www.northeastcenter.com Northeast Center for Special Care Traumatic Brain Injury Journal Watch

Brain Injury Podcasts

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:45:00 -0400

Listen to an archive of audio programs about brain injury, rehabilitation, disabilities, and other related subjects.

Download to your iPod or MP3 player or listen on your computer.

New programs posted regularly.

Evolution of changes in the computed tomography scans of the brain of a patient with left middle cerebral artery infarction: a case report

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:43:18 -0400

Journal of Medical Case Reports 2008, 2:148

Stroke is a common and important condition in medicine. Effective early management of acute stroke can reduce morbidity and mortality.

Traumatic dissecting aneurysm at the vertebrobasilar junction in a 3-month-old infant: evaluation and treatment strategies

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:42:19 -0400

Journal of Neurosurgery Pediatrics May 2008 Volume 1, Number 5

Intracranial aneurysms in young infants are extremely rare, with few published reports on the etiology, evaluation, treatment strategies, and follow-up of this condition in this population. The authors report the case of a traumatic dissecting aneurysm at the vertebrobasilar junction (VBJ) in a 3-month-old infant caused by nonaccidental trauma.

Intraorbital and intracranial soft-tissue glomus tumor in an 8-year-old child

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:40:08 -0400

Journal of Neurosurgery Pediatrics May 2008 Volume 1, Number 5

Soft-tissue glomus tumors (or glomangiomas) are unrelated to neuroendocrine paragangliomas (glomus tympanicum, jugulare, and vagale). The authors present the first reported case of an orbital soft-tissue glomus tumor in a child.

Chromosome 6p22 Locus Associated with Clinically Aggressive Neuroblastoma

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:38:58 -0400

NEJM 10.1056/NEJMoa0708698

Neuroblastoma is a malignant condition of the developing sympathetic nervous system that most commonly affects young children and is often lethal. Its cause is not known.

Improved outcomes from the administration of progesterone for patients with acute severe traumatic brain injury: a randomized controlled trial

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:16:03 -0400

Critical Care 2008, 12:R61

Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been increasing with greater incidence of injuries from traffic or sporting accidents. Although there are a number of animal models of TBI using progesterone for head injury, the effects of progesterone on neurologic outcome of acute TBI patients remain unclear. The aim of the present clinical study was to assess the longer-term efficacy of progesterone on the improvement in neurologic outcome of patients with acute severe TBI.

Ten-year outcomes following traumatic brain injury: A population-based cohort

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:15:05 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 437 - 449

To quantify the 10 year health service use (HSU) and mortality outcomes for people with a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Effects of rehabilitation on quality of life in patients with chronic stroke

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:11:37 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 451 - 456

To evaluate the effects of rehabilitation on disability and quality of life (QoL) in patients with chronic stroke.

Challenging behaviour profiles of people with acquired brain injury living in community settings

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:10:24 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 457 - 470

To determine the type and severity of challenging behaviours among a cohort of brain-injured persons referred to a community-based behaviour management service; and to determine whether different behaviour profiles were associated with aetiology of brain injury.

The serotonin transporter polymorphisms and major depression following traumatic brain injury

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:09:18 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 471 - 479

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of the serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms on the risk of major depression following traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Neuroanatomical correlates of malingered memory impairment: Event-related fMRI of deception on a recognition memory task

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:08:09 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 481 - 489

Event-related, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were acquired in healthy participants during purposefully malingered and normal recognition memory performances to evaluate the neural substrates of feigned memory impairment.

Predictors of performance on three developmentally sensitive neuropsychological tests in children with and without traumatic brain injury

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:07:04 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 491 - 500

To determine the effect of age and vocabulary as predictors of performance on neuropsychological tests in children with and without traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Evaluating an in-school injury prevention programme's effect on children's helmet wearing habits

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:04:23 -0400

Brain Injury, Volume 22, Issue 6 June 2008 , pages 501 - 507

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Bikes, Blades and Boards (BB&B) programme. It was hypothesized that children who participated in the BB&B programme would demonstrate greater knowledge of how to wear their helmets safely than a control group who did not participate in the programme and retain their skills when assessed 1 year later.

Health-related quality of life after stroke: what are we measuring?

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:03:40 -0400

International Journal of Rehabilitation Research. 31(2):111-117, June 2008

As there is no single, accepted definition of health-related quality of life (HRQOL), it is assumed to be a broad, multidimensional construct referring to those aspects of people's lives that reasonably relate to their health.

Effects of ideomotor apraxia on functional outcomes in patients with right hemiplegia

Sat, 10 May 2008 12:03:04 -0400

International Journal of Rehabilitation Research. 31(2):177-180, June 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ideomotor apraxia on activities of daily living and to determine if the presence of apraxia interferes with rehabilitation.

