bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HHV‐6 A‐ or B‐specific P41 antigens do not reveal virus variant‐specific IgG or IgM responses in human serum
Authors: Xu Yunhe , Linde Annika , Fredrikson Sten , Dahl Helena , Winberg Gösta
Published: August 2002

The etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unknown, but there are indications of a role of human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6), especially variant A, in the pathogenesis. Higher serum antibody reactivity against an HHV‐6 early protein, p41, has been found in MS cases than in controls. The antigen, however, was purified from infected cells with a monoclonal antibody also reactive with a protein (p38) likely to be of cellular origin. To avoid serological crossreactivity with the cellular protein, recombinant p41 proteins from HHV‐6A strain GS and HHV‐6B strain Z29 were expressed as glutathione‐S‐transferase fusion proteins (p41‐GST), and used as antigens in an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). p41 variant specific monoclonal antibodies reacted strongly with the respective recombinant proteins. Serum IgM and IgG reactivities with the recombinant p41 antigens were analysed in patients with manifest MS, patients with optic neuritis, patients with other neurological diseases, and in one group of healthy controls. All sera were HHV‐6 IgG seropositive by immunofluorescence. The serum IgM or IgG reactivities against the recombinant p41 antigens did not differ significantly between the groups, and the reactivities against the variant A and B antigens were identical. In many samples, the reactivity was very low. The results indicate that p41 is not an optimal target for HHV‐6 serology studies, and that the data obtained with the p41 antigen prepared from infected cells (possibly including also p38) should be interpreted with caution. J. Med. Virol. 66:394‐399, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Incidence and case‐fatality rates resulting from the 1998 enterovirus 71 outbreak in Taiwan
Authors: Lu Chun‐Yi , Lee Chin‐Yun , Kao Chuan‐Liang , Shao Wen‐Yi , Lee Ping‐Ing , Twu Shiing‐Jer , Yeh Chin‐Chuan , Lin Shang‐Ching , Shih Wen‐Yi , Wu Shiow‐Ing , Huang Li‐Min
Published: August 2002

In 1998, an epidemic of hand‐foot‐and‐mouth disease and herpangina caused by enterovirus 71 occurred in Taiwan, leaving many fatalities and severely handicapped survivors in its wake. The reasons this rather common pathogen would cause such a large‐scale epidemic remain unknown. A seroepidemiological survey to elucidate the epidemiological characteristics of this outbreak, including its incidence and case‐fatality rates was undertaken. Microneutralization tests for antibodies against enterovirus 71 were used to screen four collections of serum samples: 1) 202 specimens taken from individuals ≥ 4 years old in 1994; 2) 245 specimens collected from individuals of all ages in 1997; 3) 1,258 specimens collected from individuals of all ages in 1999; and 4) sera samples from a birth cohort of 81 children who had yearly blood samples taken from 1988–98. After the maternal antibody had declined, the seropositive rates began to increase with age. Approximately half of all children aged 6 years or older were enterovirus 71 seropositive. Significantly higher seropositive rates were noted in 1999 than in 1997, in children aged 0.5–3 years. The incidence of enterovirus 71 infection during the epidemic was estimated to be 13–22%, with the higher rates in younger children. The case‐fatality rate was highest (96.96 per 100,000) in infants aged 6–11 months, and declined in older children. The results showed that enterovirus 71 is endemic in Taiwan. The apparent lack of large‐scale enterovirus 71 activity in the 3 years before 1998 might have been the prelude to the epidemic's appearance in 1998, and might suggest that enterovirus 71 infection will reappear every few years. The lack of a protective antibody in younger children may account for the high incidence and case‐fatality rate in this age group. J. Med. Virol. 67:217–223, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Extended PML‐TLM node: an efficient approach for full‐wave analysis of open structures
Authors: Le Maguer S. , Ney M. M.
Published: August 2002

This paper deals with an extension and improvement of the PML‐TLM algorithm first proposed by Dubard and Pompei. The approach is first extended to advanced nodes (hybrid SCN and super‐SCN). Then its efficiency in the presence of evanescent waves is improved. As a result, stability is also improved. Finally, the algorithm is applied to the characterization of a new class of patch antennas and validated by the measurement. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Split‐step‐Gauss–Hermite algorithm for fast and accurate simulation of soliton propagation
Authors: Lazaridis P. , Debarge G. , Gallion P.
Published: August 2002

A simple and efficient algorithm is proposed for the numerical solution of the non‐linear Schrödinger equation. Operator splitting is used, as with the split‐step‐Fourier method, in order to treat the linear part and the non‐linear part of the equation separately. However, in our method, the FFT solution of the linear part is replaced by a very accurate Gauss–Hermite orthogonal expansion. Gaussian quadrature nodes and weights are used in order to calculate the expansion coefficients. Our methods is found to be very accurate and faster than the split‐step‐Fourier method for the model problem of single soliton propagation. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of mRNA stability in the nervous system and beyond
Authors: Malter James S.
Published: August 2002

