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Bae YS, Chiang HM, Hickson L. Mathematical Word Problem Solving Ability of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their Typically Developing Peers. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 45:2200-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2387-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Green AE, Kenworthy L, Mosner MG, Gallagher NM, Fearon EW, Balhana CD, Yerys BE. Abstract analogical reasoning in high-functioning children with autism spectrum disorders. Autism Res 2014; 7:677-86. [PMID: 25255899 PMCID: PMC6100749 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) exhibit a deficit in spontaneously recognizing abstract similarities that are crucial for generalizing learning to new situations. This may contribute to deficits in the development of appropriate schemas for navigating novel situations, including social interactions. Analogical reasoning is the central cognitive mechanism that enables typically developing children to understand abstract similarities between different situations. Intriguingly, studies of high-functioning children with ASD point to a relative cognitive strength in basic, nonabstract forms of analogical reasoning. If this analogical reasoning ability extends to abstract analogical reasoning (i.e., between superficially dissimilar situations), it may provide a bridge between a cognitive capability and core ASD deficits in areas such as generalization and categorization. This study tested whether preserved analogical reasoning abilities in ASD can be extended to abstract analogical reasoning, using photographs of real-world items and situations. Abstractness of the analogies was determined via a quantitative measure of semantic distance derived from latent semantic analysis. Children with ASD performed as well as typically developing children at identifying abstract analogical similarities when explicitly instructed to apply analogical reasoning. Individual differences in abstract analogical reasoning ability predicted individual differences in a measure of social function in the ASD group. Preliminary analyses indicated that children with ASD, but not typically developing children, showed an effect of age on abstract analogical reasoning. These results provide new evidence that children with ASD are capable of identifying abstract similarities through analogical reasoning, pointing to abstract analogical reasoning as a potential lever for improving generalization skills and social function in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren Kenworthy
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children’s National Medical Center
| | - Maya G. Mosner
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
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Matsuura N, Ishitobi M, Arai S, Kawamura K, Asano M, Inohara K, Narimoto T, Wada Y, Hiratani M, Kosaka H. Distinguishing between autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by using behavioral checklists, cognitive assessments, and neuropsychological test battery. Asian J Psychiatr 2014; 12:50-7. [PMID: 25440561 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2014.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 06/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) share many common symptoms, including attention deficit, behavioral problems, and difficulties with social skills. The aim of this study was to distinguish between ASD and ADHD by identifying the characteristic features of both the disorders, by using multidimensional assessments, including screening behavioral checklists, cognitive assessments, and comprehensive neurological battery. After screening for comorbid disorders, we carefully selected age-, sex-, IQ-, and socio-economic status-matched children with typical development (TD). In the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for children, a lower score was observed for the ASD group than for the TD group in Picture concept, which is a subscale of perceptual reasoning. A lower score was shown by the ADHD group than by the TD group in the spatial working memory test in the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB(®)). Although ASD and ADHD have many similar symptoms, they can be differentiated by focusing on the behavioral and cognitive characteristics of executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Matsuura
- Tokyo University of Social Welfare, 2-13-32, Marunouchi Naka-ku, Nagoya-City 460-0002, Japan.
| | - Makoto Ishitobi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, 4-1-1 Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo, 187-8553, Japan
| | - Sumiyoshi Arai
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193 Japan; Developmental Emotional Intelligence, Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development,23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Kaori Kawamura
- Hiratani Pediatric Clinic, 1409-2 Kitayotsui, Fukui-shi, Fukui 918-8205, Japan
| | - Mizuki Asano
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193 Japan
| | - Keisuke Inohara
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Tadamasa Narimoto
- Tokyo University of Social Welfare, 2-13-32, Marunouchi Naka-ku, Nagoya-City 460-0002, Japan
| | - Yuji Wada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193 Japan
| | - Michio Hiratani
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193 Japan; Hiratani Pediatric Clinic, 1409-2 Kitayotsui, Fukui-shi, Fukui 918-8205, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Kosaka
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 MatsuokaShimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193 Japan
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105
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Cognitive, adaptive, and psychosocial differences between high ability youth with and without autism spectrum disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2014; 44:2026-40. [PMID: 24584434 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-014-2082-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Research on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is thriving; however, scant empirical research has investigated how ASD manifests in high ability youth. Further research is necessary to accurately differentiate high ability students with ASD from those without the disorder, and thus decrease the risk of misdiagnosis. The purpose of the present study is to provide an empirical account of the intellectual, adaptive, and psychosocial functioning of high ability youth with and without ASD utilizing a group study design. Forty youth with high cognitive ability and ASD and a control group of 41 youth with high cognitive ability and no psychological diagnosis were included in the study. In comparison to the control group, the ASD group showed poorer functioning on measures of processing speed, adaptive skills, and broad psychological functioning, as perceived by parents and teachers. These findings have significant implications for diagnosing ASD among those with high ability, and the development of related psychological and educational interventions to address talent domains and areas of concern.
