bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging multiple intermediates of single‐virus membrane fusion mediated by distinct fusion proteins
Authors: Joo Kye‐Il , Tai April , Lee Chi‐Lin , Wong Clement , Wang Pin
Published: March 2010

Membrane fusion plays an essential role in the entry of enveloped viruses into target cells. The merging of viral and target cell membranes is catalyzed by viral fusion proteins, which involves multiple sequential steps in the fusion process. However, the fusion mechanisms mediated by different fusion proteins involve multiple transient intermediates that have not been well characterized. Here, we report a synthetic virus platform that allows us to better understand the different fusion mechanisms driven by the diverse types fusion proteins. The platform consists of lentiviral particles coenveloped with a surface antibody, which serves as the binding protein, along with a fusion protein derived from either influenza virus (HAmu) or Sindbis virus (SINmu). By using a single virus tracking technique, we demonstrated that both HAmu‐ and SINmu‐bearing viruses enter cells through clathrin‐dependent endocytosis, but they required different endosomal trafficking routes to initiate viral fusion. Direct observation of single viral fusion events clearly showed that hemifusion mediated by SINmu upon exposure to low pH occurs faster than that mediated by HAmu. Monitoring sequential fusion processes by dual labeling the outer and inner leaflets of viral membranes also revealed that the SINmu‐mediated hemifusion intermediate is relatively long‐lived as compared with that mediated by HAmu. Taken together, we have demonstrated that the combination of this versatile viral platform with the techniques of single virus tracking can be a powerful tool for revealing molecular details of fusion mediated by various fusion proteins. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:886–900, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiscale observation of biological interactions of nanocarriers: From nano to macro
Authors: Jin Su‐Eon , Bae Jin Woo , Hong Seungpyo
Published: March 2010

Microscopic observations have played a key role in recent advancements in nanotechnology‐based biomedical sciences. In particular, multiscale observation is necessary to fully understand the nano‐bio interfaces where a large amount of unprecedented phenomena have been reported. This review describes how to address the physicochemical and biological interactions of nanocarriers within the biological environments using microscopic tools. The imaging techniques are categorized based on the size scale of detection. For observation of the nanoscale biological interactions of nanocarriers, we discuss atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For the micro to macro‐scale (in vitro and in vivo) observation, we focus on confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) as well as in vivo imaging systems such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), superconducting quantum interference devices, and IVIS®. Additionally, recently developed combined techniques such as AFM‐CLSM, correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM), and SEM spectroscopy are also discussed. In this review, we describe how each technique helps elucidate certain physicochemical and biological activities of nanocarriers such as dendrimers, polymers, liposomes, and polymeric/inorganic nanoparticles, thus providing a toolbox for bioengineers, pharmaceutical scientists, biologists, and research clinicians. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:813–823, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Formation and microscopic investigation of iron oxide aligned nanowires into polymeric nanocomposite films
Authors: Fragouli Despina , Torre Bruno , Bertoni Giovanni , Buonsanti Raffaella , Cingolani Roberto , Athanassiou Athanassia
Published: March 2010

We present a microscopic investigation of nanocomposite films of iron oxide (γ‐Fe2O3) magnetic nanowires (NWs) aligned into polymers, formed upon evaporation of solutions of acrylate polymer/magnetic nanoparticles under magnetic field (MF). The field causes the assembly of the γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles along the direction of the MF lines, resulting in magnetic NWs embedded throughout the entire volume of the polymer film. The scanning electron microscopy and the transmission electron microscopy studies show that the cylindrical‐shaped NWs have ∼15‐μm average length and are isotropically distributed throughout the film. The study with the MF microscopy technique not only proves that the composed NWs are magnetic but also makes possible the magnetic study of each individual NW in a nondestructive way. In this way it becomes possible for the localized study of the magnetic properties alteration after the binding of various molecules onto individual NWs, opening up the way of using these films in sensor devices applied in various fields ranging from biology to environmental purposes. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:952–958, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FT‐IR, Raman, RRS measurements and DFT calculation for doxorubicin
Authors: Das Gobind , Nicastri Annalisa , Coluccio Maria Laura , Gentile Francesco , Candeloro Patrizio , Cojoc Gheorghe , Liberale Carlo , De Angelis Francesco , Di Fabrizio Enzo
Published: March 2010

Doxorubicin (DOXO) is a powerful anthracycline antibiotic used to treat many human neoplasms, including acute leukemias, lymphomas, stomach, breast and ovarian cancer, and bone tumors, yet causing cardiotoxicity at the same time. For this reason, there is a great interest in medical field to gain deep insight and knowledge of this molecule. Raman, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT‐IR) absorption spectroscopy, and Resonance Raman scattering were performed for the vibrational characterization of DOXO molecule. Density function theorem (DFT) modeling of Raman and FT‐IR spectra were used for the assignment of the vibrational frequencies. The optimized molecular structured was obtained, first, on the basis of potential energy distribution. The simulation for vibrational bands is based on the calculations for internal force constants and potential energy distribution matrices. The calculated DOXO vibrational bands show qualitative agreement with the experimental observations (FT‐IR absorption and Raman scattering). Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:991–995, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunochemical or fluorescent labeling of vesicular subcellular fractions for microscopy imaging
Authors: Panfoli Isabella , Calzia Daniela , Ravera Silvia , Bianchini Paolo , Diaspro Alberto
Published: March 2010

