Articles tagged with Developmental Disabilities
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health finds that adults with Down syndrome are more consistently enrolled in Medicaid and utilize more healthcare services than people without developmental disabilities. However, racial disparities exist, with White individuals having greater access to care.
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 recommend strategic use of neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) screening on populations with developmental delays, rather than universal genomic sequencing. This approach aims to prevent over-diagnosis and stigma, while providing targeted support for children at risk.
Children born to parents with substance use disorders are at increased risk of intellectual disability, regardless of whether the issue is with mothers or fathers. The study found that both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to this risk.
The study found a significant decline in the prevalence of serious later-life cognitive impairments among Black Americans, narrowing racial disparities. However, racial disparities persisted in activities of daily living and functional limitations. Improved air quality may have contributed to the narrowing of disparities in cognitive i...
The UC Davis MIND Institute is testing the 'Early Start Denver Model' in community agencies, which addresses all areas of development and emphasizes communication and social interaction through everyday activities. The goal is to improve communication skills and daily living skills for autistic children aged 1-4.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation are conducting novel studies on identity reconstruction, physical and mental fatigue, and upper limb function to improve the lives of individuals with TBI. The studies aim to develop scalable, accessible, and effective interventions using strength-based approaches.
A recent study published in Behavioral Sciences demonstrates the effectiveness of ACQUIRE Therapy in improving functional outcomes for children with various motor impairments. The framework provides a standardized approach to intensive therapy, emphasizing the importance of therapists' dynamic awareness and adaptability.
Scientists at UCSF and NIBSC have developed two new oral polio vaccines with genetically engineered weakened poliovirus to reduce reversion to dangerous forms. These vaccines aim to boost the World Health Organization's efforts to eradicate polio, which has persisted despite successful international vaccination campaigns.
Increasing physical activity, particularly daily 20-minute walks, can improve cardiovascular health and reduce disparities in heart health. Despite this, only one in four American adults meet the recommended physical activity levels, with certain groups facing additional barriers to accessibility.
Scientists have found that siblings with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) share more of their father's genome than initially thought. In many cases, it is the father who may play a bigger genetic role in ASD. This discovery offers new potential sources for understanding and treating the disorder.
A new study by UC Davis MIND Institute researchers and others finds that the M-CHAT-R/F screening tool is effective in identifying children with autistic traits, but it also flags many children incorrectly. The study highlights the need for clinical judgment and clear communication with parents about the limitations of the tool.
A UToledo-led study found early exposure to pyrethroids may increase the risk of autism and developmental disorders in mice. The researchers discovered behavioral changes, including hyperactivity and repetitive behaviors, which are similar to symptoms seen in human patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.
The WVU SMARTER center aims to improve mobility in rural areas through self-driving cars, ride-sharing services, and bike sharing. The center will develop infrastructure and technology barriers to ensure accessibility for all people.
A recent study published in NeuroImage found that older adults with improved cognitive performance during dual-task walking had flexible neural resource allocation. This discovery suggests a potential method for tracking brain health and identifying individuals at risk of aging-related cognitive decline.
The unemployment rate for persons with disabilities in the US is more than double that of those without a disability, particularly youth. New research highlights the importance of community and business awareness of vocational services to increase work participation and quality of life.
The University of Technology Sydney has developed a brain-computer interface technology that allows users to control devices such as robots and machines using only their thoughts. The technology has been successfully tested in various environments, achieving high accuracy rates of up to 94%. It also has significant potential in fields ...
A new study will test the efficacy of a new socialization and sex education curriculum on young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The randomized controlled trial aims to improve reproductive health access among this marginalized group.
Researchers from New York Institute of Technology have made significant findings on how the sense of smell is impacted in individuals with autism. The study analyzed a mouse model of autism and found that scent processing was impaired at a later step, after signals were processed at the olfactory bulb input.
Research suggests that restricted access to abortions will cause severe stress for individuals carrying unwanted pregnancies, which may lead to psychiatric illnesses and developmental problems in children. This stress can exacerbate existing psychiatric vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of relapse or new episodes.
