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Öztürk D, Aydoğan S, Kök İ, Akın Bülbül I, Özdemir S, Özdemir S, Akay D. Linguistic summarization of visual attention and developmental functioning of young children with autism spectrum disorder. Health Inf Sci Syst 2024; 12:39. [PMID: 39022602 PMCID: PMC11252111 DOI: 10.1007/s13755-024-00297-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children poses significant challenges due to its complex nature and impact on social communication development. While numerous data analytics techniques have been proposed for ASD evaluation, the process remains time-consuming and lacks clarity. Eye tracking (ET) data has emerged as a valuable resource for ASD risk assessment, yet existing literature predominantly focuses on predictive methods rather than descriptive techniques that offer human-friendly insights. Interpretation of ET data and Bayley scales, a widely used assessment tool, is challenging for ASD assessment of children. It should be understood clearly to perform better analytic tasks on ASD screening. Therefore, this study addresses this gap by employing linguistic summarization techniques to generate easily understandable summaries from raw ET data and Bayley scales. By integrating ET data and Bayley scores, the study aims to improve the identification of children with ASD from typically developing children (TD). Notably, this research represents one of the pioneering efforts to linguistically summarize ET data alongside Bayley scales, presenting comparative results between children with ASD and TD. Through linguistic summarization, this study facilitates the creation of simple, natural language statements, offering a first and unique approach to enhance ASD screening and contribute to our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demet Öztürk
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sena Aydoğan
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Kök
- Department of Computer Engineering, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Işık Akın Bülbül
- Department of Special Education, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Selda Özdemir
- Department of Special Education, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Suat Özdemir
- Department of Computer Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Diyar Akay
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Sadhwani A, Powers S, Wheeler A, Miller H, Potter SN, Peters SU, Bacino CA, Skinner SA, Wink LK, Erickson CA, Bird LM, Tan WH. Developmental milestones and daily living skills in individuals with Angelman syndrome. J Neurodev Disord 2024; 16:32. [PMID: 38879552 PMCID: PMC11179294 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-024-09548-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with severe global developmental delay. However, the ages at which different developmental skills are achieved in these individuals remain unclear. We seek to determine the probability and the age of acquisition of specific developmental milestones and daily living skills in individuals with AS across the different molecular subtypes, viz. class I deletion, class II deletion, uniparental disomy, imprinting defect, and UBE3A variants. METHODS Caregivers participating in a longitudinal multicenter Angelman Syndrome Natural History Study completed a questionnaire regarding the age at which their children achieved specific developmental milestones and daily living skills. The Cox Proportional Hazard model was applied to analyze differences in the probability of achievement of skills at various ages among five molecular subtypes of AS. RESULTS Almost all individuals, regardless of molecular subtype, were able to walk with support by five years of age. By age 15, those with a deletion had at least a 50% probability of acquiring 17 out of 30 skills compared to 25 out of 30 skills among those without a deletion. Overall, fine and gross motor skills such as holding and reaching for small objects, sitting, and walking with support were achieved within a fairly narrow range of ages, while toileting, feeding, and hygiene skills tend to have greater variability in the ages at which these skills were achieved. Those without a deletion had a higher probability (25-92%) of achieving daily living skills such as independently toileting and dressing compared to those with a deletion (0-13%). Across all molecular subtypes, there was a low probability of achieving independence in bathing and brushing teeth. CONCLUSION Individuals with AS without a deletion are more likely to achieve developmental milestones and daily living skills at an earlier age than those with a deletion. Many individuals with AS are unable to achieve daily living skills necessary for independent self-care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Sadhwani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Sonya Powers
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Edmentum, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Anne Wheeler
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Hillary Miller
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Aetna, Hartford, CT, USA
| | | | - Sarika U Peters
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Carlos A Bacino
- Kleberg Genetics Clinic, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Logan K Wink
- Division of Child Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA
- Talkiatry Management Services, LLC, New York, USA
| | - Craig A Erickson
- Division of Child Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, USA
| | - Lynne M Bird
- University of California San Diego and Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Wen-Hann Tan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
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Juliá-Palacios N, Olivella M, Sigatullina Bondarenko M, Ibáñez-Micó S, Muñoz-Cabello B, Alonso-Luengo O, Soto-Insuga V, García-Navas D, Cuesta-Herraiz L, Andreo-Lillo P, Aguilera-Albesa S, Hedrera-Fernández A, González Alguacil E, Sánchez-Carpintero R, Martín Del Valle F, Jiménez González E, Cean Cabrera L, Medina-Rivera I, Perez-Ordoñez M, Colomé R, Lopez L, Engracia Cazorla M, Fornaguera M, Ormazabal A, Alonso-Colmenero I, Illescas KS, Balsells-Mejía S, Mari-Vico R, Duffo Viñas M, Cappuccio G, Terrone G, Romano R, Manti F, Mastrangelo M, Alfonsi C, de Siqueira Barros B, Nizon M, Gjerulfsen CE, Muro VL, Karall D, Zeiner F, Masnada S, Peterlongo I, Oyarzábal A, Santos-Gómez A, Altafaj X, García-Cazorla Á. L-serine treatment in patients with GRIN-related encephalopathy: a phase 2A, non-randomized study. Brain 2024; 147:1653-1666. [PMID: 38380699 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae041] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
