From DailyRx.com (4/13):
Prenatal use of SSRIs may raise risks for autism, developmental delays
Boys born to mothers who took selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
during pregnancy had nearly threefold increased odds of developing
autism spectrum disorder than those
unexposed to SSRIs while in the womb, a study showed. Prenatal exposure
to the antidepressants was also associated with a higher risk of
developmental delays. The findings appear in the journal Pediatrics.
http://www.dailyrx.com/antidepressants-during-pregnancy-and-autism-may-be-linked-so-may-mood-disorders
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Article: "Measles-mumps-rubella vaccination timing and autism among young african american boys: a reanalysis of CDC data"
Article from Translational Neurodegeneration by Brian S Hooker:
"Measles-mumps-rubella vaccination timing and autism among young african american boys: a reanalysis of CDC data"
http://www.translationalneurodegeneration.com/content/pdf/2047-9158-3-16.pdf
"Measles-mumps-rubella vaccination timing and autism among young african american boys: a reanalysis of CDC data"
http://www.translationalneurodegeneration.com/content/pdf/2047-9158-3-16.pdf
Mediterranean-style diet in children may curb obesity risk
From HealthDay News (5/28):
Mediterranean-style diet in children may curb obesity risk
Following a diet rich in fish, grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, also known as the Mediterranean diet, was linked to a 15% reduced risk of being overweight or obese among children, Swedish researchers found. The findings, based on more than 9,000 children across eight countries, were presented at the European Congress on Obesity.
Also, adding omegas helps.
Full article:
http://consumer.healthday.com/vitamins-and-nutrition-information-27/food-and-nutrition-news-316/mediterranean-diet-keeps-kids-slimmer-study-finds-688215.html
Mediterranean-style diet in children may curb obesity risk
Following a diet rich in fish, grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, also known as the Mediterranean diet, was linked to a 15% reduced risk of being overweight or obese among children, Swedish researchers found. The findings, based on more than 9,000 children across eight countries, were presented at the European Congress on Obesity.
Also, adding omegas helps.
Full article:
http://consumer.healthday.com/vitamins-and-nutrition-information-27/food-and-nutrition-news-316/mediterranean-diet-keeps-kids-slimmer-study-finds-688215.html
Paper about widely touted but unapproved “cure” for cancer, autism retracted
Paper about widely touted but unapproved “cure” for cancer, autism retracted
http://retractionwatch.com/2014/07/25/paper-about-widely-touted-but-unapproved-cure-for-cancer-autism-retracted/
http://retractionwatch.com/2014/07/25/paper-about-widely-touted-but-unapproved-cure-for-cancer-autism-retracted/
Exercise and the ‘Good’ Bugs in Our Gut
Exercise and the ‘Good’ Bugs in Our Gut
By GRETCHEN REYNOLDS
excerpts:
Being physically active may encourage beneficial germs to thrive in your gut, while inactivity could do the reverse, according to an innovative new study. The findings suggest that, in addition to its other health benefits, frequent exercise may influence our weight and overall health by altering the kinds of organisms that live inside of us.
In recent years, there has been an explosion of interest in the role that gut microbes play in whole-body health. A multitude of studies have shown that people with large and diverse germ populations in their digestive tracts tend to be less prone to obesity, immune problems and other health disorders than people with low microbial diversity, and that certain germs, in particular, may contribute to improved metabolic and immune health.
But little science had examined the interplay between physical activity and gut bugs in people. So, for a study published this month in Gut, researchers at University College Cork, part of the National University of Ireland, and other institutions, set out to learn more by turning to a group of people who exercise a lot: the national rugby team of Ireland...
For the sake of comparison, the researchers also recruited two groups of healthy adult men, none of them athletes. One group consisted of men with a normal body mass index. Most of the men in this group exercised occasionally but lightly.
The men in the final group were generally sedentary and had a body mass index that would qualify them as overweight or obese. This group was included, Dr. Shanahan said, because the rugby players, although supremely fit, were physically huge, with body masses well above normal. The researchers wanted to compare their gut microbes to those of men whose weight was similar, if not their musculature....
As it turned out, the internal world of the athletes was quite different from that of the men in either of the control groups. The rugby players had considerably more diversity in the make-up of their gut microbiomes, meaning that their intestinal tracts hosted a greater variety of germs than did those of the other men, especially the men in the group with the highest B.M.I.
The rugby players’ guts also harbored larger numbers of a particular bacterium, uneuphoniously named Akkermansiaceae, that has been linked in past studies with a decreased risk for obesity and systemic inflammation.
Interestingly, the rugby players’ blood showed low levels of markers for inflammation, even though the men were exercising intensely. Their muscles were being pummeled but, in physiological terms, recovering well....
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/18/exercise-and-the-good-bugs-in-our-gut/
By GRETCHEN REYNOLDS
excerpts:
Being physically active may encourage beneficial germs to thrive in your gut, while inactivity could do the reverse, according to an innovative new study. The findings suggest that, in addition to its other health benefits, frequent exercise may influence our weight and overall health by altering the kinds of organisms that live inside of us.
In recent years, there has been an explosion of interest in the role that gut microbes play in whole-body health. A multitude of studies have shown that people with large and diverse germ populations in their digestive tracts tend to be less prone to obesity, immune problems and other health disorders than people with low microbial diversity, and that certain germs, in particular, may contribute to improved metabolic and immune health.
But little science had examined the interplay between physical activity and gut bugs in people. So, for a study published this month in Gut, researchers at University College Cork, part of the National University of Ireland, and other institutions, set out to learn more by turning to a group of people who exercise a lot: the national rugby team of Ireland...
