bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Density‐driven transport in the umbrella region of volcanic clouds: Implications for tephra dispersion models
Authors: Costa Antonio , Folch Arnau , Macedonio Giovanni
Published: September 2013

Large explosive volcanic eruptions can generate ash clouds from rising plumes that spread in the atmosphere around a Neutral Buoyancy Level (NBL). These ash clouds spread as inertial intrusions and are advected by atmospheric winds. For low mass flow rates, tephra transport is mainly dictated by wind advection, because ash cloud spreading due to gravity current effects is negligible (passive transport). For large mass flow rates, gravity‐driven transport at the NBL can be the dominant transport mechanism. Conditions under which the passive transport assumption is valid have not yet been critically studied. We analyze the conditions when gravity‐driven transport is dominant in terms of the cloud Richardson number. Moreover, we couple an analytical model that describes cloud spreading as a gravity current with an advection‐diffusion model. This coupled model is used to simulate the evolution of the volcanic cloud during the climatic phase of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption.
Pharmacokinetics of tofacitinib, a janus kinase inhibitor, in patients with impaired renal function and end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Krishnaswami Sriram , Chow Vincent , Boy Mary , Wang Cunshan , Chan Gary
Published: September 2013

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of tofacitinib were assessed in patients with mild (Cockcroft–Gault creatinine clearance >50 and ≤80 mL/min), moderate (≥30 and ≤50 mL/min), and severe (<30 mL/min) renal impairment, and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis. Six patients each with normal, mild, moderate, or severely impaired renal function, and 12 patients with ESRD, received single tofacitinib doses of 10 mg. PK data were obtained from blood and dialyzate (patients with ESRD only) samples prior and subsequent to dosing and/or hemodialysis (patients with ESRD only). Relative to patients with normal renal function, mean (90% CI) AUC(0–∞) ratios were 137% (97–195), 143% (101–202), and 223% (157–316) in patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively. Maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) were similar across the four treatment groups. Terminal phase half‐life (t1/2) increased with severity of renal impairment. Mean AUC(0–∞) in patients with ESRD on a non‐dialysis day was similar to that in patients with moderate renal impairment and approximately 40% greater than healthy volunteer data. Mean (SD) dialyzer efficiency (ratio of dialyzer clearance/blood flow entering the dialyzer) was 0.73 (0.15). However, due to extensive non‐renal clearance, dialysis procedure is unlikely to result in significant elimination of tofacitinib.
Tolerance to cocaine's effects following chronic administration of a dose without detected effects on response rate or pause
Authors: Minervini Vanessa , Branch Marc N.
Published: September 2013

To observe tolerance to drug effects on operant behavior, the dose that researchers have often selected for chronic administration is one that disrupts, but does not abolish, responding. Some evidence suggests that tolerance may develop after chronic administration of relatively smaller doses. The purpose of the present experiment was to assess systematically effects of chronic administration of a dose without detected effect on responding. Specifically, response rates and post‐reinforcement pauses of five pigeons key pecking under a three‐component multiple fixed‐ratio schedule of food reinforcement were observed under chronic cocaine administration. We evaluated the effects of a range of doses (1.0 mg/kg to 17.0 mg/kg) during acute administration. The largest dose that failed to alter responding acutely then was administered chronically (1.0 mg/kg for 1 pigeon, 3.0 mg/kg for 3 pigeons, and 5.6 mg/kg for 1 pigeon). After 30 consecutive sessions of chronic administration, smaller and larger doses occasionally were substituted for the chronic dose. Pigeons then received pre‐session saline administration for 30 consecutive sessions, and the post‐chronic effects of the series of doses on responding were determined. All subjects developed tolerance to doses of cocaine that initially had caused large decreases in rate, with the magnitude of the effects varying across components of the multiple schedule and subjects. Specifically, tolerance generally was greatest in the components with smaller ratios. Following post‐chronic saline administration, tolerance was usually diminished. Overall, the results demonstrate that under these conditions, repeated experience with disruptive effects of cocaine on food‐maintained responding is not a necessary factor in the development of tolerance.
Sensitivity of stratospheric dynamics and chemistry to QBO nudging width in the chemistry‒climate model WACCM
Authors: Hansen F. , Matthes K. , Gray L. J.
Published: September 2013

The consequences of different quasi‒biennial oscillation (QBO) nudging widths on stratospheric dynamics and chemistry are analyzed by comparing two model simulations with the National Center for Atmospheric Research's Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM) where the width of the QBO is varied between 22° and 8.5° north and south. The sensitivity to the nudging width is strongest in Northern Hemisphere (NH) winter where the Holton‒Tan effect in the polar stratosphere, i.e., stronger zonal mean winds during QBO west phases, is enhanced for the wider compared to the narrower nudging case. The differences between QBO west and east conditions for the two model experiments can be explained with differences in wave propagation, wave‒mean flow interaction, and the residual circulation. In the wider nudging case, a divergence anomaly in the midlatitude upper stratosphere/lower mesosphere occurs together with an equatorward anomaly of the residual circulation. This seems to result in a strengthening of the meridional temperature gradient and hence a significant strengthening of the polar night jet (PNJ). In the narrower nudging case, these circulation changes are weaker and not statistically significant, consistent with a weaker and less significant impact on the PNJ. Chemical tracers like ozone, water vapor, and methane react accordingly. From a comparison of westerly minus easterly phase composite differences in the model to reanalysis and satellite data, we conclude that the standard WACCM configuration (QBO22) generates more realistic QBO effects in stratospheric dynamics and chemistry during NH winter. Our study also confirms the importance of the secondary mean meridional circulation associated with the QBO for the Holton‒Tan effect.
Nanoimprinted distributed feedback lasers comprising TiO2 thin films: Design guidelines for high performance sensing
Authors: Vannahme Christoph , Leung Michael C. , Richter Frank , Smith Cameron L. C. , Hermannsson Pétur G. , Kristensen Anders
Published: September 2013

