bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise-like effects by Estrogen-related receptor-gamma in muscle do not prevent insulin resistance in db/db mice
Authors: Badin Pierre-Marie , Vila Isabelle K. , Sopariwala Danesh H. , Yadav Vikas , Lorca Sabina , Louche Katie , Kim Eun Ran , Tong Qingchun , Song Min Sup , Moro Cedric , Narkar Vihang A.
Published: May 2016

Dissecting exercise-mimicking pathways that can replicate the benefits of exercise in obesity and diabetes may lead to promising treatments for metabolic disorders. Muscle estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERRγ) is induced by exercise, and when over-expressed in the skeletal muscle mimics exercise by stimulating glycolytic-to-oxidative myofiber switch, mitochondrial biogenesis and angiogenesis in lean mice. The objective of this study was to test whether muscle ERRγ in obese mice mitigates weight gain and insulin resistance. To do so, ERRγ was selectively over-expressed in the skeletal muscle of obese and diabetic db/db mice. Muscle ERRγ over-expression successfully triggered glycolytic-to-oxidative myofiber switch, increased functional mitochondrial content and boosted vascular supply in the db/db mice. Despite aerobic remodeling, ERRγ surprisingly failed to improve whole-body energy expenditure, block muscle accumulation of triglycerides, toxic diacylglycerols (DAG) and ceramides or suppress muscle PKCε sarcolemmal translocation in db/db mice. Consequently, muscle ERRγ did not mitigate impaired muscle insulin signaling or insulin resistance in these mice. In conclusion, obesity and diabetes in db/db mice are not amenable to selective ERRγ-directed programming of classic exercise-like effects in the skeletal muscle. Other biochemical pathways or integrated whole-body effects of exercise may be critical for resisting diabetes and obesity.
Tuning the ferromagnetic phase in the CDW compound SmNiC2 via chemical alloying
Authors: Prathiba G. , Kim I. , Shin S. , Strychalska J. , Klimczuk T. , Park T.
Published: May 2016

We report a study on tuning the charge density wave (CDW) ferromagnet SmNiC2 to a weakly coupled superconductor by substituting La for Sm. X-ray diffraction measurements show that the doped compounds obey Vegard’s law, where La (Lu) alloying expands (shrinks) the lattice due to its larger (smaller) atomic size than Sm. In the series Sm1−xLaxNiC2, CDW transition (TCDW = 148 K) for SmNiC2 is gradually suppressed, while the ferromagnetic (FM) ordering temperature (TC) at 17 K slightly increases up to x = 0.3. For x > 0.3, TC starts to decrease and there is no signature that could be related with the CDW phase. Electrical resistivity, magnetic susceptibility and specific heat measurements point toward the possible presence of a FM quantum critical point (QCP) near x = 0.92, where the TC is extrapolated to zero temperature. Superconductivity in LaNiC2 (Tsc = 2.9 K) is completely suppressed with small amount of Sm inclusion near the proposed FM critical point, indicating a competition between the two ordered phases. The tunable lattice parameters via chemical substitution (La,Lu) and the ensuing change among the ordered phases of ferromagnetism, CDW and superconductivity underscores that SmNiC2 provides a rich avenue to study the rare example of a FM QCP, where the broken symmetries are intricately correlated.
Self-assembly of PEGylated tetra-phenylalanine derivatives: structural insights from solution and solid state studies
Authors: Diaferia Carlo , Mercurio Flavia Anna , Giannini Cinzia , Sibillano Teresa , Morelli Giancarlo , Leone Marilisa , Accardo Antonella
Published: May 2016

Water soluble fibers of PEGylated tetra-phenylalanine (F4), chemically modified at the N-terminus with the DOTA chelating agent, have been proposed as innovative contrast agent (CA) in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) upon complexation of the gadolinium ion. An in-depth structural characterization of PEGylated F4-fibers, in presence (DOTA-L6-F4) and in absence of DOTA (L6-F4), is reported in solution and at the solid state, by a multiplicity of techniques including CD, FTIR, NMR, DLS, WAXS and SAXS. This study aims to better understand how the aggregation process influences the performance of nanostructures as MRI CAs. Critical aggregation concentrations for L6-F4 (43 μM) and DOTA-L6-F4 (75 μM) indicate that self-aggregation process occurs in the same concentration range, independently of the presence of the CA. The driving force for the aggregation is the π-stacking between the side chains of the aromatic framework. CD, FTIR and WAXS measurements indicate an antiparallel β-sheet organization of the monomers in the resulting fibers. Moreover, WAXS and FTIR experiments point out that in solution the nanomaterials retain the same morphology and monomer organizations of the solid state, although the addition of the DOTA chelating agent affects the size and the degree of order of the fibers.
Antennal transcriptome analysis of the Asian longhorned beetle Anoplophora glabripennis
Authors: Hu Ping , Wang Jingzhen , Cui Mingming , Tao Jing , Luo Youqing
Published: May 2016

