bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Pressure, Monetary Policy Effects and Inventories: Firm‐level Evidence from a Market‐based and a Bank‐based Financial System
Authors: Benito Andrew
Published: April 2005

This paper examines the adjustment of inventories by firms in the United Kingdom and Spain, which have two quite different financial systems. A widely held view is that a key channel for monetary policy is through the influencing of inventory accumulation. Using a large company‐level panel data‐set for both countries, significant effects associated with borrowing costs on inventories are estimated. Financial effects associated with liquidity and the borrowing ratio are estimated to be stronger in the UK than in Spain. Since the Spanish financial system is bank‐based, while that of the UK is market‐based, this is interpreted as contrary to the Bank Dependence Hypothesis.
Fair Offers in a Repeated Principal–Agent Relationship with Hidden Actions
Authors: Cochard François , Willinger Marc
Published: April 2005

We test a repeated principal–agent relationship with hidden actions in the laboratory. At each period, the principal offers payments to the agent in order to induce him to provide the high effort level. The agent can accept or reject the offer; if he accepts it, he can choose the high or the low effort level. We observe that offered payments are higher than predicted by the subgame‐perfect equilibrium, and higher in the partners' than in the strangers' design. Furthermore, agents strategically reject inequitable offers in early rounds in order to induce principals to increase payments in the subsequent rounds.
Missing Markets for Human Capital and Differences in Growth
Authors: Perera‐Tallo Fernando
Published: April 2005

Standard growth models predict that consumption and GNP growth rates should not differ among countries when international capital markets are considered. This paper introduces a generational structure which implies that the return on human capital exceeds the return on physical capital in equilibrium. Thus, when the return on human capital differs internationally, the growth rates of consumption and GNP vary across countries even when there is free capital mobility. Furthermore, GNP and GDP grow at the same rate within a country, there is positive investment in every country, and poverty traps persist in spite of international capital markets.
Growing Into and Out of Social Conflict
Authors: Harms Philipp , Zink Stefan
Published: April 2005

We develop a model of growth and distributional conflict which demonstrates that social tensions may peak at an intermediate development stage. In fact, unless the economy is caught in an underdevelopment trap, the relationship between average wealth and the likelihood of radical redistribution tends to be hump–shaped: while the net benefits of redistribution for the poor are small at low development stages, moving towards egalitarianism considerably improves their income prospects once an intermediate level of per capita wealth is reached. As the economy grows further, the incentive to challenge the existing social order decreases again and eventually vanishes.
Gay Pay in the UK
Authors: Arabsheibani G. Reza , Marin Alan , Wadsworth Jonathan
Published: April 2005

This paper attempts, for the first time for the UK, to analyse the earnings of homosexuals and test for the possible existence of sexual orientation discrimination by using decomposition analysis. Homosexuals are identified as individuals living with ‘same‐sex partners’. Gay men and lesbians in our sample both earn more on average than non‐gays. However, we find that the decomposition indicates that homosexual men may be subject to discrimination in pay, in the sense that they earn less than heterosexual men with similar characteristics would earn, and therefore they may be more likely to benefit from UK legislation.
Prices, Margins and Liquidity Constraints: Swedish Newspapers, 1990–1992
Authors: Asplund Marcus , Eriksson Rickard , Strand Niklas
Published: April 2005

