MedWorm: Disability

Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome: intellectual disability due to loss of TCF4-regulated gene transcription.

exp Mol Med — Thu, 23 May 2013 15:10:18 +0100

Authors: Sweatt JD Abstract TCF4 (transcription factor 4; E2-2, ITF2) is a transcription factor that when haplo-insufficient causes Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome (PTHS), an autism-spectrum disorder that is associated with pervasive developmental delay and severe intellectual disability. The TCF4 gene is also a risk factor with highly significant linkage to schizophrenia, presumably via overexpression of the TCF4 gene product in the central nervous system. This review will present an overview of the clinical manifestations of PTHS and relate those clinical attributes to the underlying molecular genetics of TCF4. In order to provide a molecular biological context for the loss of function of TCF4 in PTHS, the review will also present a brief overview of the basic biochemistry of TCF4-mediated...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Clinical Psychologists' Views of Intensive Interaction as an Intervention in Learning Disability Services.

Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy — Thu, 23 May 2013 12:18:33 +0100

In conclusion, it was felt that further research is required to develop a specifically psychological understanding of Intensive Interaction alongside the formation of a Special Interest Group, which might have this task as one of its aims. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. KEY PRACTITIONER MESSAGES: There appeared to be a limited recognition amongst the participants of the specific psychological theories that can be seen to explain the beneficial outcomes of Intensive Interaction. The participants were found to differ in how they explained the approach and typically used everyday 'non-psychological' language or individual concepts/terms rather than clearly or extensively referencing particular theoretical models. The participants appeared to differ in the range of clients who t...

Shoulder pain and mobility deficits: adhesive capsulitis.

Health Physics — Thu, 23 May 2013 08:25:04 +0100

Authors: Kelley MJ, Shaffer MA, Kuhn JE, Michener LA, Seitz AL, Uhl TL, Godges JJ, McClure PW Abstract The Orthopaedic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) has an ongoing effort to create evidence-based practice guidelines for orthopaedic physical therapy management of patients with musculoskeletal impairments described in the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). The purpose of these clinical practice guidelines is to describe the peer-reviewed literature and make recommendations related to adhesive capsulitis.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(5):A1-A31. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.0302. PMID: 23636125 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Health Physics)

Regenerating spinal cord fibers may be treatment for stroke-related disabilities

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

(Henry Ford Health System) A study by researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found "substantial evidence" that a regenerative process involving damaged nerve fibers in the spinal cord could hold the key to better functional recovery by most stroke victims. The findings may offer new hope to those who suffer stroke, the leading cause of long-term disability in adults. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Roll on Capitol Hill - People with Disabilities Gather to Shape Health Care Policy

Disabled World — Wed, 22 May 2013 22:56:11 +0100

United Spinal's 2nd Annual Roll on Capitol Hill: People with Disabilities Gather to Shape Health Care Policy - Wheelchair users from across the USA will voice policy concerns to pols in D.C. 6/16-18. (Source: Disabled World)

Migraine, Chronic Back Pain Tied to Higher Suicide Risk

WebMD Health — Wed, 22 May 2013 22:43:07 +0100

Hopelessness, disability may play a role in feelings of despair, study finds (Source: WebMD Health)

Mather assisted housing project for veterans closer to reality

bizjournals.com Health Care:Hospitals headlines — Wed, 22 May 2013 21:46:17 +0100

Rancho Cordova city officials think a new assisted housing project for disabled homeless veterans near Mather Airport could be months away from breaking ground, after the city council approved a pair of needed entitlements for the Mather Veterans Village this week. Reed Flory, housing services administrator for the city of Rancho Cordova, said a 3.69-acre parcel for the project will house both new and rehabilitated buildings to serve as many as 160 vets. “It’s amazing to me we haven’t done… (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Hospitals headlines)

Migraine, Chronic Back Pain Tied to Higher Suicide Risk

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 +0100

Hopelessness, disability may play a role in feelings of despair, study finds Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Back Pain, Migraine, Suicide (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

REHACOP arrests negative schizophrenia symptoms

MedWire News - Schizophrenia — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:55:52 +0100

A course of neuropsychologic rehabilitation – the REHACOP program – improves negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, which in turn relieves functional disability, shows a randomized, controlled trial. (Source: MedWire News - Schizophrenia)

Characteristics of fatal child maltreatment associated with multiple births in Japan.

Twin Research and Human Genetics — Wed, 22 May 2013 12:50:02 +0100

In conclusion, recent Japanese nationwide data suggests that the non-specific overburden of child rearing might be one possible reason for higher frequency of child maltreatment for multiples compared with singletons, and parental comparisons between two twins might be another. The penal sentences for fatal child maltreatment might be more lenient for perpetrators of this crime against twins than against singletons. PMID: 23632231 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Twin Research and Human Genetics)

Human facial dysostoses.

Clinical Genetics — Wed, 22 May 2013 11:50:10 +0100

This article reviews the MFDs and AFDs published to date. PMID: 23565775 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Clinical Genetics)

Role of alcohol in hospitalized road trauma in Viet nam.

Traffic Injury Prevention — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:45:02 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this preliminary study indicate that 29.1 percent of all car drivers and motorcycle riders presenting at hospitals with RTIs exceeded the legal BAC limit for operating a motor vehicle. Though further study is required, this is suggestive that strengthening the enforcement of drink-driving laws is an urgent national road safety priority. PMID: 23531254 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Traffic Injury Prevention)

Identifying Risk Factors For Depression Among COPD Patients

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 +0100

Patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) typically suffer from depression more frequently than those without COPD, resulting in higher levels of disability and illness and increasing the overall healthcare burden for the COPD population. Now, a study from researchers in Argentina indicates female COPD patients and patients who experience significant shortness of breath may have the greatest risk for developing depression. The results of the study were presented at the ATS 2013 International Conference... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity Suffers Days After Ischemic Stroke Leading To Serious Complications

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 +0100

While the effects of acute stroke have been widely studied, brain damage during the subacute phase of stroke has been a neglected area of research. Now, a new study by the University of South Florida reports that within a week of a stroke caused by a blood clot in one side of the brain, the opposite side of the brain shows signs of microvascular injury. Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, and increases the risk for dementia... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Viewpoint: Parents of young carers need support

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Wed, 22 May 2013 07:28:34 +0100

How much support should children give disabled parents? (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Commentary: Filling out the evidence base for treatment of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in children with intellectual and developmental disability: conclusions for clinicians – a response to Simonoff et al. (2013)

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry — Wed, 22 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

This randomized clinical trial of methylphenidate in children with intellectual disability (ID) by Simonoff et al. (2013) advances the field in several ways useful to clinicians. The three‐figure widely representative sample more definitively confirms findings previously reported from smaller studies and studies with a differently selected sample. The medium placebo‐controlled effect size found is in line with previous more tentative suggestions for ID, such as those summarized by Aman et al. This sample, selected for ID but coincidentally including some children with autism (a third of the sample), nicely complements the RUPP Autism Network (2005) study of 72 children with autism, most of whom also had ID (mean IQ 62.6, range 16‐135). Similar effect was found in both studies, sugges...

