bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid‐metal frequency‐reconfigurable slot antenna using air‐bubble actuation
Authors: Dang J.H. , Gough R.C. , Morishita A.M. , Ohta A.T. , Shiroma W.A.
Published: September 2015

Liquid metal actuated by pressure‐driven air bubbles is guided within channels to dynamically reconfigure the length of the radiating aperture and feed line of a slot antenna. The gallium‐based liquid metal is held in position by air bubbles, and liquid‐metal motion is induced when a pressure differential is created. In contrast to conventional hydraulic or pneumatic actuation of gallium‐based liquid metal, the pressure actuation described here is reversible and repeatable, as the liquid metal is enveloped by a thin layer of NaOH solution, which acts as a slip layer and reduces any metal oxidation. The slot antenna achieves a 26% tunable bandwidth with a contiguous range from 1.42 to 1.84 GHz for which the S11 is <−10 dB. The peak gain ranges from 4.8 dBi in its lowest‐frequency state to 4.1 dBi in its highest‐frequency state.
Optical wireless connected objects for healthcare
Authors: Toumieux Pascal , Chevalier Ludovic , Sahuguède Stéphanie , Julien‐Vergonjanne Anne
Published: September 2015

In this Letter the authors explore the communication capabilities of optical wireless technology for a wearable device dedicated to healthcare application. In an indoor environment sensible to electromagnetic perturbations such as a hospital, the use of optical wireless links can permit reducing the amount of radio frequencies in the patient environment. Moreover, this technology presents the advantage to be secure, low‐cost and easy to deploy. On the basis of commercially available components, a custom‐made wearable device is presented, which allows optical wireless transmission of accelerometer data in the context of physical activity supervision of post‐stroke patients in hospital. Considering patient mobility, the experimental performance is established in terms of packet loss as a function of the number of receivers fixed to the ceiling. The results permit to conclude that optical wireless links can be used to perform such mobile remote monitoring applications. Moreover, based on the measurements obtained with one receiver, it is possible to theoretically determine the performance according to the number of receivers to be deployed.
Optimal economic dispatch model based on risk management for wind‐integrated power system
Authors: Wu Junli , Zhang Buhan , Wang Ke , Shao Jian , Yao Jianguo , Zeng Dan , Ge Tengyu
Published: September 2015

In recent years, the proportion of wind power capacity is increased dramatically for carbon emissions reduction in several countries. However, wind power generation cannot be dispatched as conventional thermal power generation because of its randomness and intermittency. To deal with the increased uncertainty, a probabilistic model is established to analyse the uncertainty of wind power and load. Conditional value at risk index is applied to assess risk including the loss of load and ‘spilling’ wind energy associated with unpredictable imbalances between generation and load. The cost–risk model is proposed by minimising the operation cost and risk in optimal economic dispatch problem. The study uses multiple objective particle swarm optimisation to solve the model and obtain the Pareto‐optimal solutions, which can reflect the relationship between risk and cost. The optimal solution can be determined in Pareto‐optimal set by risk management method based on analysis of the risk marginal cost. The model and methods are tested on the IEEE 30‐bus power system. The results demonstrate the proposed method can control the cost and risk in effective way.
Adaptive barrier filter‐line‐search interior point method for optimal power flow with FACTS devices
Authors: Duan Chao , Fang Wanliang , Jiang Lin , Liu Jun
Published: September 2015

Three measures, namely, the adaptive barrier update strategy, the filter‐line‐search method and the feasibility restore phase, are simultaneously introduced in the conventional primal–dual interior point method (IPM) framework to enhance the robustness of existing optimal power flow algorithms when applied to systems with considerable number of flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices. First, an adaptive barrier parameter strategy is employed to update the barrier parameter after the current μ‐barrier problem solved to certain accuracy. Second, a filter‐line‐search procedure is introduced to generate the next iterate. Third, the algorithm initiates a feasibility restore phase as a remedy in case of getting stuck at a non‐optimal point. Comparative case studies with previous algorithms on both standard test systems and large‐scale real‐world systems demonstrate the novel algorithm outperforms conventional IPMs in robustness and efficiency.
Ausbildung von Physiotherapeutinnen und Physiotherapeuten in Deutschland: Bereit für den Direktzugang?
Authors: Konrad R. , Konrad A. , Geraedts M.
Published: September 2015

Ziel: Ziel dieser Studie ist es zu untersuchen, ob die Vorgaben für die Physiotherapieausbildung in Deutschland konform zu den Empfehlungen der „World Confederation for Physical Therapy (WCPT) WCPT guideline for physical therapist professional entry level education“ sind. Diese Leitlinie beschreibt Ausbildungsstandards für Physiotherapeuten und Physiotherapeutinnen, die in der Lage sind, als selbständige Praktiker und Praktikerinnen, ohne ärztliche Verordnung zu handeln.

