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Wall CA, Shic F, Will EA, Wang Q, Roberts JE. Similar Gap-Overlap Profiles in Children with Fragile X Syndrome and IQ-Matched Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06245-1. [PMID: 38246961 PMCID: PMC11260273 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06245-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a single-gene disorder characterized by moderate to severe cognitive impairment and a high association with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Atypical visual attention is a feature of FXS, ASD, and ADHD. Thus, studying early attentional patterns in young children with FXS can offer insight into early emerging neurocognitive processes underlying challenges and contribute to our understanding of common and unique features of ASD and ADHD in FXS. METHODS The present study examined visual attention indexed by the gap-overlap paradigm in children with FXS (n = 39) compared to children with ASD matched on intellectual ability and age (n = 40) and age-matched neurotypical controls (n = 34). The relationship between gap-overlap performance and intellectual ability, ASD, and ADHD across groups was characterized. Saccadic reaction times (RT) were collected across baseline, gap, and overlap conditions. RESULTS Results indicate no group differences in RT for any conditions. However, RT of the ASD and NT groups became slower throughout the experiment whereas RT of the FXS group did not change, suggesting difficulties in habituation for the FXS group. There was no relationship between RT and intellectual ability, ADHD, or ASD symptoms in the FXS and ASD groups. In the NT group, slower RT was related to elevated ADHD symptoms only. CONCLUSION Taken together, findings suggest that the social attention differences documented in FXS and ASD may be due to other cognitive factors, such as reward or motivation, rather than oculomotor control of visual attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla A Wall
- Duke University Medical Center, Center for Autism and Brain Development, 2424 Erwin Road, Suite 501, Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
| | - Frederick Shic
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, 1920 Terry Ave CURE-3, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1920 Terry Ave CURE-3, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Will
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 6311 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia, SC, 29209, USA
| | - Quan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Spectral Imaging Technology, Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, 6311 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia, SC, 29209, USA
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2
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Lachiewicz AM, Stackhouse TM, Burgess K, Burgess D, Andrews HF, Choo TH, Kaufmann WE, Kidd SA. Sensory Symptoms and Signs of Hyperarousal in Individuals with Fragile X Syndrome: Findings from the FORWARD Registry and Database Multisite Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06135-y. [PMID: 37840096 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to increase our understanding about characteristics and the impact of sensory symptoms (SS) and signs of hyperarousal (HA) in individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) from childhood through early adulthood and by gender. Data derived from the Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database (FORWARD), a natural history study of FXS, were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate linear and logistic regression models to examine SS and signs of HA, their impact on behavioral regulation and limitations on the subject/family. The sample (N = 933) consisted of 720 males and 213 females. More males were affected with SS (87% vs. 68%) and signs of HA (92% vs. 79%). Subjects who were endorsed as having a strong sensory response had more comorbidities, including behavioral problems. The predominant SS was difficulty with eye gaze that increased with age in both genders. As individuals age, there was less use of non-medication therapies, such as occupational therapy (OT)/physical therapy (PT), but there was more use of psychopharmacological medications and investigational drugs for behaviors. Multiple regression models suggested that endorsing SS and signs of HA was associated with statistically significantly increased ABC-C-I subscale scores and limited participation in everyday activities. This study improves our understanding of SS and signs of HA as well as their impact in FXS. It supports the need for more research regarding these clinical symptoms, especially to understand how they contribute to well-known behavioral concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ave M Lachiewicz
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Health System, Durham, NC, USA.
| | | | | | - Debra Burgess
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Health System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Howard F Andrews
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tse-Hwei Choo
- Division of Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Walter E Kaufmann
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sharon A Kidd
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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3
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Miller JG, Sharifi R, Piccirilli A, Li R, Lee CH, Bartholomay KL, Jordan TL, Marzelli MJ, Bruno JL, Lightbody AA, Reiss AL. Social gaze behavior and hyperarousal in young females with fragile X syndrome: A within-person approach. Dev Psychopathol 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37185087 DOI: 10.1017/s095457942300038x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) often avoid eye contact, a behavior that is potentially related to hyperarousal. Prior studies, however, have focused on between-person associations rather than coupling of within-person changes in gaze behaviors and arousal. In addition, there is debate about whether prompts to maintain eye contact are beneficial for individuals with FXS. In a study of young females (ages 6-16), we used eye tracking to assess gaze behavior and pupil dilation during social interactions in a group with FXS (n = 32) and a developmentally similar comparison group (n = 23). Participants engaged in semi-structured conversations with a female examiner during blocks with and without verbal prompts to maintain eye contact. We identified a social-behavioral and psychophysiological profile that is specific to females with FXS; this group exhibited lower mean levels of eye contact, significantly increased mean pupil dilation during conversations that included prompts to maintain eye contact, and showed stronger positive coupling between eye contact and pupil dilation. Our findings strengthen support for the perspective that gaze aversion in FXS reflects negative reinforcement of social avoidance behavior. We also found that behavioral skills training may improve eye contact, but maintaining eye contact appears to be physiologically taxing for females with FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas G Miller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | | | - Aaron Piccirilli
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Rihui Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Cindy H Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kristi L Bartholomay
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Tracy L Jordan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Matthew J Marzelli
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jennifer L Bruno
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Amy A Lightbody
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Allan L Reiss
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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4
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Black CJ, Hogan AL, Smith KD, Roberts JE. Early behavioral and physiological markers of social anxiety in infants with fragile X syndrome. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:11. [PMID: 33743580 PMCID: PMC7980359 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09356-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Social anxiety is highly prevalent in neurotypical children and children with fragile X syndrome (FXS). FXS is a genetic syndrome that is characterized by intellectual disability and an increased risk for autism spectrum disorder. If social anxiety is left untreated, negative outcomes are highly prevalent later in life. However, early detection of social anxiety is challenging as symptoms are often subtle or absent very early in life. Given the prevalence and impairment associated with childhood social anxiety, efforts have accelerated to identify risk markers of anxiety. A cluster of early features of anxiety have been identified including elevated behavioral inhibition, attentional biases, and physiological dysregulation that index early emerging markers of social anxiety. Infants with FXS provide a unique opportunity to study the earlier predictors of social anxiety. The current study utilized a multi-method approach to investigate early markers of social anxiety in 12-month-old infants with FXS. Method Participants included 32 infants with FXS and 41 low-risk controls, all approximately 12 months old. Parent-reported social behavioral inhibition was recorded from the Infant Behavior Questionnaire (IBQ-R). Direct observations of behavioral inhibition and attention were measured during a stranger approach task with respiratory sinus arrhythmia collected simultaneously. Results Parent-reported social behavioral inhibition was not significantly different between groups. In contrast, direct observations suggested that infants with FXS displayed elevated behavioral inhibition, increased attention towards the stranger, and a blunted respiratory sinus arrhythmia response. Conclusions Findings suggest that infants with FXS show both behavioral and physiological markers of social anxiety at 12 months old using a biobehavioral approach with multiple sources of input. Results highlight the importance of a multi-method approach to understanding the complex early emergent characteristics of anxiety in infants with FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conner J Black
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Abigail L Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Kayla D Smith
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
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5
