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Chen L, Liu J, Kang JB, Rosenberg-Lee M, Abrams DA, Menon V. Atypical pattern separation memory and its association with restricted interests and repetitive behaviors in autistic children. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1503-1518. [PMID: 38263761 PMCID: PMC11132949 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231223354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Memory challenges remain understudied in childhood autism. Our study investigates one specific aspect of memory function, known as pattern separation memory, in autistic children. Pattern separation memory refers to the critical ability to store unique memories of similar stimuli; however, its role in childhood autism remains largely uncharted. Our study first uncovered that the pattern separation memory was significantly reduced in autistic children, and then showed that reduced memory performance was linked to their symptoms of repetitive, restricted interest and behavior. We also identified distinct subgroups with profiles of reduced and increased generalization for pattern separation memory. More than 72% of autistic children showed a tendency to reduce memory generalization, focusing heavily on unique details of objects for memorization. This focus made it challenging for them to identify commonalities across similar entities. Interestingly, a smaller proportion of autistic children displayed an opposite pattern of increased generalization, marked by challenges in differentiating between similar yet distinct objects. Our findings advance the understanding of memory function in autism and have practical implications for devising personalized learning strategies that align with the unique memory patterns exhibited by autistic children. This study will be of broad interest to researchers in psychology, psychiatry, and brain development as well as teachers, parents, clinicians, and the wider public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lang Chen
- Department of Psychology, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA 95053
- Neuroscience Program, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA 95053
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Julia Boram Kang
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Miriam Rosenberg-Lee
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07102
| | - Daniel A. Abrams
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Vinod Menon
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences
- Wu Tsai Neuroscience Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
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Hilly C, Wilson PH, Lucas B, McGuckian TB, Swanton R, Froude EH. Effectiveness of interventions for school-aged-children and adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Disabil Rehabil 2024; 46:1708-1733. [PMID: 37158227 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2207043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe allied health and educational interventions and their effectiveness for children and adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). To appraise the quality and strength of studies. METHODS Electronic databases were searched between 2005 and March 2022, identifying non-pharmacological studies supporting function, activity, or participation for FASD participants aged 5-18 years using any quantitative research design. Outcomes were coded using International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, family of Participation Related Constructs and behaviour categories. Multi-level random-effects meta-analysis examined intervention effects. Study methodological quality was evaluated using Cochrane risk of bias tools, RoBiNT, AMSTAR 2 and NHMRC Hierarchy levels of evidence. Certainty of findings were synthesised using GRADE approach. RESULTS The systematic review included 25 studies with 735 participants, 10 of which were analysed by meta-analysis. Body function and structure, activity, behaviour, and sense of self outcomes were pooled. A small, positive effect favouring interventions was found (g = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.15-0.43), however the GRADE certainty was rated as low. No participation outcomes were identified. CONCLUSIONS Some interventions targeting body function and structure, activity and behaviour outcomes were effective. Evidence of interventions that support children's and adolescent's participation as an outcome is lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Hilly
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Peter H Wilson
- Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural & Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Barbara Lucas
- The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney
- Physiotherapy Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Thomas B McGuckian
- Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural & Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ruth Swanton
- Occupational Therapy Department, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
- Occupational Therapy Department, South Infirmary University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Elspeth H Froude
