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Afzal S, Dürrast N, Hassan I, Soleimanpour E, Tsai PL, Dieterich DC, Fendt M. Probing cognitive flexibility in Shank2-deficient mice: Effects of D-cycloserine and NMDAR signaling hub dynamics. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 134:111051. [PMID: 38849086 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a heterogeneous etiology but are largely associated with genetic factors. Robust evidence from recent human genetic studies has linked mutations in the Shank2 gene to idiopathic ASD. Modeling these Shank2 mutations in animal models recapitulates behavioral changes, e.g. impaired social interaction and repetitive behavior of ASD patients. Shank2-deficient mice exhibit NMDA receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction and associated behavioral deficits. Of note, NMDARs are strongly implicated in cognitive flexibility. Their hypofunction, e.g. observed in schizophrenia, or their pharmacological inhibition leads to impaired cognitive flexibility. However, the association between Shank2 mutations and cognitive flexibility is poorly understood. Using Shank2-deficient mice, we explored the role of Shank2 in cognitive flexibility measured by the attentional set shifting task (ASST) and whether ASST performance in Shank2-deficient mice can be modulated by treatment with the partial NMDAR agonist D-cycloserine (DCS). Furthermore, we investigated the effects of Shank2 deficiency, ASST training, and DCS treatment on the expression level of NMDAR signaling hub components in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), including NMDAR subunits (GluN2A, GluN2B, GluN2C), phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase and serine racemase. Surprisingly, Shank2 deficiency did not affect ASST performance or alter the expression of the investigated NMDAR signaling hub components. Importantly, however, DCS significantly improved ASST performance, demonstrating that positive NMDAR modulation facilitates cognitive flexibility. Furthermore, DCS increased the expression of GluN2A in the OFC, but not that of other NMDAR signaling hub components. Our findings highlight the potential of DCS as a pharmacological intervention to improve cognitive flexibility impairments downstream of NMDAR modulation and substantiate the key role of NMDAR in cognitive flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia Afzal
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Nora Dürrast
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Iman Hassan
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Elaheh Soleimanpour
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Pei-Ling Tsai
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela C Dieterich
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Center of Behavioral Brain Sciences, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Markus Fendt
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Center of Behavioral Brain Sciences, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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2
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Beckerson ME, Kerr-German AN, Buss AT. Examining the relationship between functional connectivity and broader autistic traits in non-autistic children. Child Neuropsychol 2024:1-22. [PMID: 39105456 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2024.2386072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
In the current study, we used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to examine functional connectivity (FC) in relation to measures of cognitive flexibility and autistic features in non-autistic children. Previous research suggests that disruptions in FC between brain regions may underlie the cognitive and behavioral traits of autism. Moreover, research has identified a broader autistic phenotype (BAP), which refers to a set of behavioral traits that fall along a continuum of behaviors typical for autism but which do not cross a clinically relevant threshold. Thus, by examining FC in relation to the BAP in non-autistic children, we can better understand the spectrum of behaviors related to this condition and their neural basis. Results indicated age-related differences in performance across three measures of cognitive flexibility, as expected given the rapid development of this skill within this time period. Additionally, results showed that across the flexibility tasks, measures of autistic traits were associated with weaker FC along the executive control network, though task performance was not associated with FC. These results suggest that behavioral scores may be less sensitive than neural measures to autistic traits. Further, these results corroborate the use of broader autistic traits and the BAP to better understand disruptions to neural function associated with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan E Beckerson
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Aaron T Buss
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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3
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Huang Z, Wang F, Xue L, Zhu H, Zou X. Relationships between Sensory Processing and Executive Functions in Children with Combined ASD and ADHD Compared to Typically Developing and Single Disorder Groups. Brain Sci 2024; 14:566. [PMID: 38928566 PMCID: PMC11201769 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasing, with a tendency for co-occurrence. Some studies indicate a connection between atypical sensory processing and executive function. This study aims to explore the distinctive etiology of executive function deficits in children with ASD+ADHD by investigating the relationship between sensory processing and executive function, comparing children with ASD, ASD+ADHD, ADHD, and typically developing children (TD). METHOD Sensory Profile 2 (SP-2) and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function 2 (BRIEF-2) were measured in 120 school-aged children. The results of the above scales were compared across these four groups, and correlation and regression analyses between BRIEF2 and SP2 were conducted. RESULTS Our research revealed varying levels of atypical sensory processing and executive function anomalies across the three neurodevelopmental disorder groups compared to the TD group. The ASD+ADHD group showed particularly significant differences. The heightened emotional problems observed in ASD+ADHD children may be associated with more prominent atypical sensory processing. Variance analysis of inhibitory function revealed differences between ASD+ADHD and ADHD children, suggesting distinct etiological mechanisms for attention issues between ASD+ADHD and ADHD. CONCLUSIONS ASD+ADHD represents a phenotype distinct from both ASD and ADHD. Special consideration should be given to interventions for children with ASD+ADHD. The results of this study may offer a new perspective on understanding the occurrence of ASD+ADHD and potential individualized intervention methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xiaobing Zou
- Child Developmental-Behavioral Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Rd., Guangzhou 510630, China
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4
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O'Loghlen J, McKenzie M, Lang C, Paynter J. Repetitive Behaviors in Autism and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Systematic Review. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06357-8. [PMID: 38652373 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06357-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism are characterized by the presence of repetitive behaviors. Differentiating between repetitive behaviors attributable to a diagnosis of autism, and those attributable to OCD, poses challenges for differential and co-occurring diagnosis. Differentiation is important to inform appropriate supports and interventions for phenotypically similar but functionally distinct behaviors. In this systematic review, the quantitative literature was examined to explore the similarities and differences in repetitive behaviors (including restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors) in autistic individuals and those with OCD, and those with co-occurring diagnoses, in terms of: (1) expression, (2) content, and (3) associated factors. METHODS Thirty-one studies were identified that compared repetitive behaviors in autistic individuals, individuals with OCD, or individuals with both diagnoses. RESULTS The results suggest considerable overlap in the intensity and content of repetitive behaviors between groups. The findings of this review highlight that research aimed specifically at understanding similarities and differences in repetitive behaviors between autistic individuals and individuals with OCD is limited and frequently only compare at total score or composite measure levels. CONCLUSION Further research into differences in the presentation of repetitive behaviors at a subscale and item level is required to inform clearer differentiation of specific behaviors in autism versus OCD. Understanding and more accurately differentiating is essential for efficient diagnosis, effective treatment, and better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica O'Loghlen
- , Building N23, -1.03, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Matthew McKenzie
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, 58 Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Cathryne Lang
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, 58 Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
| | - Jessica Paynter
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, 58 Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia
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Li X, Li J, Zhao S, Liao Y, Zhu L, Mou Y. Magnitude representation of preschool children with autism spectrum condition. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:866-880. [PMID: 37522624 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231185408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT The mathematical abilities of children with autism spectrum condition have been understudied. Magnitude representation (e.g. presenting the number of a collection of objects) is a fundamental numerical ability presented since early infancy and is correlated with children's later learning of formal mathematics. It remains unclear about whether children with autism spectrum condition differ from their peers without autism spectrum condition in precision of magnitude representations. This study compared preschool children with and without autism spectrum condition in their precision of magnitude representation with an approximate number comparison task, in which children compared two sets of dots without counting and chose the set with more dots. Children with autism spectrum condition exhibited the lower numerical comparison accuracy (i.e. the weaker magnitude representation) than their peers without autism spectrum condition. This difference existed even when multiple general cognitive abilities (working memory, inhibitory control, and nonverbal intelligence) and language abilities were statistically controlled. Moreover, the individual difference of the numerical comparison accuracy was larger in children with autism spectrum condition than without autism spectrum condition. These findings suggest that children with autism spectrum condition are at risk of weaker magnitude representation from an early age, emphasizing the need for specialized mathematics education or interventions to support their learning. In addition, the large variance in the precision of their magnitude representation suggests that individualized mathematics interventions are needed for children with autism spectrum condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyan Li
- Department of Psychology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxi Li
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sijia Zhao
- Department of Psychology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yini Liao
- Department of Psychology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liqi Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Mou
- Department of Psychology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Lage C, Smith ES, Lawson RP. A meta-analysis of cognitive flexibility in autism spectrum disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 157:105511. [PMID: 38104788 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility is a fundamental process that underlies adaptive behaviour in response to environmental change. Studies examining the profile of cognitive flexibility in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have reported inconsistent findings. To address whether difficulties with cognitive flexibility are characteristic of autism, we conducted a random-effects meta-analysis and employed subgroup analyses and meta-regression to assess the impact of relevant moderator variables such as task, outcomes, and age. Fifty-nine studies were included and comprised of 2122 autistic individuals without intellectual disabilities and 2036 neurotypical controls, with an age range of 4 to 85 years. The results showed that autistic individuals have greater difficulties with cognitive flexibility, with an overall statistically significant small to moderate effect size. Subgroup analyses revealed a significant difference between task outcomes, with perseverative errors obtaining the largest effect size. In summary, the present meta-analysis highlights the existence of cognitive flexibility difficulties in autistic people, in the absence of learning disabilities, but also that this profile is characterised by substantial heterogeneity. Potential contributing factors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lage
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kingdom.
