Degree Course: Environmental Biological Sciences Syllabus for A.Y. 2020/2021

FIRST YEAR

First semester

Course	Credits	Scientific Disciplinary Sector Code	Contact Hours	Exercise Hours	Laboratory Hours	Personal Study Hours	Type of Activity	Optional materials and exam in a foreign language	Language
118387 - Cell biology (objectives) TRAINING OBJECTIVES The course aims to provide basic knowledge on cellular functioning (how cells work and interact, how they are organized in tissues), providing a framework for further deepening of specific genetic, biochemical and molecular topics throughout the course of Biology knowledge and understanding: Knowledge of the principles of cellular biology and tissue organization. Knowledge of the principles of cell structure, formation, transport and operation of biological macromolecules in the cellular and extracellular environment. Basics of the core structure and DNA / RNA. Basic knowledge of cell operation from transcription to gene translation. Learning skills: Students will need to be able to describe scientific issues related to cytology and in particular cell biology and its organization with other cell tissues. To consider achieved the objectives of the programme, it will be taken into account, not only the topics of the programme but also the ability to connect among them, to express them by specific terms and to apply them in areas similar to the proposed program - CECI Marcello (syllabus) PROGRAM Part I The concept of a living organism. Cellular theory. Procariots and Eucaryotes. Unicellular and multicellular organisms. Organizational levels of pluricellular organisms: differentiated cells, tissues, organs. Orders of magnitude of the dimensions of different organisms and of different levels of organization. Chemical composition of living. Water: Its features of biological interest. Suspensions and solutions. Ions. The pH of the solutions. The hydrogen bond. The carbon atom and the chemistry of life. The concept of "symmetry" in carbon compounds of biological interest. The hyaluronic macromolecules: the main biological glucids (exotic and pentose). Steric and optic isomers. Their polymers. The main lipids of biological interest (phospholipids, fatty acids, steroids, hydrophobia and hydrophobia.) Water-soluble and liposoluble compounds Proteins such as amino acid polymers Primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary protein structures Glycosylated proteins and lipoproteins The "form" Protein molecules in relation to their function Enzymes as biological catalysts Nucleic acids DNA structure RNA structure and biosynthesis Riboenzymes Ribosomes Structure, synthesis and function Generalities on protein synthesis The cell as a unit Fundamental features of living organisms Common characteristics and differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes, between plant and animal cells Cell-study methods: different types of microscopes, colorings, immunohistochemistry, etc. Cell membranes: chemical composition and characteristics. The fluid mosaic model. Intrinsic and extrinsic proteins. Glycosylate and glycolipid proteins and membrane lipoproteins. Plasma membrane and "recognition" between cells. The glycohol. Permeability and active transport. Ionic channels and ionic pumps. Energy metabolism: from photosynthesis to breathing. Transducers of electrons and protons. Triphosphate nucleotides. Ionic channels Na, K, Ca. Endocytosis and exocytosis processes. Membrane potential. Endocytosis mediated by receptors. Cucumbers. The smooth and wrinkled endoplasmic reticulum. The central vacuum of plant cells. The Golgi apparatus. Lysosomes and endocellular digestion. Pinocytosis and phagocytosis. The Perissisomi. Membrane bound membranes characterized by the presence of internal membranes: mitochondria and plastids of plant cells. Probable origin of mitochondria and plastids. Characteristics of the membranes of these organelles. Relationship between structural organization and energy metabolism function of mitochondrial membranes and chloroplasts (notes). Notes on the presence of ion channels acting on ATP-synthetase. Generalities on the four fundamental tissues and their embryonic branching. Pluricellularity and differentiation. Epithelial tissue. General characteristics. Excitable Fabrics: 1) glandular epithelial tissue; Muscle tissue; 3) Nervous tissue. Glandular epithelium. Endocrine and Exocrine Glands: Characteristics and Embryonic Differentiation. Classification criteria. Cytoplasmic specifics of glandular cells related to their specific functions. The secular role of sinaptotagmans. Skeletal and cardiac striated muscular tissue, contractions. Neuron and cellular organization, exocytosis of neurotransmitters. Part II The Epithelium. Classification and functions. The lashes and microvilli. Relationships between cells and junction structures: zonula occludens, adherent zonula and desmosomi. Basal surface of the epithelium: relationship with connective tissue and basal lamina. Renewal of coating epitels: the germinating layer. Connective tissue. The different connective tissues: general characteristics and specific characteristics of the different connective tissues. The connector properly said. Classification of connectors. Reticular and elastic collagen fibers: morphofunctional characteristics. The connective cells and their function. The connective and the processes of defense of the organism. The Scythian reticulum system. Special connective tissues. The adipose tissue. The blood. Functions. Plasma: composition and functions. White and erythrocyte cells: Morphological and functional characteristics. Migration of white blood cell and connective cells. Cellular differentiation and specific functions in the connective. Plates: origin and function. Hematopoietic tissues. Hematopoietic lymphoid and myeloid. Blood and lymph vessels: general characteristics. Support Connectors. The cartilage tissue. The matrix and the chondrocytes. Histogenesis and degenerative cartilage phenomena. Bone tissue. Calcium support and reserve function. Spongy bone and compact bone. Microscopic bone structure: the osteone. Osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts: dynamic stability of bone tissue. Bone histogenesis: intramembranous ossification. The cytoskeleton and the "shape" of cells in animal and plant organisms. Microtubules, microfilaments and intermediate filaments. The rigid wall of plant cells. The cellular movement. Control and regulation of endocellular movements. Ameboid movement. Eyelashes and scourges. Intercellular junctions. Mechanical joints (desmosomes); Sealing joints; Communicating junctions and electronic coupling. Plasmodymas of plant cells. Functional analogues between communicative junctions of animal cells and plasmodies of plant cells. The endocellular membranes in eukaryotic cells. Biogenesis of membranes. The nucleus of eukaryotes and its equivalent in procariates. Structure of the interfacial core. Eucromine and Heterocromatine. Structural and