bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Diet Treatment on Enuresis in Children with Migraine or Hyperkinetic Behavior
Authors: Egger J. , Carter C.H. , Soothill J.F. , Wilson J.
Published: November 2007

Twenty-one children with migraine and/or hyperkinetic behavior disorder which was successfully treated with an oligoantigenic (few-foods) diet also suffered from nocturnal and/or diurnal enuresis. On diet, the enuresis stopped in 12 of these children and improved in an additional four. Identification of provoking foods was by sequential reintroduction of the foods that were avoided on the oligoantigenic diet. In eight of the 12 children who recovered on the oligoantigenic diet and in the four who improved, reintroduction of one or more foods provoked a reproducible relapse of the enuresis. Nine children were subjected to a placebo-controlled, double-blind reintroduction of provoking foods. Six children relapsed during testing with incriminated foods; none reacted to placebo. Enuresis in food-induced migraine and/or behavior disorder seems to respond, in some patients, to avoidance of provoking foods.
Enteroviral Meningitis Following Haemophilus Influenzae Type b Meningitis
Authors: Liu Vicky , Ross Lawrence A.
Published: November 2007

Both Haemophilus influenzae type b (HIB) and enteroviruses are common etiologic agents in childhood meningitis. However, sequential infections of enterovirus and HIB have rarely been reported.1 We report the case of an infant treated for HIB meningitis who was readmitted to the hospital with enteroviral meningitis.
Severe Mycoplasma Pneumonia in Young Children with Down Syndrome
Authors: Orlicek Shari L. , Walker Michael S. , Kuhls Thomas L.
Published: November 2007

Three young children with Down syndrome developed fever, cough, wheezing, irritability, and tachypnea. They had bilateral infiltrates on their chest radiographs and developed respiratory distress, which required their hospitalization. Laboratory studies suggested that the children had mycoplasma pneumonia. These children may have experienced severe mycoplasma infections early in life because of their Down syndrome-associated immune abnormalities. When young children with Down syndrome develop pneumonia, physicians should consider Mycoplasma pneumoniae as the possible etiologic agent.
Urinary Growth Hormone and Insulin-like Growth Factor I
Authors: Albini Christine H. , Quattrin Teresa , Mills Barbara , Sherman Barry , Johanson Ann , MacGillivray Margaret H.
Published: November 2007

Urinary growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1) excretion profiles were compared in children receiving biosynthetic GH. Group 1 included 18 healthy controls. Group 2 included nine children given biosynthetic GH three times a week. Group 3 included 14 children given daily GH injections. Overnight urine samples were collected for three consecutive nights in all groups. No significant day-to-day variation in urinary GH output was observed in group 1. In group 2, urinary GH output was significantly higher on day one following injection than on days two and three. Urine GH outputs in group 2 were significantly lower on days two and three than the values observed on all days in group 3. Throughout the three-day study, subjects in group 3 excreted similar amounts of GH significantly higher than those of controls. Urinary IGF-I output (nmol/kg) was similar on all three study days in groups 1 and 3. Group 2 had significantly lower urinary IGF-I output on day three compared with day one. Urinary IGF-I output on day three was also significantly lower in group 2 than in group 3. We conclude that urinary GH and IGF-I outputs are influenced by the frequency of GH administration.
Early Childhood Tooth Decay
Authors: Schulte James R. , Druyan Mary Ellen , Hagen James C.
Published: November 2007

Pediatricians in the greater Chicago area were surveyed to probe their awareness and approaches to management of dental caries in early childhood. A total of 298 pediatricians (21 % of those surveyed) responded to the questionnaire. Ninety-five percent of the respondents stated they examined their patients' teeth; 85% considered dental examinations part of their responsibility for children under 3 years of age. However, our data suggest that many pediatricians are unaware of the decay and the dietary patterns associated with tooth decay in early childhood. Although 96% of the respondents referred patients to a dentist when decay was diagnosed, analysis of diet and dietary counseling were performed by only 61 % and 65% of the respondents, respectively Recommendations for preventive measures that can be adopted by pediatricians are offered.
A Computerized Medical Record for Clinical Management of Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Handler Eric G.
Published: November 2007

Computerization has numerous applications in the administrative, business, and personal arenas. 1-3 Applications in the medical field have produced a myriad of programs with varying degrees of impact on direct patient care. A recent Institute of Medicine report states that a computer-based medical record should become the standard for medical records.4
Rett Syndrome
Authors: Braddock Stephen R. , Braddock Barbara A. , Graham John M.
Published: November 2007

Rett syndrome is a common developmental-neurologic disorder that has been reported almost exclusively in females. Recent work has improved recognition of this condition and helped to clarify the management of this disorder for affected individuals. The primary-care physician can become a major source of support and advocacy for the family of a girl with Rett syndrome. Many other resources are available to the primary care giver and the families of children with Rett syndrome; these may help to provide early diagnosis, psychological support, and preventive medical care for these individuals. The current state of knowledge regarding Rett syndrome is reviewed and a framework is provided for medical and developmental interventions.
Adolescent Sexual Activity
Authors: Braverman Paula K. , Strasburger Victor C.
Published: November 2007

