Building a division of child neurology: a tribute to Michael J. Painter,MD

In this era of changing priorities, regulations, and resources, it is useful to look both back and forward at the building of a division of child neurology in the context of the emergence of child neurology as a nationally and internationally recognized distinct subspecialty of both pediatrics and neurology. Both Pittsburgh and national colleagues of Dr Michael J. Painter were fortunate to have such a glimpse at a Festschrift held in his honor in January 2002 and, more recently, at the October 2002 meeting of Professors of Child Neurology, where he presented his view of "Building a Child Neurology Division the Old-Fashioned Way." The narrative that follows draws heavily from both of these events and from insights gained from Dr Painter's long and broad experience in the establishment and nurturing of both the specialty of child neurology and many of its current practitioners.     

A tribute to Jack Petajan's inspiration: from goat to goat

Development of clinical neurophysiology, especially in neuromuscular disease investigation in the 20th century underscores the careers of two academic physician-investigators. Experimental models of neuromuscular disorders (toxic and diabetic neuropathies, myasthenia gravis, nerve transplant and repair) with emphasis on regeneration are described. Subsequent clinical application has validated the animal studies. The value of disease related support societies (Muscular Dystrophy, Charcot Marie Tooth and Myasthenia Gravis) is discussed, not only for patient information and support but also for support of research projects and clinical research fellowship training. The clinician-teacher-investigator as a role model is mentioned, particularly in relation to Dr. Jack Petajan's career, a truly renaissance man. Credit is given to the great teachers of clinical neurophysiology and neuromuscular diseases of the past 50 years.