The ability to control gene expression is central to normal development and function. For a growing number of genes in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues, expression is determined by changes in the rate of mRNA decay. At a molecular level, regulated interactions between the mRNA target and sequence‐specific binding proteins either inhibit or accelerate decay, affording tight control over gene expression. This review discusses several examples of such posttranscriptional gene regulation. J. Neurosci. Res. 66:311–316, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Monitoring arterio‐venous differences of glucose and lactate in the anesthetized rat with or without brain damage with ultrafiltration and biosensor technology
Authors: Leegsma‐Vogt Gea , Venema Kor , Postema Folkert , Korf Jakob
Published: August 2002

Continuous monitoring of arterio‐venous glucose and lactate differences may serve as a diagnostic tool to assess normal brain function and brain pathology. We describe a method and some results obtained with arterio‐venous measurements of glucose and lactate in the blood of the halothane‐anesthetized rat and after brain injury. The method is based on low flow rate ultrafiltration for continuous collection of blood filtrate combined with flow injection analysis and biosensors for the detection of glucose and lactate. We measured the glucose and lactate concentration every minute in the jugular vein and the aorta at control conditions and during and after inflation of an embolectomy‐balloon for 2 min. Net cerebral lactate efflux and glucose uptake was seen under control conditions and at low blood lactate levels. During brain injury both lactate release and glucose uptake were reduced and there was a net lactate influx at high arterial lactate levels. These results indicate that the flux of lactate in and out of the brain is not only dependent on the lactate concentration in the brain, but on blood levels as well, possibly because of bi‐directional flux through the monocarboxylate transporter type 1. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of human glutamate dehydrogenases: Implications for glutamate, ammonia and energy metabolism in brain
Authors: Plaitakis Andreas , Zaganas Ioannis
Published: August 2002

Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) catalyzes the oxidative deamination of glutamate to α‐ketoglutarate using NAD or NADP as cofactors. In mammalian brain, GDH is located predominantly in astrocytes, where it is probably involved in the metabolism of transmitter glutamate. The exact mechanisms that regulate glutamate fluxes through this pathway, however, have not been fully understood. In the human, GDH exists in heat‐resistant and heat‐labile isoforms, encoded by the GLUD1 (housekeeping) and GLUD2 (nerve tissue‐specific) genes, respectively. These forms differ in their catalytic and allosteric properties. Kinetic studies showed that the Km value for glutamate for the nerve tissue GDH is within the range of glutamate levels in astrocytes (2.43 mM), whereas for the housekeeping enzyme, this value is significantly higher (7.64 mM; P < 0.01). The allosteric activators ADP (0.1–1.0 mM) and L‐leucine (1.0–10.0 mM) induce a concentration‐dependent enzyme stimulation that is proportionally greater for the nerve tissue‐specific GDH (up to 1,600%) than for the housekeeping enzyme (up to 150%). When used together at lower concentrations, ADP (10–50 mM) and L‐leucine (75–200 μM) act synergistically in stimulating GDH activity. GTP exerts a powerful inhibitory effect (IC50 = 0.20 mM) on the housekeeping GDH; in contrast, the nerve tissue isoenzyme is resistant to GTP inhibition. Thus, although the housekeeping GDH is regulated primarily by GTP, the nerve tissue GDH activity depends largely on available ADP or L‐leucine levels. Conditions associated with enhanced hydrolysis of ATP to ADP (e.g., intense glutamatergic transmission) are likely to activate nerve tissue‐specific GDH leading to an increased glutamate flux through this pathway. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential regulation of myelin phagocytosis by macrophages/microglia, involvement of target myelin, Fc receptors and activation by intravenous immunoglobulins
Authors: Kuhlmann Tanja , Wendling Uwe , Nolte Christiane , Zipp Frauke , Maruschak Brigitte , Stadelmann Christine , Siebert Heike , Brück Wolfgang
Published: August 2002

Macrophages/microglia are the key effector cells in myelin removal. Differences exist in the amount and time course of myelin uptake in the central (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), the basis of this difference, however, is not yet clarified. In the present experiments we studied the phagocytosis rate of CNS or PNS myelin by macrophages and microglia in vitro. Additionally, the effects of intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg) on this process were investigated. In the PNS experiments, sciatic nerves were cocultured with peritoneal macrophages. Optic nerve fragments were used to characterize the myelin‐removing properties of microglia. Cocultures with peritoneal macrophages aimed at investigating the differences in phagocytosis between resident microglia and added macrophages. The myelin phagocytosis in sciatic nerve fragments was higher than in optic nerves, indicating differences in the myelin uptake rate between peripheral macrophages and microglia. IVIg increased the phagocytosis of PNS myelin by macrophages, but not by microglia in optic nerves. The addition of peritoneal macrophages to optic nerve fragments did not lead to an increase in the phagocytosis of CNS myelin either. The IVIg induced phagocytosis of PNS myelin by peripheral macrophages was associated with an increased expression of macrophage Fc receptors measured by FACS. Blocking of Fc receptors by anti‐Fc receptor antibody reduced the IVIg induced PNS myelin phagocytosis to basic levels, indicating that the induced but not the basic myelin uptake by macrophages is Fc receptor dependent. In contrast to peripheral macrophages, IVIg did not increase Fc receptor density on microglia. These data indicate that phagocytosis of PNS and CNS myelin by macrophages or microglia is differentially regulated. Local factors within the CNS or PNS may affect this process by modulating the surface receptor profile and activation state of the phagocytic cell or the structure of the myelin sheath. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of gene expression in the rat hippocampus using real time PCR reveals high inter‐individual variation in mRNA expression levels
Authors: Alfonso Julieta , Pollevick Guido D. , Castensson Anja , Jazin Elena , Frasch Alberto C.C.
Published: August 2002

