Salk Institute scientists found that maternal immune activation leads to epigenetic changes in mouse brains, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. These changes were particularly significant in areas of the genome associated with autism spectrum disorder.
A new research tool, PGS-TRI, analyzes family data to understand how genetics and environment contribute to autism risk. The tool provides a more precise look at how 'nature' and 'nurture' interact within families, allowing researchers to better understand the complex factors that shape a child's health.
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.
Athletes with ADHD face unique concussion challenges, requiring more scrutiny for diagnosis and recovery. The study suggests a longer recovery period, up to four to six days, and highlights the need for tailored return-to-play decisions.
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.
A new study published in PLOS One found that slower maternal vocal responses at 12 months may predict later childhood behavior disorders such as ADHD. The study analyzed data from 158 mother-infant pairs and found associations between slow maternal responses and increased odds of psychiatric diagnoses by age seven.
Researchers argue that childhood behaviors are being pathologized, and instead propose addressing the root causes of psychological distress by reforming education and mental health systems. They advocate for a more collaborative approach, trusting children and families to define themselves and co-construct their support needs.
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.
A study by Adelaide University researchers found that teacher self-efficacy is critical in creating safe learning environments for young children experiencing trauma. Early years teachers play a vital role in supporting children's wellbeing and helping to break cycles of disadvantage.
Research explores how differences in brain development, age, and sleep affect EEG signals recorded from awake individuals. The study reveals that brain signals during wakefulness depend on prior sleep, with effects differing between children and adults.
A systematic review of social media platforms reveals that TikTok contains a substantial proportion of misleading information about mental health and neurodivergence, with higher rates of misinformation than other platforms. The study emphasizes the importance of credible sources and evidence-based content to combat spreading false ide...
Researchers found that adults with ADHD exhibit more sleep-like brain activity, leading to more lapses in attention. This increased activity may be a key brain mechanism underlying attention problems in ADHD. Further study is needed to explore potential strategies to mitigate this activity.
A large longitudinal study of people with childhood ADHD traits found a strong link between the condition and physical health problems in midlife. People with high ADHD traits at age 10 were more likely to have two or more physical health problems by age 46.
Researchers at Norwegian University of Science and Technology conducted an interview study with two students with inattentive ADHD to understand their experiences with autonomous learning. The study found that despite challenges, both students reported increased motivation and joy when given the freedom to choose their learning activit...
A new systematic review and meta-analysis of 43 studies confirms paracetamol during pregnancy is not linked to increased risks of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities. The findings suggest alternative maternal factors may be responsible for previously reported associations.
A study assessing ADHD coaching found that most coaches have ADHD themselves, providing unique benefits to patients. The field offers similar services to psychologists but operates outside of healthcare structures, lacking formal training or licensure.
Adolescents bullied or engaging in bullying face lasting mental, physical and social challenges. The study identified socioeconomic disadvantages, race, physical differences, and pre-existing health conditions as risk factors for bullying.
A study found that prescription stimulants primarily affect brain's reward and wakefulness centers, rather than attention circuitry. This leads to improved focus through increased motivation and reduced sleep deprivation effects.
A UK-based study found that epilepsy can be a primary cause of death in people with intellectual disabilities, with those from ethnic minorities living in the UK being particularly at risk. The research highlights significant disparities in care and service provision, calling for systemic changes to prevent avoidable deaths.
Researchers found that dogs with stronger ADHD-like traits were slower to learn new information, but improved with repetition and sufficient sleep. The studies also revealed a link between ADHD-like traits and self-control in dogs, suggesting that cognitive training and sleep can mitigate these impairments.
A new book by experts highlights how the prevalence of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder has increased, but suggests it may not be due to a genuine increase in cases. The authors argue that 'typical' behavior can vary greatly among children, and that acceptance and understanding of individuality is key.
Young sexual minority men with ADHD symptoms are more likely to begin using substances at an earlier age. The study found inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms predicted earlier use across all substances assessed.
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
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.
Researchers have identified four distinct profiles of Nonverbal Learning Disability, each with different strengths and challenges. The study suggests that current diagnostic criteria may be too broad, highlighting the importance of individualized approaches to care for children with NVLD.
A study analyzing 450,000 ADHD subreddit posts found that people with self-diagnosed ADHD experience more negative self-perception and internalized stigma than those with a clinical diagnosis. Clinically diagnosed individuals are less likely to seek social validation, highlighting the impact of digital age validation on mental health.
A new national poll reveals that parents of children with health conditions are less confident about their child's ability to have a positive school year. The poll found that these parents are more likely to be concerned about their child adjusting to a new school or teacher, dealing with conflict, staying healthy, and fitting in.
Researchers developed a new method to correct for variations in brain imaging measurements, reducing bias and increasing the accuracy of studies on ADHD. The traveling-subject method demonstrated reduced measurement bias while maintaining sampling bias, revealing decreased brain volume in critical regions for cognitive functions.
Research found that people with learning disabilities in the UK have a faster progression to severe type 2 diabetes and are at higher risk of dying from the condition. They also tend to have better overall blood glucose control compared to those without learning disabilities.
Early life exposure to perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) may increase anxiety-related behaviors and memory deficits in male mice. Researchers found that males exposed to higher doses of PFHxA showed mild developmental changes, including decreased activity levels and increased anxiety-like behaviors.
A new nutritional epigenetics study protocol aims to reduce lead and mercury exposures in pregnant women to prevent childhood autism and ADHD. The protocol provides a valid method for measuring changes in ultra-processed food intake and diet, which may impact child neurodevelopment.
