Developmental Emotional Intelligence
Focusing especially on structural and functional MRI studies of the brain, we aim to elucidate brain mechanisms in children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, we will look for useful biomarkers in clinical settings, based on the biological mechanisms. We are also involved in research to elucidate the effects of trauma and the nurturing environment on the neural basis of neurodevelopmental disorders, and to establish novel support for neurodevelopmental disorders.
In order to carry out the above-mentioned research, advanced knowledge and skills are required in a wide range of fields such as developmental pediatrics, psychiatry, radiology, psychology, neuroscience, informatics, and pedagogy. Therefore, we are actively promoting collaboration with researchers from various fields and backgrounds, and with other research institutes, not only within the University of Fukui but also overseas.
Staff
Psychosocial Support for Nurturing
(Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, University of Fukui)In recent years, the topic of neurodevelopmental disorders and child maltreatment as an issue facing Japanese society has gained considerable attention with regard to the field of medicine and educations and also in scenarios that relate to childcare. Recent studies reveal that maltreatment during childhood can cause abnormal brain development and have a negative impact later in life. We will introduce the mechanisms of maltreatment-related brain damage or adaptation with consideration of how and when child maltreatment or ICT can have impact on the brain development.
Achievement will be evaluated according to the following criteria. 1) Proposal of appropriate research projects on the basis of understanding the background on the latest molecular biogenetic research. 2) Understanding how to investigate human brain development and psychomotor development. 3) Logical/proper experimental design that identifies degradation in cortical development induced by emotional stress and trauma. 4) Novel findings obtained by analytical approaches that can contribute to a better understanding of the selected research theme.
Development of Functional Brain Activities
We have been actively involved on research aimed at understanding the development of social brain functions at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels. This course will present fundamental principles of social neuroscience focusing on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) via understanding of molecular and behavioral mechanism in brain development.
In this course, students can learn the followings, (1) Exploratory research on therapeutic targets applicable to ASD medicine (Based on blood samples and brain imaging findings obtained from ASD patients, students will search for molecules expressed specifically in subjects with ASD and study medical applications), and (2) ASD animal model research (Using animals model that represent the clinical symptoms of ASD, students will engage in pathophysiology research to elucidate the mechanism underlying specific energy metabolism or synaptic transmission in ASD).
Developmental Emotional Intelligence
Focusing especially on structural and functional MRI studies of the brain, we aim to elucidate brain mechanisms in children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, we will look for useful biomarkers in clinical settings, based on the biological mechanisms. We are also involved in research to elucidate the effects of trauma and the nurturing environment on the neural basis of neurodevelopmental disorders, and to establish novel support for neurodevelopmental disorders.
In order to carry out the above-mentioned research, advanced knowledge and skills are required in a wide range of fields such as developmental pediatrics, psychiatry, radiology, psychology, neuroscience, informatics, and pedagogy. Therefore, we are actively promoting collaboration with researchers from various fields and backgrounds, and with other research institutes, not only within the University of Fukui but also overseas.
Staff
Psychosocial Support for Nurturing
(Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, University of Fukui)In recent years, the topic of neurodevelopmental disorders and child maltreatment as an issue facing Japanese society has gained considerable attention with regard to the field of medicine and educations and also in scenarios that relate to childcare. Recent studies reveal that maltreatment during childhood can cause abnormal brain development and have a negative impact later in life. We will introduce the mechanisms of maltreatment-related brain damage or adaptation with consideration of how and when child maltreatment or ICT can have impact on the brain development.
Achievement will be evaluated according to the following criteria. 1) Proposal of appropriate research projects on the basis of understanding the background on the latest molecular biogenetic research. 2) Understanding how to investigate human brain development and psychomotor development. 3) Logical/proper experimental design that identifies degradation in cortical development induced by emotional stress and trauma. 4) Novel findings obtained by analytical approaches that can contribute to a better understanding of the selected research theme.
Development of Functional Brain Activities
We have been actively involved on research aimed at understanding the development of social brain functions at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels.
In addition, empirical research related to experiences of violence and inappropriate parenting, development of child support programs, and research on cognitive functions in children with neurodevelopmental disorders will be pursued. This course will present fundamental principles of social neuroscience focusing on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) via understanding of molecular and behavioral mechanism in brain development. In this course, students can learn the followings,
(1) Exploratory research on therapeutic targets applicable to ASD medicine (Based on blood samples and brain imaging findings obtained from ASD patients, students will search for molecules expressed specifically in subjects with ASD and study medical applications)
(2) ASD animal model research (Using animals model that represent the clinical symptoms of ASD, students will engage in pathophysiology research to elucidate the mechanism underlying specific energy metabolism or synaptic transmission in ASD).
(3) Empirical research on the cycle of violence, developing treatment programs to reduce the " potential violence " of children who have experienced violence.
(4) The design and development of support programs for children in need of various types of support, and the implementation and measurement of the effectiveness of the programs.
(5) Empirical research on the genesis and maintenance mechanisms of educational maltreatment, as well as its support and prevention.
(6) Research on the cognitive functions of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, with an emphasis on autistic spectrum disorder and specific Learning Disorder.