bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Gini decomposition analysis of inequality in the Czech and Slovak Republics during the transition1
Authors: Garner Thesia I. , Terrell Katherine
Published: November 2007

Disposable income inequality, as measured by the Gini coefficient and using the Family Budget Survey data, increased very little, and by a similar amount, from 1989 to 1993 in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. This surprising result is examined with an analysis of changes in the channels of redistribution and Gini decomposition. We find that the sizeable increase in overall inequality due to changes in the wage earnings component is mitigated by changes in the tax and transfer components in both republics. As for the relative effects of government policies, changes in the transfer component contributed more than changes in the tax component to lowering the growth of inequality in the Czech Republic, while the reverse was true for Slovakia.
The governance of privatized firms: authority, reposnisbility and disclosure1
Authors: Klipper Miriam Z.
Published: November 2007

In any market economy, a fundamental question is how to make management accountable to shareholders and also to the requirements of law. This paper raises selective, critical issues of corporate governance that are particularly relevant to problems of the accountability of boards of directors to their shareholders in transition economies. These issues include the separation of ownership and control and the duties of directors; the need for disclosure given that separation; and the corporate charter as a vehicle for the direct participation of shareholders in governance. The paper suggests that one of the best models of corporate governance that transition economies can use is that employed by the leveraged‐buyout (LBO) and venture capital funds operating in the West. It argues that weaknesses in corporate governance may undermine the entire privatization process. Economics and law are too often seen as separate disciplines. In reality, they come together in transition economies perhaps with greater impact than elsewhere.
The Polish model of transformation and growth
Authors: Gomulka Stanislaw
Published: November 2007

This paper attempts to answer why growth in Poland, in the post‐1989 period, has been much faster than in other transition countries and why macroeconomic instability and a stagftation phenomenon, experienced by both Hungary 1995‐96) and the Czech Republic (1997‐98), have so far been successfully avoided in Poland. The paper discusses the roles in this dual success of specific initial conditions, of the model of transformation adopted, and of the choice of particular policies. The paper also discusses the reforms and polcies needed, and proposed in Poland under the Balcerowicz Plan Mark II, to increase domestic savings and sutain rapid growth in the longer term.
Housing demand in Russia: Rationing and reform1
Authors: Buckley Robert M. , Gurenko Eugene N.
Published: November 2007

In a number of articles Alexeev (1988a) and (1988b) shows that in the former Soviet Union the administrative rationing of housing was partially replaced by market forces acting through the second economy. This paper uses a much richer dataset to update his analysis for Russia to consider housing demand in 1992, the last year of the administrative allocation system. Almost immediately after the survey used for this analysis Russia began to privatize the housing stock as part of its movement towards a market economy. The questions we ask are: Were households really able to beat the system, as argued by Alexeev and, if so, were they still able to do so in 1992? Our answer to the second question is that in 1992 households were not able to beat the system. Income had no observable effect on housing demand. Furthermore, we do not think that the difference in our empirical results and Alexeev's is due only to the broader economic changes that occurred since his estimation or the richer dataset available to us. Indeed, our answer to the first question is that there are good reasons for arguing that Alexeev's estimates of the income elasticity of housing demand are biased upwards.
Voucher privatization: implications for macroeconomic policy1
Authors: Allen Chris , Smidkova Katerina
Published: November 2007

This paper analyses the impact of voucher privatization schemes on the behaviour of households and the consequences for macroeconomic policy. The stylized facts of the voucher privatization scheme are described for the Czech case. The consumption as well as portfolio decision of households during the voucher scheme are modelled within the framework of a consumption function and a system of demand functions for financial assets. The envelope theorem is used to modify the standard Almost Ideal Demand (AID) system. The empirical results are presented. The paper concludes that the interdependence between privatization and macroeconomic stability should be better understood by policy‐makers in transitional countries that are going to adopt a similar approach to privatization to that applied in the Czech Republic.
Managing capital flows in Poland, 1995‐98
Authors: Gomulka Stanislaw
Published: November 2007

Poland has been encouraging foreign direct investment, including the purchase of company shares, but has been attempting to limit the inflow of speculative short‐term capital. The policy so far has been effective without the use of any capital controls. The paper explains the policy and the reasons for its apparent success. The paper also discusses the evolving threats to macroeconomic stability of the Polish economy and policy responses to these threats.
Serine racemase expression and d‐serine content are developmentally regulated in neuronal ganglion cells of the retina
Authors: Dun Ying , Duplantier Jennifer , Roon Penny , Martin Pamela M. , Ganapathy Vadivel , Smith Sylvia B.
Published: November 2007