| | - Eleanor S Smith
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca P Lawson
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kingdom
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Mosconi MW, Stevens CJ, Unruh KE, Shafer R, Elison JT. Endophenotype trait domains for advancing gene discovery in autism spectrum disorder. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:41. [PMID: 37993779 PMCID: PMC10664534 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09511-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a diverse range of etiological processes, including both genetic and non-genetic causes. For a plurality of individuals with ASD, it is likely that the primary causes involve multiple common inherited variants that individually account for only small levels of variation in phenotypic outcomes. This genetic landscape creates a major challenge for detecting small but important pathogenic effects associated with ASD. To address similar challenges, separate fields of medicine have identified endophenotypes, or discrete, quantitative traits that reflect genetic likelihood for a particular clinical condition and leveraged the study of these traits to map polygenic mechanisms and advance more personalized therapeutic strategies for complex diseases. Endophenotypes represent a distinct class of biomarkers useful for understanding genetic contributions to psychiatric and developmental disorders because they are embedded within the causal chain between genotype and clinical phenotype, and they are more proximal to the action of the gene(s) than behavioral traits. Despite their demonstrated power for guiding new understanding of complex genetic structures of clinical conditions, few endophenotypes associated with ASD have been identified and integrated into family genetic studies. In this review, we argue that advancing knowledge of the complex pathogenic processes that contribute to ASD can be accelerated by refocusing attention toward identifying endophenotypic traits reflective of inherited mechanisms. This pivot requires renewed emphasis on study designs with measurement of familial co-variation including infant sibling studies, family trio and quad designs, and analysis of monozygotic and dizygotic twin concordance for select trait dimensions. We also emphasize that clarification of endophenotypic traits necessarily will involve integration of transdiagnostic approaches as candidate traits likely reflect liability for multiple clinical conditions and often are agnostic to diagnostic boundaries. Multiple candidate endophenotypes associated with ASD likelihood are described, and we propose a new focus on the analysis of "endophenotype trait domains" (ETDs), or traits measured across multiple levels (e.g., molecular, cellular, neural system, neuropsychological) along the causal pathway from genes to behavior. To inform our central argument for research efforts toward ETD discovery, we first provide a brief review of the concept of endophenotypes and their application to psychiatry. Next, we highlight key criteria for determining the value of candidate endophenotypes, including unique considerations for the study of ASD. Descriptions of different study designs for assessing endophenotypes in ASD research then are offered, including analysis of how select patterns of results may help prioritize candidate traits in future research. We also present multiple candidate ETDs that collectively cover a breadth of clinical phenomena associated with ASD, including social, language/communication, cognitive control, and sensorimotor processes. These ETDs are described because they represent promising targets for gene discovery related to clinical autistic traits, and they serve as models for analysis of separate candidate domains that may inform understanding of inherited etiological processes associated with ASD as well as overlapping neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W Mosconi
- Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies and Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.
| | - Cassandra J Stevens
- Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies and Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Kathryn E Unruh
- Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies and Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Robin Shafer
- Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies and Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Jed T Elison
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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8
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Fithall K, Gray IE, Linardon J, Phillipou A, Donaldson PH, Albein-Urios N, Enticott PG, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M, Kirkovski M. Exploring the role of autistic traits and eating disorder psychopathology on mentalising ability in the general population. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:269. [PMID: 37674242 PMCID: PMC10483798 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01306-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the role of overlapping traits and characteristics related to autism spectrum disorder (autism) and anorexia nervosa (AN) in the general population, and the impact of these traits on mentalising ability. METHODS A sample of young adults (N = 306), aged 18-25 years, was recruited to complete an online study that consisted of 4 measures: the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, the Mentalization Scale, and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes task. RESULTS Higher levels of autistic traits, particularly difficulty with attention switching, were associated with increased eating disorder psychopathology. Overall, autistic traits and eating disorder psychopathology were related among females, but not males. Difficulty with attention switching, however, was related to eating disorder psychopathology among both females and males. Autistic traits also appear to have a greater role in mentalising ability than does eating disorder psychopathology. CONCLUSION The role of attention switching in overlapping traits of autism and eating disorder psychopathology needs to be more comprehensively evaluated by future research, as does the role of biological sex. Expanded knowledge in this field will help to better understand and evaluate symptoms at presentation, leading to clearer diagnoses and potentially better treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Fithall
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Indigo E Gray
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jake Linardon
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Andrea Phillipou
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Orygen, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Melissa Kirkovski
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Liu J, Chang H, Abrams DA, Kang JB, Chen L, Rosenberg-Lee M, Menon V. Atypical cognitive training-induced learning and brain plasticity and their relation to insistence on sameness in children with autism. eLife 2023; 12:e86035. [PMID: 37534879 PMCID: PMC10550286 DOI: 10.7554/elife.86035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) often display atypical learning styles; however, little is known regarding learning-related brain plasticity and its relation to clinical phenotypic features. Here, we investigate cognitive learning and neural plasticity using functional brain imaging and a novel numerical problem-solving training protocol. Children with ASD showed comparable learning relative to typically developing children but were less likely to shift from rule-based to memory-based strategy. While learning gains in typically developing children were associated with greater plasticity of neural representations in the medial temporal lobe and intraparietal sulcus, learning in children with ASD was associated with more stable neural representations. Crucially, the relation between learning and plasticity of neural representations was moderated by insistence on sameness, a core phenotypic feature of ASD. Our study uncovers atypical cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying learning in children with ASD, and informs pedagogical strategies for nurturing cognitive abilities in childhood autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Liu
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
| | - Hyesang Chang
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
| | - Daniel A Abrams
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
| | - Julia Boram Kang
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
| | - Lang Chen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
- Department of Psychology, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, United States
| | - Miriam Rosenberg-Lee
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Newark, United States
| | - Vinod Menon
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford, United States
- Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, United States
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10
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Harrop C, Bodfish J, Lecavalier L, Dallman AR, Jones D, Pritchett J, Whitten A, Boyd BA. Refining our Understanding of Anxiety in Autistic Youth: Examining the Role of Behavioral Inflexibility. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06079-3. [PMID: 37530916 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06079-3] [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: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Prior research has demonstrated that cognitive inflexibility is associated with anxiety in autistic individuals. Everyday patterns of behavioral inflexibility (e.g. observable inflexible behavior in the context of the need to change or adapt and that is manifested in real-world everyday settings) is common in autism and can be distinguished from performance on discrete cognitive tasks that tap flexible attention, learning, or decision-making. The purpose of this study was to extend this prior work on inflexibility in autism but with measures specifically developed with input from stakeholders (caregivers and clinicians) for autistic youth designed to measure everyday behavioral inflexibility (BI). We characterized anxiety in a large sample of autistic (N = 145) and non-autistic youth (N = 91), ages 3 to 17 years, using the Parent Rated Anxiety Scale for Autism Spectrum Disorder (PRAS-ASD). Further, we sought to understand how BI, measured via the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale (BIS), predicted anxiety compared to other variables known to increase anxiety in youth (chronological age, IQ, autism diagnosis, assigned sex at birth). Autistic youth had higher parent-related anxiety and BI compared to non-autistic youth. BI was the strongest predictor of anxiety scores, irrespective of diagnosis. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of BI to the understanding of anxiety in autistic youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Harrop
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Bondurant Hall, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - James Bodfish
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Brian A Boyd
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Bondurant Hall, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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11
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Pettine WW, Raman DV, Redish AD, Murray JD. Human generalization of internal representations through prototype learning with goal-directed attention. Nat Hum Behav 2023; 7:442-463. [PMID: 36894642 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01543-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
The world is overabundant with feature-rich information obscuring the latent causes of experience. How do people approximate the complexities of the external world with simplified internal representations that generalize to novel examples or situations? Theories suggest that internal representations could be determined by decision boundaries that discriminate between alternatives, or by distance measurements against prototypes and individual exemplars. Each provide advantages and drawbacks for generalization. We therefore developed theoretical models that leverage both discriminative and distance components to form internal representations via action-reward feedback. We then developed three latent-state learning tasks to test how humans use goal-oriented discrimination attention and prototypes/exemplar representations. The majority of participants attended to both goal-relevant discriminative features and the covariance of features within a prototype. A minority of participants relied only on the discriminative feature. Behaviour of all participants could be captured by parameterizing a model combining prototype representations with goal-oriented discriminative attention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - A David Redish
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - John D Murray
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Liu J, Chang H, Abrams DA, Kang JB, Chen L, Rosenberg-Lee M, Menon V. Atypical cognitive training-induced learning and brain plasticity and their relation to insistence on sameness in children with autism. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.25.525594. [PMID: 36747659 PMCID: PMC9900852 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.25.525594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often display atypical learning styles, however little is known regarding learning-related brain plasticity and its relation to clinical phenotypic features. Here, we investigate cognitive learning and neural plasticity using functional brain imaging and a novel numerical problem-solving training protocol. Children with ASD showed comparable learning relative to typically developing children but were less likely to shift from rule-based to memory-based strategy. Critically, while learning gains in typically developing children were associated with greater plasticity of neural representations in the medial temporal lobe and intraparietal sulcus, learning in children with ASD was associated with more stable neural representations. Crucially, the relation between learning and plasticity of neural representations was moderated by insistence on sameness, a core phenotypic feature of ASD. Our study uncovers atypical cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying learning in children with ASD, and informs pedagogical strategies for nurturing cognitive abilities in childhood autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Liu
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Hyesang Chang
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Daniel A. Abrams
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Julia Boram Kang
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Lang Chen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Psychology, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA 95053
| | - Miriam Rosenberg-Lee
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07102
| | - Vinod Menon
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
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Waite J, Beck SR, Powis L, Oliver C. The Executive Function Account of Repetitive Behavior: Evidence From Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 128:49-65. [PMID: 36548376 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-128.1.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we focus on Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RTS) to explore the associations between executive function deficits and repetitive behaviors. Thirty individuals with RTS completed direct assessments of inhibition, working memory and set-shifting. Informants completed repetitive behavior and executive function questionnaires. Repetitive questions were associated with poorer inhibition and working memory. Stereotypy was associated with poorer inhibition. Adherence to routines was associated with poorer set-shifting, but only on the parental report measure. No other associations were evident. There is evidence of an association between specific repetitive behaviors and executive functioning in RTS, suggesting executive dysfunction may underpin behavioral difference in RTS. The findings point towards specific associations that are of interest for further research across populations in which repetitive behaviors are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Waite
- Jane Waite, College of Health and Life Sciences, School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarah R Beck
- Sarah R. Beck, Laurie Powis, and Chris Oliver, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Laurie Powis
- Sarah R. Beck, Laurie Powis, and Chris Oliver, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Sarah R. Beck, Laurie Powis, and Chris Oliver, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
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14
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Male DAT Val559 Mice Exhibit Compulsive Behavior under Devalued Reward Conditions Accompanied by Cellular and Pharmacological Changes. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244059. [PMID: 36552823 PMCID: PMC9777203 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Identified across multiple psychiatric disorders, the dopamine (DA) transporter (DAT) Ala559Val substitution triggers non-vesicular, anomalous DA efflux (ADE), perturbing DA neurotransmission and behavior. We have shown that DAT Val559 mice display a waiting impulsivity and changes in cognitive performance associated with enhanced reward motivation. Here, utilizing a within-subject, lever-pressing paradigm designed to bias the formation of goal-directed or habitual behavior, we demonstrate that DAT Val559 mice modulate their nose poke behavior appropriately to match context, but demonstrate a perseverative checking behavior. Although DAT Val559 mice display no issues with the cognitive flexibility required to acquire and re-learn a visual pairwise discrimination task, devaluation of reward evoked habitual reward seeking in DAT Val559 mutants in operant tasks regardless of reinforcement schedule. The direct DA agonist apomorphine also elicits locomotor stereotypies in DAT Val559, but not WT mice. Our observation that dendritic spine density is increased in the dorsal medial striatum (DMS) of DAT Val559 mice speaks to an imbalance in striatal circuitry that might underlie the propensity of DAT Val559 mutants to exhibit compulsive behaviors when reward is devalued. Thus, DAT Val559 mice represent a model for dissection of how altered DA signaling perturbs circuits that normally balance habitual and goal-directed behaviors.
