Drexel Brain & Sleep Study
Researchers at Drexel University are seeking child participants with Down syndrome and typically developing peers for a study of brain function and sleep.
Who can participate?
For children with Down syndrome, the study inclusion criteria are as follows. Child (a) is between the ages of 5 and 17 years, (b) has a genetically-confirmed diagnosis of Down syndrome due to trisomy 21 or translocation, (c) is free of traumatic brain injuries, seizure disorders, or other neurological disorders, and (d) comes from a household in which English is spoken.
For children with typical development, the study inclusion criteria are as follows. Child (a) is between the ages of 3 and 17 years, (b) is free of developmental, learning, neurological, and psychiatric disorders as well as a history of traumatic brain injury (c) is not taking psychotropic medications (i.e., medications for psychological, behavioral, or neurological conditions), and (d) comes from a household in which English is spoken.
Where does the study take place?
Research activities are completed at Drexel University. It may also be possible to arrange testing at another location if staffing and scheduling permits.
What can I expect to happen in this study?
Participation involves the following for children: (a) wearing a watch to monitor sleep for a week, and (b) completing testing to examine thinking and learning skills while brain function is measured using a portable neuroimaging device that is worn across the forehead and looks like an athletic headband. Participation for parents involves completing a log about their child’s sleep for two weeks and other study questionnaires. Families will be compensated for their time with a gift card. Additional compensation for parking costs will be provided.
How long am I part of the study?
For children, a watch will be worn for a week to monitor sleep and testing will take about 2 hours. For parents, questionnaire completion takes about 1.5 hours.
I want to learn more. Who do I contact for more information?
If you are interested in this research study, which has been approved by the Drexel University Institutional Review Board, please contact Dr. Nancy Raitano Lee at (215) 553-7164 or [email protected].
For more details about the study, view this informational video: Brain and Sleep Study Video.mp4
Select this link or scan the QR Code to share your contact information with study personnel to learn more about the study.
