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1.
BMJ Open ; 14(4): e077623, 2024 Apr 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38569691

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Considering the increasing incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) worldwide, there is an urgent need to identify efficacious, safe and convenient treatments. Numerous investigations have been conducted on the use of supplements in this domain, with oral supplementation emerging as a viable therapeutic approach for AD or MCI. Nevertheless, given the multitude of available supplements, it becomes imperative to identify the optimal treatment regimen. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Eight academic databases and three clinical trial registries will be searched from their inception to 1 June 2023. To identify randomised controlled trials investigating the effects of supplements on patients with AD or MCI, two independent reviewers (X-YZ and Y-QL) will extract relevant information from eligible articles, while the risk of bias in the included studies will be assessed using the Rob 2.0 tool developed by the Cochrane Collaboration. The primary outcome of interest is the overall cognitive function. Pair-wise meta-analysis will be conducted using RevMan V.5.3, while network meta-analysis will be carried out using Stata 17.0 and ADDIS 1.16.8. Heterogeneity test, data synthesis and subgroup analysis will be performed if necessary. The GRADE system will be employed to assess the quality of evidence. This study is scheduled to commence on 1 June 2023 and conclude on 1 October 2023. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval is not required for systematic review and network meta-analysis. The results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal or at a conference. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: PROSPERO (CRD42023414700).

2.
BMJ Case Rep ; 17(3)2024 Mar 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38490702

ABSTRACT

Multiple acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is a rare metabolic disorder which typically manifests with muscle weakness. However, despite late-onset MADD being treatable, it is often misdiagnosed, due in part to the heterogeneity of presentations. We report a case of late-onset MADD manifesting first as a sensory neuropathy before progressing to myopathic symptoms and acute metabolic decompensation. Early diagnostic workup with acylcarnitine profiling and organic acid analysis was critical in patient outcome; metabolic decompensation and myopathic symptoms were completely reversed with riboflavin supplementation and dietary modification, although sensory neuropathy persisted. Clinical consideration of MADD as part of the differential diagnosis of neuropathy with myopathy is crucial for a timely diagnosis and treatment of MADD.


Subject(s)
Multiple Acyl Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase Deficiency , Peripheral Nervous System Diseases , Humans , Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase , Mutation , Electron-Transferring Flavoproteins/genetics , Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/drug therapy , Multiple Acyl Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase Deficiency/complications , Multiple Acyl Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase Deficiency/diagnosis , Multiple Acyl Coenzyme A Dehydrogenase Deficiency/drug therapy , Riboflavin/therapeutic use , Rare Diseases/drug therapy
3.
Diving Hyperb Med ; 54(1): 65-68, 2024 Mar 31.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38507912

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) remains a recognised treatment for acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, but the utility of HBOT in treating CO-induced delayed neurological sequelae (DNS) is not yet established. Case description: A 26-year old woman presented with reduced consciousness secondary to CO exposure from burning charcoal. She underwent a single session of HBOT with US Navy Treatment Table 5 within six hours of presentation, with full neurological recovery. Eight weeks later, she represented with progressive, debilitating neurological symptoms mimicking Parkinsonism. Magnetic resonance imaging of her brain demonstrated changes consistent with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy. The patient underwent 20 sessions of HBOT at 203 kPa (2 atmospheres absolute) for 115 minutes, and received intravenous methylprednisolone 1 g per day for three days. The patient's neurological symptoms completely resolved, and she returned to full-time professional work with no further recurrence. Discussion: Delayed neurological sequelae is a well-described complication of CO poisoning. In this case, the patient's debilitating neurocognitive symptoms resolved following HBOT. Existing literature on treatment of CO-induced DNS with HBOT consists mainly of small-scale studies and case reports, many of which similarly suggest that HBOT is effective in treating this complication. However, a large, randomised trial is required to adequately determine the effectiveness of HBOT in the treatment of CO-induced DNS, and an optimal treatment protocol.


