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Dudas A, Nakahara TS, Pellissier LP, Chamero P. Parenting behaviors in mice: Olfactory mechanisms and features in models of autism spectrum disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 161:105686. [PMID: 38657845 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Rodents, along with numerous other mammals, heavily depend on olfactory cues to navigate their social interactions. Processing of olfactory sensory inputs is mediated by conserved brain circuits that ultimately trigger social behaviors, such as social interactions and parental care. Although innate, parenting is influenced by internal states, social experience, genetics, and the environment, and any significant disruption of these factors can impact the social circuits. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms and social circuits from the olfactory epithelium to central processing that initiate parental behaviors and their dysregulations that may contribute to the social impairments in mouse models of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). We discuss recent advances of the crucial role of olfaction in parental care, its consequences for social interactions, and the reciprocal influence on social interaction impairments in mouse models of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Dudas
- Team biology of GPCR Signaling systems (BIOS), CNRS, INRAE, University of Tours, PRC, Nouzilly F-37380, France
| | - Thiago S Nakahara
- Team Neuroendocrine Integration of Reproduction and Behavior (INERC), CNRS, INRAE, University of Tours, PRC, Nouzilly F-37380, France
| | - Lucie P Pellissier
- Team biology of GPCR Signaling systems (BIOS), CNRS, INRAE, University of Tours, PRC, Nouzilly F-37380, France.
| | - Pablo Chamero
- Team Neuroendocrine Integration of Reproduction and Behavior (INERC), CNRS, INRAE, University of Tours, PRC, Nouzilly F-37380, France.
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Mihalj D, Borbelyova V, Pirnik Z, Bacova Z, Ostatnikova D, Bakos J. Shank3 Deficiency Results in a Reduction in GABAergic Postsynaptic Puncta in the Olfactory Brain Areas. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1008-1016. [PMID: 38183586 PMCID: PMC10902016 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-04097-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Dysfunctional sensory systems, including altered olfactory function, have recently been reported in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Disturbances in olfactory processing can potentially result from gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic synaptic abnormalities. The specific molecular mechanism by which GABAergic transmission affects the olfactory system in ASD remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate selected components of the GABAergic system in olfactory brain regions and primary olfactory neurons isolated from Shank3-deficient (-/-) mice, which are known for their autism-like behavioral phenotype. Shank3 deficiency led to a significant reduction in GEPHYRIN/GABAAR colocalization in the piriform cortex and in primary neurons isolated from the olfactory bulb, while no change of cell morphology was observed. Gene expression analysis revealed a significant reduction in the mRNA levels of GABA transporter 1 in the olfactory bulb and Collybistin in the frontal cortex of the Shank3-/- mice compared to WT mice. A similar trend of reduction was observed in the expression of Somatostatin in the frontal cortex of Shank3-/- mice. The analysis of the expression of other GABAergic neurotransmission markers did not yield statistically significant results. Overall, it appears that Shank3 deficiency leads to changes in GABAergic synapses in the brain regions that are important for olfactory information processing, which may represent basis for understanding functional impairments in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denisa Mihalj
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava, 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Borbelyova
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Zdeno Pirnik
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava, 845 05, Slovakia
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Bacova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava, 845 05, Slovakia
| | - Daniela Ostatnikova
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jan Bakos
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, Bratislava, 845 05, Slovakia.
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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Gent V, Marshall J, Weir KA, Trembath D. Investigating the impact of autistic children's feeding difficulties on caregivers. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13218. [PMID: 38265139 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of children's autism characteristics, sensory profiles and feeding difficulties on caregiver-reported impact at mealtimes. BACKGROUND Caregivers of children (5-12 years) with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder completed an online survey examining (a) demographic characteristics, (b) children's autism characteristics (Social Communication Questionnaire), (c) sensory profiles (Sensory Profile 2-short form), (d) feeding difficulties (Behavioural Paediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale, BPFAS) and (c) caregiver-reported impact of feeding difficulties (Feeding-Swallowing Impact Survey, FS-IS). RESULTS Seventy-eight caregivers completed surveys for 80 children. Children with clinically significant feeding difficulties on the BPFAS (n = 55, 68.8%) had higher levels of caregiver-reported impact on daily activities, worry and feeding difficulties compared to children without clinically significant feeding difficulties (FS-IS; U = 257.000, z = -4.471, p < 0.01). Spearman's rank correlation showed a statistically significant, moderate correlation between BPFAS total frequency score and FS-IS Daily activities score, rs (98) = 0.56, p < 0.01, indicating that as the frequency of feeding difficulties increased, the impact of these feeding difficulties on caregivers also increased. Using multiple regression, a model comprising of the three factors was statistically significant (F[1, 78] = 87.75, p < 0.001, adj. R2 = 0.52), with children's frequency of feeding difficulties the strongest predictor of caregiver-reported impact with a moderate effect size (r = 0.49). CONCLUSION Autistic children's feeding difficulties had a greater impact on caregivers than autism or sensory profiles, with the frequency of feeding difficulties and the caregiver impact of these feeding difficulties positively correlated. The findings demonstrate that efforts to understand and address feeding difficulties in autistic children must extend beyond the children to include their families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeanne Marshall
- Queensland Children's Hospital, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kelly A Weir
- The Royal Children's Hospital Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Health Sciences & Social Work, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
| | - David Trembath
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- CliniKids, Telethon Kids Institute, Subiaco, Australia
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Kuruppath P, Xue L, Pouille F, Jones ST, Schoppa NE. Hyperexcitability in the Olfactory Bulb and Impaired Fine Odor Discrimination in the Fmr1 KO Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. J Neurosci 2023; 43:8243-8258. [PMID: 37788940 PMCID: PMC10697393 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0584-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the single most common monogenetic cause of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in humans. FXS is caused by loss of expression of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), an mRNA-binding protein encoded on the X chromosome involved in suppressing protein translation. Sensory processing deficits have been a major focus of studies of FXS in both humans and rodent models of FXS, but olfactory deficits remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted experiments in wild-type (WT) and Fmr1 knock-out (KO; Fmr1-/y ) mice (males) that lack expression of the gene encoding FMRP to assess olfactory circuit and behavioral abnormalities. In patch-clamp recordings conducted in slices of the olfactory bulb, output mitral cells (MCs) in Fmr1 KO mice displayed greatly enhanced excitation under baseline conditions, as evidenced by a much higher rate of occurrence of spontaneous network-level events known as long-lasting depolarizations (LLDs). The higher probability of spontaneous LLDs (sLLDs), which appeared to be because of a decrease in GABAergic synaptic inhibition in glomeruli leading to more feedforward excitation, caused a reduction in the reliability of stimulation-evoked responses in MCs. In addition, in a go/no-go operant discrimination paradigm, we found that Fmr1 KO mice displayed impaired discrimination of odors in difficult tasks that involved odor mixtures but not altered discrimination of monomolecular odors. We suggest that the Fmr1 KO-induced reduction in MC response reliability is one plausible mechanism for the impaired fine odor discrimination.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Fragile X syndrome (FXS) in humans is associated with a range of debilitating deficits including aberrant sensory processing. One sensory system that has received comparatively little attention in studies in animal models of FXS is olfaction. Here, we report the first comprehensive physiological analysis of circuit defects in the olfactory bulb in the commonly-used Fmr1 knock-out (KO) mouse model of FXS. Our studies indicate that Fmr1 KO alters the local excitation/inhibition balance in the bulb, similar to what Fmr1 KO does in other brain circuits, but through a novel mechanism that involves enhanced feedforward excitation. Furthermore, Fmr1 KO mice display behavioral impairments in fine odor discrimination, an effect that may be explained by changes in neural response reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kuruppath
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Lin Xue
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Frederic Pouille
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Shelly T Jones
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Nathan E Schoppa
