Research on brain injury and recovery. Covers sports concussion policy, age and recovery, CTE in athletes, and deep brain stimulation.
Researchers discover edonerpic maleate enhances neural plasticity, supporting cortical reorganization and improving motor control in non-human primates with SCI. The compound promotes AMPA receptor movement to areas responsible for motor control, strengthening existing neural connections.
A study found that college athletes who experienced concussion showed persistent brain changes in scans even after being cleared to return to play and up to one year later. Brain function was also impaired, with reduced blood flow in the fronto-insular cortex.
Researchers developed a cell phone application that detects posture and advises users on how to improve alignment through voice commands, vibrations, or images. The app helps patients with hemiparesis, a common sequelae of strokes, regain lost body awareness and perform daily tasks.
Researchers found that older adults with traumatic brain injury face disparities in rehabilitation care due to contextual social determinants of health. Contextual SDoH factors have complex effects on use of community-based rehabilitation services after TBI, beyond those linked to individual-level SDoH.
People who took over-the-counter pain relievers after a concussion recovered faster than those who did not take pain relievers. Those who took pain relievers were cleared to return to activities with no restrictions an average of two days faster at 50% recovery and seven days faster at 90% recovery.
New research from Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian reveals that brain waves indicative of normal sleep patterns can predict recovery in comatose patients with recent brain injuries. Patients with well-defined sleep spindles are more likely to recover consciousness and functional independence, with 76% showing evidence of co...
A nasal spray being tested for Alzheimer's disease could also reduce neuroinflammation in traumatic brain injury, according to a Mass General Brigham-led study. The treatment modulates the immune response, reducing anxiety, cognitive decline, and improving motor skills in mouse models of TBI.
A new AI-powered tool helps predict traumatic brain injury outcomes based on documented assault scenarios, providing an evidence-based approach to improve investigation accuracy. The model achieved remarkable prediction accuracy for TBI-related injuries, integrating mechanical biophysical data with forensic details.
A change in child concussion management policies led to improvements in recovery time. The Montreal Children's Hospital clinic began physiotherapy-based treatments two weeks after injury, resulting in faster recoveries. The study suggests that institutional policy plays a crucial role in guiding treatment approaches.
A study at Lund University found that brain trauma triggers Alzheimer's disease through vascular changes, challenging existing paradigms. The research team identified increased aggregation of amyloid-beta and vascular alterations in patients with traumatic brain injury.
Researchers have developed a blood test that can rapidly distinguish between brain bleeds and clot-caused strokes, even before patients arrive at the hospital. This test uses glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels to differentiate between hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes, which can lead to opposite treatments.
A new international study has identified the P2X7 receptor as a promising target for preventing post-traumatic epilepsy. The study suggests that blocking this receptor shortly after traumatic brain injury can significantly reduce brain hyperexcitability and improve behavior.
A new study from the University of Southern Denmark reveals that the brain's self-healing abilities are hindered by inflammation after a stroke. The researchers mapped specific cells that play a central role in rebuilding myelin, but found gender differences in how men and women respond to injuries.
Researchers investigate how repetitive blows to the head impact brain health, potentially leading to neurodegenerative diseases. The study aims to detect and mitigate acute effects of exposure to repetitive head hits using objective measures.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have shown that modified stem cells can improve brain activity after a stroke, even when administered one month later. The treatment reversed brain hyperexcitability and restored balance in neural networks, leading to long-lasting effects on brain function and repair.
A new analysis of US mortality data shows men are most likely to die from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), with rates over three times higher than women. Older adults and specific racial and ethnic groups, such as American Indian or Alaska Native people, also face a higher risk of fatal TBI-related deaths.
Researchers explore the role of efferocytosis in reducing inflammation and containing injury spread after an ischemic stroke. Efferocytosis may offer a promising therapeutic strategy to promote neural regeneration and minimize brain damage.
A systematic literature search identified high-priority clinical actions for post-acute care, including early education, risk assessment, and mental health screening. Implementing these actions can improve the quality of care for non-hospitalized TBI patients.
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University found that people who receive physical therapy earlier after a concussion tend to have better balance control and reduced reaction times. This can lead to improved outcomes and reduced risk of re-injury. Early intervention may enable the brain to return to a more normal state, compens...
The InteReg project aims to create interactive biomaterials that instruct cells to regenerate after brain or spinal cord injuries, potentially treating MS and other neurological disorders. The project, funded by the Carl Zeiss Foundation, brings together experts in biology, chemistry, medicine, and polymer research.