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15
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Huang Y, Wong MKY, Lam WY, Cheng CH, So WC. What affects gestural learning in children with and without Autism? The role of prior knowledge and imitation. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 129:104305. [PMID: 35868200 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined whether prior knowledge to the learning target and imitation during learning affected learning outcomes in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, N = 22) compared to their typically developing (TD, N = 15) peers. Children's gestural skills in recognizing and producing the target gestures before and after the training, as well as their imitative behavior during the training were coded. Results showed that consistent prior knowledge benefited gestural learning in both groups. Besides, only children with ASD were hindered by inconsistent prior knowledge. Notably, the effect of imitation was not significant in the ASD group. In conclusion, the learning process in children with ASD may differ from those with typical development, suggesting special-designed interventions are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Huang
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
| | - Miranda Kit-Yi Wong
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Wan-Yi Lam
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Chun-Ho Cheng
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Wing-Chee So
- Department of Educational Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
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16
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Cruz S, Cruz R, Alcón A, Sampaio A, Merchan-Naranjo J, Rodríguez E, Parellada M, Carracedo Á, Fernández-Prieto M. How Executive Functions Correlate with Intelligence in Children and Adolescents in Autism Spectrum Disorders. JOURNAL OF COGNITION AND DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15248372.2022.2104283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Cruz
- The Psychology for Positive Development Research Cente], Lusíada University Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Raquel Cruz
- Centro Nacional de Genotipado (CEGEN), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro Singular de Investigacion en Medicina Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alicia Alcón
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adriana Sampaio
- Psychological Neuroscience Laboratory, Research Center in Psychology (CIPsi), School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Jessica Merchan-Naranjo
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
- Network Centre for Biomedical Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Rodríguez
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
- Experimental Psychology Department, School of Psychology, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mara Parellada
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Carracedo
- Fundación Pública Galega de Medicina Xenómica - IDIS, SERGAS, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, CIMUS, CIBERER, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Montse Fernández-Prieto
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Group, Centre for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (FIDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, U-711, Centro de Investigación en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Grupo de Gené tica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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17
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Broomell AP, Bell MA. Longitudinal development of executive function from infancy to late childhood. COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cogdev.2022.101229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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18
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Brief report: replication of the psychometric characteristics of the behavioral inflexibility scale in an independent sample. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:4592-4596. [PMID: 35596025 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05515-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The Behavioral Inflexibility Scale (BIS) is a recently developed measure of behavioral inflexibility, defined as rigid patterns of behavior that contrast with the need to be flexible when the situation calls for it. In this study, we sought to replicate previous findings on the psychometric properties of the BIS in a community sample. Data for this study were collected using in-person assessments of 163 autistic and 95 non-autistic children ages 3-17 and included the BIS, measures of social-communication ability and repetitive behaviors, and an assessment of cognitive ability. Our findings replicate the psychometric properties of the BIS, indicating that the measure is a valid measure of behavioral inflexibility in ASD.
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19
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Chan MMY, Chan MC, Lai OLH, Krishnamurthy K, Han YMY. Abnormal Prefrontal Functional Connectivity Is Associated with Inflexible Information Processing in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An fNIRS Study. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1132. [PMID: 35625869 PMCID: PMC9139038 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are characterized by impairments in flexibly acquiring and maintaining new information, as well as in applying learned information for problem solving. However, the neural mechanism underpinning such impairments remains unclear. This study investigated the flexibility in the acquisition and application of visual information in ASD (aged 14−21) when they performed the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Behavioral data including response accuracy and latency, and prefrontal hemodynamic data measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), were collected when individuals performed WCST. Canonical general linear model and functional connectivity analyses were performed to examine the prefrontal activation and synchronization patterns, respectively. Results showed that although ASD individuals (n = 29) achieved comparable accuracy rates when compared with age- and intelligence quotient (IQ)-matched typically developing (TD; n = 26) individuals (F1,53 = 3.15, p = 0.082), ASD individuals needed significantly more time to acquire and apply WCST card sorting rules (F1,53 = 17.92, p < 0.001). Moreover, ASD individuals showed significantly lower prefrontal functional connectivity than TD individuals during WCST (F1,42 = 9.99, p = 0.003). The hypoconnectivity in ASD individuals was highly significant in the right lateral PFC in the acquisition condition (p = 0.005) and in the bilateral lateral PFC in the application condition (ps = 0.006). Furthermore, slower WCST reaction time was correlated with lower bilateral lateral PFC functional connectivity only in the application condition (ps = 0.003) but not the acquisition condition. Impairment in information acquisition and application is evident in ASD individuals and is mediated by processing speed, which is associated with lower functional connectivity in the bilateral lateral PFC when these individuals apply learned rules to solve novel problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody M. Y. Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; (M.M.Y.C.); (M.-C.C.); (O.L.-H.L.); (K.K.)
| | - Ming-Chung Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; (M.M.Y.C.); (M.-C.C.); (O.L.-H.L.); (K.K.)
| | - Oscar Long-Hin Lai
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; (M.M.Y.C.); (M.-C.C.); (O.L.-H.L.); (K.K.)
| | - Karthikeyan Krishnamurthy
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; (M.M.Y.C.); (M.-C.C.); (O.L.-H.L.); (K.K.)
| | - Yvonne M. Y. Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; (M.M.Y.C.); (M.-C.C.); (O.L.-H.L.); (K.K.)