We describe a procedure for the labeling of membranous vesicular purified subcellular fractions, to image them, typically by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Being intracellular organelles, these fractions, once purified cannot be attached to glass slides as for cells. Fractions are labeled “in batch” without prior embedding or freezing. Each labeling step performed by passages of resuspension/centrifugation is followed by washings. Then samples are dispersed on the glass slides. Mammalian retinal rod outer segment disks, intact brain stem myelin vesicles, and brain synaptosomes were chosen, as these subcellular fractions can be purified by well established procedures. These fractions were immunolabeled with specific antibodies. Moreover, by the earlier procedure, we show that the mitochondrial vital membrane potential probe MitoTracker Deep Red 633 stains myelin vesicles and rod disks before fixation, consistently with our previous reports of a respiring capacity of these membranes. Therefore, the technique seems adequate to become an instrument to study the structure and the function of these and other subcellular fractions. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:1086–1090, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Time sequence of blood activation by nanoporous alumina: Studies on platelets and complement system
Authors: Ferraz Natalia , Ott Marjam Karlsson , Hong Jaan
Published: March 2010

In the present work, the time sequence of blood activation by alumina membranes with different porosities (20 and 200 nm in diameter) was studied. The membranes were incubated with whole blood from 2 min to 4 h. Platelet adhesion and activation in addition to complement activation was monitored at different time points. Evaluation of platelet adhesion and activation was done by determining the change in platelet number and the levels of thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1) in the fluid phase. Scanning electron microscopy studies were done to further evaluate platelet adhesion and morphology. Immunocytochemical staining was used to evaluate the presence of CD41 and CD62P antigens on the material surface. Complement activation was monitored by measuring C3a and sC5b‐9 in plasma samples by means of enzyme immunoassays. Both alumina membranes displayed similar complement activation time profiles, with levels of C3a and sC5b‐9 increasing with incubation time. A statistically significant difference between the membranes was found after 60 min of incubation. Platelet activation characteristics and time profile were different between the two membranes. Platelet adhesion increased over time for the 20 nm surface, while the clusters of microparticles on the 200 nm surface did not appreciably change during the course of the experiment. The release of TSP‐1 increased with time for both membranes; however, much later for the 200 nm alumina (240 min) as compared to the 20 nm membrane (60 min). The surface topography of the alumina most probably influence protein transition rate, which in turn affects material platelet activation kinetics. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:1101–1109, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Outcomes after middle turbinate resection: Revisiting a controversial topic
Authors: Soler Zachary M. , Hwang Peter H. , Mace Jess , Smith Timothy L.
Published: March 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate differences in endoscopy exam, olfactory function, and quality‐of‐life (QOL) status after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for patients with and without bilateral middle turbinate (BMT) resection.

Study Design:

Open, prospective, multi‐institutional cohort.

Methods:

Subjects completing enrollment interviews, computed tomography (CT), and endoscopy exam were asked to provide pre‐ and postoperative responses to the Smell Identification Test (SIT), Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (RSDI), Chronic Sinusitis Survey (CSS), and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form‐36 Health Survey (SF‐36). Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed at the .05 alpha level.

Results:

Forty‐seven subjects with BMT resection were compared to 195 subjects without BMT resection with a mean follow‐up of 17.4 months postoperatively. Patients with BMT resection were more likely to have asthma (P= .001), aspirin intolerance (P= .022), nasal polyposis (P= .025), and prior sinus surgery (P= .002). Patients with BMT resection had significantly higher baseline disease burden measured by endoscopy, CT, and SIT scores (P< .001). No significant differences in improvement were found in RSDI, CSS, or SF‐36 scores between patients with BMT resection and those with BMT preservation (P> .05). Patients undergoing BMT resection were more likely to show improvements in mean endoscopy (−4.5 ± 5.2 vs. −1.9 ± 4.3;P= .005) and olfaction (5.3 ± 10.8 vs. 1.3 ± 7.6,P= .045) compared to those with BMT preservation.

Conclusions:

This investigation found no difference in QOL outcomes in patients with BMT preservation vs. resection. Patients undergoing BMT resection did, however, show greater improvements in endoscopy and SIT scores, which persisted after controlling for confounding factors. Laryngoscope, 2010
Repair of esophageal perforation due to anterior cervical spine instrumentation
Authors: Kau Ryan L. , Kim Namou , Hinni Michael L. , Patel Naresh P.
Published: March 2010

The complication of esophageal perforation after anterior cervical spine fusion for cervical spine disease is rare but potentially fatal. We describe two cases of esophageal perforation found by esophagoscopic visualization. In one patient, primary closure could not be achieved, and a submental island flap was used to repair the defect. In the second patient, primary closure was achieved and a pectoralis major flap was interposed between the closure and the residual instrumentation. Postoperatively, both patients had no evidence of persistent perforation and had resolution of preoperative symptoms. Laryngoscope, 2010
Agrobiodiversity loss and livelihood vulnerability as a consequence of converting from subsistence farming systems to commercial plantation‐dominated systems in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China: A household level analysis
Authors: Fu Y. , Chen J. , Guo H. , Hu H. , Chen A. , Cui J.
Published: March 2010