A firm facing liquidity constraints in a recession may increase its price to exploit locked‐in consumers in an attempt to boost short‐run profits. We find support for such behaviour for Swedish regional newspapers during a deep recession. Newspapers sell both subscriptions and advertising space, and arguably buyers of the latter are less locked in. Newspapers with low solvency raised their subscription prices relative to others. In contrast, the changes in advertising price were independent of the newspapers' financial positions. Hence financial constraints affected firms' pricing behaviour only when consumers were locked in.
Influence of prostaglandin F2α and its analogues on hair regrowth and follicular melanogenesis in a murine model
Authors: Sasaki S. , Hozumi Y. , Kondo S.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  Latanoprost and isopropyl unoprostone, which are analogues of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), are promising drugs for the reduction of intra‐ocular pressure. However, they have been reported to have side effects, including hypertrichosis and hyperpigmentation of the eyelashes and periocular skin, and occasionally poliosis. In order to investigate these effects further, PGF2α, latanoprost and isopropyl unoprostone were applied to the dorsal skin of 7‐week‐old C57BL/6 mice, and hair length was measured during the treatment. The three molecules all showed stimulatory effects on the murine hair follicles and the follicular melanocytes in both the telogen and anagen stages, and stimulated conversion from the telogen to the anagen phase. PGE2 is known to act synergistically with PGF2α, and hence the influence of PGE2 was also examined. PGE2 did not induce distinct telogen‐to‐anagen conversion, but showed moderate growth stimulatory effects on early anagen hair follicles. In addition, we observed a case of hypertrichosis and trichomegaly with an excess of melanogenesis, leading to the emergence of white hair, suggesting that poliosis can occur as a side effect of eye treatment with solutions of PGF2α analogues. The stimulatory effects of PGF2αand PGE2 on hair growth have been discussed with regard to the role of protein kinase C and mast cells.
Quantitative analysis of laminin 5 gene expression in human keratinocytes
Authors: Akutsu Nobuko , Amano Satoshi , Nishiyama Toshio
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  To examine the expression of laminin 5 genes (LAMA3, LAMB3, and LAMC2) encoding the three polypeptide chains α3, β3, and γ2, respectively, in human keratinocytes, we developed novel quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods utilizing Thermus aquaticus DNA polymerase, specific primers, and fluorescein‐labeled probes with the ABI PRISM™ 7700 sequence detector system. Gene expression levels of LAMA3, LAMB3, and LAMC2 and glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase were quantitated reproducibly and sensitively in the range from 1 × 102 to 1 × 108 gene copies. Basal gene expression level of LAMB3 was about one‐tenth of that of LAMA3 or LAMC2 in human keratinocytes, although there was no clear difference among immunoprecipitated protein levels of α3, β3, and γ2 synthesized in radio‐labeled keratinocytes. Human serum augmented gene expressions of LAMA3, LAMB3, and LAMC2 in human keratinocytes to almost the same extent, and this was associated with an increase of the laminin 5 protein content measured by a specific sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. These results demonstrate that the absolute mRNA levels generated from the laminin 5 genes do not determine the translated protein levels of the laminin 5 chains in keratinocytes, and indicate that the expression of the laminin 5 genes may be controlled by common regulation mechanisms.
Downregulation of NDUFA1 and other oxidative phosphorylation‐related genes is a consistent feature of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Mamelak Adam J. , Kowalski Jeanne , Murphy Kathleen , Yadava Nagendra , Zahurak Marianna , Kouba David J. , Howell Brandon G. , Tzu Julia , Cummins Deborah L. , Liégeois Nanette J. , Berg Karin , Sauder Daniel N.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cutaneous malignancy that, like other tumours, possesses a heterogeneous genetic composition. In order to select genes with consistent changes in expression among these tumours, we analysed BCC microarray expression data by using a novel approach, termed correlative analysis of microarrays (CAM). CAM is a nested, non‐parametric method designed to qualitatively select candidates based on their individual, similar effects upon an array‐wide closeness measure. We applied the CAM method to expression data generated by two‐channel cDNA microarray experiments, where 21 BCC and patient‐matched normal skin specimens were examined. Fifteen candidate genes were selected, with six overexpressed and nine underexpressed in BCC vs. normal skin. Five of the nine consistently downregulated genes in the tumour samples are involved in mitochondrial function and the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) pathway. One of these genes was the 7.5‐kDa subunit, NADH dehydrogenase (ubiquinone) alpha subcomplex‐1 (NDUFA1), an accessory component of OXPHOS complex‐I that is essential for respiratory activity. These findings support the hypothesis that irregularities in mitochondrial function are involved in neoplasia. Suppression of NDUFA1 expression could represent a key pathogenic mechanism in the development of BCC.
Modeling TEWL‐desorption curves: a new practical approach for the quantitative in vivo assessment of skin barrier
Authors: Rosado Catarina , Pinto Pedro , Rodrigues Luis Monteiro
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  The objective of the present study was to test the discriminative capacity of the mathematical modeling of the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) curves that result from a plastic occlusion stress test (POST) to variations in the skin barrier – insults inflicted to the skin or differences in two distinct anatomical regions. This study was exclusively performed in the arm. On the first part of the work, three different insults to the skin barrier were assessed: tape stripping, lipid extraction with ether : acetone, and skin‐surface biopsy. Anatomical differences were studied in the mid‐forearm and in the wrist. All sites were submitted to a POST, after which the desorption curves were recorded. The mathematical model was adjusted to the TEWL data points. Results indicate differences in the parameters obtained in the control and treated sites, which suggests differences in the water dynamics after the damage was inflicted and shows that the method is valid for the objectives proposed. There were also significant differences in the parameters obtained in the wrist and in the volar forearm, which indicates that the method is also sensitive to variations in skin histology and anatomy.
Reflection on the relationship between technology and caring
Authors: Johns Christopher
Published: April 2005

Being attached to a piece of medical technology may cause patients physical and emotional distress. Critical care nurses need to empathize and respond to the patient's experience on being attached to all forms of medical equipment. The use of sedation must be carefully considered in response to agitation. Critical care is also palliative care. Compassion is a virtue.
Going home from ICU to die: a celebration of life*
Authors: Ryder‐Lewis Michelle
Published: April 2005

There is much literature regarding going home to die in terminally ill cancer patients however, little is written about withdrawing treatment at home in critical care. One intensive care unit's experience in New Zealand demonstrates how this can be done safely. The preparation of families and patients must be done with great care. There are challenges to be overcome including supportive resources in the community, staffing and safety of the patient and family. It is possible to withdraw/withhold treatment in a patient's home and this is highly valued by the families.
The effect of sample temperature on instrumental and sensory properties of mashed potato products
Authors: Canet Wenceslao , Dolores Alvarez María , Fernández Cristina , Estrella Tortosa María
Published: April 2005

