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Cerebral palsy (CP) is a nonprogressive neurological disorder and the most common physical disability of childhood. There is no cure for CP, but stem cells have the potential to improve brain injury and hence function. This phase 1 clinical trial investigated the safety of the intravenous infusion of full-matched sibling cord blood cells for children with CP aged 1 to 16 years. Preliminary efficacy outcomes were also investigated. Twelve participants received 12/12 HLA-matched sibling cord blood cell infusions. One treatable serious adverse reaction to cryoprotectant was observed, and no adverse reactions occurred beyond 24 h after infusion. Gross motor function measure (GMFM-66) scores did not improve compared with baseline beyond what could be expected from developmental levels, and participants had varied changes in the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST) and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS-II) scores. In conclusion, matched sibling cord blood cell infusion for children with CP is relatively safe when conducted in an appropriate facility. Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616000403437) and Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03087110).

PURPOSE. The purpose of this executive summary is to review the process and outcomes of the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy Research Summit V, “Optimizing transitions from infancy to young adulthood in children with neuromotor disabilities: biological and environmental factors to support functional independence.” SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS. An interdisciplinary group of researchers, representatives from funding agencies, and individuals with neuromotor disabilities and their parents participated in an intensive 2.5-day summit to determine research priorities to optimize life transitions for children with neuromotor disabilities. Recommended priorities for research included: (1) Promoting self-determination and self-efficacy of individuals with neuromotor disabilities and their families, (2) Best care at the right time: evidence-based best practice care, led and navigated by families seamlessly across the lifespan, (3) Strengthening connections between developmental domains to enhance function and participation, and (4) Optimal dosing and timing to support adaptive bone, muscle, and brain plasticity across the lifespan.

Background aims Umbilical cord blood (UCB) infusion is being investigated as a treatment for a range of neurological conditions, primarily because of its potent immunomodulatory effects mediated via paracrine signaling. Although initial research mainly utilized autologous UCB, allogeneic samples from a sibling or unrelated donor have now become more common. With the use of allogeneic UCB, questions have arisen surrounding the necessity for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching, preparative regimens and immunosuppressant drugs. To investigate the safety of allogeneic UCB for the treatment of neurological conditions and the impact of HLA mismatching and immunosuppresion, the authors conducted a systematic review of the safety of allogeneic UCB infusion for neurological conditions. Methods A systematic review of published and gray literature was conducted to investigate the safety of allogeneic UCB infusions for neurological conditions. Results Authors identified 10 studies using allogeneic UCB to treat autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, stroke, traumatic brain injury and various other conditions. A total of 361 participants (with at least 442 UCB infusions) received a range of HLA-matched/untyped allogeneic units and cell doses, with the majority not administered post-infusion immunosuppression. There were no reported serious adverse events definitely or probably related to the allogeneic UCB infusion, nor later potential complications such as graft-versus-host disease or teratoma formation. Conclusions Although variability between studies is high, the available data do not identify safety concerns with allogeneic UCB infusion for the treatment of neurological conditions, even with variable HLA matching or no immunosuppression.

CONTEXT Discovering new interventions to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes is a priority; however, clinical trials are challenging and methodological issues may impact the interpretation of intervention efficacy. OBJECTIVES Characterize the proportion of infant neurodevelopment trials reporting a null finding and identify features that may contribute to a null result. DATA SOURCES The Cochrane library, Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases. STUDY SELECTION Randomized controlled trials recruiting infants aged DATA EXTRACTION Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed quality of included studies. RESULTS Of n = 1283 records screened, 21 studies (from 20 reports) were included. Of 18 superiority studies, >70% reported a null finding. Features were identified that may have contributed to the high proportion of null findings, including selection and timing of the primary outcome measure, anticipated effect size, sample size and power, and statistical analysis methodology and rigor. LIMITATIONS Publication bias against null studies means the proportion of null findings is likely underestimated. Studies assessing neurodevelopment as a secondary or within a composite outcome were excluded. CONCLUSIONS This review identified a high proportion of infant neurodevelopmental trials that produced a null finding and detected several methodological and design considerations which may have contributed. We make several recommendations for future trials, including more sophisticated approaches to trial design, outcome assessment, and analysis.