The University of Kansas has received a five-year, $2.9 million grant to continue its work supporting Kansans with disabilities and their families. The grant will fund the core activities of the Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, including research, community service, training, and education.
A $749,960 NSF grant will develop AI-powered AAC devices to improve outcomes for individuals with limited speech and language. The technology aims to reduce the burden on users and enhance their participation in education and workforce activities.
A study followed over 7,000 Canadians for three years to find that being female, physically active, and not obese were key to maintaining excellent health. Factors such as high income and social support also played a crucial role in optimal aging.
A study of 2 million births found maternal unintentional injury during pregnancy increases risk of cerebral palsy. Children exposed to maternal injuries that resulted in hospitalization or preterm delivery are at higher risk.
Researchers from SickKids have uncovered new genes and genetic changes associated with autism spectrum disorder, including 134 linked genes and gene copy number variations. The study offers a better understanding of the 'genomic architecture' underlying this disorder.
Researchers at Yale University used innovative technology to study brain activity during social interactions between individuals with and without autism. They found that people with ASD had reduced activity in the dorsal parietal cortex during eye contact, which was associated with ADOS scores.
UC Riverside engineers develop low-cost robotic clothing to help children with cerebral palsy. The soft machine garments contain sealed regions that inflate to provide force for movement, enabling natural limb functioning.
The Regional Transition Navigator program aims to connect youth and young adults aged 14-25 with needed resources, emphasizing those at risk of homelessness, human trafficking or substance use disorders. The program's long-term goal is to teach problem-solving skills and provide support for a healthier transition into adulthood.
Researchers studied over 500,000 children born between 1987 and 2010, finding no causal link between maternal infection and autism. However, they did find a weaker link for intellectual disability, suggesting other factors may be at play.
A study by Brigham Young University found that parent-led interventions significantly improve social and communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder. The meta-analysis of over 50 studies included 2,895 child participants who received about 90 minutes of intervention training each week.
A new study reveals how a rare genetic mutation affects an enzyme involved in learning and memory, leading to enhanced activation and potential treatment options. Researchers have developed a method of protein analysis that enabled them to identify a potential treatment using existing medicine.
Researchers found that mothers' higher depressive symptoms did not predict increases in children's behavior problems, including those with autism. The study suggests that maternal depression may have a complex impact on caregiving families.
A study by Nagoya University researchers found age-related differences in gait patterns of Japanese elementary school children, including increased cadence and decreased step and stride length. The findings provide an important tool for assessing normal and pathological gait, potentially informing orthopedic treatment and rehabilitation.
Chronic lung disease (COPD) is a major public health problem worldwide, affecting 212 million people, primarily due to smoking and air pollution. The study reveals that while age-adjusted rates have declined, absolute counts are rising, with COPD expected to become an even greater issue in the future.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) has approved funding awards totaling $258 million to support 26 new research studies. These studies aim to fill evidence gaps and improve healthcare decision making for a range of high-burden conditions, including mental health, heart conditions, asthma, bone fractures, and sinus...
Researchers found an autism-associated mutation in the Hevin protein results in its retention in the endoplasmic reticulum, activating the unfolded protein response in cells. This disrupts normal brain function, contributing to autism pathogenesis.
A Michigan Medicine study found that people with cerebral palsy and spina bifida are prescribed opioids at a rate up to five times higher than those without the conditions. Chronic pain is the most commonly reported symptom among these individuals, raising concerns over addiction and overdose issues.
A Polish study found that students without disabilities achieve the same academic results when attending classes with students who have disabilities, with implications for inclusive education. The research suggests that the type of inclusion does not affect academic achievement.
Duke researchers identify DDX3X gene as crucial for neuron formation and brain development, with dosage-dependent defects leading to developmental disabilities. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying DDX3X syndrome and related disorders, potentially paving the way for therapies.
Researchers found that walking enhances performance on cognitive tasks in 14 participants by increasing frontal brain function, while 12 others showed no improvement. This discovery highlights the flexibility of a healthy brain and has implications for understanding aging and neurological disorders.