Design guidelines for optimizing the sensing performance of nanoimprinted second order distributed feedback dye lasers are presented. The guidelines are verified by experiments and simulations. The lasers, fabricated by UV‐nanoimprint lithography into Pyrromethene doped Ormocomp thin films on glass, have their sensor sensitivity enhanced by a factor of up to five via the evaporation of a titanium dioxide (TiO2) waveguiding layer. The influence of the TiO2 layer thickness on the device sensitivity is analyzed with a simple model that accurately predicts experimentally measured wavelength shifts induced by varied superstrate refractive indices. The superstrate refractive index is additionally shown to determine which of the possible waveguiding modes dominates for lasing, indicating a method to flexibly select the polarization of the laser. The detection limit of the sensor system is further discussed, finding an optimum at 7.5· 10−6 RIU. Wavelength changes caused by dye bleaching must be taken into account for long‐term measurements.
A Ratiometric Probe Composed of an Anionic Conjugated Polyelectrolyte and a Cationic Phosphorescent Iridium(III) Complex for Time‐Resolved Detection of Hg(II) in Aqueous Media
Authors: Shi Huifang , Liu Shujuan , An Zhongfu , Yang Huiran , Geng Junlong , Zhao Qiang , Liu Bin , Huang Wei
Published: September 2013

A hybrid complex composed of an anionic conjugated polyelectrolyte (PFB‐SO3Na) and a cationic phosphorescent Ir(III) oligomer is formed through electrostatic interaction by simple physical mixing in aqueous media. Due to their opposite charges and their effective spectral overlap, fluorescence resonance energy transfer occurs from the blue‐emissive PFB‐SO3Na to the red‐emissive phosphorescent Ir(III) complex, which allows ratiometric and colorimetric Hg2+ sensing in aqueous solution with good selectivity, sensitivity, as well as visible detection. Time‐resolved photoluminescence is applied for Hg2+ detection, which can effectively eliminate the background interference and improve the sensing sensitivity and signal‐to‐noise ratio in complicated media.
Mechanically Robust Gelatin–Alginate IPN Hydrogels by a Combination of Enzymatic and Ionic Crosslinking Approaches
Authors: Wen Cai , Lu Lingling , Li Xinsong
Published: September 2013

In this report, novel biopolymer hydrogels composed of gelatin and alginate with an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) structure were prepared by a combination of enzymatic and ionic crosslinking approaches. The gelation processes of the IPN hydrogels were monitored using rheological techniques. The data confirmed the formation of dual networks: one gelatin network crosslinked by transglutaminase (TG) and another alginate network crosslinked by calcium ions. The results of mechanical testing revealed that the tensile and compressive strength of the hydrogels crosslinked in the presence of both TG and calcium ions were significantly improved. Preliminary studies have also shown that the hydrogels can support cell adhesion and spreading. These mechanically robust biopolymer hydrogels prepared by such biocompatible approaches are promising for the development of tissue engineering scaffolds.
Nitrite impacts the survival of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in response to isoniazid and hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Cunningham‐Bussel Amy , Bange Franz C. , Nathan Carl F.
Published: September 2013

When access to molecular oxygen is restricted, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) can respire an alternative electron acceptor, nitrate. We found that Mtb within infected primary human macrophages in vitro at physiologic tissue oxygen tensions respired nitrate, generating copious nitrite. A strain of Mtb lacking a functioning nitrate reductase was more susceptible than wild‐type Mtb to treatment with isoniazid during infection of macrophages. Likewise, nitrate reductase‐deficient Mtb was more susceptible to isoniazid than wild‐type Mtb in axenic culture, and more resistant to hydrogen peroxide. These phenotypes were reversed by the addition of exogenous nitrite. Further investigation suggested that nitrite might inhibit the bacterial catalase. To the extent that Mtb itself is the most relevant source of nitrite acting within Mtb, these findings suggest that inhibitors of Mtb's nitrate transporter or nitrate reductase could enhance the efficacy of isoniazid.
Subchronic Oral and Inhalation Toxicities: a Challenging Attempt for Modeling and Prediction
Authors: Dobchev Dimaitar A. , Tulp Indrek , Karelson Gunnar , Tamm Tarmo , Tämm Kaido , Karelson Mati
Published: September 2013