Feeding difficulties are often reported in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and are associated with caregiver stress. This study explored the feeding experiences and support of caregivers with children who have CP. A qualitative approach was used where semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted and audio recorded. Thematic analysis was used to code and analyse the transcribed interview data from the eleven mothers that participated. Four major themes were identified from the data: Child-centred world, Making decisions, Knowing their child, and Seeking and receiving support. Caregivers knew their child’s unique needs and made daily decisions around feeding based upon the child’s feedback and changing condition. Family support was viewed as important, although the caregivers still reported feeling stressed. Health professional support varied from “amazing” to “frustrating”, which contributed to the caregivers’ stress. However, no single support strategy was appropriate as their needs or preferences varied. It is recommended that health professionals take an individualised partnership approach with caregivers and their child, with particular attention to those caregivers who lack a friend or family support and those who are physically isolated., Highlights Provides insight into caregivers’ experiences in managing feeding difficulties of their child with cerebral palsy.Major themes were: child-centred world, making decisions, knowing their child, and seeking and receiving support.Caregivers experienced stress in many aspects of their child’s feeding difficulties.Health professional support should be individualised, reasonable, and timely.A variety of support strategies should be used to meet the different needs and preferences of caregivers.

IntroductionCerebral palsy (CP) is the most common childhood physical disability. Accurate diagnosis before 6 months is possible using predictive tools and decision-making skills. Yet diagnosis is typically made at 12–24 months of age, hindering access to early interventions that improve functional outcomes. Change in practice is required for physicians in key diagnostic behaviours. This study aims to close the identified research–practice gap and increase accurate CP diagnosis before 6 months of age through tailored web-based implementation interventions. This trial will determine whether adaptive e-learning using virtual patients, targeting CP diagnostic behaviours and clinical decision-making skills, effectively changes physician behaviour and practice compared with non-adaptive e-learning instructional design or control.Methods and analysisThis study is a 3-arm parallel superiority randomised controlled trial of two tailored e-learning interventions developed to expedite physician CP diagnosis. The trial will compare adaptive (arm 1) and non-adaptive (arm 2) instructional designs with waitlist control (arm 3) to evaluate change in physician behaviour, skills and diagnostic practice. A sample size of 275 paediatric physicians enables detection of small magnitude effects (0.2) of primary outcomes between intervention comparators with 90% power (α=0.05), allowing for 30% attrition. Barrier analysis, Delphi survey, Behaviour Change Wheel and learning theory frameworks guided the intervention designs. Adaptive and non-adaptive video and navigation sequences utilising virtual patients and clinical practice guideline content were developed, integrating formative key features assessment targeting clinical decision-making skills relative to CP diagnosis.Physician outcomes will be evaluated based on postintervention key feature examination scores plus preintervention/postintervention behavioural intentions and practice measures. Associations with CP population registers will evaluate real-world diagnostic patient outcomes. Intervention costs will be reported in a cost–consequence analysis from funders’ and societal perspectives.Ethics and disseminationEthics approved from The University of Sydney (Project number 2021/386). Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences.Trial registration numberAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN 12622000184774.

Cell therapies are an emergent treatment for cerebral palsy (CP) with promising evidence demonstrating efficacy for improving gross motor function. However, families value improvements in a range of domains following intervention and the non-motor symptoms, comorbidities and complications of CP can potentially be targeted by cell therapies. We conducted a scoping review to describe all outcomes that have been reported in cell therapy studies for CP to date, and to examine what instruments were used to capture these. Through a systematic search we identified 54 studies comprising 2066 participants that were treated with a range of cell therapy interventions. We categorized the reported 53 unique outcome instruments and additional descriptive measures into 10 categories and 12 sub-categories. Movement and Posture was the most frequently reported outcome category, followed by Safety, however Quality of Life, and various prevalent comorbidities and complications of CP were infrequently reported. Notably, many outcome instruments used do not have evaluative properties and thus are not suitable for measuring change following intervention. We provide a number of recommendations to ensure that future trials generate high-quality outcome data that is aligned with the priorities of the CP community.

Umbilical cord blood cells have therapeutic potential for neurological disorders, through a paracrine mechanism of action. A greater understanding of the safety and immunological effects of allogeneic donor cord blood cells in the context of a healthy recipient immune system, such as in cerebral palsy, is needed. This study aimed to determine how quickly donor cord blood cells were cleared from the circulation in children with cerebral palsy who received a single intravenous infusion of 12/12 human leucocyte antigen (HLA) matched sibling cord blood cells. Twelve participants with cerebral palsy aged 2-12 years received cord blood cell infusions as part of a phase I trial of umbilical blood infusion for cerebral palsy. Digital droplet PCR analysis of DNA copy number variants specific to donor and recipient was used to assess donor DNA clearance at five timepoints post infusion, a surrogate measure of cell clearance. Donor cells were cleared from 3 months post-infusion in 11/12 participants. When detected, donor DNA was at a fraction of 0.01 - 0.31% of total DNA with no signs of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) in any participant. The donor DNA clearance times provided by this study have important implications for understanding safety of allogeneic cord blood cell infusion for cerebral palsy and translational tissue engineering or regenerative medicine research in other disorders.

