Research on brain injury and recovery. Covers sports concussion policy, age and recovery, CTE in athletes, and deep brain stimulation.
A study published in JAMA found that 20.2% of adolescents in Ontario experienced traumatic brain injury, with sports injuries accounting for over half of cases. The study also identified associations between TBI and substance use, highlighting the need for improved prevention and response strategies among adolescents.
A study found that 20% of adolescents in Ontario reported having suffered a traumatic brain injury, with males and those with lower grades more likely to experience injuries during sports. The prevalence of TBI among young people is much higher than previously thought.
Researchers found that a combination of two proteins, S100B and apoA-1, helps most accurately classify head injuries. This study provides significant evidence for the potential use of blood tests in diagnosing mild traumatic brain injury.
Researchers found a striking resemblance between white matter brain abnormalities in concussion patients and those seen in early Alzheimer's dementia. The study suggests that the true problem facing concussion patients may be their brain's response to injury, rather than the injury itself.
A study published in Traffic Injury Prevention found that bicycle helmets certified to Australia's national standard significantly reduce linear and angular head accelerations and impact force. Helmet use greatly reduces the risk of head, skull and brain injury by up to 9.5 times.
A study published in Radiology found that frequent heading in soccer is associated with white matter microstructural changes and cognitive impairments, similar to those seen in traumatic brain injury patients. Players who headed the ball over 1,800 times per year showed poorer memory scores.
Researchers found white-matter abnormalities in soccer players who headed the ball over 885-1,550 times a year, associated with cognitive impairment. Players with more than 1,800 headings per year showed poorer memory scores, suggesting frequent heading may cause brain injury.
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.
A new study finds that bright light therapy can improve sleep quality, reduce daytime sleepiness, and alleviate depressive symptoms in individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). The treatment also shows changes in brain activation during cognitive tasks, suggesting potential improvements in brain function.
Traumatic brain injuries generate toxic tau oligomers that cause nerve cells to clump together and spread to other parts of the brain. These damaging protein assemblages can contribute to memory deficits, seizures, and disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle.
Researchers found significant microvascular injury in the uninjured side of the brain days after a stroke, indicating compromised blood-brain barrier integrity. This damage may lead to serious complications and is closely related to autophagy and neuronal swelling.
A new study by Dr. Tomislav Svoboda found that homeless men who are heavy drinkers have a staggering 400 times more head injuries than the general population. The study also revealed that these men experience severe and frequent brain bleeding, dizziness, memory loss, and mental health issues.
A survey of 161 military personnel found that those with multiple head injuries face a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study's lead author says that knowing this association can provide valuable information for professionals treating wounded combat servicemen and women to help manage the risk of suicide.
Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a device using wireless signals to diagnose brain swelling or bleeding in real-time. The technology was tested in a pilot study and showed promising results, potentially becoming a cost-effective tool for medical diagnostics.
Cyclists are vulnerable road users with head injuries accounting for 75% of cycling-related deaths. Researchers found helmet legislation has a minimal impact on reducing serious head injuries among all ages, with rates falling before implementation.
The study found a significant increase in the number of older Finnish adults with fall-induced TBI from 1970 to 2011, with an age-adjusted incidence rate that rose by 289% among women and 315% among men. The total number of individuals affected also increased considerably.
A new study finds that half of high school football players would continue to play with headache symptoms, and only 54% report concussions to coaches. The study raises concerns about concussion education in adolescent athletes.
A study of 120 high school football players found that one-quarter had suffered a concussion and more than half acknowledged continuing to play with symptoms. Most players knew common signs and symptoms but were reluctant to report them to their coaches.
A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found that 92,885 children under 18 were treated for amusement ride-related injuries from 1990 to 2010. The most common injury types were soft tissue injuries and head/neck region injuries, with nearly one-third occurring on fixed-site rides.
The University of Washington School of Medicine's Division of Pain Medicine is developing leading-edge technologies to improve care for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress (PTS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and chronic pain. The grant will support provider education, clinical care guidelines, and outcomes-based research.
