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Vasconcelos C, Schweigert Perry I, Gottfried C, Riesgo R, Castro K. Folic acid and autism: updated evidences. Nutr Neurosci 2024:1-35. [PMID: 38968136 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2024.2367855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that impairs communication, socialization, and behavior. The association of ASD with folic acid has been investigated due to the importance of this vitamin for neurological health. This study is an update of the publication 'Folic acid and autism: What do we know?' and aims to systematically review studies examining the relationship between folic acid and ASD. The search resulted in 2,389 studies on folic acid and ASD, which were selected by two reviewers based on their titles and abstracts. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were fully read. The 52 included studies involved 10,429 individuals diagnosed with ASD and assessed the intake of vitamin B6, folic acid, and vitamin B12; serum levels of these vitamins, homocysteine, and methionine; therapeutic interventions using folic acid; and the association between maternal exposure to this vitamin and the risk of ASD. The evidence of insufficient folic acid intake in most individuals with ASD remains consistent in this update. No association was found between maternal exposure to folic acid and the risk of ASD in their children. Despite observed improvements in communication, socialization, and behavior in individuals with ASD following folic acid interventions, it is crucial to consider the individuality and complexity of ASD. Given the relevance of the topic, there remains a need for more high-quality research and clinical trials characterized by rigorous methodological designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane Vasconcelos
- Postgraduate Program in Child and Adolescent Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ingrid Schweigert Perry
- Food and Nutrition Research Center (CESAN), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Carmem Gottfried
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorders-GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology on Neuroimmunomodulation (INCT-NIM), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Autism Wellbeing And Research Development (AWARD) Initiative, BR-UK- CA, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rudimar Riesgo
- Postgraduate Program in Child and Adolescent Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorders-GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Kamila Castro
- Postgraduate Program in Child and Adolescent Health, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Food and Nutrition Research Center (CESAN), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorders-GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Wikarska A, Roszak K, Roszek K. Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Purinergic Signaling in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Bridging the Gap between Cell-Based Strategies and Neuro-Immune Modulation. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1310. [PMID: 38927517 PMCID: PMC11201695 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is still increasing, which means that this neurodevelopmental lifelong pathology requires special scientific attention and efforts focused on developing novel therapeutic approaches. It has become increasingly evident that neuroinflammation and dysregulation of neuro-immune cross-talk are specific hallmarks of ASD, offering the possibility to treat these disorders by factors modulating neuro-immunological interactions. Mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy has already been postulated as one of the therapeutic approaches for ASD; however, less is known about the molecular mechanisms of stem cell influence. One of the possibilities, although still underestimated, is the paracrine purinergic activity of MSCs, by which stem cells ameliorate inflammatory reactions. Modulation of adenosine signaling may help restore neurotransmitter balance, reduce neuroinflammation, and improve overall brain function in individuals with ASD. In our review article, we present a novel insight into purinergic signaling, including but not limited to the adenosinergic pathway and its role in neuroinflammation and neuro-immune cross-talk modulation. We anticipate that by achieving a greater understanding of the purinergic signaling contribution to ASD and related disorders, novel therapeutic strategies may be devised for patients with autism in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Katarzyna Roszek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (A.W.); (K.R.)
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Mahmoudian M, Lorigooini Z, Rahimi-Madiseh M, Shabani S, Amini-Khoei H. Protective effects of rosmarinic acid against autistic-like behaviors in a mouse model of maternal separation stress: behavioral and molecular amendments. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03143-2. [PMID: 38730077 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03143-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with worldwide increasing incidence. Maternal separation (MS) stress at the beginning of life with its own neuroendocrine changes can provide the basis for development of ASD. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a phenolic compound with a protective effect in neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of RA on autistic-like behaviors in maternally separated mice focusing on its possible effects on neuroimmune response and nitrite levels in the hippocampus. In this study, 40 mice were randomly divided into five groups of control (received normal saline (1 ml/kg)) and MS that were treated with normal saline (1 ml/kg) or doses of 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg RA, respectively, for 14 days. Three-chamber sociability, shuttle box, and marble burying tests were used to investigate autistic-like behaviors. Nitrite level and gene expression of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, TLR4, and iNOS were assessed in the hippocampus. The results showed that RA significantly increased the social preference and social novelty indexes, as well as attenuated impaired passive avoidance memory and the occurrence of repetitive and obsessive behaviors in the MS mice. RA reduced the nitrite level and gene expression of inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus. RA, probably via attenuation of the nitrite level as well as of the neuroimmune response in the hippocampus, mitigated autistic-like behaviors in maternally separated mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maziar Mahmoudian
- Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Zahra Lorigooini
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammad Rahimi-Madiseh
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Sahreh Shabani
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Hossein Amini-Khoei
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
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Punatar R, Angkustsiri K, Kair LR, Tancredi DJ, Harvey DJ, Schmidt RJ. Association of Breastfeeding Duration with Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in an Enriched Familial Likelihood Cohort for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024:10.1007/s10578-024-01700-7. [PMID: 38658455 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-024-01700-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the breastfeeding (BF) duration of the younger siblings of children with ASD in an enriched-likelihood cohort for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and to determine whether longer BF duration was associated with differences in neurodevelopmental outcomes in this cohort. Information on BF practices was collected via surveys in the MARBLES (Markers of Autism Risk in Babies-Learning Early Signs) study. Developmental evaluations, including the Mullen Scales of Early Learning and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, were conducted by expert clinicians. Participants' neurodevelopmental outcome was classified by an algorithm into three groups: typical development, ASD, and non-typical development. The median duration of BF was 10.70 months (interquartile range of 12.07 months). There were no significant differences in the distribution of duration of BF among the three neurodevelopmental outcome categories. Children in this enriched-likelihood cohort who were breastfed for > 12 months had significantly higher scores on cognitive testing compared to those who were breastfed for 0-3 months. There was no significant difference in ASD symptomatology or ASD risk based on BF duration.