AIM: To provide recommendations for interventions to improve physical function for children and young people with cerebral palsy. METHOD: An expert panel prioritized questions and patient-important outcomes. Using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methods, the panel assessed the certainty of evidence and made recommendations, with international expert and consumer consultation. RESULTS: The guideline comprises 13 recommendations (informed by three systematic reviews, 30 randomized trials, and five before-after studies). To achieve functional goals, it is recommended that intervention includes client-chosen goals, whole-task practice within real-life settings, support to empower families, and a team approach. Age, ability, and child/family preferences need to be considered. To improve walking ability, overground walking is recommended and can be supplemented with treadmill training. Various approaches can facilitate hand use goals: bimanual therapy, constraint-induced movement therapy, goal-directed training, and cognitive approaches. For self-care, whole-task practice combined with assistive devices can increase independence and reduce caregiver burden. Participation in leisure goals can combine whole-task practice with strategies to address environmental, personal, and social barriers. INTERPRETATION: Intervention to improve function for children and young people with cerebral palsy needs to include client-chosen goals and whole-task practice of goals. Clinicians should consider child/family preferences, age, and ability when selecting specific interventions.

In the field of disability research and advocacy, the notion of 'cures' is contentious. Cerebral palsy (CP) is no exception. In this narrative review, we combine perspectives gained during community consultation undertaken for the Australian and New Zealand Cerebral Palsy Strategy, 2020 with those published in the scientific and grey literature to understand whether 'cures for CP' is a reasonable and appropriate goal. We frame these perspectives through the lens of several ethical principles central to the discussion. These include maintaining hope while also being realistic, sensitivity to sharply different viewpoints amongst people with disability and their families, and responding to community priorities, societal attitudes, and identity. Through this exploration of the literature and perspectives, we arrived at a definition of 'cures for CP' that is pluralized and focuses on functional improvement and/or symptom reduction whilst still acknowledging the potential for neural repair/regeneration strategies.

Resume L’annonce du diagnostic de handicap aux parents de jeunes enfants est un moment difficile pour les parents comme pour le medecin, mais le faire est un imperatif autant moral que medical. La methodologie comme la maniere de le faire sont cependant importantes. Un defaut de communication entre les parents et les medecins peut affecter la sante psychologique des parents. Cet article constitue une adaptation et une explication de la maniere d’utiliser le protocole SPIKES pour annoncer la « mauvaise nouvelle » d’un diagnostic de trouble du developpement a des familles d’enfants de moins de douze mois, la paralysie cerebrale servant d’exemple. Dans un deuxieme temps, il decrit et explique l’eventail des reponses des parents a l’annonce de cette mauvaise nouvelle, depuis « attente vigilante » jusqu’a « acceptation ». Le besoin de connaissances des parents va des causes et pronostics aux traitements et leurs resultats. Les questions frequemment posees et les suggestions de reponses sont presentees en utilisant les scenarios cliniques d’enfants diagnostiques recemment.

Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor disability of childhood. Its early identification is an important priority for parents and is critical for access to early intervention resources, which may optimize function. Methods A prospective cohort of term neonates at high risk for CP was assessed by neonatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine myelination of the posterior limb of the internal capsule, General Movements Assessment to assess typical fidgety movements at age three months, and followed to at least age two years to determine diagnosis of CP based on neurological examination. Results Seven of 58 children developed CP (12%), two with moderate/severe CP. Sensitivity and specificity for abnormal myelination of the posterior limb of the internal capsule were (PLIC) was 29% and 94%, and for absent fidgety movements, 29% and 98%, respectively. Negative predictive value of both absent myelination of the PLIC and absent fidgety movements was 90% (79% to 96%) for any CP and 98% (90% to 100%) for moderate/severe CP cerebral palsy. None of the children with both normal PLIC and normal fidgety movements had moderate/severe CP. Conclusion Normal neonatal MRI and General Movements Assessment at age three months are reassuring that a high-risk term-born child is at low risk for moderate/severe CP. These results are important for counseling parents and individualizing therapy resources in the community.

