Degree Course: Environmental Biological Sciences Syllabus for A.Y. 2021/2022

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) The course aims to provide a basic knowledge on the functioning of cells (of how cells function and interact, how they organize themselves in tissues), providing a reference framework for a further study of specific genetic, biochemical and molecular topics, during the Biology course. 1) Knowledge and understanding: Knowledge of the principles of cell biology and of the organization in tissues. Knowledge of the principles of cell structure, formation, transport and functioning of biological macromolecules in the cellular and extracellular environment. Basic knowledge of the structure of the nucleus and DNA / RNA. Basic knowledge of cell functioning from transcription to gene translation. 2) Applying knowledge and understanding: The basic knowledge acquired through the study of cytology will allow students to better understand the disciplinary insights of the teachings that will be carried out in the following years. Furthermore, in this course, in addition to providing a basic knowledge of cellular functioning, the knowledge relating to: ion pumps, the cytoskeleton, the extracellular matrix and cell adhesions, the transport of newly formed proteins / exocytosis and endocytosis will be particularly deepened. . The students will then apply the aforementioned knowledge to the study of tissues and in particular of the neuron and nervous tissue, of muscle and muscle contraction, of the epithelium and its relationship with the connective tissue. 3) Making judgments: The course offers links with other disciplines of the degree program by providing an integrated, current and dynamic knowledge, susceptible of specific insights such as: a) reading of scientific material found through keyword research and also provided and shared with learners on the google-drive site see text item; b) possibility to work on the power point material provided by the teacher and available on the above link; c) possibility to participate in themed seminars organized by the teaching staff- 4) Communication skills: During the lessons students are invited to give their opinion and to study in groups to develop their communication skills. These skills are then verified during the ongoing exams and at the end of the training activities. 5) Learning skills: Students must be able to describe scientific topics related to cytology and in particular to the biology of the cell and its organization with other cells in tissues. To consider the learning of the objectives as expected, the ability to not only know the topics of the proposed program, but also the ability to connect the various topics of the program, to express them through terms the specific terms and to apply them to themes will be taken into consideration. similar to the program. Such restitution skills will be developed through the active involvement of students in the in-depth study of the course topics - 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) Dini Romano et al.; Citologia e Istologia, Idelson-Gnocchi 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) Sets and their operations, various notations. Numerical sets: from N to R, need for enlargement. Definition of function and its classification; even and odd functions: examples, recognition and graphic consequences. Summation symbol and its use to indicate polynomials of degree n. Set of rational numbers, set of reals. The absolute value of a number and triangular inequality. Definition of interval: closed, open; definition of around. Classification of functions. Domain and sign of rational and irrational, transcendent algebraic functions. Definition of finite limit for x tending to a finite value: limit verification. Infinite limit for x tending to a finite value: verification; vertical asymptote. Finite and infinite limits for x tending to infinity: horizontal asymptote; oblique asymptote of fractal rational algebraic functions. A function that continues at a point and in a range. Classification of discontinuities: the function part integer, the functions whose graph admit vertical asymptotes; eliminable discontinuity: functions defined by branches. Elementary functions as continuous functions. Limit uniqueness theorem. Continuous function limits Comparison theorem or "of the carabinieri". Theorems on continuous functions: Weierstrass, intermediate values, existence of zeros. Definition of the Nepero number. Notable limitations of transcendent functions and their consequences: relative examples. Definition of derivative and its geometric meaning. Non-derivable functions at a point, classification of points of non-derivability: angular points, cusps and vertical tangent flexes; examples of all kinds. Derivatives of elementary functions with proof. Derivative of a sum and a product with demonstration and application examples. Relationships between derivability and continuity. Definition of ascending and decreasing function. Derivative of the reciprocal function of a derivable function (with proof) and of a quotient: examples of application. Compound functions: definitions, examples, derivative of a compound function. Complete study of a function. Definition of max and relative min and Fermat's theorem. Search for relative max and min (with the method of studying the sign of the first derivative) and absolute max and min. De l'Hospital's theorem( applications only ). Comparison of infinitesimals and comparison of infinites. Calculation of subsequent derivatives. Convexity and concavity of a curve, determination of oblique tangent flexes: determination of inflectional tangents. Development of a Taylor/Mc Laurin series function: application to some remarkable 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. A null, identical, transposed matrix of a date. Determinant of a matrix and its calculation in cases 2x2 and 3x3 (Sarrus 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 almost immediate integrals. Definition of integral defined by Riemann sums. Integral mean theorem. Integral function and fundamental theorem of integral calculus, Torricelli Barrow's theorem. Applications to the calculation of areas. Integration of fracted rational algebraic functions with 2nd degree denominator with positive, zero delta. Integrals attributable to the archtangent Indefinite integrals solvable by substitution. Integration rule by parts. Relative exercises: integral of (senx)^2; integrals that are resolved by iterating the procedure. Generalized and improper integrals, numerical approximation of integrals defined by the method of rectangles. Introduction of the functions of two variables: domain and graph in three-dimensional space. Contour lines. Continuity of functions of two variables, meaning and calculation of first and second partial derivatives, Hessian matrix and determinant; 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 Population dynamics. The concept of mathematical model. From Malthus' model to Verhulst's model: the logistic function. Study of both models as solutions of differential equations (with proof and relative problems). Statistical analysis Descriptive statistics: tables and graphs, histograms and pie charts. Position indices: average, fashion and median percentiles and quartiles, weighted average. Dispersion indices: variance and standard deviation. Assessment of uncertainties in measurements: absolute, relative and percentage errors. Least squares method, Covariance, Linear correlation coefficient. Combinatorial calculus. Simple and repetitive arrangements; simple and repeating permutations; simple combinations and with repetitions; binomial coefficient in its different forms, power of a binomial with Newton's formula. Classical definition of probability: relative examples. Frequentist and subjective definition of probability. Total probability theorem. The concept of random variable and discrete and continuous distributions. Expected value and variance of a random variable distribution Discrete distributions: binomial distribution, definition and relative examples; Continuous distributions: 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 standardized normal distribution: adequate examples of each topic covered have been carried out. (reference books) BASIC TEXT P. Marcellini, C.Sbordone Calculation elements – Simplified version for new degree courses Ed. Liguori For the exercises, the student is left free to use any analysis and calculation of probabilities and statistics both in paper and online form.	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	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.: Casiraghi, De Eguileor, Cerrano. Zoologia. Utet Università EAN: 9788860085184) Other material (pdf, ppt, recognition cards) provided by the teacher.	9	BIO/05	56	16	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA
118383 - Plant biology (objectives) Expertise in Botany A) Formation Goals. The course will enable students to understand the peculiar morphological, physiological and metabolic characteristics of plants, their role in the environment and interactions with other organisms. Furthermore, it will allow to know the basic techniques for their taxonomical identification. The course will provide a framework for understanding current issues related to plants (I.e., climate changes, soil stability, desertification processes )and their potential applications. The course will provide the necessary insights to understand the ecological peculiarities of plants and their role in the Biosphere. B) Learning results Knowledge and understanding (ability). To get the knowledge regarding the basic principles of biology, physiology and ecology of plants and their potential in terms of applications. Applying knowledge and understanding (Ability to apply knowledge and understanding). To understand the main ecosystem issues concerning plants with particular regard to interactions with the other biotic components including humans. To acquire the basic knowledge regarding the experimental approach to study the plant communities. Making judgement (Independent judgement). The ability to construe the results obtained by the various studies in botany. The ability to understand the role of the studied organisms in the environment and their influence on the biosphere. Communication skills. Ability to describe scientific topics related to plant biology both in written and oral forms by a specific scientific/technical language. Learning skills. Ability to use the methods acquired for studied organisms recognition and cultivation. This ability will be developed also trough the active involvement of the students in discussions during the lectures and by laboratory experiences. - pasqualetti Marcella (syllabus) Introduction to the course. Peculiarities of plant organisms. Autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms. Prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Cell theory. Evolution of the eukaryotic cell (endosymbiosis). The plant cell: plasma membrane, cytoskeleton, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi bodies, secretory pathways. Vacuoles. Cell wall. Plastids. Cell differentiation and growth. Plant tissues: structure and function. Primary and secondary meristematic tissues. Parenchymatic tegumental, mechanical, conductor and secretory tissues. Plant anatomy. The stem structure and function. Apical bud, cell differentiation. Primary structure: Dicotyledonous and Monocotyledonous. Differentiation of the cribro-vascular exchange (secondary meristem), secondary structure, fellogeno and felloderma. The root structure and function, primary and secondary structure, lateral and adventitious roots. Absorption of water and mineral salts. The leaf structure and function; stomatal anatomy and control of stomatal aperture. Vegetative propagation, asexual and sexual reproduction. Life cycles: haplont, diplont, the haplo-diplont cycle of plants. Microsporogenesis and microgametogenesis, macrosporogenesis and macrogametogenesis. The flower: the gynaeceum and the androecium; evolutionary aspects. Reproductive strategies: anemophilous and entomophilous pollination. Fertilization, development of the fruit. The seed and their dissemination. Plant diversity, concepts of systematics, taxonomy and nomenclature. Main morphological, biological, phylogenetic and ecological aspects of Algae (Cianophyta, Glaucophyta, Euglenophyta, Cryptophyta, Haptophyta, Dinophyta, Rhodophyta, Chlorophyta, Streptophyta, Eterokontophyta), Bryophyta, Psilophyta, Lycophyta, Sphaenophyta, Pteridophyta, Coniferophyta, Ginkgophyta, Cycadophyta, Gnetophyta, Anthophyta (Dicotyledonous and Monocotyledonous). Fungi: Chytridiomycota, ex-Zygomycota, Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Glomeromycota, mitosporic fungi. Photosynthesis (C3, C4, CAM), photorespiration. (reference books) Pasqua, G., Abbate, G., Forni, C., & Acosta, A. T. (2011). Botanica generale e diversità vegetale. Piccin. Ray F Evert Susan E Eichhorn. Biologia delle piante di Raven. (2013). Settima edizione italiana condotta sull'ottava edizione americana.Trad. di A. Virzo, V. Vona, R. Castaldo, A. Basile, C. Rigano, D. Rigano, R. Nazzaro, P. Caputo, A. Pollio, G. Siniscalco Gigliano, V. Spagnuolo. Zanichelli.	9	BIO/02	56	16	-	-	Basic compulsory activities	-	ITA
118424 - English - CRABA Francesca (syllabus) The course provides a general grammatical review in order to consolidate the linguistic and structural bases of the English language with guided exercises aimed at achieving a level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). For the grammatical revision, an inductive method and a didactic approach based on the so-called "grammar in context" will be used. Students will be engaged in individual and group activities with the aim of better the grammatical knowledges, using the context. In the second part of the course, some of the lessons will also be structured in order to make the students learn and develop the linguistic and terminological skills related to technical English. In this case, the activities will be based on the comprehension, interpretation and discussion of a selected variety of texts taken from magazines and web sites. By the end of the course, students should be able to demonstrate at least B1-level language proficiency and be able to understand and comment simple texts related to their field of study. GRAMMAR: Personal Pronouns (subjects and objects) Possessive adjectives and pronouns Demonstrative adjectives and pronouns Present simple and continuous Past Simple (regular and irregular verbs) Present and Past Perfect (simple and continuous) Duration form (since and for) Modal verbs Conditional (present and past) Future forms (will, simple present, to be going to, present continuous) Zero, first, second and third conditional Relative clauses (defining and no-defining) Quantifiers (some any no and their compounds; much, many, lots of and a lot of, a little, a few) Countble and uncountable nouns Question tags ANALYSIS OF TECHNICL TEXTS Reading, translation and analysis of key concepts in technical texts (reference books) Suggested texts: 1) Murphy, R. & Pallino, L., “Essential Grammar in Use”, Cambridge University Press, III edition, ISBN 9780521534888. 2) Redston, C. & Cunningham, G., "Face2Face Pre-intermediate Student's Book [B1]" (con DVD-ROM), Cambridge University Press, II edition, ISBN 9781107422070. 3) Gebhardt, F., "English for Cultural Heritage", Libreria Editrice Cafoscarina, 2003, ISBN 9788875430054. 4) O'Dell, F., "PET Practice Tests Extra" (con CD-ROM), CIDEB, 2006, ISBN 9788853006448. Additional study material (texts, readings, websites, etc.) will be indicated during the course and available on the moodle platform.	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, vectors. 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 and momenta. Vibrations and waves (harmonic motion, sound). Bodies in balance. Elasticity and rupture. 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 difference, product and quotient. 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