Olfactory proteins form the basis of insect olfactory recognition, which is crucial for host identification, mating, and oviposition. Using transcriptome analysis of Anoplophora glabripennis antenna, we identified 42 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 12 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 14 pheromone-degrading enzymes (PDEs), 1 odorant-degrading enzymes (ODE), 37 odorant receptors (ORs), 11 gustatory receptors (GRs), 2 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), and 4 ionotropic receptor (IR). All CSPs and PBPs were expressed in antennae, confirming the authenticity of the transcriptome data. CSP expression profiles showed that AglaCSP3, AglaCSP6, and AglaCSP12 were expressed preferentially in maxillary palps and AglaCSP7 and AglaCSP9 were strongly expressed in antennae. The vast majority of CSPs were highly expressed in multiple chemosensory tissues, suggesting their participation in olfactory recognition in almost all olfactory tissues. Intriguingly, the PBP AglaPBP2 was preferentially expressed in antenna, indicating that it is the main protein involved in efficient and sensitive pheromone recognition. Phylogenetic analysis of olfactory proteins indicated AglaGR1 may detect CO2. This study establishes a foundation for determining the chemoreception molecular mechanisms of A. glabripennis, which would provide a new perspective for controlling pest populations, especially those of borers.
Analysis of receptor tyrosine kinase genetics identifies two novel risk loci in GAS6 and PROS1 in Behçet’s disease
Authors: Qin Jieying , Li Lin , Zhang Donglei , Yu Hongsong , Tan Handan , Zhang Jun , Deng Bolin , Kijlstra Aize , Yang Peizeng
Published: May 2016

The TAM kinase (Tyro3, Axl, Mer) and its two ligands (Gas6 and protein S) have been shown to play an important regulatory role in the innate immune response. The present study aimed to investigate whether the tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (tag SNPs) of these 5 protein-coding genes are associated with Behçet’s disease (BD). A two-stage association study was performed in a total of 907 BD patients and 1780 healthy controls. Altogether 32 polymorphisms were tested, using a Sequenom MassARRAY genotyping method in the first stage and a PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay in the replication phase. Real-time PCR was performed to test the relative mRNA expression level of GAS6 and PROS1 from different SNP genotyped healthy individuals. The frequency of the C allele and CC genotype of rs9577873 in GAS6 (Pc = 4.92 × 10−5, Pc = 1.91 × 10−5, respectively) and A allele and AA genotype of rs4857037 in PROS1 (Pc = 1.85 × 10−6, Pc = 4.52 × 10−7, respectively) were significantly increased in BD. GAS6 expression in CC carriers of rs9577873 was significantly lower than that in CT/TT individuals (P = 0.001). Decreased expression of GAS6 and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ: P = 4.23 × 10−4, P = 0.011, respectively) in individuals carrying the CC genotype suggest that the TAM-GAS6/PROS1 signal pathway may be involved in the pathogenesis of BD.
Inhibition of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on pathogenic biofilm formation and invasion to host cells
Authors: Yu Qilin , Li Jianrong , Zhang Yueqi , Wang Yufan , Liu Lu , Li Mingchun
Published: May 2016

Owing to the growing infectious diseases caused by eukaryotic and prokaryotic pathogens, it is urgent to develop novel antimicrobial agents against clinical pathogenic infections. Biofilm formation and invasion into the host cells are vital processes during pathogenic colonization and infection. In this study, we tested the inhibitory effect of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) on pathogenic growth, biofilm formation and invasion. Interestingly, although the synthesized AuNPs had no significant toxicity to the tested pathogens,Candida albicansandPseudomonas aeruginosa, the nanoparticles strongly inhibited pathogenic biofilm formation and invasion to dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Further investigations revealed that AuNPs abundantly bound to the pathogen cells, which likely contributed to their inhibitory effect on biofilm formation and invasion. Moreover, treatment of AuNPs led to activation of immune response-related genes in DPSCs, which may enhance the activity of host immune system against the pathogens. Zeta potential analysis and polyethylene glycol (PEG)/polyethyleneimine (PEI) coating tests further showed that the interaction between pathogen cells and AuNPs is associated with electrostatic attractions. Our findings shed novel light on the application of nanomaterials in fighting against clinical pathogens, and imply that the traditional growth inhibition test is not the only way to evaluate the drug effect during the screening of antimicrobial agents.
The Talbot Effect for two-dimensional massless Dirac fermions
Authors: Walls Jamie D. , Hadad Daniel
Published: May 2016

A monochromatic beam of wavelength λ transmitted through a periodic one-dimensional diffraction grating with lattice constant d will be spatially refocused at distances from the grating that are integer multiples of "Equation missing". This self-refocusing phenomena, commonly referred to as the Talbot effect, has been experimentally demonstrated in a variety of systems ranging from optical to matter waves. Theoretical predictions suggest that the Talbot effect should exist in the case of relativistic Dirac fermions with nonzero mass. However, the Talbot effect for massless Dirac fermions (mDfs), such as those found in monolayer graphene or in topological insulator surfaces, has not been previously investigated. In this work, the theory of the Talbot effect for two-dimensional mDfs is presented. It is shown that the Talbot effect for mDfs exists and that the probability density of the transmitted mDfs waves through a periodic one-dimensional array of localized scatterers is also refocused at integer multiples of zT. However, due to the spinor nature of the mDfs, there are additional phase-shifts and amplitude modulations in the probability density that are most pronounced for waves at non-normal incidence to the scattering array.
Selective Chemical Conversion of Sugars in Aqueous Solutions without Alkali to Lactic Acid Over a Zn-Sn-Beta Lewis Acid-Base Catalyst
Authors: Dong Wenjie , Shen Zheng , Peng Boyu , Gu Minyan , Zhou Xuefei , Xiang Bo , Zhang Yalei
Published: May 2016