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are five times more likely than typically developing children to have sleep problems, resulting in adverse outcomes for both children and their families. The purpose of this systematic review was to gather current evidence regarding assessments and interventions for sleep in children under age 2 years with or at high risk for CP and integrate these findings with parent preferences.Five databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, OVID/Medline, SCOPUS, and PsycINFO) were searched. Included articles were screened using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines, and quality of the evidence was reviewed using best evidence tools by two independent reviewers at minimum. An online survey was conducted regarding parent preferences through social media channels.Eleven articles met inclusion criteria. Polysomnography emerged as the only high-quality assessment for the population. Three interventions (medical cannabis, surgical interventions, and auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular stimulations) were identified; however, each only had one study of effectiveness. The quality of evidence for polysomnography was moderate, while the quality and quantity of the evidence regarding interventions was low. Survey respondents indicated that sleep assessments and interventions are highly valued, with caregiver-provided interventions ranked as the most preferable.Further research is needed to validate affordable and feasible sleep assessments compared to polysomnography as the reference standard. In the absence of diagnosis-specific evidence of safety and efficacy of sleep interventions specific to young children with CP, it is conditionally recommended that clinicians follow guidelines for safe sleep interventions for typically developing children.

Background Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are five times more likely than typically developing children to have sleep problems, resulting in adverse outcomes for both children and their families. The purpose of this systematic review was to gather current evidence regarding assessments and interventions for sleep in children under age 2 years with or at high risk for CP and integrate these findings with parent preferences. Methods Five databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, OVID/Medline, SCOPUS, and PsycINFO) were searched. Included articles were screened using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines, and quality of the evidence was reviewed using best evidence tools by two independent reviewers at minimum. An online survey was conducted regarding parent preferences through social media channels. Results Eleven articles met inclusion criteria. Polysomnography emerged as the only high-quality assessment for the population. Three interventions (medical cannabis, surgical interventions, and auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular stimulations) were identified; however, each only had one study of effectiveness. The quality of evidence for polysomnography was moderate, while the quality and quantity of the evidence regarding interventions was low. Survey respondents indicated that sleep assessments and interventions are highly valued, with caregiver-provided interventions ranked as the most preferable. Conclusions Further research is needed to validate affordable and feasible sleep assessments compared to polysomnography as the reference standard. In the absence of diagnosis-specific evidence of safety and efficacy of sleep interventions specific to young children with CP, it is conditionally recommended that clinicians follow guidelines for safe sleep interventions for typically developing children.

Aims Historically, the diagnosis of cerebral palsy has been made after 12 months of age, delaying access to crucial early intervention that optimises functional outcomes. This study aimed to identify and specify priority physician diagnostic behaviours to target in implementation interventions to increase the rate of diagnosis of cerebral palsy under 6 months of age in Australia. Methods We conducted a two-round online Delphi study with a multi-professional expert panel of cerebral palsy researchers and clinicians. A reference group identified a six-item list of potential diagnostic behaviours, which were modifiable at the individual level, that could lead to an early cerebral palsy diagnosis. In the first survey, participants rated the importance of each item on a 10-point Likert scale and supplied their reasoning for this, and were able to suggest new behaviours. In the second survey, participants ranked items in order of priority. Results All six items reached consensus for inclusion (100%). No new items were added to the list. Ranking identified the top three priorities for online physician implementation interventions: (i) refer for or conduct the General Movements Assessment; (ii) refer for or conduct the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination; and (iii) communication of the diagnosis. Conclusion An online Delphi method can effectively inform tailored implementation intervention development. A consensus was achieved on the priority physician diagnostic behaviours to target in interventions to lower the age of cerebral palsy diagnosis in Australia.