GRIN-related disorders are rare developmental encephalopathies with variable manifestations and limited therapeutic options. Here, we present the first non-randomized, open-label, single-arm trial (NCT04646447) designed to evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of L-serine in children with GRIN genetic variants leading to loss-of-function. In this phase 2A trial, patients aged 2-18 years with GRIN loss-of-function pathogenic variants received L-serine for 52 weeks. Primary end points included safety and efficacy by measuring changes in the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Bayley Scales, age-appropriate Wechsler Scales, Gross Motor Function-88, Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, Child Behavior Checklist and the Caregiver-Teacher Report Form following 12 months of treatment. Secondary outcomes included seizure frequency and intensity reduction and EEG improvement. Assessments were performed 3 months and 1 day before starting treatment and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after beginning the supplement. Twenty-four participants were enrolled (13 males/11 females, mean age 9.8 years, SD 4.8), 23 of whom completed the study. Patients had GRIN2B, GRIN1 and GRIN2A variants (12, 6 and 5 cases, respectively). Their clinical phenotypes showed 91% had intellectual disability (61% severe), 83% had behavioural problems, 78% had movement disorders and 58% had epilepsy. Based on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Composite standard scores, nine children were classified as mildly impaired (cut-off score > 55), whereas 14 were assigned to the clinically severe group. An improvement was detected in the Daily Living Skills domain (P = 0035) from the Vineland Scales within the mild group. Expressive (P = 0.005), Personal (P = 0.003), Community (P = 0.009), Interpersonal (P = 0.005) and Fine Motor (P = 0.031) subdomains improved for the whole cohort, although improvement was mostly found in the mild group. The Growth Scale Values in the Cognitive subdomain of the Bayley-III Scale showed a significant improvement in the severe group (P = 0.016), with a mean increase of 21.6 points. L-serine treatment was associated with significant improvement in the median Gross Motor Function-88 total score (P = 0.002) and the mean Pediatric Quality of Life total score (P = 0.00068), regardless of severity. L-serine normalized the EEG pattern in five children and the frequency of seizures in one clinically affected child. One patient discontinued treatment due to irritability and insomnia. The trial provides evidence that L-serine is a safe treatment for children with GRIN loss-of-function variants, having the potential to improve adaptive behaviour, motor function and quality of life, with a better response to the treatment in mild phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Juliá-Palacios
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Olivella
- Bioinformatics and Bioimaging Group. Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, 08500 Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life and Health Sciences (IRIS-CC), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Mariya Sigatullina Bondarenko
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Beatriz Muñoz-Cabello
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Olga Alonso-Luengo
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | | | - Deyanira García-Navas
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Cáceres, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Patricia Andreo-Lillo
- Neuropediatric Unit, Pediatric Department, University Hospital of Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
| | - Sergio Aguilera-Albesa
- Paediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Antonio Hedrera-Fernández
- Child Neurology Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ines Medina-Rivera
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Perez-Ordoñez
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Area, Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Colomé
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Lopez
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Engracia Cazorla
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Fornaguera
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aida Ormazabal
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Diseases (MetabERN), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Itziar Alonso-Colmenero
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Full Member of ERN EpiCare, Barcelona University, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katia Sofía Illescas
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sol Balsells-Mejía
- Department of Research Promotion and Management. Statistical Support, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosanna Mari-Vico
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Duffo Viñas
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Area, Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gerarda Cappuccio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', 80125 Naples, Italy
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Pozzuoli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Terrone
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Romano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Manti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Mario Mastrangelo
- Department of Women and Child Health and Uroginecological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience/Mental Health, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Alfonsi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Bruna de Siqueira Barros
- Núcleo de Estudos da Saúde do Adolescente, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Ciência Médicas, 56066 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mathilde Nizon
- Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU Nantes, 44093 Nantes, France
| | | | - Valeria L Muro
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Hospital Britanico Buenos Aires, C1280AEB Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela Karall
- Clinic for Paediatrics, Division of Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Fiona Zeiner
- Clinic for Paediatrics, Division of Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Silvia Masnada
- Department of Child Neurology, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, 20125 Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Peterlongo
- Department of Child Neurology, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, 20125 Milan, Italy
| | - Alfonso Oyarzábal
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Santos-Gómez
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Altafaj
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ángeles García-Cazorla
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
