Abstracts » Zoology and wildlife conservation

Lizards took express train to Polynesia

Article Abstract:

Human colonization patterns on the island of the central and eastern pacific are contentious, and two models have been considered, the 'entangled bank' hypotheses and the 'express train to Polynesia'. The mitochondrial DNA sequences of the lizard Lipinia noctua, living on these Pacific islands has been analyzed, with the aim of distinguishing between the two hypotheses. It was found that they colonized as a result of human-mediated dispersal, possibly stowing away on early Polynesian canoes. Genetic similarities between different colonies appears to support the express-train theory.

Mitochondrial DNA, Lizards, Colonization

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Patterning liquid flow on the microscopic scale

Article Abstract:

It has been possible to develop a straightforward technique using temperature gradients to direct microscopic flow on a selectively patterned surface. This research involved examining the thermocapillary spreading of a silicone oil films on vertically oriented, patterned silicon wafers. Laser interferometry was used to visualize the topography of the spreading film. Pinning the troughs of the liquid front in place permits this technology to be developed further for microfluidic applications.

Measurement, Flow (Dynamics), Fluid dynamic measurements

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