The article deals with a challenging attempt to model and predict “difficult” properties as long‐term subchronic oral and inhalation toxicities (90 days) using nonlinear QSAR approach. This investigation is one of the first to tackle such multicomplex properties where we have employed nonlinear models based on artificial neural network for the prediction of NOAEL (no observable adverse effect level). Despite the complex nature of the NOAEL property based on in vivo rat experiments, the successful models can be used as alternative tools to non‐animal tests for the initial assessment of these chronic toxicities. The model for oral subchronic toxicity is able to describe 88 %, and the inhalation model 87 % of the statistical variance. For the sake of future predictions, we have also defined in a quantitative way the applicability domain of all neural network models.
Support Vector Machine (SVM) Models for Predicting Inhibitors of the 3′ Processing Step of HIV‐1 Integrase
Authors: Xuan Shouyi , Wang Maolin , Kang Hang , Kirchmair Johannes , Tan Lu , Yan Aixia
Published: September 2013

Inhibition of the 3′ processing step of HIV‐1 integrase by small molecule inhibitors is one of the most promising strategies for the treatment of AIDS. Using a support vector machine (SVM) approach, we developed six classification models for predicting 3′P inhibitors. The models are based on up to 48 selected molecular descriptors and a comprehensive data set of 1253 molecules, with measured activities ranging from nanomolar to micromolar IC50 values. Model B2, the most robust SVM model, obtains a prediction accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 93 %, 81 %, 94 % and 0.67 on the test set, respectively. The presence of hydrogen bonding features and hydrophilicity in general were identified as key determinants of inhibitory activity. Further important properties include molecular refractivity, π atom charge, total charge, lone pair electronegativity, and effective atom polarizability. Comparative fragment‐based analysis of the active and inactive molecules corroborated these observations and revealed several characteristic structural elements of 3′P inhibitors. The models built in this study can be obtained from the authors.
On a nonlinear wave equation with boundary damping
Authors: Lourêdo Aldo T. , Ferreira de Araújo M.A. , Milla Miranda M.
Published: September 2013

This paper is concerned with the existence and decay of solutions of the mixed problem for the nonlinear wave equation
urn:x-wiley:1704214:media:mma2885:mma2885-math-0001
with boundary conditions
urn:x-wiley:1704214:media:mma2885:mma2885-math-0002

Here, Ω is an open bounded set of with boundary Γ of class C2; Γ is constituted of two disjoint closed parts Γ0 and Γ1 both with positive measure; the functions μ(t), f(s), g(s) satisfy the conditions μ(t) ≥ μ0 > 0, f(s) ≥ 0, g(s) ≥ 0 for t ≥ 0, s ≥ 0 and h(x,s) is a real function where x ∈ Γ1, ν(x) is the unit outward normal vector at x ∈ Γ1 and α, β are non‐negative real constants.

Assuming that h(x,s) is strongly monotone in s for each x ∈ Γ1, it is proved the global existence of solutions for the previous mixed problem. For that, it is used in the Galerkin method with a special basis, the compactness approach, the Strauss approximation for real functions and the trace theorem for nonsmooth functions. The exponential decay of the energy is derived by two methods: by using a Lyapunov functional and by Nakao's method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Respiration impacts phase difference‐based field maps in echo planar imaging
Authors: Zeller Mario , Kraus Philip , Müller Alexander , Bley Thorsten A. , Köstler Herbert
Published: September 2013

Purpose

To investigate the influence of respiration on field maps for geometric distortion correction derived from two rapidly acquired consecutive echo planar images.

Methods

Displacement maps of the brains of seven healthy volunteers were acquired under breath hold and free breathing for a 64 × 64 pixel image matrix using phase labeling for additional coordinate encoding (PLACE). The maps were transformed into undistorted gradient echo space and analyzed with regard to standard deviation and absolute deviation from an accurate reference field map derived from a multiecho reference scan.

Results

Standard deviations between PLACE field maps and absolute difference from the reference field map are a factor of about 3 higher under free breathing than under breath hold. The mean deviation decreases from 3 pixels in the slice closest to the lung to 1 pixel in the most superior slice under free breathing and from 1 to <0.5 pixels under breath hold.

Conclusion

Maps obtained under free breathing can significantly impact the field map and thus corrupt the geometric distortion correction. The effect can be greatly reduced by acquiring the field map data under breath hold. Data acquired under free breathing can be improved with retrospective phase correction or by averaging several field maps. Magn Reson Med 72:446–451, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Von Ideen zu Objekten
Authors: Reuter Kirsten
Published: September 2013

Große Unternehmen stellen Objekte bereits mit 3D‐Druckern her. Obwohl die Technik viel verspricht, hat sie sich in Privathaushalten noch nicht etabliert.
Dynamisch‐kovalente Chemie
Authors: Tamke Sergej , Paradies Jan
Published: September 2013

Dynamisch‐kovalente Chemie untersucht molekulare Austauschprozesse und führt zu zwei‐ oder dreidimensionalen Netzwerken kovalent‐organischer Materialien.
Die Vermessung der Fachliteratur
Authors: Böhme Uwe , Tesch Silke
Published: September 2013

