bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extended generalized Riccati equation mapping method for the fifth-order Sawada-Kotera equation
Authors: Naher Hasibun , Abdullah Farah Aini , Mohyud-Din Syed Tauseef
Published: May 2013

In this article, the generalized Riccati equation mapping together with the basic (G′/G)-expansion method is implemented which is advance mathematical tool to investigate nonlinear partial differential equations. Moreover, the auxiliary equation G′(ϕ) = h + f G(ϕ) + g G2(ϕ) is used with arbitrary constant coefficients and called the generalized Riccati equation. By applying this method, we have constructed abundant traveling wave solutions in a uniform way for the Sawada-Kotera equation. The obtained solutions of this equation have vital and noteworthy explanations for some practical physical phenomena.
Annealing assisted substrate coherency and high-temperature antiferromagnetic insulating transition in epitaxial La0.67Ca0.33MnO3/NdGaO3(001) films
Authors: Wang L. F. , Tan X. L. , Chen P. F. , Zhi B. W. , Chen B. B. , Huang Z. , Gao G. Y. , Wu W. B.
Published: May 2013

Bulk La0.67Ca0.33MnO3 (LCMO) and NdGaO3 (NGO) have the same Pbnm symmetry but different orthorhombic lattice distortions, yielding an anisotropic strain state in the LCMO epitaxial film grown on the NGO(001) substrate. The films are optimally doped in a ferromagnetic-metal ground state, after being ex-situ annealed in oxygen atmosphere, however, they show strikingly an antiferromagnetic-insulating (AFI) transition near 250 K, leading to a phase separation state with tunable phase instability at the temperatures below. To explain this drastic strain effect, the films with various thicknesses were ex-situ annealed under various annealing parameters. We demonstrate that the ex-situ annealing can surprisingly improve the epitaxial quality, resulting in the films with true substrate coherency and the AFI ground state. And the close linkage between the film morphology and electronic phase evolution implies that the strain-mediated octahedral deformation and rotation could be assisted by ex-situ annealing, and moreover, play a key role in controlling the properties of oxide heterostructures.
Au-free InAs nanowires grown in In-particle-assisted vapor-liquid-solid mode: growth, structure, and electrical property
Authors: Zhang Guoqiang , Sasaki Satoshi , Tateno Kouta , Gotoh Hideki , Sogawa Tetsuomi
Published: May 2013

We investigated the growth, structure, and electrical properties of InAs nanowires grown in the Au-free vapor-liquid-solid mode. We demonstrated the self-assisted vapor-liquid-solid growth of InAs nanowire with self-assembled In particles on InP substrates. We found that the III/V source mole ratio has a significant effect on the growth behavior and tapering shape. With a high III/V mole ratio (>0.11), a pure In particle at the tip of a nanowire makes it possible to grow the InAs nanowire in the self-assisted vapor-liquid-solid mode. We also found that the growth temperature range of the self-assisted vapor-liquid-solid growth was quite narrow compared with the conventional Au-assisted vapor-liquid-solid mode. A single InAs nanowire grown with a high III/V mole ratio exhibits distinct TO phonon peak in a Raman spectroscopy observation. We further verified that an undoped InAs nanowire grown in the self-assisted vapor-liquid-solid mode could function as a channel in a field-effect transistor device and the undoped nanowire exhibits n-type conduction behavior.
Ultraviolet/ozone treatment to reduce metal-graphene contact resistance
Authors: Li Wei , Liang Yiran , Yu Dangmin , Peng Lianmao , Pernstich Kurt P. , Shen Tian , Hight Walker A. R. , Cheng Guangjun , Hacker Christina A. , Richter Curt A. , Li Qiliang , Gundlach David J. , Liang Xuelei
Published: May 2013

We report reduced contact resistance of single-layer graphene devices by using ultraviolet ozone treatment to modify the metal/graphene contact interface. The devices were fabricated from mechanically transferred, chemical vapor deposition grown single layer graphene. Ultraviolet ozone treatment of graphene in the contact regions as defined by photolithography and prior to metal deposition was found to reduce interface contamination originating from incomplete removal of poly(methyl-methacrylate) and photoresist. Our control experiment shows that exposure times up to 10 min did not introduce significant disorder in the graphene as characterized by Raman spectroscopy. By using the described approach, contact resistance of less than 200 Ω μm was achieved for 25 min ultraviolet ozone treatment, while not significantly altering the electrical properties of the graphene channel region of devices.
Synthesis, characterizations and antimicrobial activities of well dispersed ultra-long CdO nanowires
Authors: Kumar Sumeet , Ojha Animesh K.
Published: May 2013