Commentary: RCT of optimal dose methylphenidate in children and adolescents with severe ADHD and ID ‐ a reply to Arnold (2013)

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry — Wed, 22 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

The commentary by Arnold (2013) raises a number of interesting issues and speculations about the action of methylphenidate in children with intellectual disability (ID) and associated neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders. In our article (Simonoff et al., 2013), we were careful to stick closely to the statistical analysis plan drawn up (and approved by the Data Monitoring Committee) during data collection and prior to any exploratory analysis. However, a number of the issues raised by Arnold warrant further response, with the aim of clarifying the lessons that can reasonably be drawn for clinical practice. (Source: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry)

VA and Veterans Service Organizations Announce Claims Initiative to Reduce Claims Backlog

News stories via the Rural Assistance Center — Tue, 21 May 2013 17:55:37 +0100

Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and The American Legion announced a new partnership to help reduce the compensation claims backlog for Veterans. (Source: News stories via the Rural Assistance Center)

Necrotizing Fasciitis - Information Symptoms and Treatment

Disabled World — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:46:35 +0100

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly progressing type of infection that mainly affects the subcutaneous connective tissue planes or, 'fascia,' where it can quickly spread to involve adjacent soft tissues and lead to widespread tissue death or, 'necrosis.' (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Breaking Up Physician Drug Company Relationships

Disabled World — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:18:00 +0100

A new report suggests that improved health care and significant reductions in drug costs might be attained by breaking up the age-old relationship between physicians and drug company representatives who promote the newest, more costly and often unnecessary prescription drugs. (Source: Disabled World)

Gambia: GFD Briefs Media On Disability Open, National Epilepsy Week

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 21 May 2013 12:10:36 +0100

[The Point]The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) yesterday convened a press briefing ahead of the celebration of the Disability Open Week and National Epilepsy Week set to kick off on Wednesday 22 May and end on 26 May 2013. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Evaluation of functional skills and self care of Down's syndrome people included in therapeutic workshop

Revista CEFAC — Tue, 21 May 2013 07:15:14 +0100

OBJETIVO: avaliar as habilidades funcionais e de auto cuidado de indivíduos com Síndrome de Down em uma oficina interdisciplinar terapêutica. MÉTODO: investigação prospectiva, exploratória, comparativa, de corte transversal e abordagem quantitativa com amostra de um grupo teste(T), com síndrome de Down (N=17) e, grupo controle (C) sem a síndrome (n= 20). O instrumento utilizado foi o Inventario de avaliação pediátrica (PEDI) que avalia aspectos funcionais do desempenho de crianças. RESULTADOS: a amostra foi pareada (idade média 5 a 7 ½ anos,desvio padrão 1a 6 meses). O grupo T apresentou um repertório de habilidades funcionais na área de autocuidado inferior aos participantes do grupo C (p

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Cancer Survivors Suffer Physical & Emotional Impairments Which Often Go Untreated

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0100

A new review finds cancer survivors suffer a diverse and complex set of impairments, affecting virtually every organ system. Writing in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, Julie Silver, M.D., associate professor at Harvard Medical School, and colleagues say a majority of cancer survivors will have significant physical and psychological impairments as a result of treatments, and that these often go undetected and/or untreated, resulting in disability. Current data shows more than four in ten people will develop cancer during their lifetime... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Baby disabled after jaundice error

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Tue, 21 May 2013 03:31:45 +0100

A baby was left deaf and blind because a trainee midwife did not recognise signs of jaundice within days of his birth, a health trust admits. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

A classification of components of workplace disability management programs: results from a systematic review - Gensby U, Labriola M, Irvin E, Amick BC, Lund T.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Tue, 21 May 2013 01:15:35 +0100

Purpose: This paper presents results from a Campbell systematic review on the nature and effectiveness of workplace disability management programs (WPDM) promoting return to work (RTW), as implemented and practiced by employers. A classification of WPDM pr... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Cost Savings Associated with Prohibiting Smoking in U.S. Subsidized Housing

American Journal of Preventive Medicine — Tue, 21 May 2013 01:15:34 +0100

Conclusions: Efforts to prohibit smoking in all U.S. subsidized housing would protect health and generate substantial cost savings to society. (Source: American Journal of Preventive Medicine)

Vermont Gov. Signs First Death-with-Dignity Law

Disabled World — Mon, 20 May 2013 22:12:06 +0100

Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin's signing into law at 2pm today of the nation's first death-with-dignity bill passed by a legislature is a "breakthrough" moment, according to the nation’s leading end-of-life choice advocacy group, Compassion & Choices. Vermont also will become the first eastern state and fourth state nationwide where aid in dying clearly is legal and accessible starting immediately. (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Tim Peake: one giant leap for Britain's first man in space

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 +0100

Major Tim Peake will make history when he joins the crew of the International Space Station in 2015. So what can Britain's first official astronaut expect of life onboard?I think we already know what people will be calling him in two years' time. When that Soyuz rocket blasts off from Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Kazakh desert carrying Britain's only visitor to the International Space Station (ISS), the first thing to be jettisoned will be Major Tim Peake's surname. Having seen off competition from more than 8,000 other applicants, following a career in the army and as a helicopter test pilot, Major Tim has really made the grade.Yet space is not just more amazing than we realise; it is also tougher than we think. Peake has already spent more than three years in training with the European Spa...

Hereward College "Living Independently" Seminar for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Users

Disabled World — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:48:02 +0100

1Voice will be offering a free seminar for users of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) on 22nd June, between 11 am - 3 pm, at Hereward College. The seminar will be held by AAC users with the purpose of explaining how they manage to live independently. (Source: Disabled World)

Students from Hereward to Demonstrate Their "Employ Ability"

Disabled World — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:25:50 +0100

Students from Hereward College will join with other young disabled people from Coventry, Warwick and Milton Keynes to showcase their talents at a special Employ Ability event at Rugby Centre on 22 May, between 10:30 am - 2:00 pm. (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Association Between Genetic Risk For Schizophrenia And Reduced IQ

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:00 +0100

The relationship between the heritable risk for schizophrenia and low intelligence (IQ) has not been clear. Schizophrenia is commonly associated with cognitive impairments that may cause functional disability. There are clues that reduced IQ may be linked to the risk for developing schizophrenia. For example, reduced cognitive ability may precede the onset of schizophrenia symptoms. Also, these deficits may be present in healthy relatives of people diagnosed with schizophrenia. In a remarkable new study published in Biological Psychiatry, Dr... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Victoria Bacon on Disability Living Allowance: Don't lose sight of my niece Pollyanna

Telegraph Health — Mon, 20 May 2013 06:30:38 +0100

Victoria Bacon, wife of a Tory MP, appeals on behalf of her disabled niece over proposed cuts to Disability Living Allowance (Source: Telegraph Health)

New study identifies risk factors for depression among COPD patients

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

(American Thoracic Society) Patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) typically suffer from depression more frequently than those without COPD, resulting in higher levels of disability and illness and increasing the overall healthcare burden for the COPD population. Now, a study from researchers in Argentina indicates female COPD patients and patients who experience significant shortness of breath may have the greatest risk for developing depression. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Mobilization with movement, thoracic spine manipulation, and dry needling for the management of temporomandibular disorder: A prospective case series.

