1 emerged as significant indicators of favorable prognosis while KCMF1 and YARS1 were implicated in poorer prognostic outcomes. Importantly, HPGDS was found to be stromal-specific in the TMA cohort of Human Protein Atlas. Single sample GSEA showed that the stromal module is enriched for stromal signature of Moffitt and Puleo. These findings suggest that we uncovered a stromal specific signature through WGCNA and found putative prognostic markers.

The chromosome numbers for seven Italian endemic taxa of Armeria (Plumbaginaceae) are here presented, including three species (Armeria aspromontana, A. garganica, and A. macropoda) for which chromosome data are reported for the first time. Overall, this study confirms the diploid status and the chromosomal stability of Armeria.

In the last decade, it has been recognized that tumors do not exist in isolation but interact with surrounding cells, blood vessels, immune cells, and extracellular matrix components. This understanding has shifted the focus from tumor cells alone to the broader context in which they exist, known as tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is highly heterogeneous, consisting of various cell types, mainly cancer cells, immune cells, and stromal cells. The interactions among different cell types in the TME significantly influence tumor progression, immune evasion, and response to therapy. Spatial profiling helps to map these interactions, providing insights into how cells communicate and influence each other, analyzing them in their spatial context. However, there is a lack of tools capable of efficiently analyzing this type of data. As a matter of fact, the most commonly used tool, phenoptr, is time consuming, lacks automation, and is often not user friendly. In this scenario, ALOA (Analysis spatiaL prOfiling imAging), represents a tool that, starting from inForm™ data, provides a complete and accurate analysis along with accompanying graphs and statistical analysis. Of note, ALOA is specifically designed to handle spatial coordinates and image-based data derived from multiplexed immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF). Therefore, it is not suited to work with single cell transcriptomics or non-spatial single cell transcriptomics data, which require specific tools for handling high-dimensional gene expression information. We integrated Phenoimager multiplexed tissue imaging with the ALOA modeling algorithm.

Within a practical course of cytotaxonomy organized in Pisa (Italy) on February 2024 by the Group for Floristics, Systematics and Evolution of the Italian Botanical Society, we tested whether relevant differences in karyotype asymmetry and structure occur in four tetraploid European taxa from Paeonia sect. Paeonia (P. mascula subsp. russoi, P. officinalis subsp. huthii, P. officinalis subsp. italica, and P. peregrina). Our results point towards a homogeneous karyotype asymmetry and structure among studied tetraploid species, with no statistically significant difference among taxa and high overlap in variation highlighted by PCA.

Within a practical course of cytotaxonomy organized in Pisa (Italy) on February 2024 by the Group for Floristics, Systematics and Evolution of the Italian Botanical Society, we tested whether using image analysis softwares possible biases are still introduced by different observers. We conclude that observer bias selectively applies in possibly overestimating the length of short arms in a karyotype. As a consequence, the parameters most sensitive to these possible errors are CVCI and CVCL, and to a less degree MCA and THL. To achieve more stable results among observers, a still lacking standardized measurement protocol could be helpful.

Centaurea aplolepa Moretti and C. leucophaea Jord. (Asteraceae) are endemic to the central-western Mediterranean and include, respectively, ten and six subspecies, mostly occurring in north-western Italy and south-eastern France. As part of an ongoing systematic study on Centaurea L. sect. Centaurea from the central Mediterranean, 17 nomenclatural types (13 lectotypes, three neotypes and one epitype) are designated to fix the application of all names of the taxa described for France and Italy and related to C. aplolepa and C. leucophaea. In addition, previous typifications are critically revised and discussed. Centaurea aplolepa subsp. maremmana (Fiori) Dostál and C. litigiosa (Fiori) Arrigoni, two currently accepted taxa endemic to Tuscany (central Italy), are respectively considered here as heterotypic synonyms of C. aplolepa subsp. carueliana (Micheletti) Dostál and C. aplolepa subsp. cosana (Fiori) Dostál. Finally, C. aplolepa subsp. gallinariae (Briq. & Cavill.) Dostál, a currently accepted subspecies narrowly endemic to the Gallinara island (Liguria, northern Italy), is considered here as a heterotypic synonym of C. leucophaea subsp. brunnescens (Briq.) Dostál.

