bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiscale deformable-layer tomography
Authors: Zhou Hua-wei
Published: June 2006

Traveltime tomography relies on broad ray-angle coverage to constrain the spatial location of velocity anomalies. When ray-angle coverage is narrow, cell or grid tomography can be plagued by smearing artifacts bearing imprints of the raypaths. Multiscale deformable-layer tomography (DLT), which inverts for the geometry of velocity interfaces instead of velocity, can be more effective than grid-based tomography in mitigating such artifacts, especially when velocity values are known for parts of the model. The DLT model consists of geologically sensible layers represented by triangular prisms. In areas of good ray coverage, DLT can be used to invert simultaneously for layer velocities as well as interface geometry. Tests of synthetic models of crosswell refraction, 2D tomostatics, and 3D vertical seismic profiling (VSP) first-arrival data sets show that DLT can produce solutions superior to those produced by cell- or grid-based tomography.
Weak elastic anisotropy by perturbation theory
Authors: Ohanian Vigen , Snyder Thomas M. , Carcione José M.
Published: June 2006

We demonstrate the advantages of adopting a wave-vector-based coordinate system (WCS) for the application of perturbation theory to derive and display approximate expressions for qP- and qS-wave polarization vectors, phase velocities, and group velocities in general weakly anisotropic media. The advantages stem from two important properties of the Christoffel equation when expressed in the WCS: (1) Each element of the Christoffel matrix is identical to a specific stiffness component in the WCS, and (2) the Christoffel matrix of an isotropic medium is diagonal in the WCS.

Using these properties, one can easily identify the small components of the Christoffel matrix in the WCS for a weakly anisotropic medium. Approximate solutions to the Christoffel equation are then obtained by straightforward algebraic manipulations, which make our perturbation theory solution considerably simpler than previously published methods. We compare and contrast our solutions with those discussed by other workers. Numerical comparisons between the exact, first-order, and zero-order qS-wave polarization vectors illustrate the accuracy of our approximate formulas. The form of the WCS phase-velocity expressions facilitates the derivation of closed-form, first-order expressions for qP- and qS-wave group-velocity vectors, providing explicit formulas for the direction of propagation of seismic energy in general weakly anisotropic media. Numerical evaluation of our group-velocity expressions demonstrates their accuracy.

We discuss problems with the approximate qS-wave group velocities and polarizations in neighboring directions of singularities. Standard methods are used to transform our solutions from the WCS to the acquisition coordinates, as illustrated by application to orthorhombic symmetry.
Automatic lineament extraction from potential-field images using the Radon transform and gradient calculation
Authors: Zhang Lili , Wu Jiansheng , Hao Tianyao , Wang Jialin
Published: June 2006

Linear anomalies are critical in the interpretation of gravity and magnetic data. Visual identification of lineaments is usually done by experienced interpreters, and identification results then have to undergo a digitization or import procedure. The traditional identification method has unavoidable subjectivity and inefficiency. To overcome these limitations, we fuse the Radon transform (RT) with gradient calculation to process gravity or magnetic data and to realize automatic detection and extraction of lineaments. As part of the detection procedure, we define the RT-based mean gradient (MG), effective mean gradient (EMG), and residual mean gradient (RMG) in order to highlight long linear segments or to enhance short linear ones in the transform domain. The gradient forms are applied self-adaptively and self-selectively to gravity or magnetic images according to specific conditions. Gradient directions are also taken into account in the transformation procedure to emphasize the characteristics of linear anomalies. To extract the position and length of the detected lineaments from the transform domain, a constraint inverse searching method (CISM) is given and used to locate the starting and end points of the lineaments. The method can deal with the condition that there is at least one linear section in a specific direction or that separate linear sections may belong to one lineament. Through tests with synthetic images and with real data from the Haijiao upheaval area in the East China Sea Basin, the detection and extraction methods are shown to be more effective and robust than the conventional RT applications. The results from the real data roughly coincide with major geologic faults that are visually identified. These results show that the methods constitute a useful tool to aid fault interpretation.
Converted-wave azimuth moveout
Authors: Rosales Daniel A. , Biondi Biondo
Published: June 2006

A new partial-prestack migration operator to manipulate multicomponent data, called converted-wave azimuth moveout (PS-AMO), transforms converted-wave prestack data with an arbitrary offset and azimuth to equivalent data with a new offset and azimuth position. This operator is a sequential application of converted-wave dip moveout and its inverse. As expected, PS-AMO reduces to the known expression of AMO for the extreme case when the P velocity is the same as the S velocity. Moreover, PS-AMO preserves the resolution of dipping events and internally applies a correction for the lateral shift between the common-midpoint and the common-reflection/conversion point. An implementation of PS-AMO in the log-stretch frequency-wavenumber domain is computationally efficient. The main applications for the PS-AMO operator are geometry regularization, data-reduction through partial stacking, and interpolation of unevenly sampled data. We test our PS-AMO operator by solving 3D acquisition geometry-regularization problems for multicomponent, ocean-bottom seismic data. The geometry-regularization problem is defined as a regularized least-squares-objective function. To preserve the resolution of dipping events, the regularization term uses the PS-AMO operator. Application of this methodology on a portion of the Alba 3D, multicomponent, ocean-bottom seismic data set shows that we can satisfactorily obtain an interpolated data set that honors the physics of converted waves.
Finite-difference modeling of magnetotelluric fields: Error estimates for uniform and nonuniform grids
Authors: de Groot-Hedlin Catherine
Published: June 2006

