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Pang T, Ding N, Zhao Y, Zhao J, Yang L, Chang S. Novel genetic loci of inhibitory control in ADHD and healthy children and genetic correlations with ADHD. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 132:110988. [PMID: 38430954 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Cumulative evidence has showed the deficits of inhibitory control in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is considered as an endophenotype of ADHD. Genetic study of inhibitory control could advance gene discovery and further facilitate the understanding of ADHD genetic basis, but the studies were limited in both the general population and ADHD patients. To reveal genetic risk variants of inhibitory control and its potential genetic relationship with ADHD, we conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on inhibitory control using three datasets, which included 783 and 957 ADHD patients and 1350 healthy children. Subsequently, we employed polygenic risk scores (PRS) to explore the association of inhibitory control with ADHD and related psychiatric disorders. Firstly, we identified three significant loci for inhibitory control in the healthy dataset, two loci in the case dataset, and one locus in the meta-analysis of three datasets. Besides, we found more risk genes and variants by applying transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) and conditional FDR method. Then, we constructed a network by connecting the genes identified in our study, leading to the identification of several vital genes. Lastly, we identified a potential relationship between inhibitory control and ADHD and autism by PRS analysis and found the direct and mediated contribution of the identified genetic loci on ADHD symptoms by mediation analysis. In conclusion, we revealed some genetic risk variants associated with inhibitory control and elucidated the benefit of inhibitory control as an endophenotype, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Pang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ning Ding
- School of Psychology, Shaanxi Normal University and Shaanxi Provincial Key Research Center of Child Mental and Behavioral Health, Xi'an, China
| | - Yilu Zhao
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jingjing Zhao
- School of Psychology, Shaanxi Normal University and Shaanxi Provincial Key Research Center of Child Mental and Behavioral Health, Xi'an, China.
| | - Li Yang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Suhua Chang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China; Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
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O'Loghlen J, McKenzie M, Lang C, Paynter J. Repetitive Behaviors in Autism and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Systematic Review. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06357-8. [PMID: 38652373 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06357-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism are characterized by the presence of repetitive behaviors. Differentiating between repetitive behaviors attributable to a diagnosis of autism, and those attributable to OCD, poses challenges for differential and co-occurring diagnosis. Differentiation is important to inform appropriate supports and interventions for phenotypically similar but functionally distinct behaviors. In this systematic review, the quantitative literature was examined to explore the similarities and differences in repetitive behaviors (including restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors) in autistic individuals and those with OCD, and those with co-occurring diagnoses, in terms of: (1) expression, (2) content, and (3) associated factors. METHODS Thirty-one studies were identified that compared repetitive behaviors in autistic individuals, individuals with OCD, or individuals with both diagnoses. RESULTS The results suggest considerable overlap in the intensity and content of repetitive behaviors between groups. The findings of this review highlight that research aimed specifically at understanding similarities and differences in repetitive behaviors between autistic individuals and individuals with OCD is limited and frequently only compare at total score or composite measure levels. CONCLUSION Further research into differences in the presentation of repetitive behaviors at a subscale and item level is required to inform clearer differentiation of specific behaviors in autism versus OCD. Understanding and more accurately differentiating is essential for efficient diagnosis, effective treatment, and better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica O'Loghlen
- , Building N23, -1.03, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Matthew McKenzie
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, 58 Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Cathryne Lang
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, 58 Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Jessica Paynter
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, 58 Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