d‐Serine, the endogenous ligand for the glycine modulatory binding site of the NMDA receptor, and serine racemase, the enzyme that converts l‐serine to d‐serine, have been reported in vertebrate retina; initial reports suggested that localization was restricted to Müller glial cells. Recent reports, in which d‐serine and serine racemase were detected in neurons of the brain, prompted the present investigation of neuronal expression of d‐serine and serine racemase in retina and whether expression patterns were developmentally regulated. RT‐PCR, in situ hybridization, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunocytochemical methods were used to localize d‐serine and serine racemase in intact retina obtained from 1 to 3 day, 3 week, and 18 week mouse retinas and in primary ganglion cells harvested by immunopanning from neonatal mouse retina. Results of these analyses revealed robust expression of d‐serine and serine racemase in ganglion cells, both in intact retina and in cultured cells. The levels appear to be developmentally regulated with d‐serine levels being quite high in ganglion cells of neonatal retinas and decreasing rapidly postnatally. Serine racemase levels are also developmentally regulated, with high levels detected during the early postnatal period, but diminishing considerably in the mature retina. This represents the first report of neuronal expression of d‐serine and serine racemase in the vertebrate retina and suggests an important contribution of neuronal d‐serine during retinal development.
Highly polymorphic microsatellite loci in the rice‐ and maize‐infecting fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 1 IA
Authors: ZALA M. , MCDONALD B. A. , DE ASSIS J. BERNARDES , CIAMPI M. B. , STORARI M. , PEYER P. , CERESINI P. C.
Published: November 2007

Ten polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from the rice‐ and maize‐infecting Basidiomycete fungus Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group AG‐1 IA. All loci were polymorphic in two populations from Louisiana in USA and Venezuela. The total number of alleles per locus ranged from four to eight. All 10 loci were also useful for genotyping soybean‐infecting R. solani AG‐1 isolates from Brazil and USA. One locus, TC06, amplified across two other AG groups representing different species, showing species‐specific repeat length polymorphism. This marker suite will be used to determine the global population structure of this important pathogenic fungus.
Speech and language therapy students’ perceptions of learning in a university clinical setting
Authors: Brumfitt Shelagh , Freeman Margaret
Published: November 2007

A university speech and language therapy clinical learning experience was evaluated. A group of postgraduate pre‐registration speech and language therapy students were placed with a group of adults with severe acquired dysarthria for a period of 10 once‐weekly sessions with a lecturer‐therapist in charge. In order to examine the student perspective, a focus group was held before the commencement of the placement and a second group held at the end of the placement. The evaluation of the data from the focus groups demonstrated that it was possible to identify a range of factors which influenced learning in this context.
REPORT OF THE QUADRENNIAL MEETING LISBON, PORTUGAL, SEPTEMBER 7–12, 1953:REPORT OF THE SCIENTIFIC SESSION
Authors: Ledeboer Dr. B. Ch.
Published: November 2007

It is asserted by some that the cerebrum is the organ of mind, and that it is not a motor organ. Some think the cerebrum is to be likened lo an instrumentalist. and the motor centres to the instrument; one part is for ideas, and the other for movements. It may then be asked, How can discharge of part of a mental organ produce motor symptoms only? I say motor symptoms only, because, to give sharpness to the argument, I will suppose a case in which there is unilateral spasm without loss of consciousness. But of what “substance” can the organ of mind be composed, unless of processes representing movements and impressions: and how can the convolutions differ from the inferior centres, except as parts representing more intricate co‐ordinations of impressions and movements in time and space than they do? Are we to believe that the hemisphere is built on a plan fundamentally different from that of the motor tract? What can an “idea,” say of a ball, be, except a process representing certain impressions of surface and particular muscular adjustments? What is recollection, but a revivification of such processes which, in the past, have become part of the organism itself? What is delirium, except the disorderly revival of sensori‐motor processes received in the past? What is a mistake in a word, but a wrong movement, a chorea? Giddiness can be but the temporary loss or disorder of certain relations in space, chiefly made up of muscular feelings. Surely the conclusion is irresistible, that “mental” symptoms from disease of the hemisphere are fundamentally like hemiplegia, chorea, and convulsions, however specially different. They must all be due to lack, or to disorderly development, or sensori‐motor processes.
A SURVEY OF PUBLIC ATTITUDES TOWARD EPILEPSY
Authors: Caveness William
Published: November 2007

A concept of the present day public attitude toward epilepsy was gained through the quota sampling method of the American Institute of Public Opinion.

Knowledge of Epilepsy is widespread. Over half the national sample is acquainted with an epileptic. A similar proportion has seen a seizure. School and play participation is approved by over half, objected to by one‐quarter. A link with insanity is denied by over half, affirmed by thirteen percent. Employment is advocated by forty‐five per cent, objected to by thirty‐five per cent. Upon further analysis, the more enlightened opinion appears among the better educated and younger age groups; the opposite among the less informed, rural, and older age groups.
Ethchlorvynol in the Treatment of Mixed Grand and Petit Mai Epilepsy
Authors: CARTER C. H.
Published: November 2007

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

1. Ethchlorvynol was compared with previous medication in the treatment of 49 cases of mixed grand and petit mal epilepsy.

2. When ethchlorvynol was added to previous medication or substituted for it, complete or partial control of seizures was obtained with 73.5 per cent of the patients.

3. Although one‐fourth of these patients had a concomitant increase in frequency of either grand mal or petit mal, this increase was in most cases outweighed by the overall decrease in frequency.

4. With 26.5 per cent of the patients, there was a high average increase in seizure frequency. In ordinary clinical practice, use of the drug should be discontinued in the cases where seizures increase.