optional heterochromatin. The nucleolo. Nuclear enclosure and nuclear pores. Core-Plasma Communication. Chemical composition of chromatin and its organization. Histones and nucleosomes. The cell cycle. The interfase (phases G1, S, G2). DNA and its genetic function. DNA with unique, average and highly repetitive sequence. Genetic code and protein synthesis. DNA in mitochondria and plastids. Biosynthesis and function of messenger, ribosomal and transfer RNAs. Selective activation of genes and differentiation. Interface arrays with peculiar characteristics: polythene chromosomes. The cell cycle: cell division. Stateless cells, diploids and polyploids. The mitosis (equation division) in animal and plant cells. Cell division in prokaryotes. The bacterial "chromosome". Eucariotic chromosomes. Structure of chromosomes. Pattern of the overwhelming ansect chromosome. Meiosis or Reduction Division. Somatic cells and germ cells. Apollo phase and diploid phase. Zygotic, intermediate and terminal meiosis. Special features of gametes. Gametogenesis in upper vertebrates. Gonadal differentiation and protogon migration (only notes). Meiosis: description of the process and its genetic meaning. Nuclear maturation and cytoplasmic maturation. Specificity of egg cell differentiation: synthesis and accumulation of substances of particular importance in the early stages of embryonic development: RNA long-life messengers, specific proteins with informational role. (reference books) C. Lewin “Cellule”, Zanichelli Alberts et al., Biologia molecolare della Cellula, Zanichelli Alberts et al. L'essenziale di Biologia Cellulare e molecolare Zanichelli	6	BIO/13	48	-	-	-	Related or supplementary learning activities	-	ITA
118385 - Matematics and statistics (objectives) TRAINING OBJECTIVES The aim of the course is to provide students with the main notions of the analysis mathematics and statistics, aimed at making students learn techniques necessary to study the functions, solve problems based on integral calculus and solve some easy differential equations. Where possible, the concepts covered will be applied to build and study mathematical models of real phenomena related to applied sciences, in particular biology. EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS Knowledge and understanding (Dublin descriptor 1) Acquire knowledge • the concepts of function, limits and derivability of the functions of one real variable and all the notions that allow you to study a function; • the notion of integral, integration methods and the main ones applications of integral calculus; • differential equations and some solving methods. Ability to apply acquired knowledge (Dublin descriptor 2) Knowing how to use the concepts learned for • solve equations and inequalities; • calculate limits, derivatives, integrals and study functions; • solve differential equations. Judgment autonomy (Dublin descriptor 3) • Be able to identify the appropriate rules to apply to solving new problems, similar to those discussed in class. Communication skills (Dublin descriptor 4) • Students' ability to talk, reason and will be stimulated discuss the questions raised during the lessons regarding the topics treated. Learning skills (Dublin descriptor 5) • Be able to discuss some scientific topics by building simple mathematical models. - PIETRANERA Ileana (syllabus) Mathematics and statistical analysis Sets and their operations, various notations. Numeric sets: from N to R, need for an expansion. Set of rational numbers, set of reals and field structure. Absolute value of a number and triangular inequality. Interval definition: closed, open; definition of around. Definition of function and related classification; even and odd functions: examples, recognition and graphic consequences. Elementary functions. Summation symbol and its use to indicate polynomials of degree n. Function classification. Domain and sign of rational and irrational, transcendent algebraic functions. Definition of finite limit for x tending towards a finite value: limit verification. Infinite limit for x tending towards a finite value: check; vertical asymptote. Finite and infinite limits for x which tends to infinity: horizontal asymptote; oblique asymptote of fractional rational algebraic functions. Continuous function in one point and in an interval. Classification of discontinuity: the function part integer, the functions whose graph admits vertical asymptotes; eliminable discontinuity: functions defined in branches. Elementary functions as continuous functions. Uniqueness of the limit theorem. Limits of continuous functions Comparison theorem or "of the carabinieri". Theorems on continuous functions: Weierstrass', intermediate values, existence of zeros. Definition of the number of Napier. Notable limits of transcendent functions and their consequences: relative examples. Definition of derivative and its geometric meaning. Application to physics and other applied sciences. Functions that cannot be differentiated in a point, classification of the points of non-derivability: angular points, cusps and inflections with a vertical tangent; examples of all kinds. Derivatives of elementary functions with proof. Derivative of a sum and a product with proof and application examples. Relations between differentiability and continuity. Definition of increasing and decreasing function. Derivative of the reciprocal function of a differentiable function (with proof) and of a quotient: application examples. Compound functions: definitions, examples, derivative of a compound function. Complete study of a function. Definition of relative max and min and Fermat's theorem. Search for relative max and min (with the method of studying the sign of the first derivative) and absolutes. Rolle, Cauchy and Lagrange theorems: examples and geometric meanings. De l'Hopital's theorem. Comparison of infinitesimals and comparison of infinites. Calculation of successive derivatives. Convexity and concavity of a curve, determination of inflections with oblique tangents: determination of inflectional tangents. Development of a Taylor / Mc Laurin series function: application to some notable functions. Invertible functions: definition and examples. Derivative of the inverse function of a date: case of arcsinx, arcosx and arctanx. Introduction to matrices, matrix writing, sum of matrices and product rows by columns. Null, identical matrix, transposed matrix of a date. Determinant of a matrix and its calculation in the 2x2 and 3x3 cases (Sarrus rule). General rule for calculating determinants of nxn matrices: Laplace's rule. Rank of a matrix: definition and determination. Definition and determination of the inverse of a given matrix. Linear systems of n equations in m unknowns: Rouchè-Capelli theorem and Cramer's theorem (case n x n). Indefinite integrals: definition of primitive functions, immediate and near immediate integrals. Definition of integral defined by means of Riemann sums. Integral mean theorem. Integral function and fundamental theorem of