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Krzysztofik K. Does a high threshold of sensory responsiveness affect the development of pretend play in children on the autism spectrum? J Neurodev Disord 2024; 16:34. [PMID: 38918693 PMCID: PMC11197220 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-024-09551-y] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among the current avenues of research into the origins and development of the autism spectrum, those concerning atypical levels of sensory responsiveness are gaining increasing relevance. Researchers note the relationship of sensory responsiveness in children on the autism spectrum to their motor, cognitive and social development. Current research reports combines the responsiveness to sensory stimuli also with the development of pretend play. Aim of this study was to verify the relationship between the level of development of pretend play and the level of sensory responsiveness in children on the autism spectrum. METHODS A study was conducted in a group of 63 children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum aged from 3 years and 7 months to 9 years and 3 months using: Pretend Play subscale from the Theory of Mind Mechanism Scale and Sensory Experiences Questionnaire version 2.1. RESULTS The results revealed that elevated sensory hyporesponsiveness predicted low pretend play skills in the group of participating children. CONCLUSION The study verified the contribution of the level of sensory hyporesponsiveness to explaining the atypical development of pretend play in children on the autism spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Krzysztofik
- Department of Psychology of Occupation, Organization and Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Faculty of Social Science, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 14, Lublin, 20-950, Poland.
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Clayton KK, Stecyk KS, Guo AA, Chambers AR, Chen K, Hancock KE, Polley DB. Sound elicits stereotyped facial movements that provide a sensitive index of hearing abilities in mice. Curr Biol 2024; 34:1605-1620.e5. [PMID: 38492568 PMCID: PMC11043000 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.02.057] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Sound elicits rapid movements of muscles in the face, ears, and eyes that protect the body from injury and trigger brain-wide internal state changes. Here, we performed quantitative facial videography from mice resting atop a piezoelectric force plate and observed that broadband sounds elicited rapid and stereotyped facial twitches. Facial motion energy (FME) adjacent to the whisker array was 30 dB more sensitive than the acoustic startle reflex and offered greater inter-trial and inter-animal reliability than sound-evoked pupil dilations or movement of other facial and body regions. FME tracked the low-frequency envelope of broadband sounds, providing a means to study behavioral discrimination of complex auditory stimuli, such as speech phonemes in noise. Approximately 25% of layer 5-6 units in the auditory cortex (ACtx) exhibited firing rate changes during facial movements. However, FME facilitation during ACtx photoinhibition indicated that sound-evoked facial movements were mediated by a midbrain pathway and modulated by descending corticofugal input. FME and auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds were closely aligned after noise-induced sensorineural hearing loss, yet FME growth slopes were disproportionately steep at spared frequencies, reflecting a central plasticity that matched commensurate changes in ABR wave 4. Sound-evoked facial movements were also hypersensitive in Ptchd1 knockout mice, highlighting the use of FME for identifying sensory hyper-reactivity phenotypes after adult-onset hyperacusis and inherited deficiencies in autism risk genes. These findings present a sensitive and integrative measure of hearing while also highlighting that even low-intensity broadband sounds can elicit a complex mixture of auditory, motor, and reafferent somatosensory neural activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kameron K Clayton
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Kamryn S Stecyk
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anna A Guo
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anna R Chambers
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ke Chen
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kenneth E Hancock
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Daniel B Polley
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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郭 乃, 王 瑜. [Recent advances in the virtual reality technology for treating children with autism spectrum disorder]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2024; 26:414-419. [PMID: 38660907 PMCID: PMC11057304 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2310142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the neurodevelopmental disorders in children, and there are currently no specific treatments, with the main interventions focusing on educational training and behavioral correction. Virtual reality, as an emerging technology, is a computer-based environmental simulation system that achieves interactive dynamics and immersive experiences by integrating information from multiple sources. In recent years, it has been gradually applied in intervention training for children with ASD. This paper reviews the recent studies on the effects of virtual reality intervention on emotional cognition, social skills, daily living skills, motor skills, and specific phobias in children with ASD, offering a new direction for ASD intervention training.
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Carter SA, Lin JC, Chow T, Martinez MP, Alves JM, Feldman KR, Qiu C, Page KA, McConnell R, Xiang AH. Maternal obesity and diabetes during pregnancy and early autism screening score at well-child visits in standard clinical practice. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:975-984. [PMID: 37646431 PMCID: PMC10902177 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231188876] [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] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Early intervention and treatment can help reduce disability in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Screening for autism spectrum disorder in young children identifies those at increased likelihood of diagnosis who may need further support. Previous research has reported that exposure to maternal obesity and diabetes during pregnancy is associated with higher likelihood of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in children. However, little is known about whether these maternal conditions are associated with how very young children score on autism spectrum disorder screening tools. This study examined associations between exposure to maternal obesity and diabetes during pregnancy and offspring scores on the Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, an autism spectrum disorder screening questionnaire administered between 18-24 months at well-child visits. A higher score on the Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers suggests a higher likelihood of autism spectrum disorder; children with scores 3 or greater are referred to developmental pediatricians for evaluation. Our study found that children of mothers with obesity or diabetes during pregnancy had higher scores than children whose mothers did not have these conditions. Associations with maternal obesity and gestational diabetes diagnosed at or before 26 weeks of pregnancy were also present in children who did not have later autism spectrum disorder diagnoses, suggesting that exposure to these conditions during early pregnancy may be associated with a broad range of social and behavioral abilities. Identifying associations between maternal health conditions and early Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers screening scores could influence future screening and provision of support for children of mothers with these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Carter
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Jane C. Lin
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Ting Chow
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Mayra P. Martinez
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Jasmin M. Alves
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033
- Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033
| | - Klara R. Feldman
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Baldwin Park, CA
| | - Chunyuan Qiu
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Baldwin Park, CA
| | - Kathleen A. Page
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033
| | - Rob McConnell
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anny H. Xiang
- Department of Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
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Han GT, Heavner HS, Rains TR, Hoang AH, Stone AL. Chronic Pain in Autistic Youth: Clinical Prevalence and Reflections on Tailoring Evidence-Based Interventions from an Interdisciplinary Treatment Team. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:312. [PMID: 38539347 PMCID: PMC10968925 DOI: 10.3390/children11030312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Though there is growing awareness of the overrepresentation of autistic patients in chronic pain clinics, potential adaptations for the assessment and treatment of chronic pain in this population have not yet been established. To address this gap, a retrospective review of electronic medical records and discussions by an interdisciplinary pain treatment team were summarized to inform potential biopsychosocial factors affecting the presentation, assessment, and treatment of chronic pain in autistic youth. Our sample included a record review of 95 patients receiving treatment in an interdisciplinary outpatient pediatric pain clinic. Results indicated that 9% (n = 9) of the patients presented to the clinic with a prior diagnosis of autism, but an additional 21% (n = 20) were identified as likely meeting criteria for autism based on the clinical assessment of the developmental history, behaviors observed during the clinical encounter(s), and expert clinical judgment, suggesting that the prevalence rate of autism may be closer to 30% in our outpatient pediatric pain clinic. Over half (52%) of the autistic youth presented to the clinic with widespread pain, 60% identified as female, and 6% identified as gender expansive or transgender. Qualitative insights revealed that most of the autistic patients had co-occurring sensory-processing challenges and difficulty in describing their pain, emotions, and somatic experiences and exhibited cognitive inflexibility and social challenges. We summarize our team's clinical reflections on how autism-relevant biopsychosocial vulnerability factors may contribute to the experience of pain in autistic youth and propose treatment targets and adaptations for the assessment and treatment of pain in this population. Finally, we recommend the need for interventions focused on sensorimotor integration, especially for autistic youth, and describe how pain clinics may be particularly helpful for identifying and supporting autistic females, for whom the potential role of autism in pain experiences had not been considered until receiving treatment in our clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria T. Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (A.H.H.); (A.L.S.)
| | - Holly S. Heavner
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (H.S.H.); (T.R.R.)
| | - Thomas R. Rains
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (H.S.H.); (T.R.R.)
| | - Alan H. Hoang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (A.H.H.); (A.L.S.)
| | - Amanda L. Stone
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (A.H.H.); (A.L.S.)
