Articles tagged with Autism
A new UK study provides insight into the diversity of neurodivergent experiences among adults. The research found significant overlap in characteristics between different neurodevelopmental conditions, as well as distinctive traits associated with each condition. This study offers a framework for examining neurodiversity across the who...
The study found a 4-fold increase in ASD diagnoses among 2-3 year-old children and a 2-fold increase in older ages. The research highlights the need for education and healthcare services to keep up with the growing demand, and emphasizes the importance of early intervention to improve communication and social skills.
Researchers discovered that de novo mutations in promoter regions of TADs containing known ASD genes are associated with increased ASD risk due to interactions in the three-dimensional structure of the genome. This 'butterfly effect' explains how mutations can affect distant ASD-related genes, highlighting the need for a new diagnostic...
A new study found that propranolol, a medication for high blood pressure, can lower anxiety levels in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study involved 69 patients and showed significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to a placebo group.
A study of 87,000 women found a higher level of maternal autistic traits associated with increased risk of adverse birth outcomes, including very preterm birth. The researchers emphasize the need for tailored and timely antenatal care support for women with high levels of autistic traits.
Research finds that changes in mouse sperm microRNAs caused by aging may affect offspring growth and development, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. The study's findings add to growing literature on paternal aging and its impact on offspring health.
Research reveals that autistic children develop their own unique visual preferences for social elements, unlike typically developing children who synchronize their attention on social interactions. Early intervention targeting social attention may help guide autistic children onto developmental courses more akin to their peers.
Researchers found that the deletion of the Gtf2i gene impairs mitochondrial organelle formation and function, leading to abnormal cell behavior and neurodevelopmental pathologies. This discovery sheds light on the mechanism behind Williams syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by cognitive and social impairments.
Researchers developed a high-performance prediction model to identify children at risk of autistic spectrum disorder, utilizing routine developmental assessments. The tool has the potential to improve early detection and timely interventions for affected children.
The Kessler Foundation has received two significant grants from NIDILRR to fund research initiatives focused on enhancing employment opportunities for adults on the autism spectrum. A strength-based tool will be developed to help individuals identify and confidently express their strengths, improving job interview skills and employment...
Research from Drexel University found that toddlers exposed to more screen time may exhibit disengaged and disinterested behavior, seeking intense stimulation, or being overwhelmed by sounds and lights. This could have implications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism.
A new study challenges traditional male-focused autism research by revealing striking similarities in synaptic abnormalities and behavioral patterns between male and female mouse models. This finding emphasizes the necessity of considering both sexes to comprehensively grasp the complexities of autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers found that mutations in IDO2 can affect dopamine release and lead to ASD-like behaviors. IDO2 KO mice exhibited changes in microglia populations, which may contribute to synaptic abnormalities.
Researchers found that infants with enlarged perivascular spaces have a 2.2 times greater chance of developing autism compared to those with the same genetic risk. The study also indicates that these infants are more likely to experience sleep problems seven to ten years after diagnosis.
A study of 70 autistic youths in psychiatric hospitals found wearable biosensing and machine learning can identify impending aggressive behaviors. The findings suggest a potential for developing adaptive intervention systems to prevent aggression.
Scientists are finding that risk factors for autism spectrum disorder boil down to a couple of core pathways in early human brain development, according to researchers using technologies like RosetteArray. This new understanding is helping identify potential targets for treatments.
The study identifies FAM53C as a cytosolic-anchoring inhibitory binding protein of the kinase DYRK1A, regulating its activity and cellular location. This finding may provide potential clinical insights into treating Down syndrome and related diseases.
Researchers found that pancreatic enzymatic replacement improved behavioral function in preschoolers with ASD, including reduced irritability, hyperactivity, and lethargy. The treatment had minimal side effects and demonstrated potential for addressing co-occurring maladaptive behaviors.
Researchers used AI to analyze electroretinogram signals from children's eyes, identifying unique features associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The test, completed within 10 minutes, shows promise for diagnosing ASD more accurately and efficiently than current methods.
A diagnostic study of 1,890 eyes supports the use of artificial intelligence in screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and assessing symptom severity. Retinal photographs may improve accessibility to specialized assessments by reducing resource strain.
