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 'Journal of Neurology' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:43:16 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5668697&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F93514242104r358m%2F Abstract  Given the availability of effective but costly treatment for acquired demyelinating neuropathies, biomarkers for these disorders are urgently needed. Here we aimed to quantify morphological abnormalities of myelinated fibers in skin biopsies from the proximal leg of patients with neuropathies to determine a potential diagnostic role of this method. We used double immunofluorescence to detect myelinated and unmyelinated fibers in thigh skin from 81 patients with polyneuropathy, 19 patients with small fiber neuropathy, and 25 controls. Dermal myelinated fibers were reduced 6.8-fold in patients with polyneuropathy (p < 0.0001). The number of dermal nerve bundles with myelinated fibers was reduced 2.7-fold (p = 0.0025). In small fiber neuropathy, ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5668697 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:36:54 +0100 5668697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660881&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft573lw777167k707%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6429-2Authors Franziska Scheibe, Department of Neurology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyHolger Flick, UKIM-LKH Universitätsklinikum/Medizinische Universität Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 20, 8036 Graz, AustriaOliver Wengert, Department of Neurology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyDaniel Wittschieber, Department of Pathology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyGeorg Bohner, Department of Radiology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyPeter Ruokonen, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenb... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660881 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:12:04 +0100 5660881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660882&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F857m8163l6278872%2F In this study we aimed to provide a quantitative assessment of visual tracking behavior in response to moving stimuli in DoC patients. Nine VS patients and nine MCS patients were recruited in a Neurorehabilitation Unit for patients with chronic DoC; 11 matched healthy subjects were tested as the control group. All participants underwent a quantitative evaluation of eye-tracking pattern by means of a computerized infrared eye-tracker system; stimuli were represented by a red circle or a small color picture slowly moving on a PC monitor. The proportion of on- or off-target fixations differed significantly between MCS and VS. Most importantly, the distribution of fixations on or off the target in all VS patients was at or below the chance level, whereas in the MCS group seven out of nin... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660882 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:20:39 +0100 5660882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660884&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fqp033v453507k2qp%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Pioneers in NeurologyPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6398-xAuthors Mohamad M. Zarshenas, Research Office for the History of Persian Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IranAlireza Mehdizadeh, Research Office for the History of Persian Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IranArman Zargaran, Research Office for the History of Persian Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IranAbdolali Mohagheghzadeh, Research Office for the History of Persian Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660884 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:12:30 +0100 5660884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660883&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F11p740m751586u22%2F Abstract  The hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies (HSAN, also known as the hereditary sensory neuropathies) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders, characterised by a progressive sensory neuropathy often complicated by ulcers and amputations, with variable motor and autonomic involvement. To date, mutations in twelve genes have been identified as causing HSAN. To study the frequency of mutations in these genes and the associated phenotypes, we screened 140 index patients in our inherited neuropathy cohort with a clinical diagnosis of HSAN for mutations in the coding regions of SPTLC1, RAB7, WNK1/HSN2, FAM134B, NTRK1 (TRKA) and NGFB. We identified 25 index patients with mutations in six genes associated with HSAN (SPTLC1, RAB7, WNK1/HSN2, F... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660883 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:12:30 +0100 5660883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660885&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F0v310u340w0p028r%2F Abstract  The goal of this study was to describe specifically the clinical characteristics of migraine with aura in patients over the age of 50. During 1 year, three neurologists working in a tertiary headache center included all patients aged 50 years and over presenting migraine with aura in a prospective registry. Fifty-seven patients with migraine with aura aged 50 years and over were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire during a consultation. Auras were visual for all the patients, paresthesic for 16 patients, and aphasic for 16. One patient had a sporadic hemiplegic migraine. The headache followed the aura in a large majority of patients and fulfilled the International Headache Society criteria for migraine headache for 38 patients. Typical au... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660885 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:12:29 +0100 5660885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660886&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl5010h30r413pu84%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Pioneers in NeurologyPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6431-8Authors Frank W. Stahnisch, Department of Community Health Sciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, CanadaJeremy D. Tynedal, Department of Community Health Sciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660886 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:09 +0100 5660886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660890&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr40071p401u38771%2F We examined 8 patients with genetically confirmed OPMD and 5 healthy volunteers twice at an interval of 13 months. Motor function measurements (MFM) were assessed. Imaging at 1.5 T (Siemens Magnetom Avanto) comprised two axial slice groups at the largest diameter of thigh and calf and included T1w TSE, 2-point Dixon for muscular fat fraction (MFF) and a multi-contrast TSE sequence to calculate quantitative T2 values. T1 images were analyzed using Fischer’s semiquantitative 5-point (0–4) scale. MFM and visual scores showed no significant difference over the study period. Overall T2 values increased in patients over the study period from 49.4 to 51.6 ms, MFF increased from 19.2 to 20.7%. Neither T2 values nor MFF increased in controls. Changes in T2 correla... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660890 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:08 +0100 5660890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660889&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fjh5231k4x7562885%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6427-4Authors Takuya Oguri, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601 JapanManabu Hattori, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601 JapanTakemori Yamawaki, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601 JapanSatoshi Tanida, Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601 JapanMakoto Sasaki, Department of Gastr... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660889 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:08 +0100 5660889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660888&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ftv127vu725145136%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Pioneers in NeurologyPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6433-6Authors Lazaros C. Triarhou, Economo-Koskinas Wing for Integrative and Evolutionary Neuroscience, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660888 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:08 +0100 5660888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660887&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fbt5h581271r55601%2F In this study we screened a cohort of 21 Greek patients with HD phenocopy syndromes for mutations causing HDL2, SCA17, SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA8, SCA12 and DRPLA. Fifteen patients (71%) had a positive family history. We identified one patient (4.8% of the total cohort) with an expansion of 81 combined CTA/CTG repeats at the SCA8 locus. This falls within what is believed to be the high-penetrance allele range. In addition to the classic HD triad, the patient had features of dystonia and oculomotor apraxia. There were no cases of HDL2, SCA17, SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, SCA12 or DRPLA. Given the controversy surrounding the SCA8 expansion, the present finding may be incidental. However, if pathogenic, it broadens the phenotype that may be associated with SCA8 expansions. The absence of any other mut... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660887 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:54:08 +0100 5660887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660891&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd8611417l8631182%2F The objective of this study is to investigate the value of dual-task performance for the prediction of falls in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Two hundred sixty-three patients with PD (H&Y 1–3, 65.2 ± 7.9 years) walked two times along a 10-m trajectory, both under single-task and dual-task (DT) conditions (combined with an auditory Stroop task). To control for a cueing effect, Stroop stimuli were presented at variable or fixed 1- or 2-s intervals. The auditory Stroop task was also performed alone. Dual-task costs were calculated for gait speed, stride length, stride time, stride time variability, step and stride regularity, step symmetry and Stroop composite scores (accuracy/reaction time). Subsequently, falls were registered prospectively for 1 year... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660891 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:26:25 +0100 5660891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660892&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F97j523810qt4121x%2F Abstract  Positron emission tomography (PET) is a powerful tool for in vivo imaging investigations of human brain function. It provides non-invasive quantification of brain metabolism, receptor binding of various neurotransmitter systems, and alterations in regional blood flow. The use of PET in a clinical setting is still limited due to the high costs of cyclotrons and radiochemical laboratories. However, once these limitations can be bypassed, PET could aid clinical practice by providing a useful imaging technique for the diagnosis, the planning of treatment, and the prediction outcome in various neurological diseases. This review aims to explain the PET imaging technique and its applications in neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease,... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660892 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:14:15 +0100 5660892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660893&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh03w78757k5486q4%2F Abstract  Ample evidence has suggested that individuals with subjective memory complaints are at a higher risk for cognitive decline. Nevertheless, the significance of subjective memory complaints in Parkinson’s disease has not been studied until now. We investigated whether the patterns of cognitive profiles and gray matter density differed in cognitively normal patients with Parkinson’s disease based on the presence of subjective memory complaints. Using a single question with a yes or no answer, cognitively normal patients with Parkinson’s disease were classified as with (n = 20) or without subjective memory complaints (n = 15). Cognitive profiles and gray matter density were examined using standardized neuropsychological tests and voxel-based mo... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660893 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:05 +0100 5660893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660895&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg516811v27kj16lw%2F Abstract  Movement disorder specialists have limited information on the specifics of how patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) spend their time. We deemed it important to examine the relationships among activity and daily energy expenditure (DEE), non-motor symptoms, and body mass index in veterans with PD who were outpatients at a Veterans Affairs medical center. In this exploratory study, we mailed demographic and activity questionnaires and gathered data on 100 patients. Activity was categorized into five domains and three intensity levels, and DEE was measured in kilocalories. Light activities accounted for 64.9% of DEE (9.1 h), moderate activities for 32.9% (2.1 h), and vigorous activities for 2.2% (0.1 h) of DEE. Television viewing comprised 10.6% (2... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660895 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:04 +0100 5660895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660894&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq7134190201n21g1%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6417-6Authors Hiroya Naruse, Department of Neurology, Tokyo Teishin Hospital, 2-14-23, Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-8798 JapanYu Nagashima, Department of Neurology, Tokyo Teishin Hospital, 2-14-23, Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-8798 JapanRisa Maekawa, Department of Neurology, Tokyo Teishin Hospital, 2-14-23, Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-8798 JapanYasushi Shiio, Department of Neurology, Tokyo Teishin Hospital, 2-14-23, Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-8798 Japan Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660894 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:04 +0100 5660894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660898&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F791351w41g525407%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Pioneers in NeurologyPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6424-7Authors Olivier Walusinski, Brou, 28160 France Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660898 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:02 +0100 5660898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660897&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff211610651732127%2F Abstract  Natalizumab has been shown to be effective in pivotal clinical trials in multiple sclerosis; however, the patients in whom treatment is indicated in clinical practice have a different clinical profile from those included in the clinical trials. The aim of this study is therefore to collect data on natalizumab use in everyday clinical practice in Spain. The 86 participating centers throughout Spain submitted data on disease characteristics at baseline and after treatment. Valid data were available for 1,364 patients (69.3% women, 86.9% with relapsing–remitting disease). Ninety-three percent had received prior therapy for multiple sclerosis. For the 825 patients on treatment for at least a year, the annualized relapse rate (ARR) decreased from median 2.0 [mean 2.0... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660897 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:02 +0100 5660897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660896&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy369663041734752%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6426-5Authors I. Ayzenberg, Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, GermanyC. Lukas, Department of Radiology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, GermanyN. Trampe, Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, GermanyR. Gold, Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, GermanyK. Hellwig, Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660896 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:02 +0100 5660896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660899&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6nx655n47h615807%2F Abstract  The aim of this study was to determine the neuropsychological consequences of a middle interhemispheric approach for the removal of tumors of the third or lateral ventricles. A retrospective analysis of eight callosotomized patients for ventricular tumors (three males/five females; mean age: 48.7 ± 11.2 years; education level: 11.9 ± 2.9 years) and eight healthy subjects was performed. An extensive neuropsychological test battery was used to evaluate global intellectual efficiency, memory capacities, executive functions, and interhemispheric transfer of a procedural learning task (serial reaction time task/SRTT). Neuropsychological results showed that: (1) five of eight patients operated through a middle transcallosal approach had di... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660899 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:01 +0100 5660899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660900&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fwnu152l8hx177524%2F This study demonstrates an association between stroke subjects and elevated levels of pattern glare. Cortical hyperexcitability has been shown to present following stroke, and this has been proposed as a plausible explanation for the perceptual distortions experienced by individuals susceptible to pattern glare. Further work to assess the benefits of spectral filters in reducing perceptual distortions in stroke patients is currently underway. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6418-5Authors Ian G. Beasley, Ophthalmic Research Group, Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET UKLeon N. Davies, Ophthalmic Research Group, Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET UK Journal Journa... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660900 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:00 +0100 5660900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5650059&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh72r7263212g2qmx%2F We describe three cases of genetically confirmed DRPLA that developed changes in cerebral white matter in the early stage of middle-aged patients. Our results of our study indicate that cerebral white matter changes are not rare in DRPLA and might be helpful for differentiation in ataxia patients with brainstem and cerebellum atrophy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6401-6Authors Won Tae Yoon, Department of Neurology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of KoreaJinyoung Youn, Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 50 Ilwon-Dong, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, 135-710 Republic of KoreaJin Whan Cho, Department of Neurology, Samsung M... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5650059 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:41 +0100 5650059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5650060&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1475717131462624%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6422-9Authors Yi-Hsuan Dou, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 112 Taipei, TaiwanKuan-Lin Lai, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 112 Taipei, TaiwanKwong-Kum Liao, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 112 Taipei, TaiwanShih-Pin Chen, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 112 Taipei, Taiwan Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5650060 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:40 +0100 5650060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5650061&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg8n2317773002813%2F Abstract  Cervical artery dissection (CeAD) occurs more often in autumn or winter than in spring or summer. We searched for clinical variables associated with this seasonality by comparing CeAD patients with onset of symptoms in autumn–winter (September 22–March 21) versus those with first CeAD symptom in spring–summer (March 22–September 21). We performed a cross-sectional study using data from the multicenter CADISP (Cervical Artery Dissection and Ischemic Stroke Patients) registry. Age- and sex-matched patients with ischemic stroke attributable to a cause other than CeAD (non-CeAD patients) were analyzed to study the specificity of our findings. Autumn–winter CeAD patients had a higher median brachial pulse pressure at admission (55 vs. 52 mmHg; p =&nb... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5650061 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:39 +0100 5650061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639505&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F48867658032h4480%2F Abstract  Cerebrospinal fluid is vital for normal brain function. Changes to the composition, flow, or pressure can cause a variety of neurological symptoms and signs. Equally, disorders of nervous tissue may alter cerebrospinal fluid characteristics. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid can provide information on diagnosis, may be therapeutic in certain conditions, and allows a research opportunity into neurological disease. However, inappropriate sampling, inaccurate technique, and incomplete analysis can contribute to significant patient morbidity, and reduce the amount of accurate information obtained. In this article, we will review how cerebrospinal fluid is produced, circulated, and resorbed. We will also review lumbar puncture technique, equipment, and cerebrospinal flui... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639505 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:13:22 +0100 5639505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5650062&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk02511n006q75m14%2F Abstract  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of posterior circulation to memory function by comparing memory scores between patients with and without a foetal-type posterior cerebral artery (FTP) during the intracarotid amobarbital procedure (IAP) in epilepsy patients. Patients undergoing bilateral IAP between January 2004 and January 2010 were retrospectively included. Pre-test angiograms were assessed for the presence of a FTP. Memory function scores (% correct) after right and left injections were obtained. Functional significance of FTP was affirmed by relative occipital versus parietal EEG slow-wave increase during IAP. Memory and EEG scores were compared between patients with and without FTP (Mann–Whitney U test). A total of 106 patients ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5650062 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:13:21 +0100 5650062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639506&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg44631l848x5l7g2%2F This study investigated the relationships between alcohol, drug, and tobacco abuse and HD age of onset in 136 participants with symptomatic HD. CAG repeat length was used as a covariate in all analyses, as it represents the most significant determinant of HD age of onset. The relationship between substance abuse, HD age of onset, and sex was also examined, as women may experience greater medical harm from substance abuse. Lifetime alcohol abuse and lifetime drug abuse were associated with earlier age of HD onset; a similar trend was seen for current tobacco abuse. For women, lifetime alcohol abuse was associated with earlier onset of HD, with a similar trend for lifetime drug abuse. However, alcohol, drug, and tobacco abuse were not significantly associated with age of onset in men. ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639506 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:09:48 +0100 5639506 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639507&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy02utx17jk8174j7%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6410-0Authors F. Maggioni, Department of Neurosciences, Headache Centre, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padua, ItalyM. Bellamio, Department of Neurosciences, Headache Centre, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padua, ItalyM. Margoni, Department of Neurosciences, Headache Centre, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padua, ItalyG. Zanchin, Department of Neurosciences, Headache Centre, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padua, ItalyR. Manara, Neuroradiology Unit, University of Padua, Padua, Italy Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639507 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:09:46 +0100 5639507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639510&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw468356prujuw381%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6416-7Authors Michito Namekawa, Department of Neurology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1, Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, JapanHiroto Ito, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, JapanTomoaki Kameda, Department of Neurology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1, Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, JapanImaharu Nakano, Department of Neurology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1, Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639510 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:09:45 +0100 5639510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639509&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn8g8222n85k13240%2F Abstract  Needle electromyography (EMG) is an established method of evaluating motor unit and muscle fibre function and pathology in clinical practice, while the development of advanced techniques including single-fibre EMG and combined recordings with other modalities have become increasingly useful in research. The development of quantitative EMG in particular had led to greater reproducibility and inter-rater reliability. This review provides an overview of standard needle EMG as well as discussing advanced recording and analysis techniques and their increasing role in clinical research. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Techniques in Clinical SciencePages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6350-0Authors Rachel C. Thornton, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Addenbrook... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639509 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:09:45 +0100 5639509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639508&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx02105p3n2734666%2F Abstract  Brain single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can be a useful tool to identify the epileptogenic zone in selected patients. However, ictal SPECT during spontaneous seizures is difficult to obtain and can be expensive, due to extra hospitalization time and personnel resource utilization. The efficacy of ictal SPECT depends on the ability to inject as early as possible after the beginning of the ictal discharge and/or the occurrence of the first symptom and is challenged by the short duration and rapid propagation of seizures, especially extratemporal seizures. We studied 52 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who underwent ictal SPECT during provoked seizures in order to demonstrate the efficacy of this technique to define the epileptogenic zone and it... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639508 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:09:45 +0100 5639508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639511&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F21jn360m87313621%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6411-zAuthors Arianna Merlini, Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Neurology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milan, ItalyLuca Peruzzotti-Jametti, Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Neurology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milan, ItalyMarco Bacigaluppi, Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Neurology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milan, ItalyGiovanna Mantovani, Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore P... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639511 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:27:55 +0100 5639511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639513&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh7647787g0681441%2F The objective of this study was to validate the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for MS from the perspective of physicians. Using a three-round Delphi technique, physicians experienced in the MS treatment were requested to name patients’ problems, resources, and aspects of environment. The statements of the first Delphi round were linked to ICF categories based on established linking rules. These categories as well as the results of the second round were reported back to the participants. Eighty-four physicians participated in the study. Totally, 89 categories (64.5%) of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for MS were confirmed by the participants. Eight ICF categories, which are currently not included in the ICF Core Set, were identified. The validity of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for M... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639513 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:27:54 +0100 5639513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5639512&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr3116u102xr41731%2F We describe five PD patients who developed axonal polyneuropathy and vitamin B12 deficiency while on treatment with duodenal levodopa infusion, review other cases reported in the literature, discuss potential etiologic factors, and suggest a possible algorithm for the management and prevention of this complication. One case of Guillain-Barré syndrome and at least 12 cases of polyneuropathy related to vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in PD patients treated with duodenal levodopa infusion. Levodopa gel infusion may induce a decrease in vitamin B12 levels, leading to peripheral neuropathy. Additional pathogenetic mechanisms include alterations related to the metabolism of l-dopa, abnormal l-dopa absorption, and direct neurotoxicity of l-dopa at high doses. Vitamin B12 supplemen... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5639512 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:27:54 +0100 5639512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621271&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq5m232347trl0204%2F Abstract  Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning leads to demyelination of cerebral white matter (CWM) fibers, causing chronic neuropsychiatric symptoms. To clarify whether fractional anisotropy (FA) from diffusion tensor imaging in the centrum semiovale can depict demyelination in the CWM during the subacute phase after CO inhalation, we examined correlations between FA in the centrum semiovale and myelin basic protein (MBP) in cerebrospinal fluid. Subjects comprised 26 adult CO-poisoned patients ≤60 years old. MBP concentration was examined for all patients at 2 weeks after CO inhalation. The mean FA of the centrum semiovale bilaterally at 2 weeks was also examined for all patients and 21 age-matched healthy volunteers as controls. After these examinations, the p... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621271 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:51:49 +0100 5621271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621272&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fgw286pl548155r65%2F Abstract  Herein, we review the main papers in cerebrovascular diseases published in the Journal of Neurology over the last year. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Medical Progress in the Journal of NeurologyPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6408-7Authors Sergio Amaro, Comprehensive Stroke Center, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 170 Villarroel, 08036 Barcelona, SpainAngel Chamorro, Comprehensive Stroke Center, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 170 Villarroel, 08036 Barcelona, Spain Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621272 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:51:48 +0100 5621272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621273&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy2u18306763062vw%2F Abstract  Repetition is frequently impaired in aphasia, most strikingly in conduction aphasia. The still not fully answered question is whether this relates to a linguistic deficit or to a general impairment of working memory extending to other modalities as well. To contribute to this problem, we assessed 49 aphasic and 50 non-aphasic stroke patients using an aphasia test plus three memory tests in forward and backward fashion, taxing verbal, numerical, spatial, and facial retention. The results show that in aphasics there is a memory gradient declining gradually from verbal to nonverbal content reflecting aphasia severity and that aphasics generally perform worse than non-aphasics, even if they present with similar cerebral lesions. Content Type Journal ArticleCategor... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621273 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:51:47 +0100 5621273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5621274&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F71553m7448034820%2F Abstract  The aim of this work was to determine whether survival changed during 2002–2009 at a French amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) center. We included all patients with ALS who were seen consecutively at the center from January 2002–May 2009. Participants were followed from date of first visit through death, date of censoring, or December 31, 2009, whichever occurred first. Cox proportional hazard models computed hazard ratios (HR; 95% confidence interval CI) of death, and flexible modeling of continuous predictors (splines) assessed trends in survival. We analyzed a total of 2,037 ALS patients, of whom 1,471 died before the end of follow-up. Median survival was 2.83 years from onset and 1.65 years from first visit. Compared to patients first seen befor... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5621274 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:51:46 +0100 5621274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5611118&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc487693615v70v56%2F Abstract  Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a mitochondrial disease characterized by retinal ganglion cell degeneration and optic nerve atrophy, leading to a loss of central vision. The aim of this study was to explore the topographical pattern of damage to the brain white matter (WM) tracts from patients with chronic LHON using diffusion tensor (DT) MRI and tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS). Brain dual-echo and DT MRI scans were acquired from 13 patients with chronic LHON and 25 matched controls using a 3.0 T scanner. TBSS analysis was performed using the FMRIB’s Diffusion Toolbox. A complete neuro-ophthalmologic examination, including standardized automated Humphrey perimetry as well as average and temporal peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5611118 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:12:51 +0100 5611118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5611117&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F52t2112424452l56%2F Abstract  The aim of the study was to assess the influence of white matter lesions in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with intra-arterial thrombolysis (IAT). From September 2003 to January 2010, we treated 400 patients with IAT at our institution. Of these patients, 292 were evaluated with MRI scans and included in this observational study. Clinical data were collected prospectively. Outcome after 3 months was measured with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS); mRS 0–1 was considered as favorable outcome. White matter lesions were scored visually by two observers using the semiquantitative Scheltens and Fazekas scores. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the association of white matter lesions and clinical outcome, recanalization, and cerebral he... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5611117 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:12:51 +0100 5611117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5599367&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp0357631248h32m2%2F This study is the first to demonstrate a significant change in cerebral activation resulting from a behavioral memory intervention in an MS sample. Behavioral interventions can show significant changes in the brain, validating clinical utility. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6353-xAuthors Nancy D. Chiaravalloti, Kessler Foundation Research Center, West Orange, NJ, USAGlenn Wylie, Kessler Foundation Research Center, West Orange, NJ, USAVictoria Leavitt, Kessler Foundation Research Center, West Orange, NJ, USAJohn DeLuca, Kessler Foundation Research Center, West Orange, NJ, USA Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5599367 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:42:17 +0100 5599367 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5599366&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy71211tk182m7226%2F Abstract  The recent discovery of disease specific and pathogenic autoantibodies in neuromyelitis optica (NMO, Devic’s disease) has revived the interest in this intriguing yet often devastating condition. While the history of classic multiple sclerosis has been studied extensively, only very little is known so far about the early history of NMO. Here we discuss a now forgotten report by the famous French anatomist and pathologist Antoine Portal (1742–1832), first physician to Louis XVIII and founding and lifelong president of the Académie Nationale de Médecine. Portals report, which fascinated some of the most renowned 19th century pioneers in the field of neurology but fell in oblivion later, represents the first account of visual loss in a patient with spinal cord in... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5599366 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:42:17 +0100 5599366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5599368&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6u7256511mm21u47%2F This study demonstrated the limited reproducibility and discriminative ability of the Frisén classification in identifying changes in serial optic disc photographs in IIH. Simple optic disc ranking appears to be a more sensitive and reliable tool to monitor changes in optic disc appearance. The use of disc ranking in clinical practice and research studies is recommended to monitor alterations in optic disc appearance until alternative schemes, specific to IIH, have been developed. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6365-6Authors Alexandra J. Sinclair, Neurobiology and Neuropharmacology, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Wolfson Drive, Edgbaston, B... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5599368 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:42:15 +0100 5599368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584662&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1w55167l277r9w36%2F Abstract  Differences in the expression of non-motor symptoms (NMS) by Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients may have important implications for their management and prognosis. Gender is a basic epidemiological variable that could influence such expression. The present study evaluated the prevalence and severity of NMS by gender in an international sample of 951 PD patients, 62.63% males, using the non-motor symptoms scale (NMSS). Assessments for motor impairment and complications, global severity, and health state were also applied. All disease stages were included. No significant gender differences were found for demographic and clinical characteristics. For the entire sample, the most prevalent symptoms were Nocturia (64.88%) and Fatigue (62.78%) and the most prevalent aff... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584662 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:55:52 +0100 5584662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584663&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd41530h7u175u744%2F Abstract  Delirium is a common complication in acute stroke yet there is uncertainty regarding how best to screen for and diagnose delirium after stroke. We sought to establish how delirium after stroke is identified, its incidence rates and factors predicting its development. We conducted a systematic review of studies investigating delirium in acute stroke. We searched The Cochrane Collaboration, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINHAL, PsychINFO, Web of Science, British Nursing Index, PEDro and OT Seeker in October 2010. A total of 3,127 citations were screened, full text of 60 titles and abstracts were read, of which 20 studies published between 1984 and 2010 were included in this review. The methods most commonly used to identify delirium were generic assessment tools such as the Deli... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584663 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:56:55 +0100 5584663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584664&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu6527227m4574373%2F Abstract  The geste antagoniste is a voluntary maneuver that temporarily reduces the severity of dystonic posture or movements. It is a classical feature of focal and particularly cervical dystonia. However, the precise historical aspects of geste antagoniste still remain obscure. The goals of this review were (1) to clarify the origin of the geste antagoniste sign; (2) to identify the factors that led to its diffusion in the international literature; (3) to follow the evolution of that term across the twentieth century. We used medical and neurological French, German and English literature of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and the PubMed database by entering the terms geste antagoniste, antagonistic gesture and sensory trick. The geste antagoniste sign is ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584664 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:56:53 +0100 5584664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584666&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu27551k4l56u0586%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00415-012-6409-6Authors Vladimir S. Kostić, School of Medicine, Institute of Neurology CCS, University of Belgrade, Ul. Dr Subotića 6, 11000 Belgrade, SerbiaMarina Svetel, School of Medicine, Institute of Neurology CCS, University of Belgrade, Ul. Dr Subotića 6, 11000 Belgrade, SerbiaMilija Mijajlović, School of Medicine, Institute of Neurology CCS, University of Belgrade, Ul. Dr Subotića 6, 11000 Belgrade, SerbiaAleksandra Pavlović, School of Medicine, Institute of Neurology CCS, University of Belgrade, Ul. Dr Subotića 6, 11000 Belgrade, SerbiaMilica Ječmenica-Lukić, School of Medicine, Institute of Neurology CCS, University of Belgrade, Ul. Dr Subotića 6, 11000 Belgrade, SerbiaDuško Kozić, School of Medicin... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584666 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0100 5584666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584665&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl01n202182517366%2F Abstract  The Interleukin-1A (IL-1A) −889C/T polymorphism has been reported to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) susceptibility, but the results of these previous studies have been inconsistent. The aim of this study was to explore whether the IL-1A −889C/T polymorphism confers susceptibility to AD. All studies published up to July 2011 on the association between the IL-1A −889C/T polymorphism and AD risk were identified by searching electronic databases PubMed, Embase and Alzgene. The association between the IL-1A −889C/T polymorphism and AD risk was assessed by odds ratios (ORs) together with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 32 case–control studies including 7,046 AD cases and 7,534 controls were eventually identified. Overall, positive ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584665 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0100 5584665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584667&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F92n4r32w18426p57%2F Abstract  Data about the temporal trend of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) incidence in southern Europe are scarce. Incidence studies on ALS have been carried out in the health district of Ferrara, Italy, since 1960s. We expanded the previous studies from 1964 to 2009. The study was prospective with a subsequent retrospective intensive survey of multiple sources of case ascertainment. All patients with a definite and probable ALS according to the original El Escorial criteria were selected. There were 130 incident cases in the years 1964–2009 giving an average annual crude incidence of 1.82 per 100,000 population (95% CI 1.53–2.17). An incidence increase during the study period was estimated in women (χ2 test for trend = 7.19, p < 0.01) and in... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584667 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:48:23 +0100 5584667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584670&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff83h7j2v448l6325%2F Abstract  GNE myopathy (MIM 600737) is an autosomal recessive muscle disease caused by mutations in the UDP-N-acetylglucosamine 2-epimerase/N-acetylmannosamine kinase (GNE) gene. Besides the typical phenotype, characterized by the initial involvement of the distal leg muscles that eventually spreads proximally with sparing of the quadriceps, uncommon presentations with a non-canonical clinical phenotype, unusual muscle biopsy findings or both are increasingly recognized. The aim of our study was to characterize the imaging pattern of pelvic and lower limb muscles in GNE myopathy, thus providing additional diagnostic clues useful in the identification of patients with atypical features. We retrospectively evaluated muscle MRI and CT scans of a cohort of 13 patients heterogeneo... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584670 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:48:22 +0100 5584670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584669&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy841r3lp3g1m06l3%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6389-yAuthors Simona Luzzi, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Clinica Neurologica, Università Politecnica delle Marche-Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Via Conca, 1, Torrette di Ancona, ItalyViviana Cafazzo, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Clinica Neurologica, Università Politecnica delle Marche-Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Via Conca, 1, Torrette di Ancona, ItalyMauro Silvestrini, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Clinica Neurologica, Università Politecnica delle Marche-Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Via Conca, 1, Torrette di Ancona, ItalyLeandro Provinciali, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Clinica Neurologica, Università Politecnica delle... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584669 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:48:22 +0100 5584669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584668&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F01w0v4426vjtn508%2F Abstract  REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is known to be observed more frequently in patients with an α-synucleinopathy such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) than in the general population. The precise prevalence of RBD in Japanese PD patients is not known. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence and the clinical characteristics of patients with RBD in a large population of Japanese patients with PD. We investigated various clinical features and employed the Japanese version of the RBD screening questionnaire on 469 non-demented Japanese PD patients in this multicenter study. Probable or possible RBD was detected in 146 patients (31.1%) and was significantly associated with longer PD duration, higher Hoehn and Yahr stage, higher Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584668 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:48:22 +0100 5584668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584672&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx77845289x16343p%2F Abstract  Since decision-making for thrombolysis in acute stroke settings is restricted to a limited time window and based on clinical assessment and CT findings only, thrombolysis is sometimes applied to patients with a final diagnosis other than a stroke. From a prospectively collected stroke/MRI data bank (2004–2010) with 648 suspected ischemic stroke patients treated with rtPA, we identified patients without evidence of acute infarction on follow-up MRI and a final diagnosis other than a stroke or acute cerebrovascular event. We compared demographics, symptoms, complications, and outcome of patients with stroke mimics (SM) to those with acute infarction. In 42 patients, an SM was diagnosed: seizures in 20, conversion disorder in seven, dementia in six, migraine in thr... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584672 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:48:21 +0100 5584672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584671&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F719277jh2422020u%2F Abstract  Blood biomarkers may improve the performance in predicting early stroke outcome beyond well-established clinical factors. We investigated the value of growth-differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) to predict functional outcome after 90 days in a prospectively collected patient cohort with symptoms of acute ischemic stroke. Two hundred eighty-one patients with symptoms of acute ischemic stroke were prospectively investigated. Serial blood samples for GDF-15 analysis were obtained after the admission of the patient, after 6 and 24 h. Primary outcome was the dichotomized modified ranking scale (MRS) 90 days after the initial clinical event. Within the final study population (264 patients, mean age 70.3 ± 12.7 years, 55.3% male), National Ins... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584671 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:48:21 +0100 5584671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584673&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh891108x73220207%2F Abstract  Mal de debarquement syndrome (MdDS) is a disorder of phantom perception of self-motion of unknown cause. The purpose of this work was to describe the quality of life (QOL) of patients with MdDS and to estimate the economic costs associated with this disorder. A modified version of a QOL survey used for another neurological disease (multiple sclerosis; MSQOL-54) was used to assess the impact of MdDS on QOL in 101 patients. The estimated economic costs were based on self-reported direct and indirect costs of individuals living in the United States using Medicare reimbursement payment rates for 2011 in 79 patients. Patients with MdDS reported a poor overall QOL as indicated by a mean composite QOL score of 59.26 ± 1.89 (out of 100). The subcategories havin... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584673 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:35:32 +0100 5584673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584676&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy5028xn35xvm7772%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6388-zAuthors Nicolas Weiss, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 20, rue Leblanc, Paris, FranceLucille Regard, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 20, rue Leblanc, Paris, FranceCharles Vidal, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 20, rue Leblanc, Paris, FranceYosu Luque, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 20, rue Leblanc, Paris, FranceGuillaume Taldir, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assist... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584676 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:35:31 +0100 5584676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584675&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8603p63644159824%2F Abstract  Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is an autosomal dominant adult-onset disease with several clinical features. The genetic cause is an expanded (GCN)n mutation coding for polyalanine. Severity and the age of onset are variable and may depend on the size of the unstable triplet. Our objectives were to correlate the genotypic and phenotypic features in 34 affected patients, and to complete the molecular analysis for a control Spanish population in order to confirm the (GCN)n polymorphism frequency observed in other populations. We found a correlation between impaired CPK levels and sex. No statistical differences were found when comparing the length in triplet expansion and other variables. The (GCN)n polymorphism’s frequency observed in other countries could not... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584675 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:35:31 +0100 5584675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5584674&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fgh7458611455092n%2F We report a case of relapsing–remitting MS treated with fingolimod. The patient presented with an acute decrease in vision in the left eye. Eye examination showed clinical macular edema (ME) in the left eye, which was confirmed on fluorescein angiogram and optical coherence tomography (OCT). After discontinuation of fingolimod and treatment with topical corticosteroid medication, there was complete resolution of the ME. The ME as a side-effect of fingolimod is reversible after discontinuing, which was seen on OCT. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Short CommentaryPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6367-4Authors Kiran Turaka, Associated Retina Consultants Ltd, 7600 N 15th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020, USAJoseph Shepard Bryan, Associated Retina Consultants Ltd, 7600 N 15th Street, ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5584674 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:35:31 +0100 5584674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573049&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F274560qr734u7303%2F We report a case of late-onset predominantly axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease resulting from a novel mutation in the MPZ gene encoding myelin protein zero (P0). Neurological examination, electrophysiological examination and genetic testing were performed on three members of a Finnish family (family A) and one member of a German family (family B). Three other members of the Finnish family were interviewed and genetically tested. Genetic testing was also performed on 95 healthy Finnish controls. Three members in two generations of family A and the member of family B were affected with late-onset axonal more than demyelinating, motor and sensory polyneuropathy. Heterozygous c.316C>T mutation in MPZ leading to p.Arg106Cys in P0 was found in all the affected subjects, but not in the th... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573049 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:44:46 +0100 5573049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573050&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F933745t55m670570%2F The objective of this work was to determine if BHT-3009, a DNA plasmid-encoding myelin basic protein (MBP), reduces the risk of new lesions becoming PBH, compared to placebo, and to test if pre-treatment serum anti-MBP antibody levels impact on the effect of BHT-3009 treatment. In this retrospective, blinded MRI study, we reviewed MRI scans of 155 MS patients from a double-blind, randomized, phase II trial with three treatment arms (placebo, 0.5 and 1.5 mg BHT-3009). New lesions at weeks 8 and 16 were tracked at week 48 and those appearing as T1-hypointense were classified as PBH. A subset of 46 patients with available pre-treatment serum anti-MBP IgM levels were analyzed separately. Overall, there was no impact of treatment on the risk for PBH. However, there was a significant... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573050 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:44:45 +0100 5573050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573051&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fqm4356782401464n%2F Abstract  Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is a common neurological disorder characterized by involuntary tonic and clonic contractions of the muscles innervated by the facial nerve. We aimed to describe clinical features, common antecedents, triggers and relieving factors in patients with hemifacial spasm to study the correlation of hypertension and HFS, and to compare clinical features of primary and secondary cases of HFS. The data for the study were collected prospectively on a predesigned and pre-tested format at the first attendance in all consecutive HFS patients attending the movement disorders clinic of a tertiary teaching hospital in India. The demographic profile, HFS symptoms, antecedent illnesses and neurological examination were recorded and analyzed. Muscle power in in... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573051 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:44:41 +0100 5573051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573052&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F0380522071k71325%2F Abstract  The role of adjunctive corticosteroids remains controversial in meningitis by penicillin-resistant pneumococci. We determined the effect of adjunctive corticosteroids in adults with pneumococcal meningitis in a region with a high rate of penicillin resistance. A multicenter, retrospective cohort study was conducted between 1998 and 2008 in Korea. The mortality and neurological sequelae were evaluated. Among 93 patients with pneumococcal meningitis, adequate adjunctive corticosteroids were given in 45.2%. The penicillin resistance rate was 60.0%, and 42.1% were nonsusceptible to ceftriaxone. The 30-day mortality rates in the group receiving adequate corticosteroid therapy, the group in which corticosteroid was not given, and that inadequately given were 24.3, 31.6,... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573052 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:44:39 +0100 5573052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573054&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fyw9335g11557370j%2F Abstract  Autonomic failure is one of the criteria according to the second consensus statement for the diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA). Gastrointestinal symptoms are frequent complaints in patients with MSA and may be associated with reduced gastrointestinal motility due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. However, there are few reports on gastric emptying in patients with MSA. We investigated gastric emptying in 25 patients with MSA, 20 patients with sporadic adult-onset ataxia of unknown etiology (SAOA), and 20 healthy volunteers using the 13C-acetate breath test. Gastric emptying function is estimated by this test as the half-emptying time (HET) and peak time of the 13C-%-dose-excess curve (T max), with expirations collected for 4 h after a test meal... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573054 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:52:09 +0100 5573054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573053&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F035r2w06k48156g1%2F Abstract  X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (XALD), a neurological disorder caused by mutations in the peroxisomal membrane protein gene ABCD1, presents as a rapidly progressing, inflammatory cerebral demyelination (cerebral cases) or a slowly progressing, distal axonopathy (non-cerebral cases). Specific ABCD1 defects do not explain this significant phenotypic variation. Patients have increased plasma and tissue very long chain fatty acid levels and increased cellular oxidative stress and oxidative damage. Superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), at candidate modifier locus 6q25.3, detoxifies superoxide radicals protecting against oxidative stress and damage. We tested an SOD2 variant C47T (Ala16Val) associated with reduced enzymatic activity as a potential modifier gene of cerebral demyel... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573053 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:52:09 +0100 5573053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573055&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff1821460v0246819%2F Abstract  Cerebral infarction (CI) and myocardial infarction (MI) share some common features, but there are other differences in risk factors. The aim of our study is to determine whether there are some significantly independent susceptibility markers for them. All consecutive patients between the ages of 18 and 45 years with first-ever CI and MI during 2001–2010 were recruited to participate in the study. Using multivariate logistic regression modeling, we explore many different data, such as age at onset, sex ratio, numbers of patients with history of hypertension, smoking, drinking, and serum lipid, uric acid, prealbumin (PA), and white blood cell (WBC) count levels. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounders confirmed the following independent suscepti... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573055 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:52:08 +0100 5573055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573057&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6738j5352737w455%2F Abstract  IgG anti-GQ1b antibodies are a powerful serological marker for the diagnosis of Fisher syndrome (FS), but little is known regarding serological markers in FS patients that do not have the autoantibodies. The authors analyzed IgG antibodies against gangliosides other than GQ1b, ganglioside complexes, and ganglioside-like lipo-oligosaccharide (LOS) of Campylobacter jejuni isolates from FS patients. We identified 24 (12%) patients with GQ1b-seronegative FS among 207 FS patients who had been referred to our laboratory for anti-ganglioside antibody testing. Patients with GQ1b-seronegative FS were male and had a history of antecedent gastrointestinal illness more frequently than FS patients with IgG anti-GQ1b antibodies. Other clinical features during the illness were no... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573057 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:52:06 +0100 5573057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573056&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe552543470688275%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6385-2Authors R. Geraldes, Stroke Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Hospital, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, PortugalA. C. Fonseca, Stroke Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Hospital, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, PortugalP. Canhão, Stroke Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Hospital, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, PortugalT. P. Melo, Stroke Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Hospital, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, PortugalJ. M. Ferro, Stroke Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria Hospital, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, Portugal Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573056 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:52:06 +0100 5573056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573058&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3h670178t4133148%2F Abstract  Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been considered as one of the risk factors for ischemic stroke, but the impact of OSA on wake-up stroke (WUS) is not well studied. We aimed to determine the relationship between OSA and WUS. We prospectively recruited 71 patients with mild to moderate ischemic stroke during hospitalization. Patients were classified into WUS and non-WUS. A full-night sleep respiratory study was performed between 3 and 14 days after stroke onset. Demographic data, sleep respiratory data, heart rate variability, stroke risk factors, stroke classification and sleep-related scales were recorded. We compared the differences in the variables between the two groups and determined the independent variables associated with WUS. Of the 71 patients, 26 (... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573058 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:26 +0100 5573058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573060&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr035207023533556%2F Abstract  Glycine receptor (GlyR) antibodies were recently identified in a few patients with progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM); none of these patients had antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD). An inhibitory glycinergic transmission defect has also been implicated in the mechanism underlying saccadic oscillations, including ocular flutter or opsoclonus; GlyR antibodies have not been reported in these patients. The purpose was to determine whether GlyR antibodies are found in patients with PERM, ocular flutter syndrome (OFS), and opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS). GlyR antibodies were first measured in archived sera and CSF from five patients, including one patient with GAD antibody-positive PERM, two patients with OFS, and two... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573060 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:23 +0100 5573060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573059&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F221p4w74vml5m242%2F Abstract  To diagnose neuromyelitis optica (NMO), the 2006 NMO diagnostic criteria is commonly used. However, adequate studies about the time course of NMO according to the criteria have been lacking. The aim of the study was to identify the interval between disease onset and diagnosis of NMO, as well as the clinical characteristics and time course, according to the 2006 NMO diagnostic criteria in Japanese patients with NMO. Clinical progression and time course of 43 Japanese patients with NMO who fulfilled the 2006 NMO diagnostic criteria with mean disease duration of 14.2 years were investigated retrospectively. The initial inflammatory event was myelitis in 44.2% (long extensive transverse myelitis [LETM] in 14.3%), optic neuritis in 41.9%, and concurrent myelitis a... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573059 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:23 +0100 5573059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573061&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fhr36t6g521g62485%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6378-1Authors Laura Ghezzi, Department of Neurological Sciences, “Dino Ferrari” Center, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, ItalyAndrea Arighi, Department of Neurological Sciences, “Dino Ferrari” Center, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, ItalyAnna M. Pietroboni, Department of Neurological Sciences, “Dino Ferrari” Center, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, ItalyFrancesca Jacini, Department of Neurological Sciences, “Dino Ferrari” Center, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, It... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573061 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:22 +0100 5573061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573063&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F055gr566w5065237%2F Abstract  The aim of this work was to determine if neurosarcoidosis (NS) patients exhibit quantitative and/or qualitative in vivo evidence of retinal abnormalities on optical coherence tomography (OCT). Retinal imaging was performed using spectral-domain Cirrus HD-OCT in 20 NS patients (40 eyes) and 24 age-matched healthy controls (48 eyes). Study participants also underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and detailed neurological and ophthalmological evaluation. Quantitative OCT abnormalities of average macular thickness (AMT), peri-papillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, or both, were detectable in 60% of NS patients. Of NS patients with ocular symptomatology, 75% demonstrated quantitative OCT abnormali... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573063 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:21 +0100 5573063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573062&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg5736v546255n3p6%2F This study aimed to describe the clinical features of VN involving the inferior vestibular labyrinth and its afferents only. Of the 703 patients with a diagnosis of VN or labyrinthitis at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital from 2004 to 2010, we retrospectively recruited 9 patients (6 women, age range 15–75) with a diagnosis of isolated inferior VN. Diagnosis of isolated inferior VN was based on torsional downbeating spontaneous nystagmus, abnormal head-impulse test (HIT) for the posterior semicircular canal (PC), and abnormal cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) in the presence of normally functioning horizontal and anterior semicircular canals, as determined by normal HIT and bithermal caloric tests. All patients presented with acute vertigo with nausea, ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573062 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:21 +0100 5573062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573064&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp32k6396232857j3%2F Abstract  Upper limb apraxia, a disorder of higher motor cognition, is a common consequence of left-hemispheric stroke. Contrary to common assumption, apraxic deficits not only manifest themselves during clinical testing but also have delirious effects on the patients’ everyday life and rehabilitation. Thus, a reliable diagnosis and efficient treatment of upper limb apraxia is important to improve the patients’ prognosis after stroke. Nevertheless, to date, upper limb apraxia is still an underdiagnosed and ill-treated entity. Based on a systematic literature search, this review summarizes the current tools of diagnosis and treatment strategies for upper limb apraxia. It furthermore provides clinicians with graded recommendations. In particular, a short screening test fo... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573064 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:49:20 +0100 5573064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545625&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fxh17467712x82k06%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6348-7Authors Bernhard Baier, Department of Neurology, University of Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, GermanyMarianne Dieterich, Department of Neurology, University of Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545625 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:08:34 +0100 5545625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5545626&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm5pv1167014w655u%2F Abstract  To better describe seizure type, frequency, and electroencephalographic (EEG) findings in posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and correlate these data with clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, we retrospectively assessed medical charts and EEG studies of patients with PRES treated between 2004 and 2011. Data collected included patients’ underlying pathology, lesion distribution by MRI, seizure type and frequency, EEG pathologic background activity, focal pathology, and epileptogenic activity. Thirty-eight of 49 adults with PRES suffered from seizures; 17 underwent EEG and were included in the analysis. Perpetuating factors were similar to those reported in the literature. In 15 of 17 patients, MRI showed widespread involvement rath... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5545626 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:08:33 +0100 5545626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539257&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu20x35650157365h%2F Abstract  Female gender, age above 60 years, and an aneurysm larger than 5 mm or location on the posterior circulation are associated with a higher rupture risk of intracranial aneurysms. We hypothesized that this association is explained by a higher susceptibility to (one of) the eight trigger factors that were recently identified. We included 250 patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. We calculated relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of aneurysmal rupture for trigger factors according to sex, age, site, and size of the aneurysms by means of the case-crossover design. None of the triggers except for physical exercise differed according to patient and aneurysm characteristics. In the hour after exposure to physical exercise: (1) p... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539257 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:43:14 +0100 5539257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539256&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F43353682xg826227%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6346-9Authors B. M. Aji, Cognitive Function Clinic, Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane Fazakerley, Liverpool, L9 7LJ UKE. J. Ghadiali, Cognitive Function Clinic, Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane Fazakerley, Liverpool, L9 7LJ UKA. Jacob, Cognitive Function Clinic, Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane Fazakerley, Liverpool, L9 7LJ UKA. J. Larner, Cognitive Function Clinic, Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane Fazakerley, Liverpool, L9 7LJ UK Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539256 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:43:14 +0100 5539256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539259&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F35x1781241n40101%2F This study compared the neurology residency training experience for a single neurology resident at the University of Pennsylvania from the years 2002–2005. The prevalence of encounters seen during this residency was compared to the prevalence of neurological disorders typically observed by ambulatory neurologists in the United States (US). A total of 1,333 patients were evaluated during this residency. Ischemic stroke/transient ischemic accident, epilepsy, metabolic encephalopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis were the most common neurological disorders observed. The four most common reasons for an outpatient visit to a neurologist (i.e., headache/migraine, epilepsy, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral neuropathy) typically account for approximately 49–55% of... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539259 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:43:13 +0100 5539259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539258&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fbv54l16p4j725n65%2F Abstract  Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients often complain about balance problems when Romberg’s test and tandem gait are normal. The aim of the study was to determine if measures of trunk sway taken during a battery of stance and gait tasks could be used to detect subclinical balance disorders. We recorded trunk angular sway in the pitch and roll directions from 20 MS patients (EDSS 1.4 ± 0.5) and 20 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs), during 12 stance and gait tasks. We filmed 22 subjects simultaneously. Two neurologists assessed the videos, deciding whether task performance was pathological. Sway measures were significantly different between patients and HCs in eight out of 12 balance tasks. The most significant differences between MS patients and... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539258 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:43:13 +0100 5539258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539260&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa367355436210279%2F Abstract  Susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) is a newly developed magnetic resonance (MR) protocol. Recent studies have found that SWI may be useful in the field of cerebrovascular diseases, especially for detecting the presence of prominent veins, microbleeds and the susceptibility vessel sign (SVS). Some authors have even suggested that SWI can be used to predict outcome. We conducted a prospective study of patients hospitalized with middle cerebral artery territory infarction receiving MRI within 2 days of stroke onset. The presence of prominent veins, microbleeds and SVS in SWI was analyzed along with hospital characteristics of the patients. A total of 44 patients were enrolled. Among the 44 patients, 15 (34.1%) patients showed prominent veins, 19 (43.2%) showe... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539260 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:43:12 +0100 5539260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539261&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F26547q83kj158326%2F Abstract  Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is considered as the early stage of dementia which currently has no effective treatments. Reducing progression of cognitive decline at the MCI stage could be an important strategy for preventing conversion to dementia. The goal of this work was to screen for clinical predictors indicating the prognosis of MCI comprehensively; therefor, we assumed vascular risk factors (VRFs), carotid stenosis, and white matter changes (WMC) to be independent predictors. A total of 257 patients with MCI underwent collection of VRF information, neuropsychological evaluation, computed tomography angiography (CTA) to investigate carotid stenosis, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify severity of WMC. After a 3-year follow-up period, the neuro... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539261 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:43:11 +0100 5539261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5539262&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F7251x746062u5126%2F Abstract  Despite increasing life expectancy, few data exist on the outcome of elderly stroke patients treated with IV thrombolysis. We analyzed the prospectively collected data from the Lille University Hospital stroke unit on patients treated with IV rt-PA within 4.5 h, comparing patients ≥80 years to younger ones. We considered the following outcomes: neurological improvement at the acute phase (NIHSS 0 or 1 at 24 h, or if the difference between NIHSS at 24 h and at baseline was ≥4), occurrence of intracerebral haemorrhage, mortality and functional outcome in survivors (favourable if mRS ≤2 or equal to pre-stroke score) at 3 months. Predictors of vital and functional outcome were determined using logistic regression analysis. Four hundred patient... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5539262 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:49:04 +0100 5539262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5526956&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Feg68100332261263%2F Abstract  The purpose of this study was to determine the value of spinal cord lesions as a predictive factor for conversion in clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) patients. Patients with CIS and without immunomodulatory treatment were prospectively included. Age at onset, sex, clinical syndrome at onset, oligoclonal bands, and presence, number and location of lesions on brain and spinal MRI were analyzed. Conversion to multiple sclerosis (MS) was the primary endpoint. Cox regression was used to compare outcomes between groups. A total of 75 patients were included: 53 (71%) women, mean age at onset 32.7 years (SD ± 7.5), mean follow-up time 72.5 months (SD ± 9; range 17–104 months). There were 11 (14.6%) patients with one focal spinal cor... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5526956 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 06:43:20 +0100 5526956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5526957&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw204445117036w16%2F Abstract  Tangier disease (TD) (OMIM#205400) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder resulting from mutations in the ABCA1 gene, leading to decreased levels of plasma high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Peripheral neuropathy is a common finding in this disease, and may present as relapsing/remitting mono/polyneuropathies or as syringomyelia-like neuropathy. We retrospectively analyzed four patients, and report here their clinical, biological, electrophysiological, imaging, and genetic findings. Three patients had a typical pseudosyringomyelic neuropathy including facial diplegia, but asymmetrical onset was observed in one patient who had first been misdiagnosed with Lewis–Sumner syndrome. Electrophysiological pattern was heterogeneous, showing both signs of demyelination and a... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5526957 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 06:43:19 +0100 5526957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516348&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk288165173337478%2F We examined the oculomotor function in a population-based incidence cohort with newly diagnosed idiopathic parkinsonism and 38 controls. We examined 135 patients with parkinsonism 105 PD, 11 progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and 19 multiple system atrophy with predominant parkinsonism (MSA-P)] within 3 months of their first visit to our clinic and before initiation of dopaminergic medication. The oculomotor measurements were repeated after 12 months. The clinical diagnosis was that of the latest clinical follow-up (median follow-up was 3 years). All patients were examined with 123I-N-(omega)-fluoropropyl-2-β-carbomethoxy-3-β-(4-iodophenyl) nortropane single-photon emission computed tomography (FP-CIT SPECT), and only patients with pathological uptake of the ligan... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516348 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:54:03 +0100 5516348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516347&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F427412375113202h%2F Abstract  Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the unaffected hemisphere can enhance function of the paretic hand in patients with mild motor impairment. Effects of low-frequency rTMS to the contralesional motor cortex at an early stage of mild to severe hemiparesis after stroke are unknown. In this pilot, randomized, double-blind clinical trial we compared the effects of low-frequency rTMS or sham rTMS as add-on therapies to outpatient customary rehabilitation, in 30 patients within 5–45 days after ischemic stroke, and mild to severe hand paresis. The primary feasibility outcome was compliance with the interventions. The primary safety outcome was the proportion of intervention-related adverse events. Performance of the paretic hand i... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516347 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:54:03 +0100 5516347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516349&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv40116j2v2l61gj8%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6358-5Authors Roger A. Barker, Cambridge Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, The E.D. Adrian Building, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 2PY UK Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516349 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:51:50 +0100 5516349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516350&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F07386362n7371u64%2F We describe clinical and radiological features of 36 Brazilian patients of mixed ethnicity with neuro-Behçet’s disease (NBD). Medical records of 178 BD patients were reviewed and 36 (20%) NBD patients were identified. Twenty-one NBD patients (58.3%) were female and 27 (75%) presented with parenchymal manifestations. Brainstem involvement was the most common neurologic syndrome (41.7%). Seizures (27.8%), isolated aseptic meningitis (16.7%), optic neuropathy (ON) (16.7%), cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) (8.3%), peripheral neuropathy (2.8%), and spinal cord involvement (5.6%) were other neurologic manifestations observed among Brazilian NBD patients. Eighteen (50%) had at least one relapse, and isolated aseptic meningitis was the most common relapsing manifestation. No significant d... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516350 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:42:41 +0100 5516350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516351&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq8t5162647830666%2F Abstract  Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by skeletal muscle weakness mainly caused by acetylcholine receptor antibodies. MG can be divided into generalized and ocular, and into early-onset (<50 years of age) and late-onset (≥50 years of age). Anti-Kv1.4 antibodies targeting α-subunits (Kv1.4) of the voltage-gated potassium K+ channel occurs frequently among patients with severe MG, accounting for 18% of a Japanese MG population. The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical features and serological associations of anti-Kv1.4 antibodies in a Caucasian MG population with mild and localized MG. Serum samples from 129 Caucasian MG patients with mainly ocular symptoms were tested for the presence of anti-Kv1.4 antibodies and... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516351 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:05:58 +0100 5516351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5506736&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fgp12429607076236%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6351-zAuthors Eva Giralt-Steinhauer, Neurology Department, Neurovascular Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainElisa Cuadrado-Godia, Neurology Department, Neurovascular Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainÁngel Ois, Neurology Department, Neurovascular Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainJordi Jiménez-Conde, Neurology Department, Neurovascular Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainAna Rodríguez-Campello, Neurology Department, Neurovascular Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autòno... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5506736 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:13:38 +0100 5506736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5506735&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F120246714ph31728%2F Abstract  “Disease activity free” in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is a new concept introduced by the results of the AFFIRM study. Our objective was to analyze the clinical and radiological efficacy of natalizumab treatment in actual clinical practice and compare it with the post hoc analysis of the AFFIRM study. All patients with RRMS who began treatment with natalizumab at our two French MS centres between April 2007 and May 2008 were included and followed-up for at least 2 years. No measurable disease activity (“disease activity free”) was defined as no activity on clinical measures (no relapses and no sustained disability progression) and radiological measures (no gadolinium-enhancing lesions and no new T2-hyperintense lesions on cerebral MRI... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5506735 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:13:38 +0100 5506735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495942&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp83m153076482550%2F Abstract  Activated microglia are thought to be an important contributor to tissue damage in multiple sclerosis (MS). The level of microglial activation can be measured non-invasively using [11C]-R-PK11195, a radiopharmaceutical for positron emission tomography (PET). Prior studies have identified abnormalities in the level of [11C]-R-PK11195 uptake in patients with MS, but treatment effects have not been evaluated. Nine previously untreated relapsing-remitting MS patients underwent PET and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain at baseline and after 1 year of treatment with glatiramer acetate. Parametric maps of [11C]-R-PK11195 uptake were obtained for baseline and post-treatment PET scans, and the change in [11C]-R-PK11195 uptake pre- to post-treatment was evaluated a... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495942 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:11:56 +0100 5495942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488493&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy7rj342377rr4h08%2F In conclusion, the clinical pattern of patients with SLE and MG seems to be characterized by a less severe course of SLE and higher frequency of antiphospholipid antibodies. Hydroxychloroquine treatment appears to be safe in this setting. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6335-zAuthors M. Jallouli, Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de référence national pour le Lupus Systémique et le syndrome des Antiphospholipides, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Paris 6, AP-HP, 47-83 Boulevard de l’Hôpital, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, FranceD. Saadoun, Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de référence national pour le Lupus Systémique et le syndrome des Antiphospholipides, Centre Hospitalier Univers... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488493 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:33:23 +0100 5488493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488495&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj1485152x1t67k1n%2F This study examined the effects of MS and of dual tasking on postural performance, and explored associations among dual-task postural performance, cognitive capacity, fear of falling, and fatigue. Thirteen subjects with MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale: 0–4.5) and 13 matched subjects without MS performed three tasks of standing postural control, with and without dual tasking amid an auditory Stroop task: (1) step initiation, (2) forward leaning to the limits of stability, and (3) postural responses to rotations of the support surface. Two-factor general linear models were used to evaluate differences between the groups (with or without MS) and two conditions (single or dual tasking) for each postural task. During step initiation, dual tasking significantly delayed the onset of... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488495 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:44:27 +0100 5488495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488494&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3516145361755778%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6324-2Authors Jaume Rosset-Llobet, Institut de Fisiologia i Medicina de l’Art-Terrassa, Ctra. de Montcada 668, 08227 Terrassa (Barcelona), SpainSílvia Fàbregas-Molas, Institut de Fisiologia i Medicina de l’Art-Terrassa, Ctra. de Montcada 668, 08227 Terrassa (Barcelona), SpainÁlvaro Pascual-Leone, Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation, Cognitive Neurology Unit, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488494 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:44:27 +0100 5488494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488497&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F667u336lx013n7w6%2F Abstract  Ethanol is known to improve tremor in a proportion of patients with essential tremor. Increased incidence of alcoholism has been suspected in essential tremor patients; however, no objective evaluation has been performed using laboratory markers to date. Data on alcohol intake in the last 30 days were acquired in 95 essential tremor patients and 35 healthy controls. Blood and urine markers related to alcohol metabolism and liver function were evaluated. Self-reported alcohol intake and biomarker levels were higher in essential tremor, but the difference was only significant for carbohydrate-deficient transferrin. None of the subjects presented with laboratory parameters reflecting chronic alcohol abuse. Our data do not reflect a higher incidence of alcoholism... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488497 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:09:38 +0100 5488497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488496&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn56wp11415882512%2F Abstract  Precise analysis of stroke subtypes is important for clinical treatment decisions, the prognostic evaluation of patients, as well as defining stroke populations in clinical studies. The TOAST classification is the most widely used and approved form for etiologic subtyping. Increasing knowledge about stroke mechanisms and the introduction of new diagnostic techniques have supported the promotion of the new ASCO phenotypic classification, which aims to characterize patients using different grades of evidence for stroke subtypes. We prospectively assigned 103 consecutive patients from our stroke center for subtype classification using ASCO and TOAST. Clinical features and complementary investigations were recorded according to our standardized acute stroke care proto... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488496 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:09:38 +0100 5488496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488499&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fuw71405563320481%2F This study demonstrated that DTRs could be normal or hyperexcitable during the entire clinical course in approximately 10% of GBS patients. This possibility should be added in the diagnostic criteria for GBS to avoid delays in diagnosis and effective treatment to these patients. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6330-4Authors Nobuhiro Yuki, Departments of Microbiology and Medicine, National University of Singapore, Block MD4A, Level 5, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117597 SingaporeNorito Kokubun, Department of Neurology, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, JapanSatoshi Kuwabara, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, JapanYukari Sekiguchi, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of M... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488499 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 07:00:58 +0100 5488499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488498&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4802431745882r42%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6331-3Authors Niels Allert, Neurological Rehabilitation Center Godeshoehe, Waldstrasse 2-10, 53177 Bonn, GermanyAlfons Schnitzler, Department of Neurology-Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation, Heinrich-Heine-University Duesseldorf, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, GermanyVolker Sturm, Department of Stereotaxy and Functional Neurosurgery, University Hospital Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Strasse 9, 50924 Cologne, GermanyMohammad Maarouf, Department of Stereotaxy and Functional Neurosurgery, University Hospital Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Strasse 9, 50924 Cologne, Germany Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488498 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 07:00:58 +0100 5488498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488500&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc7824630157072k3%2F Abstract  Evidence for the extent and nature of attentional impairment in premanifest and manifest Huntington’s disease (HD) is inconsistent. Understanding such impairments may help to better understand early functional changes in HD and could have consequences concerning care for HD patients. We investigated attentional control in both early and premanifest HD. We studied 17 early HD subjects (mean age: 51 years), 12 premanifest HD subjects (mean age: 43 years), and 15 healthy controls (mean age: 51 years), using the sustained attention to response task (SART), a simple Go/No-go test reflecting attentional and inhibitory processes through reaction time (RT) and error rates. Simultaneously recorded EEG yielded P300 amplitudes and latencies. The early HD group made more Go... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488500 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:36:24 +0100 5488500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5470270&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F207366x730602081%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6327-zAuthors Dominic C. Paviour, Department of Neurology, Atkinson Morley Wing, St George’s Hospital NHS Trust, London, SW17 OQT UKMarie-Helene Marion, Department of Neurology, Atkinson Morley Wing, St George’s Hospital NHS Trust, London, SW17 OQT UK Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5470270 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:39:35 +0100 5470270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5470271&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F936117p12844387u%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6329-xAuthors Katsutoshi Furukawa, Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Division of Brain Sciences, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-cho Aobaku, Sendai, 980-8575 JapanMari Ootsuki, Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Division of Brain Sciences, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-cho Aobaku, Sendai, 980-8575 JapanManabu Kodama, Division of Psychiatry, Kodama Hospital, Ishinomaki, JapanHiroyuki Arai, Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Division of Brain Sciences, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-cho Aobaku, Sendai, 980-8575 Japan Journal Journal of Neurolog... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5470271 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:39:34 +0100 5470271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5470272&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6180l23j7j56h222%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6328-yAuthors Claudia Stöllberger, Second Medical Department, Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Juchgasse 25, 1030 Vienna, AustriaJosef Finsterer, Second Medical Department, Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Juchgasse 25, 1030 Vienna, Austria Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5470272 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:21:59 +0100 5470272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5470273&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F53877j45261n856n%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6326-0Authors S. Anand Trip, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Molecular Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG UKTabish Saifee, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Molecular Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG UKWill Honan, Department of Neurology, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, UKHoskote Chandrashekar, Lysholm Department of Neuroradiology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UKMichael P. Lunn, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Molecular Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG UKTarek Yousry,... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5470273 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:21:58 +0100 5470273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450272&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj5127ht704l0675q%2F We examined the short-term evolution of MWF, GMT2 and T 1 in MS NAWM based on monthly scanning over 6 months in 18 relapsing remitting (RR) MS subjects. Histogram metrics demonstrated short-term stability of T 1, MWF and remitting (RR) MS subjects. We observed no change in MWF, GMT2 or T 1 histogram metrics in NAWM in RRMS over the course of 6 months. Longer follow-up periods may be required to establish demonstrable changes in NAWM based on of MWF, GMT2 and T 1 metrics. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6318-0Authors Alice L. W. Liang, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, CanadaIrene M. Vavasour, Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450272 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:43:08 +0100 5450272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450271&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fkq542u428g8p0640%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6333-1Authors Heidi Ormstad, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Bærum sykehus, Postbox 83, 1309 Rud, NorwayHans Christian Dalsbotten Aass, The R & D Group, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, NorwayNiels Lund-Sørensen, Department of Radiology, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Buskerud, NorwayKarl-Friedrich Amthor, Department of Neurology, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Buskerud, NorwayLeif Sandvik, Section of Biostatistics, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450271 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:43:08 +0100 5450271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450273&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Frj426317318620k1%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6332-2Authors Heidi Ormstad, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Ringerike, Servicebox 13, 3530 Hønefoss, NorwayHans Christian Dalsbotten Aass, The R & D Group, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, NorwayKarl-Friedrich Amthor, Department of Neurology, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Buskerud, NorwayNiels Lund-Sørensen, Department of Radiology, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Buskerud, NorwayLeiv Sandvik, Section of Biostatistics, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450273 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:43:07 +0100 5450273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450274&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg834525782t47626%2F Abstract  Small retrospective case series suggest that decompressive hemicraniectomy can be life saving in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) and impending brain herniation. Prospective studies of consecutive cases are lacking. Thus, a single centre, prospective study was performed. In 2006 we adapted our protocol for CVT treatment to perform acute decompressive hemicraniectomy in patients with impending herniation, in whom the prognosis with conservative treatment was considered infaust. We included all consecutive patients with CVT between 2006 and 2010 who underwent hemicraniectomy. Outcome was assessed at 12 months with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Ten patients (8 women) with a median age of 41 years (range 26–52 years) were included. Bef... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450274 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:43:05 +0100 5450274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450275&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk17230lr723truh2%2F Abstract  The increased visual dependence noted in some vestibular patients may be secondary to their vertigo. We examine whether a single, brief vertigo attack, such as in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), modifies visual dependency. Visual dependency was measured before and after the Hallpike manoeuvre with (a) the Rod and Frame and the Rod and Disc techniques whilst seated and (b) the postural sway induced by visual roll-motion stimulation. Three subject groups were studied: 20 patients with BPPV (history and positive Hallpike manoeuvre; PosH group), 20 control patients (history of BPPV but negative Hallpike manoeuvre; NegH group) and 20 normal controls. Our findings show that while both patient groups showed enhanced visual dependency, the PosH and the normal... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450275 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:50:41 +0100 5450275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450276&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fqg62g53r63657635%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6313-5Authors S. van Ginkel, Department of Neurology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The NetherlandsT. J. Snijders, Department of Neurology (G03.228), University Medical Center Utrecht, P.O. Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The NetherlandsN. W. C. J. van de Donk, Department of Haematology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The NetherlandsC. J. M. Klijn, Department of Neurology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The NetherlandsM. L. D. Broekman, Department of Neurosurgery, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands Journal Jou... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450276 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:32:33 +0100 5450276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450277&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8r017643621q1t77%2F Abstract  Cognitive deficits are frequent stroke sequelae. Data from population-based stroke cohorts on the impact of cognitive deficits on long-term outcome are scarce. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of low mini-mental status on health outcome up to 5 years after first-ever stroke. Data were collected from the Erlangen Stroke Project, a population-based stroke registry covering a source population of 103,000 inhabitants. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess global cognitive function. Health outcome included limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL, Frenchay Activities Index), low independence in activities of daily living (ADL, Barthel Index), depressive symptoms (Zung Self Rating Depression Scale), a... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450277 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:16 +0100 5450277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450278&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fynq42w76jkg7040h%2F This report presents an acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) patient in whom, over 2 years, serial clinical-electrophysiological evaluation and MRI examination of lower limb musculature were performed. A 74-year-old patient was admitted with a 24-h history of ascending weakness culminating a few days later in flaccid and areflexic tetraplegia, which was followed by progressive improvement except for severe residual paresis of foot flexors/extensors. Electrophysiological studies showed motor nerve conduction abnormalities characteristic of AMAN, and profuse signs of active denervation in foot and lower leg muscles, and to a much lesser degree in the thigh muscles. On MRI, T2- and T2-fat suppressed (T2FS) images showed an early (up to month 2 after onset) and subtle hypersig... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450278 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:15 +0100 5450278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450281&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F632l802862713h2t%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6320-6Authors Patricia Martinez-Sanchez, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, IdiPAZ Research Institute, La Paz University Hospital, Autonoma University of Madrid, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, SpainRubén Cazorla-García, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, IdiPAZ Research Institute, La Paz University Hospital, Autonoma University of Madrid, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, SpainJosmarlin Medina-Báez, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, IdiPAZ Research Institute, La Paz University Hospital, Autonoma University of Madrid, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046 Madrid, SpainBlanca Fuentes, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, IdiPAZ Research Institute, La ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450281 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:13 +0100 5450281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450280&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn32858260p8v344k%2F Abstract  Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is a rare immune-mediated disorder and is characterized by male predominance, the presence of serum anti-GM1 IgM antibodies in up to half of all patients, responsiveness to intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg) and an increased frequency of HLA type HLA-DRB1*15. The aim of this study was to assess whether the frequency of autoimmune diseases (AID) is increased in patients with MMN and their first-degree family members, since this would indicate that MMN shares pathogenic mechanisms with other AID. We conducted a case–control study using questionnaires to evaluate the prevalence of AID in MMN and controls, and their first-degree relatives. Questionnaires from 81 MMN patients (417 first-degree relatives) and 438 controls (2,377 first... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450280 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:13 +0100 5450280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5450279&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff488792454x33774%2F Abstract  In Canada, CNS tumors accounted for nearly 22% of the new childhood cancer diagnoses during 1995–2000 in the ≤15 year age group. The study’s objective was to describe children and youth (age <20 years) diagnosed with CNS tumors in Alberta, Canada during a 22-year period using population-based data. The Alberta Cancer registry was used to extract information, including sex, age and geography, on all CNS (ICCC-3 III) tumor diagnoses during April 1, 1982, and March 31, 2004. Analyses included population summaries and rates. During 22 fiscal years, 568 Alberta children were diagnosed with CNS tumors and nearly 82% of the cases were malignant (461). The majority of cases were male (322, 57%) and the median age at diagnosis was 8 years. The crude... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5450279 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:13 +0100 5450279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432872&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe595472r704u8l57%2F Abstract  The aim of the study was to reveal the incidence and time course of depressive symptoms following acute spinal cord injury (SCI) in relation to clinical outcomes for comparison to other neurological disorders with severe impairment. In patients with acute traumatic SCI (n = 130), combined follow up assessments of neurological and functional outcomes, pain and patient-rated affective factors (e.g. mood, anxiety) were prospectively (1, 3, 6, 12 months after injury) collected during rehabilitation and follow up in out-patient clinics. We related these to the severity of depressive symptoms (no, mild, moderate and severe) based on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores. The mean 65% of patients showed no depressive symptoms and 30% mild depressive sy... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432872 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 07:00:38 +0100 5432872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5432873&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fmg104736mt1987u4%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6305-5Authors Alessandro P. Burlina, Neurological Unit, San Bassiano Hospital, Via dei Lotti 40, 36061 Bassano del Grappa, ItalyJuan Politei, Department of Neurology, Juan Fernandez Hospital, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaSarah Cinque, Department of Dermatology, Cosme Argerich Hospital, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaAndrea Soliani, Department of Dermatology, Cosme Argerich Hospital, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaRobert Y. Carlier, Department of Radiology, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, Garches, FranceDominique P. Germain, Division of Medical Genetics, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, University of Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines, Garches, FranceRenzo Manara, Neuroradiology Unit, University Hospital, Padova, Italy ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5432873 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 07:00:37 +0100 5432873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423718&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F74nn5n3260830034%2F Abstract  Whilst deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (DBS-STN) improves the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD), its effect on daily activity is unknown. We aimed to quantify changes in ambulatory activity following DBS-STN in advanced PD using novel accelerometry based measures that describe changes to the volume and pattern of walking. Seventeen participants with advanced PD were measured over a 7-day period using an activPAL ™ activity monitor. Data were collected 6 weeks before and 6 months after surgery and included measures that describe the volume and pattern of ambulatory activity (number of steps per day, accumulation, diversity and variability of walking time), alongside standard measures for disease severity, freezing of gait, g... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423718 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:59:50 +0100 5423718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410445&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa61362w1421250p6%2F This study reviews empirical evidence on the association between personality traits and Parkinson’s disease (PD), with a twofold aim. First, to better identify non-motor symptoms, such as affective symptoms and personality changes, that could help to define the pre-motor phase of PD; second, to better understand the neurobiological bases of personality traits, a goal that is not fully accomplished by a purely anatomical approach. A literature review was performed on studies of personality traits in PD patients, in electronic databases ISI Web of Knowledge, Medline and PsychInfo, conducted in July 2011. We found evidence that the existence of a characteristic premorbid personality profile of PD patients is not actually sustained by robust empirical evidence, mainly due to the method... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410445 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:58:53 +0100 5410445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410446&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr544m23xtwk37548%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6304-6Authors Keisuke Suzuki, Department of Neurology, Dokkyo Medical University, 880 Kitakobayashi, Mibu, Shimotsuga, Tochigi 321-0293, JapanTsubasa Sada, Department of Neurology, Dokkyo Medical University, 880 Kitakobayashi, Mibu, Shimotsuga, Tochigi 321-0293, JapanToshiki Nakamura, Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Amakusa Hospital, Koshigaya, Saitama, JapanHidehiro Takekawa, Department of Neurology, Dokkyo Medical University, 880 Kitakobayashi, Mibu, Shimotsuga, Tochigi 321-0293, JapanKoichi Hirata, Department of Neurology, Dokkyo Medical University, 880 Kitakobayashi, Mibu, Shimotsuga, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410446 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:58:51 +0100 5410446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410447&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm0j3nkr660h36p5x%2F Abstract  Patients in a minimally conscious state (MCS) show restricted signs of awareness but are unable to communicate. We assessed cerebral glucose metabolism in MCS patients and tested the hypothesis that this entity can be subcategorized into MCS− (i.e., patients only showing nonreflex behavior such as visual pursuit, localization of noxious stimulation and/or contingent behavior) and MCS+ (i.e., patients showing command following). Patterns of cerebral glucose metabolism were studied using [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose-PET in 39 healthy volunteers (aged 46 ± 18 years) and 27 MCS patients of whom 13 were MCS− (aged 49 ± 19 years; 4 traumatic; 21 ± 23 months post injury) and 14 MCS+ (aged 43 ± 19 years; 5... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410447 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 06:47:58 +0100 5410447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410449&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl426474186116611%2F Abstract  Neurolathyrism is a toxic myelopathy caused by ingestion of the Lathyrus sativus grasspea. An irreversible acute to subacute spastic paraparesis or quadriparesis ensues. Despite public education, new cases of this preventable disease still occur. Two Ethiopian cases of neurolathyrism are reported to illustrate the disease, followed by a literature review. Two teenage male farmers from the same village developed irreversible spastic myelopathy following L. sativus ingestion. There was no sensory, sphincter or bulbar dysfunction. Likely causative factors identified were increased consumption of L. sativus prior to and following disease onset, heavy physical exertion and male gender, similar to those reported in the literature. Neurolathyrism is an entirely preventabl... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410449 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 06:47:56 +0100 5410449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410448&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F55202lp041130w05%2F Abstract  Striatal hypermetabolism on 18FDG-PET scan is a neuroradiological finding that has been described in association with autoimmune disorders such as Sydenham chorea, lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome. Here, we report three patients with non-paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis characterized by 18FDG-PET hypermetabolism of both striata, in contrast with diffuse hypometabolism in the rest of the brain. All patients developed subacute dementia, and antibodies to voltage-gated potassium channels were found in all cases. Brain metabolism and neurological status improved within a few months of immunosuppressive therapy. The finding of striatal hypermetabolism on 18FDG-PET images could thus be highly indicative of limbic encephalitis associated with anti-neuropil antibodies... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410448 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 06:47:56 +0100 5410448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410450&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu2577x34415017h3%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6310-8Authors Hiroshi Kataoka, Department of Neurology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8522, JapanSatoshi Ueno, Department of Neurology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8522, Japan Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410450 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 06:47:55 +0100 5410450 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410451&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr37m605357x72236%2F This study represents the largest cohort of late-onset GSDII patients treated with ERT, and confirm a positive effect of treatment. These results, obtained in a large case series on therapy, indicate a favourable effect of ERT therapy, even in more advanced stage of the disease. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6293-5Authors C. Angelini, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padova, ItalyC. Semplicini, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padova, ItalyS. Ravaglia, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, ItalyB. Bembi, Regional Coordination Centre for Rare Diseases, University Hospital S. Maria Della Misericordia, Udine, Ita... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410451 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:44:37 +0100 5410451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410452&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F56078381866mm70m%2F Abstract  Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a complex involuntary movement disorder affecting about 23% of neuroleptic-treated patients. Our objective was to retrospectively analyze a combination of tetrabenazine (TBZ), clonazepam (CLONAZ) and clozapine (CLOZ) used simultaneously for TD in psychotic patients. Six patients with severe, unsuccessfully controlled TD were referred for treatment (mean age 51.5 years; three male; four schizophrenics; one bipolar disease; one borderline personality disorder). They were being treated with neuroleptics (classic, three; risperidone, two; olanzapine, one) and developed severe neck and buccolingual dyskinesias. At our clinic, all of them were treated simultaneously with TBZ (mean dose 141.6 mg); CLONAZ (mean dose 4.3 mg); and CLOZ (... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410452 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:04:05 +0100 5410452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410453&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F177124p8874545w4%2F Abstract   Physicians have been increasingly relying on noninvasive imaging methods to grade carotid stenosis. The accuracy of Doppler ultrasound (DUS) and CT angiography (CTA) versus intra-arterial angiography (IA) has been assessed in many studies and at least two meta-analyses. Here, we performed a systematic review of studies that compared DUS to CTA. In a PubMed review of the literature from 2000 to 2009, we found 12 studies that compared DUS and CTA-based grading of carotid stenosis. Only 4 of them included at least 20 patients and provided data to classify the diseased arteries into the following categories: mild, moderate or severe NASCET stenosis or occlusion. We extracted 431 arteries from 244 patients (range per study: 48–164). It was not possible to disting... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410453 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:47:36 +0100 5410453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410454&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg41583n57k2m9804%2F Abstract  Idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) has been suggested as an early “pre-motor” stage of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in a significant proportion of cases. We investigated autonomic function in 15 consecutive iRBD patients and compared these findings to PD patients and healthy controls. All participants underwent cardiovascular autonomic function testing, and were rated on the COMPASS scale. Symptomatic orthostatic hypotension was present in two iRBD patients, two PD patients and none of the healthy controls. In the tilt table examination, blood pressure changes were similar between iRBD patients and healthy controls. In the PD group, blood pressure drops were more pronounced. In the orthostatic standing test, iRBD patients had higher blood pressure cha... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410454 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:47:35 +0100 5410454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410455&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy25763387l14q53j%2F In this study, we show that in spite of his near-complete cortical blindness, SBR exhibits vivid visual mental imagery both behaviorally and when measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging. The pattern of cortical activation to visual mental imagery in SBR is indistinguishable from individual sighted subjects, in contrast to the visual perceptual responses, which are greatly attenuated. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6299-zAuthors Holly Bridge, FMRIB Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU UKStephen Harrold, FMRIB Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU UKEmily A. Holmes, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UKMark Stokes, Departmen... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410455 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:47:34 +0100 5410455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5410456&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F782q32631m258181%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6288-2Authors Masahiro Mori, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670 JapanNaoki Kawaguchi, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670 JapanAkiyuki Uzawa, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670 JapanYuhko Nemoto, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670 JapanSaeko Masuda, Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670 JapanSatoshi Kuwabara, Department of ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5410456 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:47:33 +0100 5410456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389907&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe65q270118104125%2F We present two cases of patients with juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), who had no history of familial ALS. The symptoms of both patients started as weakness of the unilateral upper limb and neck, and extended to bulbar and respiratory weakness in a relatively short period. Of note, the first patient was mentally retarded before the onset of weakness. Fused in sarcoma/translocated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS) gene analyses revealed mutations of p. G492EfsX527 (c. 1475delG), which is a novel deletion/frameshift mutation, in the first patient and p. R514S mutation (c. 1542G > T) in the second patient. Molecular analysis revealed that the mutant FUS/TLS, especially the deletion/frameshift mutation, showed significant cytoplasmic localization in transfected motor neuro... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389907 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 15:43:16 +0100 5389907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389910&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5627071613622092%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6270-zAuthors Gabriela Raina, Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Program, Hospital de Clínicas “José de San Martín”, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaMaria Graciela Cersosimo, Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Program, Hospital de Clínicas “José de San Martín”, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaFederico Micheli, Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Program, Hospital de Clínicas “José de San Martín”, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389910 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 15:43:15 +0100 5389910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389909&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd7v3905tp7p62137%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6290-8Authors Joseph K. Ho, Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York, 521 West 57th Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10019, USASaud A. Sadiq, Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York, 521 West 57th Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10019, USA Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389909 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 15:43:15 +0100 5389909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389908&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fwt440727138n8542%2F Abstract  After it was reported that increased tissue iron concentrations were associated with increased echogenicity of the substantia nigra (SN) obtained with transcranial sonography (TCS) in animal and postmortem studies, our goal was to use this method in a disorder characterized with iron accumulation in human brain tissue. Therefore, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and TCS were conducted in 5 unrelated patients with pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN), caused by PANK2 mutations. All patients had an eye of the tiger sign. Hypointense lesions on the T2-weighted MRI images were restricted to the globus pallidus (GP) and SN. TCS also revealed bilateral hyperechogenicity restricted to the LN and SN, with normal DTV values. Both TCS and MRI studies ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389908 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 15:43:15 +0100 5389908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389914&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F086x50281q273353%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6291-7Authors Koji Fujita, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima, 770-8503 JapanTatsuhiko Yuasa, Department of Neurology, Kamagaya-Chiba Medical Center for Intractable Neurological Disease, Kamagaya General Hospital, Kamagaya, 273-0121 JapanYukitoshi Takahashi, National Epilepsy Center, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, Shizuoka, 420-8688 JapanKeiko Tanaka, Department of Neurology, Kanazawa Medical University, Kahokugun, 920-0293 JapanShuji Hashiguchi, Department of Neurology, Tokushima National Hospital, National Hospital Organization, Yoshinogawa, 776-8585 JapanKatsuhito Adachi, Department of Neu... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389914 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:51:06 +0100 5389914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389913&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F86l3k638584p6386%2F We report a case series of patients with isolated infarctions of the pericallosal (PC) artery territory. We analyzed 36 consecutive patients presenting over a 10-year period with isolated PC artery territory infarctions (15 left-sided, 19 right-sided, 2 bilateral) regarding clinical symptoms as well as MRI findings. Analysis of DWI lesion pattern showed complete PC artery infarctions in three patients. The majority of patients had partial infarctions predominantly involving either the superior frontal gyrus (n = 12), the corpus callosum (n = 1) or both (n = 20). Hemodynamic lesion patterns were found in 13 patients, while multiple cortical emboli occurred in six. Distal pathology of the ACA (n = 13) was the most frequent MRA finding. Core sympto... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389913 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:51:06 +0100 5389913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389912&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F12l11566708h8w2p%2F Abstract  A rapid and complete recanalization of the occluded artery is the ideal goal when intravenous (IV) recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) is administrated to patients with acute ischemic stroke, i.e., limiting the ongoing ischemia to achieve a better outcome. We explored the effect of complete versus partial recanalization of the occluded intracranial artery after IV thrombolysis on the infarct growth and evaluated the functional impact. Using diffusion-weighted (DWI) volumetric measurements before rt-PA administration (DWI1) and 24 h later (DWI2), we calculated the infarct growth in 36 consecutive patients with ischemic stroke treated with IV rt-PA, with the formula DWI2/DWI1. Recanalization of the affected artery was assessed by transcranial Dopple... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389912 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:51:06 +0100 5389912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389911&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F91317301w9kr0874%2F In conclusion, size of the PFO and presence of a massive bubble were considered to be factors associated with recurrence of ischemic stroke due to PFO. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6297-1Authors Takuya Fukuoka, Department of Neurology and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Saitama International Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama 350-1298, JapanTomohisa Dembo, Department of Neurology and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Saitama International Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama 350-1298, JapanHarumitu Nagoya, Department of Neurology and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Saitama International Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, 1397-1 Yamane, Hidaka, Saitama 350... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389911 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:51:06 +0100 5389911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365412&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp4l8176808113182%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6287-3Authors Masaki Ohyagi, Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519 JapanNobuo Sanjo, Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519 JapanTakanori Yokota, Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519 JapanHidehiro Mizusawa, Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Graduate School of Medical an... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365412 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:38 +0100 5365412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365414&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn406128435w54741%2F Abstract  Here we summarize the recent progress made in the diagnosis and treatment of balance and gait disorders. Focusing on work published in the Journal of Neurology in 2010 and 2011, we have found evidence for the following clinically relevant statements: (1) the exclusion of stroke in acute vestibular syndromes is based on the bedside clinical findings; (2) the risk of developing secondary somatoform vertigo is predictable; it is especially high in patients with vestibular migraine; (3) postural imbalance and falls in Parkinson syndromes are related to dysfunction of the cholinergic midbrain thalamic axis; (4) aminopyridines improve a variety of cerebellar parameters including central nystagmus and gait variability. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Medical Pro... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365414 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:36 +0100 5365414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365413&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx24q564214462636%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6285-5Authors Emma M. Jenkinson, Genetic Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Services Centre (MAHSC), St. Mary’s Hospital, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9WL UKJill Clayton-Smith, Genetic Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Services Centre (MAHSC), St. Mary’s Hospital, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9WL UKSarju Mehta, East Anglian Medical Genetics Service, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UKChristopher Bennett, Yorkshire Regional Genetics Service, Ashley Wing, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds, LS9 7TF UKWillie Reardon, National Centre for Medical Genetics, Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin, Dublin 12, IrelandAndrew Green, National Centre f... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365413 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:36 +0100 5365413 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365416&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F511858nq673285nt%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ENS CommunicationsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6283-7 Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365416 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:35 +0100 5365416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365415&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F623w4k071r6681g2%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6284-6Authors Annerose Ziegler, Department of Neurology, Charite, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, GermanyMartin Ebinger, Department of Neurology, Charite, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, GermanyJochen B. Fiebach, Department of Neurology, Charite, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, GermanyHeinrich J. Audebert, Department of Neurology, Charite, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, GermanyStefanie Leistner, Department of Neurology, Charite, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Fra... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365415 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:35 +0100 5365415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365418&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fln74617310j260x5%2F Abstract  Cognitive deficits in behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and AD are linked to frontal and temporal lobe gray matter (GM) pathology. The aim of this study was to assess the relative contribution of white (WM) and GM abnormalities to cognitive dysfunction in bvFTD and AD. Fractional anisotropy (FA) for the corpus callosum, cingulum (Cg), and uncinate fasciculus (Unc) was determined in 17 bvFTD and 10 AD patients who underwent neuropsychological testing. Regressions were performed to assess the relative contribution of WM and GM abnormalities to cognitive deficits. Multiple regression analysis revealed that in bvFTD, the left anterior Cg FA was related to executive function, the right anterior Cg FA to visual-spatial attention and working memory, the ... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365418 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:34 +0100 5365418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365417&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv877522488548887%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Journal ClubPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6282-8Authors M. Strupp, Department of Neurology and IFBLMU, Campus Grosshadern, University Hospital Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365417 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:34 +0100 5365417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365419&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4n3h817lh8p06428%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorsPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6296-2Authors Antonio Carota, Hildebrand Clinic, Rehabilitation Center, 6614 Brissago, SwitzerlandAndreas P. Lysandropoulos, Neurology Service, CHUV, Lausanne, SwitzerlandPasquale Calabrese, Department of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland Journal Journal of NeurologyOnline ISSN 1432-1459Print ISSN 0340-5354 (Source: Journal of Neurology) Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365419 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:33 +0100 5365419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5365420&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb0645565qn20283v%2F Abstract  Fabry disease (FD) is a rare inherited disorder of the metabolism, associated with renal, cardiac, and cerebrovascular complications. Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in FD present with a similar proportion to that observed in the general population, but usually at an early age. Ischemic stroke may result from cardiac embolism, large and small vessel disease, while hemorrhagic stroke is usually attributed to hypertension. Deposition of glycosphingolipids in endothelial cells results in a specific FD vasculopathy that contributes to the different vascular phenotypes. Neuroimaging features of cerebrovascular involvement in FD include white matter lesions, dolichoectasia, and the “pulvinar sign”, a T1 MRI hyperintensity of the posterior thalamus. The role of enzym... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5365420 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:59:31 +0100 5365420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5349696&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr48x312728523n19%2F In conclusion, our results showed that although hyperdensity on NCCT images obtained immediately after IAR had a moderate predictive value for HT, there were limitations to the prediction of subsequent parenchymal hematoma and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, with a low specificity and a low positive predictive value. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6281-9Authors Joon-Tae Kim, Department of Neurology, Cerebrovascular Center, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju, KoreaSuk-Hee Heo, Department of Radiology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, KoreaBang-Hoon Cho, Department of Neurology, Cerebrovascular Center, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju, KoreaSeong-Min Choi, Department of Neur... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5349696 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 06:10:02 +0100 5349696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5349697&cid=s_33364_25_f&fid=33364&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F9717826473m0u13w%2F Abstract  A 40-year-old white male received cardio-pulmonary resuscitation after cardiac arrest due to an epileptic status. Four months after the incident he developed an akinetic-rigid syndrome and a postural tremor more pronounced on the right side of the body. Brain imaging revealed bilateral lesions of the putamen and caudate nucleus. Levodopa improved bradykinesia and muscular rigidity, but not the postural tremor. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original CommunicationPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00415-011-6274-8Authors Dennis A. Nowak, Neurologische Fachklinik Kipfenberg, Kindingerstrasse 13, 85110 Kipfenberg, GermanyAndreas Bock, Neurologische Fachklinik Kipfenberg, Kindingerstrasse 13, 85110 Kipfenberg, GermanyMatthias Ponfick, Neurologische Fachklinik Kipfen... Journal of Neurology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5349697 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 06:10:00 +0100 5349697