Articles tagged with Pediatrics
UTSW researchers develop novel strategy to combat viral infections by inhibiting protein network. The approach has shown promise in preventing replication of RSV and coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, a leading cause of pediatric deaths worldwide.
A new study found that hospitalized children who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 were more likely to develop neurological symptoms, including headache and altered mental status. The research also showed that these symptoms were more common in kids with MIS-C, a condition characterized by fever, inflammation, and organ dysfunction.
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 recent study by UCLA Health researchers found no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through breast milk feeding. The study analyzed breastmilk samples from 110 lactating women and discovered that even when mothers had COVID-19, the virus was not present in their infants.
A new study has found that children in sub-Saharan Africa who are hospitalized with COVID-19 are dying at a rate far greater than children in the US and Europe. Children under 1 year old had nearly five times the risk of death compared to adolescents aged 15-19 years.
Researchers identified a mechanism by which two antiviral genes, SAMD9 and SAMD9L, promote childhood cancer when mutated. The study found that this protein region performs the toxic function through binding to nucleic acids.
A recent study published in Pediatric Research found no SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in breastmilk from mothers infected with COVID-19, ruling out transmission to infants. The authors analyzed 110 lactating women and did not find any clinical evidence of infection in breastfeeding infants.
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) may be rooted in impaired and inefficient muscle tissue regeneration, which enables unwanted bone growth. This discovery could lead to new therapies targeting both extra-skeletal bone formation and muscle function.
A CHOP study found that infants born via uncomplicated cesarean delivery have a low risk of early-onset sepsis and should not receive antibiotics at birth. The study's findings could help clinicians tailor antibiotic use in newborns, reducing complications and unnecessary treatment.
Research from the University of Virginia Health System found that long-term use of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers can lead to hardened kidney vessels. The drugs, commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and heart failure, were associated with damage in both lab mice and humans.
The Sanford Children's Genomic Medicine Consortium has initiated a whole genome sequencing research project to investigate undiagnosed illnesses in children with suspected inborn errors of immunity. The study aims to sequence the genomes of up to 25 patient genomes and learn information that can benefit patients and others.
Researchers analyzed hospital visits, admissions, and deaths for 50,393 children with asthma to track trends. The study used health information exchange data, revealing a significant increase in pediatric asthma death rates despite a decline in hospital admissions.
A new study finds that climate change will lead to an increase in kidney stone cases, even with mitigation efforts. Researchers predict a cost of $57-99 million to the US healthcare system over seven decades, with a steeper impact if no action is taken.
A new graft strategy has reduced chronic graft-versus-host disease in leukemia patients by depleting naïve T cells from donor blood. The approach has shown promising results, with only 7% of patients developing chronic GVHD compared to 30-60% with standard treatment.
A new UCSF study found that the neural connections of newborns with two different kinds of brain injuries were linked to significantly different developmental outcomes years later. CHD newborns had worse language function at 12-18 months and worse cognitive, language, and motor function at 30 months compared to HIE infants.
A study published in Neurosurgery found that responsive neurostimulation system reduced disabling seizures in 84% of children and young adults with drug-resistant epilepsy. The youngest patient to undergo RNS implantation was a 3-year-old child.
A new study estimates that nitrogen dioxide from traffic pollution contributes to nearly 2 million cases of pediatric asthma annually. Cleaner air in urban areas has led to a decline in these cases, but more work is needed to curb harmful emissions.
Researchers discovered that aberrant splicing of CD22 mRNA leads to decreased protein expression in pediatric B-lymphoblastic leukemia cells. This results in resistance to CD22-directed immunotherapies, making it challenging for oncologists to identify patients who may not respond to these treatments.
Researchers found that brain activity in children with arthrogryposis is different from healthy controls, with increased motor neuron activity and less precise movements. Non-invasive brain stimulation may be a possible rehabilitation strategy to help them start movements.
A team of researchers from Georgia Tech developed a 3D-printed tracheal replacement splint to treat Ramiah, a 4-year-old girl with tracheal agenesis. The Airway Support Device was used in her successful surgery and has improved her breathing capabilities.
