Ideggyogy Szemle
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In the past decade, a great progress has been made in understanding genetic basis of the spinocerebellar ataxia. Based upon the genotypes, more then 20 subgroups of autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxia have been identified with different gene mutations. Neither the pathomechanism nor the function of these genes is fully understood. ⋯ Other symptoms may be present as well, but no specific clinical feature is known for differentiating subgroups. Specific diagnosis can be made by genetic tests. In this review we summarize the clinical features and genetic backgrounds of the most common spinocerebellar ataxias.
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Recently a significant conceptual change emerged in the interpretation of addictological disorders. Despite this significant progress, the exact neuronal mechanisms of these disorders are still unknown. ⋯ These investigations along with animal models and functional neuroimaging approaches suggest the crucial role of a complex neuronal network in the pathomechanism of addictological disorders, including the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and the amygdala-accumbens system. The aim of this paper is to review these novel findings in order to gain insight into the neurocognitive mechanisms of addictological disorders.
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Bayer AG has recently announced that it acquired exclusive rights for the marketing of GW Pharmaceuticals' new medicine Sativex in Europe and in other regions. Sativex is a sublingual spray on Cannabis extract basis, and is equipped with an electronic tool to facilitate accurate dosing and to prevent misuses. It is standardized for the THC and CBD. ⋯ Although the Government of Netherlands has authorized the sale of pharmaceutical grade Cannabis herb by pharmacies in the Netherlands, the availability on the pharmaceutical market of the registered preparation may render requests for the authorization of the smoking of Cannabis herb (marihuana) by individuals suffering of multiple sclerosis, neurogenic pain, AIDS wasting syndrome unnecessary. Nevertheless, the "old chameleon" plant Cannabis appears to gradually regain its previous status in mainstream therapy and pharmacy. As long as the plant Cannabis and its products continue to be classified as narcotic drugs, medical use of the new preparation will need close supervision.