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Ventola P, Jaeger J, Keary CJ, Kolevzon A, Adams M, Keshavan B, Zinger-Salmun C, Ochoa-Lubinoff C. An adapted clinical global Impression of improvement for use in Angelman syndrome: Validation analyses utilizing data from the NEPTUNE study. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2023; 47:35-40. [PMID: 37688937 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare, severe neurogenetic disorder that causes symptoms such as intellectual disability and motor impairments and is typically diagnosed in early childhood. The complexity and heterogeneity of AS confound characterization of disease severity and pose unique challenges when determining an individual's response to treatment. There is therefore a substantial unmet need for rating scales specifically designed for complex conditions such as AS. To address this, the Clinical Global Impressions (CGI) scale, which has components for both symptom severity (CGI-S) and improvement (CGI-I) was specifically adapted to measure severity (CGI-S-AS) and improvement (CGI-I-AS) in AS. METHODS The modified CGI-S/I-AS was used in the NEPTUNE trial of gaboxadol for the treatment of AS. Here we report on the validation of the CGI-I-AS using data from NEPTUNE and discuss insights for its potential use in future trials. RESULTS Improvements in the CGI-I-AS rating tended to be consistent with changes on other relevant rating scales. Sleep-related symptoms were particularly well represented, while communication-related symptoms were not. CONCLUSIONS Our validation analysis of the CGI-I-AS demonstrates its usefulness along with possible areas of improvement. The CGI-I-AS is a potential tool for use in other trials of AS drug candidates, and the process for its development can serve as a road map for the development of assessment tools for other neuropsychiatric disorders with similar complexities and heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Ventola
- Yale University Child Study Center, New Haven, CT, USA; Cogstate, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Judith Jaeger
- CognitionMetrics, LLC, DE, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Christopher J Keary
- Angelman Syndrome Program, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexander Kolevzon
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maxwell Adams
- Formerly of Ovid Therapeutics, Inc, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bina Keshavan
- Formerly of Ovid Therapeutics, Inc, New York, NY, USA
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Gwaltney A, Potter SN, Peters SU, Barbieri-Welge RL, Horowitz LT, Noll LM, Hundley RJ, Bird LM, Tan WH, Sadhwani A, Wheeler A. Adaptive Skills of Individuals with Angelman Syndrome Assessed Using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd Edition. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06090-8. [PMID: 37581718 PMCID: PMC10867286 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06090-8] [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: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
In the current study, we examined adaptive skills and trajectories over time in 257 individuals with Angelman syndrome (AS) using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd Edition. Multilevel linear models were used to examine differences between molecular subtypes over time, from one year to 13 years of age, in the adaptive domains of communication, daily living skills, socialization and motor skills. Individuals with non-deletion subtypes typically demonstrated a higher level of adaptive skills compared to those with deletion subtypes. Statistically significant growth was observed in all adaptive domains through at least early adolescence. Individuals with AS should continue to receive developmental services and educational supports through adolescence and into adulthood given the slow rates of growth being observed across adaptive domains.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarika U Peters
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rene L Barbieri-Welge
- Developmental Evaluation Clinic, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Lisa M Noll
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rachel J Hundley
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Lynne M Bird
- Division of Dysmorphology/Genetics, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Wen-Hann Tan
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anjali Sadhwani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02446, USA.
| | - Anne Wheeler
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Tjeertes J, Bacino CA, Bichell TJ, Bird LM, Bustamante M, Crean R, Jeste S, Komorowski RW, Krishnan ML, Miller MT, Nobbs D, Ochoa-Lubinoff C, Parkerson KA, Rotenberg A, Sadhwani A, Shen MD, Squassante L, Tan WH, Vincenzi B, Wheeler AC, Hipp JF, Berry-Kravis E. Enabling endpoint development for interventional clinical trials in individuals with Angelman syndrome: a prospective, longitudinal, observational clinical study (FREESIAS). J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:22. [PMID: 37495977 PMCID: PMC10373389 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09494-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by the absence of a functional UBE3A gene, which causes developmental, behavioral, and medical challenges. While currently untreatable, comprehensive data could help identify appropriate endpoints assessing meaningful improvements in clinical trials. Herein are reported the results from the FREESIAS study assessing the feasibility and utility of in-clinic and at-home measures of key AS symptoms. METHODS Fifty-five individuals with AS (aged < 5 years: n = 16, 5-12 years: n = 27, ≥ 18 years: n = 12; deletion genotype: n = 40, nondeletion genotype: n = 15) and 20 typically developing children (aged 1-12 years) were enrolled across six USA sites. Several clinical outcome assessments and digital health technologies were tested, together with overnight 19-lead electroencephalography (EEG) and additional polysomnography (PSG) sensors. Participants were assessed at baseline (Clinic Visit 1), 12 months later (Clinic Visit 2), and during intermittent home visits. RESULTS The participants achieved high completion rates for the clinical outcome assessments (adherence: 89-100% [Clinic Visit 1]; 76-91% [Clinic Visit 2]) and varied feasibility of and adherence to digital health technologies. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted participants' uptake of and/or adherence to some measures. It also potentially impacted the at-home PSG/EEG recordings, which were otherwise feasible. Participants achieved Bayley-III results comparable to the available natural history data, showing similar scores between individuals aged ≥ 18 and 5-12 years. Also, participants without a deletion generally scored higher on most clinical outcome assessments than participants with a deletion. Furthermore, the observed AS EEG phenotype of excess delta-band power was consistent with prior reports. CONCLUSIONS Although feasible clinical outcome assessments and digital health technologies are reported herein, further improved assessments of meaningful AS change are needed. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, remote assessments facilitated high adherence levels and the results suggested that at-home PSG/EEG might be a feasible alternative to the in-clinic EEG assessments. Taken altogether, the combination of in-clinic/at-home clinical outcome assessments, digital health technologies, and PSG/EEG may improve protocol adherence, reduce patient burden, and optimize study outcomes in AS and other rare disease populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorrit Tjeertes
