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Handheld device could provide fast method to diagnose concussions in youth athletes

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed a new study using a handheld device to measure pupil response to light, revealing clear differences between concussed and healthy adolescent athletes. The study found significant variations in pupil diameter, constriction, and dilation velocity among concussed athletes.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateSep 24, 2020

Online training helps preemies

A randomised controlled study found that computerised training can support preterm children's academic success, particularly in math and attention skills. The study tested two learning apps, Xtramath and Cogmed, on 65 first graders born preterm.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPediatric Research·DateSep 21, 2020

Improving the transition from pediatric to adult rheumatology care

A study of 141 pediatric patients transferred to an adult rheumatology clinic found that continued insurance coverage and referral from a pediatric rheumatologist reduced delays in attending adult visits. Pediatric patients with connective tissue diseases or Black race were particularly vulnerable to unscheduled hospitalizations.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateSep 10, 2020

Vertebral body tethering shows clinical success as treatment for scoliosis

A retrospective study from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that vertebral body tethering (VBT) is a promising alternative to posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for treating scoliosis in pediatric patients with growth remaining. VBT yields a high success rate, preserving mobility and correcting curves in 74% of patients.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateAug 27, 2020

Experts question need to wait days between introducing new solid foods to infants

A recent survey of pediatricians found significant variability in recommendations for solid food introduction, leading experts to question the relevance of current guidelines. The long waiting period may delay peanut introduction and limit food diversity, which can decrease the development of allergic diseases in infants.

Experts issue back-to-school guidelines for pediatric solid organ transplant recipients

Pediatric infectious disease experts provide recommendations on return to school for SOT children, considering factors like clinical risk, community transmission, and infection prevention measures. The majority of SOT recipients are expected to outweigh the risks and benefit from attending school.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateAug 4, 2020

Young kids could spread COVID-19 as much as older children and adults

A recent study from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that young children with mild to moderate COVID-19 have higher viral loads than older age groups, suggesting they can transmit the virus just as easily. This finding has significant public health implications for discussions on reopening schools and daycare.

Only a third of pediatricians fully follow guidelines on peanut allergy prevention

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that only 30% of US pediatricians fully implement recommended practices for preventing peanut allergy, with common barriers including lack of clinic time and parental fear. The 2017 guidelines aim to introduce peanut-containing foods at 4-6 months to reduce prevalence.

Timing of SNAP benefits can reduce childhood injuries

A new study found that low-income families receiving SNAP benefits later in the month experience fewer emergency room visits for childhood injuries, likely due to better meal planning and food security. The researchers suggest that supporting federal food assistance programs like SNAP can help reduce childhood injuries and morbidity.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateJul 2, 2020

Even minor heart defects are associated with long-term problems in adulthood

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that even minor heart defects can lead to chronic diseases, such as arrhythmia and heart failure, in adulthood. Adults who underwent congenital heart surgery during childhood are more likely to experience lower levels of education and employment rates.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 29, 2020

Increased caseloads may explain why reducing resident physicians’ work hours doesn’t always improve patient safety

A new study by Boston Children's Hospital found that reducing resident physicians' work hours can worsen patient safety if caseloads are too high. The study discovered that residents who cared for more patients experienced a higher rate of medical errors, highlighting the need for better staffing standards.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 24, 2020