In the finite-difference (FD) method, one solves a set of discrete approximations to continuous differential equations; thus, the solutions only approximate the true values. For the magnetotelluric (MT) method, errors in the electric and magnetic fields computed by the staggered FD method are precisely quantifiable for a model with uniform conductivity. In this case, the errors in the electric and magnetic fields are equal in magnitude but increase with rising node separation. In this paper, I show that errors in MT responses, which rely on ratios of the field values, depend strongly on the method used to interpolate electric field values to the surface where the magnetic field is sampled. Analytic expressions for the FD estimates of the MT responses for a half-space are derived and compared for three different methods of electric field interpolation. The best results are achieved when the electric field values just above and below the surface are interpolated exponentially. For a half-space, the FD estimates of the MT responses are independent of node separation and are precisely equal to the analytic values when the electric field is interpolated exponentially. For models with sharp conductivity contrasts, the errors in the responses derived using this interpolation method increase with rising node spacing but still perform better than other examined interpolation methods. Varying the vertical node separation within a half-space model degrades the solution accuracy. The magnitude of the error depends primarily on the magnitude of the change in vertical node spacing. Lateral variations in the grid spacing do not necessarily yield errors in the FD solutions to the MT equations.
Exponential asymptotically bounded velocity model: Part I — Effective models and velocity transformations
Authors: Ravve Igor , Koren Zvi
Published: June 2006

A new compacted-sediment, vertical-velocity model that represents the effect of gradually increasing velocities with depth is proposed. An asymptotically bounded, exponential velocity model is defined by three intuitive parameters. For a given layer, the parameters are 1) the velocity, 2) its vertical gradient at the top interface, and 3) an upper-limit velocity value. Time-depth relations, velocity transformations, hyperbolic, and nonhyperbolic moveouts are derived. The entire vertical velocity profile is composed of a set of layers, where the velocity function for each layer is defined by the proposed model. This method provides a basis for describing the subsurface using a smaller number of thick layers rather than using the classical, linear velocity model.
On the fundamentals of the virtual source method
Authors: Korneev Valeri , Bakulin Andrey
Published: June 2006

The virtual source method (VSM) has been proposed as a practical approach to reduce distortions of seismic images caused by shallow, heterogeneous overburden. VSM is demanding at the acquisition stage because it requires placing downhole geophones below the most complex part of the heterogeneous overburden. Where such acquisition is possible, however, it pays off later at the processing stage because it does not require knowledge of the velocity model above the downhole receivers. This paper demonstrates that VSM can be viewed as an application of the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz integral (KHI) with an experimentally measured Green’s function. Direct measurement of the Green’s function ensures the effectiveness of the method in highly heterogeneous subsurface conditions.
Application of complex-trace analysis to seismic data for random-noise suppression and temporal resolution improvement
Authors: Karsli Hakan , Dondurur Derman , Çifçi Günay
Published: June 2006

Time-dependent amplitude and phase information of stacked seismic data are processed independently using complex trace analysis in order to facilitate interpretation by improving resolution and decreasing random noise. We represent seismic traces using their envelopes and instantaneous phases obtained by the Hilbert transform. The proposed method reduces the amplitudes of the low-frequency components of the envelope, while preserving the phase information. Several tests are performed in order to investigate the behavior of the present method for resolution improvement and noise suppression. Applications on both 1D and 2D synthetic data show that the method is capable of reducing the amplitudes and temporal widths of the side lobes of the input wavelets, and hence, the spectral bandwidth of the input seismic data is enhanced, resulting in an improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio. The bright-spot anomalies observed on the stacked sections become clearer because the output seismic traces have a simplified appearance allowing an easier data interpretation. We recommend applying this simple signal processing for signal enhancement prior to interpretation, especially for single channel and low-fold seismic data.
Vertical propagation of low-frequency waves in finely layered media
Authors: Stovas Alexey , Arntsen Børge
Published: June 2006

Multiple scattering in finely layered sediments is important for interpreting stratigraphic data, matching well-log data with seismic data, and seismic modeling. Two methods have been used to treat this problem in seismic applications: the O’Doherty-Anstey approximation and Backus averaging. The O’Doherty-Anstey approximation describes the stratigraphic-filtering effects, while Backus averaging defines the elastic properties for an effective medium from the stack of the layers. It is very important to know when the layered medium can be considered as an effective medium. In this paper, we only investigate vertical propagation. Therefore, no anisotropy effect is taken into consideration. Using the matrix-propagator method, we derive equations for transmission and reflection responses from the stack of horizontal layers. From the transmission response, we compute the phase velocity and compare the zero-frequency limit with the effective-medium velocity from Backus averaging. We also investigate how the transition from time-average medium to effective medium depends on contrast; i.e., strength of the reflection-coefficient series. Using numerical examples, we show that a transition zone exists between the effective medium (low-frequency limit) and the time-average medium (high-frequency limit), and that the width of this zone depends on the strength of the reflection-coefficient series.
The Adrenocorticotropin Stimulation Test: Contribution of a Physiologically Based Model Developed in Horse for Its Interpretation in Different Pathophysiological Situations Encountered in Man
Authors: Bousquet-Mélou Alain , Formentini Enrique , Picard-Hagen Nicole , Delage Laure , Laroute Valerie , Toutain Pierre-Louis
Published: June 2006