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Optional materials and exam in a foreign language

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118391 - Organic chemistry (objectives)

The course introduces the concepts and the experimental approaches of organic chemistry, working on the consolidation of principles acquired in the field of physics and general and inorganic chemistry to advance the knowledge of carbon chemistry. In the first part of the course, the cultural and practical bases for understanding the structure of organic molecules will be provided, paying particular attention to the existing relationships between the chemical structure and the chemical-physical and biological properties associated with them. The different physical hybridization states of the carbon will allow the three-dimensional vision of the molecules, facilitating the understanding of their role in the cell. The second part of the course is dedicated to the application of properties in the context of chemical reactivity. The student will have the opportunity to have answers to some of the key questions in his study: why do molecules react? What are the experimental factors that control the kinetics of the reactions? When is a reaction under thermodynamic control rather than kinetic? How is it possible to synthesize complex molecules from simple reagents? What is the impact of organic chemistry on the environment and how can it be reduced? This knowledge will allow the student to undertake subsequent study courses with strong structural and molecular expertise.

B) EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS
Knowledge of the principles governing the formation of the chemical bond, using traditional theories (valence bond theory) and advanced theories (theory of molecular orbital and quantum mechanics ). Knowledge of nomenclature and classification (theory of functional groups) of organic molecules, with particular attention to the association between the family of organic molecules and biological and chemical-physical properties. Knowledge of the reactivity of organic molecules and experimental parameters capable of controlling thermodynamics and kinetics of organic transformations. Knowledge of the relationship between organic molecules and the origin of life.

In addition to the knowledge gained through the study of organic chemistry, students will be able to apply the acquired concepts for the resolution of practical exercises related to the identification and classification of substances based on Their activity on the body, the effect of chirality on pharmacological activity, the possibility of separating organic isomers and the general methodologies for their analysis and their recognition.

Making judgments: The course offers links to other disciplines (Physics, General Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Computational Chemistry and Genetics) by providing an integrated knowledge. The student's critical judgment will be stimulated by constantly referring to the reading of recent studies published in scientific journals, questioning the current issues related to some of the core concepts of the discipline. Thanks to the multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary nature of organic chemistry, it will be also possible to link the acquired concepts to other disciplines, allowing the student to form his own autonomy of judgment about the effectiveness of an integrated scientific approach.

Communication skills: At the end of each part of the course, the students will be invited to form working groups to develop solutions and compete with others in solving practical exercises. The educational gain is aimed at increasing the communication skills and the ability to know how to work in a group, all aimed at consolidating the acquired concepts.

Learning Skills: Students' learning abilities will be evaluated during the course of the course by exonerary tests that will allow you to individually monitor the maturation state of the knowledge, highlighting the student's ability to return.

- 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) Exposure 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. - PISCOPO Vincenzo (syllabus) Shape and dimensions of the Earth. The internal structure of the Earth: core, mantle and crust. Lithosphere and asthenosphere. Notes on plate tectonics. Elements of mineralogy: main physical and chemical properties, main minerals of rocks. Magmatic processes and igneous rocks. Magmatic consolidation. Structure and texture of igneous rocks. Methods of classification of intrusive, extrusive and hypabyssal rocks. Characteristics of the main igneous rocks. Volcanism: types of eruptions and types of volcanoes. Pyroclastic rocks. Exogenous processes and sedimentary rocks. Sedimentary processes: weathering, transport, sedimentation and diagenesis. Classification and characteristics of sedimentary rocks: silicoclastic; carbonatic; evaporitic; other chemical and biochemical rocks, residual rocks. Properties of sedimentary rocks. Principles of stratigraphy. Metamorphic processes and metamorphic rocks. Metamorphic factors: temperature, pressure and fluid phase. Texture and structure of metamorphic rocks. Metamorphic facies and types of metamorphism. Main metamorphic rocks. Outline of structural geology: folds, faults and thrusts. Earthquakes: causes, mechanisms and distribution of earthquakes. Overview of the chronology of Earth. Topographical maps. Geological maps. Erosive processes, rivers and river erosion, wind erosion, glacial erosion, coastal erosion, landslides. (reference books) Grotzinger J.P., Jordan T.H. (2019) Understanding Earth. WH Freeman & Co. Ed.	6	GEO/05	40	8	-	-	Related or supplementary learning activities	-	ITA

118406 - Chemical monitoring laboratory (objectives)

- BIZZARRI Bruno Mattia (syllabus)

Data Quality: Principal parameters for the validation of an analytical method: detection and quantification limits, sensibility, robustness, recovery and use of certified materials; analytic approximation referred to law limits and interpretation of experimental data; expression of analytical results; systematic and random contribution to the approximation. (DM 260/2010, allegato 1, Pag 29-30).

Sampling and sample preparation: sampling representativeness considering the adopted sampling technique; sample storage; compatibility of the sample with the instrumental techniques; sample pretreatment: liquid-liquid and liquid-solid extraction; sample purification.
Analytical organic chemistry: mixtures separation: crystallizzation, solvent extraction: extrazion with supercritic fluids, distillation, cromathografy. Chromatography: theoretical considerations, partition coefficient, resolution. Chromatographic techniques: adsorption, partition, ionic exchange, exclusion. Cromathographic methods: TLC, Gascromathography, HPLC. Spectroscopy: the electromagnetic spectrum, radiation-matter interaction, effect of the chemical structure on the absorption, Lambert-Beer law. Principal environmental applications of the atomic and molecular spectroscopy: flame and graphite atomizers for the atomic absorption; plasma spectroscopy, ICP-MS; UV-Vis spectrophotometry, IR. Calibration Methods: external calibration, use of an internal standard, adding method.

