Wishful thinking
A new study on adolescent wishes found that 85% had wishes for themselves, with boys wishing more for success and girls for happiness. Wealth was the most common theme, followed by material items.
Pediatrics
Articles tagged with Pediatrics
Early nutrition has a long-term metabolic impact
A study found that early nutrition, specifically breast milk versus formula feeding, can impact a child's growth and metabolic profile. After four months, the protein content of infant formulas played a key role in inducing differences in blood insulin levels and growth patterns between groups.
2 tests better than 1 to diagnose diabetes in overweight children
A new study found that using two blood tests can dramatically reduce the risk of delayed diagnosis in overweight children. Researchers discovered that a combination of hemoglobin A1C and oral glucose tolerance tests could catch more high-risk patients, missing nearly 2/3 with just one test.
'It costs too much to be healthy'
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that even families with insurance face financial burdens that lead them to delay or forgo medical care. Excessive costs relative to family income and having a child with a limitation increase the likelihood of delayed care.
Injured children may not be getting best possible care
A recent study found that about 73% of injured children in the US were treated outside pediatric trauma centers, with many severe and life-threatening cases not receiving adequate care. The study's authors are calling for improvements in emergency medical services to ensure the best possible outcomes for young patients
27 percent of children wait too long for surgery
A study found that 27% of children in Canada received surgeries after the established six-month target date. Delays can affect physical and cognitive development, particularly in cases like strabismus and scoliosis.
Parents have role in smoking prevention
A study found that family factors continue to protect adolescents from smoking, with parental connectedness and monitoring being key protective measures. The levels of these protective factors decreased over time, but remained important in reducing the risk of smoking initiation, particularly among minority groups.
Limited English proficiency among parents associated with increased length of hospital stay
Parents with limited English proficiency have a longer hospital stay and fewer home health care referrals compared to those who speak fluent English. The study found that 39 out of 1,257 pediatric patients had LEP, resulting in median hospital stays of 6.1 days vs 4.0 days for proficient patients.
In-hospital deaths declined over time at children's hospital without pediatric medical emergency team
A study found that children's hospital mortality rates decreased over time in the absence of a Pediatric Medical Emergency Team. The researchers suggest other interventions may have confounded previous studies' results, highlighting the need for larger and better-designed PMET evaluations.
Hard to arouse, hard to calm down
A new scale used to assess newborn behavior may help identify children who were exposed to methamphetamine prenatally and are at risk of developing problems later in life. The Infant Development, Environment, and Lifestyle (IDEAL) Study found that these children were hard to arouse but had difficulty calming down once awakened.
Memphis pediatric specialist receives most prestigious pediatric award
Russell Chesney, a pediatric nephrologist, has received the prestigious John Howland Medal for his significant contributions to pediatrics. He is also known for his research on amino acid taurine and its role in transport by renal epithelial cells.
Movement + academics = success
A daily physical activity program that incorporated classroom lessons resulted in improved test scores for students at an elementary school. The percentage of students reaching their goal score increased from 55% to 68.5% after the program was initiated.
Child malnutrition caused by more than lack of food
A new study by the American Academy of Pediatrics reveals that improving living conditions, sanitation, and community organization can significantly reduce child malnutrition rates. In rural Guatemala, families who received non-agricultural land and housing experienced a decline in malnutrition rates, while those who remained in squatt...
How to raise a child who doesn't bully
New research shows that parents who are involved and communicate effectively with their children are less likely to have kids who bully others. Factors like parental anger and emotional problems in children increase the risk of bullying, while parent-child connection and mental health matter.
Living with a smoker may raise blood pressure in boys
Research found that exposure to secondhand smoke is associated with increased blood pressure in boys, while girls showed lower blood pressures. The study suggests that preventing children's exposure to tobacco smoke is an important cardiovascular health measure.
Children held captive in smoky vehicles
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that many parents with smoking habits in cars have a hard time enforcing no-smoking rules. The result is that children are exposed to toxic chemicals, which may cause severe asthma attacks and respiratory infections.
