bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic heterogeneity and non-Gaussian statistics for acetylcholine receptors on live cell membrane
Authors: He W. , Song H. , Su Y. , Geng L. , Ackerson B. J. , Peng H. B. , Tong P.
Published: May 2016

The Brownian motion of molecules at thermal equilibrium usually has a finite correlation time and will eventually be randomized after a long delay time, so that their displacement follows the Gaussian statistics. This is true even when the molecules have experienced a complex environment with a finite correlation time. Here, we report that the lateral motion of the acetylcholine receptors on live muscle cell membranes does not follow the Gaussian statistics for normal Brownian diffusion. From a careful analysis of a large volume of the protein trajectories obtained over a wide range of sampling rates and long durations, we find that the normalized histogram of the protein displacements shows an exponential tail, which is robust and universal for cells under different conditions. The experiment indicates that the observed non-Gaussian statistics and dynamic heterogeneity are inherently linked to the slow-active remodelling of the underlying cortical actin network.
Store-independent modulation of Ca2+ entry through Orai by Septin 7
Authors: Deb Bipan Kumar , Pathak Trayambak , Hasan Gaiti
Published: May 2016

Orai channels are required for store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in multiple cell types. Septins are a class of GTP-binding proteins that function as diffusion barriers in cells. Here we show that Septin 7 acts as a ‘molecular brake’ on activation of Orai channels in Drosophila neurons. Lowering Septin 7 levels results in dOrai-mediated Ca2+ entry and higher cytosolic Ca2+ in resting neurons. This Ca2+ entry is independent of depletion of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ stores and Ca2+ release through the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. Importantly, store-independent Ca2+ entry through Orai compensates for reduced SOCE in the Drosophila flight circuit. Moreover, overexpression of Septin 7 reduces both SOCE and flight duration, supporting its role as a negative regulator of Orai channel function in vivo. Septin 7 levels in neurons can, therefore, alter neural circuit function by modulating Orai function and Ca2+ homeostasis.
Erratum: Myoscape controls cardiac calcium cycling and contractility via regulation of L-type calcium channel surface expression
Authors: Eden Matthias , Meder Benjamin , Völkers Mirko , Poomvanicha Montatip , Domes Katrin , Branchereau M. , Marck P. , Will Rainer , Bernt Alexander , Rangrez Ashraf , Busch Matthias , de Angelis Martin Hrabě , Heymes Christophe , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Most Patrick , Hofmann Franz , Frey Norbert
Published: May 2016

Nature Communications 7, Article number: 11317 (2016); Published: 28 April 2016; Updated: 26 May 2016 The original version of this Article contained an error in the doi number, which was incorrectly given as 15.13155/ncomms11317. This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Stigmergy co-ordinates multicellular collective behaviours during Myxococcus xanthus surface migration
Authors: Gloag Erin S. , Turnbull Lynne , Javed Muhammad A. , Wang Huabin , Gee Michelle L. , Wade Scott A. , Whitchurch Cynthia B.
Published: May 2016

Surface translocation by the soil bacterium Myxococcus xanthus is a complex multicellular phenomenon that entails two motility systems. However, the mechanisms by which the activities of individual cells are coordinated to manifest this collective behaviour are currently unclear. Here we have developed a novel assay that enables detailed microscopic examination of M. xanthus motility at the interstitial interface between solidified nutrient medium and a glass coverslip. Under these conditions, M. xanthus motility is characterised by extensive micro-morphological patterning that is considerably more elaborate than occurs at an air-surface interface. We have found that during motility on solidified nutrient medium, M. xanthus forges an interconnected furrow network that is lined with an extracellular matrix comprised of exopolysaccharides, extracellular lipids, membrane vesicles and an unidentified slime. Our observations have revealed that M. xanthus motility on solidified nutrient medium is a stigmergic phenomenon in which multi-cellular collective behaviours are co-ordinated through trail-following that is guided by physical furrows and extracellular matrix materials.
Dynamic spatial patterns of leaf traits affect total respiration on the crown scale
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Zhou Hongxuan , Han Fengsen , Li Yuanzheng , Hu Dan
Published: May 2016

Temporal and spatial variations of leaf traits caused conflicting conclusions and great estimating errors of total carbon budget on crown scales. However, there is no effective method to quantitatively describe and study heterogeneous patterns of crowns yet. In this study, dynamic spatial patterns of typical ecological factors on crown scales were investigated during two sky conditions, and CEZs (crown ecological zones) method was developed for spatial crown zoning, within which leaf traits were statistically unchanged. The influencing factors on hourly and spatial variations of leaf dark respiration (Rd) were analysed, and total crown respiration (Rt) was estimated based on patterns of CEZs. The results showed that dynamic spatial patterns of air temperature and light intensity changed significantly by CEZs in special periods and positions, but not continuously. The contributions of influencing factors on variations of Rd changed with crown depth and sky conditions, and total contributions of leaf structural and chemical traits were higher during sunny days than ecological factors, but lower during cloudy days. The estimated errors of Rt may be obviously reduced with CEZs. These results provided some references for scaling from leaves to crown, and technical foundations for expanding lab-control experiments to open field ones.
The control of hyperglycemia by a novel trypsin resistant oral insulin preparation in alloxan induced type I diabetic mice
Authors: Bank Sarbashri , Ghosh Arjun , Bhattacharya Suman , Maiti Smarajit , Khan Gausal A. , Sinha Asru K
Published: May 2016