Environmental chemistry:
• water: alkalinity and acidity, oxidation, reduction, complexation and chelation reactions.
Inquinanti organici ed inorganici:
• organics: hydrocarbons; polimers; oils and lubrificants. Polichlorophenyls and derivatives (polichlorobiphenyls, furans e dioxins). Surfactants: persistence, solubility, transport and hydrolytic reactivity.
• inorganics: N-NH4, N-NO3, total Phosphourus and dissolved Oxygen (LIMeco descriptors).

Laboratory: liquid-liquid extraction, spectrophotometric analysis of N-NH4 e N-NO3, GC-MS analysis of the organic pollutants.

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) Goldberg, Fisher, Hood, Hartwell: GENETICS - from genes to genomes, 7th 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 the biological phenomena and the energy variations connected to them and the metabolism. the course also aims to provide knowledge regarding 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 knowledge to describe the complex phenomena of communication, interaction and control of cellular and tissue functions with biochemical and molecular language. EXPECTED LEARNING RESULTS Knowledge and understanding: Having developed knowledge of the principles of biochemistry in relation to carbohydrates, lipids and proteins; know the complex phenomena of communication, interaction and control of cellular and tissue functions and aims to highlight the relationships between structure and function of the main classes of biological molecules, the metabolic regulation at the molecular and cellular level; to make known the mechanisms that underlie the enzymatic functions. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: Knowing how to use the information learned in class to be able to deal with biochemistry issues in a strictly scientific way; Furthermore, students are expected to be able to apply the knowledge acquired from the course in research, in the biotechnological industry and in the sector of biological and biochemical analyzes. Autonomy of judgment: Being able to identify and understand the scientific mechanisms that underlie biochemistry in order to be able to interpret and make adequate judgments regarding the problems relating to the interactions between the various biological molecules. Communication skills: Students' ability to talk, 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 dealt with during the course. Learning skills: Being able to discuss scientific issues concerning the interaction between molecules and the cellular and molecular system also in its biomedical applications and in the implications in the relationship of biochemistry with health. This skill will be developed and tested by involving students in oral classroom discussions. - 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
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
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. - 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. - Bisconti Roberta (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) M. L. Cain, W. D. Bowman, S. D. Hacker, “Ecologia”. Piccin Editore. Smith & Smith "Elementi di Ecologia", Pearson. L. Bullini, S. Pignatti, A Virzo De Santo, "Ecologia Generale". UTET E. Odum, "Basi di Ecologia", Piccin Editore. Krebs "Ecology", Neebo Ed.	9	BIO/07	48	24	-	-	Core compulsory activities	- -	ITA