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Hogan A, Hunt E, Smith K, Black C, Bangert K, Klusek J, Roberts J. Trajectories of Heart Activity Across Infancy to Early Childhood Differentially Predict Autism and Anxiety Symptoms in Fragile X Syndrome. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:727559. [PMID: 34690833 PMCID: PMC8526850 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.727559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a monogenic disorder characterized by high rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anxiety. A longstanding "hyperarousal hypothesis" in FXS has argued that ANS dysfunction underpins many symptoms of FXS. However, the developmental onset and trajectory of ANS dysfunction, as well as the consequences of ANS dysfunction on later psychiatric symptoms, remain poorly understood in FXS. Insight into the emergence, trajectory, and consequences of ANS dysfunction across early development in FXS has critical implications for prevention, intervention, and optimal outcomes in both typical and atypical development. This longitudinal study investigated whether and when males with FXS evidence atypical ANS function from infancy through early childhood, and how trajectories of ANS function across infancy and early childhood predict ASD and anxiety symptom severity later in development. Methods: Participants included 73 males with FXS and 79 age-matched typically developing (TD) males. Baseline heart activity was recorded at multiple assessments between 3 and 83 months of age, resulting in 372 observations. General arousal and parasympathetic activity were indexed via interbeat interval (IBI) and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), respectively. ASD and anxiety symptoms were assessed at 36 months of age or later in a subgroup of participants (FXS n = 28; TD n = 25). Results: Males with FXS exhibited atypical patterns of developmental change in ANS function across infancy and early childhood. As a result, ANS dysfunction became progressively more discrepant across time, with the FXS group exhibiting significantly shorter IBI and lower RSA by 29 and 24 months of age, respectively. Shorter IBI at 24 months and a flatter IBI slope across development predicted elevated anxiety symptoms, but not ASD symptoms, later in childhood in both FXS and TD males. Reduced RSA at 24 months predicted elevated ASD symptoms, but not anxiety symptoms, in both groups. Developmental change in RSA across early development did not predict later anxiety or ASD symptoms. Conclusion: This is the first longitudinal study to examine the "hyperarousal hypothesis" in infants and young children with FXS. Findings suggest that hyperarousal (i.e., shorter IBI, lower RSA) is evident in males with FXS by 24-29 months of age. Interestingly, unique aspects of early ANS function differentially relate to later ASD and anxiety symptoms. General arousal, indexed by shorter IBI that becomes progressively more discrepant from TD controls, predicts later anxiety symptoms. In contrast, parasympathetic-related factors, indexed by lower levels of RSA, predict ASD symptoms. These findings support the "hyperarousal hypothesis" in FXS, in that ANS dysfunction evident early in development predicts later-emerging symptoms of ASD and anxiety. This study also have important implications for the development of targeted treatments and interventions that could potentially mitigate the long-term effects of hyperarousal in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States.,Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Erin Hunt
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Kayla Smith
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Conner Black
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Katherine Bangert
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States.,Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Jessica Klusek
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Jane Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
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6
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Winston M, Nayar K, Hogan AL, Barstein J, La Valle C, Sharp K, Berry-Kravis E, Losh M. Physiological regulation and social-emotional processing in female carriers of the FMR1 premutation. Physiol Behav 2019; 214:112746. [PMID: 31765665 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The FMR1 gene is associated with a wide range of clinical and cognitive phenotypes, ranging from intellectual disability and autism symptoms in fragile X syndrome (caused by the FMR1 full mutation), to a more varied, and still poorly understood range of clinical and cognitive phenotypes among carriers of the gene in its premutation state. Because the FMR1 premutation is relatively common among women (as high as 1 in 150), investigations of its phenotypic impact could have broad implications for understanding gene-behavior relationships underlying complex human traits, with potential clinical implications. This study investigated physiological regulation measured by pupillary responses, along with fixation patterns while viewing facial expressions among women who carry the FMR1 premutation (PM group; n = 47), to examine whether the FMR1 gene may relate to physiological regulation, social-emotional functioning, and social language skills (where subclinical differences have been previously reported among PM carriers that resemble those documented in autism-related conditions). Relative to controls (n = 25), the PM group demonstrated atypical pupillary responses and fixation patterns, controlling for IQ. In the PM group, pupillary response and fixation patterns were related to social cognition, social language abilities, and FMR1-related variation. Results indicate a pattern of atypical attention allocation among women who carry the FMR1 PM that could reflect different emotion-processing strategies mediated by autonomic dysregulation and the FMR1 gene. These findings lend insight into the FMR1 gene's potential contributions to complex human traits such as social emotional processing and social language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Winston
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Frances Searle Building, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston IL 60208, United States
| | - Kritika Nayar
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Frances Searle Building, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston IL 60208, United States
| | - Abigail L Hogan
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite 220, Columbia, SC 29208, United States
| | - Jamie Barstein
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Frances Searle Building, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston IL 60208, United States
| | - Chelsea La Valle
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Frances Searle Building, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston IL 60208, United States
| | - Kevin Sharp
- Rush University Medical Center, Jelke Building, Room 1565, 1750W. Harrison St., Chicago IL 60612, United States
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Rush University Medical Center, Jelke Building, Room 1565, 1750W. Harrison St., Chicago IL 60612, United States
| | - Molly Losh
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Frances Searle Building, 2240 Campus Drive, Evanston IL 60208, United States.
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7
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Hall SS, Hustyi KM, Barnett RP. Examining the influence of social-environmental variables on self-injurious behaviour in adolescent boys with fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2018; 62:1072-1085. [PMID: 29693293 PMCID: PMC6609101 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common known inherited form of intellectual disability, are at increased risk for showing specific forms of self-injurious behaviour (SIB) such as hand biting and head hitting, suggesting that biological factors associated with the syndrome confers increased risk for SIB. Few studies, however, have examined the extent to which social-environmental variables can influence the occurrence of these behaviours in this population. METHOD Twenty-two adolescent boys with FXS, aged 10 to 18 years were systematically exposed to seven environmental conditions in functional analyses of SIB conducted over 2 days at our research centre. RESULTS Fourteen (63.6%) boys with FXS engaged in SIB during the functional analyses. Ten (45.5%) boys engaged in SIB that was maintained by social-environmental variables, that is, gaining access to attention/tangibles and/or escaping from social interaction, task demands and/or transition demands. For two boys, SIB was undifferentiated across conditions, and for two boys, SIB appeared to be maintained by automatic reinforcement. CONCLUSIONS Social-environmental variables appeared to maintain SIB in a significant proportion of boys with FXS. Given that pharmacological treatments for SIB have limited efficacy in this population, the potential role of social-environmental factors on SIB should be examined before pharmacological treatments are implemented for these behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Hall
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - K M Hustyi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - R P Barnett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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8
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Roberts JE, Ezell JE, Fairchild AJ, Klusek J, Thurman AJ, McDuffie A, Abbeduto L. Biobehavioral composite of social aspects of anxiety in young adults with fragile X syndrome contrasted to autism spectrum disorder. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2018; 177:665-675. [PMID: 30307687 PMCID: PMC6532983 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Social anxiety is a common disorder that has negative impacts across multiple domains of function. Several clinical groups are at elevated risk for social anxiety, including those with fragile X syndrome and those with autism spectrum disorder. Measuring social anxiety in these clinical subgroups is fraught with challenge, however, given the complexity of social anxiety and measurement limitations that are particularly acute in persons with neurodevelopmental disorders. The over-arching aim of this study was to contribute to our understanding of the nature of social anxiety in fragile X syndrome and its association with autism spectrum disorder. To address this aim, we created a multi-faceted composite representing behavioral and biological aspects of social anxiety and examined differences in two adolescent and young adult-aged groups: 59 males with fragile X syndrome and 18 males with autism spectrum disorder. Results indicated a lower score on the multivariate composite for the males with fragile X syndrome relative to autism spectrum disorder but with evidence that traits of autism and social anxiety overlap. We conclude that measuring anxiety and autism traits in fragile X syndrome and autism spectrum disorder is complex with features that overlap and interact in a dynamic manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Jordan E Ezell
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Amanda J Fairchild
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Jessica Klusek
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Angela J Thurman
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Andrea McDuffie
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Leonard Abbeduto
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
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9
