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Hirai M, Asada K, Kato T, Ikeda T, Hakuno Y, Ikeda A, Matsushima K, Awaya T, Okazaki S, Kato T, Funabiki Y, Murai T, Heike T, Hagiwara M, Yamagata T, Tomiwa K, Kimura R. Comparison of the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 among Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Williams Syndrome in Japan. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:3176-3184. [PMID: 36167887 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05740-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the similarities/differences between the social phenotypes of Williams syndrome (WS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As cultural norms may affect symptom evaluation, this study administered the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 to Japanese individuals with WS (n = 78, 4.4-44.0 years) and ASD (n = 75, 4.7-55.4 years). The scores for Social Motivation and Social Communication were significantly more severe in the ASD than WS group. Overall, the similarities and differences between the social phenotypes of the syndromes were consistent with the findings of a recent study conducted in the UK, except for the social awareness subscale score. This highlights the importance of cross-cultural investigations of WS and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Hirai
- Department of Cognitive and Psychological Sciences, Graduate School of Informatics, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, 464-8601, Nagoya, Japan.
- Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
| | - Kosuke Asada
- Faculty of Sociology, Toyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeo Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Shiga Medical Center for Children, Moriyama, Shiga, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ikeda
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yoko Hakuno
- Global Research Institute, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayaka Ikeda
- Department of Psychology, Senshu University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kanae Matsushima
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomonari Awaya
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shin Okazaki
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kato
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasuko Funabiki
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Science, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshiya Murai
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshio Heike
- Department of Pediatrics, Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center, Amagasaki, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Hagiwara
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | | | - Ryo Kimura
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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2
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Willfors C, Borg J, Kleberg JL, Hallman A, Van Der Poll M, Lundin Remnélius K, Björlin Avdic H, Bölte S, Nordgren A. Symptoms of autism in Williams syndrome: a transdiagnostic approach. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17583. [PMID: 39080307 PMCID: PMC11289373 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68089-0] [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: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Williams syndrome (WS) is associated with atypical social communication and cognition reminiscent of the behaviours observed in autism. Nonetheless, WS also differs significantly from autism, such as regarding social motivation, which is typically enhanced in WS and reduced in autism. This study sought to examine the conditions' transdiagnostic similarities and differences for autistic symptoms and social functioning, and their developmental trajectories, by comparing individuals with WS (n = 24) and those diagnosed with idiopathic autism (n = 24) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; n = 24), aged 9 to 53 years, on measures of autism, social functioning, IQ and cooccurring psychiatric conditions. Although only 12.5% in the WS group met the criteria for an autism diagnosis, a majority exhibited distinct difficulties within social communication, social cognition, repetitive behaviours, and atypical sensory reactivity resembling autism. Conversely, elevated social motivation and a high number of social initiatives accompany these characteristics. No group differences in the developmental trajectories of autism symptoms were found. Our results demonstrate that autistic behaviours are more frequent in individuals with WS, than in individuals with idiopathic ADHD, and emphasize the need for clinical management of these behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Willfors
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Karolinska University Laboratory, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Jacqueline Borg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Cognitive and Computational Neuropsychiatry, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Neuropsychiatry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Lundin Kleberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Astrid Hallman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marcus Van Der Poll
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karl Lundin Remnélius
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Björlin Avdic
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sven Bölte
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
- Curtin Autism Research Group, Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Ann Nordgren
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Karolinska University Laboratory, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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3
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Thom RP. Psychiatric and behavioral manifestations of Williams syndrome. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2024; 37:65-70. [PMID: 38085853 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to synthesize recent advances in the psychiatric and behavioral manifestations of Williams syndrome, a rare genetic syndrome. Recent advances have focused on more deeply characterizing the social phenotype and developing social skill interventions, improving the assessment and treatment of anxiety, and exploring eating behaviors. RECENT FINDINGS The social cognitive phenotype in Williams syndrome, which consists of both high social drive and social cognition deficits, is present cross-culturally and may be related to reduced eye gaze. Social skills training for adults with Williams syndrome has demonstrated promise. Adapted exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy programs for children and adults respectively, have been piloted in Williams syndrome. The majority of adults with Williams syndrome are either underweight or overweight, and problematic food-related behaviors likely contribute to bodyweight status. SUMMARY Williams syndrome is associated with a number of core social and psychiatric difficulties which have a significant impact on functioning and quality of life. Recent work has begun to utilize a more nuanced understanding of the clinical presentations of these problems to develop interventions tailored to this unique population. However, larger trials, particularly those inclusive of a more diverse Williams syndrome population, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn P Thom
- Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington
- Massachusetts General Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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4
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Hirai M, Ikeda A, Kato T, Ikeda T, Asada K, Hakuno Y, Matsushima K, Awaya T, Okazaki S, Kato T, Heike T, Hagiwara M, Yamagata T, Tomiwa K, Kimura R. Comparison of the Sensory Profile Among Autistic Individuals and Individuals with Williams Syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-023-06205-1. [PMID: 38281276 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06205-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE With the current study, we aimed to reveal the similarities and differences in sensory profiles between Williams syndrome (WS) and autism spectrum disorder. METHODS Using the sensory profile questionnaire completed by the caregivers, we analyzed the WS (n = 60, 3.4-19.8 years) and autistic (n = 39, 4.2-14.0 years) groups. RESULTS The Severity Analysis revealed a significant group difference in Sensory Sensitivity but not in Low Registration, Sensation Seeking, and Sensation Avoiding subscales. Age can modulate the subscale scores differently across groups. For Sensation Seeking, the scores of both groups decreased with development. However, the scores of Sensory Sensitivity decreased with age in the autistic group but not in the WS group. Sensation Avoiding scores increased with development in the WS group but not in the autistic group. No significant developmental changes were observed in Low Registration. CONCLUSION This study highlights the cross-syndrome similarities and differences in sensory profiles and developmental changes in autistic individuals and individuals with WS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Hirai
- Department of Cognitive and Psychological Sciences, Graduate School of Informatics, Nagoya University, Furo- cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
- Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan.
| | - Ayaka Ikeda
- Department of Psychology, Senshu University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takeo Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Shiga Medical Center for Children, Shiga, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ikeda
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kosuke Asada
- Faculty of Sociology, Toyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Hakuno
- Global Research Institute, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanae Matsushima
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomonari Awaya
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shin Okazaki
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kato
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toshio Heike
- Department of Pediatrics, Hyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical Center, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Hagiwara
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | | | - Ryo Kimura
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Diez-Itza E, Llona F, Martínez V. Early Communicative Development in Williams Syndrome: A Longitudinal Case Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1900. [PMID: 38136102 PMCID: PMC10741446 DOI: 10.3390/children10121900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with Williams Syndrome (WS) have a specific and atypical neuropsychological profile, where language is above what is expected for their mental age, although it shows a late onset. There exists only one longitudinal study in infants younger than 20 months old with WS about early language precursors (joint attention, referential and instrumental behaviors, pointing gesture, verbal tags). The aim of this investigation is to evaluate these precursors in a baby with WS (8 to 18 months). Seven sessions of systematic observation were performed (six at baby's home, one at the Early Childhood Assistance center). The Battelle Developmental Inventory was used to evaluate the baby's development in two occasions (12 and 18 months). The results show an atypical development, and he is 5-6 months under what is expected for his chronological age. Attention towards objects prevails over preference for faces, but this one tends to increase. The pointing gesture does not emerge at the end of the observation period and therefore follows the first words that appear. The implications for the comprehension of the early linguistic profile in WS are discussed, as well as the implications for specific intervention strategies in the context of early childhood care.