Adolescents are becoming sexually active at younger ages. One half of the adolescents in the United States are sexually active. This article reviews adolescent sexual activity, including rates of sexual activity, sexual practices, gay and lesbian youth, and factors affecting the initiation of sexual activity. In addition, adolescent pregnancy, with possible outcomes and effects on teen parents and their offspring, is discussed.
Hypoglycemia Due to Sedation Following Clonidine Test for Growth Hormone Reserve
Authors: Sridhar G.R.
Published: November 2007

Life-threatening hypoglycemia following insulin administration to assess growth hormone secretory capacity in children with hypopituitarism is well known.1 We report hypoglycemic convulsions in a child with congenital hypopitultarism after the administration of clonidine to assess growth hormone reserve.
Association of Hyperpyrexia with Serious Disease in Children
Authors: Press Shirley
Published: November 2007

In a prospective study over 7 years, 105 consecutive pediatric patients with hyperpyrexia (temperature ≥ 41.1 °C [106°F]) were evaluated to determine the incidence, sensitive indicators, and types of illnesses encountered. The incidence of hyperpyrexia in a large urban pediatric emergency departmentwas 0.36 per 1,000 visits or approximately one in 2,759 visits. In patientswith temperature ≥ 41.1 °C, 65 (61.9%) had a serious illness. Pneumonia (33 lobar, three interstitial, two clinical) was the most common diagnosis (36.2%), followed by probable viral illness in 20 (19.0%) of the patients. Bacteremia (6.7%) and bacterial meningitis (5.7%) were less commonlyfound. Four (3.8%) patients died. The admission rate was 62.9%. Eighteen patients (17.1%) also had seizures. Sensitive indicators to help distinguish those with serious illness, with the exception of clinical appearance, were notfound. Pneumonia is commonlyfound in children with hyperpyrexia. Temperature ≥ 41.1 °C was associated with a high rate of serious disease.
The Decision to Breastfeed
Authors: Littman Heidi , VanderBrug Medendorp Sharon , Goldfarb Johanna
Published: November 2007

One hundred fifteen postpartum mothers who were within 24 hours of delivery completed a questionnaire to determine factors which may influence a mother's intention to breastfeed and to evaluate specifically the effect of working outside of the home. In our population of mostly middle-class married and insured women, working outside of the home was not significantly related to the decision to breastfeed (67.9% of working mothers, compared to 67.2% of those who did not plan to work postpartum, planned to at least partially breastfeed). The only factors that significantly related to breastfeeding intention pertained to the father's level of education and to his approval of breastfeeding. Strong approval of breastfeeding by the father was associated with a high incidence of breastfeeding (98.1 %), compared to only 26.9% breastfeeding when the father was indifferent to feeding choice ( P<0.001).
Staphylococcus Aureus Cellulitis: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Geunes Paul M. , Brooks Jeffrey H. , Huttula Charles S. , Chesney Joan
Published: November 2007

Staphylococcus aureus has long been known as one of the most virulent microbes, with capabilities that make it threatening in both nosocomial and community-acquired infections. It remains the most frequent cause of skin-structure and traumatic infections in the community.1 S. aureus infections in the maxillofacial region are likely to be associated with a known portal of entry, but this is not always the case.2 Once invasion occurs, the organism may produce virulent enzymes including coagulase, hyaluronidase, proteases, DNA-ase, lipases, hemolysins, and lysozyme as well as exotoxins.3 Markel et al 4 point out that cellulitis associated with coagulase-positive staphylococci will often resolve without abscess formation. Hence, there is often no site from which to obtain specimens, making this infection a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. This report describes an infection in which the etiologic organism was identified as S. aureus. The source of the infection, however, remained unclear.
Thrombocytosis
Authors: Yohannan Mulakkan D. , Higgy Kamal E. , Al-Mashhadani Shihab A. , Santhosh-Kumar Cheruppolil R.
Published: November 2007

Six hundred sixty-three children aged 1 to 16 years with thrombocytosis (defined as a platelet count of more than 500 X 109/L) seen in a university hospital over a 1-year period were studied prospectively for etiology. The causes of thrombocytosis were infection (30.6%), hemolytic anemia(19.3%), tissue damage (15.2%), rebound thrombocytosis (14.8%), chronic inflammation (4.1 %), renal disorders (4.1 %), and malignancy (2%). Thrombocytosis associated with multiple, simultaneous causative factors was seen in 3.3% of cases. Among all patients with infections, osteomyelitis and septic arthritis were associated with higher platelet counts than other infections ( P<. 0001). Thrombocytosis secondary to infections was significantly more common in children under 5 years of age, whereas chronic inflammation, malignancy, and renal disorders were more common causes of thrombocytosis in children over 5 years of age. Thrombocytosis of 1 million or more platelets was seen in 13 (2%) children. No thrombocytosis-related complications were seen in any children, and none required any specific treatment. Thrombocytosis is a frequent finding in children. It is due to a variety of etiologic factors and is of little clinical discriminatory value. It is often due to an acute-phase phenomenon in response to infection, tissue damage, blood loss, or anemia, and is rarely due to malignancy.
Isolated Proteinuria in Children
Authors: Trachtman Howard , Bergwerk Ari , Gauthier Bernard
Published: November 2007