5. The observations made in this study indicate the value of ethchlorvynol in the management of severe and refractory cases of mixed grand and petit mal epilepsy.
Correlation of Electroencephalographic Findings with Crash Rate of Military Jet Pilots
Authors: LENNOX‐BUCHTHAL M. , BUCHTHAL F. , ROSENFALCK P.
Published: November 2007

1. Electroencephalograms were obtained on 576 candidates who were admitted to the Royal Danish Air Force for jet pilot training in 1951 through 1955.

2. There was a correlation with the EEG in that the crash rate was three times higher in pilots with marked and paroxysmal EEG abnormalities than in those with normal or slightly abnormal EEGs (P= 0.05).

3. The correlation was somewhat closer when only those crashes were considered which were attributed to pilot error. EEGs rendered abnormal only during photic stimulation were as significant as those with marked or paroxysmal abnormalities at rest or during hyperventilation.

4. As a consequence of these findings an EEG is now obtained for all applicants for jet pilot training in the Royal Danish Air Force and those with marked or paroxysmal abnormalities at rest, during hyperventilation or during photic stimulation are rejected without regard to the clinical findings.

5. There was no correlation between the EEG and the dismissal rate of trainees, most of whom were dismissed for inaptitude for flying.

1. On a pris des électroencéphalogrammes chez 576 candidats admis à l'entraînement des pilotes d'avions à réaction à la Royal Danish Air Force de 1951 à 1955.

2. Il y a eu corrélation entre les ÉEG en ce sens que le taux des accidents était trios fois plus élevé quand le pilote présentait dans son ÉEG des anomalies marquées et paroxysmales, que lorsque les ÉEG étaient normaux ou légèrement anormaux (P= 0.05).

3. La corrélation était quelque peu accusée quand on ne considérait que les accidents attribués à une erreur du pilote. Les ÉEG ne présentant une anomalie que pendant une stimulation lumineuse avaient autant d'importance que ceux démontrant des anomalies marquées ou paroxysmales pendant un repos ou pendant une hyperventilation.

4. En conséquence de ces découvertes, on prend maintenant l'ÉEG de tous les aspirants entraînés à la Royal Danish Air Force comme pilotes d'avions à réaction. Ceux qui présentent des anomalies marquées ou paroxysmales au repos, ou pendant l'hyperventilation ou une stimulation lumineuse sont refusés sans égard pour les constatations cliniques.

5. Il n'y a pas une corrélation entre l'ÉEG et le taux de ceux qui n'ont pas été admis à l'entraînement; la plupart d'entre eux ont été refusés par suite d'inaptitude à l'aviation.
Experiments with a New Barbituric Acid Derivative as an Antiepileptic
Authors: MELIN KARL‐AXEL
Published: November 2007

In summary it can be stated that neopentylallyl barbituric acid (nevental), which resembles phenobarbitone to a high degree but whose side‐effects are considerably less disturbing because it is faster metabolized, has been found in animal experiments and clinical EEG experiments to prevent seizures induced by leptazol.

Substitution of the phenobarbitone therapy in epileptics by nevental in the same or up to 100% higher doses has, however, not yielded satisfactory results in clinical experiments.

With regard to the fact that the drug has been found to have an anticonvulsive effect, however, it may be used in such cases where one wished to increase the protection against seizures of an epileptic at times of temporary stress without sedating the patient too much. The absence of side‐effects and the rapid breakdown makes the compound suitable as an additional drug, e.g. when a patient suffering from convulsive seizures has to make a long journey or is otherwise exposed to temporary stress. In such cases nevental can be tried instead of increasing the phénobarbital medication already given.

On peut dire en résumé que l'acide barbiturique neopentylallyl (nevental), lequel ressemble fortement au phénobarbitone mais dont les effets secondaires causent beaucoup moins de troubles parce qu'il est plus rapidement métabolisé, s'est montré, dans des expériences d'EEG cliniques et sur l'animal, capable de prévenir les crises provoquées par le leptazol.

Toutefois, dans le traitement des épileptiques, le remplacement du phénobarbitone par le nevental en mêmes doses ou en doses jusqu'à 100% plus élevées n'a pas donné de résultats satisfaisants dans les expériences cliniques.

Le médicament s'étant toutefois révélé avoir une influence anticonvulsive, on peut l'employer dans des cas où il est souhaitable d'augmenter la prévention des crises d'un épileptique, quand il est exposéà une tension temporaire, sans le calmer trop fortement. L'absence d'effet secondaire et la rapide dépression obtenue rendent le composé applicable en tant que médicament additionnel, p.e. quand le malade menacé de crises convulsives doit faire un long voyage, ou quand il est exposé d'une façon quelconque à une tension temporaire. On peut, dans ces cas, essayer le nevental au lieu d'augmenter la thérapie déjà appliquée par le phénobarbital.
Cortico‐Spinal Mechanisms in Experimental Seizures
Authors: MERLIS JEROME K. , MISRAHY GEORGE A.
Published: November 2007

1. In the cat or monkey, given subconvulsant dosage of metrazol, a unilateral lesion of one pyramid in the medulla results in a marked depression of the myoclonic jerks of the contralateral extremities, as evoked by single photic or acoustic stimuli. There is a similar depression during generalized seizure evoked by repetitive afferent stimulation or occurring spontaneously with increased metrazol.

2. After bilateral pyramid lesions in the cat, the myoclonic responses in the distal portions of the extremities, especially the forelegs, become extensor, rather than flexor as in the intact animal.