A multicenter study reveals that mild traumatic brain injury after blast exposure produces inflammation and oxidative stress, similar to disorders of memory processing such as Alzheimer's disease. Gene activity patterns akin to neurodegenerative diseases were also observed in the brains of rats exposed to a shock tube.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that new astrocytes produced from stem cells after brain injury are effective in promoting recovery. These cells make their way to the injured area to form an organized scar, which stops bleeding and allows tissue recovery.
A new study has found that about 42% of veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq with blast injuries have irregular hormone levels indicative of hypopituitarism. The condition can mimic symptoms of PTSD, depression, and other conditions, but is often unrecognized and treatable by replacing deficient hormones.
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.
Research published in PLOS ONE found a decrease in media coverage of aggression in ice hockey in North American newspapers between 1998-2000 and 2009-2011. The shift in focus from violence to safety rules and equipment may contribute to cultural trends in the sport, influencing attitudes towards traumatic brain injuries.
A study by Dr. Michael Cusimano found that newspapers have increased coverage of concussions in ice hockey, including discussions on the need for rule changes and player safety. However, many reports still perpetuate a culture that trivializes head injuries and views them as an occupational risk.
Research highlights the significant impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on sexuality, including cognitive deficits, medical issues, and relationship changes. Rehabilitation strategies are crucial to address these challenges and improve sexual functioning in TBI survivors.
A new study out of St. Michael's Hospital found that nearly half of all traumatic brain injuries among Canadian children and youth participating in organized sports occurred in ice hockey, with most caused by body contact or being hit into the boards. The researchers also identified specific prevention tactics for various sports, inclu...
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.
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.
A new study published in BMC Public Health has found that homeless people have a disproportionately higher risk for traumatic brain injuries (TBI) compared to the general population. The study suggests that TBI may be a risk factor for homelessness and could contribute to the chronicity of homelessness.
A Phase II clinical trial found that combining hyperbaric oxygen therapy with normobaric hyperoxia improves neurological recovery in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. The treatment reduced mortality rates, improved cerebral oxidative metabolism, and lowered intracranial hypertension.
H. Julia Hannay, a clinical neuropsychologist and pioneer in experimental neuropsychology, received the Lifetime Distinguished Career Award for her groundbreaking research on cognitive functions in children and adults, brain injury, and rehabilitation.
A study found that brain imaging after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) or concussion can detect microbleed lesions and tube-shaped linear lesions, which may be associated with vascular injury. These lesions could potentially provide a target for treating people with mTBI.
Researchers developed a computer-based process to identify dangerous head movements that lead to concussion-related brain injuries. The approach could lead to new medical treatment options and sports rule changes to reduce brain trauma among players.
A nationwide Swedish study of over 300,000 young men found that those with low cognitive scores were at a higher risk of sustaining a mild traumatic brain injury. The study also identified other risk factors for mild traumatic brain injuries, including socioeconomic status and physical fitness.
A single concussion can cause lasting structural damage to the brain, according to a new study. Brain atrophy has been found in patients one year after mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), which may explain long-term neurological and psychological symptoms. The study also identified specific brain regions affected by MTBI.
A global panel of concussion experts has developed new guidelines for evaluating and treating concussions, which emphasize the importance of medical clearance before returning to competition. The guidelines also suggest a gradual return to activities after the first week post-injury.
New international guidance emphasizes the importance of recognizing and treating concussive symptoms promptly. The Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport notes that mouthguards and helmets have a role in minimizing injuries but do not prevent concussion.
Scientists have found that mild traumatic brain injuries can lead to swelling, reduced blood flow, and death of neurons. Astrocytes, which supply nutrients to neurons, swell quickly and significantly, smothering them and their branches. This secondary damage can occur within hours of the initial injury.
A new RAND Corporation report highlights the challenges faced by military caregivers, who often toil long hours with little support. The study identifies broad areas where future work is needed to ensure these 'hidden heroes' receive recognition and addressed.