We present a simple, efficient, low cost and template free method for preparation of well dispersed ultra-long (1 μm) CdO nanowires. The CdO nanowires were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible spectroscopy and Raman measurements. The direct and indirect band gaps were calculated to be 3.5 eV and 2.6 eV, respectively. In the Raman spectra only second order features were observed. The CdO nanowires were used to study antimicrobial activities against B.subtilis and E.coli microbes. It shows antimicrobial activity against B.subtilis and E.coli. However, the antimicrobial activities are better against B.subtilis than that of E.coli.
A generic tight-binding model for monolayer, bilayer and bulk MoS2
Authors: Zahid Ferdows , Liu Lei , Zhu Yu , Wang Jian , Guo Hong
Published: May 2013

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a layered semiconductor which has become very important recently as an emerging electronic device material. Being an intrinsic semiconductor the two-dimensional MoS2 has major advantages as the channel material in field-effect transistors. In this work we determine the electronic structures of MoS2 with the highly accurate screened hybrid functional within the density functional theory (DFT) including the spin-orbit coupling. Using the DFT electronic structures as target, we have developed a single generic tight-binding (TB) model that accurately produces the electronic structures for three different forms of MoS2 - bulk, bilayer and monolayer. Our TB model is based on the Slater-Koster method with non-orthogonal sp3d5 orbitals, nearest-neighbor interactions and spin-orbit coupling. The TB model is useful for atomistic modeling of quantum transport in MoS2 based electronic devices.
Contemporary issues in the workforce and education of Australian midwives
Authors: Tracy Sally , Barclay Lesley , Brodie Pat
Published: May 2013

This paper, which is based on the preliminary findings of the Australian Midwifery Action Project (AMAP), outlinesthe issues around the midwifery labour force and education in Australia. One of the most alarming features is thelack of comprehensive data on midwives. Where data is available it demonstrates the shortage of midwives and thelack of consistency in educational programs for midwives within states and nationally. It is difficult to form a nationalpicture with published sources of data because there are differences in definition and a lack of relevant information.Strategies for educational reform are discussed in relation to improving the supply and preparation of midwives.
Psychosocial oncology services in New South Wales
Authors: Rankin Nicole M. , Barron Jennifer A. , Lane Lisbeth G. , Mason Catherine A. , Sinclair Sue , Bishop James F.
Published: May 2013

There is limited published evidence about how psychosocial services should be organised or routinely integrated into cancer services to ensure that cancer patients receive appropriate psychological, social and emotional support during periods of diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. This paper reports on a survey of 26 oncology services in New South Wales, Australia, to examine the current provision of psychosocial oncology services. The aim of the study was to gather baseline data and information about the provision of services and to identify significant challenges associated with the development and implementation of psychosocial oncology services. A total of 42% of staff at psycho-oncology services reported they could provide adequate psycho-oncology services, but 58% of sites said they could provide either only limited (27%) or very limited (31%) services. We found that services frequently identified challenges such as insufficient funding to employ skilled staff to provide psychosocial interventions, inadequate data to demonstrate the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions and, at times, lack of space to allow privacy for patient consultations. Future needs identified were strategic planning of psychosocial oncology services as part of broader cancer service plans, leadership of psychosocial oncology services, cohesive teams using agreed patient pathways or tools and integration into multi-disciplinary cancer teams.

What is known about the topic?
Psychosocial oncology services provide vital psychological interventions and social programs that can significantly improve patients’ adjustment to the experience of cancer. Limited evidence from other countries suggests there are significant challenges in developing and delivering quality, evidence-based psychosocial oncology services in a coordinated, cohesive and timely manner. Little is known about these services in the Australian context or the challenges they face.

What does this paper add?
This paper presents baseline information about the structure of psychosocial oncology services in NSW and identifies the significant challenges faced by these services. It describes these challenges with regard to service structures, availability and provision of services, screening for patient distress, strategic planning and funding, leadership and delivery-focussed issues.

What are the implications for practitioners?
There is a need for strategic planning of psychosocial oncology services as part of broader cancer service plans. Identified leadership of psychosocial oncology services and cohesive psychosocial teams that use agreed patient pathways or tools would be greatly beneficial, as would integration of psychosocial staff into multi-disciplinary teams. The findings may enhance quality improvement efforts in the development and delivery of psychosocial support for cancer patients, their families and carers.
The impact of care recipient falls on caregivers
Authors: Dow Briony , Meyer Claudia , Moore Kirsten J , Hill Keith D.
Published: May 2013

Objective.
This study sought to explore the impact of care recipient falls on caregivers.

Methods.
Ninety-six community-dwelling caregiver−care recipient dyads participated in a 12-month prospective study. Falls and other accidents and service use were recorded. Dyads were assessed at baseline and after each fall. Assessment included the Zarit Burden Interview and a post-accident survey developed for the present study. Focus groups were then conducted to further explore the impact of falls on caregivers.

Results.
Fifty-four care recipients (56%) experienced falls within the 12 months of the study. There was a significant increase in caregiver burden after the first fall (Zarit Burden Interview score increased from 24.2 ± 14.2 to 27.6 ± 14.5, P < 0.01). Twenty-four percent of caregivers reported that they had altered their usual routine after the fall, mainly not wanting to leave the care recipient alone. However, there was no increase in the number of services used. Focus group discussions highlighted the need for constant vigilance of the care recipient, a lack of knowledge about support services and concerns related to utilising respite care.