Lactic acid is an important platform molecule in the synthesis of a wide range of chemicals. However, in aqueous solutions without alkali, its efficient preparation via the direct catalysis of sugars is hindered by a side dehydration reaction to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural due to Brønsted acid, which originates from organic acids. Herein, we report that a previously unappreciated combination of common two metal mixed catalyst (Zn-Sn-Beta) prepared via solid-state ion exchange synergistically promoted this reaction. In water without a base, a conversion exceeding 99% for sucrose with a lactic acid yield of 54% was achieved within 2 hours at 190 °C under ambient air pressure. Studies of the acid and base properties of the Zn-Sn-Beta zeolite suggest that the introduction of Zn into the Sn-Beta zeolite sequentially enhanced both the Lewis acid and base sites and the base sites inhibited a series of side reactions related to fructose dehydration to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and its subsequent decomposition.
Thermal conductivity of polymer composites with the geometrical characteristics of graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Kim Hyun Su , Bae Hyun Sung , Yu Jaesang , Kim Seong Yun
Published: May 2016

One of the most important physical factors related to the thermal conductivity of composites filled with graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) is the dimensions of the GNPs, that is, their lateral size and thickness. In this study, we reveal the relationship between the thermal conductivity of polymer composites and the realistic size of GNP fillers within the polymer composites (measured using three-dimensional (3D) non-destructive micro X-ray CT analysis) while minimizing the effects of the physical parameters other than size. A larger lateral size and thickness of the GNPs increased the likelihood of the matrix-bonded interface being reduced, resulting in an effective improvement in the thermal conductivity and in the heat dissipation ability of the composites. The thermal conductivity was improved by up to 121% according to the filler size; the highest bulk and in-plane thermal conductivity values of the composites filled with 20 wt% GNPs were 1.8 and 7.3 W/m·K, respectively. The bulk and in-plane thermal conductivity values increased by 650 and 2,942%, respectively, when compared to the thermal conductivity values of the polymer matrix employed (0.24 W/m·K).
Emergence of diversity and stereochemical outcomes in the biosynthetic pathways of cyclobutane-centered marine alkaloid dimers
Authors: Beniddir Mehdi A. , Evanno Laurent , Joseph Delphine , Skiredj Adam , Poupon Erwan
Published: May 2016

A deep-sea dive into the ecology and chemistry of surprising cyclobutanes from marine invertebrates.
π-Conjugated phospholes and their incorporation into devices: components with a great deal of potential
Authors: Duffy M. P. , Delaunay W. , Bouit P.-A. , Hissler M.
Published: May 2016

This review serves as a brief introduction to phospholes and discusses their unique favorable properties for application in organic electronic materials.
Multi-target detection of oxidative stress biomarkers in quercetin and myricetin treated human red blood cells
Authors: Maurya Pawan Kumar , Kumar Prabhanshu , Nagotu Shirisha , Chand Subhash , Chandra Pranjal
Published: May 2016

Quercetin and myricetin help against oxidative stress in human red blood cells during aging, thereby has tremendous scope in medical diagnostics and therapeutics.
Efficient removal of crystal violet by diatomite and carbon in the fixed bed column: influence of different glucose/diatomite
Authors: Zhang Yanzhuo , Li Jun , Cheng Xiaojie , Bian Wei , Chen Guanghui , Li Yun , Li Wenjing , Zheng Zhaoming
Published: May 2016

This study investigated the way in which the modified adsorbent diatomite earth and glucose (DE & C) content affects the removal of crystal violet (CV) from water using a fixed bed column during hydrothermal carbonization.
Self-strengthening hybrid dental adhesive via visible-light irradiation triple polymerization
Authors: Song Linyong , Ye Qiang , Ge Xueping , Misra Anil , Tamerler Candan , Spencer Paulette
Published: May 2016

An integrated triple polymerization system containing free radical polymerization, cationic polymerization, and photoacid-induced sol–gel reaction was designed and successfully applied to develop dental adhesive capable of self-strengthening property in wet environments.
Tandem allylic alcohol isomerization/oxo-Michael addition reaction promoted by Re2O7
Authors: Hu Jiadong , Xu Dongyang , Zhang Qiang , Shang Yang , Shi Mumin , Huangfu Yucui , Liu Leilei , Rong liang Rong liang , Lai Yisheng , He Yupeng , Gao Jin-ming , Xie Weiqing
Published: May 2016

Re2O7 enables a tandem allylic alcohol isomerization/oxa-Michael addition reaction of cyclohexadienone.
Low thermal budget, photonic-cured compact TiO2 layers for high-efficiency perovskite solar cells
Authors: Das Sanjib , Gu Gong , Joshi Pooran C. , Yang Bin , Aytug Tolga , Rouleau Christopher M. , Geohegan David B. , Xiao Kai
Published: May 2016