3. Ablation of motor cortex ipsilateral to a unilateral pyramid lesion produces only a mild increase of the deficit.

4. The discharge in the pyramidal tract follows within 1–5 msec after the onset of the evoked discharge in the motor cortex, but usually reaches its peak before the peak of the cortex response.

5. The data indicate that the motor cortex participates directly in evoked myoclonic and generalized seizures and in spontaneous seizures. It is suggested that this influence is mediated largely, but not exclusively, through the corticospinal pathway exerting a facilitatory action on flexor mechanisms of the spinal cord.

1. Quand un dosage subconvulsif de métrazol a été administréà un chat ou à un singe, une lésion unilatérale d'une pyramide dans la moelle provoque sur les réflexes myocloniques des extrémités contra‐latérales une dépression marquée du genre de celle que l'on connaît lors de simples stimulations lumineuses ou acoustiques. Une dépression semblable se produit pendant une brusque attaque généralisée provoquée par stimulation afférente réitérée, ou survenant spontanément lors d'augmentation du métrazol.

2. Des lésions pyramidales bilatérales sont suivies chez le chat de réactions myocloniques de la partie distale des extrémités et spécialement des pattes antérieures qui deviennent extensives plutôt que flexibles, ainsi qu'il en est chez l'animal intact.

3. L'ablation du cortex motorique ipsilatéral vers une lésion pyramidale unilatérale ne produit qu'une légère augmentation de la déficience.

4. La décharge qui s'opère dans le tract pyramidal survient environ 1–5 msec après le début de la décharge provoquée dans le cortex moteur, mais il atteint généralement son sommet avant celui de la réaction du cortex.

5. Les données indiquent que le cortex moteur participe directement au spasme myoclonique provoqué et aux brusques attaques généralisées, ainsi qu'aux brusques attaques spontanées. L'auteur pense que cette influence s'exerce peut‐être largement, non pas exclusivement toutefois, par la voie corticorachidienne dont l'action facilite les mécanismes de flexion de la moelle épinière.
The Epileptic Spike
Authors: WARD ARTHUR A.
Published: November 2007

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

1. Some of the properties of epileptic neurons are discussed. It would appear that the major abnormalities reside in the dendrites. The epileptic spike is one consequence of this dendritic abnormality.

2. There is a variable relationship between dendritic and cell body discharge.

3. The propagation of the epileptic spike to normal cortex accounts for certain problems of mapping of the epileptogenic focus.

RÉSUMÉ ET CONCLUSIONS

I. Discussion de quelques‐unes des propriétés de neurones épileptiques. Il est probable que la plupart des anomalies résident dans les dendrites. La pointe épileptique est une conséquence de l'anomalie dendritique.

2. Il existe une relation variable entre la décharge dendritique et celle du corps cellulaire.

3. La propagation de la pointe épileptique au cortex normal explique certains problèmes de la cartographie du centre épileptogène.
Cholinergic Mechanism in Subcortical Mirror Focus and Effects of Topical Application of γ‐Aminobutyric Acid and Acetylcholine
Authors: GUERRERO‐FIGUEROA R. , VERSTER F. DE BALBIAN , BARROS A. , HEATH R. G.
Published: November 2007

The effects of GABA and acetylcholine were studied in cats with subcortical epileptogenic foci in the right hippocampus and secondary epileptiform activity in the homologous region of the opposite hemisphere (the mirror focus). Topical application of acetylcholine produced: (1) activation of the normally discharging tissues of both the primary and secondary foci; (2) acceleration of epileptiform activity in the mirror focus over that in the region where alumina was injected; and (3) increased paroxysmal susceptibility. Topical application of GABA resulted in: (1) inhibition of spontaneous epileptiform activity in the primary and secondary foci of rhinencephalic structures characterized by long duration; and (2) diminution in amplitude of the surface‐negative wave of the evoked responses obtained from rhinencephalic structures elicited by stimulation of the olfactory bulb.

Les influences du GABA et de l'ACh ont étéétudiés chez des chats présentant des foyers épileptogènes sous‐corticaux dans l'hippocampe droit et une activitéépileptogène secondaire dans la région homologue de l'hémisphère opposé (le foyer en miroir). Une application locale de l'ACh a produit (1) une activation des décharges des deux foyers primaire et secondaire, (2) une accélération de l'activitéépileptiforme dans le foyer en miroir, par rapport à celle dans la région où l'aluminium a été injecté, (3) une augmentation de la susceptibilité paroxysmale. Une application topique de GABA a eu pour résultat (1) une inhibition de longue durée de l'activitéépileptique focale spontanée dans les foyers primaire et secondaire des structures rhinencéphaliques, et (2) une diminution d'amplitude de l'onde surface‐négative des réponses évoquées dans les structures rhinencéphaliques par la stimulation du bulbe olfactif.
Cognitive Deficits and Lateral Brain Dysfunction in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: DENNERLL R. D.
Published: November 2007

A survey of the literature, primarily over the past 10 years, was reported for studies of lateral dysfunction related to deficits from various cognitive tests in neurological populations. Studies of temporal lobe seizure patients were also reviewed, along with previous results classifying individual patients on the basis of psychological test results.