For the sake of comparison, the researchers also recruited two groups of healthy adult men, none of them athletes. One group consisted of men with a normal body mass index. Most of the men in this group exercised occasionally but lightly.
The men in the final group were generally sedentary and had a body mass index that would qualify them as overweight or obese. This group was included, Dr. Shanahan said, because the rugby players, although supremely fit, were physically huge, with body masses well above normal. The researchers wanted to compare their gut microbes to those of men whose weight was similar, if not their musculature....
As it turned out, the internal world of the athletes was quite different from that of the men in either of the control groups. The rugby players had considerably more diversity in the make-up of their gut microbiomes, meaning that their intestinal tracts hosted a greater variety of germs than did those of the other men, especially the men in the group with the highest B.M.I.
The rugby players’ guts also harbored larger numbers of a particular bacterium, uneuphoniously named Akkermansiaceae, that has been linked in past studies with a decreased risk for obesity and systemic inflammation.
Interestingly, the rugby players’ blood showed low levels of markers for inflammation, even though the men were exercising intensely. Their muscles were being pummeled but, in physiological terms, recovering well....
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/18/exercise-and-the-good-bugs-in-our-gut/
PANS: Sudden OCD or Restrictive Eating Disorder Onset Following an Infection
From Bipolar Network News (5/14):
PANS: Sudden OCD or Restrictive Eating Disorder Onset Following an Infection
At the 2014 meeting of the International Society for Bipolar Disorder, researcher Kiki Chang discussed Pediatric Acute Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndromes (PANS), a newly identified phenomenon in which children suddenly develop obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and/or a restrictive eating disorder following an infection or other process that stimulates an immune/inflammatory reaction in the brain. A similar phenomenon, Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS), was initially identified by Susan Swedo of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and refers to children (usually under 6–10 years old) who develop OCD and/or tics following a case of strep throat or scarlet fever....
Full article: http://bipolarnews.org/?p=2602
PANS: Sudden OCD or Restrictive Eating Disorder Onset Following an Infection
At the 2014 meeting of the International Society for Bipolar Disorder, researcher Kiki Chang discussed Pediatric Acute Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndromes (PANS), a newly identified phenomenon in which children suddenly develop obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and/or a restrictive eating disorder following an infection or other process that stimulates an immune/inflammatory reaction in the brain. A similar phenomenon, Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS), was initially identified by Susan Swedo of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and refers to children (usually under 6–10 years old) who develop OCD and/or tics following a case of strep throat or scarlet fever....
Full article: http://bipolarnews.org/?p=2602
Experts challenge CDC data showing spike in autism cases
From Disability Scoop (7/7):
Experts challenge CDC data showing spike in autism cases
The CDC's estimate that as many as 1 in 68 8-year-olds in the U.S. has autism is based on medical and education records alone, according to an editorial published in the journal Autism. Without conducting direct assessments on a single child, "we will not know the extent to which the CDC-determined 'cases' include false positives, or the extent to which children who it was determined do not have autism are really false negatives," the authors said. Wide variances in rates from state to state should also indicate issues with the data, the authors said.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/07/07/validity-cdc-autism-rates/19485/
Experts challenge CDC data showing spike in autism cases
The CDC's estimate that as many as 1 in 68 8-year-olds in the U.S. has autism is based on medical and education records alone, according to an editorial published in the journal Autism. Without conducting direct assessments on a single child, "we will not know the extent to which the CDC-determined 'cases' include false positives, or the extent to which children who it was determined do not have autism are really false negatives," the authors said. Wide variances in rates from state to state should also indicate issues with the data, the authors said.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/07/07/validity-cdc-autism-rates/19485/
TV portrays unhealthy foods in a positive light
From MedicalNewsToday (U.K.) (7/4):
TV portrays unhealthy foods in a positive light
A study in the Archives of Disease in Childhood says 32.6% of unhealthy food cues shown in children-oriented television programs were presented in a positive light, while only 19.8% were portrayed in a negative light. Researchers also found that sweets and other unhealthy foods accounted for 47.5% of all food-specific placements, while sugar-laden drinks made up 25% of all placements for beverages.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279128.php
TV portrays unhealthy foods in a positive light
A study in the Archives of Disease in Childhood says 32.6% of unhealthy food cues shown in children-oriented television programs were presented in a positive light, while only 19.8% were portrayed in a negative light. Researchers also found that sweets and other unhealthy foods accounted for 47.5% of all food-specific placements, while sugar-laden drinks made up 25% of all placements for beverages.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279128.php
PCV13 vaccine may leave some children vulnerable to pneumococcal disease
From DailyRx.com (7/6):
PCV13 vaccine may leave some children vulnerable to pneumococcal disease
Slightly more children were hospitalized with invasive pneumococcal disease after the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was introduced, according to a study in the journal Pediatrics that analyzed data from Massachusetts public health records. Children with underlying health problems were more likely to be hospitalized than other children.
http://www.dailyrx.com/
PCV13 vaccine may leave some children vulnerable to pneumococcal disease
Slightly more children were hospitalized with invasive pneumococcal disease after the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was introduced, according to a study in the journal Pediatrics that analyzed data from Massachusetts public health records. Children with underlying health problems were more likely to be hospitalized than other children.
