Screening could lead to further genetic analysis and advancements in the study and treatment of the disorders VIDEO:Autism is a spectrum of closely related disorders diagnosed in patients who exhibit a shared core of symptoms, including delays in learning to communicate and interact socially. Early detection of... view more COLUMBIA, Mo. - Autism is a spectrum of closely related disorders diagnosed in patients who exhibit a shared core of symptoms, including delays in learning to communicate and interact socially. Early detection of autism in children is the key for treatments to be most effective and produce the best outcomes. Using advanced three-dimensional imaging and statistical analysis techniques, researchers at the University of Missouri have identified facial measurements in children with autism that may lead to a screening tool for young children and provide clues to its genetic causes. "We want to detect the specific facial traits of the face of a child with autism," said Ye Duan, associate professor of computer science in the College of Engineering at MU. "Doing so might help us define the facial structures common to children with autism and potentially enable early screening for the disorder." Expanding upon previous studies using two-dimensional imaging, Duan, working … Continue reading →

Connecticut must strengthen the bridge between the teen and adult worlds for young people with autism so more of the nearly 12,000 students on the autism spectrum can live and work independently as they reach their early 20s, a state study concludes. HARTFORD Connecticut must strengthen the bridge between the teen and adult worlds for the nearly 12,000 young people with autism, so that more can live and work independently as they reach their early 20s, a state study concludes. A recent study by the legislature's program review and investigations committee found that "transitional services" programs that try to prepare teenagers with autism for an independent life generally start now at age 16 in schools, but need to begin years earlier. The study also said that the state should increase housing and job-placement assistance to young people with autism, and that services in general for 18- to 21-year-olds need to be expanded in the face of a dramatic rise in the number of people diagnosed with autism. The full report is at http://www.cga.ct.gov/pri/2014_ASD.asp. Fifteen years ago, the federal government estimated that 1 in 166 children had autism. Now, whether it is environmental, genetic, or the result of better reporting, more … Continue reading →

By - Associated Press - Tuesday, January 13, 2015 RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Lawyers for a Virginia inmate with autism and an IQ of 69 have asked Gov. Terry McAuliffe to grant a conditional pardon so their client can get treatment. Reginald Latson of Stafford County was sentenced last week to six months in jail for assaulting a correctional officer, one of three clashes he has had with law enforcement since 2010. Hes been jailed twice and held for long periods in solitary confinement. The 23-year-old Latsons supporters attribute the incidents to an autism-related fight or flight reflex. In a petition dated Monday, attorneys say its wrong to keep Latson locked up for his disabilities. They say a pardon would allow his immediate transfer to a secure treatment center in Florida. McAuliffes office did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. The rest is here: Pardon sought so Va. inmate with autism can get treatment … Continue reading →