Physiotherapy Theory and Practice — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: González-Iglesias J, Cleland JA, Neto F, Hall T, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C Abstract The purpose of this case series was to describe the outcomes of patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) treated with mobilization with movement (MWM) directed at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the cervical spine, thoracic manipulation, and trigger point (TrP) dry needling. Fifteen patients with TMD completed the Steigerwald/Maher TMD disability questionnaire, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and maximal mouth opening (MMO) at baseline. The VAS and MMO were also collected at 15 days posttreatment and at a 2-month follow-up, and the Steigerwald/Maher TMD disability questionnaire was completed at the 2-month follow-up. Repeated measure ANOVAs were used to determine the effects of...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Michigan Ranked In Top U.S. States for Disability Services

Disabled World — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:50:08 +0100

Michigan ranks among the top 10 states in the nation for disability services, according to a recent report. An organization known as United Cerebral Palsy issued the report on May 5, 2013, ranking Michigan eighth in terms of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. (Source: Disabled World)

Folf Club Adaptive Disc Golf Launcher

Disabled World — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:22:44 +0100

Montana Inventor Crowdfunds Adaptive Disc Golf Launcher - Folf Club is the first device to enable widespread enjoyment of disc golf for the disabled community. (Source: Disabled World)

Shinseki Faces Mounting Criticism Over Backlog of Benefit Claims

NYT Health — Sun, 19 May 2013 01:21:24 +0100

The secretary, Eric Shinseki, is being held accountable for his overwhelmed agency’s problems dealing with claims for disability compensation. (Source: NYT Health)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Quadriplegia and Paraplegia Information and Infographic

Disabled World — Sat, 18 May 2013 16:29:58 +0100

The infographic below contains information regarding the difference between Quadriplegia and Paraplegia, including vertebra and spinal functions. (Source: Disabled World)

9. Phenotypic variability in Mabry syndrome: Hyperphosphatasia with seizures and neurologic deficit

Clinical Neurophysiology — Sat, 18 May 2013 14:11:14 +0100

Hyperphosphatasia with neurologic deficit (Mabry syndrome) was first described in a single family (OMIM#239300) by . Although considered rare at the time, more than 20 individuals with the triad of developmental disability, seizures, and hyperphosphatasia have been identified world-wide. The 1–6 mannosyltransferase 2, phosphatidylinositol glycan V (PIGV) gene has been found to be disrupted in some patients with the additional feature of brachytelephalangy. To date, approximately 50% of these patients have been identified to be either homozygous or compound homozygous for PIGV mutations. Here we present four cases with PIGV mutations. Two siblings were found to be compound heterozygotes for c.467G>A and c.494C>A in exon 3 of PIGV (the c.494C>A PIGV variant is novel). A third patient with ...

Antibiotics May Relieve Back Pain Symptoms

Fri, 17 May 2013 20:14:28 +0100

WebMD Medical News By Peter Russell Reviewed by Farah Ahmed, MD May 10, 2013 — Taking antibiotics could relieve symptoms of chronic lower back pain for up to 40% of people, according to a new study. Danish researchers say they’ve found a link between many cases of back pain and infection from bacteria. Some experts have questioned how many people are likely to benefit from this treatment. Others have cautioned that boosting antibiotic use in the face of growing resistance could be counterproductive and lead to more superbugs. Widespread Complaint Back pain is a common condition, affecting about 4 out of 5 people at some point in their lives. Recommended treatments include painkillers, hot or cold compresses, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and keeping active. In extreme...

DitzAbled Princess - A Comic with a Difference

Disabled World — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:06:32 +0100

It's a comic strip - It also happens to be revolutionary - "Ha, ha," you may chuckle. (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Grant Writing for a Wheelchair Van

Disabled World — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:03:59 +0100

There's no question that wheelchair vans and other mobility equipment make a world of difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Unfortunately, for many individuals and families who have already spent significant money on medical expenses, the cost of a handicap van or power chair may be out of reach. Loans must be repaid, but grant money does not. (Source: Disabled World)

The Story Of Fat Alfie: Very Young Children Appear To Reject Story Characters Who Are Obese

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 17 May 2013 09:00:00 +0100

New research presented as the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Liverpool, UK, shows that very young children appear to reject story book characters who are overweight, but not those who are disabled. The research is by Professor Andrew Hill, Dr Sarah Harrison, and Dr Maddie Rowlinson, University of Leeds, UK. Previous research has suggested that, far from improving over time, the attitudes and perceptions of children to obesity may have deteriorated since the 1960s... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Why Some African Americans Don't Call 9-1-1 Immediately For Stroke Symptoms

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 17 May 2013 07:00:00 +0100

African-Americans know the signs of stroke, but concerns about medical cost, ambulance response time and unfamiliarity with the need for prompt hospital care impacted whether they called 9-1-1 immediately. A study that included 77 African-Americans in Flint, Mich., revealed barriers among adults and youth in getting help for stroke which is significantly higher among African-Americans and leads to more deaths and disability... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Fatal childhood injuries in Finland, 1971-2010

Injury Prevention — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions This nationwide study confirms a decline in childhood injury deaths over the last four decades, with the greatest declines occurring in the number of fatal motor vehicle injuries, drownings and intentional injuries. (Source: Injury Prevention)

Risk factors for burns at home in Kurdish preschool children: a case-control study

Injury Prevention — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions This information about risk factors for burn injuries can be used to target preventive interventions towards families at the greatest risk of injury. (Source: Injury Prevention)

Familial Trisomy 6p in Mother and Daughter

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Abstract Several patients with partial trisomy 6p resulting from parental balanced translocations or from a de novo duplication or insertion have already been described. Here, we report on the first case of familial pure trisomy 6p as a result of interstitial tandem duplication. The patient, an 11‐year‐old female, presented with mild dysmorphic features, moderate intellectual disability with behavioral disturbances, immunodeficiency, and epilepsy. Conventional cytogenetic analysis showed a duplication of the 6p region in the patient and in her mother presenting with a partially overlapping phenotype. The rearrangement was confirmed and defined by molecular cytogenetic analysis, including FISH and array CGH analysis showing a gain of ∼13.8 Mb from 6p12.3 to 6p21.31. The phenotype of...

XY Sex Reversal, Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia and Intellectual Disability: Confirmation of a New Syndrome

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

We report on a 46,XY female with pontocerebellar hypoplasia and intellectual disability. To our knowledge, this is the fourth reported patient with this constellation and further confirms a rare new syndrome. The condition is probably a single gene disorder with a currently unknown mode of inheritance. The causative gene is likely involved in the normal gonadal sex determination as well as the cerebral and cerebellar formation and function. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A)

6p21.3 Microdeletion Involving the SYNGAP1 Gene in a Patient With Intellectual Disability, Seizures, and Severe Speech Impairment

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

We report on a 9‐year‐old boy with an apparently de novo, 50 kb deletion, and global developmental delay, severe speech impairment, and generalized epilepsy well‐controlled by medication. There were four genes identified in this deletion, of which SYNGAP1 is considered to be responsible for speech impairment and epilepsy. We compared the clinical features of this patient with previously reported patients with 6p21.3 and patients with SYNGAP1 mutations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Deletions of 16p11.2 and 19p13.2 in a Family With Intellectual Disability and Generalized Epilepsy

American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Abstract Rare copy number variants (CNVs) have been established as an important cause of various neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disability (ID) and epilepsy. In some cases, a second CNV may contribute to a more severe clinical presentation. Here we present two siblings and their mother who have mild ID, short stature, obesity and seizures. Array CGH studies show that each affected individual has two large, rare CNVs. The first is a deletion of chromosome 16p11.2, which has been previously associated with ID and autism. The second is a 0.9 Mb deletion of 19p13.2, which results in the deletion of a cluster of zinc finger genes. We suggest that, while the 16p11.2 deletion is likely the primary cause of the obesity and ID in this family, the 19p13.2 deletion may act as ...

