Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Job services lacking for young people with autism

A new study reveals that young people with autism are struggling to find and keep jobs, with only 47% securing employment after receiving vocational services. Experts emphasize the importance of vocational counseling, guidance, and coordination between high schools and rehabilitation systems to support this growing population.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJul 22, 2015

Longitudinal brain changes during transition from adolescence to adulthood found in ASD

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry reveals longitudinal brain changes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during late adolescence and young adulthood. The research found that these individuals experienced an exaggeration of normal cortical thinning, which wa...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 11, 2015

Odds are that chronic gamblers are often also depressed

A longitudinal study found that chronic gamblers are more likely to experience depressive problems, with 73% of those with significant gambling issues also suffering from depression. Early prevention programs targeting impulsive individuals and poor relationships with friends may help prevent these issues.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·DateMay 21, 2015

Study finds high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in US

A study published in JAMA Network found that nearly 35 percent of all U.S. adults and 50 percent of those 60 years or older had metabolic syndrome in 2011-2012. The condition is characterized by a combination of health conditions including obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and poor lipid profiles.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 19, 2015

Age at surgery and valve type in PVR key determinants of re-intervention in congenital heart disease

A retrospective review of 633 patients found that younger age, small body weight, and certain valve types significantly increased the risk of re-intervention. Patients under 18 years old had a five times greater risk than adults, with younger children being more likely to require surgical or cardiac catheterization re-interventions.

For some kids, Easter egg hunts can lead to skin problems

Children and adults allergic to nickel can develop rashes after contact with it, including nickel-rich foods like peanuts, oats, and processed cheese. Easter egg hunts can exacerbate these reactions, especially in children who binge on chocolate during the holiday

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Dermatology·DateMar 16, 2015

Thinking of your life as a novel

Middle-aged adults who show sustained concern for others are more likely to construe their lives as stories of personal redemption. Redemption narratives sustain hope that sacrifices today may produce future dividends, helping generative adults persevere in promoting the well-being of future generations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 16, 2015

Endocrine disruptors cause fatty liver

A new study presents evidence that brief exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in infancy can lead to fatty liver disease in adulthood. The researchers found that bisphenol A (BPA) and tributyltin caused liver damage consistent with human nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis, and altered gene expression patterns that may drive obesity.

Defined by your possessions? How loving parents unintentionally foster materialism in their children

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that children who receive more material rewards from their parents grow up to be more materialistic as adults. This can occur even when loving and supportive parents intend to steer their children away from relying on material possessions for happiness or self-worth.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 2015

Low childhood vitamin D linked to adult atherosclerosis

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that low childhood vitamin D levels are associated with increased carotid intima-media thickness and subclinical atherosclerosis in adulthood. The study, which analyzed 2,148 subjects from the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study, ...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 10, 2015

Regular exercise may boost brain health in adults

A new study of 52 young women found that regular exercise increases oxygen availability in the brain and enhances cognitive performance. The results suggest that physical activity may improve brain functioning even in young adulthood, benefiting both blood supply and cognitive function.

SourceWiley·JournalPsychophysiology·DateJan 20, 2015

Children's vulnerability reflected in genes

Researchers found that a specific gene variant is associated with children's vulnerability to negative environments, but also responded positively to an intensive intervention program called Fast Track. The study suggests that personalized treatments may be possible for society's most troubled children.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateJan 6, 2015