Kelly's Special Olympics Weekend

Special Olympics and What I did on April 20

This was the first competition of Special Olympics before I go to Fort Jackson. I did the 50 meter walk and the softball throw. I got second place in the 50 meter walk. It looked like I got first place because I was at the finish line first. But they said I got second place. Well hopefully I will get first place in the 50 meter walk when I go to Fort Jackson May 4-6. I got third place again this year in the softball throw. I’m getting tired of getting third place in the softball throw every year. They always put me in with the guys. That’s not fair because I can’t throw farther than the guys. But I had a lot of fun at the Owens Field. That’s where we went on April 20. That is what I did for Special Olympics. But I was supposed to go to the Joy prom that night. But I couldn’t go. I didn’t have a ride. After Special Olympics was over I got McDonald’s food then I went home. I had a great time on April 20. It was fun. On May 4-6 I’m going to Fort Jackson for Special Olympics. I’m going to do track and field. I will be in the 50 meter walk and the softball throw. I will be writing another article about Fort Jackson. Which I look forward to every year. I love Special Olympics. Special Olympics is my life.

Future Horizons Autism/Asperger's and Sensory Conference

Future Horizons Autism/Asperger's and Sensory Conference

Charleston, SC on Friday, June 15, at the Montague Terrace featuring two nationally-renowned, expert speakers, including Dr. Jed Baker, director of the acclaimed Social Skills Training Project, and the author of No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-Of-Control Behavior and The Social Skills Picture Book; and Carol Kranowitz, MA, author of bestselling The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder, who offers sensory strategies and activities that are applauded around the world.

Throughout the conference there will be an extensive resources/book table available, as well as excellent networking opportunities with other local parents/caregivers, therapists, counselors, special ed teachers, psychologists, physicians, social workers, etc., within the various ASD and SID related communities. (Outside exhibitor tables will be available via advance reservation for those interested.)

If you would like a free supply of the printed conference brochures to share with your clients, colleagues, family, friends, etc., please let me know.
For more information (including CEU & Graduate Credits), to register, and/or to download a (PDF) conference brochure, please visit Future Horizons' website at:

http://fhautism.com/Conferences/tabid/91/Default.aspx or call 800-489-0727.

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Free Webinar On Distance Ed and Learning Environments Accessibility

Accessibility in Distance Education Training
PRESENTERS: Kara Zirkle and Marci Kinas-Jerome, George Mason University
DATE: Thursday, May 10, 2012
TIME: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time

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Webinar Description:

This session will provide an overview of accessibility issues related to distance education training and learning environments. Distance Education, through both synchronous and asynchronous delivery, provide expanded opportunities to access training content as well as to interact with others within a convenient environment. Yet, accessibility of Distance Education tools, such as Blackboard and Adobe Connect, can frequently pose significant barriers to individuals with disabilities because they do not work well, if at all, with assistive technology tools designed to support those individuals. During this session we will feature commonly used Distance Education tools to highlight accessibility issues as well as to provide a framework for matching tools based on user needs and preferences.

Presenter Bios:

Marci Kinas Jerome is an assistant professor in special education and assistive technology at George Mason University. She serves and the academic program coordinator of the low incidence special education program at GMU as well as the project coordinator of a multi-university low incidence distance education training grant. Dr. Kinas Jerome also serves as professor in charge of the assistive technology certificate and masters program at GMU.

Kara Zirkle has worked at George Mason University as the IT Accessibility Coordinator for 4+ years. She works to ensure that the electronic and information technology (E&IT) is accessible to faculty, staff, students and public both with and without disabilities. She specifically looks at Section 508 compliance for the University as a whole which includes but not limited to: web and document accessibility, captioning of videos, transcript for audio and purchasing and procurement of applications.

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Obesity In Moms Ups Autism Odds

Disability Scoop (April 4, 2012)-The number of children born with autism is on the rise and so is obesity. Now researchers say the two may be linked.

In a study of more than 1,000 children, researchers found that mothers who were obese during pregnancy had a 67 percent greater chance of having a child with autism and were more than twice as likely to have a child with another developmental disorder. What’s more, moms with diabetes — which often occurs in those who are overweight — were 2.3 times more likely to have a child with developmental delay.