The present study aimed to characterize the adrenal response to ACTH. A model was developed that coupled the nonlinear disposition of cortisol with a physiologically based model for cortisol secretion by the adrenals. It was assumed that the response to ACTH resulted from two mechanisms: a stimulation of the cortisol secretion rate and control of the duration of the secretion. Seven dose levels of ACTH were tested in horses, a species similar to man as regards adrenal function. The main result was that the secretion rate of the adrenal gland can be modelized by a zero order process that is maximal for a relatively low dose of ACTH (0.1 μg/kg). Beyond this dose, the increasing adrenal gland response is only due to the prolongation of the time of its secretion. The consequences of these different features were explored by simulation to reproduce classical pathophysiological situations encountered in man. Our model was able to reproduce and simply explain many adrenal gland responses that are dimmed by the different nonlinearities of the system.
Expression and Functional State of the Corticosteroid Receptors and 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 in Schwann Cells
Authors: Groyer Ghislaine , Eychenne Bernard , Girard Christelle , Rajkowski Krzysztof , Schumacher Michael , Cadepond Françoise
Published: June 2006

To investigate the role of steroid receptors in mediating the reported effects of steroids on Schwann cell (SC) myelination and growth, we determined mRNA contents and transcriptional activities of the corticosteroid (glucocorticosteroid and mineralocorticosteroid) receptors (GR and MR) and sex steroid (progesterone, androgen, and estrogen α and β) receptors in rat SC cultured under proliferative (in the presence of insulin and forskolin, which induces a high intracellular cAMP content) and quiescent conditions. We found no or very low expression and activity of the sex steroid receptors, as shown by mRNA concentrations determined with real-time PCR and transcriptional activities using transient expression of reporter plasmids in SC. These data and binding studies in SC lines demonstrated that the levels of the sex steroid receptors were the limiting factors. GR was clearly expressed (∼8000 sequences/ng total RNA) and functional. No significant modification in GR mRNA levels was observed, but an increase in transcriptional efficiency was recorded in proliferating cells compared with quiescent cells. MR was also significantly expressed at the mRNA level (∼450 sequences/ng total RNA) under the two culture conditions. No MR transcriptional activity was observed in SC, but a low specific binding of aldosterone was detected in SC lines. 11β-Hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase type 2 (HSD2), an enzyme that inactivates glucocorticoids, was strongly expressed and active in quiescent SC, although in proliferating cells, HSD2 exhibited a strong decrease in activity and mRNA concentration. These data support a physiological role for HSD2 regulation of glucocorticosteroid concentrations in nerve SC.
11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 Induction in the Arcuate Nucleus by High-Fat Feeding: A Novel Constraint to Hyperphagia?
Authors: Densmore Valerie S. , Morton Nicholas M. , Mullins John J. , Seckl Jonathan R.
Published: June 2006

11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) catalyzes regeneration of active intracellular glucocorticoids in fat, liver, and discrete brain regions. Although overexpression of 11β-HSD1 in adipose tissue causes hyperphagia and the metabolic syndrome, male 11β-HSD1 null (11β-HSD1−/−) mice resist metabolic disease on high-fat (HF) diet, but also show hyperphagia. This suggests 11β-HSD1 may influence the central actions of glucocorticoids on appetite and perhaps energy balance. We show that 11β-HSD1−/− mice express lower hypothalamic mRNA levels of the anorexigenic cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript and melanocortin-4 receptor, but higher levels of the orexigenic melanin-concentrating hormone mRNAs than controls (C57BL/6J) on a low-fat diet (11% fat). HF (58% fat) diet promoted transient (∼8 wk) hyperphagia and decreased food efficiency in 11β-HSD1−/− mice and decreased melanocortin-4 receptor mRNA expression in control but not 11β-HSD1−/− mice. 11β-HSD1−/− mice showed a HF-mediated up-regulation of the orexigenic agouti-related peptide (AGRP) mRNA in the arcuate nucleus which paralleled the transient HF hyperphagia. Conversely, control mice showed a rapid (48 h) HF-mediated increase in arcuate 11β-HSD1 associated with subsequent down-regulation of AGRP. This regulatory pattern was unexpected because glucocorticoids increase AGRP, suggesting an alternate hyperphagic mechanism despite partial colocalization of 11β-HSD1 and AGRP in arcuate nucleus cells. One major alternate mechanism governing selective fat ingestion and the AGRP system is endogenous opioids. Treatment of HF-fed mice with the μ opioid agonist DAMGO recapitulated the HF-induced dissociation of arcuate AGRP expression between control and 11β-HSD1−/− mice, whereas the opioid antagonist naloxone given with HF induced a rise in arcuate AGRP and blocked HF-diet induction of 11β-HSD1. These data suggest that 11β-HSD1 in brain plays a role in the adaptive restraint of excess fat intake, in part by increasing inhibitory opioid tone on AGRP expression in the arcuate nucleus.
Interaction of the Akt Substrate, AS160, with the Glucose Transporter 4 Vesicle Marker Protein, Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase
Authors: Peck Grantley R. , Ye Siying , Pham Vi , Fernando Ruani N. , Macaulay S. Lance , Chai Siew Yeen , Albiston Anthony L.
Published: June 2006

Insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), a marker of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) storage vesicles (GSVs), is the only protein known to traffic with GLUT4. In the basal state, GSVs are sequestered from the constitutively recycling endosomal system to an insulin-responsive, intracellular pool. Insulin induces a rapid translocation of GSVs to the cell surface from this pool, resulting in the incorporation of IRAP and GLUT4 into the plasma membrane. We sought to identify proteins that interact with IRAP to further understand this GSV trafficking process. This study describes our identification of a novel interaction between the amino terminus of IRAP and the Akt substrate, AS160 (Akt substrate of 160 kDa). The validity of this interaction was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation of both overexpressed and endogenous proteins. Moreover, confocal microscopy demonstrated colocalization of these proteins. In addition, we demonstrate that the IRAP-binding domain of AS160 falls within its second phosphotyrosine-binding domain and the interaction is not regulated by AS160 phosphorylation. We hypothesize that AS160 is localized to GLUT4-containing vesicles via its interaction with IRAP where it inhibits the activity of Rab substrates in its vicinity, effectively tethering the vesicles intracellularly.
Perturbation of BMP Signaling in Somitogenesis Resulted in Vertebral and Rib Malformations in the Axial Skeletal Formation
Authors: Nifuji Akira , Kellermann Odile , Kuboki Yoshinori , Wozney John M. , Noda Masaki
Published: June 2006

Axial skeletons such as vertebrae, ribs, and scapulae develop from the embryonic somitic mesoderm through interactions with neural tube/notochord and skin ectoderm. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) seem to play important roles in these tissue interactions; however, the relationship between BMP signaling and the early development of axial skeletons is poorly understood. In this report, we investigated possible roles of BMP signaling in axial skeletal formation. First, we describe the expression patterns of BMP4 and type I receptors for BMP during somitogenesis in chick embryos based on whole mount in situ hybridization. Next, the effects of BMP on axial skeletal morphogenesis were investigated by implantation of BMP proteins into the dorsal mesoderm at the time of somitogenesis. Transcripts for both BMP4 ligand and its receptors are expressed in the dorsal ectoderm and mesoderm. Implantation of BMP4 and BMP2 into the dorsal regions of embryos result in subsequent anomalies of vertebrae, ribs, and scapulae. The effects of BMP implantation on the skeleton are shown to be dependent upon the somitic stage. Vertebral anomalies are restricted to the dorsolateral elements of the vertebrae and specifically observed after BMP implantation into embryonic day 2 (E2) embryos, but not E3 embryos. These results indicate that implantation of BMP into the dorsal part of embryos where endogenous BMP ligand and BMP receptors are expressed perturbs BMP signaling and causes axial skeletal malformations. The findings presented here suggest that BMP signaling may be involved in the early developmental process of the axial skeleton.
Immunodetection of Enamel- and Cementum-Related (Bone) Proteins at the Enamel-Free Area and Cervical Portion of the Tooth in Rat Molars
Authors: Dr. Bosshardt Dieter D. , Nanci Antonio
Published: June 2006

Enamel and dentin at the cervical portion of the tooth are frequently covered by a collagen-free matrix referred to as acellular afibrillar cementum (AAC). It is believed that AAC deposition occurs when the enamel organ is displaced or disrupted, and mesenchymal cells from the dental follicle gain access to the tooth surface, differentiate into cementoblasts, and secrete noncollagenous proteins typically found in collagen-based mineralized tissues. A similar thin layer of mineralized matrix is found at the enamel-free area (EFA) of rodent molars, but in this case the matrix is covered by inner enamel epithelium (IEE) throughout development. We have, therefore, used this site as a paradigm to test the hypothesis that typical mesenchymal matrix proteins can also be found in association with epithelial cells. To this end, we have analyzed the presence and distribution of enamel- and cementum-related matrix proteins at the EFA and at the cervical portion of the tooth. Rat mandibular molars were processed for colloidal gold immunolabeling with antibodies to amelogenins, bone sialoprotein (BSP), osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OC), and dentin sialoprotein (DSP), and the plasma proteins α2HS-glycoprotein and albumin. The EFA matrix was immunoreactive for amelogenins as well as for BSP, OPN, OC, and α2HS-glycoprotein, but not for albumin and DSP. The AAC was, similar to the EFA matrix, labeled for BSP, OPN, OC, and α2HS-glycoprotein. These data show for the first time that the EFA matrix is comprised of a mixture of enamel- and cementum-related proteins, a situation that parallels the distribution of matrix constituents at the cervical portion of the tooth. Since the EFA matrix is deposited on top of the mineralized dentin, and since the enamel organ seals off the forming matrix, it is concluded that EFA cells are responsible for the production of these proteins. Consistent with previous reports showing that epithelial cells can produce both BSP and OPN in some circumstances, the data also suggest that AAC may be deposited by cells of epithelial origin. Furthermore, they lend support to the possibility that cells derived from Hertwig's epithelial root sheath may likewise be capable of producing cementum matrix proteins.
The Role of the T-Lymphocyte in Estrogen Deficiency Osteopenia
Authors: Sass D. A. , Liss T. , Bowman A. R. , Rucinski B. , Popoff S. N. , Pan Z. , Ma Y. F. , Epstein S.
Published: June 2006