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Smith SS, Jahn KN, Sugai JA, Hancock KE, Polley DB. The human pupil and face encode sound affect and provide objective signatures of tinnitus and auditory hypersensitivity disorders. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.22.571929. [PMID: 38187580 PMCID: PMC10769427 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.22.571929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Sound is jointly processed along acoustic and emotional dimensions. These dimensions can become distorted and entangled in persons with sensory disorders, producing a spectrum of loudness hypersensitivity, phantom percepts, and - in some cases - debilitating sound aversion. Here, we looked for objective signatures of disordered hearing (DH) in the human face. Pupil dilations and micro facial movement amplitudes scaled with sound valence in neurotypical listeners but not DH participants with chronic tinnitus (phantom ringing) and sound sensitivity. In DH participants, emotionally evocative sounds elicited abnormally large pupil dilations but blunted and invariant facial reactions that jointly provided an accurate prediction of individual tinnitus and hyperacusis questionnaire handicap scores. By contrast, EEG measures of central auditory gain identified steeper neural response growth functions but no association with symptom severity. These findings highlight dysregulated affective sound processing in persons with bothersome tinnitus and sound sensitivity disorders and introduce approaches for their objective measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel S Smith
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston MA, 02114 USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA 02114 USA
- Lead contact
| | - Kelly N Jahn
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston MA, 02114 USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA 02114 USA
| | - Jenna A Sugai
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston MA, 02114 USA
| | - Ken E Hancock
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston MA, 02114 USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA 02114 USA
| | - Daniel B Polley
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston MA, 02114 USA
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA 02114 USA
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7
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Chen C, Cheng Y, Wu CT, Chiang CH, Wong CC, Huang CM, Martínez RM, Tzeng OJL, Fan YT. A sensory signature of unaffected biological parents predicts the risk of autism in their offspring. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024; 78:60-68. [PMID: 37807577 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.13605] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM Despite the emphasis on sensory dysfunction phenotypes in the revised diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there has been limited research, particularly in the field of neurobiology, investigating the concordance in sensory features between individuals with ASD and their genetic relatives. Therefore, our objective was to examine whether neurobehavioral sensory patterns could serve as endophenotypic markers for ASD. METHODS We combined questionnaire- and lab-based sensory evaluations with sensory fMRI measures to examine the patterns of sensory responsivity in 30 clinically diagnosed with ASD, 26 matched controls (CON), and 48 biological parents for both groups (27 parents of individuals with ASD [P-ASD] and 21 for individuals with CON [P-CON]). RESULTS The ASD and P-ASD groups had higher sensory responsivity and rated sensory stimuli as more unpleasant than the CON and P-CON groups, respectively. They also exhibited greater hemodynamic responses within the sensory cortices. Overlapping activations were observed within these sensory cortices in the ASD and P-ASD groups. Using a machine learning approach with robust prediction models across cohorts, we demonstrated that the sensory profile of biological parents accurately predicted the likelihood of their offspring having ASD, achieving a prediction accuracy of 71.4%. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide support for the hereditary basis of sensory alterations in ASD and suggest a potential avenue to improve ASD diagnosis by utilizing the sensory signature of biological parents, especially in families with a high risk of ASD. This approach holds promising prospects for early detection, even before the birth of the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyi Chen
- Graduate Institute of Injury Prevention and Control, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Mind, Brain and Consciousness, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Psychiatric Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yawei Cheng
- Institute of Neuroscience and Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Hospital, Yilan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Te Wu
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study (UTIAS), The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chung-Hsin Chiang
- Department of Psychology and Research Center for Mind, Brain and Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ching Wong
- Child Developmental Assessment & Intervention Center, Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Mao Huang
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-devices (IDS2B), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Róger Marcelo Martínez
- Graduate Institute of Injury Prevention and Control, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Psychological Sciences, National Autonomous University of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Ovid J L Tzeng
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute of Linguistics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Teng Fan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Gulácsi Á, Scheuring N, Stadler J, Siba M, Danis I. [Sensory food aversion in the context of a modern approach to eating disorders in early childhood]. Orv Hetil 2023; 164:1767-1777. [PMID: 37952193 DOI: 10.1556/650.2023.32872] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Sensory food aversion, an early childhood eating disorder, is a serious, permanent form of picky eating, in which the infant or the child consistently and persistently refuses certain foods based on specific characteristics, following one or more previous aversive experiences. Biological (sensory processing disorder, taste sensitivity) and environmental factors contribute to its development. Due to limited diet, specific dietary deficiencies may occur but weight gain is usually normal. Behavioral problems, anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorder are often associated. Diagnosis can usually be made based on a detailed history, but further assessment may include pediatric examination, nutritionist consultation, and psychologic and occupational therapy assessment. Treatment is based on parent education and support in order to minimize mealtime battles and anxiety and to think together about strategies for expanding the child's diet and to help them to accept new foods. As part of the interdisciplinary team, the pediatrician's role is to monitor appropriate growth and development, exclude dietary deficiencies or prescribe supplementation if necessary. In our article, the screening and treatment of sensory processing disorder as part of the assessment of eating problems are introduced as an example of good clinical practice at the Early Childhood Eating and Sleep Disorder Outpatient Clinic at the Heim Pál National Institute of Pediatrics. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(45): 1767-1777.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ágnes Gulácsi
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
| | - Noémi Scheuring
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
| | - Judit Stadler
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
- 2 Pest Vármegyei Pedagógiai Szakszolgálat Gödöllői Tagintézménye, Veresegyházi Telephely Veresegyház Magyarország
| | - Mónika Siba
- 1 Heim Pál Országos Gyermekgyógyászati Intézet Budapest Magyarország
- 3 Budapesti Korai Fejlesztő Központ Budapest Magyarország
| | - Ildikó Danis
- 4 Semmelweis Egyetem, Egészségügyi Közszolgálati Kar, Mentálhigiéné Intézet Budapest, Üllői út 26., 1085 Magyarország
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Ramappa S, Anderson A, Jung J, Chu R, Cummings KK, Patterson G, Okada NJ, Green SA. An Observed Assessment of Sensory Responsivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Associations with Diagnosis, Age, and Parent Report. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:3860-3872. [PMID: 35927515 PMCID: PMC9898461 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05653-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sensory features are common and impairing in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but there are few observational sensory assessments that are valid across ages. We used the Sensory Processing 3-Dimensional (SP3-D) observed Assessment and parent-reported Inventory to examine sensory responsivity in 41 ASD and 33 typically-developing (TD) youth across 7-17 years. ASD youth had higher and more variable observed and reported sensory responsivity symptoms compared to TD, but the two measures were not correlated. Observed sensory over-responsivity (SOR) and sensory craving (SC) decreased with age in ASD, though SOR remained higher in ASD versus TD through adolescence. Results suggest that in ASD, the SP3-D Assessment can identify SOR through adolescence, and that there is value in integrating multiple sensory measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Ramappa
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ariana Anderson
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jiwon Jung
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robyn Chu
- Growing Healthy Children Therapy Services, 3498 Green Valley Road, Rescue, CA, USA
| | - Kaitlin K Cummings
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 235 E. Cameron Avenue, 27514, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Genevieve Patterson
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, 1200 Larimer Street, 80217, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Nana J Okada
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, 02115, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shulamite A Green
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 760 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, 757 Westwood Plaza, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center, Jane and Terry Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, 660 Charles E. Young Drive South, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Serrada-Tejeda S, Sánchez-Herrera-Baeza P, Martínez-Piédrola RM, Máximo-Bocanegra N, Trugeda-Pedrajo N, Rodríguez-Pérez MP, Fernández-Gómez G, Pérez-de-Heredia-Torres M. Prospective One-Year Follow-Up of Sensory Processing in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1086. [PMID: 37371317 PMCID: PMC10296885 DOI: 10.3390/children10061086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is caused by the loss (deletion) of a small portion of chromosome 22 in a region designated q13.3 (22q13.3 deletion). PMS is one of the most common genetic forms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in which sensory reactivity difficulties have been described on limited occasions. METHODS The objective of this study is to identify whether changes in sensory reactivity skills occur after one year of follow-up in a group of 44 participants diagnosed with PMS. All participants completed the Short Sensory Profile (SSP). Two-factor ANOVA tests were performed with repeated measures for the study of the evolution of the scores. RESULTS Participants with PMS showed significant changes after one year of follow-up in sensory reactivity skills associated with tactile hyperreactivity (p = 0.003). The rest of the study variables did not show significant differences compared to the baseline assessment, showing definite differences associated with patterns of hypo-responsiveness and sensory seeking, low/weak energy, and difficulties in auditory filtering. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the evolution of sensory reactivity skills can facilitate the adjustment to behavioral changes in people with PMS and design-targeted interventions to address sensory reactivity challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nuria Máximo-Bocanegra
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avenida de Atenas s/n, CP 28922 Alcorcón, Spain; (S.S.-T.); (P.S.-H.-B.); (R.M.M.-P.); (N.T.-P.); (G.F.-G.)
