Divided Sarajevo: space management, urban landscape and spatial practices across the boundary

This contribution focuses on Sarajevo as a case study of divided city. As a consequence of Dayton Peace Agreement signed in 1995 Bosnia-Herzegovina appears internally split into the two entities of Federation of Bosnia Herzegovina (FBiH) and Republika Srpska (RS); at local level the administrative line divides two areas that before the war constituted a unique urban system: Sarajevo, including the historical neighbourhoods of the city and part of FBiH, and Eastern Sarajevo, a suburban area now included in the territory of RS. Considering the city’s partition the paper discusses the extent to which the divisive power of the boundary is either reduced or renovated. From the inhabitants’ standpoint the crossing experience has become a common practice since the emotional burden related to the presence of the boundary has largely vanished among the population. Nevertheless ongoing processes of separation can be recognised in the rhetoric of space management as well as in the feature of the built environment. By looking at the way in which urban planning deals with the territorial separation the paper shows how the divisive logic is constantly fostered by the interpretations of local administrators and professionals, while interventions and initiatives suggesting an alternative approach result scarce and ineffective. As such, the implicit rhetoric of the normative frame fosters a vicious circle that reproduces functional, organizational and infrastructural division. The power of separation can be further acknowledged by looking at the symbolical connotation of urban landscape. Despite the division is not marked by any artefact, the intentional use of symbols and signs across the boundary selectively celebrates specific collective identities simultaneously neglecting the presence of the counterpart. Moreover, such changes within the built environment have to some extent influenced inhabitants’ daily life and collective representations.Dieser Beitrag ist eine Fallstudie über geteilte Städte mit Schwerpunkt auf Sarajevo. Als Folge des 1995 unterzeichneten Friedensvertrags von Dayton ist Bosnien-Herzegowina landesintern in die zwei Entitäten der Föderation Bosnien und Herzegowina (FBiH) und der Republika Srpska (RS/PC) aufgeteilt. Auf kommunaler Ebene bezeichnet eine Verwaltungsgrenze zwei unterschiedliche Bereiche, die vor dem Krieg ein einzelnes städtisches System darstellten: Sarajevo (einschließlich der historischen Stadtviertel) als Teil der FBiH sowie Ost-Sarajevo, ein Vorstadtgebiet, das nun zum Territorialgebiet von RS/PC gehört. Im Hinblick auf die Teilung der Stadt beschäftigt sich die Arbeit damit, in welchem Ausmaß sich die entzweiende Kraft der Grenze entweder verringert oder erneuert. Vom Blickwinkel der Bewohner aus gesehen ist die Erfahrung des Überschreitens der Grenze zu einer gängigen Praxis geworden, da die emotionale Last in Bezug auf deren Vorhandensein unter der Bevölkerung weitestgehend verschwunden ist. Dennoch lassen sich in der Rhetorik der Raumverwaltung fortwährend Separationsprozesse erkennen, gleiches gilt für die bebaute Umgebung. Indem sich die Arbeit mit der Art und Weise beschäftigt, wie die städtebauliche Planung mit der territorialen Trennung umgeht, zeigt sie, inwieweit der Separierungs-Logik durch die Auslegungen der kommunalen Verwaltungsbediensteten und Experten Vorschub geleistet wird, und dass gleichzeitig Einwände und Initiativen, die einen alternativen Ansatz zur Diskussion stellen, selten sind und sich als ineffektiv herausstellen. Entsprechend begünstigt die implizite Rhetorik des normgebenden Rahmens einen Teufelskreis, der eine funktionale, organisatorische und infrastrukturelle Teilung entstehen lässt. Die Kraft der Trennung lässt sich außerdem erkennen, wenn man einen Blick auf die symbolische Bedeutung der Stadtlandschaft wirft. Obwohl die Teilung nicht durch Artefakte gekennzeichnet ist, würdigt die absichtliche Verwendung von Symbolen und Zeichen über die Grenze hinweg punktuell spezifische gemeinsame Identitäten, während gleichzeitig die Gegenwart des Gegenübers vernachlässigt wird. Darüber hinaus haben die Veränderungen innerhalb der bebauten Umgebung in gewissem Maße den Alltag und die kollektive Darstellung der Bewohner beeinflusst

Trophic ecology and spatial behaviour of wolf (<i>Canis lupus</i>) in an Appennine area

