Neurology

Transparent Skull Implant Enables Revolutionary Brain Imaging Technology

Researchers at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and Caltech have developed a new brain imaging technique using a transparent ‘window’ in a patient’s skull. This innovative approach, demonstrated in a proof-of-concept study, utilizes functional ultrasound imaging to record brain activity. Led by Dr. Charles Liu, the study shows promising implications for patient monitoring and a deeper understanding of brain function, particularly in individuals with neurological disabilities. This groundbreaking research offers new possibilities for diagnosis and treatment in patients with serious head injuries.

Study Reveals 13% of Older Americans Affected by Traumatic Brain Injury

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that traumatic brain injury affects 13% of older Americans, with falls from ground level being the primary cause. Contrary to younger populations, older adults who are female, white, healthier, and wealthier are at higher risk. This research sheds light on the demographics and risk factors associated with TBI in the elderly.

Study Finds Newer Epilepsy Medications Do Not Impact Children’s Creativity During Pregnancy

A recent study published in Neurology explores the impact of newer epilepsy medications on children’s creativity when taken during pregnancy. While these drugs do not seem to affect creative thinking abilities, higher concentrations in the mother’s bloodstream may compromise children’s executive function. Expectant mothers with epilepsy are advised to carefully adjust medication dosages to balance seizure control and minimize potential adverse effects on the developing child.

Cionic’s Neural Sleeve Shows Positive Impact on Multiple Sclerosis Patients in Real-World Study

Discover the positive impact of Cionic’s Neural Sleeve technology on patients with multiple sclerosis. A recent study highlighted improvements in walking challenges, showcasing enhanced foot and ankle mobility. CEO Jeremiah Robison emphasizes the importance of tailored technology for neurologic conditions, offering hope for improved quality of life.

Researchers Create World’s First Human Mini-Brain with Fully Functional Blood-Brain Barrier

Discover how researchers at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center have created the world’s first human mini-brain with a fully functional blood-brain barrier (BBB), revolutionizing the study and treatment of brain disorders. This breakthrough enables a deeper understanding of neurological conditions and paves the way for innovative therapeutic strategies.

NeurologyLive® Brain Games Weekly Quiz Focuses on Primary Progressive Aphasia

Test your knowledge on primary progressive aphasia (PPA) with NeurologyLive® Brain Games weekly quiz series. Learn about the distinct features, brain regions affected, and subtypes of PPA. Join the neurology community in discussing and sharing quiz results to enhance learning and knowledge-sharing.

Groundbreaking Discovery: Specific Brain Cells Enhance Memory Focus and Storage

Groundbreaking neuroscience research identifies PAC neurons that enhance memory focus and storage without storing information themselves. Study sheds light on brain cells coordinating working memory, potentially leading to improved treatments for Alzheimer’s and ADHD. Discovery of PAC neurons utilizing phase-amplitude coupling to synchronize with memory-related brain waves highlights hippocampus’s role in controlling working memory. Research, part of NIH’s BRAIN Initiative and published in Nature, showcases Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s pivotal role in unraveling brain processes. Understanding control aspect of working memory crucial for developing treatments for cognitive conditions, opening new avenues for exploring brain workings and memory processes.

Newly Found Genetic Variant Defends Against Alzheimer’s Disease

Columbia researchers have discovered a genetic variant that reduces the odds of developing Alzheimer’s disease by up to 70% and may be protecting thousands of people in the United States from the disease. The discovery of the protective variant supports emerging evidence that the brain’s blood vessels play a large role in Alzheimer’s disease and could herald a new direction in therapeutic development.

Samba Drumming Class Helps Woman Manage Parkinson’s

Discover how samba drumming is helping 65-year-old grandmother Sara Dove manage Parkinson’s. Learn about the benefits of physical activity and the growing body of research supporting it as a recommended aspect of symptom management for Parkinson’s.

Groundbreaking Study Shows Early High-Efficacy Therapies Improve Outcomes for Pediatric MS

Groundbreaking global study reveals that early and aggressive treatment with high-efficacy therapies can significantly improve outcomes for children with multiple sclerosis (MS). Research emphasizes the importance of administering high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies to pediatric MS patients early in their diagnosis to prevent the onset of significant disability. Study analyzed data from over 5,000 individuals diagnosed with MS during childhood over the past 30 years, drawing from international registries and national databases. Findings offer hope for improved treatment strategies for pediatric MS, potentially reshaping the approach to managing the condition in young patients.