High-efficiency perovskite solar cells were fabricated using low thermal budget photonic-cured compact TiO2 as the electron transport layer. The best device on glass substrate exhibited an efficiency of 15% with average efficiency of 12.7%, comparable to the devices with furnace-annealed TiO2. Flexible devices were as efficient as 11.2%.
Exploring the working mechanism of Li+ in O3-type NaLi0.1Ni0.35Mn0.55O2 cathode materials for rechargeable Na-ion batteries
Authors: Zheng Shiyao , Zhong Guiming , McDonald Matthew J. , Gong Zhengliang , Liu Rui , Wen Wen , Yang Chun , Yang Yong
Published: May 2016

Li-substitution can improve the structural stability by forming an intermediate O′3 phase that can ease the destructive O3–P3 direct phase transition.
Polymer electrolytes for lithium polymer batteries
Authors: Long Lizhen , Wang Shuanjin , Xiao Min , Meng Yuezhong
Published: May 2016

In this review, state-of-the-art polymer electrolytes are discussed with respect to their electrochemical and physical properties for their application in lithium polymer batteries.
Optimized nitrogen-doped carbon with a hierarchically porous structure as a highly efficient cathode for Na–O2batteries
Authors: Ma Jin-ling , Zhang Xin-bo
Published: May 2016

Optimized N-doped carbon material as an air cathode for a Na–O2cell greatly improves discharge capacity by tuning the morphology of the products.
C8-modified CeO2//SiO2 Janus fibers for selective capture and individual MS detection of low-abundance peptides and phosphopeptides
Authors: Lv Nan , Wang Zhigang , Bi Wenzhi , Li Guangming , Zhang Jilin , Ni Jiazuan
Published: May 2016

The novel CeO2//SiO2-C8 probe with a Janus structure can selectively extract low-abundance peptides and phosphopeptides from biosamples for individual MS detection.
Silica@zirconia@poly(malic acid) nanoparticles: promising nanocarriers for theranostic applications
Authors: Naszályi Nagy L. , Polyak A. , Mihály J. , Szécsényi Á. , Szigyártó I. Cs. , Czégény Zs. , Jakab E. , Németh P. , Magda B. , Szabó P. , Veres Zs. , Jemnitz K. , Bertóti I. , Jóba R. P. , Trencsényi Gy. , Balogh L. , Bóta A.
Published: May 2016

Nanocarriers designed, synthesized and characterized for the targeted delivery of diagnostic and therapeutic 99mTc to folate-overexpressing tumors.
Crystallization induced ordering of hard magnetic L1 phase in melt-spun FeNi-based ribbons
Authors: Sato Kazuhisa , Sharma Parmanand , Zhang Yan , Takenaka Kana , Makino Akihiro
Published: May 2016

The microstructure of newly developed hard magnetic Fe42Ni41.3SixB12-xP4Cu0.7 (x = 2 to 8 at%) nanocrystalline alloy ribbons has been studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron diffraction. A high-density polycrystalline grains, ∼30 nm in size, were formed in a ribbon after annealing at 673 K for 288 hours. Elemental mapping of the annealed specimen revealed the coexistence of three regions, Fe-rich, Ni-rich, and nearly equiatomic Fe-Ni, with areal fractions of 37%, 40%, and 23 %, respectively. The equiatomic L10-type ordered phase of FeNi was detected in between the Fe and Ni-rich phases. The presence of superlattice reflections in nanobeam electron diffraction patterns confirmed the formation of the hard magnetic L10 phase beyond any doubt. The L10 phase of FeNi was detected in alloys annealed in the temperature range of 673 to 813 K. The present results suggest that the order-disorder transition temperature of L10 FeNi is higher than the previously reported value (593 K). The high diffusion rates of the constituent elements induced by the crystallization of an amorphous phase at relatively low temperature (∼673K) are responsible for the development of atomic ordering in FeNi.
Magnetocaloric effect in amorphous and partially crystallized Fe40Ni38Mo4B18 alloys
Authors: Thanveer T. , Ramanujan R. V. , Thomas S.
Published: May 2016

A study of magnetocaloric effect in amorphous and partially crystallized Fe40Ni38Mo4B18 alloys is reported. Amorphous Fe40Ni38Mo4B18, near its magnetic ordering temperature (600K) showed a magnetic entropy change ΔSM of 1.1 J/KgK and a relative cooling power of 36J/Kg in a field change of 10 kOe. Amorphous samples were partially crystallized by annealing at 700 K at different time intervals. Partially crystallized samples showed two distinct magnetic ordering temperature, one corresponding to the precipitated FeNi nanocrystals and the other one corresponding to the boron rich amorphous matrix. Magnetic ordering temperature of the residual amorphous matrix got shifted to the lower temperatures on increasing the annealing duration. Partially crystallised samples showed a magnetic entropy change of about 0.27J/kgK near the magnetic ordering temperature of the amorphous matrix (540K) in a field change of 10 kOe. The decrease in ΔSM on partial crystallisation is attributed to the biphasic magnetic nature of the sample.
Spin waves in the soft layer of exchange-coupled soft/hard bilayers
Authors: Xiong Zheng-min , Ge Su-qin , Wang Xi-guang , Li Zhi-xiong , Tang Wei , Xia Qing-lin , Wang Dao-wei , Nie Yao-zhuang , Zeng Zhong-ming , Guo Guang-hua
Published: May 2016