Subject(s)
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning , Hyperbaric Oxygenation , Humans , Female , Adult , Hyperbaric Oxygenation/methods , Carbon Monoxide , Oxygen , Carbon Monoxide Poisoning/complications , Carbon Monoxide Poisoning/therapy , Carbon Monoxide Poisoning/diagnosis , Brain
4.
Cureus ; 16(2): e54972, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38544649

ABSTRACT

A breastfeeding 29-year-old woman who gave birth to her first child three months ago presented at the family doctor's appointment with a diverse array of symptoms, including vertigo, blurred vision, right lower limb weakness, and abdominal allodynia. She has a history of obesity and anxiety. The patient had a pre-pregnancy history of several visits to the family doctor. She takes folic acid, vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 supplements. The diverse symptomatology, the patient's insistence on seeking medical care, and the history of anxiety pose significant hurdles in arriving at a timely diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed signs compatible with primary demyelinating lesions of the central nervous system, which elicited a referral to neurology. The clinical and imagiological findings were suggestive of multiple sclerosis (MS), for which a conservative approach was taken. MS is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with a mean age of onset of 20-30 years, more common in females. Stressful life events, viral infections, vaccination, physical trauma, previous anesthesia, excessive physical activity, and puerperium have all been described as trigger factors. This case underscores the importance of vigilance in postpartum healthcare and the importance of conducting a comprehensive diagnostic assessment. Early diagnosis has a positive impact on the prognosis of the disease.

5.
BMC Complement Med Ther ; 24(1): 117, 2024 Mar 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38454382

ABSTRACT

A meditative 'technique' is conceived as a continuum of different affective states involving mind and body jointly. Meditative practices can involve cognitive effort (e.g., focused attention and open-minded techniques), as well as automatic and implicit practices (e.g., transcendental techniques). The NGALSO tantric self-healing meditation technique is a brief, comprehensive meditation technique relying on mind and body connection. In this study, we aimed to investigate the state and the trait neurophysiological correlates of NGALSO meditation practice. First, 19 EEG channels and a 3-lead ECG signal were recorded from 10 expert meditators (more than 7 years of daily meditation) and 10 healthy inexpert participants (controls) who underwent the same meditative procedure. The neuropsychological profiles of experts and controls were compared. Results showed that expert meditators had significantly higher power spectra on alpha, theta and beta, and a higher sympathetic tone with lower parasympathetic tone after meditation. Conversely, the control group had significantly less power spectra on alpha, theta and beta, and a higher parasympathetic tone with lower sympathetic tone after meditation. A machine learning approach also allowed us to classify experts vs. controls correctly by using only EEG Theta bands before or after meditation. ECG results allowed us to show a significantly higher effort by expert meditators vs. controls, thus suggesting that a higher effort is required for this meditation, in line with the principle 'no pain, no gain' in body and mind.


Subject(s)
Meditation , Humans , Peripheral Nervous System
6.
Nervenarzt ; 95(6): 532-538, 2024 Jun.
Article in German | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38315181

ABSTRACT

Successful treatment of patients with functional motor disorders is integrative in several ways: the primary treatment goal is the (re)integration of sensorimotor, cognitive and social functioning. The prerequisites for this are an integrated biopsychosocial model of everyone involved as well as close transdisciplinary cooperation. Instead of a simple addition of treatment components, all care providers and patients act in concert.