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Pollak RM, Pincus JE, Burrell TL, Cubells JF, Klaiman C, Murphy MM, Saulnier CA, Walker EF, White SP, Mulle JG. Autism spectrum disorder symptom expression in individuals with 3q29 deletion syndrome. Mol Autism 2022; 13:50. [PMID: 36566217 PMCID: PMC9789637 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-022-00533-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 1.6 Mb 3q29 deletion is associated with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric phenotypes, including a 19-fold increased risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous work by our team identified elevated social disability in this population via parent-report questionnaires. However, clinical features of ASD in this population have not been explored in detail. METHODS Thirty-one individuals with 3q29 deletion syndrome (3q29del, 61.3% male) were evaluated using two gold-standard clinical ASD evaluations: the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), and the Autism Diagnostic Interview, Revised (ADI-R). Four matched comparators for each subject were ascertained from the National Database for Autism Research. Item-level scores on the ADOS-2 and ADI-R were compared between subjects with 3q29del and matched comparators. RESULTS Subjects with 3q29del and no ASD (3q29del-ASD) had greater evidence of social disability compared to typically developing (TD) comparison subjects across the ADOS-2. Subjects with 3q29del and ASD (3q29del + ASD) were largely indistinguishable from non-syndromic ASD (nsASD) subjects on the ADOS-2. 3q29del + ASD performed significantly better on social communication on the ADI-R than nsASD (3q29 + ASD mean = 11.36; nsASD mean = 15.70; p = 0.01), and this was driven by reduced deficits in nonverbal communication (3q29 + ASD mean = 1.73; nsASD mean = 3.63; p = 0.03). 3q29del + ASD reported significantly later age at the first two-word phrase compared to nsASD (3q29del + ASD mean = 43.89 months; nsASD mean = 37.86 months; p = 0.01). However, speech delay was not related to improved nonverbal communication in 3q29del + ASD. LIMITATIONS There were not enough TD comparators with ADI-R data in NDAR to include in the present analysis. Additionally, our relatively small sample size made it difficult to assess race and ethnicity effects. CONCLUSIONS 3q29del is associated with significant social disability, irrespective of ASD diagnosis. 3q29del + ASD have similar levels of social disability to nsASD, while 3q29del-ASD have significantly increased social disability compared to TD individuals. However, social communication is reasonably well preserved in 3q29del + ASD relative to nsASD. It is critical that verbal ability and social disability be examined separately in this population to ensure equal access to ASD and social skills evaluations and services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Pollak
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ USA
| | - Jordan E. Pincus
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA ,grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Marcus Autism Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA ,grid.256304.60000 0004 1936 7400Clinical Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - T. Lindsey Burrell
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Joseph F. Cubells
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA ,grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Cheryl Klaiman
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA ,grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Marcus Autism Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Melissa M. Murphy
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Celine A. Saulnier
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA ,Neurodevelopmental Assessment and Consulting Services, Decatur, GA USA
| | - Elaine F. Walker
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Stormi Pulver White
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA ,grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Marcus Autism Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Jennifer G. Mulle
- grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ USA ,grid.430387.b0000 0004 1936 8796Department of Psychiatry, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 679 Hoes Lane West, NJ 08854 Piscataway, USA
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Ridley E, Arnott B, Riby DM, Burt DM, Hanley M, Leekam SR. The Quality of Everyday Eye Contact in Williams Syndrome: Insights From Cross-Syndrome Comparisons. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 127:293-312. [PMID: 36122327 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-127.4.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Past research shows that individuals with Williams syndrome (WS) have heightened and prolonged eye contact. Using parent report measures, we examined not only the presence of eye contact but also its qualitative features. Study 1 included individuals with WS (n = 22, ages 6.0-36.3). Study 2 included children with different neurodevelopmental (ND) conditions (WS, autism spectrum condition, fragile X syndrome, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and children with neurotypical development (NT; n = 262, ages 4.0-17.11). Unusual eye contact features, including staring, were found in approximately half of the WS samples. However, other features such as brief glances were frequently found in WS and in all ND conditions, but not NT. Future research in ND conditions should focus on qualitative as well as quantitative features of eye contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Ridley
- Ellen Ridley, Centre for Neurodiversity & Development, Durham University, and Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Bronia Arnott
- Bronia Arnott, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4AX, UK
| | - Deborah M Riby
- Deborah M. Riby, Centre for Neurodiversity & Development, Durham University, and Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - D Michael Burt
- D. Michael Burt, Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Mary Hanley
- Mary Hanley, Centre for Neurodiversity & Development, Durham University, and Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Susan R Leekam
- Susan R. Leekam, Cardiff University Centre for Developmental Science, Cardiff University, Park Place, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 3AT, UK
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Alfieri P, Scibelli F, Casula L, Piga S, Napoli E, Valeri G, Vicari S. Cooperative Parent-Mediated Therapy in Children with Fragile X Syndrome and Williams Beuren Syndrome: A Pilot RCT Study of a Transdiagnostic Intervention-Preliminary Data. Brain Sci 2021; 12:8. [PMID: 35053752 PMCID: PMC8773548 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with fragile X syndrome and William Beuren syndrome share several socio-communicative deficits. In both populations, around 30/35% of individuals meets criteria for autism spectrum disorder on gold standard instruments. Notwithstanding, few studies have explored feasibility and validity of therapy for socio-communicative deficits in individuals with these genetic conditions. In this study, we present preliminary data on a pilot RCT aimed to verify the effectiveness of cooperative parent-mediated therapy for socio-communicative deficits in a transdiagnostic perspective in a small sample of 12 participants. Our preliminary data showed that the experimental group had significant improvement in one socio-communicative skill (responsivity) and in clinical global impression, while the control group in an adaptive measure of socialization and word production. Implications of these results are then discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Alfieri
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children′s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.S.); (L.C.); (E.N.); (G.V.); (S.V.)
| | - Francesco Scibelli
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children′s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.S.); (L.C.); (E.N.); (G.V.); (S.V.)
| | - Laura Casula
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children′s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.S.); (L.C.); (E.N.); (G.V.); (S.V.)
| | - Simone Piga
- Clinical Epidemiology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Napoli
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children′s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.S.); (L.C.); (E.N.); (G.V.); (S.V.)
| | - Giovanni Valeri
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children′s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.S.); (L.C.); (E.N.); (G.V.); (S.V.)
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children′s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.S.); (L.C.); (E.N.); (G.V.); (S.V.)
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
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9
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Willfors C, Riby DM, van der Poll M, Ekholm K, Avdic Björlin H, Kleberg JL, Nordgren A. Williams syndrome: on the role of intellectual abilities in anxiety. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:472. [PMID: 34743752 PMCID: PMC8573929 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02098-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Individuals with Williams syndrome (WS) have an elevated risk for anxiety disorders throughout the life span, making it a research priority to identify the individual factors associated with anxiety. Most of the existing literature is based on questionnaire data and suggests that impaired executive functions (EF) increase the risk for anxiety in WS. The aim of this study was to use direct measures by trained clinicians to investigate the effects of general intelligence, inhibition, sustained attention, and working memory on anxiety in WS, to further elucidate potential underlying mechanisms. Method Twenty-four individuals with WS participated in the study (mean age: 29 years, range: 9–53 years), together with at least one of their parents. The MINI international neuropsychiatric interview for DSM-5 was completed to establish clinical diagnosis of anxiety, and the Clinical Global Impression Scale – Severity was used for an expert rating of symptom severity. Intellectual abilities were measured using the Wechsler scales, and attention and inhibition using the Conner’s Continuous Performance Test. In addition, a parent-report questionnaire measuring EF, learning and memory was collected. Results In contrast to the apriori hypothesis, there was no significant association between anxiety and core elements of EF such as working memory, sustained attention, and inhibition (i.e. the process of restraining one’s impulses or behaviour). Using ordinal logistic regression analyses, we showed that decreasing intelligence quotient (IQ) and age are associated with elevated anxiety. We confirmed these results in between-groups analyses (anxiety disorder vs no current anxiety disorder), and low IQ was associated with higher risk of having an anxiety diagnosis. In addition, Bayesian statistics gave substantial evidence for no significant association between anxiety and inhibition. Conclusion By using direct measures of psychological pathology and functioning, the current results provide a deeper characterisation of the WS phenotype and provide novel insights into the potential mechanisms underpinning anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Willfors
- Rare Diseases Research Group, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, BioClinicum, J10:20, Visionsgatan 4, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Laboratory, Karolinska University Hospital Solna L5:03, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Deborah M Riby
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Marcus van der Poll
- Rare Diseases Research Group, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, BioClinicum, J10:20, Visionsgatan 4, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katja Ekholm
- Rare Diseases Research Group, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, BioClinicum, J10:20, Visionsgatan 4, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Laboratory, Karolinska University Hospital Solna L5:03, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Avdic Björlin
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Gävlegatan 22, 113 30, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Lundin Kleberg
- Rare Diseases Research Group, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, BioClinicum, J10:20, Visionsgatan 4, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Gävlegatan 22, 113 30, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ann Nordgren
- Rare Diseases Research Group, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, BioClinicum, J10:20, Visionsgatan 4, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Laboratory, Karolinska University Hospital Solna L5:03, 171 64, Stockholm, Sweden
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10
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Lense MD, Ladányi E, Rabinowitch TC, Trainor L, Gordon R. Rhythm and timing as vulnerabilities in neurodevelopmental disorders. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200327. [PMID: 34420385 PMCID: PMC8380970 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Millions of children are impacted by neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), which unfold early in life, have varying genetic etiologies and can involve a variety of specific or generalized impairments in social, cognitive and motor functioning requiring potentially lifelong specialized supports. While specific disorders vary in their domain of primary deficit (e.g. autism spectrum disorder (social), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (attention), developmental coordination disorder (motor) and developmental language disorder (language)), comorbidities between NDDs are common. Intriguingly, many NDDs are associated with difficulties in skills related to rhythm, timing and synchrony though specific profiles of rhythm/timing impairments vary across disorders. Impairments in rhythm/timing may instantiate vulnerabilities for a variety of NDDs and may contribute to both the primary symptoms of each disorder as well as the high levels of comorbidities across disorders. Drawing upon genetic, neural, behavioural and interpersonal constructs across disorders, we consider how disrupted rhythm and timing skills early in life may contribute to atypical developmental cascades that involve overlapping symptoms within the context of a disorder's primary deficits. Consideration of the developmental context, as well as common and unique aspects of the phenotypes of different NDDs, will inform experimental designs to test this hypothesis including via potential mechanistic intervention approaches. This article is part of the theme issue 'Synchrony and rhythm interaction: from the brain to behavioural ecology'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam D. Lense
