bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Preliminary Study of the Relationship of the WISC-III and WRAT-3 With a Sample of Exceptional Students
Authors: Vance Booney , Mayes Larry , Fuller Gerald B. , Abdullah Ahmad A.
Published: December 2008

This investigation compared the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-III with the Wide Range Achievement Test-3 for a sample of 60 children and youth who were receiving special education services. Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficients were calculated and an analysis of variance between the scores of the two tests was calculated. The correlations indicated a significant positive relationship between the WISC-III and WRAT-3. The analysis of variance that compared standard scores of the WISC-III and WRAT-3 indicated that significant differences existed between test scores. Implications with respect to the relationship between the tests are discussed.
Reliability and Validity of Mother Responses To the Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale-Parent Version (Dbrs-P)
Authors: Erford Bradley T.
Published: December 2008

Reliability and construct validity of mother responses to the Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale—Parent Version were studied. Factor analysis confirmed a four-factor structure underlying the scale. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the Distractible (r=.95 and .92, respectively), Oppositional (r=.88 and .82 respectively) and Impulsive-Hyperactive (r=.92 and .89, respectively) subscales were excellent, whereas the Antisocial Conduct factor was marginal (r=.67 and .65, respectively). Convergent validity with similar rating scales and diagnostic validity against DSM-IV criterion was excellent. Evidence of discriminant validity was provided.
The Use of the Battelle Developmental Inventory in the Prediction of Later Development
Authors: Behl Diane D. , Akers James F.
Published: December 2008

This study was designed to assess the ability of the Battelle Developmental Inventory (BDI) to predict later achievement involving a sample of children with or at-risk for developmental delays. The investigation utilized BDI scores administered annually for one to three years involving children who were one to four years of age. Results were compared to those obtained on the Woodcock-Johnson Test of Achievement-Revised, standard battery (WJR-ACH: Woodcock & Johnson, 1989), which was administered one, two, and three years following the last administration of the BDI. Correlations between earlier BDI and later WJR-ACH scores for three combinations of scales tested generally increased from approximately r = .05 for BDI scores at age 1 to a mean of .72 for BDIs administered at age 3. For ages 3 years and greater, mean correlations remained relatively stable across ages and were also substantial in magnitude (ages 3 to 12 years = .74; range = .40 to .94). Thus, BDI scores from children at or above age 2 years appeared to consistently predict WJR-ACH scores received at ages 6 to 12 years; however, the ability of the BDI to predict later scores on the WJR-ACH was weak when administered to children less than 18 months of age.
Teaching Law Concepts Within Mainstreamed Middle School Social Studies Settings
Authors: Hollenbeck Keith , Tindal Gerald
Published: December 2008

Reports of increased juvenile crime rates abound, and arrest rates among adolescents are also growing. Tragically, adolescents with learning disabilities account for a sizable portion of those disturbing statistics. Because many adolescents, including those with learning disabilities, do not anticipate future consequences of their misconduct, this descriptive study proactively sought to teach mainstreamed classrooms of sixth graders about Oregon law to counteract this lack of knowledge. Students' learning in the areas of criminal and civil law was the focus. Emphasis was on wanting to know more than just what laws and statutes students could memorize; rather, interest was on the students' ability to perform legal problem solving. The generalized research question was: Will the performance of general education, Title I, talented and gifted, and learning-disabled sixth grade students assessed by multiple choice tasks and by extended essay tasks differ on the concepts of law, juvenile law, civil law, and criminal law? At the end of approximately three weeks, students were given a facts test along with several problem-solving tasks. Results showed that the four groups differed significantly on declarative knowledge tasks, but not on procedural and conditional knowledge tasks. These outcomes are congruent with prior research findings and further support the collaborative conceptual teaching model.
Issues in the Assessment of Children's Social Skills
Authors: Elksnin Linda K. , Elksnin Nick
Published: December 2008

Social skills intervention has outpaced assessment of children's social skills. If effective interventions are to be developed, it is essential that we conduct valid and reliable assessment of social skills. The purpose of this paper is to review and evaluate approaches to the assessment of social skills of children, pre-kindergarten through high school. The authors advocate a comprehensive model of social skills assessment that utilizes multiple settings, multiple instruments and multiple sources.
Differences in Wisc-III Scores for Boys and Girls With Specific Learning Disabilities
Authors: Slate John R.
Published: December 2008

WISC-III IQs and subtest scaled scores of 440 students (333 boys, 107 girls) with Specific Learning Disabilities were examined for differences as a function of gender. Boys exhibited statistically higher Full Scale, Verbal, and Performance IQs than did girls as well as higher scores on six of seven subtests. Girls outperformed boys only on the Coding subtest. On only four subtests, Arithmetic, Similarities, Picture Arrangement, and Digit Span, were mean gender differences not present. The factor structure of the WISC-III varied as a function of gender. Object Assembly and Coding did not contribute to "g" for boys whereas only Coding did not contribute to "g" for girls. In addition, the second and third rotated factors differed slightly for boys and for girls. Regression findings revealed that Object Assembly, Coding, and Comprehension for girls and only Object Assembly for boys yielded betas > .20. Discriminant analysis yielded three subtests, Object Assembly, Coding, and Information, that most differentiated boys from girls. Implications for both practitioners and researchers are discussed.
Using CBM To Explore a Consequential Basis for the Validity of a State-Wide Performance Assessment
Authors: Nolet Victor , McLaughlin Margaret
Published: December 2008