Subject(s)
Patient Care Team , Humans , Conversion Disorder/therapy , Conversion Disorder/psychology , Conversion Disorder/diagnosis , Interdisciplinary Communication , Intersectoral Collaboration , Models, Biopsychosocial , Movement Disorders/therapy
7.
Clin Neurol Neurosurg ; 237: 108151, 2024 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38340429

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Surgical intervention for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is a safe and efficacious evidence-based treatment. Yet, neurologists have historically revealed hesitance in referring patients for surgical evaluations. The present study surveyed general neurologists and epilepsy specialists to assess their views and process in referring patients for specialized epilepsy care and epilepsy surgery. METHODS: A 14-item survey assessing epilepsy referrals and views of epilepsy surgery was distributed to all neurologists currently practicing in a large national integrated health system using REDCap. Responses were qualitatively analyzed and differences between general neurologists and epileptologists were assessed using chi-squared tests. RESULTS: In total, 100 responses were received from 67 general neurologists and 33 epileptologists with several similarities and differences emerging between the two groups. Both groups endorsed surgery and neuromodulation as treatment options in DRE, felt that seizure frequency rather than duration was relevant in considering epilepsy surgery, and indicated patient preference as the largest barrier limiting epilepsy surgery. General neurologists were more likely to require ≥ 3 ASMs to fail to diagnose DRE compared to epileptologists (45% vs. 15%, p < 0.01) who more often required ≥ 2 ASMs to fail. Epileptologists were also more likely than neurologists to try a new ASM (75.8% vs. 53.7%, p < 0.05) or optimize the current ASM (75.8% vs. 49.3%, p < 0.05) in DRE. General neurologists were more likely to consider epilepsy surgery to be less efficacious (p = 0.001) or less safe (p < 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE: Overall, neurologists appear to have generally positive opinions of epilepsy surgery, which is a change from prior literature and represents a changing landscape of views toward this intervention. Furthermore, epileptologists and general neurologists endorsed more similarities than differences in their opinions of surgery and steps to referral, which is another encouraging finding. Those gaps that remain between epileptologists and general neurologists, particularly in standards of ASM prescription, may be addressed by more consistent education about DRE and streamlining of surgical referral procedures.


Subject(s)
Drug Resistant Epilepsy , Epilepsy , Humans , Neurologists , Epilepsy/diagnosis , Epilepsy/surgery , Educational Status , Emotions
8.
J Neural Transm (Vienna) ; 131(2): 117-126, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38015317

ABSTRACT

The use of medical Cannabis has increased in recent years due to changing legal circumstances in many countries. Approval exists only for a few neurological conditions such as rare forms of epilepsy or spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Beyond that, however, medical Cannabis is used for a wide range of neurological conditions and symptoms. In Germany, in parallel with new legislation that has simplified the prescription of medical Cannabis, an accompanying survey has been implemented for which initial data are now available. In this context, our review provides an overview of the evidence for the therapeutic use of medical Cannabis in neurology, the potential benefits, and side effects.


Subject(s)
Epilepsy , Medical Marijuana , Multiple Sclerosis , Humans , Medical Marijuana/therapeutic use , Epilepsy/drug therapy , Muscle Spasticity/drug therapy , Muscle Spasticity/etiology , Multiple Sclerosis/complications , Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy , Germany
9.
Anat Sci Educ ; 17(2): 263-273, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37772635

ABSTRACT

Basic science, clinical science, and health system science (HSS) have become three pillars of integration upon which modern, post-Flexner, medical education is now based. Because of this new approach to curricular integration in a clinical presentation curruculum, medical training is now placed in the context of healthcare delivery. This study described the design, implementation, and assessment of an integrated teaching strategy, including the effect on students' performance in a medical neuroscience course's summative and formative examinations of an integrated clinical presentation curriculum. The integrated teaching of basic science content, clinical case discussion, and HSS was performed in the first year of an allopathic integrated pre-clerkship curriculum. The two cohorts were from two different years, spring 2018 and 2019. The acceptance of the integrated teaching strategy by medical students was above 80% in all categories that were assessed, including enhancing the integrated experience in learning basic and clinical science materials in the context of HSS; understanding of the learning lessons; facilitation of self-directed learning; provision of a better learning environment; and a holistic understanding of materials including the relevance of HSS issues in the discussion of neurological cases in the medical career of the students. More than 90% of the students scored ≥70% in summative questions mapped to the four learning objectives of the integrated teaching session. The objectives are the correlation of structure to specific functions (94.0 ± 0.21), clinical anatomical features of the nervous system (95.0 ± 0.27), cross-sectional features of the nervous system (96.0 ± 0.31), and the effect of lesions on the structure and functional pathways of the nervous system (97.0 ± 0.34). This result was significantly higher when compared to students' performance in the non-integrated teaching cohort (p < 0.05). Formative assessments (F(7,159) = 92.52, p < 0.001) were significantly different between the two groups. When medical students were evaluated using the same questions for formative assessment, they performed better in the integrated teaching cohort (*p < 0.05) compared to the non-integrated teaching cohort (**p < 0.05).