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11
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Baş B, Yücel E. Sensory profiles of children using cochlear implant and auditory brainstem implant. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2023; 170:111584. [PMID: 37224736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2023.111584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Banu Baş
- Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Audiology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Esra Yücel
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Audiology, Ankara, Turkey
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12
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Parekh SA, Wren-Jarvis J, Lazerwitz M, Rowe MA, Powers R, Bourla I, Cai LT, Chu R, Trimarchi K, Garcia R, Marco EJ, Mukherjee P. Hemispheric lateralization of white matter microstructure in children and its potential role in sensory processing dysfunction. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1088052. [PMID: 37139524 PMCID: PMC10149818 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1088052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies have demonstrated white matter microstructural differences between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. However, the basis of these hemispheric asymmetries is not yet understood in terms of the biophysical properties of white matter microstructure, especially in children. There are reports of altered hemispheric white matter lateralization in ASD; however, this has not been studied in other related neurodevelopmental disorders such as sensory processing disorder (SPD). Firstly, we postulate that biophysical compartment modeling of diffusion MRI (dMRI), such as Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging (NODDI), can elucidate the hemispheric microstructural asymmetries observed from DTI in children with neurodevelopmental concerns. Secondly, we hypothesize that sensory over-responsivity (SOR), a common type of SPD, will show altered hemispheric lateralization relative to children without SOR. Eighty-seven children (29 females, 58 males), ages 8-12 years, presenting at a community-based neurodevelopmental clinic were enrolled, 48 with SOR and 39 without. Participants were evaluated using the Sensory Processing 3 Dimensions (SP3D). Whole brain 3 T multi-shell multiband dMRI (b = 0, 1,000, 2,500 s/mm2) was performed. Tract Based Spatial Statistics were used to extract DTI and NODDI metrics from 20 bilateral tracts of the Johns Hopkins University White-Matter Tractography Atlas and the lateralization Index (LI) was calculated for each left-right tract pair. With DTI metrics, 12 of 20 tracts were left lateralized for fractional anisotropy and 17/20 tracts were right lateralized for axial diffusivity. These hemispheric asymmetries could be explained by NODDI metrics, including neurite density index (18/20 tracts left lateralized), orientation dispersion index (15/20 tracts left lateralized) and free water fraction (16/20 tracts lateralized). Children with SOR served as a test case of the utility of studying LI in neurodevelopmental disorders. Our data demonstrated increased lateralization in several tracts for both DTI and NODDI metrics in children with SOR, which were distinct for males versus females, when compared to children without SOR. Biophysical properties from NODDI can explain the hemispheric lateralization of white matter microstructure in children. As a patient-specific ratio, the lateralization index can eliminate scanner-related and inter-individual sources of variability and thus potentially serve as a clinically useful imaging biomarker for neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalin A. Parekh
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jamie Wren-Jarvis
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Maia Lazerwitz
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, CA, United States
| | - Mikaela A. Rowe
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Rachel Powers
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, CA, United States
| | - Ioanna Bourla
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Lanya T. Cai
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Robyn Chu
- Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, CA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Pratik Mukherjee
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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13
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Ringold SM, McGuire RW, Jayashankar A, Kilroy E, Butera CD, Harrison L, Cermak SA, Aziz-Zadeh L. Sensory Modulation in Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder Compared to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Typically Developing Children. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12091171. [PMID: 36138908 PMCID: PMC9496992 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12091171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is one of the least studied and understood developmental disorders. One area that has been minimally investigated in DCD is potential issues with sensory modulation. Further, in other neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorder (ASD)) sensory modulation is related to many other challenges (e.g., social issues, repetitive behaviors, anxiety); however, such potential relationships in children with DCD have been largely unexplored. The purpose of this study is to explore sensory modulation differences in DCD and to understand the relationships between sensory modulation and social emotional measures, behavior, and motor skills in DCD in comparison to ASD and typically developing (TD) peers. Participants (aged 8–17) and their caregivers (DCD, N = 26; ASD, N = 57; and TD, N = 53) completed behavioral and clinical measures. The results indicated that 31% of the DCD group showed sensory modulation difficulties, with the DCD group falling between the ASD and TD groups. In the DCD group, sensory modulation was significantly associated with anxiety, empathic concern, repetitive behaviors, and motor skills. Data are compared to patterns seen in ASD and TD groups and implications for interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofronia M Ringold
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Riley W McGuire
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Aditya Jayashankar
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Emily Kilroy
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Christiana D Butera
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Laura Harrison
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Lisa Aziz-Zadeh
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Correspondence:
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14
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Xu M, Qi S, Calhoun V, Dai J, Yu B, Zhang K, Pei M, Li C, Wei Y, Jiang R, Zhi D, Huang Z, Qiu Z, Liang Z, Sui J. Aberrant brain functional and structural developments in MECP2 duplication rats. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 173:105838. [PMID: 35985556 PMCID: PMC9631682 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgenic animal models with homologous etiology provide a promising way to pursue the neurobiological substrates of the behavioral deficits in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Gain-of-function mutations of MECP2 cause MECP2 duplication syndrome, a severe neurological disorder with core symptoms of ASD. However, abnormal brain developments underlying the autistic-like behavioral deficits of MECP2 duplication syndrome are rarely investigated. To this end, a human MECP2 duplication (MECP2-DP) rat model was created by the bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic method. Functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with high-field were performed on 16 male MECP2-DP rats and 15 male wildtype rats at postnatal 28 days, 42 days, and 56 days old. Multimodal fusion analyses guided by locomotor-relevant metrics and social novelty time separately were applied to identify abnormal brain networks associated with diverse behavioral deficits induced by MECP2 duplication. Aberrant functional developments of a core network primarily composed of the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) and retrosplenial cortex (RSP) were detected to associate with diverse behavioral phenotypes in MECP2-DP rats. Altered developments of gray matter volume were detected in the hippocampus and thalamus. We conclude that gain-of-function mutations of MECP2 induce aberrant functional activities in the default-mode-like network and aberrant volumetric changes in the brain, resulting in autistic-like behavioral deficits. Our results gain critical insights into the biomarker of MECP2 duplication syndrome and the neurobiological underpinnings of the behavioral deficits in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Xu
- Brainnetome Center and National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Shile Qi
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 211106, China
| | - Vince Calhoun
- Tri-institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science (TReNDS), Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Jiankun Dai
- Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Bin Yu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Kaiwei Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Mengchao Pei
- Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Chenjian Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China; PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yusheng Wei
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China; PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Rongtao Jiang
- Brainnetome Center and National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Dongmei Zhi
- Brainnetome Center and National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Zhimin Huang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Peking University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China; PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Zilong Qiu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Zhifeng Liang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Jing Sui
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
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15
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Pan N, Auyeung B, Wang X, Lin LZ, Li HL, Zhan XL, Jin CK, Jing J, Li XH. Empathizing, systemizing, empathizing-systemizing difference and their association with autistic traits in children with autism spectrum disorder, with and without intellectual disability. Autism Res 2022; 15:1348-1357. [PMID: 35719032 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Empathizing, systemizing, and empathizing-systemizing difference can be linked to autistic traits in the general adult population and those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but these profiles and associations remain unclear in children with ASD, with and without intellectual disability (ASD + ID; ASD-noID). We recruited three groups including 160 boys with ASD (73 ASD + ID; 87 ASD-noID) and 99 typically developing (TD) boys (6-12 years). We measured empathizing, systemizing, and empathizing-systemizing difference using the parent-reported child Empathy and Systemizing Quotient (EQ-C/SQ-C). We measured autistic traits using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Among the three groups, children with ASD + ID and ASD-noID scored lower on the EQ-C and SQ-C than TD children (all p < 0.001). There was no difference in the EQ-C between children with ASD + ID and ASD-noID (16.59 ± 5.53 vs. 16.23 ± 5.85, p = 0.973), and the difference in the SQ-C attenuated to null when adjusting for intelligence between children with ASD-noID and TD children (18.89 ± 7.80 vs. 24.15 ± 6.73, p = 0.089). Children with ASD + ID scored higher on empathizing-systemizing difference than TD children but lower than children with ASD-noID (all p < 0.05). Negative associations between EQ-C and all autistic traits, null associations between SQ-C and all autistic traits, and positive associations between empathizing-systemizing difference and all autistic traits were found in all groups. We observed differences in empathizing, systemizing, and empathizing-systemizing difference and the consistency of their associations with autistic traits among the three groups. Our findings provide implication that behavioral interventions of ASD should consider the balance of empathizing and systemizing. LAY SUMMARY: We examined the profiles of empathizing, systemizing, and empathizing-systemizing difference in children with autism spectrum disorder, with and without intellectual disability (ASD + ID; ASD-noID), and typically developing (TD) children aged 6-12 years. We observed differences in these profiles and the consistency of their associations with autistic traits among the three groups. Empathizing and empathizing-systemizing difference, rather than systemizing, were associated with autistic traits within the three groups. Our findings provide implication that behavioral interventions of ASD should consider these imbalance profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Pan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bonnie Auyeung
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology, and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li-Zi Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hai-Lin Li
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Zhan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Cheng-Kai Jin
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jin Jing
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiu-Hong Li
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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16
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Kalingel-Levi M, Schreuer N, Granovsky Y, Bar-Shalita T, Weissman-Fogel I, Hoffman T, Gal E. “When I’m in Pain, Everything Is Overwhelming”: Implications of Pain in Adults With Autism on Their Daily Living and Participation. Front Psychol 2022; 13:911756. [PMID: 35774967 PMCID: PMC9237428 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.911756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain sensation in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been a growing research field in the last two decades. Existing pain research has focused on pain sensitivity, suggesting either hyposensitivity or hypersensitivity to pain in individuals with ASD. However, research about other aspects of pain experience is scarce. Moreover, most pain-related research in ASD focused on quantitative measures, such as neuroimaging or parental reports. Instead, this paper aimed to illuminate the various aspects of pain experience as perceived by adults with ASD. Its descriptive qualitative research design incorporated semi-structured interviews and deductive thematic analysis. This phenomenological approach captured the subjective pain experience through the lens of people with ASD. Four primary themes emerged from the data: (a) physical pain experience, including the sequence of pain sensitivity, pain awareness, pain-related emotional aspects, and pain communication; (b) direct and indirect coping strategies; (c) function and participation outcomes; and (d) suggestions for Healthcare Providers. The findings echo the crucial role of pain awareness and communication in the pain experience of people with ASD. These two factors have been reported as profoundly influencing coping strategies, function, and participation. The results emphasize the need to expand the exploration of pain in this population, calling for greater understanding, and listening to this population’s unique pain profiles and experiences to promote better-suited evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention in pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merry Kalingel-Levi
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- *Correspondence: Merry Kalingel-Levi,
| | - Naomi Schreuer
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yelena Granovsky
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Neurology, Rambam Health Care Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tami Bar-Shalita
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Irit Weissman-Fogel
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tseela Hoffman
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eynat Gal
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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17
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Chen YJ, Sideris J, Watson LR, Crais ER, Baranek GT. Developmental trajectories of sensory patterns from infancy to school age in a community sample and associations with autistic traits. Child Dev 2022; 93:e446-e459. [PMID: 35238019 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This prospective study examined the latent growth trajectories of sensory patterns among a North Carolina birth cohort (N = 1517; 49% boys, 87% White) across infancy (6-19 months), preschool (3-4 years), and school years (6-7 years). Change rates of sensory hyper- and hyporesponsiveness better differentiated children with an autism diagnosis or elevated autistic traits from those with other developmental conditions, including non-autistic children with sensory differences. More sensory hyper- and hyporesponsiveness at infancy followed by steeper increases differentially predicted more autistic traits at school age. Further, children of parents with higher education tended to show stable or improving trajectories. These findings highlight the importance of tracking sensory patterns from infancy for facilitating early identification of associated challenges and tailored support for families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ju Chen
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - John Sideris
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Linda R Watson
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Crais
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Grace T Baranek
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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18
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Abstract
Many individuals on the autism spectrum are hypersensitive to certain sensory stimuli. For this group, as well as for non-autistic individuals with sensory processing disorders, being exposed to e.g. fluorescent lights, perfume odours, and various sounds and noises can be real torment. In this article, I consider the normative implications of such offence for the design of office spaces, which is a topic that has not received any attention from philosophers. After identifying different ways in which the senses of hypersensitive workers might be protected within these spaces, I show that many of such accommodations can be made at reasonable cost, before arguing that doing so ought to be a legal requirement.