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Grants
- P50HD103256 (Abbeduto) Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorder (MIND) Institute's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC) funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- P50HD103256 (Abbeduto) Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorder (MIND) Institute's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC) funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- P50HD103256 (Abbeduto) Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorder (MIND) Institute's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC) funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- P50HD103256 (Abbeduto) Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorder (MIND) Institute's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC) funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- T77MC25733 (Angkustsiri) Maternal Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Grant
- T77MC25733 (Angkustsiri) Maternal Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Grant
- R-833292 (Pessah) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- 863967 (Schmidt) Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI)
- R01ES020392 (Hertz-Picciotto) National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
- R01ES020392 (Hertz-Picciotto) National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
- UL1 TR001860 (PI Theodore Wun, MD) National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Office of Research on Women's Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, and the National Institute on Aging and by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health
- UL1 TR001860 (PI Theodore Wun, MD) National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Office of Research on Women's Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, and the National Institute on Aging and by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health
- K12 HD051958, PI Nancy Lane, MD Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women's Health award
- K12 HD051958, PI Nancy Lane, MD Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women's Health award
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Punatar
- Division of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
- UC Davis MIND (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Kathleen Angkustsiri
- Division of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
- UC Davis MIND (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Laura R Kair
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Daniel J Tancredi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Danielle J Harvey
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Med Sci 1C, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Rebecca J Schmidt
- UC Davis MIND (Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Med Sci 1C, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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5
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Li H, Dang Y, Yan Y. Serum interleukin-17 A and homocysteine levels in children with autism. BMC Neurosci 2024; 25:17. [PMID: 38475688 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-024-00860-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that typically emerges early in childhood. This study aimed to explore the potential link between serum levels of vitamin B12 and homocysteine (Hcy) and the severity of ASD symptoms in children. METHODS In this study, 50 children diagnosed with ASD comprised the observation group, while 50 healthy children constituted the control group. Serum levels of IL-17 A, Hcy, folate, and vitamin B12 were compared between the study group and control group, as well as among children with different degrees of ASD severity. The correlation between the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) score and serum levels of IL-17 A, Hcy, folate, and vitamin B12 was examined. Additionally, the relationship between serum IL-17 A and Hcy levels and their association with the severity ASD were explored. RESULTS Compared to the control group, the observation group demonstrated elevated serum Hcy and IL-17 A levels alongside decreased folate and vitamin B12 levels. Individuals with severe ASD exhibited higher Hcy and IL-17 A levels but lower folate and vitamin B12 levels compared to those with mild to moderate ASD. The CARS score showed negative correlations with serum folate and vitamin B12 levels and positive correlations with serum IL-17 A and Hcy levels in ASD patients. Additionally, serum Hcy and IL-17 A levels were correlated with ASD severity. CONCLUSION Children diagnosed with ASD presented with reduced serum vitamin B12 levels and increased levels of Hcy, potentially contributing to the onset and severity of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Child Health Care, Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital, 710061, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yunhao Dang
- Xi'an Mental Health Center, Department of Children and adolescents Psychology, 710061, Xi'an, China
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Child Health Care, Xi'an Central Hospital, 710004, Xi'an, China
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Zhang P, Wang X, Xu Y, Zhao X, Zhang X, Zhao Z, Wang H, Xiong Z. Association between interpregnancy interval and risk of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:1209-1221. [PMID: 38085281 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05364-8] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Although the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been reported to be associated with interpregnancy intervals (IPIs), their association remains debatable due to inconsistent findings in existing studies. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore their association. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically retrieved up to May 25, 2022. An updated search was performed on May 25, 2023, to encompass recent studies. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Our primary outcome measures were expressed as adjusted odds ratios (ORs). Given various control measures for IPI and diverse IPI thresholds in the included studies, a Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed. Eight studies were included, involving 24,865 children with ASD and 2,890,289 children without ASD. Compared to an IPI of 24 to 35 months, various IPIs were significantly associated with a higher risk of ASD (IPIs < 6 months: OR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.53-1.74, n = 5; IPIs of 6-11 months: OR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.42-1.59, n = 4; IPIs of 12-23 months: OR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.12-1.23, n = 10; IPIs of 36-59 months: OR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.99, n = 2; IPIs of 60-119 months: OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.20, n = 4; IPIs > 120 months: OR = 1.57, 95% CI 1.43-1.72, n = 4). After adjusting confounding variables, our analysis delineated a U-shaped restricted cubic spline curve, underscoring that both substantially short (< 24 months) and excessively long IPIs (> 72 months) are significantly correlated with an increased risk of ASD. Conclusion: Our analysis indicates that both shorter and longer IPIs might predispose children to a higher risk of ASD. Optimal childbearing health and neurodevelopmental outcomes appear to be associated with a moderate IPI, specifically between 36 and 60 months. What is Known: • An association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and interpregnancy intervals (IPIs) has been speculated in some reports. • This association remains debatable due to inconsistent findings in available studies. What is New: • Our study delineated a U-shaped restricted cubic spline curve, suggesting that both shorter and longer IPIs predispose children to a higher risk of ASD. • Optimal childbearing health and neurodevelopmental outcomes appear to be associated with a moderate IPI, specifically between 36 and 60 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhang
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yufen Xu
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhao
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Zhonggui Xiong
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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Costa ADA, Almeida MTC, Maia FA, Rezende LFD, Saeger VSDA, Oliveira SLN, Mangabeira GL, Silveira MF. Maternal and paternal licit and illicit drug use, smoking and drinking and autism spectrum disorder. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2024; 29:e01942023. [PMID: 38324818 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232024292.01942023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between maternal and paternal licit and illicit drug use, smoking and drinking and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We conducted a case-control study with children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD and neurotypical individuals. The data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire administered during interviews with the children's mothers or guardians. The following variables were analyzed: child sex and age; maternal and parental age; use of medicines before and during pregnancy; classes of medicines used during pregnancy; maternal and paternal smoking; maternal and paternal drinking; maternal and paternal illicit drug use. The data were analyzed using logistic regression and crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR). After adjustment, the results showed an association between maternal use of antipyretics/pain killers during pregnancy (OR = 2.26; 95%CI 1.29-3.95; p < 0.040) and ASD. No association was found between maternal and paternal smoking, drinking and illicit drug use before and during pregnancy and ASD. The findings suggest that the development of ASD is influenced by environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda de Andrade Costa
- Superintendência Regional de Saúde de Montes Claros. R. Corrêa Machado 1333, Vila Santa Maria. 39400-090 Montes Claros MG Brasil.
| | - Maria Tereza Carvalho Almeida
- Departamento de Fisiopatologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros. Montes Claros MG Brasil
| | - Fernanda Alves Maia
- Departamento de Fisiopatologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros. Montes Claros MG Brasil
| | - Luiz Fernando de Rezende
- Departamento de Fisiopatologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros. Montes Claros MG Brasil
| | | | - Steffany Lara Nunes Oliveira
- Comviver - Núcleo de Desenvolvimento, Pesquisa e Inclusão. Montes Claros MG Brasil
- Faculdades FUNORTE. Montes Claros MG Brasil
| | | | - Marise Fagundes Silveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Cuidados Primários de Saúde, Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros. Montes Claros MG Brasil
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Hu X, Wang B, Chen J, Han D, Wu J. Association Between Epidural Labor Analgesia and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Offspring: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pain Res 2024; 17:227-240. [PMID: 38230204 PMCID: PMC10790590 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s442298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Many studies have focused on the association between Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and epidural labor analgesia (ELA), which is the most effective way to manage labor pain. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to summarize the current state of the association between ELA and ASD. Methods A search of the literature yielded 201 relevant studies, of which 7 cohort studies met our inclusion criteria. Two independent reviewers screened the inclusion results, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias and quality of evidence. Results Compared to parturient who did not receive ELA, parturient who received ELA had a slightly increased risk of ASD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.17; I2, 69%; P < 0.001; seven studies). After excluding one literature (aHR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.06-1.12; I2, 4%; P < 0.001; six studies). The sensitivity analyses had consistent outcomes with the main analyses involving siblings (aHR 1.11; 95% CI 1.03-1.19), cesarean section and instrumental deliveries (aHR 1.07; 95% CI 1.03-1.10), non-overlapping populations (aHR 1.09; 95% CI 1.05-1.12), full-term birth populations (aHR 1.10; 95% CI 1.06-1.14), and studies assessed to have moderate risk of bias (aHR 1.09; 95% CI 1.02-1.16). Conclusion This meta-analysis revealed a modest positive association between ELA and ASD, acknowledging a slight potential risk. However, it is important to note that this risk cannot be completely dismissed due to the possibility of bias and this association is based on low-quality evidence. Future studies are required to assess and mitigate different confounding biases and investigate the time-dose-response relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Beibei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dong Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
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Maleki M, Noorimotlagh Z, Mirzaee SA, Jaafarzadeh N, Martinez SS, Rahim F, Kaffashian M. An updated systematic review on the maternal exposure to environmental pesticides and involved mechanisms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) progression risk in children. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 38:727-740. [PMID: 36126654 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) increased dramatically over the past 25 years because of genetic and environmental factors. This systematic review (SR) aimed to determine the association between maternal exposure during pregnancy to environmental pesticides and other associations with the risk of ASD progression in children. PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus (Elsevier) and the Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) Web of Science were searched using appropriate keywords up to March 2021. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were selected. Most studies reported that ASD increases the risk of offspring after prenatal exposure to environmental pesticides in pregnant mother's residences, against offspring of women from the same region without this exposure. The main potential mechanisms inducing ASD progressions are ROS and prostaglandin E2 synthesis, AChE inhibition, voltage-gated sodium channel disruption, and GABA inhibition. According to the included studies, the highest rates of ASD diagnosis increased relative to organophosphates, and the application of the most common pesticides near residences might enhance the prevalence of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Maleki
- Department of Physiology Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Zahra Noorimotlagh
- Health and Environment Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Seyyed Abbas Mirzaee
- Health and Environment Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Neemat Jaafarzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Ahvaz jundishapour University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Susana Silva Martinez
- Centro de Investigación en Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Av. Universidad, Cuernavaca, MOR, Mexico
| | - Fakher Rahim
