In this study, an analysis of precipitation and temperature data has been performed over 67 series observed in a region of southern Italy (Calabria). At first, to detect possible trends in the time series, an analysis was performed with the MannKendall non-parametric test applied at monthly and seasonal scale. An additional investigation, useful for checking the climate change effects on vegetation, has also been included analysing bioclimatic indicators. In particular, Emberger, RivasMartinez and De Martonne indices were calculated by using monthly temperature and precipitation data in the period 1916-2010. The spatial pattern of the indices has been evaluated and, in order to link the vegetation and the indices, different indices maps have been intersected with the land cover data, given by the Corine Land Cover map. Moreover, the temporal evolution of the indices and of the vegetation has been analysed. Results suggest that climate change may be responsible for the forest cover change, but, given also the good relationship between the various types of bioclimate and forest formations, human activities must be considered.

Purpose Adopting a Mediterranean-like dietary pattern may help in preventing several chronic diseases. We assessed the eating behaviour and compliance with the Mediterranean diet pyramid recommendations in Italy. Methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted in subjects aged ≥ 20 years. A 14-question survey based on the updated Mediterranean diet pyramid was launched online from April 2015 to November 2016. At test completion, a personalized pyramid displaying the possible deficiencies and/or excesses was generated, that could be the basis to plan diet and lifestyle modifications. Results Overall, 27,540 subjects completed the survey: the proportion of females (75.6%), younger subjects (20.7%) and people with a University degree (33.1%) resembled those of the Italian population of Internet users rather than of the general population. 37.8% of participants declared a sedentary lifestyle, including 29.6% of those aged 20-29 years. A lower-thanrecommended intake of all food categories included in the Mediterranean diet pyramid, along with excess of sweets, red and processed meats, emerged, that may affect health in the long term. Low adherence to recommendations was observed especially among females and older people. Notably, a discrepancy surfaced between the responders' perceived and actual behaviour toward the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables (81.8% vs 22.7-32.8%, respectively). Conclusions The nutritional habits and lifestyle of Italian participants are poorly adherent to the Mediterranean diet recommendations. The personalized pyramid tool may help in raising the awareness of individuals and their families on where to intervene, possibly with the support of healthcare professionals, to improve their behaviour. Level of evidence Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

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This study updates Pavari's phytoclimatic map in a region of southern Italy, Calabria (between 378 50 ′ and 408 10 ′ N and 158 30 ′ and 178 20 ′ E). A set of homogeneous monthly precipitation and temperature series registered in Calabria and relative to the period 1916-2010 were used. First, temperature data from 28 thermometric stations, over a 30-year period, were homogenized and processed. A multiple regression analysis was carried out between temperature data (annual average temperature, average of minimum temperature and average temperature of the coldest month of the year) as dependent variables and some geographical variables (altitude of the station, continentality and solar radiation) as independent variables. Then, temperature maps of the region were calculated and, finally, temperature and rainfall maps were intersected to define Pavari's phytoclimatic map. The results obtained in this study allow the identification and the delineation of three phytoclimatic belts.