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Lefebvre A, Traut N, Pedoux A, Maruani A, Beggiato A, Elmaleh M, Germanaud D, Amestoy A, Ly-Le Moal M, Chatham C, Murtagh L, Bouvard M, Alisson M, Leboyer M, Bourgeron T, Toro R, Dumas G, Moreau C, Delorme R. Exploring the multidimensional nature of repetitive and restricted behaviors and interests (RRBI) in autism: neuroanatomical correlates and clinical implications. Mol Autism 2023; 14:45. [PMID: 38012709 PMCID: PMC10680239 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00576-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repetitive and restricted behaviors and interests (RRBI) are core symptoms of autism with a complex entity and are commonly categorized into 'motor-driven' and 'cognitively driven'. RRBI symptomatology depends on the individual's clinical environment limiting the understanding of RRBI physiology, particularly their associated neuroanatomical structures. The complex RRBI heterogeneity needs to explore the whole RRBI spectrum by integrating the clinical context [autistic individuals, their relatives and typical developing (TD) individuals]. We hypothesized that different RRBI dimensions would emerge by exploring the whole spectrum of RRBI and that these dimensions are associated with neuroanatomical signatures-involving cortical and subcortical areas. METHOD A sample of 792 individuals composed of 267 autistic subjects, their 370 first-degree relatives and 155 TD individuals was enrolled in the study. We assessed the whole patterns of RRBI in each individual by using the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised and the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale. We estimated brain volumes using MRI scanner for a subsample of the subjects (n = 152, 42 ASD, 89 relatives and 13 TD). We first investigated the dimensionality of RRBI by performing a principal component analysis on all items of these scales and included all the sampling population. We then explored the relationship between RRBI-derived factors with brain volumes using linear regression models. RESULTS We identified 3 main factors (with 30.3% of the RRBI cumulative variance): Factor 1 (FA1, 12.7%) reflected mainly the 'motor-driven' RRBI symptoms; Factor 2 and 3 (respectively, 8.8% and 7.9%) gathered mainly Y-BOCS related items and represented the 'cognitively driven' RRBI symptoms. These three factors were significantly associated with the right/left putamen volumes but with opposite effects: FA1 was negatively associated with an increased volume of the right/left putamen conversely to FA2 and FA3 (all uncorrected p < 0.05). FA1 was negatively associated with the left amygdala (uncorrected p < 0.05), and FA2 was positively associated with the left parietal structure (uncorrected p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Our results suggested 3 coherent RRBI dimensions involving the putamen commonly and other structures according to the RRBI dimension. The exploration of the putamen's integrative role in RSBI needs to be strengthened in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Lefebvre
- Fondation Vallée, GHT Paris Sud, Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gentilly, France.
- UMR 3571 CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
- UNIACT Neurospin - INSERM UMR 1129, CEA, Saclay, France.
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Henri Mondor and Albert Chenevier Hospital, Créteil, France.
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Nicolas Traut
- Unité de Neuroanatomie Appliquée et Théorique, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Amandine Pedoux
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Robert Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Anna Maruani
- UMR 3571 CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Robert Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Anita Beggiato
- UMR 3571 CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Robert Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Monique Elmaleh
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Robert-Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - David Germanaud
- UNIACT Neurospin - INSERM UMR 1129, CEA, Saclay, France
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Robert Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
- Center for Research and Interdisciplinarity (CRI), Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Anouck Amestoy
- Autism Expert Center, Charles Perrens Hospital, Bordeaux, France
- Fondation FondaMental, French National Science Foundation, Créteil, France
| | | | - Christopher Chatham
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lorraine Murtagh
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Bouvard
- Autism Expert Center, Charles Perrens Hospital, Bordeaux, France
- Fondation FondaMental, French National Science Foundation, Créteil, France
| | - Marianne Alisson
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Robert-Debré Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Marion Leboyer
- Fondation FondaMental, French National Science Foundation, Créteil, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France
| | - Thomas Bourgeron
- UMR 3571 CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Roberto Toro
- Unité de Neuroanatomie Appliquée et Théorique, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Dumas
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montreal, CHU Ste Justine Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Clara Moreau
- UMR 3571 CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Imaging Genetics Center, Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Richard Delorme
- Fondation Vallée, GHT Paris Sud, Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gentilly, France
- UMR 3571 CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Fondation FondaMental, French National Science Foundation, Créteil, France