Methodik: Aus der WCPT–Leitlinie wurde eine Liste der dort beschriebenen Kompetenzen inhaltsanalytisch abgeleitet. Die einzelnen Kompetenzen dienten als Einschätzungsdimensionen zur Beurteilung deutscher Ausbildungsgrundlagen. Die Inhaltsvalidität dieser Einschätzungsdimensionen wurde durch neun Expertinnenen und Experten in einem Lawshe-Verfahren ermittelt. Zur Beurteilung der Ausbildungsgrundlagen wurden die Ausbildungs und Prüfungsverordnung für Physiotherapeuten und Physiotherapeutinnen (PhysTh APrV) und alle verfügbaren Länder-Lehrpläne herangezogen und mittels einer skalierenden Strukturierung durch 2 unabhängige Kodierer beurteilt.

Ergebnisse: Auf der Basis des Lawshe Verfahrens verblieben 61 von 67 geprüften Einschätzungsdimensionen, die einen Whole Test Content Validity Index (CVI) von 0,84 aufwiesen. Der Kappa Koeffizient nach Cohen für die Interkodierer-Reliabilität lag zwischen 0,71 und 0,97. Die deutschen Ausbildungsgrundlagen zeigten eine hohe Konformität zur WCPT-Leitlinie in vielen theoretischen Grundlagenfächern. Bei den übrigen Anforderungen ergab sich ein heterogenes Bild des Erfüllungsgrads. Vor allem besondere Kompetenzen autonom handelnder Praktiker und Praktikerinnen fehlten weitgehend.

Schlussfolgerung: Kein deutscher Ausbildungsstandard entspricht den Anforderungen für den Direktzugang. In Anbetracht der beschriebenen Defizite der deutschen Ausbildungsgrundlagen und des Alters einiger Dokumente scheint eine kontinuierliche Weiterentwicklung der deutschen Physiotherapieausbildung noch nicht in einem für den Direktzugang ausreichenden Maße stattgefunden zu haben. Dies ist in Anbetracht der aktuellen gesundheitspolitischen Diskussion dringend nachzuholen.
Vibrational dynamics and band structure of methyl-terminated Ge(111)
Authors: Hund Zachary M. , Nihill Kevin J. , Campi Davide , Wong Keith T. , Lewis Nathan S. , Bernasconi M. , Benedek G. , Sibener S. J.
Published: September 2015

A combined synthesis, experiment, and theory approach, using elastic and inelastic helium atom scattering along with ab initio density functional perturbation theory, has been used to investigate the vibrational dynamics and band structure of a recently synthesized organic-functionalized semiconductor interface. Specifically, the thermal properties and lattice dynamics of the underlying Ge(111) semiconductor crystal in the presence of a commensurate (1 × 1) methyl adlayer were defined for atomically flat methylated Ge(111) surfaces. The mean-square atomic displacements were evaluated by analysis of the thermal attenuation of the elastic He diffraction intensities using the Debye-Waller model, revealing an interface with hybrid characteristics. The methyl adlayer vibrational modes are coupled with the Ge(111) substrate, resulting in significantly softer in-plane motion relative to rigid motion in the surface normal. Inelastic helium time-of-flight measurements revealed the excitations of the Rayleigh wave across the surface Brillouin zone, and such measurements were in agreement with the dispersion curves that were produced using density functional perturbation theory. The dispersion relations for H-Ge(111) indicated that a deviation in energy and lineshape for the Rayleigh wave was present along the nearest-neighbor direction. The effects of mass loading, as determined by calculations for CD3-Ge(111), as well as by force constants, were less significant than the hybridization between the Rayleigh wave and methyl adlayer librations. The presence of mutually similar hybridization effects for CH3-Ge(111) and CH3-Si(111) surfaces extends the understanding of the relationship between the vibrational dynamics and the band structure of various semiconductor surfaces that have been functionalized with organic overlayers.
Visible photoluminescence and room temperature ferromagnetism in high In-content InGaN:Yb nanorods grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Dasari K. , Wang J. , Guinel M. J.-F. , Jadwisienczak W. M. , Huhtinen H. , Mundle R. , Pradhan A. K. , Palai R.
Published: September 2015

We report the growth of high indium content InGaN:Yb nanorods grown on c-plane sapphire (0001) substrates using plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The in situ reflection high energy electron diffraction patterns recorded during and after the growth revealed crystalline nature of the nanorods. The nanorods were examined using electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The photoluminescence studies of the nanorods showed the visible emissions. The In composition was calculated from x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the photoluminescence spectroscopy. The In-concentration was obtained from photoluminescence using modified Vegard's law and found to be around 37% for InGaN and 38% for Yb (5 ± 1%)-doped InGaN with a bowing parameter b = 1.01 eV. The Yb-doped InGaN showed significant enhancement in photoluminescence properties compared to the undoped InGaN. The Yb-doped InGaN nanorods demonstrated the shifting of the photoluminescence band at room temperature, reducing luminescence amplitude temperature dependent fluctuation, and significant narrowing of excitonic emission band as compared to the undoped InGaN. The magnetic properties measured by superconducting quantum interference devices reveals room temperature ferromagnetism, which can be explained by the double exchange mechanism and magnetostriction.
Rogue waves, rational solitons, and modulational instability in an integrable fifth-order nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Yang Yunqing , Yan Zhenya , Malomed Boris A.
Published: September 2015