- University Research Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience (UBSN), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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20
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Seng GJ, Lai MC, Goh JOS, Tseng WYI, Gau SSF. Gray matter volume alteration is associated with insistence on sameness and cognitive flexibility in autistic youth. Autism Res 2022; 15:1209-1221. [PMID: 35491911 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) are hallmark characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous studies suggest that insistence on sameness (IS) characterized as higher-order RRBs may be a promising subgrouping variable for ASD. Cognitive inflexibility may underpin IS behaviors. However, the neuroanatomical correlates of IS and associated cognitive functions remain unclear. We analyzed data from 140 autistic youth and 124 typically developing (TD) youth (mean age = 15.8 years). Autistic youth were stratified by median-split based on three current IS items in the autism diagnostic interview-revised into two groups (high, HIS, n = 70, and low, LIS, n = 70). Differences in cognitive flexibility were assessed by the Cambridge neuropsychological test automated battery (CANTAB). T1-weighted brain structural images were analyzed using voxel-based morphometry (VBM) to identify differences in gray matter (GM) volume among the three groups. GM volume of regions showing group differences was then correlated with cognitive flexibility. The HIS group showed decreased GM volumes in the left supramarginal gyrus compared to the LIS group and increased GM volumes in the vermis VIII and left cerebellar lobule VIII compared to TD individuals. We did not find significant correlations between regional GM volumes and extra-dimensional shift errors. IS may be a unique RRB component and a potentially valuable stratifier of ASD. However, the neurocognitive underpinnings require further clarification. LAY SUMMARY: The present study found parietal, temporal and cerebellar gray matter volume alterations in autistic youth with greater insistence on sameness. The findings suggest that insistence on sameness may be a useful feature to parse the heterogeneity of the autism spectrum yet further research investigating the underlying neurocognitive mechanism is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guan-Jye Seng
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital & College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital & College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,The Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth & Family Mental Health and Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Autism Research Unit, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joshua Oon Soo Goh
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, College of Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yih Issac Tseng
- College of Medicine, Institute of Medical Device and Imaging, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital & College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychology, College of Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Sadeghi S, Pouretemad HR. Executive functions predict restricted and repetitive behaviors in toddlers under 36 months old with autism spectrum disorder. Infant Behav Dev 2022; 67:101721. [DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2022.101721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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22
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Tian J, Gao X, Yang L. Repetitive Restricted Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder: From Mechanism to Development of Therapeutics. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:780407. [PMID: 35310097 PMCID: PMC8924045 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.780407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication, social interaction, and repetitive restricted behaviors (RRBs). It is usually detected in early childhood. RRBs are behavioral patterns characterized by repetition, inflexibility, invariance, inappropriateness, and frequent lack of obvious function or specific purpose. To date, the classification of RRBs is contentious. Understanding the potential mechanisms of RRBs in children with ASD, such as neural connectivity disorders and abnormal immune functions, will contribute to finding new therapeutic targets. Although behavioral intervention remains the most effective and safe strategy for RRBs treatment, some promising drugs and new treatment options (e.g., supplementary and cell therapy) have shown positive effects on RRBs in recent studies. In this review, we summarize the latest advances of RRBs from mechanistic to therapeutic approaches and propose potential future directions in research on RRBs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Li Yang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
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23
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Cholinergic neurons in the pedunculopontine nucleus guide reversal learning by signaling the changing reward contingency. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110437. [PMID: 35235804 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility enables effective switching between mental processes to generate appropriate responses. Cholinergic neurons (CNs) within the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) are associated with many functions, but their contribution to cognitive flexibility remains poorly understood. Here we measure PPN cholinergic activities using calcium indicators during the attentional set-shifting task. We find that PPN CNs exhibit increasing activities correlated with rewards during each stage and error trials in reversal stages, indicating sensitivity to rule switching. Inhibition of PPN cholinergic activity selectively impairs reversal learning, which improves with PPN CN activation. Activation of PPN CNs projecting to the substantia nigra pars compacta, mediodorsal thalamus, and parafascicular nucleus in a time-locked manner with reward improves reversal learning. Therefore, PPN CNs may encode not only reward signals but also the information of changing reward contingency that contributes to guiding reversal learning through output projections to multiple nuclei that participate in flexibility.
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24
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Cheng X, Li Y, Cui X, Cheng H, Li C, Fu L, Jiang J, Hu Z, Ke X. Atypical Neural Responses of Cognitive Flexibility in Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:747273. [PMID: 34975368 PMCID: PMC8719598 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.747273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired cognitive flexibility has been repeatedly demonstrated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is strong evidence for genetic involvement in ASD. First-degree relatives of individuals with ASD may show mild deficits in cognitive inflexibility. The present study investigated cognitive flexibility and its neuroelectrophysiological mechanisms in first-degree relatives of individuals with ASD to assess its potential familiality. Forty-five biological parents of individuals/children with ASD (pASD) and thirty-one biological parents of typically developing individuals/children (pTD), matched by gender, age, and IQ, were enrolled. The broad autism phenotype questionnaire (BAPQ) and cognitive flexibility inventory (CFI) were used to quantitatively assess autistic traits and cognitive flexibility in daily life, respectively. The task-switching paradigm was used to evaluate the behavioral flexibility in a structured assessment situation. Event-related potentials (ERPs) induced by this paradigm were also collected. Results showed that compared with the pTD group, the pASD group had lower CFI scores (t = −2.756, p < 0.01), while both groups showed an equivalent “switch cost” in the task-switching task (p > 0.05). Compared with the pTD group, the pASD group induced greater N2 amplitude at F3, F4, Fz, and C4 (F = 3.223, p < 0.05), while P3 amplitude and latency did not differ between the two groups. In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between the CFI total scores and BAPQ total scores in the pASD group (r = −0.734, p < 0.01). After controlling for age and IQ, the N2 amplitude in the frontal lobe of pASD was negatively correlated with the CFI total scores under the repetition sequence (r = −0.304, p = 0.053). These results indicated that pASD had deficit in cognitive flexibility at the self-reported and neurological levels. The cognitive flexibility difficulties of parents of children with ASD were related to autistic traits. These findings support that cognitive flexibility is most likely a neurocognitive endophenotype of ASD, which is worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cheng
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Child Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yu Li
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiwen Cui
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- Physical Diagnostic Department, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Linyan Fu
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiying Jiang
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenyu Hu
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ke
- The Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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25
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Carter Leno V, Wright N, Pickles A, Bedford R, Zaidman-Zait A, Kerns C, Mirenda P, Zwaigenbaum L, Duku E, Bennett T, Georgiades S, Smith I, Vaillancourt T, Szatmari P, Elsabbagh M. Exposure to family stressful life events in autistic children: Longitudinal associations with mental health and the moderating role of cognitive flexibility. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022; 26:1656-1667. [PMID: 36113122 PMCID: PMC9483693 DOI: 10.1177/13623613211061932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mental health problems are prevalent in autistic youth, but the underpinning
mechanisms are not well explored. In neurotypical youth, stressful life events
are an established risk factor for mental health problems. This study tested
longitudinal bidirectional associations between family-level stressful life
events and mental health problems and whether these were moderated by cognitive
flexibility, in a cohort of autistic children (N = 247).
Family-stressful life events, assessed using the parent-reported Family
Inventory of Life Events and Changes, and mental health problems, assessed using
the teacher-reported Child Behavior Checklist Internalizing and Externalizing
Symptoms subscales, were measured at multiple points between 7 and 11 years.
Analyses showed no significant pathways from internalizing or externalizing
symptoms to family-stressful life events or from family-stressful life events to
internalizing or externalizing symptoms. There was some evidence of moderation
by cognitive flexibility; the family-stressful life events to internalizing
symptoms pathway was non-significant in the group with typical shifting ability
but significant in the group with clinically significant shifting problems.
Information about family-level stressful life event exposure and cognitive
flexibility may be helpful in identifying autistic youth who may be at higher
risk of developing mental health problems. Established risk factors for mental
health problems in neurotypical populations are relevant for understanding
mental health in autistic youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anat Zaidman-Zait
- Tel Aviv University, Israel
- The University of British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Eric Duku
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Canada
- McMaster University, Canada
| | - Teresa Bennett
- Offord Centre for Child Studies, Canada
- McMaster University, Canada
| | | | - Isabel Smith
- Dalhousie University, Canada
- IWK Health Centre, Canada
| | | | - Peter Szatmari
- University of Toronto, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
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26
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Blackwell S, Zylberberg A, Scerif G, Miller S, Woodcock KA. Understanding the psycho-social context for a new early intervention for resistance to change that aims to strike a beneficial balance between structure and flexibility. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:621. [PMID: 34895178 PMCID: PMC8665637 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03519-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emotional and behavioural problems linked to changes to expectations - resistance to change - are linked to disability in neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Prader-Willi (PWS) and fragile X syndromes (FXS). Structuring routines is best practice for minimising current resistance to change. But complete structure is impractical and flexibility in early life may actually reduce later resistance by supporting cognitive development. We aimed to examine the psycho-social context of families with children at risk of developing resistance to change so as to identify design requirements for an intervention that strikes a beneficial balance between structure and flexibility. METHODS Thirty-six caregivers of children aged 4-12 years (17 ASD, 15 PWS, and 4 FXS) took part in an interview designed collaboratively with 12 professional stakeholders. RESULTS Children need to feel like they are in control of flexibility but they also need support in choice making, understanding plans (using individually tailored visuals) and anxiety reduction. Caregivers need an accessible approach that they have full control over, and which they can tailor for their child. Caregivers also need clear guidance, education and support around structure and flexibility. CONCLUSIONS We propose a digital approach which addresses the needs identified. It tackles the most perplexing challenge by presenting flexibility to children in the context of a game that children can feel they have full control over, whilst caregivers can maintain control in reality. Furthermore, individualised support for children and caregivers would be enabled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan Blackwell
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology & Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SA, UK
| | - Alex Zylberberg
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology & Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SA, UK
| | - Gaia Scerif
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Miller
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Kate A Woodcock
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology & Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SA, UK.