The effect of sample temperature on texture, firmness and the sensory attributes of fresh and frozen/thawed natural and commercial mashed potatoes was studied. Scanning electron microscopy was used to obtain information on the structure of potato cells and how this is affected by processing. Various parameters were measured and were found to increase at 55 °C, these changes could be related to gelatinisation of the starch remaining in the products. In natural mashed potato, texture profile analysis (TPA) and firmness parameters were lower in the processed than in the fresh samples, indicating a weakening of the structure; this was confirmed by photomicrographs. In commercial mashed potato, TPA parameters measured at 55 and 65 °C and firmness parameters measured at 25 °C were higher in the processed samples, indicating enhanced structural strength; this was confirmed by photomicrographs. Firmness per gram of product was the best instrumental parameter for measuring texture in these products. The results of the different analyses indicated that 55 °C was the preferred temperature for consumption of mashed potatoes.
Physico‐chemical, textural and sensory properties of a fried cookie system containing soy protein isolate
Authors: Lee Kyong‐Ae , Brennand Charlotte P.
Published: April 2005

A fried cookie, with the local name of Yackwa, was prepared by partially replacing wheatflour with soy protein isolate (SPI). The physico‐chemical, textural and sensory characteristics were then investigated. The addition of SPI caused a decrease in fat content and an increase in the moisture and protein content of Yackwa. Dehydration and oil absorption during frying decreased as the level of SPI replacement increased. The dough consistency increased with addition of SPI and was highly correlated with dehydration and oil absorption. Colour determination showed that addition of SPI darkened the external and internal colour of Yackwa, probably because of browning caused by the Maillard reaction. The textural hardness increased with increasing SPI content. The addition of SPI made Yackwa darker, more cracked and liable to fracture, harder and less moist as perceived by sensory panellists. Up to 15% of the wheatflour could be replaced by SPI without diminishing acceptability.
Studies on the quality of Turkish flat breads based on blends of triticale and wheat flour
Authors: Coşkuner Yalçın , Karababa Erşan
Published: April 2005

The effect of different levels of triticale flour on the rheological and sensory characteristics of a range of Turkish flat breads made with blends of triticale with two bread wheat cultivars (Kınacı 97 and Daǧdaş 94) was studied. Wheat flour was replaced with triticale flour at 20, 40, 50, 60 and 80% levels. Bread samples were tested for shape and symmetry, crust colour, crumb colour and structure, mouth‐feel, taste and aroma and flexibility. All bread types had high overall sensory scores and they were considered acceptable. Analysis of variance (anova) and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that Daǧdaş 94 and Triticale blends are more suitable than Kınacı 97 and Triticale blends for bazlama, yufka and lavash production. Results show that Triticale‐wheat flour blends can be successfully used for the production of flat breads. Dough and sensory properties of triticale‐wheat flour blends were highly cultivar specific and dependent on blend proportion.
The effects of different levels of non‐fat dry milk and whey powder on emulsion capacity and stability of beef, turkey and chicken meats
Authors: Kurt Sukru , Zorba Omer
Published: April 2005

The effects of different concentrations (0.00, 0.25, 0.50%) of either non‐fat dry milk (NFDM) or whey powder (WP) on emulsion capacity (EC) and emulsion stability (ES) of beef, chicken and turkey meats were studied by using a computer model system. The effects of meats types and additives (NFDM and WP) on EC and ES were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.01). Of the meats, chicken had the highest and beef the lowest values of EC and ES. When using different concentrations of WP and NFDM, 0.25% WP and 0.50% NFDM had the highest values of EC. The effect of different concentrations (0.25 and 0.50%) of WP was insignificant on ES; however, the effects of different concentrations (0.0, 0.25 and 0.50%) of NFDM were significant on ES.
The effect of intermittent shaking, headspace and temperature on the growth of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris in stored apple juice
Authors: Walker Michelle , Phillips Carol Ann
Published: April 2005

The presence of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris in stored juices can be difficult to detect. In this study the effects of storage temperature, headspace and agitation of juice containers was investigated. The results indicate that the amount of headspace has a significant effect on growth of vegetative cells and spores of A. acidoterrestris at 35 °C. Intermittent shaking before sampling increased growth and therefore probable detection rates at 30 °C, Agitating containers and sampling from several areas within containers is therefore recommended for determining whether A. acidoterrestris is present or absent from stored juice, especially in large containers.
Effect of milling method on selected physical and functional properties of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) paste
Authors: Singh Amandip , Hung Yen‐Con , Corredig Milena , Phillips Robert D. , Chinnan Manjeet S. , McWatters Kay H.
Published: April 2005

Particle size distribution (PSD) of cowpea meal is an important determinant of paste functionality and end product quality. Samples from various mills and screen sizes were used to determine PSD, water‐holding capacity (WHC) and swelling capacity (SWC). Hammer mill (1.73 mm screen) meal had a geometric mean diameter (dgw) of 221 microns, whereas PM‐360 [plate mill with one complete turn (360°) of clearance] meal had a dgw of 1559 microns. All other milling processes resulted in meal with an intermediate particle size. To reduce the particle size of cowpea pastes, cowpea meals were hydrated to pre‐determined moisture contents, held for 15 min, and then blended in a blender before whipping. Blending increased the WHC and SWC of all samples.
Functional and sensory properties of chicken meat from spent‐hen carcasses deboned manually or mechanically in Jordan
Authors: Abdullah Basem , Al‐Najdawi Rula
Published: April 2005