http://www.dailyrx.com/
Pesticide exposure during pregnancy linked to higher autism risk
From HealthDay News (6/23):
Pesticide exposure during pregnancy linked to higher autism risk
Women who lived near spaces treated with commercial pesticides during their last trimester of pregnancy had a greater likelihood of having a child with autism, according to a study in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/pesticide-exposure-in-pregnancy-linked-to-autism-risk-in-kids-689083.html
Pesticide exposure during pregnancy linked to higher autism risk
Women who lived near spaces treated with commercial pesticides during their last trimester of pregnancy had a greater likelihood of having a child with autism, according to a study in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/pesticide-exposure-in-pregnancy-linked-to-autism-risk-in-kids-689083.html
Parents Who Promote Less Rigid Lifestyles for Children Prove More Effective
From Science World Report (6/18):
Less-structured schedule may improve children's executive function
Research in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that children who were allowed to play, read and do other less-structured activities had better self-directed executive functioning than those with a more structured schedule.
http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/15514/20140618/parents-who-promote-less-rigid-lifestyles-children-prove-more-effective.htm
Less-structured schedule may improve children's executive function
Research in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that children who were allowed to play, read and do other less-structured activities had better self-directed executive functioning than those with a more structured schedule.
http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/15514/20140618/parents-who-promote-less-rigid-lifestyles-children-prove-more-effective.htm
Study links children's obesity to pregnant mom's excess weight, smoking
From Reuters (6/18):
Study links children's obesity to pregnant mom's excess weight, smoking
Children were more likely to be obese until their teen years if their mother smoked while pregnant or was overweight early in pregnancy, according to a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Children who fell into the early-persistent-obesity trajectory had a double the odds of asthma and high blood pressure levels than did the normal-weight-trajectory group.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/18/us-obesity-trajectory-idUSKBN0ET2T420140618
Study links children's obesity to pregnant mom's excess weight, smoking
Children were more likely to be obese until their teen years if their mother smoked while pregnant or was overweight early in pregnancy, according to a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Children who fell into the early-persistent-obesity trajectory had a double the odds of asthma and high blood pressure levels than did the normal-weight-trajectory group.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/18/us-obesity-trajectory-idUSKBN0ET2T420140618
Study links children's obesity to pregnant mom's excess weight, smoking
From Reuters (6/18):
Study links children's obesity to pregnant mom's excess weight, smoking
Children were more likely to be obese until their teen years if their mother smoked while pregnant or was overweight early in pregnancy, according to a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Children who fell into the early-persistent-obesity trajectory had a double the odds of asthma and high blood pressure levels than did the normal-weight-trajectory group.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/18/us-obesity-trajectory-idUSKBN0ET2T420140618
Study links children's obesity to pregnant mom's excess weight, smoking
Children were more likely to be obese until their teen years if their mother smoked while pregnant or was overweight early in pregnancy, according to a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Children who fell into the early-persistent-obesity trajectory had a double the odds of asthma and high blood pressure levels than did the normal-weight-trajectory group.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/18/us-obesity-trajectory-idUSKBN0ET2T420140618
Combination of N-acetylcysteine and Risperidone Improves Irritability in Autistic Disorders More Than Placebo and Risperidone
From Bipolar Network News (2/28/14):
Combination of N-acetylcysteine and Risperidone Improves Irritability in Autistic Disorders More Than Placebo and Risperidone
In a 2013 study of 40 children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders published by Ahmad Ghanizadeh and Ebrahim Moghimi-Sarani in the journal BMC Psychiatry, the combination of the over-the-counter nutritional supplement n-acetylcysteine (NAC) and the atypical antipsychotic risperidone alleviated irritability more than the combination of placebo and risperidone. Side effects were mild. The data extend 2012 observations by A.Y. Hardan et al. in which NAC improved irritability and stereotypy (repeated behavior) in autism more than placebo did.
The two studies taken together support the effectiveness of NAC prescribed either alone or in conjunction with an atypical antipsychotic for the treatment of autism.
http://bipolarnews.org/?p=2499
PharmaNAC:
Dr. O'Hara and Dr. Szakacs recommend PharmaNAC as it is manufactured and packaged in special conditions to prevent oxidation and degradation of the NAC in contrast to the common pill/bottle NAC products widely available. With a focus on maintaining stability, production and packaging is specifically designed to prevent degradation and/or oxidation to di-nac. The foul smell associated with NAC is actually a result of degradation. With their quality and packaging, PharmaNAC smells nice and is pleasant to take!
Combination of N-acetylcysteine and Risperidone Improves Irritability in Autistic Disorders More Than Placebo and Risperidone
In a 2013 study of 40 children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders published by Ahmad Ghanizadeh and Ebrahim Moghimi-Sarani in the journal BMC Psychiatry, the combination of the over-the-counter nutritional supplement n-acetylcysteine (NAC) and the atypical antipsychotic risperidone alleviated irritability more than the combination of placebo and risperidone. Side effects were mild. The data extend 2012 observations by A.Y. Hardan et al. in which NAC improved irritability and stereotypy (repeated behavior) in autism more than placebo did.
The two studies taken together support the effectiveness of NAC prescribed either alone or in conjunction with an atypical antipsychotic for the treatment of autism.
http://bipolarnews.org/?p=2499
PharmaNAC:
Dr. O'Hara and Dr. Szakacs recommend PharmaNAC as it is manufactured and packaged in special conditions to prevent oxidation and degradation of the NAC in contrast to the common pill/bottle NAC products widely available. With a focus on maintaining stability, production and packaging is specifically designed to prevent degradation and/or oxidation to di-nac. The foul smell associated with NAC is actually a result of degradation. With their quality and packaging, PharmaNAC smells nice and is pleasant to take!
