bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Decentering and the Development of Temporal Concepts
Authors: McCormack Teresa , Hoerl Christoph
Published: November 2008

This article reviews some recent research on the development of temporal cognition, with reference to Weist's (1989) account of the development of temporal understanding. Weist's distinction between two levels of temporal decentering is discussed, and empirical studies that may be interpreted as measuring temporal decentering are described. We argue that if temporal decentering is defined simply in terms of the coordination of the temporal locations of three events, it may fail to fully capture the properties of mature temporal understanding. Characterizing the development of mature temporal cognition may require, in addition, distinguishing between event‐dependent and event‐independent thought about time. Experimental evidence relevant to such a distinction is described; these findings suggest that there may be important changes between 3 and 5 years in children's ability to think about points in time independently of the events that occur at those times.
DO DESCARTES AND ST. THOMAS AGREE ON THE ONTOLOGICAL PROOF?
Authors: ABBRUZZESE JOHN EDWARD
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Contrary to received opinion, Descartes’ view on the merits of the ontological proof may actually agree with that of Thomas Aquinas, whose rejection of the a priori existence proof has stocked the armories of anti‐Anselmians ever since. In a rarely noted passage of the First Replies, Descartes claims not to differ in any respect from Thomas on the proof, a claim that gains sense in light of recent work on the Fifth Meditation. That work in turn reveals a well‐founded, if surprising, understanding of the Cartesian proof and of Cartesianism's true relation to Thomism.
WARRANTED ASSERTABILITY MANEUVERS AND THE RULES OF ASSERTION
Authors: IACONO LEO
Published: November 2008

Abstract: In responding to the cases that motivate epistemic contextualism, invariantists sometimes use a warranted assertability maneuver (WAM), according to which we mistakenly judge an assertion to be true because we confuse conversational propriety with truth. I argue that no invariantist WAM against Stewart Cohen's Airport Case can succeed. The problem is that such a WAM is inconsistent with the known ways of accounting for the evidence that motivates the knowledge account of assertion.
THE SECOND‐ORDER PROPERTY VIEW OF EXISTENCE
Authors: KATZAV JOEL
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  In this paper, I examine the current case against the second‐order property view of existence through a discussion of Colin McGinn's up to date statement of this case. I conclude that the second‐order property view of existence remains viable.
Hominid mandibular corpus shape variation and its utility for recognizing species diversity within fossil Homo
Authors: Lague Michael R. , Collard Nicole J. , Richmond Brian G. , Wood Bernard A.
Published: November 2008

Mandibular corpora are well represented in the hominin fossil record, yet few studies have rigorously assessed the utility of mandibular corpus morphology for species recognition, particularly with respect to the linear dimensions that are most commonly available. In this study, we explored the extent to which commonly preserved mandibular corpus morphology can be used to: (i) discriminate among extant hominid taxa and (ii) support species designations among fossil specimens assigned to the genus Homo. In the first part of the study, discriminant analysis was used to test for significant differences in mandibular corpus shape at different taxonomic levels (genus, species and subspecies) among extant hominid taxa (i.e. Homo, Pan, Gorilla, Pongo). In the second part of the study, we examined shape variation among fossil mandibles assigned to Homo (including H. habilis sensu stricto, H. rudolfensis, early African H. erectus/H. ergaster, late African H. erectus, Asian H. erectus, H. heidelbergensis, H. neanderthalensis and H. sapiens). A novel randomization procedure designed for small samples (and using group ‘distinctness values’) was used to determine whether shape variation among the fossils is consistent with conventional taxonomy (or alternatively, whether a priori taxonomic groupings are completely random with respect to mandibular morphology). The randomization of ‘distinctness values’ was also used on the extant samples to assess the ability of the test to recognize known taxa. The discriminant analysis results demonstrated that, even for a relatively modest set of traditional mandibular corpus measurements, we can detect significant differences among extant hominids at the genus and species levels, and, in some cases, also at the subspecies level. Although the randomization of ‘distinctness values’ test is more conservative than discriminant analysis (based on comparisons with extant specimens), we were able to detect at least four distinct groups among the fossil specimens (i.e. H. sapiens, H. heidelbergensis, Asian H. erectus and a combined ‘African Homo’ group consisting of H. habilis sensu stricto, H. rudolfensis, early African H. erectus/H. ergaster and late African H. erectus). These four groups appear to be distinct at a level similar to, or greater than, that of modern hominid species. In addition, the mandibular corpora of H. neanderthalensis could be distinguished from those of ‘African Homo’, although not from those of H. sapiens, H. heidelbergensis, or the Asian H. erectus group. The results suggest that the features most commonly preserved on the hominin mandibular corpus have some taxonomic utility, although they are unlikely to be useful in generating a reliable alpha taxonomy for early African members of the genus Homo.
Development of the human Achilles tendon enthesis organ
Authors: Shaw H. M. , Vázquez Osorio T. , McGonagle D. , Bydder G. , Santer R. M. , Benjamin M.
Published: November 2008

