The role of species introduction in modifying the functional diversity of native communities.

Although one of the most evident effects of biological invasions is the loss of native taxonomic diversity, contrasting views exist on the consequences of biological invasions on native functional diversity. We investigated this topic using Mediterranean stream, river and canal fish communities as a test case, at 3734 sites in Italy, and distinguishing between exotic and translocated species invasion in three different faunal districts. Our results clearly confirmed that introduced species were widespread and in many cases the invasion was severe (130 communities were completely composed by introduced species).

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in a bakery indoor air: trends, dynamics, and dispersion.

Indoor air pollution assessment in work environments remains challenging due to a combination of logistic reasons and availability of costly instrumentation for data acquisition and post-processing. Existing literature focuses on energy production environments, hospitals, and less so on food production spaces. Studies on indoor air quality in bakeries are scarce or even absent.

Has VZV epidemiology changed in Italy? Results of a seroprevalence study.

The aim of the study was to evaluate if and how varicella prevalence has changed in Italy. In particular a seroprevalence study was performed, comparing it to similar surveys conducted in pre-immunization era. During 2013-2014, sera obtained from blood samples taken for diagnostic purposes or routine investigations were collected in collaboration with at least one laboratory/center for each region, following the approval of the Ethics Committee.

Hypnobehavioral and hypnoenergetic therapy in the treatment of obese women: a pragmatic randomized clinical trial.

This study compared the effectiveness of hypnobehavioral therapy (HypBe) and HypBe enhanced by elements of energetic psychotherapy (hypnoenergetic therapy, HypEn) for obese women. Sixty clients were randomized to either HypBe or HypEn. Body weight, BMI, eating behavior, and body concept were assessed at baseline, posttreatment, and at a follow-up.