Could a patient with SMC1A duplication be classified as a human cohesinopathy?

Clinical Genetics — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

We describe a sixteen-year-old boy with facial dysmorphism, growth retardation, intellectual disability, hirsutism and small hands, who has a small Supernumerary Marker Chromosome (sSMC) present in mosaic form. sSMC is composed of two duplicated segments encompassing 17 genes including SMC1A gene, at the regions Xp11.22 and Xp11.21q11.1. Clinical comparison between our patient with a previously reported individual with a SMC1A duplication and four male carriers of similar sSMC reported in databases, suggest that they all share clinical features related to cohesinopathies. Although our patient does not have the classical CdLS craniofacial phenotype, he has pre and postnatal growth retardation, intellectual disability and mild musculoskeletal anomalies, features commonly seen in patients wit...

Mental health surveillance among children - United States, 2005-2011.

MMWR Surveill Summ — Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

This report summarizes information about ongoing federal surveillance systems that can provide estimates of the prevalence of mental disorders and indicators of mental health among children living in the United States, presents estimates of childhood mental disorders and indicators from these systems during 2005-2011, explains limitations, and identifies gaps in information while presenting strategies to bridge those gaps. PMID: 23677130 [PubMed - in process] (Source: MMWR Surveill Summ)

VIDEO: Disability benefit assessments 'unfair'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Thu, 16 May 2013 21:38:41 +0100

A doctor who worked for the private company which assesses people for disability benefits says its methods are "unfair". (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Letters: Boycott of Israel is a personal choice

Guardian Unlimited Science — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:05:18 +0100

In their letter (15 May), condemning Professor Hawking for not going to a conference in Israel, professors Michael Yudkin and Denis Noble state that the international code that governs the conduct of all scientists requires them to refrain from discrimination "based on such factors as ethnic origin, religion, citizenship, language, political or other opinion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or age" (statute 5 of the International Council for Science). I think that they are being a little ingenuous. I have been attending scientific meetings and congresses in all parts of the world for over 50 years, and have even organised a few; I have never heard of ICSU, nor have I ever heard that as a scientist I am bound by their code of conduct. A quick straw poll of colleagues c...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

People with Disabilities - Accommodation Vs. Inclusion

Disabled World — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:05:57 +0100

The concepts of Accommodation and Inclusion are difficult for some people to tell the difference between, as expressed by some of the people who are even close to those of us who experience forms of disabilities. When I asked a person I know what the difference was between these two things, they looked at me and said they really didn't get it. After all, wasn't accommodation of the needs of people who experience forms of disabilities including them? Let's begin with a description of what it means to accommodate people with disabilities. (Source: Disabled World)

Benefit assessments 'are unfair'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:27:05 +0100

A doctor, who worked for the private company which assesses people for disability benefits, says its methods are "unfair". (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Falls and fractures among older adults living in long-term care

Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:10:18 +0100

CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of falls and fractures highlights the fragility of the individuals living in long-term care. Special attention should be paid to older adults and those with hospital admissions in the last year. (Source: Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia)

Kenya: Links Growing Between HIV and Disability

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Thu, 16 May 2013 09:31:57 +0100

[The Star]The growing relationship between HIV/AIDS and disability is an emerging issue and cause for concern as persons with disabilities are at higher risk of exposure to HIV. There is a growing understanding that persons living with HIV or AIDS are also at risk of becoming disabled on a permanent or episodic basis as a result of their condition. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

NASA's planet-hunting Kepler telescope disabled

Los Angeles Times - Science — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:13:00 +0100

Officials are uncertain whether a malfunctioning wheel means the end of the Kepler mission, which has helped identify scores of exoplanets orbiting stars in the Milky Way.Planet-hunting scientists were dealt a major blow Wednesday when NASA officials announced that a crucial wheel on the Kepler space telescope had ceased to function and that the craft had been placed in safe mode. (Source: Los Angeles Times - Science)

Barriers and facilitators of sports in Dutch Paralympic athletes: An explorative study

Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:10:11 +0100

This study indicated that barriers of sport were mostly environmental, while facilitators were usually personal factors. Attitude and subjective norm were considered the most important components for intention to participation in sports. The facilitators outweighed the barriers and kept the athletes being active in sports. (Source: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports)

Genetic risk for schizophrenia is connected to reduced IQ

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

(Elsevier) The relationship between the heritable risk for schizophrenia and low intelligence has not been clear. Schizophrenia is commonly associated with cognitive impairments that may cause functional disability. There are clues that reduced IQ may be linked to the risk for developing schizophrenia. For example, reduced cognitive ability may precede the onset of schizophrenia symptoms. Also, these deficits may be present in healthy relatives of people diagnosed with schizophrenia. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

In conversation with Paul Burstow

British Journal of Learning Disabilities — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

(Source: British Journal of Learning Disabilities)

The use of the international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF) in indigenous healthcare: a systematic literature review

International Journal for Equity in Health — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Literature referring to the use of the ICF with Indigenous populations is limited. The ICF has the potential to help understand the health and functioning experience of Indigenous persons from their perspective. Further research is required to determine if the ICF is a culturally appropriate tool and whether it is able to capture the Indigenous health experience or whether modification of the framework is necessary for use with this population. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Mutations in the Intellectual Disability Gene Ube2a Cause Neuronal Dysfunction and Impair Parkin-Dependent Mitophagy

Molecular Cell — Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Dominik M. Haddad, Sven Vilain, Melissa Vos, Giovanni Esposito, Samer Matta, Vera M. Kalscheuer, Katleen Craessaerts, Maarten Leyssen, Rafaella M.P. Nascimento, Angela M. Vianna-Morgante, Bart De Strooper, Hilde Van Esch, Vanessa A. Morais, Patrik Verstreken. The prevalence of intellectual disability is around 3%; however, the etiology of the disease remains unclear in most cases. We identified a series of patients with X-linked intellectual disability.... (Source: Molecular Cell)

Brain rewires itself after damage or injury, life scientists discover

UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:00:00 +0100

When the brain's primary "learning center" is damaged, complex new neural circuits arise to compensate for the lost function, say life scientists from UCLA and Australia who have pinpointed the regions of the brain involved in creating those alternate pathways — often far from the damaged site. The research, conducted by UCLA's Michael Fanselow and Moriel Zelikowsky in collaboration with Bryce Vissel, a group leader of the neuroscience research program at Sydney's Garvan Institute of Medical Research, appears this week in the early online edition of the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The researchers found that parts of the prefrontal cortex take over when the hippocampus, the brain's key center of learning and memory formation, is disabled. The...