This study examines the consequences of a state-wide performance assessment program using Curriculum-Based Measurement (CBM). CBM reading and writing measures were administered three times during the school year in two fifth-grade classrooms that were participating in a state-wide school accountability program employing an extended performance task. We found significant gains in written expression but no progress in reading. We concluded that this finding probably reflected an increased amount of time spent in classroom writing activities in preparation for the performance assessment. Both CBM and performance assessment are viewed as important tools for building systemically valid classroom assessment programs.
The Utility of Multidisciplinary Assessment Reports for Classroom Intervention: Ratings From the Field
Authors: Feldis Dorothyann , Johnson Lawrence J. , Anania-Smith Deborah
Published: December 2008

Assessment is a mandated component of early intervention direct service programs (Campbell, 1992; Fewell, 1991; Slentz and Bricker, 1992; Stayton and Johnson, 1990), but there has been little research to determine 1) how useful assessment results are for professionals providing direct service and 2) the role of direct service professionals in the assessment process. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of information included in multidisciplinary assessment reports and how useful this information is to educators in planning intervention programs. This study investigates the frequency and helpfulness of information included in multidisciplinary assessment reports as rated by direct service providers and administrators in planning intervention programs for young children and their families. Results of a random questionnaire indicate a significant difference in the ratings of direct service providers and of administrators in terms of frequency and helpfulness of the information found on these reports. The data presented here are the result of a national survey with a 51 percent return rate and a 79 percent response rate.
Gender Differences and Factor Structure of Wisc-Iii Scores for Students With Mild Mental Retardation
Authors: Slate John R. , Jones Craig H.
Published: December 2008

WISC-III scores from the special education folders of 233 students with mental retardation were examined. Boys had higher Full Scale, Verbal, and Performance IQs than did girls. Boys also had higher scores on 6 of 10 subtests. Existence of "g" was supported, but Vocabulary and Object Assembly did not contribute to "g" for boys. Perceptual Organization, Verbal Comprehension, and Freedom from Distractibility were supported for girls, but only Perceptual Organization was supported for boys. Performance subtests were better predictors of Full Scale IQs than were Verbal subtests. Coding was the strongest predictor and Vocabulary was the weakest predictor for both boys and girls. Object Assembly was the second strongest predictor for boys but was ninth strongest for girls.
Neglected Numerators, Drifting Denominators, and Fractured Fractions: Determining Participation Rates for Students With Disabilities
Authors: Erickson Ron , Ysseldyke Jim , Thurlow Martha
Published: December 2008

Current educational reform efforts seek to ensure accountability for educational results for all of our nation's students and, thus, there is increasing interest in the extent to which current large-scale assessment practices and programs include students with disabilities. Developing accurate procedures for reporting on the participation of students with disabilities in such assessment programs has proven to be difficult, due to a lack of data, differing definitions of eligible testing populations, and the misalignment of data collection efforts and data management responsibilities. Specific recotnmendations are offered for both policymakers and local practitioners and administrators to address these issues, and to assist in improving our ability to accurately report the participation of students with disabilities in educational assessment programs.
The Value of 'Parents' Evaluations of Developmental Status' in Detecting and Addressing Children's Developmental and Behavioral Problems
Authors: Glascoe Frances Page
Published: December 2008

This study illustrates the validity and accuracy of a new developmental measure called Parents' Evaluations of Developmental Status (PEDS). PEDS helps professionals elicit and interpret parents' concerns about their children's behavior and development. In so doing, PEDS serves as a screening tool and meets standards for screening test accuracy (70% - 80% of children with and without disabilities correctly detected). PEDS also helps parents and professionals collaborate in a range of other decisions about developmental and behavioral issues including when (a) to refer children for further testing and to determine what kinds of testing are needed, (b) to provide parents with counseling or training; (c) to administer a second stage screening test; (d) to monitor children who may be at risk for future difficulties as well as children who appear to be developing normally.
Spasticity Management: An Overview
Authors: Goldstein Edward M.
Published: December 2008

Recent developments in therapeutic interventions for children with spasticity have complicated managerial decision making. A simplified paradigm for the pathophysiology of spasticity is presented, which emphasizes the ways in which treatment modalities disrupt hyperexcitable segmental spinal reflex arcs. Various techniques for the management of spasticity are reviewed, along with factors relevant to proper patient selection for therapeutic intervention. Potential goals for spasticity management are considered as are outcome measures for assessing the efficacy of these technologies. (J Child Neurol 2001;16:16-23).
Spasticity: Orthopedic Perspective
Authors: Woo Raymund
Published: December 2008