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified several new clinical considerations in WAGR syndrome, including kidney issues, cardiometabolic health problems, and variations in eye issues. The study provides guidance for proper diagnosis, management, and potential treatment options, highlighting the need for individual...
Researchers found tumor risk varies among patients with Beckwith-Wiedmann spectrum, differing from classic symptoms. Traditional blood tests may not capture all cases, emphasizing the need for more accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
A new study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that family members of children with life-threatening conditions are 50-70% more likely to experience mental and physical health issues. The study examined four types of life-threatening conditions and found mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers to be at higher risk.
A new consensus statement provides recommendations for the diagnosis, management, and care of individuals with achondroplasia across all life stages. The guidelines aim to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this genetic disorder.
The Medical University of South Carolina's Boeing Center for Children's Wellness offers a menu of wellness initiative options that schools can tailor to their needs. Schools with health professionals on the wellness committee implement 25% more initiatives, leading to a culture change and increased student participation.
Researchers analyzed 140 neuroblastoma samples to understand the genetic changes associated with the disease. They found that mutations can disappear and reappear, occurring in distinct sections or individual cells, making targeted therapy less effective.
A new study suggests that sun exposure may reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis in children and young adults by up to 52%. Vitamin D levels are also found to be higher in individuals with increased sun exposure, which may play a role in protecting against autoimmune diseases.
A new study has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on urban, racial, and ethnic minority children aged five to 11 years old. The research found increased rates of depression and anxiety problems among these children compared to before the pandemic, with rates rising from 5 percent to 18 percent.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School is part of a $470 million RECOVER initiative studying post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) in children. The study aims to investigate long-term effects, symptoms and treatments for PASC, such as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C).
An experimental drug called NAP has been found effective in treating a broad spectrum of symptoms related to autism, intellectual disability, and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that NAP normalizes brain function in mice modeling ADNP syndrome, a rare disorder linked to these conditions.
Children with autism benefit from group-based weight management and family-centered nutrition education, which improves eating habits and exercise motivation. The program's success rate is higher among families who complete the entire program, indicating its potential as an adjunct or alternative to traditional interventions.
A study by Boston Children's Hospital found that COVID-19 vaccination-related myocarditis is usually mild and has a fast clinical recovery rate in adolescents and young adults. However, long-term monitoring of heart health is recommended due to potential cardiac complications.
Researchers found that most cases of suspected COVID-19 vaccine-related myocarditis in people younger than 21 are mild and resolve quickly. The study suggests that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination far exceed the rare risks of adverse events, including myocarditis.
A third of US kids lack good and consistent health insurance, with inadequate insurance driving the trend. Families with private insurance and children with special needs are disproportionately affected.
Research found a significant correlation between increased atmospheric temperature and asthma attacks in children. Lower SO2 levels during the state of emergency also contributed to reduced asthma exacerbations, suggesting that environmental factors play a crucial role in asthma management.
Researchers used next-generation DNA sequencing to detect residual disease in patients treated with CAR-T therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study found that DNA sequencing was more sensitive and accurate than flow cytometry in predicting relapse, enabling earlier intervention.
Researchers analyzed data from 2016 to 2020 and found no significant difference in new cancer diagnoses among Canadian children during the pandemic. The study suggests that cancer diagnosis rates were not delayed, unlike previous reports suggesting a decline.
A new study found that Pediatric Mental Health Care Access (PMHCA) programs increased referrals from primary care providers to these programs, particularly for patients with mood and anxiety symptoms. PMHCA programs provide training, consultation, and resource-referral support to PCPs, increasing children's access to mental health care.
A study led by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers used stem cells to implicate several genes involved in bodily functions associated with the hypothalamus. The findings could help clinicians identify potential causes of dysfunction for traits regulated by the hypothalamus, such as sleep and stress.
A recent study found that using consumer-grade wearable devices to track a child's heart rate and physical activity after surgery can help clinicians decide if at-home recovery is going as expected. The data from the wearables, coupled with parent reports, aids clinicians' decision-making and potentially prevents unnecessary ED visits.
The American Thoracic Society has published a clinical practice guideline on the use of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) to guide asthma treatment. The guideline recommends using FeNO in addition to usual care for patients with asthma whose treatment is being considered, suggesting this may be eligible for the measurement.