THIRD 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
118399 - Ecosystem ecology - ARDUINO Paola (syllabus) INTRODUCTION: what is ecology, definitions; levels of organization - parts and wholes; hierarchy and scale; difference between ecology and ecologism and environmental awareness; ECOSYSTEMS: definition, structure and study methods; examples of ecosystems; cybernetic nature of ecosystems; ENERGY FLUX IN ECOSYSTEMS: solar radiations, impact with the atmosphere and outcomes; photosynthesis and cellular respiration; biomass, production, productivity; measuring methods in terrestrial and aquatic environments; primary productivity of different ecosystems; subsidiary energy; use of global primary productivity by human populations; quality vs. quantity of energy; trophic levels, ecological pyramids; food chains: pasture vs. detritus; food webs; ecological efficiency: Lindeman, consumption, assimilation, production. BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES: definition, models and types, study methods; water, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous and sulphur cycles. COMMUNITIES: what are communities, definition methods: gradient analysis, statistical approach; structure: composition, richness, abundance, evenness, homogeneity (rank-abundance diagrams, diversity indexes), alpha, beta and gamma diversity; successions: types, modes, outcomes; climax concept; mechanisms of successions; disturbance, stability: resilience and resistance; fragility/robustness, complexity/stability, diversity/disturbance, diversity/productivity (hypotheses and models). (reference books) Bullini L., Pignatti S., Virzo De Santo A. (1998). Ecologia generale. UTET, Torino. Available at the Library. Lecture files are available: please contact me by e-mail: arduino@unitus.it. OTHER TEXTS (WITH ENGLISH EDITIONS) Odum E., Barrett G.W. (2006). Fondamenti di ecologia. Piccin. (3° ed. italiana su 5° inglese, 2005). Odum E. (1988). Basi di Ecologia. Piccin, Padova. Colinvaux P. (1995). Ecologia. EdiSES. Townsend C.R., Harper J.L., Begon M. (2001). L'essenziale di ecologia. Zanichelli, Bologna.	6	BIO/07	48	-	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
118400 - General physiology and ecophysiology (objectives) 1) To understand the functions and the mechanisms of the physiological processes at cellular, organismal, and system level and their regulation and functional integration through different levels of organization in living organisms including humans. 2) To understand the adaptive and homeostatic capacities of organisms in response to environmental changes, both social and physical The course will pose a solid basis for more specialized studies in neuroscience, behavioural physiology, comparative physiology, ecophysiology, conservation physiology At the end of the course the students are expected to achieve the following knowledge and abilities: Knowledge: - Physiological processes and mechanisms in animals, with ability to connect and integrate different systems and other biological disciplines - Understand the physiological connections between systems, of the relationships between organism and environment (internal and external) mediated by physiological processes, including the basic knowledge of the experimental approaches, also pharmacological, for the study of physiological mechanisms with emphasis on the coping response to stress, environmental challenges, and the interaction between ecological and physiological processes. Ability: - Ability to interpret the results of physiological studies; to understand role of the physiological responses of the organisms to the social and non social environment; being able to understand the evolutionary and functional connection between anatomy, physiology, behaviour and environment. Being aware of the animal diversity of mechanisms that control the activity of the organisms. - Ability to describe physiological issues, with the appropriate technical/scientific language, both written and spoken. - Ability to use the acquired knowledge for understanding the physiological processes and mechanisms, from the ionic and biochemical to the organismal level. The achievement of this goal will be pursued also with group discussions on specific topics, also suggested by the students - CARERE Claudio (syllabus) 1) Basic concepts. Homeostasis; negative and positive feedback: examples; cell metabolism and enzymatic actions. 2) Cell membranes and transport. Active and passive transport, epithelial transport; factors affecting transport; osmosis; sodium-calcium pump; membrane potential; equilibrium potential; electric, chemical, and electrochemical gradient; Nernst equation. 3) Intercellular communication. Chemical messengers: hormones, neurotransmitters, and mechanisms of signal transduction. 4) Endocrine system, glands and hormones. Endocrine organs; mechanisms of hormonal actions. Endocrine disrupting chemicals. 5) Nervous system physiology. Basis of neuroanatomy; the central nervous system and its organization in vertebrates. the neuron; action potential: temporal dynamic and ionic genesis; propagation of the action potential; myelin sheath and saltatory conduction. Receptors. Examples of neuropathologies and mechanisms of actions of drugs. Neurotransmission: chemical synapses and neurotransmitters. Reflexes: examples. Vocalizations and language; sleep; emotions; learning and memory; synaptic plasticity and molecular basis: long-term potentiation. Basics of sensory physiology: stimuli, receptors, signal transduction and responses; nociception; vision; hearing, taste, olfaction: examples across taxa. Autonomic nervous system and its organization in vertebrates; effects on the different systems. Somatic nervous system, neuroanatomy and neuromuscular junction; neurotoxic substances. Stress response and coping styles. Chronobiology: circadian and circannual rhythms. 6) Muscular physiology. Basis of anatomy, histology and cytology of the skeletal muscle tissue. Contraction: molecular mechanisms. Sliding filament model and cross bridge cycle. Coupling of excitation-contraction coupling. Summation and tetanus. Types of muscular fibers. 7) Cardiovascular system. General anatomy, histology and morphology. The heart of mammals. Cardiac cycle. ECG. Pacemaker cells and their action potential, electric activity and conduction. Ionic basis of contraction. Cardiac output. Blood vessels, hematic flow, blood pressure. Baroceptors. Regulation by the autonomic nervous system. 8) Physiology of respiration, transport and gas exchange. Anatomy of the respiratory trait. Mechanics of respiration; lung volume and capacity. Gas exchange in the lungs; blood transport of gas; hemoglobin, myoglobin: dissociation curve and factors of variability across taxa. Nervous control of respiration. Chemoceptors. Gas exchange in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Metabolic rate and respirometry. Adaptations to hypoxia and anoxia. 9) Kidney physiology. Functional anatomy in a comparative perspective. The function of the kidneys. The nephrone. Filtration. Pressure gradients, regulation of the velocity of glomerular filtration; tubular reabsorption and secretion. Mechanism of the countercurrent multiplier. Regulation of the composition of the extracellular fluids. ADH and aldosterone. The renine-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Electrolyte regulation. Control of acid-base balance. Renal compensation. Comparative physiology of osmoregulation: examples. 10 Nutrition, digestion and absorption. Digestive system: generality. Digestion and absorption of nutrients and water. Gastrointestinal secretion and its regulation. 11) Energetic metabolism and growth. General concepts of energy balance. Pancreatic hormones: insulin and glucagon; growth hormone; thyroid hormones; glucocorticoids. Oxidative stress in an ecological and evolutionary framework. Basis of thermoregulation physiology in a comparative perspective. 12) Physiology of the reproductive system. Male system: spermatogenesis; androgens. Female system: menstrual cycle and ovulation; hormonal control; fecundation; gestation; parturition; lactation. Progesterone, oxytocine, and prolactin. Costs of reproduction. 13) Basis of conservation physiology, examples. (reference books) Stanfield Cindy L. Principles of Human Physiology, Pearson 2018; Hill Richard W., Wyse Gordon A., Anderson Margaret. Animal Physiology, Sinauer Associates, 2017;	9	BIO/09	72	-	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