Production of rice (Oryza sativa) under a shifting cultivation system (swidden rice) and paddy fields (wet rice) is an important livelihood strategy in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China where households are facing conversion from subsistence systems to commercial plantation‐dominated systems represented by smallholder rubber plantations. However, there are few studies of the effects on rice production and varieties diversity, as well as livelihood effects at a household level during this conversion. This paper presents a household level analysis of agrobiodiversity loss and food security, as well as livelihood vulnerability during agroecosystems' conversion in Xishuangbanna. First, a quantitative assessment was made of the statistical data for rice and rubber production during the past 50 years in Xishuangbanna and at a village level from 1985 to 2005 for three villages from the valley floor and upland hills, respectively. Second, at a household level, 60 per cent of households from the three villages were investigated with a questionnaire from 1998 to 2005. The process of transformation has led to significant changes in the household's income and its proportion. Meanwhile, households have suffered livelihood vulnerability from excessive rubber plantations. The centrality of rice in Southeast Asian agricultural and social systems, contrasted with the significant erosion of rice‐based agroecosystem of local households, calls for increased attention to the livelihood vulnerability during this conversion. Correspondingly, practical strategies to resolve livelihood vulnerability are proposed, such as construction of paddy and effective irrigation systems for food security, agroforestry systems in rubber plantation, instead of monoculture, and diversification of sources of household income. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leading with love in a fear‐based world
Authors: Bryant John Hope
Published: March 2010

The question John Hope Bryant asks is if there can really be a place for something “as warm and fuzzy as love in the hard‐nosed, eat‐nails‐for breakfast, fear‐based world of business.” He argues that love not only has a place in business but also is absolutely central to sustainable success. Love leadership is a way of thinking and acting that acknowledges your selfish longings for success, yet also taps the hidden strength inherent in your personal insecurities and limitations. This article explains the five basic laws of leadership based on love.
In vitro and In vivo Evaluation of Docetaxel Loaded Biodegradable Polymersomes
Authors: Upadhyay Kamal K. , Bhatt Anant N. , Castro Emilio , Mishra Anil K. , Chuttani Krishna , Dwarakanath Bilikere S. , Schatz Christophe , Le Meins Jean‐François , Misra Ambikanandan , Lecommandoux Sébastien
Published: March 2010

Formulation of docetaxel (DOC), a hydrophobic anticancer drug, was successfully achieved in poly(γ‐benzyl L‐glutamate)‐block‐hyaluronan polymersomes using a simple and reproducible nanoprecipitation method. The prepared DOC loaded polymersomes (PolyDOC) was stable either in solution or in a lyophilized form, and showed controlled release behaviour over several days. PolyDOC showed high in vitro toxicity after 24 h in MCF‐7 and U87 cells compared to free DOC. Biodistribution data demonstrated that 99mTc labelled PolyDOC t1/2 and MRT significantly increased compared to a DOC solution (DS). In addition, PolyDOC uptake in Ehrlich Ascites Tumor (EAT) tumor bearing mice was larger at each time point compared to DS, making such a polymer vesicle formulation an efficient drug nanocarrier for improved DOC cancer therapy.

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Managerial optimism and investment choice
Authors: Englmaier Florian
Published: March 2010

This paper analyzes whether it might be desirable for a firm to hire an overoptimistic manager to commit to a certain R&D strategy. I consider a Cournot model with an ex‐ante R&D stage where firms can invest in cost reduction before product market competition takes place. I show that firms want to hire overoptimistic managers and argue that a manager's type may serve as a substitute for strategic delegation via contracts. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A multi‐start threshold accepting algorithm for multiple objective continuous optimization problems
Authors: Dhouib Souhail , Kharrat Aïda , Chabchoub Habib
Published: March 2010

A multi‐start threshold accepting algorithm with an adaptive memory (MS‐TA) is proposed to solve multiple objective continuous optimization problems. The aim of this paper is to find efficiently multiple Pareto‐optimal solutions. Comparisons are carried out with multiple objective taboo search algorithm and genetic algorithm. Experiments on literature problems show that the proposed algorithm is more effective. The presented multi‐start adaptive algorithm improves the best‐known results by a significant margin. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Health and risk behaviors in survivors of childhood acute myeloid leukemia: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Schultz Kris Ann P. , Chen Lu , Chen Zhengjia , Zeltzer Lonnie K. , Nicholson H. Stacy , Neglia Joseph P.
Published: March 2010

Background

Survivors of childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) face increased risks of chronic disease and secondary malignancies. Substance exposure may compound these risks.

Procedures

Participants were diagnosed with AML at <21 years of age and survived ≥5 years following diagnosis. All underwent chemotherapy alone or followed by autologous BMT (chemo ± autoBMT) or underwent allogeneic BMT (alloBMT) if an HLA‐matched related donor was available. Survivors completed a health questionnaire and a Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS).