The attachment of the Achilles tendon is part of an ‘enthesis organ’ that reduces stress concentration at the hard–soft tissue interface. The organ also includes opposing sesamoid and periosteal fibrocartilages, a bursa and Kager's fat pad. In addition, the deep crural and plantar fasciae contribute to Achilles stress dissipation and could also be regarded as components. Here we describe the sequence in which these various tissues differentiate. Serial sections of feet from spontaneously aborted foetuses (crown rump lengths 22–322 mm) were examined. All slides formed part of an existing collection of histologically sectioned embryological material, obtained under Spanish law and housed in the Universidad Complutense, Madrid. From the earliest stages, it was evident that the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia had a mutual attachment to the calcaneal perichondrium. The first components of the enthesis organ to appear (in the 45‐mm foetus) were the retrocalcaneal bursa and the crural fascia. The former developed by cavitation within the mesenchyme that later gave rise to Kager's fat pad. The tip of the putative fat pad protruded into the developing bursa in the 110‐mm foetus and fully differentiated adipocytes were apparent in the 17‐mm foetus. All three fibrocartilages were first recognisable in the 332‐mm foetus – at which time adipogenesis had commenced in the heel fat pad. The sequence in which the various elements became apparent suggests that bursal formation and the appearance of the crural fascia may be necessary to facilitate the foot movements that subsequently lead to fibrocartilage differentiation. The later commencement of adipogenesis in the heel than in Kager's pad probably reflects the non‐weight environment in utero. The direct continuity between plantar fascia and Achilles tendon that is characteristic of the adult reflects the initial attachment of both structures to the calcaneal perichondrium rather than to the skeletal anlagen itself.
Zonal variations in cytoskeletal element organization, mRNA and protein expression in the intervertebral disc
Authors: Li Siyuan , Duance Victor C. , Blain Emma J.
Published: November 2008

The intervertebral disc is important in maintaining flexibility and dissipating loads applied to the spine. The disc comprises a heterogeneous population of cells, including those of the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus, which are diverse in phenotype, partly due to the different mechanical loads they experience. Several studies have implicated the cytoskeleton in mechanotransduction, but little characterization of the three major cytoskeletal elements – actin, tubulin and vimentin – in the intervertebral disc has been undertaken. In this study we show that there are differences in both the organization and the amounts of these cytoskeletal proteins across the regions of immature bovine intervertebral disc (nucleus pulposus and outer annulus fibrosus), which differs with skeletal maturity. These differences are likely to reflect the diverse mechanical characteristics of the disc regions, and the loads that they experience, i.e. tension in the annulus fibrosus and compression in the nucleus pulposus. Alterations to the organization and amount of cytoskeletal element proteins may change the ability of the cells to respond to mechanical signals, with a loss of tissue homeostasis, suggesting that the cytoskeleton has a potential role in intervertebral disc degeneration.
Short‐faced mice and developmental interactions between the brain and the face
Authors: Boughner Julia C. , Wat Stephen , Diewert Virginia M. , Young Nathan M. , Browder Leon W. , Hallgrímsson Benedikt
Published: November 2008

The length of the face represents an important axis of variation in mammals and especially in primates. Mice with mutations that produce variation along this axis present an opportunity to study the developmental factors that may underlie evolutionary change in facial length. The Crf4 mutant, obtained from the C57BL/6J (wt/wt) background by chemical mutagenesis by the Baylor Mouse Mutagenesis Resource, is reported to have a short‐faced phenotype. As an initial step towards developing this model, we performed 3D geometric morphometric comparisons of Crf4 mice to C57BL/6J wild‐type mice focusing on three stages of face development and morphology – embryonic (GD 9.5–12), neonatal, and adult. Morphometric analysis of adult Crf4 mutants revealed that in addition to a shortened face, these mice exhibit a significant reduction in brain size and basicranial length. These same features also differ at the neonatal stage. During embryonic face formation, only dimensions related to brain growth were smaller, whereas the Crf4 face actually appeared advanced relative to the wild‐type at the same somite stage. These results show that aspects of the Crf4 phenotype are evident as early as embryonic face formation. Based on our anatomical findings we hypothesize that the reduction in facial growth in Crf4 mice is a secondary consequence of reduction in the growth of the brain. If correct, the Crf4 mutant will be a useful model for studying the role of epigenetic interactions between the brain and face in the evolutionary developmental biology of the mammalian craniofacial complex as well as human craniofacial dysmorphology.
Drug development for liver diseases: focus on picroliv, ellagic acid and curcumin
Authors: Girish C. , Pradhan Suresh Chandra
Published: November 2008

