Articles tagged with Brain Injuries
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.
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.
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.
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.
A University of New Hampshire researcher has received a $62,521 grant from NFL Charities to study the safe removal of protective equipment from injured players. The grant will allow Erik Swartz to work with high-fidelity human patient simulators at WakeMed Health and Hospitals in Raleigh, N.C.
The 2012 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting featured cutting-edge research on aging, sleep apnea, chronic rhinosinusitis, and hearing loss. Attendees could access approximately 100 miniseminars, 250 scientific sessions, and 445 posters.
A 5-year, multi-site study will investigate treatment effects on functional, psychosocial, and disability outcomes after traumatic brain injury in children aged 8-18. The study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for parents of children with TBI.
Researchers developed an agent that blocks cardiolipin oxidation, preventing cell death and preserving function in rats with severe traumatic brain injury. The study suggests a targeted oxidation-blocker may also be beneficial in treating other neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and stroke.
Researchers found that despite similar survival rates, trauma patients in the western United States face higher treatment costs than those in the northeastern region. Analysis of national patient records revealed significant regional differences in care costs, with the west spending up to 35% more on liver injury treatments.
Research suggests racial/ethnic disparities exist in the use of cranial CT scans among children with minor blunt head trauma, particularly for those at lowest or intermediate risk. Children from white non-Hispanic backgrounds may be more likely to undergo the procedure, while those from black or Hispanic backgrounds have lower odds.
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...
Researchers found that concussions and even lesser head impacts can speed up the brain's natural aging process, causing changes in gait, balance, attention, and impulse control. The study suggests a cumulative effect of repeated head impacts on the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
A new class of drug developed at Northwestern University has shown early promise in reducing inflammation in the brain, which is a common denominator in these neurological diseases. The drug targets proinflammatory cytokines and prevents their overproduction, preventing damage to synapses and neurons.
Researchers identified two enzymes, t-PA and MMP-3, that promote injury severity following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Inhibiting these enzymes may protect the brain from TBI by blocking the activation of MMP-3, which causes damage. The study provides a promising therapeutic target for treating human TBI.
Children's recovery from pediatric brain injury extends beyond medical care to involve the entire circle of family, friends, and healthcare providers. Recent research highlights the importance of 'family-centered' approaches and innovative interventions to promote self-worth, education as rehabilitation, and community reintegration.
The American Headache Society is focusing on traumatic brain injury in its scientific conference, with experts discussing earlier detection, prompt treatment, and prevention. The conference aims to raise awareness of the issue and reduce long-term consequences for affected individuals.
Brain injury in children is a complex and unpredictable condition, with no single best approach to predicting outcomes. Advanced imaging tests are often used in adults but have not been studied for use in children. Prevention of injury and tailored approaches are key to improving outcomes.
Researchers have found that concussion victims have unique spatial patterns of brain abnormalities that change over time. DTI and EZ-MAP analysis reveal distinct patterns of low and high fractional anisotropy, suggesting a response to injury and potential compensatory mechanisms.
Researchers found an association between mild traumatic brain injury and PTSD severity using advanced imaging techniques. The study suggests that subtle brain injury can predispose soldiers to psychiatric illness when coupled with extreme chronic stress.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin developed a patented technology to reduce cerebral oedema by safely manipulating blood vessels in the brain. The technique, 'Neuronal Barrier Modulation,' has shown promising results in animal models and is planned for Phase I clinical trials.
A new study has found evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in brain tissue from blast-exposed military service personnel. Exposure to a single blast equivalent to an IED results in CTE and long-term brain impairments, similar to those seen in athletes with repetitive concussion injuries.
Researchers used CT images and MRI data to reconstruct Phineas Gage's brain injury, finding widespread white matter damage. This study provides new insight into the neural network connectivity of Gage's brain, shedding light on his reported behavioral changes after the accident.
Researchers have found evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in brain tissue from blast-exposed military service personnel. The study discovered that exposure to a single blast equivalent to an IED results in CTE and long-term brain impairments, with the blast wind leading to traumatic brain injury.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University found that mild TBI can cause structural disruption of axons and alter neuronal firing patterns. This discovery advances research on posttraumatic disorders and enables better understanding of long-lasting neurological issues following a head injury.