Results

Of eligible survivors, 117 were ≥18 years of age and completed a YRBS. Survivors were a mean age of 10 years at diagnosis and 24 years at interview. Of the substance exposures assessed by YRBS, tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana were most common. Twenty‐two percent (22%) had smoked cigarettes in the last 30 days. One‐quarter (25%) reported binge drinking in the last month. None of these exposures varied by treatment group. Less than 10% of survivors reported cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine use. Men were more likely to report high substance exposure (P = 0.004). Sadness/suicidality score was associated with cancer‐related anxiety (P = 0.006) and multiple health conditions (P = 0.006).

Conclusions

This analysis reveals exposure to tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana in young adults with few differences based on treatment received. Survivors with cancer‐related anxiety or multiple health conditions were more likely to report sadness/hopelessness. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:157–164. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Susceptibility to invasive bacterial infections in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Battersby Anna J. , Knox‐Macaulay Huxley H.M. , Carrol Enitan D.
Published: March 2010

Individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) demonstrate an increased susceptibility to invasive bacterial infections (IBI). The most common organisms causing IBI are Streptococcus pneumoniae, nontyphi Salmonella species and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). IBI are the most common causes of death in children below 5 years of age with SCD. Increased susceptibility to IBI is because of several factors including dysfunctional antibody production and opsonophagocytosis as well as defective splenic clearance. Early diagnosis of Hib and pneumococcal infections combined with antibiotic prophylaxis and immunization programs, could lead to significant improvements in mortality, especially in Africa. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:401–406. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Low mRNA expression of the apoptosis‐related genes CASP3, CASP8, and FAS is associated with low induction treatment response in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Authors: Mata Juliana F. , Silveira Vanessa S. , Mateo Elvis C. , Cortez Maria A.A. , Queiroz Rosane G.P. , Yunes José Andrés , Lee Maria Lúcia M. , Toledo Sílvia R.C. , Petrilli Antonio Sérgio , Brandalise Silvia R. , Tone Luiz G. , Scrideli Carlos A.
Published: March 2010

Background

Defects in apoptosis signaling have been considered to be responsible for treatment failure in many types of cancer, although with controversial results. The objective of the present study was to assess the expression profile of key apoptosis‐related genes in terms of clinical and biological variables and of the survival of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Procedure

The levels of mRNA expression of the apoptosis‐related genes CASP3, CASP8, CASP9, FAS, and BCL2 were analyzed by quantitative real‐time PCR in consecutive samples from 139 consecutive children with ALL at diagnosis treated by the Brazilian protocol (GBTLI‐ALL 99). Gene expression levels and clinical and biological features were compared by the Mann–Whitney test. Event‐free survival (EFS) was calculated by Kaplan–Meier plots and log‐rank test.

Results

A significant correlation was detected between CASP3, CASP8, CASP9, and FAS expression levels (P < 0.01) in ALL samples. Higher levels of BCL2 were significantly associated with white blood cell (WBC) count <50,000/mm3 at diagnosis (P = 0.01) and low risk group classification (P = 0.008). Lower expression levels of CASP3, CASP8 and FAS gene were associated with a poor response at day 7 according the GBTLI‐ALL 99 protocol (P = 0.03, P = 0.02 and P = 0.008, respectively). There was a relationship between FAS gene expression lower than the 75th percentile and lower 5‐year EFS (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

These findings suggest an association between lower expression levels of the pro‐apoptotic genes and a poor response to induction therapy at day 7 and prognosis in childhood ALL. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:100–107. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Using an additive to control the electrospinning of fibres of poly(ε‐caprolactone)
Authors: Kariduraganavar Mahadevappa Y , Davis Frederick J , Mitchell Geoffrey R , Olley Robert H
Published: March 2010

Electrospinning is a route to polymer fibres with diameters considerably smaller than available from most fibre‐producing techniques. We explore the use of a low molecular weight compound as an effective control additive during the electrospinning of poly(ε‐caprolactone). This approach extends the control variables for the electrospinning of nanoscale fibres from the more usual ones such as the polymer molecular weight, solvent and concentration. We show that through the use of dual solvent systems, we can alter the impact of the additive on the electrospinning process so that finer as well as thicker fibres can be prepared under otherwise identical conditions. As well as the size of the fibres and the number of beads, the use of the additive allows us to alter the level of crystallinity as well as the level of preferred orientation of the poly(ε‐caprolactone) crystals. This approach, involving the use of a dual solvent and a low molar mass compound, offers considerable potential for application to other polymer systems. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Gradient and patterned polymer brushes by photoinitiated “grafting through” approach
Authors: Enright Timothy P. , Hagaman Daniel , Kokoruz Maryana , Coleman Natalia , Sidorenko Alexander
Published: March 2010

More than 2 decades of active investigations in the field of polymer brushes have revealed continuous and growing interest in different aspects of synthesis, properties, and applications of tethered polymers. In this article, we report on our recent advances in brush synthesis. The method we explore is based on the combination of “grafting through” approach with the functional anchoring polymer layer technique. We introduce the photoinitiated “version” of synthesis of polyacrylamide brushes. Both homogeneous depositions and laterally resolved gradient and patterned samples have been prepared by this technique. The results for flat polymer brushes, that is, thickness, stability, and contact angles, are complimented by kinetic parameters as deducted from analysis of gradient samples obtained by the method of a sliding mask. A microscopic shadow mask is used to fabricate patterned brushes. The microscopically patterned brushes demonstrate high lateral resolution limited by optical phenomena. Finally, we have performed a viability assaying of neuronal cell on both flat and patterned brushes. Sufficient restraint of cell adhesion on polyacrylamide photobrushes and very low cytotoxicity of the brush components (polymer brush itself, anchoring layer) make photografting a promising platform to control cell deposition and surface localization. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 1616–1622, 2010
Fabrication of polymeric nano‐objects using PS5P2VP5 heteroarm star copolymers as building elements
Authors: Tasis Dimitrios , Tsitsilianis Constantinos
Published: March 2010