We analytically study rogue-wave (RW) solutions and rational solitons of an integrable fifth-order nonlinear Schrödinger (FONLS) equation with three free parameters. It includes, as particular cases, the usual NLS, Hirota, and Lakshmanan-Porsezian-Daniel equations. We present continuous-wave (CW) solutions and conditions for their modulation instability in the framework of this model. Applying the Darboux transformation to the CW input, novel first- and second-order RW solutions of the FONLS equation are analytically found. In particular, trajectories of motion of peaks and depressions of profiles of the first- and second-order RWs are produced by means of analytical and numerical methods. The solutions also include newly found rational and W-shaped one- and two-soliton modes. The results predict the corresponding dynamical phenomena in extended models of nonlinear fiber optics and other physically relevant integrable systems.
An enhanced version of the heat exchange algorithm with excellent energy conservation properties
Authors: Wirnsberger P. , Frenkel D. , Dellago C.
Published: September 2015

We propose a new algorithm for non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations of thermal gradients. The algorithm is an extension of the heat exchange algorithm developed by Hafskjold et al. [Mol. Phys. 80, 1389 (1993); 81, 251 (1994)], in which a certain amount of heat is added to one region and removed from another by rescaling velocities appropriately. Since the amount of added and removed heat is the same and the dynamics between velocity rescaling steps is Hamiltonian, the heat exchange algorithm is expected to conserve the energy. However, it has been reported previously that the original version of the heat exchange algorithm exhibits a pronounced drift in the total energy, the exact cause of which remained hitherto unclear. Here, we show that the energy drift is due to the truncation error arising from the operator splitting and suggest an additional coordinate integration step as a remedy. The new algorithm retains all the advantages of the original one whilst exhibiting excellent energy conservation as illustrated for a Lennard-Jones liquid and SPC/E water.
High-temperature thermoelectric properties of Hg-doped CuInTe2
Authors: Kucek V. , Drasar C. , Kasparova J. , Plechacek T. , Navratil J. , Vlcek M. , Benes L.
Published: September 2015

Polycrystalline samples of composition CuIn1−xHgxTe2 (x = 0–0.21) were synthesized from elements of 5N purity using a solid state reaction. The phase purity of the products was verified by X-ray diffraction. Samples for transport property measurements were prepared using hot-pressing. The samples were characterized by measurement of the electrical conductivity, Hall coefficient, Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity over a temperature range of 300–675 K. All samples show p-type conductivity. We discuss the influence of Hg substitution on the free carrier concentration and thermoelectric performance. The investigation of the thermoelectric properties shows up to a 40% improvement of ZT in the temperature range of 300–600 K.
The structure of the O2–N2O complex
Authors: Salmon Steven R. , Lane Joseph R.
Published: September 2015

We have investigated the lowest energy structures and interaction energies of the oxygen nitrous oxide complex (O2–N2O) using explicitly correlated coupled cluster theory. We find that the intermolecular potential energy surface of O2–N2O is very flat, with two minima of comparable energy separated by a low energy first order saddle point. Our results are able to conclusively distinguish between the two sets of experimental geometric parameters for O2–N2O that were previously determined from rotationally resolved infrared spectra. The global minimum structure of O2–N2O is therefore found to be planar with a distorted slipped parallel structure. Finally, we show that the very flat potential energy surface of O2–N2O is problematic when evaluating vibrational frequencies with a numerical Hessian and that consideration should be given as to whether results might change if the step-size is varied.
Finite Reynolds number properties of a turbulent channel flow similarity solution
Authors: Klewicki J. , Oberlack M.
Published: September 2015

Finite Reynolds number behaviors of the asymptotically logarithmic mean velocity profile in fully developed turbulent channel flow are investigated. The scaling patch method of Fife et al. [“Multiscaling in the presence of indeterminacy: Wall-induced turbulence,” Multiscale Model. Simul. 4, 936 (2005)] is used to reveal invariance properties admitted by the appropriately simplified form of the mean momentum equation. These properties underlie the existence of a similarity solution to this equation over an interior inertial domain. The classical logarithmic mean velocity profile equation emerges from this similarity solution as the Reynolds number becomes large. Originally demonstrated via numerical integration, it is now shown that the solution to the governing nonlinear equation can be found by straight-forward analytical integration. The resulting solution contains both linear and logarithmic terms, but with the coefficient on the linear term decaying to zero as the Reynolds number tends to infinity. In this way, the universality of the classical logarithmic law comports with the existence of an invariant form of the mean momentum equation and is accordingly described by the present similarity solution. Existing numerical simulation data are used to elucidate Reynolds number dependent properties of the finite Reynolds number form of the similarity solution. Correspondences between these properties and those indicated by finite Reynolds number corrections to the classical overlap layer formulation for the mean velocity profile are described and discussed.
Electroluminescence from Ge1−ySny diodes with degenerate pn junctions
Authors: Gallagher J. D. , Senaratne C. L. , Wallace P. M. , Menéndez J. , Kouvetakis J.
Published: September 2015