Subject(s)
Anatomy , Education, Medical, Undergraduate , Students, Medical , Humans , Cross-Sectional Studies , Anatomy/education , Curriculum , Learning
10.
Front Neurol ; 14: 1237839, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38073630

ABSTRACT

Background and objectives: Smartphones are a ubiquitous part of society with increasing use as a healthcare tool. We aimed to analyze the published literature on smartphone usage within the field of Neurology to define the scientific landscape and forecast future research initiatives. Methods: We performed a bibliometric review of smartphone uses in Neurology based on a search of two Web of Science databases from inception through September 16, 2022. This librarian-guided review was conducted using Bibliometrix for data assessment and visualization. Temporal trends in publications, citation counts, collaborations, and author affiliations were among key metrics evaluated. VOS viewer identified hot spots based on generating co-occurrences and bibliographic coupling mapping. Results: Our search found 3,920 publications. The U.S. produced the most topic-based publications, collaborating most frequently with U.K., Canada, and China-based authors. The most prolific institutions included Karolinska Institute, University of Sydney, and University of Pittsburgh. Bioelectromagnetics, Stroke, and Neurology were the most cited journals. Rapid growth in scientific production occurred in recent years, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hotspots and keyword co-occurrence included telehealth, machine learning, and self-management. Temporal trends reflect transitioning from a focus of initial publications regarding mobile phone safety to more recent application of smartphones as "smart" tools for single modality diagnosis, monitoring, management, and treatment of neurological diseases. Discussion: There has been rapid expansion of the published literature on smartphone uses in Neurology. Initial focus on smartphones and health risk has shifted to uses for neurological disease diagnosis, detection, and management, with relevance as a global interface for collaboration and clinical practice.

11.
Diving Hyperb Med ; 53(4): 351-355, 2023 Dec 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38091596

ABSTRACT

Delayed post-hypoxic encephalopathy can occur after an episode of anoxia or hypoxia. Symptoms include apathy, confusion, and neurological deficits. We describe a 47-year-old male patient who inhaled gas from a kitchen stove liquid petroleum gas cylinder. He was diagnosed with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy 12 hours after his emergency department admission. He received six sessions of hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) and was discharged in a healthy state after six days. Fifteen days later, he experienced weakness, loss of appetite, forgetfulness, depression, balance problems, and inability to perform self-care. One week later, he developed urinary and fecal incontinence and was diagnosed with post-hypoxic encephalopathy. After 45 days from the onset of symptoms, he was referred to the Underwater and Hyperbaric Medicine Department for HBOT. The patient exhibited poor self-care and slow speech rate, as well as ataxic gait and dysdiadochokinesia. Hyperbaric oxygen was administered for twenty-four sessions, which significantly improved the patient's neurological status with only hypoesthesia in the left hand remaining at the end of treatment. Hyperbaric oxygen has been reported as successful in treating some cases of delayed neurological sequelae following CO intoxication. It is possible that HBO therapy may also be effective in delayed post-hypoxic encephalopathy from other causes. This may be achieved through mechanisms such as transfer of functional mitochondria to the injury site, remyelination of damaged neurons, angiogenesis and neurogenesis, production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and balancing of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.