Research reveals female athletes performed worse on visual memory tests and reported more symptoms post-concussion. Younger athletes, particularly high school athletes, took longer to recover than collegiate athletes.
A study found that more than 80% of bike share riders in Boston and Washington D.C. do not wear helmets, putting them at risk for head injuries. The study suggests helmet use can reduce head injury by up to 88%.
Researchers developed a non-invasive monitoring technique to assess changes in brain arteries, detecting brain damage in 61 children undergoing heart repair surgery. The 'hemoglobin volume index' allowed for real-time detection of brain injury and potential adjustments to blood pressure management.
A study of Swedish boxers found elevated protein levels in brain fluid after bouts, indicating nerve cell damage. The study suggests that Olympic boxing may cause similar brain injury to Alzheimer's disease.
A study led by Dr. Joshua Gatson reveals that estrone, an estrogen hormone, promotes brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which supports cell survival after traumatic brain injury. The findings indicate a fresh avenue for future research on protective capabilities of estrogen hormones.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have developed a new device called mechanical tissue resuscitation (MTR) that uses negative pressure to reduce cell death and improve brain function after traumatic brain injury. The technology showed significant promise in reducing brain swelling and preserving more than 50% of damaged...
The study found that woodpeckers' cranial bones have a higher ultimate strength than larks, thanks to more plate-like spongy bone. This structure helps resist deformation during pecking, reducing stress on the brain. The beaks of both birds exhibit similar ultimate strengths.
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 National Collegiate Athletic Association is funding a study to examine the effects of sports-related concussions on student-athletes over their college careers and beyond. The study aims to identify factors that contribute to later problems, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy, in order to minimize risks.
Traumatic brain injury is rising among the elderly, particularly those over 70, due to an increase in falls. Older adults are more susceptible to worse outcomes, including bleeding in the brain, chronic diseases, medication use, and reduced brain repair capabilities with age. Early interventions can still yield positive results.
A recent study published in PloS ONE suggests that immediate skull reconstruction following traumatic brain injury can exacerbate brain damage. In contrast, delaying surgical repair for two days resulted in reduced secondary brain swelling and damage in animal models.
The February issue of NeuroRehabilitation assesses factors affecting rehab of Spanish-speaking individuals with neurological and psychiatric disorders. Cultural differences may influence the rehabilitation process, resulting in limited access to services.
Researchers argue that UK law on cycle helmets should apply only to kids due to equivocal evidence of adult protection. The authors suggest a paternalistic approach and instead recommend public health information to empower adults to make their own decisions about helmet-wearing.
A case report reveals the devastating consequences of dabigatran-induced brain hemorrhage, emphasizing the importance of rapid assessment and intervention after minor head trauma in patients taking anticoagulant medications. The study's findings underscore the need for medical providers to be aware of this high-risk complication.
A study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that aggressive treatment of severe traumatic brain injury results in better patient outcomes and is cost-effective across all age groups. Aggressive care outperformed routine care, while comfort care had poor outcomes and high costs.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers finds that aggressive treatment for severe traumatic brain injuries significantly improves outcomes and reduces long-term costs. The study suggests that invasive interventions like ICP monitoring and decompressive craniotomies are cost-effective across all patient populations, inclu...
Children with mild traumatic brain injuries are at higher risk for long-term cognitive and somatic complaints, including inattention and headaches. The study found that children with mild TBI were more likely to exhibit reliable increases in both cognitive and somatic symptoms.
A powerful new imaging technique called High Definition Fiber Tracking (HDFT) has been developed to clearly see for the first time neural connections broken by traumatic brain injury. HDFT scans have identified disruptions in neural pathways, allowing researchers to pinpoint breaks in the cables and quantify the proportion of fibers lost.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Neurophysiology found that physiological problems from concussions can last longer than symptoms, even after standard testing subside. MEPs showed delays in response time and smaller size, which continued until day 10, with these changes increasing as symptoms decreased.