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19
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Schmidt MM, Glaser N. Piloting an adaptive skills virtual reality intervention for adults with autism: findings from user-centered formative design and evaluation. JOURNAL OF ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/jet-09-2020-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present evaluation findings from a proof-of-concept virtual reality adaptive skills intervention called Virtuoso, designed for adults with autism spectrum disorders.
Design/methodology/approach
A user-centric usage test was conducted to investigate the acceptability, feasibility, ease-of-use and relevance of Virtuoso to the unique needs of participants, as well as the nature of participants’ user experiences. Findings are presented from the perspectives of expert testers and participant testers with autism.
Findings
This paper offers findings that suggest Virtuoso is feasible and relevant to the unique needs of the target population, and that user experience was largely positive. Anecdotal evidence of skills transfer is also discussed.
Research limitations/implications
The research was conducted in limited settings and with a small number of participants. Multiple VR hardware systems were used, and some experienced instability. This could be accounted for in future research by deploying across multiple settings and with a larger number of participants. Some evidence of cybersickness was observed. Future research must carefully consider the trade-offs between VR-based training and cybersickness for this vulnerable population.
Originality/value
This paper reports on cutting-edge design and development in areas that are under-represented and poorly understood in the literature on virtual reality for individuals with autism.
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20
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Rossow T, MacLennan K, Tavassoli T. The relationship between sensory reactivity differences and mental health symptoms in preschool-age autistic children. Autism Res 2021; 14:1645-1657. [PMID: 33942995 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence for an association between sensory reactivity and mental health in autism. This study set out to explore the relationship between sensory reactivity and mental health in preschool-aged autistic children. In total 54 preschool-aged children with an Autism Spectrum Condition took part. Sensory and mental health symptoms were obtained from the Sensory Processing Scale Inventory, Sensory Assessment of Neurodevelopmental Differences and the Behavioral Assessment System for Children-3. Correlational analyses showed a relationship between sensory reactivity and mental health symptoms in autistic preschool-aged children. Results also indicate divergence in sensory-mental health profiles between autistic preschool-aged children who are verbal and those who use few to no words. For the first time this study has revealed a relationship between sensory hyper-reactivity, as well as sensory seeking, and mental health symptoms outside of anxiety in autism. Of note, this relationship between sensory hyper-reactivity and internalizing symptoms appears to be driven by those with few to no words. This has implications for both research and clinical interventions, in particular for our understanding of the factors underlying mental health symptoms in different autistic phenotypes, as well as the possible role of functional communication in mitigating the development of mental health symptoms. LAY SUMMARY: The present study found that in autistic preschoolers, externalizing mental health symptoms, such as hyperactivity, are related to sensory seeking (seeking out or being fascinated with sensory stimuli), and internalizing mental health symptoms, such as depression, are related to sensory hyper-reactivity (sensitivity to sensory stimuli). Our results also show that whilst the relationships between externalizing symptoms and sensory seeking is seen across participants, the relationship between internalizing symptoms and sensory hyper-reactivity was only seen in autistic preschoolers who used few to no words. This has important implications for the assessment of sensory differences as part of more rigorous mental health assessments, especially in autistic people who use few to no words.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Rossow
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Keren MacLennan
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Teresa Tavassoli
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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21
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Mulligan S, Douglas S, Armstrong C. Characteristics of Idiopathic Sensory Processing Disorder in Young Children. Front Integr Neurosci 2021; 15:647928. [PMID: 33994966 PMCID: PMC8113623 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2021.647928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study described the developmental and behavioral characteristics of children identified with idiopathic sensory processing disorder (SPD) as well as the relations among specific types of SPD as proposed by the nosology presented by Miller et al. (2007), adaptive behavior profiles, and behaviors associated with mental functioning. A retrospective, non-experimental design applying descriptive and correlational analyses was used. Data were obtained from clinic medical records of 78 children ages 2 to 7 years who were identified with sensory processing problems affecting daily life, but who did not meet criteria for any other neurodevelopmental or mental disorders following a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Results revealed that all SPD types as described by current typologies were well represented with the most common being the over-responsivity sensory modulation subtype. Within the sample, 53% of the children displayed more than one SPD type. Atypical externalizing and internalizing behavior scores associated with various mental disorders as measured by the child behavior checklist (CBCL) fell in the borderline dysfunctional range. Adaptive behavior for all developmental domains was below average, and the severity of SPD symptoms moderately and positively correlated with behaviors associated with mental disorders, and with lower adaptive behavior performance. It was concluded that symptoms characteristic of the various types of idiopathic SPD overlap substantially suggesting that current typologies may include more types/subtypes than are necessary or clinically useful. Children with SPD share similar, but often less severe pathological behaviors associated with other mental or related neurodevelopmental disorders. Psychometrically sound measures of SPD are needed, and further study of the neural mechanisms involved in sensory processing deficits is vital for validating idiopathic SPD as its own diagnostic entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Mulligan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
| | - Sarah Douglas
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
| | - Caitlin Armstrong
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
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22
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Miller LJ, Marco EJ, Chu RC, Camarata S. Editorial: Sensory Processing Across the Lifespan: A 25-Year Initiative to Understand Neurophysiology, Behaviors, and Treatment Effectiveness for Sensory Processing. Front Integr Neurosci 2021; 15:652218. [PMID: 33897385 PMCID: PMC8063042 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2021.652218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Jane Miller
- Department of Pediatrics (Emeritus), University of Colorado, Denver, CO, United States.,Sensory Therapies and Research Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder, Centennial, CO, United States
| | - Elysa J Marco
- Cortica (United States), San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Robyn C Chu
- Radiology & Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Growing Healthy Children Therapy Services, Rescue, CA, United States
| | - Stephen Camarata
- School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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23
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Contestabile A, Casarotto G, Girard B, Tzanoulinou S, Bellone C. Deconstructing the contribution of sensory cues in social approach. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:3199-3211. [PMID: 33751673 PMCID: PMC8251867 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Social interaction is a complex and highly conserved behavior that safeguards survival and reproductive success. Although considerable progress has been made regarding our understanding of same-sex conspecific and non-aggressive interactions, questions regarding the precise contribution of sensory cues in social approach and their specific neurobiological correlates remain open. Here, by designing a series of experiments with diverse social and object stimuli manipulations in custom-made enclosures, we first sought to deconstruct key elements of social preference as assessed by the three-chamber task. Our results highlight the importance of social olfactory cues in approach behavior. Subsequently, we interrogated whether a social odor would activate dopaminergic neurons of the Ventral Tegmental Area in the same way as a juvenile conspecific would. Employing in vivo recordings in freely behaving mice, we observed an increase of the firing only during the transition toward the juvenile mouse and not during the transition toward the object impregnated with social odor, suggesting that these two experiences are distinct and can be differentiated at the neuronal level. Moreover, using a four-choice task, we further showed that mice prefer to explore complex social stimuli compared to isolated sensory cues. Our findings offer insights toward understanding how different sensory modalities contribute to the neurobiological basis of social behavior which can be essential when studying social deficits observed in autism-, depression-, anxiety-, or schizophrenia-related mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Casarotto
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, CMU, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Benoit Girard
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, CMU, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stamatina Tzanoulinou
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, CMU, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Camilla Bellone
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, CMU, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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24
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Keating J, Gaffney R, Bramham J, Downes M. Sensory modulation difficulties and assessment in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/17405629.2021.1889502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Keating
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rebecca Gaffney
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jessica Bramham
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michelle Downes
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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25
