Gut-Induced Inflammation during Development May Compromise the Blood-Brain Barrier and Predispose to Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Recently, the gut microbiome has gained considerable interest as one of the major contributors to the pathogenesis of multi-system inflammatory disorders. Several studies have suggested that the gut microbiota plays a role in modulating complex signaling pathways, predominantly via the bidirectional gut-brain-axis (GBA). Subsequent in vivo studies have demonstrated the direct role of altered gut microbes and metabolites in the progression of neurodevelopmental diseases.

Effectiveness of a coordinated community effort to promote early literacy behaviors.

The purpose of this study is to report on the effectiveness of a coordinated, community-wide intervention to promote early literacy behaviors with low-income parents, especially parents with limited English language proficiency. The interventions include book distribution programs that were based in clinical settings, childcare centers and home visitation programs. The intent of these interventions was to communicate a message that reading to infants and young children and accessing services at the public library are beneficial.

Severity and correlates of depressive symptoms among recipients of meals on wheels: age, gender, and racial/ethnic difference.

In this study, we briefly described a large urban Meals on Wheels program's adoption of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) as its depression-screening tool. Then we reported the assessment outcomes with respect to the rates, severity, and correlates of depressive symptoms. The sample consisted of 736 MOW clients.

Self-recognition of and provider response to maternal depressive symptoms in low-income Hispanic women.

Background: One quarter of mothers of young children experience high levels of depressive symptoms, and only half are identified by themselves or their providers. Little is known about what factors influence maternal and provider recognition of depression. We use data from the San Mateo County, California, Prenatal to Three project to explore self-recognition, provider response, and referral among low-income Hispanic mothers of infants and toddlers.

Prevalence of maternal depressive symptoms in low-income Hispanic women.

Background: Maternal depression can have significant repercussions for the health and well-being of mothers and children. In primarily white middle-income populations, approximately 15% of mothers experience depression. Among ethnically and socioeconomically diverse populations, the prevalence of maternal depression has not been as well established.

A strength-based and early relationship approach to infant mental health assessment.

This paper presents a strength-based assessment process that focuses on infant emotional development within the family context. The assessment model, developed over the past five years within a preventive mental health program, represents a shift from deficit to strength-based principles that are consistent with appropriate developmental practice. The strength-based assessment process presented achieves an understanding of the infant's competencies and areas of need, and considers the negative impact that maternal mental illness has on the infant's emotional development.