Samples of chicken meat from spent laying hens were obtained by four different methods: (1) manual deboning of whole carcasses; (2) manual deboning of skinned carcasses; (3) mechanical deboning of whole carcasses; and (4) mechanical deboning of skinned carcasses. The meat was packaged, frozen and stored at −18 °C for up to 3 months. Functional properties studied were pH, emulsifying capacity (EC) and water‐holding capacity (WHC) and, in addition, pigment concentration was investigated. Sensory properties included aroma, colour, texture and overall acceptability, as judged by a trained panel using a nine‐point hedonic scale. Removal of the skin prior to deboning by either method gave significantly higher values (P < 0.05) for EC, while WHC values were not significantly different among the experimental treatments, despite higher pH values for mechanically‐deboned meat, with and without skin. Pigment concentrations were highest in meat from Treatment 4 and lowest for Treatment 1, but values for both methods of deboning were affected by the presence of skin. There were no significant differences between treatments for any of the sensory properties studied. Changes occurring in the meat during frozen storage are described.
The characterization of soybean varieties by fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Khatib Khaled A. , Herald Thomas J. , Muiño Pedro L.
Published: April 2005

Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to differentiate between β‐conglycinin (βC) and glycinin (G) fractions that were isolated from four food grade soybean varieties (Glycine max var. K1430, Hutcheson, K93‐90‐29, and KS4997) grown in the same location. The protein fractions were discriminated by using spectroscopic tryptophan fluorescence emission and synchronous scanning techniques that took advantage of the sensitivity of the chromophore to changes in the protein environment. The relative intensities of the βC and glycinin fluorescence ranged from 1.00 to 1.30 and 1.00 to 1.31 respectively. The intensities of the βC and glycinin synchronous fluorescence ranged from 1.00 to 1.45 and 1.00 to 1.30 respectively. The spectroscopic method proved to be an effective technique to differentiate between different soybean varieties.
Eating habits, smoking and toothbrushing in relation to dental caries: a 3‐year study in Swedish female teenagers
Authors: BRUNO‐AMBROSIUS K. , SWANHOLM G. , TWETMAN S.
Published: April 2005

Summary.  Objectives.  The aims of the present study were to describe eating, toothbrushing and smoking habits in a cohort of Swedish female adolescents, and to relate the findings to dental caries increment.

Design.  The research took the form of a longitudinal study.

Subjects and methods.  The study sample consisted of a cohort of 162 girls under regular dental care, aged 12 years at baseline, who were followed for 3 years, from the sixth to the ninth grade. Eating, oral cleaning and smoking habits were self‐reported three times per year through a questionnaire, and caries data at baseline and after 3 years were collected from dental records.

Results.  The results showed significantly (P < 0·05) impaired eating habits during the study period and that adherence to regular main meals diminished. In the eighth grade, one‐third of the girls skipped breakfast before school and only 50% had their free school lunch daily. The omission of breakfast and irregular main meals, as well as smoking were significantly associated with caries (decayed, missed and filled surfaces) increment in the eighth grade (odds ratio = 4·1–4·9, P < 0·05). Snacks, light meals, soft drinks and sweets were already frequently consumed at baseline and continued to be so over the years. Although > 95% of subjects reported that they brushed their teeth at least once a day, approximately 20% did not do it every evening, and this figure remained stable over the study period. However, snacks, soft drinks and sweets, and toothbrushing habits had no significant influence on caries development.

Conclusion.  Dietary advice for caries prevention in adolescent girls should focus on the importance of retaining regular main meals, and especially, not skipping breakfast.
Acid‐etched and Erbium:Yttrium Aluminium Garnet laser‐treated enamel for fissure sealants: a comparison of microleakage
Authors: MOSHONOV J. , STABHOLZ A. , ZYSKIND D. , SHARLIN E. , PERETZ B.
Published: April 2005

Summary.   Objectives.  A pilot study aimed to compare the microleakage of pit and fissure sealants in acid‐etched and Erbium:Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Er:YAG)‐treated enamel.

Methods.  Forty permanent noncarious young molars and premolars, which were extracted for orthodontic reasons, were selected. The teeth were divided into four groups, with five molars and five premolars in each group. The groups were treated as follows: (1) group A – laser irradiation of the enamel of the occlusal surface without contact and in scanning mode was carried out using an Er:YAG laser, placement of sealant material, light curing, and thermocycling between 6° and 55 °C; (2) group B – the same as group A, but with no thermocycling; (3) group C – acid etching of the enamel surface, placement of sealant material, light curing and thermocycling; and (4) group D – the same as group C, but with no thermocycling. After being immersed in 1% methylene blue solution, all teeth were sectioned in the mesio‐distal dimension into four slices. Images of the slices were then scanned to a Macintosh G3 computer and examined for marginal leakage. Leakage was measured by the degree of dye penetration. Three independent examiners evaluated the dye penetration.

Results.  No penetration of dye material was observed in any of the slices in any of the four groups by any of the examiners.

Conclusions.  No difference in microleakage was seen between lasing or acid etching, and therefore, the results of the present study would suggest that the technique may be efficacious.
Dental emergencies presenting to a university‐based paediatric dentistry clinic in the West Indies
Authors: NAIDU R. S. , BOODOO D. , PERCIVAL T. , NEWTON J. T.
Published: April 2005

Summary. Objectives.  The aims of the present study were to investigate the type and prevalence of dental emergencies presenting at a teaching hospital paediatric emergency clinic in Trinidad, and to describe the socio‐demographic factors related to the use of the service.