The orthopedic management of spasticity is based on the effects of this neurologic condition on the bones and tissues of the growing child. The goal of such intervention is to maximize function, reduce disability, and facilitate mobility. Goal-directed treatment plans are tailored for each patient and may include a combination of modalities such as physical and occupational therapy, casting, orthoses, and surgery. Physical and occupational therapy is emphasized up to 4 to 5 years of age, whereas surgery is best between 5 and 7 years of age. Education and psychosocial development should be emphasized beginning at age 7 years through adulthood, with surgery reserved for more involved cases of contracture or bony dysplasia. In adulthood, treatment should be focused on integration into society and maximizing functional independence. Although there are many undisputed benefits of therapy, no consensus exists regarding the most beneficial modality, the age group that would benefit most, or whether continued treatment is beneficial in adulthood. Whereas the use of serial casting and tone-reducing casts has lessened, lower extremity orthoses have gained widespread acceptance with improvements in design and fabrication and have been demonstrated to help restore normal heel-toe gait. Surgical techniques such as tendon lengthening, transfer, bony osteotomy, and joint fusion are time-honored techniques that continue to be refined with current advances in the use of computerized gait analysis for preoperative planning. Further research in long-term results and outcomes measurement will be necessary to fully assess the impact of current treatment. (J Child Neurol 2001;16:47-53).
Cognitive and Neuropsychological Functioning in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Fennell Eileen B. , Dikel Thomas N.
Published: December 2008

This article reviews the extant literature on intellectual functioning in different subtypes of cerebral palsy. Following a definition of the characteristics of each of three major cerebral palsy groups, typical neurologic and magnetic resonance imaging findings are reported. More recent studies that examine the intellectual and neuropsychological functioning of children within these classification groups are also reviewed. This review concludes that there remains a significant lack of precise information about the impact of cerebral palsy on the intellectual, motor, and neuropsychological functioning of children and that neuropsychological assessment can provide the necessary tools for such studies. (J Child Neurol 2001;16:58-63).
Tropical Review: Zonisamide in Pediatric Epilepsy: Review of the Japanese Experience
Authors: Glauser Tracy A. , Pellock John M.
Published: December 2008

Zonisamide is a novel anticonvulsant that is structurally and mechanistically unique, compared with other antiepilepsy drugs. Available in Japan and South Korea since 1989, it was approved in the United States in the year 2000 as adjunctive therapy for partial seizures in adults. There has been extensive clinical trial and clinical practice experience with zonisamide therapy in Japanese children. Open-label data from pediatric clinical trials conducted in Japan suggest that zonisamide is well tolerated and effective against partial- and generalized-onset seizures in children. Despite this wealth of open-label data, no formal pharmacokinetic studies and only one well-controlled trial of zonisamide's efficacy and safety in Japanese children have been completed to date. No controlled clinical trials of zonisamide in children have been completed in the United States or Europe. Additional controlled trials in children with partial- or generalized-onset seizures, infantile spasms, and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome are warranted to further delineate zonisamide's broad spectrum of efficacy and tolerability in children. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:87-96).
Statistical Analyses of Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Head of the Caudate Nucleus in Colombian Children With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Pineda David A. , Restrepo M. Adelaida , Sarmiento Ruth J. , Gutierrez Juan E. , Vargas Sergio A. , Quiroz Yakel T. , Hynd George W.
Published: December 2008

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the caudate nucleus have reported reversal asymmetry and alterations of its size, suggesting a striate cortical disorder related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The objective was to evaluate whether alterations of the asymmetry and size of the caudate nucleus head exist in a sample of well-controlled 7- to 11-year-old Colombian children, with different types of ADHD. Two groups of cases—ADHD of the combined type and ADHD of the inattentive type—and one control group, were selected. Multiple methods for assessing ADHD (rating scales, psychologic interview, neurologic history and examination, and neuropsychologic evaluation) were used to confirm the diagnoses. Participants with a history of language disorder, learning disabilities, depression, and other major neurologic and psychiatric conditions were excluded. Finally all groups had 15 children, matched by sex (7 male, 8 female), age, socioeconomic status, and grade. Height, weight, head circumference, and encephalic index were statistically controlled. Three T1-weighted volumetric (three-dimensional) MRI slides of the caudate nucleus head were obtained with a 1.5-Tesla Gyroscan apparatus. The control group had a significantly higher Wechsler Full-Scale IQ than the groups with ADHD of the combined type and ADHD of the inattentive type (P < .001). Volumes from the left caudate nucleus head were significantly larger than volumes from the right in all groups (P < .001). There were no group differences when volumes were compared between groups. All of the groups had left caudate nucleus head volumes significantly higher than right, although there were no between-group differences. The results in relation to previous studies are discussed. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:97-105).
Electroencephalographic Dipoles of Spikes With and Without Myoclonic Jerks Caused by Epilepsia Partialis Continua
Authors: Ochi Ayako , Otsubo Hiroshi , Sharma Rohit , Elliott Irene , Rutka James T. , Chuang Sylvester H. , Kamijo Ken-ichi , Kiyuna Tomoharu , Yamazaki Toshimasa , Snead O. Carter
Published: December 2008