This work is focused on the self‐organization of an heteroarm star copolymer consisting of 5 polystyrene and 5 poly(2‐vinylpyridine) (P2VP) arms emanated from a poly(divinyl benzene) core and the chemical stabilization of the resulting supramolecular nano‐objects in the bulk and in solution. To tune various morphologies from the same star copolymer, selective and nonselective solvent media were used. Thepyridine moieties, forming distinct P2VP nanodomains in the copolymer nanostructures, were selectively crosslinked using 1,4‐dibromobutane under mild conditions to yield stabilized polymeric “hairy” nano‐objects, dispersible in hot tetrahydrofuran. The morphology of the resulting nanostructures was studied using scanning electron microscopy and was found to be strongly dependent on various factors, such as the self‐assembly/casting conditions, the total time of the crosslinking reaction, and the dispersion procedure. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 1636–1641, 2010
Water cavitation of hydrogels
Authors: Zimberlin Jessica A. , Crosby Alfred J.
Published: March 2010

Using the cavitation rheology (CR) technique developed in our labs, we show that fluids with negligible interfacial tensions with a surrounding material can be used to induce an elastic, cavitation instability in that material. We do this by changing the cavitation media from air, which was demonstrated to induce cavitation at the tip of a syringe needle in previous studies, to water, which has a negligible surface tension with the surrounding poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel material. In this case, the critical pressure in which this instability occurs can be directly related to the elastic modulus of the surrounding network and is shown to be nearly independent of length scale. This independence of size scale has important implications in the use of CR for the characterization of mechanical properties from molecular to macroscopic length scales. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 1423–1427, 2010
Structure of salted and discharged globules of hydrophobic polyelectrolytes adsorbed from aqueous solutions
Authors: Trotsenko Oleksandr , Roiter Yuri , Minko Sergiy
Published: March 2010

In this article, we compare structures of protonated poly(2‐vinylpyridine) globules (2D compact coils on the surface) adsorbed on the mica surface from aqueous solution when the shrinking is brought about either by discharging the molecules at an elevated pH or by adding monovalent and polyvalent salts. We study the structure of the PE coils using in situ atomic force microscopy experiments in aqueous solutions in a liquid cell. The abrupt coil‐to‐globule transition caused by pH changes and the discharge of polymer chains resulted in compact globules. If the pH corresponding to extended coil conformation remains unchanged, the coil shrinks due to the added salt. The size of the globule in the latter case corresponds to the unperturbed dimension of the polymer coil. There is no essential difference in the dimensions of the globules as obtained in the presence of monovalent and multivalent counterions for the studied ionic strength. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 1623–1627, 2010
Diet and prostate cancer risk with specific focus on dairy products and dietary calcium: A case–control study
Authors: Raimondi Sara , Mabrouk Jihène Ben , Shatenstein Bryna , Maisonneuve Patrick , Ghadirian Parviz
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND

Despite the prevalence of prostate cancer worldwide, only a few risk factors have been well‐established. The role of diet, especially of dairy products, in the etiology of prostate cancer is still controversial.

METHODS

This study assessed the association of dietary components, particularly dairy products and dietary calcium, on prostate cancer risk in a case–control study of 197 cases and an equal number of individually matched controls recruited in Montreal, Canada. A semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire was administered in which the usual consumption frequency and amounts consumed of more than 200 food items were recorded.

RESULTS

We found a twofold increased risk of prostate cancer associated with an increased intake of dairy products {Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.19; 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) 1.22–3.94}. A significant trend of decreasing prostate cancer risk with higher intake was found for legumes, nuts, finfish/shellfish and for α‐tocopherol after adjustment for calcium intake. Milk was the only dairy product significantly associated with prostate cancer risk, with OR = 2.27; 95% CI (1.25–4.09) for the highest versus lowest quartiles of consumption. Calcium, the main micronutrient contained in dairy products, showed only a borderline association with prostate cancer risk (P = 0.09), with slightly higher risk for higher calcium intake. In conclusion, this study supports the hypothesis that dairy products, especially milk, are involved in the etiology of prostate cancer. However, the mechanisms by which the various nutrients in dairy products and total diet may interact to influence this risk remain unknown. Prostate 70: 1054–1065, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surface water seal application to minimize volatilization loss of methyl isothiocyanate from soil columns
Authors: Simpson Catherine R , Nelson Shad D , Stratmann Jerry E , Ajwa Husein A
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: Metam‐sodium (MS, sodium methyldithiocarbamate) has been identified as a promising alternative chemical to replace methyl bromide (MeBr) in soil preplant fumigation. One degradation product of MS in soil is the volatile gas methyl isothiocyanate (MITC) which controls soilborne pests. Inconsistent results associated with MS usage indicate that there is a need to determine cultural practices that increase pest control efficacy. Sealing the soil surface with water after MS application may be a sound method to reduce volatilization loss of MITC from soils and increase the contact time necessary for MITC to control pests. The objective of this research was to develop a preliminary soil surface water application amount that would potentially inhibit the off‐gassing rate of MITC.