Fornecer recomendações de intervenções para promoção da função física de crianças e jovens com paralisia cerebral. MÉTODO: Um painel de especialistas priorizou perguntas e desfechos importantes para o paciente. Usando o Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), o painel avaliou a certeza das evidências e fez recomendações, com consultoria de especialistas internacionais e consumidores.A diretriz compreende 13 recomendações (informadas por três revisões sistemáticas, 30 estudos randomizados e cinco estudos pré-pós). Para alcance de objetivos funcionais, recomenda-se que a intervenção inclua objetivos escolhidos pelo cliente, prática completa da tarefa em ambientes da vida real, suporte para empoderar as famílias e uma abordagem em equipe. Idade, habilidade e preferências da criança/família precisam ser consideradas. Para melhora da habilidade da marcha, recomenda-se marcha no solo, que pode ser complementada com treinamento em esteira. Várias abordagens podem facilitar os objetivos relacionados ao uso das mãos: terapia bimanual, terapia de contensão induzida, treino direcionado a objetivos e abordagens cognitivas. Para auto-cuidado, prática da tarefa completa, combinada com recursos assistivos podem aumentar a independência e reduzir a sobrecarga do cuidador. A participação em objetivos de lazer pode combinar prática da tarefa completa com estratégias direcionadas para barreiras ambientais, pessoais e sociais. INTERPRETAÇÃO: Intervenção para promoção da função de crianças e jovens com paralisia cerebral precisa incluir objetivos escolhidos pelo cliente e a prática da tarefa completa dos objetivos. Os clínicos devem considerar as preferências da criança/família, idade e habilidade ao selecionarem intervenções específicas.

Aim We previously reported sensitivity and specificity levels of the general movements assessment (GMA) to detect cerebral palsy (CP) at 1 year within a clinical setting and with the assistance of the New South Wales (NSW) Rater Network. The aim of this study was to determine whether similarly high levels of validity could be maintained in the same group at 2 years. Methods A prospective longitudinal cross-sectional study was conducted. GMA was blind-rated from conventional video by two independent certified raters, blinded to medical history. A third rater resolved disagreements. High-risk population screening for CP using the GMA during the fidgety period (12-20 weeks) was carried out in four neonatal intensive care units and one CP service over a 30-month period. Participants were 259 high-risk infants for the initial study. Multidisciplinary follow-up at 2-3 years included Bayley Scales of Infant Development and confirmed diagnosis of CP. Sensitivity and specificity values were calculated with true positives defined as a confirmed diagnosis of CP. Results At 2-3 years, 184 (71%) completed the follow-up assessment. GMA was normal for 134 (73%, low risk for CP), absent fidgety for 48 (26%, high risk for CP) and abnormal fidgety for 2 (1%, high risk for abnormal neurological disorder). Sensitivity for detecting CP was 97.6% (40/41) and specificity 95.7% (133/139). Sensitivity for detecting any abnormal outcome with absent/abnormal fidgety general movements (GMs) was 57.9% (44/76) and specificity 94.4% (101/107). Conclusion Excellent levels of sensitivity and specificity of the GMA for detecting CP in the clinical setting were maintained at 2 years and were similar to our previously reported findings.

Purpose: To investigate the effect of a knowledge translation intervention on knowledge and frequency of routine evidence-based assessment behaviours of healthcare professionals working with children with cerebral palsy. Methods: A before-and-after longitudinal study was conducted in five disability organisations. Four organisations (Commencing Knowledge Translation group) implemented a multifaceted intervention: knowledge brokers, targeted education, electronic-evidence library, and clinical outcomes database. These strategies were already in place at the fifth organisation (Comparison group). Outcomes evaluated at 0, 6, 12, and 24 months were health-professional knowledge and routine assessment behaviours (self-report and “completeness” of clinical assessment). Generalised estimating equations determined longitudinal changes. Results: Four hundred and forty-seven professionals involved 861 children in the study. The Comparison group had higher knowledge and routine assessment behaviours at baseline. Professional knowledge in both groups remained stable (differences in change from baseline to 24 months: 0.3 units, 95%CI: −0.76 to 1.36). Assessment completeness of the Comparison group was stable (baseline mean 68 units, 95%CI: 65–71); the Commencing Knowledge Translation group improved from baseline mean 35 units (95%CI: 33–36), peaking at 12 months (mean 68 (95%CI: 65–71). Conclusions: Multifaceted organisational support improved health-professional routine evidence-based assessment behaviours with children with cerebral palsy, despite no change in knowledge. Trial registration: This trial was not a controlled health care intervention and was registered retrospectively: ACTRN12616001616460. The protocol of the trial was published in 2015 as follows: Imms et al. [6]. Implications for rehabilitation • A multifaceted knowledge translation intervention increased allied health professionals’ assessment behaviours. • Knowledge translation strategies can be chosen to target change in knowledge and/or change in behaviour. • Knowledge translation interventions should be designed to address organisational barriers and enhance organisational supports. • Interventions that target healthcare professionals’ behaviour directly can be effective even if their knowledge does not change.