In mammals, gene transcription is a step subjected to tight regulation mechanisms. In fact, changes in mRNA levels in the central nervous system (CNS) can account for numerous phenotypic differences in brain function. We performed a high‐resolution analysis of mRNA expression levels for 37 genes selected from a normal rat hippocampus cDNA library. mRNA amounts were quantified using a Real Time PCR SYBR Green assay. We found that, in general, individuals from an inbred rat population (n = 20) have shown 2–3 times differences in the basal level of expression of the genes analyzed. Up to several fold differences among individuals were observed for certain genes. These inter‐individual differences were obtained after correction for the different amounts of mRNA in each sample. Power calculations were performed to determine the number of individuals required to detect reliable differences in expression levels between a control and an experimental group. These data indicated that, depending on the variability of the candidate gene selected, it was necessary to analyze from five to 135 individuals in each group to detect differences of 50% in the levels of mRNA expression between two groups investigated. The comparison of mRNA abundance from different genes revealed a wide range of expression levels for the 37 genes, showing a 26,000‐fold difference between the highest and lowest expressed gene. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypothermia inhibits translocation of CaM kinase II and PKC‐α, β, γ isoforms and fodrin proteolysis in rat brain synaptosome during ischemia‐reperfusion
Authors: Harada Kazuki , Maekawa Tsuyoshi , Tsuruta Ryosuke , Kaneko Tadashi , Sadamitsu Daikai , Yamashima Tetsumori , Yoshida Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2002

To clarify the involvement of intracellular signaling pathway and calpain in the brain injury and its protection by mild hypothermia, immunoblotting analyses were performed in the rat brain after global forebrain ischemia and reperfusion. After 30 min of ischemia followed by 60 min of reperfusion, Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaM kinase II) and protein kinase C (PKC)‐α, β, γ isoforms translocated to the synaptosomal fraction, while mild hypothermia (32°C) inhibited the translocation. The hypothermia also inhibited fodrin proteolysis caused by ischemia‐reperfusion, indicating the inhibition of calpain. These effects of hypothermia may explain the mechanism of the protection against brain ischemia‐reperfusion injury through modulating synaptosomal function. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regional distribution of heme oxygenase, HSP70, and glutathione in brain: Relevance for endogenous oxidant/antioxidant balance and stress tolerance
Authors: Calabrese V. , Scapagnini G. , Ravagna A. , Fariello R.G. , Giuffrida Stella A.M. , Abraham N.G.
Published: August 2002

It is generally recognized that lipid peroxides play an important role in the pathogenesis of several diseases and that sulfhydryl groups are critically involved in cellular defense against endogenous or exogenous oxidants. Recent evidence indicates that lipid peroxides directly participate in induction of cytoprotective proteins, such as heat shock proteins (Hsps), which play a central role in the cellular mechanisms of stress tolerance. Heme oxygenase (HO) is a stress protein that has been implicated in defense mechanisms against agents that may induce oxidative injury, such as endotoxins, cytokines and heme and its induction represents a common feature in a number of neurodegenerative diseases. In the present report we studied regional distribution of heme oxygenase (HO) activity and protein expression, together with that of Hps70, in brain of C57BL6 mice. Endogenous lipid peroxidation was investigated on the basis of the analysis of ultra weak chemiluminescence, hydro peroxides and lipid soluble fluorescent products, and compared to the regional distribution of thiols, antioxidant enzymes and trace metals. Our results show that levels of HO activity and expression of inducible Hsp70 and the ratio of GSH/GSSG in the different brain regions examined were positively correlated with the content of peroxides. Substantia Nigra was the brain area exhibiting the highest levels of HO‐2, constitutive and inducible Hsp70, GSSG, peroxides, iron, and calcium, in contrast with the lowest content in GSH, GSH/GSSG ratio and glutathione reductase activity, compared to the other cerebral regions examined. Among these, cortex showed the lowest levels of HO‐2, Hsp70, GSSG and peroxides that were associated with the highest levels of GSH and GSH/GSSG ratio. These data support the hypothesis that the glutathione redox state and basal peroxides can directly participate in the signaling pathways of heat shock protein expression and hence of stress tolerance. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of COX‐2 reduces the age‐dependent increase of hippocampal inflammatory markers, corticosterone secretion, and behavioral impairments in the rat
Authors: Casolini Paola , Catalani Assia , Zuena Anna R. , Angelucci Luciano
Published: August 2002