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106
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Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined by differences in social communication and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Skills and challenges can change depending on environmental stimuli, supports, and stressors. Quality of life can be improved by the use of accommodations, assistive technologies, therapies to improve adaptive function or communication, caregiver training, acceptance, access, and inclusion. This article focuses on the identification of ASD in adults, referrals for services, the recognition of associated conditions, strategies and accommodations to facilitate effective primary care services, and ethical issues related to caring for autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Nicolaidis
- Regional Research Institute, School of Social Work, Portland State University, 1600 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 900, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Departments of Medicine and Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University; Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, L475, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education, 1600 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 900, Portland, OR 97201, USA.
| | - Clarissa Calliope Kripke
- Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, Box 0900, San Francisco, CA 94143-0900, USA
| | - Dora Raymaker
- Regional Research Institute, School of Social Work, Portland State University, 1600 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 900, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education, 1600 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 900, Portland, OR 97201, USA
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107
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Perna R, Loughan AR, Le J, Hertza J, Cohen MJ. Spectrum of Mathematical Weaknesses: Related Neuropsychological Correlates. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-CHILD 2014; 4:157-65. [PMID: 25117216 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2013.827573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Math disorders have been recognized for as long as language disorders yet have received far less research. Mathematics is a complex construct and its development may be dependent on multiple cognitive abilities. Several studies have shown that short-term memory, working memory, visuospatial skills, processing speed, and various language skills relate to and may facilitate math development and performance. The hypotheses explored in this research were that children who performed worse on math achievement than on Full-Scale IQ would exhibit weaknesses in executive functions, memory, and visuoperceptual skills. Participants included 436 children (27% girls, 73% boys; age range = 5-17 years, M(age) = 9.45 years) who were referred for neuropsychological evaluations due to academic and/or behavioral problems. This article specifically focuses on the spectrum of math weakness rather than clinical disability, which has yet to be investigated in the literature. Results suggest that children with relative weakness to impairments in math were significantly more likely to have cognitive weaknesses to impairments on neuropsychological variables, as compared with children without math weaknesses. Specifically, the math-weak children exhibit a weakness to impairment on measures involving attention, language, visuoperceptual skills, memory, reading, and spelling. Overall, our results suggest that math development is multifaceted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Perna
- a Department of Behavioral Medicine , NeuroBehavioral Associates , Augusta , Georgia
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108
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Travers BG, Bigler ED, Tromp DPM, Adluru N, Froehlich AL, Ennis C, Lange N, Nielsen JA, Prigge MBD, Alexander AL, Lainhart JE. Longitudinal processing speed impairments in males with autism and the effects of white matter microstructure. Neuropsychologia 2014; 53:137-45. [PMID: 24269298 PMCID: PMC3946881 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2013.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2013] [Revised: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The present study used an accelerated longitudinal design to examine group differences and age-related changes in processing speed in 81 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to 56 age-matched individuals with typical development (ages 6-39 years). Processing speed was assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-3rd edition (WISC-III) and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-3rd edition (WAIS-III). Follow-up analyses examined processing speed subtest performance and relations between processing speed and white matter microstructure (as measured with diffusion tensor imaging [DTI] in a subset of these participants). After controlling for full scale IQ, the present results show that processing speed index standard scores were on average 12 points lower in the group with ASD compared to the group with typical development. There were, however, no significant group differences in standard score age-related changes within this age range. For subtest raw scores, the group with ASD demonstrated robustly slower processing speeds in the adult versions of the IQ test (i.e., WAIS-III) but not in the child versions (WISC-III), even though age-related changes were similar in both the ASD and typically developing groups. This pattern of results may reflect difficulties that become increasingly evident in ASD on more complex measures of processing speed. Finally, DTI measures of whole-brain white matter microstructure suggested that fractional anisotropy (but not mean diffusivity, radial diffusivity, or axial diffusivity) made significant but small-sized contributions to processing speed standard scores across our entire sample. Taken together, the present findings suggest that robust decreases in processing speed may be present in ASD, more pronounced in adulthood, and partially attributable to white matter microstructural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany G Travers
- Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Erin D Bigler
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; The Brain Institute of Utah, University of Utah, 36 South Wasatch Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, 501 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Do P M Tromp
- Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Nagesh Adluru
- Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Alyson L Froehlich
- Department of Radiology, University of Utah, 30 North 1900 East #1A071, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Chad Ennis
- Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Nicholas Lange
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biostatistics, Harvard University, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Neurostatistics Laboratory, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - Jared A Nielsen
- Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Utah, 401 MREB, 20 North 1900 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Molly B D Prigge
- Department of Radiology, University of Utah, 30 North 1900 East #1A071, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Andrew L Alexander
- Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 6001 Research Park Blvd., Madison, WI 53719, USA; Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Room 1005 Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Janet E Lainhart
- Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1500 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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109
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Kuriakose S. Concurrent Validity of the WISC-IV and DAS-II in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENT 2013. [DOI: 10.1177/0734282913511051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive assessments are used for a variety of research and clinical purposes in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study establishes concurrent validity of the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children–fourth edition (WISC-IV) and Differential Ability Scales–second edition (DAS-II) in a sample of children with ASD with a broad range of cognitive abilities. Participants achieved significantly higher overall scores on the DAS-II and nearly half the sample achieved a higher classification label on the DAS-II. The difference between overall scores is suggested to be attributable to a relative weakness in processing speed, which is assessed on the WISC-IV but not the DAS-II. Autistic symptomatology was not associated with cognitive scores, while adaptive behavior was positively associated. Neither was associated with the magnitude of difference between overall scores. Choice of assessment should be considered carefully given the systematic differences in overall scores produced in this population.
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110
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Hale CR, Casey JE, Ricciardi PWR. A cluster analytic study of the Wechsler Intelligence Test for Children-IV in children referred for psychoeducational assessment due to persistent academic difficulties. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2013; 29:75-85. [PMID: 24280694 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/act086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Wechsler Intelligence Test for Children-IV core subtest scores of 472 children were cluster analyzed to determine if reliable and valid subgroups would emerge. Three subgroups were identified. Clusters were reliable across different stages of the analysis as well as across algorithms and samples. With respect to external validity, the Globally Low cluster differed from the other two clusters on Wechsler Individual Achievement Test-II Word Reading, Numerical Operations, and Spelling subtests, whereas the latter two clusters did not differ from one another. The clusters derived have been identified in studies using previous WISC editions. Clusters characterized by poor performance on subtests historically associated with the VIQ (i.e., VCI + WMI) and PIQ (i.e., POI + PSI) did not emerge, nor did a cluster characterized by low scores on PRI subtests. Picture Concepts represented the highest subtest score in every cluster, failing to vary in a predictable manner with the other PRI subtests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne R Hale
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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111