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Shogren KA, Mosconi MW, Raley SK, Dean EE, Edwards B, Wallisch A, Boyd B, Kiblen JC. Advancing the Personalization of Assessment and Intervention in Autistic Adolescents and Young Adults by Targeting Self-Determination and Executive Processes. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2021; 3:289-299. [PMID: 36601638 PMCID: PMC8992922 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2021.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
As autistic adolescents and young adults navigate the transition to adulthood, there is a need to partner with them to identify strengths and needed supports to enable goal-directed actions. This article conceptually integrates research on self-determination, defined by Causal Agency Theory, and executive processes in autism to provide direction for future research and practice. We describe how integrating research on self-determination and executive processes could enable autistic adolescents and young adults to be engaged in the process of assessing executive processes and self-determination. We discuss how this can better inform personalization of supports for self-determination interventions by focusing on support needs related to executive processes, including inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility, from a strengths-based perspective. We discuss how this can enable self-determination interventions that promote outcomes aligned with the values of the autistic community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karrie A. Shogren
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Matthew W. Mosconi
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Sheida K. Raley
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Evan E. Dean
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Ben Edwards
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Anna Wallisch
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Brian Boyd
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Jessie C. Kiblen
- Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
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28
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Comparan-Meza M, Vargas de la Cruz I, Jauregui-Huerta F, Gonzalez-Castañeda RE, Gonzalez-Perez O, Galvez-Contreras AY. Biopsychological correlates of repetitive and restricted behaviors in autism spectrum disorders. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e2341. [PMID: 34472728 PMCID: PMC8553330 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 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: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is considered a neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by alterations in social interaction and communication, as well as patterns of restrictive and repetitive behaviors (RRBs). RRBs are defined as broad behaviors that comprise stereotypies, insistence on sameness, and attachment to objects or routines. RRBs can be divided into lower-level behaviors (motor, sensory, and object-manipulation behaviors) and higher-level behaviors (restrictive interests, insistence on sameness, and repetitive language). According to the DSM-5, the grade of severity in ASD partially depends on the frequency of RRBs and their consequences for disrupting the life of patients, affecting their adaptive skills, and increasing the need for parental support. METHODS We conducted a systematic review to examine the biopsychological correlates of the symptomatic domains of RRBs according to the type of RRBs (lower- or higher-level). We searched for articles from the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) using the terms: autism spectrum disorders, ASD, and autism-related to executive functions, inhibitory control, inflexibility, cognitive flexibility, hyper or hypo connectivity, and behavioral approaches. For describing the pathophysiological mechanism of ASD, we also included animal models and followed PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-one articles were analyzed to explain the etiology, continuance, and clinical evolution of these behaviors observed in ASD patients throughout life. CONCLUSIONS Biopsychological correlates involved in the origin of RRBs include alterations in a) neurotransmission system, b) brain volume, c) inadequate levels of growth factors, d) hypo- or hyper-neural connectivity, e) impairments in behavioral inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and monitoring and f) non-stimulating environments. Understanding these lower- and higher-level of RRBs can help professionals to improve or design novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Comparan-Meza
- Maestría en Neuropsicología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Ivette Vargas de la Cruz
- Unidad de Atención en Neurociencias, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Fernando Jauregui-Huerta
- Laboratorio de Microscopia de Alta Resolución, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Rocio E Gonzalez-Castañeda
- Laboratorio de Microscopia de Alta Resolución, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Oscar Gonzalez-Perez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Colima, Colima, COL, Mexico
| | - Alma Y Galvez-Contreras
- Unidad de Atención en Neurociencias, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
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29
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Harrop C, Dallman AR, Lecavalier L, Bodfish JW, Boyd BA. Behavioral Inflexibility Across Two Neurogenetic Conditions: Down Syndrome and Fragile X Syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 126:409-420. [PMID: 34428269 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-126.5.409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral inflexibility (BI) has been highlighted to occur across genetic and neurodevelopmental disorders. This study characterized BI in two common neurogenetic conditions: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) and Down syndrome (DS). Caregivers of children with FXS (N = 56; with ASD = 28; FXS only = 28) and DS (N = 146) completed the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale (BIS) via an online survey. Total BIS scores were higher in FXS+ASD than both FXS only and DS (p <.001). Most endorsed items were similar across the three groups, but scores were higher in the FXS+ASD group. In all groups, BI associated with other clinical variables (receptive behaviors, anxiety, social communication). The current data suggest that BI is variable across neurogenetic conditions and higher in individuals with comorbid ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Harrop
- Clare Harrop*, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | | | | | | | - Brian A Boyd
- Brian A. Boyd, Juniper Gardens Children's Project, Kansas University
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30
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Knott R, Johnson BP, Tiego J, Mellahn O, Finlay A, Kallady K, Kouspos M, Mohanakumar Sindhu VP, Hawi Z, Arnatkeviciute A, Chau T, Maron D, Mercieca EC, Furley K, Harris K, Williams K, Ure A, Fornito A, Gray K, Coghill D, Nicholson A, Phung D, Loth E, Mason L, Murphy D, Buitelaar J, Bellgrove MA. The Monash Autism-ADHD genetics and neurodevelopment (MAGNET) project design and methodologies: a dimensional approach to understanding neurobiological and genetic aetiology. Mol Autism 2021; 12:55. [PMID: 34353377 PMCID: PMC8340366 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00457-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background ASD and ADHD are prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders that frequently co-occur and have strong evidence for a degree of shared genetic aetiology. Behavioural and neurocognitive heterogeneity in ASD and ADHD has hampered attempts to map the underlying genetics and neurobiology, predict intervention response, and improve diagnostic accuracy. Moving away from categorical conceptualisations of psychopathology to a dimensional approach is anticipated to facilitate discovery of data-driven clusters and enhance our understanding of the neurobiological and genetic aetiology of these conditions. The Monash Autism-ADHD genetics and neurodevelopment (MAGNET) project is one of the first large-scale, family-based studies to take a truly transdiagnostic approach to ASD and ADHD. Using a comprehensive phenotyping protocol capturing dimensional traits central to ASD and ADHD, the MAGNET project aims to identify data-driven clusters across ADHD-ASD spectra using deep phenotyping of symptoms and behaviours; investigate the degree of familiality for different dimensional ASD-ADHD phenotypes and clusters; and map the neurocognitive, brain imaging, and genetic correlates of these data-driven symptom-based clusters. Methods The MAGNET project will recruit 1,200 families with children who are either typically developing, or who display elevated ASD, ADHD, or ASD-ADHD traits, in addition to affected and unaffected biological siblings of probands, and parents. All children will be comprehensively phenotyped for behavioural symptoms, comorbidities, neurocognitive and neuroimaging traits and genetics. Conclusion The MAGNET project will be the first large-scale family study to take a transdiagnostic approach to ASD-ADHD, utilising deep phenotyping across behavioural, neurocognitive, brain imaging and genetic measures. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13229-021-00457-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Knott
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Beth P Johnson
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Jeggan Tiego
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Olivia Mellahn
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Amy Finlay
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Kathryn Kallady
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Maria Kouspos
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Vishnu Priya Mohanakumar Sindhu
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Ziarih Hawi
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Aurina Arnatkeviciute
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Tracey Chau
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Dalia Maron
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Emily-Clare Mercieca
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Kirsten Furley
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Katrina Harris
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Department of Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Department of Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Alexandra Ure
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Mental Health, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Alex Fornito
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Kylie Gray
- Centre for Educational Development, Appraisal, and Research, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Rd, Melbourne, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - David Coghill
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Mental Health, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Ann Nicholson
- Faculty of Information and Technology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Dinh Phung
- Faculty of Information and Technology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Eva Loth
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK.,Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Luke Mason
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, Henry Welcome Building, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Declan Murphy
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK.,Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Jan Buitelaar
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mark A Bellgrove
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, 18 Innovation Walk, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
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McCracken JT, Anagnostou E, Arango C, Dawson G, Farchione T, Mantua V, McPartland J, Murphy D, Pandina G, Veenstra-VanderWeele J. Drug development for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Progress, challenges, and future directions. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 48:3-31. [PMID: 34158222 PMCID: PMC10062405 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In 2017, facing lack of progress and failures encountered in targeted drug development for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related neurodevelopmental disorders, the ISCTM with the ECNP created the ASD Working Group charged to identify barriers to progress and recommending research strategies for the field to gain traction. Working Group international academic, regulatory and industry representatives held multiple in-person meetings, teleconferences, and subgroup communications to gather a wide range of perspectives on lessons learned from extant studies, current challenges, and paths for fundamental advances in ASD therapeutics. This overview delineates the barriers identified, and outlines major goals for next generation biomedical intervention development in ASD. Current challenges for ASD research are many: heterogeneity, lack of validated biomarkers, need for improved endpoints, prioritizing molecular targets, comorbidities, and more. The Working Group emphasized cautious but unwavering optimism for therapeutic progress for ASD core features given advances in the basic neuroscience of ASD and related disorders. Leveraging genetic data, intermediate phenotypes, digital phenotyping, big database discovery, refined endpoints, and earlier intervention, the prospects for breakthrough treatments are substantial. Recommendations include new priorities for expanded research funding to overcome challenges in translational clinical ASD therapeutic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- James T McCracken
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States.
| | | | - Celso Arango
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital General Univesitario Gregorio Maranon, and School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Geraldine Dawson
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Tiffany Farchione
- Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | - Valentina Mantua
- Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | | | - Declan Murphy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom
| | - Gahan Pandina
- Neuroscience Therapeutic Area, Janssen Research & Development, Pennington, New Jersey, United States
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Brief Report: An Exploration of Cognitive Flexibility of Autistic Adolescents with Low Intelligence Using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 53:1726-1732. [PMID: 34114127 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05134-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility (CF) is the ability to shift between concepts or rules. Difficulty with CF is associated with autism (i.e., ASD) as it contributes to repetitive behaviours. However, little is known about CF skills of autistic adolescents with low intelligence. This study uses the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) to assess the CF of 36 adolescents, all with a Weschler full-scale IQ between 50 and 85, 14 of whom had an ASD diagnosis. The results indicated no statistically significant differences in WCST performance between those with and without ASD. It was also found that performance IQ significantly contributed to the WCST performance in the ASD group only, suggesting an autism-specific role of non-verbal cognitive functioning in CF.