The magnetic dynamical properties of the soft layer in exchange-coupled soft/hard bilayers have been investigated numerically using a one-dimensional atomic chain model. The frequencies and spatial profiles of spin wave eigenmodes are calculated during the magnetization reversal process of the soft layer. The spin wave modes exhibit a spatially modulated amplitude, which is especially evident for high-order modes. A dynamic pinning effect of surface magnetic moment is observed. The spin wave eigenfrequency decreases linearly with the increase of the magnetic field in the uniformly magnetized state and increases nonlinearly with field when spiral magnetization configuration is formed in the soft layer.
High performance and transparent multilayer MoS2 transistors: Tuning Schottky barrier characteristics
Authors: Hong Young Ki , Yoo Geonwook , Kwon Junyeon , Hong Seongin , Song Won Geun , Liu Na , Omkaram Inturu , Yoo Byungwook , Ju Sanghyun , Kim Sunkook , Oh Min Suk
Published: May 2016

Various strategies and mechanisms have been suggested for investigating a Schottky contact behavior in molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) thin-film transistor (TFT), which are still in much debate and controversy. As one of promising breakthrough for transparent electronics with a high device performance, we have realized MoS2 TFTs with source/drain electrodes consisting of transparent bi-layers of a conducting oxide over a thin film of low work function metal. Intercalation of a low work function metal layer, such as aluminum, between MoS2 and transparent source/drain electrodes makes it possible to optimize the Schottky contact characteristics, resulting in about 24-fold and 3 orders of magnitude enhancement of the field-effect mobility and on-off current ratio, respectively, as well as transmittance of 87.4 % in the visible wavelength range.
Testing methods for mitigation of tree dieback in Tasmanian dry eucalypt forests and woodlands
Authors: B. Kirkpatrick A. Zacharek J. , Chappell K.
Published: May 2016

Dieback of eucalypts is a widespread phenomenon in subhumid eastern Australian vegetation remnants. It has been shown to have a multifactorial etiology, including drought, vertebrate and invertebrate predation and stock impacts. At three dieback sites in subhumid Tasmania experimental plots were established in the period 1996?1998 to test the single and interactive effects of possum exclusion, watering and stock exclusion on the health of trees, and to determine the influence of fencing on soil bulk density and eucalypt regeneration. At two sites the exclusion of possums mitigated dieback over the two year measurement period, although at one site the trees continued to deteriorate. At the third site there was no impact of any of the treatments, and changes in health over the experimental period related to tree size, indicating a self-thinning process. Soil penetration resistance decreased in the fenced treatment at all sites, and eucalypt regeneration was encouraged by fencing at two sites. Although the results of the experiment are not consistent with moisture deficiencies as a causal factor in dieback, this may relate either to a lack of severe drought during the measurement period, which followed a decade of such drought, or to the magnitude and/or application method of the watering. The results of the experiment indicate that, at some sites, the exclusion of possums will improve tree health, and that the exclusion of stock can improve tree regeneration and soil conditions.
Some future prospects for systematic biodiversity planning in Papua New Guinea - and for biodiversity planning in general
Authors: P. Faith Daniel , A. Walker P. , R. Margules C.
Published: May 2016

We describe three challenges for biodiversity planning, which arise from a study in Papua New Guinea, but apply equally to biodiversity planning in general. These are 1) the best use of available data for providing biodiversity surrogate information, 2) the integration of representativeness and persistence goals into the area prioritization process, and 3) implications for the implementation of a conservation plan over time. Each of these problems is linked to the effective use of complementarity. Further, we find that a probabilistic framework for calculating persistence-based complementarity values over time can contribute to resolving each challenge. Probabilities allow for the exploration of a range of possible complementarity values over different planning scenarios, and provide a way to evalua!e biodiversity surrogates. The integration of representativeness and persistence goals, via estimated probabilities of persistence, facilitates the crediting of partial protection provided by sympathetic management. For the selection of priority areas and land use allocation, partial protection may be a "given" or implied by an allocated land use. Such an integration also allows the incorporation of vulnerability/threat information at the level of attributes or areas, incorporating persistence values that may depend on reserve design. As an example of the use of persistence probabilities, we derive an alternative proposed priority area set for PNG. This is based on 1) a goal of 0.99 probability of persistence of all biodiversity surrogate attributes used in the study, 2) an assumption of a 0.10 probability of persistence in the absence of any form of formal protection, and 3) a 0.90 probability of persistence for surrogate attributes in proposed priority areas, assuming formal protection is afforded to them. The calculus of persistence also leads to a proposed system of environmental levies based on biodiversity complementarity values. The assigned levy for an area may change to reflect its changing complementarity value in light of changes to protection status of other areas. We also propose a number of complementarity-based options for a carbon credits framework. These address required principles of additionality and collateral benefits from biodiversity protection. A related biodiversity credits scheme, also based on complementarity, encourages investments in those areas that make greatest ongoing contributions to regional biodiversity representation and persistence. All these new methods point to a new "systematic conservation planning" that is not focused only on selecting sets of areas but utilizes complementarity values and changes in probabilities of persistence for a range of decision making processes. The cornerstone of biodiversity planning, complementarity, no longer reflects only relative amounts of biodiversity but also relative probabilities of persistence.
Guidelines for Marine Protected Areas
Authors: Westera Mark
Published: May 2016