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Eniko Ladányi
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Laurel Trainor
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Reyna Gordon
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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11
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Lai PT, Ng R, Bellugi U. Parents' perspective on the social traits observed in school-age children with autism and children with Williams syndrome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 8:174-184. [PMID: 38868455 PMCID: PMC11168778 DOI: 10.1080/23297018.2021.1934893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders and those with Williams syndrome often have impairments in social behaviors. These two neurodevelopmental disorders are often reputed to be on the opposite ends of the social spectrum, with autistic individuals being socially avoidant and those with Williams syndrome highly social. Most research on children with autism and Williams syndrome has focused on preschool and younger school-age children. The current study assessed school-age children between the ages of 7-14 years with high-functioning autism, Williams syndrome, and neurotypical developing peers. Parents completed the Salk Institute Sociability Questionnaire and the Social Responsiveness Scale, to provide unique insights into social functioning and tap into different behavioral areas, social approach behaviors, and social responsiveness. This study provides additional evidence that young children with autism and Williams syndrome continue to show divergent social-behavioral tendencies at school-age, despite controlling for age and intellect. Results of this study better elucidate disparities as well as commonalities across school-age children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their typically developing peers, providing insight into everyday social functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip T. Lai
- Language and Communicative Disorders, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
- Language and Communicative Disorders, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rowena Ng
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ursula Bellugi
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
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12
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Moll H, Pueschel E, Ni Q, Little A. Sharing Experiences in Infancy: From Primary Intersubjectivity to Shared Intentionality. Front Psychol 2021; 12:667679. [PMID: 34335379 PMCID: PMC8316826 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.667679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We contrast two theses that make different assumptions about the developmental onset of human-unique sociality. The primary intersubjectivity thesis (PIT) argues that humans relate to each other in distinct ways from the beginning of life, as is shown by newborns' participation in face-to-face encounters or "primary intersubjectivity." According to this thesis, humans' innate relational capacity is the seedbed from which all subsequent social-emotional and social-cognitive developments continuously emerge. The shared intentionality thesis (SIT) states that human-unique forms of interaction develop at 9-12 months of age, when infants put their heads together with others in acts of object-focused joint attention and simple collaborative activities. According to this thesis, human-unique cognition emerges rapidly with the advent of mind-reading capacities that evolved specifically for the purpose of coordination. In this paper, we first contrast the two theses and then sketch the outlines of an account that unifies their strengths. This unified account endorses the PIT's recognition of the fundamental importance of primary intersubjectivity. Any act of sharing experiences is founded on the communicative capacity that is already displayed by young infants in primary intersubjectivity. At the same time, we question the PIT's interpretation that dyadic encounters have the triadic structure of joint attention. Lastly, we draw on empirical work on the development of joint attention, imitation, and social referencing that serves as evidence that primary intersubjectivity continuously unfolds into the capacity for triadic joint attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrike Moll
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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13
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Huston JC, Thom RP, Ravichandran CT, Mullett JE, Moran C, Waxler JL, Pober BR, McDougle CJ. Repetitive Thoughts and Repetitive Behaviors in Williams Syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:852-862. [PMID: 33837487 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-04979-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to characterize repetitive phenomena in Williams syndrome (WS). The parents of 60 subjects with WS completed the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) or Children's Y-BOCS, the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale, the Stereotyped Behavior Scale, and the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale-Parent Version. Nineteen males and 41 females participated in the study. Six subjects (10%) had obsessions only, six (10%) had compulsions only, and eleven (18%) had at least one obsession and at least one compulsion. None of the subjects had tics. Fifty subjects (83.3%) endorsed at least one stereotypy. Increased anxiety was associated with increased severity of obsessions, but not severity of compulsions or stereotypies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Huston
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale Medical School, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA
| | - Robyn P Thom
- Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Caitlin T Ravichandran
- Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Jennifer E Mullett
- Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Carly Moran
- Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA
| | - Jessica L Waxler
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Barbara R Pober
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA. .,Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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14
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Kirchner RM, Walton KM. Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children With Down Syndrome and Williams Syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 126:58-74. [PMID: 33370791 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-126.1.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that people with a Williams syndrome (WS) or Down syndrome (DS) diagnosis display an increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when compared to the general population. This study aimed to examine characteristics of ASD in a group of children with DS or WS. Results suggest that children with DS and WS exhibit higher levels of autism symptoms than the general population, particularly in the area of unusual behaviors, and that these elevations are not solely due to deficits in adaptive behavior. There are many possible explanations for these elevations, such as issues with measurement, etiological overlap, or similar behavioral phenotypes. More research is needed to further our understanding of the overlap of ASD symptoms in these populations.
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Ha OR, Cashon CH, Holt NA, Mervis CB. Development of rapid word-object associations in relation to expressive vocabulary: Shared commonalities in infants and toddlers with and without Williams syndrome. Dev Sci 2020; 23:e12966. [PMID: 32196857 PMCID: PMC7502509 DOI: 10.1111/desc.12966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Associative word learning, i.e., associating a word with an object, is an important building block of early word learning for TD infants. This study investigated the development of word-object associations by TD infants and infants and toddlers with Williams syndrome (WS), a rare genetic disorder associated with delayed language and cognitive development. The specific reasons for the language delays remain unknown. We investigated whether their early language delay could be related to differences in how word-object associations are formed. Fifty-nine 11- to 14-month-old TD infants and thirty-one 12- to 35-month-olds with WS were tested on a modified version of the "switch" task (Werker, Cohen, Lloyd, Casasola, & Stager, 1998) using phonetically dissimilar words and novel objects. Infants were classified as word learners or novice word learners based on their expressive vocabularies (greater than 10 words vs. 10 words or fewer). We found similar developmental patterns across both populations: Expressive vocabulary size classification was an important index of the development of word-object associations. Moreover, the development of word-object associations evidenced a domain-general progression from independent (processing objects separately from words) to integrated (processing associations between words and objects). As a group, word learners formed word-object associations, but novice word learners did not; instead, they focused primarily on the objects. Findings build on previous research suggesting that although early language acquisition is delayed in infants with WS, infants and toddlers with and without WS share a common developmental pattern and set of mechanisms in early word learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oh-Ryeong Ha
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City
| | - Cara H. Cashon
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville
| | - Nicholas A. Holt
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville
| | - Carolyn B. Mervis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville
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16
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Niego A, Benítez-Burraco A. Autism and Williams syndrome: truly mirror conditions in the socio-cognitive domain? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 68:399-415. [PMID: 35937179 PMCID: PMC9351567 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2020.1817717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Williams Syndrome (WS) are frequently characterized as mirror conditions in the socio-cognitive domain, with ASD entailing restrictive social interests and with WS exhibiting hypersociability. In this review paper, we examine in detail the strong points and deficits of people with ASD or WS in the socio-cognitive domain and show that both conditions also share some common features. Moreover, we explore the neurobiological basis of the social profile of ASD and WS and found a similar mixture of common affected areas and condition-specific impaired regions. We discuss these findings under the hypothesis of a continuum of the socio-cognitive abilities in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Niego
- Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish, Linguistics, and Theory of Literature (Linguistics), Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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17
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Fanning PAJ, Sparaci L, Dissanayake C, Hocking DR, Vivanti G. Functional play in young children with autism and Williams syndrome: A cross-syndrome comparison. Child Neuropsychol 2020; 27:125-149. [DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2020.1804846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. J. Fanning
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
- Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Laura Sparaci
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London (UCL), London, UK
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (STC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Darren R. Hocking
- Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Giacomo Vivanti
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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18
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Glod M, Riby DM, Rodgers J. Sensory processing profiles and autistic symptoms as predictive factors in autism spectrum disorder and Williams syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2020; 64:657-665. [PMID: 32400919 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unusual sensory responses were included in the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet they are also common among individuals with other neurodevelopmental disorders, including Williams syndrome (WS). Cross-syndrome comparisons of sensory atypicalities and the evaluation of their syndrome specificity however have rarely been undertaken. We aimed to (1) examine and compare the sensory profiles in ASD and WS groups and (2) investigate whether autistic symptoms, including sensory processing scores, can predict a group membership. METHODS Parents of 26 children with ASD and intellectual disability, 30 parents of children with ASD (no intellectual disability) and 26 with WS aged between 4 and 16 years were recruited. Parents completed the Sensory Profile to provide information about their children's sensory experiences and the Social Responsiveness Scale - Second Edition (SRS-2) to assess the degree of social impairment in their children. RESULTS No significant differences were found in sensory processing scores between the three groups. Binary logistic regression analyses were undertaken with sensory quadrants and SRS-2 total score as factors. Models significantly predicted group membership, with Low Registration, Sensory Sensitivity and SRS-2 total score being significant predictors. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that high rates of sensory atypicalities are a common neurodevelopmental characteristic that do not reliably distinguish between WS and ASD groups. Low Registration and Sensory Sensitivity-related behaviours might, however, be more specific to ASD. Further work is needed to explore what behaviours within sensory profiles can discriminate between neurodevelopmental disorders and should be included in diagnostic classifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Glod
