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Headlines 19 Neurological research from around the globe Finland University of Helsinki After a traumatic brain injury, individuals may struggle with executive function, as well as behavioural and emotional self-regulation. Research from the University of Helsinki in Finland found the use of neurological music therapy enhanced executive function, with study participants reporting improvements in behavioural regulation, mood, and overall quality of life, as well as reduced feelings of depression. Music therapy also enhanced emotional regulation, concentration, and motor function. New Zealand Auckland University of Technology (AUT) This study, completed here in New Zealand as part of the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Longitudinal Study, aimed to determine whether cognitive function in mid-adulthood was different for those who had experienced at least one mild TBI (mTBI) in their lifetime. Researchers determined there was no significant difference in intelligence, verbal comprehension, reasoning skills, attention or memory in those who suffered mTBI once sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were taken into account. These findings can offer reassurance to those who have experienced mTBI. United Kingdom Imperial College London The long-term impacts of TBI are more difficult to measure in children than in adults as the brain is still developing. Researchers from Imperial College London have developed a way to use brain volume, as determined by MRI, to predict whether an injury may lead to cognitive, emotional or behavioural disability. The tool allows for the comparison of normal brain development alongside the brain development of a child following a TBI. This will help to determine any abnormalities, so a patient’s ongoing care can be planned and long-term wellbeing improved. USA University of Arizona Headaches are one of the most common complaints following a TBI. Researchers from the University of Arizona have been conducting pre-clinical trials of a drug called onabotulinumtoxin A. When administered in animal models two hours after a TBI, the treatment blocked both acute and persistent headaches. This study provides support for immediate or early drug treatment in preventing the development and persistence of headaches after TBI. . Like all sciences, neuroscience is collaborative. New Zealand researchers make an important contribution to the global effort to better understand the brain, and to develop better treatments for neurological disorders. Here is some of the traumatic brain injury (TBI) research taking place globally that we are keeping an eye on. Please note the Neurological Foundation doesn’t contribute funding to any of these projects. References neurological.org.nz/aroundtheglobe
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