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045
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Panerai S, Catania V, Ingoglia S, Ruccella D, Ferri R, Zingale M, Fasciana D, Elia M. Eating and Sensory Features of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Typically Developing Peers. Am J Occup Ther 2023; 77:7706205040. [PMID: 38018651 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2023.050226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Impaired sensory processing is associated with eating problems. There seem to be no previous studies that compare those who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with eating problems (ASD-W) and those with ASD without eating problems (ASD-WO) with typically developing (TD) groups. Comparisons are expected to provide further knowledge to guide the intervention programs. OBJECTIVE To investigate differences among ASD-W, ASD-WO, and TD groups in eating and sensory features; to detect associations between sensory and eating behaviors and any most involved sensory dimensions; and to search for age-related differences in sensory and eating features in ASD. DESIGN Nonrandomized comparison study. SETTING Questionnaires administered as parent interviews. PARTICIPANTS A total of 165 children were recruited: 117 with ASD and 48 TD children. OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Standardized questionnaires: the Brief Autism Mealtime Behaviors Inventory for eating problems; the Short Sensory Profile and the Sensory Experience Questionnaire for sensory problems. RESULTS The ASD-W group showed generalized, impaired eating behaviors and turned out to be the most impaired with regard to sensory responsiveness. No differences in feeding behaviors were found between the ASD-WO and TD groups. All children with ASD showed sensory hyper- or hyporesponsiveness. Four main sensory dimensions were found to be associated with eating behaviors in ASD. No age differences were found in the eating and sensory behaviors of children with ASD. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Differing eating and sensory profiles were found between the ASD and TD groups, especially in children with ASD-W. Early eating interventions using sensory stimulations are strongly recommended. What This Article Adds: This study reports novel information derived from the comparisons of children with ASD with eating problems and those with ASD without eating problems with typically developing groups of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simonetta Panerai
- Simonetta Panerai, PsyD, is Head Psychologist, Unit of Psychology, Department of Brain Aging, Oasi Research Institute, IRCCS, Troina, Italy;
| | - Valentina Catania
- Valentina Catania, PsyD, is Psychologist, Unit of Psychology, Department of Brain Aging, Oasi Research Institute, IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Sonia Ingoglia
- Sonia Ingoglia, PsyD, is Full Professor, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Ruccella
- Daniela Ruccella, PsyD, is Psychologist, Psychoeducational Service for Children with Autism and Intellectual Disability, Società Cooperativa Sociale "I Corrieri dell'Oasi," Troina, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ferri
- Raffaele Ferri, MD, is Scientific Director, Oasi Research Institute, IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Marinella Zingale
- Marinella Zingale, PsyD, is Psychologist, Unit of Psychology, Department of Mental Retardation, Oasi Research Institute, IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Daniela Fasciana
- Daniela Fasciana, PsyD, is Coordinator Psychologist, Center for Diagnosis and Early Intensive Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Local Health Authority, Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - Maurizio Elia
- Maurizio Elia, MD, is Director, Unit of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Oasi Research Institute, IRCCS, Troina, Italy
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Conti MV, Breda C, Basilico S, Luzzi A, Voto L, Santero S, De Filippo G, Cena H. Dietary recommendations to customize canteen menus according to the nutritional and sensory needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Eat Weight Disord 2023; 28:66. [PMID: 37526770 PMCID: PMC10393838 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-023-01590-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are often characterized by food-selectivity, food-neophobia and a marked preference for mild flavor, semi-liquid foods with pale colors. Therefore, they adopt a monotonous dietary pattern, and they prefer ultra-processed food, leading to a high risk of developing malnutrition. In Italy, where 75,072 individuals are diagnosed with ASD, center-based services play a crucial role in their daily management. Despite the centrality of nutrition in maintaining a good state of health, even more for vulnerable subjects, no validated protocol at collective catering level has been developed yet. The manuscript presents customized dietary recommendations aimed at managing the meals for individuals with ASD at collective catering service, derived from a non-systematic literature review exploring food behaviors and nutritional needs in individuals with ASD. Simple practical tips for mealtimes, such as eating together, proper seating, lighting, smell control, presenting food in a simple manner and using the same type of tableware at each meal, to meet the needs of individuals with ASD, were described. The proposal could represent a starting point in developing official guidelines aimed at ASD individuals, in collective catering service.Level of Evidence: Level V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vittoria Conti
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Breda
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sara Basilico
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessia Luzzi
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Post Graduate Course in Food Science and Human Nutrition, Università Statale di Milano, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Luana Voto
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- ImmunoNutritionLab at the CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c.ar.l Research Center, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Santero
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giorgia De Filippo
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hellas Cena
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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Venegas JP, Navarrete M, Orellana-Garcia L, Rojas M, Avello-Duarte F, Nunez-Parra A. Basal Forebrain Modulation of Olfactory Coding In Vivo. Int J Psychol Res (Medellin) 2023; 16:62-86. [PMID: 38106956 PMCID: PMC10723750 DOI: 10.21500/20112084.6486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory perception is one of the most fundamental brain functions, allowing individuals to properly interact and adapt to a constantly changing environment. This process requires the integration of bottom-up and topdown neuronal activity, which is centrally mediated by the basal forebrain, a brain region that has been linked to a series of cognitive processes such as attention and alertness. Here, we review the latest research using optogenetic approaches in rodents and in vivo electrophysiological recordings that are shedding light on the role of this region, in regulating olfactory processing and decisionmaking. Moreover, we summarize evidence highlighting the anatomical and physiological differences in the basal forebrain of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, which could underpin the sensory perception abnormalities they exhibit, and propose this research line as a potential opportunity to understand the neurobiological basis of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Venegas
- Physiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Chile.Universidad de ChileUniversity of ChileChile
| | - Marcela Navarrete
- Physiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Chile.Universidad de ChileUniversity of ChileChile
| | - Laura Orellana-Garcia
- Physiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Chile.Universidad de ChileUniversity of ChileChile
| | - Marcelo Rojas
- Physiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Chile.Universidad de ChileUniversity of ChileChile
| | - Felipe Avello-Duarte
- Physiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Chile.Universidad de ChileUniversity of ChileChile
| | - Alexia Nunez-Parra
- Physiology Laboratory, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Chile.Universidad de ChileUniversity of ChileChile
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Zeisel A, Thiel T, Gaigg SB, Roessner V, Ring M. Validation of the German Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire and replication of sensory processing differences in students with higher and lower Autism-Spectrum Quotient. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:426. [PMID: 37316778 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04903-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire (GSQ) gives insight into sensory processing differences (hypo- and hyper-sensitivity across modalities), which is a clinically defining characteristic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Because there is no validated German version of this instrument, this study aimed at validating the German GSQ. Further, a replication of the GSQ's sensory processing differences was intended. METHODS University students of Technische Universität or Universitätsklinikum in Dresden, Germany, were recruited via email distribution or the university homepage and 297 German-speaking students completed the online survey, comprising the German GSQ, Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) and Symptom-Checklist (SCL-90). For validation of the German GSQ, confirmatory factor analyses followed by exploratory factor analyses were applied. RESULTS The German GSQ has moderate to low validity, good to acceptable reliability, and a different internal structure from the original GSQ. Replicating the sensory processing differences in students with higher and lower AQ was not successful. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that the GSQ, developed especially for individuals with ASD, is less informative for the general population if there are not enough individuals with higher AQ scores in the sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalena Zeisel
