bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A functional study of purinergic signalling in the normal and pathological rabbit corpus cavernosum
Authors: Calvert Robert C. , Khan Masood A. , Thompson Cecil S. , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Burnstock Geoffrey
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To examine rabbit cavernosal smooth muscle (CSM) relaxation to ATP, ADP and UTP in normal rabbits and in models of conditions that predispose to erectile dysfunction (ED), diabetes mellitus (DM; induced for 6 months) and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO, 6 weeks after surgery).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Concentration‐response curves (CRCs) were constructed to ATP, ADP and UTP on CSM from control rabbits in the absence and presence of antagonists. In addition, CRCs were constructed to ATP in CSM from rabbits with DM and BOO.

RESULTS

ATP and UTP caused equipotent, dose‐dependent relaxations of pre‐contracted normal rabbit CSM; ADP was more potent. Relaxation was inhibited by Reactive Blue 2, but not by suramin, 8‐p‐sulfophenyltheophylline or L‐NG‐nitroarginine methyl ester. In rabbits with DM and those with partial BOO, ATP‐mediated CSM relaxation was less than in control rabbits. Pharmacological profiling suggests that purine‐induced CSM relaxation might be mediated by P2Y1 and P2Y4 receptors in the rabbit.

CONCLUSIONS

In healthy rabbits, ATP released from nerves appears to produce relaxation of CSM via P2Y4 receptors on smooth muscle, while ADP, acting on P2Y1 receptors on endothelial cells, produces relaxation via nitric oxide. Alterations in CSM purinergic signalling might be implicated in the pathophysiology of ED associated with DM and BOO. Characterization of purinergic signalling in CSM might highlight new therapeutic targets for treating ED.
PROBLEMS WITH BINOMIAL TWO‐SIDED TESTS AND THE ASSOCIATED CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
Authors: Vos Paul W. , Hudson Suzanne
Published: March 2008

Confidence intervals for parameters of distributions with discrete sample spaces will be less conservative (i.e. have smaller coverage probabilities that are closer to the nominal level) when defined by inverting a test that does not require equal probability in each tail. However, the P‐value obtained from such tests can exhibit undesirable properties, which in turn result in undesirable properties in the associated confidence intervals. We illustrate these difficulties using P‐values for binomial proportions and the difference between binomial proportions.
Understanding British Government: Analysing Competing Models
Authors: Marsh David
Published: March 2008

Bevir and Rhodes’ interpretive approach underpins the Differentiated Polity Model (DPM) which has replaced the Westminster Model as the dominant model of British politics. This article critiques both the interpretive approach and the DPM, arguing that the latter fails to recognise the continued importance of the role hierarchy, inequality and a dominant political tradition play in British politics, omissions which result, in large part, from its roots in an interpretist position. As such, the main aim of the article is to defend an alternative conception of British politics, the Asymmetric Power Model (APM), by considering three empirical areas in which these two models differ substantially: whether hierarchy or networks are the dominant mode of governance in the UK; the extent and importance of structured inequality in the UK; and whether there is a dominant tradition in British politics.
Psychometric evaluation and further validation of the Hagedoorn et al. modified EVLN measure
Authors: LILJEGREN MATS , NORDLUND ANDERS , EKBERG KERSTIN
Published: March 2008

The aim of the present study was to evaluate and further validate a modified Exit, Voice, Loyalty and Neglect (EVLN) instrument (Hagedoorn, Van Yperen, Van de Vliert & Buunk, 1999), in a Swedish sample (n= 792). To test the underlying scaling assumptions, the convergent and divergent validity, a multitrait/multi‐item analysis was conducted and factor analyses were used to evaluate the factor structure. The concurrent validity was tested by using the modified EVLN instrument as predictor and three different forms of justice as criteria in the analysis. The criterion‐related validity was tested and an association between exit behavioral response and actual exit behavior was found (predictive validity). The results showed that the instrument may be considered to be a valid measure with the exception of the aggressive voice scale.
Infant Mental Health Assessment: The use of DC 0‐3 in an outpatient child psychiatric clinic in Scandinavia
Authors: MOTHANDER PIA RISHOLM , GRETTE MOE RIGMOR
Published: March 2008

The study focuses on Infant Mental Health data from an outpatient psychiatric clinic using the “Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood” (DC 0‐3) and parental questionnaires, CBCL and ITSC. In total, 138 infants (aged 0–3) went through the diagnostic procedure. Sixty‐eight per cent were diagnosed within Axis I, with regulatory disorder, disorder of affect and traumatic stress disorder being the most frequent diagnoses. In addition, 48% were classified as having a relationship disorder according to Axis II, with an additional 40% being considered to be at risk of developing a relationship disorder. The mothers’ and fathers’ ratings of their children's externalized and sensitivity problems were in agreement with the clinicians, but the ratings of internalized problems as well as relationship problems presented a more complex pattern.
The effect of childhood bilingualism on episodic and semantic memory tasks
Authors: KORMI‐NOURI REZA , SHOJAEI RAZIE‐SADAT , MONIRI SADEGHEH , GHOLAMI ALI‐REZA , MORADI ALI‐REZA , AKBARI‐ZARDKHANEH SAEED , NILSSON LARS‐GÖRAN
Published: March 2008