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University, Sydney, Australia
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Hennessy A, Nichols ES, Al-Saoud S, Brossard-Racine M, Duerden EG. Identifying cognitive profiles in children with neurodevelopmental disorders using online cognitive testing. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 29:591-607. [PMID: 38282296 PMCID: PMC10945998 DOI: 10.1177/13591045241228889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) tend to exhibit similar deficits in attention and memory ability. Early screening of cognitive deficits in children with NDDs, particularly in preschool children, is fundamental to improving cognitive and academic outcomes. In order to determine cognitive profiles in children with ASD and ADHD, we developed accessible audiovisual instructions for an online battery of 13 cognitive tests. Children ages 4-16 who were diagnosed with ADHD (n = 83), or ASD (n = 37), or who were typically developing children (TD) (n = 86) were recruited. Data were analyzed using a stepwise Discriminant Analysis to determine which cognitive tasks were the strongest discriminators between the diagnostic groups. Results revealed four tasks reflective of working memory, reasoning, and attentional processes, which correctly classified approximately 53-60% of each group. The ADHD group had lower scores on attentional tasks compared to TD, while ASD group had lower scores on reasoning tasks compared to the TD children, and made more attempts across all four tasks. The results from this study stress the need for cognitive screening assessments that include domain-specific items to improve the characterization of executive function deficits and promote academic achievement in all children with NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abagail Hennessy
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, Canada
| | - Emily S Nichols
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, Canada
- Western Institute for Neuroscience, Western University, Canada
| | - Sarah Al-Saoud
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, Canada
| | | | - Emma G Duerden
- Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, Canada
- Western Institute for Neuroscience, Western University, Canada
- Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Canada
- Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Canada
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Does the Level of Focus in Serious Games in Immersive VR Correlate with the Quality of Movement? Preliminary Results from an Ongoing Study on Rehabilitation of Children with Cerebral Palsy. IEEE Int Conf Rehabil Robot 2023; 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37941186 DOI: 10.1109/icorr58425.2023.10304712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP), one of the diseases that cause motor deficiency, is a childhood condition characterized by a motor disability (palsy) caused by a non-progressive static lesion in the brain (cerebral) [1], [2]. Rehabilitation of patients with CP is typically accomplished through exercises performed by a team of several specialists so that the patient can act independently or with as little reliance on third parties as possible. In CP, motor disorders are often present together with sensory, perceptual, cognitive, behavioural and communication disorders. Regarding motor disorders, the most frequent outcome is hemiplegia, although diplegic and paraplegic patients are also present [1].
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Mattson JT, Thorne JC, Kover ST. Parental scaffolding in play: A comparison of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 139:104553. [PMID: 37295127 PMCID: PMC10635817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parental support of child play varies based on child needs; however, how parental play level differs from child play level remains an understudied area of research, especially in relation to specific developmental disabilities. AIMS To preliminarily explore differences in child and parent play levels in age- and IQ-matched children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS and Procedures: Parent-child dyads were recorded during free-play sessions. Parent/child play levels were coded for highest level achieved during each minute of play. Mean play level and dPlay (difference in parent versus child play level) were calculated across play sessions for each dyad. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS On average, parents of children with FASD demonstrated higher levels of play than other parents. Children with FASD demonstrated higher levels of play than their own parents. In contrast, the play level of parents of children with ASD did not differ from their child's. There were no between-group differences in dPlay. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This preliminary exploratory study suggests that parents of children with developmental disabilities may differentially 'match' their child's play level. Further research on developmental play levels during parent-child play is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia T Mattson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America.