RESULTS: Off‐gassing rate was consistently reduced with increasing water seal application. The application of a 2.5–3.8 cm water seal provided significantly lower (71–74% reduction in MITC volatilization) total fumigant loss compared with no water seal. The most favorable reduction in MITC off‐gassing was observed in the 2.5 cm water seal.

CONCLUSION: This suggests that volatilization of MITC‐generating compounds can be highly suppressed using adequate surface irrigation following chemical application in this soil type (sandy clay loam), based on preliminary bench‐scale soil column studies. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of cultural conditions on fungal biomass, blastospore yields and toxicity of fungal secreted proteins in batch cultures of Metarhizium anisopliae (Ascomycota: Hypocreales)
Authors: Ortiz‐Urquiza Almudena , Garrido‐Jurado Inmaculada , Borrego Ana , Quesada‐Moraga Enrique
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: Recently, two fungal proteins with apparent molecular masses of 11 and 15 kDa and insecticidal activity against Ceratitis capitata (Wied.) have been purified from the crude soluble protein extract (CSPE) secreted by the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) Sorokin (strain EAMa 01/58‐Su) in Adamek's liquid medium. The feasibility of culturing this strain in fermentation facilities in order to harvest and formulate the insecticidal proteins for C. capitata control is mainly dependent on the ability to produce high concentrations of the active proteins at a reasonable cost.

RESULTS: These studies report that, in batch cultures of EAMa 01/58‐Su strain, the carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) ratios and sources are important considerations with respect to fungal biomass production, blastospore yield and secretion of insecticidal proteins against C. capitata adults. The data indicate that the type and concentration of N source in the medium influence the production of insecticidal protein and thus the toxicity of the CSPEs. The electrophoretic analysis suggests that the monomer of 11 kDa plays an important role in the insecticidal effect described. Concerning biomass production, no clear differences were found between media with different C and N sources and C:N ratios in total biomass production at day 7. Conversely, important differences were found among the media in terms of blastospore yields.

CONCLUSIONS: By optimising the culture media, the insecticidal effect of the CSPE against C. capitata can be improved. In the CSPE from G40:P20 (40 g L−1 glucose and 20 g L−1 peptone in dH2O), the LC50 and the LT50 were 7 and 4.5 times lower than in the CSPE obtained from Adamek. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessing the risk of pesticide environmental impact in several Argentinian cropping systems with a fuzzy expert indicator
Authors: Arregui María C , Sánchez Daniel , Althaus Rafael , Scotta Roberto R , Bertolaccini Isabel
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND:

The introduction of transgenic soybean (Glycine max, L.) varieties resistant to glyphosate (GR soybeans) has rapidly expanded in Argentina, increasing pesticide use where only grasslands were previously cultivated. The authors compared an estimate of environmental risk for different crops and active ingredients using the IPEST index, which is based on a fuzzy‐logic expert system. For IPEST calculations, four modules are defined, one reflecting the rate of application, the other three reflecting the risk for groundwater, surface water and air. The input variables are pesticide properties, site‐specific conditions and characteristics of the pesticide application. The expert system calculates the value of modules according to the degree of membership of the input variables to the fuzzy subsets F (favourable) and U (unfavourable), and they can be aggregated following sets of decision rules. IPEST integrated values of ≥ 7 reflect low environmental risk, and values of < 7 reflect high risk.

RESULTS:

Alfalfa, soybean and wheat showed IPEST values over 7 (low risk), while maize had the lowest IPEST values (high risk). Comparing active ingredients applied in annual and perennial crops, atrazine and acetochlor gave the highest risks of environmental contamination, and they are mainly used in maize. Groundwater was the most affected compartment.

CONCLUSIONS:

Fuzzy logic provided an easy tool combining different environmental components with pesticide properties to give a simple and accessible risk assessment. These findings provide information about active ingredients that should be replaced in order to protect water and air from pesticide contamination. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Mating disruption of California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii Maskell (Homoptera: Diaspididae), using biodegradable mesoporous pheromone dispensers
Authors: Vacas Sandra , Alfaro Cristina , Navarro‐Llopis Vicente , Primo Jaime
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: The control of California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell), has encountered many difficulties, which has raised interest in alternative control methods. Up to now, the A. aurantii sex pheromone has been used only for monitoring. In a previous work the authors described a biodegradable mesoporous pheromone dispenser for mating disruption. To verify the efficacy of these dispensers, three field trials were conducted, and the results are shown in this paper.