- Health Research Institute, Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies Research Centre, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Kaffashian
- Department of Physiology Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
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Botsas G, Koidou E, Chatzinikolaou K, Grouios G. Environmental Influences on Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorders with Special Emphasis on Seasonality: An Overview. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1851. [PMID: 38136053 PMCID: PMC10742301 DOI: 10.3390/children10121851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
This paper offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationship between environmental factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with a special emphasis on seasonality. It reviews existing research, providing a comprehensive summary of findings and highlighting the multifaceted dimensions of several environmental factors influencing the etiology of ASD. The discussion encompasses various elements, including birth months, maternal health, dietary choices, and vitamin D deficiency, delving into the intricate interplay of seasonality with environmental influences such as viral infections and solar radiation. The present study raises essential questions regarding the timing of environmental influences and the factors contributing to the rising prevalence of ASD. Ultimately, it underscores the need for future epidemiological research to incorporate more extensive investigations of environmental risk factors and employ advanced statistical analyses. This comprehensive overview contributes to a deeper understanding of how environmental factors, particularly seasonality, may be linked to the occurrence of ASD and its increasing prevalence, recognizing the multifaceted and diverse nature of these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Botsas
- Department of Early Childhood and Care, School of Social Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Education, School of Education and Social Sciences, Frederick University, 3080 Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Eirini Koidou
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Chatzinikolaou
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
| | - George Grouios
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
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Fleet BG, Elliott A, Orwin M, Spencer M, Sedda L. Autism trends in a medium size coastal town of England. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287808. [PMID: 37390060 PMCID: PMC10313016 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex set of neurodevelopmental conditions which affects just under 1% of the global population. This study aims to investigate the trends in ASD diagnoses in a typical English deprived coastal community over the last two decades. ASD information for patients registered at Fleetwood GP practices were provided for the period between July 1952 to March 2022. The incidence and prevalence were calculated and Poisson regression modelling was employed to estimate the effects of age and sex on the number of ASD diagnoses over time. The study shows that there has been an upward trend in the number of ASD diagnoses over the past two decades. Model's results showed that sex differences in ASD diagnoses are less pronounced when accounting for time trends. The study findings show that Fleetwood has experienced a similar rise in ASD cases as the rest of the UK, most likely due to increased awareness that may explain the time effects over gender differences. However, due to the small sample size of the study, confirmation of the gender results and identification of the factors determining the temporal trends are needed in order to determine the gender effects in ASD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin G. Fleet
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Medicine and Surgery MBChB Student at Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Alicia Elliott
- NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Lancashire Business Park, Leyland, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret Orwin
- NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit, Lancashire Business Park, Leyland, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Spencer
- Healthier Fleetwood, Health & Wellbeing Centre, Fleetwood, United Kingdom
| | - Luigi Sedda
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster Ecology and Epidemiology Group, Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Modrzejewska M, Bosy-Gąsior W. The Use of Optical Coherence Tomography and Electrophysiological Tests in the Early Diagnosis of Inflammatory Changes in the CNS in children with ASD-A Review of Contemporary Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3591. [PMID: 36834288 PMCID: PMC9964154 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This article is a review of the contemporary literature on the possibility of using modern ophthalmological diagnostics, such as optical coherence tomography and electrophysiological tests, in the assessment of changes in eyesight correlating with inflammatory changes in the central nervous system (CNS) as one of the risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders in children with ASD. A significant role is attributed to the activation of nerve and glial cells, as well as inflammatory changes in the brain, both of which can be of great importance in regard to an autism development predisposition. This fact indicates the possibility of using certain ophthalmic markers to depict an early correlation between the CNS and its outermost layer, i.e., the retina. A comprehensive ophthalmological assessment, and above all, characteristic changes in the functional function of photoreceptors and disorders of the structures of the retina or optic nerve fibers found in the latest OCT or ERG tests may in the future become diagnostic tools, further confirming the early characteristics of autism in children and adolescents. The above information, therefore, emphasizes the importance of cooperation between specialists in improving the diagnosis and treatment of children with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Modrzejewska
- 2nd Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Wiktoria Bosy-Gąsior
- Scientific Association of Students 2nd Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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Silva VAR, Pauna HF, Lavinsky J, Hyppolito MA, Vianna MF, Leal M, Massuda ET, Hamerschmidt R, Bahmad F, Cal RV, Sampaio ALL, Felix F, Chone CT, Castilho AM. Task force Guideline of Brazilian Society of Otology ‒ hearing loss in children - Part I ‒ Evaluation. Braz J Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 89:159-189. [PMID: 36529647 PMCID: PMC9874360 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide an overview of the main evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis of hearing loss in children and adolescents aged 0 to 18 years. METHODS Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on childhood hearing loss were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. RESULTS The evaluation and diagnosis of hearing loss: universal newborn hearing screening, laboratory testing, congenital infections (especially cytomegalovirus), genetic testing and main syndromes, radiologic imaging studies, vestibular assessment of children with hearing loss, auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and noise-induced hearing loss. CONCLUSIONS Every child with suspected hearing loss has the right to diagnosis and appropriate treatment if necessary. This task force considers 5 essential rights: (1) Otolaryngologist consultation; (2) Speech assessment and therapy; (3) Diagnostic tests; (4) Treatment; (5) Ophthalmologist consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vagner Antonio Rodrigues Silva