To examine the association between brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics and executive function and bimanual performance in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP).Clinical MRI brain scans were classified as: (1) predominant pathological pattern (normal, white matter injury [WMI]; grey matter injury; focal vascular insults [FVI]; malformations; or miscellaneous); and (2) focal lesions (frontal, basal ganglia, and/or thalamus). Assessments included: (1) bimanual performance; (2) unimanual dexterity; and (3) executive function tasks (information processing, attention control, cognitive flexibility, and goal setting) and behavioural ratings (parent).From 131 recruited children, 60 were ineligible for analysis, leaving 71 children (47 males, 24 females) in the final sample (mean age 9y [SD 2y], 6y-12y 8mo). Brain MRIs were WMI (69%) and FVI (31%); and frontal (59%), thalamic (45%), basal ganglia (37%), and basal ganglia plus thalamic (21%). Bimanual performance was lower in FVI versus WMI (p0.003), and with frontal (p=0.36), basal ganglia (p=0.032), and thalamic/basal ganglia lesions (p=0.013). Other than information processing, executive function tasks were not associated with predominant pattern. Frontal lesions predicted attention control (p=0.049) and cognitive flexibility (p=0.009) but not goal setting, information processing, or behavioural ratings.Clinical brain MRI predicts cognitive and motor outcomes when focal lesions and predominate lesion patterns are considered. What this paper adds Early brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) predicts bimanual performance and cognitive outcomes. Brain MRI may identify children requiring targeted interventions. Basal ganglia with/without thalamic lesions predicted bimanual performance. Frontal lesions were associated with attention control and cognitive flexibility. Brain MRI predominant patterns predicted motor, not cognitive outcomes, other than information processing.La resonancia magnética cerebral es un predictor del rendimiento bimanual y la función ejecutiva en niños con parálisis cerebral unilateral OBJETIVO: Examinar la asociación entre las características de la resonancia magnética cerebral (RMN) y la función ejecutiva y el rendimiento bimanual en niños con parálisis cerebral unilateral (PC). MÉTODO: Los escáneres cerebrales de resonancia magnética clínica se clasificaron como: (1) patrón patológico predominante (normal, lesión de la sustancia blanca [WMI]; lesión de la materia gris; lesiones vasculares focales [FVI]; malformaciones; o varios); y (2) lesiones focales (ganglios frontales, basales y / o tálamo). Las evaluaciones incluyeron: (1) desempeño bimanual; (2) destreza unimanual; y (3) tareas de funciones ejecutivas (procesamiento de información, control de atención, flexibilidad cognitiva y fijación de objetivos) y calificaciones de comportamiento (padres). RESULTADOS: De 131 niños reclutados, 60 no fueron elegibles para el análisis, dejando 71 niños (47 varones, 24 mujeres) en la muestra final (edad media 9 años [DE 2 años], 6 años - 12 años 8 meses). Las RMN cerebrales fueron WMI (69%) y FVI (31%); y frontal (59%), talámico (45%), ganglios basales (37%) y ganglios basales más talámico (21%). El rendimiento bimanual fue menor en FVI versus WMI (p0,003), y con lesiones frontales (p = 0,36), ganglios basales (p = 0,032) y talámicas / ganglios basales (p = 0,013). Aparte del procesamiento de la información, las tareas de la función ejecutiva no se asociaron con el patrón predominante. Las lesiones frontales predijeron el control de la atención (p = 0,049) y la flexibilidad cognitiva (p = 0,009) pero no el establecimiento de objetivos, el procesamiento de la información o las clasificaciones de comportamiento. INTERPRETACIÓN: La resonancia magnética cerebral clínica predice los resultados cognitivos y motores cuando se consideran las lesiones focales y los patrones de lesiones predominantes.Imagem por ressonância magnética do cérebro como preditora do desempenho bimanual e função executiva de crianças com paralisia cerebral unilateral OBJETIVO: Examinar a associação entre as características do exame de imagem por ressonância magnética (IRM) e a função executiva e desempenho bimanual em crianças com paralisia cerebral (PC) unilateral. MÉTODO: Escaneamentos clínicos de IRM cerebrais foram classificados como: 1) padrão patológico predominante (normal, lesão da substância branca [LSB]; lesão da substância cinzenta; insultos vasculares focais [IVF]; malformações; ou outro); e (2) lesões focais (frontal, gânglios basais, e/ou tálamo). As avaliações incluíram: (1) desempenho bimanual; (2) destreza unimanual; e (3) tarefas de função executiva (processamento de informações, controle da atenção, flexibilidade cognitiva, e estabelecimento de metas) e pontuações comportamentais (pais). RESULTADOS: De 131 crianças recrutadas, 60 eram inelegíveis para análise, restando 71 crianças (47 do sexo masculino, 24 do sexo feminino) na amostra final (média de idade 9a [DP 2a], 6a-12a 8m). IRMs cerebrais eram do tipo LSB (69%) e IVFs (31%); e frontais (59%), talâmicas (45%), de gânglios da base (37%), e de gânglios da base mais talâmicas (21%). O desempenho bimanual foi menor em IVF versus LSB (p0,003), e com lesões frontais (p=0,36), gânglios da base (p=0,032), e talâmicas/gânglios da base (p=0,013). Com exceção do processamento de informações, as tarefas da função executiva não foram associadas com o padrão predominante. Lesões frontais foram preditivas do controle da atenção (p=0,049) e flexibilidade cognitiva (p=,.009) mas não do estabelecimento de metas, processamento de informações, e pontuações comportamentais. INTERPRETAÇÃO: A IRM cerebral clínica prediz resultados cognitivos e motores quando lesões focais e padrões predominantes de lesão são considerados.

