A study that simulated the effects of reduced barometic pressure (hypobaria) experienced by patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) evacuated by air showed that prolonged hypobaria significantly worsened long-term cognitive and neurological outcomes. Maintaining normal oxygen levels did not affect the poorer outcomes after hypobaric exposure, and multiple exposures or use of 100% oxygen further worsened the effects in the rats studied, as described in an article published in Journal of Neurotrauma.

Source: www.eurekalert.org