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Carlos A Bacino
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Lynne M Bird
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Division of Dysmorphology/Genetics, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mariana Bustamante
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Shafali Jeste
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Meghan T Miller
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - David Nobbs
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cesar Ochoa-Lubinoff
- Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Alexander Rotenberg
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anjali Sadhwani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark D Shen
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities & UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lisa Squassante
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wen-Hann Tan
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brenda Vincenzi
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anne C Wheeler
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, Carrboro, NC, USA
- RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joerg F Hipp
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurological Sciences, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, 1725 W Harrison St, Suite 718, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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Keary CJ, McDougle CJ. Current and emerging treatment options for Angelman syndrome. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:835-844. [PMID: 37599585 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2245568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intellectual disability, limited expressive language, epilepsy, and motor impairment. Angelman syndrome is caused by haploinsufficiency of the UBE3A gene on the maternal copy of chromosome 15. There have been ongoing advances in the understanding of neurological, behavioral, and sleep-based problems and associated treatments for patients with AS. These results along with gene-based therapies entering into clinical development prompted this review. AREAS COVERED The authors summarize the research basis describing phenomenology of epilepsy and behavioral concerns such as hyperactivity behavior, aggression, self-injury, repetitive behavior, and sleep disorder. The evidence for recent treatment advances in these target symptom domains of concern is reviewed, and the potential for emerging gene therapy treatments is considered. EXPERT OPINION The prospect for emerging gene therapies means that increasing efforts should be directed toward the early identification of AS implemented equitably. Recent studies emphasize the important role of behavioral therapy in addressing mental health concerns such as aggression and disordered sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Keary
- Department is department of psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Angelman Syndrome Program, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Department is department of psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Rotaru DC, Wallaard I, de Vries M, van der Bie J, Elgersma Y. UBE3A expression during early postnatal brain development is required for proper dorsomedial striatal maturation. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e166073. [PMID: 36810252 PMCID: PMC9977510 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.166073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) caused by loss of functional ubiquitin protein ligase E3A (UBE3A). Previous studies showed that UBE3A plays an important role in the first postnatal weeks of mouse brain development, but its precise role is unknown. Since impaired striatal maturation has been implicated in several mouse models for NDDs, we studied the importance of UBE3A in striatal maturation. We used inducible Ube3a mouse models to investigate the maturation of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) from dorsomedial striatum. MSNs of mutant mice matured properly till postnatal day 15 (P15) but remained hyperexcitable with fewer excitatory synaptic events at later ages, indicative of stalled striatal maturation in Ube3a mice. Reinstatement of UBE3A expression at P21 fully restored MSN excitability but only partially restored synaptic transmission and the operant conditioning behavioral phenotype. Gene reinstatement at P70 failed to rescue both electrophysiological and behavioral phenotypes. In contrast, deletion of Ube3a after normal brain development did not result in these electrophysiological and behavioral phenotypes. This study emphasizes the role of UBE3A in striatal maturation and the importance of early postnatal reinstatement of UBE3A expression to obtain a full rescue of behavioral phenotypes associated with striatal function in AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C. Rotaru
- Department of Clinical Genetics and
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ilse Wallaard
- Department of Clinical Genetics and
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maud de Vries
- Department of Clinical Genetics and
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julia van der Bie
- Department of Clinical Genetics and
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ype Elgersma
- Department of Clinical Genetics and
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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9
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Galli J, Loi E, Strobio C, Micheletti S, Martelli P, Merabet LB, Pasini N, Semeraro F, Fazzi E. Neurovisual profile in children affected by Angelman syndrome. Brain Dev 2023; 45:117-125. [PMID: 36344336 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neurogenetic disorder caused by altered expression of the maternal copy of the UBE3A gene. Together with motor, cognitive, and speech impairment, ophthalmological findings including strabismus, and ocular fundus hypopigmentation characterize the clinical phenotype. The aim of this study was to detail the neurovisual profile of children affected by AS and to explore any possible genotype-phenotype correlations. METHODS Thirty-seven children (23 females, mean age 102.8 ± 54.4 months, age range 22 to 251 months) with molecular confirmed diagnosis of AS were enrolled in the study. All underwent a comprehensive video-recorded neurovisual evaluation including the assessment of ophthalmological aspects, oculomotor functions, and basic visual abilities. RESULTS All children had visual impairments mainly characterized by refractive errors, ocular fundus changes, strabismus, discontinuous/jerky smooth pursuit and altered saccadic movements, and/or reduced visual acuity. Comparing the neurovisual profiles between