Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Sep 2013
Lifetime physical activity and the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
It has been hypothesised that physical activity is a risk factor for developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), fuelled by observations that professional soccer players and Gulf War veterans are at increased risk. In a population based study, we determined the relation between physical activity and risk of sporadic ALS, using an objective approach for assessing physical activity. ⋯ An increased risk of ALS with higher levels of leisure time physical activity was found in the present study. The lack of association with occupational physical activity and the absence of a dose-response relationship strengthen the hypothesis that not increased physical activity per se but rather a genetic profile or lifestyle promoting physical fitness increases ALS susceptibility.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Sep 2013
TDP-43 frontotemporal lobar degeneration and autoimmune disease.
The aetiology and pathogenesis of non-genetic forms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is unknown and even with the genetic forms of FTD, pathogenesis remains elusive. Given the association between systemic inflammation and other neurodegenerative processes, links between autoimmunity and FTD need to be explored. ⋯ svPPA and PGRN are associated with increased prevalence of specific and related autoimmune diseases compared with NC and AD. These findings suggest a unique pattern of systemic inflammation in svPPA and PGRN and open new research avenues for understanding and treating disorders associated with underlying transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 aggregation.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Sep 2013
Decompressive craniectomy in cerebral venous thrombosis: a single centre experience.
Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an important cause for stroke in the young where the role for decompressive craniectomy is not well established. ⋯ This is the largest series on decompressive craniectomy for CVT in literature to date. Decompressive craniotomy should be considered as a treatment option in large venous infarcts. Very good outcomes can be expected especially if done early and in those below 40 years.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Sep 2013
Transcranial magnetic stimulation as an efficient treatment for psychogenic movement disorders.
Management of psychogenic movement disorders (PMDs) is challenging for neurologists and, to date, there is no consensus about their treatment. Recent studies suggested a possible therapeutic effect of repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in psychogenic paralysis and tremor. ⋯ TMS is a therapeutic option for PMDs, including chronic PMDs.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Sep 2013
Rapidly progressive scoliosis and respiratory deterioration in Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy.
To characterise the natural history of Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD). ⋯ The natural history of scoliosis, respiratory function and walking ability in UCMD patients were characterised. Although the age of onset varied, scoliosis, as well as restrictive respiratory dysfunction, progressed rapidly within years, once they appeared.