Articles tagged with Brain Injuries
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.
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.
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.
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 questions the need for routinely obtaining repeated CT scans in patients with mild head trauma, suggesting that it is unnecessary when patients are unchanged or improving neurologically. The study found that only two patients had a change in treatment based solely on routine repeated CT scans.
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.
A clinical trial by UCSF researchers found that hospital MRIs are better at predicting long-term outcomes for people with mild traumatic brain injuries than CT scans. The study revealed detectable spots on MRI scans called focal lesions, which helped doctors predict persistent neurological problems in patients with 'normal' CT scans.
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 found no significant improvement in traumatic brain injury treatment with intracranial pressure monitoring, suggesting a need for more focused and less unnecessary treatment. The study's findings bring new energy to the management of traumatic brain injury, an 'orphan disease' that affects millions worldwide.
A study found that brain changes in children who suffered a concussion persisted for over three months, despite the disappearance of symptoms. The researchers used advanced imaging techniques to monitor recovery and suggested that using these methods could help diagnose and treat concussions in children.
A new study found that mandatory rules, such as restrictions on body checking, can decrease penalties and injuries in ice hockey, particularly among young players. Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital recommend combining rule changes with educational strategies to promote sportsmanship and reduce brain injuries.
A recent study at Boston University School of Medicine describes 68 cases of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) among deceased athletes and military veterans. The research, the largest case series to date, found that CTE can only be diagnosed postmortem but may not progress in all individuals.
A new study published in CMAJ found that rules limiting aggression in ice hockey, such as bodychecking, can significantly reduce injuries among young players, including serious brain and spine injuries. The study suggests that interventions based on rule changes showed the greatest likelihood of making ice hockey safer for youth.
New research reveals higher concussion incidence rates in female hockey players compared to males, emphasizing the need for reevaluation of concussion definition. Advanced imaging techniques and neuropsychological assessments were used to track changes in brain function over an entire season.
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.
Researchers used MRI to image patients with mild traumatic brain injury and found that some brains compensate for damage by changing water flow patterns. This compensation is associated with fewer post-concussion symptoms and higher functioning, suggesting a potential new approach to treating traumatic brain injury.
A new study estimates that 54-60 million people worldwide suffer from traumatic brain injuries each year, with men and Maori people being disproportionately affected. The true annual incidence of mild TBI is substantially higher than previous WHO estimates, with rates highest in children and younger adults.
A study of over 1,200 participants found no significant improvement in cognitive and functional status for those treated with citicoline after traumatic brain injury, contradicting its widespread use as a neuroprotective agent.
Researchers use supercomputer simulations and clinical studies to identify threshold levels of stress for better helmet designs. The sensors could alert sufferers to potential problems, helping military and civilian populations.
A prospective trial evaluated HBO2 therapy on post-concussion symptoms in military servicepersons with at least one combat-related mild TBI. Both treatment groups showed significant improvement in concussion assessment and cognitive testing scores over the course of the study.
A new study published in the Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery found that wearing helmets significantly reduces head injuries and saves lives among skiers and snowboarders. The research suggests that helmet use does not increase the risk of injury, contradicting long-held myths.
A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology reveals a significant link between head injuries and pesticide exposure to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. People with Parkinson's were found to be three times more likely to have had a head injury and exposure to paraquat, a common herbicide.
Two studies highlight the strong indicators of vision problems in veterans with traumatic brain injury and stress disorder, including chronic vision disorders and dry eye syndrome. The studies found that these conditions can persist for years after the initial injury and may be more prevalent than previously recognized.
A new study published in CNS Drugs found that a single dose of etanercept can rapidly improve chronic neurological dysfunction caused by stroke or traumatic brain injury, even years after the event. The observational study involved 629 patients and documented positive effects on motor impairment, spasticity, cognition, and more.
A recent study found that high schools with athletic trainers have lower overall injury rates, with concussion injury rates being 8.05 times higher in schools without athletic trainers. Athletic trainers play a crucial role in preventing, diagnosing and managing concussions and other injuries.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has released new guidelines to prevent cheerleading injuries, highlighting the need for qualified coaches, access to medical care, and injury surveillance. The guidelines aim to reduce catastrophic injuries, which account for 66% of all high school female athlete injuries.
Researchers have developed a new treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI), using nanoparticles to rapidly restore blood flow to the brain. In laboratory rats, the nanoparticles acted like antioxidants, reducing free-radical buildup and killing brain cells.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that cyclists who died from head injuries were three times more likely not to be wearing a helmet compared to those who died from other causes. The study analyzed data from 129 accidental cycling deaths in Ontario and concluded that wearing helmets can save lives.
New studies using transgenic mice to detect landmines and test dietary supplements for brain injuries show promise in reducing trauma and suffering. Scientists are gaining better understanding of brain damage from injuries, potentially leading to effective early intervention and practical applications.
A study by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found that white non-Hispanic construction workers in Illinois receive higher workers' compensation settlements compared to Hispanic or black workers with similar injuries and disabilities. The disparity amounted to approximately $6,000 more for white non-Hispanic claimants.
Athletes who experience repeated impacts to the head may be at risk of neurological and psychiatric problems. A study of 450 students found that the way concussions are diagnosed varies greatly and may not accurately determine who is at risk.
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.
A new series published in The Lancet presents laboratory research and clinical trial results on traumatic brain injury, haemorrhagic shock and major musculoskeletal injuries. Researchers identified promising avenues for improving patient outcomes, including innovative treatments for these complex conditions.
A recent study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that children who suffered moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries may still experience substantial functional disabilities and reduced quality of life two years after the injury. The authors suggest that a plateau is reached in recovery beyond this period.
Researchers developed a neural prosthesis to restore decision-making processes in monkeys with disrupted cognitive function. The device, which stimulated specific brain cells, improved performance and even surpassed normal conditions.