A new study suggests that oxidative stress overactivates a glucose metabolism enzyme in the developing hippocampus, impairing learning and memory. However, inhibiting this enzyme can reverse cognitive deficits, paving the way for treatment of neonatal brain injuries.
A new study found that white students are more likely to receive special education for higher-status disabilities than Black and Latinx students. Boys are also more likely to receive special education than girls. These disparities are attributed to biases in how teachers observe and interpret student difficulties.
A recent Rutgers University study has found that children in families struggling to provide diapers are more likely to have disrupted and shorter sleep periods. The researchers also discovered a strong association between diaper need and an increased risk of childhood obesity, emotional problems, and maternal mental health symptoms.
The new COBRE grant will help WVU recruit researchers and clinician-scientists to develop innovative solutions for preventing and treating incurable vision problems. The project aims to reduce visual disparities in West Virginia by understanding the complex combination of factors that contribute to these problems.
The guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for managing symptoms and improving access to multidisciplinary care for children with CMT. The guidelines promote optimal, standardized care globally and are critical for clinical trial readiness.
The SynGAP Research Fund has developed a pre-screening tool to identify potential SYNGAP1 patients through a free online survey. The partnership with Probably Genetic aims to screen undiagnosed patients and provide them with genetic testing resources, ultimately advancing treatment development for SYNGAP1.
A new study found that siblings of children with disabilities exhibit greater cognitive empathy, understanding their sibling's thoughts and feelings. This increased empathy is linked to improved social skills and prosocial behavior in these individuals.
A new study found that siblings of children with disabilities score higher in self-reported cognitive empathy than typically developing peers. This may be due to the specific 'advantage' of cognitive empathy in understanding and supporting their sibling relationship.
Four IIT researchers have been awarded €150,000 each from the European Research Council to develop groundbreaking technologies addressing health challenges, such as tumours, blindness, and amputations. Their projects aim to substitute critical raw materials in electronics and create multisensory systems for visually impaired infants.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that adults with disabilities have poorer COVID-19 outcomes, with longer hospital stays and higher readmission rates. The study highlights the need for accommodations and support for patients with disabilities during the pandemic.
The WV Clinical and Translational Science Institute is leading a national study on post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) among adults. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, aims to better understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 and develop effective treatments for this disabling complication.
A ketogenic diet has been shown to improve spatial memory and visual memory, lower brain inflammation indices, and cause less neuronal death in individuals with traumatic brain injuries. The diet may also slow down the rate of cellular aging, offering hope for those suffering from this condition.
A study by Kennedy Krieger Institute explores how GI problems in children with autism affect their families. Researchers identified four main themes: anxiety, diet, microbiome imbalance, and medication impact. The findings highlight the need for interventions to address poor gut health and its consequences.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation associated with severe congenital epilepsy also leads to neural degeneration, inflammation and behavioral symptoms in mice. The study suggests the mutation as a potential target for treatment.
Researchers found correlations between brain morphology and sensory characteristics in adults with ASD, suggesting structural changes may cause sensory abnormalities. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for ASD beyond behavioral indicators.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Board approved funding for nine new comparative clinical effectiveness research studies addressing various health conditions. These studies focus on telehealth and mobile health strategies, reducing disparities in maternal health, and improving care for people with intellectual a...
A new study by USC researchers uses GANs to generate synthetic neurological data that can be fed into machine-learning algorithms to improve BCI usability. This approach improved BCI training speed by up to 20 times and enabled rapid adaptation to new subjects.
A new study provides preliminary data for a human clinical trial of a treatment that targets the root cause of Alexander disease. The treatment has shown promising results in halting the progression of the disease and even reversing some symptoms in rat models, which better represent the human condition.
A new report highlights the alarming global impact of Group B streptococcus, which can lead to up to 150,000 infant deaths annually. Maternal vaccination is seen as a cost-effective solution to reduce this toll, with significant health benefits in all regions.
A study by GIST scientists found that physical interaction between children with cerebral palsy and horses improves motor skills and balance. The research team recorded horse and child movements, tracking acceleration and angular velocity to quantify interactions, which were linked to improved outcomes.