MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'autism'. Sun, 21 Mar 2010 19:15:29 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3387008&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fhacker-aspergers-sentenced%2F Computer hacker Albert Gonzalez who has Aspergers Syndrome is to be sentenced this week to 17-25 years in prison for his role in stealing over 130 million credit card numbers from various retail chains. Like Pentagon Hacker Gary McKinnon the defense is trying to use the diagnosis of Aspergers Syndrome to get a lighter sentence [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387008 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 17:28:25 +0100 3387008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378676&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautism-aspergers-christian-healing%2F Yesterday I had a talk with one of my pastors about Aspergers Syndrome, and he keeps saying he feels God will heal me one day and I will be normal.  To be honest this angers me and I’m not sure why.  I believe Aspergers is a big part of who I am, Aspergers helps define [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378676 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:23:21 +0100 3378676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378677&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fpresenting-temple-grandin%2F As I have nothing to post currently, and am just getting back from a one week ‘mecation’ here is a presentation by Temple Grandin on Autism and Aspergers.  Check it out! (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378677 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 01:46:50 +0100 3378677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366430&cid=t_100492_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FzZvPAeo5eqw%2F Welcome back, everyone. We hope your weekend was pleasant. We had a soggy time here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where the rains overwhelmed us. Now, though, we are drying out and brewing a cup of stimulation to jumpstart the day. To help you along, we have found a few interesting items. Stay in touch… FDA Delays Approval Of Lilly, Amylin Diabetes Drug (Reuters) Pet Owners Sue Over Flea Meds (The Morning Call) Abbott’s TriCor Fails To Beat Placebo (Forbes) Merck Urged To Lower Isentress Price (SouthFloridaGayNews) Court Rules Against Autism Vaccine Claims (Reuters) Genetix Gets $35M For Gene Therapy Work (Xconomy) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366430 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 11:58:57 +0100 3366430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3362534&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35095&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAutismsEdges%2F%7E3%2F9DkshH3vdXc%2Fmost-beautiful-girl-in-world-and-other.html (Source: Autism's Edges) Autism's Edges blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3362534 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 15:22:00 +0100 3362534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3362532&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fparent-as-student%2F I have had a lot of teachers throughout my life. Some taught me because they were paid to, some because they were supposed to, and some because they wanted to. Many of the best teachers in my life, though, had no idea that they were teaching me. (Or, perhaps more accurately, that I was learning from them.) At the top of this list of unintentional teachers are kids, especially my own. When the relationship between parents and their kids is discussed, “parent as teacher” is a common interpretation. There is no doubt that parents need to teach their children. But if we only see ouselves as teachers, whether it is because we are supposed to or because we really want to, we are missing out on some of the greatest learning opportunities we will ever be given the chance to experienc... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3362532 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:48:18 +0100 3362532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3359232&cid=t_100492_154_f&fid=35946&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.canadianmedicinenews.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fwhat-really-causes-autism.html The vaccine theory is dead. What’s left?In January, after many years of inaction, British medical regulatory officials finally found Dr. Andrew Wakefield guilty of unethical behaviour in carrying out research that, he claimed, showed a connection between the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism. Soon after, The Lancet issued a full retraction of Dr. Wakefield’s 1998 paper, turning the page on an ugly chapter in the journal’s recent history that saw most of the coauthors disavow the autism/vaccine theory. That theory, already shown to be unsupported by the evidence in large studies, truly no longer holds water. So what actually causes autism?We asked Jeanette Holden, PhD (left), program director of the Autism Spectrum Disorders - Canadian-American Research Consortium (ASD-CA... Canadian Medicine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3359232 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 05:00:00 +0100 3359232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350479&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Frobison-squeaks.html Autistic author John Elder Robison has agreed to serve on an advisory board for Autism Speaks. Yes, the same organization that repeatedly makes videos comparing autistic children to dead or kidnapped children; that openly declares its goal to "eradicate" the autistic population; that funds causation research to develop a prenatal test; and that pays bloated executive salaries while allotting only four percent of its budget to family services.Robison says on his blog that he wants to make a difference in how Autism Speaks allocates its research funds. He plans to advocate for the organization to change its funding priorities in the direction of "work that can lead to better lives for today's autistic population."Good luck with that, buddy. I'm picturing a little rubber duckie bobbing around... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350479 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:08:00 +0100 3350479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342826&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fthree-book-reviews.html On Their Own, Creating and Independent Future for Your Adult Child with Learning Disabilities and ADHD by Anne Ford published by Newmarket PressSiblings the autism spectrum through our eyes edited by Jane Johnson and Anne Van Rensselaer published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Stand Up for Autism by Georgina J Derbyshire, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers1. On Their Own, Creating and Independent Future for Your Adult Child with Learning Disabilities and ADHD by Anne Ford published by Newmarket Press, also author of 'Laughing Allegra.'Why would I read a book about young people with learning disabilities moving into adult independence when my children are autistic and young?Because I want to get ahead of the curve and learn from people who have already been there and done it, and bec... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342826 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 07:52:00 +0100 3342826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342824&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35084&url=http%3A%2F%2Fballastexistenz.autistics.org%2F%3Fp%3D611 A disclaimer: I don’t believe in real distinctions between aspies, auties, LFA, and HFA. When I use these words I am discussing the beliefs of people who do believe in them. Edited to add: aspie supremacy is a shorthand and people should be aware that the prejudice contained within it can and does affect many with the AS dx. I think I am the person who coined the term autistic supremacy. At the least, I came up with it without having heard it before. It was 1999 and I came up with the term to explain certain trends to my psychologist. This, by the way, means that those people who are running around gloating about how us autistic activists brought these people’s offensiveness on ourselves, or ranting about how nobody cared until recently? They have no grasp of the history. None... Ballastexistenz blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342824 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 07:24:37 +0100 3342824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342827&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fpoem-that-describes-aspergers%2F Here is a great poem that described Aspergers Syndrome.  Its called ‘Alone’ and it was wrote by Edward Alan Poe.  I found this poem while I was watching an old episode of SeaQuest DSV. From childhood’s hour I have not been As others were; I have not seen As others saw; I could not bring My [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342827 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 20:25:11 +0100 3342827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3335524&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35084&url=http%3A%2F%2Fballastexistenz.autistics.org%2F%3Fp%3D610 The closer you get to the heart of things, the more words fall apart. First they get shaky. Then they start contradicting each other or getting paradoxical. Then they just fall apart, dissolve, vanish. The way my thoughts work creates some similar problems for language. And it’s not just that I haven’t found the absolute best combination of words to translate my thoughts with. It’s that on a fundamental level the thoughts don’t translate. My thoughts, such as I am aware of, are mostly observations of the world, that I have allowed to slowly and quietly settle themselves into patterns. They are not symbols of those observations. Symbols would have a better chance translating. They are also silent — no words pop in to describe them, there is no “loudness&... Ballastexistenz blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3335524 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:26:36 +0100 3335524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327229&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fwords-language-attitudes-and-actions.html There's a campaign to encourage people to rethink the words they choose to write and say. Today, March 3 2010, has been chosen as a day to focus on these issues.Words matter, language matters. When people decide to use as slurs and insults, words that originated as diagnostic labels for various disabilities and/or for various categories of mental illness, real and manufactured ("hysteria") then they contribute to a culture that marginalises people. Disabled people are dehumanised by these words. A society that tolerates the use of slurs like r*t*rd and sp*st*c as equivalent to stupid, useless, pathetic, hateful or annoying, legitimises the hatred that leads to the abuse, murder, forced drugging and sterilisation and discarding of so many disabled people in this country and all around the w... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327229 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 09:14:00 +0100 3327229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318603&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautism-is-a-gift%2F Temple Grandin, a prominent animal rights activist that Kate first told me about also has autism.  Shes the professor of Animal Science at Colorado University.  Grandin talks about how if you eliminate people on the Autism Spectrum in today’s world you would eliminate many of the brilliant minds in Silicon Valley, and other historically important [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318603 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:13:29 +0100 3318603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3316140&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F02%2F28%2Fthe-minds-of-autism%2F Her mind works like Google for pictures. Nice introduction to autism in it’s different forms, the autism spectrum disorder, does DSM V already have this one? Temple Grandin, diagnosed with autism as a child, talks about how her mind works — sharing her ability to “think in pictures,” which helps her solve problems that neurotypical brains might miss. She makes the case that the world needs people on the autism spectrum: visual thinkers, pattern thinkers, verbal thinkers, and all kinds of smart geeky kids. Related posts:The 20 Microscopic Photo Competition Prizewinners All that glitters may at least be cold. This... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin. (Source: Dr Shock MD PhD) Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3316140 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 14:03:30 +0100 3316140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3314762&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fjenny-mccarthys-son-not-autistic%2F Time has come out with a great story on Jenny McCarthy – which includes the possibility that her son may have never had Autism.  According to the Time Magazine Article: Was her son ever really autistic? Evan’s symptoms — heavy seizures, followed by marked improvement once the seizures were brought under control — are [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3314762 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 16:02:55 +0100 3314762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3307027&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Forlando-holiday-part-1-flight.html We rose early on Tuesday morning and piled cases, wheelchairs and bodies into the car bound for Dublin airport. Once parked and in the airport, we'd only a short wait to drop of our bags then through security. So far, so fantastic. Duncan used his wheelchair (occasionally recreationally- see video!) though he did jump out every so often before sprinting after whatever took his fancy. No doubt folk observing were wondering what we were about, but sure, we're used to that!We were delighted to spot my sister at the departure gate. Now we had the full crew the holiday really was on course. When the plane was ready we were allowed to board early. Duncan sat at the window, me to his right, his dad and Thomas in front (in case he kicked the seat!) and Lady and my sister across the aisle from me. ... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3307027 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:21:00 +0100 3307027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302559&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fwhats-in-a-label-take-2%2F In my last posting, I wrote the following about the consolidation of Asperger’s Disorder and PDD-NOS into a single classification for Autism Spectrum Disorder: My experience leads me to believe that many people don’t understand the concept of a spectrum unless they can clearly see the boundaries between the different layers of the spectrum. This generated some interesting conversations that have helped me as I figure out what I think. Of course, the problem I had with combining these separate diagnoses into a single one – that people would tend to see all autistics as “the same” – also exists with the more “specific” diagnoses. It’s just that now you’ve got several variations on the theme: all Asperger’s is the same, all PDD-NOS... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302559 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:59:30 +0100 3302559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290951&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fwhats-in-a-label-autism-aspergers-and-the-dsm-v%2F Several years ago, I wrote a two part article on my thoughts about whether autism should remain in the DSM. Here’s what I came up with: For now, we need to keep autism in the DSM, because it serves as the way for autism parents to help their children get the services they need to succeed in the world. The current draft of the DSM V, available for review and comment, still includes autism – now referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (instead of  Autistic Disorder). However, the DSM V proposal recommends that Asperger’s Disorder and Pervasive Development Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) “be subsumed into an existing disorder: Autistic Disorder (Autism Spectrum Disorder)“. As you might imagine, there has been a lot of discussion about this. I’m ... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290951 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 23:25:37 +0100 3290951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3287943&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fjohn-best-autism-aspergers-blog%2F Autism Blogger and hate speech spewer John Best’s blog was removed from blogger this morning.  Could this be Google finally riding its server of this guys hate speech, or could he finally have woken up and smelled the coffee. John Best is known for attacking Amanda Baggs, Ari Ne’men and other autistic self advocates, and [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3287943 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:49:23 +0100 3287943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283500&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=34925&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbestyoucanbe.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fadventures-in-special-needs-nordic-ski.html At one point in my life if I felt I needed a challenge I’d ride my bike a few thousand miles, or explore a foreign land.   