Guidelines to marine protected areas is a collation of efforts from the IUCN, NOAA and Cardiff University, among others. It is aimed at managers and would be managers of marine parks, but will also be of use to anyone involved in the Marine Protected Area (MPA) process from conceptual planning to establishment, monitoring and management. Its broad application takes into account the hurdles that a manager is likely to encounter. There are nine sections, an introduction, an evaluation of the legal framework required to successfully establish MPAs, a discussion on dealing with all the relevant parties, involving communities and other stakeholders, site selection, planning and managing MPAs, zoning, evaluating economic aspect and financial sustainability, and finally a section on research, monitoring and review. Boxes are used throughout the text within each chapter to summarize important points and make for quick reference to the topic of that chapter.
The past, future and present of biodiversity conservation in Australia
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

Australia has a poor record for biodiversity conservation. Government and community priorities promote growth and resource exploitation over conservation and ecologically sustainable land and water use. Programmes to protect biodiversity are inadequate, poorly funded, and inappropriate. Consequently, Australia has a large extinction debt and the 21st Century will see massive losses of continental biodiversity. Because birds are well known, these trends are already evident among Australia's avifauna and illustrate the magnitude of the problems facing biodiversity conservation in 21st Century Australia. Only by ending land clearing, limiting population growth, and adopting scientifically based land and water management and conservation practices can these trends be reversed. This is unlikely, as Australia's largely urban population is ill-informed, while the scientific community is marginalized and the agenda of green groups perpetuates the status quo.
Bird assemblages in wildlife habitat strips in a Tasmanian plantation matrix
Authors: A. MacDonald Michael , J. Taylor Robert , G. Candy Steven
Published: May 2016

In Tasmania, a system of 100 m wide strips of native forest, referred to as wildlife habitat strips, is retained within production forest, including plantations. Thirty-nine points in 18 wildlife habitat strips within both eucalypt and pine plantations (which were not differentiated for the purposes of the present study) were paired with points in nearby extensive native forest and surveyed for birds. At non-riparian sites (upper slopes and ridges), bird species richness and total abundance were both significantly lower in habitat strips than in controls. This difference is quantitative rather than qualitative, as ordination did not distinguish strip sites and controls, and no species were obviously absent from habitat strips. Riparian zones showed no significant difference in species richness and total abundance between habitat strips and controls. Species richness and total abundance relative to controls increased as wildlife habitat strip length increased over the measured range (0.4-2.1 km). It is thought that this may be because birds perceive strips as linear forest patches rather than corridors, so that there may be a habitat area effect. Other strip characteristics such as width and plantation age were not significant in riparian areas, but may be important on upper slopes and ridges, and the former will affect strip area. Wildlife habitat strips appear to be a valuable component of a conservation programme for birds in production forests in Tasmania.
Landscape surrogates of forest fragmentation: Synthesis of Australian Montreal Process case studies
Authors: A. McAlpine C. , B. Lindenmayer D. , J. Eyre T. , R. Phinn S.
Published: May 2016

Habitat loss and fragmentation are key biodiversity indicators of the Montreal Protocol for monitoring progress towards ecologically sustainable forest management. Over the last 15 years, an array of landscape metrics have been developed as spatial measures of habitat loss and fragmentation. However, most metrics require rigorous empirical testing if they are to provide scientifically credible information to managers and policy makers. We present a synthesis of three Australian case studies for developing Montreal Indicator 1.1e, fragmentation of forest type, each representing different levels of landscape modification: St Mary State Forest, south-east Queensland; Tumut, southern New South Wales; and the Central Highlands, Victoria. Collectively, the studies found that no single landscape metric captured the response of the target species and fauna assemblages, or served as a reliable ecological surrogate for the conservation of a large set of species. Rather, species demonstrated a diversity of responses to habitat loss and fragmentation. Fragmentation effects were more important for the Tumut study, but not important for the Central Highlands study. Stand-scale habitat variables and area of suitable habitat were dominant explanatory variables for the St Mary study. Differences in observed response are partly explained by: (i) differences in landscape structure, particularly the proportion of preferred forest habitat remaining; (ii) differences in the ecology of target species; and (iii) the insensitivity of the landscape measures. Based on the outcomes of the three case studies, we propose principles for developing landscape surrogates for conserving biodiversity in Australia's eucalypt forest landscapes.
The need for a vision
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

ALL of us are aware of the changes to our lives and surroundings brought by growing numbers of people and by new and improved technologies. Many of these changes have brought opportunities undreamed of by past generations; for many of us our lives are healthier and longer than at any time in human history and we share unimaginable wealth and prosperity. Unfortunately not everyone shares in these benefits. The growth of human populations, the exploitation of resources, and new technologies have contributed to a growing gap between rich and poor. Pollution and environmental degradation affect all people and all parts of the planet. Wilderness and nature have retreated before the expansion of the human enterprise.
Balancing economics and sustainability in building an integrated agricultural system
Authors: J. Pannell David
Published: May 2016