A trypsin resistant oral insulin preparation was made by incubating insulin for 2 h at 23 °C with previously boiled cow milk at 100 °C that was coagulated with 0.6 M acetic acid. The precipitate was resuspended in the same volume of milk. The immunoblot analysis of the suspended proteins treated with 200 ng of trypsin/ml for 3 h demonstrated that the 80.1% of the insulin in the suspension survived the proteolytic degradation compared to 0% of the hormone survived in the control. The feeding of 0.4 ml (0.08 unit of insulin) of the resuspended proteins followed by 0.2 ml of the same protein to alloxan induced diabetic mice maximally decreased the blood glucose level from 508 ± 10 mg/dl to 130 ± 10 mg/dl in 7 h with simultaneous increase of the basal plasma concentration of insulin from 3 ± 1.1 μunits/ml to 18 ± 1.5 μunits/ml. In control experiment the absence of insulin in the identical milk suspension produced no hypoglycemic effect suggesting milk was not responsible for the hypoglycemic effect of milk-insulin complex. Coming out of insulin-casein complex from the intestinal gut to the circulation was spontaneous and facilitated diffusion transportation which was found from Gibbs free energy reaction.
Cops2 promotes pluripotency maintenance by Stabilizing Nanog Protein and Repressing Transcription
Authors: Zhang Weiyu , Ni Peiling , Mou Chunlin , Zhang Yanqin , Guo Hongchao , Zhao Tong , Loh Yuin-Han , Chen Lingyi
Published: May 2016

The COP9 signalosome has been implicated in pluripotency maintenance of human embryonic stem cells. Yet, the mechanism for the COP9 signalosome to regulate pluripotency remains elusive. Through knocking down individual COP9 subunits, we demonstrate that Cops2, but not the whole COP9 signalosome, is essential for pluripotency maintenance in mouse embryonic stem cells. Down-regulation of Cops2 leads to reduced expression of pluripotency genes, slower proliferation rate, G2/M cell cycle arrest and compromised embryoid differentiation of embryonic stem cells. Cops2 also facilitates somatic cell reprogramming. We further show that Cops2 binds to Nanog protein and prevent the degradation of Nanog by proteasome. Moreover, Cops2 functions as transcriptional corepressor to facilitate pluripotency maintenance. Altogether, our data reveal the essential role and novel mechanisms of Cops2 in pluripotency maintenance.
Creation of localized spins in graphene by ring-opening of epoxy derived hydroxyl
Authors: Chen Jie , Zhang Weili , Sun Yuanyuan , Zheng Yongping , Tang Nujiang , Du Youwei
Published: May 2016

Creation of high-density localized spins in the basal plane of graphene sheet by introduction of sp3-type defects is considered to be a potential route for the realization of high-magnetization graphene. Theoretical and experimental studies confirmed that hydroxyl can be an effective sp3-type candidate for inducing robust magnetic moment. However, the artificial generation of hydroxyl groups for creating high-density spins on the basal plane of graphene sheet is very scarce. Here we demonstrate that high-content hydroxyl groups can be generated on the basal plane of graphene oxide (GO) sheet by ring opening of epoxy groups. We show that by introduction of 10.74 at.% hydroxyl groups, the density of localized spins of GO can be significantly increased from 0.4 to 5.17 μB/1000 C. Thus, this study provided an effective method to obtain graphene with high-density localized spins.
Poly(glycidyl methacrylate) coated dual mode upconverting nanoparticles for neuronal cell imaging
Authors: Smith Nicole M. , Ho Diwei , Munshi Alaa M. , House Michael J. , Dunlop Sarah A. , Fitzgerald Melinda , Swaminathan Iyer K.
Published: May 2016

NaGdF4:Yb,Er nanoparticles with a functional poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) coating, as a biocompatible multimodal formulation for neuronal cell imaging.
Low temperature synthesis of silicon quantum dots with plasma chemistry control in dual frequency non-thermal plasmas
Authors: Sahu Bibhuti Bhusan , Yin Yongyi , Han Jeon Geon , Shiratani Masaharu
Published: May 2016

The design of advanced plasma processes by plasma and radical control is essential for the controlled low-temperature deposition of different size QDs.
Unraveling the dynamic nature of protein–graphene oxide interactions
Authors: Mondal Somnath , Thirupathi Ravula , Rao Lokeswara P. , Atreya Hanudatta S.
Published: May 2016

The globular protein ubiquitin interacts with graphene oxide and undergoes dynamic and reversible association–dissociation as revealed by NMR spectroscopy.
Effect of alkyl and halide moieties on the absorption and stratification of SO2 in tetrabutylammonium halide aqueous solutions
Authors: Duan Erhong , Zhang Peng , Yang Kun , Liang Weizhao , Yu Meiting , Wang Sheng , Niu Jianrui
Published: May 2016

To explore the interactions between SO2 and tetraalkylammonium halide, the effects of temperature, concentration, length of alkyl chain, and halide anion on the solubility of SO2 in tetraalkylammonium halide aqueous solutions were investigated.
New withanolides with TRAIL-sensitizing effect from Physalis pubescens L.
Authors: Chen Li-Xia , Xia Gui-Yang , He Hao , Huang Jian , Qiu Feng , Zi Xiao-Lin
Published: May 2016