integral calculus, Torricelli Barrow's theorem. Applications to the calculation of areas and applications to physics. Integration of fractional rational algebraic functions with 2nd degree denominator with positive delta, zero. Integrals attributable to the arctangent Indefinite integrals solvable by substitution. Integration rule by parts. Relative exercises: integral of (senx) ^ 2; integrals that are solved by iterating the procedure. Generalized and improper integrals, numerical approximation of the integrals defined with the rectangle method. Introduction of the functions of two variables: domain and graph in three-dimensional space. Level curves. Continuity of functions of two variables, meaning and calculation of first and second partial derivatives, Hessian matrix; search for free relative maximums and minimums. Differential equations: order of an equation, general integral, particular integral: Cauchy problem. Differential equations with separable variables: relative examples Linear first-order differential equations: relative examples Statistic analysis Descriptive statistics: tables and graphs, histograms and pie charts. Position indices: mean, mode and median percentiles and quartiles, weighted average. Dispersion indices: variance and standard deviation. Evaluation of uncertainties in measurements: absolute, relative and percentage errors. Bimodal statistical tables: joint distributions; dependence and independence. Least squares method, Covariance, Linear correlation coefficient. Combinatorial calculus. Simple and repetitive provisions; simple and repetitive permutations; simple combinations and with repetitions; binomial coefficient in its various forms, power of a binomial with Newton's formula. Classical definition of probability: relative examples. Total and compound probability theorems. The concept of random variable and discrete and continuous distributions. Discrete distribution: binomial distribution, definition and related examples. Normal distribution: density function, Gauss curve. Introduction of the distribution function and use of tables for the calculation of the probability of random events with normal distribution: relative examples (reference books) TESTO BASE P.Marcellini, C.Sbordone Elementi di calcolo – Versione semplificata per I nuovi corsi di laurea Ed. Liguori	9	MAT/05	48	24	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA
118389 - Inorganic chemistry (objectives) LEARNING OUTCOMES AND COMPETENCES The course aims to provide students with an introduction to the language and methodology of studying chemical phenomena of a general nature. The course, both through lectures and through exercises, intends to provide the student with the elements to be able to write the structural formulas of the main inorganic compounds and the related nomenclature, use the mole and molar ratios in chemical reactions, know the fundamental concepts of chemical thermodynamics for the study of the states of aggregation of matter, chemical solutions and equilibria with particular attention to acid-base and precipitation equilibria, also knowing the fundamental concepts of chemical kinetics. The knowledge of these concepts is essential to undertake the study of the subsequent courses that characterize the degree course. Expected learning outcomes At the end of the course the student will have to show: 1) Knowledge and understanding: know the fundamental principles of General Chemistry to describe matter and its properties: the atomic structure, the properties of the elements and their ability to form compounds, molecular structures, chemical reactions, energy exchanges, states of matter, chemical kinetics, equilibria in solution, acid-base properties. 2) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: having acquired application skills with reference to the balancing of reactions, stoichiometric calculations and problem solving on colligative properties, chemical equilibria, acid-base equilibria and the solubility product 3) Autonomy of judgment: to be able to independently evaluate and solve problems concerning the course contents. 4) Communication skills: having developed a good oral and written exposition capacity of the concepts acquired 5) Learning skills: being able to deepen the topics in different contexts and independently c) - STORTI Roberta (syllabus) introduction States of aggregation of matter. Homogeneous and heterogeneous systems. Substances and chemical elements. Atomic structure of matter Atomic properties: mass and dimensions. Avogadro number, mole concept. Chemical symbols and their quantitative meaning. Structure of the atom Bohr model. Uncertainty principle. Wave nature electron. Atomic orbitals. Quantum numbers. Electronic configuration of the elements. Rules of the Aufbau. The periodic system of the elements. Periodic properties. The chemical bond Ionic, covalent and coordination bonds. Bond properties: order, distance and energy. Electronegativity and dipole moment. Chemical bond theory: hybrid orbitals, resonance. Magnetic properties of molecules. Intermolecular bonds. Hydrogen bond. Chemical formulas Nomenclature of inorganic compounds. Oxidation number. Typical molecules and ions structure. Chemical reactions. The oxidoreductions The gaseous state Read gases. State equation of ideal gases. Dalton's law for gaseous mixtures. Density and relative density of gases and mixtures gaseous. Average molecular mass of a gas mixture. Methods experimental for the determination of the molecular masses of substances gaseous. Real gases, Van der Waals equation. Kinetic theory of gases. The solid state Crystalline structures and their symmetries. Molecular, ionic solids, covalent and metallic. Polymorphism and allotropy. The liquid state Surface tension of a liquid. Viscosity and vapor pressure. Thermodynamics Definition of thermodynamic system. State functions and variables of state. Cyclic and open transformations. Reversible transformations ed irreversible. Heat, work and internal energy. First principle of thermodynamics. Enthalpy and Hess's law. Entropy. Second principle of thermodynamics. Spontaneous processes. Free energy. Chemical equilibrium Spontaneity and balance criteria in chemical reactions. Mass action law and its derivation. Homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria. Solutions Concentration and its units. Colligative properties of ideal solutions. Acid-base equilibria General definitions. Strength of acids and bases. Acid-base structure and properties. Autoionization of water. The pH. Calculation of the pH of acidic, basic and saline solutions. Buffer solutions. Acid-base titrations and titration curves. Solubility balances Solubility and factors that influence it. Solubility product. Common ion effect. Elements of chemical kinetics Reaction speed. Arrhenius equation. Activation energy. Catalysis (reference books) WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE BY THE TEACHER	7	CHIM/03	48	8	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA