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Jarrold W, Mundy P, Gwaltney M, Bailenson J, Hatt N, McIntyre N, Kim K, Solomon M, Novotny S, Swain L. Social attention in a virtual public speaking task in higher functioning children with autism. Autism Res 2013; 6:393-410. [PMID: 23696132 PMCID: PMC3778085 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Impairments in social attention play a major role in autism, but little is known about their role in development after preschool. In this study, a public speaking task was used to study social attention, its moderators, and its association with classroom learning in elementary and secondary students with higher functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD). Thirty-seven students with HFASD and 54 age- and intelligence quotient (IQ)-matched peers without symptoms of ASD were assessed in a virtual classroom public speaking paradigm. This paradigm assessed the ability to attend to nine avatar peers seated at a table, while simultaneously answering self-referenced questions. Students with HFASD looked less frequently to avatar peers in the classroom while talking. However, social attention was moderated in the HFASD sample such that students with lower IQ, and/or more symptoms of social anxiety, and/or more attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder inattentive symptoms, displayed more atypical social attention. Group differences were more pronounced when the classroom contained social avatars versus nonsocial targets. Moreover, measures of social attention rather than nonsocial attention were significantly associated with parent report and objective measures of learning in the classroom. The data in this study support the hypothesis of the Social Attention Model of ASD that social attention disturbance remains part of the school-aged phenotype of autism that is related to syndrome-specific problems in social learning. More research of this kind would likely contribute to advances in the understanding of the development of the spectrum of autism and educational intervention approaches for affected school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Jarrold
- Department of Psychiatry, M.I.N.D. Institute, UC Davis, Sacramento, California
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112
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113
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Kenworthy L, Yerys BE, Weinblatt R, Abrams DN, Wallace GL. Motor demands impact speed of information processing in autism spectrum disorders. Neuropsychology 2013; 27:529-36. [PMID: 23937483 PMCID: PMC4603390 DOI: 10.1037/a0033599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The apparent contradiction between preserved or even enhanced perceptual processing speed on inspection time tasks in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and impaired performance on complex processing speed tasks that require motor output (e.g., Wechsler Processing Speed Index) has not yet been systematically investigated. This study investigates whether adding motor output demands to an inspection time task impairs ASD performance compared to that of typically developing control (TDC) children. The performance of children with ASD (n = 28; mean Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) = 115) and TDC (n = 25; mean FSIQ = 122) children was compared on processing speed tasks with increasing motor demand. Correlations were run between ASD task performance and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) Communication scores. Performance by the ASD and TDC groups on a simple perceptual processing speed task with minimal motor demand was equivalent, though it diverged (ASD worse than TDC) on 2 tasks with the same stimuli but increased motor output demands. ASD performance on the moderate but not the high speeded motor output demand task was negatively correlated with ADOS communication symptoms. These data address the apparent contradiction between preserved inspection time in the context of slowed "processing speed" in ASD. They show that processing speed is preserved when motor demands are minimized, but that increased motor output demands interfere with the ability to act on perceptual processing of simple stimuli. Reducing motor demands (e.g., through the use of computers) may increase the capacity of people with ASD to demonstrate good perceptual processing in a variety of educational, vocational, and social settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Kenworthy
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders – Children’s National Medical Center
| | - Benjamin E. Yerys
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders – Children’s National Medical Center
- Center for Autism Research – The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Rachel Weinblatt
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders – Children’s National Medical Center
| | - Danielle N. Abrams
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders – Children’s National Medical Center
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114
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Jacobs DW, Richdale AL. Predicting literacy in children with a high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2013; 34:2379-2390. [PMID: 23711629 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2013.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/16/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The most commonly reported reading profile for children with a high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) is one of intact decoding combined with reduced reading comprehension. Whether or not the variables that predict decoding and reading comprehension for children with a HFASD are exactly the same as those identified for a non-ASD population is unknown. Therefore, the ability of cognition, phonological processing, oral language, and vision to predict decoding and reading comprehension was investigated. Regression analysis revealed that cognition, phonological processing, and syntax predicted decoding and reading comprehension for the HFASD and non-ASD groups. One notable difference was that semantics predicted literacy for the non-ASD children but not their HFASD peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane W Jacobs
- Department of Human Communication Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia.
