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Study on DSM-5 shows effects on autism diagnosis and prevalence

A new study found that combining autism with social communication disorder (SCD) would decrease estimated prevalence under DSM-5 criteria. The researchers discovered that 83% of children diagnosed with autism under the DSM-IV would also receive the diagnosis under DSM-5, while 14% were diagnosed with SCD.

SourceAutism Speaks·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 27, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Peripheral immune system may regulate vulnerability to depression

A study suggests that immune cells outside the brain may contribute to depression, with elevated levels of interleukin-6 linked to increased depressive behaviors in rodents. Researchers found that mice transplanted with high-responding donors exhibited increased depression-like behaviors compared to those with low-responding donors.

SourceAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 12, 2013

Gut bacteria linked to autism-related behavior in mice

Researchers found that gut bacteria changes are associated with autism-like behaviors in mice, which improved when treated with beneficial bacteria. The study suggests a potential therapeutic role for probiotics in treating gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms of autism.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateDec 5, 2013

Probiotic therapy alleviates autism-like behaviors in mice

Researchers at Caltech found that altering gut bacteria can improve autism-like behaviors in mice, reducing GI problems and improving communication and social interactions. The probiotic treatment corrected a 'leaky' gut characteristic associated with autism.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateDec 5, 2013

Turning autism upside down: When symptoms are strengths

A novel approach to treating autism spectrum disorder teaches affected children to control their autonomic nervous system using computerized biofeedback and clinical hypnosis. The method recognizes symptoms as an effort to self-regulate inner turmoil, allowing children to feel better and be more socially engaging.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Hypnosis·DateNov 25, 2013

Scientists reduce behaviors associated with problem gambling in rats

Researchers at University of British Columbia successfully reduced behaviors associated with problem gambling in rats by blocking dopamine D4 receptors. The study found that rats treated with the drug exhibited reduced levels of behaviours like near-misses, offering new hope for treating gambling addiction.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalBiological Psychology·DateOct 29, 2013
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

How do ADHD medications work?

Researchers found that methylphenidate and atomoxetine, two FDA-approved ADHD medications, increase brain activation when making fine temporal distinctions. This improvement in brain function is linked to improved behavior in children with ADHD.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 16, 2013

Food addiction a step closer to formal diagnostic status -- or not?

The concept of food addiction is being debated as a potential mental disorder, with some studies suggesting that certain obese individuals exhibit addictive-like behavior towards food. However, more evidence is needed to support inclusion in the DSM, and experts caution against over-diagnosing disorders.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 7, 2013

Mobile tech and talk therapies strike at the moment binge eating urges do

Researchers at Drexel University are developing a smartphone app to track individuals' patterns of eating and binge-eating behavior, alerting them at risk. A new evidence-based approach to small-group behavioral therapy also aims to equip patients with psychological tools to adhere to standard treatments.

SourceDrexel University·JournalBehavior Modification·DateSep 27, 2013
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Identifying trauma risk in small children early after an accident

A systematic questionnaire has been devised and evaluated to identify pre-school children with an increased risk of long-term post-traumatic disorders within a few days of an accident. The questionnaire recorded high accuracy, identifying 85% of children who would later develop PTSD.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 23, 2013

Inner-ear disorders may cause hyperactivity

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that inner-ear dysfunction can cause neurological changes leading to hyperactivity in mice. The study implicated two brain proteins involved in a signaling pathway that controls movement, providing potential targets for medication.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateSep 5, 2013

The difference between obsession and delusion

Tel Aviv University researchers used zoological methods to classify symptoms of OCD and schizophrenia in humans. The study found that schizo-OCD patients exhibited both OCD-like behavior and symptoms of schizophrenia, suggesting it's a combination of both disorders.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCNS Spectrums·DateSep 4, 2013

New studies in The Lancet reveal global impact of mental and substance disorders

Mental and substance use disorders were the leading cause of non-fatal illness worldwide in 2010, with depressive disorders accounting for 40% of the burden. The analysis also found that mental and substance use disorders were responsible for more deaths than HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, with opioids causing the greatest health burden.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2013
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Recurrence risk for autism spectrum disorders examined for full, half siblings

A Danish study of siblings found the recurrence risk for autism spectrum disorders varied from 4.5 percent to 10.5 percent depending on the birth years. The study suggests an almost seven-fold increase in ASDs risk if an older sibling had an ASD diagnosis, highlighting the role of genetics and maternal intrauterine environment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 19, 2013

Note to teens: Just breathe

A UCLA study shows that a four-week program teaching yoga-based breathing practices can significantly reduce impulsive behavior in adolescents, leading to improved emotional regulation and decision-making skills. The program was found to be effective in reducing impulsive acts such as drug abuse, risky sexual behaviors, and violence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 9, 2013
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

A look inside children's minds

Researchers used fNIRS to study 3- and 4-year-old children's visual working memory, finding that neural activity in the right frontal cortex is linked to higher capacity, while 4-year-olds show increased use of the parietal cortex for spatial attention. The findings could help detect childhood disorders like ADHD and autism earlier.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 27, 2013

Breaking habits before they start

Researchers at MIT found that blocking activity in the infralimbic cortex prevents rats from learning to run a maze on autopilot. The study suggests a new approach to treating disorders of repetitive behavior by targeting this brain region.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateJun 27, 2013
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Could novel drug target autism and fetal alcohol disorder?