Brain aging as well as brain degenerative processes with accompanying cognitive impairments are generally associated with hyperactivity of the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal axis, the end product of which, the glucocorticoid hormone, has been warranted the role of cell damage primum movens (“cascade hypothesis”). However, chronic inflammatory activity occurs in the hippocampus of aged rats as well as in the brain of Alzheimer's disease patients. The concomitant increase in the secretion of the glucocorticoid hormone, the endogenous anti‐inflammatory and pro‐inflammatory markers, has prompted us to investigate the two phenomena in the aging rat, and to work out its meaning. This study shows that: (I) interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) increase with age in the rats hippocampus, and (II) chronic oral treatment with celecoxib, a selective cycloxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor, is able to contrast the age‐dependent increase in hippocampal levels of pro‐inflammatory markers and circulating anti‐inflammatory corticosterone, provided that it is started at an early stage of aging. Under these conditions, age‐related impairments in cognitive ability may be ameliorated. Taken together, these results indicate that there is a natural tendency to offset the age‐dependent increase in brain inflammatory processes via the homeostatic increase of the circulating glucocorticoid hormone. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuroprotective effects of carnosine and homocarnosine on pheochromocytoma PC12 cells exposed to ischemia
Authors: Tabakman Rinat , Lazarovici Philip , Kohen Ron
Published: August 2002

The development of neuroprotective drugs against ischemic insults is hampered by the lack of pharmacological in vitro models. We developed an ischemic model using PC12 cell cultures exposed to oxygen‐glucose‐deprivation (OGD) followed by reoxygenation (18 hr) under regular atmospheric oxygen level. The toxicity induced in this model, that is partially caused by generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), was measured morphologically as well as by the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and the prostaglandin PGE2 from the cells. Carnosine and homocarnosine, histidine dipeptides antioxidants, found in high concentration in the brain, have been suggested to provide neuroprotection. Using the OGD model we found that 5 mM carnosine and 1 mM homocarnosine provided maximal neuroprotection of about 50% against OGD insult. This neuroprotective effect was similar to that of a known antioxidant, 4‐hydroxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (tempol), and was not observed in a serum‐deprivation toxicity model of PC12 cells, indicating that carnosine and homocarnosine may act as antioxidant‐neuroprotective agents in the brain. Our ischemic model may provide a useful tool for investigating the mechanisms involved in the neuroprotection afforded by histidine dipeptides. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increase of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells after spinal cord injury
Authors: Ishii Ken , Toda Masahiro , Nakai Yoko , Asou Hiroaki , Watanabe Masahiko , Nakamura Masaya , Yato Yoshiyuki , Fujimura Yoshikazu , Kawakami Yutaka , Toyama Yoshiaki , Uyemura Keiichi
Published: August 2002

The reaction of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) after spinal cord injury (SCI) is poorly understood. In this study, we examined oligodendroglial reactions after contusion SCI in adult rats by immunohistochemistry. OPCs were identified by staining with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) A2B5 and O4. Each of the A2B5‐, O4‐positive OPCs and galactocerebroside‐positive oligodendrocytes dramatically increased in the lesion of the dorsal posterior funiculus. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation studies showed that most O4‐positive cells in the lesion were labeled with BrdU, suggesting that these OPCs were proliferative. In contrast, the expression of myelin basic protein was decreased in the lesion compared with controls that received laminectomy only. From the injured cord, OPCs were isolated by immunopanning with mAb A2B5. We observed an increased number of OPCs from the injured spinal cords compared with those isolated from controls and unoperated animals. After several days in culture, the OPCs from the lesion expressed galactocerebroside. These results suggest that OPCs are induced and can differentiate following SCI in the adult rat. J. Neurosci. Res. 65:500–507, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
17β‐estradiol inhibits cytokine, chemokine, and chemokine receptor mRNA expression in the central nervous system of female mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Matejuk Agata , Adlard Kirsten , Zamora Alex , Silverman Marc , Vandenbark Arthur A. , Offner Halina
Published: August 2002

Cytokines and chemokines govern leukocyte trafficking, thus regulating inflammatory responses. In this study, the anti‐inflammatory effects of low dose 17β‐estradiol were evaluated on chemokine, chemokine receptor, and cytokine expression in the spinal cords (SC) of BV8S2 transgenic female mice during acute and recovery phases of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In EAE protected mice, 17β‐estradiol strongly inhibited mRNA expression of the chemokines RANTES, MIP‐1α, MIP‐2, IP‐10, and MCP‐1, and of the chemokine receptors CCR1, CCR2 and CCR5 at both time points. Conversely, ovariectomy, which abrogated basal 17β‐estradiol levels and increased the severity of EAE, enhanced the expression of MIP‐1α and MIP‐2 that were over‐expressed by inflammatory mononuclear cells in SC. 17β‐estradiol inhibited expression of LT‐β, TNF‐α, and IFN‐γ in SC, but had no effect on IL‐4 or IL‐10, indicating reduced inflammation but no deviation toward a Th2 response. Interestingly, elevated expression of CCR1 and CCR5 by lymph node cells was also inhibited in 17β‐estradiol treated mice with EAE. Low doses of 17β‐estradiol added in vitro to lymphocyte cultures had no direct effect on the activation of MBP‐Ac1‐11 specific T cells, and only at high doses diminished production of IFN‐γ, but not IL‐12 or IL‐10. These results suggest that the beneficial effects of 17β‐estradiol are mediated in part by strong inhibition of recruited inflammatory cells, resulting in reduced production of inflammatory chemokines and cytokines in CNS, with modest effects on encephalitogenic T cells that seem to be relatively 17β‐estradiol insensitive. J. Neurosci. Res. 65:529–542, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Designing effective diversity training: influence of group composition and trainee experience
Authors: Roberson Loriann , Kulik Carol T. , Pepper Molly B.
Published: August 2002