the deletion and non-deletion genetic subgroups, we found a significant statistical correlation between genotype and ocular fundus hypopigmentation (p = 0.03), discontinuous smooth pursuit (p < 0.05), and contrast sensitivity abnormalities (p < 0.01) being more frequent in the deletion subgroup. CONCLUSIONS Subjects affected by AS present a wide spectrum of neurovisual impairments that lead to a clinical profile consistent with cerebral visual impairment (CVI). Moreover, subjects with a chromosome deletion show a more severe visual phenotype with respect to ocular fundus changes, smooth pursuit movements, and contrast sensitivity. Early detection of these impaired visual functions may help promote the introduction of neurovisual habilitative programs which can improve children's visual, neuromotor, and cognitive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Galli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Erika Loi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Caterina Strobio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Serena Micheletti
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paola Martelli
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lotfi B Merabet
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nadia Pasini
- Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Italy; University of Brescia, Eye Clinic, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Fazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Farmer C, Thurm A, Troy JD, Kaat AJ. Comparing ability and norm-referenced scores as clinical trial outcomes for neurodevelopmental disabilities: a simulation study. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:4. [PMID: 36650450 PMCID: PMC9843928 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-022-09474-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For genetic conditions associated with neurodevelopmental disorder (GCAND), developmental domains such as motor ability, thinking and learning, social abilities, and communication are potential intervention targets. Performance on measures of developmental concepts can be expressed using several types of scores. Norm-referenced scores are intended for the diagnostic context, allowing for the identification of impairment relative to age-based expectations, and can exhibit dramatic floor effects when used in individuals with more significant limitations. Person ability scores, which are derived via Rasch analysis or item response theory, are available on many standardized tests and are intended to measure within-person change. However, they have not been used or evaluated as primary endpoints in GCAND clinical trials. In this study, we simulated a series of parallel-arm clinical trials under several chronological age and impairment conditions, to compare empirically the power and type I error rate of operationalizing test performance using ability scores rather than norm-referenced scores. RESULTS Using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales as the example, we demonstrated an advantage in statistical power of ability scores over norm-referenced scores at extreme levels of impairment. This advantage was at least partially driven by floor effects in norm-referenced scores. For simulated conditions where impairment was less severe, ability scores outperformed norm-referenced scores, but they were more similar. The type I error rate closely approximated the nominal type I error rate of 5% for both scores. CONCLUSION The results of this simulation demonstrate a substantial power and interpretative advantage of ability scores over norm-referenced scores for studies of GCAND that will enroll participants with high levels of impairment. These results are expected to generalize to studies of developmental concepts, regardless of the etiology or specific test. However, the relative advantage of ability scores is expected to be even greater for tests with a higher floor than the Vineland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristan Farmer
- grid.416868.50000 0004 0464 0574Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Audrey Thurm
- grid.416868.50000 0004 0464 0574Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Jesse D. Troy
- grid.26009.3d0000 0004 1936 7961Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC USA
| | - Aaron J. Kaat
- grid.16753.360000 0001 2299 3507Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL USA
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11
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Key AP, Roth S, Jones D, Hunt-Hawkins H. Typical and atypical neural mechanisms support spoken word processing in Angelman syndrome. BRAIN AND LANGUAGE 2023; 236:105215. [PMID: 36502770 PMCID: PMC9839587 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandl.2022.105215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is known to affect expressive and receptive communication abilities. This study examined individual differences in neural mechanisms underlying speech processing in children with AS (n = 24, M age = 10.01 years) and typical development (n = 30, M age = 10.82 years) using auditory event-related potentials during passive listening to common English words and novel pseudowords. A group of adults with AS (n = 7, M = 31.78 years) provided data about the upper developmental range. The typically developing group demonstrated the expected more negative amplitudes in response to words than pseudowords within 250-500 ms after stimulus onset at the left temporal scalp region. Children and adults with AS exhibited a similar left-lateralized pattern of word-pseudoword differentiation at temporal and parietal regions, but not the midline parietal memory response for known words observed in the typically developing group, suggesting typical-like word-pseudoword differentiation along with possible alterations in the automatic recall of word meaning. These results have important implications for understanding receptive and expressive communication processes in AS and support the use of auditory neural responses for characterizing individual differences in neurodevelopmental disorders with limited speech.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra P Key
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - Sydney Roth
- Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Dorita Jones
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Nashville, TN 37203, USA; Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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12