ADHD researcher Barbara Franke's work transforms understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative molecular approaches. Her research combines cutting-edge bioinformatics with experimental models to identify genes and pathways underlying behavioral differences.
A study found that impulsivity in ADHD is linked to reduced physical activity, which can contribute to obesity. Urban lifestyle factors like food insecurity and access to mental health care influence this relationship.
A recent study found that the average duration of ADHD medication for children and adolescents is more than three years. Long-term effects in children have not been sufficiently studied due to limited data on the safety of marketed ADHD medicines.
A UNIGE team used eye-tracking to improve social and emotional skills in nine young people with multiple disabilities. The personalized training showed promising results, enabling these individuals to exhibit visual preferences and strengthen certain socio-emotional skills.
The New Sunshine Hospital School Program provides flexible, adaptive education to hospitalized children, addressing the unique needs of those with severe illnesses. The program's innovative models and strategies have contributed valuable insights to global efforts in healthcare and education.
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.
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.
Researchers found that a rare genetic syndrome causes different damage mechanisms in male and female brains, affecting neurogenesis and energy production. The study suggests that the ADNP protein plays a crucial role in brain development and aging, with distinct functions in males and females.
A new emotional literacy programme adapted for special schools has shown promising results, suggesting significant benefits for children with learning disabilities. The study found improvements in mental health and behaviour among participants, highlighting the potential of such programmes in improving quality of life.
A new report warns that the recent conflict in Lebanon has deepened a national education crisis, with children losing up to 60% of school time over the past six years. The study found that refugee children and students with disabilities face the greatest risk of missing out further due to uneven effects of violence.
Adolescents who snore frequently exhibit behavior problems like inattention and rule-breaking, but not cognitive decline. The study tracked nearly 12,000 children from age 9-10 to age 15, finding no correlation between snoring and reduced cognitive abilities.
A $500K grant will support awareness and training for neurodivergent participation in the workplace, with a focus on building inclusive models. The goal is to strengthen employment prospects for those with neurological differences, who face difficulty finding or keeping jobs.
Researchers propose a new working definition for CVI, a leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in children. The definition is based on five key elements and includes early detection, neuroplasticity, and functional deficits.
University of Delaware professor Benjamin Jungfleisch receives a five-year $798,000 grant to develop low-energy computing using magnetic nanostructures. The project aims to improve AI processing power and reduce energy consumption.
Yihao Zheng and his team are developing a fiber-optic probe that analyzes artery blockages in the brain and guides procedures for blockage removal. The technology uses light and advanced calculations to determine the properties of blood clots, enabling doctors to make informed decisions about how to remove them.
Scientists found that sleep deprivation during early life can negatively impact key brain functions, leading to lasting effects on behavior and social skills. The study also suggests that genetic risk for autism spectrum disorder can interact with sleep disruption to cause long-lasting changes.
The five-year project, 'Advancing Career Choices for Employment Success in Technology,' will provide career counseling, work-readiness skills training, and customized-training leading to certified skills in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and more. The program aims to foster a diverse workforce and drive innovation in the tech industry.
A new study shows participating in a citizens' panel can produce new policy ideas about school inclusion for young people with special educational needs/disabilities. The project also demonstrates how public dialogue processes can be modified to ensure young people at risk of marginalization fully participate.
Researchers at Fujita Health University have discovered a key signaling pathway involved in aversive learning, which may help develop treatments for psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. By identifying 221 candidate substrates of ROCK, the study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying aversive learning.
Researchers found that providing robust supports to teachers enables better educational outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities. The study showed that students who set goals under the SDLMI demonstrated improved motivation and academic achievement.
SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalTeacher Education and Special Education The Journal of the Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 4, 2024
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.
The University of Texas at Arlington has awarded seven Interdisciplinary Research Program (IRP) grants totaling $140,000 to foster collaboration between groups. The grant increase represents a 40% boost over the previous year's funding.
Researchers discover that epigenetic marks, particularly H3K27ac, are crucial for instructing genes to express themselves and generate folds. The Cux2 protein is found to be a master factor that utilizes the epigenetic landscape to regulate gene expression, leading to the formation of folds in the cerebral cortex.
Researchers have discovered that the gene KDM5B regulates learning and memory in mice, with reduced function resulting in loss of learning ability and memory consolidation. The study found that KDM5B plays a crucial role in strengthening connections between neurons, key to forming memories.
A culturally-responsive training intervention based on science of reading and math improved comprehension, visualization, and connection-making skills among 66 third-grade English language learners. The program enhanced students' performance in math by utilizing direct and explicit teaching methods, focusing on key cognitive concepts.
New research from University of South Australia finds that school exclusions exacerbate negative issues rather than resolving them. Vulnerable students face a higher risk of being suspended or expelled, which worsens their circumstances and life chances.
A study by the University of Exeter warns that children with language disorders are susceptible to making false friends due to a lack of awareness about peers' motives and thoughts. Children consider peers as friends because they play with them, without fully understanding what constitutes a good or bad friend.
A new international study led by UNSW Sydney found no increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and learning difficulties after exposure to antipsychotics during pregnancy. The study tracked the long-term risk of intellectual disability, poor academic performance in maths and language, or learning, speech and language disorders.
The Federation of European Neuroscience Societies is open to media registration for its 2024 event. Journalists can access the latest research discoveries in neuroscience fields such as dementia, addiction and depression.