concussions

BYU mechanical engineering PhD student Jake Merrell is the founder of XOnano, a company that creates his SmartFoam - a self-sensing, piezoelectric foam that can detect impact data in real time. The foam could potentially gather more detailed and accurate information about how and when concussions occur. (Jaren Wilkey/BYU Photo)

BYU nursing professor Craig Nuttall demonstrates how to use the concussion diagnostic app on BYU graduate student Tyler Hobbs. (Savannah Hopkinson)

New research bolsters evidence that a simple blood test may someday be used to detect concussions and other brain trauma. (Associated Press)

Kasey Hayes rides Shaft during the Professional Bull Riding Tour stop at the Denny Sanford Premier Center on March, 13, 2015 in Sioux Falls, S.D. Serious injuries are occupational hazards for bull riders, but doctors, riders and researchers say the most pervasive injuries are concussions. (AP Photo/Dave Eggen)