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp), Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | - Henrique Furlan Pauna
- Hospital Universitário Cajuru, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Joel Lavinsky
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Departamento de Cirurgia, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Miguel Angelo Hyppolito
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Oftalmologia, Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Melissa Ferreira Vianna
- Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Leal
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Departamento de Cirurgia, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Tanaka Massuda
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Oftalmologia, Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rogério Hamerschmidt
- Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Hospital de Clínicas, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Fayez Bahmad
- Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brazil; Instituto Brasiliense de Otorrinolaringologia (IBO), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Renato Valério Cal
- Centro Universitário do Estado do Pará (CESUPA), Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - André Luiz Lopes Sampaio
- Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Faculdade de Medicina, Laboratório de Ensino e Pesquisa em Otorrinolaringologia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Felippe Felix
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho (HUCFF), Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos Takahiro Chone
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp), Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Arthur Menino Castilho
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp), Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Grivas G, Frye RE, Hahn J. Maternal risk factors vary between subpopulations of children with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2022; 15:2038-2055. [PMID: 36065595 PMCID: PMC9637779 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2809] [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: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Previous work identified three subgroups of children with ASD based upon co-occurring conditions (COCs) diagnosed during the first 5 years of life. This work examines prenatal risk factors, given by maternal medical claims, for each of the three subgroups: children with a High-Prevalence of COCs, children with mainly developmental delay and seizures (DD/Seizure COCs), and children with a Low-Prevalence of COCs. While some risk factors are shared by all three subgroups, the majority of the factors identified for each subgroup were unique; infections, anti-inflammatory and other complex medications were associated with the High-Prevalence COCs group; immune deregulatory conditions such as asthma and joint disorders were associated with the DD/Seizure COCs group; and overall pregnancy complications were associated with the Low-Prevalence COCs group. Thus, we have found that the previously identified subgroups of children with ASD have distinct associated prenatal risk factors. As such, this work supports subgrouping children with ASD based upon COCs, which may provide a framework for elucidating some of the heterogeneity associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Grivas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- OptumLabs Visiting Fellow, OptumsLabs, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344, United States
| | - Richard E. Frye
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona 85004, United States
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona 85016, United States
| | - Juergen Hahn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
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Chen VCH, Wu SI, Lin CF, Lu ML, Chen YL, Stewart R. Association of Prenatal Exposure to Benzodiazepines With Development of Autism Spectrum and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2243282. [PMID: 36413366 PMCID: PMC9682429 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.43282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Prenatal exposure to benzodiazepines is reported to be associated with neurodevelopmental disorders among children, but associations of maternal genetic confounding with neurodevelopmental disorders among children have not been taken into consideration. OBJECTIVE To ascertain whether prenatal benzodiazepine exposure was associated with development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study used linked data from birth certificate registration and the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2017, on 1 138 732 mothers with 1 516 846 live births between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2017. Data were analyzed between February 20, 2021, and September 19, 2022. EXPOSURE Benzodiazepine exposure during pregnancy (first trimester to third trimester) was defined as having at least one benzodiazepine prescription dispensed. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The main outcomes were ADHD and ASD. RESULTS There were 1 516 846 children (mean [SD] gestational age, 38.5 [1.8] years; 789 455 boys [52.0%]) born full term who were younger than 14 years of age and followed up to 2017; 5.0% of the children (n = 76 411) were exposed to a benzodiazepine during pregnancy. Benzodiazepine exposure during pregnancy was associated with increased risks of ADHD (first trimester exposure: hazard ratio [HR], 1.24 [95% CI, 1.20-1.28]; second trimester exposure: HR, 1.27 [95% CI, 1.21-1.34]; third trimester exposure: HR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.14-1.37]) and ASD (first trimester exposure: HR, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.05-1.21]; second trimester exposure: HR, 1.10 [95% CI, 0.98-1.22]; third trimester exposure: HR, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.00-1.47]). However, no differences were found with unexposed sibling controls during the same time frame for ADHD (first trimester exposure: HR, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.83-1.00]; second trimester exposure: HR, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.78-1.01]; third trimester exposure: HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.83-1.41]) or ASD (first trimester exposure: HR, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.75-1.14]; second trimester exposure: HR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.71-1.33]; third trimester exposure: HR, 1.07 [95% CI, 0.53-2.16]). Similar findings were also noted in the stratification analysis of short-acting and long-acting benzodiazepines. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This cohort study suggests that previously described adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes associated with benzodiazepine exposure during pregnancy were likely to be accounted for by maternal genetic confounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Chin-Hung Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shu-I Wu
- Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chiao-Fan Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Mong-Liang Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Wan-Fang Hospital & School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Lung Chen
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Robert Stewart