Abstract Background Complete response prediction in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients is generally focused on the radiomics analysis of staging MRI. Until now, omics information extracted from gut microbiota and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) have not been integrated in composite biomarkers-based models, thereby omitting valuable information from the decision-making process. In this study, we aim to integrate radiomics with gut microbiota and ctDNA-based genomics tracking during neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT). Methods The main hypothesis of the MOREOVER study is that the incorporation of composite biomarkers with radiomics-based models used in the THUNDER-2 trial will improve the pathological complete response (pCR) predictive power of such models, paving the way for more accurate and comprehensive personalized treatment approaches. This is due to the inclusion of actionable omics variables that may disclose previously unknown correlations with radiomics. Aims of this study are: - to generate longitudinal microbiome data linked to disease resistance to nCRT and postulate future therapeutic strategies in terms of both type of treatment and timing, such as fecal microbiota transplant in non-responding patients. - to describe the genomics pattern and ctDNA data evolution throughout the nCRT treatment in order to support the prediction outcome and identify new risk-category stratification agents. - to mine and combine collected data through integrated multi-omics approaches (radiomics, metagenomics, metabolomics, metatranscriptomics, human genomics, ctDNA) in order to increase the performance of the radiomics-based response predictive model for LARC patients undergoing nCRT on MR-Linac. Experimental design The objective of the MOREOVER project is to enrich the phase II THUNDER-2 trial (NCT04815694) with gut microbiota and ctDNA omics information, by exploring the possibility to enhance predictive performance of the developed model. Longitudinal ctDNA genomics, microbiome and genomics data will be analyzed on 7 timepoints: prior to nCRT, during nCRT on a weekly basis and prior to surgery. Specific modelling will be performed for data harvested, according to the TRIPOD statements. Discussion We expect to find differences in fecal microbiome, ctDNA and radiomics profiles between the two groups of patients (pCR and not pCR). In addition, we expect to find a variability in the stability of the considered omics features over time. The identified profiles will be inserted into dedicated modelling solutions to set up a multiomics decision support system able to achieve personalized treatments.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records and status changes from casual to naturalized for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Callianthe, Chamaecyparis, Chamaeiris, Cotoneaster, Erigeron, Freesia, Hemerocallis, Juglans, Kalanchoë, Ludwigia, Nassella, Paulownia, Physocarpus, Pistia, Saccharum, Setaria, and Vachellia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as supplementary material.

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes the first counts for four subspecies of the Italian endemic Centaurea aplolepa Moretti, i.e. C. aplolepa subsp. aplolepa, C. aplolepa subsp. bertolonii, C. aplolepa subsp. levantina, and C. aplolepa subsp. parvula. In addition, the first chromosome count for an Italian population of Silene canescens (Caryophyllaceae) is provided.

In metastatic breast cancer (MBC), blood is a source of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). CTCs may serve as a ‘‘real-time liquid biopsy” as they represent metastatic tumor genetics better than primary tumor. PIK3CA is one of the most important oncogenes in treatment-unresponsive breast cancers. The aim of this study was to detect PIK3CA mutations and hereditary cancer variants in CTCs from MBC patients. Forty-seven blood samples were obtained from 20 MBC patients from at least 1/3 consecutive time points. CTCs were quantified using the CellSearch system and isolated from 11/20 patients with ≥5/7.5 ml CTCs (14/47 blood samples) using the DEPArray system. DNA was extracted and amplified to perform Sanger sequencing on PIK3CA gene. Sequencing revealed a pathogenic PIK3CA mutation in 2/11 (18 %) cases. Subsequently, we evaluated a 26-target hereditary gene panel by Next Generation Sequencing and identified a concomitant pathogenic mutation in the TP53 gene in a patient with a PIK3CA mutation. No pathogenic germline variants were found. Our data support the conclusion that CTCs analysis may be used to identify mutations in patients to identify those more likely to metastasize.