Physalis pubescens L. plant produces nutritious and healthy fruits, called husk tomato or hairy ground cherry. Five withanolides including four new ones were isolated from this plant.
Experimental investigations on NO2 sensing of pure ZnO and PANI–ZnO composite thin films
Authors: Sonker Rakesh K. , Yadav B. C. , Sharma A. , Tomar M. , Gupta V.
Published: May 2016

In the present work, comparative investigations on NO2 gas sensing properties of the hybrid nanocomposite thin films of polyaniline (PANI), ZnO and PANI–ZnO towards NO2 gas at room temperature have been reported.
A binder-free sulfur/carbon composite electrode prepared by a sulfur sublimation method for Li–S batteries
Authors: Cui Yi , Wu Min , Scott Charity , Xie Jiani , Fu Yongzhu
Published: May 2016

A binder-free sulfur/carbon composite electrode was prepared by a sulfur sublimation method. Sulfur nanoparticles fill large pores in a carbon paper substrate and the composite electrode shows a long cycle life of over 200 cycles in Li–S batteries.
Polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols: natural phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors from Hypericum sampsonii
Authors: Zhang Jun-Sheng , Zou Yi-Hong , Guo Yan-Qiong , Li Zhen-Zhen , Tang Gui-Hua , Yin Sheng
Published: May 2016

Seven novel PPAPs and 23 known analogs were isolated from Hypericum sampsonii, some of which were identified as potent PDE4 inhibitors.
Kinetics-dominated structure and stimuli-responsiveness in the assembly of colloidal nanotubes
Authors: Shikinaka Kazuhiro , Mori Saori , Shigehara Kiyotaka , Masunaga Hiroyasu , Sakai Takamasa
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we discuss the molecular assembly kinetics of stimuli-responsive hydrogels prepared from imogolite, which is a rigid rod-like colloidal inorganic nanotube, and dicarboxylic acids.
In situ formation of NiO on Ni foam prepared with a novel leaven dough method as an outstanding electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Liang Jiyuan , Wang Yong-Zheng , Wang Chun-Chieh , Lu Shih-Yuan
Published: May 2016

A novel leaven dough method was developed to prepare three-dimensional Ni foams, upon which a thin NiO nanostructure was grown through thermal oxidation to form NiO/Ni foams as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reactions (OER).
A macroscopic three-dimensional tetrapod-separated graphene-like oxygenated N-doped carbon nanosheet architecture for use in supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Can , Xu Guobao , Wei Xiaolin , Yang Liwen
Published: May 2016

A macroscopic three-dimensional tetrapod-separated graphene-like oxygenated N-doped carbon nanosheet architecture for use in supercapacitors is demonstrated.
The thermodynamic and kinetic interactions of He interstitial clusters with bubbles in W
Authors: Perez Danny , Sandoval Luis , Uberuaga Blas P. , Voter Arthur F.
Published: May 2016

Due to its enviable properties, tungsten is a leading candidate plasma facing material in nuclear fusion reactors. However, like many other metals, tungsten is known to be affected by the high doses of helium atoms incoming from the plasma. Indeed, the implanted interstitial helium atoms cluster together and, upon reaching a critical cluster size, convert into substitutional nanoscale He bubbles. These bubbles then grow by absorbing further interstitial clusters from the matrix. This process can lead to deleterious changes in microstructure, degradation of mechanical properties, and contamination of the plasma. In order to better understand the growth process, we use traditional and accelerated molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the interactions between interstitial He clusters and pre-existing bubbles. These interactions are characterized in terms of thermodynamics and kinetics. We show that the proximity of the bubble leads to an enhancement of the trap mutation rate and, consequently, to the nucleation of satellite bubbles in the neighborhood of existing ones. We also uncover a number of mechanisms that can lead to the subsequent annihilation of such satellite nanobubbles.
Localized surface plasmon mediated energy transfer in the vicinity of core-shell nanoparticle
Authors: Shishodia Manmohan Singh , Juneja Soniya
Published: May 2016

Multipole spectral expansion based theory of energy transfer interactions between a donor and an acceptor molecule in the vicinity of a core-shell (nanoshell or core@shell) based plasmonic nanostructure is developed. In view of the diverse applications and rich plasmonic features such as tuning capability of surface plasmon (SP) frequencies, greater sensitivity to the change of dielectric environment, controllable redirection of electromagnetic radiation, closed form expressions for Energy Transfer Rate Enhancement Factor (ETREF) near core-shell particle are reported. The dependence of ETREF on different parameters is established through fitting equations, perceived to be of key importance for developing appropriate designs. The theoretical approach developed in the present work is capable of treating higher order multipoles, which, in turn, are also shown to play a crucial role in the present context. Moreover, closed form expressions derived in the present work can directly be used as formula, e.g., for designing SP based biosensors and estimating energy exchange between proteins and excitonic interactions in quantum dots.
Influence of thermal annealing on the spin injection and spin detection through Fe/GaAs interfaces
Authors: Liefeith Lennart-Knud , Tholapi Rajkiran , Hänze Max , Hartmann Robert , Slobodskyy Taras , Hansen Wolfgang
Published: May 2016