Subject(s)
Hyperbaric Oxygenation , Hypoxia, Brain , Petroleum , Male , Humans , Middle Aged , Oxygen , Hypoxia, Brain/etiology , Hypoxia, Brain/therapy , Hypoxia/etiology , Hypoxia/therapy , Anti-Inflammatory Agents , Cytokines
12.
Front Neurol ; 14: 1292527, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38093754

ABSTRACT

Background: Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) encompass a variety of neurodegenerative disorders that are characterized by progressive deterioration of walking ability and a high risk for long-term disability. The management of problems associated with HSP, such as stiffness, deformity, muscle contractures, and cramping, requires strict adherence to recommended physiotherapy activity regimes. The aim of this paper is to conduct a critical narrative review of the available evidence focusing exclusively to the therapeutic advantages associated with various forms of physical therapy (PT) in the context of HSP, emphasizing the specific benefit of every distinct approach in relation to muscle relaxation, muscle strength, spasticity reduction, improvement of weakness, enhancement of balance, posture, walking ability, and overall quality of life. Methods: To conduct a literature review, the databases PubMed, Scopus, and DOAJ (last access in June 2023) were searched. Results: The PubMed search returned a total of 230 articles, Scopus returned 218, and DOAJ returned no results. After screening, the final list included 7 papers on PT treatment for HSP patients. Conclusion: Electrostimulation, magnetotherapy, hydrotherapy, PT, robot-assisted gait training, and balance rehabilitation have the potential to increase lower extremity strength and decrease spasticity in HSP patients.

13.
BMJ Case Rep ; 16(12)2023 Dec 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38160034

ABSTRACT

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare complication of hyperthyroidism that manifests as painless flaccid paralysis. An East Asian man in his late 20s presented to the emergency department with an acute onset of quadriparesis associated with hypertonia and hyperreflexia. His initial symptoms and signs suggested involvement of the brain and spinal cord; however, MRI of the neuroaxis was normal. His serum potassium concentration was low, and thyroid test results were consistent with hyperthyroidism. The patient was diagnosed with TPP associated with Graves' disease and was treated with potassium supplementation, propranolol and methimazole. Motor strength improved to his baseline level of power; bulk was normal, and tone was increased. Although flaccid paralysis is a typical presentation of TPP, brisk reflexes and muscle spasticity cannot rule out this condition. This case highlights the importance of considering TPP as a possible diagnosis in patients presenting with acute quadriparesis.


Subject(s)
Graves Disease , Hyperthyroidism , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis , Thyrotoxicosis , Humans , Male , Graves Disease/complications , Hyperthyroidism/complications , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis/diagnosis , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis/drug therapy , Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis/etiology , Paralysis/complications , Potassium , Quadriplegia/complications , Reflex, Abnormal , Thyrotoxicosis/complications , Thyrotoxicosis/diagnosis , Thyrotoxicosis/drug therapy , Adult
14.
Brain Sci ; 13(12)2023 Dec 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38137134

ABSTRACT

Seaweeds, also known as edible marine algae, are an abundant source of phytosterols, carotenoids, and polysaccharides, among other bioactive substances. Studies conducted in the past few decades have demonstrated that substances derived from seaweed may be able to pass through the blood-brain barrier and act as neuroprotectants. According to preliminary clinical research, seaweed may also help prevent or lessen the symptoms of cerebrovascular illnesses by reducing mental fatigue, preventing endothelial damage to the vascular wall of brain vessels, and regulating internal pressure. They have the ability to control neurotransmitter levels, lessen neuroinflammation, lessen oxidative stress, and prevent the development of amyloid plaques. This review aims to understand the application potential of marine algae and their influence on brain development, highlighting the nutritional value of this "superfood" and providing current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms in the brain associated with their dietary introduction.