The light emission properties of GeSn pn diodes were investigated as a function of alloy composition and doping levels. Very sharp interfaces between contiguous ultra-highly doped p- and n-layers were obtained using in situ doping with B2H6 and P(SiH3)3 in a chemical vapor deposition environment, yielding nearly ideal model systems for systematic studies. Changes in the doping levels and layer Sn concentrations are shown to greatly affect the electroluminescence spectra. This sensitivity should make it possible to optimize the emission efficiency for these structures in the interesting quasi-direct regime, for which direct gap luminescence is observed due to the proximity of the conduction band quasi-Fermi level to the minimum of the conduction band at the center of the Brillouin zone. Such structures represent the basic building block of Ge-based electrically pumped lasers.
A coupled “AB” system: Rogue waves and modulation instabilities
Authors: Wu C. F. , Grimshaw R. H. J. , Chow K. W. , Chan H. N.
Published: September 2015

Rogue waves are unexpectedly large and localized displacements from an equilibrium position or an otherwise calm background. For the nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) model widely used in fluid mechanics and optics, these waves can occur only when dispersion and nonlinearity are of the same sign, a regime of modulation instability. For coupled NLS equations, rogue waves will arise even if dispersion and nonlinearity are of opposite signs in each component as new regimes of modulation instability will appear in the coupled system. The same phenomenon will be demonstrated here for a coupled “AB” system, a wave-current interaction model describing baroclinic instability processes in geophysical flows. Indeed, the onset of modulation instability correlates precisely with the existence criterion for rogue waves for this system. Transitions from “elevation” rogue waves to “depression” rogue waves are elucidated analytically. The dispersion relation as a polynomial of the fourth order may possess double pairs of complex roots, leading to multiple configurations of rogue waves for a given set of input parameters. For special parameter regimes, the dispersion relation reduces to a cubic polynomial, allowing the existence criterion for rogue waves to be computed explicitly. Numerical tests correlating modulation instability and evolution of rogue waves were conducted.
Effects of oxygen concentration on atmospheric-pressure pulsed dielectric barrier discharges in argon/oxygen mixture
Authors: Pan Jie , Tan Zhenyu , Liu Yadi , Pan Guangsheng , Wang Xiaolong
Published: September 2015

In this work, the effects of oxygen concentration on the atmospheric-pressure argon/oxygen pulsed dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) have been numerically investigated based on a 1-D fluid model. The effects of oxygen concentration in the range below 5% on the important discharge properties of the argon/oxygen pulsed DBDs are systematically calculated and analyzed. The present work presents the following significant observations. The discharge current density still presents, in spite of oxygen addition, the form of two bipolar pulses in one period of the applied voltage, as occurred in pure noble gases. Especially, oxygen admixture affects basically only the first discharge, and the resultant characteristics are that the peak value of the current density reduces and the peak position moves in the direction of the time, when increasing oxygen concentration. Increasing oxygen admixture significantly raises both the breakdown voltage of the second discharge and the averaged electron temperature not only in the pulse duration but also in the time interval between the applied voltage pulses. The averaged dissipated power density reaches its maximum as the oxygen concentration is 3%. Also, increasing oxygen admixture effectively enhances the averaged particle densities of O+, O2(1Δg), and O3, but obviously reduces those of electron, Ar+, O, and O(1D). Under the considered oxygen concentrations, O2+ and O3− are the dominated oxygen-related charged species.
Mutual synchronization of weakly coupled gyrotrons
Authors: Rozental R. M. , Ginzburg N. S. , Glyavin M. Yu. , Sergeev A. S. , Zotova I. V.
Published: September 2015

The processes of synchronization of two weakly coupled gyrotrons are studied within the framework of non-stationary equations with non-fixed longitudinal field structure. With the allowance for a small difference of the free oscillation frequencies of the gyrotrons, we found a certain range of parameters where mutual synchronization is possible while a high electronic efficiency is remained. It is also shown that synchronization regimes can be realized even under random fluctuations of the parameters of the electron beams.
Electronic transport characterization of silicon wafers by spatially resolved steady-state photocarrier radiometric imaging
Authors: Wang Qian , Li Bincheng
Published: September 2015

Spatially resolved steady-state photocarrier radiometric (PCR) imaging technique is developed to characterize the electronic transport properties of silicon wafers. Based on a nonlinear PCR theory, simulations are performed to investigate the effects of electronic transport parameters (the carrier lifetime, the carrier diffusion coefficient, and the front surface recombination velocity) on the steady-state PCR intensity profiles. The electronic transport parameters of an n-type silicon wafer are simultaneously determined by fitting the measured steady-state PCR intensity profiles to the three-dimensional nonlinear PCR model. The determined transport parameters are in good agreement with the results obtained by the conventional modulated PCR technique with multiple pump beam radii.
Detailed analysis of oxide related charges and metal-oxide barriers in terrace etched Al2O3 and HfO2 on AlGaN/GaN heterostructure capacitors
Authors: Winzer A. , Szabó N. , Ocker J. , Hentschel R. , Schuster M. , Schubert F. , Gärtner J. , Wachowiak A. , Mikolajick T.
Published: September 2015