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Narayan A, Rowe MA, Palacios EM, Wren-Jarvis J, Bourla I, Gerdes M, Brandes-Aitken A, Desai SS, Marco EJ, Mukherjee P. Altered Cerebellar White Matter in Sensory Processing Dysfunction Is Associated With Impaired Multisensory Integration and Attention. Front Psychol 2021; 11:618436. [PMID: 33613368 PMCID: PMC7888341 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.618436] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory processing dysfunction (SPD) is characterized by a behaviorally observed difference in the response to sensory information from the environment. While the cerebellum is involved in normal sensory processing, it has not yet been examined in SPD. Diffusion tensor imaging scans of children with SPD (n = 42) and typically developing controls (TDC; n = 39) were compared for fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), and axial diffusivity (AD) across the following cerebellar tracts: the middle cerebellar peduncles (MCP), superior cerebellar peduncles (SCP), and cerebral peduncles (CP). Compared to TDC, children with SPD show reduced microstructural integrity of the SCP and MCP, characterized by reduced FA and increased MD and RD, which correlates with abnormal auditory behavior, multisensory integration, and attention, but not tactile behavior or direct measures of auditory discrimination. In contradistinction, decreased CP microstructural integrity in SPD correlates with abnormal tactile and auditory behavior and direct measures of auditory discrimination, but not multisensory integration or attention. Hence, altered cerebellar white matter organization is associated with complex sensory behavior and attention in SPD, which prompts further consideration of diagnostic measures and treatments to better serve affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Narayan
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Mikaela A Rowe
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, CA, United States
| | - Eva M Palacios
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jamie Wren-Jarvis
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Ioanna Bourla
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Molly Gerdes
- Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, CA, United States
| | - Annie Brandes-Aitken
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Shivani S Desai
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Elysa J Marco
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, CA, United States
| | - Pratik Mukherjee
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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26
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Abstract
Autism is a highly heterogeneous condition, genetically and phenotypically. This diversity of causation and presentation has impeded its definition, recognition, assessment, and treatment. Current diagnostic criteria for autism involve two domains, restricted interests and repetitive behavior (RRBs) and social deficits, whose relationship remains unclear. I suggest that the large suite of traits associated with autism can be usefully conceptualized under the single rubric of "pattern," a term that connects autism with basic brain and cognitive functions and structures its phenotypes within a single theoretical framework. Autism thus involves increases and enhancements to pattern perception, pattern recognition, pattern maintenance, pattern generation, pattern processing, and pattern seeking. RRBs result from increased and imbalanced pattern-related perception and cognition, and social alterations result in part from the usual lack of clear pattern in social interactions, combined with the interference of RRBs with social development. This framework has strong implications for assessment of social and non-social autism-related traits, personalized therapy, and priorities for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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27
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Reda M, Meguid NA, Eid OM, Hussein F, Elalfy DY. Study of sensory processing deficits in autism spectrum disorder symptom triad: an Egyptian sample. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43045-020-00082-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders. In DSM-IV, the diagnostic criteria of autism consisted of three domains: impairment in social interaction, communication deficits, and stereotypic behavior, while in DSM-5 they were condensed into two domains: social communication deficits and restricted patterns of behavior to which sensory processing deficits (SPD) were added, manifested by hypo- or hyper-reactivity to sensory stimuli or uncommon interests in sensory aspects of the surrounding environment. The purpose of this study is to determine the relation between SPD and the symptom triad in ASD namely social interaction, communication deficits, and stereotypic behavior. To our knowledge, this issue was not studied before in Egyptian literature.
Results
There was a significant negative correlation between SPD (assessed by short sensory profile: SSP) and symptom triad in ASD. As regards social interaction, the ADI-R (A), there was significant negative correlation with the SSP total scores and all subscales except for low energy/weak and visual/auditory sensitivity, whereas under-responsive/seeks sensation held the highest negative correlation (p ˂ 0.008). As regards communication deficits, the ADI-R (B), there was significant negative correlation with the SSP total scores and the auditory filtering held the highest negative correlation (p ˂ 0.008), and as regards stereotypic behavior, the ADI-R (C), there was significant negative correlation with the SSP total scores and all subscales except for low energy/weak and visual/auditory sensitivity whereas taste/smell sensitivity and auditory filtering held the highest negative correlation (p ˂ 0.001). There was a high significant negative correlation between the severity of autistic symptoms (assessed by CARS) and the SSP total scores, and for all subscales (p ˂ 0.001) except for low energy/weak, the correlation was significant (not highly significant) (p ˂ 0.05). Finally, there was high percentage of parental consanguinity among the participants (80%).
Conclusions
SPD negatively affected the ASD symptom triad which highlights the importance of sensory integration therapy (SIT) as a major core of ASD treatment alongside the other treatment modalities. Early ASD screening is mandatory in families with parental consanguinity.
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McDonald TAM. The broader autism phenotype constellations-disability matrix paradigm: Theoretical model for autism and the broader autism phenotype. Med Hypotheses 2021; 146:110456. [PMID: 33412500 PMCID: PMC8216083 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.110456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism has increased dramatically over the last 60 years, and the cause of this increase is unclear. In this paradigm-shift paper, I propose an explanatory paradigm for the cause of autism and its increased prevalence in the general population. I also discuss how social and historical contexts may have influenced the evolution and manifestation of specific traits in the autism population. These traits expand the characterization of the broader autism phenotype to include a constellation of socially valued traits, termed Broader Autism Phenotype Constellations (BAPCO). The frequency of these traits may have increased due to assortative mating opportunities that occurred alongside social changes in education and occupational opportunities over the last 100 years. I propose that assortative mating can lead to both positive and negative developmental consequences affecting social and language development. I also propose that BAPCO traits, which are not intrinsically disabilities, could interact with co-occurring conditions in a new model called the BAPCO-Disability Matrix Paradigm (BAPCO-DMAP). In this paradigm, autism is located at the intersection of BAPCO traits and at least one co-occurring condition. These proposed models support the need to create a more comprehensive definition of autism that includes constellations of BAPCO traits. The BAPCO-DMAP paves the way to testable predictions of autism prevalence and provides a framework to better understand the foundational traits of autism. Finally, this paradigm radically redefines the broader autism phenotype with characteristics that can inform therapy and child development.
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29
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Cascia J, Barr JJ. Associations among parent and teacher ratings of systemizing, vocabulary and executive function in children with autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 106:103779. [PMID: 32947163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) show a heightened drive toward systemizing, which is the capability to analyze, or the drive to construct, a rule-based system. In addition, executive function deficits as well as diminished language capacity and vocabulary have been consistently demonstrated in individuals with ASD. The primary purpose of this study was to create a model to understand how these constructs interact in children with ASD. Forty-six children diagnosed with ASD along with their parents and teachers participated. All children completed standardized vocabulary testing. For each child, one parent and one teacher completed executive function and systemizing scales. For parents and teachers, systemizing was significantly associated with vocabulary. For parents, systematizing was significantly associated with all executive function subscales, however, for teachers, systemizing was only significantly associated with half of the executive function subscales. The mediation model indicated that the relationship between vocabulary and systemizing was fully mediated by executive function for parents but the model was not significant for teachers. This model demonstrates that systemizing, vocabulary and executive function should not be studied in isolation when attempting to understand the behaviors of children with ASD and can help us to better plan educational and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoAnne Cascia
- Kean University, School of Communication Disorders & Deafness, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ 07083, USA.
| | - Jason J Barr
- Rider University, College of Education & Human Services, 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, USA.
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30
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Atypical EEG Responses to Nonverbal Emotionally Charged Stimuli in Children with ASD. Behav Neurol 2020; 2020:2807946. [PMID: 33082881 PMCID: PMC7556070 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2807946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study focused on auditory emotional perception in children with low-functioning autism and investigated the children's response to emotionally charged nonverbal sounds which regularly induced emotional response in typically developing (TD) peers. An EEG was conducted, and emotional reactions were assessed using analog scales and images of presented sounds with additional images during the presentation of emotional stimuli. The results showed that EEG and emotional responses to the fearful sounds were similar in TD children and children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Both groups of children showed an increase in peak alpha frequency and power of alpha2-band and a decrease in low-frequency bands. Sounds of crying and laughter induced an atypical EEG response in children with ASD, with no change in alpha-band's power and frequency observed in them; this was contrary to the observation in TD children. The decrease in the fractal dimension detected in children with ASD only for sounds of crying and laughter correlated with the accuracy of assessment of these stimuli.