Association between stroke lesions and sexual dysfunction in men

Thu, 8 May 2008 15:07:59 -0400

Nature Clinical Practice Urology (2008) 5, 234

Sexual dysfunction is a well-recognized problem in men with a history of stroke. Previous studies have assessed the association between sexual and erectile dysfunction in patients with cerebrovascular disease, but controversy persists over whether this link is organic or psychological.

Episomal amplification of MYCN in a case of medulloblastoma

Thu, 8 May 2008 15:00:50 -0400

Virchows Archiv, Volume 452, Number 5, May 2008 , pp. 491-497(7)

Gene amplification, in the form of double minutes (dmin) and/or homogeneously staining regions (hsr), is frequently associated with tumor development.

Surgery and radiotherapy: complementary tools in the management of benign intracranial tumors

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:59:49 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

Historically, radiation therapy has been used extensively in the treatment of malignant and aggressive intracranial tumors, and the importance of its role has been repeatedly verified by prolonged patient survival rates and increased tumor control.

Radiosurgery for hypothalamic hamartomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:58:48 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

Radiosurgery plays an important role in the treatment of refractory seizures induced by hypothalamic hamartomas (HHs). These lesions, deeply located and surrounded by a delicate vascular and neuronal network, are often associated with catastrophic epilepsy leading to progressive cognitive and behavioral deterioration.

Radiation therapy and CyberKnife radiosurgery in the management of craniopharyngiomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:55:16 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

Many benign intracranial tumors are amenable to radiotherapy treatment including meningiomas, schwannomas, pituitary tumors, and craniopharyngiomas. The authors present their experience in the treatment of craniopharyngiomas in 16 patients using frameless CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).

Hitting a moving target: evolution of a treatment paradigm for atypical meningiomas amid changing diagnostic criteria

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:54:17 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

The World Health Organization (WHO) reclassified atypical meningiomas in 2000, creating a more clear and broadly accepted definition. In this paper, the authors evaluated the pathological and clinical transition period for atypical meningiomas according to the implementation of the new WHO grading system at their institution.

Evaluation of the role of Gamma Knife surgery in the treatment of craniopharyngiomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:53:13 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

The management of craniopharyngioma involves balancing adequate reduction in tumor volume and prevention of recurrence while minimizing damage to delicate surrounding structures. Because of the lesion's proximity to the optic chiasm and its relationship to the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, morbidity rates following treatment can be high.

Overexpression of Human S100B Exacerbates Brain Damage and Periinfarct Gliosis After Permanent Focal Ischemia

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:52:05 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.503821

We have previously demonstrated that augmented and prolonged activation of astrocytes detrimentally influences both the subacute and chronic phases of cerebral ischemia. Furthermore, we have suggested that the astrocyte-derived protein S100B may be important in these pathogenic events. However, the causal relationship between S100B and exacerbation of brain damage in vivo remains to be elucidated.

Double-Blind Randomized Treatment of Poststroke Depression Using Nefiracetam

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:50:22 -0400

J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 20:178-184, May 2008

In preliminary trials, nefiracetam, a gamma aminobutyric compound, enhanced blood flow and improved mood following stroke. Within 3 months following stroke with major depression, 159 patients were enrolled in a double-blind trial of nefiracetam or placebo.

Podcast - Impairments of Consciousness Part One - Introduction to the States of Consciousness Including the Vegetative State

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:49:14 -0400

Host: Gerry Brooks, MA, CCC, CBIST, Director of Brain Injury Programs, Northeast Center for Special Care

Guest: Nathan Zasler, MD, FAAPM&R, FAADEP, DAAPM, CIME, Medical Director, The Tree of Life Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center in Glen Allen, VA., Editor of the journal: "Brain Injury," and chairperson of the International Brain Injury Association.

Time: 32:25

Synopsis: Impairments of Consciousness and States of Consciousness Including the Vegetative State, is one that has been in the news over the past few years and one that has generated discussion not only with the public but also clinicians and professionals who specialize in treating brain injury. The question of individuals in a vegetative state was brought to the forefront with Terri Schaivo in 2005 and again recently with reports of enhanced arousal in some individuals in persistent vegetative states who had been given ambien.

Dr. Nathan Zasler discusses states of consciousness, coma, coma rating scales and gives an informative introduction to this topic.

Not All Stroke Units Are the Same. A Comparison of Physical Activity Patterns in Melbourne, Australia, and Trondheim, Norway

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:49:14 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.507160

Very early mobilization may be one of the most important factors contributing to the favorable outcome observed from a stroke unit in Trondheim, Norway. The aims of this study were to (1) describe and compare the pattern of physical activity of patients with stroke managed in a stroke unit with specified mobilization protocols (Trondheim) and those without in Melbourne, Australia; and (2) identify differences in activity according to stroke severity between the 2 sites.