Despite the popularity of diversity training in corporate America, a lack of systematic evaluation has left managers with little guidance on how to design effective diversity training programmes. In this research, we examine how training group composition and trainee experience interact to influence the effects of diversity training on cognitive, affective, and behavioral outcomes. Results indicate that trainees with prior experience with diversity training responded most positively to training groups homogeneous with respect to racioethnicity and nationality; trainees without prior experience with diversity training were generally unaffected by training group composition. The implications of these findings for the design of diversity training programmes in organizations and future research on diversity training are discussed. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Team mental models in a team knowledge framework: expanding theory and measurement across disciplinary boundaries
Authors: Mohammed Susan , Dumville Brad C.
Published: August 2002

Because research on team mental models is still in its formative stages, there is a need for continued conceptual development of the construct and direct empirical support linking team mental models to team outcomes. Researchers in other fields have developed concepts that are distinct from, but clearly related to team mental models, including information sharing, transactive memory, group learning, and cognitive consensus. Although these research streams currently exist in parallel with little cross‐fertilization, there is much to be gained from integration across disciplinary boundaries. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to enrich the theoretical understanding of team mental models and to broaden the empirical research base by adopting a cross‐disciplinary focus and incorporating related team knowledge domains from other literatures. Based on a synthesis of various literatures, we develop a framework that delineates the relationships among team knowledge constructs. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interdecadal variations of characteristics of monsoon disturbances and their epochal relationships with rainfall and other tropical features
Authors: Rajendra Kumar J. , Dash S.K.
Published: August 2002

Interdecadal variations of some characteristics (number and duration) of different monsoon disturbances (low pressure areas (lows), depressions and cyclonic storms (CS)) over the Indian region are studied for 110 years (1889–1998) to find whether an epochal variation exists in such main synoptic components of the Indian summer monsoon at the decadal time scale, similar to other long‐term interdecadal variations of tropical features, e.g. Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR), El Niño–Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), sub‐tropical ridge (STR) over India, Northern Hemispheric surface temperature (NHST), etc. As ISMR has alternate epochs of below and above normal phases at the broad time scale of 30 years, variations of these features are also examined according to the two epochs of ISMR. The stability of correlation of monsoon disturbance days with ISMR is also examined for the same 30‐year time scale for 1889–1998. Stability of relationships of other tropical features and monsoon disturbance days with ISMR is also examined, based on their 11‐year moving correlation coefficients (CC).

Results do not show any regular trend in decadal frequencies of the number or duration of different monsoon disturbances. However, decadal frequencies of number of depressions, CS and depressions are decreasing from 1969–1978 until the most recent decade. During the recent decade, less than half of the total number of depressions and CS are formed, compared with 1969–1978. On the other hand, the total number of lows increases significantly from 1959–1968 to the recent decade, when more than double the number of lows are formed. By examining the 30‐year periodicity of the number of disturbances together or separately, it is found that depressions and CS are higher during the above normal epochs, and significantly less during the below normal epochs of ISMR. The reverse is true for the number of lows and the total number of disturbances and their total duration. The 11‐year running means of monsoon disturbance days with ISMR shows the same behaviour but opposite epochs during 1929–1958 and 1970–1990. Their correlation coefficients are also found to be lower during 1929–1958 compared with epochs when they are in the same phase. Comparison of epochal relationships with other tropical features, e.g. El Niño, SOI, STR, NHST etc., from 11‐year running means and their 11‐year moving CC with ISMR, have also shown epochal fluctuations. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society
Tornado climatology of Canada revisited: tornado activity during different phases of ENSO
Authors: Etkin David , Brun Soren E. , Shabbar Amir , Joe Paul
Published: August 2002

Tornadoes are a significant hazard in some parts of Canada, particularly in the southern Prairie provinces and southwestern Ontario, though they are not as common as in some parts of the US. Since the early 1980s, the regional weather offices in Canada have been recording tornado event information on a routine basis, and thus data exists that can be used to update older analyses of tornado frequencies. On average, about 60 tornadoes are reported each year, though many doubtless occur that are not observed or recorded in the Environment Canada records. An analysis of tornado frequencies with El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events suggest that the cooler La Niña events tend to suppress tornadic activity, while El Niño events tend to enhance it (though there are exceptions to this trend). Copyright © 2001 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An evaluation of the Standardized Precipitation Index, the China‐Z Index and the statistical Z‐Score
Authors: Wu Hong , Hayes Michael J. , Weiss Albert , Hu Qi
Published: August 2002