In this work, we present the terrace etching technique to obtain excessive thickness series of atomic layer deposition (ALD) grown Al2O3 and HfO2 on GaN-cap/AlGaN/GaN heterostructures allowing for the detailed study of oxide charge distribution and its impact of the metal-insulator-semiconductor high electron mobility transistor (MISHEMT) threshold voltage. By modeling the experimental plot of threshold voltage versus oxide thickness on the basis of experimentally determined two-dimensional electron gas charge density in AlGaN/GaN MISHEMTs, we separated the interface and bulk charge components and determined the oxide-metal barrier height for the investigated gate dielectrics. In both Al2O3 and HfO2 gate dielectrics, the oxide charges are mainly located at the oxide/GaN interface. Determining the interface trap charges from comparison of the pulsed capacitance-voltage (CV) technique with very fast voltage sweep to the modulation type CV method with slow DC voltage ramp, we extracted positive fixed charges of NOx=2.7×1012 cm−2 for Al2O3 and NOx=7.8×1012 cm−2 for HfO2. We found a strong Vth shift of opposite direction for both high-k materials, corresponding to negatively charged up trap states at the HfO2/GaN interface and positively charged up trap states at the Al2O3/GaN interface. The evaluation of the metal-oxide barrier height in dependence of the metal work function followed the trend of the Schottky model, whereas HfO2 showed less Fermi level pinning compared to Al2O3 indicating the presence of an increased number of interface states in Al2O3 on GaN.
Superconducting properties and chemical composition of NbTiN thin films with different thickness
Authors: Zhang L. , Peng W. , You L. X. , Wang Z.
Published: September 2015

In this research, we systematically investigated the superconducting properties and chemical composition of NbTiN thin films prepared on single-crystal MgO substrates. The NbTiN thin films with different thicknesses (4–100 nm) were deposited by reactive DC magnetron sputtering at ambient temperature. We measured and analyzed the crystal structure and thickness dependence of the chemical composition using X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profiles. The films exhibited excellent superconducting properties, with a high superconducting critical temperature of 10.1 K, low resistivity (ρ20 = 93 μΩ cm), and residual resistivity ratio of 1.12 achieved for 4-nm-thick ultrathin NbTiN films prepared at the deposition current of 2.4 A. The stoichiometry and electrical properties of the films varied gradually between the initial and upper layers. A minimum ρ20 of 78 μΩ cm and a maximum residual resistivity ratio of 1.15 were observed for 12-nm-thick films, which significantly differ from the properties of NbN films with the same NaCl structure.
Electronic Structure Change in DNA Caused by Base Pair Motions and Its Effect on Charge Transfer in DNA Chains
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Jingyao , Zheng Guohui , Ke Sanhuang , Miao Maosheng , Kioussis Nicholas
Published: September 2015

One important aspect of carrier transfer in DNA is its coupling with atomic motions. The collective motion of the base pairs can either improve the charge transfer by enhancing the π stacking between the bases, or trap the carriers due to strong coupling. By utilizing a pseudo-helical base pair stack model, we systematically studied the electronic structure and its dependence to geometry changes that represent the important DNA motions, including the translation, the twist and the torsion of the base pairs. Our calculations reveal that the above motions may significantly change the electron structure and affect their transport properties. In order to improve the transport of carriers in DNA so that it can become a prospective material in future electronics, it is necessary to make large changes to the atomic structure. Our calculations of the electronic structure under large geometry variation, including large base pair stacking deformation and the insertion of phenyl rings in the bases, can provide good guidelines for such structural modifications of DNA.
Using palaeoecological and palaeoenvironmental records to guide restoration, conservation and adaptive management of Ramsar freshwater wetlands: lessons from the Everglades, USA
Authors: Riedinger-Whitmore Melanie Ann
Published: September 2015

The Everglades, the largest Ramsar wetland in the USA, is a spatially complex mosaic of freshwater habitats heavily impacted by agriculture, urban land use, and efforts to manage water resources in southern Florida. Restoration and conservation of these habitats is challenging because they experience different threats, and require different water levels, hydroperiods and disturbances. Historically, Everglades hydrology was maintained by seasonal precipitation and surface-water flows, but was significantly altered in the 20th century to foster agriculture and urban growth. Everglades palaeoecological and palaeoenvironmental studies provide opportunities to examine spatial and temporal variability in wetland conditions, and document past climate and anthropogenic influences on plant succession and habitat persistence since the mid-Holocene.
This paper summarises key Everglades palaeoecological and palaeoenvironmental research, and highlights lessons learned about the evolution of the ecosystem, historical variability, and natural and anthropogenic influences. These lessons have been used in defining reference conditions and community targets in current efforts to restore the Everglades. Palaeoenvironmental and palaeoecological studies enhance our understanding about properties that define and contribute to the ecological character of wetlands, and they can identify criteria that are important for restoration and conservation projects in Ramsar-listed wetlands.
The Australian three-dimensional soil grid: Australia’s contribution to the GlobalSoilMap project
Authors: Viscarra Rossel R. A. , Chen C. , Grundy M. J. , Searle R. , Clifford D. , Campbell P. H.
Published: September 2015