RESULTS: The study of the release profile of these dispensers revealed a mean pheromone emission value of 269 µg day−1 and levels of residual pheromone of 10% at the end of 250 days. During the second flight, an A. aurantii male catch reduction of 98% was achieved in the mating disruption plot of trial 1, 93.5% in trial 2 and 76.7% in trial 3. During the third flight, reductions were 94.1, 82.9 and 68.1% in trials 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Considering damaged fruit with more than five scales, reductions of about 80 and 60% were obtained in the mating disruption plots of trials 2 and 3, respectively, compared with an untreated plot, and a reduction of about 70% in trial 1 compared with an oil‐treated plot.

CONCLUSION: Mating disruption has been found to be an efficient technique to control this pest, working equally well to a correctly sprayed oil treatment. Further studies are needed to improve the determination of the time of dispenser application and evaluate the effects of the pheromone on natural enemies. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Responses of striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), from Taiwan to a range of insecticides
Authors: Cheng Xuan , Chang Cheng , Dai Shu‐Mei
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND: Information on the insecticide susceptibility of striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Walker), is essential for an effective pest management programme. An early detection of resistance development can prompt the modification of current control methods and increase the lifespan of insecticides through the rotation of chemicals with different modes of action. In this study, the susceptibility of this pest in Taiwan to four classes of insecticides has been examined.

RESULTS: Over 1000‐fold resistance to carbofuran was detected in C. suppressalis collected from Chiayi and Changhua prefectures, with estimated LC50 values of > 3 mg cm−2. In addition, 61‐fold resistance to cartap was found in the Chiayi population. On the other hand, all tested populations of rice stem borer were still relatively susceptible to chlorpyrifos, fipronil and permethrin, with LC50 values ranging from 30 to 553 ng cm−2. Chilo suppressalis populations collected from the central parts of Taiwan have a higher degree of resistance to the tested insecticides than those from northern areas.

CONCLUSION: The occurrence of high resistance to carbofuran in the Chiayi and Changhua areas suggests that this compound should be replaced with chemicals having a different mode of action, such as chlorpyrifos, fipronil and permethrin, to which low cross‐resistance has been detected. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Nanoscale piezoresponse of 70 nm poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoro‐ethylene) films annealed at different temperatures
Authors: Choi Yoon‐Young , Hong Jongin , Hong Seungbum , Song Hanwook , Cheong Deok‐Soo , No Kwangsoo
Published: March 2010

In order to characterize the piezoelectric properties of 70 nm thick poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene), P(VDF‐TrFE), films grown by a spin‐coating technique, both nanoscale manipulation and polarization switching were studied using piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). We varied the annealing temperature from 75 °C to 145 °C and achieved a high‐quality 70 nm P(VDF‐TrFE) film annealed at the temperature of 95 °C. Ferroelectric domains and their properties were confirmed using X‐ray diffraction, grazing incidence reflection absorption Fourier Transform Infrared (GIRA‐FTIR) and PFM analysis. The ferroelectric domains in the film were homogeneously switchable below 5 V with a remnant d33 of 14.9 pm/V. This offers our rationale for a promise in energy harvesting and switchability would be good for plastic electronics. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Academic burnout profiles in Korean adolescents
Authors: Lee Jayoung , Puig Ana , Kim Young‐Bin , Shin Hyojung , Lee Ji Hee , Lee Sang Min
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study is to identify specific burnout patterns among Korean students. Using a cluster analysis procedure and the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Student Survey, four clusters were identified: (1) distressed group; (2) laissez‐faire group; (3) persevering group; and (4) well‐functioning group. In addition, the results of categorical regression analysis indicated that self‐esteem and Grade Point Average (GPA) were good discriminators between the four clusters. Specifically, students who self‐identified as not experiencing burnout (well‐functioning group) were found to have the highest scores on GPA and positive self‐esteem. Practical implications for educators are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Die Umsetzung der Agenda 21 auf kommunaler Ebene
Authors: Masberg Imme
Published: March 2010

Die Konferenz für Umwelt und Entwicklung 1992 in Rio beschloß die Agenda 21. Sie zeigt Lösungswege für die drängenden Umwelt- und Entwicklungsprobleme und ihre Abhängigkeiten auf. Vor allem Kommunen sind aufgerufen, nachhaltige Strukturen und — im Dialog mit der Bürgerschaft-nachhaltige Lebensformen zu entwickeln. Der folgende Beitrag zeigt auf, wie Kommunen auf die Forderungen der Agenda 21 reagieren, welche Mittel und Wege sie einschlagen, um eine „lokale Agenda” aufzubauen, und welche Probleme sich ihnen in den Weg stellen.

Dem umfassenden Anspruch der Agenda 21 können die Kommunen (bisher) nicht gerecht werden. Einzelprojekten und Veranstaltungen fehlt die Vernetzung und das Dach eines Gesamtkonzeptes. Um eine lokale Agenda zu entwickeln und die Bürgerschaft darin glaubwürdig einzubeziehen, müssen langfristige Perspektiven und Ziele verfolgt und transparente Vorgehensweisen eingeschlagen werden.
Raumentwicklung und Logistik
Authors: Hesse Markus
Published: March 2010

