How LEND training shaped a Waisman CASC clinician’s approach to inclusive care and communication access

Becca Stroschein realized while volunteering as an undergraduate student at a non-profit for autistic adults, that she held a deep passion for helping others find a form of communication that works for them so that they can have access to their community.

Tracy L. Hagemann, PhD – Slide of the Week

Alexander disease (AxD) is a rare neurological disorder caused by dominant gain-of-function mutations in the gene for glial acidic fibrillary protein (GFAP).

Early adversity strongly predicts adult mental health challenges in people with Down syndrome, new study finds

A new Waisman study found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to household challenges—can have lasting effects on adults with Down syndrome, including their mental health and ability to cope with life changes. While ACES are known to impact the general population, this research is among the first to show similar—and in some cases heightened—effects in individuals with Down syndrome.

Ido Haber & Aviad Hai, PhD – Slide of the Week

TI-Toolbox: An Open-Source Software for Temporal Interference Stimulation Research

The newly funded Autism Research Consortium seeks to accelerate timely access to care for autistic individuals

Researchers at the Waisman Center’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) were recently awarded a grant from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) to support research to improve the health and well-being of children and youth with autism.

In memoriam, Paul Rathouz, former Waisman executive team member and collaborator

Paul Rathouz, PhD, former Chair of the Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, passed away from complications of multiple myeloma on Wednesday afternoon, December 10, 2025. Paul served with distinction as the chair of the Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics from 2010-2017. He will be missed by those who knew him.

Austin Pier & Ngawang Namru (Gomez Laboratory) – Slide of the Week

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a monogenic mutation to either TSC1 or TSC2. Nearly one-half of TSC patients have mild to profound intellectual disabilities and autism, with the majority developing seizures and neuropsychiatric conditions.

How advanced MRI paired with neuropsychological testing shed light on how Temple Grandin’s brain processes the world

Temple Grandin, PhD, is likely the most well-known living autistic individual, both nationally and internationally.

The Baby Badger Network seeks to make genetic testing more accessible to critically-ill newborns throughout Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, a new initiative is transforming the landscape of neonatal care by making genetic testing more accessible for critically-ill newborns.

Peter Ferrazzano, MD – Slide of the Week

Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) is a complication of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) that carries a risk of secondary brain injury.