A Northwestern University study found that male offspring of rat mothers who were given alcohol during pregnancy exhibit social impairment and altered levels of autism-related genes. Low doses of thyroid hormone thyroxin reversed social impairments and expression of these genes, suggesting a potential treatment target for both disorders.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJun 13, 2013

Brain circuits link obsessive-compulsive behavior and obesity

Researchers found that brain circuits controlling obsessive-compulsive behavior are intertwined with those controlling food intake and body weight. The study suggests that minor disruptions in this system may lead to disorders like anorexia nervosa or OCD, as well as obesity, where individuals overconsume high-fat foods.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Mice give new clues to origins of OCD

OCD researchers discovered a mechanism underlying compulsive behaviors in mice, suggesting potential treatments. The study's findings could lead to novel drug development and direct stimulation techniques, including deep brain stimulation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience·DateJun 9, 2013
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

MIT study sheds light on what causes compulsive behavior, could improve OCD treatments

Researchers at MIT have made significant progress in understanding the neural mechanisms of compulsive behavior by activating a specific brain circuit that controls compulsive behavior. By using optogenetics, they were able to block compulsive behavior in mice and demonstrate potential new approaches for treating diseases such as OCD.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

Study finds link between sexual harassment and 'purging' -- in men

A study by Michigan State University researchers found a significant link between high levels of sexual harassment and purging behaviors in men. Men who experience severe harassment are more likely to engage in compensatory behaviors such as inducing vomiting and taking laxatives.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBody Image·DateMay 9, 2013
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Pathological gambling is associated with age

Researchers found that patient age influences the onset of pathological gambling disorder and its clinical course. Younger patients are more likely to be impulsive, while older patients seek to modulate negative emotional states.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·DateApr 8, 2013

New disorder could classify millions of people as mentally ill

A new somatic symptom disorder in DSM-5 risks mislabeling many people as mentally ill due to a lack of specificity and high false-positive rate. The condition will classify excessive responses to distressing symptoms, potentially leading to inappropriate medical decision-making.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 19, 2013

Unhealthy eating can make a bad mood worse

Researchers discover that unhealthy eating behaviors can worsen moods in women without prior mood changes, leading to a better understanding of the relationship between emotions and eating. The study's findings suggest that this connection may play a role in the development and maintenance of unhealthy eating habits.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 15, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

When good habits go bad

Nicole Calakos studies synaptic defects in the basal ganglia that underlie compulsive behavior, including Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases. Mice with overactive metabotropic glutamate receptors exhibit impaired synaptic plasticity, leading to obsessive-like behaviors.

SourceDuke University·DateFeb 16, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Studies provide new insights into brain-behavior relationships

Researchers investigate patterns of dysgraphia in participants with primary progressive aphasia, comparing them to those with stroke-related dysgraphia. They also explore nonverbal semantic processing in individuals with semantic aphasia and dementia, shedding light on brain-behavior relationships.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBehavioural Neurology·DateJan 15, 2013
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

More evidence needed to support use of autism interventions

Researchers found moderate to insufficient evidence supporting various autism interventions, highlighting the need for well-designed studies. The expert panel recommends focusing on assessment and monitoring treatment outcomes, addressing needs of preverbal and nonverbal children, and identifying effective strategies for core deficits.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 1, 2012
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

How to prove a sexual addiction

A UCLA-led team of experts found the proposed criteria to be reliable and valid in helping mental health professionals diagnose hypersexual disorder. The study accurately classified 88% of patients as having the disorder, with significant consequences including job loss, relationship end, and emotional distress.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateOct 18, 2012
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Calcium reveals connections between neurons

A team of MIT neuroscientists has created a way to monitor brain-cell activity by detecting calcium ions, which could provide insights into the origins of autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The technique allows for pinpointing specific cell types involved in psychiatric diseases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateOct 17, 2012

Panel discussion: Pathological gambling

Pathological gamblers exhibit abnormally increased reward expectancy, leading to overoptimistic expectations of gambling outcomes. Brain activity studies reveal a higher activation in reward areas when expecting potential wins, contributing to the addictive mechanism.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 14, 2012

$2.7M LSUHSC grant to reduce alcohol use & improve HIV outcomes

A team of scientists will enroll 250 people living with HIV/AIDS in a clinical study to compare an intervention with a Holistic Health Recovery Program adapted for Alcohol Use Disorders, aiming to enhance patients' awareness and modify behaviors that promote HIV disease progression.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateOct 8, 2012

Prenatal mercury exposure may be associated with risk of ADHD-related behaviors

A study of children in Massachusetts found that low-level prenatal mercury exposure is associated with a higher risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related behaviors. Conversely, fish consumption during pregnancy appears to be protective, particularly for impulsive/hyperactive behaviors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateOct 8, 2012
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Psychiatric disorders may persist in some young people after detention

A study found that nearly half of males and 30% of females had psychiatric disorders five years after detention, highlighting the long-term impact of juvenile incarceration on mental health. Substance use disorders were the most common, with males having a higher risk than females.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateOct 1, 2012