A strong bias asymmetry of the spin-injection efficiency through an epitaxial Fe/GaAs Schottky tunnel contact is observed. Low-temperature post-growth thermal annealing is shown to strongly affect the spin-injection efficiency. The annealing leads either to a reduction or an enhancement. The spin accumulation is addressed electrically in a lateral spin-valve geometry using a non-local spin-valve setup at liquid helium temperatures. A spin-injection efficiency of up to 5.5% is estimated from experimental results. The electrical properties of the Schottky tunnel diode do not reflect the bias asymmetry and the changes in the spin-injection efficiency during annealing. Formation of spin-polarized interface states (IS) close to the Fermi-level is a possible explanation. The IS will not only radically affect the spin-injection but also the spin-detection process.
Thermodynamics and kinetics of defects in Li2S
Authors: Moradabadi Ashkan , Kaghazchi Payam
Published: May 2016

Li2S is the final product of lithiation of sulfur cathodes in lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. In this work, we study formation and diffusion of defects in Li2S. It is found that for a wide range of voltages (referenced to metal Li) between 0.17 V and 2.01 V, positively charged interstitial Li (Li+) is the most favorable defect type with a fixed formation energy of 1.02 eV. The formation energy of negatively charged Li vacancy (VLi−) is also constant, and it is only 0.13 eV higher than that of Li+. For a narrow range of voltages between 0.00 V and 0.17 V, the formation energy of neutral S vacancy is the lowest and it decreases with decreasing the cell voltage. The energy barrier for Li+ diffusion (0.45 eV), which takes place via an exchange mechanism, is 0.18 eV higher than that for VLi− (0.27 eV), which takes place via a single vacancy hopping. Considering formation energies and diffusion barriers, we find that ionic conductivity in Li2S is due to both Li+ and VLi−, but the latter mechanism being slightly more favorable.
Contactless analysis of electric dipoles at high-k/SiO2 interfaces by surface-charge-switched electron spectroscopy
Authors: Toyoda S. , Fukuda K. , Itoh E. , Sugaya H. , Morita M. , Nakata A. , Uchimoto Y. , Matsubara E.
Published: May 2016

The continuous development of silicon devices has been supported by fundamental understanding of the two interfaces that predict the device properties: high-dielectric oxide (high-k)/SiO2 and SiO2/Si. In the absence of metal electrode fabrication, it is challenging to use spectroscopic approaches to deduce the electric dipoles in these interfaces for the prediction of electrical characteristics such as the leakage current and threshold voltage. Here, we propose a method to analyze the permanent dipole at the high-k/SiO2 interface by surface-charge-switched electron spectroscopy (SuCSES). An electron flood gun was used to switch the electrical polarity at the insulating surface to extract the interface-dipole contribution from the macroscopic dielectric polarization in the high-k/SiO2/Si stack structure. TaO3− nanosheet (TaNS) crystallites, which are a family of high-k tantalate materials deposited on the SiO2/Si substrates, were annealed to prepare a nanoscale model interface. The properties of this interface were examined as a function of annealing temperature across the crystalline-to-amorphous transition. Macroscopic dielectric polarization of the TaNS/SiO2/Si gate stack was found to exhibit a gradual decay that depended upon the quantum tunneling processes of induced carriers at the SiO2/Si interface. Additionally, the dipole at the high-k/thin-SiO2 interface abruptly changed by ∼0.4 eV before and after annealing at 400 °C, which may be the result of a decrease in conduction-band offsets at the high-k/Si interface. Thus, SuCSES can aid in determining the inherent valence-band offsets in dielectric interfaces by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy with high accuracy and precision. Furthermore, SuCSES can determine whether dielectric polarization, including the interfacial dipole, affects the experimental value of the band offsets.
Efficient and stable MoS2 catalyst integrated on Si photocathodes by photoreduction and post-annealing for water splitting
Authors: Zhou Jungui , Dai Song , Dong Wen , Su Xiaodong , Fang Liang , Zheng Fengang , Wang Xiaodong , Shen Mingrong
Published: May 2016

MoS2 has been studied as an efficient and cheap hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst; however, its effective integration with a photocathode remains a challenge. Here, crystalline MoS2 catalyst was deposited on top of a ∼2 nm Al2O3 protected n+p-Si photocathode using a simple photoreduction method following a post-annealing. The amount of MoS2 is optimized for HER of the photocathode, balanced between its catalytic effect and light absorption. High efficiency with 0.35 V onset potential vs. reversible hydrogen electrode and 34.5 mA/cm2 saturated photocurrent and high stability after 2 min ultrasonication or under 40 h continuous HER were observed. Such properties are much superior to the corresponding photocathodes coated by the traditional electrodeposited amorphous MoS2. Furthermore, the MoS2 layer is also an effective support for Pt nanoparticles with considerable reduction in the Pt amount while keeping the photoelectrochemical reactivity. This study indicates that the cheap-made MoS2 can be an efficient and stable HER catalyst for the Si photocathode.
Demonstration of the enhanced Purcell factor in all-dielectric structures
Authors: Krasnok Alexander , Glybovski Stanislav , Petrov Mihail , Makarov Sergey , Savelev Roman , Belov Pavel , Simovski Constantin , Kivshar Yuri
Published: May 2016