Nowadays the Italian wolf (Canis lupus) is expanding its range and increasing in numbers, nevertheless it is still a vulnerable species. In this work, we have focused on the wolf feeding and spatial behavior, in a region of Northern Apennine. First, we investigated the relation between wolf and red fox (Vulpes vulpes), assessing the extent of their trophic niche overlap. Our findings suggest a very limited trophic competition between them. Moreover, we analyzed the functional response of wolf to changes in prey availability, and the impact of wolf predation and hunting harvest on ungulate populations. Wild boar (Sus scrofa) was the main and selected prey species for wolves. Moreover, the proportion of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in wolf diet peaked when boar densities were low, resulting in a functional response dependent on the main prey density fluctuations. Furthermore, even if wolves and hunters focused on targets with different reproductive potential in the population, their combined impact did not exceed the annual recruitment, and thus did not result to limit ungulates population growth. Finally, analyzing the variables involved in the choice of rendezvous sites locations, we found rendezvous sites typically inside protected areas, and usually distant from human settlements. Over recent years, rendezvous sites have occurred closer to urban areas, thus, our projections of suitability of sites can help planning to minimize possible wolf-human conflicts.</br

Utilizzo di Nanoparticelle per il trasporto di Molecole Antisenso nel modello murino di Distrofia Muscolare di Duchenne

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked severe neuromuscular disease, mainly caused by mutations that disrupt the mRNA reading frame resulting in the absence of dystrophin protein in skeletal and cardiac muscles. Currently the most promising therapeutic approach, defined as exon-skipping, is based on the use of antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) to recognize specific RNA sequences that induce the exclusion of target exon from the mRNA and the restoration of the frame, allowing the synthesis of a functional protein. One of the main difficulties of this therapeutic approach is to obtain protection from degradation and transport of the AONs to the target tissues. Therefore, to obtain consistent results, high doses of AONs are needed, which are, however, a potential source of adverse reactions to life-long therapies as in DMD. Our research group is testing nanoparticles as a new delivery system for AONs with phosphorothioate backbone (2'-O-methyl-phosphorothioate 2'OMePs) in the mouse model of muscular dystrophy (mdx mice). These nanoparticles consist of an inert biocompatible material (polymethylmethacrylate) with covalently linked cationic groups, which allow the electrostatic bond with the antisense molecules. In an initial pilot experiment, we used nanoparticles of about 500 nm of diameter and we have proved that they are able to bind and release the AONs 2'OMePs, leading to the restoration of dystrophin expression in mdx mouse muscles. Despite the positive results obtained, these nanoparticles have a low capacity to adsorb on the surface AONs, and their diameter does not allow for intravenous administration. In subsequent experiments we therefore used nanoparticles of smaller size (about 130 nm of diameter) but with a 5 times higher adsorption capacity. We treated systemically mdx mice with low doses (52,5 mg AON / kg) of nanoparticle-AON complexes, and we analyzed the mice 1 and 12 weeks after the end of the treatment. At 1 week after the end of the treatment analysis of mRNA (Nested RT-PCR and Real Time-RT-PCR) has allowed us to identify in skeletal muscles and heart the transcript missing the target exon. Protein analysis (Western blot and immunofluorescence) also showed the correct molecular weight of restored dystrophin and proper localization in the sarcolemma of skeletal muscle fibers, cardiac, and arrector pili smooth muscle. At a distance of 12 weeks after treatment the correct transcript was still present in the tissues analyzed, although in lesser quantities, and the protein also detectable by immunofluorescence and Western blot. These results demonstrate that these nanoparticles represent a promising system for AONs delivery, as they are able to: i) ensure the protection of RNA molecules from nucleases, allowing lower doses to produce a measurable effect, ii) spread in target tissues (muscles) where release the adsorbed molecules in a slow and controlled manner with a longer treatment effect

Modelling the European Union Sustainability Transition: A Soft-Linking Approach

none3noThe European Green Deal (EGD) is the most ambitious decarbonisation strategy currently envisaged, with a complex mix of different instruments aiming at improving the sustainability of the development patterns of the European Union in the next 30 years. The intrinsic complexity brings key open questions on the cost and effectiveness of the strategy. In this paper we propose a novel methodological approach to soft-linking two modelling tools, a systems thinking (ST) and a computable general equilibrium (CGE) model, in order to provide a broader ex-ante policy evaluation process. We use ST to highlight the main economic feedback loops the EGD strategy might trigger. We then quantify these loops with a scenario analysis developed in a dynamic CGE framework. Our main finding is that such a soft-linking approach allows discovery of multiple channels and spillover effects across policy instruments that might help improve the policy mix design. Specifically, positive spillovers arise from the adoption of a revenue recycling mechanism that ensures strong support for the development and diffusion of clean energy technologies. Such spillover effects benefit not only the European Union (EU) market but also non-EU countries via trade-based technology transfer, with a net positive effect in terms of global emissions reduction.openBassi, Andrea M.; Costantini, Valeria; Paglialunga, ElenaBassi, Andrea M.; Costantini, Valeria; Paglialunga, Elen