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33
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Cissne MN, Kester LE, Gunn AJM, Bodner KE, Miles JH, Christ SE. Brief Report: A Preliminary Study of the Relationship between Repetitive Behaviors and Concurrent Executive Function Demands in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:1896-1902. [PMID: 34009548 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05071-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The present study evaluated the hypothesis that the strength of the relationship between executive function (EF) and repetitive behaviors and restricted interests (RBRI) symptomatology is moderated by the degree to which concurrent demands are placed on multiple aspects of EF. An eye movement task was used to evaluate inhibition and task switching ability (both together and in isolation) in a sample of 22 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R) was used to assess the severity of RBRI symptoms. Results provide preliminary support for the aforementioned hypothesis. RBS-R scores were significantly correlated with task performance when simultaneous demands were placed on switching and inhibition; however, no such relationship was found for inhibition-only or switching-only task conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie N Cissne
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, 210 McAlester Hall, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Lindsay E Kester
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, 210 McAlester Hall, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Amanda J Moffitt Gunn
- Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Department of Special Education, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kimberly E Bodner
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
- MetroHealth System, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Judith H Miles
- Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Department of Child Health, Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Shawn E Christ
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, 210 McAlester Hall, Columbia, MO, USA.
- Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
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34
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Bodfish JW, Lecavalier L, Harrop C, Dallman A, Kalburgi SN, Hollway J, Faldowski R, Boyd BA. Measuring the Functional Impact of Behavioral Inflexibility in Children with Autism Using the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale: Clinical Interview (BIS-CI). J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:782-790. [PMID: 33811282 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-04984-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
For individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), behavioral inflexibility can affect multiple domains of functioning and family life. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a clinical interview version of the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale. Trained interviewers conducted interviews with parents of 144 children with ASD and 70 typically developing children (ages: 3-17 years). Using exploratory factor analysis, the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale-Clinical Interview (BIS-CI) was found to be unidimensional. Reliability data indicated the measure was internally consistent (α = 0.80), achieved excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.97) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.87). These findings demonstrate that the BIS-CI is a reliable and valid measure to determine the functional impact of behavioral inflexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Bodfish
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1215 21st Avenue South MCE, South Tower, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Luc Lecavalier
- Ohio State University, 1581 Dodd Dr., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Clare Harrop
- University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 2050 Bondurant Hall, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Aaron Dallman
- University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 2050 Bondurant Hall, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.,Towson University, Towson, MD, USA
| | | | - Jill Hollway
- Ohio State University, 1581 Dodd Dr., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Richard Faldowski
- University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 2050 Bondurant Hall, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Brian A Boyd
- Juniper Gardens Children's Project, University of Kansas, 444 Minnesota Ave., Ste 300, Kansas, KS, 66101, USA.
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35
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The Multi-Targeting Ligand ST-2223 with Histamine H 3 Receptor and Dopamine D 2/D 3 Receptor Antagonist Properties Mitigates Autism-Like Repetitive Behaviors and Brain Oxidative Stress in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041947. [PMID: 33669336 PMCID: PMC7920280 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and communicative impairments, as well as repetitive and restricted behaviors (RRBs). With the limited effectiveness of current pharmacotherapies in treating repetitive behaviors, the present study determined the effects of acute systemic treatment of the novel multi-targeting ligand ST-2223, with incorporated histamine H3 receptor (H3R) and dopamine D2/D3 receptor affinity properties, on ASD-related RRBs in a male Black and Tan BRachyury (BTBR) mouse model of ASD. ST-2223 (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly mitigated the increase in marble burying and self-grooming, and improved reduced spontaneous alternation in BTBR mice (all p < 0.05). Similarly, reference drugs memantine (MEM, 5 mg/kg, i.p.) and aripiprazole (ARP, 1 mg/kg, i.p.), reversed abnormally high levels of several RRBs in BTBR (p < 0.05). Moreover, ST-2223 palliated the disturbed anxiety levels observed in an open field test (all p < 0.05), but did not restore the hyperactivity parameters, whereas MEM failed to restore mouse anxiety and hyperactivity. In addition, ST-2223 (5 mg/kg, i.p.) mitigated oxidative stress status by decreasing the elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and increasing the levels of decreased glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in different brain parts of treated BTBR mice (all p < 0.05). These preliminary in vivo findings demonstrate the ameliorative effects of ST-2223 on RRBs in a mouse model of ASD, suggesting its pharmacological prospective to rescue core ASD-related behaviors. Further confirmatory investigations on its effects on various brain neurotransmitters, e.g., dopamine and histamine, in different brain regions are still warranted to corroborate and expand these initial data.
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36
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Iversen RK, Lewis C. Executive Function Skills Are Linked to Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors: Three Correlational Meta Analyses. Autism Res 2021; 14:1163-1185. [PMID: 33410263 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is a consensus on the centrality of restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) in the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), yet the origins of these behaviors are still debated. We reconsider whether executive function (EF) accounts of RRBs should be revisited. EF deficits and high levels of RRBs are often pronounced in individuals with ASD and are also prevalent in young typically developing children. Despite this, the evidence is mixed, and there has been no systematic attempt to evaluate the relationship across studies and between task batteries. We examine recent evidence, and in three highly powered random-effects analyses (N = 2964), examine the strength of the association between RRB levels and performance on set shifting, inhibitory control, and parental-report based EF batteries. The analyses confirm significant associations between high levels of the behaviors and poor EF skills. Moreover, the associations remained stable across typical development and in individuals with ASD and across different types of EF measures. These meta-analyses consolidate recent evidence identifying that cognitive mechanisms correlate with high RRBs that are seen in individuals with ASD, as well as in typical development. We propose that the EF account may be critical for guiding future interventions in ASD research. LAY SUMMARY: Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) are diagnostic criteria for Autism yet also common in typical development, and if they persist over time some can have a negative impact on learning and social acceptance. The present meta-analyses found that high levels of RRBs related to poor performance on set-shifting and inhibitory control tasks, as well as high ratings on parental report scales. Future studies should create interventions that aim to improve these skills as they may help manage challenging RRBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Kvisler Iversen
- Fylde College, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Charlie Lewis
- Fylde College, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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McKinnell ZE, Maze T, Ramos A, Challans B, Plakke B. Valproic acid treated female Long-Evans rats are impaired on attentional set-shifting. Behav Brain Res 2020; 397:112966. [PMID: 33053383 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits, communication impairments, restrictive behaviors, and cognitive flexibility deficits. The valproic acid (VPA) model of autism has been widely used to examine changes in rodent behavior and neurobiology to better understand ASD. This study examined social and anxiety behavior as well as cognitive flexibility in VPA and control offspring. Results for social behavior were consistent with prior studies showing reduced sociability in VPA rats and increased self-grooming, which may be viewed as a repetitive behavior. VPA rats also had deficits in performing the set-shifting task, with female VPA rats demonstrating greater impairment compared to female control rats and male VPA rats. These results support the hypothesis that females diagnosed with ASD may suffer from different symptoms and present a unique behavioral profile compared to males with ASD. Female VPA rats were also less likely to form an attentional set; offering evidence that the VPA model of autism is encompassing executive function deficits similar to those observed in humans with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach E McKinnell
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Tessa Maze
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Alejandro Ramos
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Brandon Challans
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA
| | - Bethany Plakke
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, 66506, USA.
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Crawley D, Zhang L, Jones EJH, Ahmad J, Oakley B, San José Cáceres A, Charman T, Buitelaar JK, Murphy DGM, Chatham C, den Ouden H, Loth E. Modeling flexible behavior in childhood to adulthood shows age-dependent learning mechanisms and less optimal learning in autism in each age group. PLoS Biol 2020; 18:e3000908. [PMID: 33108370 PMCID: PMC7591042 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Flexible behavior is critical for everyday decision-making and has been implicated in restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRB) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, how flexible behavior changes developmentally in ASD remains largely unknown. Here, we used a developmental approach and examined flexible behavior on a probabilistic reversal learning task in 572 children, adolescents, and adults (ASD N = 321; typical development [TD] N = 251). Using computational modeling, we quantified latent variables that index mechanisms underlying perseveration and feedback sensitivity. We then assessed these variables in relation to diagnosis, developmental stage, core autism symptomatology, and associated psychiatric symptoms. Autistic individuals showed on average more perseveration and less feedback sensitivity than TD individuals, and, across cases and controls, older age groups showed more feedback sensitivity than younger age groups. Computational modeling revealed that dominant learning mechanisms underpinning flexible behavior differed across developmental stages and reduced flexible behavior in ASD was driven by less optimal learning on average within each age group. In autistic children, perseverative errors were positively related to anxiety symptoms, and in autistic adults, perseveration (indexed by both task errors and model parameter estimates) was positively related to RRB. These findings provide novel insights into reduced flexible behavior in relation to clinical symptoms in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Crawley
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Biopsychology Unit, Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- F. Hoffmann La Roche, Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Emily J. H. Jones
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jumana Ahmad
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bethany Oakley
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonia San José Cáceres
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Departamento de Psiquiatría del Niño y del Adolescente, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Tony Charman
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM), London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan K. Buitelaar
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Declan G. M. Murphy
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM), London, United Kingdom
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Hanneke den Ouden
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Eva Loth
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Stefanou ME, Dundon NM, Bestelmeyer PEG, Ioannou C, Bender S, Biscaldi M, Smyrnis N, Klein C. Late attentional processes potentially compensate for early perceptual multisensory integration deficits in children with autism: evidence from evoked potentials. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16157. [PMID: 32999327 PMCID: PMC7527489 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73022-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing deficits and altered long-range connectivity putatively underlie Multisensory Integration (MSI) deficits in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The present study set out to investigate non-social MSI stimuli and their electrophysiological correlates in young neurotypical adolescents and adolescents with ASD. We report robust MSI effects at behavioural and electrophysiological levels. Both groups demonstrated normal behavioural MSI. However, at the neurophysiological level, the ASD group showed less MSI-related reduction of the visual P100 latency, greater MSI-related slowing of the auditory P200 and an overall temporally delayed and spatially constrained onset of MSI. Given the task design and patient sample, and the age of our participants, we argue that electro-cortical indices of MSI deficits in ASD: (a) can be detected in early-adolescent ASD, (b) occur at early stages of perceptual processing, (c) can possibly be compensated by later attentional processes, (d) thus leading to normal MSI at the behavioural level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Stefanou
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 8, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AL, UK
| | - Neil M Dundon
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 8, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- Brain Imaging Center, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | | | - Chara Ioannou
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 8, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Bender
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Monica Biscaldi
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 8, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Smyrnis
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Christoph Klein
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 8, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, 11528, Athens, Greece.