| | - John C Thorne
- Department of Speech & Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Sara T Kover
- Department of Speech & Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
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From virtual to prosocial reality: The effects of prosocial virtual reality games on preschool Children's prosocial tendencies in real life environments. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Reina-Reina C, Conesa PJ, Duñabeitia JA. Impact of a cognitive stimulation program on the reading comprehension of children in primary education. Front Psychol 2023; 13:985790. [PMID: 36687904 PMCID: PMC9853897 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.985790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction At present, numerous studies can be found in which influences and relationships between the principal executive functions, reading comprehension, and academic performance associated with reading are reported. However, there is still a lack of convergence regarding the impact of computerized cognitive training on children's executive development and its transfer in academic reading performance and comprehension of written texts. Methods This study analyzes the effect of implementing a cognitive stimulation program on the performance of reading comprehension and academic performance in the subject of Spanish Language and Literature. To this end, a total sample of 196 children from 23 educational centers received the cognitive intervention for 8 weeks, with three weekly sessions of between 15 and 20 min each occurring on non-consecutive days. Pre-test and post-test measurements were collected and analyzed. Results The results demonstrate a significant increase in the reading comprehension scores. In addition, a significant impact of the training on the participants' academic performance in the subject Spanish Language and Literature was found. Discussion These results highlight the usefulness of computerized cognitive stimulation programs for reading comprehension enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Reina-Reina
- Centro de Investigación Nebrija en Cognición (CINC), Universidad Nebrija, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jon Andoni Duñabeitia
- Centro de Investigación Nebrija en Cognición (CINC), Universidad Nebrija, Madrid, Spain,Department of Language and Culture, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway,*Correspondence: Jon Andoni Duñabeitia, ✉
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Betts JL, Eggins E, Chandler‐Mather N, Shelton D, Till H, Harnett P, Dawe S. Interventions for improving executive functions in children with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD): A systematic review. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1258. [PMID: 36908848 PMCID: PMC9634003 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Background The consequences for children born with birth defects and developmental disabilities encompassed by foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are profound, affecting all areas of social, behavioural and cognitive functioning. Given the strong evidence for a core deficit in executive functioning, underpinned by impaired self-regulation skills, there has been a growing focus on the development of interventions that enhance or support the development of executive functions (EFs). Objectives The primary objective of this review is to synthesise the evidence for structured psychological interventions that explicitly aim to improve EF in children. The review also sought to ascertain if the effectiveness of interventions were influenced by characteristics of the intervention, participants or type of EF targeted by the intervention. Search Methods Sixteen databases, 18 grey literature search locations and 9 trial registries were systematically searched to locate eligible studies (up to December 2020). These searches were supplemented with reference harvesting, forward citation searching, hand searches of topic-relevant journals and contact with experts. Selection Criteria Studies were included in the review if they reported on an impact evaluation of a psychological intervention aiming to improve EF in children 3-16 years who either had confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure or a formal diagnosis falling under the umbrella term of FASDs. Eligible study designs included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental designs with either no treatment, wait list control or an alternative treatment as a comparison condition. Single-group pre-post designs were also included. Data Collection and Analysis Standard methodological procedures expected by the Campbell Collaboration were used at all stages of this review. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) were used to estimate intervention effects, which were combined with random effects meta-analysis (data permitting). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB2) and Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies-Interventions tool (ROBINS-I). Main Results The systematic search identified 3820 unique records. After title/abstract and full-text screening, 11 eligible studies (reported in 21 eligible documents) were deemed eligible, with a combined 253 participants. Of the 11 studies, 6 were RCTs, 1 was a quasi-experiment and 4 were single-group pre-post intervention designs. All studies were rated as having an overall high or serious risk of bias, with some variation across domains for RCTs. For RCT and quasi-experimental studies, the overall effect of EF interventions on direct and indirect measures of EF generally favoured the experimental condition, but was not statistically significant. There was no difference between intervention and comparison groups on direct measures of auditory attention (k = 3; SMD = 0.