Articles tagged with Pediatrics
Pediatric patients in a hospital bed explore virtual environments through scuba diving, snowboarding, and safaris, reducing anxiety and improving outcomes. The study found that 80% of parents reported their child's virtual reality experience calmed them.
Researchers discovered a key regulator of IGF-1 bioavailability in children with severe growth disorders. Electronic health records can help identify patients who could benefit from genetic testing to diagnose undiagnosed short stature.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that parents and toddlers interact less with electronic books compared to print books, leading to reduced verbalization and quality of interactions. Parents tend to focus on technology rather than the story, hindering parent-guided conversation.
Researchers propose anticipatory waivers of consent for pediatric biobanking, allowing for efficient use of samples from minors. The authors also examine the inadequate response to the US Public Health Service's unethical experiments in Guatemala.
The I-ACQUIRE trial evaluates an intensive pediatric therapy to increase upper extremity skills, gross motor development, and cognition in infants with strokes under four weeks old. The study aims to transform clinical rehabilitation for thousands of newly diagnosed infant stroke victims annually.
A study found that anti-vaccination arguments center on four distinct themes: trust, alternatives, safety, and conspiracy. Researchers developed a framework to help clinicians open conversations with vaccine-hesitant parents and resist online misinformation.
A new assessment tool predicts the risk of developing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in college students six months after contracting infectious mononucleosis. The study found that those with more severe mononucleosis were over three times more likely to meet CFS diagnostic criteria.
Research has led to increased understanding of genetic changes in cancer, highlighting the potential for personalized care in children with cancer. Genetic profiling can inform prognosis and treatment decisions, providing critical information about tumor progression and response.
Two Boston University School of Medicine students have received a national award for their innovative project, which uses Uber Health to eliminate transportation barriers to healthcare access for urban OBGYN refugee women. The pilot study found significant decreases in patient no-show rates and improved patient satisfaction.
A study found that parents who use e-cigarettes are more likely to allow vaping in homes and cars than those who smoke traditional cigarettes. However, most parents reported having strict smoke-free policies in their homes, but these policies were not always enforced.
Researchers examine experiences of families with pediatric onset MS, finding complex diagnostic odyssey and high emotional toll. Disease-modifying treatments improve outcomes, but long-term emotional support needed for patients' families.
A study published in Pediatric Research found that having a TV in the bedroom at age 4 is associated with later physical, mental, and social problems. Children who spent more time watching TV in their room had higher body mass indexes, unhealthy eating habits, lower sociability, and increased emotional distress.
Researchers identified the first genetic defect linked to biliary atresia, a mysterious liver disease causing liver transplantation in children. The study found five patients with disabling mutations in the gene PKD1L1, which was also linked to heterotaxy and congenital heart disease.
Severe pediatric TBI affects approximately 7,000 childhood deaths annually, while survivors may suffer from long-term health conditions. The updated guidelines include eight new treatment recommendations to promote high standards of care and improve survival rates.
Researchers found that adults born with mild congenital heart defects are 13 times more likely to develop heart failure or atrial fibrillation and five times more likely to have a stroke. A heart-healthy lifestyle can reduce this risk, but the exact reasons behind these increased risks remain unclear.
An international team of scientists has identified the cause of a devastating pediatric brain disorder by discovering mutations in the VARS gene. The findings suggest that children with this disorder may benefit from treatments to support protein synthesis in the brain.
Researchers developed a new protocol to rule out life-threatening bacterial infections in infants with fevers, avoiding spinal taps and antibiotics. The study found accuracy rates of 97% in ruling out serious bacterial infections.
Research by Thomas Boyce, a CIFAR Fellow, shows that children from lower socio-economic backgrounds have higher levels of cortisol in their saliva and more cavity-causing bacteria around their gums. His study aims to understand why some children struggle and how all can thrive, as explored in his new book The Orchid and the Dandelion.
A simulation training study found that blindfolding pediatric team leaders improved their leadership skills ratings by 11% compared to non-blindfolded leaders. The technique may help save lives by enhancing communication and reducing distractions during resuscitation scenarios.
A comprehensive study on ST3GAL5 deficiency, a rare genetic disorder affecting ganglioside synthesis, provides insights into its clinical characterization and natural course. Researchers hope to develop pre-symptomatic therapies using gene replacement techniques.
