REMARKS ON THE SURFACE CHARACTERIZATION OF CARBON-FIBERS

The characterization of carbon fibres by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depends on several experimental and theoretical aspects that noticeably improve the accuracy of the analysis when properly taken into account. These aspects are briefly discussed in the light of the most representative literature available. Attention is focused on points that need a deeper understanding and suggestions are given about possible analysis strategies

Structural basis of actin filament capping at the barbed-end: a cryo-electron microscopy study

The intracellular distribution and migration of many protein complexes and organelles is regulated by the dynamics of the actin filament. Many actin filament end-binding proteins play crucial roles in actin dynamics, since polymerization and depolymerization of actin protomers occur only at the filament ends. We present here an EM structure of the complex of the actin filament and hetero-dimeric capping protein (CP) bound to the barbed-end at 23 Å resolution, by applying a newly developed methods of image analysis to cryo-electron micrographs. This structure was fitted by the crystal structure of CP and the proposed actin filament structure, allowing us to construct a model that depicts two major binding regions between CP and the barbed-end. This binding scheme accounted for the results of newly performed and previously published mutation experiments, and led us to propose a two-step binding model. This is the first determination of an actin filament end structure

An assessment methodology to combine the preservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage: the San Vincenzo al Volturno historical site (Molise, Italy)

The interaction between natural, archaeological and agricultural elements is evident in many historical sites, such as the Medieval Benedictine Monastery of San Vincenzo al Volturno, located in an area of great agricultural and environmental value. Biodiversity issues are rarely considered in archaeological conservation and vice versa. This paper describes an assessment methodology for the evaluation of the natural and historical value of a site, necessary for a proper evaluation and as a preparatory step to aid decision-making and planning. In the analysed area, our findings showed an interesting floristic and vegetational heterogeneity, which were extremely valuable from a conservation point of view. Few alien species were found. Comparison with protected or endangered species and habitat lists led to the identification of a series of areas in need of more active protection, including arid grasslands presenting high biodiversity and attributable to the 6210* European Habitat. A cultural landscape evaluation was based on archaeobotanical and historical data, and it shows an interesting mosaic system. An assessment of the interaction between natural vegetation and monuments showed minimal impact from wall vegetation but a high potential risk due to wood colonisation in an area with unexcavated buildings. The usefulness of such an approach in the management of an archaeological site is that it offers an opportunity for optimisation: a proper evaluation can reduce the risk of damage and the presence of the archaeological park allows for protection and highlights natural valuable elements