The significance of isolated proteinuria in pediatric patients is uncertain. Therefore, we retrospectively studied all children evaluated for this urinary abnormality during the 6-year period from 1986 to 1992. Thirty-one patients (19 males), age 2 to 20 years, were identified as having isolated proteinuria that had persisted for a mean interval of 9.6 ± 1.9 (SEM) months. The diagnosis was based upon the presence of a urine protein:creatinine ratio >0.2 in an early morning specimen. None of the patients had hematuria, edema, or azotemia. Seventeen children underwent a renal biopsy. There was no difference between the patients who were biopsied and those who were not with respect to age, magnitude of proteinuria, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), or serum albumin and cholesterol concentrations. The renal histopathology revealed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) (n = 8), membranous nephropathy (n = 1), postinfectious nephritis (n = 2), focal global glomerulosclerosis (FGGS) (n = 1), and normal kidney tissue (n = 5). Twelve of the patients who did not undergo a kidney biopsy and four of the five children with a normal renal biopsy were followed for at least 12 months; there was complete resolution of the proteinuria in 11 (69%) of these patients. The level of proteinuria did not predict the presence or absence of important kidney disease. However, if isolated proteinuria persists for more than 1 year, it is then unlikely to spontaneously remit and a renal biopsy is indicated to clarify the nature of any underlying glomerulopathy. In children with isolated proteinuria of 1 year's duration, there is a high likelihood of detecting significant renal pathology that may adversely affect their long-term prognosis.
Infection Caused by Propionibacterium in Children
Authors: Brook Itzhak
Published: November 2007

Three hundred eighty-six isolates of Propionibacterium sp. were recovered from 2,003 specimens studied for the identification of anaerobic bacteria in children during a 15-year period. Three hundred forty-three (89%) of these were Propionibacterium acnes. A total of 50 (13%) Propionibacterium isolates identified from 45 patients were considered to cause infection. Clinically significant infections caused by Propionibacterium sp. were associated with bacteremia in 10 children; ear infection in eight; abscesses in seven; adenitis and central nervous system infection in five each; burns in four; wounds in three; tumors and bone in two each; and cysts, eye, sinus, and mastoid in one each. Predisposing or underlying conditions were present in 33 children (73%). These included the presence of a foreign body (17), immunodeficiency (six), malignancy (five), diabetes (five), previous surgery (four), and steroid therapy (two). Antimicrobial therapy was given to 41 (91%) children. Surgical drainage was concomitantly performed in 22 (49%). Four patients died. This study highlights the importance of Propionibacterium sp. as an unusual, but potentially important, pathogen in children.
Subependymal (Grade 1 ) Intracranial Hemorrhage in Neonates on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Radack Daniel M. , Baumgart Steven , Gross George W.
Published: November 2007

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a potential contraindication to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy in neonates, since systemic anticoagulation required during ECMO may increase the incidence and progression of ICH. To determine the frequency and the pattern of evolution of subependymal hemorrhage (SEH) (grade 1 ICH) in neonates on ECMO, the daily head ultrasound (HUS) examinations obtained as part of a prospective neurologic evaluation protocol in 212 ECMO patients were reviewed. Forty-three patients (20%) had a total of 65 SEHs. Twenty-two infants had bilateral SEH. Twenty-eight infants developed 38 SEHs during ECMO bypass after pre-ECMO HUS showed no evidence of ICH. An additional 18 neonates had a total of 22 SEHs demonstrated on pre-ECMO HUS. No pre-ECMO HUS was performed in four infants having a total of five SEHs first identified during ECMO bypass. Of the 65 SEHs, 59 (91%) remained stable or resolved during ECMO, while six (9%) evolved during ECMO — three to grade 2, one to grade 3, and two to grade 4 ICH. Our data suggest that SEH should not be considered a contraindication to ECMO bypass and very infrequently will progress significantly during ECMO.
A Perspective on Controversies Over Neonatal Circumcision
Authors: Weiss Gerald N. , Weiss Elaine B.
Published: November 2007

Controversy continues to surround the issue of male circumcision, especially in the United States. The following report reviews the history of this practice, along with the medical and sociopolitical positions currently espoused. It is our conclusion that, as the safest and most commonly performed surgical procedure in this country, the benefits of posthetomy, which include a reduction in some kinds of cancer and sexually transmitted diseases, well outweigh the risks cited by those who oppose it.
An Evaluation of Parental Concerns and Misperceptions About Heart Murmurs
Authors: McCrindle Brian W. , Shaffer Kenneth M. , Kan Jean S. , Zahka Kenneth G. , Rowe Stuart A. , Kidd Langford
Published: November 2007