A recent study by the author was reported making use of the Wechsler scales in a broad out‐patient sample of patients with psychomotor seizures. Verbal‐nonverbal relationships to lateral dysfunction were found, similar to that previously demonstrated in other populations. It was also demonstrated that these patients could be identified with considerable accuracy by the use of regression‐weighted Wechsler scores

Revue de la littérature, principalement des dix dernières années, concernant les études des dysfonctions latérales liées à des déficits dans divers tests cognitifs chez des malades neurologiques. L'auteur passe aussi en revue les études de malades ayant des crises du lobe temporal avec des résultats antérieurs classant les patients d'après les tests psychologiques.

L'auteur expose une récente étude personnelle utilisant l'échelle de Wechsler dans un large échantillonage de malades ambulatoires avec crises psychomotrices. On trouve des relations entre verbal et non verbal liées à la dysfonction latérale, semblables à celles démontrées antérieurement dans d'autres populations. II démontre également que ces malades peuvent être identifiés avec une précision considérable en utilisant les notes du Wechsler pondérées par la méthode de régression.
Acid‐Base, Electrolyte, and Amino‐Acid Metabolism in Children with Petit Mai. Etiologic Significance and Modification by Anticonvulsant Drugs and the Ketogenic Diet
Authors: MILLICHAP J. G. , JONES J. D.
Published: November 2007

The acid‐base, electrolyte, and amino‐acid metabolism in 2 children with petit mal seizures has been investigated by means of controlled balance studies, and modifications of the metabolism and seizure‐frequency induced by various anticonvulsant therapies have been evaluated.

The metabolism of patients with petit mal before treatment was characterized by a high level of pCO2, a positive or negative balance of electrolytes, and some variations from normal in the excretion and serum levels of certain amino‐acids.

The ketogenic diet induced a low pH, a negative balance of electrolytes and an elevation of serum leucine whereas therapy with corticotropin, trimethadione, methsuximide and mephobarbital was correlated with a high pH and a positive balance of electrolytes.

Control of petit mal seizures was obtained in response to all therapies and showed no constant correlation with acid‐base and electrolyte metabolism.

The significance of amino‐acid metabolism in petit mal remains to be determined.

Le métabolisme acido‐basique, électrolytique et des amino‐acides chezdeux enfants ayant des crises petit mal a été exploré par les moyens de bilans controlés, et les modifications du métabolisme et de la fréquence des crises par les thérapeutiques anticonvulsivantes variées ont étéévaluées.

Le métabolisme des patients ayant un petit mal avant le traitement a été caractérisé par un taux élevé du pCO2, un bilan positif ou négatif des électrolytes et quelques variations anormales dans l'excrétion et les taux sériques de certains aminoacides.

La diète cétogène a donné un pH bas, un bilan négatif des électrolytes et une élévation de la leucine sérique, tandis que la thérapeutique avec la corticotrophine, la trimétadione, la méthsuximide, et le méphobarbital était en corrélation avec un pH élevé et un bilan positif des électrolytes.

Le controle des crises petit mal a été obtenu en réponse à toutes les thérapeutiques et n'a pas montré de constante corrélation avec le métabolisme acido‐basique et électrolytique.

La signification du métabolisme des amino‐acides dans le petit mal reste àêtre déterminé.
The Problem of Psychosis in Psychomotor Temporal Lobe Epileptics
Authors: GLASER G. H.
Published: November 2007

Certain disorders in cerebral function have been described in patients with psychomotor‐temporal lobe epilepsy which predispose to interictal psychosis. These are predominantly a disturbance of thought processes with loss of trains of associations, word‐finding difficulties and fluctuations in the accuracy of perceptions. The psychotic states which may develop, usually after the seizure disorder had existed for several years, include inappropriate, bizarre behavior, delusions and paranoid and depressive reactions, hallucinatory activity, denial and excessive religiosity. The continued efforts to be in contact with reality and lack of autism, archaic thinking, withdrawal, or peculiar symbolism differentiate these reactions from a schizophrenic process. Electroencephalographic correlates with interictal psychotic episodes are only occasional and then usually consist of more intense focal temporal or bilateral paroxysmal discharge. At times, however, the electroencephalogram improves or becomes normal during a psychotic state. However, it is possible that these interictal personality and behavior disturbances may be due at least in part to subictal cerebral excitation.

Description de quelques troubles de la fonction cérébrate chez des malades atteints d'épilepsie psychomotrice‐temporale qui prédisposent à une psychose interictale. Ceci est principalement un trouble des procès de la pensée avec perte de l'enchaînement des associations, difficultés à trouver les mots et fluctuations dans l'exactitude des perceptions. Les états de psychose, se développant généralement quand l'épilepsie date de plusieurs années, comprennent un comportement inapproprié et bizarre, des illusions et des réactions paranoïaques et dépressives, une activité hallucinatoire, une religiosité excessive et du reniement. Des efforts continus pour être en contact avec la réalité et un manque d'autisme, d'une façon de penser achaïque, de la retraite ou d'un symbolisme singulier différencient ces réactions d'un procès schizophrénique. Des corrélations électroencéphalographiques avec des épisodes de psychose interictale ne sont qu'occasionnelles et consistent habituellement en une décharge focaletemporale ou paroxysmale bilatérale plus intense. Parfois, cependant, l'électroencé‐phalogramme s'améliore ou devient normal pendant un état de psychose. Il est toutefois possible que cette personnalité interictale et ces troubles du comportement soient dus, pour une part tout au moins, à une excitation cérébrale subictale.
The Use of Ospolot in the Treatment of Epilepsy
Authors: GORDON NEIL
Published: November 2007