Our laboratory has previously demonstrated that the T-lymphocyte is critical in the development of cyclosporin A–induced osteopenia in the rat model. A similar state of osteopenia is induced by estrogen depletion in the ovariectomized (OVX) rat, which is the animal model of postmenopausal bone loss. However, the role of the immune system, and particularly the T-lymphocyte, in estrogen deplete osteopenia has not been elucidated. We used the Rowett athymic nude rat as our model of T-lymphocyte deficiency. In this study, the experimental rats were divided into four groups as follows: (1) sham-operated Rowett heterozygous (rnu/+) euthymic rats (control group); (2) OVX Rowett heterozygous (rnu/+) euthymic rats; (3) sham-operated Rowett homozygous (rnu/rnu) athymic nude rats, which are T-lymphocyte deficient; and (4) ovariectomized Rowett homozygous (rnu/rnu) rats. Rats were weighed, and venous blood was taken in weeks 2, 4, and 6 for determination of serum osteocalcin. Serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) was determined on the day of sacrifice. Following sacrifice, histomorphometry was performed on double-labeled proximal tibial metaphyses. Flow cytometric analysis of splenic mononuclear cell isolates stained for OX19-positive (CD5) T-lymphocytes was performed. T-lymphocyte analysis revealed significant reductions in both athymic nude groups, while OVX euthymic rats demonstrated a diminished number of T-cells relative to their sham-operated counterparts. Histomorphometric data indicated that both OVX groups exhibited a significant loss of trabecular volume, with associated increases in indices for bone formation and resorption, with resorption likely outstripping formation, resulting in osteopenia. Serum osteocalcin was significantly elevated in the ovariectomized euthymic group throughout the experimental period compared with the control group (p < 0.01); it was elevated in the ovariectomized athymic group on week 4 only (p < 0.01 vs. control). It appears that the T-lymphocyte may not be an essential component in the pathogenesis of estrogen deficiency osteopenia. The contribution of circulating T-lymphocytes as well as other T-lymphocyte–rich organs needs to be explored further.
Comparison of 6 Automated Assays for Total and Free Prostate-Specific Antigen with Special Reference to Their Reactivity toward the WHO 96/670 Reference Preparation
Authors: Kort Sheila AR , Martens Frans , Vanpoucke Hilde , van Duijnhoven Hans L , Blankenstein Marinus A
Published: June 2006

Background: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assays have historically produced different results. Our aim was to investigate the comparability of assay results of selected commercially available assay methods designed to measure total, free, or complexed PSA (tPSA, fPSA, and cPSA).

Methods: We measured tPSA, fPSA, and cPSA in 70 samples and in the WHO PSA 96/670 reference preparation with 6 assays (Beckman-Coulter Access, Abbott ARCHITECT and AxSYM, Bayer Advia Centaur, DPC IMMULITE 2000, and Roche Modular Analytics E170). We also calculated the fPSA/tPSA ratio.

Results: The mean deviations from the expected tPSA and fPSA values for the WHO 96/670 reference preparation were 0.37 (range, 0.01–1.32) and 0.19 (range, 0.05–0.49) μg/L, respectively. When plotted against the expected WHO 96/670 reference preparation value, regression slopes varied from 0.99 to 1.22 and r2 from 0.9996 to 1.000. When total PSA was measured in mixtures of sera with high and low tPSA concentrations, the mean (SD) slope of regression of different assays against an in-house method was 1.04 (0.09). In these specimens, the fPSA/tPSA ratio was 0.11–0.14 with different methods. The tPSA and fPSA values in patient samples measured in different assays and plotted against ARCHITECT gave regression slopes from 0.88 to 0.97. The results of the studied assays for tPSA in serum samples agreed within 15%, from each other, and all results for the WHO 96/670 reference preparation were within 6.8% (confidence interval, 1.7%–15.2%) of the expected value. The results for fPSA were more diverse.

Conclusions: Differences among PSA assays appear to have decreased since introduction of the WHO 96/670 reference preparation, but further efforts are needed to harmonize fPSA assays.
Humor and leadership style
Authors: Holmes Janet , Marra Meredith
Published: June 2006

Drawing on authentic workplace interactions, this paper examines the ways in which effective leaders use humor as a discursive resource to construct particular aspects of leadership style. The conventional wisdom in leadership studies suggests that humor is an important tool for “good” leaders who inspire and challenge their subordinates. The management studies literature suggests a basic distinction between a traditional transactional style, which is rule-driven and task focused, and a more favored transformational style, where leaders encourage creativity and innovation, and are characterized as inspirational. Using data collected in a range of New Zealand organizations, this paper explores and illustrates the wide range of functions served by humor, and the ways in which humor contributes to aspects of the construction of leadership styles. Our analysis supports recent proposals that many effective leaders combine aspects of both transactional and transformational styles of leadership.
Joke cruelty and joke appreciation revisited
Authors: Herzog Thomas R , Harris Anne C , Kropscott Laura S , Fuller Katherine L
Published: June 2006