Kormi‐Nouri, Moniri and Nilsson (2003) demonstrated that Swedish‐Persian bilingual children recalled at a higher level than Swedish monolingual children, when they were tested using Swedish materials. The present study was designed to examine the bilingual advantage of children who use different languages in their everyday life but have the same cultural background and live in their communities in the same way as monolingual children. In four experiments, 488 monolingual and bilingual children were compared with regard to episodic and semantic memory tasks. In experiments 1 and 2 there were 144 boys and 144 girls in three school groups (aged 9–10 years, 13–14 years and 16–17 years) and in three language groups (Persian monolingual, Turkish‐Persian bilingual, and Kurdish‐Persian bilingual). In experiments 3 and 4, there were 200 male students in two school groups (aged 9–10 years and 16–17 years) and in two language groups (Persian monolingual and Turkish‐Persian bilingual). In the episodic memory task, children learned sentences (experiments 1–3) and words (Experiment 4). Letter and category fluency tests were used as measures of semantic memory. To change cognitive demands in memory tasks, in Experiment 1, the integration of nouns and verbs within sentences was manipulated by the level of association between verb and noun in each sentence. At retrieval, a recognition test was used. In experiments 2 and 3, the organization between sentences was manipulated at encoding in Experiment 2 and at both encoding and retrieval in Experiment 3 through the use of categories among the objects. At retrieval, free recall or cued recall tests were employed. In Experiment 4, the bilingual children were tested with regard to both their first and their second language. In all four experiments, a positive effect of bilingualism was found on episodic and semantic memory tasks; the effect was more pronounced for older than younger children. The bilingual advantage was not affected by changing cognitive demands or by using first/second language in memory tasks. The present findings support the cross‐language interactivity hypothesis of bilingual advantage.
SPATIAL PATTERNS OF INNOVATION IN SCIENCE‐BASED TECHNOLOGIES IN THE NETHERLANDS
Authors: PONDS RODERIK , VAN OORT FRANK
Published: March 2008

This paper analyses the spatial concentration patterns of innovation in science‐based industries in the Netherlands. Using patents as an indicator for innovation we show that science‐based industries have a relatively high level of spatial concentration compared to other technologies. In order to understand spatial patterns of innovation, insights into specific spatial and market characteristics of these technologies appears necessary. This is illustrated by the large influence of the Royal Philips Electronics NV on the spatial pattern of innovation in the Netherlands.
Inequality and Crime: Separating the Effects of Permanent and Transitory Income*
Authors: Dahlberg Matz , Gustavsson Magnus
Published: March 2008

Earlier studies on income inequality and crime have typically used total income or total earnings. However, it is quite likely that it is the changes in permanent rather than in transitory income that affects crime rates. The purpose of this paper is therefore to disentangle the two effects by, first, estimating region‐specific inequality in permanent and transitory income and, second, estimating crime equations with the two separate income components as explanatory variables. The results indicate that it is important to separate the two effects; while an increase in the inequality in permanent income yields a positive and significant effect on total crimes and three different property crimes, an increase in the inequality in transitory income has no significant effect. Using a traditional, aggregate, measure of income yields insignificant effects on crime.
Panel Stationarity Test with Structural Breaks*
Authors: Hadri Kaddour , Rao Yao
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we extend the heterogeneous panel data stationarity test of Hadri [Econometrics Journal, Vol. 3 (2000) pp. 148–161] to the cases where breaks are taken into account. Four models with different patterns of breaks under the null hypothesis are specified. Two of the models have been already proposed by Carrion‐i‐Silvestre et al. [Econometrics Journal, Vol. 8 (2005) pp. 159–175]. The moments of the statistics corresponding to the four models are derived in closed form via characteristic functions. We also provide the exact moments of a modified statistic that do not asymptotically depend on the location of the break point under the null hypothesis. The cases where the break point is unknown are also considered. For the model with breaks in the level and no time trend and for the model with breaks in the level and in the time trend, Carrion‐i‐Silvestre et al. [Econometrics Journal, Vol. 8 (2005) pp. 159–175] showed that the number of breaks and their positions may be allowed to differ across individuals for cases with known and unknown breaks. Their results can easily be extended to the proposed modified statistic. The asymptotic distributions of all the statistics proposed are derived under the null hypothesis and are shown to be normally distributed. We show by simulations that our suggested tests have in general good performance in finite samples except the modified test. In an empirical application to the consumer prices of 22 OECD countries during the period from 1953 to 2003, we found evidence of stationarity once a structural break and cross‐sectional dependence are accommodated.
Intraventricular pentosan polysulphate in human prion diseases: an observational study in the UK
Authors: Bone I. , Belton L. , Walker A. S. , Darbyshire J.
Published: March 2008

Background, purpose and methods:  This observational study assessed the effect of continuous intraventricular infusion of pentosan polysulphate (PPS) in seven patients at different clinical centres in the UK.

