The semiannual HCRN meeting was recently held in Salt Lake City November 9th and 10th. For the first time we were joined by Gavin Reed who is the research associate at the Hydrocephalus Association. This meeting gave Gavin the opportunity to learn about HCRN and its studies and to represent HA at the meeting as part of our expanding partnership. The Core data project has now accumulated over 3000 events and plans for several analyses from this database were discussed. Several new projects were also considered. Chevis Shannon from Birmingham, having completed her PhD, is now on the Neurosurgery faculty — as such she presented an idea to study radiation exposure in IVH children. She was encouraged to develop a more detailed proposal for this interesting idea.

The infection protocol data were reviewed and possible changes to the protocol were discussed pending further analysis. Progress on Dr Riva-Cambrin’s “VINOH” study was reviewed. This study is funded by a Mentored Young Investigator award from the Hydrocephalus Association. The study examines neuropsychological outcomes in children with hydrocephalus. The collaboration with neuropsychologists is exciting and now a number of centers are entering patients. Finally the status of Dr. Jay Wellons’ study of Shunting Outcomes in Post Hemorrhagic Hydrocephalus and its pending NIH application was discussed. Excellent progress is being made and the grant will be reviewed in the New Year.

Plans are under way for the spring meeting in Houston.

Paul Gross, Chairman of Hydrocephalus Association’s (HA) Board of Directors, and, as you all know, a founding partner of the Hydrocephalus Clinical ResearchNetwork (HCRN), has been selected to join the National Advisory Neurological Disorders and Stroke Council, the main advisory panel to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).

NINDS, a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the nation’s primary supporter of basic, translational and clinical research on the brain and nervous system. The NINDS Advisory Council is composed of physicians, scientists and representatives of the public, who review applications from scientists seeking support through government grants for biomedical research on disorders of the brain and nervous system. NINDS Advisory Council members also advise the NIH on research program planning and priorities.

“In just a few years, Mr. Gross has done a remarkable job of engaging engineers, scientists and clinicians in plans to develop research that will lead to better treatment for people with hydrocephalus,” said Story Landis, Ph.D., Director of the NIH National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). “I am delighted that he will be a member of the NINDS Advisory Council and look forward to his participation.”

I am delighted as well and offer sincere congratulations to Paul on this appointment. Paul brings his entrepreneurial perspective, successful business experience, and a deep, passionate commitment to finding answers for people living with hydrocephalus.