Current Research Studies

1. Title: Development of the Capabilities of Upper Extremity Test (CUE-T)

Purpose: The specific aim of this on-site research project is to develop an objective, standardized test of upper limb function in tetraplegia called the Capabilities of Upper Extremity Test (CUE-T) based on the items in the CUE.

Principal Investigator: Ralph J. Marino, MD
Co-Investigator(s): Stephen B. Kern, Ph.D., OTR/L; Mary Patrick, RN, MSN

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2. Title: Effects of Two Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Cycling Paradigms

Purpose: The overall purpose of this study is to compare the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular effects of a 6 month program of cycling with functional electrical stimulation (FES) using a low cadence and high resistance to the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular effects of cycling with functional electrical stimulation (FES) using a high cadence, low resistance program for people with spinal cord injury

Principal Investigator: Therese Johnston, PT, Ph.D., MDA
Co-Investigator(s): Ralph J. Marino, MD; Mary Schmidt-Read, DPT; Richard Lauer, Ph.D.; Christopher Modlesky, Ph.D.

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3. Title: Value of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) as Biomarkers for Classifying Acute Spinal Cord Injury

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to develop a novel objective method to assess the extent of neurologic damage in acute spinal cord injury (SCI) utilizing advanced MR imaging techniques. The neurologic exam at presentation (AIS), conventional MRI feature designators of lesion length and location, and additional MRI metrics provided by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) will be assessed to determine which variables or combination of variables best predicts clinical outcome, as defined by neurological examinations at 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months.

Principal Investigator: Adam E. Flanders, MD
Co-Investigator(s): Ralph J. Marino, MD; Christina V. Oleson, MD

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4. Title: Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Riluzole in Patients with Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury

Purpose: The primary aim of this study is to develop acute care safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of Riluzole in patients who have sustained a traumatic spinal cord injury. Secondary objectives are to conduct exploratory analyses of functional outcomes for purposes of planning a subsequent Phase II b - Phase III randomized study of the efficiency of Riluzole for the treatment of acute spinal cord injury.

Principal Investigator: James S. Harrop, MD
Co-Investigator(s): Ralph J. Marino, MD