Purpose: To understand healthcare professionals’ perceptions of supports and barriers to routine clinical assessment, for children aged 3-18 years with cerebral palsy, evolved in the presence of a knowledge translation intervention. Methods: A prospective longitudinal mixed methods study was completed. The intervention comprised knowledge brokers, an e-evidence library, locally provided education and embedding routine clinical assessment in practice. Healthcare professionals from five disability services completed the Supports and Barriers Questionnaire and focus groups at baseline, 6, 12 and 24 months. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and qualitative data using longitudinal framework analysis. Results: Questionnaire ratings indicated participants felt supported in implementing routine assessment over time. Subtle differences emerged from the longitudinal framework analysis. Participants shifted from ‘adopting’ to ‘embedding’ and ‘maintaining’ routine assessment. Integration of assessment was impacted by a new national disability funding model. Participants highlighted the need to maintain skills and for unambiguous, sustained communication between the organisation, clients, and stakeholders. If, how and why families engaged with routine assessment developed over time. Conclusions: After an initial focus on pragmatic implementation issues, over time healthcare professionals began to reflect more on the complexities of children and families’ engagement with assessment and the impact on the therapist-child-family relationship.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Bobath therapy, or neurodevelopmental therapy (NDT) is widely practiced despite evidence other interventions are more effective in cerebral palsy (CP). The objective is to determine the efficacy of NDT in children and infants with CP or high risk of CP. METHODS Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Medline were searched through March 2021. Randomized controlled trials comparing NDT with any or no intervention were included. Meta-analysis was conducted with standardized mean differences calculated. Quality was assessed by using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool-2 and certainty by using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation. RESULTS Of 667 records screened, 34 studies (in 35 publications, 1332 participants) met inclusion. Four meta-analyses were conducted assessing motor function. We found no effect between NDT and control (pooled effect size 0.13 [−0.20 to 0.46]), a moderate effect favoring activity-based approaches (0.76 [0.12 to 1.40]) and body function and structures (0.77 [0.19 to 1.35]) over NDT and no effect between higher- and lower-dose NDT (0.32 [−0.11 to 0.75]). A strong recommendation against the use of NDT at any dose was made. Studies were not all Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials-compliant. NDT versus activity-based comparator had considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 80%) reflecting varied measures. CONCLUSIONS We found that activity-based and body structure and function interventions are more effective than NDT for improving motor function, NDT is no more effective than control, and higher-dose NDT is not more effective than lower-dose. Deimplementation of NDT in CP is required.