Second semester

Course	Credits	Scientific Disciplinary Sector Code	Contact Hours	Exercise Hours	Laboratory Hours	Personal Study Hours	Type of Activity	Optional materials and exam in a foreign language	Language
118386 - Animal biology (objectives) The course, which deals with a basic subject in the initial phase of the course of study, aims at forming the skills of critical analysis based on scientific methodology, integrating general and contextual knowledge with those concerning specific technical and methodological tools of the zoological discipline , oriented to environmental studies. EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS 1) Knowledge and understanding The acquired knowledge will concern elements of general biology (cell, reproduction, genetic code, evolution); zoological techniques and methods (nomenclature, taxonomy, methods of data collection and analysis); topics of general zoology (structure and apparatus, species and reproductive isolation, ethology); biodiversity (knowledge and summary identification of the fauna with particular regard to the Italian fauna). Understanding skills will be achieved through the practice of rules and methods specific to the subject (for example, taxonomy and nomenclature rules). 2) Knowledge and comprehension skills applied The aspects concerning the application of knowledge involve the ability to analyze and interpret scientific contributions in the field of Zoology, and to identify fauna at a summary level for environmental assessment purposes. 3) Autonomy of judgment The exercise of critical analysis and knowledge, although at a general level, of fundamental methods and concepts will allow the ability to formulate independent assessments. 4) Communication skills These skills will be developed through the exercise of one's own expression (interventions during the lessons) and with a brief knowledge of the methods of scientific communication. 5) Ability to learn The notions and the use of the sources and the relative information can allow the application of the learning modalities to contexts different from those treated specifically in the course. - BELFIORE Carlo (syllabus) A - General (2 CFU) 1. Animals among the living organisms; 2. Definitions of Taxonomy, Identification, Classification, Faunistics and Biogeography; 3. Taxonomic categories and taxa; 4. Analogy, homology, adaptive convergence; 5. Classification criteria and methods; 6. Phylogenetic reconstruction; 7. Species concepts; 8. The structure of the species; 9. Properties of the species: variability; 10. Properties of the species: dispersal capacity and ecological tolerance; 11. Evolutionary mechanisms; 12. Natural selection; 13. Speciation; 14. Reproductive isolation; 15. Rules of zoological nomenclature B - Biological functional systems (2 CFU) 1. Phases of embryonic development; 2. Cavity of the body; 3. Symmetry; 4. Classification of the Animalia Kingdom; 5. Reproduction: generality and comparison between sexual and asexual reproduction; 6. Types of asexual reproduction; 7. Gonocorism: sexual characteristics; 8. Gonocorism: partner recognition and synchronization; 9. Gonocorism: copula; 10. Hermaphroditism; 11. Parthenogenesis; 12. Reproductive strategies and parental care; 13. Digestive systems and food function; 14. Food strategies in animals; 15. Functions and structure of the integument; 16. Colors in animals; 17. Adaptive colors; 18. Respiratory Functions; 19. Physical factors in respiration; 20. Biological and environmental factors in respiration; 21. Respiratory structures in animals C - Systematics (3 CFU) 1) PROTOZOI; 2) PORIFERS; 3) RADIATES (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa, Scifozoa, Anthozoa Hexacorallia, Anthozoans Octocorallia), Ctenophora; 4) PLATELMINTI (Turbellaria, Trematoda, Cestoda); 5) NEMATODA; 6) ANNELIDA (Polychaeta (Echiura, Errantia, Sedentaria), Oligochaeta, Irudinea); 7) MOLLUSCA (Polyplacophora, Scaphopoda, Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Cephalopoda (Nautiloida, Coleoida); 8) CHELICERATA Arthropods (Merostomata, Arachnida: Scorpiones, Araneae, Opilionida, Pseudoscorpiones, Acarina); 9) CRUSTACEA Arthropods (Branchiopoda, Ostracoda, Copepoda, Cirripedia, Malacostraca); UNIRAMIA Arthropods (Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha, Scolopendromorpha, Lithobiomorpha, Scutigeromorpha - Insecta: Tisanura, Ephemeroptera, Odonata, Orthoptera, Plecoptera, Isoptera, Blattaria, Dermaptera, Phasmida, Mantodea, Anoplura, Heteroptera, Homoptera,Aphaniptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera; 10) ECHINODERMATA (Crinoida, Holoturida, Ophiurida, Asteroida, Echinoida); 11) CHORDATA (Ascidiacea, Agnata, Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes, Amphibia: Anura, Urodela; Reptiles: Chelonia, Sauria, Ophidia; Aves, Mammalia: Insectivora, Chiroptera, Lagomorpha, Rodentia, Carnivora, Cetartiodactyla). D - Applications of zoology to environmental monitoring (2 CFU) Evaluation of the biological quality of watercourses with Macroinvertebrates, with field exercises (reference books) Any recent university text in Zoology, Animal Biology or Animal Biodiversity (eg.: Hickman et al. Zoologia. McGraw-Hill ISBN: 978 88 386 1538 2). Other material (pdf, ppt, recognition cards) provided by the teacher.	9	BIO/05	56	16	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA
118383 - Biologia vegetale (objectives) Expertise in Botany - ONOFRI Silvano (syllabus) General Botany The notion of plant organism. The plant cell: cell wall, plastids and vacuoles. Primary and secondary meristematic tissues; fundamental tissue system; vascular tissue system; dermal tissue system. The root: primary and secondary structure; root cap, apical meristem, quiescent center, central cylinder, pericycle, endodermis and Casparian strip, cortex; vascular cambium; lateral and adventitious roots ; absorption of water and minerals; storage roots. The stem: meristematic apex, area of differentiation; primary and secondary structure; vascular cambium; conifer and dicot wood; cork, cork cambium, phelloderm; branching. The leaf: shape, structure and function; epidermis, mesophyll, vascular bundles or veins; stomatal mechanism; abscission. The flower structure and function. Life cycles, alternation of generations, mechanisms of pollination, fertilization. Formation and development of embryo; endosperm. The seed, dissemination. The fruit: fruit development and ripening; types of fruit. The movement of water and solutes in the plant. Adaptation of plants to different environments: hydrophytes, hygrophilous plants, mesophytes, and xerophytes. Photosynthesis. Systematic Botany Principles of taxonomy, classification and scientific nomenclature. Bacteria and cyanobacteria. Fungi: Glomeromycota (zygomycetes),Ascomycota and Basidiomycota; Anamorphic fungi. Algae: Haptophyta (coccolithophores), Chlorophyta, Rhodophyta, brown algae and diatoms. Mosses and liverworts: Bryophyta. Vascular cryptogams: Psilophyta, Lycophyta, Sphaenophyta and Pterophyta. Spermatophytes: Gymnosperms and Angiosperms monocots and dicots. Preparation and observation of microscopic histological slides of roots, stems and leaves. Observation and description of microscopic slides of all taxa in the program. Botanical excursion (reference books) Mauseth J.D., 2020. Botanica. Fondamenti di biologia delle piante. IV edizione italiana. Casa editrice Idelson-Gnocchi. Raven P.H., Evert R.F., Eichhorn S.E., 2002. Biologia delle piante. Sesta Edizione. Zanichelli, Bologna. G. Pasqua, G. Abbate, C. Forni, 2019. Botanica generale e Diversità vegetale Iv Edizione. Piccin Editore.	9	BIO/02	56	16	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA
118424 - English (objectives) OBJECTIVES The course is aimed at students with basic knowledge of English grammar and it aims both to consolidate such competences and to develop linguistic and communication skills at a pre-intermediate level (level B1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - CEFR). - RIPA Felicetta (syllabus) The course aims to increase students' vocabulary with English terminology related to their course of study, also by means of scaffolding strategies. (reference books) V. Evans, J. Dooley, Dr. E. Blum, Environmental Science, ISBN 978-1-78098-669-2 Additional texts used: adaptations from other books/sites, to match students' needs	4		32	-	-	-	Final examination and foreign language test	-	ITA
118390 - Physics and laboratory (objectives) Educational goals The aim of the course is to provide students with the fundamental concepts of physics, at the same time providing the logical-deductive tools necessary to achieve a full understanding of the issues presented. Students will acquire the basic principles of the scientific method that combines the experimental approach with a mathematical-deductive approach. Particular attention will be paid to the critical and historical analysis of the concepts on which a scientific theory is based. Expected learning outcomes Knowledge and ability to understand. To have developed the knowledge of the fundamental principles of Physics and of the relative methodologies. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. Knowing how to use the concepts learned even in contexts different from those presented. Autonomy of judgment. Develop critical analysis skills and be able to solve new problems even if similar to those discussed in class. Communication skills. Students' ability to discuss the implications of concepts presented in class and the possible questions that may emerge from the topics discussed will be stimulated. Learning ability. Being able to discuss fundamental scientific topics of Physics and its applications. This skill will be developed and verified by involving students in oral discussions in the classroom. - BALDACCHINI Chiara (syllabus) Physics (56 hours) Models, theories, laws, measures and uncertainties. Unit of measurement (International System). Description of motion: kinematics in one dimension, kinematics in two dimensions, carriers. Force and mass. Newton's laws. Circular motion. Law of gravitation. Work. Kinetic energy. Power. Conservative forces. Potential energy. Conservation of mechanical energy. Quantity of motion. Rotational motion. Vibrations and waves (harmonic motion, sound). Bodies in balance. Fluids (static, dynamic, viscosity, surface tension). Temperature and kinetic theory, diffusion, heat, principles of thermodynamics, thermal machines, entropy. Electric charge and electric field. Electric potential and electric power; capacity. Dielectrics. Electric currents. Circuits in direct current. Magnetism. Electromagnetic induction and Faraday laws. Magnetic properties of matter. Electromagnetic waves and their spectrum. Light: geometric optics (reflection, refraction and dispersion) and physical optics (polarization, interference, diffraction). Spectroscopic techniques. Optical instruments (human eye and microscope). Resolution. Quantum theory and Photoelectric effect. Models of the atom. De Broglie's length and hypothesis. Electronic and atomic force microscopy. Quantum Mechanics and quantum numbers. Radioactive decay. Measurement of doses of ionizing radiation. Physics Laboratory (16 hours) The experimental method, the experimental measure, the measuring instruments. Units of measurement, units of scale, dimensional analysis. Measurement errors: random and systematic errors. Assessing uncertainties in direct measures. Significant digits. Discrepancy. Errors in repeated measurements: average as best estimate, standard deviation, standard deviation of the mean. Gaussian distribution. Poisson's distribution. Error propagation: sum and differences, products and quotients. Calculating errors for functions of a variable and for functions of multiple variables. Least squares method. Correlation coefficient. Chi-squared Test. Graphs: linear scale, semilogarithmic scale, logarithmic scale. Laboratory experiences: - Theory of Errors - Harmonic motion - Use of multimeter and Ohm's Law - Radioactivity (reference books) - Giancoli “Fisica ” edizione con Fisica Moderna - III Edizione- Casa Editrice Ambrosiana - Taylor “Introduzione all'analisi degli errori. Lo studio delle incertezze nelle misure fisiche” - Zanichelli	9	FIS/07	48	24	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA

SECOND YEAR

First semester

Course

Credits

Scientific Disciplinary Sector Code

Contact Hours

Exercise Hours

Laboratory Hours

Personal Study Hours

Type of Activity

Optional materials and exam in a foreign language

Language

118391 - Organic chemistry (objectives)

- BIZZARRI Bruno Mattia (syllabus) (reference books)

CHIM/06

Basic compulsory activities

ITA

Optional group: OPZIONALI con l'obbligo di scegliere almeno un esame - (show)

118425 - Molecular methodologies applied to environment (objectives) OBJECTIVES: the course of molecular methodologies applied to environmental research aims to provide students with an overview of the biomolecular and analytical instrumental techniques used for environmental studies. Knowledge will be given to develop the knowledge of environmental influences on the biology of living organisms and on humans. Students will acquire conceptual tools to understand the methods for the study of the effects of pollutants on human health and the environment and for the evaluation of toxicological risk. KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: at the end of the course the students will have to know the modern techniques of molecular biology used in the environmental field. They will understand the principles underlying the main molecular and analytical methods for the study of environmental pollutants. They will be able to correctly use the appropriate terminology used in molecular and analytical instrumental methodologies. They will be able to describe the structural elements of the main tools of a biochemical / molecular laboratory (liquid chromatography, spectrophotometer, mass spectrometer). They will know the classification of environmental toxic chemicals and their effect on humans. CAPACITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: mastery of analytical and molecular methods for the study of genetic-environmental variability. Ability to identify the analytical-molecular techniques to be applied in different cases. Ability to apply techniques related to the identification of environmental pollutants. JUDGMENT AUTONOMY: to have a concrete ability to integrate basic biomolecular knowledge and manage the complexity of problems in the environmental application field. COMMUNICATION SKILLS: ability to expose the acquired knowledge. The student must be able to present logically, concisely and rigorously, in various forms and with different tools, objectives, concepts, data and procedures of work or experimental analysis. LEARNING SKILLS: develop autonomous learning skills in the field of the discipline in question to increase their knowledge, constantly updating and keeping informed about new developments and bio-molecular methods used in the environmental field. - GEVI Federica (syllabus) xposure to environmental contaminants. Toxicity of environmental contaminants towards cellular components, signs of genotoxicity. Genes and tumors, heredity of cancer risk. Molecular aspects of tumorigenesis. Cell death, apoptosis and necrosis in response to genotoxic agents. Pollutants in the environment: origin, diffusion, accumulation. Classification of environmental toxic substances. Trace elements, heavy metals, metals bound to organic compounds. Inorganic pollutants, asbestos, alkalinity, salinity, acidity. Trace organic pollutants (PCBs, PBDEs, dioxins, furans, PAHs, pesticides). Molecular methods for the study of the environment. PCR, analysis by agarose gel electrophoresis, cloning, sequencing. Real-time PCR. Application of molecular techniques to the study and isolation of environmental DNA, genetic fingerprinting techniques ARDRA, SSCP, T-RFLP, DGGE, RISA, LH-PCR, RAPD. DNA / RNA Stable isotope probing. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH, CARD-FISH, Raman-FISH, Nano-SIMS). Microarray. Analytical methodologies for the determination of all classes of environmental pollutants (analytical spectroscopies, electroanalytical techniques, environmental techniques, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry for quantitative and qualitative analysis of halogenated compounds: (PCB, PCDD, PCDF and PBDE .) Liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry (LC / MS) for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of polar and thermolabile environmental pollutants, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP / MS) in environmental analysis. (reference books) Molecular biology. Principles and techniques. Michael M. Cox, Jennifer Doudna, Michael O'Donnell. Zanichelli 2013. Power point and educational material provided by the teacher during the lessons. The teacher will communicate at the beginning of the course any links where you can download the educational material.	6	BIO/11	48	-	-	-	Related or supplementary learning activities	-	ITA
118393 - Hydrobiology (objectives) EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES. The aim of the course is to provide students with the useful information to learn the theoretical bases of classical and modern hydrobiology and the theoretical and experimental approaches that have enabled their development today. Expanding knowledge on aquatic organisms from a trophic-functional point of view. Students will have to learn the logic of ecosystem analysis of aquatic environments and the methodologies suitable for evaluating structures and functions of ecosystems in aquatic environments. Notions will be provided to understand the most recent developments in the ecosystem of aquatic environments (food web theory, niche theory, network analysis), and an understanding of the importance of managing these environments will be stimulated. The course aims to provide the basis for further in-depth studies in the fields of inland water ecology and community ecology. EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS Knowledge and understanding. Having developed knowledge of the principles and ecological laws that underlie the ecosystem functioning of aquatic environments. Having acquired the notions of hydrobiology useful for undertaking ecosystem analyzes of the various environmental types of inland waters. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. Knowing how to use the notions learned in class and developed in the exercises to interpret the structures and functions of the various aquatic organisms and to solve problems in the various fields of hydrobiology. Judgment autonomy. Being able to identify the theoretical and experimental paths to be applied to the resolution of new problems even if similar to those discussed in class. Communication skills. Students' ability to talk, reason and discuss the questions raised during the lessons on the topics will be stimulated. Learning ability. Being able to discuss scientific issues related to hydrobiology and in general the academic ecology of aquatic environments also in its management applications and in its theoretical and experimental implications. This skill will be developed and tested by involving students in classroom discussions. - CERFOLLI Fulvio (syllabus) Lessons 1-2: The aquatic environment The water origin. The distribution of aquatic environments in the world. The chemical-physical characteristics of water: dissolved oxygen, conductivity, pH, temperature, the curve of the BOD, phosphorus, nitrogen, turbidity and total solids. Energy inputs into aquatic environments: pasture chains and chains of debris. Photosynthesis, chemosynthesis, the role of autochthonous allochthonous detritus . Lessons 3-4: The freshwater environments and their characterization The water cycle. Riverine landscapes. Lake environments. Aquatic ecosystems of transition. Wetlands. Other areas of water (underground rivers and lakes, springs high altitude, hydrothermal springs, interstitial waters). Freshwater habitats of Community interest. The classification of the lakes by trophic state. The organic contamination. Natural and antrhopic eutrophication. Lessons 5-10: Fauna and flora of inland waters Adaptations to water and to the different chemical-physical characteristics of the water. Macrophytes and phytoplankton (functional aspects and the role of riparian habitats). Zooplankton (Rotifers, Cladocerans, Copepods): diapause and quiescence, cyclomorphosis and vertical migrations. Benthos (insects, molluscs, crustaceans, Oligochaeta, planarians): parameters of the ecological niche, ontogenetic niche shift. Fish fauna of Italian inland waters, conservation status, composition of fish communities. Batracofauna, herpetofauna, ornithofauna and mammalofauna of aquatic environments. Trophic-functional classification of aquatic organisms. Zonation of the distribution of biodiversity in river and lake environments. Alien species. Lessons 11-15 Theoretical aquatic ecology The "River Continuum Concept". The "cascading effects". The zonation fish. Compartmental approach. Brief study of the ecology of inland waters. The trophic structures. The analysis of the stability of the ecosystem. Lessons 16-18 Tutorials on the field and in the laboratory. Use of microscopy and dichotomous keys (eg. Molluscs: gastropods and bivalves). Field instrumentation and laboratory (pH meter, oximeter, etc.). Sampling techniques (leaf packs, etc.). Experimental facilities for the study of the structures and functions of ecological communities of aquatic environments. (reference books) Textbooks: Dobson M., Frid C., 2009. Ecology of aquatic systems. Oxford University Press, II edizione D'Antoni S., Battisti C., Cenni M. e Rossi G.L. (a cura di), 2011. Contributi per la tutela della biodiversità delle zone umide. Rapporti ISPRA 153/11 Zerunian S., 2003. Piano d'azione generale per la conservazione dei pesci d'acqua dolce italiani. Quad. Cons. Natura 17, Min. Ambiente - Ist. Naz. Fauna Selvatica Cocchi R., Riga F. 2001. Linee guida per il controllo della nutria. Quad. Cons. Natura 5, Min. Ambiente - Ist. Naz. Fauna Selvatica Borin M., 2003. Fitodepurazione. Edagricole AAVV, 2004. La carta ittica dei fiumi Mignone Paglia e Marta. Provincia di Viterbo (a cura di). For non-attending students it is possible to contact the teacher for the delivery of the teaching material provided during the course.	6	BIO/07	48	-	-	-	Related or supplementary learning activities	-	ITA
118394 - Introduction to earth science (objectives) The objectives of the course are transmission of the basics of geology useful to properly frame the environmental themes. The course introduces the composition of the Earth and focuses attention on the lithogenetic cycle. The exogenous and endogenous processes that give rise to formation of rocks and their structure constitute central themes of the course. Expected learning outcomes Knowledge and understanding: At the end of the training activity, the student will acquire knowledge about the inner constitution of the Earth and the main endogenous and exogenous processes that characterize the Planet. The student will be able to distinguish the most common types of rocks by linking them to their origins. The student will be able to understand the principles of stratigraphy and the main geological structures. Applied knowledge and understanding: At the end of the training activity, the student will have to demonstrate that he is able: to distinguish and classify the main types of rocks, to read and interpret geological map. Making judgments: Through the exercises on geological maps, the student will acquire autonomy of judgment based on the acquired knowledge, analyzing different Italian areas. Communication skills: The student will acquire an appropriate technical language during the lessons and exercises on rocks classification and geological maps. Communication skills will be verified during examination. Learning skills: The student must demonstrate his ability to investigate geological areas which differ from those considered during the course. The student must be able to analyze the essential geological features of an area. - viaroli stefano (syllabus) It will also be made available by the teacher via the moodle portal (reference books) It will also be made available by the teacher via the moodle portal	6	GEO/05	40	8	-	-	Related or supplementary learning activities	-	ITA

