Role of twin boundaries on the vortex dynamics in YBa2_2Cu3_3O7_7

By means of a novel technique of rotating the applied current we have directly measured the influence of twin boundaries on the vortex motion in a YBa$_2$Cu$_3$O$_7$ single crystal. The results indicate that the effect of twin planes on the vortex dynamics starts to develop below a certain temperature, being responsible for an anisotropic viscosity in the vortex liquid state and a guided motion in the solid state.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figure

Urban Ecology: theory, policy and practice in New South Wales, Australia

The aim of this report is to provide the evidence base for embedding urban ecology into laws, policies, strategic investment decisions and actions that inform and have a positive impact on the three major cities in NSW. The report draws on academic, peer-reviewed literature and ‘grey’ literature such as reports, conference presentations, newspaper articles and government laws, policies and reports. Three thematic areas of literature are examined: Urban biodiversity and ecology Policy and legislative frameworks Built environment and urban landscape design.Case studies are presented to demonstrate best practices in applying urban ecological thinking, both within Australia and internationally. In parallel with the literature review, workshops with industry, government and community groups helped in identifying how these groups define and implement urban ecology projects and what they consider to be the barriers to and opportunities for embedding urban ecology into decision-making and practice within and between our cities.This report informs the Blueprint for Living Cities: policy to practice, a document designed to demonstrate to the NSW Environmental Trust, state government departments and agencies, local governments, industry and the community how to change from a business-as-usual approach to realistic, ecologically based city planning and practice. It positions urban ecology as a foundation for the identity and betterment of NSW cities

An Urban Forest Horizon Scan in Canberra, Australia. Report for the Clean Air and Urban Landscapes Hub

In attempting to glimpse the possible futures for the urban forest, insights can be gained into key current policy and research needs that will better prepare the urban forest, and its managers and users, for these future scenarios. The horizon scanning workshop provided the forum and opportunity for researchers and policy makers from a range of backgrounds to come together and for one day imagine scenarios for future forests. These discussions generated new conceptions of future cities and the roles of the urban forests within them. Discussions pointed to both opportunities and threats for urban forests, associated with technological developments, increasing climate change impacts, globalisation and population growth. These scenarios could be further developed to identify key research and policy priorities that can better prepare our cities to capitalise on the opportunities and manage the threats. The workshop also opened possibilities for increased transdisciplinary collaborations between workshop participants and their colleagues