Design and methods.   The authors used a prospective study of consecutive dental patients presenting to a paediatric emergency clinic. Data recorded included type of presenting emergency and socio‐demographic variables.

Results.  Data were available for 309 participants; 47% were male and 53% female. The average age of the participants was 8·66 years (SD = 3·75 years; range = 1–16 years). Seventy‐three per cent of the participants’ parents were involved in manual work or unemployed, and 21% were in nonmanual/professional employment; the occupation was not known in 6% of cases. Caries‐related problems accounted for 74% of emergencies. Dental trauma mostly affected the upper permanent incisor teeth, with concussion, subluxation and intrusion being the most common injuries.

Conclusion.  Dental emergencies presenting to this university‐based clinic were predominantly related to caries and trauma. The service was more frequently utilized by children in the mixed dentition stage, children from lower socioeconomic groups and those living in the local area. The frequency of caries‐related problems indicates the need for more community‐based preventive strategies, including encouraging greater attendance for routine dental care and dental health education. Strategies for oral health promotion should also be developed to prevent dental trauma.
Peutz–Jeghers syndrome in a 14‐year‐old boy: case report and review of the literature
Authors: PEREIRA C. M. , COLETTA R. D. , JORGE J. , LOPES M. A.
Published: April 2005

Summary.  Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PSJ) is a relatively rare but well‐recognized condition, with a prevalence of approximately one in 120 000 births in the USA. It is generally inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, although 35% of cases are new mutations. This disorder is characterized by melanocytic macules on the hands, feet, peri–oral skin and oral mucosa, and multiple gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyps. People with PSJ have an increased risk for developing a variety of malignant tumours. The aim of the present study was to report one case of PSJ in a 14‐year‐old boy with mucocutaneous pigmentation associated with duodenal hamartomatous polyps.
Kartagener's syndrome: unusual dental morphology
Authors: MERRETT S. J. , DURNING P.
Published: April 2005

Summary.  The present paper describes the dental presentation of a female patient with Kartagener's syndrome. There are no reports in the literature identifying dental anomalies in patients with this condition. The subject presented with the congenital absence of an upper lateral incisor, enamel hypoplasia and aberrant tooth morphology.
Danish dentists’ knowledge, attitudes and management of procedural dental pain in children: association with demographic characteristics, structural factors, perceived stress during the administration of local analgesia and their tolerance towards pain
Authors: RASMUSSEN J. K. , FREDERIKSEN J. A. , HALLONSTEN ANNA‐LENA , POULSEN SVEN
Published: April 2005

Summary.  Objective.  The aim of the present study was to describe Danish dentists’ knowledge of, attitudes towards and management of procedural pain during paediatric dental care, and to assess the importance of demographic characteristics, structural factors, perceived stress during administration of local analgesia and the dentists’ own tolerance towards procedural dental pain.

Design.  A cross‐sectional questionnaire study was conducted in Denmark in May 2001.

Subjects and methods.  The subjects were a random sample of 30% of Danish dentists treating children. Usable information was obtained from 327 (80·3%) of the dentists in the sample.

Results.  One‐quarter of the respondents answered that a 3–5‐year‐old child could report pain only with uncertainty. More than 80% of the dentists stated that they never compromised on painlessness. Very few agreed to the statement that children forget pain faster than adults. One‐third agreed to, or were neutral to, the statement that all restorative care in primary teeth could be performed painlessly using N2O‐O2 sedation alone. The majority of the respondents reported using three or more methods to assess the effect of their pain control methods. Almost 90% reported using local analgesia for restorative work ‘always’ or ‘often’. A similar proportion reported using topical analgesia before injection ‘always’ or ‘often’. Administering a mandibular block to preschool children was the procedure perceived as the most stressful (33·6%) pain control method. Demographic factors (gender), structural factors (always working alone and treating 3–5‐year‐old children daily), perceived stress during the administration of a mandibular block in preschool children and the dentists’ own willingness to accept potentially painful dental treatment without local analgesia were associated with knowledge of, attitudes towards and management of procedural dental pain in children.