Risk of febrile seizures after first dose of measles–mumps–rubella–varicella vaccine: a population-based cohort study
From CMAJ June 9, 2014
Risk of febrile seizures after first dose of measles–mumps–rubella–varicella vaccine: a population-based cohort study
Background: The combination measles–mumps–rubella–varicella (MMRV) vaccine currently used in Canada (Priorix-Tetra) may increase the risk of febrile seizures relative to the separate vaccines (MMR and varicella) previously administered. We determined the risk of febrile seizure after the first dose of MMRV, as well as any additional risk for children at high risk for seizures because of pre-existing medical conditions.
http://www.cmaj.ca/content/early/2014/06/09/cmaj.140078
Risk of febrile seizures after first dose of measles–mumps–rubella–varicella vaccine: a population-based cohort study
Background: The combination measles–mumps–rubella–varicella (MMRV) vaccine currently used in Canada (Priorix-Tetra) may increase the risk of febrile seizures relative to the separate vaccines (MMR and varicella) previously administered. We determined the risk of febrile seizure after the first dose of MMRV, as well as any additional risk for children at high risk for seizures because of pre-existing medical conditions.
http://www.cmaj.ca/content/early/2014/06/09/cmaj.140078
Environmental influences on genes linked to autism risk
From HealthDay News (5/29):
Environmental influences on genes linked to autism risk
U.S. researchers analyzed cheek cell samples from 95 children for environmental changes to genes and found two altered gene groups in those with autism spectrum disorder that were different from children without autism. The findings, published in the journal PLOS Genetics, "suggest that, at least in some individuals with an ASD, the same pathways in the brain seem to [be] hit by both [gene] mutations and epigenetic changes," senior author Dr. John Greally said.
http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/scientists-discover-evidence-of-environmental-changes-to-genes-in-kids-with-autism-688288.html
Environmental influences on genes linked to autism risk
U.S. researchers analyzed cheek cell samples from 95 children for environmental changes to genes and found two altered gene groups in those with autism spectrum disorder that were different from children without autism. The findings, published in the journal PLOS Genetics, "suggest that, at least in some individuals with an ASD, the same pathways in the brain seem to [be] hit by both [gene] mutations and epigenetic changes," senior author Dr. John Greally said.
http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/scientists-discover-evidence-of-environmental-changes-to-genes-in-kids-with-autism-688288.html
One-size-suits-all vaccines will soon be replaced by safer, more effective ones
From Fiancial Post (5/8):
Lawrence Solomon: One-size-suits-all vaccines will soon be replaced by safer, more effective ones
Today’s vaccines are failing. Personalized vaccines that reflect an individual’s genetic profile are coming
Full article:
http://business.financialpost.com/2014/05/08/lawrence-solomon-vaccinomics-personal-vaccines/
Lawrence Solomon: One-size-suits-all vaccines will soon be replaced by safer, more effective ones
Today’s vaccines are failing. Personalized vaccines that reflect an individual’s genetic profile are coming
Full article:
http://business.financialpost.com/2014/05/08/lawrence-solomon-vaccinomics-personal-vaccines/
Environmental factors as important as genes in understanding autism
From Science Daily (5/4/14):
Environmental factors are more important than previously thought in understanding the causes of autism, and equally as important as genes, according to the largest study to date to look at how autism runs in families. The study also provides measures of individual risk for children who have a relative with autism.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140504095619.htm
Environmental factors are more important than previously thought in understanding the causes of autism, and equally as important as genes, according to the largest study to date to look at how autism runs in families. The study also provides measures of individual risk for children who have a relative with autism.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140504095619.htm
Exenatide has potential as a disease modifying agent in Parkinson's disease
Are Parkinson's and ASD only steps apart?
Could treatment with anti-fungals, supplements and dietary changes make a difference?
From the Journal of Parkinson's Disease (5/6):
Exenatide has potential as a disease modifying agent in Parkinson's disease
A follow-up study of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) who participated in an earlier "proof of concept" clinical trial using exenatide showed that improvements persisted twelve months after discontinuing exenatide therapy. These data provide strong encouragement for the further study of this drug in patients with PD, report researchers in the Journal of Parkinson's Disease.
Several recent discoveries have highlighted common cellular pathways that potentially relate neurodegenerative processes with abnormal mitochondrial function and abnormal glucose metabolism.
Exenatide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist (GLP-1 agonist) medication marketed as Byetta® and Bydureon® and used in the treatment of insulin resistance in patients with Type 2 diabetes, has been proposed as a disease modifying drug in PD. Earlier studies had shown that exenatide is neuroprotective and promotes functionally beneficial neuroplasticity in animal models of neurodegeneration. Furthermore, exenatide has a favorable safety profile, with only relatively mild gastrointestinal side effects (including nausea and weight loss) as frequent adverse events....
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-05-exenatide-potential-disease-agent-parkinson.html
Could treatment with anti-fungals, supplements and dietary changes make a difference?
From the Journal of Parkinson's Disease (5/6):
Exenatide has potential as a disease modifying agent in Parkinson's disease
A follow-up study of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) who participated in an earlier "proof of concept" clinical trial using exenatide showed that improvements persisted twelve months after discontinuing exenatide therapy. These data provide strong encouragement for the further study of this drug in patients with PD, report researchers in the Journal of Parkinson's Disease.
Several recent discoveries have highlighted common cellular pathways that potentially relate neurodegenerative processes with abnormal mitochondrial function and abnormal glucose metabolism.
Exenatide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist (GLP-1 agonist) medication marketed as Byetta® and Bydureon® and used in the treatment of insulin resistance in patients with Type 2 diabetes, has been proposed as a disease modifying drug in PD. Earlier studies had shown that exenatide is neuroprotective and promotes functionally beneficial neuroplasticity in animal models of neurodegeneration. Furthermore, exenatide has a favorable safety profile, with only relatively mild gastrointestinal side effects (including nausea and weight loss) as frequent adverse events....