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tobias Thiel
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sebastian B Gaigg
- Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Veit Roessner
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Melanie Ring
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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Schaaf RC, Puts NA, Williams ZJ, Woynaroski T. Forwarding the Science of Sensory Features in Autism and Related Conditions. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-05959-y. [PMID: 37142906 PMCID: PMC10949906 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05959-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This editorial accompanies the JADD Special Issue on Sensory Features in Autism and Related Conditions: Developmental Approaches, Mechanisms and Targeted Interventions. The editorial is a commentary on the state of the science in sensory features in autism and related conditions and provides a synopsis of the information contained in the special issue including provocative thoughts about moving the field forward in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roseann C Schaaf
- Jefferson Autism Center of Excellence, Department of Occupational Therapy, Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Nicolaas A Puts
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences and MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - Zachary J Williams
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Affiliate, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tiffany Woynaroski
- Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, First Center for Autism and Innovation, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Kuruppath P, Xue L, Pouille F, Jones ST, Schoppa NE. Hyperexcitability in the olfactory bulb and impaired fine odor discrimination in the Fmr1 KO mouse model of fragile X syndrome. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.10.536251. [PMID: 37090519 PMCID: PMC10120685 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.10.536251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the single most common monogenetic cause of autism spectrum disorders in humans. FXS is caused by loss of expression of the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), an mRNA-binding protein encoded on the X chromosome involved in suppressing protein translation. Sensory processing deficits have been a major focus of studies of FXS in both humans and rodent models of FXS, but olfactory deficits remain poorly understood. Here we conducted experiments in wild-type and Fmr1 KO ( Fmr1 -/y ) mice (males) that lack expression of the gene encoding FMRP to assess olfactory circuit and behavioral abnormalities. In patch-clamp recordings conducted in slices of the olfactory bulb, output mitral cells (MCs) in Fmr1 KO mice displayed greatly enhanced excitation, as evidenced by a much higher rate of occurrence of spontaneous network-level events known as long-lasting depolarizations (LLDs). The higher probability of LLDs did not appear to reflect changes in inhibitory connections onto MCs but rather enhanced spontaneous excitation of external tufted cells (eTCs) that provide feedforward excitation onto MCs within glomeruli. In addition, in a go/no-go operant discrimination paradigm, we found that Fmr1 KO mice displayed impaired discrimination of odors in difficult tasks that involved odor mixtures but not altered discrimination of monomolecular odors. We suggest that the higher excitability of MCs in Fmr1 KO mice may impair fine odor discrimination by broadening odor tuning curves of MCs and/or altering synchronized oscillations through changes in transient inhibition. Significance Statement Fragile X syndrome (FXS) in humans is associated with a range of debilitating deficits including aberrant sensory processing. One sensory system that has received comparatively little attention in studies in animal models of FXS is olfaction. Here, we report the first comprehensive physiological analysis of circuit defects in the olfactory bulb in the commonly-used Fmr1 knockout (KO) mouse model of FXS. Our studies indicate that Fmr1 KO alters the local excitation/inhibition balance in the bulb - similar to what Fmr1 KO does in other brain circuits - but through a novel mechanism that involves enhanced feedforward excitatory drive. Furthermore, Fmr1 KO mice display behavioral impairments in fine odor discrimination, an effect that may be explained by enhanced neural excitability.
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Almandil NB, Alismail MA, Alsuwat HS, AlSulaiman A, AbdulAzeez S, Borgio JF. Exome-wide analysis identify multiple variations in olfactory receptor genes ( OR12D2 and OR5V1) associated with autism spectrum disorder in Saudi females. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1051039. [PMID: 36817779 PMCID: PMC9928728 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1051039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifactorial, neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by deficits in communication, restricted and repetitive behaviors. ASD is highly heritable in Saudi Arabia; indecencies of affected individuals are increasing. Objectives To identify the most significant genes and SNPs associated with the increased risk of ASD in Saudi females to give an insight for early diagnosis. Methods Pilot case-control study mostly emphasized on the significant SNPs and haplotypes contributing to Saudi females with ASD patients (n = 22) compared to controls (n = 51) without ASD. With the use of allelic association analysis tools, 243,345 SNPs were studied systematically and classified according to their significant association. The significant SNPs and their genes were selected for further investigation for mapping of ASD candidate causal variants and functional impact. Results In females, five risk SNPs at p ≤ 2.32 × 10-05 was identified in association with autism. The most significant exonic variants at chromosome 6p22.1 with olfactory receptor genes (OR12D2 and OR5V1) clustered with high linkage disequilibrium through haplotyping analysis. Comparison between highly associated genes (56 genes) of male and female autistic patients with female autistic samples revealed that 39 genes are unique biomarkers for Saudi females with ASD. Conclusion Multiple variations in olfactory receptor genes (OR5V1 and OR12D2) and single variations on SPHK1, PLCL2, AKAP9 and LOC107984893 genes are contributing to ASD in females of Arab origin. Accumulation of these multiple predisposed coding SNPs can increase the possibility of developing ASD in Saudi females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor B. Almandil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia,*Correspondence: Noor B Almandil,
| | - Maram Adnan Alismail
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia,College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind Saleh Alsuwat
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulla AlSulaiman
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sayed AbdulAzeez
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - J. Francis Borgio
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Mantovani E, Tamburin S. D2/D3 Receptor Agonism: Paving the Way for a New Therapeutic Target for Taste Disorders in Parkinson's Disease and Other Conditions? Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 25:933-935. [PMID: 35908177 PMCID: PMC9670739 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyac042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemosensory (i.e., olfaction and taste) dysfunction is common in neurodegenerative (e.g., Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia), psychiatric (e.g., depression, bipolar disorders, other conditions), and postinfectious (i.e., long COVID) diseases and in the elderly. Despite its impact on patients' quality of life, no established treatment for taste disorders exists so far. A recent report on the effect of pramipexole, a D2/D3 agonist, on taste performance in healthy participants provides support for a new potential therapeutic target for taste dysfunction to be tested in future randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trials across several populations reporting gustatory symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Mantovani
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Section, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Correspondence: Stefano Tamburin, MD, PhD, Section of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro 10, I-37134 Verona, Italy ( )
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13
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Zulkifli MN, Kadar M, Hamzaid NH. Weight Status and Associated Risk Factors of Mealtime Behaviours among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9070927. [PMID: 35883911 PMCID: PMC9316127 DOI: 10.3390/children9070927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Atypical mealtime behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been linked with oral sensory hypersensitivity that may contribute to food selectivity and weight issues. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the association between atypical mealtime behaviours and associated risk factors besides exploring the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Malaysian children with ASD in community settings. A total of 150 children with ASD aged 3−11 years participated in this study. A self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic variables, mealtime behaviours and oral sensory processing was completed by the caregivers. The prevalence of overweight in the study samples was 18.5%, whereas obesity was 20.0%. In a multivariate analysis model, oral sensory processing (B = 0.608, 95% CI = 0.493, 0.722, p < 0.001), severity of autism symptoms (moderate and severe) (B = 2.585, 95% CI = 0.722, 4.448, p = 0.007) and younger children with ASD (B = −0.694, 95% CI = −1.189, −0.199, p = 0.006) were found as independent predictors of atypical mealtime behaviours. Children with ASD aged 3−11 years old have a higher prevalence of being overweight and obese, thus requiring regular anthropometric screening in community settings by relevant healthcare professionals. Furthermore, a relationship was found between oral sensory difficulties and atypical mealtime behaviours in children with ASD. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial in the overall management of food selectivity in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maizatul Naqiah Zulkifli