Research at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found opioid prescribing for pediatric patients declined in shorter treatment durations and lower doses between 2013 and 2017. The rate of prescribing remained consistent, however, with a bias towards females, ethnic minorities, and public insurance patients.
Research highlights the dangers of unsafe gun storage and calls for pediatricians to counsel families on safe handling practices. The authors advocate for innovative design features and childproofing technologies to reduce firearm-related injuries among young children.
For adolescents with obesity, weight loss medications may be an effective option that hasn't improved with lifestyle modification or surgery. Researchers recommend evidence-based guidance on medication use, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and further research.
Researchers developed a comprehensive care model, PEGASUS, to treat pediatric patients with severe head trauma. The protocol showed improved outcomes, including reduced disability and death, by adhering to key performance indicators such as maintaining cerebral perfusion pressure and early initiation of nutrition.
The study identifies key areas for improvement in pediatric patient care, including high-reliability principles and early-warning systems. Stakeholders, including parents, played a crucial role in shaping the research agenda.
Researchers found that prior and recent dengue virus infection was associated with protection from symptomatic Zika virus infection in a pediatric cohort. However, previous exposure did not affect the rate of total Zika virus infection. The study suggests that prior dengue virus immunity might cross-protect against symptomatic Zika.
A randomized clinical study found that a diet low in free sugars significantly improved nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adolescent boys. The study showed a reduction in NAFLD from 25% to 17% in the intervention group, compared to a 20% reduction in the usual diet group.
Research from the University of Rochester Medical Center found that pregnant women taking probiotics can change the complex sugars in human breastmilk, known as HMOs. This discovery could lead to future studies on how diet and other factors influence HMO composition and potentially prevent food allergies.
Breastfeeding initiation rates increased by 9% among African Americans, narrowing the gap with White women. CHAMPS program adoption led to improved maternity care and evidence-based practices.
Bronchiolitis, a common viral lung infection, is often treated with antibiotics in US emergency rooms, contradicting evidence-based guidelines. The study found that 25% of children under 2 years old with bronchiolitis received antibiotics between 2007 and 2015.
The Pennsylvania Pediatric Medical Device Consortium has partnered with University of Pittsburgh programs McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine and sciVelo to develop medical devices for children. The consortium, based at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, has received a five-year $5 million grant renewal from the FDA.
A study published in Pediatrics found that gay fathers and their children continue to experience stigma, with the most common contexts being religious environments. The presence of supportive laws and policies in states where they live reduces this experience of stigma.
A prospective cohort study found that adolescents with a sports-related concussion or fracture experience significant impairments in health-related quality of life, particularly in physical and cognitive functioning. The study suggests that early interventions can aid in the recovery process and optimize QOL.
Children with solid organ transplants are hospitalized due to vaccine-preventable infections at significantly higher rates than the general population. According to a new study, hospitalization among transplant recipients was up to 87 times higher than in the general population.
Researchers conducted a long-term study on rhesus monkeys and found that chronic exposure to methylphenidate, a commonly prescribed ADHD drug, did not increase cardiovascular risks in healthy children. The study's findings contribute important evidence to an ongoing controversy over the safety of stimulant therapy for ADHD.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that adults with cerebral palsy are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety, particularly those without intellectual disabilities. The study analyzed data from over 1,700 adults with cerebral palsy and 5,100 adults without the condition.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that critically ill children develop muscle atrophy, with diaphragm thickness decreasing by 11% over six days. The study also found that older children experienced more pronounced muscle loss, particularly in their arms and legs.
The study analyzed data from over 69,000 ED visits for patients under 18 and found a decrease in opioid prescribing rates from 2006-2010 to 2011-2015. Regional and demographic differences were observed, with higher rates among white patients and those aged 13-17, as well as lower rates among Medicaid recipients.
Northwestern University scientists discovered two successful therapies that slowed pediatric leukemia progression in mice, according to recent studies. The research focused on stabilizing the MLL protein, which can slow cancer growth and increase survival rates.
Studies from Massachusetts General Hospital examine the presence of pediatric areas in EDs and use of telemedicine for pediatric emergency care. An intervention increased the appointment of Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinators in Massachusetts EDs, a key step to improve pediatric emergency care.