Mapping Cerebrovascular Reactivity Using Blood Oxygen Level-Dependent MRI in Patients With Arterial Steno-occlusive Disease. Comparison With Arterial Spin Labeling MRI

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:48:24 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.506709

Blood oxygen level-dependent MRI (BOLD MRI) of hypercapnia-induced changes in cerebral blood flow is an emerging technique for mapping cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR). BOLD MRI signal reflects cerebral blood flow, but also depends on cerebral blood volume, cerebral metabolic rate, arterial oxygenation, and hematocrit.

Pten Haploinsufficiency Accelerates Formation of High-Grade Astrocytomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:47:15 -0400

Cancer Research 68, 3286-3294, May 1, 2008

We previously reported that central nervous system (CNS) inactivation of Nf1 and p53 tumor suppressor genes in mice results in the development of low-grade to high-grade progressive astrocytomas. When the tumors achieve high grade, they are frequently accompanied by Akt activation, reminiscent of the frequent association of PTEN mutations in human high-grade glioma.

Correlation of Carotid Atheromatous Plaque Inflammation Using USPIO-Enhanced MR Imaging With Degree of Luminal Stenosis

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:45:58 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.504753

Inflammation is a recognized risk factor for the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque. The study explores the relationship between the degree of Magnetic Resonance (MR)–defined inflammation using Ultra Small Super-Paramagnetic Iron Oxide (USPIO) particles and the severity of luminal stenosis in asymptomatic carotid plaques.

Selective Reduction of Blood Flow to White Matter During Hypercapnia Corresponds With Leukoaraiosis

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:44:53 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.501692

Age-related white matter disease (leukoaraiosis) clusters in bands in the centrum semiovale, about the occipital and frontal horns of the lateral ventricles, in the corpus callosum, and internal capsule.

Right-to-Left Shunt in CADASIL Patients. Prevalence and Correlation With Clinical and MRI Findings

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:44:01 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.506311

A high prevalence of right-to-left shunt (RLS) was described in a family of patients with CADASIL, a rare cerebral arteriopathy attributable to Notch3 gene mutations. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of RLS in patients with CADASIL and possible relation to clinical phenotype and cerebral MRI lesion load.

Reperfusion Half-Life. A Novel Pharmacodynamic Measure of Thrombolytic Activity

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:43:11 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.510818

We hypothesized that the probability of reperfusion can be modeled by an exponential decay (ie, half-life) function and that this reperfusion half-life is decreased by thrombolytic treatment.

Reduction in the Recurrence of Stroke by Eicosapentaenoic Acid for Hypercholesterolemic Patients. Subanalysis of the JELIS Trial

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:42:17 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.509455

The JELIS trial examined the preventive effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) against coronary artery diseases. Hypercholesterolemic patients received statin only (no EPA group: n=9319) or statin with EPA (EPA group: n=9326) for around 5 years. EPA significantly suppressed the incidence of coronary events in previous analysis. Herein, we investigated the effects of EPA on the primary and secondary prevention of stroke.

Pulse Pressure and Mean Arterial Pressure in Relation to Ischemic Stroke Among Patients With Uncontrolled Hypertension in Rural Areas of China

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:41:24 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.510677

Information has been sparse on the comparison of pulse pressure (PP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in relation to ischemic stroke among patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The present study examined the relation among PP, MAP, and ischemic stroke in uncontrolled hypertensive subjects in China.

Nascent Aneurysm Formation at the Basilar Terminus Induced by Hemodynamics

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:40:34 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.509422

Hemodynamic insults at arterial bifurcations are hypothesized to play a key role in intracranial aneurysm formation. This study investigates aneurysm-initiating vascular responses at the rabbit basilar terminus subsequent to common carotid artery ligation.

Impact of Comorbidities on Ischemic Stroke Outcomes in Women

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:39:38 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.509281

We assessed the association of prestroke comorbidities with long-term stroke outcomes among women with ischemic stroke.

Hyperdense Internal Carotid Artery Sign. A CT Sign of Acute Ischemia

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:38:43 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.505230

The hyperdense middle cerebral artery sign (HMCAS) is a well-established marker of early ischemia on noncontrast computed tomography of the brain (NCCT). Recently the MCA dot sign has been described and proposed to indicate thrombosis of the M2 or M3 middle cerebral artery branches.

Endothelial Progenitor Cell Research in Stroke. A Potential Shift in Pathophysiological and Therapeutical Concepts

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:37:45 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.507251

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the Western world; however, few therapies are at hand to decrease this burden.