- Dietetics Programme, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia;
- Department of Dietetics and Food Services, Sungai Buloh Hospital, Ministry of Health, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Malaysia
| | - Masne Kadar
- Occupational Therapy Programme, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia;
| | - Nur Hana Hamzaid
- Dietetics Programme, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia;
- Department of Dietetics and Food Services, UKM Specialist Children’s Hospital, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-3-92897511 (ext. 7080)
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14
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Chen N, Watanabe K, Kobayakawa T, Wada M. Relationships between autistic traits, taste preference, taste perception, and eating behaviour. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2022; 30:628-640. [PMID: 35690923 PMCID: PMC9545735 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder exhibit atypical taste perception and eating behaviours. However, little is known about the effect of autistic traits on eating behaviours in the general population. This study explored the relationships between autistic traits, taste preferences, taste perceptions, and eating behaviours among Japanese population using an online questionnaire survey. The results showed significant effect of autistic traits on eating behaviours, that people with higher autistic traits tended to have higher selective eating behaviours, such as increased sensitivity to food texture and mixed flavours. Moreover, selective eating behaviours were correlated with the preference for sour taste and aftertaste sensitivity. Those results suggest that eating behaviours can be influenced by the relationship between autistic traits, taste perceptions, and taste preferences. We discuss these results in the context of previous findings, and future investigations into the possibility of solving selective eating problems in individuals with autism. Autistic traits were significantly correlated with eating behaviours. People with higher autistic traits tended to have higher selective eating behaviours, such as increased sensitivity to food texture and mixed flavours. People who like sour tastes tended to have less selective eating behaviours. People who are sensitive to aftertaste perception tended to have greater selective eating behaviours. Autistic traits, taste perceptions, and taste preferences play a role in the development of a number of selective eating behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation for Brain Functions, Research Institute of National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Katsumi Watanabe
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsu Kobayakawa
- Human Informatics and Interaction Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Makoto Wada
- Department of Rehabilitation for Brain Functions, Research Institute of National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities, Tokorozawa, Japan
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15
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Huang G, Qiu Y, Tan S, Ma Q, Zou L. Impaired odor identification ability and olfactory hedonic capacity in children with elevated autistic traits. J SENS STUD 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/joss.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gao‐jie Huang
- Chemical Senses and Mental Health Laboratory, Department of Psychology School of Public Health, Southern Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Yi‐qi Qiu
- Chemical Senses and Mental Health Laboratory, Department of Psychology School of Public Health, Southern Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Shao‐zhen Tan
- Guangzhou Social Welfare Institute Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Qian‐wen Ma
- Chemical Senses and Mental Health Laboratory, Department of Psychology School of Public Health, Southern Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong China
- Guangzhou Social Welfare Institute Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Lai‐quan Zou
- Chemical Senses and Mental Health Laboratory, Department of Psychology School of Public Health, Southern Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong China
- Department of Psychiatry Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong China
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16
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Trudel SM, Winter EL, Fitzmaurice B, Norman G, Bray CR. Integration of physical health and sensory processing assessment for children with autism spectrum disorder in schools. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pits.22704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sierra M. Trudel
- Department of School Psychology University of Connecticut Storrs Connecticut USA
| | - Emily L. Winter
- Department of School Psychology University of Connecticut Storrs Connecticut USA
| | - Brenna Fitzmaurice
- Department of School Psychology University of Connecticut Storrs Connecticut USA
| | - Gina Norman
- Department of School Psychology University of Connecticut Storrs Connecticut USA
| | - Clark R. Bray
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Connecticut Storrs Connecticut USA
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17
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Singh A, Seo H. Atypical sensory functions and eating behaviors among adults on the autism spectrum: One‐on‐one interviews. J SENS STUD 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/joss.12724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Singh
- Department of Food Science University of Arkansas Fayetteville Arkansas USA
| | - Han‐Seok Seo
- Department of Food Science University of Arkansas Fayetteville Arkansas USA
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18
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Burstein O, Geva R. The Brainstem-Informed Autism Framework: Early Life Neurobehavioral Markers. Front Integr Neurosci 2021; 15:759614. [PMID: 34858145 PMCID: PMC8631363 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2021.759614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have long-term implications on functioning at multiple levels. In this perspective, we offer a brainstem-informed autism framework (BIAF) that traces the protracted neurobehavioral manifestations of ASD to early life brainstem dysfunctions. Early life brainstem-mediated markers involving functions of autonomic/arousal regulation, sleep-wake homeostasis, and sensorimotor integration are delineated. Their possible contributions to the early identification of susceptible infants are discussed. We suggest that the BIAF expands our multidimensional understanding of ASD by focusing on the early involvement of brainstem systems. Importantly, we propose an integrated BIAF screener that brings about the prospect of a sensitive and reliable early life diagnostic scheme for weighing the risk for ASD. The BIAF screener could provide clinicians substantial gains in the future and may carve customized interventions long before the current DSM ASD phenotype is manifested using dyadic co-regulation of brainstem-informed autism markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Or Burstein
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ronny Geva
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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19
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20
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Qiu YQ, Huang GJ, Zhao JB, Ma QW, Zou LQ. The chemosensory pleasure scale for children (CPS-C): Factor structure, reliability, and validity. Food Qual Prefer 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2021.104214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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21
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Hausberger M, Lesimple C, Henry S. Detecting Welfare in a Non-Verbal Species: Social/Cultural Biases and Difficulties in Horse Welfare Assessment. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082249. [PMID: 34438708 PMCID: PMC8388525 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary There is a paradox about the welfare of horses in the domestic situation: on the one hand, horses are beloved partners for most owners, but on the other hand, scientific studies are converging to show that there is a high prevalence of welfare problems. There seems to be a mismatch between theoretical knowledge and field applications. In this review, we aim at disentangling the possible factors explaining such a paradox. Among them, we consider the impact of anthropomorphic and cultural biases, popular beliefs, but also overexposure to horses with compromised welfare state, which can change owners’ representation of what is a “normal” horse, on the undervaluation of horse welfare state. We suggest that, rather than simply having knowledge on what should be done, identifying the horse welfare state using validated animal-based indicators is essential to identify and promote best practices. Abstract Horses were domesticated for more than 5000 years and have been one of the most emblematic species living alongside humans. This long-shared history would suggest that horses are well known and well understood, but scientific data raise many concerns about the welfare state of most domestic horses suggesting that many aspects have been largely misunderstood. In the present review, we will examine some of the possible human factors that may explain the huge prevalence of welfare problems, despite horses being of special importance to humans. First of all, as horses are non-verbal, current management practices rely upon what one thinks is good for them, which opens the way to subjective interpretations and projections, based on one’s own subjective experience but probably still more on cultural/social norms and influences, traditions and beliefs. The lack of recognition, identification, or even the misinterpretation of signals are other potential reasons for welfare issues. Lastly, the over-exposure to animals with expressions of compromised welfare may lead to lower sensitivity of owners/professionals. That is why we lastly suggest that instead of simply providing information on what to do, we should promote validated visible indicators that leave less room for personal interpretation.
