Light scattering and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy results showed that specially designed amphiphilic cyclodextrins are able to bind a specific protein, PA-I lectin. When containing a galactosyl group, the self-assembled cyclodextrins interact with the protein affecting the dynamical properties of the system and the fluorescence lifetimes (as well as the fluorescence anisotropy) of the protein itself. The self-assembled cyclodextrins containing a glucosyl group, on the other hand, do not induce any change in these measured quantities, suggesting no interaction with protein. This binding capability of galactosyl-modified cyclodextrins offers perspectives on exploiting self-assembled supramolecular structures as nano-carriers to deliver drugs to target tissues.

The development of cyclodextrin nanoassemblies as useful carriers for photosensitizer drugs (PS) delivery in biological environment is a topic of increasing interest. In this paper, we present a spectroscopic investigation on a nanosystem based on an amphiphilic cationic β-cyclodextrin derivative (CD-N) and an anionic porphyrin (TPPS). Nanoassemblies were prepared by hydration of an organic film containing the two species. The system was characterized by complementary techniques such as UV-vis, stationary and time-resolved fluorescence, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) at different TPPS/CD-N molar ratios. Time-resolved fluorescence data showed that, at all the investigated molar ratios, TPPS is present both as self-aggregated species and monomers forming supramolecular adducts with CD-N. Moreover, DLS measurements evidenced families of aggregates having hydrodynamic radii ranging between 50 and 350 nm and the size distribution profile depending on the TPPS/CD-N molar ratio. At the highest CD-N concentration, the hydrodynamic radii of the aggregates were nearly the same as those of neat CD-N in the absence of TPPS (50 nm). No aging phenomena were registered, pointing out the high stability of these nanoassemblies in aqueous solution for at least a month. Preliminary studies on the internalization in tumoral cells and subsequent irradiation for PDT application were carried out. The results support the feasibility of these nanoaggregates to promote PS internalization in HeLa cells, inducing cell death upon visible light irradiation.

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This investigation concerns the characterization of plasters samples taken from archaeological vats from production installations for fish by-products from the archaeological site of Portopalo in Sicily (Italy). The main purpose of this work is to characterize the plasters in order to understand if specific plasters production technologies were used in relation to the function of the vats and if there is a change in time/space among the vats studied that apparently belonged to different phases of occupation of the site. The compositional characterization of the distinct types of materials used, necessary for the plasters production, required a multi-analytical approach [1-2-3-4], which included techniques such as optical microscopy with transmitted polarized light (OM); Xray diffractometry (XRD); scanning electron microscopy coupled with microanalysis (SEM-EDS); ion chromatography (CI). The first preliminary elaboration allows to suggest the presence of two distinct hydraulicizing materials used and a different content of salts in the different vats that could be related to a difference in the processing of fish or the duration of use.

The use of geophysical methods, have produced high-definition 3D models of one funerary monument in order to help the restoration work. Physical parameters such as seismic wave velocity propagation and electrical resistivity were optimal tools to store and manage scientific information about the degree of conservation of the studied monument. Conserve and preserve, also through the study and application of avant-garde technologies and methods in the field of restoration, means working not only for present generations, but also, and primarily, for future generations. New technologies and a multidisciplinary approach constitute a capital in which to invest in order to create a more responsible and aware society, capable of understanding how much of its future comes from growing up with respect for one's historical roots and own distinctive past.