Neurology
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Case Reports
Inherited prion encephalopathy associated with the novel PRNP H187R mutation: a clinical study.
To describe a variant of prion encephalopathy associated with the recently identified H187R mutation in the prion protein (PRNP) gene. ⋯ A variant of prion encephalopathy associated with the novel H187R mutation in the PRNP gene displays distinctive clinical and immunostaining characteristics that further expand the boundaries of human prion disease.
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To study patients with ALS to determine the following: 1) the relationship between physical function and quality of life (QOL); 2) the instruments that best reflect patients' own ratings of QOL; and 3) whether spiritual/religious factors play a role in determining QOL. ⋯ QOL, as assessed by the patient with ALS, does not correlate with measures of strength and physical function, but appears to depend on psychological and existential factors, and thus may be measured well by the MQOL scale. Spiritual factors and support systems appear to play roles as well. SIP/ALS-19 is a good measure of physical function, but not of overall QOL.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Levetiracetam for partial seizures: results of a double-blind, randomized clinical trial.
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 500 mg bid and 1500 mg bid levetiracetam as adjunctive therapy for refractory partial seizures in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicenter trial. ⋯ Adjunctive therapy with levetiracetam was effective and well tolerated in controlling partial seizures.
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Comparative Study
Significance of hyperintense vessels on FLAIR MRI in acute stroke.
To describe hyperintense vessels sign (HVS) in patients with acute stroke on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MRI and determine its clinical significance and utility. ⋯ HVS on FLAIR MRI is an indicator of slow flow and early ischemia as a result of large vessel occlusion or stenosis and inadequacy of collateral circulation. HVS does not mean that infarction has occurred but indicates brain tissue at risk of infarction. It should prompt consideration of revascularization and flow augmentation strategies.