Depression as a Risk Factor for the Incidence of First-Ever Stroke in 85-Year-Olds

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:36:47 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.490797

Depression may increase the risk for stroke. Few studies have examined whether depression increases the risk for stroke in the very old and among the demented. We examined the relation between depression in 85-year-olds and the 3-year incidence of first-ever stroke.

Radiation-induced meningioma

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:35:47 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

The long-term or delayed side effects of irradiation on neural tissue are now known to include the induction of new central nervous system neoplasms. However, during the first half of the 20th century, human neural tissue was generally considered relatively resistant to the carcinogenic and other ill effects of ionizing radiation.

The principles of skull base radiosurgery

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:34:28 -0400

Neurosurgical Focus May 2008 Volume 24, Number 5

Stereotactic radiosurgery is commonly used for selected patients with benign cranial base tumors. The goal of radiosurgery is cessation of tumor growth and preservation of neurological function. Over the last 2 decades, the technique of radiosurgery has evolved due to improved imaging, better radiosurgical devices and software, and the continued analysis of results.

Website of the Month - 'Its Not Who I Am'

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:33:21 -0400

Its Not Who I Am - a website created co-created by a 13-year old epilepsy survivor who is an advocate for public education of this condition and removing the sigma for other survivors.

Its Not Who I Am is a website that tells Sara-Elizabeth’s story. It is also an interactive site where other young people with epilepsy (as well as their siblings, family members, parents, and friends) can visit and learn about how to move beyond being "someone with epilepsy."

Autonomic Neural Control of the Cerebral Vasculature. Acute Hypotension

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:33:21 -0400

Stroke doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.510008

The effect of antihypertensive drugs on autonomic neural control of the cerebral circulation remains unclear. This study was designed to compare middle cerebral artery mean blood velocity responses to acute hypotension with and without {alpha}1-adrenoreceptor blockade (Prazosin) in young, healthy humans.

Toxicity from chemoradiotherapy in older patients with glioblastoma multiforme

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:31:21 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9593-6

Elderly patients have glioblastomas (GBM) that are aggressive and poorly responsive to treatment. They are also prone to the side effects of treatment of GBM. Methods To shed light on the treatment of elderly patients with GBM, we reviewed the treatment toxicities and survival of patients 65 years of age or older who were treated with chemoradiotherapy, which is the new standard of care for GBM in younger patients.

Selective cancer-germline gene expression in pediatric brain tumors

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:29:45 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9577-6

Cancer-germline genes (CGGs) code for immunogenic antigens that are present in various human tumors and can be targeted by immunotherapy. Their expression has been studied in a wide range of human tumors in adults.

Multifocal glioblastoma multiforme with synchronous spontaneous hemorrhage: case report

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:27:58 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9582-9

We report a 65 year old man who presented with left hemiparesis, and was found to have multiple, discrete, peripherally enhancing, hemorrhagic intra-axial masses in the right hemisphere of the brain.

Gene expression profile analysis of primary glioblastomas and non-neoplastic brain tissue: identification of potential target genes by oligonucleotide microarray and real-time quantitative PCR

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:26:52 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9579-4

The prognosis of glioblastomas is still extremely poor and the discovery of novel molecular therapeutic targets can be important to optimize treatment strategies. Gene expression analyses comparing normal and neoplastic tissues have been used to identify genes associated with tumorigenesis and potential therapeutic targets.

Expression of cell adhesion proteins and proteins related to angiogenesis and fatty acid metabolism in benign, atypical, and anaplastic meningiomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:24:40 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9588-3

Most meningiomas are benign tumours of arachnoidal origin, although a small number have high proliferative rates and invasive properties which complicate complete surgical resection and are associated with increased recurrence rates.

Cryptococcal meningitis in patients with glioma: a report of two cases

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:23:22 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9581-x

We describe two patients with high-grade glioma undergoing treatment with corticosteroids and chemotherapy who presented with cryptococcal meningitis and sepsis.

Cerebellar anaplastic astrocytoma in a teenager with Ollier Disease

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:22:12 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9583-8

Ollier Disease is a sporadic skeletal disorder with a predisposition to oncogenesis. It is estimated at around 1/100,000.

Brain metastases in breast cancer: clinical and pathologic characteristics associated with improvements in survival

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:20:45 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9578-5

As breast cancer patients live longer with control of systemic disease, survival after the diagnosis of brain metastases (BM) also appears to be improving.

Blockage of the STAT3 signaling pathway with a decoy oligonucleotide suppresses growth of human malignant glioma cells

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:19:31 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9590-9

Gliomas are the most common type of primary tumor in the human central nervous system. STAT3, a signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, is over expressed in gliomas. Its involvement in tumorgenesis can be attributed to its ability to induce cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis.

