The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine has published a new issue focusing on the latest research and treatment developments in spinal cord injury. The issue includes articles on various topics such as botulinum toxin use, urology, neuroscience, rehabilitation psychology, and more.
A Kessler Foundation researcher has reported pilot results from a virtual reality executive function task, distinguishing between participants with multiple sclerosis (MS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and healthy controls. The study assessed executive functions such as planning and problem-solving in a virtual office setting.
Dr. Pilkar will analyze walking patterns and response levels to FES interventions using 3D Motion Capture System and Electromyogram (EMG) System.
The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine has published a special issue on assistive technology, featuring research on exoskeletal-assisted ambulation, virtual reality-based simulators, and robotic wheelchairs. The issue covers various topics to improve the lives of people with spinal cord injuries.
The Kessler Foundation received significant funding for research on spinal cord injuries, including studies on assisted walking with Ekso and the impact of aging on cardiovascular health. The grants will help advance therapies that improve function and quality of life for individuals with SCI.
A study by Kessler Foundation researchers found that brain reserve and cognitive reserve can protect against cognitive decline in multiple sclerosis patients. The research used imaging studies to estimate brain reserve and disease burden in 62 patients, as well as measuring early-life cognitive leisure as a source of cognitive reserve.
Scientists at Kessler Foundation received grants to investigate emotional processing deficits in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the effects of aerobic exercise on memory impairments. The studies aim to develop innovative rehabilitation interventions using objective data from brain imaging.
Kessler Foundation participates in a multi-site NIH study to develop the TBI-CareQOL, a new tool to assess quality of life for caregivers of persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to identify challenges faced by these caregivers and inform treatment and resource needs.
A $40,000 grant funded by The Consortium of MS Centers will support a 1-year pilot study investigating an emotional processing training program for individuals with multiple sclerosis. The study aims to improve emotional processing abilities and overall quality of life.
A $619,618 grant has been awarded by the National MS Society to Dr. Victoria Leavitt to study predictors of memory decline in Multiple Sclerosis using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The study aims to identify a brain marker that can predict which patients are at risk of memory decline, enabling early interventions.
Dr. Nancy Chiaravalloti, a leading expert in cognitive rehabilitation research, has been awarded a $43,494 grant to study the efficacy of a new treatment for memory loss in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The one-year pilot project aims to improve learning and memory skills of individuals with MS.
Dr. Nancy Chiaravalloti is honored for her achievements in cognitive rehabilitation and TBI research, particularly in memory retraining and processing speed. She has made significant contributions to improving quality of life for individuals with TBI.
Researchers from Kessler Foundation share progress in rehabilitation research for individuals with multiple sclerosis and stroke, highlighting potential benefits of pharmacological agents, brain stimulation, and aerobic exercise. These studies investigate cognitive complications and explore strategies to improve outcomes.
A study published in Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation found that patients with left-sided brain injuries are more susceptible to hospital-acquired infections. The research suggests that optimizing the balance between left and right brain activity may improve infection resistance and lead to novel interventions.
The Collaboration on Mobility Training (COMIT) study aims to maximize independence among wheelchair users with spinal cord injury. The five-year study will examine the impact of web-based training and group sessions on wheelchair skills and maintenance.
The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine published the final phase of the SCIRehab Project, which investigated inpatient rehabilitation practices for acute spinal cord injury. The study found associations between interventions and patient outcomes, informing clinical decision-making and guiding clinicians in selecting interventions.
The Northern New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury System (NNJTBIS) aims to improve quality of life for individuals with traumatic brain injury through a comprehensive system of care, research, education, and dissemination. The five-year grant funds cognitive rehabilitation strategies to help manage memory loss after TBI.
Researchers aim to build cognitive reserve in MS patients by engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, such as reading and puzzle-solving, using iPads. The one-year pilot project will examine improvements in cognitive performance and correlations with changes in neural networks.
Kessler Foundation marks 20 years of promoting inclusivity and accessibility through rehabilitation research and training. Researchers collaborate with global partners to develop innovative interventions for people with disabilities, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and brain injury.
Dr. John DeLuca, Vice President for Research and Training at Kessler Foundation, is recognized for his pioneering work in cognitive rehabilitation and MS research. He aims to restore and maintain cognitive function through innovative methods and collaborations with international partners.
A team of US and Indian scientists identify three emerging trends contributing to the public health problem: traumatic brain injury, age-related dementia, and stroke. The researchers outline measures to stem its growth, including enforcement of traffic safety measures and training of more professionals in neurorehabilitative care.
Kessler Foundation stroke expert Dr. A.M. Barrett has received a $145,000 grant from the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey to study hidden disabilities after stroke. The research aims to improve care for stroke survivors and their healthcare providers in Newark, NJ.
Researchers will administer prism adaptation therapy for 2 weeks and measure functional changes as well as home and community outcomes at 3 and 6 months later. The goal is to establish clinical guidelines, increase detection and management of spatial neglect, and optimize independence and engagement in the home and community for stroke...
Amanda Botticello received a $736,216 NIH grant to investigate the role of environmental factors in rehabilitation outcomes for spinal cord injury. The study aims to identify community-level factors that threaten physical, psychological, and social gains during rehabilitation.
Guang Yue's 2-year NIH grant aims to investigate the impact of chemotherapy on white matter integrity and corresponding neurophysiological function. The study will explore structural changes in the corpus callosum and corticospinal tract, shedding light on the underlying causes of neurological side effects.