Cross-taxon congruence, i.e., using certain taxonomic groups as surrogates for others, is receiving growing interest since it may allow decreasing efforts in biodiversity studies. In this work, we investigated the patterns of cross-taxon congruence in species richness and composition between communities of bryophytes, lichens, and vascular plants in different biancana grasslands of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) of central Italy. We recorded species presence and abundance in 16 plots of 1 × 1 m size and analyzed the data using Procrustes correlation, co-correspondence analysis, and indicator species analysis. We did not highlight any correlation in species richness and composition between the three taxonomic groups. Conversely, the species composition of bryophyte communities was predictive of the species composition of lichen communities. Moreover, lichen richness was negatively correlated with the total cover of vascular plants. Indicator species analysis evidenced the presence of species from the three biotic communities being particularly related, at least at the local scale, to biancana pediments, like the bryophytes Didymodon acutus and Trichostomum crispulum, the lichens Enchylium tenax, Cladonia foliacea, and Psora decipiens, and the vascular plants Brachypodium distachyon, Parapholis strigosa, and Artemisia caerulescens subsp. cretacea. In the biancana pediments, acrocarp mosses, squamulose lichens, therophyte plants and chamaephyte plants coexisted. In spite of the weak cross-taxon congruence between the three taxonomic groups, this study could highlight a locally unique diversity of bryophytes, lichens, and vascular plants related to the extreme environment of biancana pediments, selected by high soil salinity and deposition from the upper eroded slope. Soil erosion and deposition in biancana badlands supports the increase of local multi-taxonomic plant diversity by creating unique ecosystems. Such biodiversity should be considered locally at risk of disappearance, due to the ongoing vanishing of biancana badlands in central Italy.

In this contribution, the conservation status assessment of three vascular plants according to IUCN categories and criteria are presented. It includes the assessment of Aubrieta columnae subsp. sicula, Calligonum zakirovii and Santolina decumbens subsp. tisoniana at global level.

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes the first count for Dianthus carthusianorum subsp. tenorei, Helosciadium nodiflorum, Hieracium hypochoeroides subsp. cilentanum, H. lesimanum, H. scopolioides, H. terraccianoi. In addition, first Italian counts for Crupina vulgaris, Damasonium alisma, and Illecebrum verticillatum are reported.

Abstract Background Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common cerebellar malignancy during childhood. Among MB, MYC-amplified Group 3 tumors display the worst prognosis. MYC is an oncogenic transcription factor currently thought to be undruggable. Nevertheless, targeting MYC-dependent processes (i.e. transcription and RNA processing regulation) represents a promising approach. Methods We have tested the sensitivity of MYC-driven Group 3 MB cells to a pool of transcription and splicing inhibitors that display a wide spectrum of targets. Among them, we focus on THZ531, an inhibitor of the transcriptional cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) 12 and 13. High-throughput RNA-sequencing analyses followed by bioinformatics and functional analyses were carried out to elucidate the molecular mechanism(s) underlying the susceptibility of Group 3 MB to CDK12/13 chemical inhibition. Data from International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and other public databases were mined to evaluate the functional relevance of the cellular pathway/s affected by the treatment with THZ531 in Group 3 MB patients. Results We found that pharmacological inhibition of CDK12/13 is highly selective for MYC-high Group 3 MB cells with respect to MYC-low MB cells. We identified a subset of genes enriched in functional terms related to the DNA damage response (DDR) that are up-regulated in Group 3 MB and repressed by CDK12/13 inhibition. Accordingly, MYC- and CDK12/13-dependent higher expression of DDR genes in Group 3 MB cells limits the toxic effects of endogenous DNA lesions in these cells. More importantly, chemical inhibition of CDK12/13 impaired the DDR and induced irreparable DNA damage exclusively in MYC-high Group 3 MB cells. The augmented sensitivity of MYC-high MB cells to CDK12/13 inhibition relies on the higher elongation rate of the RNA polymerase II in DDR genes. Lastly, combined treatments with THZ531 and DNA damage-inducing agents synergically suppressed viability of MYC-high Group 3 MB cells. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that CDK12/13 activity represents an exploitable vulnerability in MYC-high Group 3 MB and may pave the ground for new therapeutic approaches for this high-risk brain tumor.

