Electromyographic findings in central nervous system disorders: case series and literature review.

We reviewed electrodiagnostic findings in patients whose electromyograph pointed toward a disorder of the central nervous system. Of the 34 patients identified, 17 did not have a clinical diagnosis of a central nervous system disorder before electromyogram. Signs suggesting a central nervous system disorder included poor activation, poor relaxation, extensor plantar responses, and flexor spasms on needle electromyogram.

Quantum jumps of saturation level rigidity and anomalous oscillations of level number variance in the semiclassical spectrum of a modified Kepler problem.

We observe numerically, and explain analytically, a previously unknown phenomenon of quantum-Hall-like jumps in saturation spectral rigidity in the semiclassical spectrum of a modified Kepler problem as a function of the interval center. These jumps correspond to integer decreases of the radial winding numbers in classical periodic motion. We also observe and explain single-harmonic-dominated oscillations of the level number variance with the width of the energy interval.

Free radical processes in green tea polyphenols (GTP) investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy.

This chapter reviews the current status of research on investigations of the free radical chemistry of green tea and its constituent polyphenols (GTP). It is based on the use of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, and also includes a section on practical aspects of the technique, which should be of value to readers who are unfamiliar with the detailed operation of EPR. The free radical chemistry of GTP is important, because many of their antioxidant functions involve reactions with O(2)-derived free radicals, and the products of such reactions are themselves generally free radicals.

Channels active in the excitability of nerves and skeletal muscles across the neuromuscular junction: basic function and pathophysiology.

Ion channels are essential for the basic physiological function of excitable cells such as nerve, skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle cells. Mutations in genes that encode ion channels have been identified to cause various diseases and disorders known as channelopathies. An understanding of how individual ion channels are involved in the activation of motoneurons and their corresponding muscle cells is essential for interpreting basic neurophysiology in nerves, the heart, and skeletal and smooth muscle.

Clinical and electrodiagnostic findings in copper deficiency myeloneuropathy.

Introduction: Copper deficiency is an increasingly recognised cause of neurological impairment. This retrospective review highlights clinical and electrodiagnostic findings in patients diagnosed at our institution with copper deficiency.

Methods: Clinical, radiographic and electrodiagnostic findings were reviewed in patients with evidence of copper deficiency.

Critical illness neuromyopathy.

Critical illness myopathy, neuropathy, and neuromyopathy are frequently encountered in the intensive care unit, particularly in the setting of sepsis and the systemic inflammatory response syndrome. A multidisciplinary approach is important to optimize management and minimize debility associated with these neuromuscular disorders. This article reviews the underlying pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, electrodiagnostic evaluation, management, and prognosis of these disorders.

Clinicopathologic findings in high-grade B-cell lymphomas with typical Burkitt morphologic features but lacking the MYC translocation.

In the World Health Organization classification, cases with classical Burkitt morphologic features and a very high proliferation fraction but without the MYC translocation are not clearly designated as a separate entity and are usually categorized as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We identified from our records 33 cases of highly aggressive mature B-cell neoplasms from 8 children and 25 adults with typical Burkitt cytomorphologic, histologic, and immunophenotypic (CD20+/CD10+ and surface immunoglobulin-positive) features. Rearrangement of MYC (MYC+) was present in only 18 of 33 cases, but the proliferation fraction was more than 90% in all MYC-cases (no MYC rearrangement).

Dural puncture and subdural injection: a complication of lumbar transforaminal epidural injections.

Case Report: Two cases are presented in which the complication of dural puncture is documented in the context of a lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection. The hazard of dural puncture during transforaminal epidural injections, the anatomy of the dural and thecal sac, the potential for subdural injections, and relevant literature are reviewed.

Design: Report of two cases.

An exploratory survey of Spanish and English nursing students' views on studying or working abroad.

Background: Student mobility within Europe is encouraged by the EU's 'Bologna process' and financially supported by the Socrates programme. However, relatively few UK nursing students travel to Europe for study.

Aims: To compare the willingness to study or work abroad and the perceived barriers and benefits of doing so, amongst students in England and Spain.

Approach to the evaluation of small fiber peripheral neuropathy and disorders of orthostatic intolerance.

Small fiber peripheral neuropathy is a frequently encountered neurological disorder, which can be difficult to diagnose. In this article, the differential diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy is discussed, along with role of autonomic testing, skin biopsy, and quantitative sensory testing, in establishing a definitive diagnosis of small fiber peripheral neuropathy. Disorders of orthostatic intolerance, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), are also discussed, emphasizing diagnostic evaluation and a treatment approach to these disorders.

Clinical and molecular predictors of disease severity and survival in chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Several parameters may predict disease severity and overall survival in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The purpose of our study of 190 CLL patients was to compare immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (IgV(H)) mutation status, cytogenetic abnormalities, and leukemia cell CD38 and Zap-70 to older, traditional parameters. We also wanted to construct a simple, inexpensive prognosis score that would significantly predict TTT and survival in patients at the time of diagnosis and help practicing clinicians.

Determinants of parathyroid hormone levels in nursing home residents.

Introduction: Elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels contribute to age-related bone loss. Practitioners should be aware of iatrogenic and/or correctable determinants of PTH elevation.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study including 302 of 609 eligible residents at a state veterans home.