The findings published Monday in the journal Pediatrics are among the first to tie autism and developmental delay to the presence of metabolic conditions like obesity and diabetes in pregnant women. Researchers say their discoveries carry significant public health concerns, citing statistics showing that nearly 60 percent of American women of child-bearing age are overweight.

“It really was eye opening,” said Paula Krakowiak of the University of California at Davis who led the study. “This would add to reasons to do whatever you can to maintain your health.”

For the study, Krakowiak and her colleagues looked at over 500 children with autism, nearly 200 with other developmental delays and about 300 typically developing kids in California.

Through interviews with the children’s mothers and reviews of medical records, they found that obesity, diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy were significantly more common among mothers who gave birth to kids with developmental problems.

It’s unclear why metabolic issues like obesity would increase the odds of autism and other developmental problems, but Krakowiak said that the body’s reaction to such conditions could negatively affect a baby’s brain development.

“There are already benefits of modifying lifestyle — eating healthy and being active — but not only is it going to increase your own well-being, but it also might reduce the odds of adverse effects in your child,” Krakowiak said.

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Actor Noah Wyle, Disability Advocates Arrested In DC Protest

Disability Scoop (April 23, 2012)-Dozens of disability advocates — including actor Noah Wyle — were arrested Monday on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol while protesting possible changes to Medicaid.

The activists — many in wheelchairs — were participating in a demonstration organized by the disability rights group ADAPT. Members of the organization positioned themselves in the rotunda of the Cannon House Office Building and refused to leave prompting the arrests, according to ADAPT representatives.

Officials with the U.S. Capitol Police said they arrested 76 individuals at the protest who were charged with unlawful conduct and demonstrating in the Capitol.

Members of ADAPT say they are speaking out amid a “dire national Medicaid crisis.” Specifically, the group opposes a Republican plan to cut federal Medicaid funding and favors an elimination of the so-called “institutional bias” whereby states provide nursing care to individuals with disabilities in institutional settings, but often are not required to offer similar assistance in the community.

“Cutting or changing Medicaid without thoughtful reform has very real life or death consequences for people with disabilities and people who are aging who live on fixed incomes that are significantly below the poverty level,” said Marsha Katz who traveled from Montana to participate in the ADAPT actions. “Washington should be putting our tax dollars into cost-saving community based services, not costly nursing homes and institutions.”

Wyle, who is best known for appearing on NBC’s “ER” and is a vocal advocate for universal health care, joined the protesters and was among those detained.

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Strong Support for Once-Marginalized Theory On Parkinson’s Disease

ScienceDaily (Apr. 25, 2012) — University of California, San Diego scientists have used powerful computational tools and laboratory tests to discover new support for a once-marginalized theory about the underlying cause of Parkinson's disease.

The new results conflict with an older theory that insoluble intracellular fibrils called amyloids cause Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Instead, the new findings provide a step-by-step explanation of how a "protein-run-amok" aggregates within the membranes of neurons and punctures holes in them to cause the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

The discovery, published in the March 2012 issue of the FEBS Journal, describes how α-synuclein (a-syn), can turn against us, particularly as we age. Modeling results explain how α-syn monomers penetrate cell membranes, become coiled and aggregate in a matter of nanoseconds into dangerous ring structures that spell trouble for neurons.

"The main point is that we think we can create drugs to give us an anti-Parkinson's effect by slowing the formation and growth of these ring structures," said Igor Tsigelny, lead author of the study and a research scientist at the San Diego Supercomputer Center and Department of Neurosciences, both at UC San Diego.

Familial Parkinson's disease is caused in many cases by a limited number of protein mutations. One of the most toxic is A53T. Tsigelny's team showed that the mutant form of α-syn not only penetrates neuronal membranes faster than normal α-syn, but the mutant protein also accelerates ring formation.

To read more about Pakinson's Disease, please click on the title.

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How PCBs Promote Dendrite Growth, May Increase Autism Risk

ScienceDaily (Apr. 25, 2012) — New research from UC Davis and Washington State University shows that PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls, launch a cellular chain of events that leads to an overabundance of dendrites -- the filament-like projections that conduct electrochemical signals between neurons -- and disrupts normal patterns of neuronal connections in the brain.

