Journal of neurotrauma
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Journal of neurotrauma · Aug 2024
ReviewCharacteristics and neural mechanisms of sleep-wake disturbances after traumatic brain injury.
Sleep-wake disturbances (SWDs) are one of the most common complaints following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The high prevalence and socioeconomic burden of SWDs post-TBI have only been recognized in the past decade. Common SWDs induced by TBI include excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), hypersomnia, insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and circadian rhythm sleep disorders. ⋯ Elucidating the neural underpinnings of post-TBI SWDs holds the potential to diversify and enhance therapeutic approaches for these conditions. Such advancements could hasten the recuperation of TBI patients and ameliorate their overall quality of life. It is our aspiration that departments specializing in neurosurgery, rehabilitation, and neuropsychiatry will be able to recognize and address these conditions promptly, thereby facilitating the healing journey of affected individuals.
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Journal of neurotrauma · Aug 2024
ReviewVisual Impairment in Preclinical Models of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.
Impairment in visual function is common after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the clinical setting, a phenomenon that translates to pre-clinical animal models as well. In Morris et al. (2021), we reported histological changes following weight-drop-induced TBI in a rodent model including retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss, decreased electroretinogram (ERG) evoked potential, optic nerve diameter reduction, induced inflammation and gliosis, and loss of myelin accompanied by markedly impaired visual acuity. ⋯ This underscores the importance of understanding the role of the visual system and the potential detrimental sequelae to this sensory modality post-TBI. Given that most commonly employed behavioral tests such as the Elevated Plus Maze and Morris Water Maze rely on an intact visual system, interpretation of functional deficits in diffuse models may be confounded by off- target effects on the visual system.
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Journal of neurotrauma · Aug 2024
ReviewSleep after Concussion: A Scoping Review of Sensor Technologies.
Sleep disturbances following a concussion/mild traumatic brain injury are associated with longer recovery times and more comorbidities. Sensor technologies can directly monitor sleep-related physiology and provide objective sleep metrics. This scoping review determines how sensor technologies are currently used to monitor sleep following a concussion. ⋯ Sleep sensing technologies may be used to identify how sleep affects concussion recovery. However, high variability in sensor deployment methodologies makes cross-study comparisons difficult and highlights the need for standardization. Consensus on how sleep sensing technologies are used post-concussion may lead to clinical integration with subjective methods for improved sleep monitoring during the recovery period.
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Journal of neurotrauma · Aug 2024
ReviewSleep after Concussion: A Scoping Review of Sensor Technologies.
Sleep disturbances following a concussion/mild traumatic brain injury are associated with longer recovery times and more comorbidities. Sensor technologies can directly monitor sleep-related physiology and provide objective sleep metrics. This scoping review determines how sensor technologies are currently used to monitor sleep following a concussion. ⋯ Sleep sensing technologies may be used to identify how sleep affects concussion recovery. However, high variability in sensor deployment methodologies makes cross-study comparisons difficult and highlights the need for standardization. Consensus on how sleep sensing technologies are used post-concussion may lead to clinical integration with subjective methods for improved sleep monitoring during the recovery period.
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Journal of neurotrauma · Aug 2024
ReviewShaking up our approach: The need for characterization and optimization of preclinical models of infant abusive head trauma.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a large societal and individual burden. In the first year of life, the vast majority of these injuries are the result of inflicted abusive events by a trusted caregiver. Abusive head trauma (AHT) in infants, formerly known as shaken baby syndrome, is the leading cause of inflicted mortality and morbidity in this population. ⋯ We draw on insights from other injury models, such as repetitive, mild TBIs (RmTBIs), post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE), hypoxic-ischemic injuries, and maternal neglect, to speculate on key knowledge gaps and underline important new opportunities in pre-clinical AHT research. Finally, potential treatment options to facilitate healthy development in children following an AHT are considered. Together, this review aims to drive the field toward optimized, well-characterized animal models of AHT, which will allow for greater insight into the underlying neuropathological and neurobehavioral consequences of AHT.