SUCCESS in achieving our goals for natural ecosystems and rural resources depends on the people responsible for day-to-day management of the resources (primarily farmers) . Their management practices depend on a range of factors, but economic considerations figure prominently. We must allow for these economic motivations when selecting policies aimed at creating a balanced, integrated and sustainable agricultural system. Here I discuss the selection of a set of economic and social policies which will shape the agricultural system in a way which promotes sound management of the natural resources and protection of the environment.
Avian use of farm habitats, including windbreaks, on the New South Wales Tablelands
Authors: Cilla Kinross DR.
Published: May 2016

Many windbreaks are being planted on the Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia to provide shelter for stock and crops, but little is known of the effect of these linear plantations on the regional bird community. This paper compares the avian diversity, density and species composition in a range of habitats in agricultural landscapes, including farm windbreaks, and draws conclusions as to the benefits of windbreaks to bird conservation. The data were collected between 1993 and 1997 with 12 visits to each of 84 sites, placed a priori into seven habitat types on six grazing properties in the Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia and analysed using ANOVA and canonical variate analysis to identify bird-habitat relationships and patterns. Species diversity and density were found to be highest in remnant woodland and lowest in grassland, but differences between other habitats were less robust. Windbreaks >19 m wide were closer in diversity and species composition to remnant woodland than windbreaks =15 m wide. Of the 105 bird species observed, 17 were confined to remnant woodland and 67 native species were observed using planted sites. These species were not, as had been predicted, entirely composed of generalist-opportunistic species, but, particularly in the wider planted sites, included several woodland species identified as declining in this region. Although clearly not as important as remnant woodland, farm windbreaks, shelterbelts and woodlots of suitable size and composition appear to contribute significantly to avian diversity in agricultural areas and their planting should be encouraged and supported by the rural community and government.
News from the Australasian Section of the Society for Conservation Biology
Authors: Silberbauer Tish , Mack Andy , Firestone Karen
Published: May 2016

The Pacific nations are isolated, not only in a biogeographical sense, but also in terms of interaction with the broader conservation community. To help address this sense of isolation, increase communication within the Australasian section of the Society for Conservation Biology, and to bring recognition to those working in conservation in this area, the Australasian Section has initiated a "Bula (hello) Column" from the South Pacific. In this issue, Craig Morley, from the University of the South Pacific, gives us an overview of current programmes and some of the challenges faced by conservation scientists in the Pacific.
Kahikatea Dacrycarpus dacrydioides and Totara-Matai Podocarpus totara-Prumnopitys taxifolia forest patches in the agricultural landscape, Westland, New Zealand: representatives of a past and future condition
Authors: J. Miller C. , A. Norton D. , K. Miller T.
Published: May 2016

Due to extensive clearance, podocarp forests on alluvial floodplains are under-represented, relative to their original extent, in the New Zealand agricultural landscape, and remnants are a priority for protection. This study uses a stand dynamics approach to 1) determine whether Kahikatea Dacrycarpus dacrydioides and Totara-Matai Podocarpus totara-Prumnopitys taxifolia forest patches in Westland, New Zealand, are remnants of pre-European forest, and 2) predict whether podocarp species will remain dominant in these patches. The majority of patches were initiated following European land clearance, with few being remnants of the original forest. Recruitment of podocarp seedlings and saplings into the canopy is no longer occurring in these stands, and over time they are likely to become dominated by angiosperm species. Within patch management may be an option to maintain podocarp dominance, while providing an economic return for landholders. While the forest types are representative of the original forest, the forest communities are not, with a lower � diversity than in intact Kahikatea forest in the region. Planning for and managing patches as a shifting mosaic in the landscape is likely to be the most successful approach for maintaining their conservation value in the region.
Flight of the Huia: Ecology and Conservation of New Zealand's Frogs, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals
Authors: Hoare Joanne
Published: May 2016

The Huia Heteralocha acutirostris (Passerifonnes: Callaeidae) was a remarkable bird, endemic to New Zealand and famous for its sexual dimorphism in beak shape, which allowed differentiation of invertebrate resource collection by foraging pairs. Huia were once widespread throughout New Zealand, but declined rapidly following human settlement due to predation by introduced mammals, habitat loss, hunting and collecting, until their extinction in the early 20th Century. The plight of the Huia is, tragically, parallel to the stories of many of New Zealand?s endemic vertebrates, and is a fitting frontispiece for Kerry-Jane Wilson?s new book which delves into the ecological history of the New Zealand fauna.
Practical Conservation Biology
Authors: Stankowski S.
Published: May 2016

In recent years there has been a marked increase in the number of Australian universities offering courses or units in conservation biology. Consequently, there has been an increased demand for a student text which relates the intricacies of the discipline to the unique circumstances associated with the Australian continent. In response, Lindenmayer and Burgman deliver Practical Conservation Biology, a successor to their earlier text Conservation Biology for the Australian Environment.
A preliminary study of regeneration in wild populations of threatened endemic Hawaiian palms (Pritchardia; Arecaceae)
Authors: H. Chapin Melany , Maunder Mike , E. Horak Katherine
Published: May 2016