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Case Report: Autism Risk Within the Context of Two Chromosome 15 Syndromes. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:503-513. [PMID: 34997429 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05422-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Berg AT, Kaat AJ, Gaebler-Spira D. Measuring the inch stones for progress: Gross motor function in the developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 137:108953. [PMID: 36368092 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) entail moderate to profound impairments in gross motor skills and mobility, which are poorly quantified with clinical outcomes assessments (COA) used in neuro-typical populations. We studied the motor domain of the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-3 for ages 0-5 years (ABAS) used outside of its intended age range with a focus on raw scores. METHODS In a cross-sectional survey, 117 parents of children with a variety of DEEs (ages 1-35 years, median = 9) completed the motor domain section of the ABAS. Floor and ceiling effects and associations with epilepsy-related factors were assessed with appropriate parametric and nonparametric statistical techniques. The sensitivity of the ABAS and additional measures of mobility borrowed from the cerebral palsy literature (Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ-22) walking level (FAQ-WL)) to different levels of the Functional Mobility Scale was determined. RESULTS ABAS motor scores corresponded to a median age equivalent of 20.5 months (Inter-Quartile Range (IQR) 8-34). Most raw scores corresponded to standardized scores > 2 standard deviations below the ABAS standardization sample mean. ABAS raw scores demonstrated minimal floor and ceiling effects (<5%). In linear regression models, scores increased with age under 6 years (p < 0.0001) but flattened out thereafter. Scores varied substantially by DEE group (p < 0.001) and decreased with higher convulsive seizure frequency (<0.0001) and number of seizure medications (p < 0.001). ABAS and other motor scores were sensitive to important differences in mobility as represented by the FMS at 5 yards. Further, they correlated with declines in mobility function from 5 to 500 yards. SIGNIFICANCE An out-of-range COA with raw scores may provide a measure of motor ability and mobility sensitive within the range of moderate to profound impairment seen in patients with DEE. This approach could shorten the time to appropriate COA development and ensure timely clinical trial readiness for novel therapies for rare DEEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- COMBINEDBrain, Nashville, TN, United States; Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Chicago, IL, United States.
| | - Aaron J Kaat
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Deborah Gaebler-Spira
- Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Kwok E, Feiner H, Grauzer J, Kaat A, Roberts MY. Measuring Change During Intervention Using Norm-Referenced, Standardized Measures: A Comparison of Raw Scores, Standard Scores, Age Equivalents, and Growth Scale Values From the Preschool Language Scales-Fifth Edition. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2022; 65:4268-4279. [PMID: 36346974 PMCID: PMC9940886 DOI: 10.1044/2022_jslhr-22-00122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Norm-referenced, standardized measures are tools designed to characterize a child's abilities relative to their same-age peers, but they also have been used to measure changes in skills during intervention. This study compared the psychometric properties of four types of available scores from one commonly used standardized measure, the Preschool Language Scales-Fifth Edition (PLS-5), to detect changes in children's language skills during and after a language intervention. METHOD This study included data from 110 autistic children aged 18-48 months whose mother participated in an 8-week parent-mediated language intervention. Children's language skills were measured at 3 time points using the PLS-5. Changes in children's expressive and receptive language skills were calculated using raw scores, standard scores, age equivalents, and growth scale values (GSVs). RESULTS Analysis of raw scores, age equivalents, and GSVs indicated significant improvement in the scores of autistic children in both receptive and expressive language throughout the study (i.e., during the intervention period and in the 3-month period after the intervention). Standard scores suggested improvement only in the receptive language scale during the intervention period. Standard scores showed a floor effect for children who scored at -3 SD below the mean. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggested that GSVs were not only psychometrically sound but also the most sensitive measure of direct changes in skills compared to raw, standard, and age-equivalent scores. Floor effects may limit the sensitivity of standard scores to detect changes in children's skills. Strengths, limitations, and interpretations of each of the scoring approaches in measuring changes in skills during intervention were discussed. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.21498522.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Kwok
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Hannah Feiner
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Jeffrey Grauzer
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Aaron Kaat
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Megan Y. Roberts
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
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Key AP, Roth S, Venker C. Spoken language comprehension in children and adults with Angelman Syndrome. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2022; 100:106272. [PMID: 36244082 PMCID: PMC9994640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2022.106272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Objective evaluation of receptive communication abilities in nonspeaking individuals using standardized behavioral measures can be complicated by co-occurring intellectual disabilities and motor difficulties. Eye tracking during listening may offer an informative complementary approach to directly evaluate receptive language skills. METHOD This study examined feasibility of eye gaze measures as an index of spoken language comprehension in nonspeaking children and adults with Angelman syndrome (AS; n = 23) using a looking-while-listening procedure. Typically developing children (n = 34) provided a reference data set. Primary caregivers of participants with AS completed standardized informant reports (MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory: Words and Gestures; Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-3; Aberrant Behavior Checklist-2) to characterize communicative skills and general adaptive functioning. RESULTS Gaze data in participants with AS, particularly in the individuals reported by caregivers to have larger receptive vocabularies and stronger adaptive communicative functioning, demonstrated the expected pattern of comprehension reflected by the increased probability of looks to the target images after vs. before they were named in a spoken sentence. However, processing speed (gaze reaction time) was significantly slower in participants with AS than in the typically developing group. CONCLUSIONS Gaze-based paradigms could be an informative measure of receptive communication processes in participants who are unable to complete traditional standardized behavioral assessments.