Conclusion.
Falls among care recipients have a significant impact on carers, including an increased fear of falling, prompting the need for even closer vigilance.

What is known about the topic?
Falls are a significant problem for older people as one in three older people fall each year and injurious falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisation in older people. In Australia falls cost the economy over $500 million per year.

What does this paper add?
This paper adds a unique perspective to the falls literature, that of the older person’s carer. Falls are a significant problem for community-dwelling carers of older people, contributing to carer burden and impeding the carer’s ability to undertake activities of daily living because of the perceived need for constant vigilance to prevent the person they care for from falling.

What are the implications for practitioners?
Practitioners should ensure that carers are aware of evidence-based falls-prevention practices and services, such as group and individual exercise programs, home modifications and podiatry, that might assist to prevent falls in the person they care for and therefore reduce the burden of care.
Attributes for effective nurse management within the health services of Western Australia, Singapore and Tanzania
Authors: Boldy Duncan , Della Phillip , Michael Rene , Jones Mark , Gower Shelley
Published: May 2013

Objective.
To identify the perceptions of nurse managers in Western Australia, Singapore and Tanzania regarding desirable attributes for effective management of their health services, and to identify and discuss the implications for health-management education provided by Australian universities.

Methods.
Nurse managers completed a questionnaire covering four key dimensions: personality characteristics, knowledge and learning, skills, and beliefs and values. Each of 75 items were rated as to their effect on management effectiveness, according to a 5-point Likert scale.

Results.
Skills were considered the most important for management effectiveness by each group. Tanzanian respondents rated knowledge and learning almost as highly, and significantly higher than Western Australian respondents. They also rated personality characteristics and beliefs and values significantly higher than Western Australian respondents. No significant differences were found between Singapore and Western Australia.

Conclusions.
Participants desired a different relative mix of attributes in their nurse managers, with Western Australian respondents most likely to indicate that transformational leadership contributed most to managerial effectiveness. Tanzanian nurse managers were most likely to advocate transactional leadership, whereas Singaporean nurse managers’ views were located somewhere between. Given that these perceptions are valid, the content and curricula of management-development courses need to be cognisant of the cultural backgrounds of participants.

What is known about the topic?
Views differ as to the extent to which the criteria for management effectiveness are broadly universal or contingent on culture. This applies to the area of nurse management as it does to healthcare management in general.

What does this paper add?
It is demonstrated that each of the three quite different countries or states considered identified a distinctive combination of attributes as desirable, with the nurse managers of Western Australia most likely to favour a transformational style of leadership, those from Tanzania a transactional leadership style and those from Singapore somewhere in between.

What are the implications for practitioners?
Given the country- or state-specific desire for a different relative mix of attributes in their nurse managers, management educators in Australia need to ensure that the content and curricula of their courses are cognisant of the cultural backgrounds of their students. There are also important lessons to be taken on board regarding recruitment of nurses into management positions in terms of each of the four dimensions considered, particularly in terms of desirable personality characteristics and beliefs and values.
Inheritance of geographic variation in body size, and countergradient variation in growth rates, in the southern brown bandicoot Isoodon obesulus.
Authors: Hale ML
Published: May 2013

The inheritance of geographic variation in body size in the southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon
obesulus) was investigated through a common-environment crossbreeding experiment. The
geographic variation in body size is related to habitat type, suggesting that it may be adaptive.
Adults from two locations in Western Australia, Perth (large animals) and Albany (small
animals), were collected and offspring from both hybrid and non-hybrid matings were reared
under controlled conditions. All four variables examined (head length, pes length, ear length
and body weight) were found to possess a large genetic component, supporting the
interpretation that the geographic variation in size is adaptive. The three length variables
initially showed additive genetic variation, although the variation in body weight displayed
dominance. Genetically controlled differences in growth rate were also detected, with the
smaller animals, found in the relatively poorer environment, possessing the faster intrinsic
growth rate. Thus, not only does there appear to be adaptive divergence in initial body size, but
the countergradient variation in growth rates provides additional evidence for adaptive
divergence in this species.
Recognition of predators by two species of captive?reared peramelids.
Authors: Jose DP , McLean IG , Calver MC
Published: May 2013