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Raspa M, Wylie A, Wheeler AC, Kolacz J, Edwards A, Heilman K, Porges SW. Sensory Difficulties in Children With an FMR1 Premutation. Front Genet 2018; 9:351. [PMID: 30233641 PMCID: PMC6127619 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal sensory processing is one of the core characteristics of the fragile X phenotype. Studies of young children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and the FMR1 premutation have shown sensory challenges as early as infancy and into early childhood. This study sought to examine differences in sensory difficulties in children with an FMR1 premutation compared with children with FXS and typically developing children. We conducted an online survey of 176 parents of affected children (FXS or FMR1 premutation). Most respondents were mothers who are Caucasian (86%), have a 4-year college or graduate degree (68%), and are married (92%). Children ranged in age from 5 to 18, with a mean age of 13.0 years (3.3 SD). Participants completed the BBC Sensory Scales, a 50-item Likert-type scale (1 = Almost Always, 4 = Almost Never) comprised of 8 subscales that assessed auditory processing, visual processing, tactile processing, and eating and feeding behaviors. Mean scores were calculated for the items and each of the subscales. Non-parametric tests examined differences in child and family-level variables. Across all BBCSS subscales, children with an FMR1 premutation displayed more sensory challenges than typically developing children. For six out of the eight subscales, children with the full mutation had the lowest scores indicating more sensory challenges, but this was closely followed by children with an FMR1 premutation. Fragile X status was associated with seven of the eight subscales; children with an FMR1 premutation did not differ from children with FXS on any of the subscales but had more digestive problems than children with no fragile X. Gender, autism status, and family income were also related to sensory sensitivities. In conclusion, these data provide further evidence that some children with an FMR1 premutation experience sensory difficulties that are similar to children with FXS but different than typically developing children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jacek Kolacz
- Traumatic Stress Research Consortium, Kinsey Institute, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | | | - Keri Heilman
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Stephen W Porges
- Traumatic Stress Research Consortium, Kinsey Institute, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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10
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Crawford H, Moss J, Stinton C, Singla G, Oliver C. Overactivity, impulsivity and repetitive behaviour in males with fragile X syndrome: contrasting developmental trajectories in those with and without elevated autism symptoms. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2018; 62:672-683. [PMID: 29722449 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperactivity and repetitive behaviour are characteristic features of fragile X syndrome (FXS). However, little is known about the influence of autism symptomatology on how these characteristics develop over time. We investigate the profiles and developmental trajectories of overactivity, impulsivity and repetitive behaviour, in males with FXS over three time points spanning 8 years. METHOD Participants formed two subgroups, those who displayed elevated symptoms of autism at Time 1 (n = 37; Mage = 16.32; age range = 6.61-43.51) and those who did not (n = 32; Mage = 8.43; age range = 8.94-47.49). RESULTS Participants without elevated symptoms of autism showed a reduction in impulsivity and repetitive questioning over time, whereas those with elevated symptoms of autism did not. Differences between the two subgroups in several topographies of repetitive behaviour emerged at Time 3 only. CONCLUSIONS These results further understanding of the relationship between autistic phenomenology and behavioural characteristics in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Crawford
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - J Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - C Stinton
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - G Singla
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - C Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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11
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Kolacz J, Raspa M, Heilman KJ, Porges SW. Evaluating Sensory Processing in Fragile X Syndrome: Psychometric Analysis of the Brain Body Center Sensory Scales (BBCSS). J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:2187-2202. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3491-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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12
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Matherly SM, Klusek J, Thurman AJ, McDuffie A, Abbeduto L, Roberts JE. Cortisol profiles differentiated in adolescents and young adult males with fragile X syndrome versus autism spectrum disorder. Dev Psychobiol 2018; 60:78-89. [PMID: 29171019 PMCID: PMC5747975 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fragile X syndrome (FXS) and non-syndromic autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are distinct disorders with overlapping behavioral features. Both disorders are also highly associated with anxiety with abnormal physiological regulation implied mechanistically. Some reports suggest atypical hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, indexed via aberrant cortisol reactivity, in both FXS and non-syndromic ASD. However, no study has compared cortisol reactivity across these two disorders, or its relationship to ASD symptom severity. METHODS Cortisol reactivity (prior to and following a day of assessments) was measured in 54 adolescent/young adult males with FXS contrasted to 15 males with non-syndromic ASD who had low cognitive abilities. RESULTS Greater ASD symptom severity was related to increased cortisol reactivity and higher levels at the end of the day, but only in the non-syndromic ASD group. Elevated anxiety was associated with increased HPA activation in the group with FXS alone. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, findings suggest a unique neuroendocrine profile that distinguishes adolescent/young adult males with FXS from those with non-syndromic ASD. Severity of ASD symptoms appears to be related to cortisol reactivity in the non-syndromic ASD sample, but not in FXS; while anxiety symptoms are associated with HPA activation in the FXS sample, but not in ASD despite a high prevalence of ASD, anxiety and physiological dysregulation characteristic in both populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Matherly
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Jessica Klusek
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Angela J Thurman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Andrea McDuffie
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Leonard Abbeduto
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
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Engineer CT, Hays SA, Kilgard MP. Vagus nerve stimulation as a potential adjuvant to behavioral therapy for autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 9:20. [PMID: 28690686 PMCID: PMC5496407 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders undergo expensive, time-consuming behavioral interventions that often yield only modest improvements. The development of adjunctive interventions that can increase the benefit of rehabilitation therapies is essential in order to improve the lives of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Main text Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an FDA approved therapy that is safe and effective in reducing seizure frequency and duration in individuals with epilepsy. Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders often exhibit decreased vagal tone, and studies indicate that VNS can be used to overcome an insufficient vagal response. Multiple studies have also documented significant improvements in quality of life after VNS therapy in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Moreover, recent findings indicate that VNS significantly enhances the benefits of rehabilitative training in animal models and patients, leading to greater recovery in a variety of neurological diseases. Here, we review these findings and provide a discussion of how VNS paired with rehabilitation may yield benefits in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders. Conclusions VNS paired with behavioral therapy may represent a potential new approach to enhance rehabilitation that could significantly improve the outcomes of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal T Engineer
- Texas Biomedical Device Center, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road BSB11, Richardson, TX 75080 USA
| | - Seth A Hays
- Texas Biomedical Device Center, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road BSB11, Richardson, TX 75080 USA.,School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road BSB11, Richardson, TX 75080 USA.,Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road BSB11, Richardson, TX 75080 USA
| | - Michael P Kilgard
- Texas Biomedical Device Center, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road BSB11, Richardson, TX 75080 USA.,School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 West Campbell Road BSB11, Richardson, TX 75080 USA
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14
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Klusek J, LaFauci G, Adayev T, Brown WT, Tassone F, Roberts JE. Reduced vagal tone in women with the FMR1 premutation is associated with FMR1 mRNA but not depression or anxiety. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 9:16. [PMID: 28469730 PMCID: PMC5414146 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9197-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autonomic dysfunction is implicated in a range of psychological conditions, including depression and anxiety. The fragile X mental retardation-1 (FMR1) premutation is a common genetic mutation that affects ~1:150 women and is associated with psychological vulnerability. This study examined cardiac indicators of autonomic function among women with the FMR1 premutation and control women as potential biomarkers for psychological risk that may be linked to FMR1. Methods Baseline inter-beat interval and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (a measure of parasympathetic vagal tone) were measured in 35 women with the FMR1 premutation and 28 controls. The women completed anxiety and depression questionnaires. FMR1 genetic indices (i.e., CGG repeat, quantitative FMRP, FMR1 mRNA, activation ratio) were obtained for the premutation group. Results Respiratory sinus arrhythmia was reduced in the FMR1 premutation group relative to controls. While depression symptoms were associated with reduced respiratory sinus arrhythmia among control women, these variables were unrelated in the FMR1 premutation. Elevated FMR1 mRNA was associated with higher respiratory sinus arrhythmia. Conclusions Women with the FMR1 premutation demonstrated autonomic dysregulation characterized by reduced vagal tone. Unlike patterns observed in the general population and in study controls, vagal activity and depression symptoms were decoupled in women with the FMR1 premutation, suggesting independence between autonomic regulation and psychopathological symptoms that is atypical and potentially specific to the FMR1 premutation. The association between vagal tone and mRNA suggests that molecular variation associated with FMR1 plays a role in autonomic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Klusek
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of South Carolina, Keenan Building, Suite 300, Columbia, SC 29208 USA