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Stankovic J, Hove Thomsen P, Ovesen T. Food preferences, food neophobia and chemosensation among adolescents with ADHD. Acta Paediatr 2021; 110:2187-2199. [PMID: 33534932 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM It has been suggested that adolescents diagnosed with ADHD have an unhealthier diet compared to their peers without ADHD. The association between chemosensation (smell and taste) and dietary patterns remains unknown. The aim is to investigate unhealthy food preferences and food neophobic behaviour among adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. Additionally, it is to investigate the relationship between dietary patterns and chemosensory function. METHODS We enrolled 36 adolescents with and without ADHD to complete a food item and a food neophobia questionnaire and to undergo chemosensory testing. RESULTS Adolescents with ADHD performed significantly worse on both chemosensory tests compared to the non-ADHD group. No difference in food preferences nor food neophobia was found between the two groups. CONCLUSION Adolescents with ADHD have a lower score on chemosensory tests compared to their peers, suggesting impaired chemosensory function. No differences in dietary preferences nor food neophobia were seen between the two groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Per Hove Thomsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine Psychiatric Hospital for Children and Adolescents Aarhus University Hospital Risskov Denmark
| | - Therese Ovesen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Region Hospital Holstebro Holstebro Denmark
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23
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The potential for retronasally delivered olfactory stimuli to assess psychiatric conditions. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-019-00238-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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24
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Oliveira BMFD, Frutuoso MFP. [Far beyond nutrients: experiences and connections with autistic children based on cooking and sharing meals]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2021; 37:e00132020. [PMID: 33950088 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00132020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined ways to expand the analysis of diet in autistic children, widely considered inadequate according to food selectivity and/or difficulty interacting at mealtimes, attributed to alterations in sensorial processing and social, communicative, and cognitive difficulties. From an ethnographic perspective, a participant observational study was performed with field diary records and cooking workshops with autistic children and adolescents, aimed at analyzing the relations established by the children with the food and utensils, physical space, and between each other and the adults. The records were analyzed based on Bondía's notion of experience and Actor-Network Theory. The resulting data showed singularities in performing cooking tasks and accepting recipes. Some children did not eat the foods, but smelled, licked, and handled the ingredients in moments of experimentation through mediation by the educators, facilitating connection by the children with food and eating. The interactions established with foods and utensils highlight the importance of food and eating as mediators of the connection between autistic children and their peers, with adults, and with the world. This experience broke with the homogenizing value assigned to autistic children's difficulties with interaction and reinforced commensality as a tool for building networks of care. To conceive eating for these children from an expanded perspective means to value subjectivity, the relationship to food, and interaction with others at mealtimes, far beyond the biological understanding of the nutrients.
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25
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Sun C, Yin Z, Li B, Du H, Tang K, Liu P, Hang Pun S, Lei TC, Li A. Oxytocin modulates neural processing of mitral/tufted cells in the olfactory bulb. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 231:e13626. [PMID: 33580583 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM Oxytocin plays an important role in social recognition in rodents, which is mediated predominantly by the olfactory system. Although oxytocin modulates neural activity in the olfactory bulb, the underlying mechanism is largely unknown. Here, we studied how direct infusion of oxytocin into the olfactory bulb affect social interactions in mice and modulate the neural activity of mitral/tufted cells in the olfactory bulb. METHODS A three-chamber social interaction test was used in the behavioural test. For in vivo studies, single unit recordings, local field potential recordings and fibre photometry recordings were used to record the neural activity of olfactory bulb. For in vitro studies, we performed patch clamp recordings in the slice of the olfactory bulb. RESULTS Behaviourally, direct oxytocin infusion in olfactory bulb increased performance in a social interaction task. Moreover, odour-evoked responses of mitral/tufted cells and neural discrimination of odours were both enhanced by oxytocin, whereas the spontaneous firing rate of mitral/tufted cells was reduced. At the neural network level, oxytocin decreased the amplitude of odour-evoked high gamma responses. At the cell population level, oxytocin decreased odour-evoked calcium responses (reflecting neural activity) specifically in granule cells. Moreover, in vitro slice recordings revealed that the inhibitory effect of oxytocin on mitral cell activity is mediated mainly by modulation of ATP-sensitive potassium channels and involves the oxytocin receptor-Gq-PLC-IP3 signalling pathway. CONCLUSION Oxytocin modulates social interaction, likely by increasing the signal-to-noise ratio of odour responses in mitral cells which is partly through ATP-sensitive potassium channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changcheng Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
| | - Zhaoyang Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
| | - Ben‐Zheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Analog and Mixed‐Signal VLSI University of Macau Macau China
- Department of Electrical Engineering University of Colorado Denver CO USA
| | - Han Du
- Institute of Neuroscience Soochow University Suzhou China
| | - Keke Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
| | - Penglai Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
| | - Sio Hang Pun
- State Key Laboratory of Analog and Mixed‐Signal VLSI University of Macau Macau China
- Institute of Microelectronics University of Macau Macau China
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty of Science and Technology University of Macau Macau China
| | - Tim C. Lei
- Department of Electrical Engineering University of Colorado Denver CO USA
| | - Anan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Xuzhou Medical University Xuzhou China
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Hartig R, Wolf D, Schmeisser MJ, Kelsch W. Genetic influences of autism candidate genes on circuit wiring and olfactory decoding. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 383:581-595. [PMID: 33515293 PMCID: PMC7872953 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03390-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Olfaction supports a multitude of behaviors vital for social communication and interactions between conspecifics. Intact sensory processing is contingent upon proper circuit wiring. Disturbances in genetic factors controlling circuit assembly and synaptic wiring can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where impaired social interactions and communication are core symptoms. The variability in behavioral phenotype expression is also contingent upon the role environmental factors play in defining genetic expression. Considering the prevailing clinical diagnosis of ASD, research on therapeutic targets for autism is essential. Behavioral impairments may be identified along a range of increasingly complex social tasks. Hence, the assessment of social behavior and communication is progressing towards more ethologically relevant tasks. Garnering a more accurate understanding of social processing deficits in the sensory domain may greatly contribute to the development of therapeutic targets. With that framework, studies have found a viable link between social behaviors, circuit wiring, and altered neuronal coding related to the processing of salient social stimuli. Here, the relationship between social odor processing in rodents and humans is examined in the context of health and ASD, with special consideration for how genetic expression and neuronal connectivity may regulate behavioral phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée Hartig
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany.,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN), University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany.,Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159, Mannheim, Germany.,Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - David Wolf
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael J Schmeisser
- Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN), University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany.,Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Kelsch
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany. .,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN), University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131, Mainz, Germany. .,Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159, Mannheim, Germany.