The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) was developed to detect drought and wet periods at different time scales, an important characteristic that is not accomplished with typical drought indices. More and more users employ the SPI to monitor droughts. Although calculation of the SPI is easier than other drought indices, such as the Palmer Drought Index, it is still relatively complex. In China, an index called the China‐Z Index (CZI) has been used since 1995 by the National Climate Centre of China to monitor moisture conditions across the country. The calculation of this index is easier than the SPI. A third index, the statistical Z‐Score, can also be used to monitor droughts. This paper evaluates the SPI, CZI and Z‐Score on 1‐, 3‐, 6‐, 9‐ and 12‐month time scales using monthly precipitation totals for four locations in China from January 1951 to December 1998 representing humid and arid climates, and cases of drought and flood. Advantages and disadvantages for the application of each index are compared. Study results indicate that the CZI and Z‐Score can provide results similar to the SPI for all time scales, and that the calculations of the CZI and Z‐Score are relatively easy compared with the SPI, possibly offering better tools to monitor moisture conditions. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society
North Atlantic climate variability: phenomena, impacts and mechanisms
Authors: Marshall John , Kushnir Yochanan , Battisti David , Chang Ping , Czaja Arnaud , Dickson Robert , Hurrell James , McCartney Michael , Saravanan R. , Visbeck Martin
Published: August 2002

Variability of the North Atlantic Oscillation and the Tropical Atlantic dominate the climate of the North Atlantic sector, the underlying ocean and surrounding continents on interannual to decadal time scales. Here we review these phenomena, their climatic impacts and our present state of understanding of their underlying cause. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society
A comparison between two empirical downscaling strategies
Authors: Benestad Rasmus E.
Published: August 2002

A new approach involving the use of common empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) in statistical downscaling of future global climate scenarios is proposed. The advantage of this method is that it minimizes the errors associated with the downscaling of future climate scenarios. The time series from the common EOF analysis are used both for the calibration of the statistical models and the prediction of future climate scenarios. This paper presents a systematic comparison between the common EOF approach and downscaling with a more conventional method based on the ‘Perfect Prog’ concept.

Three different sets of experiments are carried out where the two downscaling methods are compared, and the robustness of the methods is explored taking the predictor field from different regions. The analysis indicates that climate scenarios derived using the common EOF approach are associated with smaller errors. Another important finding is that the choice of predictor domain may influence the downscaled results, and that the merit of downscaling may depend on this area as well as location and season. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society
Low-density lipoprotein-bound aluminum sulfophthalocyanine: targeting tumor cells for photodynamic therapy
Authors: URIZZI PASCALE , ALLEN CYNTHIA M. , LANGLOIS RéJEAN , OUELLET RENé , LA MADELEINE CAROLE , VAN LIER JOHAN E.
Published: August 2002

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) as a vehicle for aluminum sulfophthalocyanine ( AlPcS ) to target tumor cells for photodynamic therapy (PDT). LDLs are biological particles containing an apolipoprotein which recognizes with high affinity specific receptors on many cell types, including cancer cells. LDL was loaded with AlPcS in two different manners. In the first procedure, the tetrasulfonated AlPcS4was covalently bound to the protein part of the LDL via amide bonds to 6-carboxypentylaminosulfonyl spacer chains attached to two of the four sulfonate groups, i.e. AlPcS4A2. In the second procedure, the AlPcS4was substituted with a linear dodecylaminosulfonyl chain, i.e. AlPcS4( C12) and non-covalently inserted into the phospholipid monolayer of the LDL. Both preparations contained over 50 moles AlPcS /mole LDL. They were tested in vitro for their phototoxic properties against the EMT-6 mouse mammary tumor cell line and the A-549 human lung adenocarcinoma cell line. Cell survival was assessed using the MTT colorimetric assay. Association of the free AlPcS4( C12) with LDL increased the in vitro phototoxicity of the dye substantially against both cell lines while the covalently loaded AlPcS4A2-LDL preparation showed little cytotoxicity, even at a 10-fold-higher light or drug doses. It was postulated that the covalent labeling of the protein moiety with the Pc greatly reduced LDL receptor recognition, rendering this derivative photo-inactive. Photodynamic therapy of EMT-6 tumor-bearing mice showed that the free and LDL-associated AlPcS4( C12) exhibited similar activities, with 100% cure one week post-PDT at 0.2 μmol kg−1. We conclude that the attached aliphatic chain of the AlPcS4( C12) greatly enhances the phototoxicity of the parent AlPcS4but that pre-association of the AlPcS4( C12) with LDL does not further augment its in vivo photodynamic efficacy.
Near‐infrared Raman spectroscopy of human lung tissues: possibility of molecular‐level cancer diagnosis
Authors: Kaminaka Shoji , Yamazaki Hiroya , Ito Toshiaki , Kohda Eiichi , Hamaguchi Hiro‐o
Published: August 2002

A dispersive near‐infrared Raman spectrometer was constructed using a photomultiplier with a new InP/InGaAsP photocathode which is well suited for 1064 nm excitation. Totally fluorescence‐free Raman spectra of normal and cancerous human lung tissues were obtained. The future possibility of Raman spectroscopic cancer diagnosis is discussed. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vibrational spectra of magnesia cement, phase 3
Authors: Kanesaka Isao , Aoyama Shin
Published: August 2002