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Sir James Spence Institute, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - D M Riby
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Science Laboratories, Durham, UK
| | - J Rodgers
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Sir James Spence Institute, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Lai PT, Ng R, Bellugi U. Parental report of cognitive and social-emotionality traits in school-age children with autism and Williams syndrome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 68:309-316. [PMID: 35603004 PMCID: PMC9122353 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2020.1765296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The majority of the research examining children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Williams Syndrome (WS) focus on the social domain while few have examined cognitive style and emotionality. Accordingly, this current study assessed the day-to-day cognitive and behavioral functioning of school-age children with ASD, WS, and neurotypical development (ND) through caregiver-report inventories to further delineate commonalities and disparities in cognitive and social-emotional traits. Two caregiver-report inventories, the Children's Behavior Questionnaire and the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire were employed to assess the day-to-day functioning of children ages 7-14 years. Participants included 64 caregivers of children, of these, 25 were caregivers of children with high functioning autism (HFA), 14 with WS, and 25 with ND. Multivariate analysis of covariance was computed to assess between-group differences for each subscale within a questionnaire. Covariates included age and full-scale IQ. For cognitive traits, group differences were observed across two categories while seven were present within the social-emotional categories. The majority of the group effects reflected differences in social-emotional traits between ND and both neurodevelopmental groups, while limited distinctions were found between the two clinical groups. This brief report provides additional evidence that HFA and WS may show similarities in cognitive traits but more divergent social-emotional tendencies, despite controlling for age and intellect. This study highlights the large social-emotional differences that supports prior phenotypic descriptions of both neurodevelopmental groups. Future research in these domains are needed to determine focused interventions to address social impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip T. Lai
- Joint Doctoral Program in Language and Communicative Disorders, School of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
- Joint Doctoral Program in Language and Communicative Disorders, Center for Research in Language, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rowena Ng
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ursula Bellugi
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, La Jolla, CA, USA
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20
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Gillooly AE, Riby DM, Durkin K, Rhodes SM. Peer Relationships in Children with Williams Syndrome: Parent and Teacher Insights. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:169-178. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04503-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Becerra AM, Mervis CB. Age at Onset of Declarative Gestures and 24-Month Expressive Vocabulary Predict Later Language and Intellectual Abilities in Young Children With Williams Syndrome. Front Psychol 2019; 10:2648. [PMID: 31849765 PMCID: PMC6901496 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: One of the most consistent findings in the early language acquisition literature regarding children in the general population is that the onset of declarative pointing gestures precedes the onset of expressive referential language. Furthermore, frequency of early use of declarative gestures is a stronger predictor of later lexical development than early vocabulary size. These findings suggest that early declarative gestures may play a critical facilitative role in later language development. To evaluate the universality of these findings, we tested children with Williams syndrome (WS), a genetic disorder associated with both language and communicative gesture delay. Method: Participants were 47 children with classic-length WS deletions. Age of onset of declarative show and point were determined by parental report on the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory (CDI): Words and Gestures. Expressive vocabulary size at onset of these gestures, first referential expressive word, 24 months, and 48 months and grammatical complexity at 48 months were determined by parental report on the CDI: Words and Sentences. Receptive and expressive vocabulary and overall intellectual ability at 48 months were measured using standardized assessments. Results: In contrast to previous findings for children in the general population, most children with WS began to produce referential language several months before they produced declarative point. A series of multiple regressions indicated that both age at onset of declarative point and expressive vocabulary size at 24 months made significant independent contributions to individual differences in lexical, grammatical, and overall intellectual ability at 48 months. Similarly to the findings for typically developing children and children with other developmental disabilities, individual differences in the declarative gesture measure accounted for considerably more variance in 48-month lexical ability than early expressive vocabulary size. Discussion: The transition from prelinguistic communication to initial referential language does not depend on the onset of the ability to use declarative point. Nevertheless, the length of time that a child has been producing declarative point was a better predictor than early expressive vocabulary of later lexical abilities. Thus, despite the earlier divergence in their path to language development from the typical one, the path for children with WS re-converges with that for typically developing children and children with other developmental disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Becerra
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Carolyn B Mervis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
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Codina-Sola M, Costa-Roger M, Pérez-García D, Flores R, Palacios-Verdú MG, Cusco I, Pérez-Jurado LA. Genetic factors contributing to autism spectrum disorder in Williams-Beuren syndrome. J Med Genet 2019; 56:801-808. [PMID: 31413120 PMCID: PMC6929708 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2019-106080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hallmark of the neurobehavioural phenotype of Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) is increased sociability and relatively preserved language skills, often described as opposite to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, the prevalence of ASD in WBS is 6-10 times higher than in the general population. We have investigated the genetic factors that could contribute to the ASD phenotype in individuals with WBS. METHODS We studied four males and four females with WBS and a confirmed diagnosis of ASD by the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised. We performed a detailed molecular characterisation of the deletion and searched for genomic variants using exome sequencing. RESULTS A de novo deletion of 1.55 Mb (6 cases) or 1.83 Mb (2 cases) at 7q11.23 was detected, being in 7/8 patients of paternal origin. No common breakpoint, deletion mechanism or size was found. Two cases were hemizygous for the rare T allele at rs12539160 in MLXIPL, previously associated with ASD. Inherited rare variants in ASD-related or functionally constrained genes and a de novo nonsense mutation in the UBR5 gene were identified in six cases, with higher burden in females compared with males (p=0.016). CONCLUSIONS The increased susceptibility to ASD in patients with WBS might be due to additive effects of the common WBS deletion, inherited and de novo rare sequence variants in ASD-related genes elsewhere in the genome, with higher burden of deleterious mutations required for females, and possible hypomorphic variants in the hemizygous allele or cis-acting mechanisms on imprinting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Codina-Sola
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical and Molecular Genetics Area, Vall Hebrón Hospital Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Costa-Roger
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Debora Pérez-García
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Flores
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Gabriela Palacios-Verdú
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
- Fundacio Dexeus Salut de la Dona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ivon Cusco
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical and Molecular Genetics Area, Vall Hebrón Hospital Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Alberto Pérez-Jurado
- Genetics Unit, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM), and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Universitat Pompeu Fabra Departament de Ciences Experimentals i de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
- SA Clinical Genetics, Women's and Children's Hospital, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) and University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Autism Spectrum Symptomatology in Children with Williams Syndrome Who Have Phrase Speech or Fluent Language. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 48:3037-3050. [PMID: 29671106 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
To characterize autism spectrum-related symptomatology in children with Williams syndrome (WS) with phrase speech or fluent language, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule Module 2 or 3 was administered. The cutoff for autism spectrum was met by 35% (14/40) who completed Module 2 and 30% (18/60) who completed Module 3. Similarities and differences in socio-communicative strengths and weaknesses as a function of language ability were identified. Symptom severity was negatively associated with IQ for participants with phrase speech but not for those with fluent language. The findings suggest an elevated risk of ASD for individuals with WS relative to the general population and contribute to a more nuanced sense of the socio-communicative functioning of children with WS.
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Niego A, Benítez-Burraco A. Williams Syndrome, Human Self-Domestication, and Language Evolution. Front Psychol 2019; 10:521. [PMID: 30936846 PMCID: PMC6431629 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Language evolution resulted from changes in our biology, behavior, and culture. One source of these changes might be human self-domestication. Williams syndrome (WS) is a clinical condition with a clearly defined genetic basis which results in a distinctive behavioral and cognitive profile, including enhanced sociability. In this paper we show evidence that the WS phenotype can be satisfactorily construed as a hyper-domesticated human phenotype, plausibly resulting from the effect of the WS hemideletion on selected candidates for domestication and neural crest (NC) function. Specifically, we show that genes involved in animal domestication and NC development and function are significantly dysregulated in the blood of subjects with WS. We also discuss the consequences of this link between domestication and WS for our current understanding of language evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Niego
- Ph.D. Program, Faculty of Humanities, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish, Linguistics, and Theory of Literature, Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Uljarević M, Labuschagne I, Bobin R, Atkinson A, Hocking DR. Brief Report: The Impact of Sensory Hypersensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty on Anxiety in Williams Syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:3958-3964. [PMID: 29948532 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3631-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study explored the interrelationship between intolerance of uncertainty, sensory hyper-sensitivity and anxiety in Williams syndrome (WS). Thirty-two parents or guardians of individuals with WS (Mage = 24.76 years, SD = 7.55) were included. Associations between anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, sensory hyper-sensitivity, and ASD symptoms were assessed. Linear regression analysis revealed that intolerance of uncertainty and sensory hyper-sensitivity were unique independent predictors of anxiety, while social communication score was not. There was evidence of a mediating effect of sensory hyper-sensitivity on the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and anxiety. These findings bear strong resemblance to the pattern seen in ASD and emphasize the need for development of anxiety interventions that attempt to reduce negative beliefs about unpredictable situations in WS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Uljarević
- Stanford Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Izelle Labuschagne
- School of Psychology, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca Bobin
- School of Psychology, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anna Atkinson
- Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Darren R Hocking
- Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia.