Beschaffung, Produktion, Absatz und Entsorgung von Gütern sind heute Gegenstand umfassender, „systemisch” angelegter Logistikkonzepte. Sie steuern komplexe Transportketten und führen zur Herausbildung neuer „Raum-Zeit-Konfigurationen”. Die Logistik besitzt darüber hinaus konkrete Folgen für Umwelt, Städtebau und Raumentwicklung, insbesondere im Bereich der Verkehrserzeugung und der Flächennutzung. Langfristig können sich neue Distributionskonzepte zudem erheblich auf die Entwicklung der Stadtstruktur auswirken, indem sie die klassische Marktfunktion der Städte räumlich neu definieren. Aktivitäten der räumlichen Planung zum Umgang mit dem Logistiksystem sind zwischen Strategien der Expansion und der planerischen Integration angesiedelt. Ihre Steuerungserfolge waren bisher begrenzt. Anforderungen und Ziele der Planung sind vor diesem Hintergrund vorrangig darauf gerichtet, Güter- und Wirtschaftsverkehr zum Abwägungsbelang in der räumlichen Planung zu machen. Als Handlungsstrategien erscheinen Infrastruktur-und Standortkonzepte, Rahmensetzungen zur Flankierung neuer Organisationsmodelle (Stadtlogistik) sowie diskursorientierte Verfahren geeignet.
Handlungsorientierung und Regionalmanagement
Authors: Kegel Ulrich , Knieling M.A. Jörg
Published: March 2010

Die Regionalplanung und die Initiative „Südostniedersachsen 2020” zur Erstellung eines Regionalen Entwicklungskonzepts beschreiten neue Wege der Regionalpolitik im Großraum Braunschweig. Sie veranschaulichen damit exemplarisch, wie Elemente des neuen Anforderungsprofils eines Regionalmanagements in der Praxis eingesetzt werden. Gleichzeitig deuten sie an, welchen Herausforderungen sich die regionalen Akteure stellen müssen, wenn dieses planungsmethodische Konzept regional realisiert werden soll.
Evaluierung von Wettbewerbsmodellen in der Regionalpolitik
Authors: Gornig Martin , Toepel Kathleen
Published: March 2010

Die Differenzierung sowohl der regionalen Problemlagen als auch der betrieblichen Standortanforderungen macht es aus regionalwissenschaftlicher Sicht notwendig, die Regionen stärker in die Regionalpolitik einzubeziehen. In der praktischen Politik haben daher die Bemühungen zur verstärkten Einbindung der Regionen in die Förderpolitik der Länder zugenommen. In Schleswig-Holstein wird dies im Rahmen eines Qualitätswettbewerbs regionaler Projekte verfolgt. Die Regionalisierung der Regionalpolitik und insbesondere ein solcher Qualitätswettbewerb stellt hohe Anforderungen an die Evaluierung. Am Beispiel des Regionalprogramms in Schleswig-Holstein wird hier ein Evaluierungsdesign vorgestellt, das praktikable Lösungsvorschläge für die Ex-ante-, begleitende und Ex-post-Bewertung solcher Förderprogramme bietet.
Erfolgsfaktoren kommunaler Wirtschaftspolitik in Ostdeutschland
Authors: Blume Lorenz
Published: March 2010

If the value judgements of East German firms on the quality of the economic policy of their municipality (which can be interpreted as “customer satisfaction”) are reflected in figures on the economic policy activities of the municipalities that have been obtained partly from original surveys and partly from official statistics with the aid of multivariate statistical procedures, it becomes clear that the recipe for success in municipal economic policy in East Germany in the period after 1995 was no purely competition-oriented economic policy based on entrepreneurial competition, but rather a balanced mix of traditional (consulting, real-estate policy, infrastructure investments) and modern bundles of measures (city marketing, administrative modernisation, inter-municipal co-operation, public-private partnership). Together these successful activities of municipal economic policy make a noticeable contribution to the local growth of employment (“local policies matter”).
Politikverflechtung in der Entflechtungsfalle
Authors: Graute Ulrich
Published: March 2010

The pattern of loose coupling is understood as an instrument to avoid the joint decision trap. But how loose a coupling can be without loosing its linkage function? The article follows this question by analysing the case of European Spatial Development Policy which has been developed in the course of the 90s. This new policy field deals with the complex subject of a balanced and sustainable development of the European territory. In spite of the ambitious objectives a respective competence at community level shall not be established. Common goals shall be achieved by voluntary co-operation. The institutional context in the field is marked by a permanent risk of high and unilateral costs of transaction and this in turn presses even actors willingly to co-operate to choose the exit option. The framework of co-operation turns into a new trap, which can block the co-operation process. This can be avoided if actors accept a stronger coupling of their co-operation.
Vorsorge durch Raumplanung?
Authors: Kuhlicke Christian , Drünkler Daniel
Published: March 2010

The potentials and limitations of the mitigation of environmental risk through spatial planning is the central issue of the article. Mitigation is to be realized productively during and after a disastrous event is the thesis of this article. Nevertheless, this “Window of Opportunity” is not applicable in Germany, since disaster control makes no reference to mitigation and the institution of spatial planning has insufficient competence of implementation. Therefore it will be outlined a procedure, which uses the window, focuses on the level of communities and demands alteration on the federal level. The institution of spatial planning holds an important position in this procedure.
Das Übereinkommen zum Schutz der Alpen (Alpenkonvention)
Authors: Ruppert Karl
Published: March 2010

Policy and practice perspective