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Simultaneous Blockade of Histamine H 3 Receptors and Inhibition of Acetylcholine Esterase Alleviate Autistic-Like Behaviors in BTBR T+ tf/J Mouse Model of Autism. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091251. [PMID: 32872194 PMCID: PMC7563744 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogenous neurodevelopmental disorder defined by persistent deficits in social interaction and the presence of patterns of repetitive and restricted behaviors. The central neurotransmitters histamine (HA) and acetylcholine (ACh) play pleiotropic roles in physiological brain functions that include the maintenance of wakefulness, depression, schizophrenia, epilepsy, anxiety and narcolepsy, all of which are found to be comorbid with ASD. Therefore, the palliative effects of subchronic systemic treatment using the multiple-active test compound E100 with high H3R antagonist affinity and AChE inhibitory effect on ASD-like behaviors in male BTBR T+tf/J (BTBR) mice as an idiopathic ASD model were assessed. E100 (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg, i.p.) dose-dependently palliated social deficits of BTBR mice and significantly alleviated the repetitive/compulsive behaviors of tested animals. Moreover, E100 modulated disturbed anxiety levels, but failed to modulate hyperactivity parameters, whereas the reference AChE inhibitor donepezil (DOZ, one milligram per kilogram) significantly obliterated the increased hyperactivity measures of tested mice. Furthermore, E100 mitigated the increased levels of AChE activity in BTBR mice with observed effects comparable to that of DOZ and significantly reduced the number of activated microglial cells compared to the saline-treated BTBR mice. In addition, the E100-provided effects on ASD-like parameters, AChE activity, and activated microglial cells were entirely reversed by co-administration of the H3R agonist (R)-α-methylhistamine (RAM). These initial overall results observed in an idiopathic ASD mice model show that E100 (5 mg/kg) alleviated the assessed behavioral deficits and demonstrate that simultaneous targeting of brain histaminergic and cholinergic neurotransmissions is crucial for palliation of ASD-like features, albeit further in vivo assessments on its effects on brain levels of ACh as well as HA are still needed.
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The Dual-Active Histamine H 3 Receptor Antagonist and Acetylcholine Esterase Inhibitor E100 Alleviates Autistic-Like Behaviors and Oxidative Stress in Valproic Acid Induced Autism in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113996. [PMID: 32503208 PMCID: PMC7312782 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The histamine H3 receptor (H3R) functions as auto- and hetero-receptors, regulating the release of brain histamine (HA) and acetylcholine (ACh), respectively. The enzyme acetylcholine esterase (AChE) is involved in the metabolism of brain ACh. Both brain HA and ACh are implicated in several cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, anxiety, and narcolepsy, all of which are comorbid with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). Therefore, the novel dual-active ligand E100 with high H3R antagonist affinity (hH3R: Ki = 203 nM) and balanced AChE inhibitory effect (EeAChE: IC50 = 2 µM and EqBuChE: IC50 = 2 µM) was investigated on autistic-like sociability, repetitive/compulsive behaviour, anxiety, and oxidative stress in male C57BL/6 mice model of ASD induced by prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA, 500 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.)). Subchronic systemic administration with E100 (5, 10, and 15 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly and dose-dependently attenuated sociability deficits of autistic (VPA) mice in three-chamber behaviour (TCB) test (all p < 0.05). Moreover, E100 significantly improved repetitive and compulsive behaviors by reducing the increased percentage of marbles buried in marble-burying behaviour (MBB) (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, pre-treatment with E100 (10 and 15 mg/kg, i.p.) corrected decreased anxiety levels (p < 0.05), however, failed to restore hyperactivity observed in elevated plus maze (EPM) test. In addition, E100 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) mitigated oxidative stress status by increasing the levels of decreased glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), and decreasing the elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the cerebellar tissues (all p < 0.05). Additionally, E100 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced the elevated levels of AChE activity in VPA mice (p < 0.05). These results demonstrate the promising effects of E100 on in-vivo VPA-induced ASD-like features in mice, and provide evidence that a potent dual-active H3R antagonist and AChE inhibitor (AChEI) is a potential drug candidate for future therapeutic management of autistic-like behaviours.
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MECP2 Duplication Causes Aberrant GABA Pathways, Circuits and Behaviors in Transgenic Monkeys: Neural Mappings to Patients with Autism. J Neurosci 2020; 40:3799-3814. [PMID: 32269107 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2727-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
MECP2 gain-of-function and loss-of-function in genetically engineered monkeys recapitulates typical phenotypes in patients with autism, yet where MECP2 mutation affects the monkey brain and whether/how it relates to autism pathology remain unknown. Here we report a combination of gene-circuit-behavior analyses including MECP2 coexpression network, locomotive and cognitive behaviors, and EEG and fMRI findings in 5 MECP2 overexpressed monkeys (Macaca fascicularis; 3 females) and 20 wild-type monkeys (Macaca fascicularis; 11 females). Whole-genome expression analysis revealed MECP2 coexpressed genes significantly enriched in GABA-related signaling pathways, whereby reduced β-synchronization within fronto-parieto-occipital networks was associated with abnormal locomotive behaviors. Meanwhile, MECP2-induced hyperconnectivity in prefrontal and cingulate networks accounted for regressive deficits in reversal learning tasks. Furthermore, we stratified a cohort of 49 patients with autism and 72 healthy controls of 1112 subjects using functional connectivity patterns, and identified dysconnectivity profiles similar to those in monkeys. By establishing a circuit-based construct link between genetically defined models and stratified patients, these results pave new avenues to deconstruct clinical heterogeneity and advance accurate diagnosis in psychiatric disorders.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex disorder with co-occurring symptoms caused by multiple genetic variations and brain circuit abnormalities. To dissect the gene-circuit-behavior causal chain underlying ASD, animal models are established by manipulating causative genes such as MECP2 However, it is unknown whether such models have captured any circuit-level pathology in ASD patients, as demonstrated by human brain imaging studies. Here, we use transgenic macaques to examine the causal effect of MECP2 overexpression on gene coexpression, brain circuits, and behaviors. For the first time, we demonstrate that the circuit abnormalities linked to MECP2 and autism-like traits in the monkeys can be mapped to a homogeneous ASD subgroup, thereby offering a new strategy to deconstruct clinical heterogeneity in ASD.