Results:  Complications of intraventricular catheterization were frequent. PPS was well‐tolerated over a wide dose range (11–110 μg/kg/day) during the 6‐month study. Four patients were assessed for the entire study period: one remained stable, two showed minimal deterioration and one progressed significantly.

Conclusion:  Mean survival of all patients was longer than reported values for natural history of specific prion disorders. Possible reasons for these findings are explored.
The impact of EU accession on Turkish industrial relations and social dialogue
Authors: Yildirim Engin , Calis Suayyip
Published: March 2008

This article examines whether the European Union membership process is transforming the ‘deep structure’ of Turkish industrial relations. We make an attempt to illustrate this through the prism of Turkish experience in social dialogue regarded as an indispensable tool of the European social model. Turkish industrial relations is characterised by restrictive labour laws, employer hostility to unionisation, a large informal economy and labour market, and strong state intervention, which have historically constituted the main elements of ‘the deep structure’ of Turkish industrial relations. In procedural terms, the institutions for social dialogue have been established but the influence of the social partners is limited because of the dominance of the state and the weakness of labour. The existing attempts at developing social dialogue rest on shaky foundations emanating mostly from the state's and employers' disrespect of basic labour rights.
Psoriasis and stress: A prospective study
Authors: Berg M , Svensson M , Brandberg M , Nordlind K
Published: March 2008

Background  Psoriasis is generally thought to be worsened by stress. This presumption has been supported primarily by retrospective studies using questionnaires. No controlled prospective study on this issue has been performed.

Methods  Nine women with moderate plaque psoriasis were enrolled in the study. They all believed that their psoriasis was worsened by stress. They filled in a daily diary with estimations of actual stress levels and grades of psoriasis. The study of each patient started when her skin disease was in a stable phase and was concluded when her psoriasis was worsened by at least 25% from the starting level. Psoriasis area severity index scores were recorded at the start, as soon as possible after exacerbation and 2 weeks later. Stress‐related blood samples were taken at the same visits. The study was analysed as a nine‐case study.

Results  No clear pattern was found between stress levels and worsening of psoriasis in our nine patients. One patient had elevated stress levels 13 days before exacerbation of psoriasis, but for at least seven patients, there were no identifiable time relationships between stress and psoriasis appearance. For two patients, there were clear elevations of stress levels after psoriasis outbreak.

Conclusion  This limited study does not support the assumption that stress is a worsening factor in psoriasis.
Trauma, forgiveness and the witnessing dance: making public spaces intimate
Authors: Gobodo‐Madikizela Pumla
Published: March 2008

Abstract:  In this paper I explore the concept of forgiveness as a response to gross human rights violations. I present a conceptual examination of the effects of massive trauma in relation to what I refer to as the ‘unfinished business’ of trauma. Using a psychoanalytic framework, I consider the process of ‘bearing witness’ about trauma and examine how this process opens up the possibility of reciprocal expressions of empathy between victim and perpetrator. I then argue that, in this context of trauma testimony and witnessing, empathy is essential for the development of remorse on the part of perpetrators, and of forgiveness on the part of victims. Using a case study from South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) I clarify the relationship between empathy and forgiveness, and show how the restorative model of the TRC can open up an ethical space and create the possibility of transformation for victims, perpetrators and bystanders. In my conclusion I suggest that forgiveness in politics is the only action that holds promise for the repair of brokenness in post‐conflict societies, particularly if, as in South Africa, victims have to live together with perpetrators and beneficiaries in the same country.
Psychological problems in children with cerebral palsy: a cross‐sectional European study
Authors: Parkes Jackie , White‐Koning Melanie , Dickinson Heather O , Thyen Ute , Arnaud Catherine , Beckung Eva , Fauconnier Jerome , Marcelli Marco , McManus Vicki , Michelsen Susan I. , Parkinson Kathryn , Colver Allan
Published: March 2008

Objectives:  To describe psychological symptoms in 8–12‐year‐old children with cerebral palsy; to investigate predictors of these symptoms and their impact on the child and family.

Design:  A cross‐sectional multi‐centre survey.

Participants:  Eight hundred and eighteen children with cerebral palsy, aged 8–12 years, identified from population‐based registers of cerebral palsy in eight European regions and from multiple sources in one further region.

Main outcome measures:  The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ)P4−16 and the Total Difficulties Score (TDS) dichotomised into normal/borderline (TDS ≤ 16) versus abnormal (TDS > 16).

Statistical analysis:  Multilevel, multivariable logistic regression to relate the presence of psychological symptoms to child and family characteristics.

Results:  About a quarter of the children had TDS > 16 indicating significant psychological symptoms, most commonly in the domain Peer Problems. Better gross motor function, poorer intellect, more pain, having a disabled or ill sibling and living in a town were independently associated with TDS > 16. The risk of TDS > 16 was odds ratio (OR) = .2 (95% CI: .1 to .3) comparing children with the most and least severe functional limitations; OR = 3.2 (95%CI: 2.1 to 4.8) comparing children with IQ < 70 and others; OR = 2.7 (95% CI: 1.5 to 4.6) comparing children in severe pain and others; OR = 2.7 (95% CI:1.6 to 4.6) comparing children with another disabled sibling or OR = 1.8 (95%CI: 1.2 to 2.8) no siblings and others; OR = 1.8 (95% CI: 1.1 to 2.8) comparing children resident in a town and others. Among parents who reported their child to have psychological problems, 95% said they had lasted over a year, 37% said they distressed their child and 42% said they burdened the family at least ‘quite a lot’.