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kindgom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Jordan S, Bromley R, Damase-Michel C, Given J, Komninou S, Loane M, Marfell N, Dolk H. Breastfeeding, pregnancy, medicines, neurodevelopment, and population databases: the information desert. Int Breastfeed J 2022; 17:55. [PMID: 35915474 PMCID: PMC9343220 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-022-00494-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pharmacoepidemiology of the long-term benefits and harms of medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding has received little attention. The impact of maternal medicines on children is increasingly recognised as a source of avoidable harm. The focus of attention has expanded from congenital anomalies to include less visible, but equally important, outcomes, including cognition, neurodevelopmental disorders, educational performance, and childhood ill-health. Breastfeeding, whether as a source of medicine exposure, a mitigator of adverse effects or as an outcome, has been all but ignored in pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacovigilance: a significant ‘blind spot’. Whole-population data on breastfeeding: why we need them Optimal child development and maternal health necessitate breastfeeding, yet little information exists to guide families regarding the safety of medicine use during lactation. Breastfeeding initiation or success may be altered by medicine use, and breastfeeding may obscure the true relationship between medicine exposure during pregnancy and developmental outcomes. Absent or poorly standardised recording of breastfeeding in most population databases hampers analysis and understanding of the complex relationships between medicine, pregnancy, breastfeeding and infant and maternal health. The purpose of this paper is to present the arguments for breastfeeding to be included alongside medicine use and neurodevelopmental outcomes in whole-population database investigations of the harms and benefits of medicines during pregnancy, the puerperium and postnatal period. We review: 1) the current situation, 2) how these complexities might be accommodated in pharmacoepidemiological models, using antidepressants and antiepileptics as examples; 3) the challenges in obtaining comprehensive data. Conclusions The scarcity of whole-population data and the complexities of the inter-relationships between breastfeeding, medicines, co-exposures and infant outcomes are significant barriers to full characterisation of the benefits and harms of medicines during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This makes it difficult to answer the questions: ‘is it safe to breastfeed whilst taking this medicine’, and ‘will this medicine interfere with breastfeeding and/ or infants’ development’?
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue Jordan
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK.
| | - Rebecca Bromley
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Christine Damase-Michel
- Faculté de Médecine, Center for Epidemiology and Research in POPulation Health (CERPOP), Université Toulouse III, CHU Toulouse INSERM, Pharmacologie Médicale, Toulouse, France
| | - Joanne Given
- Faculty Life & Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Co Antrim, Newtownabbey, N Ireland, UK
| | - Sophia Komninou
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Maria Loane
- Faculty Life & Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Co Antrim, Newtownabbey, N Ireland, UK
| | - Naomi Marfell
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Helen Dolk
- Faculty Life & Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Co Antrim, Newtownabbey, N Ireland, UK
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Chahboun S, Stenseng F, Page AG. The changing faces of autism: The fluctuating international diagnostic criteria and the resulting inclusion and exclusion-A Norwegian perspective. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:787893. [PMID: 35966490 PMCID: PMC9365987 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.787893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The common understanding of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has gone through a number of permutations since the first description in 1943. Throughout these shifting understandings, there have been a number of behaviors and diagnostic criteria associated with the condition, many of which are missing in the most recent classifications. The rates of diagnoses of autism have increased greatly. However, there is no reason to think there has been any change in occurrence over the last 70 years, suggesting rather an increase in our knowledge and awareness. Autism has been the subject of several misapprehensions and misrepresentations throughout history. This might be due to heterogeneity of the cases. In addition, the diagnosing of autism spectrum disorders is mainly based on observation and behavioral interpretation, and thus dependent on subjective perceptions of the clinicians themselves. This current scoping review article intends to provide a view on the evolution of the concept of autism and the current stance within Norwegian scholarship, and how it is shaped by international discourses and cultural diversities Such changing concepts especially impacts people with the diagnosis, as it can affect their access to social services, as well as their self-identification as people with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sobh Chahboun
- Department of Pedagogy, Queen Maud University College, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Education and Lifelong Learning, The Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Frode Stenseng
- Department of Pedagogy, Queen Maud University College, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Education and Lifelong Learning, The Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Alexander G. Page
- Department of Social Work, The Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- ARENA, Centre for European Studies, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Wilde VK. Neonatal Jaundice and Autism: Precautionary Principle Invocation Overdue. Cureus 2022; 14:e22512. [PMID: 35228983 PMCID: PMC8873319 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.22512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Comparative Study on the Exacerbating Effects of Casein-Rich vs. Gluten-Rich Diets on Biochemical-Induced Features in Rodent Model of Autism. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:359-371. [PMID: 35028884 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01950-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In relation to dietary intervention in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), certain food constituents especially gluten and casein are recognized to be challenging and should be restricted. In this study, levels of glutathione S-transferase, glutathione, lipid peroxides, serotonin (5-HT), interleukin-6 (IL-6), glutamate, and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) were measured in the brain homogenates of ASD rodent model. Rats were treated either with single dose clindamycin (30 mg/kg) or with propionic acid (PPA) (250 mg/kg) for 3 days and then fed a standard diet, casein-rich diet (CRD), or gluten-rich diet (GRD). The obtained data demonstrates that clindamycin and PPA induced oxidative stress, which was slightly affected by CRD. A marked increase in the proinflammatory cytokine (IL-6) concentration found in clindamycin- and PPA-treated groups was lower in CRD fed rats. Both CRDs and GRDs produced similar trends in glutamate levels. 5-HT levels were higher in the clindamycin- and PPA-treated groups and increased with a GRD but were less affected by a CRD. CRD could be less deleterious compared to GRD. Although the underlying cause of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with ASD is not exactly known, the most widely accepted one is the opioid theory which is related to GRD and CRD.