The Purcell effect is usually described as a modification of the spontaneous decay rate in the presence of a resonator. In plasmonics, this effect is commonly associated with a large local-field enhancement in “hot spots” due to the excitation of surface plasmons. However, high-index dielectric nanostructures, which become the basis of all-dielectric nanophotonics, cannot provide high values of the local-field enhancement due to larger radiation losses. Here, we demonstrate how to achieve a strong Purcell effect in all-dielectric nanostructures, and show theoretically that the Purcell factor can be increased by two orders of magnitude in a finite chain of silicon nanoparticles. Using the eigenmode analysis for an infinite chain, we demonstrate that the high Purcell factor regime is associated with a Van Hove singularity. We perform a proof-of-concept experiment for microwave frequencies and observe the 65-fold enhancement of the Purcell factor in a chain of 10 dielectric particles.
Highly strained AlAs-type interfaces in InAs/AlSb heterostructures
Authors: Vallet M. , Claveau Y. , Warot-Fonrose B. , Gatel C. , Nicolai J. , Combe N. , Magen C. , Teissier R. , Baranov A. N. , Ponchet A.
Published: May 2016

Spontaneously formed Al-As type interfaces of the InAs/AlSb system grown by molecular beam epitaxy for quantum cascade lasers were investigated by atomic resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy. Experimental strain profiles were compared to those coming from a model structure. High negative out-of-plane strains with the same order of magnitude as perfect Al-As interfaces were observed. The effects of the geometrical phase analysis used for strain determination were evidenced and discussed in the case of abrupt and huge variations of both atomic composition and bond length as observed in these interfaces. Intensity profiles performed on the same images confirmed that changes of chemical composition are the source of high strain fields at interfaces. The results show that spontaneously assembled interfaces are not perfect but extend over 2 or 3 monolayers.
Structural signatures evidenced in dynamic crossover phenomena in metallic glass-forming liquids
Authors: Hu Y. C. , Li F. X. , Li M. Z. , Bai H. Y. , Wang W. H.
Published: May 2016

Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate dynamic evolution in metallic glass-forming liquids during quenching from high temperature above melting point down to supercooled region. Two crossover temperatures TA and TS (TA > TS) are identified, and their physical meanings are clarified. TA and TS are found to be not only the sign of dynamic crossover phenomena but also the manifestation of two key structure correlation lengths ξs. As temperature decreases below TA, ξs goes beyond the nearest-neighbor distance, resulting in the Arrhenius-to-non-Arrhenius transition of structural relaxation time and the failure of Stokes-Einstein (SE) relation. As TS is traversed, the increase rate of ξs reaches the maximum, leading to the simultaneous appearance of dynamical heterogeneity and fractional SE relation. It is further found that structure correlation increases much faster than dynamic correlation, playing a role of structural precursor for dynamic evolution in liquids. Thus, a structural link is established for deeper understanding dynamic crossover phenomena.
A theoretical and experimental evaluation of surface roughness variation in trigate metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors
Authors: Hsieh E. R. , Chung Steve S.
Published: May 2016

A gate current variation measurement method is proposed to examine the surface roughness of metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs). This gate current variation is demonstrated on the trigate structure MOSFETs. It was found that the standard deviation of oxide-thickness is proportional to the inverse of square-root of device areas, and its slope is defined as the effective surface roughness variation. In particular, for the transistors with varying fin height, this surface roughness effect aggravates with the increasing fin height. More importantly, the gate leakage at off-state, i.e., Vg = 0 V, is strongly dependent on the gate dielectric surface roughness and dominates the drain current variations. This gate leakage may serve as a quality measure of a low power and energy efficient integrated circuit, especially for the transistor with 3-dimensional gate structure. The present results provide us better understandings on an additional source of Vth fluctuations, i.e., the surface roughness variation, in addition to the random dopant fluctuation, that we are usually not noticed. In particular, this study also provides us a simple easy-to-use method for the monitoring of oxide quality in the volume production of trigate MOSFETs.
Classifying endangered vegetation communities: a case study of Cumberland Plain Woodlands
Authors: French K. , Callaghan B. , Hill S.
Published: May 2016

Remnants of an endangered community, Cumberland Plain Woodlands on shale, were studied in order to 1) investigate the conflict between the needs of legislation to define parameters of protected communities in a precise manner and the spatial variation in communities, and 2) to define floristic groupings in the Cumberland Plain Woodlands based on all plant species. Sites previously classified as Grey Box Woodland, Grey Box Ironbark Woodland and Spotted Gum Woodland map units were surveyed and compared to the same classification applied by one of the authors. Differences were evident, but both classifications showed statistically significant differences between map units, suggesting that although each classification is valid, the differences between these map units cannot be consistently applied. Canopy species were not useful descriptors of the community as they grouped differently to both the full species list and the understorey species. A significantly different community occurring at the transition between shale and sandstone in Holsworthy Military Area was identified, suggesting the importance of this area to the conservation of variability in communities in this area. The use of multivariate techniques to describe levels of variation in communities is discussed and a potential method for using a standard level of similarity to classify vegetation communities is introduced as a mechanism for defining communities using some consistent technique.
The use by wildlife of paddock trees in farmland
Authors: S. Law Bradley , Chidel Mark , Turner Graham
Published: May 2016

