The results of most studies present clear impairment in performance in spatial rotation and left-right discrimination tasks. Slower motor responses have also been demonstrated in females with Turner syndrome. The etiology of these cognitive deficits is still unknown and there is considerable inter-individual variation in the neurocognitive phenotype of Turner syndrome. However, right hemisphere involvement is certainly indicated. More extensive investigations of the etiologies and effects of these syndromes and carefully designed studies of other syndromes and conditions that result in atypical patterns of cognitive deficit are encouraged.
Examples are various types of hydrocephaly and the fragile X syndrome.
This policy is intended to apply to males and females of all ages. If women or minorities are excluded or inadequately represented in clinical research, particularly in proposed population-based studies, a clear compelling rationale must be provided. This information must be included in the form PHS 398 in Section 1-4 of the research plan AND summarized in Section 5, Human Subjects. The rationale for studies on single minority population groups must be provided. The usual NIH policies concerning research on human subjects also apply.