A Rutgers study finds adults with cognitive disabilities report lower overall satisfaction with healthcare services and worse experiences in encounters. Poor patient-provider communication is a key contributing factor.
A national study using telehealth assessments aims to identify infants with early behavioral differences that may indicate autism or developmental delays. The study will provide valuable insights into predicting these developmental skills and offer improved feedback and support for families.
Researchers have developed an AI-powered system to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children using a single flash of light to the eye. The system uses electroretinography (ERG) to identify specific features that classify ASD, providing a faster and more accurate method for diagnosis than existing tests.
Researchers flag potential concerns over the impact of social chatbots on neurodiverse people, citing risks of fostering bad habits and reinforcing dysfunctional habits. The technology may relieve social anxiety but can also develop into a form of dependency that negatively impacts actual relationships.
Researchers used brain imaging and machine learning to identify distinct patterns of brain connectivity in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), taking into account individual differences. The study reveals that certain brain features are shared across subtypes, while others are unique to specific individuals.
A new UK study confirms autistic people have a reduced life expectancy, but the actual difference may be lower than previously claimed. The research found that autistic men and women without learning disabilities had average estimated life expectancies of 74.6 and 76.8 years respectively.
A novel AI system analyzing brain MRI scans can diagnose autism in children between 24 and 48 months with a 98.5% accuracy rate. This technology enables early detection of autism, potentially leading to improved independence, IQs, and therapeutic outcomes.
This study introduces Rigid-Autonomous Phase Sequences (RAPS), which may be responsible for cognitive, sensory-motor, and memory-related challenges in ASD. RAPS can lead to inflexible neural pathways causing difficulties with learning, social communication, and memory.
A comprehensive meta-analysis led by Dr. Micheal Sandbank reveals that many low-quality studies are driving intervention recommendations and patient outcomes in early childhood autism care. The study highlights the need for more rigorous research to understand the positive and negative effects of various interventions.
A study of 1.3 million Canadian children found a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder in those born to parents with infertility. The research suggests that certain obstetrical and neonatal factors may contribute to this increased risk, highlighting the need for further exploration of these factors in individuals with infertility.
A study of 318,000 children found that those from disadvantaged neighborhoods were more likely to receive an ASD diagnosis. Early intervention and family support resources are needed for these communities
A new USC study reveals that variants of the autism-linked gene SYNGAP1 can disrupt early brain development in the cortex, a region involved in higher-order cognitive functions. The research found that disease-causing variants of SYNGAP1 alter the cells' cytoskeletons and lead to disorganized neural circuits.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin discovered that autism-induced maternal immune response alters brain development and prevents infantile amnesia. Memories formed during infancy can be permanently reinstated through light-activated neural pathways in adults.
A study found that gastrointestinal and sleep issues may be connected to self-injury and aggression in adolescents diagnosed with profound autism. The researchers discovered a possible connection between these health issues and future challenging behaviors, predicting next-day behavior with over 80% accuracy.
A new study found that sensory differences exacerbate loneliness and poor mental health in Autistic adults, highlighting the need for inclusive social spaces. The research also showed that financial inequalities and lack of employment opportunities contribute to feelings of isolation among Autistic individuals.
A new NIH study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescents with pre-existing mental, emotional, behavioral, and developmental disabilities. The findings reveal that these teens faced more severe effects, including lower life satisfaction, compared to their peers.
A new study by York University researchers suggests that people with autism are less likely to be affected by the bystander effect, which can lead to inaction in the face of wrongdoing. The findings suggest that neurodivergent individuals can bring unique benefits to workplaces.
A study by Nagoya University found that children with a genetic predisposition to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) used screens for longer periods. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also increased their screen time as they grew older, suggesting a potential link between genetic risk and excessive screen use.
Researchers from Drexel University's Autism Institute found that most TikTok videos providing information on autism were inaccurate or overgeneralized. Healthcare professionals' content was more likely to include accurate information, while personal experience-based videos were not coded in the study.
A long-term study found that changes in core autism characteristics are related to the development of mental health challenges during elementary school years. Restrictive and repetitive behaviors may help reduce anxiety for autistic individuals.