BEHAB/brevican requires ADAMTS-mediated proteolytic cleavage to promote glioma invasion

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:18:16 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9575-8

Malignant gliomas are the most common and deadly primary brain tumors, due to their infiltrative invasion of the normal neural tissue that makes them virtually impossible to completely eliminate.

An acidic environment changes cyclin D1 localization and alters colony forming ability in gliomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:17:00 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9591-8

The human glioma cell lines, U87 and T98G, were evaluated for their ability to survive and form colonies in an acidic environment of pHext 6.0. In contrast to U87, which showed an 80-90% survival rate, only 40% of T98G cells survived 6 days at pHext 6.0 and lost their colony forming ability when returned to a normocidic environment.

Activities of DNA-PK and Ku86, but not Ku70, may predict sensitivity to cisplatin in human gliomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:15:51 -0400

Journal of Neuro-Oncology 0167-594X (Print) 10.1007/s11060-008-9592-7

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between activities of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), its subunits Ku86/Ku70, and sensitivities to cisplatin in human glioma samples.

Prognostic Value of 18F-Fluoroethyl-L-Tyrosine PET and MRI in Small Nonspecific Incidental Brain Lesions

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:14:59 -0400

Journal of Nuclear Medicine Vol. 49 No. 5 730-737

Nonspecific incidental brain lesions (NILs) are being detected more frequently because of an increasing number of screening or research MRI scans of the brain, and their natural course is uncertain.

Metabolic Imaging of Cerebral Gliomas: Spatial Correlation of Changes in O-(2-18F-Fluoroethyl)-L-Tyrosine PET and Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:07:04 -0400

Journal of Nuclear Medicine Vol. 49 No. 5 721-729

The aim of this study was to determine the spatial correlation of O-(2-18F-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine (18F-FET) uptake and the concentrations of choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), and total N-acetylaspartate (tNAA) determined with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H MRSI) in cerebral gliomas for the multimodal evaluation of metabolic changes.

Use of preoperative functional MRI to predict verbal memory decline after temporal lobe epilepsy surgery

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:06:15 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01625.x

Verbal memory decline is a frequent complication of left anterior temporal lobectomy (L-ATL). The goal of this study was to determine whether preoperative language mapping using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is useful for predicting which patients are likely to experience verbal memory decline after L-ATL.

The FLEP scale in diagnosing nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy, NREM and REM parasomnias: Data from a tertiary sleep and epilepsy unit

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:05:22 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01602.x

To test the usefulness of the FLEP scale in diagnosing nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy (NFLE), arousal parasomnias, and REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD).

Spread of ictal activity in focal epilepsy

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:04:22 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01627.x

Latencies between seizure onset, propagation of ictal activity, and initial clinical symptoms and signs are critically important for the successful implementation of detection-based intervention systems in the treatment of epilepsy.

Northeast Center for Special Care

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:03:16 -0400

northeastcenter.com - your brain injury information portal on the web. articles, podcasts, news and links to resources.

Simultaneous EEG-fMRI in drug-naive children with newly diagnosed absence epilepsy

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:03:16 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01626.x

In patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE), blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) EEG during functional MRI (EEG-fMRI) has been successfully used to link changes in regional neuronal activity to the occurrence of generalized spike-and-wave (GSW) discharges.

Seizure remission and relapse in adults with intractable epilepsy: A cohort study

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:02:23 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01601.x

To investigate the cumulative probabilities of ≥12 month seizure remission and seizure relapse following remission, and to test the associations of clinical characteristics with these two study end points in a prevalence cohort of intractable adult epilepsy patients during medical management.

Reproductive hormonal changes and catamenial pattern in adolescent females with epilepsy

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:01:34 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01622.x

We aimed to evaluate the effect of epilepsy on the reproductive hormones levels among female patients, and to investigate the frequency of catamenial pattern of seizures.

Neural basis of photo/chromatic sensitivity in adolescence

Thu, 8 May 2008 14:00:46 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01605.x

To determine a psychophysiological basis for age visual sensitivity to chromatic and achromatic stimuli.

Local spatial effect of 50 Hz cortical stimulation in humans

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:59:54 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01628.x

Cortical stimulation to abort seizures is under human investigation. Ideal electrode placement and stimulating parameters are unknown with poor understanding of tissue volume affected by stimulation or duration and nature of its effect on cortical activity. To help characterize this effect, we analyzed electrocorticography (ECoG) recorded adjacent to stimulated contacts during and after bipolar stimulation in patients undergoing functional cortical mapping with subdural electrodes.

Language lateralization in temporal lobe epilepsy using functional MRI and probabilistic tractography

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:59:05 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01607.x

Language functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is used to noninvasively assess hemispheric language specialization as part of the presurgical work-up in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). White matter asymmetries on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) may be related to language specialization as shown in controls and TLE.