Morning and dusk watches at live and dead trees were used to systematically investigate which species of vertebrates use paddock trees within farmland proposed for the establishment of Eucalyptus plantations in northern New South Wales. Tree-watches at 108 trees were stratified on farmland as isolated, in small patches, remnant vegetation and riparian strips plus in adjacent forest. Arboreal marsupials and bats emerged from hollows in 11% and 8% of trees, respectively. Only one colonial bat roost was observed, although the marsupials Trichosurus vulpecula and Petaurus breviceps were widespread in the landscape. Two threatened species of marsupials (Petaurus norfolcensis and Phascogale tapoatafa) were observed using paddock trees on flats or slopes outside of riparian strips. Among owls, only the Southern Boobook Ninox novaeseelandiae and Barn Owl Tyto alba were observed using tree hollows on farmland. For all hollow-dependent nocturnal fauna (marsupials, bats and owls), very large tree diameter best predicted occupation of a tree-hollow (especially if <800 m from the nearest forest). In addition to providing hollows, paddock trees were used for foraging. Morning surveys revealed 35 diurnal bird species on isolated trees, although most were generalists (e.g., Eastern Rosella Platycercus eximius, Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala) that were also regular visitors to non-isolated trees in remnant vegetation. More forest-dependent and forest-associated bird species were recorded in forests and riparian strips than other tree categories, reinforcing the high conservation value of riparian strips in farmland. After dark, ultrasonic detectors recorded 21 species of bat (seven threatened species) flying in close proximity to paddock trees. Relatively high levels of activity were recorded at one study location for species rarely recorded in forests (e.g., Scoteanax rueppellii). Remnant Eucalyptus tereticornis and E. amplifolia were a significant source of blossom for nectarivores and they were also associated with high bat activity, possibly because they grow on fertile soil. Recommendations on tree retention guidelines are discussed.
The ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) fauna of coastal heath in south-west Victoria: effects of dominance by Acacia sophorae and management actions to control it
Authors: E. Clay R. , E. Schneider K.
Published: May 2016

There has been increasing emphasis on the use of ant communities as indicators of recovery during and after minesite rehabilitation. This study also focuses on ants as indicators of recovery but, in this case, assesses the success of active management of coastal heath vegetation. Remnants of coastal heath near Portland in south-west Victoria are very diverse communities of considerable conservation significance. However, many remnants are suffering a serious loss of plant diversity as they become dominated by the native Coast Wattle Acacia sophorae. In an attempt to reverse these declines, heath dominated by Coast Wattle is being actively managed to encourage natural regeneration of diverse heaths. Monitoring of ant communities has documented this regeneration of the vegetation and has attempted to assess the effectiveness of two different management methods, burning and cutting. Results of pitfall trapping over two years have shown considerable difference in the ant communities of two different intact heath types (the similarity index was a low 0.34). Also clearly illustrated is the detrimental effect that dominance by Coast Wattle has on ant community diversity. The diversity index of intact heath was 0.93 compared to 0.61 and 0.50 for two sites dominated by Coast Wattle. Trapping has also shown improvement in the ant communities following burning or cutting of Coast Wattle. However, our results suggest that complete recovery will require a considerable time and that it is too early to determine the relative effectiveness of different management techniques.
Parks for Biodiversity: Policy Guidance based on Experience in ACP Countries
Authors: Valentine Hayley
Published: May 2016

The IUCN (World Conservation Union) defines biological diversity (or biodiversity for short) as "the variability of life in all its forms, levels and combinations". One approach to maintaining biodiversity is through the reservation of protected areas. In less developed countries, there is a poor capacity to fund and manage protected areas efficiently, and therefore international co-operation is required. The ACP countries ? Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, are rich in biodiversity yet lack the economic means to conserve. The IUCN released Parks for Biodiversity: Policy Guidance based on Experience in ACP Countries after a request from the European Commission to provide policy guidance for support to protected areas in the ACP countries. This report is a summary of the main points derived by the IUCN, and was written to inform the wider public.
Home range and diet of feral cats in Hawaii forests
Authors: D. Smucker Ty , D. Lindsey Gerald , M. Mosher Stephen
Published: May 2016

Feral cat Felis catus home range in a Hawaiian montane wet forest and their diet in three habitats - montane wet forest, subalpine dry forest, and lowland dry forest ? were determined to provide baseline ecological data and to assess potential impacts to native terrestrial fauna. Seven cats (three males and four females) were captured in 624 trap nights. Mean weight of adult cats was 2.85 � 0.27 (SE) kg for males and 1.87 � 0.03 kg for females. Mean diurnal home range using the adaptive kernel method was 5.74 � 2.73 km2 for three males and 2.23 � 0.44 km2 for two females. Daytime locations were always within the montane wet forest with the borders on one or more sides of the home ranges of all cats defined by open grassland pastures. Rodents comprised the majority of the cat diets in all three habitats, with the frequencies of occurrence between 0.88 and 0.91. Bird remains were a regular component of the diet of cats, with montane wet forest having the highest frequency of occurrence (0.68), followed by subalpine dry forest (0.53). and lowland dry forest (0.21).
Marine Conservation
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