Little fingers, big trouble
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics reveals that children under 6 years old often unbuckle themselves from car seats while in motion, tripling their injury risk. Parents frequently pull over and re-buckle their children, but this behavior highlights a need for safer restraint devices.
Little fingers, big trouble: Yale study sheds light on child self-unbuckling
A Yale study found that young children often acquire motor skills to unbuckle before developing cognitive understanding of restraints, posing a safety hazard. The study also revealed that 43% of self-unbuckling children use a five-point restraint, and parents often respond with immediate action when their child unbuckles while in motion.
Obesity in pregnancy hinders women's ability to fight infection
Research suggests that obese pregnant women have impaired immune function, leading to fewer cells and proteins that help fight infections. This could have serious consequences for both the mother and newborn.
Screening very preterm infants for autism at 18 months often inaccurate
Research suggests that screening very preterm infants for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at 18 months of age is often inaccurate and can lead to false positives. In contrast, waiting until 30 months of age may provide a more accurate assessment. A study found that only 3% of infants who screened positive on all three screens at 30 mont...
Chemical in plastic linked to wheezing in childhood
A study of 367 mothers and infants found that prenatal exposure to BPA was associated with an increased risk of wheezing in childhood, particularly among the youngest group. High levels of BPA detected in women at 16 weeks' gestation were linked to wheeze in their offspring, but not after 3 years of age.
Errors put infants, children at risk for overdose of painkillers
Research finds that 4.1% of children received an overdose amount, with the youngest ones most at risk. The study highlights the need for accurate narcotic prescribing and dispensing by pharmacies to prevent harm to infants and young children.
Video games may help clear airway of cystic fibrosis patients
Cystic fibrosis patients who played video games that controlled their breath improved their ability to take deep breaths and increase breathing maneuvers. The study used spirometer games to encourage children to practice huffing techniques.
Maternal obesity puts infants at risk
A study of 281 mother/newborn pairs found that maternal obesity is associated with impaired iron status in infants, which could affect brain development. The researchers are investigating why obesity during pregnancy increases the risk of poorer iron status at birth.
Race a factor in whether young women are tested for sexually transmitted infections
A recent study found that white adolescent females are less likely to be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) than their black counterparts, despite similar symptoms. This disparity raises concerns about the potential under-evaluation and under-treatment of white female adolescents with STI-like complaints.
EDs should be aware of sexually transmitted infection risk in patients
A study found that 26.3% of symptomatic adolescent females tested positive for an STI, with chlamydia being the most common. ED providers should be aware of this association and test these patients to intervene and prevent serious long-term consequences.
Chemical found in crude oil linked to congenital heart disease
A new study shows that fetal exposure to a chemical found in crude oil is associated with an increased risk of congenital heart disease. Among white infants, but not black infants, exposure to ethyl benzene was linked to a four-fold increased risk of CHD.
Groundbreaking minimally invasive surgical videojournal launched by Mary Ann Liebert Inc.
The new videojournal complements the peer-reviewed monthly publication Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques, publishing fully peer-reviewed surgical and microinvasive demonstrations. The videos can be easily searched and shared to provide education and discussion among surgeons.
Success of First World Congress of Pediatric Urology underscores increasing importance of specialty
The landmark event brought together pediatric urologists worldwide to share ideas and advance research. Key findings highlight the growing importance of pediatric urology as a global specialty.
5-minute screen identifies subtle signs of autism in 1-year olds
A new screening tool has been introduced to identify subtle signs of autism in 1-year-old children during well-baby check-ups. The 5-minute checklist is designed to be adopted by pediatricians nationwide and has shown high accuracy rates, enabling early diagnosis and treatment.
Study: Resiniferatoxin may increase sepsis-related mortality
A recent study by Children's National Hospital has discovered that resiniferatoxin, a promising drug for acute chronic pain, may decrease the body's ability to fight off bacterial infections like sepsis. The research highlights the importance of monitoring potential side effects of this medication.