Gene expression analysis in absence epilepsy using a monozygotic twin design

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:58:17 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01630.x

To identify genes involved in idiopathic absence epilepsies by analyzing gene expression using a monozygotic (MZ) twin design.

Epileptic encephalopathy with continuous spikes and waves during sleep in children with shunted hydrocephalus: A study of nine cases

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:57:20 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01608.x

We present a series of nine patients with early-onset hydrocephalus who had seizures and continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (CSWS) associated with neurocognitive and motor deterioration.

Decreased hippocampal volume on MRI is associated with increased extracellular glutamate in epilepsy patients

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:56:20 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01603.x

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is associated with smaller hippocampal volume and with elevated extracellular (EC) glutamate levels. We investigated the relationship between the hippocampal volume and glutamate in refractory TLE patients.

Clinical differences between patients with nonepileptic seizures who report antecedent sexual abuse and those who do not

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:55:23 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01611.x

To investigate clinical differences between patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) who report antecedent sexual abuse, and patients who do not.

Attention impairment in rolandic epilepsy: Systematic review

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:54:35 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01610.x

Conflicting evidence about impairment of attention systems and the absence of a working model of attention has contributed to lack of clarity about comorbidity of attention problems in rolandic epilepsy (RE). Impairments in distributed attention systems may inform a disease model for RE, as well as direct interventions.

Anticonvulsant profile and teratogenicity of 3,3-dimethylbutanoylurea: A potential for a second generation drug to valproic acid

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:53:44 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01624.x

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity and teratogenic potential of branched aliphatic acylureas represented by isovaleroylurea (IVU), pivaloylurea (PVU) and 3,3-dimethylbutanoylurea (DBU), as potential second-generation drugs to valproic acid (VPA).

Adaptive visual memory reorganization in right medial temporal lobe epilepsy

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:52:58 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01629.x

We investigated functional reorganization mechanisms of the human medial temporal lobe (MTL) for episodic memory, in patients suffering from medial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) with hippocampal sclerosis (HS).

A case-control evaluation of the ketogenic diet versus ACTH for new-onset infantile spasms

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:52:06 -0400

Epilepsia doi:10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01606.x

ACTH is currently the standard first-line therapy for new-onset infantile spasms, but it has significant side effects. We hypothesized the ketogenic diet (KD), previously reported as beneficial for intractable infantile spasms, would have similar efficacy, but better tolerability than ACTH when used first-line.

Therapeutic effect of a T helper cell supported CTL response induced by a survivin peptide vaccine against murine cerebral glioma

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:50:53 -0400

Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy 0340-7004 (Print) 10.1007/s00262-008-0510-9

Survivin is a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) that has significant potential for use as a cancer vaccine target. To identify survivin epitopes that might serve as targets for CTL-mediated, anti-tumor responses, we evaluated a series of survivin peptides with predicted binding to mouse H2-Kb and human HLA-A*0201 antigens in peptide-loaded dendritic cell (DC) vaccines. H2-Kb-positive, C57BL/6 mice were vaccinated using syngeneic, peptide-loaded DC2.4 cells.

Brain Injury Conference

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:50:03 -0400

The 4th Annual Mid-Hudson Brain Injury Rehabilitation Conference will be held again this year in Kingston, NY, presented by Northeast Center for Special Care.

Clinicians and support persons working with this population are invited to attend this highly-rated conference with cutting-edge educational sessions to increase knowledge and skills in this highly specialized area.

October 2, 2008.

Guidelines for Management of Ischaemic Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attack 2008

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:50:03 -0400

Cerebrovasc Dis 2008;25:457-507

This article represents the update of the European Stroke Initiative Recommendations for Stroke Management. These guidelines cover both ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attacks, which are now considered to be a single entity.

The human ventromedial frontal lobe is critical for learning from negative feedback

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:49:00 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1323-1331

Are positive and negative feedback weighed in a common balance in the brain, or do they influence behaviour through distinct neural mechanisms? Recent neuroeconomic studies in both human and non-human primates indicate that the ventromedial frontal lobe carries information about both losses and gains, suggesting that this region may encode value across the continuum from absolute negative to absolute positive outcomes.

Priming the motor system enhances the effects of upper limb therapy in chronic stroke

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:48:14 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1381-1390

After stroke, the function of primary motor cortex (M1) between the hemispheres may become unbalanced. Techniques that promote a re-balancing of M1 excitability may prime the brain to be more responsive to rehabilitation therapies and lead to improved functional outcomes.

Phenotypical characteristics of idiopathic infantile nystagmus with and without mutations in FRMD7

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:47:17 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1259-1267

Idiopathic infantile nystagmus (IIN) consists of involuntary oscillations of the eyes. The familial form is most commonly X-linked. We recently found mutations in a novel gene FRMD7 (Xq26.2), which provided an opportunity to investigate a genetically defined and homogeneous group of patients with nystagmus.