118406 - Chemical monitoring laboratory (objectives)

- BIZZARRI Bruno Mattia (syllabus)

CHIM/06

Related or supplementary learning activities

ITA

- - ELECTIVE COURSE

Elective activities

ITA

Second semester

Course	Credits	Scientific Disciplinary Sector Code	Contact Hours	Exercise Hours	Laboratory Hours	Personal Study Hours	Type of Activity	Optional materials and exam in a foreign language	Language
118395 - Genetics and environmental mutagenesis (objectives) The aim of the course is to provide students with the information necessary for understanding the theoretical foundations of classical and modern genetics and the experimental approaches that have allowed their definition. Students will have to learn the logic of formal genetic analysis and the methodologies of genetic dissection of biological phenomena. They will have to know how to connect the concepts of genotype and phenotype and the interaction of these with the environment. A relevant chapter of the course will be dedicated to the students' acquisition of the concepts of mutation, mutagenesis and repair of genetic damage; as well as the impact that these processes have in the generation of syndromes, in the onset of degenerative diseases and in the evolution of populations. The notions will be provided to understand the paradigm shift that took place in the post-genomic era, and the understanding of the importance of both eukaryotic and prokaryotic model systems will be stimulated. Knowledge and understanding. To have developed the knowledge of the principles of formal genetics: Mendelism, sex-linked inheritance, mapping of genes in eukaryotes and prokaryotes, mutations, regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, genetics of populations. Having acquired the basic notions of Environmental Mutagenesis and Molecular Genetics and having understood the potential of post-genomic analysis. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. Knowing how to use the notions learned in class and developed in the exercises to interpret the patterns of inheritance and to solve problems in the various fields of Genetics. Autonomy of judgment. Being able to identify the appropriate rules of Genetics to apply to the resolution of new problems even if similar to those discussed in class. Communication skills. The students' ability to speak, reason and discuss the questions raised during the lessons regarding the topics covered will be stimulated. Learning ability. To be able to discuss scientific issues related to Genetics also in its medical applications and in its evolutionary implications. This skill will be developed and tested by involving students in oral discussions in the classroom. - PRANTERA Giorgio (syllabus) The Mendel's analysis Genetic variability The law of segregation The law of independent assortment Genes and alleles: the concept of polymorphism Extensions of mendelian inheritance Variations of dominance relationships Multiple alleles Pleiotropy Multifactorial inheritance Inheritance of quantitative traits The Chromosome theory Mitosis and meiosis Sex linked inheritance Meiosis and Mendel's laws Linkage and recombination Gene linkage Crossing over Χ2 statistical test Genetic maps Three point test Mitotic recombination and genetic mosaicism The DNA is the molecule of the heredity The experiments that designated DNA as the genetic material The Watson and Crick model DNA replication DNA recombination The gene at work The mutations Genetic dissection through mutations The one gene-one enzyme hypothesis Complementation test The gene fine structure The Benzer's experiments The gene expression The genetic code Transcription Translation The eukaryotic chromosome The structure of chromatin The radial loop model Centromeres Telomeres Nucleolus organizing regions (NORs) Chromosome rearrangements Structural changes Deletions Duplications Inversions translocations Mobile elements Changes in chromosome number Polyploidy Aneuploidy Genetic analysis in bacteria Transformation Conjugation Transduction Recombination mapping Gene Regulation in prokaryotes Regulation of Lac genes The operon theory Regulation of Tryptophan genes Attenuation Gene regulation in eukaryotes Transcriptional regulation Posttranscriptional regulation The role of chromatin structure Epigenetic inheritance Euchromatin and heterochromatin Position effect variegation X chromosome inactivation in mammals Recombinant DNA techniques and genomics DNA manipulation Nucleic acid hybridization PCR Gene cloning DNA sequencing The sequencing of the genomes SNPs Microsatellites Genetic analysis of populations How to calculate the frequencies of alleles How to calculate the frequencies of genotypes The Hardy-Weinberg law Changes in allele frequencies How the populations evolve (reference books) Hartwell, Hood, Goldberg, Reynolds, Silver, Veres: “Genetics - from genes to genomes”, 3rd edition, McGraw-Hill	9	BIO/18	64	8	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
118396 - Biological chemistry (objectives) Educational Goals The main objective of the course is to provide students with the concepts necessary to understand biological phenomena and the energy variations connected to them and metabolism. the course also aims to provide knowledge on the structure and function of the main biological molecules: proteins, carbohydrates and lipids as well as knowledge on cellular metabolism and its regulation. Finally, the course will introduce students to the knowledge to describe with biochemical and molecular language, the complex phenomena of communication, interaction and control of cellular and tissue functions. EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS Knowledge and understanding: Having developed the knowledge of the principles of biochemistry in relation to carbohydrates, lipids and proteins; to know the complex phenomena of communication, interaction and control of cellular and tissue functions and aims to emphasize the relationships between structure and function of the main classes of biological molecules, to metabolic regulation at the molecular and cellular level; raise awareness of the mechanisms underlying enzymatic functions. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: Knowing how to use the information learned in class to be able to deal with biological chemistry topics in a strictly scientific way; Furthermore, it is expected that students will be able to apply the knowledge acquired from the course in research, in the biotechnology industry and in the field of biological and biochemical analysis. Autonomy of judgment: Being able to identify and understand the scientific mechanisms that are the basis of biological chemistry in order to be able to interpret and formulate adequate judgments regarding the problems relating to the interactions between the various biological molecules. Communication skills: The ability of students to speak, discuss and reflect on the topics raised during the lessons will be stimulated, especially insisting on the importance of the scientific method that led to the statements discussed during the course. Learning skills: Being able to discuss scientific issues related to the interaction between molecules and the cellular and molecular system also in its biomedical applications and implications in the relationship of biochemistry with health. This skill will be developed and tested by involving students in oral discussions in the classroom. - MERENDINO Nicolo' (syllabus) Proteins: amino acids, peptide bond. Primary structure. Secondary structure: alpha helix, beta structure. Protein fibrose: keratin, collagen, elastin. Tertiary structure: globular proteins, protein stability and folding. Quaternary structure. Myoglobin. Hemoglobin: structure, heme (synthesis and degradation), oxygen bond, bond cooperativity, 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate, allosteric regulation. Pathological hemoglobins. Enzymes: introduction to enzymes: holoenzyme, apoenzyme, cofactors, classification, substrate specificity. Enzymatic kinetics, Michaelis-Menten equation, Km, Kcat and Kcat / Km. Enzymatic inhibition: competitive, non-competitive, mixed. Mechanism of action of serine proteases. Carbohydrates: references to monosaccharides and disaccharides of biological interest. Interconversion of sugars. Structural polysaccharides (cellulose and chitin). Deposit polysaccharides (starch, glycogen). Krebs cycle. Glycoprotein: structure and function. Nucleotide formation. Blood groups. Lipids: fatty acids, triglycerides, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, cholesterol, lipoproteins. Properties of lipid aggregates, micelles and liposomes and lipoproteins. Biological membranes: chemical composition, membrane structure. Movement of molecules through membranes, pores and channels. Active and passive transport simporto, antiporto etc. Water-soluble vitamin: general, definition and relationship with coenzymatic activity. Fat-soluble vitamins (A; D; E; K). For each vitamin: chemical structure, any biochemical precursors, deficiency effects, biochemical mechanism of action. (reference books) 1) Lecture notes. 2) I principi di biochimica di Lehninger di David L. Nelson, Michael M. Cox Zanichelli Editore ISBN: 8808920690 In alternativa. 3) La Chimica Organica e le macromolecole biologiche, di Butera-Lauricella Piccin Nuova Libraria ISBN:978-88-299-3057-9	7	BIO/10	56	-	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA
118398 - General and population ecology (objectives) Students who successfully complete this course will be able to: • understand and explain the ecological processes that govern the functioning of complex environmental systems • interpret the mechanisms that determine the distribution, abundance and relationships with the biotic and abiotic environment of organisms • understand the multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and integrative nature of the topics covered. • use evolutionary theories to address research questions on the causes of global change. • apply critical reading of scientific literature and independently investigate ecological issues, using the literature. • dealing with complex and multi-scalar disciplines and problems, and with the variety of investigation methods inherent to them, to formulate solid and evidence-based scientific questions. - CANESTRELLI Daniele (syllabus) General Ecology - The historical development of ecology; Ecology and its domain; Current state of ecological research in Italy. Ecology of the interactions between organisms and the physical environment: Conditions; Spatial and temporal variations; Adaptations in response to variations in environmental conditions; Limiting factors; Tolerance ranges; Environmental optima; Biological rhythms - climatic factors; Classification of climates; Phytogeographic zonation; Hints of paleoclimatology; Soil (solid, fluid and gaseous phase); Elements of paedogenesis; Soil classification; humus; Biological soil activity. Evolutionary Ecology - Genetic analysis of populations; Hardy-Weinberg's law; Genetic variability; Evolutionary forces (mutation, selection, gene flow, genetic drift); inbreeding; Wahlund effect; Balanced polymorphisms; Linkage disequilibrium; supergenes; Genetic divergence; Species concept; Reproductive isolation mechanisms; Speciation mechanisms; Hybrid zones and reinforcement; Sibling species; Biodiversity at the genetic level. Population ecology - Demography and dynamics: population structure and growth; Demographic parameters; Demographic tables; Intrinsic growth rate - numerical regulation of populations; Density dependent and independent factors; Exponential growth; environmental carrying capacity - logistic growth curve. Interspecific interactions: symbiosis; commensalism; inquilinism; antibiosis; parasitism; adaptations to parasitic life; coevolution; predation - adaptations to predation; cryptism; mimicry; intraspecific competition; interspecific competition; ecological niche; Principle of competitive exclusion; character displacement; r and K selection. (reference books) L. Bullini, S. Pignatti, A Virzo De Santo, "Ecologia Generale". UTET E. Odum, "Basi di Ecologia", Piccin Editore. M. L. Cain, W. D. Bowman, S. D. Hacker, “Ecologia”. Piccin Editore. Krebs "Ecology", Neebo Ed. - NASCETTI Giuseppe (syllabus) General Ecology - The historical development of ecology; Ecology and its domain; Current state of ecological research in Italy. Ecology of the interactions between organisms and the physical environment: Conditions; Spatial and temporal variations; Adaptations in response to variations in environmental conditions; Limiting factors; Tolerance ranges; Environmental optima; Biological rhythms - climatic factors; Classification of climates; Phytogeographic zonation; Hints of paleoclimatology; Soil (solid, fluid and gaseous phase); Elements of paedogenesis; Soil classification; humus; Biological soil activity. Evolutionary Ecology - Genetic analysis of populations; Hardy-Weinberg's law; Genetic variability; Evolutionary forces (mutation, selection, gene flow, genetic drift); inbreeding; Wahlund effect; Balanced polymorphisms; Linkage disequilibrium; supergenes; Genetic divergence; Species concept; Reproductive isolation mechanisms; Speciation mechanisms; Hybrid zones and reinforcement; Sibling species; Biodiversity at the genetic level. Population ecology - Demography and dynamics: population structure and growth; Demographic parameters; Demographic tables; Intrinsic growth rate - numerical regulation of populations; Density dependent and independent factors; Exponential growth; environmental carrying capacity - logistic growth curve. Interspecific interactions: symbiosis; commensalism; inquilinism; antibiosis; parasitism; adaptations to parasitic life; coevolution; predation - adaptations to predation; cryptism; mimicry; intraspecific competition; interspecific competition; ecological niche; Principle of competitive exclusion; character displacement; r and K selection. (reference books) L. Bullini, S. Pignatti, A Virzo De Santo, "Ecologia Generale". UTET E. Odum, "Basi di Ecologia", Piccin Editore. M. L. Cain, W. D. Bowman, S. D. Hacker, “Ecologia”. Piccin Editore. Krebs "Ecology", Neebo Ed.	9	BIO/07	48	24	-	-	Core compulsory activities	- -	ITA
118397 - Molecular biology (objectives) OBJECTIVES. Course objective is to provide an overview of the molecular structure and function of the nucleic acids. The goal is to encourage students to acquire solid basic knowledge of molecular biology for studying and understanding the organization and evolution of genomes, but especially the molecular mechanisms that, in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, underlie and govern both the maintenance and the flow of genetic information. Moreover, the student will learn the basics of intracellular communication through the study of signal transduction pathways responsible for short-term responses. KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. To possess the basics of biochemistry underlying the structure of nucleic acids, for understanding its biological function. Having acquired the concepts and knowledge necessary to understand the molecular and cellular bases of replication, transcription and translation of the genetic material in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. To understand the main mechanisms of intracellular signaling and of functional protein-protein interactions. APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING. Knowing how to use the theoretical notions learned during the course for a critical analysis of molecular mechanisms at the basis of life. MAKING JUDGEMENTS. To be able to discuss the role of the cellular processes described in class, increasing the ability to translate the acquired theoretical concepts into application. COMMUNICATION SKILLS. To demonstrate the ability to summarize and effectively present the acquired information. To develop the ability to use the correct terminology. LEARNING SKILLS. To be able to grasp, rework and discuss the scientific issues dealt with in the lesson, including their evolutionary implications. - RINALDUCCI Sara (syllabus) NUCLEIC ACIDS. The DNA structure. The double helix and Watson-Crick base pairs (DNA B). Alternative DNA secondary structures (DNA A, DNA Z). DNA topology (supercoiling, topoisomerases). DNA denaturation and renaturation. The RNA structure. Spatial arrangements of RNA. GENOME EVOLUTION AND ORGANIZATION. The gene: definition and structure in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Unique and repetitive sequences of DNA, coding and noncoding regions. The nucleosome and chromatin organization. Chemical modifications of histone N-terminal tails and their functional significance. DNA methylation. DNA REPLICATION. Structure and function of DNA polymerase. Fidelity and processivity of DNA polymerase. Specialized DNA polymerases. DNA helicase. The mechanism of DNA replication: initiation phase, strand synthesis, replication fork, termination, telomere and telomerase. Regulation of DNA replication in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. TRANSCRIPTION IN PROKARYOTES. RNA polymerase. Bacterial promoter recognition. RNA biosynthesis and maturation: initiation, elongation and termination steps. TRANSCRIPTION IN EUKARYOTES. Eukaryotic promoters. RNA polymerase I, II and III. Key differences in transcription in eukaryotes vs. prokaryotes. PRINCIPLES OF TRANSCRIPTIONAL REGULATION. Repressors and activators. DNA-binding domains in transcriptional regulators. Examples of gene expression regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. RNA MATURATION. tRNA and rRNA maturation processes. Modifications of eukaryotic mRNA: capping, polyadenylation, editing. The splicing mechanism: chemistry of the reaction, spliceosome assembly. TRANSLATION OF GENETIC INFORMATION. The mechanism of protein synthesis in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Examples of translation regulation. Non sense-mediated and non stop decay (NMD, NSD). PROTEIN POST-TRANSLATIONAL MODIFICATIONS. Lipidation, glycosylation, phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination and sumoylation of proteins. INTRACELLULAR SIGNALING. Steroid hormones. Single- and multipass transmembrane receptors. G-proteins, AMPc, PKA, inositol triphosphate, DAG and PKC. Calcium signaling. (reference books) BIOLOGIA MOLECOLARE di F. Amaldi, P. Benedetti, G. Pesole, P. Plevani (2018-terza ed. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana); BIOLOGIA MOLECOLARE: principi e tecniche di M.M. Cox, J.A. Doudna, M. O'Donnel (2013-Zanichelli). BIOLOGIA MOLECOLARE DELLA CELLULA di B. Alberts, A. Johnson, J. Lewis, D. Morgan, M. Raff, K. Roberts, P. Walter (2016-sesta ed. Zanichelli).	7	BIO/11	56	-	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA