bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy apparatus: Bridging the pressure gap
Authors: Velasco-Vélez J. J. , Pfeifer V. , Hävecker M. , Wang R. , Centeno A. , Zurutuza A. , Algara-Siller G. , Stotz E. , Skorupska K. , Teschner D. , Kube P. , Braeuninger-Weimer P. , Hofmann S. , Schlögl R. , Knop-Gericke A.
Published: May 2016

One of the main goals in catalysis is the characterization of solid/gas interfaces in a reaction environment. The electronic structure and chemical composition of surfaces become heavily influenced by the surrounding environment. However, the lack of surface sensitive techniques that are able to monitor these modifications under high pressure conditions hinders the understanding of such processes. This limitation is known throughout the community as the “pressure gap.” We have developed a novel experimental setup that provides chemical information on a molecular level under atmospheric pressure and in presence of reactive gases and at elevated temperatures. This approach is based on separating the vacuum environment from the high-pressure environment by a silicon nitride grid—that contains an array of micrometer-sized holes—coated with a bilayer of graphene. Using this configuration, we have investigated the local electronic structure of catalysts by means of photoelectron spectroscopy and in presence of gases at 1 atm. The reaction products were monitored online by mass spectrometry and gas chromatography. The successful operation of this setup was demonstrated with three different examples: the oxidation/reduction reaction of iridium (noble metal) and copper (transition metal) nanoparticles and with the hydrogenation of propyne on Pd black catalyst (powder).
Lattice model for amyloid peptides: OPEP force field parametrization and applications to the nucleus size of Alzheimer’s peptides
Authors: Tran Thanh Thuy , Nguyen Phuong H. , Derreumaux Philippe
Published: May 2016

Coarse-grained protein lattice models approximate atomistic details and keep the essential interactions. They are, therefore, suitable for capturing generic features of protein folding and amyloid formation at low computational cost. As our aim is to study the critical nucleus sizes of two experimentally well-characterized peptide fragments Aβ16−22 and Aβ37−42 of the full length Aβ1−42 Alzheimer’s peptide, it is important that simulations with the lattice model reproduce all-atom simulations. In this study, we present a comprehensive force field parameterization based on the OPEP (Optimized Potential for Efficient protein structure Prediction) force field for an on-lattice protein model, which incorporates explicitly the formation of hydrogen bonds and directions of side-chains. Our bottom-up approach starts with the determination of the best lattice force parameters for the Aβ16−22 dimer by fitting its equilibrium parallel and anti-parallel β-sheet populations to all-atom simulation results. Surprisingly, the calibrated force field is transferable to the trimer of Aβ16−22 and the dimer and trimer of Aβ37−42. Encouraged by this finding, we characterized the free energy landscapes of the two decamers. The dominant structure of the Aβ16−22 decamer matches the microcrystal structure. Pushing the simulations for aggregates between 4-mer and 12-mer suggests a nucleus size for fibril formation of 10 chains. In contrast, the Aβ37−42 decamer is largely disordered with mixed by parallel and antiparallel chains, suggesting that the nucleus size is >10 peptides. Our refined force field coupled to this on-lattice model should provide useful insights into the critical nucleation number associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
Optical imaging module for astigmatic detection system
Authors: Wang Wei-Min , Cheng Chung-Hsiang , Molnar Gabor , Hwang Ing-Shouh , Huang Kuang-Yuh , Danzebrink Hans-Ulrich , Hwu En-Te
Published: May 2016

In this paper, an optical imaging module design for an astigmatic detection system (ADS) is presented. The module is based on a commercial optical pickup unit (OPU) and it contains a coaxial illuminant for illuminating a specimen. Furthermore, the imaging module facilitates viewing the specimen and the detection laser spot of the ADS with a lateral resolution of approximately 1 μm without requiring the removal of an element of the OPU. Two polarizers and one infrared filter are used to eliminate stray laser light in the OPU and stray light produced by the illuminant. Imaging modules designed for digital versatile disks (DVDs) and Blu-ray DVDs were demonstrated. Furthermore, the module can be used for imaging a small cantilever with approximate dimensions of 2 μm (width) × 5 μm (length), and therefore, it has the potential to be used in high-speed atomic force microscopy.
Electromagnetic wave energy flow control with a tunable and reconfigurable coupled plasma split-ring resonator metamaterial: A study of basic conditions and configurations
Authors: Kourtzanidis Konstantinos , Pederson Dylan M. , Raja Laxminarayan L.
Published: May 2016

We propose and study numerically a tunable and reconfigurable metamaterial based on coupled split-ring resonators (SRRs) and plasma discharges. The metamaterial couples the magnetic-electric response of the SRR structure with the electric response of a controllable plasma slab discharge that occupies a volume of the metamaterial. Because the electric response of a plasma depends on its constitutive parameters (electron density and collision frequency), the plasma-based metamaterial is tunable and active. Using three-dimensional numerical simulations, we analyze the coupled plasma-SRR metamaterial in terms of transmittance, performing parametric studies on the effects of electron density, collisional frequency, and the position of the plasma slab with respect to the SRR array. We find that the resonance frequency can be controlled by the plasma position or the plasma-to-collision frequency ratio, while transmittance is highly dependent on the latter.
The system with zwitterionic lactose-based surfactant for complexation and delivery of small interfering ribonucleic acid—A structural and spectroscopic study
Authors: Skupin Michalina , Sobczak Krzysztof , Zieliński Ryszard , Kozak Maciej
Published: May 2016

Systems suitable for the effective preparation of complexes with siRNA (small interfering RNA) are at the center of interest in the area of research work on the delivery of the RNA-based drugs (RNA-therapeutics). This article presents results of a study on the structural effects associated with siRNA complexation by a surfactant comprising a lactose group (N-(3-propanesulfone)-N-dodecyl-amino-beta-D-lactose hydrochloride, LA12). The double stranded siRNA oligomer (21 base pairs) used in this study is responsible for silencing a gene that can be important in the therapy of myotonic dystrophy type 1. The obtained siRNA/LA12 lipoplexes were studied using the methods of small angle scattering of synchrotron radiation, circular dichroism spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and electrophoretic mobility tests. Lipoplexes form in solution stable lamellar or cubic phases. The surfactant selected for the study shows much lower cytotoxicity and good complexation abilities of siRNA than dicationic or polycationic surfactants.
Effective work function engineering for a TiN/XO(X = La, Zr, Al)/SiO2 stack structures
Authors: Lee Dongjin , Cho Eunae , Lee Jieun , Jung Kyoungho , Jeong Moonyoung , Yamada Satoru , Hong Hyeongsun , Lee Kyupil , Heo Sung , Ko Dongsu , Kim Yong Su , Kyoung Yong Koo , Lee Hyung-Ik , Lee Hyo Sug , Park Gyeong-Su , Shin Jai Kwang
Published: May 2016

In this study, we demonstrated that work function engineering is possible over a wide range (+200 mV to −430 mV) in a TiN/XO (X = La, Zr, or Al)/SiO2 stack structures. From ab initio simulations, we selected the optimal material for the work function engineering. The work function engineering mechanism was described by metal diffusion into the TiN film and silicate formation in the TiN/SiO2 interface. The metal doping and the silicate formation were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy line profiling, respectively. In addition, the amount of doped metal in the TiN film depended on the thickness of the insertion layer XO. From the work function engineering technique, which can control a variety of threshold voltages (Vth), an improvement in transistors with different Vth values in the TiN/XO/SiO2 stack structures is expected.
Directly deposited graphene nanowalls on carbon fiber for improving the interface strength in composites
Authors: Chi Yao , Chu Jin , Chen Mingfeng , Li Chaolong , Mao Weijie , Piao Mingxing , Zhang Heng , Liu Bao Sheng , Shi Haofei
Published: May 2016

Graphene nanowalls (GNWs) were grown directly on carbon fibers using a chemical vapor deposition technique which is simple and catalyst-free. We found that there is very strong π-π stacking which is a benefit for the GNWs/carbon fiber interface. This single modified filament then was embedded into an epoxy matrix to be a single-fiber composite in which was formed a “tenon-mortise” structure. Such a “tenon-mortise” model provides a simple, stable, and powerful connection between carbon fiber and the epoxy matrix. In addition, it was demonstrated that the epoxy matrix can be well embedded into GNWs through a field emission scanning electron microscope. The results of the single-fiber composite tests indicated that the interfacial strength of the composites was immensely improved by 173% compared to those specimens without GNWs.
Direct printing of microstructures by femtosecond laser excitation of nanocrystals in solution
Authors: Shou Wan , Pan Heng
Published: May 2016

We report direct printing of micro/sub-micron structures by femtosecond laser excitation of semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) in solution. Laser excitation with moderate intensity (1011–1012 W/cm2) induces 2D and 3D deposition of CdTe nanocrystals in aqueous solution, which can be applied for direct printing of microstructures. It is believed that laser irradiation induces charge formation on nanocrystals leading to deposition. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the charged nanocrystals can respond to external electrical bias, enabling a printing approach based on selective laser induced electrophoretic deposition. Finally, energy dispersive X-ray analysis of deposited structures shows oxidation occurs and deposited structure mainly consists of CdxO.
Deep ultraviolet photoconductive and near-infrared luminescence properties of Er3+-doped β-Ga2O3 thin films
Authors: Wu Zhenping , Bai Gongxun , Qu Yingyu , Guo Daoyou , Li Linghong , Li Peigang , Hao Jianhua , Tang Weihua
Published: May 2016

Highly oriented (2¯01) Er3+-doped β-Ga2O3 (Er:Ga2O3) thin films with different doping concentrations were grown on (0001) sapphire substrates using radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The crystal structure, optical absorption, near-infrared luminescence, and ultraviolet photoresponse properties of Er:Ga2O3 films were systematically studied. The evolution of lattice and energy band gap with increasing doping level confirms the chemical substitution of Er3+ ions into the Ga2O3 crystal lattice. The down-shifting near-infrared luminescence (∼1538 nm: ascribed to Er3+: 4I13/2−4I15/2) was observed under ultraviolet excitation. Moreover, an obvious deep ultraviolet photoresponse was also obtained in the formed thin films.
Comparison of gradient and flux driven gyro-kinetic turbulent transport
Authors: Rath F. , Peeters A. G. , Buchholz R. , Grosshauser S. R. , Migliano P. , Weikl A. , Strintzi D.
Published: May 2016

Flux and gradient driven ion temperature gradient turbulence in tokamak geometry and for Cyclone base case parameters are compared in the local limit using the same underlying gyro-kinetic turbulence model. The gradient driven turbulence described using the flux tube model with periodic boundary conditions has a finite ion heat flux Qi≈10n0T0ρ*2vth, where n0 (T0) is the background density (temperature), ρ*=ρ/R is the normalized Larmor radius, R is the major radius of the device, and vth is the ion thermal velocity at the nonlinear threshold of the temperature gradient length for turbulence generation. Consequently, the gradient driven local transport model is unable to accurately describe heat fluxes below Qi<10n0T0ρ*2vth, since no stationary fully developed turbulent state can be obtained. The turbulence in the flux driven case shows intermittent behaviour and avalanches for Qi<10n0T0ρ*2vth. Isolated avalanches disappear for Qi>10n0T0ρ*2vth, and at higher heat fluxes, the statistics of the turbulence is the same for the flux and gradient driven case. The nonlinear upshift of the temperature gradient length threshold for turbulence generation (known as the Dimits shift) is larger in the case of flux driven turbulence. This higher nonlinear upshift is attributed to the generation of structures in the radial temperature profile, known as staircases [Dif-Pradalier, Phys. Rev. E 82, 025401 (2010)]. Avalanches are initiated at specific locations and have roughly the same radial extent of 50–70 ion Larmor radii. The staircases are obtained at low heating rates, and become unstable and break up at higher heating rates. At the heat fluxes for which staircase formation is observed, no stationary gradient driven simulations can be obtained.
Nonlinear and multilevel resistive switching memory in Ni/Si3N4/Al2O3/TiN structures
Authors: Kim Sungjun , Park Byung-Gook
Published: May 2016

In this letter, we extensively investigate the nonlinear resistive switching characteristics of Si3N4-based resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices that contain an Al2O3 tunnel barrier layer to alleviate sneak path currents in the cross-point array structure. When the compliance current (ICC) exceeds 1 mA, the Ni/Si3N4/TiN device shows both unipolar and bipolar switching with Ohmic characteristics in the low resistance state. Nonlinear resistive switching characteristics were observed for this device when ICC was ≤100 μA. We fabricated Si3N4/Al2O3 bilayer devices with different tunnel barrier layer thickness and characterized their nonlinear characteristics and failure resistance during the reset process. Furthermore, we obtained stable multiple resistance levels in the devices by varying ICC and the stop voltage for the set and reset switching, respectively. Our results suggest that an Al2O3 tunnel barrier layer embedded in Si3N4-based RRAM devices offers considerable potential to realize high-density cross-point memory array applications.
Structural crossover in a supercooled metallic liquid and the link to a liquid-to-liquid phase transition
Authors: Lan S. , Blodgett M. , Kelton K. F. , Ma J. L. , Fan J. , Wang X.-L.
Published: May 2016

Time-resolved synchrotron measurements were carried out to capture the structure evolution of an electrostatically levitated metallic-glass-forming liquid during free cooling. The experimental data shows a crossover in the liquid structure at ∼1000 K, about 115 K below the melting temperature and 150 K above the crystallization temperature. The structure change is characterized by a dramatic growth in the extended-range order below the crossover temperature. Molecular dynamics simulations have identified that the growth of the extended-range order was due to an increased correlation between solute atoms. These results provide structural evidence for a liquid-to-liquid-phase-transition in the supercooled metallic liquid.
Investigation of transferred-electron oscillations in diamond
Authors: Suntornwipat N. , Majdi S. , Gabrysch M. , Isberg J.
Published: May 2016

The recent discovery of Negative Differential Mobility (NDM) in intrinsic single-crystalline diamond enables the development of devices for high frequency applications. The Transferred-Electron Oscillator (TEO) is one example of such devices that uses the benefit of NDM to generate continuous oscillations. This paper presents theoretical investigations of a diamond TEO in the temperature range of 110 to 140 K where NDM has been observed. Our simulations map out the parameter space in which transferred-electron oscillations are expected to occur for a specific device geometry. The results are promising and indicate that it is possible to fabricate diamond based TEO devices.
A magnetoelectric composite based signal generator
Authors: Fetisov Y. K. , Serov V. N. , Fetisov L. Y. , Makovkin S. A. , Viehland D. , Srinivasan G.
Published: May 2016

Self-oscillations in an active loop consisting of a wide-band amplifier and a magnetoelectric composite in the feedback circuit have been observed. The composite with a ferroelectric lead zirconate titanate bimorph and ferromagnetic Metglas serves as a resonator that determines the frequency of oscillations and provides the feedback voltage. Under amplitude balance and phase matching conditions, the device generated signals at 2.3 kHz, at the bending resonance frequency of the composite. The oscillations were observed over a specific range of magnetic bias H. The shape of the signal generated is dependent on electrical circuit parameters and magnitude and orientation of H.
Enhancements of magnetic properties and planar magnetoresistance by electric fields in γ-Fe2O3/MgO thin films
Authors: Cheng Bin , Qin Hongwei , Pei Jinliang , Liu Liang , Ren Shaoqing , Hu Jifan
Published: May 2016

The treatment of perpendicular electric field upon γ-Fe2O3/MgO film at room temperature could adjust the magnetic properties (saturation magnetization, magnetic remanence, coercivity, and saturation magnetizing field) of the film. The enhancement of saturation magnetization after the treatment of electric field may be connected with the combined shift effects of Mg ions from MgO to γ-Fe2O3 and O2− ions from γ-Fe2O3 to MgO. The negative magnetoresistance of the γ-Fe2O3/MgO film also enhances with the treatment of perpendicular electric field at room temperature, possibly due to the increasing of electron hopping rate between Fe2+ and Fe3+.
Replacement of mustard oil cake by urea in short-term strategic feeding of cull ewes to improve body condition and carcass traits
Authors: Bhatt R. S. , Sahoo A. , Karim S. A.
Published: May 2016

Strategic short-term feeding of culled Malpura ewes (age >6 years, average liveweight 26.8 ± 0.96 kg) was aimed at improving their body condition and increase marketability of their carcass following slaughter. Randomly, 8 out of 40 ewes were slaughtered to study initial (Day 0) carcass traits and the remaining ewes were equally divided into two groups: mustard cake (Control) and urea. They were stall fed with ad libitum guar straw (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) and concentrate mixture at 25 g/kg liveweight after 4 h of morning grazing in the pasture. The Control group was offered concentrate with solvent extracted mustard cake whereas it was replaced on an equivalent nitrogen (N) basis with urea in the concentrate offered to the other group. Daily feed intake and weekly change in ewe liveweight and body condition score were measured during the 91 days of the experiment. There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in digestibility of nutrients between the groups. Both groups had similar dry matter and metabolisable energy intake, but the mustard cake group recorded higher (P < 0.05) cumulative weight gain and body condition score. Ruminal fluid samples and blood biochemical measurements were analysed periodically (0, 45 and 91 days), with ruminal fluid samples during the post-feeding hours also analysed. There was periodic variation in rumen pH (P = 0.013), volatile fatty acid (P = 007), total N (P = 0.001) and ammonia-N (P = 0.025) concentration in both groups. Higher post-feeding volatile fatty acid (P = 0.031) and total N (P = 0.003) values were observed in the mustard cake group. Ruminal ciliate protozoal population showed a quadratic response over time after feeding with an initial decline post-grazing, but was not affected by treatment. Similar significant (P < 0.05) improvements in haemoglobin, glucose, total protein, urea and cholesterol levels were evident in both groups at 91 days. Both treatments showed similar improvement in carcass composition, distribution of fat and chemical composition of Longissimus dorsi after 91 days of realimentation compared with initial values. Short-term pre-slaughter feeding of cull ewes improved body condition, carcass traits and composition. Replacement of costly mustard cake with urea in the diet of cull ewes could be a means to improve profitability of this strategic feeding protocol, as well as enhancing their market value.
Effects of the coastal brown ant Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius), on the ant fauna of the Perth metropolitan region, Western Australia
Authors: E. May J. , E. Heterick B.
Published: May 2016

This paper reports on the apparent displacement of native and exotic ants from gardens in the Perth Metropolitan region by the coastal brown ant (Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius)). Twelve gardens were sampled, four with P. megacephala present, and eight (the controls) where the ant was judged to be absent. Eight out of the 26 ant species recorded (including the coastal brown ant) were introduced. Ninety-two per cent of pitfall trap contents comprised the four most abundant species: P. megacephala, lridomyrmex chasei (Forel), Tetramorium simillimum (F. Smith) and Paratrechina ?obscura (Mayr). Three of the four P. megacephala-dominated gardens were depauperate of almost all other ant species. The fourth P. megacephala-infested garden had a relatively small number of coastal brown ants (104), and the highest number of ant species was found in that garden. The removal of this outlier garden left an average range of one to three species for the other three P. megacephala-infested gardens. Control gardens had between five and 12 ant species. Total ant abundance ranged from an average of 1 027 per P. megacephala-infested garden (increasing to 1 171 if the outlier garden is removed) to 146 at control gardens. There was a significant difference both in ant richness and ant abundance between the controls and P. megacephala-infested gardens (P < 0.05). This remained the case when figures for coastal brown ants were excluded from calculations.
Report of the Eleventh Global Biodiversity Forum: Exploring Synergy between the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Convention on Biological Diversity
Authors: Valentine Hayley
Published: May 2016

Biodiversity supplies goods and services to human populations, it protects and regulates lifesustaining resources such as water, air, soil and climate, and it supports important species interrelationships. For these reasons, humans have an obligation to conserve the biological diversity that is supplied by the earth. In the past, international obligations made toward conserving biodiversity had been addressed in isolation to other environmental agreements. This has lead to fragmentation in the international environmental agenda. The Eleventh Global Biodiversity Forum (GBF) attempted to create a link between the conservation of biodiversity and one of the most recent and notorious environmental issues ? climate change.
Case history studies of the effects of vegetation succession and fire on the moth Fraus simulans (Lepidoptera, Hepialidae) and its food plant, the sedge Ecdeiocolea monostachya (Ecdeiocoleacea) in the Western Australian Wheatbelt: implications for retenti
Authors: R. Main A.
Published: May 2016

Field observations of the effects of succession of vegetation, grazing by the moth Fraus simulans on the sedge Ecdeiocolea monostachya in a long unburnt area, the post-fire survival and regeneration of established tussocks and the survival of seedlings germinating in the first winter following burning are presented. There was considerable post-fire mortality of the established tussocks and in only one of the three areas burnt did any of the seedlings survive successive summer droughts. Surviving seedlings did not replace the tussocks killed by the burning. The possible effects of fire, drought and insect grazing on the biotic composition of small reserves are discussed. It is suggested that the information presented provides a basis for a formal decision process for risk assessment when managing reserves for retention of biodiversity and fire hazard reduction.
Field evaluation of a visual barrier to discourage gull nesting
Authors: A. Pochop P. , L. Cummings J. , M. Engeman R.
Published: May 2016

Expanding gull populations along the Columbia River have been implicated in depredations to threatened and endangered migrating salmon smolt. We tested a visual barrier made of woven black polypropylene fabric to discourage gull nesting. The barrier was installed on Upper Nelson Island, Benton County, Washington, in parallel rows spaced 5 m apart. Gulls used 87% of the 7.9 ha island as nesting habitat and we estimated >21 000 gull nests, 80% Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis and 20% California Gull L. califomicus nests. The zone with fencing had 84% fewer nests than the control zone. Silt fencing showed potential as a nonlethal bird management technique.
Monitoring Plant and Animal Populations
Authors: Andrew Edwards Todd
Published: May 2016

ELZINGA et al. have brought together a wealth of experience from their employment in private, governmental, educational and voluntary organizations to produce Monitoring Plant and Animal Populations. This knowledgeable book is intended to assist a range of audiences, from students to experienced wildlife biologists, encouraging them to produce high-quality population monitoring studies, with adaptations for community monitoring.
Use of instream wood habitat by Trout Cod Maccullochella macquariensis (Cuvier) in the Murrumbidgee River
Authors: Growns Ivor , Wooden Ian , Schiller Craig
Published: May 2016

Microhabitat use of instream wood habitat by Trout Cod Maccullochella macquariensis (Cuvier), a critically endangered species with a restricted distribution, was examined in the Murrumbidgee River in New South Wales, Australia. Habitat variables were scored or measured at 100 m intervals along the river or wherever Trout Cod were captured using electrofishing. The occurrence of Trout Cod was significantly dependent on the presence of instream woody habitat and 95% of samples where trout cod were caught were associated with the presence of woody habitat. Trout Cod were more likely to be found on simply-structured woody habitats, away from the river-bank and their abundance showed no relationship with water velocity. The low abundance of other fish species at the sampling sites suggests that the relationships demonstrated are not due to inter-species interactions. The results will assist with specific management actions to restore and protect populations of this endangered species.
A male-biased sex-ratio in non-breeding Hooded Plovers on a salt-lake in Western Australia
Authors: A. Weston M. , J. L. Kraaijeveld-Smit F. , McIntosh R. , Sofronidis G. , A. Elgar M.
Published: May 2016

The Hooded Plover Thinornis rubricollis is a threatened, sexually monomorphic wading bird that occurs in two allopatric populations in eastern and western Australia. We used a PCR-based molecular sexing technique to sex captured birds from both populations. We found 69% of adults captured at a salt-lake in Western Australia were male. We tested for a sex-bias in our trapping technique by examining the sex-ratio of eastern birds captured under circumstances analogous to the western capture operation. No sex-bias in the trapping technique was apparent although the sample size was low. This suggests that the male-bias at the lake was real. Any spatial or habitat-related segregation of the sexes must be investigated before we can conclude that the bias is a trait of the western population. If the bias occurs in the population as a whole, then the effective size of the breeding population will be less than that indicated by counts. If the sexes segregate to different sites or habitats, then spatially constrained threatening processes may lead to a skewed sex-ratio.
Foraging ecology of the Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor in the box-ironbark forests and woodlands of Victoria
Authors: J. Kennedy Simon , L. Tzaros Christopher
Published: May 2016

