CNS Changes Following SCI
Spinal Cord InjuriesThe objective of this study is to better understand the structural and functional changes that the central nervous system (CNS) undergoes following spinal cord injury and how these changes relate to clinical measures. Both macroscopic and microscopic changes of the brain and the spinal cord will be examined in SCI patients and compared to healthy controls. In terms of structural plasticity, we aim to identify MR biomarkers that allow predicting the course of the patient's neurological status and accurately describe the course of the disease and the recovery. Importantly, we aim to investigate which factors scale the patients' symptoms. In terms of functional plasticity, we will combine fMRI with behavioural testing to understand which clinical and behavioural determinants drive functional hand representations in the primary somatosensory and motor cortices to be maintained and which determinants drive reorganisation of functional representations following sensory input loss. We will further investigate the contribution of brainstem reorganisation to plasticity observed at the cortical level and, by doing so, aim to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of functional reorganisation.
The Impact of Injustice Appraisals on Psychosocial Outcomes Following Spinal Cord Injury: A Longitudinal...
Spinal Cord InjuriesThe primary objectives of this study are to: (1) determine the longitudinal course and impact of injury-related injustice appraisals among civilians and Veterans who have recently acquired a spinal cord injury (SCI), and (2) use qualitative inquiry to gain a rich, contextual understanding of appraisals of injustice during the first year after acquired SCI. The long-term goal of this research is to inform the development of new treatment approaches targeting appraisals of injustice.
Evaluation of New MRI Sequences Including 3D-FGAPSIR for the Optimization of Inflammatory Spinal...
Spinal Cord Injuriesverification of inclusion and non-inclusion criteria information and collection of consent standard imaging protocol prescribed as part of the usual treatment: sagittal T1 and T2 slices after injection of contrast product (Gadolinium), 3D STIR and 3D PSIR sequence. 3D FGAPSIR sequence at the level of the cervical cord for the duration of the additional sequence is 10 minutes, for a total examination time of 40 minutes (instead of 30 minutes)
Spinal Cord Injury Registry - North American Clinical Trials Network
Spinal Cord InjuryThe NACTN Spinal Cord Injury Registry is a network of clinical centers collecting de-identified data from patients admitted through the Emergency Department of a NACTN center at the time of injury with an initial (first time) spinal cord injury (SCI). Information will be collected on the natural history of SCI and course of treatment through the first 12 months from the date of injury or long as medically indicated. Data collected includes imaging information from CT or MRI scans, neurological and general medical outcome and rehabilitation evaluation. No intervention is given other than standard of care for spinal cord injury, intensive monitoring and frequent follow up care.
Simvastatin to Prevent SCI-Induced Bone Loss
Spinal Cord InjuriesOsteoporosisThis is a double blind, randomized, placebo -controlled clinical trial with the primary goal of determining the osteogenic benefits of simvastatin in acute SCI.
Task-oriented Arm/Hand Skill Rehabilitation and Therapy Dose Dimensions in Subacute Spinal Cord...
Spinal Cord InjuriesThe study is a multicenter longitudinal observational study. The therapy content and the therapy dosage of arm/skill training for patients with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) will be observed for the primary objective. The aim is to get insight into the current therapy content and the current therapy dosage in arm/hand skill training, with the overall aim to optimize the arm/hand skill training. For the secondary objective, in addition to the patients with cervical SCI also, patients with paraplegia as a result of SCI are included. The aim is to assess the difference between the patient's perceived dose and the therapist's estimation of the therapy dose. This will give insight into the patient's and therapist's views on therapy dose; this information will contribute to optimizing therapy dose in exercise therapy in SCI. The third aim is a pilot study to explore the usability of evening reports in SCI rehabilitation.
Experience of Rehabilitation Amongst Individuals With Paraplegia
Spinal Cord InjuriesThis study is a qualitative study exploring the facilitators to physical and vocational rehabilitation and also explores the barriers in empowering individuals with paraplegia
Impact of Gut Microbiome on Metabolic and Bowel Function During the First Year After Spinal Cord...
Spinal Cord InjuriesGut MicrobiomeThe Investigators will recruit 50 participants with acute SCI (within 72 hours of injury) Fasting blood collection and bowel function survey will be conducted 4 times: at baseline [the time of first stool sample, within 72 hours of injury] and 1, 6, and 12 months after SCI. Stool will be collected for gut microbiome analysis 4 times
Autologous Incubated Macrophages for Patients With Complete Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal Cord InjuryAutologous Incubated Macrophages (ProCord) is being developed as a therapy for acute, complete spinal cord injury (SCI). The therapy is intended to reverse the loss of motor and sensory function. Following non-CNS tissue injury, macrophages quickly arrive on the scene, where they clean up cell debris, secrete different molecules thus promoting a controlled inflammatory reaction that forms the first phase of the wound healing process. While this process occurs in most tissues, including peripheral nerves, it does not occur in the CNS, where macrophages and other immune cells are relatively rare, and their activities curtailed by a biochemical mechanism known as "immune privilege." In animal studies, it appears that incubated macrophages circumvent the immune privilege, thus supporting the regrowth of axons through the injury site and enabling the recovery of neurological function. The concept derives from the pioneering research of Prof. Michal Schwartz at the Weizmann Institute of Science.
Exploring Accessible Beauty for Individuals With Upper Extremity Deficits
StrokeIschemic14 moreThe purpose of this study is to investigate the accessibility of beauty products for individuals with upper extremity disabilities. By examining various factors such as packaging design, product applicators, and ease of use, this research aims to identify barriers faced by individuals with upper extremity disabilities or visual deficits when using beauty products. The study seeks to provide insights and recommendations for improving the accessibility of beauty products, ultimately promoting inclusivity and enhancing the overall beauty experience for individuals with disabilities.