The use of herbal drugs for the treatment of liver diseases has a long tradition in many eastern countries. The easy accessibility without the need for laborious pharmaceutical synthesis has drawn increased attention towards herbal medicines. Few herbal preparations exist as standardized extracts with major known ingredients or even as pure compounds. Some of the herbals, which show promising activity, are ellagic acid for antifibrotic treatment, phyllanthin for treating chronic hepatitis B, glycyrrhizin to treat chronic viral hepatitis and picroliv for liver regeneration. These compounds, which have proven antioxidant, antiviral or anticarcinogenic properties, can serve as primary compounds for further development as hepatoprotective drugs. This review provides the chemistry, pharmacology and future aspects of picroliv, ellagic acid and curcumin with focus on hepatoprotective properties. These phytochemicals may prove to be very useful in the treatment of hepatotoxicity induced by viral agents, toxic drugs and plant poisons. The high safety profile may be an added advantage. However, poor bioavailability and temperature and light sensitivity can reduce the efficacy of drugs like curcumin. In future, the derivatives or new combinations of these drugs may prove to be useful.
In vitro effects of the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin and of the phospholipase‐C inhibitor U‐73122 on carbachol‐induced contractions of porcine detrusor muscle
Authors: Badawi Jasmin Katrin , Seja Tobias , Bross Stephan
Published: November 2008

Prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors belong to one substance class additionally used in the treatment of bladder dysfunctions associated with involuntary bladder contractions. However, the mechanism of action of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the detrusor muscle is not clear. In this study, it was examined in vitro whether the NSAID indomethacin exhibited an inhibitory effect on carbachol‐induced contractions of the porcine detrusor muscle. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of the phospholipase‐C inhibitor U‐73122 on carbachol‐induced contractions of the porcine detrusor muscle was investigated. Experiments were performed on the muscle strips of the porcine detrusor muscle suspended in a tissue bath. Effects of indomethacin at 10−6and 10−5 mon the maximum carbachol‐induced contraction and on the carbachol–response curve were investigated. Additionally, the inhibitory influence of U‐73122 at a concentration of 10−5.5 mon the carbachol–response curve was investigated. Pretreatment with indomethacin at both concentrations did not result in a significant reduction in the maximum contraction compared with the control. In the experiments in which carbachol concentration‐response curves were generated, indomethacin exhibited at both concentrations a very small but significant change at carbachol concentrations of 10−8and 10−7.5 m. In the experiments with U‐73122, a significant change was found in the concentration–response curve of carbachol at all concentrations of carbachol from 10−6.5to 10−4 m. The mean maximum carbachol‐induced contraction was 141.8 ± 6.8% after incubation with U‐73122 and 166.0 ± 6.4% in the control group (P < 0.05). Indomethacin did not inhibit the carbachol‐induced contractions of the porcine detrusor muscle. The cyclooxygenase does not play a significant role in the carbachol‐induced bladder contraction of the porcine detrusor muscle. The inhibitory action of the phospholipase‐C inhibitor U‐73122 on the carbachol‐induced contraction was significant, but small. The results point to an inferior role of this pathway.
Role of endogenous endothelin in endothelial dysfunction in murine model of systemic sclerosis: tight skin mice 1
Authors: Richard Vincent , Solans Violaine , Favre Julie , Henry Jean‐Paul , Lallemand Françoise , Thuillez Christian , Marie Isabelle
Published: November 2008

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic inflammatory disorder, resulting in severe vascular dysfunction. The endothelin (ET) system has vasoconstrictor and profibrotic properties and has been shown to be activated in SSc. ET antagonists are currently used in SSc‐related pulmonary arterial hypertension, but the endothelial impact of ET antagonists remains less known in SSc. We thus assessed the effects of the dual ETA–ETB antagonist, bosentan, on endothelial dysfunction in a murine model of SSc, the heterozygous tight‐skin mice 1 (TSK1+). Six‐week‐old TSK1+ were either untreated or treated for 6 weeks with bosentan (100 mg/kg/day), and compared with controls. Endothelial function was evaluated in isolated mesenteric resistance arteries, using a small vessel myograph. TSK1+ displayed endothelial dysfunction, as shown by a decreased response of mesenteric arteries to acetylcholine, especially in the presence of l‐nitro‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME), corresponding to NO‐independent, prostaglandin‐mediated relaxation. The NO‐independent relaxation was partially restored in bosentan‐treated TSK1+, and this was abolished by a cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor. Therefore, the murine model of SSc, TSK1+ exhibits severe endothelial dysfunction of peripheral resistance arteries. The ET antagonist bosentan prevents endothelial alterations, suggesting a major role of ET in the adverse vascular effects of SSc.
Pharmacokinetic predictions in children by using the physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling
Authors: Bouzom F. , Walther B.
Published: November 2008

Nowadays, 50–90% of drugs used in children have never been actually studied in this population. Consequently, either our children are often exposed to the risk of adverse drug events or to lack of efficacy, or they are unable to benefit from a number of therapeutic advances offered to adults, as no clinical study has been properly performed in children. Actually the main methods used to calculate the dose for a child are based on allometric methods taking into account different categories of age, the body weight and/or the body surface area. Unfortunately, these calculation methods consider the children as small adults, which is not the case. Physiologically based pharmacokinetics is one way to integrate the physiological changes occurring in the childhood and to anticipate their impact on the pharmacokinetic processes: absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion/elimination. From different examples, the application of this modelling approach is discussed as a possible and valuable method to minimize the ethical and technical difficulties of conducting research in children.
Evaluation of drugs in pediatrics using K‐PD models: perspectives
Authors: Tod M.
Published: November 2008