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-05-exenatide-potential-disease-agent-parkinson.html
Research ties autism to higher chronic disease risk in adulthood
From Disability Scoop (5/14), HealthDay News (5/14):
Research ties autism to higher chronic disease risk in adulthood
In an analysis of medical records of more than 23,000 people aged 18 and older, Kaiser Permanente researchers found that those with autism spectrum disorder had a greater likelihood of suffering from chronic conditions than those without autism. Almost all health problems were substantially more prevalent among individuals with autism, including hypertension, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. The findings will be presented at the International Meeting for Autism Research.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/05/14/study-autism-chronic-disease/19364/
Research ties autism to higher chronic disease risk in adulthood
In an analysis of medical records of more than 23,000 people aged 18 and older, Kaiser Permanente researchers found that those with autism spectrum disorder had a greater likelihood of suffering from chronic conditions than those without autism. Almost all health problems were substantially more prevalent among individuals with autism, including hypertension, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. The findings will be presented at the International Meeting for Autism Research.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/05/14/study-autism-chronic-disease/19364/
Imaging reveals abnormal brain connections in ADHD
From Medical News Today (4/30):
Imaging reveals abnormal brain connections in ADHD
A study in the journal Radiology that used resting-state functional MRI revealed that children and teens with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder have disrupted brain connections in the orbitofrontal cortex and the globus pallidus. Researchers compared rfMRI results of 33 boys between 6 to 16 years old with 32 healthy controls.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/276150.php
Imaging reveals abnormal brain connections in ADHD
A study in the journal Radiology that used resting-state functional MRI revealed that children and teens with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder have disrupted brain connections in the orbitofrontal cortex and the globus pallidus. Researchers compared rfMRI results of 33 boys between 6 to 16 years old with 32 healthy controls.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/276150.php
Study finds varying rates of c-section births in U.S.
From United Press International (5/8), The Denver Post (5/8):
Study finds varying rates of c-section births in U.S.
A Consumer Reports analysis of data on more than 1,500 hospitals across 22 states found that rates of cesarean births for low-risk deliveries ranged from as low as 4% to as high as 57%.
http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2014/05/08/US-doctors-may-be-performing-too-many-Cesarean-sections/4121399572328/
Study finds varying rates of c-section births in U.S.
A Consumer Reports analysis of data on more than 1,500 hospitals across 22 states found that rates of cesarean births for low-risk deliveries ranged from as low as 4% to as high as 57%.
http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2014/05/08/US-doctors-may-be-performing-too-many-Cesarean-sections/4121399572328/
Thimerosal-containing vaccine administration and the risk for an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis
Article:
Geier et al.: A two-phase study evaluating the relationship between Thimerosal-containing vaccine administration and the risk for an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in the United States.
Translational Neurodegeneration 2013 2:25.
The researchers looked at the risk of autism among children who received mercury-containing DTaP (acellular diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis) and hepatitis b shots. They found a significantly increased risk for the incidence of ASD reported following the mercury-containing DTaP vaccine in comparison to the mercury-free DTaP vaccine. In addition, they found children diagnosed with an ASD were significantly more likely than controls to have received a mercury-containing hepatitis B vaccine administered within the first, second, and sixth month of life.
Read the whole study here:
http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/2047-9158-2-25.pdf
Geier et al.: A two-phase study evaluating the relationship between Thimerosal-containing vaccine administration and the risk for an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in the United States.
Translational Neurodegeneration 2013 2:25.
The researchers looked at the risk of autism among children who received mercury-containing DTaP (acellular diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis) and hepatitis b shots. They found a significantly increased risk for the incidence of ASD reported following the mercury-containing DTaP vaccine in comparison to the mercury-free DTaP vaccine. In addition, they found children diagnosed with an ASD were significantly more likely than controls to have received a mercury-containing hepatitis B vaccine administered within the first, second, and sixth month of life.
Read the whole study here:
http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/2047-9158-2-25.pdf
Gastro Woes More Common in Kids With Autism: Review
From HealthDay News (4/28):
A review published in the journal Pediatrics showed that children with autism had a more than fourfold increased risk of gastrointestinal problems compared with those without the condition. Children with autism were four times as likely to have diarrhea and constipation and two times as likely to have abdominal pain compared with typically developing peers.
http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/digestive-problems-common-in-kids-with-autism-687209.html
Gastro Woes More Common in Kids With Autism: Review
A review published in the journal Pediatrics showed that children with autism had a more than fourfold increased risk of gastrointestinal problems compared with those without the condition. Children with autism were four times as likely to have diarrhea and constipation and two times as likely to have abdominal pain compared with typically developing peers.
http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/autism-news-51/digestive-problems-common-in-kids-with-autism-687209.html
PANS in the news...
PANS in the news...
From the Hartford Courant (4/23):
http://www.courant.com/news/nation-world/sns-mct-bc-med-pans-20140423,0,2376674,full.story
From the Hartford Courant (4/23):
http://www.courant.com/news/nation-world/sns-mct-bc-med-pans-20140423,0,2376674,full.story
How the Overuse of Antibiotics Is Fueling Our Modern Plagues
MISSING MICROBES
How the Overuse of Antibiotics Is Fueling Our Modern Plagues
by Martin J. Blaser
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/martin-j-blaser/missing-microbes/
How the Overuse of Antibiotics Is Fueling Our Modern Plagues
by Martin J. Blaser
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/martin-j-blaser/missing-microbes/
CDC estimates 1 in 68 U.S. children has autism
From Los Angeles Daily News/Agence France-Presse (3/27), USA Today (3/27), Reuters (3/27):
CDC officials reported Thursday that autism rates in the U.S. jumped almost 30% between 2008 and 2010, with as many as 1 in 68 8-year-olds now affected by the condition. The incidence of autism spectrum disorder was higher among white children than black or Hispanic children. The report showed geographic disparities as well, ranging from 1 in 175 children in Alabama to 1 in 45 children in New Jersey.