Die Analyse und statistische Auswertung von Zitaten dient vielfach zur Evaluierung der Qualität von Veröffentlichungen, Zeitschriften, Wissenschaftlern, Instituten und Forschungseinrichtungen. Welche Indikatoren nutzt die Bibliometrie und welche Nachteile haben sie?
Proteinstabilität webbasiert analysieren
Authors: Krüger Dennis M. , Holger Gohlke
Published: September 2013

Der CNA‐Webserver ist ein Online‐Service, der biologisch relevante Proteineigenschaften basierend auf Rigiditätsanalysen vorhersagt und visualisiert. Er erlaubt, Struktur und Flexibilität eines Proteins mit dessen (Thermo‐)Stabilität und Funktion zu verknüpfen.
Festkörper‐NMR‐Spektroskopie in der Koordinationschemie
Authors: Schöfberger Wolfgang
Published: September 2013

Hochauflösende Festkörper‐NMR‐Experimente liefern Informationen über Metallionen in Proteinen und in DNA‐Bausteinen, die Röntgenstrukturanalyse oder optische Spektroskopie nicht erfassen. Die Methoden tragen so dazu bei, die Funktion der Metallkerne in biologischen Systemen besser zu verstehen.
Oxandrolone for the treatment of bone marrow failure in Fanconi anemia
Authors: Rose Susan R. , Kim Mi‐Ok , Korbee Leslie , Wilson Kimberly A. , Douglas Ris M. , Eyal Ori , Sherafat‐Kazemzadeh Rosa , Bollepalli Sureka , Harris Richard , Jeng Michael R. , Williams David A. , Smith Franklin O.
Published: September 2013

Background

A majority of Fanconi anemia (FA) patients will experience bone marrow failure (BMF) and androgen therapy (most often oxymetholone) may be utilized as a treatment to improve BMF‐related cytopenias. However, oxymetholone is associated with toxicities making identification of other agents of interest. In this study we aimed to evaluate the toxicity profile and hematologic response in patients with FA who are treated with low‐dose oxandrolone, a synthetic non‐fluorinated anabolic steroid, similar to oxymetholone, with known dosing thresholds for virilization.

Procedure

A single arm, Phase I/II study was designed to treat patients on low‐dose oxandrolone. If no toxicity or hematologic response was noted at 16 weeks, a single dose escalation was offered. Subjects were regularly assessed for toxicity, including determinations of virilization, behavioral changes, and liver and kidney function. At 32 weeks, those who demonstrated hematologic response were allowed to continue study treatment, and those without improvement were deemed non‐responsive.

Results

Nine subjects completed the study and were followed for a median of 99 weeks (46–136 weeks). Three (33.3%) subjects developed mild sub‐clinical virilization and continued treatment with a dose reduction. None (0%) had adverse behavioral changes. Two (22.2%) developed elevated liver function tests at 42 and 105 weeks. Seven (77.8%) subjects had a hematologic response.

Conclusion

Oxandrolone appears to be well‐tolerated, has limited toxicities at the administered doses in FA with patients, and may be an alternative androgen for the treatment of BMF in FA. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:11–19. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcranial doppler and brain MRI in children with sickle cell disease and high hemoglobin F levels
Authors: Asbeutah Akram , Gupta Renu , Al‐Saeid Osama , Ashebu Sam , Al‐Sharida Sundus , Mullah‐Ali Ali , Mustafa Nada Yousef , Adekile Adekunle
Published: September 2013

Background/Objective

While overt stroke and silent brain infarcts (SBI) are uncommon among Kuwaiti patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), there have been no previous transcranial Doppler (TCD) studies in this population. The main objective of this study is to determine TCD velocities in a group of Kuwaiti children with SCD and correlate same with brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography (MRA) findings.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐three steady‐state, pediatric patients with SCD aged 10.1 ± 3.9 years (21 SS, 19 Sβ0Thal, and 3 SD) were studied. Twenty‐six age‐matched, normal siblings of the patients served as controls. TCD was performed using a General Electric (GE), Vivid 3 equipment and MRI/MRA with a GE Signa Excite HD 1.5 Tesla magnet. Complete blood count was with an electronic counter and Hb quantitation with cation‐exchange high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results

The mean time‐averaged mean of the maximum velocity (TAMV) was significantly higher in the SCD group than the controls, but was normal (<170 cm/second) in all. The mean values were comparable among the SS and Sβ0thal groups. Five (11.1%) patients had SBI and all were between 12 and 16 years of age. There was no significant difference of TAMV in this group compared to those without infarcts. No patient showed evidence of stenosis or any other abnormalities in the circle of Willis vessels.