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Ehrler M, Bellinger DC, Cassidy AR, Newburger JW, Calderon J. Social cognition and behavioral outcomes in congenital heart disease: profiles and neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Child Neuropsychol 2023; 29:1041-1063. [PMID: 37017255 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2023.2196398] [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: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders are more prevalent in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) than in the general population. Children with CHD without diagnosed autism are also at increased risk for neurodevelopmental and psychiatric impairments. We characterized social and behavioral outcomes in children with CHD and examined neurodevelopmental and psychiatric comorbidities. Children without diagnosed autism who underwent infant open-heart surgery were eligible. Parent-reports assessed social communication, unusual behaviors, self-regulation, anxiety, and executive function (EF). Neuropsychological tests assessing theory of mind (ToM), working memory, and verbal comprehension were administered. Outcomes were compared to normative data. Linear regressions were estimated with parent-reported scores and ToM abilities as outcomes. Predictors were anxiety symptoms, parent-reported EF, and working memory scores. Covariates were age, parental education, ADHD diagnosis, and verbal comprehension. Clinically relevant comorbidities were identified (N children scoring ≥1SD below the norm). Fifty-six children (10.8 ± 1.8 years) participated virtually. Compared to norms, children with CHD had impaired ToM, more unusual behaviors (p = .002), and less self-regulation (p = .018), but better social communication (p = .014). "Autism-like" traits were positively associated with anxiety symptoms (ß(95% CI) = 0.28(0.08-0.49), p = .008) and worse working memory (ß(95% CI) = -0.36(-0.59-0.13), p = .003). Twenty-one out of 22 children who displayed clinically relevant social and behavioral scores also showed anxiety symptoms (n = 4), impaired EF (n = 7), or both (n = 10). Children with CHD without diagnosed autism have elevated unusual behaviors, lower self-regulation, and impaired ToM. There is a high risk of co-existing anxiety and impaired EF which may increase disease burden. Targeted therapeutic interventions are needed to reduce long-term psychosocial risks in these children.AbbreviationAttention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Rating Scale (ASRS), Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functions for school-aged children, 2nd Edition (BRIEF-2), cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), congenital heart disease (CHD), Empathy/Systematizing Quotient Child Version (ESQ-C), Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children, 2nd Edition (MASC-2), Social Responsiveness Scale (School-age form), 2nd Edition (SRS-2), theory of mind (ToM), Theory of Mind Task Battery (ToM-TB), Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 5th edition (WISC-V).
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Ehrler
- Child Development Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Departments of Cardiology, Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David C Bellinger
- Departments of Psychiatry, Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Neurology, Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam R Cassidy
- Departments of Psychiatry, Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry and Psychology & Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jane W Newburger
- Departments of Cardiology, Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, USA
| | - Johanna Calderon
- Departments of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research, Inserm U1046 PhyMedExp, Cardiac Neurodevelopment Research, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Anning KL, Langley K, Hobson C, Van Goozen SHM. Dimensional associations between executive function processes and symptoms of ADHD, ASD, oppositional defiance and anxiety in young school-referred children. Cortex 2023; 167:132-147. [PMID: 37557009 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2023.06.005] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Executive function (EF) difficulties are implicated in Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs), such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Because NDDs are highly comorbid and frequently co-occur with additional clinical problems, it is unclear how specific EF problems are associated with symptoms of ASD and ADHD, whilst accounting for co-occurring anxiety or oppositional defiance disorder (ODD) symptoms. The current study utilised a large sample of young children (n = 438, aged 4-8) referred to Cardiff University's Neurodevelopment Assessment Unit (NDAU) by teachers for cognitive and/or socio-emotional problems. As part of the referral process, the teachers completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), which revealed that most children displayed moderate to high hyperactivity (86%) and prosocial (73%) problems, as well as high levels of symptoms in other clinical domains (41% emotional, 61% conduct and 68% peer problems). Children completed tasks to assess episodic memory, cognitive inhibition, cognitive flexibility and visuomotor control, whilst parents completed questionnaires to measure symptoms of ASD, ADHD, anxiety and ODD. Dimensional analyses showed that poorer cognitive inhibition and visuospatial episodic memory were significantly associated with ADHD symptoms, whereas cognitive flexibility was negatively associated with ODD symptoms. Having more ASD symptoms was associated with fewer cognitive inhibition problems, whereas anxiety was associated with better cognitive flexibility. Our approach to assessment and analysis shows that specific cognitive processes are associated with distinct neurodevelopmental and clinical symptoms, which is ultimately relevant to early identification of and intervention for young children at risk of cognitive and/or socio-emotional problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L Anning
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Kate Langley
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Stephanie H M Van Goozen