We investigated the relation between independently rated joke cruelty and joke appreciation within the thematically homogeneous category of jokes about the disabled. We found a negative linear relation between appreciation and cruelty for females and no relation for males. This remained true even after controlling statistically for four other rated joke properties: surprise, incongruity, difficulty, and resolution. There was no evidence of an inverted-U relation between appreciation and cruelty. We conclude that an optimal cruelty model of joke appreciation is not supported when thematic joke category and other rated predictors are controlled. In contrast, a previous finding that cruelty matters more for females than for males was replicated.
Can an epic woman be funny? Humor and the female protagonist in late Medieval and early Renaissance epic
Authors: Morgan Leslie Zarker
Published: June 2006

Women characters in the
Bewährungswiderruf wegen Begehung einer neuen Straftat: Konsequenzen der Rechtsprechung des EGMR zur Unschuldsvermutung
Authors: Seher Gerhard
Published: June 2006

I. Problemstellung

Der Widerruf der Strafaussetzung zur Bewährung wegen Begehung einer neuen Straftat ist ein seit langem diskutiertes Thema. Letzthin wurde die Diskussion von der Praxis überholt. Die gegen Deutschland ergangene Entscheidung des Europäischen Gerichtshofs für Menschenrechte (EGMR) vom 3.10. 2002 hat – unter Berufung auf die Unschuldsvermutung des Art. 6 Abs. 2 EMRK – die Aburteilung der neuen Straftat zur unverzichtbaren Voraussetzung eines auf diese Tat gestützten Bewährungswiderrufs gemacht und eine Durchbrechung dieses Grundsatzes nur für den Fall zugelassen, dass der Täter deren Begehung glaubhaft gesteht. Seither beeilen sich deutsche Gerichte in schneller Folge, sich den Tenor der EGMR-Entscheidung zu eigen zu machen. Der Beschluss des Bundesverfassungsgerichts vom 14.10. 2004, der die Berücksichtigung der Rechtsprechung des EGMR durch die deutschen Gerichte explizit anmahnt, und zwei aktuelle Kammerentscheidungen des Bundesverfassungsgerichts beschleunigen diesen Prozess weiter. Auch mehrere diese Entwicklung aufgreifende Literaturbeiträgetreten den höchstrichterlich formulierten Grundsätzen bei. Es scheint, als werde die Rechtsprechung künftig einheitlich für einen Bewährungswiderruf nach § 56f Abs. 1 Satz 1 Nr. 1 StGB eine Aburteilung der neuen Straftat, hilfsweise ein glaubhaftes Geständnis, verlangen und zur Begründung dafür die Unschuldsvermutung aus Art. 6 Abs. 2 EMRK bzw. Art. 20 Abs. 3 GG benennen. Damit dürfte die bisher überwiegende Judikatur, derzufolge es genügen sollte, dass sich das Gericht im Freibeweisverfahren von der neuen Straftat des unter Bewährung Stehenden überzeugt, obsolet werden.
Aktuelle Fragen des materiellen Computer- und Internetstrafrechts im Spiegel neuerer Gesamtdarstellungen
Authors: Hilgendorf Eric
Published: June 2006

Haug, Volker: Grundwissen Internet. Stuttgart: W. Kohlhammer 2005. XXX, 311 S.

Malek, Klaus: Strafsachen im Internet. Heidelberg: C.F. Müller 2005. XV, 140 S.

Marberth-Kubicki, Annette: Computer- und Internetstrafrecht. München: C. H. Beck 2005. XXVII, 252 S.

Heghmanns, Michael: Daten- und Datennetz-Delikte, in: Hans Achenbach und Andreas Ransiek (Hrsg.), Handbuch Wirtschaftsstrafrecht. Heidelberg: C.F. Müller 2005, S. 405–485.

Wall, David S.: Cyberspace crime. Ashgate: Dartmouth u. a. 2003. XXVI, 582 S.

Es vergeht kaum ein Tag, an dem nicht in der Tagespresse über neue Formen kriminellen oder zumindest sozialschädlichen Verhaltens im Internet berichtet wird. Einschlägige Stichworte sind betrügerische Passworterlangung („phishing”), Datenvandalismus („cracking”), die Verbreitung neuartiger Viren oder anderer Schadenssoftware, Datenspionage und massive Belästigungen über das Netz, das sog. „Cyberstalking”. Mit jeder technischen Innovation entstehen neue Missbrauchsmöglichkeiten. Längst hat das Internet begonnen, die Rechtsentwicklung in globalem Maßstab zu prägen; dem Gesetzgeber fällt es schwer, mit der rasant voranschreitenden Entwicklung Schritt zu halten.
Das Humanexperiment als völkerstrafrechtliches Verbrechen – Vom Nürnberger Kodex zum Rom-Statut für einen Internationalen Strafgerichtshof
Authors: Kiriakaki Irini
Published: June 2006

I. Einleitung

Das medizinische Experiment am Menschen als empirisches Verfahren ist seit dem 19. Jahrhundert eine wichtige Erkenntnisquelle der naturwissenschaftlich orientierten Medizin und ein unverzichtbares Instrument für die Sicherheit und Zuverlässigkeit der medizinischen Alltagspraxis. Wenn das Ziel hauptsächlich in der individuellen Behandlung des unmittelbar beteiligtenkranken Menschen durch die Erprobung oder erstmalige Anwendung einer therapeutischen Methode besteht, liegt ein Heilversuch vor. Beim wissenschaftlichen Versuch werden hingegen allgemeinmedizinische Fragestellungen am Menschen untersucht; das konkret-individuelle Behandlungsinteresse bleibt dabei im Hintergrund.
Generalized Linear Least-Squares Adjustment, Revisited
Authors: Broadhead BL , Williams ML , Wagschal JJ
Published: June 2006