Researchers found that frequent head hits in football players can lead to long-term brain changes, even without concussions. Elevated levels of S100B protein in blood tests correlated with brain tissue damage and autoimmune responses.
Researchers found that even routine hits can impact the blood-brain barrier and lead to an immune response. The study suggests a possible vaccine or drug therapy to prevent head trauma, offering new insights into concussions and their long-term consequences.
A $3 million NIH grant will fund a two-year study investigating the short and long-term consequences of soccer heading on the brain. The researchers, led by Dr. Michael Lipton, will assess the relationship between heading frequency and structural and cognitive measures using advanced MRI technology and cognitive tests.
A WUSTL researcher has received a $2.25 million grant to create 3D computer models of brain biomechanics, which will help improve methods for preventing and treating traumatic brain injuries. The new models will provide a better understanding of what happens to the brain during such injuries.
A new study in rats indicates that gentle brain cooling after injury may prevent seizures in humans, a finding that could lead to a safe and relatively simple way to treat patients with head injuries.
A study by UC Davis researchers found that vascular brain injury, not amyloid plaques, has the greatest impact on cognitive domains. Vascular brain injury was associated with worse memory and executive function, while amyloid deposition had little to no effect.
A new study finds that a genetic variant in the inflammation gene interleukin-6 is associated with developmental problems in females after preterm birth, but not in males. The research may help identify prevention strategies for preterm brain injury and improve understanding of how it occurs.
A study found that traumatic brain injury complications, including cerebral vasospasm and intracranial hypertension, are prevalent among US combat soldiers. Researchers analyzed data from 122 patients with traumatic brain injuries and found that over 40% had high intracranial pressure.
Researchers at ASU are collaborating with clinicians at Phoenix Children's Hospital to develop biomarkers for nervous system disorders and a personalized vaccine for malignant brain tumors. They aim to translate pre-clinical results into safe and efficient clinical studies.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found high rates of vision problems in both military and civilian patients with TBI, including difficulty reading and light sensitivity. Comprehensive eye examinations are recommended following even mild traumatic brain injury.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly resuscitated activity in damaged brains, even years after initial injury. The treatment increased oxygen levels in the body, supplying energy for rebuilding neuronal connections and stimulating inactive neurons.
Researchers have developed a new technique to identify abnormal tau proteins associated with repetitive head injuries, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and tracking of brain disorders. The study used PET scans to detect elevated levels of FDDNP in the brains of five retired NFL players.
Studies show that mild TBI can lead to chronic cognitive, behavioral, and psychological problems in service members. Research highlights associations between TBI, PTSD, depression, and pain, underscoring the need for further treatment and rehabilitation approaches.
Clear risk factors have been identified for prolonged sports concussion symptoms, including four or more initial symptoms and drowsiness. These findings could change return to play guidelines, prioritizing individualized assessments rather than one-size-fits-all policies.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University discovered that when one brain area is injured, a 'back-up' team of secondary brain areas immediately activates, replacing the unavailable area and its confederates. This allows individuals to continue functioning after key brain areas have been damaged.
Researchers found that children and young adults are at increased risk of repeat traumatic brain injury due to a metabolic slowdown in the brain. A specific time frame after initial injury, hours to days, poses the greatest risk.
Researchers found that high school athletes experienced compromised focus and task-switching abilities for up to two months after brain concussions. The study's findings suggest that athletes may need longer recovery periods than current practices dictate to minimize the risk of subsequent concussions.
A study by USF and VA researchers found that traumatic brain injury leads to progressive brain deterioration, causing elevated inflammation and suppressed cell regeneration. Therapeutic intervention can still help prevent cell death in the chronic stage of TBI.
A new study published in Journal of Neurotrauma reveals that the premotoneuronal system in the cervical spine may be involved in permanent limb impairment after spinal cord injury. The research proposes a potential target for therapeutic strategies to promote recovery and repair.