A novel gene therapy has shown sustained expression of clotting factor VIII, leading to a reduction or complete elimination of bleeding events in patients with hemophilia A. The trial demonstrated improved production of coagulation factor VIII over prolonged periods.
A survey study of 400 parents and 80 clinicians found that nearly one-quarter of parents reported challenges in the therapeutic relationship with their oncologist, highlighting the need for improvement strategies. Clinicians used these strategies more frequently when they experienced relationship difficulties.
A study led by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that lifelong immunoglobulin replacement therapy reduces premature deaths by 37% but is not cost-effective due to high costs. Reducing IRT prices could make it a more affordable option.
A large-scale trial found that penicillin can prevent progression of latent rheumatic heart disease in Ugandan children. The study enrolled 818 children and showed that early detection coupled with prophylactic treatment significantly reduced worsened heart conditions, offering hope for addressing this neglected disease.
A new prospective cohort study of 106 patients at Children’s National Hospital found that the second wave of kids with multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) had more severe illness compared to the first wave. Despite this, both cohorts had similarities in cardiac outcomes and length of stay.
A study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that parent-collected nose swabs outperform nurse-collected swabs in detecting respiratory infections in children, with high inter-rater agreement rates for viral and bacterial infections. The study's findings suggest that parents can collect high-quality samples, and this method may be ...
The MC3 program provides a lifeline for primary care providers in Michigan, connecting them with psychiatrists and behavioral specialists for consultation and training. This has led to improved diagnosis and care for young people with mental health concerns, including those who express suicidal thoughts or have harmed themselves.
A UCLA study found that young adults experiencing discrimination are at a higher risk for short- and long-term behavioral and mental health problems. The study suggests that the effects of discrimination are connected to disparities in care and institutional discrimination, leading to inequities in diagnoses, treatment, and outcomes.
The American Pediatric Society (APS) has named Dr. Megan A. Moreno the recipient of the 2022 Norman J. Siegel Outstanding Science Award, recognizing her significant contributions to pediatric science and adolescent health. The award acknowledges her pioneering work on social media research and its impact on adolescent wellbeing.
A new mobile phone app called GrowthMonitor can accurately measure children's height and detect potential growth disorders, enabling early diagnosis and treatment. The app uses a traffic light system to inform parents of normal, amber, or red growth status, empowering them to take action.
A new study reveals that many young adults with asthma are not prepared to transition to adult asthma care. The survey found that half of all respondents did not receive sufficient transition preparation from their pediatric providers, highlighting the need for better education and support.
A pediatric practice in Rochester, NY, demonstrates success in vaccinating eligible patients and their caregivers during regular visits, showcasing a model for addressing vaccine hesitancy. The approach found positive outcomes, including increased comfort and trust among caregivers.
A new Dartmouth-led study found a direct association between the infant microbiome and early childhood behavioral health, with sex-specific differences. The study characterized the species of microbes present in each participant's gut and their functions, establishing that microbiome changes occur before behavioral changes.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that combining copper ions with a drug once used for treating alcoholism kills medulloblastoma cancer cells and prevents new ones from forming. The therapy also curtails the creation of cancer stem cells, which initiate tumor growth and recurrence.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a novel therapy that targets proteins essential for tumor growth and survival. Using a multi-omics approach, they identified peptides unique to neuroblastoma tumors, which are then targeted by peptide-centric chimeric antigen receptors (PC-CARs).
A seven-year study by CooperVision indicates that MiSight 1 day contact lenses slow myopia progression without a rebound effect, even after treatment cessation. The lenses demonstrate sustained slowing of myopia progression across different ages and with varying levels of myopia.
A large national sample of US adolescents showed an increase in average total daily screen time from 3.8 hours/day pre-pandemic to 7.7 hours/day early in the pandemic period.
A new study found that adolescents in the US doubled their non-school related screen time to 7.7 hours a day during the pandemic, leading to increased depression and anxiety. The study also revealed that children of color and those from lower-income families spent more time on screens than their white, wealthier peers.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 stay higher in people who were infected by the virus and then received protection from mRNA vaccine compared to those who only got vaccinated. A longer interval between virus exposure and first vaccine dose may enhance antibody response.