This study sought to determine the extent of anxiety and misperceptions about heart murmurs for consenting parents of 182 children referred for first-time pediatric cardiology assessment (including echocardiography) of a heart murmur. From questionnaires completed before assessment, 22% of parents indicated that they were extremely concerned, and only 16% could define a heart murmur as a sound made by the heart. From 1-month follow-up questionnaires obtained from parents of children without heart disease at assessment, 10% continued to believe that their child had a heart problem. Cardiology assessment may not provide complete reassurance to all families and additional interventions may be necessary.
Rickets Secondary to Phosphate Depletion
Authors: Pivnick Enikö K. , Kerr Natalie C. , Kaufman Robert A. , Jones Deborah P. , Chesney Russell W.
Published: November 2007

Two infants presented with growth failure and were found to have generalized osteomalacia (rickets) due to phosphate depletion from prolonged administration of an aluminum-containing antacid given for the symptoms of colic. One of the infants developed bilateral proptosis due to craniosynostosis related to the underlying metabolic bone disease. The chronic use of aluminum-containing antacids in infants has potential risk for the growing skeleton and is not innocuous. Therefore, antacid therapy should be used in low doses and very cautiously, with routine monitoring of serum calcium and phosphorus in children taking medications which reduce gastrointestinal phosphate absorption.
Factors Associated With Improved Immunization Rates for Urban Minority Preschool Children
Authors: Mitchell Charlene K. , Franco Sofia M.
Published: November 2007

Urban, poor, preschool children are noted for having low immunization rates. To determine factors related to completion of immunization, vaccine records of 479 3-year-old children from an inner-city pediatric clinic were reviewed. Complete immunization was defined as four diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis doses, three oral polio vaccine doses, one measles-mumps-rubella dose, and one Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine dose. Seventy percent of our patients were up-to-date by 2 years of age. The administration of all age-appropriate vaccines at a single visit for patients 15 months and older, the establishment of a continuous primary-care relationship, earlier age at first immunization, and lower birth weight were significantly associated with higher immunization levels in our study.
Behavioral Intervention to Reduce Child Distress During Self-Injection
Authors: Moore Kathryn E. , Geffken Gary R. , Royal George P.
Published: November 2007

We investigated the effects of a cognitive-behavioral treatment package on reduction of anticipatory fear of pain during self-administered insulin injections. Two patients diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus participated. An ABAB design was employed; the intervention conditions consisted of cue-controlled breathing, filmed modeling, pacing, and reinforcement. A substantial reduction in the mean time for injection and a reduction in behaviors indicative of anticipatory distress were achieved under intervention conditions. The clinical importance of the study is discussed and areas for future research are identified.
A Critical Review of Studies of Newborn Discharge Timing
Authors: Margolis Lewis H.
Published: November 2007

The duration of hospitalization for newborns has declined dramatically, driven by efforts to control health-care costs as well as by efforts to demedicalize childbirth. In order to determine the clinical basis for this practice, the quality of the published literature on discharge timing was analyzed. Thirteen experimental or quasi-experimental studies were retrieved through a computer search. Seven characteristics that influenced the quality of these studies were reviewed: research design; measures of effect; sample descriptions; statistical methods; reliability measures; sample size; and the definition of early discharge, including the use of any related interventions. Although all 13 studies suggest that there are no differences between infants discharged early and their compeers, these studies have three limitations. First, with one exception, these reports are from hospitals where well-defined assessment and follow-up protocols have been established, potentially limiting their wide applicability. Second, these studies lack statistical power to assess the likelihood of rare events such as readmission. Third, few studies report outcomes other than readmission and medical conditions diagnosed within 1 to 6 weeks. Early discharge as the standard of care for well newborns has not been well established by empirical studies. Pediatricians and local public health officials have a responsibility to assure that the health objectives of hospitalization are met whether this occurs in the hospital or through other mechanisms, such as routine home visiting.
Weaning Ages in a Sample of American Women who Practice Extended Breastfeeding
Authors: Sugarman Muriel , Kendall-Tackett Kathleen A.
Published: November 2007

This research examined age and method of weaning in a sample of 179 women who practiced extended breastfeeding. The average age for weaning was between 2 years 6 months and 3 years 0 months and ranged from 1 month to 7 years 4 months. Fourteen women had each weaned at least three children, and the youngest children were significantly older at the time of weaning than were their older siblings. Weaning was described as being "gradual" and "child-led" by the majority of women. A smaller, but substantial, percentage of women cited reasons for weaning related to a subsequent pregnancy. Weaning ages for women who practice extended nursing were substantially older than were those of more typical North American mothers and were similar to those in traditional cultures with similar parenting practices.
Helicobacter pylori Disease in Childhood
Authors: Blecker Uwe
Published: November 2007

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is responsible for one of the most frequently encountered infectious diseases worldwide. H. pylori infection can lead to the development of gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. The presence of H. pylori in the human stomach also represents an increased risk for gastric cancer and gastric lymphoma. Epidemiologic data obtained in adults suggest that the actual colonization with H. pylori is in fact determined by childhood factors. Therefore, the pediatric age group represents the ideal target population for studies concerning the pathogenesis and epidemiology of H. pylori infection.
Effects of Heredity, Age, Weight, Puberty, Activity, and Calcium Intake on Bone Mineral Density in Children
Authors: Lonzer M. Deborah , Imrie Ruth , Rogers Douglas , Worley Deborah , Licata Angelo , Secic Michelle
Published: November 2007