ASPO announces 2011 award winners in pediatric otolaryngology research
The American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) recognizes outstanding achievements in pediatric otolaryngology research through its annual awards. This year's winners include Yuemeng Dai for his work on involving hemangiomas and Stephanie Maturo for her research on intraoperative laryngeal electromyography in children with voc...
Yuemeng Dai, M.D., Ph.D., ear, nose and throat specialist, receives Bill Potsic Basic Science Award
Yuemeng Dai received the Bill Potsic Basic Science Award for his research on endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in hemangiomas. High eNOS levels were found in growing hemangiomas, while reduced levels were observed in those treated with Propranolol.
Stephen Maturo, M.D., ear, nose and throat specialist, receives Charles Ferguson Award
Stephen Maturo, MD, receives the Charles Ferguson Clinical Science Award for his research on intraoperative laryngeal electromyography (EMG) in children with vocal fold mobility. The study found that EMG can help predict vocal fold function return in certain scenarios.
Results on national study of parental concerns about childhood vaccines announced
A new national survey of primary care physicians reports a significant increase in parental concerns about childhood vaccines, with 79% of physicians experiencing at least one vaccine refusal. The study highlights the need for more effective communication strategies to address these concerns and improve vaccination rates.
Airway abnormalities appear uncommon in well-appearing babies with apparent life-threatening events
A study found airway abnormalities uncommon among infants hospitalized with apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs), and the need for pediatric otolaryngology evaluation is low in well-appearing babies. Despite this, some patients required surgical intervention to address underlying conditions.
UT Southwestern pediatricians launch landmark children's health study
The study will investigate environmental and genetic factors affecting child health, development, and quality of life. Researchers aim to understand the impact of various factors on chronic illness in children.
Pediatric-specific research needed to reduce health care-associated infections among children
A need for pediatric-specific quality measures is highlighted due to differences in adult and pediatric patients' treatment and prevention efforts. The authors advocate for separate, targeted efforts to reduce healthcare-associated infections in infants and children.
New national study finds increase in football-related injuries among youth
A new national study found that an estimated 5.25 million football-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency departments between 1990 and 2007. The annual number of injuries increased by 27 percent, with nearly 2,000 children treated daily during football season.
How do life-threatening medical conditions in children impact quality of life?
The article explores the complex topic of assessing quality of life in children with life-threatening conditions, highlighting personal essays from patients, parents, and caregivers. The pieces illustrate various challenges and perspectives on disabilities, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in healthcare.
NYU Langone experts present advances at American Association of Neurological Surgeons Meeting
Neurosurgeons from NYU Langone present cutting-edge surgical approaches and applications of technology for lateral skull base conditions, low-grade glioma tumors, and spinal surgery. The department's expertise has been recognized as one of the top ten hospitals in the country for neurology and neurosurgery.
UCSD scientists receive prestigious Hartwell Biomedical Research Awards
Three UC San Diego researchers, Jack Bui, Pamela Itkin-Ansari and Adriana Tremoulet, receive $100,000 grants for their innovative research on improving childhood diseases. Their projects focus on immune system responses to cancer, Type-1 diabetes treatment and Kawasaki disease diagnosis.
Emergency department CT exams of children have increased substantially
A study found a five-fold increase in pediatric CT exams from 1995 to 2008, with abdominal pain being the leading complaint. The effective dose of radiation for abdominal CT is up to seven times that of head CT, highlighting concerns over cumulative lifetime exposure.
Prevalence of "flattened head" in infants and young children appears to be increasing
A study found that reported cases of plagiocephaly increased by over 9-fold from 1999 to 2007, with the largest increases observed in mothers with less education. The prevalence of plagiocephaly was highest in the Dallas/Fort Worth region and among infants born preterm.
Relationship violence reported by young women linked to overly controlling male partner
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that young women experiencing controlling behaviors are less likely to report relationship violence, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to screen for controlling behaviors.
Partner controlling behaviors appear to be associated with relationship violence
A study found that controlling behaviors in relationships are associated with physical and sexual relationship violence, particularly among young women. Controlling behaviors include restriction of contact with family and friends, ignoring or treating someone indifferently, and expecting permission for health care decisions.
