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 'Parkinsonism and Related Disorders' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:43:33 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630547&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802012000132%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630547 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:46:47 +0100 5630547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630548&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011004093%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is a short acting intravenous anesthetic agent used for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. Rapid recovery and lack of postoperative nausea have made it particularly valuable for patients undergoing surgery as well as in emergency and intensive care units where brief periods of sedation are required. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630548 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5630548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423774&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003543%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423774 Sat, 19 Nov 2011 14:02:37 +0100 5423774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630549&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002331%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this review is to investigate the relationships between gait impairments and activity limitations in people with idiopathic PD. Six electronic databases (MEDLINE ISI, CINAHL, Web of Science ISI, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Scopus) were systematically searched using relevant terms to source for English-language studies published between 1900 and January 2011. Only studies that reported associations between impairments and activity limitations were considered for the review. The methodological quality of eligible studies was evaluated using a customized checklist by two independent reviewers. Data on participant characteristics, disease severity and associations between variables were extracted using a standardized data extraction form. Correlation coefficients were transformed to ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630549 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5630549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630565&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003270%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Apathy and ICDs may be on a common behavioral spectrum in PD. Both are associated with significant psychiatric morbidity supporting shared underlying pathology. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630565 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630567&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100349X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This is the first report of ICD in patients treated with transdermal rotigotine for RLS. In contrast to literature, even low doses of rotigotine (mean 3.8 mg/d) can cause ICD. Therefore every prescribing physician should be aware that ICD may emerge in both RLS and PD patients on any dopaminergic treatment, and should actively ask for such symptoms. The ZICD questionnaire not only replicated the findings of detailed history taking but also showed an increased tendency towards impulsive behaviour in subjects that did not develop ICD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630567 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630566&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003178%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The term ‘parakinesia brachialis oscitans’ (PBO) was coined recently to describe cases of hemiplegia in which spontaneous yawning causes involuntary raising of the affected upper limb. The authors report three additional cases of PBO adding new phenomenological findings to the syndrome, discussing possible physiopathology of this phenomenon. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630566 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630563&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003233%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report two siblings that presented hypotonia and very early-onset parkinsonism. Homozygosity mapping using SNP genome scan data identified a candidate locus that was 12.2 Mega base pairs. By exome sequencing, we found a homozygous five-nucleotide deletion (c.448_452delAGAAC) in gene Sepiapterin Reductase (SPR). The mutation is predicted to lead to premature translational termination. Sepiapterin reductase deficiency (SRD) is a recently recognized dopa-responsive dystonia. Our findings show that SRD can manifest as early-onset parkinsonism, widening the spectrum of the disease phenotype and adding to the genetic heterogeneity of the disease. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630563 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338241&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000915%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 (SCA10) is an autosomal dominant inherited ataxia caused by an expanded ATTCT pentanucleotide repeat in intron 9 of the ATXN10 gene, on chromosome 22q13.3. SCA10 represents a rare form of SCA, until now only described in Latin America, particularly in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela. In Mexico and Brazil SCA10 represents the second most common type of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia. The phenotype described in Mexico, is characterized by the association of cerebellar ataxia with epilepsy, while in Brazil the SCA10 phenotype is that of a pure cerebellar ataxia. As yet unidentified genotypic variables may account for this phenotypic difference. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338241 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 02:34:37 +0100 5338241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338240&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003312%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338240 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 02:34:37 +0100 5338240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630564&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003245%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, PD patients were aware of problems with executive functions in daily life and reported considerably more problems than healthy controls. These problems were however not reflected by neuropsychological tests and may indicate a lack of ecological validity of neuropsychological assessment. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630564 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630562&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003221%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Sequence variations at the GBA gene may play a role as a minor, modifying gene of MJD/SCA3 phenotype. This hypothetical role was not related to changes in GBA activity in peripheral leukocytes. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630562 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630554&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003014%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Objective: To test whether appreciation of humor might be a non-motor function affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD).Methods: Thirty-nine PD patients and 38 healthy controls participated in this study. Appreciation of humor and effect of the presentation method utilized were assessed. Sense of humor was evaluated by the sense of humor questionnaire (SHQ-6). Humor appreciation was tested using three methods of presentation: videos, audio sketches and pictorial cartoons, each portraying both obvious and non-obvious humor content. Depression, anxiety, cognition, disease severity and quality of life were measured by standardized questionnaires and correlated with humor outcomes.Results: Patients with PD rated humor content lower than controls on every method of presentation as well ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630554 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630561&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100321X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Istradefylline (KW-6002) is a selective adenosine A2A receptor antagonist investigated as adjunctive therapy to levodopa in PD patients with motor response complications. In Phase 2b/3 studies, Istradefylline reduced OFF time without worsening troublesome dyskinesia and was well tolerated.Methods: A randomized, 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group study evaluated the efficacy of 10, 20, and 40 mg/day of Istradefylline in patients on levodopa therapy with motor response complications. The primary outcome measure was change from baseline to endpoint in the percentage of awake time/day spent in the OFF state as determined by patient diary.Results: Six hundred and ten patients were randomized. Five hundred and eighty four patients were included in the... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630561 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553356&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003208%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, the present study reveals that mutations in the parkin gene are not a major contributor to PD in the South African population. Further investigations of the molecular etiology of PD in the unique South African population, particularly the Black African and mixed ancestry sub-populations, are warranted. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553356 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630556&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100304X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The high proportion of patients screened positive for impulse control disorders in a non-selected sample emphasize the importance of routine screening of these disorders in Parkinson's disease. Pathological gambling prevalence in Parkinson's disease is seven times higher than in the general population in Finland. The results underline the importance of depression in impulse control disorders associated with Parkinson's disease. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630556 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553355&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003051%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study summarizes the positive and negative effects of deep brain stimulation treatment in two pathologically confirmed multiple system atrophy patients from the University of Florida Deep Brain Stimulation-Brain Tissue Network. Clinical diagnosis for the two patient cases did not match the neuropathological diagnosis. We noted that in both pathologically confirmed multiple system atrophy patients, death occurred as a result of myocardial infarction. Importantly, there was reported transient benefit in levodopa responsive features that indicate deep brain stimulation may be an option for select multiple system atrophy patients. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553355 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630560&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100318X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Objective: To investigate the relationship of resilience to disease severity, disability, quality of life (QoL) and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD). A secondary objective was to investigate whether resilience is distinct from other personality domains in PD.Background: Resilience is the ability to reestablish emotional equilibrium in the face of adversity. It may play a pivotal role in disability and quality of life and has not been studied in PD.Methods: 83 PD patients (Age 66.3 ± 10.6, Total Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (T-UPDRS) 36.9 ± 17.8) completed the Resilience Scale 15 (RS-15). Scales measuring disability, mental and physical health-related QoL, non-motor symptoms (depression, anxiety, somatization, apathy, fatigue), and personality domai... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630560 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630557&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003063%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Cognitive impairment is common in the early and middle stages of PD without dementia; executive function is the most common domain impaired in a Chinese PD population. Cognitive impairment might be predicted by lower education level and higher Hoehn and Yahr stage. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630557 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630551&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002768%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The information provided in this study can offer useful information for PD patients in preparing for future ability to perform activities of daily living. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630551 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630559&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003130%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The SFT appears to be a useful tool to assess functional fitness in people with PD: it can be carried out in the clinical setting albeit with some minor modifications. However, its validity as an indicator of disease severity remains to be confirmed. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630559 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630555&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003038%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined 50 patients with PD, including 32 off-state freezers (defined as experiencing subjective ‘gluing of the feet to the floor’). Assessment including a FOG trajectory (three trials: normal speed, fast speed, and with dual tasking) and several turning variants (180° vs. 360° turns; leftward vs. rightward turns; wide vs. narrow turning; and slow vs. fast turns).Results: Sensitivity of the entire assessment to provoke FOG in subjective freezers was 0.74, specificity was 0.94. The most effective test to provoke FOG was rapid 360° turns in both directions and, if negative, combined with a gait trajectory with dual tasking. Repeated testing improved the diagnostic yield. The least informative tests included wide turns, 180° turns or normal speed full turns. Sensitivity to provoke... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630555 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630558&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011003087%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease, caused by the expansion of an unstable (CAG)n in the HTT gene. There is scarce data about the disease in Argentina.Objective: To describe the demographic, clinical and molecular data in patients with HD from Argentina.Patients and methods: 59 HD patients were recruited at our department.Comprehensive interviews, neurological examination and genetic analysis were performed in probands. Statistical analysis was conducted using G-Stat 2.0 and non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon).Results: 32 women and 27 men were diagnosed with a mean age of 45.7 ± 16.2 years and a mean age at onset of 35.8 ± 14.8 years. We found no gender prevalence and an inverse correlation between size of mutant CAG repeat sequence and age at onset, r... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630558 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630553&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002999%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder. Although the p.G2385R allele of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) has been recently reported as a common genetic variant that increases the risk for typical PD exclusively among Asian population, its genetic modifiers is yet to be studied. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to play an important role in the survival of dopaminergic neurons and its genetic polymorphism was associated with an increased risk for PD at an older age onset. The current case–control study was performed to investigate the interaction between LRRK2 p.G2385R and BDNF p.V66M in a Chinese PD cohort. A total of 464 PD patients and 549 controls were involved in this study. LRRK2 p.G2385R variant (odds ratio [OR] = 3.2... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630553 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630552&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100277X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The present study provides in vivo evidence suggesting that structural lesions of the brain stem are responsible for the occurrence of iRBD. In addition, the pattern of gray matter loss is consistent with morphological changes commonly observed in patients with Lewy body disease and multiple system atrophy, indicating that iRBD can share a common morphological abnormality with alpha-synucleinopathies. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630552 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630550&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002690%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Hemiballism is a rare movement disorder characterized by a high amplitude movement of an entire limb or limbs on one side of the body. The acute development of hemiballismus is often caused by focal lesions in the contralateral basal ganglia and STN. Many etiologies exist for this rare disorder with vascular causes and nonketotic hyperglycemia being the most common. Clearer understanding of the pathophysiology of hemiballism has led to important insights into the function and interaction of structures within the basal ganglia. Newer models of basal ganglia function have been proposed based on the study of the pathophysiology of hemiballism. Prognosis is favorable for most patients with complete resolution with or without treatment. Medical and surgical treatments are often succes... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630550 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553349&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002987%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This prospective case series study provides evidence that unilateral STN DBS improves subjective sleep quality in patients with PD at up to 6 months post-operatively as measured by the PSQI. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553349 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553348&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002732%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the antidyskinetic effect of cerebellar cTBS in Parkinson’s disease patients with levodopa induced dyskinesia, is paralleled by modulation of the activity of the pathways connecting the cerebellar cortex with the deep cerebellar nuclei, confirming the hypothesis that the motor cerebellar circuit is involved in the generations of levodopa induced dyskinesia. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553348 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553338&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002707%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe 50 consecutive patients in whom detailed neuropsychiatric assessments were performed as part of our routine pre-operative assessment. Eight had current or past ICDs during pre-operative assessment. These patients were more likely to be male and were younger than those without ICDs. Other psychosocial variables did not predict the presence of ICDs. Detailed neuropsychological examination failed to show any between-group differences. Our prevalence rate of 16% helps raise awareness of ICDs in this specialised clinic population and may reflect common denominators between significant motor fluctuations and dopaminergic drug – related behavioural disturbances. Four patients were deemed suitable for surgery after multi-disciplinary assessment. One had re-emergence of his ICD 18 mon... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553338 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553338 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553354&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002781%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study shows that PD brain CNVs can be detected, and raises the possibility that brain-situated mutations could underlie some cases of PD. A method of undertaking a definitive study of brain somatic mutations in PD, using massively parallel sequencing and multiple tissues, is suggested. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553354 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553347&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002677%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: For many non-motor manifestations Non Motor Symptoms Questionnaire is an effective screen; however, for manifestations such as somnolence, olfactory loss and apathy, sensitivity is suboptimal. Overall, this questionnaire can be a useful clinical tool for screening non-motor problems in an office setting. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553347 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553346&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002793%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our findings suggest that IAT is a frequent presenting symptom in a subset of individuals with PD, often misdiagnosed as ET, and that DAT-SPECT can help differentiate between these two disorders. Current diagnostic criteria for ET should be revised to include asymmetry and late-onset tremor as predictors of nigrostriatal denervation. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553346 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630568&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001775%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is an X-linked recessive disorder, which causes diffuse demyelination and adrenocortical insufficiency in the central nervous system. Its diagnosis is made by demonstrating increased levels of very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) in plasma and cultured skin fibroblasts. Most cases appear in either childhood or adolescence as a devastating degenerative disorder that leads to major neurological deterioration and death within a few years. However, many phenotypical variants of ALD, including either a cerebello–brainstem dominant form or an ataxic form, have been reported. In the cerebello–brainstem dominant form, the brainstem and the cerebellum are prominently damaged, and there have been rare reports of the initial presentation of diffuse cortical dysfunction ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630568 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553345&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002720%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Introduction: Our objective was to assess the usefulness of the Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson’s disease – Autonomic (SCOPA-AUT) in the differential diagnosis of Parkinsonisms and clarify its relation with 123-I-MIBG cardiac scintigraphy.Methods: A total of 112 patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), 12 with multiple system atrophy parkinsonian variant (MSA-P) and 20 with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) participated in the study. The following variables were collected: age, sex, age at onset, length of illness, type and dose of anti-Parkinson medication, and score on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale. The Unified Multiple System Atrophy Rating Scale was administered to patients with MSA and the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Rating Scale to those with PS... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553345 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553353&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002689%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present the case of a woman with secondary parkinsonism that developed following a Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccination, who experienced sustained improvement in motor function following STN DBS. Despite the diagnosis of a secondary parkinsonism, this patient responded well to dopaminergic therapy, a good predictor of DBS outcome in patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. This case suggests that DBS may be considered in the setting of secondary parkinsonism if such patients have levodopa-responsive symptoms. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553353 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553352&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002574%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Our data support a possible contribution of genetic variation in the HTR2A to the susceptibility to impulse control and repetitive behaviors in Parkinson’s disease. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553352 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553344&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002586%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: APO is both safe and effective in advanced parkinsonian patients with untreatable motor fluctuations, for whom STN-DBS is contraindicated due to dopa-resistant axial motor symptoms and/or cognitive decline. As such, it should be regarded as a viable alternative for these patients. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553344 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553343&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002598%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Patients with Parkinson’s disease suffer from a variety of motor and nonmotor symptoms (NMS), report reduced quality of life and increased disability. Aims of this study are to assess the impact of Parkinson’s disease on disability and quality of life, to evaluate the relationships between them and NMS prevalence.In this cross-sectional study, adult patients were consecutively enrolled and administered the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO-DAS II), the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Non Motor Symptoms Questionnaire (NMSQuest). One-sample t-test was used to compare WHO-DAS II and SF-36 scores with normative value. Pearson’s correlation was performed between NMSQuest, WHO-DAS II and SF-36 summary scales. Independent-sample t-test ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553343 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197641&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802010003470%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We thank Dr. Miyamoto and coworkers for their interest in our article and for their comments, and we would like to respond as follows. Dr. Miyamoto et al. reported that 28.9% of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) were diagnosed as probable to exhibit clinical REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD). When we analyzed the prevalence of RBD in 49 patients with PD using interviews and polysomnograms, we estimated the percentage of PD patients with violent RBD to be 38.8% (19/49). However, only five patients experienced RBD symptoms after the onset of RBD (data not published), and we do agree with the authors that more patients develop RBD after the onset of PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197641 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197640&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802010002038%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We wish to thank Dr. Giugni et al. for their interest in and comments on our article , and would like to respond as follows. We agree with their comment that hiccups can be caused by diverse metabolic and physiological disorders including not only those of the brainstem but also peripheral nerves. In Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body pathologies, characterized by alpha-synuclein-immunopositive aggregations or inclusions, are observable in enteric nerves . In addition, based on histological studies of catecholaminergic fiber degenerations in the myocardium , it is proposed that alpha-synuclein depositions in autonomic nerve endings may be one of the initial pathological changes in Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, it is possible to consider that enteric nerves in the gastric epithelium and... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197640 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197622&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000873%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The antiparkinsonian response to levodopa is characterized by an immediate motor improvement lasting hours and a more sustained response lasting days. These two responses have been referred to as the short-duration response (SDR) and the long-duration response (LDR). The LDR represents a substantial component of the clinical effect of levodopa and has been clinically recognized for several decades, but it remains poorly understood. This review will focus on the LDR phenomenology and theories about its origin, with the goal of promoting inquiry into this important but as yet poorly understood aspect of levodopa therapy for PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197622 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197621&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000721%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this paper is to provide an up-to-date, comprehensive review of two undecided issues about cognitive impairment in PD patients without dementia: the concept of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and the concept of Cognitive Reserve (CR). Empirical findings support the value of the concept of MCI in this population, from the early untreated stages onwards. Further studies are needed to establish 1) the clinical-neuroimaging characteristics of MCI subtypes in PD, in comparison to those MCI subtypes in patients without PD; 2) whether different types of MCI in PD are associated with different rates of cognitive decline during the progression of the disease. Preliminary empirical evidence also shows that education might exert a protective effect on cognitive decline in PD and that... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197621 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197620&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002379%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197620 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553351&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002653%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our findings suggest that higher number of sites rather than higher number of units or years of treatment are associated with the loss of effectiveness to BTX A. It is possible that the loss of effectiveness to the BTX is more strongly elicited when the injections are widely diffuse. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553351 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553350&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002604%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Clinical differentiation between parkinsonian syndromes (PS) remains a challenge despite well-established clinical diagnostic criteria. Specific diagnostic biomarkers have yet to be identified, though in recent years, studies have been published on the aid of certain brain related proteins (BRP) in the diagnosing of PS. We investigated the levels of the light subunit of neurofilament triplet protein (NF-L), total tau and phosphorylated tau, amyloid-β1-42, and the soluble α- and β-cleaved fragments of amyloid precursor proteins in a cohort of patients with various PS.Methods: Seventy-one patients with different PS and cerebellar disorders were included consecutively over 21 months. CSF was collected at inclusion. Clinical follow-up was performed after 16 months (med... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553350 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553342&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002537%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: DHS may be seen in either MSA or PD. It may be due to myopathy, dystonia or both. In some cases, the myopathy was focal, confined to the neck musculature. Whether dystonic antecollis predisposes to local muscle pathology is open to speculation. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553342 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553342 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553341&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002495%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: There are currently two validated questionnaires, the Freezing of Gait Questionnaire and the New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire, that are intended to assess the degree of freezing of gait in patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, to date no study has attempted to determine whether ratings on these questionnaires accurately reflect the severity (frequency and duration) of actual freezing episodes experienced by patients. We studied twenty-four patients with Parkinson’s disease who self-reported significant freezing while in their practically-defined ‘off’ state. Prior to clinical assessment they completed both freezing of gait questionnaires before being video-recorded while performing a series of timed up-and-go tasks, which incorporated turning, rotating and passing... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553341 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553341 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553340&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002501%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Advanced Theory of Mind (ToM) refers to the sophisticated ability to infer other people’s thoughts, intentions, or emotions in social situations. With appropriate advanced ToM, one can behave well in social interactions and can understand the intention of others’ behavior. Prefrontal cortex plays a vital role in this ability, as shown in functional brain imaging and lesion studies. Considering the primary neuropathology of Parkinson’s disease (PD) involving the frontal lobe system, patients with PD are expected to exhibit deficits in advanced ToM. However, few studies on this issue have been explored, and whether advanced ToM is independent of executive functions remains uncertain. Thirty-nine early non-demented PD patients and 40 normal control subjects were included. Both... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553340 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553339&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002513%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The present study suggests that white matter is differentially involved in MSA. In addition to aging, cerebral hypoperfusions caused by fluctuations of blood pressure may be a significant contributing factor to WMHs in MSA, although the possibility that degenerative processes occurring in oligodendrocytes may be associated with WMHs should not be excluded. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553339 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630569&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002343%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report herein the antiparkinsonian effect of SCS in a patient implanted for lower limb neuropathic pain who later developed PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630569 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5630569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423782&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002355%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of carrying out fine-grained, detailed analyses of gestures in PD and offers insights into an as yet neglected facet of communication in patients with PD. Based on the present findings, an important next step is the closer investigation of the qualitative changes in gesture (including different communicative situations) and an analysis of the heterogeneity in co-speech gesture production in PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423782 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423780&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100229X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Purpose: Researchers have consistently observed in right-handed individuals across normal and disease states that the ‘dominant’ left hemisphere has greater ipsilateral control of the left side than the right hemisphere has over the right. We sought to determine whether this ipsilateral influence of the dominant hemisphere reported in Parkinson’s disease extends to treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and whether it affects outcome. We hypothesised that among Parkinson right-handers, unilateral left DBS would provide greater ipsilateral motor improvement compared with the ipsilateral motor improvement experienced on the right side.Scope: A total of 73 Parkinson patients who underwent unilateral DBS of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or globus palidus internus (GPi)... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423780 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423779&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002264%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Relatives of EOPD cases with compound heterozygous mutations and without diagnosed PD may have a higher risk of depression compared to relatives without parkin mutations. These findings support evidence of a genetic contribution to depression and may extend the phenotypic spectrum of parkin mutations to include non-motor manifestations that precede the development of PD (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423779 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423779 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423781&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100232X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, primary and secondary dystonias are more prevalent in women, suggesting a sex-related predisposition to the development of this movement disorder. Lesion-induced dystonia most frequently involves the limbs and is caused by lesions in the cerebral cortex and subcortical white matter. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423781 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423781 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423785&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002276%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we examine the baseline expression of the anti-oxidant protein glutathione S-transferase pi (GSTpi) in the blood of PD patients and environmentally- and age-matched controls and compare it to GSTpi levels following exposure to 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), an agent that has been shown to induce oxidative stress. We find that after 4 h of exposure to MPP+, significant increases in GSTpi levels can be observed in the leukocytes of PD patients. No changes were seen in other blood components. This suggests that GSTpi and potentially other members of this and other anti-oxidant families may be viable biomarkers for PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423785 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423778&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002318%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the PARK16 locus that can modulate the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD), including rs16856139, rs823128, rs823122, rs947211, rs823156, rs708730 and rs11240572. The strength of these associations has been investigated in people from several ethnic origins, including Europe, Chile, Japan, Taiwan and western China. The results have shown that an ethnicity-specific effect is an important consideration in such an analysis. Therefore, we genotyped the above seven SNPs using a case-control methodology to explore their association with the risk of PD in eastern China. A total of 456 study subjects comprising 226 patients with PD and 230 unrelated healthy controls were recruited. The... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423778 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423778 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338249&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002306%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We aimed to study whether either [123l] myocardial meta-iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) myocardial scintigraphy or the odor stick identification test for Japanese (OSIT-J) is effective in differentiating Parkinson’s disease (PD) from multiple system atrophy (MSA). We compared the MIBG accumulation and olfactory score between 42 PD and 42 MSA (19 MSA-P and 23 MSA-C) patients in the early stages. [123l] MIBG myocardial scintigraphy showed higher sensitivity and the olfactory test higher specificity in differentiating PD from MSA. There were significant differences between PD and MSA-C (p = 0.0019) instead of MSA-P (p > 0.05) in the MIBG accumulation, while there were significant differences between PD and MSA-P (p = 0.0003) or MSA-C (p = 0.0003) in the OSIT-J score. Our data s... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338249 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423784&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002288%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Asian patients with Parkinson’s disease may be susceptible to dopaminergic medication-related side effects. The data here also contribute to the understanding of the psychometric properties of the Questionnaire for Impulsive–Compulsive Disorders. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423784 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553364&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002239%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a case of a 56-year-old woman who reported a 9-month history of bradykinesia tremor in the right hand, micrographia and postural instability. Based on her history and symptoms, her neurologist diagnosed Parkinson’s disease (PD) and a dopamine agonist was prescribed without benefit. Re-examination in our centre revealed slightly reduced right-arm swing (see ), brady-dysdiadochokinesia of the right arm, minor action tremor especially when writing and drawing, no rigidity, no major instability on the pull-test but postural instability when tandem walking and a slight upbeat nystagmus induced by upward gaze and mildly increased tendon reflexes on the right. Cranial nerve-, motor-, reflex-, sensory- and coordination testing did not show any further abnormalities. Electronystagm... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553364 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423783&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002252%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Estrogen replacement therapy was safe and well-tolerated over 8 weeks in post-menopausal women with advanced PD. This pilot data suggests that estrogen replacement may be associated with improvement in motor symptoms. While larger studies of longer duration are necessary to determine the effects of estrogen in PD, the complex risk/benefit profile and continued controversy surrounding estrogen are obstacles to clinical trials. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423783 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553363&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002148%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) describes a group of progressive extrapyramidal disorders involving brain iron overload with diverse characteristics including pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN), neuroferritinopathy, infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy and aceruloplasminaemia. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553363 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338248&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002227%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Introduction: Our objective was to compare the relative value of elements of the motor system in predicting the physical mobility domain of health related quality of life in patients with Parkinson’s disease in order to specify targets for intervention.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the Parkinson’s disease questionnaire-39 was administered to 263 subjects with Parkinson’s disease to assess health related quality of life. Demographics, motor impairments and physical function were assessed using the Unified Parkinson disease rating scale, 10-m walk test, 6-min walk test, Freezing of gait questionnaire, Timed up & go, functional gait assessment, Berg balance test, functional reach and 9-hole peg test.Results: The results revealed that demographic factors accounted for... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338248 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553362&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002240%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a case of PD associated with a VCP gene mutation. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553362 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553362 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423777&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002197%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Polymorphisms in SNCA, MAPT and LRRK2 genes have recently been confirmed as risk factors for Parkinson’s disease (PD), although with small individual attributable risk. Here we investigated the association of PD with interactions between variants of these genes.Methods: As part of a previous study of PD susceptibility genes 119 SNCA, MAPT, and LRRK2 haplotype tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and two variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) were genotyped in 1098 PD cases from the upper Midwest, USA and 1098 matched controls. Twenty-six of these SNPs were selected for SNP–SNP (or SNP–VNTR or VNTR–VNTR) interaction analysis (256 interaction pairs). Case-control analyses were performed to study association of pairwise SNP interactions with PD suscepti... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423777 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338247&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002215%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We have previously found that average serum cGMP level in unselected patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), particularly in patients treated with a combination of l-DOPA and the dopamine agonist pergolide mesylate, is markedly higher than that in healthy controls. Here we compared serum cGMP and total testosterone levels between l-DOPA/pergolide mesylate-treated male idiopathic PD patients without and with cardiovascular disease (iPD, n = 10, and iPD-CVD, n = 10, respectively) and age-matched healthy volunteers (n = 10). There was no difference in PD-related disability between the two patient groups as assessed by UPDRS motor score and Hoehn-Yahr staging. Whereas none of the patients showed hypoandrogenemia, PD patients compared to controls revealed significantly lower s... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338247 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338251&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002203%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: While Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease rating scale (MDS-UPDRS) validation has been exhaustive; performance evaluation to detect acute changes arising after administration of a single dose of l-dopa has yet to be explored. To determine the correlation between UPDRS and MDS-UPDRS during the acute challenge with ldopa and the MDS-UPDRS equivalent to 30% cutoff score of UPDRS for defining responsiveness, 64 patients were assessed. Consecutive assessments were performed immediately before and after administration of a single dose of l-dopa/carbidopa 250/25 mg using the motor section of the UPDRS and the MDS-UPDRS. Good diagnostic accuracy, consistent with published findings of high correlation between scales was observed. Area under the curve (AUC) was 0.99 (... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338251 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553361&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002136%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dystonia linked to DYT6 locus is a form of primary dystonia with an autosomal dominant inheritance and penetrance of approximately 60% independent of sex. An insertion/deletion founder mutation (134_135insGGGTT; 137_139delAAC) in exon 2 of THAP1 [THAP (Thanatos-associated protein) domain-containing protein 1] (8p21–8q22) was identified in three Amish-Mennonite families with dystonia linked to DYT6 locus. Furthermore, a missense mutation in exon 2 (241T > C) was identified in another family with partial German ancestry . Novel mutations in THAP1 were identified in sporadic or familial cases with various dystonic phenotypes expanding the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of mutations in THAP1 (for an overview, see ). THAP1 is a zinc-finger transcription factor and represses TOR1A (DYT1... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553361 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553360&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100215X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In 2009 Mandel et al. reported that by downregulation of SKP1A in the mouse embryonic substantia nigra-derived dopaminergic cell line, SN4741, a phenotype mimicking that of sporadic Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be generated. This finding invokes further thoughts about the molecular mechanism of PD pathogenesis since mouse models based on genes that are seemingly more closely related to PD, such as α-synuclein, parkin, and DJ-1, have not been successful in producing progressive degeneration of the nigral dopaminergic neurons nor aggresome formation. Here we discuss the similarities in cellular defects between a null mutant of the Arabidopsis SKP1 homolog, arabidopsis skp1-like1-1 (ask1-1), and the mouse cells of the sporadic PD model developed by Mandel et al., namely the formation of ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553360 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553359&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001751%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is an inherited multisystem lipid storage disease due to mutations of CYP27A1 gene resulting in sterol-27-hydroxylase enzyme deficiency and increased concentration of plasma and tissue cholestanol. The phenotype is characterized by bilateral cataract and diarrhea in infancy, whereas tendon xanthomas, osteoporosis and neurological involvement including behavioural and cognitive impairment, spastic paraparesis and cerebellar ataxia usually present in early adulthood . Signal abnormalities of the dentate nuclei on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain are considered a characteristic feature of the disease . Replacement therapy with chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) suppresses abnormal bile acid synthesis and stabilizes clinical and laboratory parameters... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553359 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338250&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002124%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Alpha-synuclein accumulation in intracellular inclusions, oxidative stress and microglia-mediated inflammation in the substantia nigra are crucial events in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1), a DNA-binding enzyme and transcriptional regulator, plays an important role in modulating the cellular response to oxidative stress, inflammatory stimuli, and in apoptotic cell death. Inhibition of PARP1 results in significant neuroprotection in PD animal models; moreover PARP1 has a physiological role in the regulation of alpha-synuclein expression. A previous study had demonstrated that variants located within the PARP1 gene promoter reduce the risk of PD and delay the disease age at onset. In light of these data, we carried out an assoc... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338250 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197635&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011002112%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Movement kinematic variables related to force production can be modulated to respond appropriately to different contexts. We previously showed that in a choice-reaction time and a predictable timed-response task, normal subjects perform reaching movements to the same targets with two different kinematic patterns, a marker of flexibility. Here, we used the two tasks to determine whether basal ganglia are involved in the selection and modulation of movement kinematics and therefore in flexible force production.We tested seventeen patients in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, eleven pre-symptomatic Huntington’s disease carriers and sixteen age-matched normal controls with the above-mentioned motor tasks.In both patient groups, the difference in kinematics (movement durati... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197635 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553337&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001878%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Parkinson’s disease, as well as many other parkinsonisms, including most toxic, neurodegenerative and familial types are typically asymmetric. No explanation for this phenomenon exists. A summary of the frequency of asymmetry in a spectrum of parkinsonian disorders is provided. Evidence against asymmetry being the result of normal asymmetries of the substantia nigrais reviewed. Asymmetry either results from a greater susceptibility on one side or a spreading pathology entering or starting on one side of the CNS. With the increasing evidence for spreading pathologies (toxins, viruses, α-synuclein), knowledge of neuroanatomical connections, and literature implicating spreading pathogens from the enteric and olfactory nerves, potential explanations can be theorized and explored, ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553337 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022624&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000976%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a genetically-proven CTX patient with parkinsonism and oromandibular jaw-opening dystonia which improved significantly with botulinum toxin type A (BTX). (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022624 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:40:10 +0100 5022624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022623&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000952%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Meige’s syndrome, or idiopathic orofacial dystonia, is the most common cause of cranial dystonia and characterized mainly by spasms of the orbicularis oculi (blepharospasm) and of the oromandibular muscles. Conventional treatment consists in botulinum toxin administration, but it has the potential of causing immunoresistance due to antibody development. The avenue of pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) as alternative treatment modality for Meige’s syndrome has gained consequently in recent times increased attention. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022623 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:40:09 +0100 5022623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022612&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100071X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In recent years, studies of essential tremor (ET) have demonstrated that the disease is associated with functionally-relevant cognitive abnormalities, a mood disturbance and other psychiatric co-morbidities, a functionally significant gait disorder, hearing deficits, and a variety of types of tremor. The tremor has been shown to be progressive in nature and quite disabling for a large number of sufferers. Also, recent clinical–epidemiological studies have linked prevalent ET to other neurodegenerative diseases and at least one study has demonstrated an increased risk of mortality in an ET cohort. While many of these studies are derived from clinic-based samples, population-based studies have also substantiated these findings, suggesting that even in the general population, the ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022612 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:40:08 +0100 5022612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022609&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001994%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022609 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:40:07 +0100 5022609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197634&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001969%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we performed a genetic association analysis of the rs9652490 and rs11856808 SNPs in Italian PD patients and controls to assess the role of these variants in our population. A total of 567 patients with PD and 468 control subjects were enrolled in five Movement Disorder centers located in Central-Southern Italy. Both variants were significantly associated with PD under a recessive model of inheritance before applying the Bonferroni correction. The GG genotype of rs9652490 and the TT genotype of rs11856808 were less frequent in patients than in controls, suggesting a protective effect against the disease. However, after stringent correction, only the P-values obtained from allele and genotype comparisons of the rs11856808 SNP remained significant. Our findings suggest that LIN... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197634 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423775&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000885%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Non-motor symptoms (NMS) of Parkinson's disease remain the most under-appreciated and under-researched when taken as a whole. Data is emerging that it is the “totaL” burden of NMS that is the major determinant of quality of life not a single NMS such as depression for instance. Only recently validated tools such as the NMSQuest which empowers patients to declare NMS and the NMS scale, the SCOPA scales, and the modified version of the MDS-UPDRS have become available and validated for bedside clinical assessment of NMS. For the first time clinical trials have been incorporating non-motor measures as outcome measures and clinical recommendations for treatment of non-motor symptoms of PD are being published. This review aims to address some of these topical and “real life” as... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423775 Mon, 11 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423775 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553358&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100174X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The term hemichorea-hemiballism (HCHB) has been coined to describe unilateral involuntary movements involving the proximal and/or distal parts of limbs; the most common etiology of HCHB is cerebrovascular disease . Furthermore, there has been a recent increase in the reports concerning HCHB caused by non-ketotic hyperglycemia (NKH), particularly in Asia . Although the distinct MRI findings obtained regarding this condition have been frequently reported, the clinical characteristics and prognosis have not been adequately addressed. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical presentations, imaging findings, prognosis, and factors associated with persistence of involuntary movements in 22 patients with HCHB induced by hyperglycemia. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553358 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5553357&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001799%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most common human-movement disorders characterised by mainly either postural or kinetic tremor of the arms and less commonly in other parts of the body: the head, face, tongue and legs. The disease has a worldwide prevalence of 0.4–3.9% according to different studies. ET is an inherited disease with mainly autosomal dominant transmission, but other patterns of inheritance as well as influence of environmental factors are not excluded. Genetic studies revealed linkage of familial ET in different chromosome locations: 3q13.3 (ETM1, OMIM 190300), 2p25-p22 (ETM2, OMIM 602134) and 6p32 (ETM3, OMIM 611456), but fine mapping of these loci has not led to the identification of sequence variants associating with ET. However, the casual genes have yet to be ident... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5553357 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5553357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338246&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001830%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Although little is known about the etiology of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), genetic and epigenetic factors, oxidative injury and inflammation are thought to contribute to its development and/or progression. Evidence for activated glia involvement in PSP has raised the possibility that neuroinflammation may contribute to its pathogenesis. To investigate the correlation between neuroinflammation and PSP, a comparative study was conducted on the patterns of cytokine expression in different regions of the brains of PSP, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and normal controls. Our results show different patterns of cytokine expression in each disease, with the expression of IL-1β transcripts being significantly higher in the substantia nigra of PSP than in AD and controls, w... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338246 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423788&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001787%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case with video recordings illustrating clinical features and positive response to concomitant dopamine depletor and levodopa therapy, providing insight into the pathogenesis of parkinsonism, tardive symptoms and possible therapeutic strategies. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423788 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423787&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001829%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Movement disorders have often been associated with hypocalcaemia as a result of either idiopathic or surgical hypoparathyroidism , whereas only a few cases of parkinsonism linked to primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) have been described . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423787 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5423786&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001842%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report here a novel splicing mutation in intron 3 of GCH1 gene (IVS3 +1G > A) in a male patient with middle-age-onset Segawa disease with parkinsonism. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5423786 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5423786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338255&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001866%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The tau protein, mainly localized in neuronal axons, is involved in the proper function of microtubules of the cytoskeleton. Under pathological conditions, tau protein misfolding and aggregation may result in neuronal dysfunction and, eventually, neuronal death. This is evident in tauopathies, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), corticobasal degeneration, and progressive supranuclear palsy. Following neuronal and axonal damage, increased levels of total tau protein can be measured in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The increase is transient in acute disorders, such as stroke , but sustained in neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338255 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338245&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001854%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Inorganic dust should be explored further as a potential risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. Occupational exposure to pesticides and twelve other compounds explored in this study may not be associated with risk of Parkinson’s disease in Swedish men. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338245 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338245 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338244&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001532%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Parkinsonism in active, welding exposed workers is associated with reductions in health status and QoL affecting a broad range of categories and within the range seen in early PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338244 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338243&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001556%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The main motivations of PD patients to participate in CTs were the benefit to the patient himself and to others. The major concern was safety. PD patients understood the informed consent, but more educational efforts must be made to explain the placebo effect. Most PD patients were very positive toward CTs and would participate in another trial. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338243 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338254&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100143X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 3 (SCA3) or Machado–Joseph Disease (MJD) is a clinically heterogeneous autosomal dominantly inherited progressive ataxia disorder . The disease comprises a wide range of neurological motor and non-motor symptoms. Among the neurological signs of SCA3/MJD, extrapyramidal features have been frequently described, particularly dystonia and parkinsonism . Although rare, other movement disorders (MD), may also emerge during the course of the disease, such as tremor, chorea and myoclonus . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338254 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338242&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100157X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) dysfunction is common in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. However, it remains unclear whether levodopa affects GIT function in PD.Objective: To perform an open study of levodopa’s effects on anorectal constipation in de novo PD patients by the quantitative lower-gastrointestinal autonomic test (QL-GAT).Methods: Nineteen unselected de novo PD patients (10 men, 9 women; mean age, 66 years; mean duration of the disease, 2.2 years) were recruited for the study. Eighteen of the patients reported constipation. These patients were treated with 200/20 mg b.i.d. of levodopa/carbidopa for 3 months. Pre- and post-treatment, objective parameters in the QL-GAT that comprised the colonic transit time (CTT) and rectoanal videomanometry were obtain... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338242 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197633&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001568%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: 7% of our Chinese PD subjects had impulse control disorders. When young Parkinson’s disease patients with a history of anxiety or depression are treated with high dose of DA, they are at risk of developing impulse control disorders. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197633 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197632&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001544%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: With the equation models identified in this study, scores from SPES/SCOPA-motor can be converted to scores from MDS-UPDRS motor examination and vice versa. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197632 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947482&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001052%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Please note that should be as below: (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947482 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:24 +0100 4947482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947481&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000940%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Aminoff et al. propose urgently needed management for the treatment of Parkinson patients during hospitalization since this population has a higher morbidity/mortality and a longer hospital stay compared to controls . One of the key problems seems to be the lack of adherence to precise medication schedules and lack of knowledge as to anti-Parkinson drugs and their interactions . Standard consultation by a neurologist or specialised nurse during admission may improve things . As Aminoff et al. point out in the introduction it is unclear if guidelines are generally used in daily practice. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947481 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:24 +0100 4947481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947480&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000939%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Phosphorilation of α-synuclein (α-syn) at Ser 129 is the major post-transnational modification of the protein in Lewy bodies (LB) , and this modification increases α-syn aggregability. G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinase 5 (GRK-5) and Casein Kinase 2 (CK-2) are the major kinases implicated in α-syn phosphorylation at Ser-129, and both GRK-5 and the β subunit of CK-2 (CK-2β) colocalize with α-syn in LB . Consequently, GRK-5 and CK-2β are good candidate genes for the analysis of PD susceptibility. A risk haplotype in the GRK-5 gene has been recently associated with PD susceptibility in the Japanese population , but this finding was not replicated in a Caucasian sample from Southern Italy . The largest GWAs in PD did not find significant results for GRK-5 and CK-2 β genes. However, it ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947480 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:23 +0100 4947480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947479&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000964%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We wish to congratulate Drs. Mehanna and Jankovic on an interesting and erudite review on respiratory dysfunction in movement disorders. We wish to add our own experience with shortness of breath in people with Parkinson’s disease, since it supplements the observations of the articles they cited. Shortness of breath in Parkinson’s disease has been ascribed to: obstructive upper airway disease restrictive problems , respiratory dyskinesias, autonomic dysfunction during “off” periods , anxiety and possibly carotid body dysfunction due to dopamine containing glomus cells . We have accrued 15 patients with idiopathic PD who were referred for pulmonary function studies after cardiac evaluation found no evidence of a cardiac related breathing problem. In no case were dyskinesias a signif... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947479 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:23 +0100 4947479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947478&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000708%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes To increase understanding of PARK14-linked parkinsonism and the roles of PLA2G6, we would like to report additional data related to our recent study “Phenotypic spectrum of patients with PLA2G6 mutation and PARK14-linked parkinsonism” . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947478 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:23 +0100 4947478 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947477&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000691%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Freezing of gait (FOG) is one of the most disabling symptoms of Parkinsonism and is observed in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Parkinson-plus syndromes, including primary progressive freezing gait (PPFG) and pure akinesia . Freezing interferes with daily activities, increases the risk of falling over, and contributes significantly to an impaired quality of life (QOL) . However, the mechanisms underlying FOG are not fully understood, and treatment is often ineffective . Off-related FOG is improved by dopaminergic drugs, and FOG that is observed at very high doses of dopaminergic drugs is improved by reducing the dose of levodopa. However, FOG that is unresponsive to dopaminergic treatment is refractory to most medications . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947477 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:23 +0100 4947477 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947476&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000563%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Freezing of gait (FOG) is defined as an episodic momentary inability to walk associated with parkinsonism or high-level gait disorders . It occurs during distraction, initiation, turns, spatial limitations, and stress . A patient can either have levodopa (l-dopa)-responsive FOG (OFF FOG), which appears when the l-dopa effect wears off or, especially in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD), a patient may have l-dopa-resistant FOG (ON FOG) despite benefit from l-dopa on other parkinsonian features. The pathophysiology is not understood. One study found that electrode implantation induced OFF FOG in some patients . In contrast, we report a unique case of STN electrode implantation acutely inducing ON FOG. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947476 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:22 +0100 4947476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947475&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000411%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes As a broad-spectrum herbicide employed to kill weeds, glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine) is typically either sprayed to be absorbed through the leaves, injected into the trunk, or applied to the stump of a tree, and is also used to control vegetation around transmission towers, pipelines, water drainage channels, public squares, and streets throughout the world . In China, glyphosate is popularly used as a hypotoxic weed-killer in rural areas. Every year, there are reports of acute intoxication of glyphosate due to attempted suicide or error in usage among adults and children . Symptoms in such cases are frequently reported as consisting of digestive tract dysfunction, circulatory and respiratory failure, and liver and kidney damage . Neurological involvement, in particular extrapyra... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947475 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:22 +0100 4947475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947473&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000897%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case of a young woman with a mild form of PED associated with self-limiting partial epilepsy. She carries a novel sporadic heterozygous mutation of the SLC2A1 gene. Diagnostic difficulties and possible treatment with carbamazepine are discussed. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947473 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:21 +0100 4947473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947472&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000034%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Deficiency in skilled motor activity is primarily attributed to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the pars compacta of substantia nigra (SNc), which can be detected by performance of the rotarod test. Previous reports have demonstrated impaired skilled motor behavior in rats during the pre-motor stage of Parkinson’s disease (PD) (3–8 weeks post 6-OHDA lesion of striatum). We studied skilled motor learning in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) SNc lesion rats at 12 and 20 weeks by rotarod task after providing sufficient training to give allowance for ageing (3 sessions/day for 14 consecutive days). On each day, the stay duration on rotarod was noted and compared between the groups (Group 1 = Control, Group 2 = Post lesion (PL) week 12, Group 3 = PL week 20). In Group 2 rats, t... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947472 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:21 +0100 4947472 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947471&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000320%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: UCHL1 plays an important role in the ubiquitin-proteasome system and is a biologically plausible candidate gene for Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, results from genetic association studies of the UCHL1 S18Y polymorphism have been equivocal. Meta-analyses indicate that the polymorphism’s risk effect might be restricted to Asian populations and early-onset disease. To further explore the role of UCHL1 in PD, we genotyped S18Y in 605 PD patients and 1620 controls of Japanese ancestry. We did not find evidence of an association in the overall sample (SY vs. SS: adjusted OR=1.11, P=0.37; YY vs. SS: adjusted OR=1.01, P=0.94). In the early-onset stratum, however, we observed a trend toward a reduction in risk for those with the Y allele (SY vs. SS, adjusted OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.47... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947471 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:20 +0100 4947471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947470&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000307%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: When reaching movements are performed in an unusual area of work, normal subjects produce a rightward directional error. This has been considered to be caused by an impaired representation of limb configuration, which hampers the actual movement vector. Motor programming has been found to be impaired in dystonia. To understand how patients affected by idiopathic cervical dystonia (CD) perform reaching movements in an unusual area of work, we investigated 10 CD patients and 10 age-matched controls. Reaching movements on a digitized tablet were recorded both with the right arm aligned to the midline (central position) and shifted to the right (lateral position), but hidden from view. While differences in the main kinematic parameters were not affected by the position both in patien... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947470 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:20 +0100 4947470 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947469&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000988%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Sex and age trends suggest increasing use of levodopa among patients with conditions other than Parkinson’s disease, such as restless legs syndrome. Increased non-Parkinson’s levodopa use decreases the efficiency of levodopa as a Parkinson’s disease case tracer. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947469 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:20 +0100 4947469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947468&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000927%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The data suggest a more significant predictive value of UPDRS motor score on disability in the course of disease progression than ß-CIT Scan. Low receptor binding may not be mistaken for a bad prognosis. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947468 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:19 +0100 4947468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947467&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000666%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Objective: Compare the frequency of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in Parkinson’s disease (PD), restless legs syndrome (RLS), essential tremor (ET), and control subjects.Methods: Subjects enrolled in a longitudinal clinicopathologic study, and when available an informant, completed the Mayo Sleep Questionnaire, which asks “Have you ever been told that you act out your dreams?”, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS).Results: Probable RBD (based on informant response to the questionnaire) was much more frequent in PD (34/49, 69%, P  (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947467 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:19 +0100 4947467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947466&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100068X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This small retrospective case series demonstrated that, in appropriately selected patients with suboptimal results of standard DBS therapy, the addition of rescue lead(s) may provide meaningful clinical benefit. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947466 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:19 +0100 4947466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947465&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000587%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Studies that have addressed the association between the intake of coffee or caffeine and Parkinson’s disease (PD) were conducted mainly in Western countries. Little is known about this relationship in an Asian population. Therefore, we performed an assessment of the association of the intake of coffee, other caffeine-containing beverages, and caffeine with the risk of PD in Japan. The study involved 249 PD cases and 368 control subjects. Information on dietary factors was obtained through a self-administered diet history questionnaire. Adjustment was made for sex, age, region of residence, educational level, pack-years of smoking, body mass index, the dietary glycemic index, and intake of cholesterol, vitamin E, β-carotene, vitamin B6, alcohol, and iron. Intake of coffee, blac... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947465 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:18 +0100 4947465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947464&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000617%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: There is a perceived need for PD specialists to be involved during hospitalization of their patients. Improvement in communication between hospitals and PD Centers is necessary so that hospital clinicians can take advantage of PD specialists’ expertise. Education of hospital staff and clinicians regarding management of PD, complications of PD, and medications to avoid in PD is critical. Most importantly, outpatient access to PD specialists needs to be improved, which may prevent unnecessary hospitalizations in these patients. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947464 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:17 +0100 4947464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947463&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000654%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study suggests that there may be a strong relationship between depressive states and dysphagia in patients with PD. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947463 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:17 +0100 4947463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947462&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000630%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: In addition to technical problems inherent in the evaluation, the lack of difference between Parkinson's disease and healthy control subjects suggests longitudinal studies, employing newer techniques, will be required to define the role of optical coherence tomography as a potential diagnostic biomarker. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947462 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:16 +0100 4947462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947460&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000642%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix–Saguenay (ARSACS) is a distinct form of hereditary early-onset spastic ataxia related to progressive degeneration of the cerebellum and spinal cord. Following the description of the first patients in 1978, the gene responsible has been mapped and identified. It was also shown that the disease occurred worldwide with more than 70 mutations and diverse phenotypes. Because of the random partition of these mutations in the SACS gene particularly on the largest exon nine, and due to the significant clinical variability between patients described in different countries, it has been difficult to establish a genotype–phenotype correlation for the disease.This paper reviews the broad clinical features and the various molecular aspects o... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947460 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:16 +0100 4947460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947459&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000551%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Recently, impulse control and related disorders including punding and the dopamine dysregulation syndrome (DDS) have been increasingly recognized in treated patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Especially the impulse control disorders (ICD) such as pathological gambling, hypersexuality, compulsive eating and buying may have dramatic repercussions on family, personal and professional life. Drug replacement therapy (DRT) is believed to play an important role in the onset of these behavioral disturbances. Although deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) might be a therapeutic option for those patients with DRT-related behavior, it may also induce ICD. So far, little is known about the relationship between STN DBS and impulse control and related disorders. ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947459 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:16 +0100 4947459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947455&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100160X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947455 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:52:15 +0100 4947455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197629&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001520%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, symptomatic OH is a common cause of disability in patients with PD, atypical parkinsonian disorders, and especially in patients with MSA. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197629 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197628&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001490%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the MDS-TF criteria are more sensitive than the DSM-IV for a diagnosis of PDD. Old age, absence of psychiatric symptoms, and severe motor impairment can hinder the diagnosis of PDD.Highlights: ► MDS Task Force criteria for Parkinson’s disease dementia (PD) have been proposed. ► In this study, DSM-IV and MDS Task Force criteria were compared in 299 PD patients. ► Agreement between MDS Task Force and DSM-IV criteria was substantial. ► DSM-IV criteria failed to identify 22% of patients who met MDS Task Force criteria. ► For PD dementia, MDS Task Force are more sensitive than DSM-IV criteria. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197628 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197628 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338253&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001507%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Holmes tremor, previously called midbrain tremor, rubral tremor, thalamic tremor or myorhythmia, is a disorder that presents as a combination of rest, postural and goal-directed tremor of low frequency (2–5 Hz) and large and irregular amplitude affecting predominantly upper extremity. Etiology of Holmes tremor includes different types of brain lesions: stroke, trauma, infection, tumor, multiple sclerosis. Recent neuroimaging and neurophysiologic studies have implicated the disruption of nigrostriatal and cerebello-thalamic pathways in the appearance of Holmes tremor . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338253 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197627&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001465%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established treatment for essential tremor (ET). The nucleus ventralis intermedius thalami (Vim) is the target of choice, but promising results have been presented regarding DBS in the posterior subthalamic area (PSA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible influence of gender, age and severity of disease on the outcome of these procedures.Sixty eight patients (34 Vim, 34 PSA) with ET were included in this non-randomised study. Evaluation using the Essential Tremor Rating Scale (ETRS) was performed before, and one year after surgery concerning PSA DBS, and at a mean of 28 ± 24 months concerning Vim DBS. Items 5/6 and 11–14 (hand tremor and hand function) were selected for analysis of tremor outcome.The efficacy of DBS on essenti... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197627 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197626&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001519%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Postural control deficits in PD fallers may impair their capacity to attenuate surface-related perturbations and control head motion. The risk of falling for PD patients may be increased on less stable surfaces. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197626 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5338252&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001489%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Extensive vascular subcortical white matter lesions with insidious onset and slow progression of bilateral symptoms can mimic idiopathic progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a condition named progressive vascular PSP . Among clinical signs distinguishing neurodegenerative from vascular PSP, the type of supranuclear impairment of lid motility may be of diagnostic value. Apraxia of eyelid opening is caused by basal ganglia and rostral brainstem lesions and it has often been reported in patients with idiopathic PSP. On the other hand, a deficit of voluntary eyelid closing, the so-called apraxia of eyelid closure, is related to lesions in the frontal cortical areas, often secondary to cerebrovascular damage . (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5338252 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5338252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197625&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001416%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Non-motor symptoms are common in patients with advanced PD. The number of non-motor symptoms was significantly decreased one year following bilateral STN DBS which was associated with a significant improvement in QoL. Further studies focused on specific non-motor symptoms are warranted in order to fully understand the impact and mechanisms of STN DBS on these symptoms. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197625 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197624&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001453%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is associated with pathological changes along the dentatorubrothalamic tract and in premotor cortex. We aimed to assess whether functional neural connectivity is disrupted along this pathway in PSP, and to determine how functional changes relate to changes in structure and diffusion. Eighteen probable PSP subjects and 18 controls had resting-state (task-free) fMRI, diffusion tensor imaging and structural MRI. Functional connectivity was assessed between thalamus and the rest of the brain, and within the basal ganglia, salience and default mode networks (DMN). Patterns of atrophy were assessed using voxel-based morphometry, and patterns of white matter tract degeneration were assessed using tract-based spatial statistics. Reduced in-phase funct... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197624 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197623&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001441%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In contrast to our vast knowledge of the dopamine (DA) system, much less is known about the involvement of serotonin (5-HT) in neurodegenerative diseases affecting the basal ganglia. Therefore, we designed a study that aimed at characterizing the status of the striatal DA and 5-HT systems in patients who suffered from either Parkinson’s (PD) or Huntington’s disease (HD), compared to age-matched controls. Antibodies against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and 5-HT transporter (SERT) were used as markers of DA and 5-HT axonal profiles, respectively. The density and pattern of TH+ and SERT + innervation were determined by optical density measurements as well as by direct stereological estimates of labeled axon varicosities. The results reveal a significant decrease in TH immunoreact... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197623 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197639&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001477%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The prevalence of the most common cardiovascular risk factors (type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, arterial hypertension) has proved to be low in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) . The factors underlying the low cardiovascular risk in PD have not been elucidated. It has been suggested that sympathetic modulation by levodopa may play a role . A recent study points out the role of Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPC) in protecting subjects against atherogenesis. These cells are synthesized by the bone marrow and are found in the bloodstream; they are able to proliferate and differentiate into endothelial cells, thus promoting vascular regeneration. In humans a reduction in circulating EPCs increases cardiovascular risk . To our knowledge, circulating EPCs have not been measured in PD patien... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197639 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197638&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001325%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dystonia may be classified as focal, segmental or generalized; or according to the etiology either primary or secondary. The latter classification is used to identify the response to different treatments. According to the literature, primary dystonia is moderately responsive to deep brain stimulation, while the results in secondary are disappointing. Secondary dystonia commonly presents as hemidystonia; and is often refractory to medical and surgical treatments . Herein, the authors describe successful and sustained long-term results in a patient with disabling hemidystonia after a unilateral stereotactic lesion in the zona incerta (ZI); revisiting an old target for a hard-to-treat disorder. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197638 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197637&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001398%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a well established therapy leading to improvement of motor symptoms and quality of life for a variety of movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), dystonia and tremor syndromes. Moreover, DBS has been used as new therapy in patients with psychiatric diseases with promising results . Despite these proven clinical effects of DBS for various diseases, the exact mechanisms of action are still not completely understood. Wide-spread changes in neuronal activity within the cortex - basal ganglia network may be induced by chronic stimulation. For example, in patients with dystonia long-term plastic cortical changes may contribute to the beneficial motor effects that occur only days or weeks after continuous DBS. Here, transcranial magnetic stimulation ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197637 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022620&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001428%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined 13 subjects, recently diagnosed with PD, who were not yet taking any anti-parkinsonian medications and 12 healthy, age-matched control subjects. Postural sway was measured with a linear accelerometer on the posterior trunk (L5 level) and compared with traditional force plate measures of sway. Subjects stood for 2 min under two conditions: eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC).One of the most discriminative measures of postural changes in subjects with untreated PD was the increased ‘JERK’ of lower trunk in the EO condition, measured with the accelerometer. Root mean square and the frequency dispersion of postural sway in the EO condition also discriminated sway in untreated PD subjects compared to control subjects.We conclude that accelerometer-based sway metrics could be us... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022620 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5022620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022619&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001295%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Wilson disease patients present with any of several neurologic phenotypes, and their treated outcomes vary widely. Our goal was to determine whether presenting clinical features of neurologic Wilson disease (WD) predict longer term neurologic outcomes in patients receiving anticopper treatment.Methods: Patients enrolled in four WD treatment trials received a standardized neurologic examination at trial enrollment and then at pre-specified intervals following anticopper therapy, initially with tetrathiomolybdate or trientine and then with zinc. The examination scored patients’ motor signs, including tremor, rigidity, dystonia, dyarthria, and gait. The Total Score was obtained by summing these subscores.Eighty-six patients were included in our analysis, with a mean fo... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022619 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5022619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022614&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001088%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Healthy LRRK2 mutation carriers presented subclinical parkinsonian motor and non-motor signs in the apparent absence of olfactory loss. Longitudinal studies will determine whether these changes precede alterations detectable by neuroimaging. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022614 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5022614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022610&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802010002877%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive and selective degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. The discovery of at least six PD-causing genes in predominantly early-onset forms of the disorder has cemented a genetic component to the etiology. Notably, the discovery of mutations in the LRRK2 gene in patients presenting with typical ‘sporadic’ PD with ages at onset in their sixties and seventies has shifted paradigms in the field of PD research. The G2019S mutation in LRRK2 has been found in diverse populations worldwide and usually resides on a common haplotype revealing that many of these individuals share a common ancestor, probably of Middle Eastern origin. The only validated coding susceptibility alleles... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022610 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5022610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022621&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000538%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Epidemiological studies with larger samples are needed to better establish the relationship and the incidence of restless legs syndrome in post-polio syndrome. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022621 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5022621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4947458&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001404%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: There is no evidence in our study or in the literature to date indicating that PC loss is the pathological basis of ET. Further studies are needed to determine the pathophysiology of ET. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4947458 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4947458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5022611&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802010003482%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Tremor is a frequent disabling consequence of many neurological conditions. We performed a search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library to identify all primary research studies published up to November 2010 which investigated non-pharmacological and non-surgical treatments for tremor in humans.Neuromuscular physiotherapy, strength training and functional electrical stimulation show promise in their applicability and adaptability. Limb cooling may not be feasible for continuous management, but may be appropriate for specific tasks. Tremor-suppressing orthoses based on viscous materials, weighted splints and vibration therapies need further evaluation especially in the domiciliary setting and applied to improving personal activities of daily living.The evidence base f... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5022611 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5022611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197631&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011001301%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Mutations in the LRRK2 gene are the most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s disease, with frequencies displaying a high degree of population-specificity. Although more than 100 coding substitutions have been identified, only seven have been proven to be highly penetrant pathogenic mutations. Studies however are lacking in non-white populations. Recently, Lrrk2 p.Q1111H (rs78365431) was identified in two affected Hispanic brothers and absent in 386 non-Hispanic white healthy controls. We therefore screened this variant in 1460 individuals (1150 PD patients and 310 healthy controls) from 4 Latin American countries (Peru, Chile, Uruguay and Argentina).In our case-control series from Peru and Chile we observed an increased frequency of Lrrk2 p.Q1111H in patients (7.9%) compared to... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197631 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5197631 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905906&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000484%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Nearly all patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experience gait problems, often already in early disease stages, with clear worsening as the disease progresses. It would be helpful to have a simple and objective tool to quantify gait, both in the laboratory setting and in the patient’s own home environment. This could facilitate clinical decision making, or can be used as outcome measure in clinical trials. It is currently possible to provide very detailed assessments in the gait laboratory, for example using motion analysis systems. While accurate, such evaluations are also expensive, and not necessarily reflective of real-life performance. Moreover, the gait laboratory only documents walking impairments, but does not investigate the subject’s actual walking behavior. (Source: Pa... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905906 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905905&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100040X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Previous studies indicate that urate may be neuroprotective in many neurodegenerative disorders, probably via its antioxidant effect. It has been shown that serum urate levels in healthy individuals are inversely correlated with the occurrence of Parkinson disease (PD), especially in men. Higher serum urate levels have been found to predict slower progression of PD in men but not in women . Furthermore, higher serum urate levels have been associated with a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and a slower disease progression in patients with Huntington’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905905 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905904&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000290%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Mutations in the Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 gene (LRRK2), within the PARK8 locus, are the most common known genetic causes of Parkinson’s disease (PD). LRRK2 spans 51 exons and encodes the 2527 amino acid protein leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (lrrk2), the function of which is still poorly understood. Several pathogenic mutations and likely disease causing variants have been described throughout the gene, with the c.6055G>A (p.Gly2019Ser) mutation in exon 41 as the most prevalent in both familial PD and sporadic cases, with geographic and ethnic differences. Thus, the p.Gly2019Ser mutation is the most common cause of hereditary PD among Ashkenazi Jews and North African Arabs, but less frequent in screened populations of northern Europe and Asia . The frequency of the mutation in Denmark ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905904 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905903&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000393%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study was to determine sensitivity and specificity of MIBG myocardial scintigraphy in the diagnosis of Lewy body diseases in a movement disorder clinic. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905903 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905902&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000198%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The accuracy of leads implantation in deep brain stimulation (DBS) is governed by several factors including imaging distortion, error registration and mechanical inaccuracy of the frame. An additional factor is ‘brain shift’ which may be the consequence of intracranial air invasion and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) outflow. Recently, several studies have studied the impact of brain shift during stereotactic procedure . The authors reported a case of a patient who had bilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN) implantation for Parkinson’s disease (PD) with the unsuccessful placement of the second definitive electrode due to an air invasion. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905902 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905901&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000071%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report autopsy findings of a patient who presented with parkinsonism and was subsequently shown to have CADASIL. Brain histology is consistent with both multiple system atrophy (MSA) and CADASIL highlighting the danger of assuming that an unusual presentation of a syndrome necessarily represents phenotypic variation. In addition, we report a novel Notch homolog 3 (NOTCH3) mutation. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905901 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905900&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000332%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Patients with Huntington’s disease (HD) have been shown to exhibit impairment in the recognition of facial expressions such as disgust, as well as deficits in disgust responses to olfactory and gustatory stimuli. The present study investigated whether HD is associated with changes in emotional responses to a variety of visual and verbal stimuli selected to elicit core disgust, moral disgust, fear and happiness. Thirteen patients with HD and twelve controls provided emotional ratings after both reading emotion eliciting scenarios and viewing pictures from the International Affective Picture System database. Patients with HD exhibited executive dysfunction. In comparison to controls, they gave similar ratings for happy stimuli and did not differ significantly in response to core ... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905900 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905899&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000502%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Laughing belongs to the spectrum of behavioral manifestations of RBD. Many of our patients with RBD-associated laughter were depressed, suggesting a dissociation between emotional expression during daytime and REM sleep. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905899 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905898&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000629%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a series of 3 PD patients with ICDs who were effectively treated with valproate. Based on these encouraging preliminary observations, future controlled clinical trials investigating the efficacy of valproate for ICDs in PD are recommended. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905898 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905897&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000678%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A role for the immune system in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) has previously been suggested. A recent genome-wide association (GWA) study identified an association between one single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) region (HLA-DRA rs3129882) and PD in a population of American patients with European ancestry. In that study, the minor rs3129882 allele (G) was associated with an increased risk of PD under an additive model. Due to the increased likelihood of obtaining false positive results in GWA studies compared to studies conducted based on a hypothesis-driven approach, repeated validation of findings from GWA studies are necessary. Herein, we evaluated the association between rs3129882 and PD in three different Caucasian patien... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905897 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905896&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000605%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study included 40 patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (age 56±9 years, Hoehn and Yahr stage 1.4±0.7, mean±standard deviation). All patients underwent a baseline visit and a follow-up visit 3–8 years (5.3±1.6 years) after the baseline visit. 123I-MIBG scintigraphy was performed only once at the baseline visit. At both visits the motor symptoms bradykinesia, rigidity, resting tremor, postural tremor and axial symptoms were quantified by means of the motor part of the Unified Parkinson’s disease rating scale.Results: The myocardial MIBG uptake correlated significantly with the annual progress of rigidity (r=−0.41, p (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905896 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905895&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000599%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: We present 5 patients with histopathological findings suggestive of PSP, without clinical PSP, dementia or parkinsonism during life. These incidental neuropathological PSP findings may represent the early or pre-symptomatic stage of PSP. The mean Gallyas-positive PSP features grading was significantly lower in possible incidental PSP than in clinical PSP, thus suggesting that a threshold of pathological burden needs to be reached within the typically affected areas in PSP before clinical signs and symptoms appear. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905895 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905894&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS135380201100054X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: We identified various unmet needs among PD patients and informal caregivers. These joint experiences represent a disease-specific model of patient-centeredness for PD, which can assist healthcare professionals in implementing patient-centered care tailored to the preferences of each individual patient. The present findings will be used to construct a patient-centeredness questionnaire for PD that will clarify the quality of care from a patient’s perspective. (Source: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders) Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905894 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4905893&cid=s_36860_25_f&fid=36860&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prd-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1353802011000496%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study was to delineate the clinical features of patients with pure akinesia and a low heart versus mediastinum ratio below 2.0 in the delayed images of myocardial metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy, a marker for the clinical diagnosis of Lewy body diseases. A total of 13 patients was enrolled. The clinical features of the patients were uniformly elderly (mean age, 73.7 years), a male gender preponderance (10 men and 3 women), relatively mild motor disability (mean Hoehn Yahr grade 2.4) without laterality, festinating gait (77%) and loss of postural reflex (69%), which were the most common; also observed were fair levodopa responses (70%), cognitive dysfunction in some (23%), common autonomic dysfunction (urinary urgency and frequency, 85%; constipation, 77%; and pos... Parkinsonism and Related Disorders journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4905893 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4905893