Epigenetic processes, including DNA methylation, are emerging as key areas of interest for their potential roles as biomarkers and contributors to the risk of neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and other brain-based disorders. Despite this growing focus, there remains a notable gap in our understanding of how DNA methylation correlates with individual variations in brain function and structure. Additionally, the dynamics of these relationships during developmental periods, which are critical windows during which many disorders first appear, are still largely unexplored.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSelf-collection of dried blood samples (DBS) in the participant's home provides an alternative to university/hospital visits for research and has the potential to improve the representation of population heterogeneity in research. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of guardian and/or self-DBS collection in healthy youth in the lab and home. Guardians/youth [ = 140; females = 63; = 8.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFConsumer wearables and health monitors, internet-based health and cognitive assessments, and at-home biosample (e.g., saliva and capillary blood) collection kits are increasingly used by public health researchers for large population-based studies without requiring intensive in-person visits.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows important visualization of the brain and central nervous system anatomy and organization. However, unlike electroencephalography (EEG) or functional near infrared spectroscopy, which can be brought to a patient or study participant, MRI remains a hospital or center-based modality. Low magnetic field strength MRI systems, however, offer the potential to extend beyond these traditional hospital and imaging center boundaries.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFRunning is one of the most popular forms of exercise, thus overuse injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and tibial stress fractures are also common. Barefoot/forefoot running has shown promise to reduce overuse injuries by decreasing the impact upon contact with the ground. The arch of the foot utilizes a 'spring' system that simultaneously reduces impact and propels the stride forward.
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