| | - Giuseppe LaFauci
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island, NY 10314 USA
| | - Tatyana Adayev
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island, NY 10314 USA
| | - W Ted Brown
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island, NY 10314 USA
| | - Flora Tassone
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California Davis, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC 29208 USA
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15
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Fung LK, Reiss AL. Moving Toward Integrative, Multidimensional Research in Modern Psychiatry: Lessons Learned From Fragile X Syndrome. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 80:100-111. [PMID: 26868443 PMCID: PMC4912939 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The field of psychiatry is approaching a major inflection point. The basic science behind cognition, emotion, behavior, and social processes has been advancing rapidly in the past 20 years. However, clinical research supporting the classification system in psychiatry has not kept up with these scientific advances. To begin organizing the basic science of psychiatry in a comprehensive manner, we begin by selecting fragile X syndrome, a neurogenetic disease with cognitive-behavioral manifestations, to illustrate key concepts in an integrative, multidimensional model. Specifically, we describe key genetic and molecular mechanisms (e.g., gamma-aminobutyric acidergic dysfunction and metabotropic glutamate receptor 5-associated long-term depression) relevant to the pathophysiology of fragile X syndrome as well as neural correlates of cognitive-behavioral symptoms. We then describe what we have learned from fragile X syndrome that may be applicable to other psychiatric disorders. We conclude this review by discussing current and future opportunities in diagnosing and treating psychiatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence K. Fung
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
| | - Allan L. Reiss
- Center for Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences Research, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
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16
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Wheeler AC, Raspa M, Bishop E, Bailey DB. Aggression in fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2016; 60:113-125. [PMID: 26628097 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS), especially men, have long been described as presenting with significant behavioural challenges. Despite this known aspect of the phenotype, there has been little research exploring the prevalence, frequency, nature or consequences of aggressive behaviour in FXS. METHODS This study used survey methodology to gather caregiver reports on the types, frequency and severity of aggressive behaviour in 774 individuals with FXS. RESULTS Based on caregiver report, nearly all (>90%) male and female individuals were reported to have engaged in some aggression over the previous 12 months, with a third of male cases and slightly fewer than 20% of female cases being described as engaging in moderate to severe aggression or being diagnosed or treated for aggression. Further, aggressive behaviours in male individuals were serious enough that 30% had caused injuries to caregivers and 22% had caused injuries to peers or friends. Sensory issues and hyperactivity were significant predictors of the frequency of aggressive acts, while sensory issues and anxiety were predictive of the severity of aggression. Traditional behaviour management techniques as well as medication was described as the most common and successful treatment options. CONCLUSIONS Aggressive behaviours are a significant concern for a subsample of both male and female individuals with FXS. Given that sensory concerns were predictive of both the frequency and the severity of aggression suggests these behaviours may be a reactive means of escaping uncomfortable situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Wheeler
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - M Raspa
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - E Bishop
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - D B Bailey
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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17
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Scherr JF, Hahn LJ, Hooper SR, Hatton D, Roberts JE. HPA axis function predicts development of working memory in boys with FXS. Brain Cogn 2016; 102:80-90. [PMID: 26760450 PMCID: PMC4724243 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study examines verbal working memory over time in boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS) compared to nonverbal mental-age (NVMA) matched, typically developing (TD) boys. Concomitantly, the relationship between cortisol-a physiological marker for stress-and verbal working memory performance over time is examined to understand the role of physiological mechanisms in cognitive development in FXS. Participants were assessed between one and three times over a 2-year time frame using two verbal working memory tests that differ in complexity: memory for words and auditory working memory with salivary cortisol collected at the beginning and end of each assessment. Multilevel modeling results indicate specific deficits over time on the memory for words task in boys with FXS compared to TD controls that is exacerbated by elevated baseline cortisol. Similar increasing rates of growth over time were observed for boys with FXS and TD controls on the more complex auditory working memory task, but only boys with FXS displayed an association of increased baseline cortisol and lower performance. This study highlights the benefit of investigations of how dynamic biological and cognitive factors interact and influence cognitive development over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F. Scherr
- Department of Psychology, 1512 Pendleton Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Laura J. Hahn
- Department of Psychology, 1512 Pendleton Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Stephen R. Hooper
- Departments of Allied Health Sciences and Psychiatry, 1028 Bondurant Hall, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-4120, USA
| | - Deborah Hatton
- Department of Special Education, Box 228 Peabody College, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA,
| | - Jane E. Roberts
- Department of Psychology, 1512 Pendleton Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
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18
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Moskowitz LJ, Jones EA. Uncovering the evidence for behavioral interventions with individuals with fragile X syndrome: a systematic review. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2015; 38:223-241. [PMID: 25575286 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2014.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is associated with a wide range of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. Although there is considerable research on the behavioral phenotype of FXS, few empirical studies of behavioral interventions with this population have been identified. Through a hand search of 34 behavioral journals, we examined the evidence base for behavioral interventions with individuals with FXS and in light of the current state of knowledge regarding the FXS behavioral phenotype. Systematic review procedures were used to identify behavioral intervention studies that included at least one participant with FXS, extract and summarize the data on several relevant dimensions, and rate the methodological quality of the studies. Results revealed 31 intervention studies with a small number of participants with FXS. Overall, results suggest a behavioral approach to intervention with individuals with FXS shows promise. Future research focused on individuals with FXS will be necessary to continue to examine differences in response to intervention and interventions that specifically address phenotypic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Moskowitz
- Department of Psychology, St John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States.
| | - Emily A Jones
- Queens College, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, Queens, NY, United States
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19
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Klusek J, Roberts JE, Losh M. Cardiac autonomic regulation in autism and Fragile X syndrome: a review. Psychol Bull 2015; 141:141-75. [PMID: 25420222 PMCID: PMC4293203 DOI: 10.1037/a0038237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite the significance of efforts to understand the biological basis of autism, progress in this area has been hindered, in part, by the considerable heterogeneity in the disorder. Fragile X syndrome (FXS), a monogenic condition associated with high risk for autism, may pave the way for the dissection of biological heterogeneity within idiopathic autism. This article adopts a cross-syndrome biomarker approach to evaluate potentially overlapping profiles of cardiac arousal dysregulation (and broader autonomic dysfunction) in autism and FXS. Approaches such as this, aimed at delineating shared mechanisms across genetic syndromes, hold great potential for improving diagnostic precision, promoting earlier identification, and uncovering key systems that can be targeted in pharmaceutical/behavioral interventions. Biomarker approaches may be vital to deconstructing complex psychiatric disorders and are currently promoted as such by major research initiatives such as the NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC). Evidence reviewed here supports physiological dysregulation in a subset of individuals with autism, as evidenced by patterns of hyperarousal and dampened parasympathetic vagal tone that overlap with the well-documented physiological profile of FXS. Moreover, there is growing support for a link between aberrant cardiac activity and core deficits associated with autism, such as communication and social impairment. The delineation of physiological mechanisms common to autism and FXS could lend insight into relationships between genetic etiology and behavioral endstates, highlighting FMR1 as a potential candidate gene. Research gaps and potential pitfalls are discussed to inform timely, well-controlled biomarker research that will ultimately promote better diagnosis and treatment of autism and associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Molly Losh
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University
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20
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Abstract
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is an enigmatic disease with a multifactorial and still unresolved pathogenesis. Recent experimental and clinical observation has suggested a role for genetics in the pathogenesis of TTC. Ethnic as well as seasonal variation in the prevalence of TTC is well described, but it is only recently that familial cases of TTC have been reported. In recent years technological advances in exome capture and DNA sequencing have offered clinicians a new opportunity to discover genetics-related disease. This article explores the role of genetic mechanisms that might explain or modulate the pathogenesis of TTC.