Conclusion

The mild phenotype among Kuwaiti patients with SCD is reflected in normal TCD velocities and a low prevalence of SBI in children with the disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:25–28. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sustained remission of severe multicentric castleman disease following multiagent chemotherapy and tocilizumab maintenance
Authors: Turcotte Lucie M. , Correll Colleen K. , Reed Robyn C. , Moertel Christopher L.
Published: September 2013

Castleman disease is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder, which presents in a unicentric or multicentric fashion. Multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) is associated with significant systemic symptoms, in part related to the underlying role of interleukin‐6 in disease pathogenesis. Treatment for MCD has not been well established and prognosis has historically been poor. We present a case of severe MCD in a pediatric patient who has shown sustained remission following multi‐agent chemotherapy and targeted maintenance therapy with the interleukin‐6 receptor inhibitor, tocilizumab. This represents the first case report of sustained remission of MCD in a pediatric patient following discontinuation of tocilizumab therapy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:737–739. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Heat‐Induced Supramolecular Organogels Composed of α‐Cyclodextrin and “Jellyfish‐Like” β‐Cyclodextrin–Poly(ε‐caprolactone)
Authors: Li Ya‐Kun , Jiang Ming‐Wei , Wang Liang , Guo Cheng‐Gong , Xu Youqian , Wang Cai‐Qi
Published: September 2013

In general, the complexation and gelation behavior between biocompatible poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) derivatives and α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) is extensively studied in water, but not in organic solvents. In this article, the complexation and gelation behavior between α‐CD and multi‐arm polymer β‐cyclodextrin‐PCL (β‐CD‐PCL) with a unique “jellyfish‐like” structure are thoroughly investigated in organic solvent N,N‐dimethylformamide and a new heat‐induced organogel is obtained. However, PCL linear polymers cannot form organogels under the same condition. The complexation is characterized by rheological measurements, DSC, XRD, and SEM. The SEM images reveal that the complexes between β‐CD‐PCL and α‐CD present a novel topological helix porous structure which is distinctly different from the lamellar structure formed by PCL linear polymers and α‐CD, suggesting the unique “jellyfish‐like” structure of β‐CD‐PCL is crucial for the formation of the organogels. This research may provide insight into constructing new supramolecular organogels and potential for designing new functional biomaterials. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1598–1606
Nonadherence to medicines: the scale of the problem
Authors: Elliott Rachel
Published: September 2013

This is the first in a series of articles on how adherence with prescribed medications can be improved and the cost of wasted medicines reduced. Here, Professor Rachel Elliott provides an overview of the scale of the problem and the clinical and economic consequences.
Control of the conductivity of Si‐doped β‐Ga2O3 thin films via growth temperature and pressure
Authors: Müller Stefan , von Wenckstern Holger , Splith Daniel , Schmidt Florian , Grundmann Marius
Published: September 2013

Si‐doped β‐Ga2O3 thin films were grown at temperatures between 400 and 650 °C and oxygen partial pressures ranging from 3 × 10−4 mbar to 2.4 × 10−2 mbar prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on c‐plane sapphire substrates. For high oxygen partial pressure the samples are composed of multiple crystalline phases; for decreasing oxygen partial pressure the crystallinity improves and single phase ()‐oriented thin films are obtained for an oxygen partial pressure below at a growth temperature of 650 °C. We find a correlation between surface morphology of our thin films and their conductivity; an increasing root mean square surface roughness entails increased conductivity. Further we show that the oxygen partial pressure resulting in maximal conductivity decreases with increasing growth temperature. The results provide means to realize β‐Ga2O3‐based devices such as rectifiers, photodetectors or thin film transistors with optimized surface roughness, structural quality, and conductivity.
Nonlinear Optics and Excitation Kinetics in Semiconductors
Authors: Jahnke Frank
Published: September 2013

The 11th Conference on Nonlinear Optics and Excitation Kinetics in Semiconductors (NOEKS) was held in Stuttgart, Germany from 23rd to 27th September 2012. This particular conference celebrated a minor anniversary – it was 25 years ago that the first NOEKS was held in Bad Stuer in the former East Germany.

This conference has its own heritage and started out as a singular event in 1987. An astounding number of groups were carrying out experimental and theoretical research in the field of semiconductor optics on both sides of the border that split Germany, and Europe, at that time. On the one hand, there was this accumulation of remarkable expertise and, on the other, many scientists east and west of this dividing line had never actually met each other personally. This community was brought together by the NOEKS conference and complemented by leading scientists from the USA and Japan, who also came to Bad Stuer. Since then, the NOEKS has become a wellestablished event every two to three years, and many rewarding cooperations have emerged during these conferences.

he research directions in semiconductor optics have changed fundamentally in the past 25 years. Nanomaterials, quantum optics, plasmonics, spintronics and metamaterials have become established fields within the semiconductor community. Many new groups have joined the field; some of them have hosted subsequent NOEKS conferences. It is thanks to the excellent work undertaken by the organizers of these later conferences that NOEKS has kept pace with the times and always provided an excellent overview of the state‐of‐the‐art in this research field. With this in mind, I would like to express my warm thanks to Peter Michler, Michael Jetter, Sven Ulrich and their team from Stuttgart as well as to the members of the Program Committee for the perfect organization of the 11th NOEKS conference.

Among the 129 participants in Stuttgart, 78 came from Germany, 35 from other European countries, 13 from USA and Canada, and 3 from Japan. The program contained 16 invited and 27 contributed talks as well as 85 poster presentations. The conference was supported by 14 exhibitors and 3 sponsors.

I am delighted to announce and also organize the next NOEKS conference, which will take place in Bremen from 22nd to 25th September 2014.