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-a case-control study to investigate the prenatal, perinatal and neonatal factors in Indian Population. BRAIN DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dscb.2021.100024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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21
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Qutranji L, Alkayyali T, Alkhateeb W, Sapmaz A, Aleter A, Almoustafa A, Aci Z, Hammad A, Nakhala A, Altunc U. Evaluation of the Relationship Between Environmental Factors, Nutrition, and Metabolic Changes in Children Diagnosed With Autism in North Cyprus: A Case-Control Study. Cureus 2021; 13:e17016. [PMID: 34522497 PMCID: PMC8425496 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficits in social behaviors and nonverbal interactions. The disorder is believed to be multifactorial regarding etiopathology. This study aimed to investigate the possible risk factors associated with the development of autism in the prenatal and postnatal periods. Methods We conducted an unmatched case-control study composed of 56 autistic cases and 85 control children in North Cyprus. Cases recruited were previously diagnosed by a pediatric psychiatrist as being on the autistic spectrum. Parental questionnaires were distributed, and the collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). Binary logistic regression was used to compute the adjusted odds ratios (aOR), adjusted for possible confounders. Results Our results showed increased odds of developing ASD in mothers with mental disorders such as depression and anxiety (aOR 6.99; 95% CI 1.94 - 25.24), mothers with medical conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (aOR 2.68; 95% CI 1.06 - 6.78), mothers using aluminum-containing anti-acids (aOR 2.34; 95% CI 1.012 - 5.39), mothers exposed to loud noises during pregnancy (aOR 2.66; 95% CI 1.005 - 7.034), mothers with ≥ two previous miscarriages (aOR 4.19; 95% CI 1.17 -14.97), neonates with birth weight <2500 grams (aOR 4.19; 95% CI 1.16 - 14.84), male gender neonates (aOR 3.26; 95% CI 1.31 - 8.90), and neonates exposed to MRI or CT scan during the first year of life (aOR 6.94; 95% CI 1.15 - 42.07). Decreased odds of ASD development were observed in mothers using multivitamins during pregnancy (aOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.13 - 0.97), mothers consuming slight amounts of baking powder during pregnancy (aOR 0.235; 95% CI 0.09 - 0.60), mothers with threatened abortion (aOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.12 - 0.98), and neonates taking iron supplementation during the first six months of life (aOR 0.38; 95% 0.16 - 0.91). Conclusion There were various maternal and neonatal factors associated with ASD development in North Cyprus. Although there is some evidence to suggest that exposure to specific factors during prenatal or postnatal periods may increase the risk of ASD, there is insufficient evidence that implicates a specific factor for autism etiology. Future studies are recommended to be performed on larger scales to support further the factors associated with ASD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubna Qutranji
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Tasnim Alkayyali
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Wasef Alkhateeb
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Aybuke Sapmaz
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Ahmad Aleter
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Ahmad Almoustafa
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Zeynep Aci
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Amer Hammad
- Pediatrics, Eastern Mediterranean University, Faculty of Medicine, Famagusta, CYP
| | - Amr Nakhala
- Internal Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, EGY
| | - Umut Altunc
- Pediatrics, Famagusta State Hospital, Famagusta, CYP
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22
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Abstract
This article describes the current understanding of the identification, classification, and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as it relates to the practice of primary care providers. In addition, the most updated information regarding risk factors, as well as effective treatment strategies are provided. Although primary care providers are not typically the experts in ASD treatment, they constitute a critical component of the care team responsible for early identification and intervention initiation for patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Iles
- 215 Central Avenue Suite 100, Louisville, KY 40208, USA.
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23
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Traver S, Geoffray MM, Mazières L, Geneviève D, Michelon C, Picot MC, Baghdadli A. Association between prenatal and perinatal factors and the severity of clinical presentation of children with ASD: Report from the ELENA COHORT. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 137:634-642. [PMID: 33187690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have suggested that prenatal and perinatal factors increase the risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, few reports have addressed the question of their influence on the severity of the clinical presentation of children with ASD. Our objective was to determine the prenatal and perinatal factors that are associated with the severity of autistic symptoms and intellectual and adaptive functioning deficits. Data were collected from a subset of 169 children with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD, recruited from the ELENA cohort. A risk of premature delivery was associated, with an increased risk for severe autistic symptoms and placental pathologies and birth complications were associated with an increased risk of communication adaptive deficits, in multivariate analysis. Our results highlight the importance of systematic screening for these pre/perinatal factors, especially in mothers at risk of having a child with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Traver
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Maude Geoffray
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France
| | - Lucile Mazières
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - David Geneviève
- Département of Medical Genetics, CHRU de Montpellier, France
| | - Cécile Michelon
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Amaria Baghdadli
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France; U1178, INSERM, Research Center in Epidemiology and Population Health, Villejuif, France.