Osteoporosis is a disease that plagues older individuals, particularly women. At the usual age of diagnosis, limited therapy is available. By further delineating the factors that influence bone mineral acquisition before peak bone density is achieved, individuals at risk may be identified at an earlier age when therapies may be more effective. This was a study of 16 family units, 16 mothers, eight fathers, and their 28 children between the ages of 5 and 20 years. The evaluation consisted of a focused history, Tanner staging of adolescents, anthropometric data (height, weight), and spinal bone mineral density (BMD) by DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry). Bone mineral density in the children was compared with multiple environmental factors. Bone mineral density Z-scores were then compared between children and their parents. Variables found to be positively correlated with children's BMDs were: age ( r=0.94, P<0.001), Tanner stage ( r=0.90, P<0.001), weight ( r=0.88, P <0.001), height ( r=0.81, P<0.001), and body mass index ( r=0.77, P<0.001). No association was found between calcium intake and BMD, owing possibly to increased calcium intake among children with a family history of osteoporosis. Activity was not significantly associated with BMD. Significant correlations were noted between the children s BMD and that of their father's ( r=0.83, P =0.01 ), premenopausal mother's ( r=0.58, P=0.03), and midparental (the mean value of both parents' BMDs) ( r=0.86, P=0.01 ). These data suggest that children who have parents affected by low BMD may be at risk for low BMD themselves.
Treatment of NIDDM in Youth
Authors: Owada Misao , Nitadori Yoshikazu , Kitagawa Teruo
Published: November 2007

This study presents the characteristics of 20 children (17 female) with NIDDM who required oral hypoglycemic agent (OHA) therapy. A family history of NIDDM was present in 55%. None had islet cell antibodies (ICA) or glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies. Tolbutamide was the drug of choice; glibenclamide was introduced if glycemic control was not obtained after 2 to 3 months of tolbutamide therapy. Seven of the patients eventually required insulin therapy. Clin Pediatr. 1998;37:117-122
Development of a Primary Prevention Program: Insight Gained in the Zuni Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Teufel Nicolette I. , Ritenbaugh Cheryl K.
Published: November 2007

Diabetes prevention programs are essential in Native American communities that are experiencing high rates of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). These programs must be community based and supported in order to succeed. The Zuni Diabetes Prevention Program (Program) is a community-based primary prevention project designed to reduce the prevalence of diabetes risk factors among high-school-age youths. The Program strives to enhance knowledge of diabetes and to support increased physical activity, increased fruit and vegetable intake, and reduced soft drink consumption. The primary mechanisms of intervention are diabetes education, a school-based wellness center, supportive social networks, and modification of the food supply available to teens. Program evaluation uses a multiple cross-sectional model; assessment occurs at three points within the 4-year project. Midproject results indicate a significant reduction in soft drink consumption and an increase in glucose/insulin ratios, suggesting a decline in the inci dence of hyperinsulinemia. Clin Pediatr. 1998;37:131-142
Chest Radiographs in the Pediatric Emergency Department for Children ≤18 Months of Age with Wheezing
Authors: Mahabee-Gittens E. Melinda , Bachman David T. , Shapiro Eugene D. , Dowd M. Denise
Published: November 2007

There are no widely accepted predictors of pneumonia in wheezing infants and toddlers who present to the emergency department (ED). A 10-month retrospective review of ED visits of wheezing children ≤18 months of age revealed the following chest radiograph (CXR) results: normal (21 %), findings consistent with uncomplicated bronchiolitis or asthma (61%), focal infiltrates (18%), and other abnormalities (<1%). Patients with focal infiltrates on CXR were more likely to have the following: a history of fever (p=0.03, OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.0, 4.4), temperature ≥38.4° (p=0.01, OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1,5.8) or crackles on examination (p<0.0005, OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.7,9.0). Selective use of CXRs has the potential to save health care dollars and limit unnecessary radiation. Clin Pediatr. 1999;38:395-399
Language learning: moving performance from a context-dependent to -i ndependent state
Authors: Olswang Lesley B. , Bain Barbara A. , Rosendahl Pamela D. , Oblak Susan B. , Smith Alice E.
Published: November 2007

Static and dynamic assessment procedures were used to determine actual and potential levels of functioning for two preschool language-impaired children at the single-word stage of development. The information obtained from both types of assessment was used to predict the children's onset and rate of correct performance in a context-dependent situation (i.e. treatment) and a context-independent situation (i. e. generalization). Results of this study provide preliminary direction to clinicians as they decide who should receive direct treatment and how best to monitor learning during the therapy process.
'I think that's a noisy sound': reflection and learning in the therapeutic situation
Authors: Howell Janet , Dean Elizabeth
Published: November 2007