Infrared and Raman spectra of magnesia cement, Mg2(OH)3Cl · 4H2O (phase 3), were observed at room temperature. The formation process of phase 3 was investigated from the change in OH− stretching vibrations by comparison with those of phase 5. Broad infrared bands were observed at ∼1300 cm−1 (H system) and 1050 cm−1 (D system) with some structures in phase 3, which is considered to result from the coupling of the OH stretching vibration with lattice modes. The vibrational analysis was carried out for the lattice vibrations (translational modes) of phase 3, assuming OH− and H2O as the point masses on the basis of the valence force field. The Raman intensity was analyzed by the modified many‐body model. The infrared intensity was also analyzed using known parameters, by adding the dipole moments due to electric charges of ions, the orientation of permanent dipoles (OH− and H2O) and induced dipoles by electric charges. The force constants were determined in consistency with the calculated wavenumbers and the calculated infrared and Raman intensities. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy of the molybdate minerals chillagite (tungsteinian wulfenite‐I4), stolzite, scheelite, wolframite and wulfenite
Authors: Crane Martin , Frost Ray L. , Williams Peter A. , Theo Kloprogge J.
Published: August 2002

Raman spectra of chillagite, wulfenite, stolzite, scheelite and wolframite were obtained at 298 and 77 K using a Raman microprobe in combination with a thermal stage. Chillagite is a solid solution of wulfenite and stolzite. The spectra of these molybdate minerals are orientation dependent. The band at 695 cm−1 is interpreted as an antisymmetric bridging mode associated with the tungstate chain. The bands at 790 and 881 cm−1 are associated with the antisymmetric and symmetric Ag modes of terminal WO2 whereas the origin of the 806 cm−1 band remains unclear. The ν4(Eg) band was absent for scheelite. The bands at 353 and 401 cm−1 are assigned as either deformation modes or as r(Bg) and δ(Ag) modes of terminal WO2. The band at 462 cm−1 has an equivalent band in the infrared at 455 cm−1 assigned as δas(Au) of the (W2O4)n chain. The band at 508 cm−1 is assigned as νsym(Bg) of the (W2O4)n chain. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy of the basic copper phosphate minerals cornetite, libethenite, pseudomalachite, reichenbachite and ludjibaite
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Williams Peter A. , Martens Wayde , Kloprogge J. Theo , Leverett Peter
Published: August 2002

Raman spectra of cornetite, libethenite, pseudomalachite, reichenbachite and ludjibaite were obtained at 298 and 77 K using a Raman microprobe in combination with a thermal stage. Raman spectra of cornetite, libethenite and pseudomalachite are different, in line with differences in crystal structure and composition. Raman spectra of the three polymorphs pseudomalachite, reichenbachite and ludjibaite are similar, particularly in the stretching region, but characteristic differences in the deformation regions are observed. Differences are also observed in the phosphate deformation and stretching regions. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combination of bulk storage in controlled and modified atmospheres with modified atmosphere packaging system for chilled whole gutted hake
Authors: Ruiz‐Capillas Claudia , Morales Javier , Moral Antonio
Published: August 2002

Whole gutted hake placed in boxes of ice were kept in modified and controlled atmospheres for 12 days with the gas mixture 60%CO2/15%O2/25%N2 (v/v/v) at 2 ± 1 °C. Each lot of hake was then subdivided into two other lots and these were packed on trays, some of them in air and some in the same mixture of gases. The trays were kept at 2 °C until spoilage. The shelf‐life of the hake stored in these conditions was assessed by physical (pH), chemical (TVBN (total volatile basic nitrogen) and TMA‐N (trimethylamine nitrogen)) and sensory (inspection and taste panel) analyses. The results of these analyses indicated that the control lot (stored in air throughout) was rejected before the lots kept in adjusted atmospheres. However, the taste panel accepted all the lots, including the control lot, after 24 days of storage. The sample which was kept at 2 °C in a controlled atmosphere for 12 days and then packed in a modified atmosphere of the same gas mixture did not exceed pH 7 after 31 days of storage, nor the limits of TVBN and TMA‐N of 40 and 12 mg per 100 g respectively. As regards oxidative rancidity, TBA (2‐thiobarbituric acid) levels were very low under all storage conditions and did not exceed 2.5 mg malonaldehyde per 100 g muscle. According to the results of this study, bulk storage of whole gutted hake in boxes in ice under a controlled atmosphere could be combined with later packaging in a modified atmosphere on trays stored at 2 °C to extend the shelf‐life of the hake.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Reactions of chickpea to water stress: yield and seed composition
Authors: Behboudian M Hossein , Ma Qifu , Turner Neil C , Palta Jairo A
Published: August 2002

Drought after podding is a common feature of chickpea production in south‐western Australia. We studied the effect of water stress, imposed after podding, on yield and on the accumulation of amino acids and soluble sugars in seeds. Although terminal water stress decreased the total plant dry mass and seed yield by 23% and 30% respectively, it had no effect on the mass of individual pods and seeds which remained on the plant after the imposition of stress treatment. The deleterious effect of water stress on yield was due to increased pod abortion and a decrease in pod formation. Water stress improved the seed's nutritive value in terms of higher accumulation of soluble sugars, amino acids and proteins.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Formulation of an oat‐based fermented product and its comparison with yoghurt
Authors: Mårtensson O , Andersson C , Andersson K , Öste R , Holst O
Published: August 2002