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31
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Hedger N, Dubey I, Chakrabarti B. Social orienting and social seeking behaviors in ASD. A meta analytic investigation. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 119:376-395. [PMID: 33069686 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Social motivation accounts of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) posit that individuals with ASD find social stimuli less rewarding than neurotypical (NT) individuals. Behaviorally, this is proposed to manifest in reduced social orienting (individuals with ASD direct less attention towards social stimuli) and reduced social seeking (individuals with ASD invest less effort to receive social stimuli). In two meta-analyses, involving data from over 6000 participants, we review the available behavioral studies that assess social orienting and social seeking behaviors in ASD. We found robust evidence for reduced social orienting in ASD, across a range of paradigms, demographic variables and stimulus contexts. The most robust predictor of this effect was interactive content - effects were larger when the stimulus involved an interaction between people. By contrast, the evidence for reduced social seeking indicated weaker evidence for group differences, observed only under specific experimental conditions. The insights gained from this meta-analysis can inform design of relevant task measures for social reward responsivity and promote directions for further study on the ASD phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Hedger
- Centre for Autism, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AL, UK.
| | - Indu Dubey
- School of Applied Social Sciences, De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester, LE1 9BH, UK
| | - Bhismadev Chakrabarti
- Centre for Autism, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AL, UK
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32
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Perryman T, Ricks L, Cash-Baskett L. Meaningful Transitions: Enhancing Clinician Roles in Transition Planning for Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders. Lang Speech Hear Serv Sch 2020; 51:899-913. [PMID: 32585119 DOI: 10.1044/2020_lshss-19-00048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this tutorial is to provide speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with foundational information that will assist them in transition planning for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on a review of current literature. SLPs must be knowledgeable of transition planning in order to assist students with ASD and their families with preparing for their future. An appreciation and awareness of pertinent assessments, functional goals, and factors associated with successful postsecondary outcomes are essential competencies that SLPs need when planning for the transition process. SLPs are ideal workforce development partners. They facilitate independence, communication, and interaction skills necessary for postsecondary and workplace success. Speech-language services are one of the most common special education services received by high school students with Individualized Education Programs. However, SLPs receive little preparation on the specifics or nuances of transition planning prior to working in the educational settings, despite the high incidence of speech-language services in secondary education. Method This tutorial reviews and synthesizes research findings related to assessment planning, goal-setting, and Individualized Education Program implementation for achieving meaningful postsecondary transitions for students with ASD. Additionally, it highlights some of the key postsecondary skillsets related to speech-language therapy services, including the development of self-determination, self-advocacy, social competence, and adaptive behaviors. Conclusion Greater focus on higher quality transition planning requires SLPs to develop high levels of knowledge and competencies in the transition planning process. This tutorial educates clinicians on the unique challenges faced by individuals with ASD and provides evidence-based strategies to help students and families successfully plan for and navigate postsecondary transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Twyla Perryman
- Department of Communication Sciences and Professional Counseling, University of West Georgia, Carrollton
| | - Lacey Ricks
- Department for Counselor Education and Family Studies, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA
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33
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Crasta JE, Salzinger E, Lin MH, Gavin WJ, Davies PL. Sensory Processing and Attention Profiles Among Children With Sensory Processing Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Integr Neurosci 2020; 14:22. [PMID: 32431600 PMCID: PMC7214749 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2020.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explores the differences in the profile of relationships between sensory processing and attention abilities among children with sensory processing disorder (SPD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and typically developing (TD) children. The Test of Everyday Attention for Children (TEA-Ch), a performance-based measure of attention, was administered to 69 children (TD: n = 24; SPD: n = 21; ASD: n = 24), ages 6-10 years. All participants' parents completed the Short Sensory Profile (SSP), a standardized parent-report measure of sensory-related behaviors. Discriminant analyses using the TEA-Ch and the SSP domains revealed two classification functions; the first revealed that both clinical groups significantly differed from the TD group with greater sensory processing challenges in the categories of auditory filtering, under-responsive/seeks sensation, low energy/weak, and taste/smell sensitivity subscales of the SSP. The second function discriminated between the two clinical groups, indicating that children with ASD had significantly greater control and sustained attention deficits and less sensory issues than did children with SPD. Together, the two functions correctly classified 76.8% of the participants as to their group membership. The different profiles of sensory processing and attention abilities in children with SPD and ASD may provide guidance in identifying appropriate individualized therapeutic strategies for these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jewel E. Crasta
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Occupational Therapy Division, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Emily Salzinger
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Mei-Heng Lin
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - William J. Gavin
- Department of Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Neuroscience, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Patricia L. Davies
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Department of Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Neuroscience, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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34
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Jager I, de Koning P, Bost T, Denys D, Vulink N. Misophonia: Phenomenology, comorbidity and demographics in a large sample. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231390. [PMID: 32294104 PMCID: PMC7159231 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Analyze a large sample with detailed clinical data of misophonia subjects in order to determine the psychiatric, somatic and psychological nature of the condition. Methods This observational study of 779 subjects with suspected misophonia was conducted from January 2013 to May 2017 at the outpatient-clinic of the Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, the Netherlands. We examined DSM-IV diagnoses, results of somatic examination (general screening and hearing tests), and 17 psychological questionnaires (e.g., SCL-90-R, WHOQoL). Results The diagnosis of misophonia was confirmed in 575 of 779 referred subjects (74%). In the sample of misophonia subjects (mean age, 34.17 [SD = 12.22] years; 399 women [69%]), 148 (26%) subjects had comorbid traits of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, 58 (10%) mood disorders, 31 (5%) attention-deficit (hyperactivity) disorder, and 14 (3%) autism spectrum conditions. Two percent reported tinnitus and 1% hyperacusis. In a random subgroup of 109 subjects we performed audiometry, and found unilateral hearing loss in 3 of them (3%). Clinical neurological examination and additional blood test showed no abnormalities. Psychological tests revealed perfectionism (97% CPQ>25) and neuroticism (stanine 7 NEO-PI-R). Quality of life was heavily impaired and associated with misophonia severity (rs (184) = -.34 p = < .001, p = < .001). Limitations This was a single site study, leading to possible selection–and confirmation bias, since AMC-criteria were used. Conclusions This study with 575 subjects is the largest misophonia sample ever described. Based on these results we propose a set of revised criteria useful to diagnose misophonia as a psychiatric disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Jager
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC (location AMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Pelle de Koning
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC (location AMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Bost
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Clinical and Experimental Audiology, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC (location AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Damiaan Denys
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC (location AMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Vulink
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC (location AMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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35
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Molholm S, Murphy JW, Bates J, Ridgway EM, Foxe JJ. Multisensory Audiovisual Processing in Children With a Sensory Processing Disorder (I): Behavioral and Electrophysiological Indices Under Speeded Response Conditions. Front Integr Neurosci 2020; 14:4. [PMID: 32116583 PMCID: PMC7026671 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2020.00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maladaptive reactivity to sensory inputs is commonly observed in neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism, ADHD). Little is known, however, about the underlying neural mechanisms. For some children, atypical sensory reactivity is the primary complaint, despite absence of another identifiable neurodevelopmental diagnosis. Studying Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) may well provide a window into the neuropathology of these symptoms. It has been proposed that a deficit in sensory integration underlies the SPD phenotype, but objective quantification of sensory integration is lacking. Here we used neural and behavioral measures of multisensory integration (MSI), which would be affected by impaired sensory integration and for which there are well accepted objective measures, to test whether failure to integrate across the senses is associated with atypical sensory reactivity in SPD. An autism group served to determine if observed differences were unique to SPD. Methods We tested whether children aged 6–16 years with SPD (N = 14) integrate multisensory inputs differently from age-matched typically developing controls (TD: N = 54), or from children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD: N = 44). Participants performed a simple reaction-time task to the occurrence of auditory, visual, and audiovisual stimuli presented in random order, while high-density recordings of electrical brain activity were made. Results Children with SPD showed large reductions in the extent to which they benefited from multisensory inputs compared to TDs. The ASD group showed similarly reduced response speeding to multisensory relative to unisensory inputs. Neural evidence for MSI was seen across all three groups, with the multisensory response differing from the sum of the unisensory responses. Post hoc tests suggested the possibility of enhanced MSI in SPD in timeframes consistent with cortical sensory registration (∼60 ms), followed by reduced MSI during a timeframe consistent with object formation (∼130 ms). The ASD group also showed reduced MSI in the later timeframe. Conclusion Children with SPD showed reduction in their ability to benefit from redundant audio-visual inputs, similar to children with ASD. Neurophysiological recordings, on the other hand, showed that major indices of MSI were largely intact, although post hoc testing pointed to periods of potential differential processing. While these exploratory electrophysiological observations point to potential sensory-perceptual differences in multisensory processing in SPD, it remains equally plausible at this stage that later attentional processing differences may yet prove responsible for the multisensory behavioral deficits uncovered here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Molholm
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.,Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicin, Bronx, NY, United States.,The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Jeremy W Murphy