How the child learns in the therapeutic situation is as important as what he learns. Theories which view the child as an active participant in the learning process are believed to be particularly appropriate in this context. A remedial strategy for children with phonological disorder is described. In this two-phase approach the child is encouraged to actively reflect about language. This reflection takes place during therapeutic activities where the patient and therapist are seen as equal participants.
Enhancing children's communication skills : idioms 'fill the bill'
Authors: Abkarian G.G. , Jones Alison , West Gretchen
Published: November 2007

This paper discusses the importance of idioms to communicative competence, and their comprehension among unimpaired children. It also deals with systems for differentiating idioms, and suggests activities for teaching idioms to language-impaired children.
Communication mode and interaction style
Authors: Lai May , Lynas Wendy
Published: November 2007

This article is based on a study conducted in Hong Kong which investigated the effects of different modes of communication on the style of language interaction between teachers of the deaf and hearing- impaired pupils. Three communication modes were examined: natural- oral, total communication, and cued speech. A five-minute video- recorded sample of interaction between teacher and individual hearing- impaired pupil was examined using both quantitative measures and qualitative judgments. The study revealed that there was an association between the communication approach adopted by the teachers and the style of language interaction between teacher and deaf pupil. With all three modes, however, the language used in interaction by both teachers and pupils could not be judged to be 'normal' in the sense of conforming to a conventional 'conversational' pattern.
An evaluation of intensive interactive teaching with pupils with very severe learning difficulties
Authors: Watson Judith , Knight Christine
Published: November 2007

Staff at a Scottish School for pupils with severe learning difficulties decided to move towards an intensive interactive teaching approach, based on research into normal mother-infant interaction. An evaluation used videotape analysis to measure the progress of six pupils over one school year. Results were encouraging. Illustrations are given of developments in individual pupils and of staff views concerning the value of the interactive teaching approach.
An auditory and acoustic analysis of contrastive stress in profoundly deaf children follovving training
Authors: O'Halpin Rosemary
Published: November 2007

Two 8-year-old profoundly deaf children were trained to use contrastive stress with a visual display, and auditory and acoustic analysis of pre- and post-training data was carried out. After training, one subject produced appropriate pitch contours, and changes in F 0, duration, and intensity on contrastively stressed syllables resembled those of the hearing subject. Some generalization of newly acquired skills was observed. The other subject was less successful and unable to convey contrastive stress, but duration and Fo measurements showed some improvement. Results, however, indicate that appropriate durational contrasts are sometimes insufficient or obscured by irregularities such as inappropriate Fo movement.
A case study of a child with severe dyspraxia and reading difficulties
Authors: Tempest Bridget , Parkinson Elaine
Published: November 2007

This case study describes the work undertaken with a child who has severe dyspraxia and literacy problems. The support teacher and speech and language therapist worked together to enable the pupil to acquire greater phonological awareness by means of a multisensory approach, in which great emphasis was placed upon the link between the written and the spoken word.
A profile of speech-language pathologists' prosody during language therapy
Authors: Reuvers Mark , Hargrove Patricia M.
Published: November 2007

Research directed towards exploring the nature of clinical discourse has targeted grammar and pragmatics but has rarely investigated the patterns of prosody. The prosody of six speech-language pathologists (SLPs) was analysed in therapy and nontherapy contexts. The results suggest that SLPs use certain aspects of prosody differently in therapy and nontherapy contexts.
A conversation based barrier task approach to teach sight-word vocabulary to a young augmentative communication system user
Authors: Ratcliff Ann , Little Mary
Published: November 2007

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) users often have limited literacy skills due to many factors, including restricted opportunities to demonstrate cognitive and communication abilities, as well as limited reading instruction and practice time. This case study evaluates the efficacy of a barrier task as a teaching tool to improve literacy skills in a young AAC user. Adaptations were made to keep barrier tasks within the subject's physical and communication limita tions. Post-treatment results indicate that the subject demonstrated increased sight-word recognition as well as increased letter recognition. This barrier task proved to be a motivating, effective technique to increase literacy skills via a communication framework.
'Teacher talk' with children with language disorders: four case studies I
Authors: Sadler Jane , Mogford-Bevan Kay
Published: November 2007

In part I of this paper the general characteristics of 'teacher talk' and that of four language unit teachers are examined, and the effect of different move types on the degree of spontaneous speech exhibited by their pupils is shown. Qualitative differences in overall style of interaction among the four teachers were found which appeared to reflect differences in pedagogic goals and individual beliefs regarding the importance of conversation rather than the degree of control they exerted over subsequent pupil moves through their use of different move types including repair. The implications of the discrepancy found in some cases between what the four teachers reported in a question naire to be important aims and objectives and what took place in practice are also considered.
Are We Really the Prey? Nanotechnology as Science and Science Fiction
Authors: Bowman Diana M. , Hodge Graeme A. , Binks Peter
Published: November 2007