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Kopp ND, Parrish PCR, Lugo M, Dougherty JD, Kozel BA. Exome sequencing of 85 Williams-Beuren syndrome cases rules out coding variation as a major contributor to remaining variance in social behavior. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2018; 6:749-765. [PMID: 30008175 PMCID: PMC6160704 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large, multigenic deletions at chromosome 7q11.23 result in a highly penetrant constellation of physical and behavioral symptoms known as Williams-Beuren syndrome (WS). Of particular interest is the unusual social-cognitive profile evidenced by deficits in social cognition and communication reminiscent of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that are juxtaposed with normal or even relatively enhanced social motivation. Interestingly, duplications in the same region also result in ASD-like phenotypes as well as social phobias. Thus, the region clearly regulates human social motivation and behavior, yet the relevant gene(s) have not been definitively identified. METHOD Here, we deeply phenotyped 85 individuals with WS and used exome sequencing to analyze common and rare variation for association with the remaining variance in social behavior as assessed by the Social Responsiveness Scale. RESULTS We replicated the previously reported unusual juxtaposition of behavioral symptoms in this new patient collection, but we did not find any new alleles of large effect in the targeted analysis of the remaining copy of genes in the Williams syndrome critical region. However, we report on two nominally significant SNPs in two genes that have been implicated in the cognitive and social phenotypes of Williams syndrome, BAZ1B and GTF2IRD1. Secondary discovery driven explorations focusing on known ASD genes and an exome wide scan do not highlight any variants of a large effect. CONCLUSIONS Whole exome sequencing of 85 individuals with WS did not support the hypothesis that there are variants of large effect within the remaining Williams syndrome critical region that contribute to the social phenotype. This deeply phenotyped and genotyped patient cohort with a defined mutation provides the opportunity for similar analyses focusing on noncoding variation and/or other phenotypic domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan D. Kopp
- Department of GeneticsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Phoebe C. R. Parrish
- National Heart Lung and Blood InstituteNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMaryland
| | - Michael Lugo
- National Heart Lung and Blood InstituteNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMaryland
- Department of PediatricsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Joseph D. Dougherty
- Department of GeneticsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
- Department of PsychiatryWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Beth A. Kozel
- National Heart Lung and Blood InstituteNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMaryland
- Department of PediatricsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
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Klein-Tasman BP, Mervis CB. Autism Spectrum Symptomatology Among Children with Duplication 7q11.23 Syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:1982-1994. [PMID: 29307037 PMCID: PMC6003247 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3439-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Gold-standard diagnostic assessments of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptomatology were conducted on 63 children (mean CA: 8.81 years) with 7q11.23 duplication syndrome, one of the copy number variants identified by Sanders et al. (Neuron 70:863-885, 2011a) as associated with ASD. ASD classification rate was 39.6% for the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised and 25.4% for the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADOS-2). Based on these assessments combined with clinical judgment, 19.0% of children were diagnosed with ASD. Reasons for these discrepancies are discussed, as are differences in rate of diagnosis as a function of sex, age, and ADOS-2 module administered and differences in intellectual and adaptive behavior abilities as a function of presence or absence of ASD diagnosis and ADOS-2 module administered. Implications are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonita P Klein-Tasman
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, PO Box 413, Milwaukee, WI, 53201, USA.
| | - Carolyn B Mervis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, 317 Life Sciences Building, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
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A Comparative Analysis of the ADOS-G and ADOS-2 Algorithms: Preliminary Findings. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:2078-2089. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3475-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Social Attention, Joint Attention and Sustained Attention in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Williams Syndrome: Convergences and Divergences. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 47:1866-1877. [PMID: 28349363 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3106-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
There is limited knowledge on shared and syndrome-specific attentional profiles in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Williams syndrome (WS). Using eye-tracking, we examined attentional profiles of 35 preschoolers with ASD, 22 preschoolers with WS and 20 typically developing children across social and non-social dimensions of attention. Children with ASD and those with WS presented with overlapping deficits in spontaneous visual engagement with the target of others' attention and in sustained attention. Children with ASD showed syndrome-specific abnormalities in monitoring and following a person's referential gaze, as well as a lack of preferential attention to social stimuli. Children with ASD and WS present with shared as well as syndrome-specific abnormalities across social and non-social dimensions of attention.
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Garg S, Green J. Studying child development in genetic models of ASD. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2018; 241:159-192. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Morel A, Peyroux E, Leleu A, Favre E, Franck N, Demily C. Overview of Social Cognitive Dysfunctions in Rare Developmental Syndromes With Psychiatric Phenotype. Front Pediatr 2018; 6:102. [PMID: 29774207 PMCID: PMC5943552 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2018.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare neurodevelopmental syndromes often present social cognitive deficits that may underlie difficulties in social interactions and increase the risk of psychosis or autism spectrum disorders. However, little is known regarding the specificities of social cognitive impairment across syndromes while it remains a major challenge for the care. Our review provides an overview of social cognitive dysfunctions in rare diseases associated with psychiatric symptoms (with a prevalence estimated between 1 in 1,200 and 1 in 25,000 live births: 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, Angelman syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Rett syndrome, Smith-Magenis syndrome, Turner syndrome, and Williams syndrome) and shed some light on the specific mechanisms that may underlie these skills in each clinical presentation. We first detail the different processes included in the generic expression "social cognition" before summarizing the genotype, psychiatric phenotype, and non-social cognitive profile in each syndrome. Then, we offer a systematic review of the social cognitive abilities and the disturbed mechanisms they are likely associated with. We followed the PRISMA process, including the definition of the relevant search terms, the selection of studies based on clear inclusion, and exclusion criteria and the quality appraisal of papers. We finally provide insights that may have considerable influence on the development of adapted therapeutic interventions such as social cognitive training (SCT) therapies specifically designed to target the psychiatric phenotype. The results of this review suggest that social cognition impairments share some similarities across syndromes. We propose that social cognitive impairments are strongly involved in behavioral symptoms regardless of the overall cognitive level measured by intelligence quotient. Better understanding the mechanisms underlying impaired social cognition may lead to adapt therapeutic interventions. The studies targeting social cognition processes offer new thoughts about the development of specific cognitive training programs, as they highlight the importance of connecting neurocognitive and SCT techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Morel
- Scientific Brain Training, Reference Center for Rare Diseases GénoPsy, CH Le Vinatier, UMR 5229, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, Lyon, France
| | - Elodie Peyroux
- Reference Center for Rare Diseases GénoPsy, SUR/CL3R: Service Universitaire de Réhabilitation, CH Le Vinatier, UMR 5229, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, Lyon, France
| | - Arnaud Leleu
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, INRA, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, Dijon, France
| | - Emilie Favre
- Reference Center for Rare Diseases GénoPsy, CH Le Vinatier, UMR 5229, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Franck
- Centre ressource de réhabilitation psychosociale et de remédiation cognitive, CH Le Vinatier, Lyon et UMR 5229 (CNRS and Université Lyon), Lyon, France
| | - Caroline Demily
- Reference Center for Rare Diseases GénoPsy, CH Le Vinatier, UMR 5229, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, Lyon, France
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Osório AAC, do Egito JHT, Martins GC, Kim CA, Honjo RS, Sampaio ADCS, Mesquita ARM, Macedo EC, Boggio PS, Teixeira MCTV. Associations between fetal testosterone and pro-social tendencies, anxiety and autistic symptoms in Williams syndrome: a preliminary study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2017; 65:82-88. [PMID: 34141327 PMCID: PMC8115471 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2017.1376163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Fetal testosterone (fT) has organizational effects on the developing human nervous system and can be reliably estimated by the ratio between the length of the second and fourth digits - 2D:4D. Previous studies reported altered patterns of fT in some developmental disabilities (e.g. ASD) relative to typically developing individuals (TD). Williams syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by exacerbated empathy and social approach and heightened anxiety. Recent reports also highlight the co-occurrence of significant levels of autistic symptoms. Despite constituting an interesting model to study androgenic contributions to social behavior, no studies have sought to explore fT in WS. The main aims of this preliminary study were two-fold: (a) to compare 2D:4D in WS and TD; (b) to analyze the pattern of associations between 2D:4D and hypersociability, affective and cognitive empathy, anxiety and autistic symptoms in WS. Methods: 2D:4D were measured from digital scans of the ventral surface of the right hand. Hypersociability, empathy, anxiety and autistic symptoms were obtained from parental reports. Results: There were no significant differences in 2D:4D between WS than TD. In WS lower fT (higher 2D:4D) was significantly associated with hypersociability and affective empathy, as well as marginally associated with anxiety/depression scores. In contrast, cognitive empathy was marginally and negatively associated with 2D:4D, while levels of autistic symptoms were unrelated with this measure. Conclusion: Our results suggest that fT may be implicated in the emergence of several cardinal features of WS, namely hypersociability, affective empathy and anxiety, but not in ASD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Alexandra Caldas Osório
- Social and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Developmental Disorders Program, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júlia Horta Tabosa do Egito
- Social and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Developmental Disorders Program, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Carneiro Martins
- Social and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Developmental Disorders Program, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Chong Ae Kim
- Instituto da Criança, Faculdade de Medicina da, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rachel Sayuri Honjo
- Instituto da Criança, Faculdade de Medicina da, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Elizeu Coutinho Macedo
- Social and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Developmental Disorders Program, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo Sérgio Boggio
- Social and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Developmental Disorders Program, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil
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Klein-Tasman BP, Lee K. Problem behaviour and psychosocial functioning in young children with Williams syndrome: parent and teacher perspectives. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2017; 61:853-865. [PMID: 28271572 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is sparse literature about problem behaviour in young children with Williams syndrome (WS) and little consideration of the perspectives of multiple respondents. METHODS Problem behaviour of 35 children with WS ages 2 to 6 was examined based on both parent and teacher report using the Achenbach preschool forms. RESULTS The most prominent areas of difficulty based on both parent and teacher report were attention problems, pervasive developmental problems and emotion reactivity difficulties. Some rater differences were observed; most notably, teachers reported more externalising behaviour problems including more aggressive behaviour, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity problems and Oppositional Defiant problems than did parents. Few relations to intellectual functioning, age or gender were observed. DISCUSSION Some aspects of problem behaviour evident in older children (e.g. attention problems, social problems) are also apparent for young children with WS, while other areas are less prominent (e.g. anxiety). The implications of the findings for understanding the behavioural phenotype associated with WS are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- B P Klein-Tasman
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - K Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Rossi NF, Giacheti CM. Association between speech-language, general cognitive functioning and behaviour problems in individuals with Williams syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2017; 61:707-718. [PMID: 28612476 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Williams syndrome (WS) phenotype is described as unique and intriguing. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between speech-language abilities, general cognitive functioning and behavioural problems in individuals with WS, considering age effects and speech-language characteristics of WS sub-groups. METHODS The study's participants were 26 individuals with WS and their parents. General cognitive functioning was assessed with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale. Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, Token Test and the Cookie Theft Picture test were used as speech-language measures. Five speech-language characteristics were evaluated from a 30-min conversation (clichés, echolalia, perseverative speech, exaggerated prosody and monotone intonation). The Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL 6-18) was used to assess behavioural problems. RESULTS Higher single-word receptive vocabulary and narrative vocabulary were negatively associated with CBCL T-scores for Social Problems, Aggressive Behaviour and Total Problems. Speech rate was negatively associated with the CBCL Withdrawn/Depressed T-score. Monotone intonation was associated with shy behaviour, as well as exaggerated prosody with talkative behaviour. WS with perseverative speech and exaggerated prosody presented higher scores on Thought Problems. Echolalia was significantly associated with lower Verbal IQ. No significant association was found between IQ and behaviour problems. Age-associated effects were observed only for the Aggressive Behaviour scale. CONCLUSIONS Associations reported in the present study may represent an insightful background for future predictive studies of speech-language, cognition and behaviour problems in WS.