We used electroencephalographic (EEG) dipole analysis to investigate the generators of spikes with and without myoclonic jerks in a 12-year-old patient with epilepsia partialis continua secondary to left parietal cortical dysplasia. We recorded EEG and right wrist extensor electromyography (EMG) and collected 42 spikes with jerks (jerking spikes) and 42 spikes without jerks (nonjerking spikes). We applied a single moving dipole model to the individual and averaged spikes. Dipoles at the negative peak of individual jerking and nonjerking spikes were localized in the dysplastic area. At the onset of the averaged jerking spike that preceded the EMG discharges by 20 ms, the dipole was in the motor cortex, whereas for the averaged nonjerking spike, the dipole was in the sensory cortex. The dipole moment at averaged jerking spike onset was twice that of the averaged nonjerking spike. Electroencephalographic dipole analysis of averaged spikes differentiated the generator of jerking and nonjerking spikes in epilepsia partialis continua. Individual dipoles demonstrated the area of epileptogenic cortical dysplasia. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:127-131)
Asperger's Syndrome and Cortical Neuropathology
Authors: Casanova Manuel F. , Buxhoeveden Daniel P. , Switala Andrew E. , Roy Emil
Published: December 2008

Asperger's disorder or syndrome is characterized by impaired social interaction, normal intelligence, and adequate language skills in the areas of grammar and vocabulary. The symptoms are pervasive in nature and usually manifested in childhood. Despite the gravity and chronicity of the condition, the medical literature remains sparse and offers no information about possible neuropathologic underpinnings. The present study is a case report on two patients with Asperger's syndrome. Neuropathologic examination revealed no degenerative changes or gliosis. A more detailed assessment with computerized image analysis indicated abnormalities in the minicolumnar organization of the three areas examined (9, 21, 22) (P = .032). Specifically, minicolumns were smaller, and their component cells were more dispersed than normal. A similar neuropathology has recently been reported for autism and disputes the uniqueness of these findings. The minicolumnar changes provide a possible link to receptive field abnormalities and a useful clinicopathologic correlate to Asperger's syndrome. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:142-145).
Hurler's Syndrome, West's Syndrome, and Vitamin D-Dependent Rickets
Authors: Gudino Marco A. , Campistol Jaume , Chavez Beatriz , Conill Joan , Hernández Susanna , Vilaseca Maria A.
Published: December 2008

Mucopolysaccharidosis I is a metabolic disease of autosomal recessive inheritance caused by deficient activity of α-L-iduronidase. The clinical phenotype presents a wide spectrum of signs in the first year of life. We report a child with clinical features and laboratory data consistent with mucopolysaccharidosis I who precociously developed hydrocephalus and flexion spasms with hypsarrythmia in the electroencephalographic registration characteristic of West's syndrome. His radiologic and biochemical data suggested vitamin D-dependent rickets. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient demonstrating an association among mucopolysaccharidosis I, West's syndrome, and vitamin D-dependent rickets. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:149-151).
Gelastic Seizure With Tectal Tumor, Lobar Holoprosencephaly, and Subependymal Nodules: Clinical Report
Authors: Akman Cigdem Inan , Schubert Romaine , Duran Maria , Loh John
Published: December 2008

Gelastic seizures are characterized by inappropriate, stereotyped laughter and are often first recognized when other epileptic manifestations occur. They are frequently associated with hypothalamic hamartomas. Central nervous system developmental abnormalities are rarely reported with gelastic seizures. There is only one case report of gelastic seizure caused by holoprosencephaly. We report a 2-year-old girl with multiple brain structural abnormalities including tectal tumor (possibly hamartoma), multiple subependymal nodules, and holoprosencephaly. She developed seizures during the newborn period and presented with gelastic seizure and simple partial seizure at 3 months of age. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:152-154).
Rickettsia typhi Infection Presenting as Subacute Meningitis
Authors: Galanakis Emmanouil , Gikas Achilleas , Bitsori Maria , Sbyrakis Stelios
Published: December 2008

We report two children with Rickettsia typhi infection presenting with mild central nervous system manifestations and pleocytosis in cerebrospinal fluid. Murine typhus should be included in the differential diagnosis of meningoencephalitis in children who are residents of endemic areas. (J Child Neurol 2002;17:156-157).
Long-term Mechanical Ventilation In Infants With Neuromuscular Disease
Authors: Iannaccone Susan T. , Guilfoile Timothy
Published: December 2008

Seven children with neuromuscular disease were placed on mechanical ventilation before the age of 2 years. The outcome for these patients was variable and did not correlate with primary diagnosis. There appeared to be a high correlation between the incidence of electrocardiogram changes and death. Our experience demonstrates that there was a high mortality rate (57%) in neuromuscular patients supported by mechanical ventilation before the age of 2 years. (J Child Neurol 1987;2:30-32).
Spino-Cerebellar Degeneration With Polyneuropathy Associated With Ceroid Lipofuscinosis in One Family
Authors: Wisniewski K.E. , Madrid R.E. , Dambska M. , Rapin I. , Pullarkat R. , Sklower S.
Published: December 2008