IntroductionCerebral palsy (CP) is the most common childhood physical disability with rates approximately 50% higher in First Nations Australian children. This study aims to evaluate a culturally-adapted parent-delivered early intervention programme for First Nations Australian infants at high risk of CP (Learning through Everyday Activities with Parents for infants with CP; LEAP-CP).Methods and analysisThis study is a randomised assessor masked controlled trial. Infants with birth/postnatal risk factors will be eligible for screening. Infants at high risk of CP (‘absent fidgety’ on General Movements Assessment, and/or ‘suboptimal score’ on the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination) aged 12–52 weeks corrected age will be recruited. Infants and their caregivers will be randomised to receive LEAP-CP (intervention) or health advice (comparator). LEAP-CP is a culturally-adapted programme of 30 home visits delivered by a peer trainer (First Nations Community Health Worker); and includes goal-directed active motor/cognitive strategies, CP learning games and caregiver educational modules. The control arm receives a monthly health advice visit, based on the Key Family Practices, WHO. All infants continue to receive standard (mainstream) Care as Usual. Dual child primary outcomes are Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-2 (PDMS-2) and Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III. The primary caregiver outcome is the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. Secondary outcomes include function, goal attainment, vision, nutritional status and emotional availability. Sample size: total of 86 children (43/group) will enable an effect size of 0.65 on the PDMS-2 to be detected (80% power, α=0.05; 10% attrition).Ethics and disseminationEthics approval through Queensland ethics committees and Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisation Research Governance Groups, with families providing written informed consent. Findings will be disseminated with guidance from the Participatory Action Research, in collaboration with First Nations communities; peer-reviewed journal publications and national/international conference presentations.Trial registration numberACTRN12619000969167p.

IntroductionFor children with cerebral palsy (CP), who are marginally ambulant, gross motor capacity peaks between 6 and 7 years of age with a subsequent clinical decline, impacting their ability to engage in physical activity. Active Strides-CP is a novel package of physiotherapy targeting body functions, activity and participation outcomes for children with bilateral CP. This study will compare Active Strides-CP to usual care in a multisite randomised waitlist-controlled trial.Methods and analysis150 children with bilateral CP (5–15 years), classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III and IV will be stratified (GMFCS III vs IV, age 5–10 years; 11–15 years and trial site) and randomised to receive either (1) 8 weeks of Active Strides-CP two times/week for 1.5 hours in clinic and one time/week for 1 hour alternating home visits and telehealth (total dose=32 hours) or (2) usual care. Active Strides-CP comprises functional electrical stimulation cycling, partial body weight support treadmill training, overground walking, adapted community cycling and goal-directed training. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, immediately post-intervention at 9 weeksprimary endpointand at 26 weeks post-baseline for retention. The primary outcome is the Gross Motor Function Measure-66. Secondary outcomes include habitual physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, walking speed and distance, frequency/involvement of community participation, mobility, goal attainment and quality of life. Analyses will follow standard principles for randomised controlled trials using two-group comparisons on all participants on an intention-to-treat basis. Comparisons between groups for primary and secondary outcomes will be conducted using regression models. A within-trial cost utility analysis will be performed.Ethics and disseminationThe Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, The University of Queensland, The University of Melbourne and Curtin University Human Research Ethics Committees have approved this study. Results will be disseminated as conference abstracts and presentations, peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals, and institution newsletters and media releases.Trial registration numberACTRN12621001133820.

IntroductionSchool readiness includes cognitive, socio-emotional, language and physical growth and development domains which share strong associations with life-course opportunities. Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are at increased risk of poor school readiness compared with their typically developing peers. Recently, earlier diagnosis of CP has allowed interventions to commence sooner, harnessing neuroplasticity. First, we hypothesise that early referral to intervention for children at-risk of CP will lead to improved school readiness at 4–6 years relative to placebo or care as usual. Second, we hypothesise that receipt of early diagnosis and early intervention will lead to cost-savings in the form of reduced healthcare utilisation.Methods and analysisInfants identified as at-risk of CP ≤6 months corrected age (n=425) recruited to four randomised trials of neuroprotectants (n=1), early neurorehabilitation (n=2) or early parenting support (n=1) will be re-recruited to one overarching follow-up study at age 4–6 years 3 months. A comprehensive battery of standardised assessments and questionnaires will be administered to assess all domains of school readiness and associated risk factors. Participants will be compared with a historical control group of children (n=245) who were diagnosed with CP in their second year of life. Mixed-effects regression models will be used to compare school readiness outcomes between those referred for early intervention versus placebo/care-as-usual. We will also compare health-resource use associated with early diagnosis and intervention versus later diagnosis and intervention.Ethics and disseminationThe Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, The University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Monash University and Curtin University Human Research Ethics Committees have approved this study. Informed consent will be sought from the parent or legal guardian of every child invited to participate. Results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, scientific conferences and professional organisations, and to people with lived experience of CP and their families.Trial registration numberACTRN12621001253897.