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16
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An Analysis of Phenotype and Genotype in a Large Cohort of Chinese Children with Angelman Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081447. [PMID: 36011358 PMCID: PMC9408022 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental genetic disorder, but there has been limited analysis of a large cohort of Chinese children with Angelman syndrome. This study aims to assess the phenotype and genotype of Chinese children with Angelman syndrome. We retrospectively analyzed data through a detailed online survey combined with an on-site study. Furthermore, phenotype analysis stratified by deletion and non-deletion groups was carried out. The responses of family members of 695 individuals with AS revealed that 577 patients (83.02%) had maternal deletions, 65 patients (9.35%) carried UBE3A mutations, 31 (4.46%) patients had UPD15pat (one patient with UPD15pat constituted by a mosaic), 10 patients (1.44%) had imprinting defects and 12 (1.58%) patients only showed abnormal methylation without further detection. We identified 50 different pathogenic variants in this cohort, although 18 of these variants were unreported. Recurrent variant c.2507_2510del (p.K836Rfs*4) was found in 7 patients. In the deletion group, patients were diagnosed at an earlier age, had a more severe clinical phenotype, a higher rate of epilepsy with more multiple seizure types, and more frequently combined medication. Strabismus and sleep disturbances were both common in deletion and non-deletion groups. The top three resources invested in caring for AS children are: daily involvement in patient care, rehabilitation cost, and anti-epileptic treatment. Our study showed the genetic composition of Chinese children with 83.02% of maternal deletions, and the mutation spectrum for UBE3A variants was expanded. Developmental outcomes are associated with genotype, and this was confirmed by deletion patients having a worse clinical phenotype and complex epilepsy.
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Li S, Ma Y, Wang T, Jin H, Du X, Wang Y. Epilepsy and Molecular Phenotype Affect the Neurodevelopment of Pediatric Angelman Syndrome Patients in China. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:886028. [PMID: 35573374 PMCID: PMC9096167 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.886028] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated the mental development of children with Angelman syndrome (AS) in China and evaluated the relationship between neurodevelopment and molecular subtype, age, epilepsy, and sex using the Chinese version of the Griffith Mental Development Scale (GMDS-C) to provide detailed baseline data regarding neurodevelopment with AS in China. METHODS Participants were recruited from the AS Natural History Study. The GMDS-C was used to evaluate all participants' mental age and developmental quotients. The general quotient (GQ) and quotients of five subscales (sports, personal-social, auditory language, eye-hand coordination, and comprehensive performance) were calculated. RESULTS A total of 119 children (average age: 42.12 months; range, 7.5-95.5 months) with a genetic diagnosis of AS were enrolled. The median GQ score of the GMDS was 29.6 points (95% confidence interval, 28.6-33.25). The children had relatively good locomotor and personal-social skills but poor language skills. Overall, 89% (106/119) had mental ages younger than 24 months for all five subscales. The non-deletion group (i.e., without deletion in chromosome 15q11-13) had higher GQs and locomotor, personal-social, and performance subscale quotients. The GQ was significantly different among the three age subgroups and significantly correlated with age. Compared with the non-epilepsy group, the epilepsy group had lower GQs and lower quotients for the locomotor, personal-social, speech, language, and eye-hand coordination subscales. CONCLUSION Children with AS in China experience severe neurodevelopmental deterioration. In addition to age, molecular subtypes and the onset of seizures may also correlate with these patients' intellectual development. The GMDS-C is an accurate tool that can assess the clinical characteristics of AS. The data of this study can be used as baseline data for clinical trials performed to evaluate drug development or other AS treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Ma
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianqi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huimin Jin
- Shanghai YangZhi Rehabilitation Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghia, China
| | - Xiaonan Du
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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18
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Palmer EE, Howell K, Scheffer IE. Natural History Studies and Clinical Trial Readiness for Genetic Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:1432-1444. [PMID: 34708325 PMCID: PMC8608984 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01133-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are the most severe group of epilepsies. They usually begin in infancy or childhood with drug-resistant seizures, epileptiform EEG patterns, developmental slowing or regression, and cognitive impairment. DEEs have a high mortality and profound morbidity; comorbidities are common including autism spectrum disorders. With advances in genetic sequencing, over 400 genes have been implicated in DEEs, with a genetic cause now identified in over 50% patients. Each genetic DEE typically has a broad genotypic-phenotypic spectrum, based on the underlying pathophysiology. There is a pressing need to improve health outcomes by developing novel targeted therapies for specific genetic DEE phenotypes that not only improve seizure control, but also developmental outcomes and comorbidities. Clinical trial readiness relies firstly on a deep understanding of phenotype-genotype correlation and evolution of a condition over time, in order to select appropriate patients for clinical trials. Understanding the natural history of the disorder informs assessment of treatment efficacy in terms of both clinical outcome and biomarker utility. Natural history studies (NHS) provide a high quality, integrated, comprehensive approach to understanding a complex disease and underpin clinical trial design for novel therapies. NHS are pre-planned observational studies designed to track the course of a disease and identify demographic, genetic, environmental, and other variables, including biomarkers, that correlate with the disease's evolution and outcomes. Due to the rarity of individual genetic DEEs, appropriately funded high-quality DEE NHS will be required, with sustainable frameworks and equitable access to affected individuals globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth E Palmer