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.06, 1.18), visual attention (k = 2; SMD = 0.90, 95% CI = -1.41, 3.21), cognitive flexibility (k = 2; SMD = 0.23, 95% CI = -0.40, 0.86), attentional inhibition (k = 2; SMD = 0.04, 95% CI = -0.58, 0.65), response inhibition (k = 3; SMD = 0.47, 95% CI = -0.04, 0.99), or verbal working memory (k = 1; d = 0.6827; 95% CI = -0.0196, 1.385). Significant heterogeneity was found across studies on measures of auditory attention and visual attention, but not for measures of cognitive flexibility, attentional inhibition or response inhibition. Available data prohibited further exploration of heterogeneity. There was no statistical difference between intervention and comparison groups on indirect measures of global executive functioning (k = 2; SMD = 0.21, 95% CI = -0.40, 0.82), behavioural regulation (k = 2; SMD = 0.18, 95% CI = -0.43, 0.79), or emotional control (k = 3; SMD = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.33, 0.36). Effect sizes were positive and not significant for meta-cognition (k = 1; SMD = 0.23, 95% CI = -0.72, 1.19), shifting (k = 2; SMD = 0.04, 95% CI = -0.35, 0.43), initiation (k = 1; SMD = 0.04, 95% CI = -0.40, 0.49), monitoring (k = 1; SMD = 0.25, 95% CI = -0.20, 0.70) and organisation of materials (k = 1; SMD = 0.25, 95% CI = -0.19, 0.70). Effect sizes were negative and not statistically different for effortful control (k = 1; SMD = -0.53, 95% CI = -1.50, 0.45), inhibition (k = 2; SMD = -0.08, 95% CI = -0.47, 0.31), working memory (k = 1; SMD = 0.00, 95% CI = -0.45, 0.44), and planning and organisation (k = 1; SMD = -0.10, 95% CI = -0.55, 0.34). No statistically significant heterogeneity was found for any of the syntheses of indirect measures of EF. Based on pre-post single-group designs, there was evidence for small to medium sized improvements in EF based on direct measures (cognitive flexibility, verbal working memory and visual working memory) and indirect measures (behavioural regulation, shifting, inhibition and meta-cognition). However, these results must be interpreted with caution due to high risk of bias. Authors' Conclusions This review found limited and uncertain evidence for the effectiveness of interventions for improving executive functioning in children with FASD across 8 direct and 13 indirect measures of EF. The findings are limited by the small number of high-quality studies that could be synthesised by meta-analysis and the very small sample sizes for the included studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Lee Betts
- School of Applied PsychologyGriffith UniversityBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Elizabeth Eggins
- School of Applied PsychologyGriffith UniversityBrisbaneAustralia
| | | | - Doug Shelton
- Child Development ServiceGold Coast Hospital and Health ServiceSouthportAustralia
| | - Haydn Till
- Child Development Service, Gold Coast Hospital and Health ServiceSouthportAustralia
| | - Paul Harnett
- School of Criminology and Criminal JusticeGriffith UniversityMount GravattAustralia
| | - Sharon Dawe
- School of Applied PsychologyGriffith UniversityBrisbaneAustralia
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Ono KE, Bearden DJ, Lee SM, Moss C, Kheder A, Cernokova I, Drane DL, Gedela S. Interventions for ADHD in children & adolescents with epilepsy: A review and decision tree to guide clinicians. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 135:108872. [PMID: 36037580 PMCID: PMC10084711 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common pediatric epilepsy comorbidities. Treating ADHD in the context of epilepsy can be overwhelming for parents and clinicians. Current frontline treatment for ADHD is stimulant medication. However, some parents of pediatric patients with epilepsy have concerns about adding additional medication to their child's epilepsy regimen and/or about adverse effects of stimulant medication. Non-medication ADHD treatments including psychosocial interventions and ketogenic diet have also shown success in improving ADHD symptoms. Our focused review provides an easy-to-use guide for clinicians on ADHD interventions and combinations of interventions for pediatric patients with epilepsy and ADHD. Our guide includes information from 8 electronic databases for peer-reviewed, English language studies of psychosocial treatments for youth with epilepsy and ADHD. One hundred eight studies were selected based on inclusion criteria (21 systematic reviews, 12 meta-analyses, 8 literature reviews, 6 population surveys, 31 clinical trials, 20 cross-sectional studies, and 10 retrospective reviews). Results indicated that stimulant medication is a frontline treatment for ADHD symptoms in youth with epilepsy, with important caveats and alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim E Ono
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Donald J Bearden
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Susan M Lee
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, U United States
| | - Cierra Moss
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ammar Kheder
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ivana Cernokova
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, United States
| | - Daniel L Drane
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Neurology University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Satyanarayana Gedela
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Calub CA, Benyakorn S, Sun S, Iosif AM, Boyle LH, Solomon M, Hessl D, Schweitzer JB. Working Memory Training in Youth With Autism, Fragile X, and Intellectual Disability: A Pilot Study. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 127:369-389. [PMID: 36018768 PMCID: PMC9915337 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-127.5.369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This pilot study sought to identify potential markers of improvement from pre-post treatment in response to computerized working memory (WM) training for youth (ages 8-18) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and comorbid intellectual disability (ID) in a single arm, pre-post design. Participants included 26 children with ASD and 18 with comorbid ASD and fragile X syndrome (ASD+FXS). Analyses were adjusted for age and IQ. The ASD group demonstrated greater improvement on WM training relative to the ASD+FXS group. Participants improved on WM and far transfer outcomes, however, there were no significant group differences in improvement except for repetitive behavior. Higher hyperactivity/impulsivity ratings predicted lower performance on visuospatial WM. Findings suggest cognitive training may be beneficial for youth with ASD and ID, warranting further exploration.
