We propose a mesh-free and discrete (particle-based) multi-physics approach for modelling the hydrodynamics in flexible biological valves. In the first part of this study, the method is successfully validated against both traditional modelling techniques and experimental data. In the second part, it is further developed to account for the formation of solid aggregates in the flow and at the membrane surface. Simulations of various types of aggregates highlight the main benefits of discrete multi-physics and indicate the potential of this approach for coupling the hydrodynamics with phenomena such as clotting and calcification in biological valves.

To improve the R&D strategies in chestnut cultivation and to further develop the chestnut industry, the University of Torino, Dept. of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, with the financial support of the Piemonte Region, established in 2005 the Chestnut Regional Centre, located in Chiusa Pesio (Cuneo Province, North Western Italy). The Piemonte Region supported the institution of the Centre with human resources and structures (nurseries, land to realize the arboretum). The main activity of the Centre is the research, on several fields, including chestnut germplasm, advanced propagation techniques, optimization of cultural prac-tices, pest and diseases management, extension service activities. In the Centre, a germplasm collection of chestnut genetic variability has been established on a 3 ha surface. Main local and national cultivars are included, with several European varieties from Portugal, Spain, France, Switzerland and other accessions from U.S.A., China, and Japan. The collection is in progress and will be completed in the next years. A newsletter published in English and Italian informs researchers, technicians and growers periodically. The Centre aims to become a national conservatory of the chestnut biodiversity and a reference center for research activities on Castanea species

Siamo al centro di un processo che ancora ci vede timidi, un po’ impacciati. L’abbiamo inaugurato dieci anni fa, forse più, dicendo che i nostri borghi alpini non potevano continuare a essere dimenticati. Presidente Uncem era Lido Riba, Assesso re regionale alla Montagna Bruna Sibille. C’erano ancora 48 Comunità montane in Piemonte. Per gli appassionati di numeri, bisogna aggiungere tre zeri per identificare un potenziale numero di immobili sui quali intervenire. C’era allora il primo embrione dell’Istituto di Architettura Montana. Vivo e decisivo. Ci siamo scelti subito. Così nel 2008 la Regione Piemonte prima in Italia ha scelto di investire oltre 30 milioni di euro per rigenerare i borghi montani, i villaggi alpini e appenninici. Una grande novità copiata da tutte le Regioni italiane. Non riprendiamo qui tutta la storia. È stata scritta innumerevoli volte e registrata in diversi volumi e sul sito borghialpini.it.

Haute école du paysage, d'ingénierie et d'architecture de Genève,