118384 - Environmental biological moniteering laboratory
- Environmental biological moniteering laboratory (module I) (objectives) Educational objectives The objectives of the course are the transmission of the basic notions of ecotoxicology useful for correctly framing the issues related to environmental and human health. The course introduces environmental issues related to the presence of xenobiotic chemicals and focuses attention on cellular toxicity mechanisms. The processes that lead to persistence / degradation, bioconcentration, bioaccumulation, biomagnification, the use of cell biomarkers and the use of cell cultures in vitro as a useful tool in the study of toxicity at various levels constitute the central topics of the course. The lessons in the laboratory aim to learn the main techniques for in vitro cultivation of mammalian and / or fish cell lines and the procedures necessary to perform cytotoxicity tests Expected learning outcomes Knowledge and understanding At the end of the training activity the student will acquire knowledge on what the chemical / physical characteristics of the contaminants and the biotic and abiotic processes capable of influencing their environmental path and toxicity, will be able to describe the general principles for assessing the direct and indirect effects of different environmental contaminants on the various levels of biological organization, research, evaluation, elaboration of the relevant ecotoxicological information. He will be able to understand, organize and present data relating to an ecotoxicological study. Knowledge and understanding applied At the end of the training activity, the student must demonstrate that he is able to experimentally manipulate in vitro cells to be used for ecotoxicological tests. Judgment autonomy During the exercises and the bibliographic study work, the student will acquire critical judgment autonomy on the basis of the knowledge learned for the assessment of environmental risk and possible remedies. Communication skills The student will acquire an appropriate technical language during the study of articles provided in class. The methods learned during the laboratory lessons include a short practical test. Communication and exhibition skills will be verified during the exam. Ability to learn The student must demonstrate that he/she is able to use the methods learned to investigate different ecotoxicological problems. The student must be able to critically report an ecotoxicological research through a short discussion - WILLEMS Daniela (syllabus) The environmental fate of a pollutant in the different environmental compartments. Air, water, soil. Importance of ecotoxicology and cellular toxicology. Review of the structure and function of the cell and organization of pluricellular organisms (cells, tissues, organs, organisms). Cellular and molecular toxicity. The environment as an agent capable of modifying the phenotype and influencing the molecular aspects of development. Regulation of transcription and environmental interference. Transmission of epigenetic memory between generations, transmission of damage from xenobiotics. The importance of development for health and disease. Developmental toxicology. Biotransformation of xenobiotics. Bioindicators, and biomarkers, the search for the primary target of pollutants: the main biomarkers. Organ toxicity. Chemical carcinogenesis. Mechanisms of action of chemical carcinogens. Relationship between the individual's response and ecological effects. The study of the effects, exposure, absorption, distribution and excretion. Toxicity tests. Use of bacteria, algae, crustaceans, fish and mammals, evaluation tests (acute and chronic) and "endpoints" (LC50, EC50, IC50, NOEC, LOEL) Bioconcentration, Bioaccumulation, Biomagnification. The REACH program and Directive 91/414 / EEC for chemicals. Main classes of synthetic organic pollutants and evidence of their environmental effects. Toxic effects of metals The main physico-chemical properties of a pollutant and environmental persistence, degradative pathways found in nature. Persistent contaminants and global contamination. Notes on the forecast models for the assessment of the environmental fate of organic pollutants. The QSAR (Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship) models. Mixtures of toxic substances in the environment: an approach to the problem. Evaluation of the effects: toxicological tests at different levels of organization and complexity (laboratory, mesocosms etc). Bioremediation In vitro cell cultures applied to the ecotoxicological study. Main cell culture techniques (reference books) Ecotossicologia (M.Vighi –E.Bacci) Utet ed. (out of sale ) Ecotossicologia quantitativa applicata – (Baudo R.- Perin G.) Aracne editrice Fundamental of Ecotoxicology: The Science of Pollution. M.C. Newman Ed.CRC Press (Fifth edition 2019) Introduzione alle colture cellulari metodiche relative (Mariottini, Capicchioni,Guida, Mattioli, Penco, romano, Scarabelli) Morgan edizioni tecniche Eco –Devo. Ambiente e Biologia dello Sviluppo- Gilbert S.F., Epel D.- ed. Piccin During the lessons will be given links to recent journal articles or books on different related topics	6	BIO/06	40	8	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
- Environmental biological moniteering laboratory (module II) (objectives) The course aims to develop skills in the design and execution of biological monitoring according to the principles and methods contained in current European and Italian legislation. Knowledge and understanding The knowledge acquired will concern the general principles on which biological monitoring activities are based, the methodological processes for the implementation of monitoring campaigns and the determination of biological indices of environmental quality. Knowledge and understanding applied The application of knowledge will be focused on the methodological study concerning the indices currently in use to evaluate the ecological status of the water courses. Making judgments The ability to formulate independent evaluations can be exercised in the interpretation of the results, coordinating the heterogeneous data to arrive at reasoned judgments. Communication skills These skills will be developed through the exercise of one's own expression (interventions during the lessons) and in the coordination of group activities. Ability to learn The methodological study can allow the extension of the concepts and practices to the monitoring application to other environmental matrices. - BELLATI Adriana (syllabus) Changes in environmental quality, pollution and environmental monitoring (quality of soil, water bodies, air); General characteristics of inland waters: lentic and lotic environments (structure of lakes and self-purifying capacity, metabolic efficiency, river continuum concept, ecological and hydroclimatic factors of rivers); Biological monitoring of surface water bodies; The use of biological indicators for assessing the quality of running waters; The biological indices (of diversity, the saprobic system and the biotic indexes -BMWP, IBE, ASPT); The European Water Framework Directive (2000/60 / EC): typing, different types of monitoring, reference conditions; The elements of biological quality (EQB): Macroinvertebrates, Macrophytes, Diatoms and Pisces; The Macroper index; Sampling techniques, including complex environmental matrices, collection tools and biological conservation; The determination of the ecological status of a superficial watercourse through Macroinvertebrates and the elements of chemical-physical and hydromorphological quality in support. The most recent methodologies for the isolation and the analysis of diagnostic DNA markers for environmental monitoring. (reference books) Water Framework Directive (2000/60/CE) IRSA manuals ISPRA manuals Atlases and identification cards The texts will be provided by the teacher, who will indicate the links for the retrieval - CARERE Claudio (syllabus) Birds as monitors of environmental change; inter-specific and intra-specific behavioral diversity in birds; active and passive methods of counts and individual tracking. Behavioural ecology of birdsong. The use of birdsong for the monitoring of bird communities. Transects and point counts from listening spots. (reference books) Furness RW, Greenwood JJD 1993 Birds as Monitors of Environmental Change. Springer Pearce-Higgins J, Green RE 2014 Birds and climate change. Impacts and conservation responses. Cambridge University Press Sorace A, Gustin M, Calvario E, Ianniello L, Sarrocco S, Carere C 2000 Assessing bird communities by point counts: repeated sessions and their duration. Acta orn 35, 197-202	6	BIO/05	24	24	-	-	Core 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
