Tailored Interaction between Cellulose Nanowhiskers and Core-Shell Particles Determines the Optical and Mechanical Properties in Hybrid Films.

Hybrid materials of core-shell particles and cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWs) were synthesized to produce opal films with increasing tensile strength. After the incorporation of CNWs into the processed particle films, differences in the mechanical and optical properties were noticeable, which stemmed from the adhesion forces between the cellulose and the particles' shell material. Two different particle compositions were compared, using polystyrene as cores, and either poly(ethyl acrylate) (PEA) or a copolymer of ethyl acrylate and 3 wt % of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) as the shell material.

Polycobaltoceniumylmethylene - A Water-Soluble Polyelectrolyte Prepared by Ring-Opening Transmetalation Polymerization.

The synthesis of a water-soluble polycobaltoceniumylmethylene chloride (PCM-Cl) via ring-opening transmetalation polymerization is presented. Starting from a carba[1]magnesocenophane and cobalt(II) chloride, this route gives access to a polymer with methylene-bridged cobaltocenium moieties within the polymers' main-chain. The polymer was characterized by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, TGA, DSC, XRD, and CV measurements, as well as UV-vis spectroscopy.

Pickleworm (Diaphania nitidalis Cramer) Neonate Feeding Preferences and the Implications for a Push-Pull Management System.

Push-pull cropping approaches for pest management target the oviposition behavior of adult females. However, insect larvae may move from the natal host and undermine the effectiveness of this approach. We investigated the longevity and feeding preference of pickleworm neonates (Diaphania nitidalis Cramer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)) in relation to a potential push-pull cropping approach incorporating squash as a trap crop (pull) and watermelon as a deterrent intercrop (push) to protect a main crop of cantaloupe.

Oviposition Preferences of Pickleworm (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Relation to a Potential Push-Pull Cropping Management Approach.

Pickleworm, Diaphania nitidalis Cramer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is a major pest of cucurbits. The current management approach for this pest is weekly insecticide applications. A push-pull cropping approach may be an alternative management practice and could reduce reliance on pesticides.

Occurrence of Late Blight Caused by Phytophthora infestans on Potato and Tomato in Alaska.

Phytophthora infestans, causal agent of late blight, was included in a list of plant pathogens found in Alaska in 1934 (1). No notes of symptoms, extent of disease, or dates were recorded. The only reference to the location was given as Wrangell, a town in southeast Alaska with subsistence gardening.