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21
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Wheeler A, Raspa M, Bann C, Bishop E, Hessl D, Sacco P, Bailey DB. Anxiety, attention problems, hyperactivity, and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist in fragile X syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2013; 164A:141-55. [PMID: 24352914 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.36232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Behavior problems are a common challenge for individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and constitute the primary clinical outcome domain in trials testing new FXS medications. However, little is known about the relationship between caregiver-reported behavior problems and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety and attention problems. In this study, 350 caregivers, each with at least one son or daughter with full-mutation FXS, rated one of their children with FXS using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community Version (ABC-C); the Anxiety subscale of the Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Scale; and the Attention/Hyperactivity Items from the Symptom Inventories. In addition to examining family consequences of these behaviors, this study also sought to replicate psychometric findings for the ABC-C in FXS, to provide greater confidence for its use in clinical trials with this population. Psychometric properties and baseline ratings of problem behavior were consistent with other recent studies, further establishing the profile of problem behavior in FXS. Cross-sectional analyses suggest that selected dimensions of problem behavior, anxiety, and hyperactivity are age related; thus, age should serve as an important control in any studies of problem behavior in FXS. Measures of anxiety, attention, and hyperactivity were highly associated with behavior problems, suggesting that these factors at least coincide with problem behavior. However, these problems generally did not add substantially to variance in caregiver burden predicted by elevated behavior problems. The results provide further evidence of the incidence of problem behaviors and co-occurring conditions in FXS and the impact of these behaviors on the family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Wheeler
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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22
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Klusek J, Martin GE, Losh M. Physiological arousal in autism and fragile X syndrome: group comparisons and links with pragmatic language. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2013; 118:475-95. [PMID: 24432860 PMCID: PMC3928802 DOI: 10.1352/1944.7558-118.6.475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study tested the hypothesis that pragmatic (i.e., social) language impairment is linked to arousal dysregulation in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and fragile X syndrome (FXS). Forty boys with ASD, 39 with FXS, and 27 with typical development (TD), aged 4-15 years, participated. Boys with FXS were hyperaroused compared to boys with TD but did not differ from boys with ASD. Dampened vagal tone predicted pragmatic impairment in ASD, and associations emerged between cardiac activity and receptive/expressive vocabulary across groups. Findings support autonomic dysfunction as a mechanism underlying pragmatic impairment in ASD and suggest that biophysiological profiles are shared in ASD and FXS, which has implications for understanding the role of fragile X mental retardation-1 (FMR1, the FXS gene) in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Molly Losh
- Northwestern University; Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, 2240 Campus Drive, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208
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23
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Tonnsen BL, Shinkareva SV, Deal SC, Hatton DD, Roberts JE. Biobehavioral indicators of social fear in young children with fragile X syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2013; 118:447-59. [PMID: 24432858 PMCID: PMC4283795 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-118.6.447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety is among the most impairing conditions associated with Fragile X syndrome (FXS) and is putatively linked to atypical physiological arousal. However, few studies have examined this association in young children with FXS. The authors examined whether patterns of arousal and behavior during an experimental stranger approach paradigm differ between a cross-sectional sample of 21 young children with FXS and 19 controls (12-58 months old). Groups did not differ in mean levels of behavioral fear. Unlike the control group, however, the FXS group demonstrated increased facial fear at older ages, as well as age-dependent changes in associations between heart activity and distress vocalizations. These findings may inform theoretical models of anxiety etiology in FXS and early detection efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jane E. Roberts
- University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia SC 29201 ()
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24
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Cohen S, Masyn K, Mastergeorge A, Hessl D. Psychophysiological responses to emotional stimuli in children and adolescents with autism and fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY 2013; 44:250-63. [PMID: 24156344 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2013.843462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with autism demonstrate atypical and variable responses to social and emotional stimuli, perhaps reflecting heterogeneity of the disorder. The goal of this study was to determine whether unique profiles of psychophysiological responses to such stimuli could be identified in individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with fragile X syndrome (FXS), and with comorbid autism and fragile X syndrome (ASD + FXS), and in typically developing (TYP) individuals. This study included 52 boys (ages 10-17): idiopathic ASD (n = 12), FXS (n = 12), comorbid ASD + FXS (n = 17), and TYP (n = 11). Physiological responses, including potentiated startle, electrodermal response, heart rate variability, and vagal tone, were collected concurrently while participants viewed emotionally evocative pictures of human faces or nonsocial images. Although some of these measures have been utilized separately for investigations on these diagnostic groups, they have not been considered together. Results using Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance by ranks indicate statistically significant differences in distributions of autonomic regulation responses between groups. The most notable differences were between the ASD group and both the FXS groups on measures of sympathetic activity, with FXS groups evincing increased activity. Also, both the ASD and ASD + FXS groups showed significantly decreased parasympathetic activity compared with FXS and TYP groups. In addition, the ASD + FXS group demonstrated a unique distribution of startle potentiation and arousal modulation. This study provides evidence that autonomic arousal and regulation profiles could be useful for distinguishing subgroups of autism and shed light on the variability underlying emotional responsivity.
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25
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McCary LM, Roberts JE. Early identification of autism in fragile X syndrome: a review. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2013; 57:803-814. [PMID: 22974167 PMCID: PMC4023162 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2012.01609.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading genetic cause of autism, accounting for approximately 5% of autism cases with as many as 50% of individuals with FXS meeting DSM-IV-TR criteria for autistic disorder. Both FXS and idiopathic autism (IA) are attributed to genetic causes; however, FXS is an identified single gene disorder whereas autism is a complex disorder with multiple potential causes, some of which have been identified. Studies in IA have focused on the prospective longitudinal examination of infant siblings of children with autism as a target group due to their high risk of developing the disorder. We propose that this same model be applied to the study of infants with FXS. There is a lack of research focusing on the early development of autism within FXS and debate in the literature regarding how to best conceptualise this co-morbidity or whether it should be considered a co-morbid condition at all. Studying the emergence and stability of autism in infants with FXS has multiple benefits such as clarifying the underlying mechanisms of the development of autism in FXS and solidifying similarities and differences between co-morbid FXS with autism and IA. Infant research in both IA and FXS are discussed as well as conclusions and implications for practice and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M McCary
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
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26
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Tonnsen BL, Malone PS, Hatton DD, Roberts JE. Early negative affect predicts anxiety, not autism, in preschool boys with fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2013; 41:267-80. [PMID: 23011214 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-012-9671-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) face high risk for anxiety disorders, yet no studies have explored FXS as a high-risk sample for investigating early manifestations of anxiety outcomes. Negative affect is one of the most salient predictors of problem behaviors and has been associated with both anxiety and autistic outcomes in clinical and non-clinical pediatric samples. In light of the high comorbidity between autism and anxiety within FXS, the present study investigates the relationship between longitudinal trajectories of negative affect (between 8 and 71 months) and severity of anxiety and autistic outcomes in young males with FXS (n = 25). Multilevel models indicated associations between elevated anxiety and higher fear and sadness, lower soothability, and steeper longitudinal increases in approach. Autistic outcomes were unrelated to negative affect. These findings suggest early negative affect differentially predicts anxiety, not autistic symptoms, within FXS. Future research is warranted to determine the specificity of the relationship between negative affect and anxiety, as well as to explore potential moderators. Characterizing the relationship between early negative affect and anxiety within FXS may inform etiology and treatment considerations specific to children with FXS, as well as lend insight into precursors of anxiety disorders in other clinical groups and community samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridgette L Tonnsen
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton St., Columbia, SC 29208, USA
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27
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Heilman KJ, Harden ER, Weber KM, Cohen M, Porges SW. Atypical autonomic regulation, auditory processing, and affect recognition in women with HIV. Biol Psychol 2013; 94:143-51. [PMID: 23792136 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2013.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the effect of HIV on visceromotor (i.e., heart rate and heart rate variability) and somatomotor (i.e., auditory processing and affect recognition) components of a Social Engagement System defined by the Polyvagal Theory (Porges, 1995) that links vagal regulation of the heart with brainstem regulation of the striated muscles of the face and head. Relative to at risk HIV-seronegative women, HIV-seropositive women had less heart rate variability (i.e., respiratory sinus arrhythmia) and had poorer performance on auditory processing and affect recognition tasks. CD4 was negatively correlated with the accuracy to detect specific emotions. The observed indices of atypical autonomic and behavioral regulation may contribute to greater difficulties in social behavior and social communication between HIV-infected women and other individuals in their social network.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Heilman
- Brain-Body Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 27599-7160, USA.
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Williams TA, Langdon R, Porter MA. Hyper-reactivity in fragile X syndrome females: generalised or specific to socially-salient stimuli? A skin conductance study. Int J Psychophysiol 2013; 88:26-34. [PMID: 23298451 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2012.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Revised: 11/27/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is characterised by hyper-reactivity, autistic tendencies and social anxiety. It has been hypothesised that the FXS social phenotype is secondary to a generalised hyper-reactivity that leads to social avoidance. No study, however, has investigated whether hyperarousal in FXS is generalised or more specific to socially salient information. We recorded skin conductance responses (SCRs) while females with FXS, as well as chronological age-(CA-) and mental age-(MA-) matched controls, viewed two sets of visual images: direct-gaze emotional faces and affectively arousing scenes. Explicit emotion recognition and subjective ratings of emotions aroused by images were also recorded. Overall, females with FXS displayed hyper-reactivity only when viewing the more socially salient stimuli (emotional faces), compared to CA-matched controls, but not MA-matched controls. Moreover, females with FXS also displayed atypical emotion recognition abilities and subjective ratings of their own emotional states. These findings suggest that any hyper-reactivity observed in FXS may be more specific to socially salient stimuli, rather than generalised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey A Williams
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Cognition and Its Disorders, and Department of Cognitive Science, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Roberts JE, Long ACJ, McCary LM, Quady AN, Rose BS, Widrick D, Baranek G. Cardiovascular and behavioral response to auditory stimuli in boys with fragile X syndrome. J Pediatr Psychol 2012; 38:276-84. [PMID: 23143607 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jss114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether young boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS) exhibit abnormal physiological or behavioral responses to a moderately intense auditory stimulus, as heightened sensory reactivity is believed to contribute to problem behaviors in this population. METHODS We examined the physiological basis, via heart activity, of auditory startle in young boys with FXS (n = 22) compared with typically developing controls (n = 27). Associations with mental age, behavioral reactivity, and chronological age were examined. RESULTS Results suggest that older boys with FXS display increased cardiac reactivity to auditory input than younger boys with FXS that distinguishes them from typically developing controls. Higher mental age was associated with decreased latency to react. CONCLUSIONS Results contribute to increased understanding of the pathology in sensory processing in boys with FXS, which can inform refinement of the phenotype in young children with FXS and aid in the development of efficacious psychopharmacological and/or behavioral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, The University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
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Roberts JE, Hatton DD, Long ACJ, Anello V, Colombo J. Visual attention and autistic behavior in infants with fragile X syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 42:937-46. [PMID: 21720726 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant attention is a core feature of fragile X syndrome (FXS), however, little is known regarding the developmental trajectory and underlying physiological processes of attention deficits in FXS. Atypical visual attention is an early emerging and robust indictor of autism in idiopathic (non-FXS) autism. Using a biobehavioral approach with gaze direction and heart activity, we examined visual attention in infants with FXS at 9, 12, and 18 months of age with a cross-sectional comparison to 12-month-old typically developing infants. Analyses revealed lower HR variability, shallower HR decelerations, and prolonged look durations in 12-month old infants with FXS compared to typical controls. Look duration and increased latency to disengage attention were correlated with severity of autistic behavior but not mental age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Roberts
- FPG Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA.