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Bednarz HM, Trapani JA, Kana RK. Metacognition and behavioral regulation predict distinct aspects of social functioning in autism spectrum disorder. Child Neuropsychol 2020; 26:953-981. [PMID: 32253979 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2020.1745166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Executive function (EF) deficits are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and previous studies suggest that EF may influence or predict social functioning. Thus, EF is a potential treatment target in this population. However, the nature of how specific metacognition and behavioral regulation components of EF may differentially impact social function remains unclear. The goal of the current study was to examine the relationships between sub-components of EF (e.g., working memory, shifting, inhibition, etc.) and social functioning as measured by parent ratings on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning (BRIEF) and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), while controlling for the influence of age, sex, and IQ. A second goal was to examine whether BRIEF scores were predictive of clinician-rated measures of ASD symptoms. Behavioral data were acquired from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange-II database and included 106 children with ASD (ages 5-13). Based on analysis of parent ratings, self-monitoring skills predicted social awareness; shifting ability predicted social cognition; working memory and monitoring skills predicted social communication; initiation predicted social motivation; and shifting ability predicted restrictive and repetitive behaviors among children with ASD. Parent ratings on the BRIEF did not predict clinician-rated measures of ASD symptoms; this requires further study. Overall, the current findings indicate that metacognition and behavioral regulation both contribute to social functioning in ASD, although they each have distinct patterns of influence on different aspects of social functioning. These findings have promising implications for tailoring social interventions for ASD that target specific EF skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley M Bednarz
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Julie A Trapani
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rajesh K Kana
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
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Ratto AB, Potvin D, Pallathra AA, Saldana L, Kenworthy L. Parents report fewer executive functioning problems and repetitive behaviors in young dual-language speakers with autism. Child Neuropsychol 2020; 26:917-933. [PMID: 32157943 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2020.1733512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
More dual language learners (DLLs) are being identified early with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, many families are still being advised against dual language exposure, despite a lack of evidence of negative impacts on language development in ASD. Research in typically developing children has noted advantages for bilinguals in domains such as executive functioning and social skills, but less is known about the effects in ASD. The present study evaluated differences in executive functioning and social communication in young children (n = 55) with ASD. Dual-language learners with ASD had significantly fewer parent reported executive functioning problems and repetitive behaviors; parent-reported social communication skills were generally comparable across groups. Our findings indicate that the bilingual advantage in executive functioning may extend to children with neurodevelopmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison B Ratto
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, The George Washington University School of Medicine , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Deborah Potvin
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, The George Washington University School of Medicine , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ashley A Pallathra
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, The George Washington University School of Medicine , Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Psychology, The Catholic University of America , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Laura Saldana
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, The George Washington University School of Medicine , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lauren Kenworthy
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, The George Washington University School of Medicine , Washington, DC, USA
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Lecavalier L, Bodfish J, Harrop C, Whitten A, Jones D, Pritchett J, Faldowski R, Boyd B. Development of the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities. Autism Res 2020; 13:489-499. [PMID: 31904198 PMCID: PMC8293897 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Behavior inflexibility (BI) refers to rigid patterns of behavior that contrast with the need to be adaptable to changing environmental demands. We developed a parent-reported outcome measure of BI for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities with a multi-step iterative process. A pool of 62 candidate items was generated through expert panel feedback, review of existing scales and focus groups. A consensus process was used to generate the final 38 items. Parents of 943 children (age range, 3-18 years; average, 11.4 years; 79% boys) with ASD completed an online survey. One hundred thirty-three parents rated their child twice within 3 weeks (average = 16.5 days). A series of factor analyses suggested that the 38 items measured a single construct. Scores had a weak correlation with level of functioning (-0.12) and did not differ based on sex. Scores had a negligible correlation with age (-0.07), although measurement invariance was not supported. The mean total score for the Behavioral Inflexibility Scale (BIS) was normally distributed. Internal consistency was α = 0.97 and temporal stability was r = 0.92. Correlations with parent ratings on the subscales of the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised varied from 0.48 to 0.89. The correlation with parent ratings on the Social Communication Questionnaire total score was 0.52. Our data show that BI in children with ASD ranges significantly from mild to severe and that the 38-item BIS is valid and reliable. Autism Res 2020, 13: 489-499. © 2020 The Authors. Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: We developed a parent-completed rating scale of behavior inflexibility (BI) for children with developmental disabilities using a multistep process. The Behavioral Inflexibility Scale (BIS) contains 38 questions rated on a 6-point scale. Parents of 943 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) completed an online survey. We examined associations between the BIS and other scales and demographic variables. The BIS is valid and reliable. BI in children with ASD ranges from mild to severe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Clare Harrop
- University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Richard Faldowski
- University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth Carolina
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Building functional connectivity neuromarkers of behavioral self-regulation across children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2019; 41:100747. [PMID: 31826838 PMCID: PMC6994646 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2019.100747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioral self-regulation develops rapidly during childhood and struggles in this area can have lifelong negative outcomes. Challenges with self-regulation are common to several neurodevelopmental conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Little is known about the neural expression of behavioral regulation in children with and without neurodevelopmental conditions. We examined whole-brain brain functional correlations (FC) and behavioral regulation through connectome predictive modelling (CPM). CPM is a data-driven protocol for developing predictive models of brain–behavior relationships and assessing their potential as ‘neuromarkers’ using cross-validation. The data stems from the ABIDE II and comprises 276 children with and without ASD (8–13 years). We identified networks whose FC predicted individual differences in behavioral regulation. These network models predicted novel individuals’ inhibition and shifting from FC data in both a leave-one-out, and split halves, cross-validation. We observed commonalities and differences, with inhibition relying on more posterior networks, shifting relying on more anterior networks, and both involving regions of the DMN. Our findings substantially add to our knowledge on the neural expressions of inhibition and shifting across children with and without a neurodevelopmental condition. Given the numerous behavioral issues that can be quantified dimensionally, refinement of whole-brain neuromarker techniques may prove useful in the future.
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Schmitt LM, Bojanek E, White SP, Ragozzino ME, Cook EH, Sweeney JA, Mosconi MW. Familiality of behavioral flexibility and response inhibition deficits in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Mol Autism 2019; 10:47. [PMID: 31857874 PMCID: PMC6909569 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-019-0296-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diminished cognitive control, including reduced behavioral flexibility and behavioral response inhibition, has been repeatedly documented in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We evaluated behavioral flexibility and response inhibition in probands and their parents using a family trio design to determine the extent to which these cognitive control impairments represent familial traits associated with ASD. Methods We examined 66 individuals with ASD (probands), 135 unaffected biological parents, and 76 typically developing controls. Participants completed a probabilistic reversal learning task (PRL) and a stop-signal task (SST) to assess behavioral flexibility and response inhibition respectively. Rates of PRL and SST errors were examined across groups, within families, and in relation to clinical and subclinical traits of ASD. Based on prior findings that subclinical broader autism phenotypic (BAP) traits may co-segregate within families and reflect heritable risk factors, we also examined whether cognitive control deficits were more prominent in families in which parents showed BAP features (BAP+). Results Probands and parents each showed increased rates of PRL and SST errors relative to controls. Error rates across tasks were not related. SST error rates inter-correlated among probands and their parents. PRL errors were more severe in BAP+ parents and their children relative to BAP- parents and their children. For probands of BAP+ parents, PRL and SST error rates were associated with more severe social-communication abnormalities and repetitive behaviors, respectively. Conclusion Reduced behavioral flexibility and response inhibition are present among probands and their unaffected parents, but represent unique familial deficits associated with ASD that track with separate clinical issues. Specifically, behavioral response inhibition impairments are familial in ASD and manifest independently from parental subclinical features. In contrast, behavioral flexibility deficits are selectively present in families with BAP characteristics, suggesting they co-segregate in families with parental subclinical social, communication, and rigid personality traits. Together, these findings provide evidence that behavioral flexibility and response inhibition impairments track differentially with ASD risk mechanisms and related behavioral traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Schmitt
- 1Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229 USA.,2Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 260 Stetson St, Cincinnati, OH 45219 USA
| | - Erin Bojanek
- 3Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies/Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045 USA.,4Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045 USA
| | - Stormi P White
- 5Emory Department of Pediatrics, Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 USA
| | - Michael E Ragozzino
- 6Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1007 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607 USA
| | - Edwin H Cook
- 7Institute for Juvenile Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1747 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60608 USA
| | - John A Sweeney
- 2Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 260 Stetson St, Cincinnati, OH 45219 USA
| | - Matthew W Mosconi
- 3Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies/Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045 USA.,4Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training, University of Kansas, 1000 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045 USA
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Kapitsa IG, Kalinina AP, Alymov AA, Voronina TA, Seredenin SB. Afobazole Alleviates Cognitive Rigidity in Experimental Model of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Bull Exp Biol Med 2019; 168:238-241. [PMID: 31776949 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-019-04682-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Afobazole (10 mg/kg) alleviated cognitive rigidity in BALB/c mice, a phenotypic model of autism spectrum disorders. It improved spatial memory and retraining in T-maze with drinking reinforcement and restored the retrieval of acquired skill during reversal learning in Morris water maze.
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Affiliation(s)
- I G Kapitsa
- V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russia.
| | - A P Kalinina
- V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Alymov
- V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russia
| | - T A Voronina
- V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russia
| | - S B Seredenin
- V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russia
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Condy EE, Scarpa A, Friedman BH. Restricted repetitive behaviors in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review from the neurovisceral integration perspective. Biol Psychol 2019; 148:107739. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2019.107739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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50
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Dajani DR, Burrows CA, Nebel MB, Mostofsky SH, Gates KM, Uddin LQ. Parsing Heterogeneity in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder with Individual Connectome Mapping. Brain Connect 2019; 9:673-691. [PMID: 31631690 PMCID: PMC6862970 DOI: 10.1089/brain.2019.0669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional diagnostic systems for neurodevelopmental disorders define diagnostic categories that are heterogeneous in behavior and underlying neurobiological alterations. The goal of this study was to parse heterogeneity in a core executive function (EF), cognitive flexibility, in children with a range of abilities (N = 132; children with autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], and typically developing children) using directed functional connectivity profiles derived from resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data. Brain regions activated in response to a cognitive flexibility task in adults were used to guide region-of-interest selection to estimate individual connectivity profiles in this study. We expected to find subgroups of children who differed in their network connectivity metrics and symptom measures. Unexpectedly, we did not find a stable or valid subgrouping solution, which suggests that categorical models of the neural substrates of cognitive flexibility in children may be invalid. Exploratory analyses revealed dimensional associations between network connectivity metrics and ADHD symptomatology and EF ability across the entire sample. Results shed light on the validity of conceptualizing the neural substrates of cognitive flexibility categorically in children. Ultimately, this work may provide a foundation for the development of a revised nosology focused on neurobiological substrates as an alternative to traditional symptom-based classification systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina R. Dajani
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
| | - Catherine A. Burrows
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Mary Beth Nebel
- Center for Neurodevelopmental and Imaging Research, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Stewart H. Mostofsky
- Center for Neurodevelopmental and Imaging Research, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kathleen M. Gates
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Lucina Q. Uddin
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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