Details are given of the effect of Ospolot on the control of seizures in 50 patients with intractable epilepsy. Reports on its use in the treatment of epilepsy are reviewed. In none of these studies were control groups of patients used so that the results must be interprétéd with caution. The earlier papers suggested that Ospolot was a very successful addition to current anti‐convulsant therapy but the more recent ones have been more cautious, the consensus of opinion being that it was no better than other drugs but might be helpful in the treatment of temporal lobe epilepsy and possibly of myoclonic seizures when alternative therapy had failed. This was supported by the present trial, there being no evidence that Opsolot was superior to other anticonvulsants in the treatment of chronic epilepsy. When the Ospolot was given in combination with other drugs improvement occasionally occurred, particularly if the epilepsy was the result of an acquired cérébral lesion as in temporal lobe seizures.

Détails sur l'action de l'Ospolot dans le contrôle des attaques chez 50 épileptiques rebelles au traitement. Aperçu des comptes‐rendus relatifs à son emploi dans le traitement de l'épilepsie. Il n'y a eu dans ces études aucun groupe de malades témoins de sorte que les résultats doivent être interprétés avec prudence. Des publications plus anciennes avaient donné l'impression que l'Ospolot était un trés heureux complément de la thérapie anti‐convulsive, mais des données plus récentes sont plus réservées, le consensus de l'opinion ayant démontré que cette substance n'est pas meilleure que les autres mais qu'elle peut être utile dans le traitement de l'épilepsie du lobe temporal et, peut‐être, dans celui des crises myocloniques lorsque une thérapie alternative reste sans succès. Cette opinion a été appuyée par les recherches en question puisqu'elles n'ont point démontré l'évidence d'une supériorité de l'Ospolot sur les autres anti‐convulsifs dans le traitement de l'épilepsie chronique. Quand l'Ospolot a été administré en combinaison avec d'autres médicaments il y a eu parfois de l'amélioration, en particulier quand l'épilepsie provenait d'une lésion cérébrale acquise comme par exemple dans des crises du lobe temporal.
Haematological Aspects during Treatment with Anticonvulsant Drugs
Authors: VRIES S. I. DE
Published: November 2007

The literature comprises many reports on haematological complications during anticonvulsant medication. Systematic haematological surveillance of epileptic patients is considered necessary to prevent these complications. This paper discusses ways and means to ensure maximum efficacy of this surveillance in clinics without a specialized haematological laboratory. A description is also given of methods suitable for supplementing and extending the routine examinations.

La littérature comporte de nombreuses observations de complications hématologiques au cours des traitements anticonvulsivants. La surveillance hématologique des épileptiques est done nécessaire pour prévenir ces complications. Ce travail discute les moyens qui assurent une efficacité maximum à pareille surveillance dans les cliniques qui ne comportent pas un laboratoire spécialisé en hématologic Il fournit également une description des méthodes convenables pour compléter et élargir les examens de routine.
The EEG in Older and Younger Adult Groups with Convulsive Disorder
Authors: TAKAHASHI T. , NIEDERMEYER E. , KNOTT J. R.
Published: November 2007

EEG data, together with clinical findings, are presented in two groups of epileptics of widely differing age: 177 patients older than 51 years, and 177 patients between the ages of 21 and 40.

Evidence of organic etiology of seizures (vascular disorders, brain tumors and degenerative diseases) was more frequently seen in the older group; seizures of unknown etiology were more common in the younger group.

A greater incidence of focal EEG abnormality was found in older adults; a greater incidence of generalized abnormality was observed in the younger group. These findings are congruent with the relative incidence of known vs. unknown etiology in the two groups, as well as with the relative incidence of focal vs. generalized seizures.

In both the younger and the older groups, the brain area most often implicated was the temporal region, the left about twice as often as the right.

Les auteurs présentent les données cliniques et électroencéphalographiques recueillies dans deux groupes d'épileptiques adultes d'âge très différent: 177 sujets âgés de plus de 51 ans et 177 sujets d'âge compris entre 21 et 40 ans.

Les signes d'étiologie organique (maladies vasculaires, tumeurs cérébrales et maladies dégénératives) sont plus souvent obervés dans le groupe des plus âgés. Les crises d'étiologie inconnue sont plus fréquentes dans le groupe des plus jeunes.

La proportion des anomalies E.E.G. focalisées est plus grande dans le groupe des plus âgés tandis que des anomalies généralisées sont plus fréquentes chez les plus jeunes. Ces constatations s'accordent bien avec la fréquence relative des étiologies connues et inconnues et des crises focales et généralisées dans les deux groupes.

