Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Aug 2014
Multicenter Study Observational StudyApolipoproteins are associated with new MRI lesions and deep grey matter atrophy in clinically isolated syndromes.
There is increasing evidence that serum lipoprotein cholesterol biomarkers are associated with disease progression in clinically isolated syndromes (CIS). Apolipoproteins (Apo) are recognition ligands that mediate the physiological interactions of cholesterol-containing lipoproteins. The objective of this study was to investigate whether serum Apo levels are associated with CIS disease progression. ⋯ Serum ApoB levels are associated with new lesion accumulation whereas ApoE levels are associated with deep grey matter atrophy in high risk CIS patients treated with interferon β-1a.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Aug 2014
Multicenter StudyAlleviating manoeuvres (sensory tricks) in cervical dystonia.
There is limited information on the phenomenology, clinical characteristics and pathophysiology of alleviating manoeuvres (AM), also called 'sensory tricks' in cervical dystonia (CD). ⋯ In this large and comprehensive study of CD, we found no clinical predictors of effective AM. Further studies of sensorimotor integration in dystonia are needed to better understand the pathophysiology of AM.
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In this manuscript we summarize the role of chronic stress as a potential trigger factor for Parkinson's disease. Underlying mechanisms and stress-induced changes to the neuronal networks have been highlighted. Examples of stress induced reversible symptoms that resemble parkinsonism in humans and in animal models raise the question whether emotional stress can cause striatal degeneration in susceptible patients. ⋯ Articles were also identified through searches of the authors' own files. Only papers published in English were reviewed. The final reference list was generated on the basis of originality and relevance to the broad scope of this viewpoint.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Aug 2014
Randomized Controlled TrialPlacebo-controlled trial of oral laquinimod in multiple sclerosis: MRI evidence of an effect on brain tissue damage.
In Assessment of OraL Laquinimod in PrEventing ProGRession in Multiple SclerOsis (ALLEGRO), a phase III study in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), oral laquinimod slowed disability and brain atrophy progression, suggesting laquinimod may reduce tissue damage in MS. MRI techniques sensitive to the most destructive aspects of the disease were used to further investigate laquinimod's potential effects on inflammation and neurodegeneration. ⋯ Oral laquinimod may reduce (at least in the initial phase of treatment) some of the more destructive pathological processes in RRMS patients.
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J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. · Aug 2014
Comparative StudySpecialist inpatient treatment for severe motor conversion disorder: a retrospective comparative study.
Gold standard protocols have yet to be established for the treatment of motor conversion disorder (MCD). There is limited evidence to support inpatient, multidisciplinary intervention in chronic, severe cases. ⋯ Patients with severe, long-standing MCD can achieve significant improvements in functioning after admission to a neuropsychiatry unit.