Predator recognition testing was used to determine whether two species of captive bred
marsupials have retained the skills to respond to native and exotic predators. Captive-bred
western barred bandicoots Perameles bougainville and bilbies Macrotis lagotis were exposed to
a model hawk or a stuffed cat to determine their level of recognition and response to these
predators. Both species responded to the avian predator (hawk). M. lagotis showed stronger
responses involving running or adopting an alert posture, while P. bougainville responded with
altered walking behaviour. M. lagotis were also exposed to a stuffed cat. They showed an
increase in running behaviour in response to this exotic mammalian predator. The level of
response for both species was neither rapid nor vigorous, providing little confidence in their
effective response to predators if released back in to the wild. Further research should include
the feasibility of predator recognition training and behavioural studies after release.
Population fluctuations of the New Holland mouse Pseudomys novaehollandiae at Wilson?s Promontory National Park, Victoria.
Authors: Wilson BA , White NM , Hanley A , Tidey DL
Published: May 2013

The New Holland mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae) was first recorded at Wilson?s
Promontory in 1972 in heathland vegetation, but has not been located in this habitat
subsequently. The species was not trapped again until 1993 when it was found in calcarenite
dune woodland on the Yanakie Isthmus. The aims of this study were to assess the population
dynamics and habitat use of the species in this dune habitat. Mark-recapture trapping was
conducted at three sites from 1999 to 2002. One site was located on low (0 - 5 m), flat sand
dunes and open swales, another on medium (5 ? 10 m) vegetated dunes, and the third on high
(20 m) steep vegetated dunes. The three sites had not been burnt for 30 to 50 years. The
abundance of P. novaehollandiae was related to understorey vegetation density and differences
in population densities on the sites are likely to be related to the primary succession stages on
the sand dunes, rather than fire history. The maximum density (24 ha-1) recorded at one site was
very high compared to other Victorian populations, however this was followed by a substantial
decline in numbers within the year. At another site a small population declined to extinction.
Populations on the isthmus are thus capable of achieving high densities but may decline
quickly. Rainfall patterns may have affected the population fluctuations, but further research is
required to elucidate fully the factors involved in the long-term dynamics of this species.
Consequences of long- and short-term fragmentation on the genetic diversity and differentiation of a late successional rainforest conifer
Authors: Mellick Rohan , Lowe Andrew , Rossetto Maurizio
Published: May 2013

The east Australian rainforests provide a unique system with which to study historic climate-driven habitat fragmentation. The long life span of rainforest conifers and consequent lag effects on genetic variation, offer insights into demographic stochasticity in small populations and persistence in increasingly fragmented systems. Microsatellite markers were used to investigate the genetic diversity and structure of Podocarpus elatus (Podocarpaceae), a long-lived rainforest conifer endemic to Australia. Twenty-seven populations throughout the east Australian rainforests were screened and two divergent regions separated by the dry Clarence River valley (New South Wales) were discovered. This biogeographic barrier may be referred to as the Clarence River Corridor. Niche modelling techniques were employed to verify the incidence of habitat divergence between the two regions. Significantly high inbreeding was detected throughout the species range with no evidence of recent bottlenecks. Most of the diversity in the species resides between individuals within populations, which suggest the species would be sensitive to the adverse effects of inbreeding, yet evidence suggests that these populations have been small for several generations. Slightly higher diversity estimates were found in the southern region, but it is likely that the species survived historic population contraction in dispersed refugia within each of these genetically differentiated regions.
Single-molecule Photoswitching and Localization
Authors: van de Linde Sebastian , Wolter Steve , Sauer Markus
Published: May 2013

Within only a few years super-resolution fluorescence imaging based on single-molecule localization and image reconstruction has attracted considerable interest because it offers a comparatively simple way to achieve a substantially improved optical resolution down to ∼20 nm in the image plane. Since super-resolution imaging methods such as photoactivated localization microscopy, fluorescence photoactivation localization microscopy, stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy, and direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy rely critically on exact fitting of the centre of mass and the shape of the point-spread-function of isolated emitters unaffected by neighbouring fluorophores, controlled photoswitching or photoactivation of fluorophores is the key parameter for resolution improvement. This review will explain the principles and requirements of single-molecule based localization microscopy, and compare different super-resolution imaging concepts and highlight their strengths and limitations with respect to applications in fixed and living cells with high spatio-temporal resolution.
The N-Alkylation of Sulfoximines
Authors: Raguse B , Ridley DD
Published: May 2013

Reactions of sulfoximines with sodium hydride in dimethylformamide, then with a variety of alkyl halides afford N- alkylsulfoximines. Generally yields are in excess of 60% under optimal temperature conditions (60�).
Nutritional and isotopic relationships of selected Bornean tropical mistletoe–host associations in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Tennakoon Kushan U. , Chak Wang H. , Bolin Jay F.
Published: May 2013