There are several clinically distinct forms of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis whose presentation and pathology are usually homogeneous within families. Several atypical variants have also been reported. We have studied an inbred sibship in which neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis appeared to present in two completely different ways. In the proband, the course was compatible with a somewhat atypical juvenile variant. Ataxia and spasticity started at 4.5 years, followed by blindness with optic atrophy, intractable seizures, dementia, and death at 14 years. Atypical features included areflexia, hypotonia, and ataxia. Electron microscopic studies of her skin and her rectal ganglion cells showed lucent, dense, and fingerprint inclusions that were also found in the central nervous system at autopsy. Her brother and sister developed difficulty walking at ages 8.5 and 10.5 years and are alive at 24 and 18 years. They presented with slowly progressive spinocerebellar degeneration with sensorimotor neuropathy without dementia, seizures, or visual impairment. Lysosomal enzymes and lipoprotein analysis were normal in all three siblings and their parents. Elevated dolichol in the urine and lucent, dense, and fingerprint inclusions in skin, cutaneous nerve, buffy coat lymphocytes in both siblings and in the sural nerve of the brother suggest that their disease may represent a novel phenotype of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. While it is possible that two different recessive genes may be segregating in this consanguineous family, we cannot dismiss the possibility that variability of gene expression may account for the divergent phenotypes. ( J Child Neurol 1987;2:33-41).
A Prospective Study of Neuropsychological Sequelae in Children With Brain Tumors
Authors: Bordeaux Janice D. , Dowell Richard E. , Copeland Donna R. , Fletcher Jack M. , Francis David J. , van Eys Jan
Published: December 2008

Surgery and radiotherapy are the primary modalities of treatment for pediatric brain tumors. Despite the widespread use of these treatments, little is known of their acute effects (within one year posttreatment) on neuropsychological functions. An understanding of acute treatment effects may provide valuable feedback to neurosurgeons and a baseline against which delayed sequelae may be evaluated. This study compares pre- and posttherapy neuropsychological test performance of pediatric brain tumor patients categorized into two groups on the basis of treatment modalities: surgery (n = 7) and radiotherapy (n = 7). Treatment groups were composed of children aged 56 to 196 months at the time of evaluation with heterogeneous tumor diagnoses and locations. Comparisons of pretherapy findings with normative values using confidence intervals indicated that both groups performed within the average range on most measures. Outstanding deficits at baseline were observed on tests of fine-motor, psychomotor, and timed language skills, and are likely to be attributable to tumor-related effects. Comparisons of pre- versus posttherapy neuropsychological test findings indicated no significant interval changes for either group. Results suggest that surgery and radiotherapy are not associated with acute effects on neuropsychological functions. ( J Child Neurol 1988;3:63-68).
Computerized Real-Time Neuromuscular Sonography: A New Application, Techniques and Methods
Authors: Fischer Asma Q. , Stephens Sharon
Published: December 2008

Diagnostic ultrasound has been extensively used for neurologic evaluation of cranial, vascular and spinal diseases. This study presents the techniques, methodology, and procedures for a new diagnostic application of ultrasound for evaluation of the neuromuscular system. In order to determine the optimum sonographic characterization of neuromuscular disease, normal anatomy has to be studied with ultrasound to develop a reproducible standardized methodology for routine use of ultrasound in neuromuscular imaging. To fulfill this objective, 30 subjects between the ages of 1 day and 59 years were studied with computerized real-time sonography. The results of this study are presented with illustration of the sonographic images of transverse and longitudinal planes of the upper and lower limbs. Computerization of optimum sonographic techniques, gradation of normal sonographic muscle anatomy by age, and elimination of operator variability were goals that were accomplished, thereby setting the stage for reliable, reproducible muscle imaging by ultrasound. ( J Child Neurol 1988;3:69-74).
Nerve Conduction Studies of the Sural Nerve in Childhood
Authors: Bye Ann , Fagan Elizabeth
Published: December 2008

A study of the sural nerve was undertaken to determine latency to onset and peak, duration of action potential, amplitude, and conduction velocity in 33 children, 1 to 7 years old. Multiple tests per patient resulted in 140 measurements per variable. To determine if the interpatient measurement variation was a significant factor compared to the intrapatient differences, one-way analysis of variance was performed. With each variable the F statistic showed the interpatient variation was significantly different (P < .001) than the intrapatient measurement variation. There was no significant age effect in the latency to onset and peak, the amplitude, and the duration of action potential. The mean value for latency to onset was 2.430 msec, latency to peak 2.997 msec, duration 2.161 msec, and amplitude 8.736 μV. Age was highly significant (P < .001) with conduction velocities calculated using latency to onset (CV1) and latency to peak (CV2), since distance was less in the younger child, according to the formulas: CV1 = 47.29 + 1.96 (age in years) and CV2 = 38.56 + 1.50 (age in years). Using regression analysis, temperature had no significant effect on CV1 or CV2. ( J Child Neurol 1988;3:94-99).
Midline Electrographic Abnormalities and Cerebral Lesions in the Newborn Brain
Authors: Scher Mark S.
Published: December 2008