Frank Jahnke

Institute for Theoretical Physics

University of Bremen
Thermochemical Wear of Refractory Linings Associated With Gas Firing in Metallurgical Plants
Authors: Rieger Johannes , Drózd‐Ryś Magdalena , Weiss Christian , Harmuth Harald
Published: September 2013

The present paper deals with the corrosive interaction between the atmosphere and the refractory lining as well as in one case the steel shell for two industrial facilities. In one of the following cases a magnesia carbon lining is partly decarburized by the atmosphere during preheating of a steel ladle. In the other case, the flue gas from blast furnace gas heating of a hot blast stove causes a nitric attack on the cold side of the refractory lining at the steel shell. Investigation of these mechanisms rely on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations which quantify the flow and temperature field as well as the species transport during heat release from the gas combustion in both plants. Furthermore, the heat exchange between hot gas and refractory is estimated and thereby associated chemical reactions with/within the refractory material. In both CFD case studies a non‐premixed approach was applied to model the combustion process and to characterize the flue gas composition. The follow‐up reactions with refractory lining and the steel casing are discussed specifically for each case. The calculated oxygen content in flue gas during ladle preheating is estimated to 15%vol. The maximum heat transfer between hot gas and refractory takes place in the bottom region of the ladle due to convection. The radiative heat exchange plays the most important role in the zone of magnesia‐carbon lining. Within the investigation of carbon burnout kinetics limiting factors like diffusion and mass transfer coefficient of oxygen were defined and (partially) determined. The NO formation during the blast stove heating period strongly depends on the dome temperature which is an important blast process control value. Calculated NO emission loads showed promising agreement with real plant data and literature trends.
The effect of white‐tailed deer density on breeding songbirds in Delaware
Authors: Tymkiw Elizabeth L. , Bowman Jacob L. , Shriver W. Gregory
Published: September 2013

Most population goals for white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are based solely on deer data, with little consideration for other parts of the ecosystem. A wider ecological approach is needed for more justifiable target deer densities. We investigated the use of birds as coarse‐scale indicators to determine an ecological carrying capacity for deer management by studying the relationship between the forest bird community and deer density in Delaware, USA. Using Breeding Bird Survey data from 2005 to 2009, targeted point‐count data from 2008 to 2009 and Division of Fish and Wildlife deer‐density data from the same time periods, we compared avian species richness and relative abundance with deer density. We divided deer densities into low (≤10 deer/km2), moderate (11–19 deer/km2), and high (≥20 deer/km2) categories. We placed birds into 6 deer‐sensitive guilds: interior forest obligates, ground nesters, shrub nesters, ground gleaners, low‐canopy foragers, and Neotropical migrants, as well as 1 “guild” that consisted of species found to be sensitive to deer density in past literature. The abundance or richness of most guilds and species did not differ by deer density. However, there were 1.08 more shrub nesters and 0.55 more species of shrub nesting birds in low‐deer‐density areas than in high‐deer‐density areas. Areas of moderate and low deer densities had ≥0.35 more species of low‐canopy foragers than did areas of high deer densities. Low‐deer‐density areas had ≥0.59 more individual Neotropical migrants compared with moderate‐ or high‐deer‐density areas. Similarly, areas of low deer densities had ≥0.49 more migrant species than did areas of higher densities. Low‐deer‐density areas had ≥0.17 more ovenbirds compared with high‐ and moderate‐deer‐density areas. Great crested flycatchers (Myiarchus crinitus) had 3 times greater odds of being found in low‐deer‐density areas than in high‐deer‐density areas. Chipping sparrows (Spizella passerina), Acadian flycatchers (Empidonax virescens), and red‐eyed vireos (Vireo olivaceus) all had 2 times greater odds of being found in low‐deer‐density areas than high‐deer‐density areas. Our results suggest that areas in Delaware with densities of <20 deer/km2 have the greatest avian richness and abundance. These findings are the first step toward determining an ecological carrying capacity for white‐tailed deer. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
Tungsten Oxychloride Compounds Containing [W6O6Cl12]n–(n = 2, 3) Clusters
Authors: Hummel Thorsten , Glaser Jochen , Ströbele Markus , Meyer H.‐Jürgen
Published: September 2013

Three tungsten oxychloride clusters containing the nearly D3d symmetric [(W6O6iCl6i)Cl6a]n– (n = 2, 3) core were prepared from the cluster acid (H5O2)2[W6O6Cl12]·4H2O and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The copper compound [Cu(H2O)4][W6O6Cl12]·12H2O releases water molecules to yield [Cu(H2O)6][W6O6Cl12]. Both compounds are represented as diamagnetic clusters, having 14 electrons in W–W bonding states. Magnetic measurements on the calcium compound [Ca(H2O)7]2[W6O6Cl12]Cl revealed a paramagnetic cluster having 15 valence electrons.
Reducing the probability of ship grounding: which measure to undertake?
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad Juned , Utne Ingrid Bouwer
Published: September 2013