http://dfm.dailynews.com/article/autism-prevalence-among-us-children-on-the-rise/bd2ce374c034c85118958c59e928447c
CDC officials reported Thursday that autism rates in the U.S. jumped almost 30% between 2008 and 2010, with as many as 1 in 68 8-year-olds now affected by the condition. The incidence of autism spectrum disorder was higher among white children than black or Hispanic children. The report showed geographic disparities as well, ranging from 1 in 175 children in Alabama to 1 in 45 children in New Jersey.
http://dfm.dailynews.com/article/autism-prevalence-among-us-children-on-the-rise/bd2ce374c034c85118958c59e928447c
Rotavirus vaccines linked to slightly raised intussusception risk in infants
From WebMD/HealthDay News (1/14), DailyRx.com (1/14):
Researchers noted there were about 1.5 cases of intussusception for every 100,000 infants who were given the RotaTeq rotavirus vaccine. In another study, researchers found no increased likelihood of the bowel obstruction with RotaTeq, but did find 5.3 cases of the complication per 100,000 babies who received two doses of the Rotarix vaccine. Both studies were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/news/20140114/common-infant-vaccine-tied-to-slight-rise-in-risk-for-bowel-complication
Researchers noted there were about 1.5 cases of intussusception for every 100,000 infants who were given the RotaTeq rotavirus vaccine. In another study, researchers found no increased likelihood of the bowel obstruction with RotaTeq, but did find 5.3 cases of the complication per 100,000 babies who received two doses of the Rotarix vaccine. Both studies were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/news/20140114/common-infant-vaccine-tied-to-slight-rise-in-risk-for-bowel-complication
Thursday, March 13, 2014
The Light House's Autism Education Conference - March 31st Groton, CT
On
March 31st, Dr. O'Hara will be speaking at The Light House's Autism
Education Conference at the Mystic Marriott in Groton, CT.
The link below is a recent Article about the Light House.
http://ihealthnow.org/
The link below is a recent Article about the Light House.
http://ihealthnow.org/
Babies born via C-section show higher obesity risk
From DoctorsLounge.com/HealthDay News (2/26):
Babies born via C-section show higher obesity risk
Babies born via cesarean section were 26% more likely to be overweight or obese later in life compared with babies delivered vaginally, according to a study in the journal PLOS ONE. Researchers said the reason behind the apparent association remains unclear and may be due to other factors.
http://www.doctorslounge.com/
Babies born via C-section show higher obesity risk
Babies born via cesarean section were 26% more likely to be overweight or obese later in life compared with babies delivered vaginally, according to a study in the journal PLOS ONE. Researchers said the reason behind the apparent association remains unclear and may be due to other factors.
http://www.doctorslounge.com/
PANDAS in the news...
PANDAS in the news...
Dr. O'Hara is on the CT PANDAS Task Force referenced in the video below, making recommendations and raising awareness.
http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/on-air/as-seen-on/248442521.html
Dr. O'Hara is on the CT PANDAS Task Force referenced in the video below, making recommendations and raising awareness.
http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/on-air/as-seen-on/248442521.html
Vitamin D hormone regulates serotonin synthesis
From Nutrition and Metabolism Center,
Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, California, USA
by authors Rhonda P. Patrick and Bruce N. Ames
Vitamin D hormone regulates serotonin synthesis. Part 1: relevance for autism
Abstract
Serotonin and vitamin D have been proposed to play a role in autism; however, no causal mechanism has been established. Here, we present evidence that vitamin D hormone (calcitriol) activates the transcription of the serotonin-synthesizing gene tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the brain at a vitamin D response element (VDRE) and represses the transcription of TPH1 in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier at a distinct VDRE. The proposed mechanism explains 4 major characteristics associated with autism: the low concentrations of serotonin in the brain and its elevated concentrations in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier; the low concentrations of the vitamin D hormone precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D3]; the high male prevalence of autism; and the presence of maternal antibodies against fetal brain tissue. Two peptide hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin, are also associated with autism and genes encoding the oxytocin-neurophysin I preproprotein, the oxytocin receptor, and the arginine vasopressin receptor contain VDREs for activation. Supplementation with vitamin D and tryptophan is a practical and affordable solution to help prevent autism and possibly ameliorate some symptoms of the disorder.—Patrick, R. P., Ames, B. N. Vitamin D hormone regulates serotonin synthesis. Part 1: relevance for autism
http://www.fasebj.org/content/early/2014/02/14/fj.13-246546.abstract
Vitamin D hormone regulates serotonin synthesis. Part 1: relevance for autism
Abstract
Serotonin and vitamin D have been proposed to play a role in autism; however, no causal mechanism has been established. Here, we present evidence that vitamin D hormone (calcitriol) activates the transcription of the serotonin-synthesizing gene tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the brain at a vitamin D response element (VDRE) and represses the transcription of TPH1 in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier at a distinct VDRE. The proposed mechanism explains 4 major characteristics associated with autism: the low concentrations of serotonin in the brain and its elevated concentrations in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier; the low concentrations of the vitamin D hormone precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D3]; the high male prevalence of autism; and the presence of maternal antibodies against fetal brain tissue. Two peptide hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin, are also associated with autism and genes encoding the oxytocin-neurophysin I preproprotein, the oxytocin receptor, and the arginine vasopressin receptor contain VDREs for activation. Supplementation with vitamin D and tryptophan is a practical and affordable solution to help prevent autism and possibly ameliorate some symptoms of the disorder.—Patrick, R. P., Ames, B. N. Vitamin D hormone regulates serotonin synthesis. Part 1: relevance for autism
http://www.fasebj.org/content/early/2014/02/14/fj.13-246546.abstract
Royal Caribbean is first 'autism-friendly' cruise line
From USA Today (2/20):
Royal Caribbean is first 'autism-friendly' cruise line
http://www.usatoday.com/story/cruiselog/2014/02/20/autistic-child-autism-friendly-cruise/5640629/
Royal Caribbean is first 'autism-friendly' cruise line