Conclusions.  Danish dentists treating children demonstrate concern about procedural dental pain in children. Factors amenable to change via training and reorganization into larger clinical units seem to determine their knowledge of, attitudes towards and management of procedural dental pain in children.
Unraveling innate immunity using large scale N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea mutagenesis
Authors: Hoebe K. , Beutler B.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  With the mouse genome almost entirely sequenced and readily accessible to all who wish to examine it, the challenge across most biological disciplines now lies in the decipherment of gene and protein function rather than in the realm of gene identification per se. In the field of innate immunity, forward genetic methods have repeatedly been applied to identify key sensors, adapters, and effector molecules. However, most spontaneous mutations that affect innate immune function have been mapped and cloned, and the need for new monogenic phenotypes has been felt evermore keenly. N‐Ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis is an efficient tool for the creation of aberrant monogenic innate immune response phenotypes. In this review, we will discuss the potential of the forward genetic approach and ENU mutagenesis to identify new genes and new functions of known genes related to innate immunity.
Genomic characterization of KIR2DL4 in families and unrelated individuals reveals extensive diversity in exon and intron sequences including a common frameshift variation occurring in several alleles
Authors: Gedil M.A. , Steiner N.K. , Hurley C.K.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  The KIR2DL4 gene including a portion of exon 1 through exon 9 was sequenced from two families and eight cell lines from the International Histocompatibility Workshop (IHWS). Two known alleles and eight variants were detected. Overall, there were five synonymous and three non‐synonymous changes when the variants were compared to the coding sequences of the most closely related known alleles plus a common frameshift change in five of the variant alleles. Alignment of the new variants with all known alleles showed that the regions encoding the extracellular region and the cytoplasmic tail were the most polymorphic. Two non‐synonymous changes, P146H and L161V, occurred in an extracellular immunoglobulin‐like domain. Five of the eight variants had a single adenine deletion in the exon encoding the transmembrane region, potentially resulting in a truncated protein lacking the cytoplasmic tail. The distribution of the deletion variant among many KIR2DL4 alleles may explain the high frequency of this variation in the population. Four of the eight consanguineous IHWS cell lines were found to be heterozygous for KIR2DL4 carrying two alleles that differed from one another by a few nucleotide substitutions. Analysis of intron sequences in the families revealed the nature and distribution of interspersed repeat elements which comprise 46% of the KIR2DL4 nucleotide sequence and consist of 12 elements including six SINEs (13.73% of the total length), one LINE (12.41%), and five LTR elements (19.51%). The results revealed the presence of extensive diversity in the KIR2DL4 gene. This is the first extensive report providing both exon and intron data in related individuals.
Analysis of 250 HLA‐B44 genotypes in European Caucasoids: high diversity and preferential ABCDRB1 associations in B*4402, B*4403, and B*4405 haplotypes
Authors: Tiercy J.‐M.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  Based on high‐resolution DNA typing within 235 pedigrees, a total of 250 HLA‐A/B/C/DRB1/DRB3 genotypes have been characterized. These comprise 129 different B44 haplotypes, of which 73.6% occurred only once. Only four different B*44 alleles were identified: B*4402‐4405, with B*4402 and B*4403 haplotypes accounting for 57.6 and 36.8%, respectively, of all haplotypes. Although the relative numbers of different A/B/C/DRB1/B3 haplotypic associations were similar in both B*4402 and B*4403 haplotypes, the genotypic profiles were quite different in the two groups. When associated with the A*0101, A*0201, A*2402, A*3201, and A*6801 alleles, a much more extensive polymorphism of B*4402 haplotypes with respect to HLA‐C and DRB1 associations was disclosed. On the other hand, B*4403 haplotypes were more diverse in the A23‐B44 and A29‐B44 groups with respect to DRB1 associations. Considering B–C linkage, B*4402‐Cw*0501, B*4402‐Cw*0704, B*4402‐Cw*1604, B*4403‐Cw*0401, B*4403‐Cw*1601, B*4404‐Cw*1601, and B*4405‐Cw*0202 accounted for 98% of all genotypes. Eight A/B/C/DRB1 haplotypes occurred at a relative genotypic frequency of >0.015, with A*2902‐B*4403‐Cw*1601‐DRB1*0701 (11.2%) and A*0201‐B*4402‐Cw*0501‐DRB1*0401 (8.4%) as the two most frequent genotypes. Some A and DRB1 alleles were predominantly, if not exclusively, associated with specific B–C pairs: A*0301 with B*4402‐Cw*0501 and B*4403‐Cw*0401; A*2301 with B*4403‐Cw*0401; A*2608 with B*4402‐Cw*0501; A*2902 with B*4403‐Cw*1601; DRB1*0101/0401/0403/0404/1101/1104/0801/1301/1302 with B*4402‐Cw*0501; and DRB1*0701 with B*4403‐Cw*1601. On the basis of this dataset and our experience with searches for phenotypically matched unrelated stem cell donors, several ABDR haplotypes were identified that would confer a higher probability of B44‐ and C‐incompatibility. The analysis of 112 consecutive unrelated stem cell donor searches revealed that 24% of the 400 tested donors were B44‐mismatched, and that no single B44 allele‐ matched donor could be identified for only 7% of the patients. HLA‐C incompatibility rate was 22.2% for the patients with ≥1 B44 allele‐matched donor(s). This dataset can therefore be used as a predictive tool for B44‐ and C‐disparities in unrelated stem cell transplantation.
High‐resolution genotyping of HLA‐DQA1 in the GoKinD study and identification of novel alleles HLA‐DQA1*040102, HLA‐DQA1*0402 and HLA‐DQA1*0404
Authors: Cordovado S.K. , Hancock L.N. , Simone A.E. , Hendrix M. , Mueller P.W.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  In order to achieve high‐resolution HLA‐DQA1 genotyping, it is necessary to identify polymorphisms in exons 1, 2 and 3. We present a high‐resolution sequence‐based typing (SBT) strategy for genotyping exons 1, 2 and 3 of the polymorphic HLA‐DQA1 locus. This method is an improvement upon previously presented methods, because it utilizes the minimum number of SSP‐PCR assays to obtain clear DNA sequence in both the forward and reverse directions of all three exons. All known HLA‐DQA1 alleles are resolved with the exception of HLA‐DQA1*010101 and HLA‐DQA1*010102 for which the distinguishing polymorphism is located in exon 4 and does not result in an amino acid change. This method has enabled our laboratory to identify three new HLA‐DQA1 alleles – HLA‐DQA1*040102, HLA‐ DQA1*0402 and HLA‐DQA1*0404 – in the Genetics of Kidneys in Diabetes (GoKinD) study population. Additionally, we present single‐allele amplification methods, which identify the coding sequences of HLA‐DQA1 exons 1, 2, 3, intron 2 and 300 bp of the HLA‐DQA1 promoter (QAP). This study, also describes the QAP for most of the known HLA‐DQA1 alleles, three HLA‐DQA2 promoter sequences and the intron 2 sequences for HLA‐DQA1*040101, HLA‐DQA1*040102, HLA‐DQA1*0402 and HLA‐DQA1*0404.
Bone marrow donor routine HLA typing identified a novel B*07 allele, B*0734, confirmed by allele‐specific DNA cycle sequencing
Authors: Witter K. , Volgger A. , Zahn R. , Scholz S. , Albert E.D.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  In this article, we report the identification of a new human leukocyte antigen‐B allele in a sample that was tested in our routine typing for bone marrow donors. This novel allele officially designed B*0734 was found in a female donor of Bavarian Caucasoid origin (Laboratory code 121036). The search for unrelated bone marrow donors was initiated by the Aktion Knochenmarkspende Bayern. In comparism to the common B*070201, B*0734 differs at four nucleotide positions, 412 (G→A), 539 (G→T), 559 (G→A) and 560 (A→C) causing three amino acid substitutions, at postion 138 Asp→Asn, at position 180 Arg→Leu and at position 187 Glu→Thr.
Identification of three novel HLA class I alleles: HLA‐A*0261, HLA‐B*1585 and HLA‐B*1587
Authors: Lee K.W. , Cho S.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  Three novel human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class I alleles have been characterized by means of direct DNA sequencing analysis. HLA‐A* 0261 showed sequence variation at conserved codon. It differs from HLA‐A* 020601 by a single‐nucleotide substitution at codon 57 (CCG→GCG) resulting in an amino acid change from Pro to Ala. The sequences of HLA‐B*1585 are similar to those of HLA‐B*15010101, but differed five nucleotides on exon 3 resulting in three amino acid changes at residues 94 (Thr→Ile), 95 (Leu→Ile) and 103 (Val→Leu). Likewise, HLA‐B*1587 is identical to HLA‐B*15010101 except at codons 80–83 (Asn‐Leu‐Arg‐Gly→Ile‐Ala‐Leu‐Arg) which has been replaced by HLA‐Bw4 motif. These alleles seemed to be generated by either a point mutation or a gene conversion‐like event from alleles existing in the population with high frequencies.
A novel HLA‐B*55 allele, HLA‐B*5514, found in a DNA sample derived from a bone marrow donor
Authors: Witter K. , Zahn R. , McNicholas A. , Volgger A. , Albert E.D.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  In this study, we report the identification of a new human leucocyte antigen‐B (HLA‐B) allele in a sample that was found in our routine typing. This novel allele, officially designed HLA‐B*5514, was found in a male donor of Bavarian Caucasoid origin (Laboratory code: 117562) typed in order for a request of the bone marrow donor registry Aktion Knochenmarkspende Bayern. Although this novel allele was added to the HLA‐B*55 family by the Nomenclature Committee, the next related alleles were found in the HLA‐B*56 group; HLA‐B*5612 differing in six positions from HLA‐B*5514 is the closest related allele.
Oligonucleotide microarray for HLA‐DRB1 genotyping: preparation and clinical evaluation
Authors: Zhang F. , Hu S.W. , Huang J. , Wang H. , Zhang W. , Geng Y.Y. , Wang S.Q.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  In this study, HLA‐DRB1 gene was genotyped by using the microarray technique. Oligonucleotide probes were designed based on partial sequences of various genotypes of HLA‐DRB1, and were fixed on a silylated slide to form a microarray. The second exon of HLA‐DRB1 gene in the extracted genomic DNA samples was amplified and labelled by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR); then it was hybridized to the microarray. The microarray was scanned, and the result was analysed in order to determine the genotypes of HLA‐DRB1 of the tested sample. A total of 1574 of 1592 clinical samples had accordant results of genotypes in either microarray assay or PCR‐SSP assay; 8 of 10 samples that had inconsistent results of genotypes were proved to be microarray‐assay reliable by confirmation of DNA sequencing. It is concluded that microarray is an alternative reliable method for HLA‐DRB1 genotyping.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DQB1 allele, DQB1*0314, by sequence‐based typing in the Korean population
Authors: Gu H. , Kimm K. , Lee J.‐K. , Oh B.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  The polymorphism of HLA class II genes is largely confined to the exon 2 region. Sequence analysis of exon 2 of the DQB1 gene revealed the novel polymorphism in the Korean population. The new DQB1 allele, DQB1*0314, was differed from DQB1*0304 only at codon 46 (GAG→GGG), corresponding to non‐synonymous amino acid change (Glu→Gly).
Peptide‐binding characteristics of the novel allele DRB1*0112 are probably identical to DRB1*0101
Authors: Horn P.A. , DeLuca D.S. , Mueller K. , Blasczyk R.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  So far 11 different amino acid variants of the HLA‐DRB1*01 family have been reported. We here describe the identification of a new HLA‐DRB1*01 allele in a healthy female Caucasian. The allele was detected by sequencing‐based typing during high‐resolution typing of a potential unrelated donor from the North German Bone Marrow Registry (NKR). Compared with DRB1*010101, to which it is closest, the new variant is characterized by a new replacement mutation (G→T) at nucleotide position 202 of exon 2, resulting in the amino acid substitution Arg→Leu at position 72. Because this amino acid position is not involved in peptide binding or T‐cell interaction, it is likely to represent a permissive mismatch to the more common HLA‐DRB1*0101 allele.
A new HLA‐A Allele, HLA‐A*6824, identified in three unrelated individuals*
Authors: Davey S. , Carter V. , Goodman R. , Day S. , Brown C. , Morris J. , Key T. , Bendukidze N. , Dunn P.P.J.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:  A novel allele, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐A*6824, has been identified in three unrelated individuals of northwestern European origin in a period of less than 4 months, implying that this allele may be quite common in this population. HLA‐A*6824 differs from A*680102 by a single nucleotide change at position 275 in exon 2, which results in a conservative amino acid substitution from lysine to arginine in the peptide‐binding groove at codon 68.
Measurement of exhaled nitric oxide in young children during tidal breathing through a facemask
Authors: Daniel Peter Fleng , Klug Bent , Valerius Niels Henrik
Published: April 2005