Our understanding of mineral nutrition and carbon heterotrophy in mistletoes is derived largely from arid and temperate plant communities. Sharp differences between the tropical, temperate and arid communities, such as seasonality, water availability and mean temperature may influence basic assumptions regarding mistletoe physiology. Thus, we present mineral nutrition profiles and natural abundance carbon and nitrogen stable isotope data for tropical mistletoes and their hosts. Parasite–host mineral nutrition profiles were estimated for three Loranthaceous mistletoes: Scurrula ferruginea Danser, Macrosolen cochinchinensis Blume, and Dendrophthoe curvata Blume and 12 unique mistletoe–host associations. δ13C and δ15N values were estimated for 12 parasite–host associations. Differences between host and parasite δ13C values were small but showed significant depletion in mistletoe leaves compared with the distal branch and proximal branch host leaves. Host and mistletoe δ13C values were uncorrelated whereas δ15N values were significantly correlated, demonstrating mistletoe N dependence. Concentrations of K were higher in mistletoes relative to hosts and significantly higher for Dendrophthoe host associations. For Scurrula and Macrosolen, mean mistletoe–host concentrations of major and minor elements did not differ significantly.
Intense storms and the delivery of materials that relieve nutrient limitations in mangroves of an arid zone estuary
Authors: Lovelock Catherine E. , Feller Ilka C. , Adame Maria Fernanda , Reef Ruth , Penrose Helen M. , Wei Lili , Ball Marilyn C.
Published: May 2013

Tropical cyclones can be devastating to ecosystems, but they can also result in pulses of fresh water and sediments delivered in floodwaters to the coastal zone. In the arid zone the pulses provided by cyclones may be particularly important for the maintenance of productivity. We examined the impacts of Cyclone Pancho on growth and nutrient limitations to growth in mangroves on the arid coast of Western Australia. We found that growth of trees was enhanced after the cyclone, more than doubling their rates of stem extension. Fertilisation studies showed that before the cyclone tree growth was nutrient limited. After the cyclone fertilisation treatments had no significant effect on growth, indicating nutrients had been delivered during the storm. Additionally, before the cyclone the efficiency of resorption of phosphorus and nitrogen from senescent leaves was higher than after the cyclone, suggesting that nutrient availability was enhanced. Analysis of stable isotopes of leaf tissue indicated that the cyclone was associated with small changes in water use efficiency, consistent with decreased soil salinity associated with the cyclone. There was, however, significant reductions in δ15N indicating enhanced N supply potentially from a new source. We conclude that in the arid zone, floodwater associated with cyclones is important for the delivery of nutrient subsidies that stimulate mangrove growth and that predicted future reductions in the frequency of cyclones will have negative impacts on the productivity of these ecosystems.
External heat-pulse method allows comparative sapflow measurements in diverse functional types in a Mediterranean-type shrubland in South Africa
Authors: Skelton Robert P. , West Adam G. , Dawson Todd E. , Leonard Jenny M.
Published: May 2013

There has been limited application of sapflow technology to small-stemmed species and across co-existing functional types, restricting its use in diverse floras such as the Mediterranean-type shrubland in South Africa. Our main objective was to test whether sapflow may provide an alternative to traditional gas-exchange measurements, which would permit comparative evaluation of transpiration at a previously unattained temporal resolution. We tested miniature external heat ratio method (HRM) sapflow gauges on three co-occurring functional types with contrasting stem or culm anatomies and examined the relationship between sapflow and shoot- and leaf-level water loss in both a controlled and field environment. Our sapflow gauges captured dynamic patterns of transpiration in both settings for all three functional types. In a controlled environment the relationship between sapflow and transpiration was linear in all three species with r2 values ranging from 0.78 for Cannomois congesta Mast. (Restionaceae) to 0.96 for Protea repens (L.) L. (Proteaceae) and Erica monsoniana L.f. (Ericaceae). In the field, r2 values were lower, ranging from 0.59 for C. congesta to 0.74 for P. repens. We discuss the efficacy and potential of this methodology to cast light on patterns of community ecology in functionally diverse shrublands by capturing continuous variation in transpiration.
A systematic revision of the South African Pettalidae (Arachnida:Opiliones:Cyphophthalmi) based on a combined analysis of discrete and continuous morphological characters with the description of seven new species
Authors: de Bivort Benjamin L. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: May 2013

The cyphophthalmid family Pettalidae in South Africa is revised and seven new species are described from museum material collected between 1939 and 1985. Two of these are placed in the genus Purcellia and five in Parapurcellia, bringing the total number of described South African cyphophthalmids to 15. In addition, Purcellia peregrinator is transferred to the genus Parapurcellia. Phylogenetic analyses of discrete morphological and continuous morphometric characters, both separately and in combination, support the generic assignments and contribute towards a more detailed understanding of the systematics of the group in South Africa. In order to assess the stability of our phylogenetic results, the different morphological datasets were analysed under equal and implied weighting, as well as under several weighting schemes that varied the respective contribution to tree length of the discrete and continuous data partitions. These variations generated two phylogenetic hypotheses: (1) monophyly of the South African pettalids + Austropurcellia from north-eastern Australia as a derived clade within Pettalidae; and (2) polyphyly of the South African pettalids with Parapurcellia basal within Pettalidae. The latter hypothesis is congruent with previous molecular phylogenies of Cyphophthalmi, and has moderate bootstrap support. The sisterhood of Purcellia griswoldi, sp. nov. and P. lawrencei, sp. nov. receives high nodal support across analytic methods. New combination: Parapurcellia peregrinator (Lawrence, 1963).
Phylogenetic placement of a new hoplonemertean species commensal on ascidians
Authors: Junoy Juan , Andrade Sónia C. S. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: May 2013