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31
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Watson LR, Roberts JE, Baranek GT, Mandulak KC, Dalton JC. Behavioral and physiological responses to child-directed speech of children with autism spectrum disorders or typical development. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 42:1616-29. [PMID: 22071788 PMCID: PMC3402684 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1401-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Young boys with autism were compared to typically developing boys on responses to nonsocial and child-directed speech (CDS) stimuli. Behavioral (looking) and physiological (heart rate and respiratory sinus arrhythmia) measures were collected. Boys with autism looked equally as much as chronological age-matched peers at nonsocial stimuli, but less at CDS stimuli. Boys with autism and language age-matched peers differed in patterns of looking at live versus videotaped CDS stimuli. Boys with autism demonstrated faster heart rates than chronological age-matched peers, but did not differ significantly on respiratory sinus arrhythmia. Reduced attention during CDS may restrict language-learning opportunities for children with autism. The heart rate findings suggest that young children with autism have a nonspecific elevated arousal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda R Watson
- Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, CB# 7190, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7190, USA.
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32
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Roberts JE, Tonnsen B, Robinson A, Shinkareva SV. Heart activity and autistic behavior in infants and toddlers with fragile X syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2012; 117:90-102. [PMID: 22515825 PMCID: PMC3987776 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-117.2.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The present study contrasted physiological arousal in infants and toddlers with fragile X syndrome to typically developing control participants and examined physiological predictors early in development to autism severity later in development in fragile X syndrome. Thirty-one males with fragile X syndrome (ages 8-40 months) and 25 age-matched control participants were included. The group with fragile X syndrome showed shorter interbeat intervals (IBIs), lower vagal tone (VT), and less modulation of IBI. Data suggested a nonlinear effect with IBI and autistic behavior; however, a linear effect with VT and autistic behavior emerged. These findings suggest that atypical physiological arousal emerges within the first year and predicts severity of autistic behavior in fragile X syndrome. These relationships are complex and dynamic, likely reflecting endogenous factors assumed to reflect atypical brain function secondary to reduced fragile X mental retardation protein. This research has important implications for the early identification and treatment of autistic behaviors in young children with fragile X syndrome.
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Siegel MS, Smith WE. Psychiatric features in children with genetic syndromes: toward functional phenotypes. Pediatr Clin North Am 2011; 58:833-64, x. [PMID: 21855710 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2011.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders with identified genetic etiologies present a unique opportunity to study gene-brain-behavior connections in child psychiatry. Parsing complex human behavior into dissociable components is facilitated by examining a relatively homogenous genetic population. As children with developmental delay carry a greater burden of mental illness than the general population, familiarity with the most common genetic disorders will serve practitioners seeing a general child population. In this article, basic genetic testing and 11 of the most common genetic disorders are reviewed, including the evidence base for treatment. Based on their training in child development, family systems, and multimodal treatment, child psychiatrists are well positioned to integrate cognitive, behavioral, social, psychiatric, and physical phenotypes, with a focus on functional impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Siegel
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02110, USA.
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Treatment effects of stimulant medication in young boys with fragile X syndrome. J Neurodev Disord 2011; 3:175-84. [PMID: 21671049 PMCID: PMC3261280 DOI: 10.1007/s11689-011-9085-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2010] [Accepted: 05/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability and is caused by a CGG repeat expansion at Xq27.3 on the FMR1 gene. The majority of young boys with FXS display poor attention and hyperactivity that is disproportionate to their cognitive disability, and approximately 70% meet diagnostic criteria for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Psychopharmacology is employed with 82% of young males 5-17 years of age, with stimulant medication as the most common medication prescribed. This study evaluated the effects of stimulant medication on the academic performance, attention, motor activity, and psychophysiological arousal of boys with FXS, as well as the concordance of effects within individuals. Participants in this study included 12 boys with FXS who were treated with stimulants. Participants completed videotaped academic testing on two consecutive days and were randomly assigned to be off stimulants for 1 day and on stimulants the other day. On each day, multiple measures including academic performance, behavior regulation, and psychophysiological arousal were collected. Approximately 75% of participants performed better on attention and academic measures, and 70% showed improved physiological regulation while on stimulant medication. A high degree of concordance among measures was found. Lower intelligence quotient (IQ), but not age, correlated with greater improvements in in-seat behavior. IQ and age did not relate to on-task behaviors. The frequency and magnitude of response to stimulant medication in boys with FXS is higher than those reported for most children with non-specific intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder.