Island floras have been subject to catastrophic changes since human colonization; the Hawaiian Islands exemplify this pattern of species decline and ecological change. Archaeological and historic findings support the former existence of coastal, lowland and interior Pritchardia dominated forests. Wild Pritchardia populations are highly fragmented and exhibit poor or absent regeneration in the wild. This study records seed predation, goat grazing, pig damage, and human harvesting on six wild populations of three species and outlines requirements for the long-term management of wild populations. Only one population of the six studied was found to contain seedlings. Recommended conservation management strategies are outlined.
Deep Simplicity: Chaos, Complexity and the Emergence of Life
Authors: Russell Monica
Published: May 2016

The book Deep Simplicity is an introduction to chaos theory and the complex systems of the world. This book explains many concepts and physical laws associated with natural systems in a simple way. The author, Dr. John Gribbin, graduated with a degree in astrophysics from the University of Cambridge and is currently a visiting Fellow in astronomy at the University of Sussex. He has worked for the science journal Nature and the magazine New Scientist (for which he is now a physics consultant); some of his books include In search of Schr�dinger?s Cat (1984). In Search of the Big Bang (1986) and Fate of the Universe (1987).
I saw a nomad, and it was me
Authors: G. Mclean Ian
Published: May 2016

As I read over the papers contained in this symposium on dispersive fauna, four apparently completely unrelated images came to mind.
CSIRO List of Australian Vertebrates: A Reference with Conservation Status
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

This is the second edition of this very useful list of Australian vertebrates. The first edition was published in 1998 and has been frequently consulted when needing a name or to check my appalling spelling of Latin.
The Effects of Invasive Ants on the Nesting Success of Tristram's Storm-petrel, Oceanodroma tristrami, on Laysan Island, Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Authors: T. W. McClelland Gregory , L. Jones Ian
Published: May 2016

The possible impact of invasive ants on the avifauna of the Northwest Hawaiian Islands was investigated by studying the breeding success of Tristram's Storm-petrel Oceanodroma tristrami on Laysan Island. The tramp ant Monomorium pharaonis (L.) was found to be abundant in storm-petrel nesting areas on Laysan Island. There were 380 observations made on incubating adults and 798 observations for chicks, for a total of 1178 observations from 116 storm-petrel nest sites. No ant harassment events involving incubating adult storm-petrels were recorded. Thirteen instances of more than 5 ants on Tristram's Storm-petrel chicks were recorded. One harassment event was recorded, involving approximately 200 ants. The chick left the nest site immediately following the event, did not return, and presumably died. The number of nest failures attributed to M. pharaonis was 1% (n = 116). There was a significant relationship between nest type and ant interactions (G = 24.45, p = <0.0001, n =55), with incidents only recorded from birds nesting under vegetation. It was hypothesized that the ant interactions recorded in this study were a result of Tristram's Storm-petrel chicks being in close proximity to M. pharaonis nests rather than direct predation. Thus no evidence was found of a severe impact of invasive ants on the breeding success of storm-petrels at Laysan Island. Despite no direct ant impact particular attention should be given to the interactions between M. pharaonis and bird species reliant on vegetation for nesting cover, and studies therefore should include additional breeding bird species.
What Role Do Threatened Species Lists Play in New Zealand Conservation?
Authors: Ocock Joanne
Published: May 2016

Threatened species' lists have been consistently reviewed as easily misused, inappropriately applied, counterproductive, and reflecting changes in knowledge more often than changes in threat status (Burgman, 2002; de Grammont and Cuaron, 2006; Possingham et al., 2002; Seminoff and Shanker, 2008). However, with limited resources to deal with endangered species, effective conservation decision-making needs a means of determining where priorities lie. The EDGE list of the world's most ?Evolutionary Distinct? and ?Globally Endangered? amphibians ranks New Zealand's endemic Archey's Frog Leiopelma archeyi at the top of its list (www.edgeofexistence.org/ amphibians/top_100.php). What role should this ranking or any other threatened species list play in determining conservation priorities in New Zealand?
Assuming Responsibility
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

When i was growing up in New York City during the 1940s, people (ordinary people anyway) assumed responsibility for their own actions. That was back when falling on an icy sidewalk meant being careless and not that the City had failed in its duty of care; when you could go fishing in the local park without first climbing a chain link fence designed to stop kids from falling into the water and their parents suing the County for negligence; or, when you could ride a bicycle without a helmet and there were see-saws in the park alongside slippery-dips higher than the shoulders of a five year old. I am sure it was the same in Australia. Maybe some of the changes in social attitudes and the proliferation of rules and regulations are good things. Maybe it is good to wear a helmet when riding a bike; it certainly makes sense to use the seat belt when driving in a car and maybe kids should not be allowed to risk life and limb sliding down a 2.5 metre high slippery-dip. What is not good is the increasing refusal to assume responsibility, to be litigious, and the growth of the Nanny State where individuals are denied responsibility for their own actions and we are all dumbed down by the expectation of authorities that we will all behave and respond like the least intelligent, least educated, most anti-social and most physically inept member of society. I find this trend to state control of my freedom to choose what I do, how I do it and when I do it frustrating and annoying; for example, I am not allowed to carry a pocket knife so I can eat an apple for lunch or open a bag of crisps because of an irrational fear of youth violence in Sydney and politicians needing to appear ?tough? on crime. But not wanting to assign or assume responsibility for individual actions has more serious implications; ones that impact significantly on the future of global biodiversity and human survival.