Dans les deux groupes, c'est la région temporale qui est le plus souvent impliquée, du côté gauche deux fois plus qu'à droite.
Aggressiveness in Temporal Lobe Epileptics and its Relation to Cerebral Dysfunction and Environmental Factors
Authors: SERAFETINIDES E. A.
Published: November 2007

Overt physical aggressiveness was found to be present in 36 out of 100 consecutive temporal lobe epileptics selected for a unilateral anterior temporal lobectomy. Most of the aggressive patients were young boys with an early age of onset of epilepsy and a left (dominant) temporal lobe focus. The role of impaired learning in the pathogenesis of aggression was discussed and the need for a more intensive study of the aggressive outburst itself—preferably with electrical methods—was stressed.

Une agressivité manifeste a été rencontrée chez 36% des sujets souffrant d'une épilepsie du lobe temporal qui avaient été sélectionnés en vue d'une lobectomíe temporale antérieure. La plupart des sujets agressifs étaient de jeunes enfants dont les crises étaient apparues très précocement et qui présentaient un foyer temporal gauche (sur l'hémisphère dominant). L'auteur discute le rôle joué par les difficultés d'apprentissage dans la pathogénie de l'agressivité et il insiste sur la nécessité d'étudier avec plus de détails les paroxysmes agressifs proprement dits, de préférence avec l'aide d'enregistrements électrographiques.
The Influence of γ‐Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) on Seizure Potentials
Authors: FEHÉR O. , HALÁSZ P. , MECHLER F.
Published: November 2007

The effect of GABA on strychnine potentials recorded from the gyrus ectosylvius of cats anaesthetised with chloralose—urethane was examined.

It was shown that in the presence of GABA, these potentials, as recorded at the surface of the cortex, were reversed in polarity, this finding applying to both components of the wave. If the cortex was explored with a depth electrode, it was found that GABA applied to the surface of the cortex did not affect the strychnine potentials.

Trichloracetic acid, 10%, applied to the surface of the cortex, produced the same effect on the strychnine potentials as GABA.

The most likely explanation of the influence of GABA seems to be that it blocks both excitatory and inhibitory, i.e. depolarizing and hyperpolarizing, synapses on the surface of the cortex, while neuronal activity persists in the deeper layers.

The origin of the second, surface‐positive, component of the strychnine potential is also discussed.

L'effet du GABA sur les potentiels strychniniques du gyrus ecto‐sylvius du chat anesthésié par le chloralose‐uréthane est étudié.

Il est démontré que, en présence de GABA, les deux composants du potentiel strychninique enregistréà la surface du cortex sont inversés en polarité. Par contre, des enregistrements intra‐corticaux ne montrent pas cette inversion quand le GABA a été appliqué en surface.

L'acide trichloracétique à 10% appliquéà la surface du cortex produit le même effet que le GABA sur les potentiels strychniniques.

L'explication la plus probable de l'effet du GABA sur les potentiels strychniniques consiste a admettre que ce produit bloque à la fois les synapses excitatratices et inhibitrices (c'est à dire dépolarisantes et hyperpolarisantes) tandis que l'activité neuronique demeure inchangée dans les couches plus profondes.

L'origine de la seconde composante, surface positive, du potentiel strychninique est également discutée.
Psychotic Episodes in Zarondan Treatment Effects and Side‐effects in 105 Patients
Authors: FISCHER M. , KORSKJAER G. , PEDERSEN E.
Published: November 2007

The effects and side‐effects of treatment with Zarondan in 105 patients with epilepsy are described. In 3 of these patients, five psychotic attacks occurred in close relation to Zarondan treatment. The case histories of, the 3 patients are reported, with special reference to the type of psychosis involved.

It is emphasised that the five psychotic episodes were confined to adults, all of whom had previously shown signs of a brittle psychic constitution, but who had not previously manifested psychotic phases.

Les effets désirables et indesirables du traitement par le Zarondan ont été appréciés chez 105 sujets épileptiques. Chez trois de ces sujets, 5 épisodes psychotiques sont survenus en relation étroite avec le traitement. L'histoire de ces 3 patients est rappelée en détail, notamment en ce qui concerne le type de psychose qu'ils ont présenté: il est remarquable que les 3 sujets en cause étaient tous adultes et avaient préalablement présenté des signes d'une constitution psychique fragile mais sans épisodes psychiques caractérisés.
Medical and Social Services for the Epileptic Patient in The Netherlands
Authors: HAAS A. M. LORENTZ DE
Published: November 2007

A brief review is presented of the treatment and care of epileptic patients in the Netherlands. The financial backgrounds are discussed. A number of social aspects receive special detailed attention.

On a présenté un compte‐rendu sommaire du traitement et des soins des épileptiques aux Pays‐Bas. La situation financière est discutée. Quelques aspects d'ordre social ont reçu une attention spéciale.
Arrest of Seizure Activity Biochemical Aspects and Pharmacology
Authors: TOWER D. B.
Published: November 2007

Biochemical or pharmacological mechanisms which promote arrest of seizure activity are discussed in relation to two general neurophysiological processes: excessive depolarization with failure of spike generation; or, alternatively, relative hyper‐polarization with membrane stabilization. Several possible mechanisms may be envisaged: metabolic “failure”; an analogy to spreading cortical depression; membrane hydration with associated spatial and conformational changes; agents which function as membrane “labilizers” and “stabilizers”; and action of inhibitory transmitters. Reasons for favoring mechanisms which are intimately correlated with the physico‐chemical state and behavior of the neural conducting membrane are presented.