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK; Department of Clinical Neurodevelopmental Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Thapa R, Garikipati A, Ciobanu M, Singh NP, Browning E, DeCurzio J, Barnes G, Dinenno FA, Mao Q, Das R. Machine Learning Differentiation of Autism Spectrum Sub-Classifications. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06121-4. [PMID: 37751097 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06121-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Disorders on the autism spectrum have characteristics that can manifest as difficulties with communication, executive functioning, daily living, and more. These challenges can be mitigated with early identification. However, diagnostic criteria has changed from DSM-IV to DSM-5, which can make diagnosing a disorder on the autism spectrum complex. We evaluated machine learning to classify individuals as having one of three disorders of the autism spectrum under DSM-IV, or as non-spectrum. METHODS We employed machine learning to analyze retrospective data from 38,560 individuals. Inputs encompassed clinical, demographic, and assessment data. RESULTS The algorithm achieved AUROCs ranging from 0.863 to 0.980. The model correctly classified 80.5% individuals; 12.6% of individuals from this dataset were misclassified with another disorder on the autism spectrum. CONCLUSION Machine learning can classify individuals as having a disorder on the autism spectrum or as non-spectrum using minimal data inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Thapa
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - A Garikipati
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Ciobanu
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - N P Singh
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - E Browning
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J DeCurzio
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - G Barnes
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - F A Dinenno
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Q Mao
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - R Das
- Montera, Inc dba Forta, 548 Market St, PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Fithall K, Gray IE, Linardon J, Phillipou A, Donaldson PH, Albein-Urios N, Enticott PG, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M, Kirkovski M. Exploring the role of autistic traits and eating disorder psychopathology on mentalising ability in the general population. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:269. [PMID: 37674242 PMCID: PMC10483798 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01306-z] [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: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the role of overlapping traits and characteristics related to autism spectrum disorder (autism) and anorexia nervosa (AN) in the general population, and the impact of these traits on mentalising ability. METHODS A sample of young adults (N = 306), aged 18-25 years, was recruited to complete an online study that consisted of 4 measures: the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, the Mentalization Scale, and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes task. RESULTS Higher levels of autistic traits, particularly difficulty with attention switching, were associated with increased eating disorder psychopathology. Overall, autistic traits and eating disorder psychopathology were related among females, but not males. Difficulty with attention switching, however, was related to eating disorder psychopathology among both females and males. Autistic traits also appear to have a greater role in mentalising ability than does eating disorder psychopathology. CONCLUSION The role of attention switching in overlapping traits of autism and eating disorder psychopathology needs to be more comprehensively evaluated by future research, as does the role of biological sex. Expanded knowledge in this field will help to better understand and evaluate symptoms at presentation, leading to clearer diagnoses and potentially better treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Fithall
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Indigo E Gray
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jake Linardon
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Andrea Phillipou
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Orygen, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Melissa Kirkovski
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Uljarević M, Spackman EK, Whitehouse AJO, Frazier TW, Billingham W, Condron P, Hardan A, Leekam SR. Arriving at the empirically based conceptualization of restricted and repetitive behaviors: A systematic review and meta-analytic examination of factor analyses. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 103:102286. [PMID: 37269778 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102286] [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: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
An empirically based understanding of the factor structure of the restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRB) domain is a prerequisite for interpreting studies attempting to understand the correlates and mechanisms underpinning RRB and for measurement development. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of RRB factor analytic studies. Sets of meta-analyses were performed to examine (a) the factor structure of individual RRB instruments, (b) associations between RRB subdomains across instruments, and (c) the association between RRB factors and other variables. Searches for peer-reviewed articles evaluating the factor structure of the RRB domain were performed in PsycINFO (Ovid), Medline (Ovid), and Embase (Ovid). No age, measurement, or informant-type limits were imposed. Quality and risk of bias for individual studies were assessed using relevant COSMIN sections. Among the 53 studies retained for review, 41 examined RRB factor structures among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 12 among non-ASD samples. Meta-analysis of factor correlations provided evidence that the RRB domain encompasses the following eight specific factors: repetitive motor behaviors, insistence on sameness, restricted interests, unusual interests, sensory sensitivity, and repetitive, stereotyped language. Although interrelated, RRB factors were distinct, showing a unique pattern of associations with demographic, cognitive, and clinical correlates. Meta-analyses of the associations between RRB factors and specific correlates, specifically adaptive functioning and communication impairments, should be considered preliminary due to the limited number of studies. Despite limitations, this review provides important insights into the factor structure of the RRB domain and highlights critical conceptual, measurement, and methodological limitations of the current research that will need to be addressed in order to improve our understanding of RRB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Uljarević
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
| | - Emily K Spackman
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew J O Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Thomas W Frazier
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, University Heights, OH, USA
| | - Wesley Billingham
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Patrick Condron
- University Library, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010, Australia
| | - Antonio Hardan
- University Library, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010, Australia
| | - Susan R Leekam
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
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Wong OWH, Barzilay R, Lam AMW, Chan S, Calkins ME, Gur RE, Gur RC. Executive function as a generalized determinant of psychopathology and functional outcome in school-aged autism spectrum disorder: a case-control study. Psychol Med 2023; 53:4788-4798. [PMID: 35912846 PMCID: PMC10388326 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722001787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are challenged not only by the defining features of social-communication deficits and restricted repetitive behaviors, but also by a myriad of psychopathology varying in severity. Different cognitive deficits underpin these psychopathologies, which could be subjected to intervention to alter the course of the disorder. Understanding domain-specific mediating effects of cognition is essential for developing targeted intervention strategies. However, the high degree of inter-correlation among different cognitive functions hinders elucidation of individual effects. METHODS In the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort, 218 individuals with ASD were matched with 872 non-ASD controls on sex, age, race, and socioeconomic status. Participants of this cohort were deeply and broadly phenotyped on neurocognitive abilities and dimensional psychopathology. Using structural equation modeling, inter-correlation among cognitive domains were adjusted before mediation analysis on outcomes of multi-domain psychopathology and functional level. RESULTS While social cognition, complex cognition, and memory each had a unique pattern of mediating effect on psychopathology domains in ASD, none had significant effects on the functional level. In contrast, executive function was the only cognitive domain that exerted a generalized negative impact on every psychopathology domain (p factor, anxious-misery, psychosis, fear, and externalizing), as well as functional level. CONCLUSIONS Executive function has a unique association with the severity of comorbid psychopathology in ASD, and could be a target of interventions. As executive dysfunction occurs variably in ASD, our result also supports the clinical utility of assessing executive function for prognostic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar W. H. Wong
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ran Barzilay
- Neurodevelopment and Psychosis Section, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute (LiBI), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Angela M. W. Lam
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Sandra Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Monica E. Calkins
- Neurodevelopment and Psychosis Section, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute (LiBI), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Raquel E. Gur
- Neurodevelopment and Psychosis Section, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute (LiBI), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ruben C. Gur
- Neurodevelopment and Psychosis Section, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute (LiBI), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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10
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Buch AM, Vértes PE, Seidlitz J, Kim SH, Grosenick L, Liston C. Molecular and network-level mechanisms explaining individual differences in autism spectrum disorder. Nat Neurosci 2023; 26:650-663. [PMID: 36894656 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-023-01259-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying phenotypic heterogeneity in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are not well understood. Using a large neuroimaging dataset, we identified three latent dimensions of functional brain network connectivity that predicted individual differences in ASD behaviors and were stable in cross-validation. Clustering along these three dimensions revealed four reproducible ASD subgroups with distinct functional connectivity alterations in ASD-related networks and clinical symptom profiles that were reproducible in an independent sample. By integrating neuroimaging data with normative gene expression data from two independent transcriptomic atlases, we found that within each subgroup, ASD-related functional connectivity was explained by regional differences in the expression of distinct ASD-related gene sets. These gene sets were differentially associated with distinct molecular signaling pathways involving immune and synapse function, G-protein-coupled receptor signaling, protein synthesis and other processes. Collectively, our findings delineate atypical connectivity patterns underlying different forms of ASD that implicate distinct molecular signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Buch