15.
Ital J Pediatr ; 49(1): 152, 2023 Nov 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37968663

ABSTRACT

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) consist of a broad group of restorative resources often linked to existing local cultures and established health care systems and are also increasingly used in children with some serious illnesses. In this narrative review, we examine the epidemiology of the use, efficacy, and safety of complementary and alternative medicine in pediatric oncology, neurology, and hepatology. We searched for relevant articles published in Pubmed evaluating CAM use and its efficacy in safety in children affected by oncologic, neurologic and liver diseases. CAM is used to improve the success of conventional therapies, but also to alleviate the pain, discomfort, and suffering resulting from the diseases and their treatment, which are often associated with a significant burden of adverse effects. CAM use must be evaluated in children with neurological, oncological and liver diseases.


Subject(s)
Complementary Therapies , Liver Diseases , Neoplasms , Neurology , Humans , Child , Complementary Therapies/adverse effects , Complementary Therapies/methods , Neoplasms/therapy , Pain/etiology , Liver Diseases/therapy , Liver Diseases/etiology
16.
BMJ Open ; 13(11): e077685, 2023 11 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37940152

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) and to identify potential risk factors in the Ethiopian context. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. STUDY PARTICIPANTS: A total of 611 064 participants were included in the review obtained from 42 studies. METHODS: PubMed (Medline), Embase and Cochrane Library databases in combination with other potential sources of literature were systematically searched, whereby studies conducted between January 2010 and December 2022 were targeted in the review process. All observational studies were included and heterogeneity between studies was verified using Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test statistics. Small study effects were checked using Egger's statistical test at a 5% significance level. RESULT: The pooled prevalence of all NTDs per 10 000 births in Ethiopia was 71.48 (95% CI 57.80 to 86.58). The between-study heterogeneity was high (I2= 97.49%, p<0.0001). Birth prevalence of spina bifida (33.99 per 10 000) was higher than anencephaly (23.70 per 10 000), and encephalocele (4.22 per 10 000). Unbooked antenatal care (AOR 2.26, 95% CI (1.30 to 3.94)), preconception intake of folic acid (AOR 0.41, 95% CI (0.26 to 0.66)), having chronic medical illness (AOR 2.06, 95% CI (1.42 to 2.99)), drinking alcohol (AOR 2.70, 95% CI (1.89 to 3.85)), smoking cigarette (AOR 2.49, 95% CI (1.51 to 4.11)), chewing khat (AOR 3.30, 95% CI (1.88 to 5.80)), exposure to pesticides (AOR 3.87, 95% CI (2.63 to 5.71)), maternal age ≥35 (AOR 1.90, 95% CI (1.13 to 3.25)), maternal low educational status (AOR 1.60, 95% CI (1.13 to 2.24)), residing in urban areas (AOR 0.75, 95% CI (0.58 to 0.97))and family history of NTDs (AOR 2.51, 95% CI (1.36 to 4.62)) were associated with NTD cases. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of NTDs in Ethiopia is seven times as high as in other Western countries where prevention measures are put in place. Heredity, maternal and environmental factors are associated with a high prevalence of NTDs. Mandatory fortification of staple food with folic acid should be taken as a priority intervention to curb the burden of NTDs. To smoothen and overlook the pace of implementation of mass fortification, screening, and monitoring surveillance systems should be in place along with awareness-raising measures. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023413490.


Subject(s)
Neural Tube Defects , Female , Pregnancy , Humans , Prevalence , Ethiopia/epidemiology , Neural Tube Defects/epidemiology , Neural Tube Defects/etiology , Neural Tube Defects/prevention & control , Folic Acid , Risk Factors , Food, Fortified
17.
Cureus ; 15(10): e48057, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38034192