"Dendrite growth and branching during early development is a finely orchestrated process, and the presence of certain PCBs confuses the conductor of that process," said Pamela Lein, a developmental neurobiologist and professor of molecular biosciences in the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. "Impaired neuronal connectivity is a common feature of a number of conditions, including autism spectrum disorders."

Reported April 24 in two related studies in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, the findings underscore the developing brain's vulnerability to environmental exposures and demonstrate how PCBs could add to autism risk.

"We don't think PCB exposure causes autism," Lein said, "but it may increase the likelihood of autism in children whose genetic makeup already compromises the processes by which neurons form connections."

The senior authors of the studies were Lein and Isaac Pessah, chair of molecular biosciences in the School of Veterinary Medicine and director of the Center for Children's Environmental Health at UC Davis. Both are researchers with the UC Davis MIND Institute, which is dedicated to finding answers to autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. The lead author was Gary Wayman of Washington State University's Program in Neuroscience, who first described the molecular pathway that controls the calcium signaling in the brain that guides normal dendrite growth.

To read more about PCBs and Autism, please click on the above title.

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Agent Reduces Autism-Like Behaviors in Mice: Boosts Sociability, Quells Repetitiveness

ScienceDaily (Apr. 25, 2012) — National Institutes of Health researchers have reversed behaviors in mice resembling two of the three core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). An experimental compound, called GRN-529, increased social interactions and lessened repetitive self-grooming behavior in a strain of mice that normally display such autism-like behaviors, the researchers say.

GRN-529 is a member of a class of agents that inhibit activity of a subtype of receptor protein on brain cells for the chemical messenger glutamate, which are being tested in patients with an autism-related syndrome. Although mouse brain findings often don't translate to humans, the fact that these compounds are already in clinical trials for an overlapping condition strengthens the case for relevance, according to the researchers.

"Our findings suggest a strategy for developing a single treatment that could target multiple diagnostic symptoms," explained Jacqueline Crawley, Ph.D., of the NIH's National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). "Many cases of autism are caused by mutations in genes that control an ongoing process -- the formation and maturation of synapses, the connections between neurons. If defects in these connections are not hard-wired, the core symptoms of autism may be treatable with medications."

Crawley, Jill Silverman, Ph.D., and colleagues at NIMH and Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Groton, CT, report on their discovery April 25th, 2012 in the journal Science Translational Medicine.

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South Carolina Youth Leadership Forum

YLF is Accepting Applications Through May 1st!

Students 17-21 years old are invited to attend the SC Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) on July 11-13, 2012 at Newberry College in Newberry, SC. This is a three-day program for SC students with disabilities who have demonstrated leadership potential in both their school and community. The leadership forum is designed to assist youth with disabilities in further developing leadership, citizenship, and social skills by using resources that can help them face challenges in becoming participating members of their communities.

There is no charge to attend YLF and all meals are provided. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from Newberry College. More information and the application can be found at http://www.scvrd.net/i_ylf.html . The completed application packet must be postmarked by April 16, 2012. Please indicate what assistive technology accommodations (e.g. fm system, text-to-speech software, magnifier, or wheelchair) you use and will need during the forum.

The forum will include guest speakers, small and large group discussions, team-building activities, ropes course, mentor luncheon, and FUN!

For more information contact:

SC YLF

c/o PROParents

652 Bush River Road

Suite 203

Columbia, SC 29210

803-734-8028

The SC Youth Leadership Forum is implemented by state and local partners including PRO-parents, Inc., South Carolina Assistive Technology Program, South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department, Continuum of Care, Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School, South Carolina Division of Career Development and Transition, South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council and South Carolina Department of Education.

To access the CDR Library Catalog, please click on this link.

Literacy Supports Workshop

There is still space available in the following free workshop:

Literacy Supports

Date: April 25, 2012

Time: 9:00 – 11:00am

Presenter: Valeska Gioia, SC Department of Education AT Specialist
Location:
SC Assistive Technology Resource Center
Poplar Building, Midlands Center
8301 Farrow Road
Columbia, SC

Cost: Free

Overview of various free aids that can facilitate learning in any classroom and how many students with and without disabilities can benefit by incorporating these study aids into the daily curriculum. Text-to-speech, free and low-cost digital books, speech recognition, colored overlay and concept mapping software will be demonstrated.