http://www.usatoday.com/story/cruiselog/2014/02/20/autistic-child-autism-friendly-cruise/5640629/
Probiotics may protect infants from developing colic
From The Wall Street Journal (tiered subscription model) (1/13):
Probiotics may protect infants from developing colic
Newborns who were given a daily dose of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri during the first three months of life had reduced time of inconsolable crying compared with the placebo group, an Italian study showed. Early introduction to probiotics was also associated with a lower incidence of gastrointestinal problems, including constipation and regurgitation, researchers reported in the journal JAMA Pediatrics.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303819704579318703183361902?mod=dist_smartbrief
Probiotics may protect infants from developing colic
Newborns who were given a daily dose of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri during the first three months of life had reduced time of inconsolable crying compared with the placebo group, an Italian study showed. Early introduction to probiotics was also associated with a lower incidence of gastrointestinal problems, including constipation and regurgitation, researchers reported in the journal JAMA Pediatrics.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303819704579318703183361902?mod=dist_smartbrief
FDA OKs Postnatal Blood Test for Intellectual Disabilities
From Medscape (1/17/14):
FDA OKs Postnatal Blood Test for Intellectual Disabilities
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared for marketing the CytoScan Dx Assay (Affymetrix), which detects chromosomal variations that may underlie a child's developmental delay or intellectual disability.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/819387
FDA OKs Postnatal Blood Test for Intellectual Disabilities
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared for marketing the CytoScan Dx Assay (Affymetrix), which detects chromosomal variations that may underlie a child's developmental delay or intellectual disability.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/819387
Mycoplasma Fermentans and deciliation as a precursor to Regressive Autism
Mycoplasma Fermentans and deciliation as a precursor to Regressive Autism by Bill Welsh
The worldwide increase in the diagnosis of autism and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) together with increasing reports of a regressive onset has caused many to argue that the condition should no longer be viewed as solely, or even mainly, genetic in origin, environmental factors must be implicated, particularly those of bacterial or viral genesis.
Pathogenic substances entering the bloodstream of developing children merit consideration and investigation in the search for causation.
The witness and evidence of parents may provide persuasive clues...
Full article:
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/
The worldwide increase in the diagnosis of autism and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) together with increasing reports of a regressive onset has caused many to argue that the condition should no longer be viewed as solely, or even mainly, genetic in origin, environmental factors must be implicated, particularly those of bacterial or viral genesis.
Pathogenic substances entering the bloodstream of developing children merit consideration and investigation in the search for causation.
The witness and evidence of parents may provide persuasive clues...
Full article:
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Dr. O'Hara to Lecture at Autism Education Conference in Groton, CT on March 31st
On March 31st, Dr. O'Hara will be speaking at
The Light House's Autism Education Conference at the Mystic Marriott in
Groton, CT.
For more information about the conference and The Light House organization, click on the links below.
Conference info: http://ihealthnow.org/images/2014AECflyerwithSpeakers-1.jpg
Conference History: http://ihealthnow.org/documents/InsideMysticStory.pdf
For more information about the conference and The Light House organization, click on the links below.
Conference info: http://ihealthnow.org/images/2014AECflyerwithSpeakers-1.jpg
Conference History: http://ihealthnow.org/documents/InsideMysticStory.pdf
Johnson & Johnson removes 2 chemicals from baby products
From The New York Times (1/21):
J&J removes 2 chemicals from baby products
Fulfilling a promise it made in 2011, Johnson & Johnson has reformulated its infant products to remove the formaldehyde-releasing preservative quaternium-15 and 1,4-dioxane. The company next plans to remove another preservative, parabens, from their baby products and to work on removing the chemicals from their adult products.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/18/business/johnson-johnson-takes-first-step-in-removal-of-questionable-chemicals-from-products.html?hpw&rref=business&_r=1
J&J removes 2 chemicals from baby products
Fulfilling a promise it made in 2011, Johnson & Johnson has reformulated its infant products to remove the formaldehyde-releasing preservative quaternium-15 and 1,4-dioxane. The company next plans to remove another preservative, parabens, from their baby products and to work on removing the chemicals from their adult products.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/18/business/johnson-johnson-takes-first-step-in-removal-of-questionable-chemicals-from-products.html?hpw&rref=business&_r=1
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
CBT program improves well-being of ASD students
From Medical News Today (1/9):
CBT program improves well-being of ASD students
Students with autism spectrum disorder and those with behavioral and emotional needs who used cognitive behavioral therapy to imagine tiny characters in their heads helping them in their decision-making showed significant improvement in well-being, according to a recent study presented at the British Psychological Society meeting. The program was tested in single-case studies, group studies, and in whole-class and school-year groups.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270849.php
If you are interested in learning more about CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), please contact Lori Coda at loricoda@gmail.com or 203-414-0834.
CBT program improves well-being of ASD students
Students with autism spectrum disorder and those with behavioral and emotional needs who used cognitive behavioral therapy to imagine tiny characters in their heads helping them in their decision-making showed significant improvement in well-being, according to a recent study presented at the British Psychological Society meeting. The program was tested in single-case studies, group studies, and in whole-class and school-year groups.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270849.php
If you are interested in learning more about CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), please contact Lori Coda at loricoda@gmail.com or 203-414-0834.
Influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations raised risk for fever when given at the same time
From dailyRx (1/6/14):
Influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations raised risk for fever when given at the same time
Among children who were simultaneously given the trivalent inactivated vaccine for influenza and pneumococcal vaccine, 37.6% had a fever the day of or the day after administration, according to a study in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. Fever rates were lower when the vaccines were taken separately, with 9.5% with the pneumococcal vaccine alone and 7.5% with influenza vaccine alone the day of or the day after vaccination. Researchers found no differences in fever incidence for days two through seven in all vaccination groups.
http://www.dailyrx.com/influenza-and-pneumococcal-vaccinations-raised-risk-fever-when-given-same-time
Influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations raised risk for fever when given at the same time
Among children who were simultaneously given the trivalent inactivated vaccine for influenza and pneumococcal vaccine, 37.6% had a fever the day of or the day after administration, according to a study in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. Fever rates were lower when the vaccines were taken separately, with 9.5% with the pneumococcal vaccine alone and 7.5% with influenza vaccine alone the day of or the day after vaccination. Researchers found no differences in fever incidence for days two through seven in all vaccination groups.
http://www.dailyrx.com/influenza-and-pneumococcal-vaccinations-raised-risk-fever-when-given-same-time
Oxytocin Receptor Gene Influences Face Recognition, Study Shows
From Sci News (12/28):
Oxytocin Receptor Gene Influences Face Recognition, Study Shows
OXTR (oxytocin receptor) – a gene that influences a range of social interactions including mother-infant bonding – also plays a key role in our ability to recognize faces, according to a new study reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences....
The scientists studied 198 families with a single autistic child because these families were known to show a wide range of variability in facial recognition skills; two-thirds of the families were from the United Kingdom, and the remainder from Finland.
They previously found OXTR is essential for olfactory-based social recognition in rodents, like mice and voles, and wondered whether the same gene could also be involved in human face recognition....
http://www.sci-news.com/genetics/science-oxytocin-receptor-gene-face-recognition-01647.html
Oxytocin Receptor Gene Influences Face Recognition, Study Shows
OXTR (oxytocin receptor) – a gene that influences a range of social interactions including mother-infant bonding – also plays a key role in our ability to recognize faces, according to a new study reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences....
The scientists studied 198 families with a single autistic child because these families were known to show a wide range of variability in facial recognition skills; two-thirds of the families were from the United Kingdom, and the remainder from Finland.
They previously found OXTR is essential for olfactory-based social recognition in rodents, like mice and voles, and wondered whether the same gene could also be involved in human face recognition....
http://www.sci-news.com/genetics/science-oxytocin-receptor-gene-face-recognition-01647.html
Prolonged breast-feeding linked to improved child development
From Reuters (12/25):
Prolonged breast-feeding linked to improved child development
Breast-feeding for more than six months was associated with higher scores in cognitive, language and motor development at 18 months of age, according to a Greek study involving 540 mothers and their children. Children who were breast-fed for longer than six months had an average cognitive score of 104, compared with 97 among children who were never breast-fed. The findings appear in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/25/us-breast-feeding-idUSBRE9BO08920131225
Prolonged breast-feeding linked to improved child development
Breast-feeding for more than six months was associated with higher scores in cognitive, language and motor development at 18 months of age, according to a Greek study involving 540 mothers and their children. Children who were breast-fed for longer than six months had an average cognitive score of 104, compared with 97 among children who were never breast-fed. The findings appear in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/12/25/us-breast-feeding-idUSBRE9BO08920131225
Silencing vaccine concerns does public a disservice
21 Dec 2013
The Boston Globe
Silencing vaccine concerns does public a disservice
A RECENT Katie Couric talk show featured mothers who had good reason to believe that their daughters were seriously damaged or killed by adverse effects of vaccines intended to block HPV infection as well as an immunologist who highlighted the shortcomings of the vaccines. Despite the importance of this information to the public, the Globe chose to castigate Couric for exposing potential harm from vaccination (“Couric: Fanning fears of HPV vaccine,” Editorial, Dec. 12).
RICHARD C. DETH writes: With the population-wide administration of vaccines, it is absolutely critical to appreciate their limitations and their potential for harm in vulnerable individuals. Suppressing awareness of these limitations is a disservice to the public and serves to undermine confidence in vaccine benefits.
The writer is a professor of pharmacology at Northeastern University.
http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2013/12/21/silencing-vaccine-concerns-does-public-disservice/jIkZxn9bnERaE2gcHjxLAM/story.html
The Boston Globe
Silencing vaccine concerns does public a disservice
A RECENT Katie Couric talk show featured mothers who had good reason to believe that their daughters were seriously damaged or killed by adverse effects of vaccines intended to block HPV infection as well as an immunologist who highlighted the shortcomings of the vaccines. Despite the importance of this information to the public, the Globe chose to castigate Couric for exposing potential harm from vaccination (“Couric: Fanning fears of HPV vaccine,” Editorial, Dec. 12).
RICHARD C. DETH writes: With the population-wide administration of vaccines, it is absolutely critical to appreciate their limitations and their potential for harm in vulnerable individuals. Suppressing awareness of these limitations is a disservice to the public and serves to undermine confidence in vaccine benefits.
The writer is a professor of pharmacology at Northeastern University.
http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2013/12/21/silencing-vaccine-concerns-does-public-disservice/jIkZxn9bnERaE2gcHjxLAM/story.html
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