ABSTRACT

Background Epilepsy is a prevalent pediatric neurological disorder, with widespread implications globally. Parents' knowledge and attitudes toward their epileptic children play a pivotal role in the well-being and management of the condition. Despite its prevalence in Saudi Arabia, awareness and perceptions vary across communities. Objective This study aimed to assess parents' knowledge, awareness, and attitudes toward children with epilepsy in the Al Baha region of Saudi Arabia. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in the Al Baha region from November 2022 to January 2023. An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire was distributed among 390 parents, targeting those aged 18-60 years. Results While the majority recognized that epilepsy is not contagious, misconceptions persisted. Nearly 67.7% of families lacked clarity on the causes of epilepsy. Most believed in the potential curability of epilepsy, favoring medication as the primary treatment. A significant association was identified between having an epileptic child and knowledge of seizure-first aid. The majority held an optimistic view regarding the academic and extracurricular achievements of epileptic children. Conclusion The study highlights a mix of informed and misinformed beliefs among parents in the Al Baha region. While many perspectives were encouraging, certain misconceptions underlined the need for continued awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. Addressing these gaps is essential for providing comprehensive care and inclusion of children with epilepsy in the community.

18.
Eur J Neurol ; 2023 Nov 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37986650

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Repetitive bloodletting, promoting profuse diarrhoea and vomiting, the formation of artificial ulcers, and other aggressive treatment methods based on humoral theory and Brunonian medicine were used for patients with nervous system (NS) diseases until the end of the 19th century. These methods are also termed "heroic" medicine by modern medical historians. METHODS: I analysed doctoral dissertations on the subject of NS diseases, clinical reports from 1806 to 1842 from the Vilnius University clinics, and other primary sources. This study was conducted in the vein of a historical-medical analysis and synthesis of primary sources, using comparative analysis, analogy, descriptive methods, and the method of retrospective diagnosis. RESULTS: Copious bloodletting, purgatives, leeches, cupping therapy, and other potentially harmful methods were frequently employed as habitual treatments for patients with NS diseases. Calomel was used as a purgative and an anti-inflammatory drug, and acidum borussicum was prescribed for patients with hydrophobia. After analysing three clinical cases, I revealed how principles of desperate, "heroic" medicine were applied to treat severe NS diseases with the "strongest" drugs, described in the scientific literature of the time. CONCLUSIONS: My work was not intended to judge or criticize historical treatment methods but to demonstrate on what contemporary scientific theories they were based. We should not rule out the idea that some aggressive treatment methods used nowadays, although they eradicate or reduce the burden of a NS disease, or even prolong patients' lives, may offer exceptional examples of 21st century "heroic" medicine for future generations.

19.
BMJ Open ; 13(11): e076196, 2023 11 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37989387

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Interventions at the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage prevent or delay the progression of cognitive decline. In recent years, several studies have shown that physical exercise combined with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) effectively delays the disease and promotes cognitive recovery in patients with MCI. This study aims to determine whether Tai Chi (TC) combined with tDCS can significantly improve memory in patients with MCI compared with TC or tDCS alone. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This clinical trial will use a 2×2 factorial design, enrolling 128 community-dwelling MCI patients, randomly categorised into four groups: TC, tDCS, TC combined with tDCS and the health education group. Outcome measures will include the Chinese Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised, Auditory Verbal Learning Test and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test. All assessments will be conducted at baseline and 3 months after the intervention. All analyses will use intention-to-treat or per-protocol methods. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of the Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2022KY-002-01). The results of the study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and at scientific conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2200059316.


Subject(s)
Cognitive Dysfunction , Tai Ji , Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation , Humans , Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation/methods , Cognitive Dysfunction/therapy , Research Design , Outcome Assessment, Health Care , Cognition , Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
20.
Soins Pediatr Pueric ; 44(335): 27-30, 2023.
Article in French | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37980158

ABSTRACT

Transition is a complex process that enables a young person living with a chronic illness to become an adult. It begins early in adolescence and ends once the transfer to the adult service is complete. The high risk of disruption during this transition calls for coordinated care focused on the patient and his or her life course. Many programs are dedicated to this delicate stage, including Jump, developed within the neurology department of a Paris hospital.


Subject(s)
Advanced Practice Nursing , Male , Adult , Adolescent , Female , Humans , Chronic Disease , Paris
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