Metabolic correlates of subthalamic nucleus activity in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:46:29 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1373-1380

Overactivity of subthalamic nucleus (STN) neurons is a consistent feature of Parkinson's disease (PD) and is a target of therapy for this disorder. However, the relationship of STN firing rate to regional brain function is not known.

Disconnecting force from money: effects of basal ganglia damage on incentive motivation

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:45:39 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1303-1310

Bilateral basal ganglia lesions have been reported to induce a particular form of apathy, termed auto-activation deficit (AAD), principally defined as a loss of self-driven behaviour that is reversible with external stimulation.

Differential effects of insular and ventromedial prefrontal cortex lesions on risky decision-making

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:44:44 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1311-1322

The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and insular cortex are implicated in distributed neural circuitry that supports emotional decision-making. Previous studies of patients with vmPFC lesions have focused primarily on decision-making under uncertainty, when outcome probabilities are ambiguous (e.g. the Iowa Gambling Task).

Cognitive sequencing impairment in patients with focal or atrophic cerebellar damage

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:43:55 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1332-1343

Although cognitive impairment after cerebellar damage has been widely reported, the mechanisms of cerebro-cerebellar interactions are still a matter of debate.

Cognitive deficits and striato-frontal dopamine release in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:43:01 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1294-1302

Idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) is often accompanied by a pattern of executive deficits similar to those found in patients with frontal lobe lesions.

Traumatic Brain Injury Journal Watch

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:42:08 -0400

The latest links to journal article abstracts on Traumatic Brain Injury, Neurology, Neuropsychology, Pharmacology, Brain Injury Rehabilitation, Stroke, Trauma, Research, Assistive Technology, Community Reentry and other related clinical topics.

Available as an RSS feed or on our website.

Cerebellar growth and behavioural & neuropsychological outcome in preterm adolescents

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:42:08 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1344-1351

Adolescence is a time of social and cognitive development associated with changes in brain structure and function. These developmental changes may show an altered path in individuals born before 33 weeks’ gestation (very preterm; VPT).

Atypical frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin-positive, TDP-43-negative neuronal inclusions

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:41:12 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1282-1293

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitinated inclusions (FTLD-U) is the most common neuropathology associated with the clinical syndrome of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

Association between therapy outcome and right-hemispheric activation in chronic aphasia

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:40:28 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1391-1401

The role of the right hemisphere for language processing and successful therapeutic interventions in aphasic patients is a matter of debate.

Recommendations and treatment strategies for the management of acute ischemic stroke

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:39:34 -0400

Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, Volume 9, Number 7, May 2008 , pp. 1071-1085(15)

Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide. From the establishment of the penumbra concept, ischemic stroke has been recognized as a dynamic process and two main therapeutic strategies have been designed: one that tries to reopen the occluded artery and the second aims to protect the penumbra brain tissue until the physiologic mechanisms-or the treatment-stop the ischemia.

Activity-dependent excitability changes suggest Na+/K+ pump dysfunction in diabetic neuropathy

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:38:13 -0400

Brain 2008 131(5):1209-1216

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the role of Na+/K+ pump dysfunction in the development of diabetic neuropathy (DN).

Use of intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange in neurological disease

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:37:27 -0400

Current Opinion in Neurology. 21(3):358-365, June 2008

The most relevant indications for the use of intravenous immunoglobulins and plasma exchange in neurological disorders are described, with special emphasis on the data from clinical trials and aspects of specific importance for clinical routine.

Role of inflammatory markers in brain ischemia

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:36:35 -0400

Current Opinion in Neurology. 21(3):353-357, June 2008

Inflammatory mechanisms play an important role in the risk of stroke and during the acute phase of brain ischemia, which contributes to functional outcome of patients. We review the role of inflammatory markers in these aspects of brain ischemia.

Inflammatory diseases and infection

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:34:25 -0400

Current Opinion in Neurology. 21(3):347-352, June 2008

Fungal infections of the central nervous system, once a relatively rare occurrence, are increasingly common due to the expansion of immunocompromised populations at risk, and therefore are important to recognize early and manage appropriately.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and soccer: A different epidemiological approach strengthen the previous findings

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:33:25 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 187-188 (15 June 2008)

Delirium in two patients with Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:32:28 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 184-186 (15 June 2008)

In this report, we describe the case of two patients with Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis (BBE) who developed delirium manifested as emotional incontinence, restlessness, and aggressive behavior from disease onset.

OUTCOMES - The Northeast Center for Special Care online newsletter SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:31:25 -0400

Subscribe for FREE and receive our regular mailings with information about brain injury, spinal cord injury, respiratory care, and more.