Tsurfer, a generalized linear least-squares (Glls) code, is a new module of the SCALE system. After a short introduction outlining the history and applications of the Glls methodology in reactor physics, a new application of the Glls methodology in criticality safety is discussed. Some characteristic Tsurfer input data are discussed in detail.
A Device to Continuously Monitor Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature at User-Selected Depths and Locations in Culture Ponds
Authors: Pearson Philip R , Green Bartholomew W
Published: June 2006

Continuous measurement of dissolved oxygen concentration and temperature at two depths in the water column were needed for a 2004 field study conducted during actual harvests of channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus and for a small-scale research study conducted in 2005. In the on-farm field study, we collected data in grading nets loaded with high densities of channel catfish. The small-scale study was conducted in 0.1-acre channel catfish research ponds. Commercially available dissolved oxygen and temperature monitoring units did not meet study requirements, so we developed a free-floating data collection unit composed of state-of-the-art sensors, a data logger, and readily available materials. The data collection units proved to be durable under conditions existing in both loaded grading nets and in small research ponds.
Fractured Reservoir Characterization Using Dynamic Data in a Carbonate Field, Oman
Authors: Ozkaya S. I. , Richard P. D.
Published: June 2006

The main objective of this study was to extract fracture data from multiple sources and present it in a form suitable for reservoir simulation in a fractured carbonate field in Oman. Production is by water injection. A combination of borehole image (BHI) logs and openhole logs from horizontal wells revealed that water encroachment occurs mostly through fracture corridors and appears as sharp saturation spikes across fracture clusters. Dispersed background joints have little flow potential because of cementation, lack of connectivity, or small size. Image logs indicate that fracture corridors are oriented dominantly in the west/northwest direction. Most of the several injector/producer short cuts are also oriented in the west/northwest direction, supporting the view that fracture corridors are responsible for the short cuts.

Flowmeter logs from vertical injector or producer wells intersecting a fracture corridor show a step profile. A comparison of the injection or production history of wells with or without a step profile provided a means to calculate permeability enhancement by fracture corridors. The field has more than 300 vertical wells and nearly 20 horizontal wells, which allowed us to generate detailed fracture-permeability enhancement and fracture-corridor density maps based on injector and producer data, short cuts, mud losses, openhole logs, and BHI logs. We also were able to build stochastic 3D fracture-corridor models using corridor density from dynamic data and orientation from BHI logs and seismic data. Fracture-corridor length and width were tied to fracture-permeability enhancement using wells with both image logs and production data. The fracture-permeability enhancement maps were verified independently by waterflood-front maps. Notwithstanding the uncertainties, the fracture data were sufficiently accurate and detailed to generate both single- and dual-porosity simulation results with good field-scale history match.
Interrelationship of Temperature and Wettability on the Relative Permeability of Heavy Oil in Diatomaceous Rocks
Authors: Schembre J. M. , Tang G. -Q. , Kovscek A. R.
Published: June 2006

The evaluation of thermal-recovery processes requires relative permeability functions, as well as information about the effects of temperature on these functions. There are significant challenges encountered when estimating relative permeability from laboratory data, such as the accuracy of measurements and generalized assumptions in the interpretation techniques. A novel method is used here to estimate relative permeability and capillary pressure from in-situ aqueous-phase saturation profiles obtained from X-ray computerized tomography (CT) scanning during high-temperature imbibition experiments. Relative permeability and capillary pressure functions are interpreted simultaneously, including possible nonequilibrium effects. Results obtained show a systematic shift toward increased water-wettability with increasing temperature for diatomite reservoir core. The measured changes in relative permeability are linked to the effect of temperature on the adhesion of oil-coated fines to rock surfaces and, ultimately, to rock/fluid interactions.
Approximative Evaluation of the Distribution Function of Aggregate Claims
Authors: Pentikäinen T.
Published: June 2006

A formula, originally presented by Haldane (1938), for the evaluation of the distribution of aggregate claims is examined and compared with some other approaches. The idea is to apply a symmetrizing transformation to the original variable in order to make it susceptible to be approximated by the normal distribution.
Two Credibility Regression Approaches for the Classification of Passenger Cars in a Multiplicative Tariff
Authors: Sundt Bjørn
Published: June 2006

In the present paper we present two credibility regression models for the classification of passenger cars. As regressors we use technical variables like price, weight, etc. In both models we derive credibility estimators and find expressions for their estimation errors. Estimators for structure parameters are proposed. A numerical example based on real data is given. The second model is hierarchical with a level for make of car.
On the Probability and Severity of Ruin
Authors: Gerber Hans U. , Goovaerts Marc J. , Kaas Rob
Published: June 2006

In the usual model of the collective risk theory, we are interested in the severity of ruin, as well as its probability. As a quantitative measure, we propose G(u, y), the probability that for given initial surplus u ruin will occur and that the deficit at the time of ruin will be less than y, and the corresponding density g(u, y). First a general answer in terms of the transform is obtained. Then, assuming that the claim amount distribution is a combination of exponential distributions, we determine g; here the roots of the equation that defines the adjustment coefficient play a central role. An explicit answer is also given in the case in which all claims are of constant size.
Projecting Development of Losses During an Accident Year
Authors: Gogol Daniel
Published: June 2006

A method is presented for projecting the development of reported losses, or of paid losses, or the number of reported cases, for each of the first 12 months of an accident year. The method is based on the relationship between development patterns after the first 12 months of an accident year and development patterns during the first 12 months. A way of deriving the development pattern of an individual accident quarter or accident month is also described.