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115
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Stevenson JL, Gernsbacher MA. Abstract spatial reasoning as an autistic strength. PLoS One 2013; 8:e59329. [PMID: 23533615 PMCID: PMC3606476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0059329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autistic individuals typically excel on spatial tests that measure abstract reasoning, such as the Block Design subtest on intelligence test batteries and the Raven’s Progressive Matrices nonverbal test of intelligence. Such well-replicated findings suggest that abstract spatial processing is a relative and perhaps absolute strength of autistic individuals. However, previous studies have not systematically varied reasoning level – concrete vs. abstract – and test domain – spatial vs. numerical vs. verbal, which the current study did. Autistic participants (N = 72) and non-autistic participants (N = 72) completed a battery of 12 tests that varied by reasoning level (concrete vs. abstract) and domain (spatial vs. numerical vs. verbal). Autistic participants outperformed non-autistic participants on abstract spatial tests. Non-autistic participants did not outperform autistic participants on any of the three domains (spatial, numerical, and verbal) or at either of the two reasoning levels (concrete and abstract), suggesting similarity in abilities between autistic and non-autistic individuals, with abstract spatial reasoning as an autistic strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Stevenson
- Department of Psychology, Ursinus College, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, United States of America.
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116
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Ek U, Westerlund J, Fernell E. General versus executive cognitive ability in pupils with ADHD and with milder attention problems. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2013; 9:163-8. [PMID: 23386788 PMCID: PMC3563345 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s39687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to analyze two main types of cognitive domains in school children with different types and severities of attention-related problems. The cognitive domains examined were general cognitive ability and executive abilities. METHODS Three different clinical samples of pupils with school problems were analyzed to assess their cognitive Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children profiles. In particular, the general cognitive ability index and the executive markers (ie, verbal memory index and processing speed index) were of interest. Of the total sample (n = 198), two main groups were contrasted; one met the full criteria for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)/subthreshold ADHD, and one was comprised of those with milder attention problems, insufficient to meet the criteria for ADHD/subthreshold ADHD. RESULTS It could be demonstrated that both groups had a significantly higher score on the general cognitive ability index than on measures of working memory and processing speed. This difference was more pronounced for boys. CONCLUSION These types of cognitive differences need to be considered in children with different kinds of learning, behavior, and attention problems; this is also true for children presenting with an average general intelligence quotient and with milder attention problems. Current educational expectations are demanding for children with mild difficulties, and such cognitive information will add to the understanding of the child's learning problems, hopefully leading to a better adapted education than that conventionally available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Ek
- Department of Special Education, Stockholm University, Stockholm
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117
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Brown HM, Oram-Cardy J, Johnson A. A Meta-Analysis of the Reading Comprehension Skills of Individuals on the Autism Spectrum. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 43:932-55. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-012-1638-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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118
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Kennedy DP, Adolphs R. Perception of emotions from facial expressions in high-functioning adults with autism. Neuropsychologia 2012; 50:3313-9. [PMID: 23022433 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2012.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Impairment in social communication is one of the diagnostic hallmarks of autism spectrum disorders, and a large body of research has documented aspects of impaired social cognition in autism, both at the level of the processes and the neural structures involved. Yet one of the most common social communicative abilities in everyday life, the ability to judge somebody's emotion from their facial expression, has yielded conflicting findings. To investigate this issue, we used a sensitive task that has been used to assess facial emotion perception in a number of neurological and psychiatric populations. Fifteen high-functioning adults with autism and 19 control participants rated the emotional intensity of 36 faces displaying basic emotions. Every face was rated 6 times-once for each emotion category. The autism group gave ratings that were significantly less sensitive to a given emotion, and less reliable across repeated testing, resulting in overall decreased specificity in emotion perception. We thus demonstrate a subtle but specific pattern of impairments in facial emotion perception in people with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Kennedy
- Division of Humanities and Social Sciences, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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Handwriting difficulties in children with autism spectrum disorders: a scoping review. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 41:1706-16. [PMID: 21350917 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1206-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Functional handwriting involves complex interactions among physical, cognitive and sensory systems. Impairments in many aspects of these systems are associated with Autism spectrum disorders (ASD), suggesting a heightened risk of handwriting difficulties in children with ASD. This scoping review aimed to: (1) survey the existing evidence about potential contributions to compromised handwriting function in children with ASD, and (2) map out the existing studies documenting handwriting difficulties in children with ASD. The current evidence implicates impairments in fine motor control and visual-motor integration as likely contributors to handwriting difficulties in children with ASD, though the role of the latter is not well-understood. Moreover, diminished overall legibility and compromised letter formation are emerging points of convergence among existing studies of handwriting quality in children with ASD.
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120
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Oliveras-Rentas RE, Kenworthy L, Roberson RB, Martin A, Wallace GL. WISC-IV profile in high-functioning autism spectrum disorders: impaired processing speed is associated with increased autism communication symptoms and decreased adaptive communication abilities. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 42:655-64. [PMID: 21638108 PMCID: PMC3448485 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1289-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Changes in the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children-IV (WISC-IV) may affect the IQ profile characteristic of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Moreover, the association of particular component cognitive abilities (unlike overall IQ) with symptomatology and adaptive functioning in ASD remains unclear. This archival study characterizes the WISC-IV IQ profile among 56 high-functioning (IQ > 70) children with ASD and correlates WISC-IV performance with ASD and ADHD symptomatology and adaptive functioning. The ASD WISC-IV profile included strengths on Matrix Reasoning and Similarities, weaknesses on Comprehension (which correlated negatively with social symptoms) and the subtests comprising the Processing Speed Index (Coding, Symbol Search). Processing speed task performance correlated negatively with communication symptoms and positively with communication abilities, indicating its importance to functional outcomes in ASD.
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121
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Abstract
This research compared the written compositions of 16 adults with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders and 16 neurotypical control participants, and examined the influence of theory of mind on their writing. Participants ranging in age from 17 years to 42 years, matched on Vocabulary subtest scores from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (1997), completed the Social Attribution Task and wrote an expository and a narrative text. Texts were assessed on 18 variables representing quality, mechanics, and length. It was found that adults with HFASD wrote lower quality narrative and expository texts, and narratives of shorter length. Theory of mind was positively associated with writing quality and text length across both genres.
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122
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Kimhi Y, Bauminger-Zviely N. Collaborative Problem Solving in Young Typical Development and HFASD. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 42:1984-97. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-012-1447-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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123
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Spek AA, Scholte EM, Van Berckelaer-Onnes IA. Local information processing in adults with high functioning autism and asperger syndrome: the usefulness of neuropsychological tests and self-reports. J Autism Dev Disord 2011; 41:859-69. [PMID: 20862532 PMCID: PMC3115063 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-010-1106-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Local information processing in 42 adults with high functioning autism, 41 adults with Asperger syndrome and 41 neurotypical adults was examined. Contrary to our expectations, the disorder groups did not outperform the neurotypical group in the neuropsychological measures of local information processing. In line with our hypotheses, the self-reports did show higher levels of local information processing and a stronger tendency to use systemizing strategies in the two disorder groups. Absent and weak correlations were found between the self-reports and the two neuropsychological tasks in the three groups. The neuropsychological tests and the self-reports seem to measure different underlying constructs. The self-reports were most predictive of the presence of an autism spectrum diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies A Spek
- GGZ Eindhoven, Boschdijk 771, P.O. Box BD6232, 5626 AB Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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124
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Mello CBD, Argollo N, Shayer BPM, Abreu N, Godinho K, Durán P, Vargem F, Muszkat M, Miranda MC, Bueno OFA. Versão abreviada do WISC-III: correlação entre QI estimado e QI total em crianças brasileiras. PSICOLOGIA: TEORIA E PESQUISA 2011. [DOI: 10.1590/s0102-37722011000200002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Com o objetivo de correlacionar o QI Estimado com o QI Total, quatro bancos de dados do WISC III de 207 crianças foram associados: 1) crianças com desenvolvimento típico; 2) crianças com diagnóstico do transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade; 3) crianças referenciadas por dificuldades de aprendizagem em consultório particular; e 4) crianças com sequela neurológica avaliadas em ambulatório universitário. Os dados do QI total foram correlacionados aos do QI estimado, correspondentes à soma dos pontos ponderados dos subtestes Vocabulário e Cubos. Os resultados sugerem que o QI Estimado pode ser adotado quando há restrição de tempo e quando o desempenho intelectual está sendo usado como triagem em pesquisa, ou como ponto de referência dentro de uma avaliação neuropsicológica.