RÉASUMÉA

Les meAcanismes biochimiques et pharmacologiques qui preAsident aG l'arreCt de l'activiteA critique eApileptique sont discuteAs en fonction de deux processus neurophysiologiques geAneAraux: une deApolarisation excessive avec deAfaut de production de pointes; ou, alternativement, une hyperpolarisation relative avec stabilisation de la membrane. Plusieurs meAcanismes possibles sont envisageAs: insuffisance meAtabolique; pheAnomeGne analogue aG la “spreading cortical depression”; hydratation de la membrane avec modifications associeAes; agents jouant le roCle de “stabilisateur” ou de “labilisateur” de la membrane; substances inhibant la transmission. Les auteurs exposent les raisons qui leur font preAfeArer les meAcanismes qui sont intimement associeAs aG l'eAtat physicochimique et au comportement de la membrane de conduction nerveuse.
Problems associated with Studies of Electrolyte Metabolism in Normal and Epileptogenic Cerebral Cortex
Authors: TOWER D. B.
Published: November 2007

The general problems associated with investigations of fluid and electrolyte distribution and compartmentation in cerebral tissues have been discussed. Three specific aspects have been emphasized: (1) the variation of cortical fluid spaces in vivo as a function of species brain size; (2) the artifacts which may be introduced during preparation of samples for electron microscopy and hence may influence morphological interpretations of cortical fluid compartmentation; (3) the complexity and dynamic nature of fluid compartmentation in cortical samples incubated in vitro. The importance of these aspects as factors contributing to current confusion in the field and their relevance to epileptogenic mechanisms are briefly considered.

RÉASUMÉA

Les probleGmes geAneAraux associeAs aux recherches sur la distribution et le ‘compartimentage’ des liquides et eAlectrolytes dans les tissus ceAreAbraux sont discuteAs. Trois aspects speAcifiques sont mis en relief: (1) la variation des espaces liquidiens corticaux in vivo en fonction du volume du cerveau de l'espeGce consideAreAe; (2) les arteAfacts qui peuvent eCtre introduits pendant la preAparation des eAchantillons pour la microscopie eAlectronique et qui peuvent influencer les interpreAtations morphologiques du ‘compartimentage’ liquidien cortical; (3) la complexiteA et la nature dynamique du ‘compartimentage’ liquidien dans les eAchantillons corticaux incubeAs in vitro.

L'importance de ces aspects en tant que facteurs contribuant aG la confusion des esprits dans ce domaine et leur rapport avec les meAcanismes eApileptogeGnes sont brieGvement envisageAs.
Allergy and Epilepsy
Authors: STEVENS H.
Published: November 2007

As observed by Foster Kennedy 40 years ago, cases of allergic epilepsy are “dramatic and rare”. But perhaps less rare than he supposed, and now increasing for reasons outlined. A re‐examination of the role of allergy in epileptogenesis is currently warranted.

Among the infinite causes of epilepsy, allergic reaction is one which under certain circumstances should be sought for. Laboratory tests may be helpful, but a comprehensive and carefully directed history is the most valid source of data.

Some cases of late epilepsy will be found to be due to allergic epilepsy, represented by a single seizure only. But the severity of allergic reactions of the central nervous system varies through a broad range, and reflects a variety of neuropathological processes, some progressive and some even fatal. A condensed classification of possible clinical patterns is offered.

These six cases again demonstrate the varied etiologies of epilepsy, and the need for the clinicians' relentless pursuit of possible causative or precipitating factors in the individual patient. They demonstrate also compelling reasons for an individualized therapeutic program. A stereotyped diagnostic or therapeutic approach to convulsive disorders is pre‐doomed to failure.

RÉASUMÉA

Comme Foster Kennedy le faisait remarquer il y a 40 ans, les cas d'epilepsie allergique sont ‘rares et dramatiques’. Il est cependant possible qu'ils soient moins rares qu'on ne le suppose et peut‐eCtre meCme que leur freAquence augmente actuellement. Il est done justifieA d'envisager aG nouveau le roCle de l'allergie en matieGre d'eApilepsie.

Parmi les causes infinies d'eApilepsie, la reAaction allergique est une de celles auxquel‐les il faut penser dans certaines circonstances. Les tests de laboratoire peuvent eCtre utiles en la matieGre, mais un interrogatoire compreAhensif et bien dirigeA demeure la source d'information la plus valide.

Quelques cas d'eApilepsie tardive seront ainsi reconnus comme reAsultant d'une eApilepsie allergique repreAsenteAe par une crise unique. Mais la graviteA des reAactions allergiques du systeGme nerveux central varie treGs largement et reApond aG une grande varieAteA de processus neuropathologiques dont quelques uns sont progressifs et d'autres eAventuellement fatals. Une classification reAsumeAe des aspects cliniques possibles est preAsenteAe.

Ces six cas fournissent aussi une preuve des eAtiologies varieAes de l'eApilepsie et de la neAcessiteA pour le clinicien de continuer aG rechercher les facteurs responsables et precipitants chez certains patients en particulier; ils deAmontrent encore la neAcessiteA d'un programme theArapeutique individualiseA. Une approche steAreAotypeAe du diagnostic et du traitement des manifestations convulsives serait en effet destineeA aG l'eAchec.