In an attempt to develop a fermented, non‐dairy product based on oats, a new kind of oat base, Adavena® M40, was fermented with two different yoghurt cultures. Adavena® M40 is a concentrated liquid (with a dry matter content of 16 or 18%) derived entirely from oats, with maltose as the main carbohydrate source and an intact β‐glucan content. The oat base was heat treated for 5 min at 85 °C prior to inoculation. Additives in the form of stabiliser, fat and flavours were used. Texture, syneresis, colour and sensory parameters were evaluated. Yoghurt was used as a control. The final product had an acidity and viscosity similar to those of yoghurt. Addition of xanthan gum (0.03% w/v) improved the texture and overall appearance of the product. The product had the same texture as yoghurt but showed less syneresis. The mixture was less white than the control. The oat‐based, yoghurt‐like product showed high acceptability in terms of acidity, texture and overall appearance. The addition of flavours resulted in a higher acceptance of the final products by the panellists. The β‐glucan content was still high after the fermentation process. The results indicated the potential for a new, fermentable, oat‐based product with high acceptance and a high final β‐glucan content.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Solid‐pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas (Frantz tumor) in children: Report of four cases and review of the literature
Authors: Rebhandl Winfried , Felberbauer Franz Xaver , Puig Stefan , Paya Kurosh , Hochschorner Silvia , Barlan Murat , Horcher Ernst
Published: August 2002

Background

Solid‐pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas (SPT) is an exceptionally rare neoplasm in children. Its origin remains enigmatic. It is of low malignant potential and occurs most frequently in young females.

Patients and Methods

A cumulative review of the tumor's clinicopathological characteristics from the world's literature is presented. The clinical course, pathohistologic data and outcome of surgery of four Austrian children treated at the general hospital of Vienna are analyzed.

Results

Between 1987 and 1999, four girls (age: 12–16 years) with SPT were diagnosed at our institution. All patients presented with an abdominal mass and uncharacteristic abdominal pain. Two tumors were located in the tail, one in the body and tail and one in the head of the pancreas (diameter: 7–15 cm). Surgical procedures included three distal pancreatectomies and one partial duodenopancreatectomy (Whipple procedure). One patient had two recurrences with metastases that could only be partially resected. Chemotherapy was initiated for this patient. In the follow‐up period (range: 6 months to 12 years) all patients are alive with no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusions

SPT is a rare differential diagnosis of a pancreatic mass in children. It is mandatory to establish this diagnosis since complete surgical removal of the tumor even in case of metastases or local invasion offers an excellent prognosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001;76:289–296. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multidrug resistance gene (MDR‐1) expression as a useful prognostic factor in patients with human hepatocellular carcinoma after surgical resection
Authors: Kato Atsushi , Miyazaki Masaru , Ambiru Satoshi , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Ito Hiroshi , Nakagawa Koji , Shimizu Hiroaki , Yokosuka Osamu , Nakajima Nobuyuki
Published: August 2002

Background:

Multidrug resistance gene (MDR‐1) overexpression has been correlated with tumor aggressiveness and worse prognosis in some human neoplasms. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical value of MDR‐1 mRNA expression as a prognostic factor after surgical resection in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods:

MDR‐1 mRNA levels in tissue samples from 34 patients with HCC, who underwent surgical resection, were measured by quantitative northern blot analysis. We stratified these patients into two groups according to a ratio of MDR‐1 mRNA levels of HCC to nontumorous tissue; MDR‐1 mRNA ratio ≥ 1.0 and < 1.0. The overall and disease‐free survival rates were analyzed using multivariateregression analysis.

Results:

The median survival periods were 10.3 and 35.8 months for patients with the MDR‐1 mRNA ratio ≥ 1.0 and < 1.0, respectively, and the corresponding 5‐year survival rates were 33 and 54%, respectively, P< 0.05. The multivariate analysis revealed that TNM stage and MDR‐1 mRNA ratio were independent factors for predicting overall survival after surgical resection.

Conclusion:

This study suggested that the measurement of the MDR‐1 mRNA levels in HCC and nontumorous liver tissue might be a useful prognostic factor after surgical resection in patients with HCC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001;78:110–115. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Controlled rate thermal analysis commanded by mass spectrometry for studying the kinetics of thermal decomposition of very stable solids
Authors: Pérez‐Maqueda L. A. , Criado J. M. , Gotor F. J.
Published: August 2002

A quadrupole mass spectrometer coupled to a thermobalance has been used to develop a controlled rate thermal analysis (CRTA) equipment. This instrument maintains constant the partial pressure of the gas generated in a solid–gas reaction during the entire process while recording the weight loss along the process. This system permits to perform the kinetic analysis of the thermal decomposition of very stable compounds with a very low equilibrium pressure in the temperature range at which the reaction takes place. The performance of the equipment was checked by studying the kinetics of the thermal decomposition of BaCO3 using for the control the CO2 partial pressure. Both the activation energy and the reaction kinetic model has been calculated. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 34: 184–192, 2002; DOI 10.1002/kin.10042