Editorial

Electrophysiology has long been the mainstay of the pediatric neurologist, and it still plays a prominent role as a valuable tool in existing and emerging training schemes for pediatric neurology. However, other techniques of investigation are moving more onto center stage with neuroimaging, molecular genetics and neurometabolic techniques of investigation taking on a leading role. This has been reflected both actively by Editorials and Invited Reviews, and in a more passive way by the topics of the scope of papers submitted to Neuropediatrics. Neuroimaging methods are advancing at a fast pace, and MR-spectroscopy applied to neurometabolic disease (Neuropediatrics 2000; 31: 1 - 3) or brain tumors (Neuropediatrics 2000; 31: 159 - 161) is changing from a pure research tool to a valuable diagnostic instrument. Similarly, functional MRI is applicable to the child's brain (Neuropediatrics 2000; 31: 24 - 32 and 63 - 69), and it is not difficult to imagine that with improved spatial resolution and new contrast media MR-techniques will soon replace at least some diagnostic approaches which at present are still invasive. On a similar line, technical improvements such as tandem mass spectroscopy or MR-spectroscopy of body fluids in conjunction with molecular genetic techniques are rapidly expanding the spectrum of neurometabolic disorders, entailing a demand for new and more sophisticated diagnostic algorithms. To adapt existing training schemes to the ever more sophisticated approach to diagnosis and treatment (Neuropediatrics 2000; 31: 1 - 3) will pose a challenge to the field of pediatric neurology. A broad-based, high-level journal will continue to play a key role in this concert of educational efforts, and Neuropediatrics has carefully maintained a high level - ranging top in terms of impact factor among pediatric neurology journals - in the past and present and will strive to do so in the future.

This would not be possible without the sterling contribution of many scientists who willingly shared their expertise and gave continuous support and stimulation to the Editor and Editorial Board who are very grateful indeed. Their names are listed below.

It has also become a routine having a regular small turnover in the Editorial Board of the Journal. On behalf of Neuropediatrics, my thanks go to the outgoing members, Drs. Eric P. Hoffman and Darryl C. de Vivo, who have served on the Editorial Board for many years and contributed so greately to the quality of the Journal. Special thanks go to Dr. Murimi Shimada, retiring Editor-in-Chief, who has been instrumental in establishing a broad platform for the Journal in Japan. Our warm welcome goes to the new members Kurt Hecox, Chicago, Michael Painter, Pittsburgh, and Giovanni Cioni, Pisa, who will join the Editorial Board.

With a new millennium ahead more than enough remains to be discovered in the everlasting enigma of life and Neuropediatrics will continue to be a lively forum, prime platform, and good companion on this way.