Some pharmacodynamic (PD) models, called K‐PD models, have been developed for the description of drug action kinetics in the absence of drug concentration measurements. Because blood samples for drug measurements are not needed, these models may be very useful in pediatric studies, by reducing their invasiveness. In addition, a number of PD measurements are also non‐invasive and specific devices exist for measures in children. Therefore, the kinetics of drug action may be characterized with minimal invasiveness. A brief description of the key features of these models is given, and a number of examples of application are presented. K‐PD models are expected to be most useful when the drug kinetics is simple (i.e. when the one‐compartment model is a reasonable description), or when the response kinetics is slow compared with drug kinetics. K‐PD models have already demonstrated their usefulness in animal and adult studies. They are very attractive for pediatric studies and they should facilitate the assessment of drug efficacy and safety.
Integration of modelling and simulation into the development of intravenous busulfan in paediatrics: an industrial experience
Authors: Nguyen L.
Published: November 2008

Busulfan (Bu) is commonly used in preparative conditioning regimen prior to bone marrow transplantation in infants (< 1 year old), children and adolescents (up to 17 years old). The clinical development of an intravenous form of busulfan (Busilvex®) was based on pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling and simulation techniques. A retrospective population PK analysis was initially performed from a first study in 24 pediatric patients (0.45–16.7 years old) and a log‐linear relationship between body weight and Busilvex® clearance was demonstrated with no age‐dependency. For an optimal area under the curve (AUC) targeting, a new Bu dosing regimen [i.e. 5 dose levels (0.80 to 1.20 mg/kg) adjusted to 5 discrete weight categories] was developed and assessed through population PK‐based simulations. The benefit from this new dosing strategy was validated in a second trial including 55 children (0.30–17.2 years old). This prospective trial confirmed the previous simulations: an efficient therapeutic targeting whatever the patient's age or body weight. Over 80% of the children were within the desired plasma exposure window, and the initial PK model was validated on the confirmatory dataset.
The use of pharmacokinetic models in paediatric onco‐haematology: effects on clinical outcome through the examples of busulfan and cyclosporine
Authors: Bleyzac N.
Published: November 2008

Overall survival after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is reduced by the high rate of transplantation‐related mortality (TRM), especially because of liver veno‐occlusive disease (VOD) or acute graft‐vs.‐host disease (GVHD) because of the toxicity or inefficacy of busulfan and cyclosporine (CsA), respectively. Results of clinical outcome of previous studies performed to optimize busulfan and CsA therapy by controlling their pharmacokinetic variability by means of maximum a posteriori (MAP) Bayesian individualization of both drugs are presented. The 90‐day VOD‐free survival was significantly higher in patients with individualized busulfan doses: 97% vs. 76%. Monitoring CsA trough blood concentrations allowed us to obtain a successful GVHD outcome (mild or moderate GVHD and graft vs. leukaemia effect (GVL) in malignant diseases and no GVHD (in non‐malignant ones) in the majority of our patients. Severe GVHD occurred in <5% of patients. TRM in children can be significantly decreased by using population pharmacokinetic models and MAP Bayesian individualization of dose regimens for drugs such as CsA and busulfan.
Plasticity of death rates in stationary phase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Minois Nadège , Lagona Francesco , Frajnt Magdalena , Vaupel James W.
Published: November 2008