Measurement of exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) offers a non‐invasive means for assessment of airway inflammation. The currently available methods are difficult to apply in preschool children. We evaluated four methods potentially applicable for eNO measurement during tidal breathing in young children. eNO was assessed during tidal breathing in 24 children, 2–7 yr old, using a facemask which separated nasal and oral airflow. Facemasks with and without a one‐way valve allowing exhalation through the nose were used. Expiratory flow control was not attempted. Measurements of eNO were performed both on‐line and off‐line. In 11 children, 8–12 yr old, measurements were compared with the standard single breath on‐line method. eNO was significantly lower applying the one‐way valve in on‐line and off‐line measurements in comparison with measurements without the valve [4.6 and 3.9 parts per billion (ppb) vs. 6.9 ppb and 6.5 ppb]. The mean within subject coefficient of variation (CV) was significantly lower in on‐line measurements with the one‐way valve (9.6%) compared with the other three methods (18.8, 27.7 and 29.3% respectively). Measurements with a facemask fitted with a one‐way valve yielded similar eNO levels as the standard single breath method (7.0 ppb vs. 6.9 ppb) and reproducibility (9.8% vs. 7.1%). In conclusion, reproducible measurements of eNO can be obtained without control of expiration flow using a facemask fitted with a one‐way valve on the nasal compartment. The likely explanation to this is that the one‐way valve reduces the admixture of nasal NO, thereby improving the reliability of eNO measurements.
Levocetirizine in children: evidenced efficacy and safety in a 6‐week randomized seasonal allergic rhinitis trial
Authors: De Blic Jacques , Wahn Ulrich , Billard Eric , Alt Roger , Pujazon Marie‐Christine
Published: April 2005