Study suggests a relationship between migraine headaches in children and a common heart defect
Researchers found a connection between migraines with aura and patent foramen ovale in children, a common heart defect affecting 25% of the US population. The study suggests closure of PFO may help treat certain types of migraines, offering new hope for treatment.
OHSU Doernbecher discovers new approach to drug resistance in aggressive childhood cancer
Researchers have identified a promising new approach to treating alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma by targeting the Igf1r and Her2 pathways. This method has shown promise in preventing resistance to current treatments, with significant increases in tumor cell killing when combining inhibitors.
MRSA infection shown to be seasonal
A new study from Rhode Island Hospital found a significant increase in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections during the summer and autumn months, particularly among pediatric patients. The researchers attribute this seasonal variation to high temperatures and humidity promoting microbial growth on the skin.
Medically underserved girls receive less frequent evaluation for short stature
A new study found that primary care doctors are less likely to refer short girls for diagnostic testing compared to boys, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Girls with growth faltering may go undiagnosed or be diagnosed later than boys, particularly those with Turner syndrome, a genetic condition that affects height.
Bacterial wipes research study
A recent study published in PubMed found that swiping contaminated plates three times significantly reduced bacterial counts. The mechanical removal of bacteria, not the disinfectant itself, was key to this effect. Saline wipes were found to be as effective as disinfectant wipes when swiped multiple times.
Stephen J. Teach, MD, MPH, part of landmark study on pediatric asthma
A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that adding omalizumab to asthma therapy reduced severe attacks and improved symptoms in urban children. The study's results have significant implications for treatment strategies and school attendance, particularly in inner-city areas.
New mouse model explains common pediatric brain tumor
A new mouse model has been developed to study pilocytic astrocytoma (PA), a common pediatric brain tumor. The model uses expression of a mutant BRAF kinase domain in mice and shows that this is sufficient to induce the formation of PA, closely resembling human disease.
UTHealth study: Stem cells may provide treatment for brain injuries
A Phase I clinical trial at UTHealth demonstrates that bone marrow stem cells are safely used in treating severe traumatic brain injury in children. After six months of follow-up, all children showed significant improvement, with seven out of ten experiencing a good outcome.
March of Dimes provides $2.4 million in new funding for preterm birth research
The March of Dimes is investing $2.4 million in new funding for research on predicting and preventing preterm birth, a leading cause of infant death. Five scientists will study low doses of carbon monoxide, genes, blood tests to identify high-risk women, and fetal membrane weakening.
Increased, mandatory screenings help identify more kids with emotional/behavioral problems
A new court-ordered mental health screening program led to a significant increase in children being identified as behaviorally and emotionally at risk. The number of screens completed and referrals for mental health evaluations also increased, highlighting the importance of routine screening in identifying childhood psychosocial issues.
Latest findings of Dartmouth HIV/AIDS study could turn treatment 'on its head'
A Dartmouth HIV/AIDS study found that a protease inhibitor was working better than nevirapine among infants with no previous exposure to the popular anti-retroviral. The treatment could turn treatment 'on its head' in resource-limited countries, where cheaper alternatives are often preferred.
Children's Hospital of Orange County receives largest gift in hospital history
The Children's Hospital of Orange County has received a $30 million estate gift from the late Robert L. Tidwell, the largest gift in its history. The donation will be allocated towards CHOC's 'Change CHOC, Change the World' campaign, which aims to make Orange County one of the safest and healthiest places for children in the nation.
Convenient blood test not as effective for diagnosing diabetes in children
A study by the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital found that the hemoglobin A1c test is not as reliable for diagnosing diabetes in children as it is for adults, potentially leading to missed cases. The authors suggest using a fasting plasma glucose test instead.
Whole fresh blood for transfusions may have a longer shelf life than now assumed
Researchers found that whole blood retains its clotting properties at least 11 days under standard refrigeration, potentially improving survival in war injuries and disasters. This discovery could lead to a change in clinical practice and improve the availability of whole blood for specific situations.