Comparison of the serious injury pattern of adult bicyclists, between South-West Netherlands and the State of Victoria, Australia 2001–2009

Injury — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:10:58 +0100

Abstract: Background: Head injury is the leading cause of death and long term disability from bicycle injuries and may be prevented by helmet wearing. We compared the pattern of injury in major trauma victims resulting from bicyclist injury admitted to hospitals in the State of Victoria, Australia and South-West Netherlands, with respective high and low prevalence of helmet use among bicyclists.Methods: A cohort of bicycle injured patients with serious injury (defined as Injury Severity Score>15) in South-West Netherlands, was compared to a cohort of serious injured bicyclists in the State of Victoria, Australia. Additionally, the cohorts of patients with serious injury admitted to a Dutch level 1 trauma centre in Rotterdam, the Netherlands and an Australian level 1 trauma centre in Melbou...

Trauma registries in developing countries: A review of the published experience

Injury — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:10:55 +0100

Conclusion: Amongst the small number of trauma registries in developing countries, there is a large variation in processes. The implementation of trauma systems with trauma registries is feasible in under-resourced environments where they are desperately needed. (Source: Injury)

Visual Field Staging Systems in Glaucoma and the Activities of Daily Living

American Journal of Ophthalmology — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:11:51 +0100

Kulkarni and associates present an important study by correlating different scoring systems of visual field defects in glaucoma patients with their vision-related functional impairment. Not only did they implement the most commonly used questionnaire instrument in ophthalmology, the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25), functional impairment also was assessed by performance-based measurements (the Assessment of Disability Related to Vision Test [ADREV]). This is a very important and relatively new approach to obtain an idea of the real-life functional impairment of the glaucoma patient. The authors report that the simple visual field scoring with the mean defect (MD) performs very well with the functional impairment in terms of NEI VFQ-25 and ADREV scor...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Reply

American Journal of Ophthalmology — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:11:51 +0100

We thank DR Hirneiss for his interest in our study. We agree that the absolute value of the difference in correlation coefficients was small when comparing visual field (VF) scores with the total Assessment of Disability Related to Vision score and the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire score in the better and worse eye. However, we find it noteworthy that after adjusting for age, race, and visual acuity, the VF score in the better eye was correlated more highly with visual functioning across all VF staging systems, Assessment of Disability Related to Vision subtest scores, and 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire scores. The findings of Gothwal and associates corroborate ours with regard to the ability of mean defect (MD) in the better eye...

Nursing Home Sued for Violating Woman's End-of-Life Directive

Disabled World — Wed, 15 May 2013 13:36:40 +0100

Hospital, Nursing Home Sued for Violating 91-year-old Dying Woman’s End-of-Life Directive - Daughter Had to Decide to Remove Mother’s Ventilator to End Her Suffering. (Source: Disabled World)

A trajectory-based approach to understand the factors associated with persistent depressive symptoms in primary care

Journal of Affective Disorders — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:19:16 +0100

Conclusions: Most symptom trajectories remained static, suggesting that depression, as it presents in primary care, is not always an episodic disorder. The findings indicate future directions for building prognostic models to distinguish those who are likely to have a mild course from those who are likely to follow more severe trajectories. Determining appropriate clinical responses based upon a likely depression course requires further research. (Source: Journal of Affective Disorders)

Judge: Reliance On Employability Analysis, Record Reviews Reasonable

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - An ERISA-governed disability insurer that terminated benefits to a claimant with arthritis acted reasonably, a Tennessee federal judge ruled May 6 (Arlene Cook v. The Hartford, et al., No. 3-12-0749, M.D. Tenn.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 64125). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Benefit Denial Was Abuse Of Discretion, Judge Holds

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

SALT LAKE CITY - An ERISA-governed disability insurer that denied benefits to a claimant with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, back pain and arthritis abused its discretion, a Utah federal judge ruled April 24 (Cheryl E. Krum v. Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Co., No. 2:11-932, D. Utah; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 58909). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Judge: Remand For Full And Fair Claim Review Warranted

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

CINCINNATI - An Ohio federal judge on April 16 reversed a grant of summary judgment to an insurer on its decision to deny long-term disability benefits to a claimant who underwent brain surgery. The judge ordered the claim remanded for a full and fair review of whether she is capable of performing the duties of her occupation (Karen Connors v. Life Insurance Company of North America, No. 2:12-cv-073, S.D. Ohio; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 54032). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Denial Of Benefits Was Reasonably Supported, Judge Holds

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

DENVER - An ERISA-governed disability insurer's denial of long-term disability benefits to a claimant with anxiety disorder and depression was reasonable, a Colorado federal judge ruled April 24 (Ted Rall v. Aetna Life Insurance Co., No. 12-cv-00184, D. Colo.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 58617). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Judge: Evidence Supports Administrator's Decision To Deny Benefits

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

HARRISON, Ark. - An ERISA-governed disability plan administrator that terminated benefits to a claimant during a plan's any-occupation coverage period acted reasonably, an Arkansas federal judge ruled April 19 (Keith R. Crosby v. Eaton Corp., No. 3:11-CV-03084, W.D. Ark.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 56406). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Termination Of Benefits Was Not Arbitrary, Capricious, 11th Circuit Holds

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

ATLANTA - A disability plan insurer did not violate the Employee Retirement Income Security Act by terminating long-term disability benefits because the insurer reasonably relied on the opinions of an independent medical examiner and a vocational rehabilitation consultant, the 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals affirmed April 29 in an unpublished opinion (Patricia Herring v. Aetna Life Insurance Company, No. 12-15864, 11th Cir.; 2013 U.S. App. LEXIS 8667). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Divided 6th Circuit Upholds Denial Of Disability Benefits

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

CINCINNATI - An insurer did not act arbitrarily or capriciously in denying a claim for total and permanent disability benefits, even though it recited an incorrect definition of disability in its initial denial letter, because it applied the correct definition during the administrative process, the Sixth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 on March 25 (Thomas Judge v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, No. 12-1092, 6th Cir.; 2013 U.S. App. LEXIS 6710). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

'Thorough investigation' By Insurer Leads Judge To Dismiss Bad Faith Claim

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Although a Tennessee federal judge on April 11 found that a policyholder's breach of contract claim survived his insurer's dismissal motion, the judge disposed of an accompanying bad faith claim, finding "legitimate grounds" for the insurer's denial of benefits under a total disability policy (Stephen Bowery v. Berkshire Life Insurance Company of America, No. 3:11-cv-00003, E.D. Tenn.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 52234). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Judge: Action Not Barred By Equitable Estoppel

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

BROOKLYN, N.Y. - A claimant's action against his individual disability insurer seeking benefits for separate claims of disability for mental illness is not barred by equitable estoppel or fraud, a New York federal judge ruled April 19 (Rao Suryadevara v. Unum Group, No. 12-CIV-3651, E.D. N.Y.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 56641). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Attorney Sanctions For Opening Statements Was Proper, Court Rules