Information on the geographic variation in soil has traditionally been presented in polygon (choropleth) maps at coarse scales. Now scientists, planners, managers and politicians want quantitative information on the variation and functioning of soil at finer resolutions; they want it to plan better land use for agriculture, water supply and the mitigation of climate change land degradation and desertification. The GlobalSoilMap project aims to produce a grid of soil attributes at a fine spatial resolution (approximately 100 m), and at six depths, for the purpose. This paper describes the three-dimensional spatial modelling used to produce the Australian soil grid, which consists of Australia-wide soil attribute maps. The modelling combines historical soil data plus estimates derived from visible and infrared soil spectra. Together they provide a good coverage of data across Australia. The soil attributes so far include sand, silt and clay contents, bulk density, available water capacity, organic carbon, pH, effective cation exchange capacity, total phosphorus and total nitrogen. The data on these attributes were harmonised to six depth layers, namely 0–0.05 m, 0.05–0.15 m, 0.15–0.30 m, 0.30–0.60 m, 0.60–1.00 m and 1.00–2.00 m, and the resulting values were incorporated simultaneously in the models. The modelling itself combined the bootstrap, a decision tree with piecewise regression on environmental variables and geostatistical modelling of residuals. At each layer, values of the soil attributes were predicted at the nodes of a 3 arcsecond (approximately 90 m) grid and mapped together with their uncertainties. The assessment statistics for each attribute mapped show that the models explained between 30% and 70% of their total variation. The outcomes are illustrated with maps of sand, silt and clay contents and their uncertainties. The Australian three-dimensional soil maps fill a significant gap in the availability of quantitative soil information in Australia.
Towards biodiversity-based livestock systems: review of evidence and options for improvement.
Authors: Sabatier R. , Durant D. , Hazard L. , Lauvie A. , Lecrivain E. , Magda D. , Martel G. , Roche B. , Sainte Marie C. de , Teillard F. , Tichit M.
Published: September 2015

A major challenge for livestock farming systems (LFSs) is to reconcile production with the management of natural resources, especially biodiversity and ecosystem services. Based on a review of research conducted on grassland- and rangeland-based LFSs, this paper addresses this challenge by analysing biodiversity as a product of and a key resource for LFSs. Although most studies reveal antagonisms between biodiversity and production, our findings show that it is possible to move towards synergies. The literature review sheds light on five points: (i) moving beyond an antagonistic view of biodiversity and production by considering biodiversity as a resource requires new criteria for biodiversity categorization from a taxonomic view to a functional one; (ii) functional biodiversity (both domestic and wild) considered as a resource provides beneficial properties (e.g. stability and resilience) to LFSs; (iii) links between production and biodiversity cannot be simply summarized as having a negative impact of production intensity as management practices have various impacts on the different components of biodiversity; (iv) impact assessment studies linking management of LFSs and biodiversity reveal complex multi-level interactions between grassland or rangeland management and biodiversity; (v) a large range of management options are available to move towards biodiversity-based LFSs. We conclude that future research should address the challenge of collective management of wild biodiversity at higher levels of organization (landscapes, territories, etc.) and that such collective management would greatly benefit from the experience of domestic biodiversity.
Resveratrol inhibits the hydrogen dioxide-induced apoptosis via Sirt 1 activation in osteoblast cells
Authors: He Na , Zhu Xuewei , He Wei , Zhao Shiwei , Zhao Weiyan , Zhu Chunlei
Published: September 2015

Sirt 1 plays a critical role in stress responses. We determined the deregulation of Sirt 1 activity, p53 acetylation, Bcl-2 expression, and mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in mouse osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells which were exposed to H2O2. And then we investigated the protective role of Sirt 1 activator, Resveratrol (RSV), against the H2O2-induced apoptosis. Results demonstrated that Sirt 1 and Bcl-2 were inhibited, whereas p53 acetylation, Bax, and caspase 9 were promoted by H2O2, as was aggravated by the Sirt 1 inhibitor, EX-527. Instead, RSV inhibited the H2O2-induced both p53 acetylation and the caspase 9 activation, whereas ameliorated the H2O2-induced Bcl-2 inhibition and apoptosis. In conclusion, Sirt 1 was downregulated during the H2O2-induced apoptosis in MC3T3-E1 cells. And the chemical activation of Sirt 1 inhibited the H2O2-induced apoptosis via the downregulation of p53 acetylation. Our results suggest that Sirt 1 upregulation appears to be an important strategy to inhibit the oxidative stress-induced apoptosis.
Bilateral vestibular schwannomas: the challenge of neurofibromatosis type 2
Authors: Grover Patrick , Bradford Robert
Published: September 2015