The foraging ecology of the Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor in the box-ironbark forests and woodlands of Victoria was investigated over three years. We sought to identify features that characterized Swift Parrot foraging habitats. A total of 159 foraging sites was found, mainly in box-ironbark forests or nearby woodlands, and were located at a disproportionately high frequency on drainage lines, and a correspondingly low frequency on ridges. The species was observed foraging on 12 eucalypt and one Acacia species, but more than 90% of observations were of birds using Red Ironbark Eucalyptus tricarpa, Mugga Ironbark E. sideroxylon, Yellow Gum E. leucoxylon or Grey Box E. microcarpa. Nectar, lerp and other food from eucalypt foliage were frequent dietary items. Foraging and random sites were broadly similar in tree size-class structure. However, Swift Parrots selected trees in larger size classes for foraging more often than expected given the relative abundance of such trees. Larger trees flowered more reliably across the study area in all years. The habitat of the Swift Parrot in the study area is extensively fragmented and degraded, and management to increase the density of larger trees is recommended. We found considerable between-year variation in regional distribution and relative use of prinCipal tree species. The five identified regions within the study area all supported a significant percentage of the population in at least one of the three years. As a result, recovery measures will need to target important sites across the geographical extent of the study area.
The successful eradication of two blackberry species Rubus megalococcus and R. adenotrichos (Rosaceae) from Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador
Authors: E. Buddenhagen C.
Published: May 2016

Eradication programmes were initiated against infestations of the introduced blackberry species R. adenotrichos and R. megaloccocus on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador in 1999 and 2000 respectively. The species were judged to be likely invaders even though neither produced viable seeds in Galapagos. Prior to eradication in 2003 these infestations occupied an area of less than a quarter hectare. I estimate the time and dollar cost of eradication of R. adenotrichos and R. megaloccocus to be US$11,322 US dollars/1 738 hours. More than half of these costs were sustained in extensive systematic searches of 330 ha surrounding known infestations. Herbicide accounted for less than 1 % of total costs. Control was undertaken using the herbicides glyphosate, and a combination of metsulfuron methyl and picloram. I recommend using teams of workers dedicated to eradicating known or potentially invasive species early in the invasion process or prior to establishment in Galapagos.
Fire regimes and their correlates in the Darwin region of northern Australia
Authors: Price Owen , Baker Bryan
Published: May 2016

A nine year fire history for the Darwin region was created from Landsat imagery, and examined to describe the fire regime across the region. 43% of the region burned each year, and approximately one quarter of the fires occur in the late dry season, which is lower than most other studied areas. Freehold land, which covers 35% of the greater Darwin region, has 20% long-unburnt land. In contrast, most publicly owned and Aboriginal owned land has very high fire frequency (60-70% per year), and only 5% long unburnt. It seems that much of the Freehold land is managed for fire suppression, while the common land is burnt either to protect the Freehold or by pyromaniacs. Generalized Linear Modelling among a random sample of points revealed that fire frequency is higher among large blocks of savannah vegetation, and at greater distances from mangrove vegetation and roads. This suggests that various kinds of fire break can be used to manage fire in the region. The overall fire frequency in the Darwin region is probably too high and is having a negative impact on wildlife. However, the relatively low proportion of late dry season fires means the regime is probably not as bad as in some other regions. The management of fire is ad-hoc and strongly influenced by tenure. There needs to be a clear statement of regional fire targets and a strategy to achieve these. Continuation of the fire mapping is an essential component of achieving the targets.
Threatened species legislation: is it just an Act?
Authors: Hollick Penelope
Published: May 2016

This volume contains the proceedings of a forum held by the Royal Zoological Society of NSW in October 2003 on the topic of threatened species legislation, with particular reference to the New South Wales Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. The papers are divided into the three general areas of ?The wider context?, ?NSW legislation?, and ?Implementation issues: consequences, difficulties, opportunities?, and there is also an edited transcript of the plenary session held at the forum.
Taking Medawar?s medicine: science as the ?art of the soluble? for Hawaii?s terrestrial extinction crisis
Authors: Cameron Duffy David , Kraus Fred
Published: May 2016

On 29 November 2004, a male Po?ouli Melamprosops phaeosoma died of what was effectively old age while in captivity in Hawai?i. The only two other known birds of this species, both at least five years old, have not been seen since 2003 and the species is now presumed extinct (Anon. 2004). With the passing of the Po?ouli, it is appropriate to ask what Hawai?i?s latest loss tells us about the state of terrestrial conservation and conservation science in the archipelago. Is this representative of conservation effectiveness in Hawai?i or merely an unlucky fluke?
Fundamentals of Conservation Biology
Authors: Williams Guy
Published: May 2016

In a time of changing social and environmental priorities and pressures, the conservation of biodiversity remains as one of the world?s most important issues. In this new edition of Fundamentals of Conservation Biology, the authors Malcolm, L. Hunter JR. and James Gibbs provide a valuable introduction to the subject of conservation biology. Although this book is titled a study in the biology of conservation, it maintains a strong focus on the politics, processes and, in particular, the preservation of biodiversity. The four sections into which the book is divided each deal with a separate aspect of biodiversity.
Eucalypt decline and dead trees: if it's not sexy few seem to care
Authors: D. Meek Paul
Published: May 2016