Popular culture can play a significant role in shaping the acceptance of evolving technologies, with nanotechnology likely to be a case in point. The most popular fiction work to date in this arena has been Michael Crichton's techno-thriller Prey , which fuses together nanotechnology science with science fiction. Within the context of Prey, this article examines the role that scientists and popular culture play in educating society, and one another, about emerging technologies. In di ferentiating fact from fiction, the article reflects on how such distinctions may be important in proactive public dialogue projects. The article concludes that popular culture will be a key factor in informing citizen beliefs about the coming nano-age. Accordingly, governments, in conjunction with the scientific community, will need to be proactive in distinguishing science fact from science fiction for the benefit of their citizens.
Holocene vegetational history and climatic change in west Spitsbergen - plant macrofossils from Skardtjørna, an Arctic lake
Authors: Birks Hilary H.
Published: November 2007

Macrofossil analyses of a 335 cm-long core from Skardtjørna, a small lake on the west coast of Spitsbergen, Svalbard, are presented. The known processes of deposition of plant remains to arctic lake sediments are summarised, and used in the interpretation of the vegetation history at Skardtjørna. The basal sediment is AMS-dated to 8110 ± 110 BP. The rest of the profile is dated by palaeomagnetic correlation.

The lowest sediments have the greatest macrofossil concentration and numbers of taxa per sample. The occurrences of Cassiope hypnoides and Salix cf. glauca before 4000 BP indicate a mean July temperature for the early Holocene about 2°C higher than today, comparable to the Cassiope tetragona vegetation zone of the mid-arctic region of the inner fjords. Increasing climatic severity resulted in the threshold from the Cassiope to the Dryas vegetation zone being passed at about 2500 BP.

The inferred climatic history at Skardtjørna is compatible with other evidence from Svalbard and elsewhere in the arctic. The phytogeography of Salix herbacea, Cassiope hypnoides, and Saxifraga flagellaris is discussed in terms of their historical occurrences.
The mid-Holocene Ulmus decline at Diss Mere, Norfolk, UK: a year-by-year pollen stratigraphy from annual laminations
Authors: Peglar Sylvia M.
Published: November 2007

3 m of annually laminated sediments were recovered from a small steep-sided lake, Diss Mere, Norfolk, UK. In an 8 cm section, known to include the mid-Holocene 'elm decline', the laminae were sampled separately, as far as possible, resulting in 181 samples covering 252 years. Relative pollen percentages, pollen influx, and charcoal were analysed. They show evidence of two phases of human disturbance within the woodland around the Mere, the first starting at least 160 years before the 'elm decline', and involving cereal growth. At the 'elm decline', Ulmus pollen values fall by 73% over six years. This is comparable in rate and magnitude with the fall, as recorded palynologically, in Castanea dentata from North America known to have been caused by a pathogen earlier this century, with the mid-Holocene Tsuga canadensis decline also attributed to a pathogen, and with the present-day Ulmus decline caused by Dutch elm disease at Scords Wood, England. Exponential and logistic models of population change are applied to the Diss Mere Ulmus decline data. The form, magnitude, and rate of decrease of the Ulmus decline at Diss Mere are all consistent with the hypothesis of a pathogenic attack. All the available evidence from Diss supports the hypothesis that the mid-Holocene 'elm decline' was caused by a combination of disease and human activity.
Recent rainfall fluctuations in Africa and their relationship to past conditions over the continent
Authors: Nicholson Sharon E.
Published: November 2007

This paper examines the rainfall conditions which have prevailed over Africa during the last two decades. Throughout this period rainfall has been abnormally low over most of the continent. These conditions are compared and contrasted with those which previously prevailed during historical and geologic times. A trend towards increasing aridity since about 1970 has been neither continuous nor apparent in all regions but is evident as an increase in the area affected by subnormal rainfall and in the size of the deficit in the semi-arid regions. These conditions contrast markedly with the 1950s and are unlike any which occurred earlier in the century, and may signal a major change in prevailing global- scale climate. The continental patterns of reduced rainfall are analogous to historical fluctuations, most notably those of the early nineteenth century, and are of relevance to understanding the causal mechanisms of climate change in the late Pleistocene. The patterns are supportive of an underlying climatic cause for recent desertification in Africa.
A new approach to lichenometry: dating single-age and diachronous surfaces
Authors: McCarroll Danny
Published: November 2007

A new approach to lichenometry, based on large samples of the single largest lichen on each boulder, is presented. On surfaces of uniform age, lichen sizes measured in this way are near normally distributed, so the mean value can be used in constructing lichenometric-dating curves. By combining mean values from several sites, statistically defined confidence limits can be assigned to predicted dates. In a pilot study, dates obtained for 'Little Ice Age' moraines of two glaciers in southern Norway are consistent with those obtained using other approaches. Unlike standard lichenometry, the new approach can be used to investigate the age-frequency of boulders on diachronous surfaces formed by continuous or periodic accretion or disturbance. It has been used successfully to access the record of late-Holocene snow avalanche activity retained on avalanche boulder ramparts in upper Jostedalen, western Norway. Pilot studies are also presented of its use on a talus slope, solifluction lobes and periglacial patterned ground. Although there are some problems and limitations to its use, in many circumstances these are likely to be outweighed by the advantages of the new approach over standard lichenometry.
Paludification and pollen representation: the influence of wetland size on Tilia representation in pollen diagrams
Authors: Waller Martyn
Published: November 2007