Conclusions:  A significant proportion of children with cerebral palsy have psychological symptoms or social impairment sufficiently severe to warrant referral to specialist services. Care must be taken in the assessment and management of children with cerebral palsy to ensure psychological problems are not overlooked and potentially preventable risk factors like pain are treated effectively. The validity of the SDQ for children with severe disability warrants further assessment.
Cyberbullying: its nature and impact in secondary school pupils
Authors: Smith Peter K. , Mahdavi Jess , Carvalho Manuel , Fisher Sonja , Russell Shanette , Tippett Neil
Published: March 2008

Background:  Cyberbullying describes bullying using mobile phones and the internet. Most previous studies have focused on the prevalence of text message and email bullying.

Methods:  Two surveys with pupils aged 11–16 years: (1) 92 pupils from 14 schools, supplemented by focus groups; (2) 533 pupils from 5 schools, to assess the generalisability of findings from the first study, and investigate relationships of cyberbullying to general internet use. Both studies differentiated cyberbullying inside and outside of school, and 7 media of cyberbullying.

Results:  Both studies found cyberbullying less frequent than traditional bullying, but appreciable, and reported more outside of school than inside. Phone call and text message bullying were most prevalent, with instant messaging bullying in the second study; their impact was perceived as comparable to traditional bullying. Mobile phone/video clip bullying, while rarer, was perceived to have more negative impact. Age and gender differences varied between the two studies. Study 1 found that most cyberbullying was done by one or a few students, usually from the same year group. It often just lasted about a week, but sometimes much longer. The second study found that being a cybervictim, but not a cyberbully, correlated with internet use; many cybervictims were traditional ‘bully‐victims’. Pupils recommended blocking/avoiding messages, and telling someone, as the best coping strategies; but many cybervictims had told nobody about it.

Conclusions:  Cyberbullying is an important new kind of bullying, with some different characteristics from traditional bullying. Much happens outside school. Implications for research and practical action are discussed.
Improving early language and literacy skills: differential effects of an oral language versus a phonology with reading intervention
Authors: Bowyer‐Crane Claudine , Snowling Margaret J. , Duff Fiona J. , Fieldsend Elizabeth , Carroll Julia M. , Miles Jeremy , Götz Kristina , Hulme Charles
Published: March 2008

Background:  This study compares the efficacy of two school‐based intervention programmes (Phonology with Reading (P + R) and Oral Language (OL)) for children with poor oral language at school entry.

Methods:  Following screening of 960 children, 152 children (mean age 4;09) were selected from 19 schools on the basis of poor vocabulary and verbal reasoning skills and randomly allocated to either the P + R programme or the OL programme. Both groups of children received 20 weeks of daily intervention alternating between small group and individual sessions, delivered by trained teaching assistants. Children in the P + R group received training in letter‐sound knowledge, phonological awareness and book level reading skills. Children in the OL group received instruction in vocabulary, comprehension, inference generation and narrative skills. The children's progress was monitored at four time points: pre‐, mid‐ and post‐intervention, and after a 5‐month delay, using measures of literacy, language and phonological awareness.

Results:  The data are clustered (children within schools) and robust confidence intervals are reported. At the end of the 20‐week intervention programme, children in the P + R group showed an advantage over the OL group on literacy and phonological measures, while children in the OL group showed an advantage over the P + R group on measures of vocabulary and grammatical skills. These gains were maintained over a 5‐month period.

Conclusions:  Intervention programmes designed to develop oral language skills can be delivered successfully by trained teaching assistants to children at school entry. Training using P + R fostered decoding ability whereas the OL programme improved vocabulary and grammatical skills that are foundations for reading comprehension. However, at the end of the intervention, more than 50% of at‐risk children remain in need of literacy support.
Early onset recurrent subtype of adolescent depression: clinical and psychosocial correlates
Authors: Hammen Constance , Brennan Patricia A. , Keenan‐Miller Danielle , Herr Nathaniel R.
Published: March 2008

Background:  Evaluated trajectories of adolescent depression and their correlates in a longitudinal study of a community sample: early onset (by age 15) with major depression (MDE) recurrence between 15 and 20; early onset with no recurrence; later onset of major depression after age 15 with and without recurrence by 20; and never‐depressed.

Methods:  Eight‐hundred sixteen youth were studied at age 15, and 699 were included at age 20, with diagnostic evaluations and assessments of functioning in major roles.

Results:  Youth with early onset and recurrent MDE differed from both those with early onset but nonrecurrent MDE and those with later onset‐no recurrence in terms of clinical features, adolescent social functioning, and later psychosocial adjustment. The early onset recurrent depressed youth had more severe, chronic, suicidal depressions, greater anxiety comorbidity, worse social functioning at 15, and poorer psychosocial, especially social, outcomes at 20.

