Levels of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor are decreased, but fibroblast growth factor 2 and cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor are increased in the hippocampus in Parkinson's disease.

Growth factors can facilitate hippocampus-based learning and memory and are potential targets for treatment of cognitive dysfunction via their neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects. Dementia is common in Parkinson's disease (PD), but treatment options are limited. We aimed to determine if levels of growth factors are altered in the hippocampus of patients with PD, and if such alterations are associated with PD pathology.

Differences in the Cellular Response to Acute Spinal Cord Injury between Developing and Mature Rats Highlights the Potential Significance of the Inflammatory Response.

There exists a trend for a better functional recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI) in younger patients compared to adults, which is also reported for animal studies; however, the reasons for this are yet to be elucidated. The post injury tissue microenvironment is a complex milieu of cells and signals that interact on multiple levels. Inflammation has been shown to play a significant role in this post injury microenvironment.

Temporal Response of Endogenous Neural Progenitor Cells Following Injury to the Adult Rat Spinal Cord.

A pool of endogenous neural progenitor cells (NPCs) found in the ependymal layer and the sub-ependymal area of the spinal cord are reported to upregulate Nestin in response to traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). These cells could potentially be manipulated within a critical time period offering an innovative approach to the repair of SCI. However, little is known about the temporal response of endogenous NPCs following SCI.

Dornase alpha compared to hypertonic saline for lung atelectasis in critically ill patients.

Background: Despite the lack of randomized trials, nebulized Dornase alpha and hypertonic saline are used empirically to treat atelectasis in mechanically ventilated patients. Our objective was to determine the clinical and radiological efficacy of these medications as an adjunct to standard therapy in critically ill patients.

Methods: Mechanically ventilated patients with new onset (<48 h) lobar or multilobar atelectasis were randomized into three groups: nebulized Dornase alpha, hypertonic (7%) saline or normal saline every 12 h.

Drug-drug interaction between clopidogrel and the proton pump inhibitors.

Objective: To evaluate the interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Data Sources: Literature retrieval was accessed through PubMed (1980-January 2009), abstracts from 2008 American Heart Association and 2009 Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions Scientific Sessions, and media press releases using the terms clopidogrel, proton pump inhibitors, cytochrome 2C19, genetic cytochrome P450 polymorphisms, and drug interaction. In addition, reference citations from publications identified in the search were reviewed.

Hyperchloremic, normal anion-gap, metabolic acidosis due to topiramate.

Purpose: A rare adverse effect observed after dose escalation of topiramate therapy is discussed. A review of published cases, monitoring recommendations, and important counseling information for patients who are prescribed topiramate are described.

Summary: A 37-year-old man hospitalized for mental status changes and possible seizure developed hyperchloremic, normal anion-gap, metabolic acidosis.

Using the Liverpool Care Pathway in a nursing home.

The Liverpool Care Pathway provides evidence-based guidelines relating to the care of dying patients. This article outlines a pilot project to introduce it to a 150-bed BUPA nursing home.

Provision of palliative care education in nursing homes.

Aim: To map the nature and extent of existing palliative care education activities.

Method: Data was gathered from questionnaires, face-to-face and telephone interviews, visiting palliative care teams across Mount Vernon Cancer Network and attendance at conferences, meetings and seminars. A comprehensive needs assessment for palliative care education within nursing homes was completed.