The hoplonemertean Vieitezia luzmurubeae, gen. et sp. nov. is described from specimens collected in a national park on the north-west Iberian Peninsula, the Parque Nacional Marítimo-Terrestre das Illas Atlánticas de Galicia. The species, previously mistaken as the Mediterranean species Tetrastemma vittigerum (Bürger, 1904), is frequently associated with two common species of sea squirt, Phallusia mamillata (Cuvier, 1815) and Ciona intestinalis (Linnaeus, 1767), inside which the nemertean completes its life cycle. Some of the specimens examined were protandrous hermaphrodites. Data on morphology and anatomy are provided with illustrations. Sequences of the nuclear ribosomal gene 18S rRNA and the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I were compared with those of other hoplonemertean species and all phylogenetic analyses suggested that Vieitezia is sister to the genus Gononemertes, which parasitises ascidians, within a clade also containing the genera Oerstedia and Nemertellina. In contrast, the morphologically similar genus Tetrastemma appears in a separate clade. This study stresses the need for combining molecular and morphological data when studying nemertean biodiversity.
Factors controlling primary productivity in a wet–dry tropical river
Authors: Faggotter S. J. , Webster I. T. , Burford M. A.
Published: May 2013

Algal production in rivers fuels foodwebs, and factors controlling this production ultimately affect food availability. Conversely, excessive algal production can have negative effects on higher trophic levels. The present study examined permanent waterholes in a disconnected wet–dry tropical river to determine the controls on algal production. Primary production in this river system was high compared with arid-zone and perennially flowing tropical rivers. Phytoplankton biomass increased over the dry season but this appeared to be because waterhole volume decreased, due to evaporation. Nitrogen (N) was the key limiting nutrient for phytoplankton, with rapid N turnover times, depletion of particulate 15N-nitrogen reflecting increasing N fixationover the dry season, and N stimulation in phytoplankton bioassays. The waterholes were shallow, providing sufficient light for accumulation of benthic algal biomass. Exclosure experiments were also conducted to determine the impact of top–down control on benthic algal biomass, with no evidence that exclusion of fish and crustaceans increased benthic algal biomass. The shallow off-channel waterhole in our study had substantially higher concentrations of nutrients and chlorophyll a than did the on-channel waterholes. This suggests that future anthropogenic changes, such as increased water extraction and increased nutrient inputs, could make the waterholes more vulnerable to deteriorating water quality, such as e.g. algal blooms, low concentrations of dissolved oxygen.
Within-channel flows promote spawning and recruitment of golden perch, Macquaria ambigua ambigua – implications for environmental flow management in the River Murray, Australia
Authors: Zampatti Brenton P. , Leigh Sandra J.
Published: May 2013

Restoring fish populations in regulated rivers requires an understanding of relationships between hydrology and population dynamics. In the present study, spawning and recruitment of golden perch, Macquaria ambigua ambigua, were investigated in relation to flow in the regulated lower River Murray. All life stages were sampled in three successive years, with peak flows of 8500 (2004–05), 15 000 (2005–06) and 7000 ML day–1 (2006–07). Larvae occurred only in November/December 2005, and young-of-year fish only in early 2006. Counts of daily increments in otolith microstructure indicated spawning in late October/early November 2005. Back-calculated birth years for adults, derived from otoliths and compared with the hydrograph for the preceding 25 years, revealed the dominance of three year classes spawned in association with increased discharge in 2000, 1998 and 1996. In 2007, an additional year class of 1-year-old fish appeared, following spawning in 2005. In each case, strong recruitment followed spring–summer spawning, when peak flows were >14 000 ML day–1 and water temperatures would have exceeded 20°C. Restoration of within-channel flows of 15–25 000 ML day–1 from late spring through summer would promote spawning and recruitment and improve the resilience of golden perch populations in the lower Murray.
Farming versatility by Pomacentrus wardi
Authors: Ceccarelli D. M. , Emslie M. J. , Lewis A. R.
Published: May 2013

Territorial damselfishes, or ‘farmers’, modify the benthic communities in their territories in favour of preferred food species, usually filamentous algae. Behavioural observations of the farming Ward’s damselfish, Pomacentrus wardi, on Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, revealed that 55% of the observed individuals had high bite rates on the surface of soft corals (genera Sinularia, Isis and Sarcophyton). Furthermore, numerous soft corals within P. wardi territories were observed to have algal turfs growing on them. Such observations suggest an unprecedented versatility in the choice of seemingly healthy soft corals as a substrate for algal farms. This behaviour may be a novel technique for reducing competitive interactions from roving herbivores, and may have sublethal consequences for the soft corals that remain to be tested.
Coherent and Phonon-assisted Tunnelling in Asymmetric Double Barrier Resonant Tunnelling Structures
Authors: Shi Jun-jie , Sanders B. C. , Pan Shao-hua
Published: May 2013