A study funded by the American Heart Association aims to investigate whether pyruvate can enhance cardiac output in pediatric patients with low cardiac output syndrome following heart surgery. The researchers hope that this could lead to better recovery times, reduced hospital stays and improved quality of life for these children.
Researchers identified optimal recipients for split liver transplants, including children weighing under 10 kilograms and those with rare diseases. Split liver transplants were found to have similar outcomes as whole liver transplants when adjusting for variables such as donor age and recipient health.
Research from Boston Children's Hospital finds that engaging families in hospital communication can significantly reduce harmful medical errors. The intervention, Patient and Family Centered I-PASS, improves patient experience while maintaining safety and efficiency.
A new study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children finds that breastfeeding mothers are more likely to quit smoking when they have access to evidence-based assistance. The CEASE program, which trains pediatric office staff to screen and support smoking families, provides nicotine replacement prescriptions and referrals to state quitlines.
Researchers analyzed data from over 500,000 children, finding a significant association between obesity and increased asthma incidence. Obesity was identified as a modest risk factor for asthma, with 23-27% of new cases directly attributable to obesity.
A Swedish study of 64 children with obesity found that approximately 30% achieved a lower weight category, with some progressing from severe to normal weight over four years. The program included regular advice on diet, physical activity, and sleep, with detailed dietary guidance and follow-up calls.
A new study found that only about a third of mandatory pediatric post-marketing drug studies were completed within seven years, leading to a lack of child-specific information on medication labels. This perpetuates off-label prescribing that may be unsafe or ineffective for children.
The American Pediatric Society has recognized Dr. David K. Stevenson with the 2019 APS John Howland Award for his significant contributions to advancing academic pediatrics through clinical care, scientific discovery, mentorship, leadership, and service. Dr. Stevenson's pioneering work in neonatology has led to the development of new t...
Parents and adolescents largely agree on preventive care and confidentiality, but doctors have a different opinion. The study suggests that providing opportunities for private conversations with a doctor can lead to better health outcomes.
Stephen Christiansen, MD, received a Senior Achievement Award for his significant contributions to ophthalmology and pediatrics. Babak Eliassi-Rad, MD, was awarded an Achievement Award for his research and clinical work on glaucoma and cataract.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends light physical activity and allows electronic device use during concussion recovery. Young athletes should stop playing immediately after a suspected concussion but can engage in brisk walking and academic workloads with reduced intensity.
A new surgical home pathway for spinal fusion surgery reduces opioid pain medication need and shortens hospital stays, achieving sustainable benefits over two-and-a-half years. The study, published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, demonstrates improved care value and patient outcomes.
Researchers have developed a miniature pacemaker design that enables less painful, faster recovery times, and reduced medical costs. The innovative approach uses a tiny incision to implant the device, cutting down on surgical time.
Research from Children's HealthWatch highlights the importance of access to and effectiveness of programs enabling low-income families to afford basic needs like food, shelter, and medical care. The study found that living in a hardship-free family was associated with good overall health for children and caregivers.
A new study finds Transarterial Radioembolization with Yttrium-90 (TARE-Y90) effective and feasible in children with difficult-to-treat liver cancer. The treatment offers a less toxic alternative for patients who have not responded to chemotherapy.
A USC study found that e-cigarette users are just as likely to start smoking tobacco as non-users, and may even be more likely to continue using both. The study surveyed over 6,200 high schoolers and found that vaping did not reduce the likelihood of smoking initiation, contradicting previous assumptions.
A multi-year review of all pediatric emergency response records in Houston found that Black infants comprised a significantly larger proportion of cardiac arrests than expected. The study suggests that genetic differences in risk based on race, environmental or socioeconomic factors, or a combination of factors may contribute to the di...
A new study found that youth TBI laws lead to an increase in head injury evaluations in emergency departments, particularly among boys and children ages 10-14. The laws also contribute to increased awareness of youth TBIs, prompting athletes and parents to seek evaluation for suspected or actual injuries.
Researchers found that pediatricians rarely addressed high blood pressure in overweight children during well-child visits. In fact, only 16.6% of visits included clear information about the condition, while 66.7% did not discuss it at all.
A new study from UT Southwestern found that nearly a third of children with epilepsy had a change in diagnosis based on new data, leading to more effective treatments. The research calls for regular reviews of gene tests to ensure diagnoses and treatments are based on the latest discoveries.