Conclusions:  Youth with depression by 15 with recurrence by age 20 may represent a high‐risk group, with likely life‐course‐persistent depression and maladjustment. Community youth whose early depression does not recur by age 20, or who have onset with no recurrence after age 15, may have more benign and possibly limited depressions. Later onset with recurrence is also a group at risk for dysfunctional outcomes, requiring further follow‐up.
Deliberate self‐harm by under‐15‐year‐olds: characteristics, trends and outcome
Authors: Hawton Keith , Harriss Louise
Published: March 2008

Background:  Relatively little information is available about the characteristics and long‐term outcome of children and adolescents aged under 15 years who present to general hospitals because of deliberate self‐harm (DSH).

Method:  Information was collected on 710 consecutive under‐15‐year‐olds presenting to a general hospital in central England with DSH over a 26‐year period (1978–2003). Outcome in terms of death was investigated from national statistics in 464 cases presenting during the first 20 years of the study.

Results:  Most individuals were aged 12–14 years. In this age group the female:male ratio was 6.5:1. Nearly all (680/710, 95.8%) had taken overdoses, over half of these episodes involving paracetamol (acetaminophen). Few had a history of prior (7.7%) or current psychiatric treatment (7.7%), although a quarter (150/559, 26.8%) had a history of previous DSH. Suicidal intent was usually low. The most frequent problems were difficulties in relationships with family members (77.3%) and with friends (38.9%), and school/study problems (37.9%). The long‐term risk of suicide was low, 1.1% (N = 5) having died by probable suicide after a mean follow‐up period of 11 years 2 months.

Conclusions:  DSH in children and young adolescents is usually related to life problems, is generally of low suicidal intent, and is associated with a relatively low long‐term risk of suicide.
Deferred and immediate imitation in regressive and early onset autism
Authors: Rogers Sally J. , Young Gregory S. , Cook Ian , Giolzetti Angelo , Ozonoff Sally
Published: March 2008

Deferred imitation has long held a privileged position in early cognitive development, considered an early marker of representational thought with links to language development and symbolic processes. Children with autism have difficulties with several abilities generally thought to be related to deferred imitation: immediate imitation, language, and symbolic play. However, few studies have examined deferred imitation in early autism. The present study examined both deferred, spontaneous imitation and immediate, elicited imitation on a set of carefully matched tasks in 36 young children with autism: 16 with early onset autism, 20 with regressive autism and two contrast groups, younger typically developing children (n = 20) and age matched children with significant developmental delays (n = 21). Analyses of co‐variance controlling for differences in verbal mental age revealed significant main effects for task, but no main effect of group and no interaction of task by group. Deferred imitation scores were lower than immediate imitation scores for all groups. Imitation performance was related to overall intellectual functioning for all groups, and there were moderate and significant relations between imitation in the immediate elicited condition and in the spontaneous deferred condition for all groups. Finally, there were no differences between onset subgroups in imitation scores, suggesting that the two share a similar phenotype involving both types of imitation.
Nonshared environmental influences on teacher‐reported behaviour problems: monozygotic twin differences in perceptions of the classroom
Authors: Oliver Bonamy R. , Pike Alison , Plomin Robert
Published: March 2008

Background:  The identification of specific nonshared environments responsible for the variance in behaviour problems is a key challenge.

Methods:  Nonshared environmental influences on teacher‐reported behaviour problems were explored independently of genetics using the monozygotic (MZ) twin differences design. Six aspects of classroom environment were rated by a representative sample of 570 nine‐year‐old MZ twins in the UK in different classrooms and were related to their different teachers’ reports of prosocial behaviour, hyperactivity, conduct problems, peer problems and emotional symptoms.

Results:  Within‐pair differences in perceptions of the classroom were significantly correlated with teacher‐reported behaviour problems, indicating that children with less favourable perceptions of their classroom environment were reported by their teachers as less prosocial, more hyperactive, and to have more conduct and peer problems. Socioeconomic status did not significantly moderate any of these relationships. However, parent‐reported household chaos was a significant moderator.

Conclusions:  The classroom environment is related to behaviour problems even when genetic factors are held constant. Classroom environment is more strongly associated with behaviour problems when the home environment is more chaotic.
NON‐DESTRUCTIVE ANALYTIC METHOD USING XRF FOR DETERMINATION OF PROVENANCE OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL OBSIDIANS FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN AREA: A COMPARISON WITH TRADITIONAL XRF METHODS*
Authors: DE FRANCESCO A. M. , CRISCI G. M. , BOCCI M.
Published: March 2008