The representation of taxa with poorly dispersed pollen grains in pollen diagrams is strongly influenced by basin size. Waterlogging and peat formation (paludification) can, by leading to an expansion in wetland area, produce changes in the representation of dry-land taxa. This phenomenon appears to be responsible for reductions in Tilia pollen at a number of sites across lowland England, reductions which formerly may have been wrongly attributed to anthropogenic activity. Distinguishing between these processes can be problematic as both are likely to produce increases in herb pollen.
Reconstruction of hydrological changes between 7000 and 3000 BP in the upper and middle Vistula River Basin, Poland
Authors: Starkel Leszek
Published: November 2007

Rhythmic fluctuations in the hydrological regime are demonstrated based on a review of records sensitive to relative climatic stability between 7000 and 3000 BP in the upper and middle parts of the Vistula River Basin, central Europe. In the fluvial deposits and landforms these variations are very clear; phases of higher flood frequency are dated 6600-6000, 5500-4750, 4500-4100 and 3250-3000 BP. These phases coincide very well with sparse information on landslides, data on high lake levels in the early Subboreal, phases of forest-ecosystem transformation and, finally, the reaction of human cultures to these changes. Their rhythmicity correlates well with records from the Alps and the Alpine foreland but poorly with those from Scandinavia. This may be explained by changes in the zonal pattern of air- mass circulation. Among the causes of the humid phases, it is the frequency of volcanic eruptions which should be taken into consideration.
Climate and Indian effects on southern Ontario forests: a reply to Campbell and McAndrews
Authors: Clark James S.
Published: November 2007

Clark and Royall (1994) questioned the interpretation, drawn from a simulation model, that climatic cooling was responsible for the demise of typical northern hardwoods taxa and replacement with taxa that require fire or soil disturbance, Pinus and Quercus. Those questions were raised because the model predictions did not well describe the data, the ecology of the taxa is not consistent with the interpretation, the other sites in the region do not show the patterns consistent with climate cooling, and stratigraphic charcoal data support an alternative interpretation. Campbell and McAndrews (1995) challenged our questions, but made no effort to answer them. Rather, they questioned an alternative interpretation that Iroquois maize agriculture contributed to these transitions. The main discus sion here is devoted to the uses of historic evidence, models, and sedimentary data to interpret climate vs. cultural effects. I review the evidence for fire that pertains to this region, and I reanalyze regional data to show that climate change does not provide an explanation for observed changes. I conclude with the observation that the inter pretation that climate alone is responsible for the transitions at Crawford Lake is still in need of explanation.
Tephrochronological studies in northern England
Authors: Pilcher Jonathan R. , Hall Valerie A.
Published: November 2007

Tephrostratigraphic investigations of two upland blanket bogs in northern England show that micro scopic layers of tephra are present. Their geochemistry shows that they are identical to two Icelandic tephra layers of known age found at sites in Scotland and the north of Ireland. The work extends the regional tephro chronology of the mid-Holocene for the British Isles.
Holocene vegetation, climate, and fire history of the Hudson Highlands, southeastern New York, USA
Authors: Maenza-Gmelch Terryanne E.
Published: November 2007

Holocene vegetation, climate, and fire history of the Hudson Highlands, lower Hudson Valley, south eastern New York, are inferred from AMS radiocarbon-dated pollen, plant-macrofossil and charcoal records from Sutherland (41°23'29''N, 74°02'16''W) and Spruce Ponds (41°14'22''N, 74°12'15"W). Expanding Quercus-dominated forests were invaded by Pinus strobus at 10 175 radiocarbon years before present (BP), followed by Tsuga canadensis at 9645, Fagus grandifolia at 8100, Carya at 6200, and Castanea dentata at 3600 BP; ages are averaged over two sites. Large Quercus pollen percentage and influx values are associated with continuous charcoal influx throughout the record, suggesting that fire may have played an important role in the development and maintenance of Quercus in the forest. At Sutherland Pond, a temporary decrease in fire at approximately 9500 BP apparently was a factor enabling expansion of Tsuga canadensis populations. Onset of Euroamerican agricultural practices in the region (approximately AD 1700) is well documented by rises in pollen of Ambrosia, Gramineae and Tubuliflorae and presence of Rumex and Plantago. Domestic/industrial use of Quercus, Pinus and Tsuga canadensis is also recorded by decreased percentages of these trees. Increased charcoal influx during Euroamerican settlement, particularly at Spruce Pond, may be explained by fire in connection with land clearance, wood-related industries (charcoal, iron and brick manufacturing), and operation of railroads (track fires).
Subfossil Fomes fomentarius from a Holocene fluvial deposit in Poland
Authors: Chlebicki Andrzej , Lorenc Marek W.
Published: November 2007

A fossil fruit body of Fomes fomentarius was found in Holocene deposits of the Odra River in the city of Wroclaw (SW Poland). The fungus was found among early Sub-Boreal oak logs.