118401 - General and environmental microbiology (objectives) Formation Goals. The course will permit the comprehension of the morphological, physiological and metabolic characteristic of microorganisms (mainly prokaryotic); their role in nature and the interactions with other organisms. Moreover, it will consent to acquire the basic techniques for the manipulation of microorganisms in laboratory, their identification and the study of microbial communities. The course will permit to understand the principal interactions between microorganisms and environment particularly in relation with the bio-geochemical cycles. The course will supply a reference framework to comprehend modern aspect related to the microbial world and the potential applications of useful microorganisms. The course will supply the basic formation for further specialized studies in microbial ecology, environmental and medical microbiology. Learning results Knowledge and understanding (ability). To get the knowledge regarding the basic principles of the microbial biology, their metabolism, their role in nature, the interaction between microorganisms environment and other organisms, their potential in biotechnology. Applying knowledge and understanding (Ability to apply knowledge and understanding). To understand the issues related to the relationships between microorganism, mankind and environment. To acquire the basic knowledge regarding the experimental approach to study the microbial world. Making judgement (Independent judgement). The ability to construe the results obtained by the various studies in microbiology. The ability to understand the role of the microorganisms in the environment and their influence on the biology of other organisms. Communication skills. Ability to describe scientific topics related to microbiology both in written and oral forms by a specific scientific/technical language. Learning skills. Ability to use the methods acquired for microorganism recognition and cultivation. This ability will be developed also trough the active involvement of the students in discussions during the lectures and by laboratory experiences. - FENICE Massimiliano (syllabus) 1) History of microbiology: discovery of the microbial world; the “Abiogeny” dispute, microorganisms and their environment, impact of microorganisms on man: pathogenic, harmful and useful microorganisms. 2) The laboratory of microbiology: the microscope, mentions of optical physics, preparation of microscope slides, electron microscopy and other microscopy techniques. The pure culture, microbial nutrition and preparation of culture media. Theory and practice of sterilization. 3) Cytology: prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: general concepts, structure and ultra-structure of bacterial cells, structure and function of cytoplasmic membrane, transports through the cytoplasmic membrane, cell wall, structure and function, the cell wall of Gram + and Gram – bacteria, Archaeal and eukaryotic cell walls, capsules and other envelopes, motility, flagella and chemotaxis, endospores structure and function, mentions of eukaryotic spores. 4) Cell physiology: reminders of chemistry and cell biochemistry (redox reactions, hydrogen and electron transport, high energy compounds), biological energy production, glycolysis and alternative pathways; NAD re-oxidation: fermentations (alcoholic and lactic); aerobic respiration (TCA, electron transport phosphorylation, energy balance in respiration), mentions of anaerobic respiration and biosynthesis. 5) Microbial growth: growth of a single cell and of a microbial population, diauxic growth, effect of environmental parameters on growth (pH, temperature, etc.), methods for the control of microbial growth. 6) Principles of molecular and bacterial genetics (reminders): DNA structure, restriction enzymes, DNA replication, genetic elements, gene rearrangement, transposons, transcription, structure and function of mRNA and tRNA, translation and protein synthesis, genetic code mutations and mutagens; bacterial recombination (in details), transformation, transduction, plasmids and conjugation. 7) Microbial classification and phylogeny (mentions) 8) Virology: “anatomy” and structure of viral particles; viral counts; general concepts of viral reproduction, principles of viral genetics, RNA/DNA phages, temperate and lytic bacterial viruses; some important animal and plant viruses (mentions). 9) Microbial ecology: isolation and identification of microorganisms (recalls), interactions among microbial population and between microorganisms and other organisms; microbial ecosystems; methods for the study of microbial ecology and diversity; biogeochemical cycles (Carbon, Nitrogen, Iron, Sulphur, etc.). 10) Environmental biotechnology: pollution and depollution; role of microorganisms in environmental decontamination, Soil and water bioremediation; aerobic/anaerobic catabolism of environmental pollutants, treatment of water and wastewater; Some study cases. . 11)Microbial Biotechnology: microorganism of industrial interest, screening for industrial metabolites/enzymes. Bioreactors, structure and design, scale-up, primary and secondary metabolites; production of antibiotics, enzymes, etc. (mentions). Enzyme and cell immobilization (mentions) 12) Pathogenic, harmful and useful microorganisms mentions of medical microbiology. Pathogenic microorganisms in food and waters (mentions); Microbiological analysis of water Some practical/laboratort lectures will be added to better explain some topics of laboratory tecniques (reference books) Brock, Biologia dei Microrganismi di M.T. Madigan e J.M. Martinko, D.A. Stahl, D.P. Clark, Pearson, 2012. Vol.1 e 2 (or any other more recent edition) Brock, Biologia dei Microrganismi di M.T. Madigan e J.M. Martinko, Casa Editrice Ambrosiana. Vol. 1 e 2A Biologia dei microrgamismi di G. Dehò e E. Galli, Casa Editrice Ambrosiana, 2018. Microbiologia ambientale ed elementi di ecologia microbica di Barbieri, Bestetti, Galli, Zannoni, Casa Editrice Ambrosiana, 2008 The lectures slides (PDF) are available on line. During the course, some scientific publications will be distributed and discussed. Other recent textbooks of General Microbiology could be used after a preliminary check with the teacher.	9	BIO/19	72	-	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