A non‐destructive analytical method using wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (WDXRF) that allows the establishment of the provenance of archaeological obsidians was developed and a comparison with the classical XRF method on powders is discussed. Representative obsidian samples of all the geological outcrops of archaeological interest of the Mediterranean area (Lipari, Pantelleria, Sardinia, Palmarola and the Greek islands of Melos and Gyali), were analysed with the normal procedures used in rock analysis by XRF (crushing, powdering and pelletizing). The non‐destructive XRF analysis was instead conducted on splinters taken from the original geological pieces, with the shape deliberately worked to be similar to the refuse usually found at archaeological sites. Since the analysis was conducted on the raw geological fragment, intensity ratios of the suitably selected chemical elements were used, instead of their absolute concentrations, to avoid surface effects due to the irregular shape. The comparison between concentration ratios (obtained by traditional XRF methods) and the intensity ratios of the selected trace elements (obtained from the non‐destructive methodology) show that the different domains of the chemical composition, corresponding to the geological obsidians of the source areas, are perfectly equivalent. In the same way, together with the geological splinters, complete archaeological obsidians, from Neolithic sites, may be analysed and their provenance may be determined. The proposed non‐destructive method uses the XRF method. Due to its sensitivity, low cost and high speed, it is surely an extremely valid instrument for the attribution of the provenance of the archaeological obsidian from Neolithic sites.
BULK STABLE LIGHT ISOTOPIC RATIOS IN RECENT AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESINS: TOWARDS DETECTING THE TRANSPORT OF RESINS IN ANTIQUITY?*
Authors: STERN B. , LAMPERT MOORE C. D. , HERON C. , POLLARD A. M.
Published: March 2008

We have applied and refined methods for the determination of bulk hydrogen, carbon and oxygen isotope ratios in modern and archaeological resins. The modern resins have a wide range of isotopic values and vary within the same tree, between individual trees, with species and location. For all isotopes measured, there is a general trend of increasing depletion of the heavier isotope with increasing altitude. There is also a linear trend between depletion of δD and δ13C values with increasing latitude; this trend is less clear for oxygen, but is related to the meteoric water line. Two case studies using archaeological resins known or suspected to have been transported in antiquity have been investigated to determine whether isotopic signatures can assist in pinpointing the geographical origin of the resin: Pistacia sp. resin from Canaanite amphorae imported into Egypt from known geographical locations in the eastern Mediterranean during the Late Bronze Age, and Roman amphorae sherds lined with Pinus sp. resin from sites ranging from Britain to the eastern Mediterranean. These results show separate groupings between the two resin types (pine/pistacia) and between the modern/archaeological resins. Some archaeological samples are distinct from the others and the modern resins show differences between geographical areas. However, there are no clear patterns relating the different Canaanite fabrics or the suggested manufacturing site of the Roman amphorae.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL PETROLOGY AND THE ARCHAEOMETRY OF LITHIC MATERIALS*
Authors: SHACKLEY M. S.
Published: March 2008

For 50 years, archaeologists and physical scientists have been dating, determining the composition of and measuring stone tools, and reporting them in Archaeometry and many other journals. In Archaeometry specifically, the number of papers devoted to the analysis of lithic material has increased at least 30 times since 1958 and volume 1. This is a reflection not only of an increase in the number of scholars devoting their time to the archaeometry of stone, but also of increases in the quality and quantity of instrumental technology available to researchers in the field.
Novel azo dyes derived from phthalimide. Part 1: Synthesis and spectroscopic properties
Authors: Choi Jae‐Hong , Jeon Jeong‐Min , Kim Mi‐Hyeon , Towns Andrew D , Yoon Chun
Published: March 2008

A series of azo dyes has been synthesised based on N‐alkylphthalimide diazo components featuring one of three different alkyl groups. An analogous set of dyes was prepared in which the N‐alkylphthalimidylazo systems bore an o,o‐dibromo‐substitution pattern. In these cases, cyanodebromination was performed to give the corresponding dicyano analogues. All the synthesised intermediates and dyes were characterised by mass spectrometry, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The absorption maxima of the dyes in dimethylformamide (N,N‐dimethyl ∼) were observed to be in the range 435–608 nm and found to be consistent with results seen in previous studies of conventional monoazo disperse dyes. Replacement of both halogens in the dibromo‐substituted dyes with cyano groups led to large bathochromic shifts (128–141 nm) in absorption maxima. Bathochromism was also observed when acetylamino groups were present on the coupler ring ortho to the azo link. However, variation of the N‐alkyl function on the imido ring from n‐butyl to sec‐butyl and iso‐propyl had little effect on absorption maxima, values being similar to that reported for the parent N‐unsubstituted analogue.
Pregnancy Loss Rates Following Second Trimester Genetic Amniocentesis
Authors: Reid Karen P. , Gurrin Lyle C. , Dickinson Jan E. , Newnham John P. , Phillips John M
Published: March 2008