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

CINCINNATI - The Sixth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals on April 26 upheld a lower court's order of sanctions against a disability claimant's counsel who started opening statements by accusing the insurer of committing "corporate greed" (James Sabatine v. Paul Revere Life Insurance Co., No. 12-3719, 6th Cir.; 2013 U.S. App. LEXIS 8579). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

High Court Will Address Limitations Period, Notice In ERISA Benefits-Denial Action

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Supreme Court on April 15 agreed to review a Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals unpublished order upholding dismissal of a wrongful denial of disability benefits action under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (Julie Heimeshoff v. Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Co., et al., No. 12-729, U.S. Sup.). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

De Novo Standard Of Review Is Proper, Judge Held

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

CHICAGO - An Illinois federal judge on April 25 ruled that the proper standard of review is de novo in an ERISA-governed insurer's benefit termination decision (Lilian Borich v. Life Insurance Company of North America, et al., No. 12-C-734, N.D. Ill.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 59674). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Judge: Untimely Response Does Not Change Standard Of Review

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - A deemed denial after an insurer's failure to issue a timely decision as required under ERISA is not a default for a change of the standard of review, a Kentucky federal judge ruled May 8 (Boyd Van Winkle Jr. v. Life Insurance Company of North America, et al., No. 12-253, E.D. Ky.; 2013 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 65539). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Law Prohibiting Discretionary Clauses Requires De Novo Review, Federal Judge Says

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:10:17 +0100

CHICAGO - An Illinois statute prohibiting discretionary clauses in insurance policies applies to a disability policy governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, where the policy was renewed and the insurer terminated the participant's disability benefits after the statute was adopted, a federal judge in Illinois ruled May 1 (Zaccone v. Standard Life Insurance Company, No. 10 CV 00033, N.D. Ill.). (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Disability Insurance Legal News)

Who opposes rights for persons with physical and intellectual disabilities?

Journal of Applied Social Psychology — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

This study was designed to gain a better understanding of why certain individuals might oppose expanded rights for people who have disabilities. Pearson's correlations revealed that individuals high on social dominance orientation (SDO) and right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA) were more likely to reject rights for persons with intellectual and physical disabilities than individuals scoring lower on these factors. Structural equation analyses indicated that both SDO and RWA are directly implicated in opposition to expanded rights for these groups. Moreover, the effects of SDO on rights attitudes appear to be mediated through internal motivation to respond without prejudice. (Source: Journal of Applied Social Psychology)

Expanding the phenotype of IQSEC2 mutations: truncating mutations in severe intellectual disability

European Journal of Human Genetics — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Frederic Tran Mau-Them, Marjolaine Willems, Beate Albrecht, Elodie Sanchez, Jacques Puechberty, Sabine Endele, Anouck Schneider, Nathalie Ruiz Pallares, Chantal Missirian, Francois Rivier, Manon Girard, Muriel Holder, Sylvie Manouvrier, Isabelle Touitou, Genevieve Lefort, Pierre Sarda, Anne Moncla, Severine Drunat, Dagmar Wieczorek & David Genevieve (Source: European Journal of Human Genetics)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Ten Years of Research: A Systematic Review of Three Refereed LD Journals

Learning Disabilities Research and Practice — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Content analyses of journals in the field of LD provide a means of surveying research and publication trends, the knowledge of which may inform policy and practice related to future research agendas. As the first decade of the current millennium was particularly contentious for the field of LD, we felt that a content review would be timely. In this paper, the content of three refereed LD journals—Journal of Learning Disabilities, Learning Disabilities Research & Practice, and Learning Disabilities Quarterly—was analyzed. Articles from 2001–2010 (n = 841) were systematically coded to capture article type, area of interest, population of interest, sample characteristics, and inclusion of students with LD. Results indicate that across the decade, (a) 68% of articles reported empiric...

Relation and Interactions Among Reading Fluency and Competence for Adult Education Learners

Learning Disabilities Research and Practice — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Statistical analyses of data from an academically diverse sample of 276 adult basic and secondary education learners extends understanding of the relation of and interactions between oral reading fluency and reading competence indices. Significant interactions between total word rate and word error rate that differed in relation to two measures of reading competence suggest that adult literacy instructors should emphasize fluency instruction to a greater or lesser degree depending on whether the major goal of instruction is academic reading (e.g., being able to comprehend a textbook) or functional reading (e.g., being able to fill out a job application). (Source: Learning Disabilities Research and Practice)

Training for Generalization and Maintenance in RtI Implementation: Front‐Loading for Sustainability

Learning Disabilities Research and Practice — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

This article applied the Stokes and Baer (1977) framework for programming for generalization and maintenance of behavior change to suggest specific activities in which schools could engage to better ensure RtI sustainability. We specifically discussed ways to (1) introduce to natural maintaining contingencies, (2) train with sufficient exemplars, (3) train loosely, (4) program common stimuli, (5) mediate generalization, and (6) train to generalize. Directions for future research are included. (Source: Learning Disabilities Research and Practice)

The Effect of a Noise Reducing Test Accommodation on Elementary Students with Learning Disabilities

Learning Disabilities Research and Practice — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Researchers in the fields of cognitive psychology and education have been studying the negative effects of noise on human performance for almost a century. A new empirical study that builds upon past relevant research on (1) test accommodations and (2) auditory distraction and academic performance was conducted with elementary age students. Reading comprehension tasks were completed by students with and without learning disabilities while wearing and not wearing noise‐reducing headphones. Results of three independent statistical analyses are presented. Implications, limitations, and the need for future research are also discussed. (Source: Learning Disabilities Research and Practice)

Abstract 36: Arm Exercise Stress Test Predictors of Outcome Over 12 Years [Poster Session I]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

For patients with lower extremity disabilities precluding treadmill exercise, pharmacologic nuclear imaging stress tests necessitate administration of ionizing radiation, require much greater equipment and personnel resources, and are several times more expensive and time-consuming than exercise electrocardiography (ECG). In addition, they do not provide powerful prognostic and clinically relevant information on exercise capacity or on symptomatic, hemodynamic and ECG responses to exercise. In lower extremity disabled individuals, we have reported that arm exercise (AXT) capacity in METs and delta (peak exercise - rest) heart rate ([[Unable to Display Character: ∆]]HR) prognosticate survival and an abnormal exercise ECG predicts all-cause mortality. However, these data included f...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Abstract 109: Emergency Medical Services Strategies for Reducing First Medical Contact to Device Times in ST-Elevated Myocardial Infarction Patients in South Dakota [Poster Session I]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: EMS training programs and increased 12-Lead use has yielded marked improvement in FMC to device times. In order to maintain an effective and efficient system of care for STEMI patients in South Dakota, a sustainability plan is under development. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes)

Abstract 167: Predictors of Anxiety Disorder Episodes and Device Related Distress in the First Five Years following Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Placement [Poster Session II]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Trait anxiety is a dispositional factor that predisposes individuals to respond to perceived threats with more frequent and intense elevations in emotional states associated with arousal of the autonomic nervous system, which is thought to lead to the development of anxiety disorders. Trait anxiety has demonstrated promise in the empirical literature as a potential predictor of long term outcomes in ICD recipients. The present study adds novel information to this body of literature by studying the relation of trait anxiety to clinical diagnoses of anxiety disorders based on the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR Axis I Disorders (SCID).Two hundred and seven recipients of ICDs within the past five years were evaluated using the SCID to establish past and current anxiety disorder di...