We present a theory for calculating the phonon-assisted tunnelling current in
asymmetric double barrier resonant tunnelling structures (DBRTS), in which all
of the phonon modes including the interface modes and the confined bulk-like
LO phonons and the conduction band nonparabolicity are considered. An
important physical picture about coherent and phonon-assisted tunnelling is
given. The coherent tunnelling current can be directly determined by both the
width of the resonant level and the peak value of the transmission coecient at
the resonant level. The phonon-assisted tunnelling current mainly comes from
electron interaction with higher frequency interface phonons (especially the
interface phonons localised at either interface of the left barrier).
Phonon-assisted tunnelling makes a significant contribution to the valley
current. The subband nonparabolicity strongly influences on
electron?phonon scattering and current-to-voltage characteristics. A
specially designed asymmetric DBRTS may have an improved performance over the
symmetric DBRTS.
Insights on Aboriginal Grief Practices from the Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: McGrath Pam , Phillips Emma , Fox-Young Stephanie
Published: May 2013

The rich data drawn from a study to develop an innovative model for Indigenous palliative care are presented to help address the paucity of authentic Indigenous voices describing their grief practices. Interviews with patients, carers, Aboriginal health care workers, health care workers and interpreters were conducted in four geographical areas of the Northern Territory in Australia. Insights and descriptions of the cultural processes and beliefs that follow the death of an Aboriginal person led to the identification of a number of key themes. These included: the emotional pain of grief; traditionalist ways of dealing with grief; the importance of viewing the body; the sharing of grief among large family and community networks, with crying, wailing, ceremonial singing, telling stories and dealing with blame all playing a part in the bereavement processes. Ways for Westerners to offer assistance in culturally sensitive ways were also identified by the participants, and are reported here to enable health workers to begin to understand and respond appropriately to traditionalist ways of experiencing and reacting to grief.
Prolonged storage of epididymal spermatozoa does not affect their capacity to fertilise in vitro-matured domestic cat (Felis catus) oocytes when using ICSI
Authors: Ringleb J. , Waurich R. , Wibbelt G. , Streich W. J. , Jewgenow K.
Published: May 2013

The impact of different storage conditions of epididymal spermatozoa (including prolonged storage, cryopreservation and freeze-drying) on their fertilisation capacity was tested using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This kind of information is urgently needed when applying assisted reproductive technology to endangered felids in zoos. In particular, the utilisation of epididymal spermatozoa of castrated or deceased felids often requires time-consuming transportation and is therefore susceptible to loss of gamete quality. Sperm cells were stored at 4°C for up to 72 h followed by cryopreservation or freeze-drying. Thawed motile and immotile spermatozoa were used for ICSI and the embryo cleavage rate was assessed 36 h after injection. A significant impact on the fertilisation rate of oocytes could only be detected when using immotile thawed or rehydrated spermatozoa. Cryopreservation or storage at 4°C showed no influence. The simulation of transport conditions using domestic cat spermatozoa revealed that in vitro production of felid embryos with gametes from euthanised individuals is possible if testes are stored cool and arrive at the laboratory within 72 h. An essential prerequisite is the application of ICSI to achieve fertilisation even with single motile spermatozoa. Additional cryopreservation of spermatozoa after transportation is possible and will allow the establishment of a sperm bank for felids.
A diet enriched in linoleic acid compromises the cryotolerance of embryos from superovulated beef heifers
Authors: Guardieiro Monique M. , Machado Grazieli M. , Bastos Michele R. , Mourão Gerson B. , Carrijo Luiz H. D. , Dode Margot A. N. , Leroy Jo L. M. R. , Sartori Roberto
Published: May 2013