This issue of Pacific Conservation Biology is devoted to marine conservation. There are several reasons for this.
Clearing and grazing impacts on vegetation patch structures and fauna counts in eucalypt woodland, Central Queensland
Authors: A. Ludwig John , W. Eager Robert , C. Liedloff Adam , C. McCosker Juliana , Hannah David , Y. Thurgate Nicole , C. Z. Woinarski John , P. Catterall Carla
Published: May 2016

There is national and international concern that tree clearing and cattle grazing reduce habitat for native fauna. In this paper we quantify how the degree of clearing and the level of grazing change the patch structure and composition of vegetation in eucalypt woodlands, and how these habitat changes affect counts for 10 species including birds, reptiles and small mammals. These species were selected because they were abundant, hence providing the data needed for ordinations and regressions. We studied 37 sites occurring in two regions of central Queensland: Blackwater/Emerald and Alpha/Jericho. On each site, indices for the degree of tree clearing and the level of livestock grazing were assessed, the cover and size of tree groves, shrub thickets, log hummocks, termite mounds and perennial grass clumps were measured, and abundances of 10 common vertebrate species were estimated. As expected, the cover and size of tree groves declined and the cover of grass clumps increased as the degree of clearing increased. Native grass composition changed to introduced Buffel Grass as the level of grazing increased. Clearing affected fauna counts more than grazing did. The Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus, Yellow-throated Miner Manorina flavigula, Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus and Pale-headed Rosella Platycercus eximius had significantly lower counts on cleared sites, but the Red-backed Fairy-wren Malurus melanocephalus had higher counts. The introduced House Mouse Mus musculus also had higher counts on cleared sites, but Carnaby's Skink Cryptoblephrus carnabyi had lower counts. Counts of the Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris, Bynoe's Gecko Heteronotia binoei and the Delicate Mouse Pseudomys delicatulus did not significantly change with clearing. Counts for the Pale-headed Rosella increased as the level of grazing increased, but counts for the other fauna species did not significantly change with our grazing index. Except for Bynoe's Gecko, fauna counts significantly changed with various vegetation patch attributes, particularly those strongly affected by clearing. From these results, we know which of the 10 fauna species are likely to decline or increase with clearing and grazing, and this knowledge can be used by land managers.
Genetic factors in the conservation of seagrasses
Authors: Waycott Michelle
Published: May 2016

Increasingly our awareness of seagrass conservation issues requires an understanding of population dynamics and knowledge of the ability of different species to recover from disturbance. Seagrass populations may recover vegetatively or through the establishment of sexually derived seedlings. Some understanding of the processes of population formation and maintenance can be obtained through population genetic surveys. With the advent of molecular genetic markers even genetically depauperate populations can be studied. Patterns of genetic variation can vary over the range of seagrass populations and with the type of marker used. A case study is presented which demonstrates the importance of surveying a significant range of species to better understand the patterns of genetic diversity present. Seagrass phylogeny needs to be improved before reliable taxonomic interpretations can be made in many seagrass groups. Uncommon or rare seagrass species require special attention to ascertain their evolutionary origins and the nature of their extant distributions. Studies of genetic factors may enhance our understanding of how seagrass populations survive over both short and long time scales and can provide considerable insight to the seagrass conservation strategist.
"Environmental Roadshow"
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

ON May 2nd, I attended the New Scientist Environmental Road Show in Sydney. Apart from promoting New Scientist, the show was intended to raise awareness of the environmental issues confronting humanity in the 21st Century. The presentation began with a series of video clips of prominent environmentalists expressing concern at the failure of nations to act decisively on global environmental problems. New Scientist staff then presented three scenarios of the environmental future based on global warming, atmospheric pollution, and growth of the World's population followed by a panel discussion and comment from the audience. In all, an enjoyable and informative, if somewhat predictable, evening.
Community survey of the distribution of Lumholtz's Tree-kangaroo on the Atherton Tablelands, north-east Queensland
Authors: Kanowski J. , Felderhof L. , Newell G. , Parker T. , Schmidt C. , Stirn B. , Wilson R. , W. Winter J.
Published: May 2016

Lumholtz's Tree-kangaroo Dendrolagus lumholtzi is endemic to the rainforests of north Queensland, Australia. Most records of D. lumholtzi are from upland forests on the Atherton Tablelands, an area extensively cleared for agriculture. In 1997, residents of the Tablelands formed the Tree Kangaroo and Mammal Group Inc. (TKMG) with the aim of promoting the conservation of the species. The first project of TKMG was an intensive community-based survey of the distribution of D. lumholtzi. Residents of all postal districts encompassing areas of upland rainforest within the range of D. lumholtzi were sent a written questionnaire seeking details of tree-kangaroo sightings. The Malanda postal district was surveyed in 1998 while all other postal districts were surveyed in 1999. In total, 10 122 questionairres were distributed in the survey. "Nearly 800 responses were received to the survey, providing 2 368 sighting records of D. lumholtzi. Of these, 367 records were of dead tree-kangaroos, mostly road-kills." The survey has provided a much more comprehensive account of the distribution of the species than was previously available. Most records of D. lumholtzi obtained in the survey were from upland forests between Atherton and Ravenshoe, particularly remnant forests in the central and western Tablelands. Although the survey methodology is biased towards areas frequented by humans, these patterns are consistent with independent surveys. The conservation of D. lumholtzi on the Tablelands would benefit from the protection of remnant forests, the restoration of habitat and a reduction in the incidence of road-kills and dog attacks on tree-kangaroos.
The conflict between animal welfare and conservation
Authors: R. Fulton Graham , A. Ford Hugh
Published: May 2016