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Effects of grade, academic performance, and sex on spatial working memory and attention in primary school children: a cross-sectional observational study. JOURNAL OF BIO-X RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/jbr.0000000000000120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Bauer V, Bouchara T, Bourdot P. Extended Reality Guidelines for Supporting Autism Interventions Based on Stakeholders' Needs. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 53:2078-2111. [PMID: 35244836 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05447-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
While Extended Reality (XR) autism research, ranging from Augmented to Virtual Reality, focuses on socio-emotional abilities and autistic children requiring low support, common interventions address the entire spectrum and focus on other abilities, including perceptual abilities. Based on these observations, this paper first addresses common practitioners' interventions, and then suggests XR use cases and guidelines to better support them. To do so, 34 interviews were conducted with stakeholders, mainly including practitioners, and then analyzed. Emerging XR use cases were compared with the findings from two former systematic literature reviews, and emerging design guidelines were compared with the findings from a literature survey that we conducted. Findings suggest that collaborative XR sensory-based and mediation approaches could benefit the entire spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Bauer
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, LISN, VENISE Team, Orsay, France.
| | - Tifanie Bouchara
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, LISN, VENISE Team, Orsay, France.,HeSam Universite, CNAM, CEDRIC (EA4626), ILJ Team, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Bourdot
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, LISN, VENISE Team, Orsay, France
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Samson AD, Rohr CS, Park S, Arora A, Ip A, Tansey R, Comessotti T, Madigan S, Dewey D, Bray S. Videogame exposure positively associates with selective attention in a cross-sectional sample of young children. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257877. [PMID: 34570826 PMCID: PMC8476027 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing interest in how exposure to videogames is associated with young children's development. While videogames may displace time from developmentally important activities and have been related to lower reading skills, work in older children and adolescents has suggested that experience with attention-demanding/fast-reaction games positively associates with attention and visuomotor skills. In the current study, we assessed 154 children aged 4-7 years (77 male; mean age 5.38) whose parents reported average daily weekday recreational videogame time, including information about which videogames were played. We investigated associations between videogame exposure and children's sustained, selective, and executive attention skills. We found that videogame time was significantly positively associated only with selective attention. Longitudinal studies are needed to elucidate the directional association between time spent playing recreational videogames and attention skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandria D. Samson
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christiane S. Rohr
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Radiology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Suhyeon Park
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anish Arora
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Amanda Ip
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Radiology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ryann Tansey
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Radiology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tiana Comessotti
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sheri Madigan
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Signe Bray
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Child and Adolescent Imaging Research (CAIR) Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Radiology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- * E-mail:
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14