Data from 3,953 consecutive second trimester genetic amniocenteses were analysed to determine pregnancy loss rates up to 6 weeks after the procedure. Information was prospectively collected on a cohort of 3,685 women in 3,896 singleton and 50 twin pregnancies, from 2 operating sites in Perth, Western Australia, using 9 operators over the 6‐year period, 1989 to 1995. Complete information regarding pregnancy outcome was obtained for 3,643 of the 3,685 women (98.9%). There were 27 identified singletons and 1 set of twins lost within 6 weeks following amniocentesis. The overall pregnancy loss rate in this cohort was 29 of 3,911 (0.74%). The pregnancy loss rate associated with genetic amniocentesis is not excessive in comparison to the calculated background pregnancy loss rate of 1%, and it is suggested that each prenatal diagnostic team should determine their own complication rates for the purpose of counselling prior to amniocentesis.
Björnstad Syndrome and Pili Torti
Authors: Scott Michael J. , Bronson Darryl M. , Esterly Nancy Burton
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Two children with pili torti (twisted hairs) are reported, one of whom had sensorineural hearing loss. This combination of pili torti and deafness was described as a new genetic entity by Björnstad in 1965. Although light microscopy demonstrated variable numbers of twists along the shafts of hairs obtained from both patients, scanning electron microscopy in both cases revealed flattening and diagonally arranged scalloped defects on only one side of the involved hair shafts rather than true twists. Early auditory testing should be performed in children with pili torti in order to secure early treatment of possible associated hearing loss.
The Incidence and Significance of Birthmarks in a Cohort of 4,641 Newborns
Authors: Alper Joseph C. , Holmes Lewis B.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: An unsclectcd cohort of 4,641 newboms was ascertained prospectively for the purpose of detecting any cutaneous lesion. These were catalogued into pigmented lesions, vascular lesions, and miscellaneous lesions. Several important findings were elucidated: congenital nevocellular nevi are speckled at their borders: no white newborn in the study had more than one café au lait mark; a hypopigmented tuft of hair was seen in one infant with tuberous sclerosis but is found more commonly in normal individuals; a previously undescribed lesion called zosteriform melanocytic nevus was seen as a normal pigmentary variant in blacks; and hypopigmented macules seen at birth are seen primarily in normal infants. It is hoped that these findings will allow the pediatrician and dermatologist to offer more meaningful prognostic information to their patients.
Immunology of Human Papillomavirus: Warts
Authors: Bender Mitchell E. , Ostrow Ronald S. , Watts Susan , Zachow Karen , Faras Anthony , Pass Franklin
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Great progress has been made over the last five years in our understanding of papillomavirus (PV) biology. New technology has enabled investigators to understand the relationship between the PV and its host. The PV cannot be cultured in vitro, and this has led to limitations for those wishing to study the biology of this virus. However, utilizing recombinant DNA technology, investigators now have abundant quantities of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA for study. Such HPV genomes may be labeled with a radioisotope such as P32 and used as a “probe” in hybridization studies to see if a given tissue contains HPV DNA. No longer are we limited to electron microscopy and immune studies in our efforts to identify HPV within benign or malignant tissues. Ultimately, we hope to understand the relationship between the virus and its host. This paper will concentrate on one aspect of this relationship—the immunology of HPV.
A Statistical Analysis of a Pediatric Dermatology Clinic
Authors: Schachner Lawrence , Ling Nancy Simons , Press Shirley
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Statistical analysis was performed of the diseases seen and therapies utilized during the first two years of the Pediatric Dermatology Clinic at the University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, This survey includes 2,821 patient visits made by 1,578 patients. This analysis classifies patients by diagnosis, sex, age, race, and treatment. Diagnostic and treatment frequencies, sex and race ratios, and trends in the patient's age at presentation are also noted. This survey reveals a wide spectrum of pediatric dermatologic disease with 154 different diagnoses made. A review of the 86 different therapeutic modalities utilized is also presented.
KID Syndrome (Keratitis, Ichthyosis, and Deafness) and Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Harms M. , Gilardi S. , Levy P. M. , Saurat J. H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: In 1981 Skinner et al (IS proposed the term KID syndrome for a previously disparate group of congenital disorders principally made up of keratitis (K), ichthyosis (1), and deafness (D). The coexistence of congenital deafness associated with ichthyosis had been previously recognized (2, 3), yet similarities among affected patients were overlooked because of both the paucity of cases and their seeming diversity. The patient reported by Skinner is similar to one whom we have been following at the Clinique Universitaire de Dermatologie in Geneva since 1978. After having reviewed the literature, we believe that KID syndrome is a useful, unifying clinical term.
Dermatitis Due to Larvae of a Soil Nematode, Pelodera strongyloides
Authors: Ginsburg Barry , Beaver Paul C. , Wilson Edward R. , Whitky Richard J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: A 6‐month‐old infant girl was seen because of failure to thrive and hyperpigmented papulonodules on the lower abdomen and thighs. Results of skin biopsy demonstrated dauer larvae of a soil nemalode, Pelodera strongy‐loides, in the dermis. This is the second documented episode of human dermatitis due to this nematode, which more often invades the skin of dogs, cattle, horses, and sheep.
Congenital Smooth Muscle Hamartoma of the Skin
Authors: Metzker A. , Amir J. , Rotem A. , Merlob P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Three cases of circumscribed congenital smooth muscle hamartoma (CSMH) in the neonate are described, including typical characteristics and differential diagnosis. This condition is a clearly defined, distinct entity, separate from simitar lesions that are considered in the differential diagnosis. It is possibly more common than is evident from the literature.