Vestibular schwannomas are benign tumours that are said to originate predominantly from the superior vestibular nerve. Their incidence is estimated to be between 2-20 cases per million worldwide, comprising approximately 5-10% of intracranial tumours. They arise in the cerebellopontine angle accounting for approximately 90% of mass lesions in this location. This chapter discusses how to recognise and treat vestibular schwannomas. Vestibular schwannomas may be managed conservatively, surgically or with radiotherapy. Combined modality treatment has also been successfully reported, for example sub-total debulking followed by gamma knife therapy for large vestibular schwannomas. Tumours may be approached surgically via three approaches. The two most commonly used are retrosigmoid transmeatal and translabyrinthine, with the middle cranial fossa approach less prevalent. Treatment of these tumours will increasingly depend on less invasive modalities including focussed radiation techniques and molecular chemotherapeutics. Radiosurgery is significantly less effective in NF2 associated schwannomas and this represents a particular challenge in management. Clinical trials of bevacizumab (a VEGF inhibitor), and Lapatinib (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor) in NF2 are ongoing.
Endoscopic resection of a growth hormone-secreting pituitary macroadenoma
Authors: Paluzzi Alessandro , Gardner Paul
Published: September 2015

Pituitary tumors represent the third most common primary brain tumour after gliomas and meningiomas. Autopsy studies confirmed a frequency in the population of 14.4%. The prevalence of acromegaly is in the order of 40-125 cases per million and its annual incidence is 3 to 4 cases per million, although recent studies suggest that it might as high as 1,034 cases per million. This chapter discusses the diagnosis and presentation of growth hormone-secreting pituitary macroadenoma. There is not enough evidence to favor surgery versus conservative management in asymptomatic patients with non-functioning adenomas since their life-time risk of developing visual field defects, hypopituitarism or pituitary apoplexy is not known. Studies however seem to suggest that patients with macroadenomas are at higher risk than patients with microadenoamas to develop such events. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) guidelines recommend surgery as the primary mode of therapy in all GH-secreting microadenomas and all macroadenomas with mass effect.
Cerebral metastasis
Authors: Werndle Melissa C. , Marsh Henry
Published: September 2015

The incidence of cerebral metastases, which is the most common type of adult brain tumour, is up to 40% in patients diagnosed with a primary systemic cancer. The common primary sites are lung, breast, melanoma, renal and colorectal. Most systemic treatments for primary malignancies do not cross the blood brain barrier therefore we are seeing an increase in brain metastases, in patients who previously would not have survived their primary disease. This chapter explores the diagnosis and management options for intracerebral metastases. The current treatment options available for brain metastases are radiotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and surgery (open surgical resection). A challenge is to balance prolongation of life with maximising quality of life. At times, these principles are at odds and each case must be considered individually. In general, in patients with a good performance status (Karnofsky over 70, or performance status 0, 1, 2) and controlled extracranial disease, surgical resection followed by whole brain radiotherapy confers the maximum survival. This is superior to whole brain radiotherapy alone.
Peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Sophie J. Camp , Birch Rolfe
Published: September 2015

In blast injury, the patient is exposed to a shock wave at close range, without any fracture, or signs of significant soft tissue injury. The underlying mechanism is, as yet, not fully understood. Large fibre conduction recovers, but the small fibres repair more slowly, and sometimes imperfectly. This chapter discusses how to assess and surgically address peripheral nerve injury. It is generally advocated that patients with traumatic peripheral nerve injuries, including closed brachial plexus traction lesions, should undergo surgery as early as possible, as this has been shown to optimise recovery. Peripheral nerve injuries offer many challenges, especially those that are proximal, involving the nerve plexus, and/or are complicated by other injuries. Secondary distal damage to a peripheral nerve can further confuse the clinical picture. A thorough history and examination, together with appropriate imaging and neurophysiological investigations, allow accurate diagnosis and prognosis. The management of such severe blast injury to peripheral nerves is a new phenomenon requiring further research.
Aetiology and epidemiology
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Describes how cancer care is structured and explains rationale and components of multidisciplinary teams. This runs through cancer care from diagnosis to terminal care and has resulted in better quality and outcomes for patients
Surgical oncology
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Cancer is a disease of the genes. In the last two decades new technologies have allowed us to interrogate the genome more efficiently and faster. This has led to new therapies and improved understanding of cancers. It is clear the few cancers are caused by just one gene defect and in these rare cases the defective gene or its product is a target for therapeutic intervention. The bigger challenge now is to use this paradigm against multi-genic cancers which are far more common and more complex in their genetic makeup.
Thoracic malignancies
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

This chapter addresses the evidence for screening for malignant disease and describes currently accepted and practised protocols for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer, as well as the potential for screening programs for lung and prostate cancer
Endocrine cancers
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

This chapter examines the aetiology, diagnosis, and management of malignant tumours of the oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine as well as those of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder and the biliary tree. It highlights the multidisciplinary approach to these tumours and illustrates the improved results now being seen through this approach.
Tumours of the central nervous system
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