Scientific research is the main driver to push forward and disseminate botanical knowledge. Despite many institutions having this fundamental aim as a core activity, many of them do not have a complete set of facilities, expertise, staff, and resources to cover all the steps involved in the study, management, conservation, and popularization of plant diversity. Accordingly, we propose a workflow formalizing the cooperation between a botanical garden and a botanical research center, focused on the study of plant endemic species. Specifically, the cooperation was implemented between the PLANTSEED Lab of the Department of Biology and the Botanic Garden and Museum of the University of Pisa. We present seven representative case studies (Armeria arenaria complex, Bellevalia webbiana, Crocus etruscus and C. ilvensis, Dianthus virgineus complex, Pulmonaria hirta complex, and Santolina chamaecyparissus complex) to disentangle the approaches and opportunities arising from cooperative approaches, from laboratory to cultivation. We analyze the emerging properties derived from this synergistic cooperation by promoting open research questions and answering them using a comprehensive approach to improving endemic plant species research, conservation, and popularization in the botanical garden. In this manuscript, we show how a cooperative approach between heterogeneous botanical institutions can constitute an effective and easy-to-implement approach to achieve the goals of each partner involved in the cooperation.

Badlands are peculiar geomorphological formations shaping landscapes of high ecological and cultural value. In the last decades, land reclamation for agricultural purposes and the cessation of traditional land use, such as sheep grazing, led to their decline in extent in many areas. To quantify the changes in badland-related plant communities, we resurveyed badland vegetation in a site of the Crete Senesi (Siena, central Italy) after 16 years (2006–2022), using 48 quasi-permanent vegetation plots and by means of uni- and multivariate analysis of variance. We found an increase in the total vegetation cover of plant communities growing in former bare soil and sparsely vegetated areas, in line with an overall decrease in the extent of bare soil surfaces in the study area, which we highlighted through the analysis of multitemporal satellite images. Pioneer vegetation characterized by the endemic plant Artemisia caerulescens subsp. cretacea changed into ruderal annual grasslands, while former bare soils were colonized by such pioneer vegetation. In contrast, perennial grasslands remained stable. Grasslands with shrubs became more similar to perennial grasslands in species composition. Species richness increased in former bare soils, and using the total vegetation cover as a proxy for successional stages, we found that Shannon diversity and evenness peaked at about 90% of total cover. In all the stages of colonization, short distance dispersal species prevailed, both therophytes (Avena sterilis, Parapholis strigosa) and perennials (Artemisia caerulescens subsp. cretacea, Bromopsis erecta). Long distance dispersal species (Galatella linosyris) started colonizing at about 60% of total vegetation cover, and at high vegetation cover all the functional groups coexisted. Our results confirm that the badland landscapes of southern Tuscany and specialist plant diversity adapted to badlands are vanishing after a diminishing of active land management, suggesting the current ineffectiveness of the Natura 2000 network in their conservation.

Abstract Background Extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs, i.e., neonates born before 28 weeks of gestation) are at high risk of developing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), with potential long-life visual impairment. Due to concomitant anemia, ELGANs need repeated red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. These produce a progressive replacement of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) by adult hemoglobin (HbA). Furthermore, a close association exists between low levels of HbF and severe ROP, suggesting that a perturbation of the HbF-mediated oxygen release may derange retinal angiogenesis and promote ROP. Methods/design BORN (umBilical blOod to tRansfuse preterm Neonates) is a multicenter double-blinded randomized controlled trial in ELGANs, to assess the effect of allogeneic cord blood RBC transfusions (CB-RBCs) on severe ROP development. Recruitment, consent, and randomization take place at 10 neonatology intensive care units (NICUs) of 8 Italian tertiary hospitals. ELGANs with gestational age at birth comprised between 24+0 and 27+6 weeks are randomly allocated into two groups: (1) standard RBC transfusions (adult-RBCs) (control arm) and (2) CB-RBCs (intervention arm). In case of transfusion need, enrolled patients receive transfusions according to the allocation arm, unless an ABO/RhD CB-RBC is unavailable. Nine Italian public CB banks cooperate to make available a suitable amount of CB-RBC units for all participating NICUs. The primary outcome is the incidence of severe ROP (stage 3 or higher) at discharge or 40 weeks of postmenstrual age, which occurs first. Discussion BORN is a groundbreaking trial, pioneering a new transfusion approach dedicated to ELGANs at high risk for severe ROP. In previous non-randomized trials, this transfusion approach was proven feasible and able to prevent the HbF decrease in patients requiring multiple transfusions. Should the BORN trial confirm the efficacy of CB-RBCs in reducing ROP severity, this transfusion strategy would become the preferential blood product to be used in severely preterm neonates. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05100212. Registered on October 29, 2021

