Community-Based Screening Model Speeds Up Autism Diagnoses

A groundbreaking study led by the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation (CASSI) has revealed that a community-based screening model is significantly improving the speed and accessibility of autism diagnoses, especially for children in underserved communities. The research, published in Pediatric Investigation, highlights how the Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism…

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St. Patrick’s Day Embraces Autism Awareness

As St. Patrick’s Day festivities unfold across Ireland and beyond, a notable trend is emerging: the incorporation of autism-friendly initiatives into traditional celebrations. This shift towards inclusivity ensures that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the vibrant parades and events that mark this special day. Sensory-Friendly Parades in Ireland Several towns in Ireland are…

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New Insights into the Genetic Underpinnings of Autism

Christopher Walsh’s lab at Boston Children’s Hospital has made significant strides in understanding the complex genetic landscape of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A recent study, led by key investigator Rebecca Andersen, has shed new light on how a network of genes contributes to autism. This research, shared on bioRxiv in January 2025, involves knocking down…

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Scientists Unravel the Neural Basis of Autism and Neurodivergence

Researchers at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre at University College London (UCL) have made significant strides in understanding the neural mechanisms underlying behavioral strategies, with profound implications for neurodivergent conditions like autism. Their study, focusing on the median raphe nucleus (MRN) in mice, sheds light on how specific neural circuits influence decision-making and behavioral flexibility. The…

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Trump’s NIH Nominee Sparks Controversy Over Vaccine-Autism Research Comments

In a contentious Senate confirmation hearing on March 5, 2025, Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH), ignited a firestorm of debate with his comments on vaccine safety and autism research. Bhattacharya, a Stanford University professor of medicine, expressed openness to funding new studies exploring potential links…

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Hinge Launches Neurodivergent-Friendly Features to Foster Authentic Connections

Hinge has introduced innovative features to better support neurodivergent daters, addressing communication challenges and fostering more inclusive connections. The centerpiece is Match Note, launched on February 26, 2025, which allows users to privately share key personal details with matches before starting a conversation. Developed with input from neurodivergent communities and organizations like Disability:IN, the feature…

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Insights from ADHD and Autistic Tutors

Dev has a great article discussing how tutors with ADHD and autism can effectively tutor students, drawing from the author’s personal experience as a neurodivergent educator. Here are the key points: Understanding Neurodivergent Tutors Innovative Teaching Methods Engaging and Interactive Lessons Strengths of Tutors with Autism Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Tutors The article emphasizes the…

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Leading Autism Care Software Provider Explores $1 Billion Sale

CentralReach, a company at the forefront of autism care technology, has recently engaged investment bank William Blair to explore a potential sale. Founded in 2012, the company has grown into a leading provider of electronic health records (EHR) software specifically tailored for autism and related intellectual and developmental disorders. This specialized focus has positioned CentralReach…

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