It is pointed out that the method can be useful for underwriting decisions for which the most recent experience is relevant, or for estimating loss reserves at the end of a quarter or when earned premium differs greatly by month or quarter.
Efficacy of Giardia vaccination in the treatment of giardiasis in cats
Authors: Stein John E. , Radecki Steven V. , Lappin Michael R.
Published: June 2006

Objective—To assess efficacy ofGiardiavaccination as a treatment for giardiasis in experimentally infected cats.

Design—Original study.

Animals—16 young-adult cats.

Procedure—Cats were experimentally infected by orogastric administration ofGiardiacysts. On weeks 4, 6, and 10, cats in the treatment group (n = 8) were givenGiardiavaccine SC. For the first 28 weeks after infection, 3 fecal samples from each cat were examined weekly forGiardiacysts, and cyst numbers were counted. Fecal consistency was scored daily for the duration of the study. Results from vaccinated and unvaccinated cats were compared by logistic regression.

Results—All cats became infected and were sheddingGiardiacysts by the end of week 2. Throughout the study, diarrhea was rare and was mild and transient when it did occur. By week 28, 5 of 8 vaccinated cats and 7 of 8 control cats had patentGiardiainfections. Magnitude of infection, based on number of fecal samples with cysts and number of cysts per sample, decreased progressively in both groups over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of 3 doses of aGiardiavaccine did not completely eliminate the organism from experimentally infected cats in the study period. Since clinical signs were minimal in both groups of cats, it could not be determined whether vaccination lessened severity of clinical disease. Results may have been negatively influenced by the large inoculation dose. WhetherGiardiavaccination is an effective treatment for giardiasis in naturally infected cats remains to be determined. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:1548–1551)
Evaluation of methods for assessment of pain associated with chronic osteoarthritis in dogs
Authors: Hielm-Björkman Anna K. , Kuusela Erja , Liman Annie , Markkola Anne , Saarto Erja , Huttunen Pirkko , Leppäluoto Juhani , Tulamo Riitta-Mari , Raekallio Marja
Published: June 2006

Objective—To identify variables and evaluate methods for assessing chronic pain in dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—41 dogs with canine hip dysplasia (CHD), and 24 apparently healthy dogs with no history of pain.

Procedure—2 veterinarians evaluated the dogs' locomotion and signs of pain. Owners of dogs with CHD and control dogs answered a questionnaire regarding their dogs' demeanor, behavior, and locomotion (descriptive scales) and assessed pain and locomotion (visual analog scales). Plasma concentrations of several stress-related hormones were determined, and 13 radiologic variables were assessed in affected hip joints.

Results—For many of the questions, answers provided by owners of dogs with CHD differed significantly from those of owners of control dogs. Stress hormone concentrations differed significantly between dogs with CHD and controls, but individual variation was too great for them to be of value in pain assessment. None of the radiologic variables examined correlated well with owner or veterinarian pain scores.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Chronic pain could be assessed in dogs with CHD through completion of the study questionnaire by a person familiar with the pet (eg, owner) after receiving appropriate education in its use. Eleven variables were identified as being potentially useful in assessment of chronic pain in dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222: 1552–1558)
The cardiac anesthetic index of isoflurane in green iguanas
Authors: Mosley Craig A. E. , Dyson Doris , Smith Dale A.
Published: June 2006

Objective—To determine the cardiac anesthetic
index (CAI) of isoflurane in green iguanas and
whether butorphanol affected the CAI.

Design—Prospective randomized controlled trial.

Animals—7 healthy mature iguanas.

Procedure—In 5 iguanas, CAI was determined after
induction of anesthesia with isoflurane alone, and in 5
iguanas, CAI was determined after induction of anesthesia
with isoflurane and IM administration of butorphanol
(1 mg/kg [0.45 mg/lb]). Three iguanas underwent
both treatments. Animals were equilibrated for
20 minutes at 1.5 times the minimum alveolar concentration
(MAC) of isoflurane and observed for evidence
of cardiovascular arrest. If there was no evidence
of cardiovascular arrest, end-tidal isoflurane
concentration was increased by 20%, and animals
were allowed to equilibrate for another 20 minutes.
This process was repeated until cardiovascular arrest
occurred or vaporizer output could no longer be consistently
increased. The CAI was calculated by dividing
the highest end-tidal isoflurane concentration by
the MAC.

Results—None of the iguanas developed cardiovascular
arrest and all survived. Mean ± SD highest endtidal
isoflurane concentration during anesthesia with
isoflurane alone (9.2 ± 0.60%) was not significantly
different from mean concentration during anesthesia
with isoflurane and butorphanol (9.0 ± 0.43%). The
CAI was > 4.32.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that the CAI of isoflurane in green iguanas is
> 4.32 and not affected by administration of butorphanol.
Isoflurane appears to be a safe anesthetic in
green iguanas. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:
1565–1568)