IT is a measure of a civilized society that its inhabitants are concerned about the welfare of animals. Furthermore, there has been increasing concern about conservation, especially of threatened species. In many countries, including Australia, there is now extensive legislation to cover both animal welfare and the protection of many native species. Whereas welfare deals with individuals, conservation is concerned with populations. Thus, researchers must always weigh potential gains in knowledge against the consequences of their activities (see Gaunt and Oring 1997). Ironically, management for conservation often involves the killing of individuals of one species, typically predators or competitors, for the good of the population of another species. In Australia many of the animals that are killed are feral (e.g., foxes and rabbits). As some feral species also have major impacts on agriculture, the need to control their numbers is generally accepted and attracts little attention. However, there is mounting evidence that a number of native species may pose threats to declining or endangered native species. For instance, Pied Currawongs Strepera graculina are known to be nest predators and Noisy Miners Manorina rnelanocephala are known to drive most other small birds from the vicinity of their colonies. Many woodlarid birds are experiencing long-term decline and it has been hypothesized that Pied Currawongs and Noisy Miners contribute to this decline (Ford et al. 2001). We set out to test experimentally the hypothesis that Pied Currawongs are major nest predators.
A biodiversity conservation plan for Papua New Guinea based on biodiversity trade-offs analysis
Authors: P. Faith Daniel , R. Margules C. , A. Walker P.
Published: May 2016

A rapid biodiversity assessment ("BioRap") project identified candidate areas for biodiversity protection in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and provides an ongoing evaluation framework for balancing biodiversity conservation and other land use needs. Achieving a biodiversity protection target with minimum opportunity cost was an important outcome given that biodiversity values overlap with forestry production values, and high forgone forestry opportunities would mean significant losses to land owners and the government. Allocation of 16.8% of PNG's land area to some form of biodiversity protection was required, in order to achieve the level of biodiversity representation/persistence that would have been possible using only 10% of the land area if there were no constraints on land allocation and no land use history. This result minimizes potential conflict with forestry production opportunities while also taking account of land use history, human population density and previous conservation assessments. The analysis provides more than a Single set of proposed priority areas. It is a framework for progressively moving towards a country-wide conservation goal, while at the same time providing opportunities to alter the priority area set in light of new knowledge, changes in land use, and/or changes in economic and social conditions.
A comparative review of Australian Conservation Biology texts
Authors: Loomes R. , Hawkins S. , Bertuch M. , Cousin J. , Gartner A. , Jackson K. , Lipnicka A. , Moulton K. , O'Neill K. , Rawlinson L. , Reid T. , Valentine H.
Published: May 2016

Conservation Biology is an amalgamation of a number of scientific and social sciences, that has resulted from an increased awareness of the need to protect living organisms and the ecosystems that support them. This new discipline " ... provides the intellectual and technical tools that will anticipate, prevent, minimize and/or repair ecological damage ..." (New 2000, p2) resulting from anthropogenic activities.
Tackling conservation/welfare conflicts in the management of wild animals
Authors: K. Kirkwood James
Published: May 2016

During the last century there were two distinct and profound changes in attitudes to animals. First, it became widely understood that human activities and anthropogenic changes to the environment present a serious threat to biological diversity. In response to this many programmes to protect habitat and to conserve species have been launched. Second, advances in various fields of science led to a strengthening belief in many societies that a wide range of animals may have the capacity for consciousness and thus suffering. This has led to growing concern for the welfare of animals - the quality of their lives - and to the development of extensive bodies of welfare legislation in many countries. Concerns for species conservation and concerns for individual animal welfare do not always pull in the same direction. Around the world, conflicts are becoming commonplace between those who believe it can be justifiable to compromise the interests of individual animals in order to prevent species extinctions and those who do not. Such conflicts may be addressed and hopefully avoided or minimized through use of an ethical review process in which conservation benefits and welfare costs are carefully identified, considered and weighed in a cost/benefit analysis. A second function of this review process is to ensure that, where the decision is taken to proceed with a conservation programme that may adversely affect the welfare of some individuals, all necessary steps are taken to minimize these threats and their possible impacts.
Status of crocodiles in the U Minh Thuong Nature Reserve, southern Vietnam
Authors: L. Stuart Bryan , Hayes Benjamin , Huu Manh Bui , G. Platt Steven
Published: May 2016

Both species of native crocodile, Siamese Crocodile Crocodylus siamensis and Estuarine Crocodile C. porosus, are seriously threatened in the wild in Vietnam. The swamp forest of the U Minh region in southern Vietnam was recently suggested to harbor the last remaining wild Estuarine Crocodiles in the country. We investigated the status of crocodiles in the U Minh Thuong Nature Reserve by conducting field surveys and interviewing local people. Field surveys found no signs of living wild crocodiles, and interview results strongly suggested that wild crocodiles have not occurred at U Minh Thuong Nature Reserve for perhaps as long as 30 years.