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine Howell
- Department of Neurology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Department of Neurology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Markati T, Duis J, Servais L. Therapies in preclinical and clinical development for Angelman syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:709-720. [PMID: 34112038 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1939674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Angelman syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by deficiency or abnormal function of the maternal ubiquitin protein-ligase E3A, known as UBE3A, in the central nervous system. There is no disease-modifying treatment available, but the therapeutic pipeline of Angelman syndrome includes at least 15 different approaches at preclinical or clinical development. In the coming years, several clinical trials will be enrolling patients, which prompted this comprehensive review.Areas covered: We summarize and critically review the different therapeutic approaches. Some approaches attempt to restore the missing or nonfunctional UBE3A protein in the neurons via gene replacement or enzyme replacement therapies. Other therapies aim to induce expression of the normal paternal copy of the UBE3A gene by targeting a long non-coding RNA, the UBE3A-ATS, which interferes with its own expression. Another therapeutic category includes compounds that target molecular pathways and effector proteins known to be involved in Angelman syndrome pathophysiology.Expert opinion: We believe that by 2022-2023, more than five disease-modifying treatments will be simultaneously at clinical testing. However, the are several challenges with regards to safety and efficacy, which need to be addressed. Additionally, there is still a significant unmet need for clinical trial readiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Markati
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Center, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jessica Duis
- Section of Genetics & Inherited Metabolic Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laurent Servais
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Center, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Division of Child Neurology, Centre De Références Des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Belgium
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Ostrowski LM, Spencer ER, Bird LM, Thibert R, Komorowski RW, Kramer MA, Chu CJ. Delta power robustly predicts cognitive function in Angelman syndrome. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:1433-1445. [PMID: 34047077 PMCID: PMC8283185 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Angelman syndrome (AS) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss of function of the maternally inherited UBE3A gene in neurons. Promising disease‐modifying treatments to reinstate UBE3A expression are under development and an early measure of treatment response is critical to their deployment in clinical trials. Increased delta power in EEG recordings, reflecting abnormal neuronal synchrony, occurs in AS across species and correlates with genotype. Whether delta power provides a reliable biomarker for clinical symptoms remains unknown. Methods We analyzed combined EEG recordings and developmental assessments in a large cohort of individuals with AS (N = 82 subjects, 133 combined EEG and cognitive assessments, 1.08–28.16 years; 32F) and evaluated delta power as a biomarker for cognitive function, as measured by the Bayley Cognitive Score. We examined the robustness of this biomarker to varying states of consciousness, recording techniques and analysis procedures. Results Delta power predicted the Bayley Scale cognitive score (P < 10−5, R2 = 0.9374) after controlling for age (P < 10−24), genotype:age (P < 10−11), and repeat assessments (P < 10−8), with the excellent fit on cross validation (R2 = 0.95). There were no differences in model performance across states of consciousness or bipolar versus average montages (ΔAIC < 2). Models using raw data excluding frontal channels outperformed other models (ΔAIC > 4) and predicted performance in expressive (P = 0.0209) and receptive communication (P < 10−3) and fine motor skills (P < 10−4). Interpretation Delta power is a simple, direct measure of neuronal activity that reliably correlates with cognitive function in AS. This electrophysiological biomarker offers an objective, clinically relevant endpoint for treatment response in emerging clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Ostrowski
- Department of NeurologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- School of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Elizabeth R. Spencer
- Department of NeurologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Mathematics and StatisticsBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Lynne M. Bird
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ronald Thibert
- Department of NeurologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Mark A. Kramer
- Department of Mathematics and StatisticsBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Catherine J. Chu
- Department of NeurologyMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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