Now I can dwarf those experiences with a simple four day outing to a Nordic ski resort.   I’m still recovering from this challenge. It was successful, but it did push the envelope.   We started a few months ago with one neurotypical child and two on the “autism spectrum” (a somewhat meaningless concept, but we don’t yet have a better classification). One child had done some snowboarding with limited success and had refused any skiing of any sort. Another had done some downhill skiing and decided, after a single face plant, that downhill skiing was insane. A third had very nervously descended a bunny hill.   We ended with all three navigati... Be the Best You can Be blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283500 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:41:00 +0100 3283500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283501&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=34925&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbestyoucanbe.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fbehavior-motivation-text-message.html One of my charges combines substantial cognitive and psychological disabilities with a profound insensitivity to common motivators. Yes, this is challenging. On the one hand, he has substantial limits. In a modern post-industrial society, he is profoundly disabled. In this he has a lot of company – in our emerging world many neurotypical males with an IQ below 120 have unknowingly joining the world of the effectively disabled. On the other hand, he often performs far below his maximal abilities. Sometimes that’s because his peak performance is very dependent on environmental factors such as medications, time of day, sleep reserves and satiety. Quite often, though, it’s because he doesn’t respond well to any behavioral motivators, including extinction, operant methods/positive reinf... Be the Best You can Be blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283501 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:34:00 +0100 3283501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283596&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=34504&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blacktriangle.org%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D2077 The GMC verdict on Andrew Wakefield seems to have lead to some changes at Thoughtful House. The needs of the children we serve must always come first. All of us at Thoughtful House are grateful to Dr. Wakefield for the valuable work he has done here. We fully support his decision to leave Thoughtful House in [...] (Source: Black Triangle) Black Triangle blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283596 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:14:33 +0100 3283596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283769&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35098&url=http%3A%2F%2Fclub166.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Ftemple-grandin-bbc-documentary.html Lately many people have been commenting on the HBO Temple Grandin movie that was just released. I watched the movie this last week with my family. Overall, I would say that it was pretty good. I don't expect Hollywood to get many things right, but I'd say they did a pretty fair job with this treatment. Claire Danes did a much better job than I expected. I feared before seeing it that she was much too "glamorous" for the role, but she did a good job of capturing the general tone, and playing things pretty straight.Here's the trailer from the HBO movie:TrailerBuddy Boy told me several years ago that his mind was like "a video camera. I can just hit rewind, and see things over again." He had never heard of Temple Grandin at the time. After seeing the movie, he asked if I thought Temple could ... Club 166 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283769 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 21:08:00 +0100 3283769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3280036&cid=t_100492_111_f&fid=34834&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMentalNurse%2F%7E3%2FEK2QSrSoD9g%2F We’ve been a bit behind the curve in making any comment on the recently-released draft of the DSM-5. Some very good critiques and analyses have already been posted on the blogowebs, notably by Neuroskeptic and Mindhacks. See also Abysmal Musings and Confessions of a Serial Insomniac for their thoughts on what this will mean for their respective diagnoses of bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. Neuroskeptic acerbically comments that, “If, as everyone says, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual is the Bible of Psychiatry, I’m not sure why it gets heavily edited once every ten years or so.” Kind of like the Gospels being rewritten regularly to give a clearer idea of what they think Jesus meant to say. Though some people seem to think that’s not s... Mental Nurse blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3280036 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 11:07:34 +0100 3280036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3272997&cid=t_100492_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2Fxmww43wvlsw%2F (Editor’s Note: contributor Scott Barry Kaufman recently interviewed Daniel Tammet, one of the 100 known prodigious savants living at the present time. Their in-depth conversation –summary and links follow Scott’s reflections below– provoked a powerful reaction in Scott’s mind, as you are about to read). Last night I was eating dinner with my parents back in my hometown in Philadelphia. I was telling them about my interview with Daniel Tammet, and how I was working on a post about my reflections on the interview. My father, who reads everything I write (which can be awkward sometimes!), looked at me and said, plainly and simply, “I see a lot of similarities between you and Daniel, Scott.” Those words were a kind of crystallizing moment for me. I su... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3272997 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 03:13:06 +0100 3272997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271153&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35084&url=http%3A%2F%2Fballastexistenz.autistics.org%2F%3Fp%3D601 I have seen a lot of “aspies” whining lately about the proposed changes in the DSM. Not productive critique of the new criteria, the medicalization of autistic lives, or the fact that the things most autistic people have truly in common have been left out of the criteria while peripheral things nonautistic people want to fix are spotlighted. No, nothing that useful. Just out and out whining. “I don’t want to be associated with that other kind of autistic people,” goes the standard whine line. “You know… Those Ones.” The crazy drooling retarded low functioning diaper wearing nonverbal ones who can’t take care of themselves and need to be on welfare. Which one of those or many other pejorative categories depends on the individual variati... Ballastexistenz blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271153 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 04:13:42 +0100 3271153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267118&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Frude-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder%2F Quite a while back, Scott (aka @nametagscott) tweeted the following words of wisdom: It’s not the traffic that stresses you out, it is your reaction to traffic that stresses you out. I’d like to modify that just a bit and say: It’s not rudeness of others that stresses you out, it is your reaction to what you think is rudeness that stresses you out. Are you a presenter who gets stressed out – or pissed off – when you see people paying more attention to their electronic gadgets than to what you are saying?  Olivia Mitchell provides some insight to this in her article How to Handle a Texting Audience with an answer to the question, “Is it rude?” Rude is in the mind of the beholder. Rude to you, not rude to them. To label a behavior as rude is to make... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267118 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:15:23 +0100 3267118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267011&cid=t_100492_111_f&fid=34834&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMentalNurse%2F%7E3%2FyLWMN89GGnI%2F Jenny McCarthy, the former Playboy playmate and Jim Carrey’s girlfriend, knows both the cause and the cure of autism. Admittedly she doesn’t have any qualifications in medicine…or neuroscience…or psychology…or education…or mental health nursing…or pretty much anything other than getting her vagina out for a living. Even so, she’s answered questions that have eluded the finest doctors and scientists. So, what has Jenny McCarthy discovered to be the cause of autism? It’s….oh, you’ll never guess….vaccinations. Here we go again…. But wait, haven’t we been here before? Didn’t the Lancet only just retract Andrew Wakefield’s research paper that had claimed to find a link between the MMR vaccine and aut... Mental Nurse blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267011 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 22:35:46 +0100 3267011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3266986&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F11%2Fa-review-of-the-dsm-5-draft%2F The new DSM-5 draft is out (and it appears the APA is finally dropping the silly roman numeral designations). Analysis is starting to pour in from around the country about the ramifications of the new diagnoses and proposed changes. To start with, however, I want to congratulate the American Psychiatric Association for reaching this milestone and embracing the ability for the public to comment on the proposed changes. We first called for such an option back in December of last year and it appears somebody at the APA was listening. Kudos for being willing to take the barrage of criticism that is coming your way, APA. However, we wish it was an open commentary model, where the comments appears online for all to read (it appears to be a closed model, where your comments disappear into cybers... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3266986 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:22:23 +0100 3266986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267121&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fremove-aspergers-dsm-disagnois-high-functioning-autism%2F Removing the Aspergers Diagnosis from the DSM is a controversial and hot topic in the Autism advocacy community.  Many people are angered by merging Aspergers with Hugh Functioning Autism. I was talking to a father of a high functioning autistic and he disagrees with the merging of the two diagnoses, his main reason being the verbal [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267121 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 20:47:29 +0100 3267121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262822&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E3%2FKOr3pQElETk%2Fchanges-dreams.html A lot of changes seem to make their entry in my life. Yesterday I said farewell to my support worker. After having shared many things, we are forced to end our business contact. It's all a matter of money. It's strange. We shared thoughts about the past two years and dreams about both our future together as we had a farewell drink yesterday. Life goes on. I have already met my new support worker. So far she seems to be a good choice. Changes however, do effect me deeply. Yes, I am an Aspie :-). I try to find rest in doing lots of other things like the bookcrossing things. I really like it and it's an adventure to prepare books for future travel around the world. I recommend http://www.bookcrossing/ to you all! The books I use for bookcrossing are used books, often bought cheap in a second... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262822 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 11:25:00 +0100 3262822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3258966&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FEXXgGQYFZ-0%2F Tomorrow’s mental illnesses went online today: The American Psychiatric Association posted a draft version of the DSM-V. Read it for yourself. The DSM (full name: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is the book that defines mental illness in America, so it’s not surprising that revising the thing is a contentious process that takes years and involves lots of debate. (The “V” attached to the name is Roman — this will be the fifth edition, replacing the current DSM-IV.) Among the changes proposed for DSM-V: A category called “substance-related disorders” would include not only drug and alcohol addiction but also gambling addiction, the WSJ notes. Other disorders, including “Internet addiction,” will be “considere... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3258966 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:07:39 +0100 3258966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254629&cid=t_100492_131_f&fid=34994&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gnxp.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2Fdelayed-childbearing-autism.php Independent and dependent contributions of advanced maternal and paternal ages to autism risk: Reports on autism and parental age have yielded conflicting results on whether mothers, fathers, or both, contribute to increased risk. We analyzed restricted strata of parental age in a 10-year California birth cohort to determine the independent or dependent effect from each parent. Autism cases from California Department of Developmental Services records were linked to State birth files (1990-1999). Only singleton births with complete data on parental age and education were included (n=4,947,935, cases=12,159). In multivariate logistic regression models, advancing maternal age increased risk for autism monotonically regardless of the paternal age. Compared with mothers 25-29 years of age, the ... Gene Expression blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254629 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:22:00 +0100 3254629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3250975&cid=t_100492_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV069.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit Vincent, Alan, and Rich review recent outbreaks of mumps in the UK, US, and Israel, protection of mice against 2009 H1N1 influenza A virus by 1918-like and classical swine H1N1 vaccines, and a virus-like particle vaccine for chikungunya virus. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #69 (59 MB .mp3, 82 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Mumps outbreak in Israel (ProMedMail and Eurosurveillance; thanks Lenn!) and Iowa Retraction of Wakefield vaccines- autism study Immunization with 1918-like and classical sw... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3250975 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 03:22:28 +0100 3250975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327223&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Flbnuke.com%2F2010%2F02%2F06%2Ftemple-grandin-on-awn-radio-tomorrow%2F Temple Grandin will be on the AWN Radio show tomorrow morning to give the Autism Women’s Network her first exclusive interview following the Premiere of HBO’s Original Movie which premiered a few hours ago. Radio show link is: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/autism-womens-network/2010/02/07/temple-grandin-gives-awn-first-interview-re-premie Interview time: Feb 7th, 2010 at 9am PST – 10am MST – 11am CST– 12pm EST (USA) Use the following link to calculate your time zone outside USA: http://www.worldtimeserver.com/meeting-planner.aspx Me and K watched part of it a little while ago and it was really good. Gonna watch the rest of it now (Source: LBnuke) LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327223 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 06:55:49 +0100 3327223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248668&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flbnuke%2F%7E3%2FtwbOxW696ZI%2F Temple Grandin will be on the AWN Radio show tomorrow morning to give the Autism Women’s Network her first exclusive interview following the Premiere of HBO’s Original Movie which premiered a few hours ago. Radio show link is: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/autism-womens-network/2010/02/07/temple-grandin-gives-awn-first-interview-re-premie Interview time: Feb 7th, 2010 at 9am PST – 10am MST – 11am CST– 12pm EST (USA) Use the following link to calculate your time zone outside USA: http://www.worldtimeserver.com/meeting-planner.aspx Me and K watched part of it a little while ago and it was really good. Gonna watch the rest of it now Related posts:Autism Awareness Video: Autism Reality by Alex Plank Autism Women’s Network (Source: LBnuke) LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3248668 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 06:55:49 +0100 3248668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3247029&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fdifferent-not-less-or-broken%2F Tomorrow night HBO will premier the film Temple Grandin: Starring Claire Danes, Julia Ormond, Catherine O’Hara, and David Strathairn Temple Grandin paints a picture of a young woman’s perseverance and determination while struggling with the isolating challenges of autism at a time when it was still quite unknown. The film is based on two of Grandin’s books about autism, Emergence: Labeled Autistic (written with Margaret Scariano) and Thinking in Pictures, Expanded Edition: My Life with Autism. Given the typical Hollywood treatment of autism (Rain Man, anyone), I had my doubts – fears, maybe – about how this story would be told. A review of the film in yesterday’s The Atlantic has helped to alleviate those concerns: Stereotypical characters with autism ar... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3247029 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 23:55:56 +0100 3247029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3244060&cid=t_100492_154_f&fid=35946&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.canadianmedicinenews.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fin-news-newfoundland-premier-in-us-for.html Danny Williams in US for heart surgeryDanny Williams, the multimillionaire Newfoundland and Labrador premier, has gone to the United States to have heart surgery. According to his staff, the operation he needs is not available in Newfoundland. What that operation is, however, and whether it is available elsewhere in Canada? Those are questions the premier's office has yet to answer. [Canadian Press]Mr Williams's decision to head south for healthcare, like former MP Belinda Stronach's before him, has ignited controversy on both sides of the border about the pros and cons of the Canadian and American health systems.In an editorial, the Montreal Gazette complained that private care should not only be available to the wealthy and lamented the fact that the Supreme Court of Canada's 2005 Chaoul... Canadian Medicine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3244060 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100 3244060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3243760&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=34925&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbestyoucanbe.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fsad-story-of-autism-vaccination-scam.html Rahul Parikh, on the occasion of Lancet withdrawing the fraudulent Wakefield Autism/immunization paper, reflects on its legacy.It's a sad story. Wakefield, who ought to be in prison, prospers. Parents agonize over immunization. Misguided publicity hounds perpetuate fraud. Children suffer from preventable illnesses. Credulous advocacy groups waste time and money chasing a lie.There's no justice. It will take another decade to get this fraud behind us. (Source: Be the Best You can Be) Be the Best You can Be blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3243760 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 04:16:00 +0100 3243760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354281&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=35060&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthnewsblog.com%2Fblog%2F203101 The Lancet, a highly respect British medical journal, has retracted a study that showed a connection between autism and the childhood MMR vaccine. However, clearing up the confusion the study has created in the public may take a long time. Richard Roth reports for CBS on the controversy the study generated. Roth says many parents took the study very seriously. Roth also says 25 other studies have shown that there is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Take a look: Permalink | Recent Headlines | News Feeds (Source: HealthNewsBlog.com) HealthNewsBlog.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354281 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3354281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338332&cid=t_100492_123_f&fid=38598&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpediatricsnow.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2Fthe-wakefield-paper-retraction-a-violation-of-medical-ethics-is-always-bad-news%2F%3Futm_source%3Drss%26utm_medium%3Drss%26utm_campaign%3Dthe-wakefield-paper-retraction-a-violation-of-medical-ethics-is-always-bad-news Discussions are ongoing as to whether Wakefield should now lose his medical license, with good reason given the few facts we do know. If nothing else, one does not conduct medical research at a birthday party. Wakefield took advantage of a vulnerable group of parents. I hope as the dust settles they begin to see that, become incredibly angry and start to look at the true facts. Perhaps then, they’ll see there really are people working hard in the autism world to help their kids – and those people don’t have to conduct research at birthday parties. Related posts:Good News for Vaccines, Bad News for Toys Medical Blogging: Good or Bad? A Lesson From The Bad News Bears (Source: Dr. Gwenn Is In) Dr. Gwenn Is In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338332 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:09:57 +0100 3338332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3235969&cid=t_100492_123_f&fid=38598&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpediatricsnow.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2Fthe-wakefield-paper-retraction-a-violation-of-medical-ethics-is-always-bad-news%2F Discussions are ongoing as to whether Wakefield should now lose his medical license, with good reason given the few facts we do know. If nothing else, one does not conduct medical research at a birthday party. Wakefield took advantage of a vulnerable group of parents. I hope as the dust settles they begin to see that, become incredibly angry and start to look at the true facts. Perhaps then, they’ll see there really are people working hard in the autism world to help their kids – and those people don’t have to conduct research at birthday parties. Related posts:Good News for Vaccines, Bad News for Toys Medical Blogging: Good or Bad? A Lesson From The Bad News Bears (Source: Dr. Gwenn Is In) Dr. Gwenn Is In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3235969 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:09:57 +0100 3235969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3235816&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2F9qno5ZtL_NU%2F It’s been more than a decade since the Lancet published a study that looked at 12 children and suggested a possible link between autism and the vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella. Today, the Lancet formally retracted the paper, a few days after a British panel said the lead author’s conduct was “irresponsible” and “misleading.” In its retraction, the Lancet said the paper’s claim that the patients had been “consecutively referred” to physicians was false. Instead, blood was taken from children at a birthday party, and they were paid £5 each, according to the panel. Also, the lead author received £50,000 in research funding from solicitors acting for parents who believed that their children had been harmed by MMR. But the author... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3235816 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:52:45 +0100 3235816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231650&cid=t_100492_117_f&fid=38158&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drneedles.comhttp%3A%2F%2Famericanacupuncture.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fautism-triggered-by-tv-watching.html  The more children watch TV, the shorter their attention spans later in life. They expect a high level of stimulation and anything short of that is boring and abnormal to them.   Extensive TV viewing in infancy and early childhood may be a trigger for the development of autism.As a medical physician for over 51 years, I strive to give you the best medical information on controversial medical subjects, and help your read betwwen the lines. You must come to your own conclusions. I have no ties to any organization, pharmaceutical, or lobby group. As an practicing medical acupuncturist since 1982, I find western medicine and medical acupuncture are very complimentary. This results in astounding healing in pain management, addictions to cigarettes and food, and a host of oth... Dr. Needles Medical Blogs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231650 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:39:00 +0100 3231650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3223449&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fwere-not-supporting-andrew-wakefield.html I started a group on Facebook for everyone who wishes to record their opinion on the Andrew Wakefield GMC rulings. Anyone who is/is closely connected to an autistic person is especiallywelcome. Join here:Parents and autistic people supporting GMC rulings against Andrew Wakefield I want to show that we do not all support Andrew Wakefield who despite the damning verdict against him, is unrepentant and said in his recent statement "It remains for me to thank the parents whose commitment and loyalty has been extraordinary."The newspapers writing about the guilty man also refer to his support base and in some ways imply that parents of autistic children are more inclined to stand behind the disgraced doctor.Please join the group and spread the word to show how we really feel about a man who has... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3223449 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 13:17:00 +0100 3223449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3220737&cid=t_100492_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F7kL7mwNusrE%2F The doctor who first suggested a link between MMR vaccinations and autism acted unethically, the official medical regulator has found. Andrew Wakefield’s 1998 study in The Lancet caused vaccination rates to plunge, resulting in a rise in measles, although the findings were later discredited, the BBC reports. The General Medical Council ruled he had acted “dishonestly and irresponsibly” in doing his research (back story). Afterwards, Wakefield said the claims were “unfounded and unjust…and that the science will continue in earnest.” The GMC case did not investigate whether Wakefield’s findings were right or wrong, instead it was focused on the methods of research. The panel said Wakefield, who was working at London’s Royal Free Hospital as a g... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3220737 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:38:17 +0100 3220737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3220684&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fyou-should-write-a-book%2F Last week I had the pleasure of meeting Dan Pink when he spoke at a lunch event here in St. Louis. While we were eating lunch waiting for the main event, my friend Gene said to me, “You should write a book.”  Like many people I know, my initial reaction was along the lines of, “Yeah, sure. What would I write about?” And yet… Over the weekend I gave the idea a bit more thought. Also like many people, I’ve often thought about maybe writing a book, and Gene’s suggestion got me thinking about it again. There are actually many things I could write about: parenting, autism, leadership, systems engineering, FIRST robotics, trampoline and tumbling. And then the resistance – my lizard brain – showed up. “But that sure is a lot of hard wor... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3220684 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:35:28 +0100 3220684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3220692&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fandrew-wakefield-verdict-guilty.html Guilty The General Medical Council has ruled that Andrew Wakefield, one of autism's most notorious False Prophets and quintessential brave maverick doctor is guilty of having "showed a callous disregard" for the suffering of children and has "abused his position of trust." According to The Guardian's report:Wakefield also acted dishonestly and was misleading and irresponsible in the way he described research that was later published in the Lancet medical journal, the GMC said. He had gone against the interests of children in his care, and his conduct brought the medical profession "into disrepute" after he took blood samples from youngsters at his son's birthday party in return for payments of £5.The doctor, who was absent from today's GMC hearing, faces being struck off the medical regi... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3220692 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 16:39:00 +0100 3220692 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208597&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fdear-passengers-on-ei121.html So you've all booked a flight from Dublin to Orlando and luckily, you've chosen to go at the same time as me and my family. Some of you will, like us, be heading off for a bit of a holiday and hoping for sun, heat, roller coasters and perhaps some time at the home of the world's most famous rodent. It's likely that some of you will be travelling for work and others may be visiting family or returning home. Whatever the reason, I hope it's all good for you.I'm sure you understand that this route attracts many families with young children who are incredibly excited to be going on holiday to Disney World, and for whom the long flight can be quite a trial. I suggest that if you don't wish to be disturbed by their chatter and the hopefully infrequent but inevitable tears and tantrums, that you ... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208597 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:38:00 +0100 3208597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208598&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fsocial-story-video-for-flying-with.html Duncan has been a bit anxious about flying to Orlando. He's been asking that we fly with Flybe and Virgin, the 2 airlines we used last time when we flew via London. He kept saying, "no Aer Lingus!" and I didn't push it. A few nights ago I was lying beside him in bed and looking at pictures on my laptop. He was looking on. I started looking at Aer Lingus aeroplanes and he asked to have a closer look. Then he wanted to watch videos about Aer Lingus so we YouTubed for a while; ended up watching a cheesy ad I remember from my childhood, showing the cabin crew as comely maidens clad all in green and the pilots as dudes of a certain age; abounding in wisdom and reliability. In fact as soon as you got on board, you were as good as home.Duncan enjoyed it anyway. He'll probably be asking me to down... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208598 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:30:00 +0100 3208598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200616&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fplanning-for-disney-world-with-autism.html We've done this before so I have a better idea of what I need to improve to make this flight across the Atlantic as painless as it can be for everyone. Last time we flew via London and Duncan was fine on the first short flight from Belfast but very distressed on the second leg of the journey. He had it in mind that once we arrived in London, Disney World would be just a taxi drive away. (This was a reasonable assumption since it's what had happened when we'd gone to Disneyland Paris.) The flight was delayed at London and we had paid to wait in a lounge (Virgin V Room) with good facilities for families. I'd hoped that as Duncan played about loads in the soft play room, he'd be tired and fall asleep on the plane. But he didn't even want to board the cavernous and to him, scary Virgin plane. ... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200616 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 18:39:00 +0100 3200616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3185275&cid=t_100492_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F19%2Fadult-autism-strategy-consultation-a-summary-of-the-submissions-received-in-response-to-the-online-consultation%2F Title: Adult autism strategy consultation. A summary of the submissions received in response to the online consultation Skinny: Report highlighting the findings from the consultation including the importance of training, awareness raising and better diagnosis pathways. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 248p. Published: 19/01/2010 Posted in Adults, Autism, Diagnosis, Disabilities, Education, Grey Literature, Learning Disabilities, NHS, Quality, Vulnerable People Tagged: Adults, Autism, Consultations, Diagnosis, Grey Literature, Stakeholder Engagement, Training (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3185275 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:20:51 +0100 3185275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3185557&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fcompliance-or-engagement-which-do-you-prefer-for-your-kids%2F Like many parents, I always enjoyed taking my sons to their first day of school when they were young. One year in particular stands out. My elder son was just starting the second grade, his second year at this school. As we walked in on the first day of class, it seemed as if a party were going on. Kids were roaming the halls, teachers and staff were talking to each other and the kids, asking how them about their summer and telling them what a great year it was going to be. Amazingly, they even talked to me, asked me how my summer was, if there was anything they should try to get my son to talk about from his summer vacation. In other words, “we’re glad you’re here, we’re going to take good care of your son.” The next day I took my younger son to his first day... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3185557 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:44:24 +0100 3185557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182322&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35095&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAutismsEdges%2F%7E3%2FufCY2EIZ2qM%2Fchange-fast-and-slow.html (Source: Autism's Edges) Autism's Edges blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182322 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 14:04:00 +0100 3182322 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3180373&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fschool-options-sld.html I spoke with an educational psychologist on Friday about school options for Duncan. She thought one of the schools for children with severe learning difficulties (SLD) would be best for him so he would get the highest level of support. These schools are not autism-specific but contain pupils with any condition, physical, sensory, emotional or neurological that impedes the child's ability to learn. I admit I was surprised for a minute or two since Duncan is well able to learn but on reflection I agree that if he was to go to a school, he would need a high adult to child ratio with well trained and experienced teaching staff. She said that although he is able in many ways he is "very autistic" and that his behavioural problems would make it difficult for him to "access the curriculum." She k... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3180373 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 10:56:00 +0100 3180373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178943&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35098&url=http%3A%2F%2Fclub166.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fnail-that-sticks-up.html Will Be Hammered Down.So goes an old Japanese saying, meant to illustrate (as well as inculcate) a sense of conformity among the Japanese people. Westerners (especially Americans) are supposed to place much more value on non-conformity and individuality. But that idea only goes so far, and is noticably absent in the American public school system. When it comes to school kids, conformity is king. And if you step out of line, you will be hammered down, sometimes quite forcefully.Nowhere is this more evident then when it comes to kids with disabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum. Often, kids on the spectrum have various sensory processing difficulties, and may also persevorate on certain things. When they run into difficulty, they can get emotionally "wound up" fairly quickly, a... Club 166 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178943 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 04:31:00 +0100 3178943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3176069&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fcomplicated.html I've been thinking for years about how to deal with some difficulties I face. This has taken so much of my time and energy, it's drained me. I've had no desire to blog while this was foremost in my mind. But thankfully now I have reached a decision I can be...well not happy about, but confident that it's the right one. It's a huge relief to know for certain and to start now making plans to move on with a new phase in my life.I have missed blogging. I enjoyed keeping this record of my children's development and the silly stuff we get up to as well as sharing my opinions on autism/disability/home education issues with anyone who chooses to read them. It's been an important outlet; writing posts here has often concentrated my mind, forcing me to research issues to be able to write with some k... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3176069 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 12:27:00 +0100 3176069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3176103&cid=t_100492_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2Flindsay_needs_to_go_outdoors.html For readers who've been following the saga of Lindsay Newman, her mother reports on her blog that staff at Western State Hospital near Tacoma, Wash. have still not allowed Lindsay to go outside. That means Lindsay has not tasted fresh air in three weeks. This is an untenable situation especially since Lindsay responds well to being outside on occasion and because the hospital does have fenced outdoor areas where they can ensure she won't run off. I really hope WSH corrects this situation soon. Despite the rotten weather we've had out here lately--a much wetter than normal January so far this year--it would be good for Lindsay. (Source: Furious Seasons) Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3176103 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3176103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182325&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F01%2Faspies-are-coming-aspies-are-coming.html Autie Kid T-Shirt by webcarveMake a custom t-shirt on zazzleBump and update: A lot more about the incestuous relationship between the school district and local news coverage appeared in the last couple of days.A disturbing issue arises from this email. Zakh is a juvenile, a minor. This anchor/reporter alleges that "very reliable sources" gave him federally protected, privileged medical and education information about this boy. Given this disturbing inference, I contacted the reporter myself... And a torrent of  "explanations" from said reporter (whom I presume to be Darren Bobb) ensues, including an abusurd statement that his "very reliable sources" amounted to Google. It's quite long and you should read the whole thing from the horse's mouth. But this part seized my at... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182325 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 21:21:00 +0100 3182325 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3171886&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FvfvMzQXF4Gg%2F By Jason KuznickiIn my Policy Analysis “Attack of the Utility Monsters,” I noted that U.S. talk radio host Michael Savage had been preemptively banned from entering the United Kingdom, for fear that he would incite hatred on arrival. I also noted that the ban had been rescinded — which, anyway, it appeared to have been at the time. Today I read that Savage’s travel ban is back on again. What had Savage done that was so terrible? I’m not exactly sure, but here are some things that he’s said: On homosexuality, he once said: “The gay and lesbian mafia wants our children. If it can win their souls and their minds, it knows their bodies will follow.” Another of his pet topics is autism, which he claims is a result of “brats” without fa... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3171886 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:52:56 +0100 3171886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3167057&cid=t_100492_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F13%2Foverarching-report-of-findings-from-the-adult-autism-strategy%2F Title: Overarching report of findings from the Adult Autism Strategy Skinny: Summary of the findings from the consultation on the future strategy for adults with autustic spectrum conditions (ASC).  It sets out the approach taken, and the key themes and priority actions identified by respondents.  These were: Raising public awareness and acceptance of ASC. Improving key professionals’ level of training. Improving local leadership. Personalising services. Taking account of sensory issues. Improving the diagnosis pathway. Ensuring adults with an ASC can access the healthcare they need. Cross cutting themese were: Awareness raising and training Data collection Exclusion and discrimination Funding and resource issues Priority areas are: Diagnosis and support Support in the community ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3167057 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 11:39:33 +0100 3167057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3163988&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F01%2Faspies-are-coming-aspies-are-coming.html Autie Kid T-Shirt by webcarveMake a custom t-shirt on zazzleAutistics and small towns do not seem to mix well. I'd rather expect that some degree of plain old xenophobia is part of the reaction to Zakhqurey Price and his large family.I've seen similar things. Hell, I grew up as a similar percieved thing, which explains part of my interest in the case. Other parents and adult autistic-spectrum people are interested because they have gone through it on behalf of a child. We've gone through both. Don't Poke The Aspie! by webcarveMore Aspie T-Shirts With the grace of God and a good lawyer, it may soon be possible to move the whole family to a jurisdiction where the term Free and Appropriate Public Education is clearly understood. The following is cross-posted from the Southwest Times Record's ... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3163988 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 23:28:00 +0100 3163988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149244&cid=t_100492_131_f&fid=34994&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gnxp.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F01%2Fgeographical-distribution-of-autism-in.php Geographic distribution of autism in California: a retrospective birth cohort analysis:Prenatal environmental exposures are among the risk factors being explored for associations with autism. We applied a new procedure combining multiple scan cluster detection tests to identify geographically defined areas of increased autism incidence. This procedure can serve as a first hypothesis-generating step aimed at localized environmental exposures, but would not be useful for assessing widely distributed exposures, such as household products, nor for exposures from nonpoint sources, such as traffic.Geocoded mothers' residences on 2,453,717 California birth records, 1996-2000, were analyzed including 9,900 autism cases recorded in the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) database ... Gene Expression blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149244 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:19:00 +0100 3149244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3146156&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35452&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.graphictruth.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fabused-and-refused-zakhqurey-price.html This is sort of an urgent situation - more urgent than I'd realized - so I'm cobbling it together from other sources.Cat in A Dog's World does the best job of nutshelling it:A Sad Story, and a Call to ActionIf you listen to anything autism- or disability- related today, listen to this interview with Carole Reynolds, whose 11-year old autistic grandson Zakhquerey Price is facing felony charges for allegedly injuring two staff members at Beard Elementary (Fort Smith, AK) while said staff members were trying to restrain him.Zakh's story is really heartbreaking, and demonstrates so many problems with public education, the system of mental institutionalization, and criminal justice system.Zakh has already faced years of forced institutionalization, including during a period in which h... Graphictruth blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3146156 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:58:00 +0100 3146156 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149256&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flbnuke%2F%7E3%2FlHXAAHxBlLM%2F After 3 months of complete immersion, the Autism Women’s Network site is live and open to the public. I am still adding features and fixing the occasional bug here and there, but for the most part, it is done. Autism Women's Network Website Building this site has been an amazing experience for me. I am happy to get to contribute something to the AWN, which is an awesome organization that “provides effective supports to autistic females of all ages through a sense of community, advocacy and resources”. This site is open to all supporters including men and non-autistic people. The response has been amazing! After just 3 days, we have more than 150 registered users and over 1000 forum posts! I would like to extend a big thank you to all the beta testers and other people ... LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149256 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 07:10:54 +0100 3149256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3146154&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Flbnuke.com%2F2010%2F01%2F05%2Fautism-womens-network%2F After 3 months of complete immersion, the Autism Women’s Network site is live and open to the public. I am still adding features and fixing the occasional bug here and there, but for the most part, it is done. Autism Women's Network Website Building this site has been an amazing experience for me. I am happy to get to contribute something to the AWN, which is an awesome organization that “provides effective supports to autistic females of all ages through a sense of community, advocacy and resources”. This site is open to all supporters including men and non-autistic people. The response has been amazing! After just 3 days, we have more than 150 registered users and over 1000 forum posts! I would like to extend a big thank you to all the beta testers and other people ... LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3146154 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 07:10:54 +0100 3146154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3139199&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fautism-speaks-loses-uk-affiliate.html Hat tip to Socrates at The New Republic.This latest misadventure of Autism Speaks has demonstrated, yet again, arrogance and ineptitude on a truly epic scale. When Autism Speaks finally ends up in the history books (where, less than four years ago, it declared its intent to put the world's entire autistic population), the tale of its demise will be one of hubris befitting a classical Greek tragedy.To briefly sum up the debacle, before releasing the I Am Autism video in September to widespread condemnation from disability rights groups, Autism Speaks had presented its text as a "poem" at a May meeting with British supporters in London, where it was received with about as much enthusiasm as a heap of decomposing Thames flotsam. After that, having apparently concluded that it didn't matter wh... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3139199 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 03:38:00 +0100 3139199 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3122075&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=34925&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbestyoucanbe.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fend-of-autism.html No, the problems of suboptimal neurodevelopment are not going away. The concept of "autism" has lasted longer than I'd expected, but the assault continues ...Syndromic autism: causes and pathogenetic pathways. [World J Pediatr. 2009] - PubMed result... Genetic syndromes, defined mutations, and metabolic diseases account for less than 20% of autistic patients. Alterations of the neocortical excitatory/inhibitory balance and perturbations of interneurons' development represent the most probable pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the autistic phenotype in fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. Chromosomal abnormalities and potential candidate genes are strongly implicated in the disruption of neural connections, brain growth and synaptic/dendritic morphology. Metabolic and mitocho... Be the Best You can Be blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3122075 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 19:21:00 +0100 3122075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3108398&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F12%2F20%2Fautism-rates-redux-autism-rates-better-than-in-october%2F Talk about déjà vu. It was just over two months ago we and other news agencies reported on a study published in the journal Pediatrics that found that autism was now in about 1 in 91 children. So I was scratching my head when I started seeing news reports late this past week stating that autism was in 1 out of every 110 children. After a little digging, I see it was spurred by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issuing a press release on the findings of an analysis of actual 8-year-old child health records, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The Pediatrics study was a structured phone survey of parents (not an analysis of actual child health records). While it’s great that we now have two datasets that are in basic agreement that ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3108398 Sun, 20 Dec 2009 16:56:46 +0100 3108398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3106769&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F12%2F20%2Fmental-health-year-in-review-2009%2F Another year is over, and so brings us to the close of another year of great stories, great friends, and great insights into the world of psychology — our annual Year in Review of Mental Health. Conflicts of Interest, Lawsuits and Transparency Perhaps 2009 will be noted as the year of reckoning for pharmaceutical companies, who have not enjoyed good press this year. In January, we noted how Eli Lilly settled a Zyprexa lawsuit for $1.4 billion with 30 states due to its off-label marketing of the atypical antipsychotic drug for use in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Philip over at Furious Seasons puts the total Zyprexa tab at $2.8 billion with settlements with 39 states, with another 6 states pending. Keeping in mind that Zyprexa has had $37 billion in sales since its introduc... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3106769 Sun, 20 Dec 2009 10:55:38 +0100 3106769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3105265&cid=t_100492_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F12%2Fautism_rates_up_57_percent.html Oh, boy: "About 1 in every 110 8-year-olds in the U.S. had autism spectrum disorder in 2006, according to a report today released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. While more cases are being identified as people become aware of the disorder, a rise in the number of kids affected 'cannot be ruled out,' the CDC said." I'm not sure that I buy the whole autism epidemic argument, but something sad certainly is going on out there. (Source: Furious Seasons) Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3105265 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3105265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101006&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fneeman-national-counsil-on-disability%2F The White house has recently nominated Ari Ne’eman a leading autism advocate to the National Council on Disability according to the White House webpage.  Ari Ne’eman heads the Autism Self Advocacy Network and assists those with Autism in in advoacting for their rights and needs.  Seeing as I’m kinda busy right now and not wanting [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101006 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:42:41 +0100 3101006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3106856&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Flbnuke.com%2F2009%2F12%2F15%2Fvideo-autism-reality-by-alex-plank%2F Autism Reality is a 10 minute documentary film about autism by Alex Plank. The film features interviews with Dr. Temple Grandin, Alex himself, and a handful of others including Alex’s parents. This film shows a perspective not often seen in autism media by portraying autism as a reality which is neither good nor bad, just a different way that some people are wired. Alex is the founder of WrongPlanet.net, one of the earliest and largest online communities for people on the autistic spectrum. Related posts:Autism Awareness I’m Autistic: Another Awesome Video Response To Autism Speaks’ “I Am Autism” Letter in Response to Autism Speaks’ Exploitative Practice (Source: LBnuke) LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3106856 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:36:25 +0100 3106856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092868&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flbnuke%2F%7E3%2FfWjXfVpmOyY%2F Autism Reality is a 10 minute documentary film about autism by Alex Plank. The film features interviews with Dr. Temple Grandin, Alex himself, and a handful of others including Alex’s parents. This film shows a perspective not often seen in autism media by portraying autism as a reality which is neither good nor bad, just a different way that some people are wired. Alex is the founder of WrongPlanet.net, one of the earliest and largest online communities for people on the autistic spectrum. Related posts:I’m Autistic: Another Awesome Video Response To Autism Speaks’ “I Am Autism”Autism AwarenessLetter in Response to Autism Speaks’ Exploitative Practice (Source: LBnuke) LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092868 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:36:25 +0100 3092868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083025&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=34925&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbestyoucanbe.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fwealth-and-med-choice-antipsychotics.html Interesting results, annoyingly inflammatory interpretation ...Children on Medicaid Found More Likely to Get Antipsychotics - NYTimes.comNew federally financed drug research reveals a stark disparity: children covered by Medicaid are given powerful antipsychotic medicines at a rate four times higher than children whose parents have private insurance. And the Medicaid children are more likely to receive the drugs for less severe conditions than their middle-class counterparts, the data shows.Those findings, by a team from Rutgers and Columbia, are almost certain to add fuel to a long-running debate. Do too many children from poor families receive powerful psychiatric drugs not because they actually need them — but because it is deemed the most efficient and cost-effective way to control p... Be the Best You can Be blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083025 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 12:59:00 +0100 3083025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083164&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fnegative-aspects-high-functioning-autism%2F There are so many positive aspects often talked about when discussing higher functioning autstic people, I thought maybe we should discuss the negative aspects of being a higher functioning autistic.  I think this issue is not discussed that often, and being someone that is higher functioning I know there are definitely some drawbacks.  But I’ll [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083164 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 17:56:51 +0100 3083164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083080&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FeV7DQlG6nVo%2F URL: http://www.childadvocate.net/childmentalhealth/Addresses mental disorders, behavioral disorders, child abuse, trauma, among other things. For: ConsumersTopics: ADHD, Anxiety, Attachment, Autism, Behaviour Management, Child and Adolescent, Depression, Educational Psychology, Emotional Health, Family Therapy, General Psychology, General Science, Life, Mental Health, Pediatric Depression, Self-harm and suicide, Sexual Assault, Stress, Substance Abuse, YouthFeatures: Articles, Databases, Information, Links, e-learning Addresses mental disorders, behavioral disorders, child abuse, trauma, among other things.  Gives lots of information about child mental health news. (Source: PsychSplash) PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083080 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 17:00:52 +0100 3083080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083165&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Ffree-mueseum-trip-autistim%2F The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire in Dover, New Hampshire will be offering free muesum admission to families with Autism according to a recent News Article.  The trips will be given when the museum is closed to the public and they will begin in march thanks to a $10,000 grant from the Cogswell Benevolent Trust.  [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083165 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 16:53:59 +0100 3083165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3082574&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautism-seclusion-restraint%2F An important bill for Autism rights is going through congress right now on the topic of seclusion and restraint for those with disabilities.  Thanks to Savannah Logsdon for pointing out this important topic in her blog.  The Autism Self Advocacy Network has released a statement applauding this bill for its prevention of the abuse of [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3082574 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 16:20:00 +0100 3082574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071417&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fautism-speaks-to-hurricane-victims-what.html I'm reposting, in its entirety and with the author's permission, an e-mail from a New Orleans mom whose family lost their home to Hurricane Katrina. After seeing an Autism Speaks page that asked for donations to help families with autistic children who were homeless after the hurricane, she made the mistake of calling to ask for help and got nothing but grief.Thank you for posting this information about Autism Speaks' impressive generosity . . . to its staff, bankers, and PR people. It doesn't surprise me that Autism Speaks shovels piles of money at their executives and their Park Avenue rent. In 2005, I personally found out just how eager they really are to help the families they claim to raise money for.Our family was displaced by Hurricane Katrina and lost half of our household goods in... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071417 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:10:00 +0100 3071417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079515&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flbnuke%2F%7E3%2FZ2CfXPrmLDI%2F Sometimes it is hard to be an aspie. I am very lucky because no matter how hard things get sometimes, I have people who can, and do, help me out. If it weren’t for those people, especially my family and Karen, I really don’t what my life would be like now. It is likely that I would be homeless or dead, but instead, I am happy and warm. Most people are not as lucky as me. My friend aspietalk is having a very hard time and will be homeless in a couple of weeks. She has recently started to get connected with services that may help, but the process of getting help is slow and painful. Tons of red tape and disorganization that is difficult for even the most healthy and organized of people, and seems to be purposefully impossible for people who face various challenges due to health, ... LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079515 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:05:19 +0100 3079515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071416&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Flbnuke.com%2F2009%2F12%2F08%2Fa-friend-in-need%2F Sometimes it is hard to be an aspie. I am very lucky because no matter how hard things get sometimes, I have people who can, and do, help me out. If it weren’t for those people, especially my family and Karen, I really don’t what my life would be like now. It is likely that I would be homeless or dead, but instead, I am happy and warm. Most people are not as lucky as me. My friend aspietalk is having a very hard time and will be homeless in a couple of weeks. She has recently started to get connected with services that may help, but the process of getting help is slow and painful. Tons of red tape and disorganization that is difficult for even the most healthy and organized of people, and seems to be purposefully impossible for people who face various challenges due to health, ... LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071416 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:05:19 +0100 3071416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3067331&cid=t_100492_165_f&fid=36767&url=http%3A%2F%2Fabctherapeutics.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fquestions-about-aotas-response-to.html The National Autism Center published a comprehensive National Standards report regarding evidence-based practice guidelines for children and young adults who have autism. The report is an excellent summary of research about intervention methods and effectiveness. It was particularly interesting to me that this report referenced and hoped to expand on the New York State Early Intervention Clinical Practice Guidelines for autism spectrum disorders which of course is a document that is familiar to many of the families in my geographic area. The NYS guidelines were published ten years ago so an update to include new research was needed.The new report focuses on quantitative studies and in this sense some important occupational therapy literature may not have met the inclusion criteria. There h... ABC Therapeutics Occupational Therapy Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3067331 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 19:37:00 +0100 3067331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3052331&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fhard-times-for-autism-speaks.html It appears that Autism Speaks may be feeling the financial consequences of having chosen to use fear-mongering ads as a fundraising tactic, to fund research aimed at eradicating autistic people instead of giving families any meaningful help, and to exclude autistics from participation in its decision-making process. Due to budgetary constraints, all of its 2009 grants, including those already awarded, have been cut by 15 percent, with the exception of pilot and fellowship grants.This hasn't been accompanied by a reduction of Autism Speaks' hefty executive salaries, however, as pointed out in a recent editorial by former walk organizer Cindy Waeltermann entitled Autism Speaks. It’s a Living. After reviewing the expense information on the IRS Form 990 on the Autism Speaks website, she wrot... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3052331 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:15:00 +0100 3052331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3039964&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fhow-to-stop-autistic-children-from.html Scripting in autism can be defined variously but generally refers to the ability to repeat phrases or single words many times over. The words and phrases are often copied but can also be self generated. Scripting is generally considered to be an impairment that requires intervention and is usually paired with the word ‘fading.’ Scripting and echolalia often come hand in hand which is why so many of the phrases are easily recognizable as they’re delivered with accurate mimicry. A three year old who scripts Boris Karloff may be the source of amusement, but with an older child, public opinion is less forgiving.Scripting serves many different functions for a child; it can be calming and self-organizing, a bit like white noise. Frequently the child is not aware that he or she is scripting... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3039964 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 07:49:00 +0100 3039964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3039961&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flbnuke%2F%7E3%2FE_kl0axNwKU%2F This post is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password: Related posts:BeeDragon on Facebook (Source: LBnuke) LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3039961 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 07:29:37 +0100 3039961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036010&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Funemployment-rates-disabled%2F Currently in the United States unemployment rates are high – and even higher for those with disabilities.  Its really difficult for anyone to find a job, and even more so difficult for those with disabilities.  Official unemployment rates for those with disabilities are over 17 percent, and that does not count those who have given [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036010 Sat, 28 Nov 2009 05:06:21 +0100 3036010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033736&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fhappy-birthday-dad%2F On February 17, 1986, shortly after excusing himself from the ice for a breather from the hockey game he was playing with my brothers and some friends, my father collapsed and died from “massive coronary failure”. Had he lived, today would have been his 70th birthday. I usually refrain from writing anything that is overly personal here on this blog, but my dad deserves much of the credit for my interests and my direction in life. The things that make their way onto this blog are things that he and I would no doubt have spent many hours discussing over the years. My sense of humor, my interest in how things work, and an unquenchable curiosity about the connectedness of everything can be directly traced back to the time he and spent together watching Monty Python’s Flying C... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033736 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:04:39 +0100 3033736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3026866&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Faspergers-child-runaway%2F A child with Aspergers Syndrome recently ran away, and spent 11 days in a subway according to reports.  Francisco Hernandez Jr survived with just $10 in his pocket and a book bag on his lap.  The 13 year old with Aspegers Syndrome a form of Autism got in trouble at school and then ran away, [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3026866 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 01:42:56 +0100 3026866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3019234&cid=t_100492_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FtqORbrPPWwI%2F Hello, everyone. And welcome to a shorter working week, at least here in the states. Although, we suspect the next couple of days will be jam-packed, as everyone tries to squeeze a lot of work into not a lot of time. In any event, time to grab a cup of stimulation and dig in. Hope your day goes well… Merck-Sorono Opening R&D Hub In China (The Wall Street Journal) Abbott’s Meridia Linked To Cardiovascular Events (PharmaTimes) Pfizer Must Pay $6.3M In Damages Over Prempro (Bloomberg) FDA OKs Abilify For Child Autism Irritability (Reuters) Coffee courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons chichcacha (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3019234 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:05:38 +0100 3019234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3019182&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fnew-moon-headbanging-and-thinking-for.html Duncan continues to take great pleasure in producing various pictures of Chuckie from the Rugrats. Is it perseveration? Do I care? Each picture is different in at least some small way. I think they're cute and funny and witty.Thomas doesn't like to draw. He'd rather do maths or count the money in his Tardis money box. (I don't mean it's bigger on the inside, it's just shaped like a Tardis.) We've been doing some P4 stuff on Education City (free trial) and he's acing it all. Lady has used that site too and they both quite like it so I might subscribe. Does anyone have a code they want to share?He's also decided he wants to try school after we return from our holiday in February (2 weeks in Orlando!) He says that everyone else in the family has been to school at some stage but he never went ... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3019182 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:26:00 +0100 3019182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3019183&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fsome-mothers-do-ave-em.html It was one of those ‘time stood still moments.’ Perhaps fifty adults and maybe 30 children, all assembled on the day of my daughter’s wedding. Everything had been prepared in advance and I’d practiced my brief speech, in my formal role as ‘mother of the bride.’ Because I am an anal retentive type, I had already taken account of every possible eventuality, everything except that one. After a few words to the adults, it was time to include the children, as speeches are especially boring for youngsters. So I called them, all the children. Invited them to join their parents for a few seconds, and of course they all did so, little obedient lambs, except one, the black sheep of the family. I had him in my sites, clearly. I could see him as he froze in response to my call, caught in t... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3019183 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 07:51:00 +0100 3019183 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3015426&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fseinfeld-confronted-by-autistic-autism-speaks%2F Jerry Seinfeld, a supporter of Autism Speaks was recently confronted by an Autistic Person outside a Autism Speaks fund raising event.  It was caught on video.  Jerry Seinfeld seems to be blowing off the person with Aspergers Syndrome who is asking him not to support Autism Speaks.  The person recording the video repeatedly tries to [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3015426 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:45:16 +0100 3015426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3004076&cid=t_100492_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2Fmedical_marijuana_for_autism_1.html This is the third time in two years that I've encountered a case of parents giving their kids with autism medical marijuana--usually in an ingested form as opposed to smoked--instead of antipsychotics and others meds. Reportedly, this novel treatment works fairly well. But there's the tricky problem of medical marijuana's legal status. "Respected LA-area pediatrician Chris Tolcher says we don't know enough about cannabis for kids. "'I think for all the parents out there whose children may have autism,' Tolcher says, 'I think the message here is that this is intriguing information that needs more research before we can confidently say that marijuana is a safe and effective treatment for autism complications.'" If the DEA wouldn't make such research impossible, then perhaps we might have ... Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3004076 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3004076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2995969&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Ffor-your-viewing-pleasure.html It's Duncan's most recent production. The music is by his current favourite singer, Michael Jackson. He likes to listen to his CD in the car and prefers track 1 from Off the Wall. Sadly my friends in Germany will be denied the joy of watching this random video as Sony Music have blocked it there, boo hoo. (Source: The Voyage) The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2995969 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:37:00 +0100 2995969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992804&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Feradicate-autism-speaks.html Apparently in today's America, you can be hailed as a philanthropist if you are seeking to "eradicate" a minority group. Of course, it helps if your husband recently was the CEO of the media entity responsible for publishing this Goebbels-esque propaganda. Many of us already knew what a genocidal loon Suzanne Wright is, but just in case anyone needs more proof, here it is:Philanthropist wages fight to eradicate autismIn the interview, this was her response to a question about how long Autism Speaks plans to host celebrity fundraising events: "Hopefully until we eradicate autism. Once we finish autism, then we’re not doing this anymore."Well, you know what, Suzanne, if decent people eradicate your repulsive organization first, you won't be doing this anymore either. And it may not be long... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992804 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:40:00 +0100 2992804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989105&cid=t_100492_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F13%2Flancet-2009-volume-374-issue-9701%2F The Lancet 2009 (Volume 374 Issue 9701) Contents Page Fade Fave: Autism Fade Skinny: Seminar from The Lancet on Autism. It characterises autism, looks at screening and treatments. (Print Subscription Held by the Fade Library) Posted in Current Awareness, Journals Tagged: Autism, Current Awareness, Journals, Mass Screening (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989105 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:03:43 +0100 2989105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2981288&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E3%2FB8rWLHOS3Qs%2Ftime-to-love-learn-about-love-and-life.html First of all let me tell you everyting is doing fine. Being used to be single, it is quite strange to be involved in a relationship now. He is very caring, sweet, smart, understanding and we have quite some common interests. His life during the last 5 years was quite different than mine, but that is OK. We can learn a lot from one another. And besides that, love is now and to love one person is to life with his present life. I must learn to deal with typical relationship things. In a way he has more experience with this as he has been member of a family with children. We are doing fine and when things do not go that well, we talk it over. I can feel we enter another stage of relationship now. We talk more and more and we are more aware of the outside world now. At least I am, I can not spe... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2981288 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:41:00 +0100 2981288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2981232&cid=t_100492_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fautism-aspergers-and-dsm-by-simon-baron.html The Short Life of a DiagnosisBy SIMON BARON-COHEN, Op-Ed ContributorThe New Yotk TimesPublished: November 10, 2009"Asperger syndrome and autism should be thoroughly tested before being lumped together in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders."Read the Op-Ed piece (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2981232 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:39:00 +0100 2981232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3048292&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Flbnuke.com%2F2009%2F11%2F06%2Fall-drupal-all-the-time-too-bad-i-cant-breathe%2F Writing on the iPhone. Hard to breathe. Shaky. Strangely okay besides that. Sometimes writing helps. Been very busy lately. All Drupal all the time. Besides from the insane learning curve and non-intuitive UI, I am in awe of its power and flexibility. After more than 15 hours of video tutorials and reading tons of docs, I am finally understanding how it works and how the code is organized. I am learning while building a site for an awesome organization. Will link to it when it is done. If all goes according to plan, it will launch around Jan. 1st, 2010. Not mentioning the org. because there is a board and I don’t know if things like that have to be decided about, but if someone who knows the answer and wants to post it in the comments, go for it I haven’t used Drupal to build ... LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3048292 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 04:46:48 +0100 3048292 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970362&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35108&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flbnuke%2F%7E3%2FGp1kCi7O_cI%2F Writing on the iPhone. Hard to breathe. Shaky. Strangely okay besides that. Sometimes writing helps. Been very busy lately. All Drupal all the time. Besides from the insane learning curve and non-intuitive UI, I am in awe of its power and flexibility. After more than 15 hours of video tutorials and reading tons of docs, I am finally understanding how it works and how the code is organized. I am learning while building a site for an awesome organization. Will link to it when it is done. If all goes according to plan, it will launch around Jan. 1st, 2010. Not mentioning the org. because there is a board and I don’t know if things like that have to be decided about, but if someone who knows the answer and wants to post it in the comments, go for it I haven’t used Drupal to build ... LBnuke blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970362 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 04:46:48 +0100 2970362 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970369&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fwashington-dc-autism-speaks-protest%2F Recently Autistic people held an Autism Speaks protest in Washington DC on the national mall coinciding with an Autism Speaks fund raising event on the mall.  Many Autistic people are upset about a recent fund raising video by Autism Speaks that uses fear and false statements to raise money for the organization.  Similar protests have [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970369 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:22:51 +0100 2970369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2967419&cid=t_100492_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FIyJ1ZqXFUE8%2F This study aims to improve these and other related cognitive skills by using a driving game in which players practice paying attention to relevant information, such as traffic signs, and ignoring irrelevant information, such as billboards. The study monitors brain activity with electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings and observes eye position and game performance in younger adults (ages 18 to 30) and older adults (ages 60 to 80) before and after six weeks of game play. The study assesses changes in cognitive ability, brain activity and transfer of game-related skills to similar cognitive operations and activities that take place in daily life. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (Philadelphia, PA) Reward Circuitry, Autism and Games that Teach Social Perceptual Skills – tests effe... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2967419 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:35:40 +0100 2967419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970370&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fassburgers-video%2F A friend of mine sent me this video.  I don’t know if this is funny or extremely insulting.  Its part of a series called ‘Retarded Policeman’ where some guy acts like a retard.  In the video the ‘Retarded Policeman’ comes up to someone after pulling them over and states he is sad because he just [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970370 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:18:10 +0100 2970370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970371&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Ffrench-goverment-insults-bizarre-autism-lellouche%2F Pierre Lellouche, a big wig in the French Government is now using Autism as an insult for opposing politicians according to the BBC.  This is a huge insult to those with Autism as most people with Autism gladly bathe – unlike the french.  Mr Lellouch, who is a douche and also France’s Minister for Europe [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970371 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:03:45 +0100 2970371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2963154&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2F05%2Fbye-bye-aspergers-syndrome%2F Is the diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome — a mild form of autism mostly diagnosed in boys — heading the way of the dodo bird? A new article in the New York Times suggests that the new revision of the diagnostic manual — the DSM-V — is likely to do away with the diagnosis. How can you just delete an entire diagnosis and do away with a diagnostic label that hundreds of thousands of clinicians use everyday and millions identify with? If you’re the American Psychiatric Association, the folks behind the latest DSM revision, you can pretty much do anything you want. Before I get to Asperger’s, I have to note what’s really cringe-worthy in this article — how it completely misrepresents how mental disorders are diagnosed in practice today. Take... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2963154 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:29:03 +0100 2963154 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2963268&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautistic-draws-skylines-from-memory%2F Stephen Wiltshire is an amazing Autistic person who has a sweet artistic talent.  He can draw skylines of entire cities from memory.  Stephens artwork is featured and exhibited around the world at various museums and he has been named a Member of the British Empire by the Queen.  Stephen started drawing in school, and his [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2963268 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:51:11 +0100 2963268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2963264&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35082&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.gbrettmiller.com%2Fautism-and-the-helicopter-parent%2F Every now and then someone will write an article - or a comment on an article - that pins the cause of autism on “overprotective” parents. These parents - also known as “helicopter parents” - are so involved in their kids lives, the argument goes, that they warp them into being autistic. (Almost the opposite of the old “refrigerator mother” theory, since this new “cause” is the result of too much - not too little - love and affection.) Before I go any further here, let me say emphatically and without qualification that I don’t believe helicopter parents - or any parent, for that matter - can cause autism by spending too much (or too little) time and attention on their kids. I do think, however, that helicopter parents may play a potenti... 29 Marbles blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2963264 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:01:24 +0100 2963264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2958934&cid=t_100492_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2Frw1N2TFodqE%2F In 1944, an Austrian pediatrician, Hans Asperger, wrote about some characteristics he was seeing in some people, such as clumsiness, repetitive routines or rituals, different speech patterns (monotone, overly formal), inappropriate social behavior, and difficulties with non-verbal communication. Over the years, not much notice was taken until the 1980s when a doctor in the United Kingdom, Lorna Wing, noticed children with similar characteristics and she named what she saw as Aspergers syndrome. Since then,  the disorder was studied more, and in 1994, Asperger syndrome was labeled as an autism spectrum disorder. With that, it was officially recognized in the “bible” of the American Psychiatric Association, the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual). Asperger syndrome is not th... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2958934 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:12:00 +0100 2958934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2959012&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fprotesters-attacked-by-flying-burrito.html The ASAN members and cross-disability activists who protested at the Autism $peaks walk in Washington DC on Saturday, October 31st, resisted the temptation to dress in ghoulish Halloween costumes. Not everyone at the walk showed their level of maturity, however, as reported by a protester named Stan:"I was watching the first large group of Autism Speaks walkers, and one guy looked at us and threw a burrito wrap sandwich at us. It looked like he was throwing a burrito at us. It was like watching a Monty Python burrito attack."When I mentioned that I thought this deserved a blog post, another person suggested that I should not write negative stuff about the burrito-tosser because he was just a frustrated parent. Given the fact that Autism $peaks goes to great lengths to induce feelings of he... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2959012 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 01:37:00 +0100 2959012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2954445&cid=t_100492_83_f&fid=34690&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fscienceblogs%2Finsolence%2F%7E3%2F09zGpNpNsig%2Fon_why_misogynists_shouldnt_mess_with_th.php ...Isis shows us why by calling out the anti-vaccine movement in general and J.B. Handley in particular, for sexist attacks on Amy Wallace, who wrote the excellent article for WIRED about how the anti-vaccine movement endangers public health. True, I did e-mail her for advice in letting feminist bloggers know about this nastiness, being interested in how so many women in the movement could tolerate such behavior from its male members, but Isis took it from there. (Warning, part of the post may be NSFW.) Also calling out J.B. Handley and other members of the anti-vaccine movement for their misogyny was blog bud Abel Pharmboy. It's only fair to point out that he blogged this story before I did. Read the comments on this post... (Source: Respectful Insolence) Respectful Insolence blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2954445 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:00:43 +0100 2954445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2950974&cid=t_100492_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2Fhouse_health_care_bill_contains_autism_training_initiative.html The House health care reform bill rolled out last Thursday contains what it calls a "National Training Initiative on Autism Spectrum Disorders." The feds are setting aside $17 million in the first year of the bill, assuming it passes and merges with whatever the Senate drums up, and unspecified amounts in later years of the proposed 10-year package. (Text beginning at page 1402 of the bill, downloadable here.) As near as I can tell from the bill, these are largely technical assistance grants, providing for: "eligible entities to provide individuals (including parents and health, allied health, vocational, and educational professionals) with interdisciplinary training, continuing education, technical assistance, and information for the purpose of improving services rendered to children an... Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2950974 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2950974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2944000&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E3%2F40yo-JBQCuY%2Ftravel-adventures-glossy-woman-magazine.html Been away for a while. I apologize if you came here to find there had been no update. The Love thing is doing well, LOVE gives much energy and adds a golden touch at Life I think. He is so caring and sweet and has much to offer me.I slowly come down to earth and realise that normal life continues... You might be interested to find out that- after such a long time of hesitation where and how to go on vacation- I finally choose Vienna, the city in which my grandmother was born, to be my destination. I booked a complete group bus tour with Half Board. The group counted about 40 other persons, mostly elderly couples. Yes, a group. Yes, away from home all by myself. Vienna itself was wonderful to see, I will post some pictures here next week or so. Ofcourse the group thing was quite stressf... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2944000 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:34:00 +0100 2944000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939489&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FZq3bx6TYDuY%2F We thank Autism Vox readers for their feedback and attention over the past seven months. It has been a great experience getting to know you all, and I hope we provided opinions, news, and stories that helped you. You can continue to follow us at a new blog we will be posting soon. For more information, please contact us at jeff_stimpson@yahoo.com or girlcook@aol.com, and thanks so much again! – Jeff and Jill Post from: Autism Vox (Source: Autism Vox) Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939489 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:24:43 +0100 2939489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939491&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35098&url=http%3A%2F%2Fclub166.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fstars-and.html I recently had occasion to visit China (I was invited to give a couple of lectures there), and took the opportunity to arrange a visit to a school for autistic children, Stars and Rain. Strictly speaking, Stars and Rain isn't so much a school for autistics as much as it is a school for their parents, who come (with their children) for 12 week courses in how to educate their child. There are very few resources for either diagnosis or treatment of autism in China, and Stars and Rain may have been the first school in China for autistics and their parents.The first person I met when I got there was the Development Officer, Sun Zhong Kai (Scott), who was the person I had corresponded with via e-mail. I had asked a couple of times via e-mail if my visit would be too disruptive, and Scott said th... Club 166 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939491 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:42:00 +0100 2939491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939490&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FT6OaYBX7r0M%2F From the random files of autism: Alex is building himself quite a collection of little figures that he has a deep attachment to: dolls, more or less, though some might call them figures or dollhouse people. They’re a multi-cultural collection of professional people, an Hispanic medical professional, a woman with leg braces and a clipboard. An African-American doctor (white coat), serious expression. Photo courtesy of kyz (flickr.com) I hate to think what these things have cost, and as he has clearly filched them from some recreation program, I’ve tried sticking them in his bag with a note that says Sorry! Alex didn’t mean to take these! (Though he most certainly did.) But they don’t always take them back… •      •      • I wanted to play Devil&#82... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939490 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:33:45 +0100 2939490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2934837&cid=t_100492_122_f&fid=34755&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropsychological.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fextremes-of-memory.html Like a Skyline Is Etched in His HeadBy JIM DWYERThe New York TimesPublished: October 28, 2009"Stephen Wiltshire, working only from the memory of a helicopter flight over New York, has been rendering the city’s 305 square miles along an arc of paper that is 19 feet long."Read the full articleView the slideshow, "Portrait of the Artist," which shows parts of his amazing work (Source: BrainBlog) BrainBlog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2934837 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:38:00 +0100 2934837 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2934901&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FoGwWfDdFAWw%2F Score one for our side: A tactic used by insurance companies to deny expensive behavioral therapy to autistic children has been deemed illegal by a Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge, who has found that Kaiser Permanente’s refusal to pay for a child’s autism treatment because the provider was not licensed by the state runs counter to California’s Mental Health Parity Act. That act requires insurers to cover care for mental and behavioral problems at the same levels they do for physical illnesses. The ruling came as part of a lawsuit filed by Consumer Watchdog, a Santa Monica advocacy organization, against the California Department of Managed Health Care to require the agency to side with consumers when insurers refuse to pay for ABA therapy. The ruling also clears th... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2934901 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:17:41 +0100 2934901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2931191&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FXhLi-GI_Lrg%2F While we were waiting for the bus, I said to Alex, “Say, ‘I like sports and fitness!’ ” “No!” Alex replied, shaking his head for emphasis. Photo courtesy of longhorndave (flickr.com) So much for going in with an enthusiastic beginning. Still, we thought it could be fun for Alex to do a little fitness and sports-type stuff in a supportive atmosphere. (Note: his new school is big on this, and we get occasional e-mails from the unit teacher saying how much he likes the gym routines and the therapy balls.) Unfortunately this event took place right near a playground Alex is very fond of, with a gigantic marble slide. As soon as we got there, Alex started asking to go in the playground and go on the slide, and we spent a fair amount of energy trying to persuad... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2931191 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:31:44 +0100 2931191 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2927505&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FHZIPU1gHIVo%2F Slate’s Erica Westly takes an interesting look at the increasing incidence of Asperger’s as a legal defense, citing the recent headline case of British computer whiz Gary McKinnon, who hacked into almost 100 U.S. government and NASA computers after becoming obsessed with the United States covering up UFO contact. “Criminal defendants in the United States have been using similar tactics with varying degrees of success in recent years,” Westly writes. “In fact, it’s not all that rare for criminal defendants with Asperger’s to argue for leniency in cases of computer fraud, sexual misconduct, and murder. Three years ago, the defense even made its way into an episode of ‘Boston Legal.’” Photo/D Sharon Pruitt (Pink Sherbet Photograph... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2927505 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:55:50 +0100 2927505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924800&cid=t_100492_87_f&fid=34925&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbestyoucanbe.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Funexpected-wins-and-special-needs.html I’m reasonably good at predicting what two of my children will like and do. I’m much less accurate at predicting the interests and abilities of my most exceptional son. Sometimes I guess high, but more often I guess low. When we started playing baseball, I never thought he’d be a competitive and eager ballplayer. His recent soccer playing was completely unexpected. Yes, he is the weakest player on his school team – but he continues to go to practices. He’s learned more math than I expected he would. I’m glad I listened to the advice of the mother of a girl with Downs syndrome. She told me her daughter got more out of sitting in mainstream history classes than she’d expected. Today, though, he really surprised me. We’ve had great struggles with him getting off the computer w... Be the Best You can Be blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924800 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 16:05:00 +0100 2924800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923409&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2Fuu4F4pdv2gk%2F Central Park has its Pumpkin Sail this evening, an event the boys enjoy. At dusk you bring your jack-o’-lantern to the park, admire the other lanterns, and then the pumpkins are lit, then launched into the Harlem Meer. You walk around the lake oohing and aahing over the sight of thousands of jack-o’-lanterns flickering over the dark water. Image Courtesy of Dover Publications Two years ago the Sail was canceled because of a gusty wind, so last year we were happy and excited to be going. Today we buy our pumpkins; we’ll carve late in the afternoon when Alex gets home from his recreation program and Ned from sib shop. Every year Alex seems to look forward to Halloween, and it’s satisfying to see him moving in step with everyone else. Autism seems so often like a... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923409 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:56:56 +0100 2923409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923412&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fautism-speaks-we-need-answers.html Autism Speaks, which still hasn't learned its lesson about fear-mongering advertising and seems incapable of doing so, has decided to exploit a recent study of autism prevalence in the United States to incite even more false epidemic hysteria by way of a new fundraising campaign called "We Need Answers."autismspeaks.org/donate/we_need_answers.phpThe study found a parent-reported autism prevalence rate higher than previous US estimates, although not significantly different from the figures found in studies from the UK and other countries. Notwithstanding the fact that this new study merely brings autism prevalence estimates in the United States more in line with those from other parts of the world, Autism Speaks howls on its web page, "These new findings reinforce that autism is an urgent a... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923412 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:44:00 +0100 2923412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2923410&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FaidMFg-ao9w%2F ABC News reports that doctors have begun “firing” parents who decline to have thier children vaccinated. One California mom, who’s oldest child has been diagnosed with autism said her doctor said the presence of her and her child was “too much of a liability.” Doctors are apparently feeling more compelled to say “no” back to anti-vaccine parents. The issue surfaced this at the annual American Academy of Pediatrics meeting in Washington, D.C. Presenter Dr. Gary Marshall said there are some cases when it’s ethical and legal to refuse to continue to see, or treat, a child, especially if parents and the physician will never see “eye-to-eye” on a specific issue. Stipulations for such situations include written notice that the doctor... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2923410 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:12:58 +0100 2923410 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2920423&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2Fljd4dsbpaMM%2F Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have uncovered a new genetic signature that correlates strongly with autism and which doesn’t involve changes to the DNA sequence itself, a finding that may suggest new approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Researchers found higher-than-usual numbers of gene-regulating molecules called methyl groups in a region of the genome that regulates oxytocin receptor expression in people with autism. Previous studies have shown that giving oxytocin can improve social engagement behavior and it’s being explored as a potential treatment, and although the methylation status of the OXTR gene is not a definitive diagnosis of autism by itself, a test for methylation might be used along with other clinical tests for diagnosing autism. Methylation-m... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2920423 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:34:55 +0100 2920423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2916363&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35099&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcomautworld.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fits-no-secret.html It's no secret that I have ADHD. I'm open about it. I talk about it whenever it seems appropriate.It's no secret that I don't think autism is The Worst Thing Ever. I've known a lot of kids and a lot of adults (both online and off) with autism spectrum disorders, and I have found them all incredibly interesting and entertaining (though sometimes frustrating) human beings.It's no secret that I don't currently take medication for my ADHD. I stopped in May 2008. I'm reconsidering that decision, based on the difficulties I've been having in my life since I stopped working full-time - that lack of structure seems not to agree with me. I'm sure I'll post once I come to a final decision about it.It's no secret that I don't think autism is caused by vaccines. I think it's primarily genetic, possibl... ASD :: Commentary on Autism, Disability, and the World. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2916363 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:47:00 +0100 2916363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2916247&cid=t_100492_122_f&fid=34736&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FChannelN-PodcastsPoweredByOdiogo%2F%7E3%2FGK2kll18QPE%2Fart-and-pride.html Watch Mad But Glad [Part 1] Watch Mad But Glad [Part 2] Mad But Glad Very good UK documentary following Nick van Bloss, a pianist who has Tourette’s syndrome and thrives by using the instrument to channel creative energy and manage his condition. Delves into classic questions about the link between creativity and madness (and dopamine), with animated brain scans and comparisons to some creative correlates of autism, mania, and Parkinson’s. Part 1, and part 2. (Source: Channel N) Channel N blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2916247 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:30:39 +0100 2916247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912391&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FrSR7gT-UXvU%2F New research finds children with autism have mercury levels similar to those of other children. University of California, Davis scientists said that the study was the “most rigorous examination to date of blood-mercury levels in children with autism,” and cautioned that the study did not disprove or prove whether mercury plays a role in causing the disorder. The study looked at the mercury levels in 452 participants – 249 with autism, 143 without it and 60 who had other developmental delays – and found levels “essentially the same” in all the children. More is here. *     *     * Photo courtesy of shoothead (flickr.com) Massachusetts state Rep. Barbara L’Italien, whose child is autistic, has introduced a bill that would require schools to... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912391 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:31:03 +0100 2912391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912394&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35127&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthefamilyvoyage.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Faccentuate-positive.html Life is stressful now more than ever. But something wonderful has been happening and my inability to blog lately means I have not focussed on it as I usually would. My boy Duncan is doing really well. He is happy, settled, more focussed, talks loads, understands speech more and can carry out more complex instructions. His reading ability continues to improve. He has played lots of computer games and uses YouTube instruction videos (which have occasionally increased his vocabulary in less than optimal ways) when he gets stuck since he knows I'm no help. He also gets his brother Thomas to help him out now and then. The two boys are getting along really well. They have so much fun together though obviously they wind each other up at times too!Lady is growing up fast. She has a lot to deal wit... The Voyage blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912394 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:23:00 +0100 2912394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912486&cid=t_100492_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FvHJ-6peUh9s%2F My Proud Emma Grace For more Wordless Wednesday visit 5M4M (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912486 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:00:40 +0100 2912486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2908832&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FJCA4tf4uRbg%2F I attended the first part of Dr. Tony Atwood’s lecture on Asperger’s and high-functioning autism today in New York, presented by YAI. Though I could only attend the first part of the day-long talk, I’d highly recommend Dr. Atwood as a speaker: clear, humorous, and engaging. In announcing how he had to stop himself for the the morning break, for instance: “The longer you spend living with and working with those with ASDs, the more aspects of an ASD you pick up yourself!” Dr. Tony Atwood (photo courtesy YAI) Atwood, who has worked with Aspies for years and founded a clinic some 17 years ago to work specifically with those with the condition, spelled out many interesting aspects of Aspies, some well-known and some lesser-known: social awkwardness; obsessive int... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2908832 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:59:13 +0100 2908832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2908663&cid=t_100492_109_f&fid=35088&url=http%3A%2F%2Fqw88nb88.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F19%2Fwhat-you-want%2F I still feel queasy when I remember the words. Children have a certain disempowerment simply because they are young — they are naïve, less learned, and lack perspective. But this transcended childhood.  It sank past the boundaries of adult to child, or parent to child, and trampled my self-identity and self-determination. My mom had found a way [...] (Source: Andrea's Buzzing About:) Andrea's Buzzing About: blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2908663 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:48:51 +0100 2908663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2905058&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FAoWt02K9X-Y%2F From the Baltimore Sun comes a story on more accommodation for people with autism in public outings. Story opens with a kid who loves movies but rarely gets to go because he makes noises when he gets overwhelmed, according to his tutor. Now he goes to the movies at a Baltimore-area AMC Loews theater that hosts the monthly viewings for autistic children and their families. The lights are turned up a bit; the sound is turned down. No one minds if there’s an occasional shout or scream or comment. Photo courtesy of callme_crochet (flickr.com) The Baltimore area also has restaurants and churches showing an awareness and sensitivity to the autistic population with special services and specially trained staff. In New York City I’m not aware of any particular initiatives that would acc... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2905058 Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:06:18 +0100 2905058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2902925&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fmckinnon-extradition-halted-for-review%2F UK based hacker with Autism, Gary McKinnon has had his extradition to the United States halted for review.  The UK Home Secretary halted McKinnon’s extradition to review new medical evidence on McKinnon’s mental health.  McKinnon has admitted to and is charged with hacking into US Military Computer Systems.  According to McKinnon’s mother her son is [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2902925 Sun, 18 Oct 2009 08:45:41 +0100 2902925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2902923&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2Fr_Sp2kEO2cI%2F “Massachusetts may have the best health care in the country, but it doesn’t cover the treatment for the fastest-growing health threat to children – autism,” writes ex-NFL quarterback Doug Flutie, in the Boston Globe. “More than 500 babies born this year in Massachusetts will soon be diagnosed with autism. What their parents will learn first – what my wife, Laurie, and I have learned from our son Dougie – is that while the hopes and dreams for their child may change, they will also intensify.” A touchdown statement if I ever heard one. And here’s the extra point from the head the Flutie foundation for autism: “Parents will … be dismayed to discover that, though they’ve always paid their health care premiums, their health plans... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2902923 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 15:59:22 +0100 2902923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2901851&cid=t_100492_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F10%2F15-facts-about-copper-and-food-sources.html Copper isn't one of the necessary minerals that you hear about the most, but it's a trace mineral that plays important roles in the body, which include:1. Aiding the body in the production of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying molecule in the blood2. Works with Vitamin C to aid in formation of collagen...the part of the cell membrane that supports muscles and tissues.3. It conducts electricity so aids the nervous system 4. Oysters and nuts contain copper5. It's in drinking water that comes through copper pipes6. The fact that zinc and copper compete with one another for absorption in the digestive system should be considered7. Our body stores about 100 mg of copper, mostly in our liver and brain, the muscles contain the rest8. There are some who are concerned that we are getting too much copp... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2901851 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 18:46:00 +0100 2901851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899136&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2Fb1fT6y4sBtU%2F In an essay in Sunday’s New York Times, Joe Blair writes about his son with autism, who spends hours flicking a leather belt along a dirt path, watching the sinuous wave he creates, perhaps in an attempt to summon up his own surf. Blair’s writing is honest and beautiful. He took his son to see Amma, the hugging saint. He admits he doesn’t talk to his son much. Perhaps, he says, he “asked” for autism by asking God for a challenge when he was 10. And maybe I too feel like I asked for autism by wanting so desperately, when I was young, not to be the same as everyone else. To live an ordinary life like millions of other people would be, I thought, a kind of death. Photo courtesy of Wonderlane (flickr.com) Living with autism — the kind of autism that makes comm... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899136 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:03:59 +0100 2899136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899142&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautism-speaks-protest-boston-ma%2F Autistic people are planning to protest a fund raising walk held by Autism Speaks in Boston, MA this Sunday, October 18th.  Autistic people are getting quite upset with Autism Speaks, and there very bad behavior.  Recently Autism Speaks recently degraded autistic people in a video to solicit funds for their organization.  In the past they [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899142 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 07:04:03 +0100 2899142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899143&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fwhy-i-have-not-left-relationship-sick%2F Many people ask why I have not left Katelyn.  The answer is actually very simple.  Love, and commitment.  Yes Kate made some very serious accusations  about me, that I raped her which was proven false after she admitted it.  Katelyn is also currently living in an adult foster care setting and has a guardian.  The [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899143 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:52:07 +0100 2899143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894707&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautistic-boy-saves-teachers-life%2F In Houston, Texas an autistic child is being hailed as a hero.  Ten year old Kyle Forbes saved his teacher’s life.  Art Teacher Sherri Lowe and Kyle were alone in her class early Tuesday morning when Sherri began choking on an apple she was eating.  Kyle ran to the rescue and gave Lowe the Heimlich [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894707 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 02:10:55 +0100 2894707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2894708&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Frepairing-relationships-autism-aspergers-meltdown%2F When someone with Aspergers has an autistic meltdown it often puts stress on, damages and or destroys relationships of those close to them.  Those need to be repaired in order for things to move on.  During this last melt down, which was caused by some crappy accusations that can only be refuted by embarrassing truths, [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2894708 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:01:35 +0100 2894708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2899138&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F4O5T4s3NGrw%2F We were in Chinatown on Saturday, where we often eat Vietnamese food, but since I was about to go on a restricted diet for a couple of days I got to pick, and I was craving Cantonese. It was a tough decision, because a Vietnamese restaurant was a lot more likely to have some grilled chicken-on-a-stick that Alex would eat. But homestyle Chinese favorites were calling, so we went to China Village, an ordinary but great place on Baxter Street. Since we’ve been forcing Alex to taste things at home, it wasn’t that hard to get him to try some crispy dumpling skin — and he liked it! He ate quite a few pieces. We moved onto an order of fried rice (diced pork not a hit) and and chicken with broccoli (sliced chicken fairly successful),  chicken lo mein (sliced chicken a bigger hit). S... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2899138 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:25:56 +0100 2899138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890857&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F4O5T4s3NGrw%2F We were in Chinatown on Saturday, where we often eat Vietnamese food, but since I was about to go on a restricted diet for a couple of days I got to pick, and I was craving Cantonese. It was a tough decision, because a Vietnamese restaurant was a lot more likely to have some grilled chicken-on-a-stick that Alex would eat. But homestyle Chinese favorites were calling, so we went to China Village, an ordinary but great place on Baxter Street. Since we’ve been forcing Alex to taste things at home, it wasn’t that hard to get him to try some crispy dumpling skin — and he liked it! He ate quite a few pieces. We moved onto an order of fried rice (diced pork not a hit) and and chicken with broccoli (sliced chicken fairly successful),  chicken lo mein (sliced chicken a bigger hit). S... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890857 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:25:56 +0100 2890857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890859&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=35130&url=http%3A%2F%2Fautisticbfh.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Ftaking-to-streets.html People who don't understand that autism prevalence has remained stable often ask how there can't be an epidemic when they have seen large numbers of autistic children only in recent years. Where were all the autistic people before now?Of course, before the diagnostic criteria were broadened, most were not identified as autistic and were looked upon as part of the general population. Others were rarely or never seen in public because they were kept hidden away at home by their families or were sent to institutions.As reported by Hard Won Wisdom, it appears that at least one older autistic person is taking part in the ADAPT protests in Atlanta, Georgia, which began on Sunday, challenging the state's failure to close down institutions and to provide community services and supports instead. A ... Whose Planet Is It Anyway? blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890859 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:52:00 +0100 2890859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890861&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautism-police-brutality-victim-files-lawsuit%2F The family of a thirteen year old boy with Autism who was tazered last year and allegedly subjected to false arrest has filed a lawsuit and is seeking class action status.  According to the complaint the child was acting out in school and the family and police were called.  The child’s older sister arrived [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890861 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:52:58 +0100 2890861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890862&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Ftheft-takes-all-autistm-family%2F A family with an Autistic Son recently lost everything in North Texas to theft. They are traveling thousands of miles to go to central America to seek an experimental treatment for Autism.  They sold their home and almost everything they have to pay for the experimental treatment which is not covered by insurance. The rest of [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890862 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 05:29:20 +0100 2890862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890863&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fgirls-woman-autism-video-report-pddnos%2F A television station in Indiana is doing a week long special report on Woman and Autism.  The video from today is a very uplifting and enlighting story on what its like to be a woman on the autism spectrum.  Its about a young girl who has been diagnosed Pervasive Developmental Disorder (Not Otherwise Specified) also [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890863 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 01:11:28 +0100 2890863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890864&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Faspergers-sexual-side-effects%2F So awhile back when Kate was having a mental health breakdown she accused me of raping her.  Well that’s quite impossible for several reasons.  I’m writing this because the rape allegations were very public, and I feel its time to be honest about the truth so it may help others with similar situations as mine, [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890864 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:36:06 +0100 2890864 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890865&cid=t_100492_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fautism-speaks-protest-columbus-ohio-state-university%2F Many people with Autism protested at the Autism Speaks fund raising walk held at Ohio State University.  Autistics are protesting a recent video published by Autism Speaks that uses lies and fear mongering tactics to raise money for their organization.  Tactics hateful and incorrect statements as Autism Destroys marriage – when a recent study by [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890865 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:41:16 +0100 2890865