New Jersey researchers found that early reperfusion of the left reading network correlates with improved reading and language competence in people recovering from left-sided stroke. The study also showed that increased perfusion of the right reading network is associated with worse reading performance, challenging previous beliefs.
Researchers found that neuropsychological tests have predictive value for everyday life activities in individuals with MS. However, non-cognitive variables and person-specific factors also play a crucial role in evaluating the impact of the disease on daily functioning.
Dr. Kristin L. Garlanger has been awarded the Ernest Bors, MD Award for Scientific Development by the Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine. Her research explores functional outcomes in patients with co-occurring traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury, shedding light on ways to tailor rehabilitation protocols to improve outcomes.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation will conduct a comprehensive five-year study on the effects of robotic exoskeleton-assisted gait training in patients with stroke. The study aims to improve recovery of lost mobility and understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of exoskeleton-assisted gait therapy.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased from 30.2% to 32%, while that for those without disabilities rose from 73.8% to 74.6%. Project E3: Educate, Empower, Employ provides a comprehensive program serving communities with deep poverty and lowest employment in the US.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation found that blindfolding a patient with spatial neglect improved her posture and gaze, reducing postural asymmetry. This study suggests eliminating visual input could increase spatial awareness on the contralesional side.
Researchers found a correlation between facial emotion recognition deficits and poor community integration in individuals with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury. Those with impaired emotional recognition displayed reduced community integration, suggesting a potential barrier to social isolation.
A recent study by Kessler Foundation researchers linked deficits in social cognition with symptoms of fatigue, depressive symptomatology, and anxiety in individuals with multiple sclerosis. The study highlights the interplay between social cognition, mood, and fatigue in MS patients.
Dr. Xuan Liu has received a $70,000 Switzer Research Fellowship to fund gait retraining research in children with cerebral palsy. The study aims to test two types of biofeedback gait training to correct stiff knee gait patterns.
A multi-site study will assess the safety and efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) paired with exercise therapies to improve upper limb function in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury. The study aims to explore the effects of tDCS on strength, dexterity, and independence.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased from 29.3% in July 2018 to 31.2% in July 2019, outpacing that of people without disabilities. Major companies like Sephora are successfully recruiting and hiring individuals with disabilities through targeted initiatives.
The Kessler Foundation will conduct a pilot study using functional MRI to develop new strategies for managing neuropathic pain in individuals with spinal cord injuries. The study aims to train participants to use neurofeedback to modulate their brain activity and reduce pain sensations.
A $1,825,742 NIH grant will fund a randomized controlled trial of strategy-based cognitive training in individuals with multiple sclerosis. The study aims to develop a treatment that improves everyday functioning and neuropsychological performance in those affected by the condition.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased from 29.5% in June 2018 to 31% in June 2019, up 1.5 percentage points. The labor force participation rate also rose, indicating greater independence and financial support for individuals with disabilities.
A recent study by Kessler Foundation researchers found evidence for differential effects of progressive MS on cognitive and affective Theory of Mind. The study used Virtual Assessment of Mentalising Ability (VAMA) to measure Theory of Mind in individuals with progressive MS, who showed poorer performance on the cognitive ToM subtest co...
Researchers Drs. Shenoy Handiru and Katie Lancaster at Kessler Foundation will investigate novel ways to improve rehabilitative care for disabilities caused by stroke and multiple sclerosis. The projects aim to enhance hand function in stroke patients and alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety in individuals with MS.
A new minimally invasive intervention has been shown to provide long-term relief from chronic refractory shoulder pain in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury. Autologous micro-fragmented adipose tissue was injected into the affected shoulder joint, resulting in significant pain reduction and functional improvement.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased to 30.7% in May 2019, while the labor force participation rate also rose. Despite positive changes, challenges remain to widespread adoption of competitive integrated employment.
Kessler Foundation is launching groundbreaking research at its Center for Spinal Stimulation to explore two novel treatments: transcutaneous and epidural spinal stimulation. Preliminary studies show promising results in individuals with paralysis, enabling them to stand during stimulation and regain voluntary movement.
Researchers received funding to investigate novel approaches to address caregiver grief, sleep dysfunction, balance problems, upper limb function deficits, memory issues, and fatigue in TBI survivors. Studies aim to enhance learning, motor skills, and functional recovery through targeted interventions.
Researchers aim to identify cognitive deficits in individuals with spinal cord injury, enabling them to receive necessary care and achieve maximal independence. A multi-site study will develop and test an abbreviated cognitive screening tool using portions of well-regarded neuropsychological tests.
Researchers will investigate the relationship between cognitive dysfunction, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular function in individuals with spinal cord injury. The study aims to develop interventions promoting independence, social integration, and improved quality of life for people living with spinal cord injury.
Researchers will conduct a randomized trial of autologous micro-fragmented adipose tissue injection to alleviate disabling shoulder pain in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury. The study aims to explore regenerative approaches to reducing pain and disability among individuals with spinal cord injury.
Dr. Helen Genova of Kessler Foundation has received a $357,000 grant from the New Jersey Governor's Council to develop a virtual reality job training tool for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The study aims to improve interview skills and increase confidence among teens with autism.
Spatial neglect affects over half of stroke survivors, causing functional disability and poor motor recovery. Implementing a care pathway can improve outcomes by incorporating assessment and treatment options.
The employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities increased slightly to 30.9%, but the labor force participation rate decreased, suggesting challenges in full employment. The Disability Equality Index helps companies improve disability inclusion and reap benefits such as higher revenue and profit margins.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities decreased from 31.7% in March 2018 to 31.1% in March 2019, while labor force participation rates also showed decline. This suggests a tapering off of engagement of people with disabilities in the labor market.
A three-year study will evaluate the efficacy of MyoPro to improve upper extremity motor function and activities of daily living in individuals with incomplete SCI. The study aims to provide data needed to expand rehabilitation options for veterans and lay the foundation for home-based strategies for improved recovery.
The nTIDE report shows a slight decline in economic indicators for Americans with disabilities, while those without disabilities experience improvements. This trend is consistent with the leveling off of gains for this population over the last year.
Researchers will examine how individuals with MS process outcomes of their actions during cooperative interactions, aiming to maximize their competence in social interactions. The study will focus on the impact of delayed reciprocation vs immediate reciprocation on outcome processing in individuals with MS.
Dr. Ekaterina Dobryakova, a researcher at Kessler Foundation, has been honored with the International Neuropsychological Society's Early Career Award for her work on traumatic brain injury and multiple sclerosis. Her research focuses on noninvasive interventions to address cognitive deficits caused by these conditions.
The nTIDE January 2019 Jobs Report shows a flattening of economic indicators for Americans with disabilities, while those without disabilities experience steady improvement. Efforts like Lights! Camera! Action! 2.0 aim to promote diversity and inclusion in the media industry.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers found specific cognitive deficits in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), including information processing speed and verbal fluency impairments. These findings support the theory of accelerated brain aging after SCI, with implications for further research and targeted cognitive interventions.
The December 2018 nTIDE Jobs Report shows a dip in job numbers for Americans with disabilities, but employment experts remain optimistic for growth in 2019. International fellowship programs are offering support and training to professionals in disability-related fields, aiming to improve inclusion in the workplace.
The National Trends in Disability Employment - Monthly Update (nTIDE) shows modest increases in employment-to-population ratio and labor force participation rate for Americans with disabilities. The data continues the upward trend of economic indicators for people with disabilities, reflecting higher demand for workers.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased to 31.4 percent in October 2018, up 3 percent from the previous year. The labor force participation rate also rose to 34.2 percent, indicating a positive trend for Americans with disabilities.
Researchers are conducting a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of treadmill walking exercise training on learning and memory performance, hippocampal volume, and resting-state functional connectivity in people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The study aims to determine if aerobic exercise can improve cognitive defici...
A researcher is studying the relationship between dopamine signaling and action control in children with ADHD. The goal is to understand how habits impact decision-making in these individuals and potentially develop new treatments.
Researchers will investigate a behavioral telehealth intervention to improve rehabilitation outcomes for people with refractory epilepsy. The study aims to build on the Foundation's partnerships and enhance expertise in clinical translation of cognitive rehabilitation interventions.
The Kessler Foundation's LU-RRTC aims to improve minority-serving institutions' capacity and infrastructure to engage in disability and rehabilitation research. The grant will empower these institutions to increase their output of disability and health research, fostering maximum social and economic independence for individuals with di...
A new conceptual framework proposes examining exercise effects on brain connectivity, structure, and molecular mechanisms in multiple sclerosis. This systematic approach may lead to new strategies for rehabilitative care and treatment.
A recent study by the MAGNIMS Study Group provides new insights into the involvement of the hippocampus in multiple sclerosis, a neurodegenerative disease that affects cognition. The research suggests that modifying the hippocampus through aerobic exercise and memory retraining may be effective in improving cognitive outcomes for MS pa...
Employment outcomes for people with disabilities vary significantly across states and counties, influenced by economic conditions, physical environment, and policy variables. Research finds that environmental factors are a strong predictor of employment rates, highlighting the importance of considering local context in policy development.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities rose to 31.4% in September 2018, up from 30.4% the previous year. Labor force participation rates also increased, suggesting continued improvement in economic indicators for Americans with disabilities.
Dr. John DeLuca is recognized for his outstanding record of professional service and contributions to the field of medical rehabilitation. He leads rehabilitation research and training at Kessler Foundation, improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with disabilities.
Researchers analyzed data from the TBI Model System National Data and Statistical Center to identify physical, cognitive, and psychosocial characteristics associated with mortality in chronic TBI survivors. Independence in mobility and community participation were found to be important factors for long-term survival in this population.
Researchers found a correlation between neurobehavioral symptoms and unemployment among individuals with moderate-to-severe TBI. Frontal system neurobehavioral syndromes can predict employment outcomes, highlighting the need for rehabilitative strategies to address these behaviors.
Dr. Boukrina is investigating the role of reading deficits in aphasia rehabilitation, developing benchmarks for identifying high-risk patients and exploring effective treatment options. Her research aims to improve cognition, mobility, and long-term outcomes for individuals with neurological disabilities caused by stroke.
A recent study by MS researchers found that older individuals with multiple sclerosis report lower levels of depression and higher quality of life than their younger counterparts. This trend is consistent with the general population, where well-being improves with age.
A pilot study by Kessler Foundation researchers found improvements in processing speed training for individuals with multiple sclerosis, enhancing neuropsychological tests and daily life performance. The study showed significant gains in processing speed, new learning, memory, and activities of daily life.