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Affiliation(s)
- N F Rossi
- Speech Language & Hearing Sciences Master Program, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Marilia, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C M Giacheti
- Speech Language & Hearing Sciences Master Program, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Marilia, São Paulo, Brazil
- Speech Language & Hearing Sciences Department, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Marilia, São Paulo, Brazil
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Fanning PAJ, Hocking DR, Dissanayake C, Vivanti G. Delineation of a spatial working memory profile using a non-verbal eye-tracking paradigm in young children with autism and Williams syndrome. Child Neuropsychol 2017; 24:469-489. [PMID: 28277153 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2017.1284776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Working memory deficits profoundly inhibit children's ability to learn. While deficits have been identified in disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Williams syndrome (WS), findings are equivocal, and very little is known about the nature of these deficits early in development. A major barrier to advances in this area is the availability of tasks suitable for young children with neurodevelopmental disorders who experience difficulties with following verbal instructions or who are distressed by formal testing demands. To address these issues, a novel eye-tracking paradigm was designed based on an adaptation of the classic A not B paradigm in order to examine the early foundations of spatial working memory capabilities in 26 developmentally delayed preschool children with ASD, 18 age- and IQ-matched children with WS, and 19 age-matched typically-developing (TD) children. The results revealed evidence that foundational spatial working memory performance in ASD and WS was comparable with that of TD children. Performance was associated with intellectual ability in the ASD and TD groups, but not in the WS group. Performance was not associated with adaptive behavior in any group. These findings are discussed in the context of previous research that has been largely limited to older and substantially less developmentally delayed children with these neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A J Fanning
- a Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health , La Trobe University , Bundoora , Australia.,b Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health , La Trobe University , Bundoora , Australia
| | - Darren R Hocking
- a Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health , La Trobe University , Bundoora , Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- b Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health , La Trobe University , Bundoora , Australia
| | - Giacomo Vivanti
- b Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health , La Trobe University , Bundoora , Australia.,c A.J. Drexel Autism Institute , Drexel University , Philadelphia , PA , USA
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Hu S, Yang Y, Liu L, Tan Z, Zhao T. High-resolution single nucleotide polymorphism arrays identified an atypical microdeletion of the Williams-Beuren syndrome interval in a patient presenting with a different phenotype. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:2709-2712. [PMID: 28259930 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to identify the mutation causing an atypical syndrome. High-resolution single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays are considered to be a major detection method for submicroscopic chromosomal rearrangements smaller than 5 Mb in size. Genomic DNA samples of the patient and his parents were converted to a final concentration of 50 ng/ml. The Illumina BeadScan genotyping system and the HumanOmni1‑Quad Chip were employed to obtain the signal intensities of SNP probes. The patient presented with congenital heart disease, autism, mental retardation, growth retardation, hypercalcemia, nephroliths and cleft palate. The karyotypes of the patient and his parents were normal. The present study employed high‑resolution SNP arrays to analyze the whole genome for copy number variations (CNVs). A total of 309 CNVs were discovered. A de novo 1.5 Mb gain of chromosome 7q11.23 (Chr7: 72,357,322‑73,856,472) was identified following exclusion of CNVs presented in the Database of Genomic Variants. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the current study describes the first case of a patient presenting with Williams‑Beuren syndrome alongside supravalvular aortic stenosis, autism and cleft palate, and identifies an atypical deletion at 7q11.23.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijun Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Yifeng Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Zhiping Tan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Tianli Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
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Vivanti G, Hocking DR, Fanning P, Dissanayake C. Verbal labels increase the salience of novel objects for preschoolers with typical development and Williams syndrome, but not in autism. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 8:46. [PMID: 28050217 PMCID: PMC5203722 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-016-9180-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early research has documented that young children show an increased interest toward objects that are verbally labeled by an adult, compared to objects that are presented without a label. It is unclear whether the same phenomenon occurs in neurodevelopmental disorders affecting social development, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Williams syndrome (WS). METHODS The present study used a novel eye-tracking paradigm to determine whether hearing a verbal label increases the salience of novel objects in 35 preschoolers with ASD, 18 preschoolers with WS, and 20 typically developing peers. RESULTS We found that typically developing children and those with WS, but not those with ASD, spent significantly more time looking at objects that are verbally labeled by an adult, compared to objects that are presented without a label. CONCLUSIONS In children without ASD, information accompanied by the speaker's verbal label is accorded a "special status," and it is more likely to be attended to. In contrast, children with ASD do not appear to attribute a special salience to labeled objects compared to non-labeled objects. This result is consistent with the notion that reduced responsivity to pedagogical cues hinders social learning in young children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Vivanti
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, 3020 Market Street, Suite 560, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3734 USA ; Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Darren R Hocking
- Developmental Neuromotor and Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Fanning
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Social affiliation motives modulate spontaneous learning in Williams syndrome but not in autism. Mol Autism 2016; 7:40. [PMID: 27610215 PMCID: PMC5015226 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-016-0101-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and those with Williams syndrome (WS) have difficulties with learning, though the nature of these remains unclear. Methods In this study, we used novel eye-tracking and behavioral paradigms to measure how 36 preschoolers with ASD and 21 age- and IQ-matched peers with WS attend to and learn novel behaviors (1) from the outcomes of their own actions (non-social learning), (2) through imitation of others’ actions (social learning), and across situations in which imitative learning served either an instrumental function or fulfilled social affiliation motives. Results The two groups demonstrated similar abilities to learn from the consequences of their own actions and to imitate new actions that were instrumental to the achievement of a tangible goal. Children with WS, unlike those with ASD, increased their attention and imitative learning performance when the model acted in a socially engaging manner. Conclusions Learning abnormalities in ASD appear to be linked to the social rather than instrumental dimensions of learning.