The analytic hierarchy process has been used to elicit the knowledge of maritime transport stakeholders, such as seafarers, authorities, insurers and academics, regarding human factors and risk-reducing measures for ship groundings. Measures against human fatigue, alcohol abuse, language barriers, poor bridge management and safety climate have been compared with regard to costs and benefits. The measures are discussed in the context of large ships on a voyage of at least 24 h containing Bridge Resource Management. The study shows that stakeholders consider the costs of the measures to reduce human fatigue at sea surpass the benefits. Measures against alcohol abuse are regarded as the most cost–benefit efficient. Also, the stakeholders consider the watch scheme 8–4–4–8 to be less fatiguing than the 12–12 watch scheme. In addition, the results of the study support previous findings that inadequate manning levels contribute the most to human fatigue within the bridge management team.
Geographic information systems and perceptual dialectology: a method for processing draw-a-map data
Authors: Montgomery Chris , Stoeckle Philipp
Published: September 2013

This article presents a new method for processing data gathered using the “draw-a-map” task in perceptual dialectology (PD) studies. Such tasks produce large numbers of maps containing many lines indicating nonlinguists’ perceptions of the location and extent of dialect areas. Although individual maps are interesting, and numerical data relating to the relative prominence of dialect areas can be extracted, an important value of the draw-a-map task is in aggregating data. This was always an aim of the contemporary PD method, although the nature of the data has meant that this has not always been possible. Here, we argue for the use of geographic information systems (GIS) in order to aggregate, process, and display PD data. Using case studies from the United Kingdom and Germany, we present examples of data processed using GIS and illustrate the future possibilities for the use of GIS in PD research.
Are oxidative stress markers useful to distinguish schizoaffective disorder from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder?
Authors: Bulbul Feridun , Virit Osman , Alpak Gokay , Unal Ahmet , Bulut Mahmut , Kaya Mehmet Cemal , Altindag Abdurrahman , Celik Hakim , Savas Haluk A.
Published: September 2013

Objective

Schizoaffective disorder is a disease with both affective and psychotic symptoms. In this study, we aimed to compare oxidative metabolism markers of schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenic patients. Furthermore, we also aimed to investigate whether schizoaffective disorder could be differentiated from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in terms of oxidative metabolism.

Methods

Total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured in the blood samples that were collected from schizoaffective patients (n = 30), bipolar disorder patients (n = 30) and schizophrenic patients (n = 30). Oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated by dividing TOS by TAS.

Results

TOS and OSI were found to be higher in patients with schizoaffective disorder compared with those in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients. TAS was not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion

Schizoaffective disorder was found to be different from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in terms of oxidative parameters. This result may indicate that schizoaffective disorder could differ from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in terms of biochemical parameters. Increased TOS levels observed in schizoaffective disorder may suggest poor clinical course and may be an indicator of poor prognosis.
Response inhibition in alcohol-dependent patients and patients with depression/anxiety: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Sjoerds Z. , van den Brink W. , Beekman A. T. F. , Penninx B. W. J. H. , Veltman D. J.
Published: September 2013

Background

The inability to inhibit certain behaviors is a key feature of impulsivity, which is often present in people with a substance use disorder. However, the findings on impulsivity in people with alcohol dependence (AD) are inconsistent, possibly because of the frequent co-occurrence of depression/anxiety (D/A) and its influence on impulsivity. In the current study, we aimed to distinguish response inhibition impairments in AD from possible response inhibition effects associated with D/A.

Method

AD patients (n = 31) with high D/A co-morbidity were compared to patients with D/A only (n = 18) and healthy controls (HCs; n = 16) using the Stop Signal Task (SST) during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Correlation analyses were performed between activated brain areas, behavioral data and addiction and D/A characteristics.

Results

The three groups did not differ on response inhibition performance. However, AD severity, but not D/A severity, was positively associated with decreased response inhibition. During the SST, AD patients showed hyperactivity in the putamen and thalamus compared with D/A patients and HCs. Thalamus activation was negatively associated with AD duration. In addition, AD patients showed hypoactivity in the supplementary motor area (SMA) compared with HCs. SMA activity within HCs was negatively correlated with depressive symptom severity.

Discussion

In general, AD patients were not more impulsive than D/A patients or HCs but they did reveal inhibition impairments with increasing AD severity. A shift from cortical to subcortical engagement in AD patients during response inhibition may represent an alternative strategy, which decreased with longer drinking history, suggesting the presence of an AD-specific endophenotype.
Coinvariant algebras and fake degrees for spin Weyl groups of classical type
Authors: BALTERA CONSTANCE , WANG WEIQIANG
Published: September 2013

The coinvariant algebra of a Weyl group plays a fundamental role in several areas of mathematics. The fake degrees are the graded multiplicities of the irreducible modules of a Weyl group in its coinvariant algebra, and they were computed by Steinberg, Lusztig and Beynon–Lusztig. In this paper we formulate a notion of spin coinvariant algebra for every Weyl group. Then we compute all the spin fake degrees for each classical Weyl group, which are by definition the graded multiplicities of the simple modules of a spin Weyl group in the spin coinvariant algebra. The spin fake degrees for the exceptional Weyl groups are given in a sequel.
Transposition of the great arteries and cor triatriatum: a rare combination
Authors: Gursu Hazım A. , Varan Birgul , Erdogan İlkay , Oktay Ayla
Published: September 2013