Electroencephalographic (EEG) abnormalities arising from the midline region were identified in 154 of 1008 (15.2%) consecutive neonatal EEGs during a 24-month period. These records were obtained on 97 neonates with a variety of clinical diagnoses. Premature infants made up 79% (77/97) of this group. All patients received at least one cranial ultrasound at 7 to 10 days of life. Sixty-two percent (60/97) of the patients had radiographic and/or neuropathological documentation of cerebral lesions: intraventricular hemorrhage (25), periventricular leukomalacia (18), cerebral infarction (10), cerebral malformation (4), and miscellaneous lesions (3). Six types of midline EEG abnormalities are described: negative sharp waves, positive sharp waves, electrographic discharges associated with myoclonus, electrographic seizures, attenuation of background, and rhythmic monofrequencies. Approximately 90% of the patients with background attenuation, discharges with myoclonus, and positive sharp waves and 72% of patients with EEG seizures had cerebral lesions. Midline positive sharp waves were associated with periventricular leukomalacia as well as intraventricular hemorrhage. No midline positive sharp waves, attenuation, EEG seizures or discharges with myoclonus were found in 25 healthy, asymptomatic neonates. Besides positive sharp waves, other specific midline EEG abnormalities can be associated with cerebral lesions in the neonate. The rapid identification of midline EEG abnormalities in neonatal recordings can enhance the accuracy of both electrographic diagnosis and anatomic localization of associated cerebral lesions. (J Child Neurol 1988;3:135-146).
Acquired Aprosodia in Children
Authors: Bell William L. , Davis Diana L. , Morgan-Fisher Anna , Ross Elliott D.
Published: December 2008

In adults, the affective components of language, including certain aspects of prosody and gesturing, appear to be a dominant function of the right hemisphere. The various combinations of affective processing deficits associated with focal right brain damage are called aprosodias and have functional and anatomical correlates similar to the propositional language deficits associated with aphasias secondary to focal left brain damage. Developmental affective-prosodic deficits have been reported recently in children with congenital or very early right hemisphere injury. We now report two school-aged children with acquired motor-type aprosodias following acute right focal brain injury. Their affective prosody and singing were also analyzed acoustically during the acute and recovery phases of illness. Based on these cases, we propose the term children aprosodia to describe affective-prosodic deficits that result from acquired lesions of the right hemisphere in children. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:19-26).
Congenital Brachial Pals in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Rajeh S. , Corea J.R. , Al-Sibai M.H. , Al-Umran K. , Sankarankutty M.
Published: December 2008

The clinical features of 57 patients (31 males, 26 females) with congenital brachial palsy seen at the King Fahd Hospital of the University over a 5-year period are described. Delivery was difficult in 32 (56%), 20 (35%) were large babies (birth weight > 3,600 g), and 20 deliveries required either forceps or vacuum extraction. The presentation at delivery was vertex in 45, breech in five, and shoulder in four. Associated injuries or features, encountered in 14 cases, were fractures of the clavicle and humerus (six cases each), and skull fracture and Horner's syndrome in one patient each. The right and left sides were involved in 31 and 24 cases, respectively, and both sides in only two cases. All the muscle groups of the affected limb were most commonly involved (40%), and hand muscles alone were affected in only one patient. Although 60% of the cases presented late to the hospital, functional recovery was observed in 63%. The major predisposing factors identified in this study were technically difficult deliveries, large infants, and breech or shoulder presentation with assisted delivery. It is suggested that early identification of these factors and improvement in obstetric care of both the mothers and babies during delivery would reduce the incidence and severity of this disability. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:35-38).
Auditory Brain Stem Response and Electrically Elicited Blink Reflex in Handicapped Children
Authors: Tanaka Junko , Tominaga Yachiyo , Mimaki Takashi
Published: December 2008

The auditory brain stem response and the blink reflex were studied in 35 handicapped children in order to evaluate brain stem function. The auditory brain stem response and the blink reflex were abnormal in 20 and 16 cases, respectively. Of these, 14 had both auditory brain stem response and blink reflex abnormalities. The prevalence of auditory brain stem response and blink reflex abnormalities was high in severely handicapped children with difficulty in chewing or swallowing. The blink reflex was abnormal in four of 32 sides with a normal auditory brain stem response and 15 of 23 sides with an abnormal auditory brain stem response threshold, which reflects hearing loss or brain stem dysfunction. We conclude that the combined application of these two noninvasive tests is useful not only to delineate the extent of brain stem lesions but also to determine whether or not patients with an abnormal auditory brain stem response threshold have brain stem dysfunction. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:40-44).
Neurologic Morbidity Associated With Achondroplasia
Authors: Hecht Jacqueline T. , Butler Ian J.
Published: December 2008

Neurologic morbidity has long been appreciated in adults with achondroplasia and has recently been recognized to be common in children. Neurologic complications result from bony stenosis involving the entire vertebral column and the base of the skull. These complications are reviewed with special attention to the findings in children. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:84-97).
Acute Respiratory Failure Precipitated by General Anesthesia in Leigh's Syndrome
Authors: Grattan-Smith Padraic J. , Shield Lloyd K. , Hopkins Ian J. , Collins Kevin J.
Published: December 2008