Studies evaluating newer antihistamines in children are few. Levocetirizine is a potent and highly selective H1‐antihistamine with a proven efficacy in adults. Primary objective was to assess the efficacy of levocetirizine 5 mg once‐daily in reducing seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) symptoms, as measured by Total Four Symptom Score (T4SS = sum of sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal and ocular pruritus), over the first 2 wk of treatment. Efficacy over 4 and 6 wk of treatment, effect on nasal congestion and on health‐related quality of life as measured by PRQLQ (Paediatric Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire) were among the major secondary objectives. A double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study including 177 children with a documented SAR (to grass and/or weed) for at least a year and having a mean baseline T4SS ≥ 6 (out of 12). Children evaluated daily the severity of T4SS and nasal congestion on a scale from 0 (absent) to 3 (severe). PRQLQ responses were assessed on a scale from 0 (not bothered) to 6 (extremely bothered) and analysed descriptively. Global evaluation of disease evolution judged by investigators, parents and children was made on a scale from 1 (marked worsening) to 7 (marked improvement). For the primary objective, levocetirizine was statistically highly superior to placebo with a difference in adjusted means of 1.29 (95% CI: 0.66–1.92) in favour of levocetirizine (p < 0.001). The effect of levocetirizine was almost twice that of placebo (94.1% relative improvement over placebo). Nasal congestion was improved with levocetirizine reaching maximum difference to placebo of 0.31 (p < 0.05), a relative improvement over placebo of 77.5%. PRQLQ scores at week 2 improved with levocetirizine more than with placebo (0.85 vs. 0.51, respectively) remaining larger after 4 and 6 wk of treatment. In the study, 84.3%, 80.9%, 80.9% of children had their disease evolution rated as slightly‐to‐markedly improved by, respectively, the investigators, the parents and children themselves. Incidence of treatment‐emergent adverse events was similar in both groups (33.7% with levocetirizine; 30.7% with placebo). No child in the levocetirizine group discontinued treatment because of adverse events. The 6‐wk duration of this study was longer than the usual 2–4‐wk duration for similar studies and shows that levocetirizine controls SAR symptoms in children over the entire pollen season.