For the species that have been most carefully studied, mortality rises with age and then plateaus or declines at advanced ages, except for yeast. Remarkably, mortality for yeast can rise, fall and rise again. In the present study we investigated (i) if this complicated shape could be modulated by environmental conditions by measuring mortality with different food media and temperature; (ii) if it is triggered by biological heterogeneity by measuring mortality in stationary phase in populations fractionated into subpopulations of young, virgin cells, and replicatively older, non‐virgin cells. We also discussed the results of a staining method to measure viability instead of measuring the number of cells able to exit stationary phase and form a colony. We showed that different shapes of age‐specific death rates were observed and that their appearance depended on the environmental conditions. Furthermore, biological heterogeneity explained the shapes of mortality with homogeneous populations of young, virgin cells exhibiting a simple shape of mortality in conditions under which more heterogeneous populations of older cells or unfractionated populations displayed complicated death rates. Finally, the staining method suggested that cells lost the capacity to exit stationary phase and to divide long before they died in stationary phase. These results explain a phenomenon that was puzzling because it appeared to reflect a radical departure from mortality patterns observed for other species.
Identification of Logarithmic‐Type Creep of Calcium‐Silicate‐Hydrates by Means of Nanoindentation
Authors: Pichler Ch. , Lackner R.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  In order to relate the complex macroscopic behaviour of concrete with finer‐scale properties of cement paste, aggregates, porous space, etc. multiscale models are developed. Here, in addition to homogenisation schemes establishing the relation between the properties of the constituents, e.g. matrix and inclusions, and the properties of the composite material, experimental methods for identification of finer‐scale properties are required. Recently, the elastic properties of the main clinker phases in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and calcium‐silicate‐hydrates (CSH) were identified by nanoindentation (NI). In this paper, the NI technique is extended towards identification of the viscous, time‐dependent behaviour of CSH, i.e. the main finer‐scale binding phase in OPC‐based material systems. Hereby, a logarithmic‐type creep behaviour is identified, corresponding perfectly to the creep behaviour encountered for mortars and concrete.
Delamination Depth in Composites Laminates With Interface Elements and Ultrasound Analysis
Authors: Amaro A. M. , Santos J. B. , Cirne J. S.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This paper deals with the impact‐induced damage depth for laminated composite plates under low velocity impact. The numerical model developed here is an interface element compatible with the eight‐node isoparametric hexahedral element, present in Modulef software. This new element allows modelling the behaviour of the damage interface, considering a three‐dimensional stress state, the interpenetration constraint and the propagation of the delamination. The use of the interface element and of the damage model is proposed to predict damage for low impact velocities and to obtain accurately the shape, size and defect depth of delaminations in carbon‐epoxy [0,90,0,90]2s and [0,90]8 laminates. The laminate is also simulated using a damage model based on the indirect use of fracture mechanics implemented in Abaqus software. The defects in the impacted specimens were then inspected by ultrasonic C‐scan technique and by electronic speckle pattern interferometry as a comparative method. A good agreement between numerical results and experimental testing is demonstrated.
Phototherapy in Childhood
Authors: Ersoy‐Evans Sibel , Altaykan Aslı , Şahin Sedef , Kölemen Fikret
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Background: Little data exist about the efficacy of phototherapy in childhood dermatoses. Objective: To report our experience with pediatric patients treated with phototherapy. Methods: The study included children ≤17 years of age, who were treated in our phototherapy unit between 1985 and 2005. Data were retrospectively collected. Results: The study included 113 patients (50 boys, 63 girls) with a median of age of 13 years (range: 3–17 yrs). Narrow‐band ultraviolet‐B (34.6%), and ultraviolet‐B (33.1%) were the most common treatments administered to the patients. Indications for phototherapy were psoriasis in 53.5%, vitiligo in 20.5%, pityriasis lichenoides in 14.2%, alopecia areata in 7.9%. Response was achieved in 92.9% of the psoriasis patients treated with narrow‐band ultraviolet‐B, in 83.3% treated with psoralen plus ultraviolet‐A, and in 93.3% with ultraviolet‐B. All the pityriasis lichenoides chronica patients who received narrow‐band ultraviolet‐B responded to the treatment and seven of nine treated with ultraviolet‐B had a response. Response was achieved in 57% of the vitiligo patients treated with psoralen plus ultraviolet‐A and in 50% of vitiligo patients treated with narrow‐band ultraviolet‐B. Of the 10 alopecia areata patients, two responded to psoralen plus ultraviolet‐A. Among all the patients, erythema was the most common adverse effect. Conclusion: Phototherapy is a well‐tolerated treatment for childhood dermatoses, and is especially efficacious in psoriasis and pityriasis lichenoides chronica patients.
Diffuse Nonscarring Alopecia of Scalp: An Indicator of Early Infantile Scurvy?
Authors: RAGUNATHA SHIVANNA , INAMADAR ARUN C. , PALIT APARNA , SAMPAGAVI VISHWANATH V. , DESHMUKH NIRANJAN S.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  An infant with diffuse nonscarring alopecia of scalp and radiologic features of scurvy responded dramatically to oral vitamin C therapy. The characteristic cutaneous manifestations of scurvy are usually not seen in infancy. The manifestations of initial stage of scurvy that are not related to collagen synthesis, as in the present case, should alert to the possibility of this potentially fatal condition.
Outbreak of Rash in Children Associated with Recreational Mud Exposure
Authors: TURABELIDZE GEORGE , TUCKER ALISON , BUTLER CINDY , GIBBS ELIZABETH , FICK FRANK
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  We conducted an investigation of a rash outbreak in children who attended the “Mud Mania Festival.” The mean incubation period of illness was 26 hours, and mean duration was 4.3 days. Time spent in mud was associated with the extent of rash in a dose–response fashion. The cultures from lesions of two unrelated cases yielded Enterobacter cloacae.
New Emollient with Topical Corticosteroid‐Sparing Effect in Treatment of Childhood Atopic Dermatitis: SCORAD and Quality of Life Improvement
Authors: Msika Philippe , De Belilovsky Clarence , Piccardi Nathalie , Chebassier Nathalie , Baudouin Caroline , Chadoutaud Bernard
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Emollients are commonly used for their effectiveness on atopic skin, supported by a few clinical studies suggesting their potential role as corticosteroid sparing agents. We investigated the effect of a new natural emollient on corticosteroid sparing and quality of life of young atopic children and their family. Eighty‐six patients (4–48 mos) with moderate atopic dermatitis were randomized by 20 pediatricians to five groups for 21 days: corticosteroids (from twice daily to one application every other day) combined or not with the studied cream (twice daily), and evaluated by SCORAD and specific quality of life questionnaires. At the end of the study, all five groups were statistically improved in terms of SCORAD and quality of life index. Thus, application of a topical corticosteroid every other day in addition to the studied cream was as effective as a once or twice daily application of the steroid alone. The studied cream had a significant impact on lichenification, excoriation and quality of life. A twice daily application of a new natural emollient provided a major corticosteroid sparing, improved lichenification and excoriation and improved the quality of life in children and their parents.
Neonatal onychomadesis with candidiasis limited to affected nails
Authors: PATEL NISHA C. , SILVERMAN ROBERT A.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  A case of onychomadesis in one of twins with onset in the neonatal period is reported. We hypothesize that the nail deformities were induced by the stress of a breech presentation during preterm labor and that candidiasis limited to the bands of onychomadesis exaggerated the appearance of the nail deformity.
A Presumptive Case of Kindler Syndrome with a New Clinical Finding
Authors: SATTER ELIZABETH K.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Herein we present a 9‐year‐old boy with a constellation of clinical findings most consistent with Kindler syndrome, and report a new finding, severe corneal ectasia, which resulted in exposure keratitis requiring enucleation.
Familial Clusturing of Henoch‐Schönlein Purpura or IgA Nephropathy: Genetic Background or Environmental Triggers?
Authors: SHIN JAE IL , LEE JAE SEUNG
Published: November 2008