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35
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Fatemi SH, Folsom TD. Dysregulation of fragile × mental retardation protein and metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 in superior frontal cortex of individuals with autism: a postmortem brain study. Mol Autism 2011; 2:6. [PMID: 21548960 PMCID: PMC3488976 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-2-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fragile X syndrome is caused by loss of function of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene and shares multiple phenotypes with autism. We have previously found reduced expression of the protein product of FMR1 (FMRP) in vermis of adults with autism. Methods In the current study, we have investigated levels of FMRP in the superior frontal cortex of people with autism and matched controls using Western blot analysis. Because FMRP regulates the translation of multiple genes, we also measured protein levels for downstream molecules metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptor β3 (GABRβ3), as well as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Results We observed significantly reduced levels of protein for FMRP in adults with autism, significantly increased levels of protein for mGluR5 in children with autism and significantly increased levels of GFAP in adults and children with autism. We found no change in expression of GABRβ3. Our results for FMRP, mGluR5 and GFAP confirm our previous work in the cerebellar vermis of people with autism. Conclusion These changes may be responsible for cognitive deficits and seizure disorder in people with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hossein Fatemi
- Division of Neuroscience Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 392, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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36
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Heilman KJ, Harden ER, Zageris DM, Berry-Kravis E, Porges SW. Autonomic regulation in fragile X syndrome. Dev Psychobiol 2011; 53:785-95. [PMID: 21547900 DOI: 10.1002/dev.20551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2010] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Autonomic reactivity was studied in individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS), a genetic disorder partially characterized by abnormal social behavior. Relative to age-matched controls, the FXS group had faster baseline heart rate and lower amplitude respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). In contrast to the typically developing controls, there was a decrease in RSA with age within the FXS group. Moreover, within the FXS group heart rate did not slow with age. The FXS group also responded with an atypical increase in RSA to the social challenge, while the control group reduced RSA. In a subset of the FXS group, the autonomic profile did not change following 2 months and 1 year of lithium treatment. The observed indices of atypical autonomic regulation, consistent with the Polyvagal Theory, may contribute to the deficits in social behavior and social communication observed in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keri J Heilman
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain-Body Center (MC 912), University of Illinois at Chicago, USA
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37
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Cordeiro L, Ballinger E, Hagerman R, Hessl D. Clinical assessment of DSM-IV anxiety disorders in fragile X syndrome: prevalence and characterization. J Neurodev Disord 2010; 3:57-67. [PMID: 21475730 PMCID: PMC3057014 DOI: 10.1007/s11689-010-9067-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability (ID). Anxiety and social withdrawal are considered core features of the FXS phenotype, yet there is limited diagnostic evidence of the prevalence of formal anxiety disorders in FXS. This study assessed the prevalence of anxiety disorders in a sample of 58 males and 39 females with FXS (ages 5.0-33.3 years). Participants' parents completed the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule (ADIS-IV), a clinical interview based on DSM-IV criteria, and the Anxiety Depression and Mood Scale (ADAMS), a psychiatric disorders screening instrument normed in ID. We conducted cognitive (IQ) and autism (AUT) assessments and surveyed medication use. Despite a high rate of psychopharmacological treatment, 86.2% of males and 76.9% of females met criteria for an anxiety disorder, with social phobia and specific phobia the most commonly diagnosed. Proband status, gender, and IQ were not significantly related to any anxiety disorders, however significantly higher rates of a few anxiety disorders were found in older age and AUT groups. Significant correlations between ADIS diagnoses and ADAMS scores provided cross-validation of instruments, indicating that the ADIS is suitable for use in FXS. A greater percentage of our sample met criteria for most anxiety disorders than has been reported in other ID groups or the general population. The rate of anxiety compared to general ID suggests that the FMR1 full mutation confers an especially high risk for these disorders, regardless of factors commonly associated with FXS clinical involvement. A thorough clinical assessment and treatment of anxiety should be included in the FXS standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Cordeiro
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
- Department of Human Development, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - Elizabeth Ballinger
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - Randi Hagerman
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - David Hessl
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA USA
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38
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Wang LW, Berry-Kravis E, Hagerman RJ. Fragile X: leading the way for targeted treatments in autism. Neurotherapeutics 2010; 7:264-74. [PMID: 20643379 PMCID: PMC4084556 DOI: 10.1016/j.nurt.2010.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2010] [Revised: 05/19/2010] [Accepted: 05/22/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Two different mutations in the FMR1 gene may lead to autism. The full mutation, with >200 CGG repeats in the 5' end of FMR1, leads to hypermethylation and transcriptional silencing of FMR1, resulting in absence or deficiency of the protein product, FMRP. Deficiency of FMRP in the brain causes fragile X syndrome (FXS). Autism occurs in approximately 30% of those with FXS, and pervasive developmental disorders-not otherwise specified occur in an additional 30%. FMRP is an RNA binding protein that modulates receptor-mediated dendritic translation; deficiency leads to dysregulation of many proteins important for synaptic plasticity. Group I metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR1/5) activated translation is upregulated in FXS, and new targeted treatments that act on this system include mGluR5 antagonists and GABA agonists, which may reverse the cognitive and behavioral deficits in FXS. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is one of the proteins elevated in FXS, and minocycline reduces excess MMP-9 activity in the Fmr1 knockout mouse model of FXS. Both minocycline and mGluR5 antagonists are currently being evaluated in patients with FXS through controlled treatment trials. The premutation (55-200 CGG repeats) may also contribute to the mechanism of autism in approximately 10% of males and 2-3% of females. Premutations with <150 repeats exert cellular effects through a different molecular mechanism, one that involves elevated levels of FMR1 mRNA, CGG-mediated toxicity to neurons, early cell death, and fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. In those with large premutations (150-200), lowered levels of FMRP also occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu W Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, California 95817, USA.
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McDuffie A, Abbeduto L, Lewis P, Kover S, Kim JS, Weber A, Brown WT. Autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents with fragile X syndrome: within-syndrome differences and age-related changes. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2010; 115:307-26. [PMID: 20567604 PMCID: PMC2887668 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-115.4.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) was used to examine diagnostic profiles and age-related changes in autism symptoms for a group of verbal children and adolescents who had fragile X syndrome, with and without autism. After controlling for nonverbal IQ, we found statistically significant between-group differences for lifetime and current autism symptoms for the Communication and Restricted Interests/Repetitive Behaviors domains, but not the Reciprocal Social Interaction domain. Effect sizes for differences in Reciprocal Social Interaction also were smaller than effect sizes for the other domains, with one exception. Overall, severity of autism symptoms improved with age for all participants, with the least improvement noted for Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviors. FMRP did not account for unique variance in autism symptoms over and above nonverbal IQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea McDuffie
- University of Wisconsin, Waisman Center, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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40
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Siegel MS, Smith WE. Psychiatric features in children with genetic syndromes: toward functional phenotypes. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2010; 19:229-61, viii. [PMID: 20478498 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2010.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders with identified genetic etiologies present a unique opportunity to study gene-brain-behavior connections in child psychiatry. Parsing complex human behavior into dissociable components is facilitated by examining a relatively homogenous genetic population. As children with developmental delay carry a greater burden of mental illness than the general population, familiarity with the most common genetic disorders will serve practitioners seeing a general child population. In this article basic genetic testing and 11 of the most common genetic disorders are reviewed, including the evidence base for treatment. Based on their training in child development, family systems, and multimodal treatment, child psychiatrists are well positioned to integrate cognitive, behavioral, social, psychiatric, and physical phenotypes, with a focus on functional impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Siegel
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02110, USA.
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41
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Schneider A, Hagerman RJ, Hessl D. Fragile X syndrome -- from genes to cognition. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 15:333-42. [PMID: 20014363 DOI: 10.1002/ddrr.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS), a single gene disorder with an expanded CGG allele on the X chromosome, is the most common form of inherited cognitive impairment. The cognitive deficit ranges from mild learning disabilities to severe intellectual disability. The phenotype includes hyperactivity, short attention span, emotional problems including anxiety, social avoidance, poor eye contact, and hyperarousal to sensory stimuli. Imaging studies in FXS have clarified the impact of the FMR1 mutation on brain development and function by documenting structural abnormalities, predominantly in the caudate nucleus and cerebellum, and functional deficits in the caudate, frontal-striatal circuits, and the limbic system. On the basis of current research results, a targeted treatment for FXS will be available in the near future. Currently, a number of psychopharmacological agents are helpful in treating many of the problems in FXS including hyperactivity, attention deficits, anxiety, episodic aggression, and hyperarousal. Although the targeted treatments aim at strengthening synaptic connections, it is essential that these treatments are combined with learning programs that address the cognitive deficits in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Schneider
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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42
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Physiological correlates of social avoidance behavior in children and adolescents with fragile x syndrome. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2009; 48:320-329. [PMID: 19182690 PMCID: PMC4820330 DOI: 10.1097/chi.0b013e318195bd15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether eye-gaze avoidance, a striking phenotypic feature in fragile X syndrome (FXS), is associated with high levels of "hyperarousal" during social interactions with others. To date, almost all studies in this area have been confounded by inclusion of task demands in addition to social demands. METHOD We monitored the cardiovascular activity and eye-gaze avoidance of 50 boys and girls with FXS aged 5 to 20 years during a 25-minute intensive social interaction session with an unfamiliar experimenter. To control for possible family and genetic factors in cardiovascular activity, we compared each child with FXS with their same-sex typically developing biological sibling. RESULTS Participants with FXS obtained significantly higher heart rates, lower vagal tone, and lower heart rate variability estimates both at baseline and during the social interaction session compared with their typically developing siblings. Although eye-gaze avoidance occurred at significantly higher levels in the children with FXS, this behavior decreased slightly over the course of the session (a "warm-up" effect) and did not seem to be associated with cardiovascular activity. In the girls with FXS, higher levels of the fragile X mental retardation protein were associated with higher (and more typical) heart rate variability. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are dysregulated in FXS. However, given that prolonged exposure to social demands does not inevitably lead to increased anxiety or "hyperarousal," professionals should not be deterred from providing much needed social skills interventions for individuals with FXS.