Whether its Bell Miner Associated Dieback (BMAD), Eucalypt Decline or as the wording of the Key Threatening Process nomination states "Forest eucalypt dieback associated with over-abundant Bell Miners Manorina melanophrys, and psyllids, the phenomena of eucalypt decline on the east coast of Australia is serious. Approximately 781,000 hectares of east coast forests are currently predisposed to decline (Vic Jurskis unpub. data 2008). Among all the forms of dieback affecting east coast forest types, BMAD is one of the most serious and over $700,000 has been spent in the last few years trying to work out the what, why and where of managing this threat to forest ecosystems. Despite a 'task force' (the BMAD Working Group) having been set up to report on Bell Miner Associated Dieback, to the majority of Australian's, it either doesn't exist, they cannot agree on an acceptable term to describe it or it is not on their "peril radar". Substantial effort has been invested trying to unravel the mystery of BMAD and mitigating its impacts. Yet, to some decision makers, BMAD is not important and they see little association between this phenomena and drought, poor land management, weeds, fire and climate change; issues which do seem to capture their attention.
Implications of visitations by Shore Skinks Oligosoma smithi to bait stations containing brodifacoum in a dune system in New Zealand
Authors: J. Wedding Chris , Ji Weihong , H. Brunton Dianne
Published: May 2016

Brodifacoum is a highly toxic, second-generation anticoagulant developed for the control of rodent pests. However, information regarding the impacts of brodifacoum on non-target wildlife has been largely collected opportunistically and is generally avian biased. Reviews of non-target impacts of brodifacoum routinely regard reptiles and amphibians as low risk, despite there being no formal evidence supporting this assumption. Recent evidence suggests that some native lizard species will consume cereal baits in addition to toxin-loaded invertebrates. As part of a wider study, we quantified visitation rates to brodifacoum bait stations by Shore Skinks Oligosoma smithi, and recorded the first observation of this species consuming toxic bait. Bait stations (n = 56) recorded up to 81.5% tracking incidence by Shore Skinks across one of two pest-controlled grids. Skinks were occasionally observed inside bait stations feeding on invertebrates. Of the 805 skinks caught in pitfall traps over the 6 month period, none showed clinical or behavioural signs of anticoagulant toxicosis. Further research into the acute toxicity and chronic sub-lethal impacts of pesticides on herpetofauna is required before potential impacts on these fauna can be dismissed.
How Green is the Universe?
Authors: Watson Fred
Published: May 2016

IT is not often that astronomers get
sucked into bio-politics. But the 1980s
saw the start of a bitter feud that still
rumbles around today — at least
among some of America’s conspiracy
theorists. At its heart was a diminutive
hero, a 200-g Mount Graham
Red Squirrel Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
grahamensis unique to the tree-covered
Pinaleño Mountains, a small isolated
mountain range in southern Arizona,
of which Mt Graham is the highest
peak. Thought to be extinct in the
1950s, this little survivor reappeared
in small numbers on the 3 200 m
mountain during the 1970s, and, in
1987, with a population of a couple
of hundred, it was formally listed as
endangered (U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service 1992; 2011).
Climate change impacts on the terrestrial biodiversity and carbon stocks of Oceania.
Authors: Wardell-Johnson Grant W , Keppel Gunnar , Sander Julianne
Published: May 2016

We review the threats from anthropogenic climate change to the terrestrial biodiversity of Oceania, and quantify
decline in carbon stocks. Oceania’s rich terrestrial biodiversity is facing unprecedented threats through the interaction
of pervasive environmental threats (deforestation and degradation; introduced and invasive species; fragmentation)
and the effects of anthropogenic climate change (sea level rise; altered rainfall patterns and increased fire frequency;
temperature rises and increased storm severity, extreme weather events and abrupt system changes). All nine of
Oceania’s terrestrial biomes harbour ecosystems and habitat types that are highly vulnerable under climate change,
posing an immense conservation challenge. Current policies and management practices are inadequate and the need
for new legislation and economic mechanisms is clear, despite powerful interests committed to limiting progress.
Mitigation can be achieved by increasing the effectiveness of the protected area network, by maintaining and effectively
managing existing carbon stocks and biodiversity, and by reforestation to sequester atmospheric carbon. A price on
carbon emissions may encourage less carbon-intensive energy use while simultaneously encouraging reforestation on
long-cleared land, and reducing degradation of native forests. However, realizing these changes will require societal
change, and depend on input and collaboration from multiple stakeholders to devise and engage in shared, responsible
management.
Cephalopods and the evolution of the mind.
Authors: Godfrey-Smith Peter
Published: May 2016

IN thinking about the nature of the mind and its evolutionary history, cephalopods — especially octopuses, cuttlefish, and squid — have a special importance. These animals are an independent experiment in the evolution of large and complex nervous systems — in the biological machinery of the mind. They evolved this machinery on a historical lineage distant from
our own. Where their minds differ from ours, they show us another way of being a sentient organism. Where we are similar, this is due to the convergence of distinct evolutionary paths.

I introduced the topic just now as ‘the mind.’ This is a contentious term to use. What is it to have a mind? One option is that we are looking for something close to what humans have — something like reflective and conscious thought. This sets a high
bar for having a mind. Another possible view is that whenever organisms adapt to their circumstances in real time by adjusting their behaviour, taking in information and acting in response to it, there is some degree of mentality or intelligence there. To say this sets a low bar.

