(February 3, 2012 - Insidermedicine) From Indianapolis - Football players may suffer concussions from a series of hits rather than just one, according to a report published in the Journal of Biomechanics.

(February 3, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

From Indianapolis - Football players may suffer concussions from a series of hits rather than just one, according to a report published in the Journal of Biomechanics. Researchers studied a high school football team for two years, using helmet-sensor impact data, MRIs, and cognitive screening tests to assess for any brain changes.  Results showed a strong correlation between the totality of hits a player received and changes in brain activity.

From Baltimore - A new report presented at the International Stroke Conference describes a new clot-busting technique that may improve treatment of stroke. Researchers developed a minimally invasive stroke treatment in which a CT guided catheter delivers clot busting drugs directly into the clot causing the stroke. In a study of 93 patients, researchers noted that the minimalist approach cleared the clot and also reduced risk of brain damage.

And finally, from Switzerland - Breastfeeding may improve lung function in the child, according to a report published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Studying nearly 1500 children, researchers found that those who were breastfed had improved lung function at age 12, while the effect was greatest among children with asthmatic mothers.

(February 3, 2012 - Insidermedicine) Answering a few simple yes or no questions may help differentiate individuals with normal age-related memory loss from those with mild cognitive impairment, an early sign of impending Alzheimer’s disease, according to research published in BMC Geriatrics.

(February 3, 2012 - Insidermedicine)

Answering a few simple yes or no questions may help differentiate individuals with normal age-related memory loss from those with mild cognitive impairment, an early sign of impending Alzheimer’s disease, according to research published in BMC Geriatrics.

Identifying Alzheimer’s disease early is important because:

•    Treatments are generally better at slowing progression of the disease than reversing it

•    It gives the patient time to make important decisions about the future while still relatively healthy

•    It provides the opportunity to help reverse any health conditions that may be contributing to the problem

Researchers from Banner Sun Health Research Institute in Sun City conducted a pilot study on a 21-question survey designed to help diagnosed Alzheimer’s disease. The investigators wanted to know whether the survey, which consists solely of yes or no questions and is designed to be completed by a relative or caregiver of the person in question, would also be effective at identifying mild cognitive impairment. The questions on the survey fall into five categories: memory, orientation, functional ability, visuospatial ability, and language.

While validating the survey, the investigators discovered that four questions are effective at differentiating mild cognitive impairment from normal age-related memory loss. In particular, those with mild cognitive impairment were more likely to repeat questions and statements, have trouble knowing the date or time, have difficulties managing finances, and have a decreased sense of direction.

Today’s research offers a simple tool to help identify those who may require a more detailed assessment of their memory loss, in order to determine whether they are suffering from early stage Alzheimer’s disease.