Letters to the Editor are welcomed for publication (subject to editing). Letters must be signed by all authors, and must not exceed two pages of text including references. Letters should not duplicate material submitted or published in other journals. Prepublication proofs will not be provided.
Charting the Landscape of Children's Rights
Authors: Ruck Martin D. , Horn Stacey S.
Published: November 2008

This issue of the Journal of Social Issues presents current theory, research, and methodological considerations pertaining to “Young People's Perspectives on the Rights of the Child.” The following brief introduction charts the landscape of children's rights by outlining the purpose and goals of the issue, provides a short historical overview on the topic, sets the context for the individual articles, and highlights the recurring themes making up this issue of JSI. The authors of the articles in this issue extend current knowledge and thinking on the topic of children rights and also set the foundation for future empirical work, practice, and policy pertaining to children's rights and rights‐focused research.
The Long‐Run Relationship Between House Prices and Rents
Authors: Gallin Joshua
Published: November 2008

I use standard error‐correction models and long‐horizon regression models to examine how well the rent–price ratio predicts future changes in real rents and prices. I find evidence that the rent–price ratio helps predict changes in real prices over 4‐year periods, but that the rent–price ratio has little predictive power for changes in real rents over the same period. I show that a long‐horizon regression approach can yield biased estimates of the degree of error correction if prices have a unit root but do not follow a random walk, and I construct bootstrap distributions to conduct appropriate inference in the presence of this bias. The results lend empirical support to the view that the rent–price ratio is an indicator of valuation in the housing market.
The Real Estate Brokerage Market and the Decision to Disclose Property Condition Defects
Authors: Wiley Jonathan A. , Zumpano Len V.
Published: November 2008

This article presents a theoretical model of the decision to disclose property condition defects by a real estate broker. The model introduces the costs and benefits of disclosure into the broker's profit function. The comparative static results of the model show that a number of factors will have a deterministic influence on the broker's expected profit and, hence, the broker's decision to disclose. Whether voluntary disclosure occurs depends upon the costs of repairing the defect, prevailing market conditions, commission rates and the legal environment in which the broker operates.
Evidence of the Dual Nature of Property Value Recovery Following Environmental Remediation
Authors: Aydin Recai , Smith Barton A.
Published: November 2008