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Juliana Bates
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Elizabeth M Ridgway
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - John J Foxe
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.,Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicin, Bronx, NY, United States.,The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
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36
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Ben-Sasson A, Gal E, Fluss R, Katz-Zetler N, Cermak SA. Update of a Meta-analysis of Sensory Symptoms in ASD: A New Decade of Research. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4974-4996. [PMID: 31501953 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04180-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis updated evidence regarding sensory over-responsivity (SOR), under-responsivity (SUR) and seeking symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) relative to typical controls and those with other conditions. Fifty-five questionnaire studies included 4606 individuals with ASD. Moderators tested were age, IQ, male ratio, matching group, and self-report. Compared to typical controls, effect size was large and significant for SOR, SUR, and Seeking but heterogeneous. For Seeking, age, IQ and self-report were significant moderators. Compared with developmental disorders (DDs) groups, effect size was significantly positive for SOR and Seeking; whereas compared with other clinical groups, only SOR was significant. These findings highlight the core nature of sensory symptoms in ASD and particularly SOR. Explanatory factors are yet to be revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayelet Ben-Sasson
- Occupational Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Eynat Gal
- Occupational Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ronen Fluss
- Biostatistics and Biomathematics Department, The Gertner Institute, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, 52621, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Neta Katz-Zetler
- Occupational Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of South California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP 133, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-900, USA
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Pohl AL, Crockford SK, Blakemore M, Allison C, Baron-Cohen S. A comparative study of autistic and non-autistic women's experience of motherhood. Mol Autism 2020; 11:3. [PMID: 31911826 PMCID: PMC6945630 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-019-0304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference and disability, yet there is limited research examining parenting in autistic mothers. Objective To explore autistic mothers' experience of the perinatal period and parenthood. This includes pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period, self-perception of parenting strengths and weaknesses, communication with professionals in relation to one's child, mental health difficulties and the social experience of motherhood. It also includes disclosing one's diagnosis of autism in parenting contexts. Methods We used a community-based participatory research model, and recruited an advisory panel, with whom we co-developed an anonymous, online survey for autistic mothers. The online survey was completed by autistic and non-autistic mothers, and we compared their responses using Chi-squared analysis. Sample Autistic mothers (n = 355), and non-autistic mothers (n = 132), each of whom had at least one autistic child, were included in our final analysis. Results There were differences in education, gender identity and age of mother at birth of first child. Autistic mothers were more likely to have experienced additional psychiatric conditions, including pre- or post-partum depression, and reported greater difficulties in areas such as multi-tasking, coping with domestic responsibilities and creating social opportunities for their child. They were also more likely to report feeling misunderstood by professionals, and reported greater anxiety, higher rates of selective mutism, and not knowing which details were appropriate to share with professionals. They were also more likely to find motherhood an isolating experience, to worry about others judging their parenting, or feel unable to turn to others for support in parenting. However, despite these challenges, autistic mothers were able to act in the best interest of their child, putting their child's needs first. Conclusions Autistic mothers face unique challenges and the stigma associated with autism may further exacerbate communication difficulties. Greater understanding and acceptance amongst individuals who interact with autistic mothers is needed, and autistic mothers would benefit from additional and better-tailored support.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Pohl
- 1Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge University, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - S K Crockford
- 1Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge University, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - M Blakemore
- Autism Asperger Advocacy Australia (A4), Sydney, Australia
| | - C Allison
- 1Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge University, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - S Baron-Cohen
- 1Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge University, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
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Song Y, Nie T, Shi W, Zhao X, Yang Y. Empathy Impairment in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Conditions From a Multidimensional Perspective: A Meta-Analysis. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1902. [PMID: 31649570 PMCID: PMC6794557 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although empathy has always been considered to be impaired in individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASCs), the relevant findings have been inconsistent. The present meta-analysis aims to determine which empathy components are impaired and how culture, gender, and age moderate such empathy impairment. Methods: By using “Autism,” “Asperger Syndrome,” “Empathy,” and related Chinese synonyms as keywords, we searched the databases of Weipu, Wanfang, CNKI, Web of Science, Science Direct, SpringerLink, and Elsevier through “subject” and “keyword” searches. We also conducted a manual search according to the references. In total, 51 studies from Eastern and Western countries were included in this meta-analysis, which comprised 144 independent effects, 2,095 individuals with ASCs and 2,869 controls without ASCs. For the retrieved data, Hedge's g was taken as the quantitative measure of effect, and CMA V2.0 software was used for publication bias tests (by using Rosenthal's Classic Failsafe-N and Egger's methods), heterogeneity tests (by using a Q-test, I2-test, and H-test) and a moderating effect test (by using a univariate regression model). Results: The results showed that the empathy impairment evident in individuals with ASCs is component specific; that is, trait-cognitive empathy, trait-empathic concern, state-cognitive empathy, and state-empathic concern are impaired, whereas state-empathic accuracy remains intact, and trait-empathic accuracy is superior to the trait-empathic accuracy in neurotypical individuals. The univariate regression model showed that gender moderates the impairment of the trait-empathic concern, trait-empathic accuracy, and state-cognitive empathy in autistic individuals and that age moderates the impairment of the trait-cognitive empathy, trait-empathic accuracy, state-empathic concern, and state-empathic accuracy in autistic individuals. However, culture does not moderate any empathy components (trait-cognitive empathy, trait-empathic concern, or state-cognitive empathy) involved in the present meta-analysis. Conclusions: These findings contribute to ending the controversy over the empathic integrity of individuals with ASCs and shed some light on future research about the empathy impairment of autistic individuals. More specifically, subsequent studies should distinguish specific empathy components and consider the role of gender and age when demonstrating empathy impairment in individuals with ASCs. Moreover, related studies based on Asian collectivist cultural samples and female samples should be further enriched.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youming Song
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Nie
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wendian Shi
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongyong Yang
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
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Crespi B, Dinsdale N. Autism and psychosis as diametrical disorders of embodiment. Evol Med Public Health 2019; 2019:121-138. [PMID: 31402979 PMCID: PMC6682708 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoz021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans have evolved an elaborate system of self-consciousness, self-identity, self-agency, and self-embodiment that is grounded in specific neurological structures including an expanded insula. Instantiation of the bodily self has been most-extensively studied via the 'rubber hand illusion', whereby parallel stimulation of a hidden true hand, and a viewed false hand, leads to the felt belief that the false hand is one's own. Autism and schizophrenia have both long been regarded as conditions centrally involving altered development of the self, but they have yet to be compared directly with regard to the self and embodiment. Here, we synthesize the embodied cognition literature for these and related conditions, and describe evidence that these two sets of disorders exhibit opposite susceptibilities from typical individuals to the rubber hand illusion: reduced on the autism spectrum and increased in schizophrenia and other psychotic-affective conditions. Moreover, the opposite illusion effects are mediated by a consilient set of associated phenomena, including empathy, interoception, anorexia risk and phenotypes, and patterns of genetic correlation. Taken together, these findings: (i) support the diametric model of autism and psychotic-affective disorders, (ii) implicate the adaptive human system of self-embodiment, and its neural bases, in neurodevelopmental disorders, and suggest new therapies and (iii) experimentally ground Bayesian predictive coding models with regard to autism compared with psychosis. Lay summary: Humans have evolved a highly developed sense of self and perception of one's own body. The 'rubber hand illusion' can be used to test individual variation in sense of self, relative to connection with others. We show that this illusion is reduced in autism spectrum disorders, and increased in psychotic and mood disorders. These findings have important implications for understanding and treatment of mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Natalie Dinsdale
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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40
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Harrison LA, Kats A, Williams ME, Aziz-Zadeh L. The Importance of Sensory Processing in Mental Health: A Proposed Addition to the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) and Suggestions for RDoC 2.0. Front Psychol 2019; 10:103. [PMID: 30804830 PMCID: PMC6370662 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The time is ripe to integrate burgeoning evidence of the important role of sensory and motor functioning in mental health within the National Institute of Mental Health's [NIMH] Research Domain Criteria [RDoC] framework (National Institute of Mental Health, n.d.a), a multi-dimensional method of characterizing mental functioning in health and disease across all neurobiological levels of analysis ranging from genetic to behavioral. As the importance of motor processing in psychopathology has been recognized (Bernard and Mittal, 2015; Garvey and Cuthbert, 2017; National Institute of Mental Health, 2019), here we focus on sensory processing. First, we review the current design of the RDoC matrix, noting sensory features missing despite their prevalence in multiple mental illnesses. We identify two missing classes of sensory symptoms that we widely define as (1) sensory processing, including sensory sensitivity and active sensing, and (2) domains of perceptual signaling, including interoception and proprioception, which are currently absent or underdeveloped in the perception construct of the cognitive systems domain. Then, we describe the neurobiological basis of these psychological constructs and examine why these sensory features are important for understanding psychopathology. Where appropriate, we examine links between sensory processing and the domains currently included in the RDoC matrix. Throughout, we emphasize how the addition of these sensory features to the RDoC matrix is important for understanding a range of mental health disorders. We conclude with the suggestion that a separate sensation and perception domain can enhance the current RDoC framework, while discussing what we see as important principles and promising directions for the future development and use of the RDoC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Harrison
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Anastasiya Kats
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Marian E. Williams
- Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Lisa Aziz-Zadeh
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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41
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Sapey-Triomphe LA, Lamberton F, Sonié S, Mattout J, Schmitz C. Tactile hypersensitivity and GABA concentration in the sensorimotor cortex of adults with autism. Autism Res 2019; 12:562-575. [PMID: 30632707 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sensory hypersensitivity is frequently encountered in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) has been hypothesized to play a role in tactile hypersensitivity. The aim of the present study was twofold. First, as a study showed that children with ASD have decreased GABA concentrations in the sensorimotor cortex, we aimed at determining whether the GABA reduction remained in adults with ASD. For this purpose, we used magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure GABA concentration in the sensorimotor cortex of neurotypical adults (n = 19) and ASD adults (n = 18). Second, we aimed at characterizing correlations between GABA concentration and tactile hypersensitivity in ASD. GABA concentration in the sensorimotor cortex of adults with ASD was lower than in neurotypical adults (decrease by 17%). Interestingly, GABA concentrations were positively correlated with self-reported tactile hypersensitivity in adults with ASD (r = 0.50, P = 0.01), but not in neurotypical adults. In addition, GABA concentrations were negatively correlated with the intra-individual variation during threshold measurement, both in neurotypical adults (r = -0.47, P = 0.04) and in adults with ASD (r = -0.59, P = 0.01). In other words, in both groups, the higher the GABA level, the more precise the tactile sensation. These results highlight the key role of GABA in tactile sensitivity, and suggest that atypical GABA modulation contributes to tactile hypersensitivity in ASD. We discuss the hypothesis that hypersensitivity in ASD could be due to suboptimal predictions about sensations. Autism Research 2019, 12: 562-575. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience tactile hypersensitivity. Here, our goal was to highlight a link between tactile hypersensitivity and the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) (an inhibitory neurotransmitter) in the brain of adults with ASD. Indeed, self-reported hypersensitivity correlated with reduced GABA levels in brain areas processing touch. Our study suggests that this neurotransmitter may play a key role in tactile hypersensitivity in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie-Anne Sapey-Triomphe
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Brain Dynamics and Cognition Team, INSERM UMRS 1028, CNRS UMR 5292, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, F-69000, Lyon, France.,Laboratory of Experimental Psychology, Department of Brain and Cognition, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Franck Lamberton
- SFR East Lyon Health, CNRS UMS 3453, INSERM US7, Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France.,CERMEP, Imagerie du Vivant, Lyon, France
| | - Sandrine Sonié
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Brain Dynamics and Cognition Team, INSERM UMRS 1028, CNRS UMR 5292, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, F-69000, Lyon, France.,Centre de Ressource Autisme Rhône-Alpes, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,Hôpital Saint-Jean-de-Dieu, Lyon, France
| | - Jérémie Mattout
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Brain Dynamics and Cognition Team, INSERM UMRS 1028, CNRS UMR 5292, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, F-69000, Lyon, France
| | - Christina Schmitz
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Brain Dynamics and Cognition Team, INSERM UMRS 1028, CNRS UMR 5292, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, F-69000, Lyon, France
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42
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Williams ZJ, Failla MD, Gotham KO, Woynaroski TG, Cascio C. Psychometric Evaluation of the Short Sensory Profile in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:4231-4249. [PMID: 30019274 PMCID: PMC6219913 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3678-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Short Sensory Profile (SSP) is one of the most commonly used measures of sensory features in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but psychometric studies in this population are limited. Using confirmatory factor analysis, we evaluated the structural validity of the SSP subscales in ASD children. Confirmatory factor models exhibited poor fit, and a follow-up exploratory factor analysis suggested a 9-factor structure that only replicated three of the seven original subscales. Secondary analyses suggest that while reliable, the SSP total score is substantially biased by individual differences on dimensions other than the general factor. Overall, our findings discourage the use of the SSP total score and most subscale scores in children with ASD. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J Williams
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA.
| | - Michelle D Failla
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA
| | - Katherine O Gotham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Tiffany G Woynaroski
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Carissa Cascio
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
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Dellapiazza F, Vernhet C, Blanc N, Miot S, Schmidt R, Baghdadli A. Links between sensory processing, adaptive behaviours, and attention in children with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. Psychiatry Res 2018; 270:78-88. [PMID: 30245380 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atypical sensory processing has been described in autism spectrum disorder. The goal of this systematic review is to investigate the links between sensory processing, adaptive behaviours, and attention skills in children with autism spectrum disorder. The PRISMA guidelines were followed and a search was conducted using electronic databases: Medline, PsychInfo and Eric. Among the 11 studies about sensory processing that were selected, 7 investigated the association with adaptive behaviours and 5 with attention. Atypical sensory processing was reported in 82% to 97% of the participants with ASD, depending on the study. This review found a significant impact of sensory abnormalities on adaptive behaviour. In addition, we found interrelations between sensory processing and attention skills. However, the current literature is too limited to definitively conclude the direction of these interactions and the theories concerning perceptive functioning are conflicting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florine Dellapiazza
- Centre Ressources Autisme, CHU, F-34000 Montpellier, France; Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Univ. Montpellier, EPSYLON EA 4556, 34000, Montpellier, France; Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, UMR1178, INSERM, Paris, France.
| | - Christelle Vernhet
- Centre Ressources Autisme, CHU, F-34000 Montpellier, France; Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Univ. Montpellier, EPSYLON EA 4556, 34000, Montpellier, France; Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, UMR1178, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Blanc
- Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Univ. Montpellier, EPSYLON EA 4556, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Stéphanie Miot
- Centre Ressources Autisme, CHU, F-34000 Montpellier, France; Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, UMR1178, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Richard Schmidt
- Department of Psychology, College of the Holy Cross,Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Amaria Baghdadli
- Centre Ressources Autisme, CHU, F-34000 Montpellier, France; Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, UMR1178, INSERM, Paris, France; Université de Médecine Montpellier, France
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Trzmiel T, Purandare B, Michalak M, Zasadzka E, Pawlaczyk M. Equine assisted activities and therapies in children with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and a meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2018; 42:104-113. [PMID: 30670226 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The multifactorial nature of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the reason why complementary and alternative methods of treatment are sought in order to support the classic approach. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) in ASD patients based on a review of the literature. METHODS A review of the literature and a meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PUBMED, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov and PEDro databases were searched until July 20, 2017. Only articles published in English, in a journal with a review process, after 1999, with a control group or presentation of comparative pre-/post-therapy results in ASD patients, and clear inclusion/exclusion criteria were considered. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies (QATQS).The meta-analysis of three studies was conducted. RESULTS A total of 15 studies with 390 participants (aged: 3-16 years) were included. The interaction between psychosocial functioning and EAAT was investigated in most studies. Improvement was reported in the following domains: socialization, engagement, maladaptive behaviors, and shorter reaction time in problem-solving situations after EAAT. The meta-analysis revealed no statistically significant differences for the investigated effects. CONCLUSIONS Despite the need for further, more standardized research, the results of the studies included in this review allow us to conclude that EAAT may be a useful form of therapy in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Trzmiel
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland.
| | - Barbara Purandare
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
| | - Michał Michalak
- Department of Computer Science and Statistics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
| | - Ewa Zasadzka
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
| | - Mariola Pawlaczyk
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
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45
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Castelhano-Souza M, Mendes IAC, Martins JCA, Trevizan MA, Souza-Júnior VD, Godoy SD. Semantic validation of the short versions of the Empathy-Systemizing Quotient Scales. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2018; 26:e3044. [PMID: 30328972 PMCID: PMC6201707 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.2606.3044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to perform the semantic validation of the short versions of the Empathy-Systemizing Quotient Scales, intended to measure the empathetic and systemizing profiles of individuals. The scales originated in Cambridge and were validated in Portugal, and were assessed for their psychometric properties. METHOD methodological study included the scales' semantic validation (content validity) and verification of their psychometric properties (internal consistency). Five judges participated in the semantic validation. The Content Validity Index was calculated, a pretest was conducted with 18 undergraduate nursing students, and, finally, the scales were applied to a sample. RESULTS the sample was composed of 215 undergraduate nursing students, 186 (86.51%) of whom were women aged 21 years old, on average. The scales presented good internal consistency with global Cronbach's alphas equal to 0.83 and 0.79 for the Empathy Quotient and the Systemizing Quotient, respectively. Correlations between the scales and subscales of the Empathy Quotient and Systemizing Quotient were all positive and significant according to the Pearson correlation coefficient. CONCLUSION the scales are reliable and valid to measure the empathetic and systemizing profile of undergraduate nursing students and the final version was named "versões curtas das Escalas de Medição do Quociente de Empatia/Sistematização - Brasil" [short versions of the Empathy-Systemizing Quotient Scales - Brazil].
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella Castelhano-Souza
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Isabel Amélia Costa Mendes
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Auxiliadora Trevizan
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Valtuir Duarte Souza-Júnior
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.,Fundação Hemominas, Hemocentro Regional de Uberaba, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Simone de Godoy
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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46
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Hamilton A, Pelphrey K. Sensory and social features of autism - can they be integrated? Dev Cogn Neurosci 2018; 29:1-3. [PMID: 29563025 PMCID: PMC6987863 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2018.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Pelphrey
- Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders Institute, The George Washington University & Children's National Health System
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