Advances in Antiviral Therapy: Acydovir
Authors: Chadwick Ellen Gould , Shulman Stanford T.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Acyclovir [9‐(2‐hydroxyethoxymethyl)guanine] is a newly licensed acyclic nucleoside analog that is active in vitro and in vivo against herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella zoster virus (VZV). This agent is available in the United States in topical and intravenous forms, and the oral preparation is currently being evaluated in clinical trials. The precise therapeutic role for acyclovir in patients with herpesvirus infections is still evolving. This article reviews the current status of this exciting new antiviral agent.
Treatment of Plantar Warts in ChOdren with a Salicylic Acid‐Podophyllin‐Cantharidin Product
Authors: Coskey Ralph J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: One hundred and twenty‐one children with plantar warts were treated with a topical preparation containing salicylic acid, 30%; podophyllin, 5%; and cantharidin, 1%. One hundred patients or their families were reached 6 months to 1 year later. This treatment was effective in 81 cases.
Lymphomatoid Papulosis in an 11‐month‐old Infant
Authors: Rogers Maureen , de Launey John , Kemp Andrew , Bishop Alex
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Lymphomatoid papulosis was seen in an 11‐month‐old child. The condition resolved spontaneously after a course of only 8 weeks and the patient has now been disease free for 9 months. Electron microscopy showed infiltrating lymphocytes with cleaved nuclei suggestive of T cells. Monoclonal antibody studies confirmed the T cell nature of the infiltrate. In this case, suppressor (OKT8) T cells were more prominent than helper (OKT4) T cells, in contrast to previous reports.
Primary Cutaneous T‐cell Lymphoma in a Child
Authors: Paller Amy S. , Esterly Nancy Burton , Baum Edward S. , Gonzalez‐Crussi Frank , Caro William A. , Variakojis Daina
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Primary cutaneous lymphoma in childhood is extremely rare. An 11‐year‐old girl had lesions that were treated as infected insect bites until a biopsy was performed and the diagnosis of primary T‐cell lymphoma was made. In contrast to the typically indolent course of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma in adults, the condition in children tends to disseminate rapidly.
Twenty‐Nail Dystrophy of Childhood: A Sign of Localized Lichen Planus
Authors: Silverman Robert A. , Rhodes Arthur R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: A 9½‐year‐old girl was seen with 20‐nail dystrophy, Lichen planus was suspected and further examination revealed other lesions localized to the oral mucosa. The diagnosis was confirmed as lichen planus by biopsy of tissue from the oral lesions. Careful examination of all mucocutaneous surfaces is recommended before accepting the diagnosis of so‐called isolated 20‐nail dystrophy of childhood.
Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia
Authors: Nelson Dan A. , Jarratt Michael
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Angiolymphoid hyperplasia has become a well‐recognized entity in adults. Kimura's disease is a similar and possibly identical disease occurring in Oriental children. This is a case report of angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia occurring in a 12‐year‐old Caucasian boy with elevated levels of scrum IgE. The condition responded to intralesional triamcinolone. A brief review of the literature is presented and various modes of therapy arc discussed.
Herpes Gestationis with Transient Bullous Lesions in the Newborn
Authors: Bonifazi Ernesto , Meneghini Carlo L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: A case of severe bullous dermatosis in the newborn son of a mother with herpes gestationis is reported. Bullous lesions appeared in the child about 2 hours after delivery and regressed completely without specific treatment by the end of the first month, leaving numerous epidermal cysts. The immunologie phenomena were both qualitatively and quantitatively comparable to those obtained in the mother, i.e., deposition of complement (C3) and smaller amounts of IgG at the dermo‐epidermal junction of the affected skin. A transient increase of the total serum IgE was demonstrated in the mother, while the serum IgE level in the newborn was less than 5 U/ml. The pathogenetic role of IgG autoantibodies in herpes gestationis and. more generally, in autoimmune diseases is discussed.
A Survey of Skin Disorders Seen in Pediatrie General and Dermatology Clinics
Authors: Tunnessen Walter W.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: One‐week surveys of office visits to a general pediatrie clinic were carried out at monthly intervals over a six‐month period. Skin complaints accounted for 24% of the primary and secondary reasons for initiating clinic visits. Six categories of dermatologie conditions accounted for 81.5% of the pediatrie clinic visits, with skin infections comprising 38.5%. A survey of new referrals to a pediatrie dermatology clinic over a similar seasonal span revealed that the same six categories made up 51.8% of diagnoses.

The surveys indicate that skin disorders are common reasons for pediatric office visits and suggest some areas that should be emphasized in the training of physicians in dermatologic diagnosis and management.
Principles of the Use of Glucocorticosteroids in the Growing Child
Authors: Lucky Anne W.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The use of glucocorticosteroids in children presents special problems because of the suppressive effects on growth and on the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis. This review summarizes the pathphysiology of glucocorticoid action and outlines suggested guidelines tor monitoring children treated with these drugs.

There is no “magic formula” for corticosteroid use in children, except to say that it is safest to use the smallest possible dose for the shortest period of time. Growth and hypothalmic‐pituitary‐adrenal suppression may be minimized by giving alternate‐day or single morning doses and avoiding long‐acting preparations. Therapy during puberty and infancy has the greatest chance to produce permanent loss of ultimate height. Growth should be documented by accurate measurement, plotting the data on growth charts. During therapy and while the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis remains suppressed, written emergency instructions for glucocorticoid therapy should be provided to patients, and they should wear identification indicating that they are taking these agents. Above all. therapy must be individualized.