The literature on home value diminution attributable to environmental degradation and its possible reversal typically ignores indirect effects upon neighborhood characteristics that can exacerbate the overall change in property values, resulting in underestimates of diminution and overestimates of recovery. Furthermore, to the extent that direct price effects and neighborhood transition effects respond differently to remediation efforts, the relatively new postremediation literature misses an important part of the recovery process. This study examines both direct and indirect effects and finds in the case of Houston Environmental Protection Agency Superfund sites that, while the direct value impacts of proximity to toxic waste sites was significantly reduced after remediation, the indirect effects associated with induced demographic changes were much slower to reverse, producing a housing market inertia that stifled full home value recovery.
The Youth Ministry Mission Trip as Global Tourism: Are we OK with this?
Authors: Root Andrew
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This article explores the rise of the short‐term mission trip in youth ministry. It argues that this escalation has much to do with transformations of globalization. This reality requires that the mission trip confront the conundrum of dealing with dichotomies between its service and its tourist activities. By exploring the work of sociologist Zygmunt Bauman we see why we face such dichotomies. The article concludes by providing some theological thoughts connected to Karl Barth's theology of the word that might help us move past these tensions between global service and global tourism.
The Freedom of a Teenager: Vocation and Service Learning as the Future of Youth Ministry
Authors: Myers Jeremy , Jackson Mark
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This article asserts the value of service learning as integral to youth ministry's future. However, service learning often lacks an appropriate philosophical foundation and an effectual process. Therefore, we offer Luther's doctrine of vocation as a framework for engaging youth in service experiences, which in return becomes a concrete way to experience the doctrine of vocation and, more importantly, the freedom of a Christian. Framed and interpreted through a vocational lens, service experiences aid youth in recognizing the urgency of a life of faith,
Imagination, Pop Culture and Ministry with Youth and Young Adults1
Authors: Scharen Christian
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  In this article I raise the question of whether and how Christians can become captive to a kind of constricted imagination, and how this does not serve the church well in its work with youth and young adults. I draw on examples from pop music (Kanye West, U2) to portray the theological logic of ‘check‐list Christianity.’ As an alternative, I follow C. S. Lewis in reorienting the perspective from deciding if some cultural object (song, movie, TV show) is good or bad, to asking what sort of people we become by attending to this or that cultural object; specifically, does it enlarge our being‐before‐God or not? This requires that we also view pop culture as the domain of God's work in Christ, and that we confess that God is already working reconciliation in the midst of the world.
Biblical and Theological Perspectives on Children, Parents, and ‘Best Practices' for Faith Formation: Resources for Child, Youth, and Family Ministry Today
Authors: Bunge Marcia J.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  One of the most important ways to strengthen the faith formation of children and young people, and child, youth, and family ministries is by engaging and supporting parents or primary care‐givers. This article seeks to address this challenge by mining resources from the Bible and Christian theology about the roles and responsibilities of parents, the complexity and dignity of children, and ways to pass on the faith. By taking into account theological perspectives on parents, children, and faith formation, church leaders can better engage both children and parents, and they can strengthen all areas of their work with or on behalf of children and young people, whether in children's ministry, youth and family ministry, religious education, or child advocacy.
The ELCA at Twenty: A Young Church that Works
Authors: Cooper‐White Michael L.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This assessment, from a pastor who has served in all three of its ‘expressions' (congregation, synod, churchwide), and now heads one of its 8 seminaries, celebrates both major achievements as well as the interdependent ‘churchstyle’ exhibited by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America during its first 20 years.
The ELCA at 20 Years: Flunking the Theological Test
Authors: Braaten Carl E.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  This article deals with four theological issues at the forefront of controversy in the ELCA. They are: 1) the naming of God; 2) the unique place of Jesus in the world's salvation; 3) the authority and interpretation of the Bible; 4) the place of the law in theological ethics. The response to these issues holds the key as to whether or to what extent the ELCA will be faithful to its confessional commitment or become just another variety of liberal Protestantism.
The First Twenty Years of the ELCA: Remembrances of a Retired Bishop
Authors: Maahs Charles H.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The ELCA has experienced a number of significant events and developments in the first twenty years of its existence as a Church. In this article you will read about the preparation and direction that newly elected Bishops received for their ministry in their synods, and some of the struggles and joys that accompanied their work with one another and with their rostered leaders and congregations. It is the perspective of one retired Bishop Emeritus who gives an account of his ministry as he experienced it.
Bowling Alone but Working and Worshiping Together
Authors: LaHurd Carol Schersten
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The following article reviews both the strengths and weaknesses of the ELCA on the anniversary of 20 years of existence. The article emphasizes the increased diversity in the denomination, particularly the increased participation of women both in scholarship and leadership in the church. It also lifts up the importance of the strong ecumenical work that continues to take place, both nationally and internationally, which is evidenced in the ELCA's full communion agreements. Commitments to social justice, global connectedness and economic stewardship are also discussed.
A Ventricular Septum Filleted Down the Middle
Authors: Ghalichi Mohammad S. , Sarma Radha J. , Nuno Ismael N.
Published: November 2008

Trauma inflicted by sharp penetrating objects can cause unusual and complex injuries to the heart. We present a case where penetrating trauma caused an unusual ventricular laceration that filleted the ventricular septum into two separate sections creating an artificial chamber in between. The ventricular septal defect was clearly displayed with echocardiography and required special cardiac surgical intervention.
Insights into Left Ventricular Function from the Time Course of Regional and Global Rotation by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Van Dalen Bas M. , Soliman Osama I.I. , Vletter Wim B. , Ten Cate Folkert J. , Geleijnse Marcel L.
Published: November 2008