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Petra E Vértes
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jakob Seidlitz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - So Hyun Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, Weill Cornell Medicine, White Plains, NY, USA
- School of Psychology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Logan Grosenick
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Conor Liston
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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11
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Yon-Hernández JA, Canal-Bedia R, Wojcik DZ, García-García L, Fernández-Álvarez C, Palacio-Duque S, Franco-Martín MA. Executive functions in daily living skills: A study in adults with autism spectrum disorder. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1109561. [PMID: 37113122 PMCID: PMC10127455 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1109561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adults with autism and adults with schizophrenia show difficulties in adaptive skills, especially those related to daily functioning. Some studies suggest that adaptive skills are associated with deficits in executive functions (EF), while others indicate that intelligence quotient (IQ) might also play a role. Literature suggests that autistic symptoms further affect adaptive skills. The interest of the current study, therefore, was to explore to what extent IQ, EFs as well as core autistic symptoms predict adaptive skills. Methods To do this, 25 controls, 24 adults with autism, and 12 with schizophrenia were assessed on IQ (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale), and executive functioning. The EF was measured with neuropsychological tasks (inhibition, updating, and task switching) and with the Dysexecutive-Spanish Questionnaire (DEX-Sp) which assessed everyday life EF problems. Core ASD symptoms were measured using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, the Autism Spectrum Quotient-Short version (AQ-S), and the Repetitive Behavior Questionnaire - 3 (RBQ-3). Results The results indicated EF difficulties in both, autism and schizophrenia. The IQ explained a high percentage of the variance found in adaptive skills, but only in the autism group. We can conclude, therefore, that high IQ is associated with low adaptive skills levels and EFs affect adaptive functioning in people with autism; however, this does not explain the difficulties in adaptive functioning in the schizophrenia group. Core features of autism assessed with self-report questionnaires (but not the ADOS-2) predicted low scores on the adaptive skills, only in the autism group. Discussion Both EF measures predicted adaptive skills scores in autism, but not in schizophrenia. Our results suggest that different factors affect the adaptive functioning in each disorder. For instance, the EFs should be a central focus for improvement, especially for individuals with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo A. Yon-Hernández
- Instituto Universitario de Integración en la Comunidad, InFoAutismo, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ricardo Canal-Bedia
- Instituto Universitario de Integración en la Comunidad, InFoAutismo, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ricardo Canal-Bedia,
| | - Dominika Z. Wojcik
- Instituto Universitario de Integración en la Comunidad, InFoAutismo, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Clara Fernández-Álvarez
- Instituto Universitario de Integración en la Comunidad, InFoAutismo, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Stefanny Palacio-Duque
- Instituto Universitario de Integración en la Comunidad, InFoAutismo, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Manuel A. Franco-Martín
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain
- Zamora Hospital (Complejo Asistencial de Zamora), Zamora, Spain
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12
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Tian J, Gao X, Yang L. Repetitive Restricted Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder: From Mechanism to Development of Therapeutics. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:780407. [PMID: 35310097 PMCID: PMC8924045 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.780407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication, social interaction, and repetitive restricted behaviors (RRBs). It is usually detected in early childhood. RRBs are behavioral patterns characterized by repetition, inflexibility, invariance, inappropriateness, and frequent lack of obvious function or specific purpose. To date, the classification of RRBs is contentious. Understanding the potential mechanisms of RRBs in children with ASD, such as neural connectivity disorders and abnormal immune functions, will contribute to finding new therapeutic targets. Although behavioral intervention remains the most effective and safe strategy for RRBs treatment, some promising drugs and new treatment options (e.g., supplementary and cell therapy) have shown positive effects on RRBs in recent studies. In this review, we summarize the latest advances of RRBs from mechanistic to therapeutic approaches and propose potential future directions in research on RRBs.