Three patients with Leigh's syndrome developed respiratory failure following general anesthesia. Although all three had respiratory symptoms prior to the anesthetic, the diagnosis was not suspected at the time of the procedure in two of the children. We reviewed the case notes of 16 other patients with Leigh's syndrome. Eight had received anesthetic agents without incident. Although the majority subsequently developed respiratory abnormalities and died with respiratory failure, this problem was not evident at the time of anesthesia. In the presence of respiratory abnormalities, general anesthesia carries significant risks in Leigh's syndrome. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:137-141).
Seizure-Induced Miosis and Ptosis: Association With Temporal Lobe Magnetic Resonance Imaging Abnormalities
Authors: Afifi Adel K. , Corbett James J. , Thompson H. Stanley , Wells Kristen K.
Published: December 2008

Two patients with seizure-associated miosis and ptosis are described. In both there are magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities of the temporal lobe. In one patient, increased magnetic resonance imaging signal intensity is present in the temporal lobe contralateral to ptosis and miosis. In the other, there is temporal lobe asymmetry with the smaller temporal lobe ipsilateral to the miotic pupil and ptotic lid. The relevant human and experimental literature related to cortical control of pupil size and lid movement is reviewed. Based on the available literature and the findings in these two patients, it is proposed that the increased signal intensity in the temporal lobe of one patient represents an irritative stimulus causing contralateral miosis and ptosis, whereas the temporal lobe hypoplasia in the second patient permitted impulses from the contralateral normal temporal lobe to predominate, resulting in miosis and ptosis homolateral to the hypoplastic temporal lobe. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:142-146).
Opsoclonus-Ataxia Due to Childhood Neural Crest Tumors: A Chronic Neurologic Syndrome
Authors: Mitchell Wendy G. , Snodgrass S. Robert
Published: December 2008

Five children with subacute or acute onset of cerebellar ataxia and opsoclonus are described. Two had cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis at the onset of ataxia and were initially thought to have acute parainfectious cerebellar ataxia of childhood. All were found to have tumors of neural crest origin (two neuroblastomas, three ganglioneuroblastomas). Tumors were small and only found by computed tomographic techniques. Urinary catecholamine metabolites were elevated in only two of the patients. Four of the five failed to improve neurologically with resection of the tumor. All four have had a steroid-sensitive chronic ataxic syndrome that worsens with acute nonspecific illnesses and has resulted in long-term deficits, particularly in speech and gross motor function. This is a metabolic encephalopathy associated with permanent residual neurologic deficits but without visible lesions on neuroimaging studies. We stress the frequency of cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis in patients with tumor-associated opsoclonus and the clinical difficulty in separating tumor-associated cases from those due to other 1990;5:153-158).
Diurnal Variation of Carbamazepine and Carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide in Plasma and Saliva in Children With Epilepsy: A Comparison Between Conventional and Slow-Release Formulations
Authors: Eeg-Olofsson Orvar , Nilsson Heimo L. , Tonnby Bernt , Arvidsson Jan , Grahn Per-Ake , Gylje Hans , Larsson Christer , Noren Lars
Published: December 2008

In order to overcome the problems of interdosage fluctuations of body fluid concentrations of carbamazepine, a slow-release formulation has been developed. In an open, controlled, within-patient study, the diurnal plasma concentrations of carbamazepine and its 10,11-epoxide were measured in 25 epileptic children first treated with conventional carbamazepine tablets (Tegretol) and then with the Tegretol slow-release preparation. The diurnal plasma concentration curves during treatment with the slow-release formulation showed significantly less variation over 24 hours than during treatment with the ordinary preparation, as measured by the fluctuation index. Mean concentration values also differed significantly, which is explained by a somewhat reduced bioavailability (22% less) of the slow-release formulation. There were no differences in efficacy and tolerability between the two formulations, but there was a clear-cut reduction of reported side effects, especially tiredness, on treatment with the slow-release formulation. For that reason, the slow-release formulation should be a major advantage in treating children with epilepsy, in order to avoid interference with cognitive functions. In 12 children, simultaneous measurements of the concentration of carbamazepine and its epoxide in saliva were made and compared with the plasma values. As expected, the concentration curves corresponded, indicating that saliva sampling is an appropriate alternative for monitoring the concentration of carbamazepine. All children remained on the slow-release preparation after the trial and were followed up for 12 months or more. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:159-165).
Colpocephaly: Pitfalls in the Diagnosis of a Pathologic Entity Utilizing Neuroimaging Techniques
Authors: Bodensteiner John , Gay Charles T.
Published: December 2008

Colpocephaly has been described as the persistence of the fetal configuration of the lateral ventricles. The pathologic picture is characterized by multiple features of disturbed or arrested development of the brain, which results in diminished thickness of the cerebral white matter in the posterior portion of the centrum semiovale, giving rise to large occipital horns of the lateral ventricles. This ventricular configuration allows the clinician to suspect the presence of this developmental disturbance utilizing computed tomographic images. In this paper, we present a case that demonstrates that not every patient with enlargement of the posterior horns of the lateral ventricles has the underlying developmental abnormalities that constitute colpocephaly as described by Yakovlev and Wadsworth. Furthermore, we point out the difficulties that can arise in the attempt to make a diagnosis of a pathologically defined condition on the basis of neuroimaging results alone. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:166-168).
Pseudoseizures Caused by Hyperventilation Resembling Absence Epilepsy
Authors: North Kathryn N. , Ouvrier Robert A. , Nugent Maureen
Published: December 2008