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Järvinen A, Ng R, Crivelli D, Neumann D, Arnold AJ, Woo-VonHoogenstyn N, Lai P, Trauner D, Bellugi U. Social functioning and autonomic nervous system sensitivity across vocal and musical emotion in Williams syndrome and autism spectrum disorder. Dev Psychobiol 2016; 58:17-26. [PMID: 26248474 PMCID: PMC6462219 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Both Williams syndrome (WS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are associated with unusual auditory phenotypes with respect to processing vocal and musical stimuli, which may be shaped by the atypical social profiles that characterize the syndromes. Autonomic nervous system (ANS) reactivity to vocal and musical emotional stimuli was examined in 12 children with WS, 17 children with ASD, and 20 typically developing (TD) children, and related to their level of social functioning. The results of this small-scale study showed that after controlling for between-group differences in cognitive ability, all groups showed similar emotion identification performance across conditions. Additionally, in ASD, lower autonomic reactivity to human voice, and in TD, to musical emotion, was related to more normal social functioning. Compared to TD, both clinical groups showed increased arousal to vocalizations. A further result highlighted uniquely increased arousal to music in WS, contrasted with a decrease in arousal in ASD and TD. The ASD and WS groups exhibited arousal patterns suggestive of diminished habituation to the auditory stimuli. The results are discussed in the context of the clinical presentation of WS and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Järvinen
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002.
| | - Rowena Ng
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Institute of Child Development, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Davide Crivelli
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Dirk Neumann
- Emotion and Social Cognition Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA
| | - Andrew J Arnold
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002
| | - Nicholas Woo-VonHoogenstyn
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002
| | - Philip Lai
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002
| | - Doris Trauner
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Ursula Bellugi
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002
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Morris CA, Mervis CB, Paciorkowski AP, Abdul-Rahman O, Dugan SL, Rope AF, Bader P, Hendon LG, Velleman SL, Klein-Tasman BP, Osborne LR. 7q11.23 Duplication syndrome: Physical characteristics and natural history. Am J Med Genet A 2015; 167A:2916-35. [PMID: 26333794 PMCID: PMC5005957 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.37340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
In order to describe the physical characteristics, medical complications, and natural history of classic 7q11.23 duplication syndrome [hereafter Dup7 (MIM 609757)], reciprocal duplication of the region deleted in Williams syndrome [hereafter WS (MIM 194050)], we systematically evaluated 53 individuals aged 1.25-21.25 years and 11 affected adult relatives identified in cascade testing. In this series, 27% of probands with Dup7 had an affected parent. Seven of the 26 de novo duplications that were examined for inversions were inverted; in all seven cases one of the parents had the common inversion polymorphism of the WS region. We documented the craniofacial features of Dup7: brachycephaly, broad forehead, straight eyebrows, broad nasal tip, low insertion of the columella, short philtrum, thin upper lip, minor ear anomalies, and facial asymmetry. Approximately 30% of newborns and 50% of older children and adults had macrocephaly. Abnormalities were noted on neurological examination in 88.7% of children, while 81.6% of MRI studies showed structural abnormalities such as decreased cerebral white matter volume, cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, and ventriculomegaly. Signs of cerebellar dysfunction were found in 62.3%, hypotonia in 58.5%, Developmental Coordination Disorder in 74.2%, and Speech Sound Disorder in 82.6%. Behavior problems included anxiety disorders, ADHD, and oppositional disorders. Medical problems included seizures, 19%; growth hormone deficiency, 9.4%; patent ductus arteriosus, 15%; aortic dilation, 46.2%; chronic constipation, 66%; and structural renal anomalies, 18%. We compare these results to the WS phenotype and offer initial recommendations for medical evaluation and surveillance of individuals who have Dup7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen A. Morris
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV
| | - Carolyn B. Mervis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY
| | - Alex P. Paciorkowski
- Center for Neural Development and Disease, Departments of Neurology, Pediatrics, and Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Omar Abdul-Rahman
- Department of Pediatrics University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Sarah L. Dugan
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Alan F. Rope
- Department of Medical Genetics, Kaiser Permanente, Portland OR
| | | | - Laura G. Hendon
- Department of Pediatrics University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Shelley L. Velleman
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
| | | | - Lucy R. Osborne
- Departments of Medicine and Molecular Genetics and Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto ON, Canada
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Järvinen A, Ng R, Bellugi U. Autonomic response to approachability characteristics, approach behavior, and social functioning in Williams syndrome. Neuropsychologia 2015; 78:159-70. [PMID: 26459097 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Williams syndrome (WS) is a neurogenetic disorder that is saliently characterized by a unique social phenotype, most notably associated with a dramatically increased affinity and approachability toward unfamiliar people. Despite a recent proliferation of studies into the social profile of WS, the underpinnings of the pro-social predisposition are poorly understood. To this end, the present study was aimed at elucidating approach behavior of individuals with WS contrasted with typical development (TD) by employing a multidimensional design combining measures of autonomic arousal, social functioning, and two levels of approach evaluations. Given previous evidence suggesting that approach behaviors of individuals with WS are driven by a desire for social closeness, approachability tendencies were probed across two levels of social interaction: talking versus befriending. The main results indicated that while overall level of approachability did not differ between groups, an important qualitative between-group difference emerged across the two social interaction contexts: whereas individuals with WS demonstrated a similar willingness to approach strangers across both experimental conditions, TD individuals were significantly more willing to talk to than to befriend strangers. In WS, high approachability to positive faces across both social interaction levels was further associated with more normal social functioning. A novel finding linked autonomic responses with willingness to befriend negative faces in the WS group: elevated autonomic responsivity was associated with increased affiliation to negative face stimuli, which may represent an autonomic correlate of approach behavior in WS. Implications for underlying organization of the social brain are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Järvinen
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Rowena Ng
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA; Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, USA
| | - Ursula Bellugi
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Van Herwegen J, Smith TJ, Dimitriou D. Exploring different explanations for performance on a theory of mind task in Williams syndrome and autism using eye movements. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2015; 45-46:202-209. [PMID: 26263406 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2015.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The current study explored the looking behaviours of young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Williams syndrome (WS), and typically developing (TD) children while they were administered a low-verbal Theory of Mind (ToM) task. Although ToM performance in both clinical groups was impaired, only participants with WS showed small differences in looking behaviour at the start of the video. Furthermore, while TD children who passed the ToM task looked longer at the original hiding place there was no such contrast in the clinical groups. This shows that looking behaviour in ASD and WS is not necessarily atypical when saliency aspects such as language, background, and colour are removed and that differences in looking behaviour cannot explain ToM performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Van Herwegen
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University, United Kingdom
| | - Tim J Smith
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Dagmara Dimitriou
- Lifespan Learning and Sleep Laboratory, UCL, Institute of Education, United Kingdom.
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Ng R, Brown TT, Erhart M, Järvinen AM, Korenberg JR, Bellugi U, Halgren E. Morphological differences in the mirror neuron system in Williams syndrome. Soc Neurosci 2015; 11:277-88. [PMID: 26230578 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2015.1070746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Williams syndrome (WS) is a genetic condition characterized by an overly gregarious personality, including high empathetic concern for others. Although seemingly disparate from the profile of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), both are associated with deficits in social communication/cognition. Notably, the mirror neuron system (MNS) has been implicated in social dysfunction for ASD; yet, the integrity of this network and its association with social functioning in WS remains unknown. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods were used to examine the structural integrity of the MNS of adults with WS versus typically developing (TD) individuals. The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), a tool typically used to screen for social features of ASD, was also employed to assess the relationships between social functioning with the MNS morphology in WS participants. WS individuals showed reduced cortical surface area of MNS substrates yet relatively preserved cortical thickness as compared to TD adults. Increased cortical thickness of the inferior parietal lobule (IPL) was associated with increased deficits in social communication, social awareness, social cognition, and autistic mannerisms. However, social motivation was not related to anatomical features of the MNS. Our findings indicate that social deficits typical to both ASD and WS may be attributed to an aberrant MNS, whereas the unusual social drive marked in WS is subserved by substrates distinct from this network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowena Ng
- a Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience , Salk Institute for Biological Studies , La Jolla , CA , USA.,b Institute of Child Development , University of Minnesota, Twin Cities , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Timothy T Brown
- c Multimodal Imaging Laboratory , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , CA , USA.,d Department of Neurosciences , University of California, San Diego School of Medicine , La Jolla , CA , USA
| | - Matthew Erhart
- c Multimodal Imaging Laboratory , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , CA , USA
| | - Anna M Järvinen
- a Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience , Salk Institute for Biological Studies , La Jolla , CA , USA
| | - Julie R Korenberg
- e Center for Integrated Neuroscience and Human Behavior , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Ursula Bellugi
- a Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience , Salk Institute for Biological Studies , La Jolla , CA , USA
| | - Eric Halgren
- c Multimodal Imaging Laboratory , University of California, San Diego , La Jolla , CA , USA.,d Department of Neurosciences , University of California, San Diego School of Medicine , La Jolla , CA , USA.,f Department of Radiology , University of California, San Diego School of Medicine , La Jolla , CA , USA
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Strong E, Butcher D, Singhania R, Mervis C, Morris C, De Carvalho D, Weksberg R, Osborne L. Symmetrical Dose-Dependent DNA-Methylation Profiles in Children with Deletion or Duplication of 7q11.23. Am J Hum Genet 2015; 97:216-27. [PMID: 26166478 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2015.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic dysfunction has been implicated in a growing list of disorders that include cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurodegeneration. Williams syndrome (WS) and 7q11.23 duplication syndrome (Dup7) are rare neurodevelopmental disorders with broad phenotypic spectra caused by deletion and duplication, respectively, of a 1.5-Mb region that includes several genes with a role in epigenetic regulation. We have identified striking differences in DNA methylation across the genome between blood cells from children with WS or Dup7 and blood cells from typically developing (TD) children. Notably, regions that were differentially methylated in both WS and Dup7 displayed a significant and symmetrical gene-dose-dependent effect, such that WS typically showed increased and Dup7 showed decreased DNA methylation. Differentially methylated genes were significantly enriched with genes in pathways involved in neurodevelopment, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) candidate genes, and imprinted genes. Using alignment with ENCODE data, we also found the differentially methylated regions to be enriched with CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) binding sites. These findings suggest that gene(s) within 7q11.23 alter DNA methylation at specific sites across the genome and result in dose-dependent DNA-methylation profiles in WS and Dup7. Given the extent of DNA-methylation changes and the potential impact on CTCF binding and chromatin regulation, epigenetic mechanisms most likely contribute to the complex neurological phenotypes of WS and Dup7. Our findings highlight the importance of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of WS and Dup7 and provide molecular mechanisms that are potentially shared by WS, Dup7, and ASD.