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24
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Vertical transmission of gut microbiota: Points of action of environmental factors influencing brain development. Neurosci Res 2020; 168:83-94. [PMID: 33309866 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Environmental factors in early life interact with genetics to exert a long-lasting and broad influence on health and disease. There has been a marked growth in the number of environmental factors studied in association with neurodevelopmental disorders. Colonization of the gut microbiota in the offspring uses the maternal resident flora as a primary source of bacteria during perinatal periods. Several lines of evidence have shown that various environmental factors including the mode of delivery, exposure to antibiotics, infection, stress, diet, quality of breast milk, and type of infant-feeding during the perinatal periods can perturb the gut microbiota colonization in the offspring, finally leading to disturbances in brain development. This study proposes that the gut microbiota seeded primarily by maternal microbiota, and the postnatal colonization of the microbiota in the offspring can be critical action points of environmental factors when deciphering the mechanisms of actions of environmental factors in brain development. This research reviews the inheritance and colonization of the microbiota during early life and the potential actions of the environmental factors influencing brain development in the offspring by modulating the vertical transmission of gut microbiota.
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25
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Margari L, Marzulli L, Gabellone A, de Giambattista C. Eating and Mealtime Behaviors in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current Perspectives. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:2083-2102. [PMID: 32982247 PMCID: PMC7504729 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s224779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social and communication skills and repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Children and adolescents with ASD are more likely to present feeding problems than their typically developing peers are. The present narrative review of literature aims to highlight the most recent evidence about epidemiology and presentations of eating and mealtime behavioral abnormalities in ASD from infancy to adolescence. Abnormalities in breastfeeding and acceptance of complementary foods have been described by most of the studies evaluating ASD early feeding history. Among the various eating and mealtime behaviors identified in ASD children and adolescents, the most common was food selectivity. The present review also provides brief overviews of the various aspects of food that may influence food acceptance by ASD patients and of the correlation between eating problems and ASD core symptoms, as well as with cognitive level, language skills, and family environment. However, studies evaluating eating problems in ASD children and adolescents are very heterogeneous and they show methodological differences. Moreover, the absence of unique definitions of eating and mealtime behaviors in ASD further limits the comparability of studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Margari
- Child Neuropsychiatric Unit, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Child Neuropsychiatric Unit, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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26
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Dimnjakovic J, Poljicanin T, Svajda M. Breastfeeding: A standard or an intervention? Review of systematic reviews. Med Hypotheses 2020; 141:109737. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.109737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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27
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Hirokawa K, Kimura T, Ikehara S, Honjo K, Ueda K, Sato T, Iso H. Associations Between Broader Autism Phenotype and Dietary Intake: A Cross-Sectional Study (Japan Environment & Children's Study). J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2698-2709. [PMID: 31997059 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04380-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate associations of dietary intake including vitamin D, folate, and n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in pregnant women with broad autism phenotype (BAP). The Japan Environment and Children's Study is a government-funded birth cohort study. All complete data of 92,011 were analyzed. The Japanese version of the Autism Spectrum Quotient was used to assess mothers' BAP level, and a food frequency questionnaire was used to estimate their dietary intake. Mothers with BAP consumed less vegetables, fruits, and fish and shellfish, and they consumed lower folate, vitamin C, vitamin D, and n-3 PUFA than their counterparts. Dietary intervention should be considered for pregnant women with high BAP scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumi Hirokawa
- Department of Nursing, Baika Women's University, 2-19-5 Shukunosho, Ibaraki, Osaka, 567-8578, Japan. .,Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Takashi Kimura
- Department of Public Health, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Satoyo Ikehara
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kaori Honjo
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Social and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kimiko Ueda
- Osaka Maternal and Child Health Information Center, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Izumi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takuyo Sato
- Osaka Maternal and Child Health Information Center, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Izumi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Iso
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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28
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Bozzatello P, Rocca P, Mantelli E, Bellino S. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: What is Their Role in Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5257. [PMID: 31652770 PMCID: PMC6862261 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the central nervous system omega-3 fatty acids modulate cell signaling and affect dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways. On this basis, a new application for omega-3 fatty acids has been proposed, concerning the treatment of several psychiatric disorders. The present article is an update of a previous systematic review and is aimed to provide a complete report of data published in the period between 1980 and 2019 on efficacy and tolerability of omega-3 fatty acids in psychiatric disorders. In July 2019, an electronic search on PUBMED, Medline and PsychINFO of all RCTs, systematic reviews and meta-analyses on omega-3 fatty acids and psychiatric disorders without any filter or MESH restriction was performed. After eligibility processes, the final number of records included in this review was 126. One hundred and two of these studies were RCTs, while 24 were reviews and meta-analyses. The role of omega-3 fatty acids was studied in schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorder and borderline personality disorder. The main evidence of the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids has been obtained in treating depressive symptoms in patients with major depression and, to a lesser degree, bipolar depression. Some efficacy was also found in early phases of schizophrenia in addition to antipsychotic treatment, but not in the chronic phases of psychosis. Small beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids were observed in ADHD and positive results were reported in a few trials on core symptoms of borderline personality disorder. For other psychiatric disorders results are inconsistent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Bozzatello
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Paola Rocca
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Mantelli
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10125 Turin, Italy.
| | - Silvio Bellino
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10125 Turin, Italy.
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