PURPOSE: The clinical and research FPG500 program (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06020625) is currently ongoing at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS to tailor matched targeted therapies (MTTs) according to biomarkers predictive of response identified by comprehensive genome profiling (CGP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cohort results from the FPG500 program are outlined. CGP was performed by TruSight Oncology 500 High Throughput (TSO500HT) assay or Oncomine Focus Assay plus Archer's FusionPlex Lung Panel according to tumor cell content and DNA/RNA quantity. Relevant issues for Molecular Tumor Board (MTB) evaluation included uncommon genomic findings, evaluation for off-label therapies, uncertain result confirmation, and variants of suspect germline origin requiring genetic counseling. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for the enrolled patients were assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS: In 2022, 283 patients with NSCLC were considered for sequencing, with 93% meeting eligibility criteria. TSO500HT sequencing was conducted in 76% of patients. Follow-up data were obtained for 187 patients, among whom 81% received treatment. Potential driver alterations were identified in 59% of patients, with 41% receiving MTT: 25% were prescribed approved MTTs, whereas 16% gained access to experimental drugs post-MTB evaluation; of note, 18% did not receive any MTT because the regimen was not yet reimbursed in our country. Median PFS and OS varied among treatment groups, with standard chemotherapy/immunotherapy at 7.7 and 10.7 months, approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors at 18.8 and 23.9 months, and MTT post-MTB discussion at 14 and 23.4 months, respectively. CONCLUSION: The early data of the FPG program (NSCLC cohort) support the implementation of CGP and MTB in clinical practice to grant access to patients harboring actionable molecular alterations to the most effective and individualized available treatment options, thus improving their survival outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study explores the potential for hidden variations within seemingly uniform regions of growth hormone-secreting pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (GH-PitNETs). We employed archived tissue samples using Laser Capture Microdissection Sequencing (LCM-RNAseq) to probe the molecular landscape of these tumors at a deeper level. Methods: A customized protocol was developed to extract, process, and sequence small amounts of RNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues derived from five patients with GH-secreting PitNETs and long-term follow-up (≥10 years). This approach ensured precise isolation of starting material of enough quality for subsequent sequencing. Results: The LCM-RNAseq analysis revealed a surprising level of diversity within seemingly homogeneous tumor regions. Interestingly, the 30 most highly expressed genes included the well-known long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1. We further validated the levels of MALAT1 and of other tumor-associated lncRNAs using digital droplet PCR. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential of LCM-RNAseq to unlock hidden molecular diversity within archived pituitary tumor samples. By focusing on specific cell populations, we identified lncRNAs expressed at different levels within the tumors, potentially offering new insights into the complex biology of GH-secreting PitNETs. This evidence prompts further research into the role of lncRNAs in pituitary neuroendocrine tumor aggressiveness and personalized treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter to the editor discusses a case study involving the use of MLPA testing to detect copy number variations in the BRCA1 gene. The study found that MLPA produced a false-positive result for a heterozygous deletion in BRCA1 exon 17 due to an artifact caused by a microsatellite variant. The article emphasizes the need for standardization and data exchange among professionals to ensure accurate results in molecular testing. It also highlights the importance of integrating exon-level CNV bioinformatics pipelines into HRD analysis for resolving unexpected results. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract Background High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) has poor survival rates due to a combination of diagnosis at advanced stage and disease recurrence as a result of chemotherapy resistance. In BRCA1 (Breast Cancer gene 1) - or BRCA2-wild type (BRCAwt) HGSOC patients, resistance and progressive disease occur earlier and more often than in mutated BRCA. Identification of biomarkers helpful in predicting response to first-line chemotherapy is a challenge to improve BRCAwt HGSOC management. Methods To identify a gene signature that can predict response to first-line chemotherapy, pre-treatment tumor biopsies from a restricted cohort of BRCAwt HGSOC patients were profiled by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology. Patients were sub-grouped according to platinum-free interval (PFI), into sensitive (PFI > 12 months) and resistant (PFI

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes the first counts for Hieracium glanduliferum s.str. and H. tenuiflorum, counts for two Armeria species endemic to Italy, and for Onopordum illyricum subsp. illyricum. We also present here the first chromosome count of Allium permixtum for Italy, where this species is known for few localities.