Therapists' clinical work between sessions: A preliminary study of the Post Session Therapist Questionnaire

Objective: In this paper, we present the development of a new self-report questionnaire to assess a characteristic of clinical work that has not been considered in the literature: the mental (affective and rational) work that therapists do between clinical sessions. The resulting instrument is the Post Session Therapist Questionnaire. Method: After consulting the literature and conducting in-depth discussions of the dimensions to be investigated, we generated 40 items through brainstorming. We had 16 experts carefully examine the questionnaire\u2019s content validity at various stages and thus obtained 38 pertinent, clear, and unambiguous items. The experts also provided positive evaluations of the questionnaire\u2019s instructions and response mode. We then carried out a pilot study with 27 clinicians, who filled out the questionnaire twice, referring to 100 patients in each case. To assess the structural validity of the new instrument, we conducted an exploratory factor analysis using the session (N = 200) as the unit of analysis. Result: Three factors substantially supported the theoretical dimensions that we conceptualized in the first stage of the research: We called the factors Positive Regard, Comprehension, and Diagnostic Effort. These dimensions have good internal consistency. Conclusion: The study\u2019s results suggest that these clinical dimensions are meaningful in the development of clinical processes, which encourages further study of the psychometric properties of the questionnaire, with larger samples, so as to consider these results in relationship to the outcomes of the following sessions

Trophic overlap between wolves and free-ranging wolf × dog hybrids in the Apennine Mountains, Italy

Hybridization between wolves (Canis lupus) and domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) can represent a threat to wild populations via genetic introgression and ecological competition. Therefore understanding the ecological role of hybrids may be crucial for developing appropriate conservation strategies. The Italian wolf population has a peculiar genetic composition due to a long-lasting geographic isolation. Nowadays, however, its genetic integrity is threatened by the spread of canine genes as a result of the hybridization with stray dogs in the wild. The aim of the present study was to gain insights into the ecological role of free-ranging wolf–dog hybrids by investigating their winter food habits in comparison with wolves in a mountain area of Central Italy. Levels of genetic introgression from the dogs were assessed in two adjacent areas occupied by up to five different packs by analyzing non-invasive samples and carcasses collected therein with a set of uniparental and bi-parental molecular markers. The obtained results enabled us to classify the two areas as 'hybrid' and 'wolf' areas based on their level of genetic introgression. Trophic niche and similarity/dissimilarity analyses did not detect significant difference in the diet between the two areas: in both of them, wild boar was the main prey, followed by roe deer. Furthermore, the same age/body mass classes of the two ungulates were selected by wolves and hybrids. Our findings confirmed wolf–dog hybrids as potential competitors for wolves. Further studies on other aspects of their biology and ecology are recommended in order to better estimate the impact of hybridization on natural wolf populations

Hyaluronic acid—dexamethasone nanoparticles for local adjunct therapy of lung inflammation

The delivery of a dexamethasone formulation directly into the lung appears as an appro-priate strategy to strengthen the systemic administration, reducing the dosage in the treatment of lung severe inflammations. For this purpose, a hyaluronic acid-dexamethasone formulation was developed, affording an inhalable reconstituted nanosuspension suitable to be aerosolized. The physico-chemical and biopharmaceutical properties of the formulation were tested: size, stability, loading of the spray-dried dry powder, reconstitution capability upon redispersion in aqueous me-dia. Detailed structural insights on nanoparticles after reconstitution were obtained by light and X-ray scattering techniques. (1) The size of the nanoparticles, around 200 nm, is in the proper range for a possible engulfment by macrophages. (2) Their structure is of the core-shell type, hosting dex-amethasone nanocrystals inside and carrying hyaluronic acid chains on the surface. This specific structure allows for nanosuspension stability and provides nanoparticles with muco-inert proper-ties. (3) The nanosuspension can be efficiently aerosolized, allowing for a high drug fraction poten-tially reaching the deep lung. Thus, this formulation represents a promising tool for the lung administration via nebulization directly in the pipe of ventilators, to be used as such or as adjunct therapy for severe lung inflammation.Fil: Cámara, Candelaria Inés. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Investigaciones en Físico-química de Córdoba. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas. Instituto de Investigaciones en Físico-química de Córdoba; ArgentinaFil: Bertocchi, Laura. Departamento de Alimentos y Drogas ; Universita Degli Studi Di Parma;Fil: Ricci, Caterina. Universita Degli Studi Di Milano. Dipartimento Di Beitecnologe Mediche E Medicina Traslazionale.; ItaliaFil: Bassi, Rosaria. Universita Degli Studi Di Milano. Dipartimento Di Beitecnologe Mediche E Medicina Traslazionale.; ItaliaFil: Bianchera, Annalisa. Departamento de Alimentos y Drogas ; Universita Degli Studi Di Parma;Fil: Cantú, Laura F.. Universita Degli Studi Di Milano. Dipartimento Di Beitecnologe Mediche E Medicina Traslazionale.; ItaliaFil: Ruggero, Bettini. Departamento de Alimentos y Drogas ; Universita Degli Studi Di Parma;Fil: Del Favero, Elena. Universita Degli Studi Di Milano. Dipartimento Di Beitecnologe Mediche E Medicina Traslazionale.; Itali