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43
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Harris SW, Hessl D, Goodlin-Jones B, Ferranti J, Bacalman S, Barbato I, Tassone F, Hagerman PJ, Herman H, Hagerman RJ. Autism profiles of males with fragile X syndrome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 113:427-38. [PMID: 19127654 DOI: 10.1352/2008.113:427-438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism, which is common in individuals with fragile X syndrome, is often difficult to diagnose. We compared the diagnostic classifications of two measures for autism diagnosis, the ADOS and the ADI-R, in addition to the DSM-IV-TR in 63 males with this syndrome. Overall, 30% of the subjects met criteria for autistic disorder and 30% met criteria for PDD-NOS. The classifications on the ADOS and DSM-IV-TR were most similar, whereas the ADI-R classified subjects as autistic much more frequently. We further investigated the relationship of both FMRP and FMRI mRNA to symptoms of autism in this cohort and found no significant relationship between the measures of autism and molecular features, including FMRP, FMRI mRNA, and CGG repeat number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan W Harris
- M.I.N.D. Institute and Department of Pediatrics, University of California at Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Hagerman RJ, Berry-Kravis E, Kaufmann WE, Ono MY, Tartaglia N, Lachiewicz A, Kronk R, Delahunty C, Hessl D, Visootsak J, Picker J, Gane L, Tranfaglia M. Advances in the treatment of fragile X syndrome. Pediatrics 2009; 123:378-90. [PMID: 19117905 PMCID: PMC2888470 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2008-0317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 393] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The FMR1 mutations can cause a variety of disabilities, including cognitive deficits, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, and other socioemotional problems, in individuals with the full mutation form (fragile X syndrome) and distinct difficulties, including primary ovarian insufficiency, neuropathy and the fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome, in some older premutation carriers. Therefore, multigenerational family involvement is commonly encountered when a proband is identified with a FMR1 mutation. Studies of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 pathway antagonists in animal models of fragile X syndrome have demonstrated benefits in reducing seizures, improving behavior, and enhancing cognition. Trials of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 antagonists are beginning with individuals with fragile X syndrome. Targeted treatments, medical and behavioral interventions, genetic counseling, and family supports are reviewed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randi J Hagerman
- MIND. Institute, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Aberrant neural function during emotion attribution in female subjects with fragile X syndrome. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2008; 47:1443-354. [PMID: 18981933 PMCID: PMC4820328 DOI: 10.1097/chi.0b013e3181886e92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fragile X (FraX) syndrome is caused by mutations of the FraX mental retardation-1 gene-a gene responsible for producing FraX mental retardation protein. The neurocognitive phenotype associated with FraX in female subjects includes increased risk for emotional disorders including social anxiety, depression, and attention deficit. Here, the authors investigated the neurobiological systems underlying emotion attribution in female subjects with FraX syndrome. METHOD While undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging, 10 high-functioning female subjects with FraX syndrome and 10 typically developing (TD) female subjects were presented with photographs of happy, sad, and neutral faces and instructed to determine the facial emotion. RESULTS No significant group differences were found for the recognition of happy faces, although the FraX group showed a trend toward a significant difference for the recognition of sad faces and significantly poorer recognition of neutral faces. Controlling for between-group differences in IQ and performance accuracy, the TD group had greater activation than the FraX group in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) for neutral faces compared with scrambled faces and the caudate for sad faces compared with scrambled faces (but not for sad faces compared with neutral faces). In the FraX group, FraX mental retardation protein levels positively correlated with activation in the dorsal ACC for neutral, happy, and sad faces when independently compared with scrambled faces. Significantly greater negative correlation between IQ and insula activation for neutral faces relative to scrambled faces was observed in the FraX group compared with the TD group. Significantly greater positive correlation between IQ and ACC activation for neutral faces relative to scrambled faces was observed in the TD group compared with the FraX group. CONCLUSIONS Although emotion recognition is generally spared in FraX syndrome, the emotion circuit (i.e., ACC, caudate, insula) that modulates emotional responses to facial stimuli may be disrupted.
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Harris SW, Hessl D, Goodlin-Jones B, Ferranti J, Bacalman S, Barbato I, Tassone F, Hagerman PJ, Herman H, Hagerman RJ. Autism profiles of males with fragile X syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MENTAL RETARDATION : AJMR 2008; 113. [PMID: 19127654 PMCID: PMC2629645 DOI: 10.1352/2008.113%3a427-438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Autism, which is common in individuals with fragile X syndrome, is often difficult to diagnose. We compared the diagnostic classifications of two measures for autism diagnosis, the ADOS and the ADI-R, in addition to the DSM-IV-TR in 63 males with this syndrome. Overall, 30% of the subjects met criteria for autistic disorder and 30% met criteria for PDD-NOS. The classifications on the ADOS and DSM-IV-TR were most similar, whereas the ADI-R classified subjects as autistic much more frequently. We further investigated the relationship of both FMRP and FMRI mRNA to symptoms of autism in this cohort and found no significant relationship between the measures of autism and molecular features, including FMRP, FMRI mRNA, and CGG repeat number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan W Harris
- M.I.N.D. Institute and Department of Pediatrics, University of California at Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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Shanahan M, Roberts J, Hatton D, Reznick J, Goldsmith H. Early temperament and negative reactivity in boys with fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2008; 52:842-854. [PMID: 18498331 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2008.01074.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The phenotype of children and adults with fragile X syndrome (FXS) includes a number of problem behaviours such as inattention, social anxiety and aggressive outbursts. However, very little work has been conducted with young children with FXS less than 5 years of age to examine the developmental pathway of problem behaviours in this population and to determine if later occurring problem behaviours may be rooted in early appearing temperament profiles. METHODS Parent ratings and laboratory-based behavioural observations of negative reactivity were examined in 25 3-year-old boys with FXS and compared with 64 typically developing boys matched on age. RESULTS Compared with the typically developing group, boys with FXS were rated by their parents as exhibiting less anger and sadness on the Child Behaviour Questionnaire (CBQ), and they showed less facial sadness on the Laboratory Temperament Assessment Battery (Lab-TAB). No group differences were found on the Lab-TAB measures of distress vocalisations, bodily struggle, and facial anger; and anger peaked in the middle of the arm restraint episode for both groups. For boys with FXS, mental age was moderately positively correlated, and autistic behaviour was moderately negatively correlated, with sadness scores from the CBQ. CONCLUSIONS Our results show different behavioural profiles in very young children with FXS than reported in older-aged children with FXS which implies that temperamental differences and elevated problem behaviours reported in older-aged children with FXS may not be rooted in early temperament. This information is important to develop the phenotype of early development in FXS to facilitate early identification and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Shanahan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Developmental trajectories and correlates of sensory processing in young boys with fragile X syndrome. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr 2008; 28:79-98. [PMID: 18399048 DOI: 10.1300/j006v28n01_06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE No longitudinal study on sensory processing in children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) exists. This study examined developmental trajectories and correlates of sensory processing from infancy through preschool years in 13 boys with FXS. METHOD Participants were assessed using observational and parent-report measures 2-6 times between 9 and 54 months of age. RESULTS Over time, an increasing proportion of boys displayed sensory processing that differed significantly from test norms. Observational measures were more sensitive than parent-reports early in infancy. Age and developmental quotient significantly predicted levels of hyporesponsiveness; there was a trend for hyperresponsiveness to increase with age. Baseline physiological and biological measures were not predictive. CONCLUSIONS Sensory processing problems are observable early and grow increasingly problematic from infancy through the preschool ages. Early identification and intervention may attenuate long-term difficulties for children with FXS.
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Roberts J, Mazzocco MMM, Murphy MM, Hoehn-Saric R. Arousal modulation in females with fragile X or Turner syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2007; 38:20-7. [PMID: 17340202 PMCID: PMC2730938 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-007-0356-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2006] [Accepted: 01/12/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was carried out to examine physiological arousal modulation (heart activity and skin conductance, across baseline and cognitive tasks, in females with fragile X or Turner syndrome and a comparison group of females with neither syndrome. Relative to the comparison group, for whom a greater increase in skin conductance was associated with poor arithmetic performance and less risk taking behavior, females with fragile X displayed a minimal increase in heart activity that was nevertheless associated with poor performance on mental arithmetic. In contrast, no arousal-cognitive performance relationship emerged for the group with Turner syndrome. Taken together, our findings suggest that distinct profiles of arousal modulation might be associated with cognitive deficits in these syndrome populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Roberts
- Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michéle M. M. Mazzocco
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Population and Family Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21211, USA
- MSDP, 3825 Greenspring Avenue, Painter Bldg, Top Floor, Baltimore, MD 21211, USA, e-mail:
| | - Melissa M. Murphy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21211, USA
| | - Rudolf Hoehn-Saric
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Millar WS, Weir CG. Heart rate reactivity during contingency learning in 5- to 10-month-old at-risk and non-risk babies. BRITISH JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2007. [DOI: 10.1348/026151006x107218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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