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A Comparative Analysis of Chewing Function and Feeding Behaviors in Children with Autism. Dysphagia 2021; 36:993-998. [PMID: 33427955 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-020-10228-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study was aimed to compare chewing performance level and feeding behaviors of children with autism to their typically developing peers. A total of 56 children (37 children with autism, 19 typically developing children) participated in the study. Feeding-related characteristics and observational oral-motor characteristics of children were recorded. The Karaduman Chewing Performance Scale (KCPS) was used to assess chewing performance level, the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS) was used to assess feeding behaviors of children, and the Turkish version of the Feeding/Swallowing Impact Survey (T-FS-IS) was used to evaluate the effect of the child's feeding and swallowing problem on their parents. Results showed that transition time to solid food intake for children with autism was later than typically developing children (p = 0.014), and they had more tongue thrusting (p = 0.009). There were differences between groups in terms of KCPS (p = 0.002), BPFAS (Total frequency score, p = 0.008; Child frequency score, p = 0.017; Parent frequency score, p = 0.021; Restriction score, p = 0.004), and T-FS-IS (Daily activities, p = 0.004; Worry, p = 009; Feeding difficulties, p = 0.031; Total score, p = 0.001). The present study shows that children with autism had worse chewing function and worse mealtime functioning compared to typically developing children. Their parents perceived mealtime behavior as more problematic, and parents' quality of life related to feeding/swallowing disorders was worse compared to parents of typically developing children. The study results reveal the importance of early assessment and intervention of chewing function and feeding behaviors in children with autism.
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28
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Olfactory Dysfunction in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Meta-analytic Review of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2685-2697. [PMID: 31960263 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04376-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Olfactory dysfunction is recognized in neurodevelopmental disorders and may serve as an early indicator of global dysfunction. The present meta-analysis measures olfaction effect sizes in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Meta-analysis included 320 ADHD, 346 ASD, and 208 OCD individuals as compared to 910 controls. Olfactory performance deficits were small-to-moderate and heterogeneous (d = - 0.42, 95% CI = - 0.59 < δ < - 0.25). Meta-analytic results indicate that olfactory dysfunction is evident in individuals with ASD and OCD, with small-to-negligible effects in ADHD. These findings imply olfactory dysfunction is related to clinical phenotype in ASD and OCD, but not ADHD, and warrant inclusion in clinical assessment and evaluation of certain neurodevelopmental disorders.
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29
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Barros F, Soares SC. Giving meaning to the social world in autism spectrum disorders: Olfaction as a missing piece of the puzzle? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 116:239-250. [PMID: 32562688 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Altered social cognition is a core feature of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). These impairments have been explained as the consequence of compromised social motivational mechanisms that limit social interest and activate a cascade of social deficits. Following this rational, we argue that approaches capable of surpassing ASD usual restraints (e.g., deficits in verbal abilities), and able to assign social meaning, could be more effective at responding to these difficulties. In this framework, we propose that olfaction, as well as cross-modal integration strategies involving both visual and olfactory domains, may have such potential. In fact, most of socioemotional processing deficits in ASD have been shown in an uni-modal perspective, mainly with visual stimuli. However, the social environment involves other modalities and is typically multisensorial. Given the potential of olfaction as a gateway for socioemotional information in ASD, we argue in favor of studying olfactory perception, as well as visuo-olfactory integration, given the potential of these approaches to drive effective interventions and give the access to a meaningful social world in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Barros
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; William James Center for Research (WJCR), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sandra C Soares
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; William James Center for Research (WJCR), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 9, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Panerai S, Ferri R, Catania V, Zingale M, Ruccella D, Gelardi D, Fasciana D, Elia M. Sensory Profiles of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder with and without Feeding Problems: A Comparative Study in Sicilian Subjects. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10060336. [PMID: 32486513 PMCID: PMC7349225 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10060336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to better understand the relationship between sensory and feeding problems in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by comparing sensory responsiveness of ASD children with (ASD-W) and without (ASD-WO) feeding problems. The feeding and sensory characteristics of 111 children with ASD (37 ASD-W and 74 ASD-WO) were assessed by using two questionnaires tapping on feeding problems and two on sensory problems. A comparative study was carried out with between-group as well as intra-group comparisons design; a correlation analysis was also added. A statistically significant correlation was found between sensory and feeding problems. ASD-W children showed more severe and extensively impaired sensory responses than ASD-WO, with lower sensory adaptation and more generalized and severe deficits in all subdomains. Taste/Smell sensitivity was strongly impaired only in ASD-W, whereas in ASD-WO it was found to be a point of strength. Both groups showed a Hyporesponsive profile, though it was more marked in ASD-W. Both groups showed strengths in Visual/Auditory sensitivity, Low-Energy/Weak, and Movement sensitivity, again more marked in ASD-WO. These results might prove to be particularly useful for sensory training and psychoeducational treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simonetta Panerai
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (R.F.); (V.C.); (M.Z.); (D.G.); (M.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-38-9432-0329
| | - Raffaele Ferri
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (R.F.); (V.C.); (M.Z.); (D.G.); (M.E.)
| | - Valentina Catania
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (R.F.); (V.C.); (M.Z.); (D.G.); (M.E.)
| | - Marinella Zingale
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (R.F.); (V.C.); (M.Z.); (D.G.); (M.E.)
| | - Daniela Ruccella
- Psychoeducational Service for Children with Autism and Intellectual Disability, Società Cooperativa Sociale “I Corrieri dell’Oasi” (CdO), 94100 Enna, Italy;
| | - Donatella Gelardi
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (R.F.); (V.C.); (M.Z.); (D.G.); (M.E.)
| | - Daniela Fasciana
- Center for Diagnosis and Early Intensive Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, 93100 ASP Caltanissetta, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Elia
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (R.F.); (V.C.); (M.Z.); (D.G.); (M.E.)
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31
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Kinnaird E, Stewart C, Tchanturia K. The relationship of autistic traits to taste and olfactory processing in anorexia nervosa. Mol Autism 2020; 11:25. [PMID: 32276668 PMCID: PMC7146886 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00331-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a heightened prevalence of autism in anorexia nervosa (AN) compared to the general population. Autistic people with AN experience a longer illness duration and poorer treatment outcomes. Whether sensory differences in autism could contribute to altered taste and smell as a potential maintaining factor in AN is under-explored. The aim of this study was to explore whether autistic traits are associated with taste and olfaction differences in AN. METHODS The study recruited n = 40 people with AN, and n = 40 healthy controls (HC). Smell sensitivity was measured using the Sniffin' Sticks test. Taste sensitivity was measured using taste strips. Participants self-rated their autistic traits using the Autism Spectrum Quotient. RESULTS There were no significant differences on taste and olfactory outcomes between people with AN and HC. These findings did not change after controlling for the heightened levels of autistic traits in the AN group. No relationship between taste and smell outcomes and autistic traits were identified within the AN group. LIMITATIONS The current study is not able to draw conclusions about taste and smell processing in co-occurring autism and AN as it only measured levels of autistic traits, rather than comparing people with and without an autism diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS No significant associations between autistic traits and taste and smell processing in AN were identified. Future research should consider further exploring this area, including by comparing autistic women to women with AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kinnaird
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Catherine Stewart
- Maudsley Centre for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
- Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
- Department of Psychology, Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia.
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Li C, Liu Y, Fang H, Chen Y, Weng J, Zhai M, Xiao T, Ke X. Study on Aberrant Eating Behaviors, Food Intolerance, and Stereotyped Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:493695. [PMID: 33240114 PMCID: PMC7678488 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.493695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the aberrant eating behaviors (EBs), gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, and food intolerance in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their association with clinical core symptoms of ASD. Method: A total of 94 preschool children with ASD treated at the Child Mental Health Research Center of Nanjing Brain Hospital between October 2016 and April 2018 were enrolled. In addition, 90 children with typical development (TD) in the community during the same period were recruited. The conditions of aberrant EBs and GI symptoms in children were investigated using questionnaire surveys. Serum specific IgG antibodies against 14 kinds of food were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Results: The detection rate of aberrant EBs in the ASD group was significantly higher than that in the TD group (67.39 vs. 34.94%), and the rate of GI symptoms was also higher in the ASD group than that in the TD group (80.22 vs. 42.11%). Detection of food intolerance in children with ASD showed that the positive rate was 89.89% and that the majority of children had multiple food intolerances. The correlation analysis results showed that the severity of aberrant EBs positively correlated with stereotyped behavior of children with ASD (r = 0.21, P = 0.04) and that food-specific IgG antibodies concentrations positively correlated with high-level stereotyped behavior in children with ASD (r = 0.23, P = 0.03). Conclusion: ASD with aberrant EBs or high food-specific IgG antibodies concentrations had more severe stereotyped behavior, which may have implications for exploring the immune mechanism of ASD. Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR-RPC-16008139.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Li
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Fang
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiao Weng
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengyao Zhai
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Xiao
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ke
- Children's Mental Health Research Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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33
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Association Between Feeding Problems and Oral Health Status in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:4997-5008. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04211-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Mansoori F, Rahgozar M, Kavousi K. FoPA: identifying perturbed signaling pathways in clinical conditions using formal methods. BMC Bioinformatics 2019; 20:92. [PMID: 30808299 PMCID: PMC6390332 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-019-2635-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurate identification of perturbed signaling pathways based on differentially expressed genes between sample groups is one of the key factors in the understanding of diseases and druggable targets. Most pathway analysis methods prioritize impacted signaling pathways by incorporating pathway topology using simple graph-based models. Despite their relative success, these models are limited in describing all types of dependencies and interactions that exist in biological pathways. RESULTS In this work, we propose a new approach based on the formal modeling of signaling pathways. Signaling pathways are formally modeled, and then model checking tools are applied to find the likelihood of perturbation for each pathway in a given condition. By adopting formal methods, various complex interactions among biological parts are modeled, which can contribute to reducing the false-positive rate of the proposed approach. We have developed a tool named Formal model checking based pathway analysis (FoPA) based on this approach. FoPA is compared with three well-known pathway analysis methods: PADOG, CePa, and SPIA on the benchmark of 36 GEO datasets from various diseases by applying the target pathway technique. This validation technique eliminates the need for possibly biased human assessments of results. In the cases that, there is no apriori knowledge of all relevant pathways, simulated false inputs (permuted class labels and decoy pathways) are chosen as a set of negative controls to test the false positive rate of the methods. Finally, to further evaluate the efficiency of FoPA, it is applied to a list of autism-related genes. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained by the target pathway technique demonstrate that FoPA is able to prioritize target pathways as well as PADOG but better than CePa and SPIA. Also, the false-positive rate of finding significant pathways using FoPA is lower than other compared methods. Also, FoPA can detect more consistent relevant pathways than other methods. The results of FoPA on autism-related genes highlight the role of "Renin-angiotensin system" pathway. This pathway has been supposed to have a pivotal role in some neurodegenerative diseases, while little attention has been paid to its impact on autism development so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Mansoori
- Database Research Group, Control and Intelligent Processing Center of Excellence, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maseud Rahgozar
- Database Research Group, Control and Intelligent Processing Center of Excellence, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kaveh Kavousi
- Complex Biological Systems and Bioinformatics Lab (CBB), Bioinformatics department, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Huang TN, Yen TL, Qiu LR, Chuang HC, Lerch JP, Hsueh YP. Haploinsufficiency of autism causative gene Tbr1 impairs olfactory discrimination and neuronal activation of the olfactory system in mice. Mol Autism 2019; 10:5. [PMID: 30792833 PMCID: PMC6371489 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-019-0257-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) exhibit two clusters of core symptoms, i.e., social and communication impairment, and repetitive behaviors and sensory abnormalities. Our previous study demonstrated that TBR1, a causative gene of ASD, controls axonal projection and neuronal activation of amygdala and regulates social interaction and vocal communication in a mouse model. Behavioral defects caused by Tbr1 haploinsufficiency can be ameliorated by increasing neural activity via D-cycloserine treatment, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) coagonist. In this report, we investigate the role of TBR1 in regulating olfaction and test whether D-cycloserine can also improve olfactory defects in Tbr1 mutant mice. Methods We used Tbr1+/− mice as a model to investigate the function of TBR1 in olfactory sensation and discrimination of non-social odors. We employed a behavioral assay to characterize the olfactory defects of Tbr1+/− mice. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological analysis were applied to characterize anatomical features. Immunostaining was performed to further analyze differences in expression of TBR1 subfamily members (namely TBR1, TBR2, and TBX21), interneuron populations, and dendritic abnormalities in olfactory bulbs. Finally, C-FOS staining was used to monitor neuronal activation of the olfactory system upon odor stimulation. Results Tbr1+/− mice exhibited smaller olfactory bulbs and anterior commissures, reduced interneuron populations, and an abnormal dendritic morphology of mitral cells in the olfactory bulbs. Tbr1 haploinsufficiency specifically impaired olfactory discrimination but not olfactory sensation. Neuronal activation upon odorant stimulation was reduced in the glomerular layer of Tbr1+/− olfactory bulbs. Furthermore, although the sizes of piriform and perirhinal cortices were not affected by Tbr1 deficiency, neuronal activation was reduced in these two cortical regions in response to odorant stimulation. These results suggest an impairment of neuronal activation in olfactory bulbs and defective connectivity from olfactory bulbs to the upper olfactory system in Tbr1+/− mice. Systemic administration of D-cycloserine, an NMDAR co-agonist, ameliorated olfactory discrimination in Tbr1+/− mice, suggesting that increased neuronal activity has a beneficial effect on Tbr1 deficiency. Conclusions Tbr1 regulates neural circuits and activity in the olfactory system to control olfaction. Tbr1+/− mice can serve as a suitable model for revealing how an autism causative gene controls neuronal circuits, neural activity, and autism-related behaviors. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13229-019-0257-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzyy-Nan Huang