118402 - Applied ecology (objectives) Educational objectives The objectives of the course are the transmission of the basic notions of applied ecology useful for correctly framing the environmental themes deriving from the interaction between man and natural ecosystems. The course introduces the main characteristics of ecosystems and analyzes the impacts on these ecosystems deriving from human activities, providing for each theme an overview of the management, technical and regulatory tools used to stem environmental degradation. Expected learning outcomes Knowledge and understanding At the end of the training the student will acquire the knowledge concerning the main anthropic impacts on marine, terrestrial and inland water ecosystems. The student will be able to understand the multiple effects that human activities imply, in terms of the imbalance of the stability of natural ecosystems. Applied knowledge and understanding The student will be able to find out about the technical options that can be applied in solving the most pressing environmental issues and will be able to identify the national and supranational regulatory tools through which these issues can be addressed. Autonomy of judgment During lectures and exercises, open discussion on the main environmental issues addressed is encouraged, in particular with regard to possible solutions to the most current environmental emergencies. The student will therefore acquire autonomy of judgment based on the knowledge learned and the dialectical comparison with colleagues and the teacher. Communication skills The student will acquire an appropriate technical-scientific language during the lessons and exercises, through the knowledge of the definitions and the main basic concepts in ecology and applied ecology. Communication skills will be verified during the exam. Ability to learn The student will have to demonstrate to be able to use the concepts learned to hypothesize the possible effects of human activities even in environmental contexts different from those considered as an example, based on the ecological characteristics of the considered environment. - CERFOLLI Fulvio (syllabus) Definition of Applied Ecology The preservation and environmental management: the legislative framework Definition and quantification of the quality of the environment: indicators and indices Alteration and pollution of ecosystems: inland waters and transitional waters, sea Alteration and pollution on a global scale Protection, safeguarding and recovery of ecosystems Elements of telemetry, use of satellite photos, drones, the remote data collection stations Management and protection of the coastline, preventing overfishing, restocking and fisheries development; artificial reefs Protected areas and their classification, marine protected areas, Natura 2000 network, protection, conservation and management of habitats and endangered species Legal administrative tools: environmental impact assessment, impact assessment, management plans Exercises and laboratory Sampling and analysis of macrozoobenthic communities Measuring the biodiversity Using software and statistical analysis of data Basic project tools to protect the nature (reference books) Dobson M., Frid C., 2009. Ecology of aquatic systems. Oxford University Press 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 (http://www.minambiente.it/sites/default/files/archivio/allegati/biodiversita/allegato_rapporto_153_2011.pdf 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(http://www.isprambiente.gov.it/contentfiles/00006700/6726-17-qcn-pesci-acqua.pdf) Cocchi R., Riga F. 2001. Linee guida per il controllo della nutria. Quad. Cons. Natura 5, Min. Ambiente – Ist. Naz. Fauna Selvatica(http://www.minambiente.it/sites/default/files/archivio/biblioteca/protezione_natura/qcn_nutria.pdf) Borin M., 2003. Fitodepurazione. Edagricole AAVV, 2004. La carta ittica dei fiumi Mignone Paglia e Marta. Provincia di Viterbo (a cura di).http://www.parchilazio.it/documenti/pubblicazioni/3793_allegato1.pdf) The topics covered in class will be integrated with bibliographic material provided during the course. Non-attending students are encouraged to contact the teacher for information on the program, teaching materials and how to evaluate the profit.	7	BIO/07	40	16	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
118403 - Biological oceanography (objectives) The sea and oceans are home to fundamental biological and physical processes for the life and physical and chemical balance of the entire planet and are rich in renewable living resources, which provide valuable nutrients and molecules for human life and health. They are also such a favorable habitat for life as to constitute a privileged location for the development of life and have a very high biodiversity, with all the Phyla represented, of which many are exclusively marine. The aim of the course is therefore to build an educational path that, through lectures, laboratory and sea exercises, leads students to know the habitats, the functioning mechanisms of the marine ecosystem in its abiotic and biotic components, analyzing their interrelationships at different spatial and temporal scales. Expected learning outcomes 1) Knowledge and understanding To have developed knowledge related to the physical, chemical and biological properties of sea water. Knowledge related to the main marine, oceanic and coastal habitats and to pelagic and benthic organisms. Understanding of the main mechanisms of functioning of the marine ecosystem in its abiotic and biotic components by analyzing their interrelationships at different spatial and temporal scales. 2) Knowledge and understanding skills applied Experimental approach to the study of oceanography and to the study of marine ecosystems through the use of the main sampling techniques and analysis methodologies presented during the lectures and carried out during the didactic exercises. 3) Autonomy of judgment Being able to evaluate and deal with the appropriate skills, competences and critical sense of the study of the different issues concerning the oceanic and coastal marine environment presented during the course. 4) Communication skills Being able to master the main topics addressed during the course with a correct scientific language. 5) Ability to learn Being able to apply the knowledge acquired, during lectures and exercises, to cases that require the integration of the topics covered during the course. - MARCELLI Marco (syllabus) The course includes part of theoretical lessons and exercises in the laboratory and in the field, dealing with the topics specified below. Historical notes on the birth of oceanography as a science. Physiographic characteristics of marine environments. Origin and evolution of marine and oceanic waters. The water cycle and the oceans. The chemical composition of sea water, the interaction with the atmosphere, carbon dioxide and the balance of carbonates. The cyclic salts. The physical properties of sea water. The Earth and the solar system. The energy balance of the Earth. The atmosphere and atmospheric circulation. Relations between climate and oceans. Exchanges of energy between the sea and the atmosphere. Energy distribution on the earth's surface. The distribution of the fundamental variables of marine and oceanic water masses. The Coriolis force. Horizontal and vertical movements of water masses, wave motion, sea currents and other dynamic phenomena. Pelagic and benthic organisms. The ecotypological classification of marine organisms. Introduction to marine biology: phytoplankton, zooplankton, necton and benthos. The regulating variables of biological processes and the distribution of organisms. Phytoplankton and primary production. Solar radiation and its ecological significance. Biomass, production and biological productivity. Photosynthesis, production and growth. The environmental regulatory factors of PP. The limiting factors. Gross and net production. Trophic levels, food chains and webs. Trophic transfer efficiencies. Methods of estimating Primary Production at sea. Marine, oceanic and coastal habitats. The zoning of the benthos and the Mediterranean benthic biocoenoses: the classifications of Perès Picard and Riedl. Energy flows and biogeochemical cycles (nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, silicon cycles). Energy flow and trophic structure of ecosystems: ecological pyramids and efficiencies. The dynamics of marine ecosystems. Time and dimensional scales. Micro-scale processes: the boundary layer, the vertical structure and the biology of the mixed layer. Meso-scale processes: ecological phenomena associated with upwelling, fronts, tides and internal waves. Macro-scale processes: the ecology of large-scale phenomena (major currents, gyres, eddies). Oceans and Global Change: physical and biological aspects, the role of the "biological pump". (reference books) Lecture notes by prof. Marco Marcelli, available on Unitus Moodle (https://moodle.unitus.it).	8	BIO/07	48	16	-	-	Core compulsory activities	-	ITA
118404 - Stage	6		-	-	-	-	Other activities		ITA
118405 - Thesis	7		-	-	-	-	Final examination and foreign language test		ITA