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13
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Cheng X, Li Y, Cui X, Cheng H, Li C, Fu L, Jiang J, Hu Z, Ke X. Atypical Neural Responses of Cognitive Flexibility in Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:747273. [PMID: 34975368 PMCID: PMC8719598 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.747273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired cognitive flexibility has been repeatedly demonstrated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is strong evidence for genetic involvement in ASD. First-degree relatives of individuals with ASD may show mild deficits in cognitive inflexibility. The present study investigated cognitive flexibility and its neuroelectrophysiological mechanisms in first-degree relatives of individuals with ASD to assess its potential familiality. Forty-five biological parents of individuals/children with ASD (pASD) and thirty-one biological parents of typically developing individuals/children (pTD), matched by gender, age, and IQ, were enrolled. The broad autism phenotype questionnaire (BAPQ) and cognitive flexibility inventory (CFI) were used to quantitatively assess autistic traits and cognitive flexibility in daily life, respectively. The task-switching paradigm was used to evaluate the behavioral flexibility in a structured assessment situation. Event-related potentials (ERPs) induced by this paradigm were also collected. Results showed that compared with the pTD group, the pASD group had lower CFI scores (t = −2.756, p < 0.01), while both groups showed an equivalent “switch cost” in the task-switching task (p > 0.05). Compared with the pTD group, the pASD group induced greater N2 amplitude at F3, F4, Fz, and C4 (F = 3.223, p < 0.05), while P3 amplitude and latency did not differ between the two groups. In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between the CFI total scores and BAPQ total scores in the pASD group (r = −0.734, p < 0.01). After controlling for age and IQ, the N2 amplitude in the frontal lobe of pASD was negatively correlated with the CFI total scores under the repetition sequence (r = −0.304, p = 0.053). These results indicated that pASD had deficit in cognitive flexibility at the self-reported and neurological levels. The cognitive flexibility difficulties of parents of children with ASD were related to autistic traits. These findings support that cognitive flexibility is most likely a neurocognitive endophenotype of ASD, which is worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cheng
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Child Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yu Li
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiwen Cui
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- Physical Diagnostic Department, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Linyan Fu
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiying Jiang
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenyu Hu
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ke
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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14
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Shogren KA, Mosconi MW, Raley SK, Dean EE, Edwards B, Wallisch A, Boyd B, Kiblen JC. Advancing the Personalization of Assessment and Intervention in Autistic Adolescents and Young Adults by Targeting Self-Determination and Executive Processes. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2021; 3:289-299. [PMID: 36601638 PMCID: PMC8992922 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2021.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
As autistic adolescents and young adults navigate the transition to adulthood, there is a need to partner with them to identify strengths and needed supports to enable goal-directed actions. This article conceptually integrates research on self-determination, defined by Causal Agency Theory, and executive processes in autism to provide direction for future research and practice. We describe how integrating research on self-determination and executive processes could enable autistic adolescents and young adults to be engaged in the process of assessing executive processes and self-determination. We discuss how this can better inform personalization of supports for self-determination interventions by focusing on support needs related to executive processes, including inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility, from a strengths-based perspective. We discuss how this can enable self-determination interventions that promote outcomes aligned with the values of the autistic community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karrie A. Shogren
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Matthew W. Mosconi
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Sheida K. Raley
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA.,Address correspondence to: Sheida K. Raley, PhD, Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Haworth Hall 3111, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Evan E. Dean
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Ben Edwards
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Anna Wallisch
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Brian Boyd
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Jessie C. Kiblen
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
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15
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Martínez-González AE, Cervin M, Piqueras JA. Relationships Between Emotion Regulation, Social Communication and Repetitive Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:4519-4527. [PMID: 34709530 PMCID: PMC8551658 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05340-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between emotion regulation, social interaction and different types of restricted and repetitive behaviors is poorly understood. In the present study, structural equation modeling based on information about 239 individuals with autism was used to examine whether emotion regulation and social communication were associated with self-injury and stereotyped behaviors. Results showed that poor emotion regulation had a unique association with self-injury while difficulties with social communication was uniquely associated with stereotyped behaviors. Emotion regulation and social communication were strongly associated and self-injury and stereotyped behaviors moderately associated. This implies that these types of behaviors are often expressions of broader negative emotional states in autism. Treatments that help improve coping and social communication strategies may benefit individuals with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín E Martínez-González
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Didactics, University of Alicante. Education Faculty, Carretera San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, Campus San Vicente del Raspeig, Edificio Facultad de Educación, Apdo. Correos, PO 99, 03080, Alicante, Spain.