Paradoxical imaging findings in cerebral gliomas

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:31:25 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 180-183 (15 June 2008)

Gliomas represent approximately one-third of all intracranial tumors in adults and commonly present clinically with seizures. We report two seizure patients with paradoxical imaging findings on preoperative grading of their cerebral gliomas.

Corticobasal degeneration presenting with progressive conduction aphasia

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:30:11 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 163-168 (15 June 2008)

We report the case of a woman with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) presenting with conduction aphasia. Neurological findings showed bilateral finger tremor and signe de poignet figé in her right hand. Memory, orientation, and activities of daily living were well preserved.

The effects of visual, auditory, and mixed cues on choice reaction in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:28:55 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 118-125 (15 June 2008)

We investigated the effects of visual, auditory, and mixed cues on complex choice reaction in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). The paradigm using a computerized task was based on a game, "paper-rock-scissors." Four types of sensory cues were employed: simple visual cues, auditory cues, visual cues with auditory distracters, and auditory cues with visual distracters.

Akt1 gene deletion and stroke

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:27:44 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 105-112 (15 June 2008)

Activation of Akt has been implicated as a major contributor to neuronal survival after an ischemic insult. Numerous neuroprotective agents have been shown to augment Akt activity, suggesting that this protein represents a major mechanism of cellular salvage after injury.

Prevalence of extracranial carotid stenosis in Thai ischemic stroke/TIA patients

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:26:37 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 92-95 (15 June 2008)

Stroke is a leading cause of death and morbidity in Thailand. The purpose of this study was to look for prevalence of significant extracranial carotid stenosis (ECCS) in Thai ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients and baseline characteristics of this subgroup.

Enforced physical training promotes neurogenesis in the subgranular zone after focal cerebral ischemia

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:25:42 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 54-61 (15 June 2008)

Cerebral ischemia increases neurogenesis in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the dentate gyrus, and this might be modulated by an enriched environment including voluntary physical activity. We examined whether enforced physical training (EPT) influences neurogenesis in the SVZ and SGZ after cerebral ischemia.

Dengue encephalopathy in children in Northern India: Clinical features and comparison with non dengue

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:24:42 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 41-48 (15 June 2008)

Acute febrile encephalopathy (AFE) is a common cause of childhood hospital admissions in Lucknow. In recent years, many patients have been hospitalized with AFE and hemorrhagic manifestations, some of whom were proven to have dengue viral infection.

Neurological deterioration in small vessel disease may be associated with increase of infarct volume

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:23:32 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 35-40 (15 June 2008)

The mechanism of neurological deterioration in small vessel disease is unclear. We examined the relationship between neurological deterioration and change of infarct volume in acute small vessel disease.

Anterior horn cells with abnormal TDP-43 immunoreactivities show fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus in ALS

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:22:27 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 30-34 (15 June 2008)

Recently, TAR DNA-binding protein of 43-kDa (TDP-43) was identified as a major component of ubiquitinated neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions observed in lower motor neurons in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitinated inclusions.

Ocular torsion associated with infarction in the territory of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery: Frequency, pattern, and a major determinant

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:16:50 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 18-23 (15 June 2008)

Acute ischemic stroke in the distribution of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) can cause the vestibular dysfunction in the roll plane of the vestibuloocular reflex with abnormal ocular torsion (OT). There has been no systemic study that carefully investigates the nature of OT that occurs with AICA infarction.

Correlation between ventricular enlargement and white matter changes

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:15:33 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 12-17 (15 June 2008)

The clinical significance of white matter changes including periventricular hyperintensity (PVH) and deep white matter hyperintensity (DWMH) on MRI in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus is unclear.

Intracranial pressure and ventricular expansion in hydrocephalus: Have we been asking the wrong question?

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:14:02 -0400

Journal of the Neurological Sciences Volume 269, Issue 1, Pages 1-11 (15 June 2008)

The force that enlarges the cerebral ventricles and deforms the brain in hydrocephalus remains unclear. It is still widely thought to be elevated intraventricular pressure developing behind an obstruction to the flow of CSF. This view has led to the prediction that a large pressure difference should exist between the ventricles proximal to the obstruction and the subarachnoid space of the cerebral convexity distal to the obstruction.

Cortical recovery of swallowing function in wound botulism

Thu, 8 May 2008 13:12:12 -0400

BMC Neurology 2008, 8:13

Botulism is a rare disease caused by intoxication leading to muscle weakness and rapidly progressive dysphagia. With adequate therapy signs of recovery can be observed within several days. In the last few years, brain imaging studies carried out in healthy subjects showed activation of the sensorimotor cortex and the insula during volitional swallowing. However, little is known about cortical changes and compensation mechanisms accompanying swallowing pathology.