Brain inflammation in early childhood may prevent specific neurons from maturing fully, leading to conditions like autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. Researchers studied post-mortem brain tissue from children with inflammatory conditions or accidents and found that two types of cerebellar neurons were most vulnerable.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that autistic individuals may produce iconic gestures at a similar rate to, or even more frequently than, neurotypical individuals. This challenges the prevailing belief that autistic individuals tend to use fewer gestures in diagnosis assessments.
Researchers used CRISPR gene editing to study the impact of CHD8 mutations on human cortical neurons. The study found that CHD8 alterations drive molecular and cellular defects in neurons, leading to reduced activity and synaptic communication.
New research from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory explores how adult brains adapt through critical periods of learning, such as caring for young. MECP2 dysfunction causes neurodevelopmental disorder Rett syndrome, but the study finds that brain circuits can be rapidly rewired in adults.
Research from Rutgers University reveals that 1.77% of 16-year-olds in northeastern New Jersey have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with significant disparities among males, females, and socioeconomic groups.
A new AI-powered app can detect autism in children with high accuracy, capturing a wide range of behavioral characteristics beyond eye movements. The app provides detailed information on which indicators led to its conclusions and why, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions.
A groundbreaking study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that 37% of children diagnosed with autism as toddlers no longer meet the criteria for ASD around the age of six. Children with lower adaptive skills are more likely to have ASD persist later in life. The findings underscore the need for ongoing assessments throughout a child's ...
Researchers discovered protein p53's role in regulating sociability, repetitive behavior, and hippocampus-related learning and memory in mice. Lowering p53 levels led to changes in gene expressions related to behavior, while elevated p53 levels were linked to positive learning outcomes.
A recent study by the University of Cambridge found that autistic individuals are more likely to experience a broad range of chronic physical health conditions across various organ systems. The research highlights the need for closer monitoring and adaptation of healthcare systems to meet the complex needs of autistic people.
A meta-analysis of 71 studies on autism suggests that people with autism may acquire language differently than neurotypical individuals. While interventions aimed at promoting social communication showed no significant language gains, some children with autism learn language without social interaction, such as through digital tablets. ...
A study by researchers at the University of Tokyo found that the presynaptic Ube3a E3 ligase molecule plays a key role in eliminating neural synapses. This discovery offers insights into developmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome and autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers developed a technique called CHOOSE that allows them to test the effect of multiple mutations in parallel and at a single-cell level within human brain organoids. The study identified critical transcriptional changes regulated through common networks, or GRNs, and found that some cell types are more susceptible to autism mu...
Researchers identified serious flaws in NICE-recommended health passports, which may contribute to inaccessible healthcare and early death. They call for new interventions to improve healthcare accessibility and quality for Autistic people, including removing barriers such as lack of staff time and knowledge of Autism.
Researchers aim to understand the role of gaze in post-stroke reading impairments and develop an employment-specific assessment tool for individuals with autism. The studies may provide major steps towards finding innovative solutions for individuals affected by neglect dyslexia and autism.
A study of autistic, non-autistic neurodivergent, and neurotypical adults in the UK reveals unique pressures faced by autistic workers to mask their traits. The findings highlight the importance of creating a supportive work environment that accommodates individual needs.
A new study using eye-tracking technology found that it can accurately predict autism diagnoses, comparable to expert clinical diagnosis. The research suggests potential for earlier diagnosis and assessment of autism in routine practice.
Researchers have developed a new tool that measures children's looking behavior to predict expert clinical diagnosis of autism in children between 16-30 months. The tool provides objective measurements of social disability, verbal ability, and non-verbal learning skills.
The EarliPoint device is a first-of-its-kind FDA-authorized tool for early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Early detection can help jumpstart targeted treatment plans, improving outcomes for individuals with autism.
Researchers used objective eye-tracking technology to quantify social visual engagement in young children, revealing its potential as a tool for autism diagnosis. The findings suggest that these measurements can help identify individual levels of social disability and provide insights into verbal and nonverbal abilities.
Research finds that 75% of boys with fragile X meet criteria for co-occurring autism, but only 31% are identified in community settings. Early diagnosis is crucial to access services improving outcomes and quality of life.