MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Epilepsy Research' source. Sun, 21 Mar 2010 15:30:49 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260867&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003507%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we investigated the effectiveness of two antiepileptic drugs: riluzole and topiramate against pilocarpine-induced seizures, which are considered to be a model of intractable epilepsy commonly used to investigate the antiepileptic effect of drugs and mechanisms of epileptogenesis.Seizures and status epilepticus were induced by pilocarpine in adult male Wistar rats. Riluzole (1–4mg/kg) administered intraperitoneally before pilocarpine dose-dependently protected rats against seizures with the anticonvulsant ED50 value (50% effective anticonvulsant dose) of 1.8 (1.3–2.6)mg/kg. In contrast, riluzole at 8 and 12mg/kg administered after the onset of pilocarpine-induced seizures affected neither status epilepticus nor mortality of rats. Topiramate significantly enhanced convulsiv... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260867 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260866&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900343X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, LEV does not seem to induce changes in reproductive endocrine functions as well as clinically relevant endocrine side effects in prepubertal children. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260866 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260865&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003799%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: These results suggest that in the dose range of 400–1600mg/day, add-on rufinamide therapy may benefit patients with inadequately controlled partial seizures and is generally well tolerated. These data also suggest that higher doses may confer additional efficacy without adversely affecting safety and tolerability. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260865 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260864&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003787%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study demonstrates that early ictal EEG pattern propagation to the contralateral side in mTLE may be associated with contralateral ictal hyperperfusion with or without ipsilateral temporal hypoperfusion. The authors recommend simultaneous interpretations of ictal SPECT and ictal EEG propagation patterns at the time of the injection of radiotracers. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260864 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260864 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260863&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003544%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Hippocampal Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is proposed as an experimental treatment for refractory epilepsy, but the optimal stimulation parameters are undetermined. High frequency hippocampal DBS at 130Hz is effective in both animals and patients with epilepsy. Low frequency stimulation (∼5Hz) is assumed to have anti-epileptic properties but the efficacy is highly debated. This animal study compares the effects of both stimulation modalities in kindled rats. Sprague Dawley rats (n=20) were fully kindled according to the Alternate Day Rapid Kindling-protocol. After a baseline kindling period, rats were divided into a high frequency group (HFS, 130Hz, n=11) and a low frequency group (LFS, 5Hz, n=9), both receiving 10 days of continuous DBS. During and after DBS, the seizure suscept... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260863 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260862&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003556%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Repeated caffeine treatment during early postnatal period led to a decreased sensitivity to convulsant action of drugs interfering with inhibitory systems. To know if it is a general effect we studied convulsant action of agonists of glutamate receptors N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and kainic acid (KA). Early (the first day after the last injection) and delayed (at postnatal day (P) 25) consequences of daily administration of caffeine at P7–P11 or P13–P17 days were studied. Two doses (one submaximal and one supramaximal) of either drug were chosen for each age group on the basis of our older data demonstrating decreasing sensitivity during postnatal development. Both early and delayed proconvulsant effects of submaximal doses of either agonist were observed in P7–P11 groups, ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260862 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260861&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003532%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Convulsive status epilepticus (SE) is a common medical neurological emergency and is associated with hippocampal injury and the subsequent development of epilepsy. However, pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie injury remain unclear, and a clinically useful prognostic biomarker of at-risk patients remains elusive. We hypothesised that non-invasive quantitative multi-parametric MRI characterisation of the early time course in the lithium–pilocarpine rat model would provide insight into pathophysiological processes, and may help to develop a non-invasive prognostic marker of hippocampal injury.T1, T2, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and cerebral blood flow (CBF) were measured before and after SE on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 7, 14 and 21. Hippocampal volume measurements were use... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260861 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260860&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003520%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Compared to non-CH-EEGs, CH-EEGs were no more likely to show SSEAs, prolonged the acquisition time, and were associated with changes in clinical care in (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260860 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260859&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003519%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The purpose of this investigation was to examine the diffusion properties of cerebral white matter in children with recent onset epilepsy (n=19) compared to healthy controls (n=11). Subjects underwent DTI with quantification of mean diffusion (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (Dax) and radial diffusivity (Drad) for regions of interest including anterior and posterior corpus callosum, fornix, cingulum, and internal and external capsules. Quantitative volumetrics were also performed for the corpus callosum and its subregions (anterior, midbody and posterior) and total lobar white and gray matter for the frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital lobes. The results demonstrated no group differences in total lobar gray or white matter volumes or volume of the corpus c... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260859 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260858&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003490%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: EFHC1, a gene mutated in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, encodes EFHC1, a protein with three DM10 domains and one EF-hand motif. We recently demonstrated that this molecule is a microtubule-associated protein (MAP) implicated in neuronal migration. Because some controversies persist about the precise localization in the CNS, we studied the neuroanatomical distribution of EFHC1 in mature and developing mouse brain. In the adult, low mRNA expression was detected in several brain structures such as cortex, striatum, hippocampus and cerebellum. At E16, EFHC1 mRNA was shown to be expressed in cortex and not only in cells lining ventricles.Using a purified polyclonal antibody, EFHC1 staining was observed in all cortical layers, in piriform cortex, in hippocampus and in Purkinje cells of ce... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260858 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260857&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003453%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Understanding the biological basis of drug resistance and developing techniques which facilitate prediction of outcome have the potential to revolutionise the pharmacotherapy of epilepsy. We have performed a pilot study of metabonomic analysis using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS) in an effort to identify metabolic biomarkers of response to antiepileptic drug treatment. Pre-treatment serum samples were obtained from 125 patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy who were taking part in a randomised monotherapy trial. Outcome (responder, non-responder) was assessed at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after starting treatment. Serum samples were subject to investigation by both NMR and MS and the resulting data interrogated by principal component... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260857 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260856&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003441%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Previous studies indicate that DBA/2 mice may be a useful model of human sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), since these mice exhibit generalized convulsive seizures followed by respiratory arrest (RA). Respiratory deficits, following generalized convulsive seizures, are observed prior to SUDEP in patients. RA that occurs in DBA/2 mice following sound-induced seizures can be prevented by treatments that activate serotonin (5-HT) receptors. 5-HT receptor subtypes in brainstem respiratory centers are important in regulating normal respiration. The present study compared the expression of 5-HT subtype receptor proteins in excised brainstem tissue, containing the rostral ventral medulla respiratory region in DBA/2 mice vs. seizure-resistant C57BL/6J mice, using Western blot a... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260856 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260855&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003258%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: STVEEG is a useful diagnostic technique in diagnosis of different paroxysmal disorders and it can be used as a successful screening test for saving other resources like prolonged inpatient video EEG recording. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260855 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260854&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003246%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The purpose of this study was to determine transient functional signal activity in a small, homogeneous group of left temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients, without the use of EEG; and to use one of these activated regions to identify a possible epileptogenic network across the whole brain in this group. Resting functional MRI scanning was performed on five left TLE patients who underwent selective amygdalohippocampectomy resulting in seizure control and 10 healthy control subjects. Activation maps of functional signal peaks were calculated using a data-driven analysis, 2dTCA, across the group of patients. In addition to the expected region of activation in the left anterior hippocampus, the results of the 2dTCA analysis revealed activity in the bilateral insular cortex and defaul... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260854 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260853&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003209%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we assessed the effects of intravenous IgG in an experimental rat kindling model and attempted to elucidate the underlying mechanism of the IgG effect. For induction of kindling, Wistar rats received repeated intraperitoneal injections of picrotoxin. The serum level of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) was measured to determine seizure severity. Interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-6 levels were measured in rat hippocampus homogenates. The serum NSE level and hippocampal IFN-γ level were significantly higher in fully kindled, untreated rats compared to unkindled control rats, whereas IL-6 levels were similar in all groups. Intravenous IgG-treated kindled rats showed NSE and IFN-γ levels similar to those of control rats, along with lower seizure severity and longer seizure ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260853 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260852&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003179%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Exposure of the brain to a stressful stimulus that is sub-threshold for permanent injury can temporarily protect against cell death during a subsequent and otherwise damaging insult. One or more brief, non-harmful seizure episode(s) (seizure preconditioning) can dramatically reduce hippocampal damage when given prior to status epilepticus (epileptic tolerance). We recently reported that status epilepticus-induced hippocampal damage in C57BL/6 mice could be reduced by ∼50% when preceded 24h earlier by a brief, non-injurious generalized seizure induced by 15mg/kg systemic kainic acid (KA). Since other mouse strains might display different vulnerability to either seizure preconditioning or status epilepticus, we investigated whether epileptic tolerance could be acquired in another ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260852 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260851&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002952%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: CBZ causes more commonly dizziness after intake than PGB, when given in single doses, which is reflected in objective measurements; CBZ but not PGB impaired saccadic eye movements. Electrooculography and posturography serve as an objective measure of AED CNS side effects and could be used at an early stage of drug development. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260851 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260850&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002964%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: High-frequency oscillations (HFOs) of up to 500Hz in EEG are considered to have close relation with ictogenesis. We had the unique opportunity to record a seizure in EEG with intracerebral macroelectrodes and a sampling frequency of 10kHz. Considering the notion that faster HFOs are likely more ictogenic, we investigated this ictal EEG data to find if even faster HFOs were present.HFOs were investigated in interictal spikes and seizure activity using time–frequency spectra: t values corresponding to frequencies from 100 to 1000Hz were obtained by comparison to the background and controlled by the false discovery rate (FDR).The seizure had a right hippocampal onset. HFOs up to 800Hz as well as HFOs below 500Hz built up in the hippocampal discharges more at the beginning of the se... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260850 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260849&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002976%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This proof of principle study supports previous evidence that alterations of MR-detected brain metabolites can be detected in tissue areas affected by neocortical seizure activity, while additionally demonstrating advantages of the volumetric MRSI approach. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260849 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260848&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002940%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Many epileptic syndromes develop into pharmaco-resistant forms, calling for the development of new anticonvulsant strategies. The transmitter glutamate serves a double role as excitatory transmitter and as precursor for GABA, thus interfering with glutamate uptake may therefore exert complex effects on excitation-inhibition-balance in epileptic networks. In the present study we tested the effect of two different glutamate uptake blockers on acutely induced epileptiform activity in hippocampal-entorhinal cortex slices from adult rats: dihydrokainate (DHK) which blocks predominantly glial glutamate uptake, and threo-beta-benzyloxyaspartic acid (TBOA) which blocks both glial and neuronal glutamate uptake. Three different models were used to induce epileptiform discharges: (i) increas... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260848 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260848 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260847&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002939%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by a wide spectrum of phenotypes. Epilepsy is reported to occur in 50–90% of patients with RTT; some develop medically refractory epilepsy. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of levetiracetam (LEV) in drug-resistant patients with RTT.This prospective, pragmatic, open-label study consisted of an 8-week baseline period and a 6-month evaluation period. Efficacy variable was the mean frequency of monthly seizures before, and after 3 and 6 months of treatment with LEV.Eight female patients, aged 7.5–19 years (M12.8±5) entered the study. Mean age at epilepsy onset was 25.8±14.1 months. All patients showed MeCP2 mutation. Patients had been treated with a mean of 3.4 AEDs (2–7) before LEV. T... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260847 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260847 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260846&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002915%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: In spite of abundant evidence that Val66Met BDNF polymorphism has an impact on several different neurological or psychiatric disorders, we conclude that a major clinical impact of Val66Met polymorphism as a disease modifier in temporal lobe epilepsy is probably unlikely. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260846 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260845&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002903%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Time–frequency analyses using STFT successfully depicted MEG rhythmic fast activity, and would provide valuable information for pre- and post-surgical evaluations to define surgical strategies for patients with epilepsy. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260845 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260845 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260844&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002897%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This study indicates that epilepsy secondary to neonatal hypoglycemia is intractable during infancy and early childhood with frequent status epilepticus but tends to decrease in older age. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260844 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3260843&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121110000252%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3260843 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3260843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121527&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002629%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: We conducted a search for white matter changes (WMCs) in 13 Unverricht-Lundborg disease patients and compared the prevalence of WMCs in these patients to age-matched long-term epileptics and healthy controls. ULD patients had significantly more T2-weighted high-intensity signals on MRI than control subjects, due to the increased prevalence of these signals in the basal ganglia. Interestingly, ULD patients with the basal ganglia changes were overweight. Basal ganglia T2-weighted high-intensity signals are novel findings in ULD. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121527 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:54 +0100 3121527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121526&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002848%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Focal cortical dysplasias (FCDs) represent a prominent cause of pharmacologically intractable epilepsy. In FCD, the decrease of parvalbumin immunoreactive (PV+) inhibitory interneurons has been repeatedly documented. Here, we wanted to show whether another interneuronal population, the calretinin immunoreactive (CR+) neurons, exhibits any change in human FCD. We also investigated samples of morphologically normal temporal neocortex resected together with sclerotic hippocampus (nHSTN), where decrease of PV+ interneurons was previously documented as well. Brain tissue from 24 patients surgically treated for pharmacoresistant epilepsy was examined. Calretinin immunoreactivity was qualitatively evaluated and the density of CR+ neuronal profiles was quantified. As a control, post-morte... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121526 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:54 +0100 3121526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121525&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900285X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our findings suggest complex inheritance of seizure susceptibility in the family with contribution from three loci, including a possible new locus on chromosome 17q. The underlying molecular defects remain unknown. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121525 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:54 +0100 3121525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121524&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002861%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Variations in the AQP4 and the KCNJ10/KCNJ9 region are likely to be associated with TLE, particularly TLE-FS, supporting the suggestion that perturbations of water and K+ transport are involved in the etiopathogenesis of TLE. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121524 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:54 +0100 3121524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121523&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002873%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Brivaracetam (ucb 34714; BRV), a new antiepileptic drug (AED) candidate, is a pyrrolidone derivative displaying a markedly higher affinity than levetiracetam (LEV; Keppra®) to the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, shown to be the brain-specific binding site of LEV. The higher affinity for SV2A correlates significant antiepileptic activity in animal epilepsy models in vitro and in vivo. Since many AEDs act upon inhibiting neuronal Na+ currents, this study explored putative activity of BRV on the properties of these currents. Voltage-activated Na+ currents were recorded by whole-cell patch-clamp on neuronal somas of rat neocortical neurons, grown in dissociated cell culture for up to 12 days. BRV, dissolved at the desired final concentration (between 0.2μM and 1mM) was applied by a m... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121523 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:53 +0100 3121523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121522&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002642%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Mitochondrial oxidative stress and dysfunction are contributing factors to various neurological disorders. Recently, there has been increasing evidence supporting the association between mitochondrial oxidative stress and epilepsy. Although certain inherited epilepsies are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, little is known about its role in acquired epilepsies such as temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Mitochondrial oxidative stress and dysfunction are emerging as key factors that not only result from seizures, but may also contribute to epileptogenesis. The occurrence of epilepsy increases with age, and mitochondrial oxidative stress is a leading mechanism of aging and age-related degenerative disease, suggesting a further involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in seizure ge... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121522 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:53 +0100 3121522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121521&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002630%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Epilepsy, the most common neurological disorder in young humans, has its highest incidence during the first year of life. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) which are used to treat seizures in infants, children and pregnant women target ion channels, neurotransmitters and second messenger systems in the brain. The same targets regulate brain processes essential both for propagation of seizures and for brain development, learning, memory and emotional behavior.Here we review adverse effects of AEDs in the developing mammalian brain. In addition, we discuss mechanisms explaining adverse effects of AEDs in the developing mammalian brain including interference with cell proliferation and migration, neurogenesis, axonal arborization, synaptogenesis, synaptic plasticity and physiological apopto... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121521 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:53 +0100 3121521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121520&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002435%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Use of medication with a desired effect on the central nervous system (as with anti-epileptic drugs) in children will undoubtedly cause concern about neurodevelopment. Data are emerging to suggest an effect of anticonvulsants on the developing brain of the unborn child when administered to mothers with epilepsy. This obviously requires detailed evaluation, especially when considering the risks of epilepsy itself. In the child with epilepsy, many of the early onset epilepsies are associated with developmental compromise as part of their clinical profile, and therefore determining the relative effects of the underlying cause, seizures and medication can be difficult. Although data are available with regard to some anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) they remain lacking particularly in the v... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121520 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:53 +0100 3121520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121519&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003714%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121519 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:53 +0100 3121519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3121518&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003672%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3121518 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 14:31:53 +0100 3121518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020892&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002563%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: To compare the incidence of West syndrome (WS) and early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE) in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, we studied retrospectively the medical records of cases involving WS or EIEE for the period 2000–2005. During this period, 45 children developed WS and one child was diagnosed with EIEE. The estimated incidence rates of WS and EIEE were 4.2 per 10,000 live births (95% CI, 3.0–5.5) and 0.1 per 10,000 live births (95% CI, 0–0.3), respectively. The occurrence of EIEE was one-fortieth that of WS. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020892 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:05 +0100 3020892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020891&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002587%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: The isolation of the injured hemisphere through the section of inter-hemispheric cortico-cortical connections could prevent the contralateral diffusion of discharges coming from the injured cortex and cortico-thalamic network, favouring a normal function of thalamo-cortico-thalamic circuitries in the healthy hemisphere. That could explain the disappearance of CSWS after surgery in our patients and the consequent improvement of cognitive abilities and behaviour. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020891 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:05 +0100 3020891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020890&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002551%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Here we studied the long-term effects of neonatal seizures on inhibitory synaptic transmission in somatosensory cortex. We found that recurrent flurothyl-induced seizures result in a marked reduction in amplitude of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) and increases of miniature IPSCs interevent intervals. These results indicate that decreasing the inhibitory synaptic strength following neonatal seizures in neocortical neurons is not due to a postsynaptic mechanism. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020890 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:05 +0100 3020890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020889&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002393%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our data revealed only minimal changes in autonomic cardiac function during highly localised electrographic seizure patterns and this had no localising/lateralising value. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020889 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:05 +0100 3020889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020888&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002290%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) may predispose to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). We ascertained whether HRV predicts SUDEP in chronic epilepsy using a case–control design and investigated parameters of inter-ictal HRV in 14 patients (7 had died from SUDEP). No HRV parameter was associated with SUDEP. Thus, although altered HRV might be involved in SUDEP, HRV parameters are not clear-cut predictors for SUDEP. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020888 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:05 +0100 3020888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020887&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002617%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study involved a retrospective analysis of 244 adult patients who underwent epilepsy surgery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota between 1990 and 1996. The mean age of patients at surgery was 35 years (range, 18–68 years). There were 108 male patients (44%). Seventy-three patients (30%) were overweight (BMI 26–29), 56 patients (23%) were obese (BMI 30–39), and nine patients (4%) had extreme obesity (BMI≥40) at the time of surgery.Results: The BMI was not predictive of the duration of intensive care unit or hospital stay following surgery, perioperative morbidity, or long-term seizure control following epilepsy surgery. Fifteen deaths occurred in the study period remote from the surgical procedure. The mortality during follow-up was increased for patients with extreme obese ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020887 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:05 +0100 3020887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020886&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002605%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purpose: To study the incidence and extent of the occasionally noted hypotension after intravenous (IV) infusions of fosphenytoin (FOS) and levetiracetam (LEV) in patients presenting with acute cerebral symptoms.Methods: Retrospective data collection of consecutive patients with acute cerebral symptoms who received IV infusions of a single dose of 750mg or more of either fosphenytoin or levetiracetam and had documented blood pressure values in the 2h prior and the 2h after their IV infusion.Results: More than 10mmHg drop in the systolic, diastolic and MBP was observed in the FOS group following the IV infusion (−16.82mmHg, −11.60mmHg, and 13.34mmHg, respectively). However, there was not a significant change in the MBP after LEV infusion (1.54mmHg, 1.84mmHg, and 1.74mmHg for sy... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020886 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:04 +0100 3020886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020885&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002599%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined the impact of once-daily dosing, divalproex vs. divalproex-ER, on steady-state plasma VPA concentration–time profiles at commonly used doses in monotherapy (uninduced) and polytherapy (hepatic enzyme-induced) virtual adult patients. Only the 1125mg once-daily divalproex dose had mean Cmax73mg/L at all doses tested. Once-daily divalproex peak-trough fluctuation was 4.4–6.2-fold greater than once-daily divalproex-ER. We predict that excursions beyond the conventional recommended VPA plasma concentration range will commonly occur with high total mg daily doses (≥2000mg) of enteric-coated divalproex, if dosed once-daily, potentially producing clinical toxicity. This divalproex formulation should not be dosed once-daily at high total mg daily doses due to this risk. Divalproex... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020885 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:04 +0100 3020885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020884&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002575%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Extended-release oxcarbazepine (OXC) was introduced in Germany in January of 2008. In principle, this formulation should allow a better tolerability due to the less marked serum peak concentration of OXC prior to metabolization to its monohydroxy derivate (MHD) that is the active compound.Twenty-seven in-patients who had been referred to our epilepsy centre because of their difficult-to-treat localization-related epilepsies and had been on immediate-release OXC were abruptly switched to extended-release OXC at identical dosages. The adverse event profile (AEP) and the QOLIE-10 questionnaire were obtained immediately prior to and 5 days after this switch. On both days MHD fasting serum concentrations were also measured.After the switch a significant improvement of tolerability and ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020884 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:04 +0100 3020884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020883&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900254X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) is an idiopathic generalised epilepsy (IGE) characterised by typical absence seizures manifested by transitory loss of awareness with 2.5–4Hz spike-wave complexes on ictal EEG. A genetic component to the aetiology is well recognised but the mechanism of inheritance and the genes involved are yet to be fully established.A genome wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based high density linkage scan was carried out using 41 nuclear pedigrees with at least two affected members. Multipoint parametric and non-parametric linkage analyses were performed using MERLIN 1.1.1 and a susceptibility locus was identified on chromosome 3p23-p14 (Zmean=3.9, p (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020883 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:04 +0100 3020883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020882&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002538%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study clearly illustrates that intrastrain differences do exist from one vendor/breeding location to another, or even between rats from the same breeding location. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020882 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:04 +0100 3020882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020881&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002514%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study demonstrates that NP-355 has potential antiepileptic activity and devoid of undesirable effects. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020881 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:04 +0100 3020881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020880&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002472%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A relationship between peripheral visual field loss and vigabatrin (VGB) has been reported in several studies but with inconsistent results. We investigated the level of visual processing at which the impairment occurs: attentional or cognitive (recognition) deficit. A simple reaction time task was used as a baseline condition. A spatial attention task measured the benefit and cost for the detection of a target appearing at a cued or at an uncued location. A rapid categorization task assessed object recognition. Performance was tested at eccentricities varying from 30° to 60° on a panoramic screen covering 180°. Participants were patients with epilepsy treated with VGB, patients treated with other drugs and healthy controls. In the VGB group 9 patients exhibited a mild visual f... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020880 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020880 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020879&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002460%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Although the three tests provide overlapping indicators for a temporal lobe epilepsy or a mesial pathology, they can hardly be taken in exchange. The tests have different demands on semantic processing and memory organization, and they appear differentially sensitive to performance in non-memory domains. The tests capability to lateralize appears to be poor. The findings encourage the further discussion of the dependency of memory outcomes on test selection. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020879 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020878&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002459%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aimed to evaluate whether tuber burden, size or type seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) co-registers with interictal epileptiform discharges on electroencephalogram (EEG). EEG and MRI data from 69 patients with TSC were reviewed by dividing the cerebrum into four quadrants. Quadrants containing greatest tuber burden, largest tuber, calcified tubers, cyst-like tubers, and no tubers were identified on MRI. For EEG analysis, spikes and sharp waves were counted and averaged to a value per minute, and each quadrant was assigned a score. MRI and EEG findings were compared in each patient. The presence of a cyst-like tuber in a quadrant correlated with a higher incidence of epileptiform activity in the same quadrant (p=0.002). This finding supports the notion that cyst-like corti... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020878 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020877&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002447%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Recent experimental studies show that ethacrynic acid (ETA), a loop diuretic, exerts the anticonvulsant activity. Therefore, we tested the effect of ETA on the protective action of some second-generation antiepileptic drugs (oxcarbazepine [OXC], lamotrigine [LTG] and topiramate [TPM]) in the mouse maximal electroshock seizure (MES) model. ETA was administered acutely (50 and 100mg/kg i.p.) or chronically, for 7 days (12.5mg/kg i.p.). Both ETA acute (up to 100mg/kg) and chronic (up to 12.5mg/kg) treatment did not influence the threshold for electroconvulsions. In the MES test, ETA (100mg/kg) potentiated the protective activity of TPM, decreasing its ED50 value from 38.1 to 18.7mg/kg (P (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020877 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020876&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900240X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: To investigate the clinical features and outcome of epilepsy in children under 3 years of age with supratentorial brain tumors.Methods: Patients under 3 years with primary supratentorial hemispheric brain tumors were collected during a 10-year period through a database including demographic and clinical features, neuroimaging, tumor location, developmental outcome, pharmacological and surgical treatment, and tumor histology. Postoperative outcome was assessed according to Engel classification.Results: Among 28 children evaluated, twenty (71.4%) suffered from epilepsy. Mean age at seizure onset was 18.7 months (range: 1–60). In fifteen (75%) children, epilepsy was an early manifestation or the presenting symptom of the tumor; seizures were focal in 8 (53.3%) and genera... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020876 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020875&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002411%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, the NF-κB inhibitor and antioxidant PDTC protected the piriform cortex, whereas it did not affect hilar neuronal loss. These data might indicate that the generation of reactive oxygen species and activation of NF-κB plays a more central role in seizure-associated neuronal damage in the temporal cortex as compared to the hippocampal hilus. However, future investigations are necessary to exactly analyze the biochemical mechanisms by which PDTC exerted its beneficial effects in the piriform cortex. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020875 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020874&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002381%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This study points out that a positive family history of psychiatric disorders and interictal EEG epileptiform discharges involving the left temporal lobe are isolated risk factors for affective disorders in TLE. Our results suggest that biological factors are crucial for affective disorders development in TLE. Further studies are necessary to better specify the genetic and anatomical substracts involved and how they come together to generate affective disorders in those patients. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020874 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:03 +0100 3020874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020873&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900237X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Both interictal and ictal GSWDs in patients with CAE are associated with BOLD signal changes in the basal ganglia–thalamocortical loop. Ictal GSWDs showing predominant thalamic activation and widespread cortical deactivation might cause a complete suspension of the normal brain's default state and manifest clinically as abrupt loss of consciousness (absence seizures). (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020873 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020872&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002356%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study the fate of adult-derived neurosphere cells was evaluated after transplantation in the lesioned hippocampus of the intrahippocampal kainic acid (KA) model for TLE.Methods: Neurosphere-forming cells were derived from the subventricular zone (SVZ) of transgenic green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter mice and expanded in culture. After 10 passages in vitro neurosphere-derived cells were transplanted in the hippocampus three days (KA3d group) and three weeks (KA3w group) after intrahippocampal KA injection. Survival and differentiation of neurosphere cells were evaluated three and six weeks after transplantation.Results: A fraction (about 1%) of GFP-expressing neurosphere cells survived for at least six weeks after transplantation with a higher and more robust survival rate in ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020872 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020871&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002289%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Analysis of ictal semiology is essential to presurgical evaluation of epilepsy patients providing information on seizure origin. To assess the significance of hypersalivation and postictal coughing for seizure origin in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), we analyzed video/EEG monitoring documented seizures of 107 adult patients for these seizure elements with respect to frequency and sequence of occurrence in relation to epileptogenic origin, comparing mesial versus extra-mesial and left versus right. Hypersalivation was rare, but occurred exclusively in seizures of mesial origin (9.4%). Comparison between left (11.4%) and right (6.9%) mesial origin was statistically insignificant. Postictal coughing also occurred exclusively in seizures of mesial onset (6.3%). Again, comparison betwee... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020871 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020870&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002307%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This is the first population-based study to provide information on the prevalence of ARS. ARS affects about 3% of the population with epilepsy and 0.02% of the general population. More studies are needed to further evaluate this serious epilepsy phenomenon. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020870 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020869&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002265%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study examined whether epileptic myoclonus was under genetic control. Inbred strains of mice were administered eight daily flurothyl exposures, a 28-day rest period, and a final flurothyl retest. For all trials, the latency to the first MJ (threshold) and the number of MJs (MJ#) were recorded. The inbred strains that we examined exhibited significant variability in initial myoclonic response, and myoclonus across the eight flurothyl exposures. C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice displayed significantly different initial latencies to a MJ, MJ# preceding a generalized seizure (GS), and changes in MJ threshold and MJ# across the eight seizure trials. [C57BL/6J×DBA/2J] F1-hybrid mice showed an initial MJ threshold and decreases in MJ threshold over the eight trials, which were similar to C57BL/6J; ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020869 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020869 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020868&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002277%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our data show a significant pregnancy-related increase in D/C-ratios of TPM suggesting that therapeutic drug monitoring might be of value. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020868 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020867&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002058%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Pregabalin (PGB) is a new antiepileptic drug (AED) which is a structural, non-functional analogue of gamma-aminobutyric acid. It acts at presynaptic calcium channels to modulate neurotransmitter release in the CNS. While the efficacy and tolerability of PGB have been demonstrated in several randomised controlled trials, few studies have addressed long-term outcome in large groups of patients.A cohort of patients attending a tertiary referral centre for epilepsy was identified as having started taking PGB. Patients’ data were obtained through medical records. Of 402 patients included, 42% of patients were still taking PGB at last follow-up. The estimated 2.5-year retention rate was 32%. Males appeared more likely to continue on PGB therapy than females. The common adverse experie... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020867 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020866&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002368%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aims to (1) review the impact of epilepsy on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of Asian adult persons with epilepsy (PWE), and (2) identify the extent of stigma they experience and the associated factors. The electronic databases Medline, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, and the International Pharmaceutical Abstracts were searched using a combination of keywords to identify relevant journal articles published before October 2007, and supplemental manual searches of article bibliographies and the journal Neurology Asia were conducted. Thirty-six articles that met the predetermined inclusion criteria were selected and reviewed. The HRQoL of Asian adult PWE was lower than that of the general population. These PWE had difficulties in both physical and psychosocial functioning.... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020866 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3020865&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003349%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3020865 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:02 +0100 3020865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952606&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002022%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Abnormal connectivity might be involved in the pathophysiology of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). We used twin-coil Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation protocol to investigate connectivity between posterior parietal cortex (PPC) and motor cortex (M1) in TSC patients. In comparison with healthy subjects and TSC patients treated with antiepileptic drugs, non-medicated TSC patients exhibited abnormal excitability of PPC–M1 connection. Such altered connectivity might play a role in TSC epileptic phenotype. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952606 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952605&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001879%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The addition of supplementary electrodes to an ongoing invasive electrode investigation can be a useful means of clarifying a patient's suitability for a resective surgical procedure. While the surgical outcomes may not be as favorable as in patients in whom the investigations are simpler, a proportion of these patients do benefit from the eventual resective procedure. In cases where the supplementary electrodes lead to the conclusion that surgery is not indicated, these patients can be satisfied that the surgical option has been explored to the fullest extent possible. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952605 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952604&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001685%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The clinical, radiological, neurophysiological and neuropsychological findings of three patients with giant subcortical heterotopia are reported.All patients experienced psychomotor and behaviour improvement after surgery. Two subjects are seizure-free after complete excision of the heterotopia; the third patient significantly improved following subtotal removal (Engel's class II).Patients affected by giant subcortical heterotopias can have a favourable prognosis after the surgical removal of the malformation, even following long-lasting epilepsy. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952604 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952603&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002046%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The spatial relationship between an intracranial EEG-defined epileptic focus and cortical hypometabolism on glucose PET has not been precisely described. In order to quantitatively evaluate the hypothesis that ictal seizure onset and/or rapid seizure propagation, detected by subdural EEG monitoring, commonly involves normometabolic cortex adjacent to hypometabolic cortical regions, we applied a novel, landmark-constrained conformal mapping approach in 14 children with refractory neocortical epilepsy. The 3D brain surface was parcellated into finite cortical elements (FCEs), and hypometabolism was defined using lobe- and side-specific asymmetry indices derived from normal adult controls. The severity and location of hypometabolic areas vs. ictal intracranial EEG abnormalities were ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952603 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952602&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002034%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Noda epileptic rat (NER) is a genetic rat model of epilepsy that exhibit spontaneous generalized tonic–clonic (GTC) seizures with paroxysmal discharges. We analyzed the regional expression of Fos-like immunoreactivity (Fos-IR) following GTC seizures in NER to clarify the brain regions involved in the seizure generation. GTC seizures in NER elicited a marked increase in Fos expression in the piriform cortex, perirhinal–entorhinal cortex, insular cortex and other cortices including the motor cortex. In the limbic regions, Fos-IR was highest in the amygdalar nuclei (e.g., basomedial amygdaloid nucleus), followed by the cingulate cortex and hippocampus (i.e., dentate gyrus and CA3). As compared to the above forebrain regions, NER either with or without GTC seizures exhibited only ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952602 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952601&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002010%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: We assessed the concordance between healthcare utilization and cost measured with patient survey and billing data among 226 epilepsy patients in a large multi-specialty group practice. Does survey information on utilization combined with prices, provide a cost of care that is approximately equal to the cost of care derived from billing data, utilizing the same price structure? Do measures of cost from survey and billing data yield the same correlates of cost among epilepsy patients? If so, survey data may be utilized to estimate correlates and cost of epilepsy care in cases where complete billing information is not available.For five of eight outpatient services, the concordance coefficients exceeded the practical cut-off value for clinical studies, suggesting substantial agreemen... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952601 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952600&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002009%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion our data suggest that elevated ADMA levels may be responsible for the increased cardiovascular risk in patients with epilepsy under AED therapy. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952600 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952599&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001995%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: In-hospital mortality of HS is low, and blood transfusion was performed in over one third of patients. There appear to be several risk factors that can predict the likelihood of transfusion and may warrant close observation before hemispherectomy. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952599 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952598&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001983%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Amygdala kindling increases weight gain and serum leptin levels in rats, but in the present study no laterality effects were seen. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952598 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952597&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001971%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purpose: The aim of the study was to quantify the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in epilepsy and other indications in a nation-wide population using a prescription database.Materials and methods: Prescription data of AEDs were collected from the Norwegian Prescription Database for the period 2004–2007, including 5.1 million prescriptions from 144,653 patients, all having at least one prescribed and dispensed AED. Diagnosis-related reimbursement codes were used as indicators for clinical use.Results: Of the AEDs used, 71% was in epilepsy, 15% in psychiatry, 13% in neuropathic pain, and (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952597 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952596&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900196X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Background: Severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI) or Dravet syndrome (DS) is a distinctive epilepsy syndrome often associated with de novo mutations in the SCN1A gene. However, 25–30% patients with SMEI/DS are negative for SCN1A mutation screening, suggesting that other molecular mechanisms may account for these disorders. Given the overlapping and heterogeneous clinical features of CDKL5- and ARX-related epilepsies and SMEI/DS, we postulated that CDKL5 mutations in females and ARX mutations gene in males may be associated with early onset seizures forms of SMEI/DS.Methods: Twenty-eight patients with early onset SMEI/DS before 6 months negative for SCN1A mutational screening were selected and screened for mutations in the ARX gene in males (n=14) or the CDKL5 gene in femal... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952596 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952595&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001958%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: EEG power and high frequency activity in the seizure onset zone has been increasingly considered for its relationship with seizures in animal and human studies of epilepsy. We examine the relationship between quantitative EEG measures and metabolic imaging in epilepsy patients undergoing intracranial EEG (icEEG) analysis for seizure localization. Patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) and neocortical epilepsy (NE) were studied. Metabolic imaging was performed with MR spectroscopic imaging using N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) and creatine (Cr). All data were acquired from the mesial temporal lobe such that a direct comparison of the same anatomical regions between the two groups could be performed. While no difference was seen in the total power recorded from the mesial tempo... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952595 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952594&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001880%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Epileptic activities are known to be modulated by cortical excitability, which is altered with normal brain functioning such as movement. However, the relationship between the epileptic activity and movement has not been well studied. Here, we investigated movement-induced modulation of interictal spikes to reveal the relationship between epileptic activity and the movement-induced modulation of cortical activity. Two patients (three cases) with focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) of the pre- and/or post-central gyrus performed voluntary movements of their hands or mouths. During the movement, the interictal spikes of the sensorimotor cortex, which were measured by electrocorticograms (ECoG), were significantly reduced. This reduction strongly correlated with the event-related desynchr... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952594 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952593&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002319%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Stroke is an important cause of symptomatic epilepsy especially in the elderly. Seizures in the setting of stroke will furthermore worsen the prognosis of stroke. Studies show that the frequency of seizures in stroke ranges between 2.3% and 14%. Typically early seizures are defined as those that occur within 14 days of the stroke, and later seizures those that occur after this period. A number of risk factors have been identified like cortical involvement, size of the infarct and stroke severity. Status epilepticus can be a presenting symptom of acute stroke and can lead to increased mortality. Early seizures are risks for recurrent seizures though not for the development of epilepsy but late seizures do carry a higher risk. There are no clear cut guidelines for the treatment of s... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952593 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2952592&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109003106%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2952592 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2952592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860502&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001223%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The authors regret that the author listing was published incorrectly in the above article. The correct author listing is given above. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860502 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860502 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860501&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001351%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with interest the paper by Martínez-Juárez and colleagues (Epub ahead) reporting a higher (6.55%) risk for epilepsy in their series of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. In a similar study, we showed that epilepsy occurred in about 5% of a MS population from Italy (). Also in our series, partial seizures – with or without secondary generalization – were the most frequent seizure type, whereas generalized tonic-clonic seizures ab initio were much more rare. However, unlike to the study by Martínez-Juárez et al., most of our MS patients who developed epilepsy had a relapsing-remitting rather than a progressive course of disease (). (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860501 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860500&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900165X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A 23-year-old man using Na-Valproic acid (VPA) was admitted to our clinic due to convulsion. The neurological examination revealed right hemiparesis. From the exitus notes, we learned that his two siblings had died from status epilepticus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MRI spectroscopy, and diffusion-weighted investigations (DWI) showed acute–subacute ischemic stroke in the left temporo-parieto-occipital region. The patient had an ischemic stroke. Heterozygote methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C/T polymorphism was determined on genetic examination. The homocysteine (Hcy) level was 18.2mmol/l (5–15mmol/l). So VPA treatment was stopped and oxcarbazepine treatment was started. MTHFR 677C/T polymorphism is associated with the risk of vascular diseases due to hyper... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860500 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860499&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001545%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report four adult patients who had thalamic lesions and lateralized or generalized spike wave discharges (SWDs). The first two patients also had cortical lesions. The role of the cortex and thalamus in the generation of SWDs is discussed. The third patient had a history of idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) with intractable seizures. The last patient had partial seizures and absences. The coexistence of IGE with refractory focal epilepsy and the relation with thalamic lesions are discussed. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860499 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860498&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001533%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined whether duration of epilepsy prior to temporal lobe resection has decreased over the years as a result of increasing body of evidence in the literature showing the benefits of anterior temporal resection.We stratified the 213 patients, who had their first temporal lobe resection at our center between 1996 and 2007 into three groups in order to detect any trends in duration of epilepsy: group A (surgery between 1996 and 1999); group B (surgery between 2000 and 2003); group C (surgery between 2004 and 2007).No difference in mean duration of epilepsy was detected between the three groups (p=0.54).The mean duration in epilepsy prior to temporal lobe resection has persisted at greater than 20 years during the past two decades. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860498 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860497&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001326%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Preclinical models of pediatric posttraumatic epilepsy (PTE) are lacking. We hypothesized that traumatic brain injury (TBI), induced by controlled cortical impact, in immature rats would cause electroencephalographic (EEG) epileptiform activity and behavioral seizures. TBI or sham craniotomy was performed on postnatal day 17. Using video-EEG monitoring 4–11 months post-TBI, most TBI rats (87.5%) showed EEG spiking and one had spontaneous, recurrent seizures. Controls showed neither EEG spikes nor electrographic/behavioral seizures. Late seizures were rare after TBI, but EEG spiking was common and may represent a surrogate for PTE. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860497 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860496&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001697%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Frequently repetitive febrile seizures (FRFS) in immature brain could impair long-term memory without obvious pathological alteration. Although astrocyte activation has been implicated in many seizure models, it has never been examined in febrile seizure models. We investigated astrocyte activation states after FRFS in postnatal-10-day (P10) rats by western blot and immunohistochemical analysis of GFAP and S100β, two protein markers for activated astrocytes, at three time points (P25, P35, P45). The levels of GFAP and S100β increased significantly at all the time examined. Furthermore, we administered propentofylline, an astrocyte modulator, to verify the relationship between the activated astrocytes and memory injury. After propentofylline treatment for 10 consecutive days foll... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860496 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860495&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001673%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study was to determine the features of temporal epilepsy with hyperkinetic seizures and the functional anatomy of involved brain networks.Methods: We retrospectively identified patients investigated by depth electrodes (SEEG) in whom hyperkinetic manifestations were proved to be linked to initial temporal lobe involvement. Seizure organisation was determined according to the “Epileptogenicity Index” (EI), a new way to quantify rapid discharges at seizure onset.Results: We found 7 patients among 130 SEEG investigations that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Most of the patients presented with hyperkinetic occurring (or predominating) during sleep. SEEG signal analysis demonstrated a common temporo-frontal network in which the temporal pole played a central role. Ma... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860495 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860494&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001661%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Duration of seizure freedom and AED side effects have the strongest impact on QOL in the long-term follow-up. Therefore it is important not only to register intake of AEDs but also to assess side effects of AEDs. Persistence of auras also had an impact on different facets of QOL, but was significantly correlated with intake of AEDs. Apart from factors directly related to epilepsy QOL was dependent of psychosocial factors as employment status, psychiatric complications, and driving a car underlining the necessity of postoperative rehabilitation in this group. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860494 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860493&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001648%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Our study shows that children with benign, well-controlled epilepsy show a different cortical activation pattern during a visual working memory task. We hypothesize that they need more brain processing effort to achieve the same performance level as their age matched controls. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860493 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860492&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001636%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Our findings indicate that intractability of epilepsy may be identified early in the course of the disease, even in SMIDS, and EEG and epileptic syndrome are the very important factors for predicting the seizure prognosis. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860492 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860491&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001624%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The aim of this study was to characterize the anticonvulsant effects of levetiracetam (LEV) in combination with the various antiepileptic drugs (clonazepam [CZP], oxcarbazepine [OXC], phenobarbital [PB], tiagabine [TGB], and valproate [VPA]), in the mouse 6Hz psychomotor seizure model.Limbic (psychomotor) seizure activity was evoked in albino Swiss mice by a current (32mA, 6Hz, 3s stimulus duration) delivered via ocular electrodes and isobolographic analysis for parallel and non-parallel dose–response effects was used to characterize the consequent anticonvulsant interactions between the various drug combinations. Potential concurrent adverse-effect profiles of interactions between LEV and CZP, OXC, PB, TGB, and VPA at the fixed-ratio of 1:1 were evaluated in the chimney (motor ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860491 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860490&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001600%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: A decrease in signal energy occurs during intracranial EEG monitoring, possibly accompanying AED taper. If the decrease is due to AED taper this would suggest that AEDs prevent seizures in ways other than reduction of cortical excitation and seizure generation may be influenced by factors other than poorly regulated cortical excitation. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860490 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860489&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001569%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purpose: Evaluating co-morbidity in people living with epilepsy (PWE) is essential and its modification might improve their quality of life. We analyzed the various co-morbidities in PWE in comparison with the normal healthy controls.Method: This prospective study was conducted from July 2006 to December 2007. PWE attending neurology outpatient services (n=250) with age ranging from 16 to 60 years (29.66±11.31 years; M:F 116:134) were recruited after obtaining informed consent. Healthy matched controls (n=250; 30.35±11.05 years; M:F 114:136) were also recruited.Results: The seizure types were: generalized (62.4%), complex-partial (21.6%), simple-partial (8.8%), and unclassified (7.2%). Sixty-nine percent were on monotherapy, and rest required polytherapy, with 90.8% on adequate ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860489 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860488&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001557%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study demonstrates structural abnormalities beyond the limits of the frontal lobes and provides evidence for the role of the occipital cortex in human PS, reinforcing the existence of functional-anatomic ictogenic networks in JME and the concept of ‘system epilepsies’. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860488 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860487&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900134X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Greater CSF NT-proBNP concentrations in children with epilepsy may reflect an unspecific activation of the cardio-neuro-endocrine system involving endocrinological stress–response mechanisms interictally. The relationship between epilepsy and the cardio-neuro-endocrine axis may further the understanding of seizure susceptibility in children as well as influences of epilepsy on central modulation of autonomic cardiovascular control. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860487 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860486&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001338%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Lower PTZth obtained by using LPS in combination with HS in rat pups suggests a change in brain excitability. Our model with only 5min of HS in combination with LPS suggests that an inflammatory response could, in part, explain long-term change in brain excitability following short FS. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860486 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860485&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001302%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Our findings demonstrate that in OHSCs GABA has an inhibitory effect on SLEs. Proconvulsant effects of GABA agonists on spontaneous neuronal activity and seizure like activity were never observed. Our findings exclude a possible contribution of impaired/altered GABA-ergic mechanisms based on immaturity of receptors and/or low receptor density to seizure susceptibility and pharmacoresistance in OHSCs. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860485 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860484&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001612%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Rasmussen encephalitis (RE), initially described half a century ago, is an inflammatory unihemispheric brain disorder. Its two clinical key facets are the progressive tissue and function loss and the epilepsy, often in form of epilepsia partialis continua. For both, treatment options are available. Anti-seizure effect of anti-epilepsy drugs is usually limited to secondarily generalized seizures and complex partial seizures whereas epilepsia partialis continua usually is totally refractory. Hemispherectomy in one of its modern variants offers a very high chance of seizure freedom, however at the price of irreversible loss of functions located in the affected hemisphere. In a proportion of patients, long-term immunotherapy is able to prevent or slow down hemispheric tissue loss and ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860484 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2860483&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002770%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2860483 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2860483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721966&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001235%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The publisher regrets that the acknowledgement was published incorrectly in the above article. The correct acknowledgement is reproduced correctly below. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721966 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:16 +0100 2721966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721965&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001211%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes I read with interest the paper by reporting the use of verapamil, a voltage-gated calcium channel blocker (Vg-CCB), as an add-on therapy in two severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI) patients. Treatment with verapamil resulted in a long-lasting, good control of different seizure types, including episodes of status epilepticus. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721965 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:15 +0100 2721965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721964&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001193%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report here for the first time, an alteration of platelet function attributable to this drug. This effect has never been reported before. The responsibility of levetiracetam seems to be probable: restoration of platelet functionality was observed after withholding this treatment and this effect has been described for a structurally related molecule, piracetam. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721964 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:15 +0100 2721964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721963&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001260%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report on a balanced de novo translocation t(13;22)(q22.3;q11.23) in a patient with a form of focal idiopathic epilepsy. Since candidate genes for FPEVF (familial partial epilepsy with variable foci) have been mapped by linkage studies in the same cytogenetic band of chromosome 22 involved in the translocation, this case can be helpful to identify genes involved in this form of epilepsy.Methods: Molecular cytogenetics analyses (FISH and array-CGH) were performed.Results and conclusions: Neither DNA duplications nor deletions were detected by array-CGH, thus it can be inferred that the translocation is balanced. The breakpoint on chromosome 22 was precisely mapped by FISH on the RP11-432I9 clone, which is located in the interval defined by the linkage studies for FPEVF.The role of the kn... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721963 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:15 +0100 2721963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721962&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001296%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Inflammatory mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Vice versa, immune functions are regulated by the brain. We measured postictal changes in serum levels of the immuno-modulating cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα in patients with well-defined temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and determined modifying factors. Serum levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα were quantified by ELISA at baseline as well as immediately, 1h and 24h after a complex partial (CPS) or secondary generalized tonic–clonic seizure (GTCS) during video-EEG monitoring in 25 patients suffering from temporal epilepsy. IL-6 increased by 51% immediately after the seizure (p0.5, vs. 112%, p (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721962 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:15 +0100 2721962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721961&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001284%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: In this study, DWIs and FLAIR images were proved useful in determining the extent and severity of early neuronal damage caused by epileptic discharges in SE patients. Seizure-induced long-term injuries were also observed in the follow-up MRI. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721961 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:15 +0100 2721961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721960&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001272%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: MPSI is a newly recognized epileptic syndrome characterized by early onset of intractable partial seizures arisingly independently and sequentially from both hemispheres, migrating from one region of the brain to another and from one hemisphere to another. We report the efficacy of intravenous levetiracetam in resolving refractory status epilepticus in two infants with this new epilepsy syndrome. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721960 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:15 +0100 2721960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721959&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001247%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most resistant type of epilepsy. Currently available drugs for epilepsy are not antiepileptogenic. A novel treatment for epilepsy would be to block or reverse the process of epileptogenesis. We used intermittent feeding (IF) regimen of the dietary restriction (DR) to study its effect on epileptogenesis and neuroprotection in the pilocarpine model of TLE in rats. The effect of IF regimen on the induction of status epilepticus (SE), the duration of latent period, and the frequency, duration, severity and the time of occurrence of Spontaneous Recurrent Seizures (SRS) were investigated. We also studied the effect of IF regimen on hippocampal neurons against the excitotoxic damage of prolonged SE (about 4h) induced by pilocarpine. The animals (Wistar... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721959 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:14 +0100 2721959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721958&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900120X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study was conducted in Izmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Neurology Department. 56 epileptic patients who were on continuous carbamazepine monotherapy for at least 6 months before the study and 42 control subjects were included. Serum leptin and insulin levels were measured.Body mass index, leptin and insulin were not significantly elevated in carbamazepine group compared to control subjects (p>0.05).Our study demonstrated that carbamazepine therapy does not affect significantly body mass index, leptin and insulin. Data regarding the effect of carbamazepine on serum leptin level is limited but the results of these recent studies are correlated with ours. It can be concluded that carbamazepine is a relatively low risky antiepileptic drug in terms of obesity and metabolic syn... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721958 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:14 +0100 2721958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721957&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001181%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: In conclusion, VPA (and moderately CBZ) therapy is related to increased risk for ultrasonographic signs of fatty liver disease, emphasizing the importance of regular ultrasound measurements as well as monitoring of serum lipids and BMI during enzyme-modulating AED treatment. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721957 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:14 +0100 2721957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721956&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900117X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aimed to evaluate the risk frequency of hyperammonemia and abnormal carnitine levels in children receiving VPA who were otherwise free of neurological or obvious nutritional problems.Methods: Ammonia levels were prospectively evaluated in 60 epileptic children with primary epilepsy free of neurological or nutritional problems and were treated with VPA for at least 1 year. Forty healthy children were included as controls. Ammonia levels were correlated with total carnitine (TC), free carnitine (FC), acylcarnitine (AC) and AC/FC ratio. The abnormal ammonia and carnitine levels were also re-checked after 3 months treatment with l-carnitine.Results: Compared to pre-treatment and control levels, the mean TC and FC were lower (p (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721956 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:14 +0100 2721956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721955&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001168%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purpose: T2 relaxometry, quantitative assessment of T2 relaxation time in magnetic resonance (MR) data, typically uses manually drawn regions of interest (ROIs). This approach is limited by its subjectivity and its restricted scope of investigation. A recently developed approach called voxel-based relaxometry (VBR) provides an unbiased statistical analysis of the whole brain. Our objective was to assess the clinical utility of single-subject VBR for patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).Methods: Forty-five patients with TLE confirmed by history, EEG, and structural MRI and 25 control subjects were scanned at 3T using a modified Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill MR sequence. ROIs were drawn for each patient and control subject, and measurements were made on unregistered T2 maps.... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721955 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:14 +0100 2721955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721954&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000801%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The detection of gamma rhythms in the ictal EEGs of tonic seizures indicated that some tonic seizures might have generative mechanisms in common with epileptic spasms, and that these mechanisms are possibly related to desynchronization at seizure onset. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721954 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:13 +0100 2721954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721953&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001259%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article will provide an overview of the psychosocial and cognitive problems that people with epilepsy (PWE) experience as consequence of the condition and its treatment. Psychosocial problems will be discussed in light of how they impact on quality of life. The review will discuss the stigma, myths and stereotypes that PWE encounter and the implications of these for important psychological outcomes including; anxiety, depression, self-esteem, sense of mastery and cognitive dysfunction. The latter part of the article will focus on psychosocial factors including social isolation, interpersonal and family relationships and employment. The overall aim is to provide the reader with a general overview of the sort of factors that can impede social functioning in PWE with particular emphasis ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721953 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:13 +0100 2721953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2721952&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109002228%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2721952 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:36:11 +0100 2721952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623728&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001119%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A 53-year-old epileptic man had two seizures during polysomnography. Significant sleep apnea followed each (apnea–hypopnea indices (AHIs) of 22 and 20.4 for the 2h following seizure one and 47.7 for the 53min following seizure two). Lower hourly AHIs (range: 6.0–14.1) occurred for the remainder of the study. Results were not position-dependent. This suggests that epilepsy can transiently worsen sleep apnea, with implications for treatment. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623728 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:45 +0100 2623728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623727&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001107%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report the first case, to our knowledge, of non-ketotic hyperglycemic (NKH) related occipital seizures studied by continuous EEG-fMRI in an undiagnosed diabetic patient. Ictal EEG showed left posterior spikes and sharp-waves. Seizures subsided after insulin therapy was started.Continuous EEG-fMRI was performed and BOLD activation was identified in the left Brodmann's area 18 (visual association area).Activation of an epileptic focus related with the patient's metabolic disturbance can be postulated. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623727 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:45 +0100 2623727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623726&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001090%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study evaluated the effects of levetiracetam (LEV) in three children with this syndrome. All three children (aged 8, 12 and 10 years) had episodic autonomic symptoms for 4, 6 and 2 years, respectively. Symptoms duration varied between a few minutes and 5–7 days, reflecting an autonomic status epilepticus. Children previously controlled on valproate (VPA) but with recurring seizures, were given LEV (1000–2000mg/day) initially as add-on therapy, and after as monotherapy. All three children received LEV monotherapy and remained seizure-free after 3, 3 and 2 years of treatment, respectively. One child, after 2 years seizure free, stopped LEV treatment. Now, he is asymptomatic for 2 years. LEV has shown efficacy on autonomic seizure control in three patients with PS where VPA was ineff... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623726 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:45 +0100 2623726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623725&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000849%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: We measured the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 24 patients with West syndrome to clarify whether inflammatory cytokines were involved in the pathophysiology of West syndrome. There was no significant elevation of any of the three pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, in patients with West syndrome as compared with those in controls. However, level of anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-1 receptor antagonist was significantly decreased in the CSF of patients with West syndrome. Further study is needed to elucidate whether an immune system disturbance is involved in the pathophysiology of West syndrome. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623725 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623725 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623724&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000837%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A previous report found an association between ApoE isoforms and postictal confusion in medically intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We performed a molecular epidemiology study in an independent sample of 77 TLE patients. We failed to replicate the original allelic association between ApoE ɛ4 allele and postictal confusion in our population (χ2=1.67; d.f.=1; p=0.2). Thus, the association between ApoE ɛ4 allele and postictal confusion still needs to be fully investigated in different and independent populations. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623724 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623724 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623723&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000783%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A previously healthy 8½-month-old girl underwent epilepsy surgery for intractable focal seizures with secondary generalization that progressed to status epilepticus. The major neuropathologic finding was extensive apoptosis. Investigations did not reveal any etiology for the apoptosis or the seizures. This is the first report of apoptosis, without necrosis, in association with intractable status epilepticus in the developing human brain. The findings suggest that new treatment strategies targeted to prevent apoptosis may be useful in children with prolonged status epilepticus. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623723 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623722&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000734%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe a patient with SMEI and enlarged muscle mitochondria associated with mutations in mitochondrial polymerase gamma 1 (POLG1) and SCN1A. Due to increased risk of valproate-induced liver failure in patients with POLG1 mutations, we recommend POLG1 gene analysis for SMEI patients before valproate administration. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623722 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623721&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001156%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, both natural coumarin derivatives deserve more attention from a preclinical point of view as compounds possessing some potentially favorable activities in terms of suppression of seizures, quite similar to those reported for valproate. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623721 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623721 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623720&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001120%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: High frequency oscillations (HFOs) have been associated with epileptogenicity. In rats, the extent of HFOs (>200Hz) is correlated with seizure frequency. We studied whether the same applies to patients with focal epilepsy. Thirty-nine patients with intracerebral EEG sampled at 2000Hz were studied for interictal ripples (80–250Hz), fast ripples (FR, 250–500Hz) and spikes. Seizure frequency before implantation was compared to numbers of channels with HFOs (>1/min). Analyses were repeated for HFO rates of >5, >10 and >20. Separate analyses were done for 25 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy only and for a selection of similar unilateral temporal channels in 12 patients. No linear correlation or trend was found relating the number of channels with HFOs and seizure frequency. The... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623720 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623719&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001089%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The purpose of this study is to assess the clinical value of spatiotemporal source analysis for analyzing ictal magnetoencephalography (MEG). Ictal MEG and simultaneous scalp EEG was recorded in five patients with medically intractable frontal lobe epilepsy. Dynamic statistical parametric maps (dSPMs) were calculated at the peak of early ictal spikes for the purpose of estimating the spatiotemporal cortical source distribution. DSPM solutions were mapped onto a cortical surface, which was derived from each patient's MRI. Equivalent current dipoles (ECDs) were calculated using a single-dipole model for comparison with dSPMs. In all patients, dSPMs tended to have a localized activation, consistent with the clinically determined ictal onset zone, whereas most ECDs were considered to ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623719 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:44 +0100 2623719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623718&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001077%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: the “delayed effect” of the IEDs was demonstrated electrophysiologically and quantified. The method may be utilized in the individual assessment of the effect of IEDs on cortical activity, the degree and temporo-spatial extension of the abnormality. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623718 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:43 +0100 2623718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623717&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001065%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Background: Epilepsy is associated with imbalance of sympathetic and parasympathetic activity which may lead to sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Well-controlled (WcE) and intractable epilepsy (IE) subjects may present different autonomic profiles, which can be helpful in explaining the predisposition of the latter to SUDEP.Purpose: To compare inter-ictal cardiovascular autonomic function in subjects with partial WcE and IE.Methods: Thirty WcE and 31 IE subjects underwent a battery of autonomic function tests: deep breathing, Valsalva maneuver, isometric exercise, cold pressor and tilt-table. Autonomic tone was assessed by heart rate variability (HRV). Their autonomic severity score and anxiety status was also assessed.Results: IE subjects had elevated low frequency co... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623717 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:43 +0100 2623717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623716&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001053%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A combination of temporo-limbic hyperperfusion and extratemporal hypoperfusion was observed during complex partial seizures (CPS) in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). To investigate the clinical correlate of perfusion changes in TLE, we analyzed focal seizures of increasing severity using voxel-based analysis of ictal SPECT.We selected 26 pre-operative pairs of ictal–interictal SPECTs from adult mesial TLE patients, seizure-free after surgery. Ictal SPECTs were classified in three groups: motionless seizures (group ML, n=8), seizures with motor automatisms (MA) without dystonic posturing (DP) (group MA, n=8), and seizures with DP with or without MA (DP, n=10). Patients of group ML had simple partial seizures (SPS), while others had CPS. Groups of ictal–interictal SPECT were compar... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623716 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:43 +0100 2623716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623715&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000874%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Before surgery, the combination of a clinical, neurophysiological and neuro-radiological approach may be predictable of the neurological outcome in epileptic patients. Moreover, the patient we describe provides new pieces of information in the mechanisms of plasticity underlying motor recovery after epilepsy surgery. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623715 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:42 +0100 2623715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623714&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000850%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Invasive intracranial electrodes (IE) are an important part of the work-up in many patients being considered for epilepsy surgery. Because IE are usually reserved for cases where seizure localization is ambiguous, one might expect that the eventual outcome of epilepsy surgery in these patients would be worse than in patients who did not require IE as part of their work-up. The purpose of this study was to specifically examine those patients who underwent insertion of subdural electrodes, to determine how many of these patients eventually underwent resective surgery of any type and to assess the eventual outcome. All cases admitted for subdural electrodes between January 2000 and June 2005 were reviewed. Surgical outcomes were reported using the Engel classification and a multivari... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623714 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:42 +0100 2623714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623713&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000795%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: We performed a molecular epidemiology study in a population of 105 mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTE-HS) patients in order to investigate the role of a polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) in the prediction of antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment response. Homozygous carriers of the 12-repeat allele had an almost fourfold increase in risk for a MTE-HS not responding to medical treatment (OR 3.88; CI 95% 1.40–10.7; p=0.006) compared to carriers of the 10-repeat allele. Therefore, a polymorphism of SLC6A4 might be a genetic marker of pharmacoresistance in MTE-HS patients. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623713 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:42 +0100 2623713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623712&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000862%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Recurrent seizures during development are associated with long-term behavioral deficits in learning, memory and activity level as well as impaired synaptic efficiency. Age of seizure onset was not a strong predictor of outcome. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623712 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:42 +0100 2623712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623711&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900076X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Benzodiazepines (BDZs) are GABAA receptor modulators with anxiolytic, hypnotic, and anticonvulsant properties. BDZs are understood to potentiate GABAA receptor function by increasing channel opening frequency, in contrast to barbiturates, which increase channel open duration. However, the in vitro evidence demonstrating increased opening frequency involved prolonged exposure to sub-saturating GABA concentrations, conditions most similar to those found in extrasynaptic areas. In contrast, synaptic GABAA receptors are transiently activated by high GABA concentrations. To determine if BDZ modulation of single-channel opening frequency would be different for BDZ-sensitive receptors activated under synaptic versus extrasynaptic conditions, a combination of patch clamp recording and kin... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623711 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:41 +0100 2623711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623710&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000710%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Recognizing bad prognostic features such as the presence of mental retardation, early age of seizure onset, age of head trauma and female gender may help physicians to identify risk groups with MTLE-HS and drug resistance seizures for epilepsy surgery. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623710 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:41 +0100 2623710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623709&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000722%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The basic mechanisms of hippocampal networks in epileptogenesis are not entirely understood. To help achieve a better understanding of these mechanisms, we studied the extra-cellular electrically evoked responses in the hippocampi of mice during rapid kindling. Kindling protocol was achieved by stimulating the dorsal right hippocampus six times daily for four days using bipolar electrodes to produce sub-convulsive electrical discharges. Motor responses and analyzed electroencephalographic recordings showed progression from partial complex seizures to generalized seizures associated with different consecutive patterns within the afterdischarges. A spike-wave pattern appeared immediately after stimulation in combination with a poly-spike complex superimposed over the wave (AD1). AD1... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623709 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:41 +0100 2623709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623708&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000771%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Seven patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsies were investigated using MEG and EEG. Spike–wave series were seen in all patients, single spikes in six. For both, source analysis showed most often involvement of frontal, perinsular and subcortical/thalamic areas. In all patients, a unilateral frontal accentuation of activity could be observed. Patients with juvenile myoclonic and myoclonic absence epilepsy presented with localizations mainly in the central and premotor regions versus prefrontal accentuation in the other absence patients. MEG/EEG source localization provides important information concerning regional network involvement in idiopathic generalized epilepsies. As a consequence for a neurophysiological concept of “generalized” epileptic seizures and syndromes... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623708 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:41 +0100 2623708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623707&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000825%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: In this second paper the clinical features and electrophysiological underpinnings of more complex psychotic states associated with epilepsy are reviewed. (a) Complex partial status epilepticus, in particular of temporal lobe origin, may result in mental states remarkably similar to those seen in the primary psychoses. This non-convulsive state is associated with prolonged epileptic discharges on intracranial stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) in hippocampal and other mesial temporal structures, sometimes without abnormalities on the scalp EEG. Where hallucinatory or psychotic symptomatology does occurs, it can be considered an examples of an ictal psychosis. The phenomenology and electrophysiological features of this condition are reviewed. (b) Postictal psychosis is noted for it... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623707 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:41 +0100 2623707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623706&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000813%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The purpose of this paper and its pair is to provide a comprehensive review, from the different perspectives of neurology and neuropsychiatry, of the phenomenology and mechanisms of hallucinatory experience in epilepsy. We emphasise the clinical and electrophysiological features, and make comparisons with the primary psychoses. In this paper, we consider definitions and elementary hallucinatory phenomena. Regarding definition, there is a clearly divergent evolution in meaning of the terms delusion, illusion and hallucination in the separate traditions of neurology and psychiatry. Psychiatry makes clear distinctions between the terms and has focussed on the empirical use of descriptive psychopathology in order to delineate the various psychiatric syndromes, including those in epile... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623706 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:41 +0100 2623706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623705&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000746%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: After it was first identified that seizures increase neurogenesis in the adult brain of laboratory animals, the idea that postnatal neurogenesis may be involved in epilepsy became a topic of widespread interest. Since that time, two perspectives have developed. They primarily address temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), because the data have either been based on animal models of TLE or patients with intractable TLE. The first perspective is that postnatal neurogenesis contributes to the predisposition for seizures in TLE. This premise is founded in the observations showing that there is a dramatic rise in neurogenesis after many types of insults or injuries which ultimately lead to TLE. As a result of the increase in neurogenesis, several changes in the dentate gyrus occur, and the net e... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623705 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:40 +0100 2623705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623704&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000758%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Epileptogenesis is common following brain insults such as trauma, ischemia and infection. However, the mechanisms underlying injury-related epileptogenesis remain unknown. Recent studies demonstrated impaired integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) during epileptogenesis. Here we review accumulating experimental evidence supporting the potential involvement of primary BBB lesion in epileptogenesis. Data from animal experiments demonstrate that primary breakdown of the BBB prone animals to develop focal neocortical epilepsy that is followed by neuronal loss and impaired functions. The extravasation of albumin from the circulation into the brain neuropil was found to be sufficient for the induction of epileptogenesis. Albumin binds to transforming growth factor β receptor 2 (T... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623704 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:40 +0100 2623704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623703&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000886%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Deficiencies in the brain's own adenosine-based seizure control system contribute to seizure generation. Consequently, reconstitution of adenosinergic neuromodulation constitutes a rational approach for seizure control. This review will critically discuss focal adenosine augmentation strategies and their potential for antiepileptic and disease modifying therapy. Due to systemic side effects of adenosine focal adenosine augmentation – ideally targeted to an epileptic focus – becomes a therapeutic necessity. This has experimentally been achieved in kindled seizure models as well as in post-status epilepticus models of spontaneous recurrent seizures using three different therapeutic strategies that will be discussed here: (i) polymer-based brain implants that were loaded with ade... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623703 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:40 +0100 2623703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623702&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001314%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Is it possible to repair an injured or malfunctioning human brain? Most brain scientist would say yes, but, in fact, they would be expressing their hope that it may be possible. This hope is based on promising experimental evidence derived from various animal models of neural diseases. These models show that even in pathological state, brain cells maintain their extraordinary capacity for plasticity and adaptation, which can be utilized in targeting curative interventions. Pathological state of epileptic brain is a result of very complex and multiple structural and functional alterations with diverse etiologies, and therefore represents perhaps the most challenging condition for a repair. Current pharmacological approaches applied to patients with epilepsy are mostly symptomatic, have cons... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623702 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:40 +0100 2623702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2623701&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109001806%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2623701 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:11:40 +0100 2623701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480386&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000667%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report that a single, rapid post-traumatic application of the proconvulsant cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptor antagonist SR141716A (Rimonabant–Acomplia®) abolishes the long-term increase in seizure susceptibility caused by head injury in rats. These results indicate that, paradoxically, a seizure-enhancing drug may disrupt the epileptogenic process if applied within a short therapeutic time window. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480386 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:33 +0100 2480386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480385&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000448%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Mutations in LGI1 have been reported in several families with autosomal dominant lateral temporal epilepsy. In a family in which three patients also experienced migraine-like episodes we found a novel three base-pair deletion (c.377_379delACA), resulting in the deletion of an asparagine residue in the second leucine-rich repeat. Functional studies showed that the mutated protein was not secreted when transfected in COS cells, consistent with a causative role in the disease. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480385 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:32 +0100 2480385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480384&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000278%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The Val66Met polymorphism in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene may modulate the epilepsy phenotype. We investigated the impact of polymorphisms in the BDNF gene on clinical features in fragile X syndrome (FXS). In our study sample, the Met66 allele associated with epilepsy of finnish FXS men. Abnormalities in BDNF-mediated plasticity are shown in FXS and the present data suggest that the Met66 allele might predispose FXS males to epilepsy. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480384 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:30 +0100 2480384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480383&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000709%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Prevalence and incidence of use of newer AED strongly increased during the years 2003–2005 in a general practice of Southern Italy. Significant differences are shown in the prescribing pattern of newer and older medications: older AEDs are mainly used in the treatment of epileptic disorders, while newer compounds are preferred for conditions other than epilepsy, in particular neuropathic pain. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480383 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:27 +0100 2480383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480382&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000679%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The development of novel anticonvulsant drugs with improved efficacy for the treatment of epilepsy is hindered by a lack of information regarding the quantitative relationship between target mechanism and in vivo efficacy. In the present study we have examined the correlation between the potency of structurally diverse compounds at voltage-gated sodium channels in vitro and their efficacy in a rodent model of acute generalised seizures induced by electroshock. We observed a significant correlation between the estimated affinity (Ki) of the compounds for the inactivated state of human recombinant NaV1.2 channels and the unbound brain concentration required for anticonvulsant efficacy. Furthermore, the data suggest that an unbound concentration equivalent to less than 50% of the Ki ... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480382 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:20 +0100 2480382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480381&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000655%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report on the use of the voltage-gated calcium channel blocker (Vg-CCB), verapamil, as an add-on anticonvulsant medication in two girls, 4 and 14 years of age, who were affected by severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI) or Dravet syndrome, a channelopathy caused by abnormalities in the voltage-gated sodium channel neuronal type α1 subunit (SCN1A) gene at 2q24. Both girls had pharmacoresistant epilepsy and developmental delay. Mutation analysis for the SCN1A gene revealed a missense mutation in exon 2 in the 4-year-old girl. Verapamil was co-administered in both children with a prompt response in controlling status epilepticus, myoclonic jerks, and partial and generalized seizures. The therapeutic effect lasted 13 months in the 14-year-old girl, while it is still present after a 20... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480381 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:15 +0100 2480381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480380&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000643%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purpose: Progressive myoclonus epilepsies (PMEs) comprise a heterogeneous group of conditions characterized by an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neuronal mechanisms. The aim of this study was to assess the function of the motor cortex in Unverricht–Lundborg disease (ULD), progressive myoclonus epilepsy type 1 (EPM1).Methods: Genetically verified EPM1 patients (n=24) were studied and compared with healthy subjects (n=24). MRI-navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to study the function of the motor cortex. Motor threshold (MT) and cortical silent period (SP) were used as parameters to evaluate cortical excitability. Peripheral muscle responses were recorded at the thenar and hypothenar using on-line electromyography (EMG).Results: The normal short... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480380 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:12 +0100 2480380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480379&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920121109000631%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purpose: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of adjunctive levetiracetam in idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) syndromes with onset during adolescence: juvenile absence epilepsy (JAE), juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), and generalized tonic–clonic seizures on awakening (GTCSA).Methods: Supplementary analysis of two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Patients received levetiracetam (target dose: adults 3000mg/day; children 60mg/kg/day; n=15 JAE, 78 JME, and 22 GTCSA) or placebo (n=12 JAE, 89 JME, and 27 GTCSA) for 16–24 weeks (including 4-week uptitration) in addition to 1–2 antiepileptic drugs.Results: Responder rates (≥50%) were significantly higher for levetiracetam versus placebo for JAE (53.3% vs. 25.0%; p=0.004), JME (61.0% vs. 24.7%; p (Source: Epilepsy... Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480379 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:10 +0100 2480379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2480378&cid=s_38464_25_f&fid=38464&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epires-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092012110900045X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Hyperammonemia is a frequent but transient finding following intravenous administration of loading doses of VPA. Hyperammonemia was not associated with alteration in consciousness or hepatic transaminases. (Source: Epilepsy Research) Epilepsy Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2480378 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:32:03 +0100 2480378