It is best not to set bars in either place. Roughly speaking, we are dealing with a matter of degree, though ‘degree’ is not quite the right term either. The evolution of a mind is the acquisition of a tool-kit for the control of behaviour. The tool-kit
includes some kind of perception, though different animals have very different ways of taking in information from the world. It includes some form of memory and learning, means by which past experiences can be brought to bear on the present. In
some cases it includes problem-solving and planning. Some tool-kits are more elaborate and expensive than others, but they can be sophisticated in different ways, with different tools present and more investment in one technology than another. One animal might have better ways of tracking the environment through its senses, while another may have simpler senses but
more sophisticated learning. Different tool kits go with different ways of making a living. The ordinary term ‘mind’ is awkwardly or misleadingly applied to an animal with a very simple behavioural repertoire, but it is parochial to apply it only to humans.
Why we need a new journal
Authors: Moritz Craig
Published: May 2016

The Pacific region has profound and urgent problems in conservation and land management. The region also has people with world-class skills and training in conservation-oriented biological research. A major problem for effective conservation and management is the inadequate communication among research biologists, conservation managers and administrators.
Research challenges and opportunities in the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area
Authors: F. Laurance William
Published: May 2016

The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (WHA) is located in the coastal lowlands and adjacent mountains and tablelands of northeastern Queensland, encompassing an area of nearly 900 000 ha. The WHA was formally listed as a World Heritage site in 1988 following a rancorous public debate that culminated in a permanent halt of selective logging operations within the WHA.
The New Zealand law and conservation
Authors: Bosselmann Klaus , Taylor Prue
Published: May 2016

New Zealand, like many countries concerned with conservation issues, is reforming its legislation to provide more comprehensive protection of biological diversity and individual species. The basic aim is simple: if you want to protect animals and plants you have to protect their habitat. The problem is, of course, that humans share the very same habitat. How then can the right balance between use and protection be found? Of the principal Acts guiding the protection and preservation of land, animals and plants (such as the 1953 Wildlife Act or the 1987 Conservation Act) the 1991 Resource Management Act (RMA) marks an important turning-point. It aims to integrate development and conservation. The RMA promotes sustainable management of natural and physical resources. Any destruction of, damage to, or disturbance of, the habitats of plants and animals on land, in coastal marine areas and in lakes and rivers is seen as unsustainable, thus to be avoided.The use of the concept of sustainability is a first in national legislation and makes the RMA a leader around the world. However, its successful enforcement is ultimately a matter of changed attitudes. Here the law can only give some guidance.
Speaking out!
Authors: Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

One of the main motivations for establishing Pacific Conservation Biology was to provide a forum where ecologists in government agencies could express their views about environmental issues, including shortcomings of current conservation policies and practices. In this context, it was interesting to read recent coverage of statements by a regular visitor to Australia, Professor Paul Ehrlich, about suppression of ecologists employed by government conservation agencies (e.g., New Scientist, 18 November, 1995, pp. 4?5) . Needless to say, this interpretation was vigorously disputed by representatives from Federal and State agencies.
The 10 Lords of the Universe - the New South Wales TSC Act's Scientific Committee
Authors: Lim Leong
Published: May 2016

The question as to whom should the authority to determine listing and delisting of species, populations, ecological communities and key threatening processes that affects the state's wildlife (flora and fauna) be delegated, for what purpose and what priority we should place them in relation to all of society's needs, is a fundamental and an important one. The authority for setting up the Scientific Committee of the Threatened Species Conservation Act (New South Wales) 1995 is examined. Its functions and the individuals that make up this Committee, who they represent and the determinations this Committee has reached so far are discussed. The implications for the listing of species, populations and ecological communities with some of the more serious problems such listings have caused are outlined with particular reference to the application of the 8-Point Test under s 5A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. These practical difficulties aside, the fundamental question still remains; Can the New South Wales State Parliament delegate its legislative powers for peace, welfare and good government, to a lower authority that is not directly elected by the people, accountable to no one and that has no propriety interest in the subject matter? Thus a question of Constitutional validity of all or part of the TSC Act arises.
The Kangaroo Rats of California: endemism and conservation of keystone species
Authors: L. Goldingay Ross , A. Kelly Patrick , F. Williams Daniel
Published: May 2016

This review describes the great diversity and endemism of Kangaroo Rats Dipodomys spp. in California. Many species are formally listed as endangered and others are likely to be listed in the near future. We review recent efforts to conserve these small bipedal rodents. We argue that they deserve special emphasis because they have been shown to play key roles in ecosystem structure and composition. Indeed, many of the plant communities occupied by Kangaroo Rats have now been identified as at risk because of excessive habitat destruction and fragmentation. It is clear that preservation of Kangaroo Rats and their plant communities will not be achieved through simply setting aside blocks of habitat as reserves. Conservation areas will require active management in order to maintain existing biodiversity, but further studies are required to ascertain how best to manage these communities. We believe that Kangaroo Rats are important subjects for management studies and ecosystem monitoring. Preliminary studies of the size of reserves required to maintain viable populations of one species show that despite the often high abundance of Kangaroo Rats (35 animals/ha), large areas (>5 000 ha) will be required. Therefore, considerable biodiversity is likely to be protected by focusing on these species, particularly if conservation and recovery efforts are applied on a regional scale.