During the 4-year period, 1982-1986, 18 patients presented to the Children's Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney, with the following features: (1) Recurrent "absences" clinically indistinguishable from childhood absence epilepsy, (2) Normal clinical examination, (3) Electroencephalogram (EEG) demonstrating normal waking background and sleep activity. On hyperventilation, "absences" occurred, characterized on EEG by a marked build-up of paroxysmal slow-wave activity unassociated with evidence of epileptic activity. We designate these attacks "pseudoseizures caused by hyperventilation resembling absence epilepsy." Individual cases demonstrated a variety of other symptoms consistent with the hyperventilation syndrome. There was an identifiable environmental stress in 13 of the 18 cases. Follow-up of 13 patients after a mean period of 20 months revealed that only two children continued to have occasional absences, associated with a clear history of breathing up when upset. Treatment did not influence outcome. On repeat hyperventilation with EEG and respiratory monitoring, five of the 13 had pseudoseizures. There was no indication that susceptibility to these episodes was associated with an abnormal CO 2 response. It is postulated that the occurrence of pseudoseizures is related to cerebrovascular immaturity and an excessive vasoconstrictor response to a given level of CO2. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:288-294).
Late-Onset Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy: Unusual Ultrastructural Pathology and Subtotal β-Galactocerebrosidase Deficiency
Authors: Goebel H.H. , Harzer K. , Ernst J.P. , Bohl J. , Klein H.
Published: December 2008

An 11-year-old girl was found to have severely reduced β-galactocerebrosidase activity as evidence of late-onset globoid cell leukodystrophy, while her mother had almost normal enzyme activity in circulating white blood cells. Clinically, the patient showed a remitting course marked by seizures, ataxia, white-matter disease on computed tomographic scan, and reduced conduction velocities of peripheral nerves. Symptoms improved somewhat around the age of 10 years. Two sural nerve biopsies, performed 6 years apart, disclosed a demyelinating neuropathy. By electron microscopy, membrane-bound vacuolar lysosomes in Schwann cells of myelinated axons, unlike the typical needlelike inclusions seen in classic infantile globoid cell leukodystrophy, were present in both specimens. Thus, clinical, morphologic, and biochemical data in this patient—and her mother—emphasize, compared with past reports on late-onset globoid cell leukodystrophy, considerable variation in the nosologic spectrum of late-onset globoid cell leukodystrophy and conspicuous differences from classic infantile globoid cell leukodystrophy. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:299-307).
Hypoplastic Corpus Callosum in Ocular Albinism: Indication of a Global Disturbance of Neuronal Migration
Authors: Bodensteiner John B. , Breen Lenore , Schwartz Terry L. , Schaefer G. Bradley
Published: December 2008

Ocular albinism is distinguished from the more common oculocutaneous albinism by the presence of normal pigmentation of skin and hair in the former condition. Recent studies of ocular albinism have shown that the hypopigmentation of the optic fundus is associated with a number of anomalies of neuronal wiring involving the visual system. We present a patient with ocular albinism who also has a hypoplastic corpus callosum as determined by analysis of midsagittal magnetic resonance imaging scans. Previous studies of the hypoplastic corpus callosum indicate that this anomaly is a defect in neuronal migration as well. The finding of a hypoplastic corpus callosum in a patient with ocular albinism suggests a more generalized defect in neuronal migration not limited to the visual system. ( J Child Neurol 1990;5:341-343).
Neonatal Seizures: Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Painter Michael J. , Gaus Lisa M.
Published: December 2008

Neonatal seizures are a frequent problem encountered in neonatal nurseries, but their significance is controversial. Some investigators regard newborn seizures as simply epiphenomena and reflective of brain injury, whereas others note associated metabolic and physiologic aberrations suggesting that seizures per se are injurious to the central nervous system. The proper approach to the treatment of neonatal seizures depends on the etiology because treatment differs if seizures are of metabolic, toxic, or structural origin. Most studies reporting the efficacy of anticonvulsant agents neither define the seizure characteristics being treated nor use electroencephalographic documentation of seizure activity. The choice of anticonvulsants has been based on tradition rather than on the proven superiority of one agent over another. Although several anticonvulsants are available, phenobarbital remains the drug most frequently chosen as the initial agent in treatment. The important pharmacologic considerations of anticonvulsants include route of administration, ability to achieve therapeutically efficacious and predictable plasma levels rapidly, drug distribution, the availability and affinity of receptor sites, protein-binding characteristics, effects on brain growth, and cardiovascular toxicities. At the present time, critical questions remain regarding the effects of both seizures and anticonvulsants on the developing central nervous system. (J Child Neurol 1991;6:101-108).