- 1Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128, Academia Rd., Sec. 2, Taipei, 11529 Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Li Yen
- 1Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128, Academia Rd., Sec. 2, Taipei, 11529 Taiwan
| | - Lily R Qiu
- 2Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hsiu-Chun Chuang
- 1Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128, Academia Rd., Sec. 2, Taipei, 11529 Taiwan.,4Present address: Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Jason P Lerch
- 2Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,3Department of Medical Biophysics, The University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yi-Ping Hsueh
- 1Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128, Academia Rd., Sec. 2, Taipei, 11529 Taiwan
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Williams ZJ, Failla MD, Gotham KO, Woynaroski TG, Cascio C. Psychometric Evaluation of the Short Sensory Profile in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:4231-4249. [PMID: 30019274 PMCID: PMC6219913 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3678-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Short Sensory Profile (SSP) is one of the most commonly used measures of sensory features in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but psychometric studies in this population are limited. Using confirmatory factor analysis, we evaluated the structural validity of the SSP subscales in ASD children. Confirmatory factor models exhibited poor fit, and a follow-up exploratory factor analysis suggested a 9-factor structure that only replicated three of the seven original subscales. Secondary analyses suggest that while reliable, the SSP total score is substantially biased by individual differences on dimensions other than the general factor. Overall, our findings discourage the use of the SSP total score and most subscale scores in children with ASD. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J Williams
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA.
| | - Michelle D Failla
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA
| | - Katherine O Gotham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Tiffany G Woynaroski
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Carissa Cascio
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
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Gupta A, Li X, DiCicco-Bloom E, Bello NT. Altered salt taste response and increased tongue epithelium Scnna1 expression in adult Engrailed-2 null mice. Physiol Behav 2018; 194:410-419. [PMID: 29953887 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sensory impairments are critical for diagnosing and characterizing neurodevelopmental disorders. Taste is a sensory modality often not well characterized. Engrailed-2 (En2) is a transcription factor critical for neural development, and mice lacking En2 (En2-/-) display signs of impaired social interaction, cognitive processes (e.g., learning and memory, conditioned fear), and neurodevelopmental alterations. As such, En2-/- mice display the behavioral deficits and neural impairments characteristic of the core symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The objective of this study was to characterize the taste function in En2-/- compared with En2+/+ in adult male mice. Measuring taste responsiveness by an automated gustometer, En2 null mice had decreased lick responses for 1.6 M fructose, whereas they demonstrated an increased taste responsivity (i.e., relative to water) at 0.3 M sodium chloride and 1 M monosodium glutamate. In a separate cohort of mice, En2-/- mice had an increased preference for sodium chloride over a range of concentrations (0.032-0.3 M) compared with En2+/+ mice. Regional gene expression of the tongue epithelium demonstrated an increase in Scnn1a, T2R140, T1R3, and Trpm5 and a decrease in Pkd1l3 in En2 null mice. Taken together, such data indicate that deficits in En2 can produce sensory impairments that can have a measurable impact on taste, particularly salt taste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Gupta
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Xinyi Li
- Nutritional Sciences Graduate Program, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology/Pediatrics, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Nicholas T Bello
- Department of Animal Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Nutritional Sciences Graduate Program, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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Mitjans M, Begemann M, Ju A, Dere E, Wüstefeld L, Hofer S, Hassouna I, Balkenhol J, Oliveira B, van der Auwera S, Tammer R, Hammerschmidt K, Völzke H, Homuth G, Cecconi F, Chowdhury K, Grabe H, Frahm J, Boretius S, Dandekar T, Ehrenreich H. Sexual dimorphism of AMBRA1-related autistic features in human and mouse. Transl Psychiatry 2017; 7:e1247. [PMID: 28994820 PMCID: PMC5682605 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2017.213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ambra1 is linked to autophagy and neurodevelopment. Heterozygous Ambra1 deficiency induces autism-like behavior in a sexually dimorphic manner. Extraordinarily, autistic features are seen in female mice only, combined with stronger Ambra1 protein reduction in brain compared to males. However, significance of AMBRA1 for autistic phenotypes in humans and, apart from behavior, for other autism-typical features, namely early brain enlargement or increased seizure propensity, has remained unexplored. Here we show in two independent human samples that a single normal AMBRA1 genotype, the intronic SNP rs3802890-AA, is associated with autistic features in women, who also display lower AMBRA1 mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells relative to female GG carriers. Located within a non-coding RNA, likely relevant for mRNA and protein interaction, rs3802890 (A versus G allele) may affect its stability through modification of folding, as predicted by in silico analysis. Searching for further autism-relevant characteristics in Ambra1+/- mice, we observe reduced interest of female but not male mutants regarding pheromone signals of the respective other gender in the social intellicage set-up. Moreover, altered pentylentetrazol-induced seizure propensity, an in vivo readout of neuronal excitation-inhibition dysbalance, becomes obvious exclusively in female mutants. Magnetic resonance imaging reveals mild prepubertal brain enlargement in both genders, uncoupling enhanced brain dimensions from the primarily female expression of all other autistic phenotypes investigated here. These data support a role of AMBRA1/Ambra1 partial loss-of-function genotypes for female autistic traits. Moreover, they suggest Ambra1 heterozygous mice as a novel multifaceted and construct-valid genetic mouse model for female autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mitjans
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany,DFG Research Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - M Begemann
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany,DFG Research Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, UMG, Georg-August-University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - A Ju
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - E Dere
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany,DFG Research Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany
| | - L Wüstefeld
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - S Hofer
- Biomedizinische NMR Forschungs GmbH, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - I Hassouna
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - J Balkenhol
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - B Oliveira
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - S van der Auwera
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine, and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - R Tammer
- Biomedizinische NMR Forschungs GmbH, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - K Hammerschmidt
- Cognitive Ethology Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - H Völzke
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - G Homuth
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - F Cecconi
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia and Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy,Unit of Cell Stress and Survival, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - K Chowdhury
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - H Grabe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine, and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - J Frahm
- Biomedizinische NMR Forschungs GmbH, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - S Boretius
- Department of Functional Imaging, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute of Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - T Dandekar
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - H Ehrenreich
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany,DFG Research Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Göttingen, Germany,Clinical Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hermann-Rein-Str. 3, Göttingen 37075, Germany. E-mail:
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