Abstract 208: A Literature Review Of Indirect Cost Of Stroke [Poster Session II]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: While the literature indicated that the indirect cost accounted for a significant portion of the economic burden of stroke, there is a clear need to develop improved methods to study costs and to better use or establish relevant data sources for such studies. With the aging population and increasing survival rate of stroke, both direct and indirect costs of stroke are likely to increase greatly. Interventions for stroke prevention as well as for improving quality of life among stroke patients are needed to contain both direct and indirect costs associated with stroke. More research investigating the indirect costs will be helpful in guiding the development of such interventions to reduce the burden of stroke. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes)

Abstract 212: Estimation Of Long-term Care Needs For Stroke By Integrating Functional Disability And Survival [Poster Session II]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Among different subtypes of stroke, cardio-embolic infarct suffered the longest duration of physical functional disability related to self-care. The method can also be employed to other chronic diseases with different types of functional disabilities. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes)

Abstract 229: Economic Burden of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism for Employees and Employers [Poster Session II]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: DVT and PE constitute a heavy economic and lost productivity burden for both employers and their employees. Direct and disability costs to employees are substantial. Productivity losses for employers are also significantly high. Appropriate management of DVT and PE may help improve lost days from work, reduce healthcare resource utilization, improve workforce productivity, and reduce total economic burden. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Abstract 235: Acute Care Measures of Rehabilitation Needs Associated with Discharge to Rehabilitation for Patients with Minor Stroke [Poster Session II]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Rehabilitation needs were documented for patients with minor stroke and almost one third were discharged to receive inpatient rehabilitation in an IRF or SNF. Taking pre-stroke disability into consideration for transition planning from acute care could facilitate earlier communication and planning with the next point of care. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes)

Abstract 294: Association Between Exercise Frequency, Performance, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Heart Failure Patients [Poster Session III]

Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Routine exercise is not associated with better QOL in an unselected HF population. Performance on CPX was associated with QOL regardless of age. Although emotional support is not linked with QOL, those getting support from siblings tended to have a worse QOL than others. Strategies to improve QOL among HF patients should focus on factors beyond exercise. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes)

VIDEO: Overhaul of elderly and disabled NHS care

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Tue, 14 May 2013 12:59:51 +0100

The Department of Health says that all areas of the country will have to integrate NHS and adult social care services within five years, to ensure that all patients get the help they need. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Instead Of Being More Efficient, Private Insurers' Medicare Advantage Plans Have Cost Medicare Almost $300 Billion More Over The Life Of The Program

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 14 May 2013 07:00:00 +0100

A study published online finds that the private insurance companies that participate in Medicare under the Medicare Advantage program and its predecessors have cost the publicly funded program for the elderly and disabled an extra $282.6 billion since 1985, most of it over the past eight years. In 2012 alone, private insurers were overpaid $34.1 billion. That's wasted money that should have been spent on improving patient care, shoring up Medicare's trust fund or reducing the federal deficit, the researchers say... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Multidisciplinary outpatient rehabilitation following cardiac revascularization or valve surgery: patient-related factors for uptake

European Journal of Preventive Cardiology — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These results confirm the low rates of MDCR attendance found in a previous study performed by the European Association of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation. The study shows specific patient groups that should be targeted in priority, i.e. women, elderly, unemployed patients, disabled persons, and patients with a low socioeconomic status. (Source: European Journal of Preventive Cardiology)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Disability associated with exposure to traumatic events: results from a cross-sectional community survey in South Sudan

BMC Public Health - Latest articles — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The finding of association between traumatic experience and disability underlines the precariousness of the human rights situation for individuals with disability in low-income countries. It also has possible implications for the construction of disability services and for the provision of health services to individuals exposed to traumatic events. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)

The Role of Transcendence in a Holistic View of Successful Aging: A Concept Analysis and Model of Transcendence in Maturation and Aging

Journal of Holistic Nursing — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The concept analysis suggested transcendence may provide a theoretical foundation for development of potentially cost-effective, efficacious interventions to foster a sense of meaning in life, well-being, and life satisfaction. The model under development may prove useful in planning potential interventions. (Source: Journal of Holistic Nursing)

Role of components of frailty on quality of life in dialysis patients: a cross‐sectional study

Journal of Renal Care — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsDependence, malnutrition, disability, poor social and economic conditions have a significant effect on life quality. The role of comorbidities appears to be less important. Screening of patients, nutritional and functional rehabilitation and prevention of social isolation appear to be indispensable in guaranteeing a satisfactory life quality. (Source: Journal of Renal Care)

Brain Anatomy in Dyslexics Varies By Gender, Study Finds

Fertility News - Doctors Lounge — Mon, 13 May 2013 22:00:00 +0100

Discovery suggests interventions for reading disability need to be tailored accordingly (Source: Fertility News - Doctors Lounge)

Reversing Paralysis with Restorative Gel

Disabled World — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:11:43 +0100

Some parts of the body, like the liver, can regenerate themselves after damage. But others, such as our nervous system, are considered either irreparable or slow to recover, leaving thousands with a lifetime of pain, limited mobility, or even paralysis. (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Is Addiction a Disability or Just Unacceptable Behavior?

Psychology Today Addiction Center — Mon, 13 May 2013 18:53:58 +0100

There are times when addiction should be treated as a disability, enabling addicts and former addicts to seek treatment without prejudice. At other times, making decisions while under the influence is lawbreaking and dangerous. How can employers navigate this terrain and know the difference between circumstances?read more (Source: Psychology Today Addiction Center)

Giving Paraplegic Women a New Lease on Life

IPS Inter Press Service - Health — Mon, 13 May 2013 17:44:45 +0100

Shaheen Begum receives skills training at the PPC paraplegic centre in Hayatabad in northern Pakistan. Credit: Ashfaq Yusufzai/IPSGul Shada thought it was the end of the road for her when she and her husband met with a road accident last year in the Nowshera district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, one of the four provinces of Pakistan. Not only did the mishap leave Shada widowed at the relatively young age of 37, she also sustained an injury to her back that immobilised her. It was then that she came to the country’s sole paraplegic centre (PPC) at Hayatabad, to the southwest of Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. And it was here that she was taught that you don’t need to be on your feet to be able to stand on your own. Along with helping her regain her physical strength, the centre a...