In this case report, we present a 5-month-old girl diagnosed with a unique combination of transposition of the great arteries and cor triatriatum sinistra. A 1-day-old female patient presented to our hospital with cyanosis since the early neonatal period. We confirmed transposition of the great arteries by echocardiography. The patient underwent arterial switch operation on day 8 and was discharged on day 35. After 5 months of the operation, the patient had a lower respiratory tract infection and was unable to gain weight. Echocardiography revealed mild neopulmonary regurgitation, minimal neoaortic regurgitation, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. In addition, a fibrous membrane was also seen dividing the left atrium. The patient was diagnosed with cor triatriatum and underwent successful resection of the membrane.
Histochemistry and Ultrastructure of Urocytes in the Pupae of the Stingless BeeMelipona quadrifasciata(Hymenoptera: Meliponini)
Authors: Furtado Waléria C.A. , Azevedo Dihego O. , Martins Gustavo F. , Zanuncio José C. , Serrão José Eduardo
Published: September 2013

The main cell types of the adult bee fat body are trophocytes and oenocytes; however, in pupae of some newly emerged bees, trophocytes are modified into cells called urocytes, which possibly function as a substitute for Malpighian tubules during metamorphosis when larval tubules are not functional and/or storage of urate salts is required. This study evaluated the morphology of urocytes in the stingless beeMelipona quadrifasciataand the possibility of maintaining these cells in primary culture. The urocytesM. quadrifasciataare white spherical cells with an irregular surface as observed by stereomicroscopy. They may be found individually or in groups associated with tracheae. Urocytes have a single, small, and spherical nucleus and cytoplasm rich in neutral polysaccharides, lipid droplets, protein, and granules containing calcium and urate salts. Our findings suggest that urocytes play a role in storage of neutral polysaccharides and calcium inM. quadrifasciatapupae and that these cells can be cultured for 72 h.
Price efficiency in the Dutch Annuity Market
Authors: CANNON EDMUND , STEVENS RALPH , TONKS IAN
Published: September 2013

We provide the first analysis of annuity rates in the Netherlands for the period 2001–2012. During this period, the number of annuity providers was high and stable, and we find that falls in annuity rates can be explained entirely by changes in yields and life expectancy. We show that annuitants could have increased their annuity income by about 5%, by shopping around and purchasing their annuities from alternative providers. Money's worth calculations show that the market is efficient by international standards, with a money's worth above 0.9 for the whole period and close to unity by the end of the period. We present conflicting evidence on the existence of adverse selection because although we find money's worths are inversely related to age of purchase, we find that they are positively related to size of purchase.
A PROBLEM WITH CHRISTIAN ETHICS
Authors: Schoenig Richard
Published: September 2013

Christianity's claim of privileged access to correct morality has always been a key element in its ability to attract and retain adherents. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount has been considered the most complete and authoritative exposition of Christian ethics this side of the Ten Commandments. In this article I will argue that the moral authority of Jesus and some important aspects of Christian ethics can be called into question by a number of seriously flawed moral imperatives from the Sermon on the Mount.
FIFTY YEARS ON FROM HONEST TO GOD (1963) AND OBJECTIONS TO CHRISTIAN BELIEF (1963)
Authors: Wells George A.
Published: September 2013

Bishop John A.T. Robinson's Honest to God was exceptionally successful. In the decade following its publication more than a million copies were sold in seventeen different languages. Robinson was aware that numerous awkward questions were being asked about traditional Christian beliefs, which it was no longer possible to ignore. His purpose was not so much to question traditional ideas of God as to suggest alternatives for those who found them unsatisfactory (8). He wanted to convince such persons that an inability to believe what is stated in the Bible or the prayer book does not disqualify them from calling themselves Christians and presenting themselves at church. He speaks of traditional Christian beliefs, as stated in the New Testament, as a ‘language’ (24) and thinks that Christianity should be conveyed to people in a variety of languages. By employing, as he does, the language of such Christian scholars as Bonhoeffer, Tillich and Bultmann, an atheist may find himself able to call himself a Christian. But the old familiar language of the Bible remains more pleasing to most of God's children, particularly to his ‘older children’ (43), so we must not give it up, although he allows that it is becoming increasingly unpopular, so that without ‘the kind of revolution’ he is advocating, ‘Christian faith and practice … will come to be abandoned’ (123).
Early Intervention Service Utilization Among Children Born Preterm
Authors: Keller-Margulis Milena A. , Abrahamson Catherine W. , Llorens Ashlie V. , Dempsey Allison G.
Published: September 2013

Early intervention services aim to meet the needs of young children with developmental delays, disabilities, or who are at-risk for developing delays. Children born preterm are at an increased risk for experiencing developmental difficulties, and 60%–70% of premature infants qualify for early intervention services. The purpose of this study was to explore patterns of service utilization and identify barriers to services among a sample of families with children who were followed by a high-risk infant clinic. Results indicated that the overwhelming majority of children had been referred for or were receiving early intervention services, patterns of services received varied across ages, and physical and occupational therapy were most often received. Few direct barriers to accessing services were identified; however, 12% of children were no longer receiving services for reasons other than lack of need or attainment of milestones. The implications for how psychologists can work across the family, medical, and educational systems to improve knowledge and adherence to services will be discussed.