A concise, up-to-date overview of the epidemiology, aetiology, pathology, presentation and multi-disciplinary management of head and neck cancers.
Bone and soft tissue malignancies
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Haematological malignancies examines the epidemiology, genetics, clinical presentation and classification of these diseases, and presents current treatment approaches for each. First are the acute leukaemias, and the management of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Chronic myeloid leukaemia, its genetics and sensitivity to tyrosine kinase inhibitors, is described. Myelodysplastic syndromes and their management, are followed by chronic lymphoid leukaemias, a large heterogeneous group of diseases, and their treatment. Hodgkin lymphoma, its pathology and presentation, staging and role of PET scanning, is described along with current treatment with chemotherapy and limited radiotherapy. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is another heterogeneous group of diseases, divided into low-grade and high-grade pathology, and varying in their genetics, presentation, and management. Rituximab is a key component of chemotherapy regimens against B-cell lymphoma. Myeloma and other plasma cell dyscrasias are described, and treatment options reviewed. Myeloma remains incurable, but with appropriate management consistent with prolonged good quality life. Treatment includes chemotherapy, bisphosphonate therapy, analgesics and radiotherapy, Throughout this chapter is emphasised the importance of clinical trials in driving the rapid improvements in treatment of these diseases.
Malignancy of unknown primary
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Bone and soft tissue malignancies describes a large group of sarcomas, some of which require highly specialist management, including osteosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma, so that referral to an appropriate multidisciplinary team (MDT) is mandatory. Limb conserving surgery combined with pre- and postoperative chemotherapy is curative in the majority of osteosarcomas, and similar approach which may include local radiotherapy also holds for Ewing’s. Other primary bone tumours are reviewed including malignant fibrous histiocytoma, chondrosarcoma, chordoma, solitary plasmacytoma, and primary lymphoma of bone.Soft tissue sarcomas comprise a heterogeneous group of tumours, ranging from low grade pathology with at worst propensity to local recurrence after conservative surgery, to high grade disease (including extra osseous Ewing’s) where intensive chemotherapy along with surgery is standard therapy. Pre-or postoperative radiotherapy improves local control for many soft tissue sarcomas. For most soft tissue sarcomas, chemosensitivity is modest at best, offering palliative benefit in metastatic disease, but no clear survival benefit in adjuvant therapy. Gastrointestinal stromal tumours and a few others are susceptible to targeted therapy, and it is hoped that this approach may be applicable to more in the future.Metastatic disease from both bone and soft tissue sarcomas is often pulmonary, and metastectomy can provide effective treatment, particularly when lung lesion is solitary.
Paraneoplastic syndromes
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

This chapter provides the reader with a systematic approach for the appropriate investigation and management of this common oncological problem.
AIDS-related malignancies
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

These manifestations of cancer are not due to direct infiltration or invasion, but are usually mediated by hormonal or other aberrant signaling. The chapter deals with the more common of these that effect the endocrine, neurological , haematological or dermatological systems. There are many of these which are relatively uncommon but bring a differential diagnosis of underlying malignancy.
Overview of acute oncology
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Describes the common causes of spinal cord compression, the symptoms and speed of onset. Outlines immediate diagnostic and therapy options. Emphasis on the need for early diagnosis and therapy to ensure optimal outcomes in longer term.Describes the most common and dreaded of cytotoxic chemotherapy side-effects which is pancytopaenia caused by killing of bone marrow cells. Life threatening when accompanied by infection – neutropaenic sepsis. Outlines symptoms, investigations and immediate therapy guidelines.
Thromboembolic and cardiac emergencies
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Describes the incidence and aetiology of excessive clotting and / or bleeding diathesis in cancer. This includes descriptions of disseminated intravascular coagulation, deep vein thrombosis. Outlines investigations and immediate therapy options.Also discusses cardiac events including pericardial effusions. Describes aetiology, pathophysiology, investiagation and therapy of this medical emergency.
Obstruction
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

This chapter addresses the presentation, diagnosis, and management of cancers manifesting with obstruction of the gastrointestinal system, the urinary tract, and biliary tree.
Gene therapy and genetic immunotherapy for cancer
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

An overview of some of the principals of gene therapy, including an introduction to some of the relevant terminology, with the aim of providing the reader with a platform for further reading.
Biomarkers and cancer
Authors: Cassidy Jim , Bissett Donald , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Spence OBE Roy A. J. , Payne Miranda , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: September 2015

Biomarkers and cancer defines these markers and outlines their role in diagnosis, prognosis, prediction of response, and response assessment of a variety of cancers. Established biomarkers are reviewed, and the potential for development of new biomarkers offered by the dramatic progress in both the understanding of molecular biology and the development of laboratory techniques is emphasised. The field of signal transduction has already proved fruitful, with identification of markers allowing successful targeted therapy in a range of cancers. Progress is anticipated also in tumour imaging, with developments in both MRI and PET. Areas of clinical interest are summarised for breast, lung, colorectal, renal, and CNS malignancies.