| | - Matti Cervin
- Lund University and Skane Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jose A Piqueras
- Department of Health Psychology, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Edificio Altamira, Avda. de La Universidad, s/n Elche, 03202, Alicante, Spain
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16
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Comparan-Meza M, Vargas de la Cruz I, Jauregui-Huerta F, Gonzalez-Castañeda RE, Gonzalez-Perez O, Galvez-Contreras AY. Biopsychological correlates of repetitive and restricted behaviors in autism spectrum disorders. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e2341. [PMID: 34472728 PMCID: PMC8553330 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is considered a neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by alterations in social interaction and communication, as well as patterns of restrictive and repetitive behaviors (RRBs). RRBs are defined as broad behaviors that comprise stereotypies, insistence on sameness, and attachment to objects or routines. RRBs can be divided into lower-level behaviors (motor, sensory, and object-manipulation behaviors) and higher-level behaviors (restrictive interests, insistence on sameness, and repetitive language). According to the DSM-5, the grade of severity in ASD partially depends on the frequency of RRBs and their consequences for disrupting the life of patients, affecting their adaptive skills, and increasing the need for parental support. METHODS We conducted a systematic review to examine the biopsychological correlates of the symptomatic domains of RRBs according to the type of RRBs (lower- or higher-level). We searched for articles from the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) using the terms: autism spectrum disorders, ASD, and autism-related to executive functions, inhibitory control, inflexibility, cognitive flexibility, hyper or hypo connectivity, and behavioral approaches. For describing the pathophysiological mechanism of ASD, we also included animal models and followed PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-one articles were analyzed to explain the etiology, continuance, and clinical evolution of these behaviors observed in ASD patients throughout life. CONCLUSIONS Biopsychological correlates involved in the origin of RRBs include alterations in a) neurotransmission system, b) brain volume, c) inadequate levels of growth factors, d) hypo- or hyper-neural connectivity, e) impairments in behavioral inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and monitoring and f) non-stimulating environments. Understanding these lower- and higher-level of RRBs can help professionals to improve or design novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Comparan-Meza
- Maestría en Neuropsicología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Ivette Vargas de la Cruz
- Unidad de Atención en Neurociencias, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Fernando Jauregui-Huerta
- Laboratorio de Microscopia de Alta Resolución, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Rocio E Gonzalez-Castañeda
- Laboratorio de Microscopia de Alta Resolución, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Oscar Gonzalez-Perez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Colima, Colima, COL, Mexico
| | - Alma Y Galvez-Contreras
- Unidad de Atención en Neurociencias, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
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17
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Robertson N, Qureshi A, Monk RL. The relationship between autistic characteristics, social engagement and executive function in a typical sample. ADVANCES IN AUTISM 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/aia-10-2020-0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to represent a first attempt to examine in a non-clinical population the interplay between social engagement, executive function (EF) and theory of mind (ToM) within a social motivation theory framework.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 170 participants (135 female; mean age = 19.01 and standard deviation = 1.27) completed measures of ToM (Faux Pas task), autistic traits (Autism Spectrum Quotient), social engagement (reward dependence subscale of the Temperament and Character Inventory), sociability and EF (both subscales of the Adult Temperament Questionnaire).
Findings
Path analyses found that EF, sociability and social engagement were negatively associated with autistic traits both directly and indirectly. Results indicate that EF may impact sociability and social engagement and their interaction may relate to the degree of autistic traits shown in a typical sample. However, ToM (as measured by the Faux Pas test) was not related to any of the other variables.
Originality/value
Sociability, social engagement and effortful control deficits may be linked to higher levels of autistic traits. These factors appear to form a hierarchy of factors underpinning autism spectrum disorder, with EF contributing to all aspects, followed by sociability and social engagement at a higher level. Future research examining in clinical populations the utility of a more integrated model of social motivation that incorporates EF appears warranted.
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