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125
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White SW, Ollendick TH, Bray BC. College students on the autism spectrum. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2011; 15:683-701. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361310393363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
As more young people are identified with autism spectrum diagnoses without co-occurring intellectual disability (i.e. high-functioning autism spectrum disorder; HFASD), it is imperative that we begin to study the needs of this population. We sought to gain a preliminary estimate of the scope of the problem and to examine psychiatric risks associated HFASD symptoms in university students. In a large sample ( n = 667), we examined prevalence of ASD in students at a single university both diagnostically and dimensionally, and surveyed students on other behavioral and psychiatric problems. Dependent upon the ascertainment method, between .7 per cent and 1.9 per cent of college students could meet criteria for HFASD. Of special interest, none of the students who were found to meet diagnostic criteria ( n = 5) formally for HFASD in this study had been previously diagnosed. From a dimensional perspective, those students scoring above the clinical threshold for symptoms of autism ( n = 13) self-reported more problems with social anxiety than a matched comparison group of students with lower autism severity scores. In addition, symptoms of HFASD were significantly correlated with symptoms of social anxiety, as well as depression and aggression. Findings demonstrate the importance of screening for autism-related impairment among university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan W. White
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | | | - Bethany C. Bray
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
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126
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Zayat M, Kalb L, Wodka EL. Brief Report: Performance Pattern Differences Between Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder on Measures of Verbal Intelligence. J Autism Dev Disord 2011; 41:1743-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1207-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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127
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Holdnack J, Goldstein G, Drozdick L. Social perception and WAIS-IV Performance in adolescents and adults diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and Autism. Assessment 2011; 18:192-200. [PMID: 21220381 DOI: 10.1177/1073191110394771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous research using the Wechsler scales has identified areas of cognitive weaknesses in children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with Autism or Asperger's syndrome. The current study evaluates cognitive functioning in adolescents and adults diagnosed with Autism or Asperger's syndrome using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) and the Social Perception subtest from the Advanced Clinical Solutions. Deficits in social perception, verbal comprehension, and processing speed were found in the Autism sample. Additionally, they exhibited inconsistent performance on auditory working memory and perceptual reasoning tasks. The Asperger's syndrome group had better overall cognitive skills than the Autism group, but compared with controls, they had weaknesses in processing speed, social perception, and components of auditory working memory. Both groups had relatively low scores on the WAIS-IV Comprehension subtest compared with the other verbal comprehension subtests. Clinical application and utility of the WAIS-IV and Social Perception in Autism Spectrum Disorders are discussed.
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128
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Mayes SD, Calhoun SL, Bixler EO, Zimmerman DN. IQ and neuropsychological predictors of academic achievement. LEARNING AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lindif.2008.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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129
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Abstract
Autistische Störungen (ASD) sind definiert durch Einschränkungen der sozialen Interaktion, Kommunikation und Sprache sowie durch stereotypes Verhalten und Sonderinteressen. Zusätzlich sind neuropsychologische Besonderheiten beschrieben worden. Methoden: Selektive Literaturübersicht über Studien zur Neuropsychologie bei ASD. Ergebnisse: Historisch wurde versucht, autistische Störungen auf ein zentrales neuropsychologisches Defizit zurückzuführen. Entwicklungspsychologisch orientierte Studien zeigten jedoch neuropsychologische Einschränkungen in unterschiedlichen Bereichen. Diskussion: In der klinischen Untersuchung sollten die diagnostische Beobachtungsskala für autistische Störungen (ADOS) sowie mehrdimensionale Tests zur Erfassung kognitiver und sprachlicher Fertigkeiten durchgeführt werden, deren Ergebnisse therapeutisch genutzt werden können. Eine Diagnose anhand von neuropsychologischen Untersuchungen kann aufgrund der deutlich eingeschränkten Spezifität der Befunde nicht gestellt werden.