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Järvinen A, Ng R, Crivelli D, Neumann D, Grichanik M, Arnold AJ, Lai P, Trauner D, Bellugi U. Patterns of Sensitivity to Emotion in Children with Williams Syndrome and Autism: Relations Between Autonomic Nervous System Reactivity and Social Functioning. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 45:2594-612. [PMID: 25800866 PMCID: PMC6462220 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2429-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Williams syndrome (WS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are associated with atypical social-emotional functioning. Affective visual stimuli were used to assess autonomic reactivity and emotion identification, and the social responsiveness scale was used to determine the level social functioning in children with WS and ASD contrasted with typical development (TD), to examine syndrome-specific and syndrome-general features. Children with ASD exhibited the highest arousal in response to faces, with a lack of difference in autonomic sensitivity across different emotional expressions, unlike in WS and TD. The WS group demonstrated unique deficits in identifying neutral stimuli. While autonomic responsivity to neutral faces was associated with social functioning in all children, converging profiles characterized children with WS contrasted with TD and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Järvinen
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037-1002, USA,
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46
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Mervis CB, Klein-Tasman BP, Huffman MJ, Velleman SL, Pitts CH, Henderson DR, Woodruff-Borden J, Morris CA, Osborne LR. Children with 7q11.23 duplication syndrome: psychological characteristics. Am J Med Genet A 2015; 167:1436-50. [PMID: 25900101 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.37071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
To begin to delineate the psychological characteristics associated with classic 7q11.23 duplication syndrome (duplication of the classic Williams syndrome region; hereafter classic Dup7), we tested 63 children with classic Dup7 aged 4-17 years. Sixteen toddlers aged 18-45 months with classic Dup7 and 12 adults identified by cascade testing also were assessed. For the child group, median General Conceptual Ability (similar to IQ) on the Differential Ability Scales-II was 85.0 (low average), with a range from severe disability to high average ability. Median reading and mathematics achievement standard scores were at the low average to average level, with a range from severe impairment to high average or superior ability. Adaptive behavior was considerably more limited; median Scales of Independent Behavior-Revised Broad Independence standard score was 62.0 (mild impairment), with a range from severe adaptive impairment to average adaptive ability. Anxiety disorders were common, with 50.0% of children diagnosed with Social Phobia, 29.0% with Selective Mutism, 12.9% with Separation Anxiety Disorder, and 53.2% with Specific Phobia. In addition, 35.5% were diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and 24.2% with Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Disruptive Behavior Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. 33.3% of the children screened positive for a possible Autism Spectrum Disorder and 82.3% were diagnosed with Speech Sound Disorder. We compare these findings to previously reported results for children with Williams syndrome and argue that genotype/phenotype studies involving the Williams syndrome region offer important opportunities to understand the contribution of genes in this region to common disorders affecting the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn B Mervis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | | | - Myra J Huffman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Shelley L Velleman
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont
| | - C Holley Pitts
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Danielle R Henderson
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Janet Woodruff-Borden
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Colleen A Morris
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, Nevada
| | - Lucy R Osborne
- Departments of Medicine and Molecular Genetics and Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Reilly C, Senior J, Murtagh L. ASD, ADHD, mental health conditions and psychopharmacology in neurogenetic syndromes: parent survey. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2015; 59:307-318. [PMID: 24965264 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are a number of neurogenetic syndromes with well described behavioural phenotypes including fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Williams syndrome and velo-cardio-facial syndrome (VCFS). Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and psychiatric conditions are often associated with the syndromes. METHOD Parents (n = 381) of school-aged children with one of the four syndromes in the UK and Ireland were asked whether their child had been professionally diagnosed with ASD, ADHD or a mental health condition. Parents were also asked whether their child had been prescribed medication for behavioural or psychiatric reasons. RESULTS The highest level of reported diagnoses of ASD and ADHD was in fragile X syndrome. In all syndrome groups, lower rates of diagnosis were reported in comparison to previously published research. Prescribing of medication for behavioural/psychiatric reasons was highest in fragile X syndrome although the highest usage of melatonin was in Williams syndrome. CONCLUSION Reasons for a lower recognition of ASD, ADHD and mental health conditions in clinical practice compared with research studies may include 'diagnostic overshadowing' due to presence of intellectual disability and a genetic syndrome. However, there may also be a lack of belief in the utility of such diagnoses in neurogenetic syndromes among relevant professionals and/or lack of access to professionals with sufficient expertise in the recognition of such diagnoses in those with neurogenetic syndromes. The low rates of prescribing of medication for behavioural/psychiatric reasons may reflect the low level of clinical diagnoses or lack of belief in the utility of psychopharmacology in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Reilly
- Young Epilepsy Research Department, Lingfield, UK; School of Education, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Klusek J, Roberts JE, Losh M. Cardiac autonomic regulation in autism and Fragile X syndrome: a review. Psychol Bull 2015; 141:141-75. [PMID: 25420222 PMCID: PMC4293203 DOI: 10.1037/a0038237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite the significance of efforts to understand the biological basis of autism, progress in this area has been hindered, in part, by the considerable heterogeneity in the disorder. Fragile X syndrome (FXS), a monogenic condition associated with high risk for autism, may pave the way for the dissection of biological heterogeneity within idiopathic autism. This article adopts a cross-syndrome biomarker approach to evaluate potentially overlapping profiles of cardiac arousal dysregulation (and broader autonomic dysfunction) in autism and FXS. Approaches such as this, aimed at delineating shared mechanisms across genetic syndromes, hold great potential for improving diagnostic precision, promoting earlier identification, and uncovering key systems that can be targeted in pharmaceutical/behavioral interventions. Biomarker approaches may be vital to deconstructing complex psychiatric disorders and are currently promoted as such by major research initiatives such as the NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC). Evidence reviewed here supports physiological dysregulation in a subset of individuals with autism, as evidenced by patterns of hyperarousal and dampened parasympathetic vagal tone that overlap with the well-documented physiological profile of FXS. Moreover, there is growing support for a link between aberrant cardiac activity and core deficits associated with autism, such as communication and social impairment. The delineation of physiological mechanisms common to autism and FXS could lend insight into relationships between genetic etiology and behavioral endstates, highlighting FMR1 as a potential candidate gene. Research gaps and potential pitfalls are discussed to inform timely, well-controlled biomarker research that will ultimately promote better diagnosis and treatment of autism and associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Molly Losh
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University
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Crespi BJ, Hurd PL. Cognitive-behavioral phenotypes of Williams syndrome are associated with genetic variation in the GTF2I gene, in a healthy population. BMC Neurosci 2014; 15:127. [PMID: 25429715 PMCID: PMC4247780 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-014-0127-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Individuals with Williams syndrome, a neurogenetic condition caused by deletion of a set of genes at chromosomal location 7q11.23, exhibit a remarkable suite of traits including hypersociality with high, nonselective friendliness and low social anxiety, expressive language relatively well-developed but under-developed social-communication skills overall, and reduced visual-spatial abilities. Deletions and duplications of the Williams-syndrome region have also been associated with autism, and with schizophrenia, two disorders centrally involving social cognition. Several lines of evidence have linked the gene GTF2I (General Transcription Factor IIi) with the social phenotypes of Williams syndrome, but a role for this gene in sociality within healthy populations has yet to be investigated. Results We genotyped a large set of healthy individuals for two single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the GTF2I gene that have recently been significantly associated with autism, and thus apparently exhibit functional effects on autism-related social phenotypes. GTF2I genotypes for these SNPs showed highly significant association with low social anxiety combined with reduced social-communication abilities, which represents a metric of the Williams-syndrome cognitive profile as described from previous studies. Conclusions These findings implicate the GTF2I gene in the neurogenetic basis of social communication and social anxiety, both in Williams syndrome and among individuals in healthy populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard J Crespi
- Department of Biology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby V5A 1S6, , BC, Canada.
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Riby DM, Hanley M, Kirk H, Clark F, Little K, Fleck R, Janes E, Kelso L, O'Kane F, Cole-Fletcher R, Allday MH, Hocking D, Cornish K, Rodgers J. The interplay between anxiety and social functioning in Williams syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2014; 44:1220-9. [PMID: 24197115 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-013-1984-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The developmental disorder Williams syndrome (WS) has been associated with an atypical social profile of hyper-sociability and heightened social sensitivity across the developmental spectrum. In addition, previous research suggests that both children and adults with WS have a predisposition towards anxiety. The current research aimed to explore the profiles of social behaviour and anxiety across a broad age range of individuals with the disorder (n = 59, ages 6-36 years). We used insights from parental reports on two frequently used measures, the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale (SCAS-P) and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Severity of anxiety was correlated with a greater degree of social dysfunction as measured by the SRS in this group. We split the group according to high or low anxiety as measured by the SCAS-P and explored the profile of social skills for the two groups. Individuals high and low in anxiety differed in their social abilities. The results emphasise the need to address anxiety issues in this disorder and to consider how components of anxiety might relate to other features of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah M Riby
- Science Laboratories, Department of Psychology, Durham University, South Road, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK,
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