The Passing of Another Mother's Day

Disabled World — Mon, 13 May 2013 14:02:20 +0100

Mother's Day of this year of 2013 is now passing, bringing thoughts to my mind of the mother I knew so many years ago. She was a nurse, a woman who served others through the kindness in her heart, yet she was denied the same kindness in many ways that she provided to others. In her time during the late 1960's and early '70's, nurses wore all white, to include a starched white cap. I do not remember her so much in this way. (Source: Disabled World)

All About Tinnitus Event - Sheffield England

Disabled World — Mon, 13 May 2013 11:04:24 +0100

"All About Tinnitus" is a free event being held in Sheffield in June 2013. The event is aimed at raising awareness of tinnitus and offering hope to those who have the condition, showing that positive things can be done to help alleviate symptoms and advising on how to manage the condition better. (Source: Disabled World)

Alopecias

Archives of Disease in Childhood - Education and Practice — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Answers to the following quiz questions can be found on page 120. Question 1 Case 1: An otherwise healthy 6-month-old boy presents with several patches of alopecia, slowly increasing in size over the past month. He is noted to have two school-aged brothers at home. On examination, there is an erythematous, boggy mass on the scalp with associated alopecia and occipital lymphadenopathy (figure 1). What is the most likely diagnosis? Question 2 Case 2: A healthy 9-year-old girl presents with an enlarging patch of alopecia on the posterior scalp for 5 months. It is asymptomatic, and she denies any pustules or pruritus. The child is very upset by the hair loss but is otherwise healthy. On physical examination, there is a large patch of alopecia with fairly well-defined borders on the poster...

Answers to Epilogue questions

Archives of Disease in Childhood - Education and Practice — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

From questions on page 92. Answers to question 1 2004—Standard 4 in the National Service Framework for Children, Young People and Maternity Services (Department of Health, 2004) 2006—Transition: Getting it Right for Young People (Department of Health, 2006) 2007—Aiming High for Disabled Children (AHDC): Better Support for Families (Department for Education, 2007) and A Transition Guide for All Services: Key Information for Professionals about the Transition Process for Disabled Children (Department of Health, 2007) 2007—You're Welcome quality criteria (Department of Health, 2007) 2008—Transition: Moving on Well (Department of Health, 2008) Answers to question 2 Fidelity, confidentiality, competency, honesty, a global perspective, non-judgemental approach, cont...

Wrong site surgery in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery

The Laryngoscope — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsFuture interventions to address these challenges related to otolaryngology–head and neck surgery might involve a standardized protocol to confirm imaging accuracy, a specialty‐ or procedure‐specific checklist, a standardized alternative to site marking when marking is impractical, and other innovations. Evaluation of these interventions is becoming easier given the increasing mandatory reporting of these events that provides more reliable incidence data. Laryngoscope, 00:000–000, 2013 (Source: The Laryngoscope)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Impact of synechiae after endoscopic sinus surgery on long‐term outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis

The Laryngoscope — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsSynechiae of the sinonasal cavity commonly occurs following ESS, particularly in those undergoing revision surgeries. Although both groups improve, the degree of HRQoL improvement appears to be less in those who form postoperative synechiae after surgery compared to those who do not. Level of Evidence2c. Laryngoscope, 2013 (Source: The Laryngoscope)

Asbestosis: Past voices from the Mumbai factory floor

Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Apart from the radical step of ban on asbestos, there is a need of community-based sustainable, affordable, and accessible rehabilitation program with a component of palliative care which will consider the different needs of this marginalized group. The need for such a program is intense as the number of asbestisis patients will keep on increasing till 30 to 40 years of asbestos ban. (Source: Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine)

Swiss Children's Moral and Psychological Judgments About Inclusion and Exclusion of Children With Disabilities

Child Development — Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0100

Children's judgments about inclusion and exclusion of children with disabilities were investigated in a Swiss sample of 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐year‐old children from inclusive and noninclusive classrooms (N = 422). Overall, the majority of children judged it as morally wrong to exclude children with disabilities. Yet, participants were less likely to expect the inclusion of children with mental or physical disabilities in academic and athletic contexts compared to social contexts. Moreover, older children more consistently coordinated disability type with context of exclusion. There were also significant differences depending on the type of classroom. The findings extend existing research on exclusion by investigating exclusion based on disability across different age groups and educatio...

Right-to-die cases at Appeal Court

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Mon, 13 May 2013 02:23:21 +0100

Two severely disabled men go to the Court of Appeal later in an attempt to change laws governing the right to die. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Oral Drops for Asthma and Allergy Relief

Disabled World — Sun, 12 May 2013 19:28:32 +0100

Allergy shots are commonly used to treat children with severe environmental allergies and asthma, but under-the-tongue drops may offer yet another beneficial - and stick-free - option for pediatric allergy sufferers, according to a Johns Hopkins Children's Center review of existing scientific evidence. (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

School Dustless Chalk May Cause Allergy and Asthma Symptoms in Students with Milk Allergy

Disabled World — Sun, 12 May 2013 19:27:00 +0100

Children with milk allergy may be allergic to school - Chalk dust can contain milk protein, triggering respiratory symptoms. (Source: Disabled World)

Research on Traumatic Brain Injury in Seniors

Disabled World — Sun, 12 May 2013 13:45:09 +0100

Traumatic brain injury poses complex diagnostic, management and treatment challenges in older people - Recent research on TBI in the elderly discussed in NeuroRehabilitation. (Source: Disabled World)

Rape Trauma Syndrome and PTSD

Disabled World — Sun, 12 May 2013 13:44:22 +0100

People who experience a traumatic event often feel sad, anxious, scared, or disconnected. Therapy related to trauma may be helpful if painful memories of the event will not fade, or if a person continues to have a sense of danger after the actual trauma is over. (Source: Disabled World)

It might seem unthinkable, but this man is having his leg amputated... out of choice! How one sprained ankle led to a drastic decision - with the NHS's backing

the Mail online | Health — Sun, 12 May 2013 08:58:21 +0100

Three years ago, Matthew Smith, 37, sprained his ankle after slipping on a cobblestone - an innocuous accident that would eventually leave him permanently disabled. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

11 percent of extremely preterm babies have severe disability

Health News - UPI.com — Sun, 12 May 2013 03:31:30 +0100

UPPSALA, Sweden, May 11 (UPI) -- About 11 percent of extremely preterm infants had a severe disability at preschool age, researchers in Sweden say. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

EZ Breathe Atomizer Recall

Disabled World — Sat, 11 May 2013 21:04:59 +0100

Medical Device Recall News Release - Health & Life Co., LTD. Issues Nationwide Recall of EZ Breathe(TM) Atomizer, Model #EZ-100 (Source: Disabled World)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best Christmas presents and January Sales in the UK with this simple shopping directory.

Disparities in disability after traumatic brain injury among Hispanic children and adolescents - Jimenez N, Ebel BE, Wang J, Koepsell TD, Jaffe KM, Dorsch A, Durbin D, Vavilala MS, Temkin N, Rivara FP.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 11 May 2013 19:11:04 +0100

OBJECTIVE:To compare the extent of disability in multiple areas of functioning after mild, moderate, and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white (NHW) children.METHODS:This was a prospective cohort study of children aged... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Interactions among light source luminance, illuminance and size on discomfort glare - Bullough J, Hickcox KS.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 11 May 2013 19:11:04 +0100

Discomfort glare from vehicle lighting is more difficult to measure precisely than disability glare, but may have important implications for driver behavior, and in turn on driving safety. Many studies of discomfort glare have found that, as with disabilit... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

'Tolerating violence': a qualitative study into the experience of professionals working within one UK learning disability service - Lovell A, Skellern J.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 11 May 2013 19:11:04 +0100

This article reports on a qualitative foll... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))