Persistent Dystrophin Protein Restoration 90 Days after a Course of Intraperitoneally Administered Naked 2′OMePS AON and ZM2 NP-AON Complexes in mdx Mice

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the exon-skipping approach has obtained proof of concept in animal models, myogenic cell cultures, and following local and systemic administration in Duchenne patients. Indeed, we have previously demonstrated that low doses (7.5 mg/Kg/week) of 2 -O-methyl-phosphorothioate antisense oligoribonucleotides (AONs) adsorbed onto ZM2 nanoparticles provoke widespread dystrophin restoration 7 days after intraperitoneal treatment in mdx mice. In this study, we went on to test whether this dystrophin restoration was still measurable 90 days from the end of the same treatment. Interestingly, we found that both western blot and immunohistochemical analysis (up to 7% positive fibres) were still able to detect dystrophin protein in the skeletal muscles of ZM2-AON-treated mice at this time, and the level of exon-23 skipping could still be assessed by RT real-time PCR (up to 10% of skipping percentage). In contrast, the protein was undetectable by western blot analysis in the skeletal muscles of mdx mice treated with an identical dose of naked AON, and the percentage of dystrophin-positive fibres and exon-23 skipping were reminiscent of those of untreated mdx mice. Our data therefore demonstrate the long-term residual efficacy of this systemic low-dose treatment and confirm the protective effect nanoparticles exert on AON molecules

Persistent Dystrophin Protein Restoration 90 Days after a Course of Intraperitoneally Administered Naked 2′OMePS AON and ZM2 NP-AON Complexes in mdx Mice

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the exon-skipping approach has obtained proof of concept in animal models, myogenic cell cultures, and following local and systemic administration in Duchenne patients. Indeed, we have previously demonstrated that low doses (7.5 mg/Kg/week) of 2  -O-methyl-phosphorothioate antisense oligoribonucleotides (AONs) adsorbed onto ZM2 nanoparticles provoke widespread dystrophin restoration 7 days after intraperitoneal treatment in mdx mice. In this study, we went on to test whether this dystrophin restoration was still measurable 90 days from the end of the same treatment. Interestingly, we found that both western blot and immunohistochemical analysis (up to 7% positive fibres) were still able to detect dystrophin protein in the skeletal muscles of ZM2-AON-treated mice at this time, and the level of exon-23 skipping could still be assessed by RT real-time PCR (up to 10% of skipping percentage). In contrast, the protein was undetectable by western blot analysis in the skeletal muscles of mdx mice treated with an identical dose of naked AON, and the percentage of dystrophin-positive fibres and exon-23 skipping were reminiscent of those of untreated mdx mice. Our data therefore demonstrate the long-term residual efficacy of this systemic low-dose treatment and confirm the protective effect nanoparticles exert on AON molecules

Case report: A novel FARS2 deletion and a missense variant in a child with complicated, rapidly progressive spastic paraplegia

Defects in FARS2 are associated with either epileptic phenotypes or a spastic paraplegia subtype known as SPG77. Here, we describe an 8-year-old patient with severe and complicated spastic paraplegia, carrying a missense variant (p.Pro361Leu) and a novel intragenic deletion in FARS2. Of note, the disease is unexpectedly progressing rapidly and in a biphasic way differently from the previously reported cases. Our study provides the first detailed molecular characterization of a FARS2 deletion and its underlying molecular mechanism, and demonstrates the need for combining different tools to improve the diagnostic rate