Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Leading ADHD medications found to be equally effective in children, with one key difference

A recent study published by the University of Sydney found that dexamphetamine and methylphenidate are equally effective in treating ADHD in children, with no significant differences in symptom improvement. However, children taking dexamphetamine experienced greater weight loss compared to those taking methylphenidate.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Paediatrics and Child Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 15, 2026

People with disabilities are diagnosed with alcohol use disorder at much higher rates than non-disabled people

A new study found that adults with disabilities have more than three times the rate of alcohol use disorder diagnoses compared to adults without disabilities in the US. Adults with serious mental illness and acquired brain injuries had the highest rates of AUD, with men with disabilities having the highest rates.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 14, 2026
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Gene therapy restores key fragile X traits in preclinical study

A gene therapy approach has restored several disease-relevant traits in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome, including reduced seizure susceptibility and improved brain activity markers. The study's findings suggest that restoring the FMRP protein could improve symptoms such as sensory hypersensitivity and repetitive behavior.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalGene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2026

Strong genetic mutation overrides female protective effects in autism

Researchers developed a viable homozygous CHD8 mouse model, showing that stronger mutations can dramatically alter male–female autism patterns. The study revealed pronounced autism-related abnormalities in both sexes with severe mutations.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2026

New drug target identified for Fragile X syndrome

Scientists have identified a new drug target for treating Fragile X syndrome by blocking the EPAC2 brain protein, which improves abnormal brain activity and behavioral symptoms. The study uses genetically engineered mice to simulate the condition and finds that EPAC2 levels rise gradually as the brain matures.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNeuron·DateMay 18, 2026

CURE SYNGAP1 announces 2026 board of trustees transition

The organization welcomes Craig Bower, Allison Hirsch Hadar, Susan Johnson, Andrew Schillaci, and Ed Warshauer to its Board of Trustees, succeeding outgoing members. These new leaders join a mission primed for global impact, signaling a reinforced commitment to accelerating safe, effective, and targeted therapies.

SourceCURE SYNGAP1·DateApr 15, 2026
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Video training helps young adults with disabilities navigate romance

Researchers developed a video modeling program to enhance romantic relationship skills in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that participants significantly improved their decision-making skills across four relationship domains, averaging 76% accuracy after the intervention. The findings high...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalSexuality and Disability·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2026
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

The untold story of life with Prader-Willi syndrome - according to the siblings who live it

A new study reveals the emotional challenges faced by siblings of people with Prader-Willi syndrome, including feelings of stress, loneliness, and sadness. Siblings often take on extra responsibilities at home and struggle to cope with their brother or sister's behavior and hunger.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 6, 2026

Omega-3 deficit linked to ADHD symptoms in Palestinian adolescents

A new study found a significant link between omega-3 intake and ADHD symptoms among Palestinian adolescents. Lower omega-3 consumption was associated with higher ADHD symptom scores, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition in supporting cognitive health.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalInternational Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 12, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A better vision test for toddlers

A new tool, WatDAT, measures vision equally precisely in younger toddlers by asking them to point out different shapes at progressively smaller sizes. This test can lead to earlier detection and treatment of vision problems in children under three, such as amblyopia or farsightedness.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalOphthalmic and Physiological Optics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2025

Industrial pollution’s imprint lasts generations

Researchers found a strong correlation between industrial pollution exposure during pregnancy and the risk of intellectual disabilities in grandchildren. A study using Utah Population Database data revealed that grandmothers' prenatal exposures can increase the risk of intellectual disabilities in their grandchildren's children.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateAug 20, 2025

Floor video projection enhances cognitive functions during exercises for neurodiverse adolescents

Researchers found that floor video projection with simple and interactive pacer methods improved running patterns and performance in students with neurodevelopmental disorders. The study suggests personalized support based on individual cognitive traits is crucial for enjoyable and safe physical activities.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Child-Computer Interaction·DateJul 13, 2025

McGill discovery sheds new light on autism, intellectual disabilities

A new study by McGill University researchers sheds light on the disruption of calcium transport in the brain's AMPA receptors, linking it to autism and intellectual disability. The findings could pave the way for treatments targeting these receptors, offering hope for patients with related neurological disorders.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

People with intellectual disabilities less likely to participate in population screening

Research from Radboud University Medical Center found that people with intellectual disabilities are significantly less likely to participate in cancer screenings for cervical, breast, and colon cancer. The results highlight the need for better alignment of screening programs with the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Guidelines for the creation of accessible consent materials and procedures: Lessons from research with autistic people and people with intellectual disability

The article presents guidelines for designing consent materials and procedures for autistic adults and people with intellectual disability, highlighting the importance of multiple modes to deliver content. These guidelines aim to improve accessibility and respectfulness in research with individuals on the autism spectrum.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAutism in Adulthood·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 27, 2025

Tobacco and e-product use by US adults with disabilities

The study found disparities in tobacco use across cumulative disabilities, with those having 3 or more disabilities experiencing worsening use trends. Targeted prevention and cessation efforts are needed to address these disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 18, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Researchers solve medical mystery of neurological symptoms in kids