Abhijit Das, a postdoctoral fellow at Kessler Foundation, was named to the NIDRR-sponsored ARRT Young Investigators Panel for his research on cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis. His work aims to convert knowledge about brain networks underlying fatigue into treatment protocols using non-invasive brain stimulation.
Researchers Dr. Helen Genova and Starla Weaver received three-year grants to investigate cognitive function after traumatic brain injury. They aim to develop strategies for rehabilitation using neuroimaging techniques like diffusion tensor imaging.
Jelana Stojanovic, a Kessler Foundation postdoctoral fellow, received the Research Award for Best Poster at the 2012 MS Centers Meeting. Her study used fNIRS to evaluate working memory performance in people with and without multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Chiaravalloti discusses the potential of functional MRI and behavioral therapies to target cognitive deficits in MS patients. Research suggests that these approaches may be effective in improving learning, memory, and processing speed in individuals with MS.
A clinical trial of Ekso-assisted walking in 13 patients with a range of spinal cord injuries found positive results, including improved gait and balance, increased oxygen consumption, and reduced cardiovascular responses. Long-term studies are needed to fully evaluate the effects.
Researchers are testing the upgraded Ekso, a wearable robotic exoskeletal device, to improve mobility in individuals with spinal cord injuries. The new features enable greater user control and collect usage data for monitoring progress.
Dr. John DeLuca, VP of Research at Kessler Foundation, received the 2012 Roger G. Barker Distinguished Research Contribution Award from the American Psychological Association for his groundbreaking research on cognitive effects of brain injury and multiple sclerosis. The award recognizes his lifelong contributions to rehabilitation psy...
The report explores successful partnerships between employers and disability service organizations to hire workers with disabilities. Successful initiatives include Walgreens Distribution Centers, Lowe's Bridges to Business program, and Walmart's partnership with Project SEARCH.
Kessler Foundation researchers Mark Nash et al won the 2012 Apple Award for their article on extended-release niacin monotherapy for treating dyslipidemia risks in persons with chronic tetraplegia. The study, conducted across multiple SCI research centers, demonstrates the efficacy and safety of this treatment approach.
Lauren Strober, a researcher at Kessler Foundation, has been awarded a five-year grant to study factors related to employment in people with multiple sclerosis. Her goal is to develop a predictive model of unemployment that can help practitioners make informed decisions and assist individuals with MS in retaining jobs.
Dr. John Whyte is the recipient of Kessler Foundation's 2nd Annual Joel A. DeLisa, MD Award for his contributions to rehabilitation strategies and outcomes for people with severe brain injury. The award includes a $50,000 grant for his research activities.
The Kessler Foundation has been awarded a $383,000 five-year grant from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to fund postdoctoral fellowships in MS rehabilitation research. The program provides advanced training for scientists working towards careers dedicated to improving the lives of people with MS.
The Stroke Progress Review Group identified three priorities: developing valid measurements of neuroplasticity, understanding the impact of experience on brain plasticity after stroke, and translating new restorative therapies into practice. Implementing Specialized Programs of Translational Stroke Research in Recovery is a key priority.
A Kessler Foundation study found that people with multiple sclerosis perform poorly in memory and processing speed tests on hotter days. The research suggests a link between outdoor temperature and cognitive performance, which could impact clinical trials and treatment decisions.
Helen Genova, a researcher at Kessler Foundation, has received the Women of Excellence Award in Health Sciences for her groundbreaking studies on cognitive fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Her innovative approach using functional MRI aims to develop more effective strategies for maintaining cognition and quality of life.
Kessler Foundation partners with Ekso Bionics to test the wearable, robotic battery-powered exoskeleton's potential in rehabilitation research. Scientists will study its impact on circulation, bone density, and overall health.
The University of Hawaii will develop a virtual reality software application to help jobseekers with disabilities navigate the world of job hunting and adapt to the workplace. The project aims to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities, including veterans with traumatic brain injury.
A new study by Kessler Foundation found that memory retraining using the modified Story Memory Technique (mSMT) increases cerebral activation in patients with multiple sclerosis. This suggests that behavioral interventions can positively affect brain function in MS, validating the clinical utility of cognitive rehabilitation.
A collaborative study by New Jersey stroke specialists has developed a bedside clinical evaluation to detect spatial neglect, a hidden disability that impedes recovery after stroke. The study found that psychometric assessments may be used to identify specific motor-exploratory deficits in spatial neglect.
The 2011 revision of the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) was published to guide consistent classification of spinal cord injuries. The new guidelines improve data reliability for clinical care and research studies.
Jordan Grafman, director of traumatic brain injury research, has received the prestigious Humboldt Research Award for his significant contributions to understanding brain function and behavior. The award recognizes his work on cognitive neuroplasticity and its applications in medicine, rehabilitation, and psychology.
Six patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries tested Ekso exoskeletal device, showing promising results that will guide protocol development for a planned clinical study. The research aims to measure gains in overall health among users of individuals using Ekso in rehabilitation settings.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation will investigate the impact of cognitive reserve on thinking, learning, and memory after traumatic brain injury. The study aims to develop strategies that reduce risk for cognitive problems in individuals with TBI.
The Kessler Foundation has received grants totaling $296,261 to study the impact of cultural factors on health-related quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries. Dr. Denise Fyffe will use the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to examine the cultural sensitivity of PROMIS quality of life instru...
A modified Story Memory Technique was found to be effective in improving learning and memory deficits in people with multiple sclerosis. The treatment group showed greater activation in a widespread cortical network, indicating improved cognitive function.