Background: Description and quantification of regional left ventricular (LV) rotation and the time course of LV rotation might provide further insight into LV function. Methods: The study comprised 60 healthy volunteers (age 39 ± 15 years, 31 men) in whom complete global and regional LV rotation could be assessed at both the basal and apical LV level with speckle tracking echocardiography, using QLAB advanced quantification software version 6.0 (Philips, Best, The Netherlands). Results: At the LV basal level, a brief counterclockwise rotation from aortic valve opening until 25% ejection was seen in the anterior segments (anterior, anteroseptal, anterolateral) only. Clockwise rotation in the anterior segments at the basal level was decreased as compared to the posterior segments (inferior, inferoseptal, inferolateral) from 25% ejection until aortic valve closure. At the LV apical level, all segments showed a brief clockwise rotation during the isovolumic contraction phase. Also, at this level there were no differences in regional LV rotation at any other moment during the cardiac cycle. There was a marked de‐rotation from the moment of maximal rotation until E‐peak at the LV basal level (79 ± 18%) whereas de‐rotation during this interval was less pronounced at the LV apical level (55 ± 21%). Only at the LV basal level significant linear relationships were seen between the E/A ratio and de‐rotation extent and velocity from mitral valve opening until E‐peak (R2= 0.42 and R2= 0.40, respectively, both P < 0.001). Conclusion: In the normal human heart significant regional differences in LV rotation and de‐rotation exist.
Predicting Admissions for Childhood Asthma Based on Proximity to Major Roadways
Authors: Newcomb Patricia , Li Jianling
Published: November 2008

Purpose: This retrospective study is an investigation of the relationship between traffic exposure and childhood asthma exacerbations in a previously unstudied geographic area. We hypothesized that, controlling for selected demographic and social factors, exposure to traffic emissions would allow the prediction of hospital utilization for children with asthma.

Design: Using hospital and emergency department (ED) records, we investigated the relationship between proximity to major roadways and admissions for asthma exacerbations in the Fort Worth metropolitan area, designated as not attaining federal air health standards. The sample included 2,357 children from 1 to 12 years of age admitted for emergency or inpatient treatment in a 288‐bed, nonprofit children's medical center in Fort Worth, Texas from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2005. Data were analyzed using GIS mapping and logistic regression.

Methods: Deidentification data were collected from hospital databases after IRB approval and waiver of parental permission or patient consent. Student's t test was used to compare groups with and without primary asthma diagnosis on admission in respect to distance from major roadways. Logistic regression was used to model relationships between asthma admission and patients' characteristics, exposure to traffic, and social environment.

Findings: Controlling for several demographic factors, asthma occurrences were positively related to traffic exposures. On average, patients with asthma lived closer to major roadways than did patients who did not have asthma. Patients with asthma also tended to live in neighborhoods with more roads than did those who did not have asthma; 3/4 of the children admitted for asthma during the study period and less than 1/3 of the children admitted for nonasthma diagnoses lived within 1,500 meters of a major roadway (p=.0001). Controlling for other factors, every meter increase in proximity to major roadways produced 0.1% increase in likelihood of admission.

Clinical Relevance: Knowledge of risk factors and their relative magnitudes enable nurses to better tailor symptom management for individual patients.
Neurofibromatosis 2 leads to higher incidence of strabismological and neuro‐ophthalmological disorders
Authors: Feucht Matthias , Griffiths Birgit , Niemüller Ilka , Haase Wolfgang , Richard Gisbert , Mautner Victor‐Felix
Published: November 2008

Purpose:  Ophthalmic features of neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) include juvenile cataract, retinal hamartomas and tumours of the cranial nerves. We hypothesize that these tumours lead to strabismological and neuro‐ophthalmological symptoms, including palsies of cranial nerves III, IV and VI, nystagmus and gaze palsies.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective review of 73 patients with known genotype. They underwent ophthalmic, neuro‐ophthalmological and strabismological examination. Statistical analysis was performed by calculating odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals.

Results:  Mean best corrected visual acuity was 0.85. Strabismus was found in 38 of 73 patients (52%). A deviation based on a cranial nerve palsy was found in 16 patients (22%) and three had supranuclear palsies. Eleven of 73 patients had a nystagmus, mostly caused by peripheral–vestibular disturbance. Binocular single vision was normal in 41 (58%), subnormal in six (8%) and not present in 24 (34%) patients. The average refractive error was − 0.57 D. Myopia of ≥ 0.5 D was present in 47 (33%) eyes and hyperopia of ≥ 2.0 D was measured in 11 (8%) eyes. In the subgroup analysis of NF2 mutation types, the relative risk for cranial nerve palsies and negative stereopsis was statistically significantly increased for the nonsense mutation group. The mosaicism group had a statistically significant decreased relative risk for concomitant squint, as did patients with unfound mutations for strabismus and poor stereopsis.

Conclusions:  The present study is, to our knowledge, the first to examine a larger collection of NF2 patients for strabismological and neuro‐ophthalmological lesions. Compared with the normal population, our sample showed a higher amount of strabismus, refractive errors and an increased incidence of vestibular nystagmus.