The majority of tumor comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) currently does not include a matched normal control. The use of a tumor-only CGP approach needs the development of a strategy to refine germline pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants (gP/LPVs) calls, so as to limit the performance of unnecessary germline reflex tests and instead successfully identify patients who are carriers of likely gP/LPVs. Guidelines have been developed for the identification of gP/LPVs in BRCA1/2 genes on the basis of tumor-only CGP results and for the evaluation of the appropriateness of performing germline reflex BRCA1/2 testing. In this study, an algorithm to assist decision-making for germline reflex testing of BRCA1/2 variants following tumor-only CGP is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global population increase during the last century has significantly amplified freshwater demand, leading to higher wastewater (WW) production. European regulations necessitate treating WW before environmental. Microalgae have gained attention for wastewater treatment (WWT) due to their efficiency in remediating nutrients and pollutants, alongside producing valuable biomass. This study investigates the phycoremediation potential of a Chlorella-like strain isolated from urban WW in a 600L-scale system under winter conditions. Experiments in December 2021 and February 2022 tested the strain's adaptability to varying environmental conditions, particularly temperatures (min-max temperature range: from −3.69 to 10.61 °C in December and −3.96 to 17.61 °C in February), and its ability to meet legal discharge limits. In December, low temperatures algal growth. Nitrates showed an RE of about 92%, while ammonia slightly decreased (RE, about 32%), and phosphorous remained unchanged. In February, mild temperatures increased algal density (33.3 × 106 cell mL−1) and, at the end of experiment, all nutrients were below legal limits with very high RE % (NH4+, 91.43; PO43− 97.32). Both trials showed an E. coli RE, % = 99%. The study highlights the potential of microalgae for WWT and the importance of considering seasonal variations when implementing these systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of inadequately treated urban wastewater is the main cause of environmental pollution of aquatic ecosystems. Among efficient and environmentally friendly technologies to improve the remediation process, those based on microalgae represent an attractive alternative due to the potential of microalgae to remove nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from wastewaters. In this work, microalgae were isolated from the centrate stream of an urban wastewater treatment plant and a native Chlorella-like species was selected for studies on nutrient removal from centrate streams. Comparative experiments were set up using 100% centrate and BG11 synthetic medium, modified with the same N and P as the effluent. Since microalgal growth in 100% effluent was inhibited, cultivation of microalgae was performed by mixing tap-freshwater with centrate at increasing percentages (50%, 60%, 70%, and 80%). While algal biomass and nutrient removal was little affected by the differently diluted effluent, morpho-physiological parameters (FV/FM ratio, carotenoids, chloroplast ultrastructure) showed that cell stress increased with increasing amounts of centrate. However, the production of an algal biomass enriched in carotenoids and P, together with N and P abatement in the effluent, supports promising microalgae applications that combine centrate remediation with the production of compounds of biotechnological interest; for example, for organic agriculture.

The genus Santolina (Asteraceae, Anthemideae) includes 26 species of aromatic evergreen shrubs endemic to the western Mediterranean Basin. Santolina is widely used as ornamental plant, in xerigardening, and in ethnobotany. The Santolina chamaecyparissus complex, including about half of the known species diversity, has been properly investigated on systematic and taxonomic grounds only recently, and a complete morphometric study is still missing. Here we provide a morphometric characterization and comparison of all the 14 species of this complex, using both univariate and multivariate analyses. Our results suggest that species of this complex can be distinguished using combinations of quantitative and qualitative character-states, mostly related to the leaf morphology. The analysis of S. villosa, a tetraploid/hexaploid Spanish endemic, showed that the two cytotypes cannot be safely identified based on morphology. Coupling this evidence with available phylogenetic information, we conclude that there is no reason to split the two cytotypes of S. villosa in two distinct taxa. An identification key for all the species of the complex is presented.