A team of researchers has identified a genetic link between rare brain malformations and protein folding defects in children. The study found that specific genetic changes can affect the function of proteins within cells, leading to abnormal cell behavior.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New insights into intellectual disability genetics emerge at Mount Sinai

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified a novel genetic variant associated with intellectual capacities and educational outcomes. Tandem repeats in the AFF3 gene were found to disrupt genetic instructions, impacting cognitive abilities.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 23, 2024

VR headsets could be life changing for people with intellectual disability

Researchers found immersive VR training significantly improves life skills in adults with intellectual disability, outperforming non-immersive methods. The study showed that VR headsets enable participants to learn practical life skills faster and retain them longer.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Intellectual Disability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Lower HPV vaccination coverage among girls with mental health conditions

A new Swedish registry study found that girls with mental illness or neurodevelopmental conditions have lower HPV vaccination coverage compared to their peers. The study involved over 115,000 girls and found significant differences in vaccination rates among those with psychiatric diagnoses or receiving psychotropic medications.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2024

Inclusive care: Strategies to support infant feeding for parents with disabilities through WIC

A new study by Johns Hopkins School of Nursing found that WIC staff need additional accommodations to provide inclusive care for parents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The research highlights the importance of accessible teaching materials and respectful communication to improve access and quality of services for the...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateJun 19, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Cannabis use during pregnancy linked to increased risk of ADHD, autism and intellectual disability in children

A recent study published by the European Psychiatric Association found a significant association between prenatal cannabis use disorder and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and intellectual disability (ID). The stud...

SourceEuropean Psychiatric Association·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

Air quality in schools: Shielding kids with intellectual and developmental disabilities from COVID

Researchers discovered that good airflow and filtration in schools can significantly reduce COVID-19 infections among children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that classrooms with high-efficiency air filters had lower infection rates, highlighting the importance of improved ventilation systems.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateApr 3, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Inequities in HIV testing, diagnosis and care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

A study by Michigan Medicine University found large disparities in HIV care for Black patients, those with autism, and individuals with co-occurring intellectual disabilities. These groups were less likely to receive antiretroviral therapy, highlighting the need for better support and education.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Intellectual Disability Research·DateFeb 15, 2024

Researchers find possible neuromarker for ‘juvenile-onset’ Batten disease

A new study found that changes in brain function, specifically the auditory sensory memory system, may be a potential biomarker for Batten disease. Researchers measured brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG) and found a decline in response as the disease progressed.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateJan 8, 2024

Breakthrough study shows exercise improves cognitive health for people with Down syndrome

A breakthrough study found that light exercise can improve cognitive health in adults with Down syndrome, leading to improved information processing and attention. After just eight weeks of walking, participants showed significant increases in physical fitness and reductions in errors during cognitive assessments.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 29, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

AI predicts developmental paths in premature babies

Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed an AI model to predict long-term outcomes in extremely premature babies, identifying those at risk of intellectual disability. The model analyzed brain activity data with 80% accuracy, offering valuable information for healthcare providers and parents about expected developmental journeys.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2023

Medicaid is a vital lifeline for adults with Down syndrome

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.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2023

Dementia risk in adults with intellectual disability

Researchers found dementia prevalence among people with ID to be 6.44%, with modifiable risk factors identified as hypertension, depression, stroke, age, severity of ID, duration of education, and traumatic brain injury. These findings can inform better screening and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

SourceOkayama University·JournalAlzheimer s Research & Therapy·TypeSurvey·DateSep 25, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Boosting certain brain cells diminished hypersensitivity in Fragile X mice

Researchers boosted inhibitory interneuron activity in Fragile X mice, reducing hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli. The study found that even young mice with Fragile X had lower PV neuron density and functional decoupling, but treatment restored excitatory neuron function and reduced hypersensitivity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNeuron·DateJul 13, 2023

Factors associated with learning disabilities and autism led to requests for euthanasia and assisted suicide in the Netherlands, study finds

A study found that people with learning disabilities and autism in the Netherlands chose euthanasia or assisted suicide due to feelings of loneliness, struggling to form friendships, and a lack of resilience. The research highlights the need for individualized support services and an international debate on criteria for euthanasia and ...

SourceKingston University·JournalBJPsych Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 5, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Effect of COVID-19 pandemic on mortality in people with intellectual disabilities extended beyond deaths from COVID itself

A recent study found that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased mortality rates among people with intellectual disabilities, with a disparity of five times higher than in the general population. This increase was not limited to COVID-19-related deaths but also affected other conditions such as cancer and mental health disorders.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateApr 16, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Zinc could treat a rare genetic disorder

Researchers discovered that zinc can restore the functioning of proteins affected by mutations in the GNAO1 gene, leading to severe mental and motor disabilities. By reactivating hydrolysis, zinc enables neurons to communicate correctly with their environment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateOct 10, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.