Register for the Literacy Supports workshop online

For information about other assistive technology workshops, go to the SCATP Training page http://www.sc.edu/scatp/trainingschedule.html

To read more about the Literacy Supports Workshop, please click on the above title.

To access the CDR Library Catalog, please click on this link.

Microsoft 7 Accessibility

Date: May 2, 2012

Time: 9:00 – 11:00am

Presenter: Valeska Gioia, SC Department of Education AT Specialist

Location:
SC Assistive Technology Resource Center
Poplar Building, Midlands Center
8301 Farrow Road
Columbia, SC

Cost: Free

Learn how Microsoft 7 has improved their accessibility options with a totally interactive speech recognition program, an on-screen keyboard with several input methods and an improved magnification system. We will also review how other accessibility options can improve learning and computer access for students and demonstrate how to set up Microsoft accessibility options for individual students or for the entire class.

Register for the Microsoft 7 Accessibility workshop online

For information about other assistive technology workshops, go to the SCATP Training page http://www.sc.edu/scatp/trainingschedule.html
To read more about Microsoft 7 accessibility, please click on the above title.
To access the CDR Library catalog, please click on this link.

New Stem Cell Found in Brain: Finding Could Be Key to Developing Methods to Heal and Repair Brain Injury and Disease

ScienceDaily (Apr. 20, 2012) — "Researchers at Lund University in Sweden have discovered a new stem cell in the adult brain. These cells can proliferate and form several different cell types -- most importantly, they can form new brain cells. Scientists hope to take advantage of the finding to develop methods to heal and repair disease and injury in the brain.
Analyzing brain tissue from biopsies, the researchers for the first time found stem cells located around small blood vessels in the brain. The cell's specific function is still unclear, but its plastic properties suggest great potential.

"A similar cell type has been identified in several other organs where it can promote regeneration of muscle, bone, cartilage and adipose tissue," said Patrik Brundin, M.D., Ph.D., Jay Van Andel Endowed Chair in Parkinson's Research at Van Andel Research Institute (VARI), Head of the Neuronal Survival Unit at Lund University and senior author of the study.

In other organs, researchers have shown clear evidence that these types of cells contribute to repair and wound healing. Scientists suggest that the curative properties may also apply to the brain. The next step is to try to control and enhance stem cell self-healing properties with the aim of carrying out targeted therapies to a specific area of the brain.

"Our findings show that the cell capacity is much larger than we originally thought, and that these cells are very versatile," said Gesine Paul-Visse, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Neuroscience at Lund University and the study's primary author. "Most interesting is their ability to form neuronal cells, but they can also be developed for other cell types. The results contribute to better understanding of how brain cell plasticity works and opens up new opportunities to exploit these very features."

The study, published in the journal PLoS ONE, is of interest to a broad spectrum of brain research. Future possible therapeutic targets range from neurodegenerative diseases to stroke."

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South Carolina Roadmap to Developmental Screening

The South Carolina Act Early team is pleased to provide the South Carolina Roadmap to Developmental Screening to people interested in developmental screening and services related to Autism Spectrum Disorders. The roadmap was developed by a team focused on collaboration among leaders representing professionals, state agencies, universities, health care systems, private organizations and families to improve quality of life for children and others with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families.
The resource is intended as a guide that explains where to receive assistance for a child that may be at risk for an Autism Spectrum Disorder. It also provides an explanation of services, state agencies, assessments, and interventions relevant to this issue. Contact information for the key agencies and organizations is also provided.
You can see a PDF version of the roadmap by clicking on the title above. You can also download a copy from the following websites:

SC Department of Disabilities & Special Needs
http://www.ddsn.sc.gov

BabyNet
http://www.scfirststeps.org/BabyNet.html

USC Center for Disability Resources
http://uscm.med.sc.edu/cdrhome/index.asp

South Carolina Autism Society
http://www.scautism.org/roadmap.php

Greenville Hospital
http://www.ghschildrens.org/autism-­‐wonders-­‐home.php

Winston’s Wish Foundation
www.winstonswishfoundation.com

Team for Early Childhood Solutions
http://uscm.med.sc.edu/tecs/

SC Department of Education
http://ed.sc.gov

Family Connection of South Carolina
http://www.familyconnectionsc.org/

NOTE: To access the Center for Disability Resources Library, click on this link.