Dietary rumen-protected fat rich in linoleic acid may affect the superovulatory response and embryo yield; however, its effects on in vivo embryo cryotolerance are unknown in zebu cattle. The present study evaluated the production and cryotolerance after freezing or vitrification of embryos from Nelore heifers supplemented with rumen-protected polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Forty heifers kept in pasture were randomly distributed into two groups according to the type of feed supplement (F, supplement with rumen-protected PUFA, predominantly linoleic; C, control fat-free supplement with additional corn). Supplements were formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenous. Each heifer underwent both treatments in a crossover design with 70 days between replicates. After 50 days feeding, heifers were superovulated. Embryos were evaluated morphologically and vitrified or frozen. After thawing or warming, embryo development was evaluated in vitro. There was no difference between the F and C groups (P > 0.10) in terms of embryo production. Regardless of the cryopreservation method used, Group C embryos had a greater hatching rate after 72 h in vitro culture than Group F embryos (44.3 ± 4.2% (n = 148) vs 30.9 ± 4.0% (n = 137), respectively; P = 0.04). Moreover, vitrified and frozen embryos had similar hatching rates (P > 0.10). In conclusion, dietary rumen-protected PUFA rich in linoleic acid did not improve embryo production and compromised the cryotolerance of conventionally frozen or vitrified embryos from Nelore heifers.
WNT3A signalling pathway in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryonic stem cells
Authors: Zandi Mohammad , Muzaffar Musharifa , Shah Syed Mohmad , Kaushik Ramakant , Singh Manoj Kumar , Palta Prabhat , Singla Suresh Kumar , Manik Radhey Sham , Chauhan Manmohan Singh
Published: May 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the transcriptional profile and role of WNT3A signalling in maintaining buffalo embryonic stem (ES) cells in a pluripotent state and in the induction of their differentiation. ES cells were derived from embryos produced by in vitro fertilisation (iESC), parthenogenesis (pESC) and hand-made cloning (cESC). The expression of WNT3A, its receptors and intermediate signalling pathways were found to be conserved in ES cells derived from the three different sources. WNT3A was expressed in ES cells but not in embryoid bodies derived from iESC or in buffalo fetal fibroblast cells. It was revealed by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis that following supplementation of culture medium with WNT3A (100, 200 or 400 ng mL–1) a significant increase (P < 0.05) was observed in the expression level of β-CATENIN, which indicated the activation of the canonical WNT pathway. WNT3A, in combination with exogenous fibroblast growth factor-2 and leukaemia inhibitory factor, induced proliferation of undifferentiated ES cells. Differentiation studies showed that WNT3A caused formation of scaffold-like structures and inhibition of differentiation into neuron-like cells. In conclusion, the WNT3A signalling pathway is necessary both for maintaining undifferentiated buffalo ES cells as well as for directing their differentiation.
Woodland bird declines in the Murray–Darling Basin: are there links with floodplain change?
Authors: McGinness Heather M. , Arthur Anthony D. , Reid Julian R. W.
Published: May 2013

Woodland bird population declines in Australia have been attributed to various factors including habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation. However, the influence of altered water availability in the landscape upon woodland bird populations has not been examined, particularly in terms of changes in flood regimes and subsequent loss of floodplain productivity. In this review, we examine the importance to woodland birds of floodplains, floods, and associated vegetation communities, highlighting potential links between declining water availability, habitat degradation, and bird populations.
Floodplain woodlands and forests may be important refuges for woodland bird populations because (1) floodplain woodlands and forests comprise some of the largest and most continuous vegetation remnants in south-east Australia; and (2) floods intermittently supply water, sediment and nutrients that drive greater primary and secondary productivity than found in woodlands not subject to flooding. However, floodplains in south-east Australia have been subject to substantial flow regime change, driven predominantly by dams and irrigation water use. Consequently, habitat quality for woodland birds has been degraded, potentially exacerbating population declines.
We suggest that despite such change, floodplain communities and their requisite floods remain of great importance for the persistence, productivity and diversity of woodland birds in Australian drylands. We hypothesise that (1) the influence of flooding upon primary and secondary productivity in floodplain and riparian zones is a key driver of resident bird populations, and a key determinant of nomadic/migratory bird use of a site; (2) alterations in flooding and consequent changes in productivity and condition of floodplain vegetation have contributed to observed declines in resident woodland birds in Australian drylands; and (3) the influence of flooding upon productivity extends beyond local populations of floodplain residents to non-floodplain populations via dispersal, and that floodplain woodlands often act as a source population for surrounding non-floodplain woodlands. We make several testable predictions regarding these hypotheses.
Examining HIV-related stigma and discrimination in Ghana: what are the major contributors?
Authors: Tenkorang Eric Y. , Owusu Adobea Y.
Published: May 2013

Background
Although AIDS-related stigma and discrimination are considered detrimental to HIV prevention activities, not many studies have attempted to understand stigma and discrimination in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Ghana. Methods: Using the 2008 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey and applying the ordinary least-squares technique, this study examined what influences AIDS-related stigma and discrimination among men and women in Ghana. Results: The results indicate that Ghanaian men and women with relatively high knowledge about HIV/AIDS had low stigmatising and discriminatory attitudes (b = –0.097, P < 0.01; b = –0.083, P < 0.01), respectively. On the other hand, respondents who endorsed more myths about HIV transmission had high stigma and discriminatory attitudes. Women who had ever tested for their HIV serostatus reported significantly lower levels of stigma and discrimination (b = –0.085, P < 0.01) compared with those who had not tested for HIV. Individuals who are highly educated, employed and in wealthy households all reported significantly lower levels of stigma and discrimination compared with those who are uneducated, unemployed and in poorer households. Conclusion: AIDS-related stigma and discrimination can be reduced by encouraging HIV testing, and ensuring that Ghanaians understand and have factual knowledge regarding the transmission of the disease.