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130
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Koyama T, Kurita H. Cognitive profile difference between normally intelligent children with Asperger's disorder and those with pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2008; 62:691-6. [PMID: 19068006 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2008.01871.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM Asperger's disorder (Asperger syndrome, AS) and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) are different subtypes of mild pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). METHODS Using the Japanese version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Edition (WISC-III), 28 AS children (mean age, 9.3 years, 24 male) were compared with 78 PDD-NOS children (mean age, 7.6 years, 64 male) with normal intelligence (IQ > or = 85), using analysis of covariance (ancova) with the chronological age of a child as a covariate. RESULTS Verbal IQ tended to be higher in the AS children than in the PDD-NOS children (mean raw scores, AS vs PDD-NOS: 103.9 vs 99.6; P < 0.10), although full-scale and performance IQ did not differ significantly. Compared with the PDD-NOS children, the AS children scored significantly higher on Freedom from Distractibility index (110.1 vs 104.5; P < 0.05) consisting of Arithmetic (11.0 vs 9.9, P = 0.04) and Digit Span (12.4 vs 11.6, P = 0.051), but tended to score lower on Coding (8.5 vs 9.8, P = 0.08). CONCLUSION The typical cognitive profile of PDD (i.e. low score on Comprehension and high score on Block Design) was shared by both groups, which may support the validity of the current diagnostic classification of PDD. Relatively better verbal ability in AS children seems to reflect their normal language acquisition in infancy, and strong numeric interest may produce the AS children's mathematical excellence over PDD-NOS children. A low score on Coding in AS children might reflect their extreme slowness, circumstantiality and/or drive for perfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Koyama
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
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131
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Hughes JR. A review of recent reports on autism: 1000 studies published in 2007. Epilepsy Behav 2008; 13:425-37. [PMID: 18627794 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2008.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2008] [Revised: 06/24/2008] [Accepted: 06/27/2008] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
From 1000 studies published in 2007 on all aspects of autism, those that reached clear conclusions or included quantitative data were selected for this review. Possible etiologies include elemental metals, especially the inconsistent evidence regarding mercury from the vaccine preservative thimerosal, not used after 2001, and chromosomes and genes with the conclusion that autism has a complex genetic architecture. Also, various parental conditions are considered, as are many different abnormalities in the central nervous system, especially underconnectivity within the cortex. Furthermore, deficiencies in mirror neurons have been proposed, leading to the "theory of mind" explanation that autistic children tend to disregard others. In addition, various global deficiencies, like an increase in inhibitory synaptic transmission, are proposed. Characteristics of these children include selective (inward) attention; underresponsiveness; stereotyped repetitive motor behavior; increased head size, weight, and height; various cognitive and communicative disorders; and also epilepsy. Therapy has emphasized risperidone, but some atypical antipsychotic medications have been helpful, as have robotic aids, massage, hyperbaric oxygen, and music. Nearly every conceivable problem that a child could have can be observed in these unfortunate children.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Hughes
- Department of Neurology, University of Illinois Medical Center (M/C 796), 912 South Wood Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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132
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Lepach AC, Petermann F, Schmidt S. Comparisons of the BASIC-Memory and Learning Test and the WISC-IV Under Developmental Aspects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1027/0044-3409.216.3.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study compares results of a new children memory and learning test, the BASIC-MLT and the latest Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth edition (WISC-IV) in a nonclinical German sample (N = 103). All participants were assessed with both instruments (order balanced). Pearson correlations were computed between subtest, scale and IQ scores from the intelligence scales and the scores from the BASIC-MLT separate for three defined age groups (Group 1: 6 to < 10 years, Group 2: 10 to < 13 years, Group 3: 13 to 16 years). Moderate to high correlations were found between Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) and BASIC-MLT’s memory quotient (MQ). Referring to Siegler’s (1998 , 2004 ) memory theories the relations of reasoning (Matrix Reasoning), semantic knowledge (Vocabulary), working memory (Letter-Number Sequencing) and processing speed (Symbol Search) were focused for further investigation. Significant correlations can be found for Matrix Reasoning and MQ in Group 1 only. For Vocabulary significant correlations can be found in Group 2 (p < .05) and Group 3 (p < .01). Letter-Number Sequencing has significant correlations with MQ in all age groups and Symbol Search in none. Comparisons of t-mean deviations in scales and subtests showed no significant differences in Group 1 and only few significant differences for Group 2 and Group 3. Results of children above 10 years of age are influenced by school type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja C. Lepach
- Center for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation, University of Bremen, Germany
| | - Franz Petermann
- Center for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation, University of Bremen, Germany
| | - Sören Schmidt
- Center for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation, University of Bremen, Germany
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