The University of Birmingham's Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre serves as a national hub for trauma research, applying insights gained from military experiences to enhance medical outcomes for all patients.
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Key objectives
The university initiated a novel initiative, the 'Birmingham Concussion Test,' to evaluate and potentially improve concussion diagnosis in football.
This study gathers saliva and urine samples from injured Premier League players and uninjured "control" players. Club doctors will collect these samples immediately after matches and at subsequent intervals during a player's recovery.
The research team is concurrently developing a handheld device to conduct the test on-field, aiding in concussion diagnosis and determining when affected players can safely return to sports activities.
The device will analyze a drop of saliva on a chip, and the results will be promptly transmitted to a mobile device for the doctor's quick interpretation.
Monmouth Scientific’s solution
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3 x 1200 mm Guardian® Class 2 Biological Safety Cabinets
Player samples undergo testing within three Monmouth Scientific Class 2 Biological Safety Cabinets at the University of Birmingham. The test targets molecules known as microRNAs in blood, saliva, or urine, acting as biomarkers to indicate potential brain injuries.
The Class II Biological Safety Cabinet is designed with a specially ventilated enclosure for sterile material handling, ensuring the operator's safety and the protection of the working materials from potential biohazard infections.
Equipped with H14 HEPA Filters to maintain an ISO Class 4 Clean Environment, the cabinet guarantees efficient and smooth airflow through its Air Diffuser and Sloped Intake. Moreover, the cabinet features a UV Lighting Strip for complete VHP & Formalin Sterilization.
The Guardian Micro-Biological Safety Cabinet has undergone independent type testing and approval to BSEN 12469:2000 by the Health Protection Agency at Porton Down, the UK's leading authority on Biological Safety Cabinets.
This research has the potential to benefit professional, grassroots and youth level footballers alike, making the process for diagnosing concussion as effective as possible.
Having a test that gives you a clear answer that’s understandable to everyone would really help at all levels of sport. Similarly, this may be valuable for patients in NHS Accident and Emergency departments."
Dr. Patrick O’Halloran, Sports Concussion Research Fellow University of Birmingham and Academy Doctor, Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club
About Monmouth Scientific Limited
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