Three new studies have suggested that cigarette smoking increases the risk of progression in patients with relapsing-remitting MS.
Neurology
One-third of early PD patients show cognitive decline
October 20, 2009A longitudinal study has examined cognitive decline in 106 patients with early Parkinsons disease (mean age 61.2 years). Cognitive decline was assessed using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE; mean baseline 27.8) (Kandiah et al. Mov Disord 2009); epublished February 3, 2009.
Viral reactivation with natalizumab
October 6, 2009The clinical use of the alpha-4 integrin antagonist natalizumab may be associated with reactivation of other viruses, according to a study conducted in Ireland (Lonergan et al. J Neurovirol 2009; epublished August 9, 2009).
CIHR, Quebec and France collaborate on Alzheimer disease research
October 6, 2009The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR, www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca), in conjunction with the province of Quebec and France, has launched a new funding program for innovative projects in Alzheimers disease research. CIHR will commit $600,000, Quebec $800,000 and France $1.1 million over the next three years to the program. A joint request for applications is currently being developed.
Acupuncture: some benefit for migraine, tension headache
September 8, 2009Two Cochrane reviews have concluded that acupuncture may be a nonpharmacological option as prophylaxis for patients with migraine or tension-type headaches.