Researchers develop personalized cognitive integrated sensorimotor virtual reality training to improve gait and balance in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). A separate study uses robotic balance training combined with non-invasive brain stimulation to enhance postural control and motor recovery in TBI.
A cohort study found no association between high dementia risk among former professional soccer players and modifiable general health and lifestyle factors. The study supports continued measures to reduce exposure to repetitive head impacts and traumatic brain injury in sports.
A team at Zhejiang University developed a novel strategy for early detection of high-altitude hypoxic brain injury using changes in oxygen content in brain regions over time. They found that brain regions with higher tolerance for hypoxia received less oxygen to support supply to more important areas.
A pilot clinical trial is testing the effectiveness of noninvasive electrical brain stimulation as a cognitive rehabilitation method for traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to determine how early treatment with targeted brain stimulation can enhance cognitive recovery in moderate to severe TBI.
A team of researchers from Mass General Brigham has identified changes in immune cells that can predict patient recovery after cardiac arrest. The study suggests that a particular population of cells may provide protection against brain injury and a drug that can activate these cells, improving neurological outcomes in preclinical stud...
A review paper suggests that MDMA-assisted therapy can benefit military personnel with traumatic brain injuries, improving emotional and cognitive challenges. The drug may facilitate social connections, increased self-esteem, and neural plasticity, leading to improved treatment outcomes.
A new optical fiber sensing system can track six biomarkers simultaneously and automatically provide crucial information on brain health. The technology has been successfully tested in lab experiments using animal brains and human cerebrospinal fluid samples, demonstrating its potential to monitor complications from traumatic injuries.
Researchers found that intravenous administration of immunomodulatory nanoparticles after TBI can limit inflammatory cell infiltration and reduce behavioral decline and lesion size. The treatment was shown to be safe without noticeable toxicity in mice.
A new study published by Kessler Foundation reveals that short naps can significantly improve motor performance and brain activity associated with motor skill improvement in individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury. This research highlights the potential for incorporating napping protocols into rehabilitation programs to maxi...
Dr. Yael Goverover joins an elite group of professionals at Kessler Foundation who have earned the Fellow of ACRM designation for their nationally significant contributions to cognitive rehabilitation research for individuals with multiple sclerosis and acquired brain injury. Her work has led to innovative assessments and interventions...
The article advocates for traumatic brain injury (TBI) to be considered a chronic condition, requiring coordinated care throughout an individual's lifetime. This approach can improve patient outcomes and support for both patients and their families.
A new study from ICES and the University of Toronto found that people with a history of concussion face a 25% higher risk of severe mental health issues after childbirth. Early screening and trauma-informed care could help protect new parents’ mental health.
A four-year study funded by a $2.5 million grant will investigate the impact of spinal cord transcutaneous stimulation combined with gait training on motor recovery in individuals with traumatic brain injury. The research aims to improve clinical treatment strategies and decision-making for improved gait and functional recovery.
Scientists have identified a key driver of brain inflammation in neurological diseases, proposing a new treatment approach by neutralizing fibrin. This protein, involved in blood coagulation, triggers neurologic diseases by hijacking the immune system, resulting in damaged neurons.
Researchers found TBI increases hyperphosphorylated tau, astro- and microgliosis, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairments linked to developing Alzheimer’s. BAG3 overexpression ameliorates tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits through the enhancement of the autophagy-lysosome pathway.
A new study suggests that many cyclists fail to wear helmets due to perceived inconvenience and discomfort, yet incentivizing them with free helmets, education, and reminders can increase helmet use. The research found that 75% of participants who received incentives wore helmets consistently after one year.
A new study by Penn State researchers reveals that individuals with co-occurring depression and concussion experience more severe symptoms than those with single conditions. The study also found disrupted brain connectivity among participants with both conditions, suggesting a potential need for personalized treatment approaches.
Researchers at the University of Calgary found that girls and non-binary youth who experience teen dating violence are at an elevated risk for concussion. The study, published in Journal of Adolescent Health, analyzed data from Canadian Grade 9 and 10 students and found that one in three experienced physical, psychological, and/or cybe...
Researchers identified three key trauma features - boggy swelling to the head, abdominal bruising, and thigh swelling or deformity - that prompt immediate review and prioritized treatment. The study found children brought in by carers were seen within an average time of 58.5 minutes, highlighting the need for improved triage alerts.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have shown that transcranial near infrared light therapy can aid tissue repair after mild traumatic brain injury. The study found significant reductions in inflammatory processes and improved functional outcomes, with superior results achieved with red light.
Patients with acute brain injury who received a liberal transfusion strategy had a lower risk of unfavorable neurological outcomes compared to those on a restrictive strategy. The study found that anemia was a significant predictor of poor outcomes in these patients.
Researchers have discovered that COVID-19 patients experience worse cognitive function 12-18 months after hospitalization, with reduced brain volume and abnormal protein levels. This affects global cognitive deficits equivalent to twenty years of normal aging.
Researchers have found that ultra-short heart rate variability measures can accurately capture autonomic function in severe TBI survivors using 30-60 second recordings. The study validates the reliability of these ultra-short HRV measures, which may provide an objective marker for post-TBI autonomic health.
A new study of nearly 2,000 former NFL players shows that about one-third believe they have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition linked to repeated head trauma. Players who believed they had CTE reported more cognitive problems and higher rates of treatable conditions such as depression and low testosterone.
A recent study published in JAMA Surgery analyzed 333 slap fighting competitions and found that more than half of sequences resulted in visible signs of concussion. The research also showed that nearly 80% of fighters demonstrated a visible sign of concussion at least once in the series of matches.
A new study published by UNM Department of Psychology Assistant Professor Jeremy Hogeveen and colleagues found that adolescents who experienced a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) showed no significant increase in depression compared to those without a history of TBI. The study, using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Developmen...
A new study found that facemask impacts accounted for over half of high-severity head impacts in NFL players, with linemen and hybrid players most affected. The research suggests that facemask enhancements could help protect players and minimize injury risk.
A novel study found that delayed feedback improves learning outcomes for individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury. Delayed feedback may engage brain regions associated with memory retrieval and confidence, bypassing impaired pathways. The study suggests a valuable tool for improving learning in TBI individuals.
Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) that prevents chronic neurodegeneration by targeting mitochondrial fission. P110, a small peptide agent, has been shown to halt the process and protect the brain from damage.
A new library of healthy participants' neuroimaging data has been created to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The Normative Neuroimaging Library consists of data from approximately 1900 individuals, providing a comprehensive dataset for clinicians and researchers.
A cross-sectional study of 170 former football players found a strong association between repeated head impacts and increased perivascular space volume, as well as worse cognitive test performance. The findings suggest that PVS volume may contribute to the link between RHI exposure and neurodegeneration.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that brain scans can detect consciousness in some unresponsive patients with severe brain injury. The study, co-led by Mass General Brigham, discovered that 25% of participants with severe brain injury who appeared unresponsive responded to instructions covertly.
Researchers developed a new brain-computer interface that translates brain signals into speech with up to 97% accuracy, enabling a man with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to communicate with friends and family. The system was tested in real-time conversations with continuous updates, achieving high word accuracy rates.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that one-fourth of patients in a coma or vegetative state showed clear signs of cognitive function on brain scans despite being unable to move or speak. This significant frequency of undetected responsiveness suggests that many seemingly unconscious patients may be a...
A recent study published by Florida Atlantic University found that occasional alcohol use increases the odds of intracranial hemorrhage by double when compared to those who do not drink. Daily alcohol consumption is associated with a 150% increased risk of brain bleeds from falls.
A new $3.5 million NIH grant will investigate the complex interplay between traumatic brain injury and genetic risk factors in the development of Alzheimer's disease. The three-year study will use rodents to assess disease progression across different age periods, providing insights into potential early intervention strategies.
A study published by University of Cambridge researchers found that advanced MRI scans can identify one in three concussion patients who experience persistent symptoms. The scans use diffusion tensor imaging to provide detailed images of brain pathways and improve prognosis accuracy.
A new study reveals that law enforcement officers experience a high prevalence of head injuries and related mental health symptoms, including PTSD and depressive symptoms. The survey found that 74% of officers reported a lifetime history of one or more head injuries.
A new study suggests that public health interventions, such as reformulating food products and introducing low emission zones, could yield significant cost savings and QALY gains in England. The interventions studied could save up to £4bn by reducing dementia rates and helping people live longer and healthier.
A new study published in the journal Brain Connectivity reveals how psychological resilience can aid children's recovery from concussions. The research found that building resilience through supportive family environments and effective coping strategies may help young patients heal faster.