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Pasqualotto A, Mazzoni N, Bentenuto A, Mulè A, Benso F, Venuti P. Effects of Cognitive Training Programs on Executive Function in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1280. [PMID: 34679345 PMCID: PMC8534174 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11101280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder is often associated with deficits in executive functions (EFs), which is contributing significantly to individuals with ASD's difficulties in conducting an independent life, particularly considering social skills. Technologies offer promising opportunities to structure EF intervention programs for children on the autistic spectrum. METHODS This study aimed to review the effectiveness of randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental studies of EF interventions delivered to children and young people (up to 23 years old) with a diagnosis of ASD. A special focus was dedicated to document the effectiveness of computerized and non-computerized cognitive training on (1) EFs and on (2) ASD symptomatology and social skills. Of 2601 studies retrieved, 19 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. RESULTS Most of the interventions identified were effective in enhancing EFs and reducing symptoms in children and young people with ASD. Limited evidence is available on their generalization to untrained skills (i.e., social abilities) as well as long-term effects. CONCLUSIONS There is growing evidence for overall effectiveness of EF training, particularly when computerized. However, caution should be taken when interpreting these findings owing to methodological limitations, the minimal number of papers retrieved, and a small samples of included studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Pasqualotto
- Laboratory of Observational, Diagnosis and Education (ODFLab), Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (N.M.); (A.B.); (A.M.); (F.B.); (P.V.)
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Noemi Mazzoni
- Laboratory of Observational, Diagnosis and Education (ODFLab), Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (N.M.); (A.B.); (A.M.); (F.B.); (P.V.)
- Laboratory for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 38068 Rovereto, Italy
| | - Arianna Bentenuto
- Laboratory of Observational, Diagnosis and Education (ODFLab), Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (N.M.); (A.B.); (A.M.); (F.B.); (P.V.)
| | - Anna Mulè
- Laboratory of Observational, Diagnosis and Education (ODFLab), Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (N.M.); (A.B.); (A.M.); (F.B.); (P.V.)
| | - Francesco Benso
- Laboratory of Observational, Diagnosis and Education (ODFLab), Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (N.M.); (A.B.); (A.M.); (F.B.); (P.V.)
| | - Paola Venuti
- Laboratory of Observational, Diagnosis and Education (ODFLab), Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (N.M.); (A.B.); (A.M.); (F.B.); (P.V.)
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15
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Spaniol MM, Magalhães J, Mevorach C, Shalev L, Teixeira MCTV, Lowenthal R, de Paula CS. Association between attention, nonverbal intelligence and school performance of school-age children with Autism Spectrum Disorder from a public health context in Brazil. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 116:104041. [PMID: 34303277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.104041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in social interaction, restricted and repetitive behaviour, interests or activities. Difficulties in a broad spectrum of cognitive skills is often present, including attentional processes and nonverbal intelligence, which might be related to academic difficulties. AIMS In this study, the association between attentional skills and nonverbal intelligence to school performance of children with ASD was assessed. METHODS AND PROCEDURES 32 children/adolescents between 8-14 years old, who attended a treatment unit linked to the public health system of São Paulo-Brazil participated in the study. The following instruments were utilized: Cancellation Attention Test; Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices; and School Performance Test. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS After correlation analysis, statistically significant associations were found between attention and nonverbal intelligence with school performance. Regression analysis showed that attention drives school performance irrespective of nonverbal intelligence. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Results evidence the link between attention and school performance in ASD, suggesting that attentional mechanisms may be a promising route to follow in the design of interventions for school improvement of children and adolescents with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Muller Spaniol
- Mackenzie Presbyterian University, Developmental Disorders Program, R. da Consolação, 930 - Consolação, São Paulo, SP, 01302-907, Brazil.
| | - Júlia Magalhães
- Mackenzie Presbyterian University, School of Psychology, R. da Consolação, 930 - Consolação, São Paulo, SP, 01302-907, Brazil.
| | - Carmel Mevorach
- University of Birmingham, School of Psychology and the Centre for Human Brain Health, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom.
| | - Lilach Shalev
- Tel-Aviv University, School of Education and the Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
| | - Maria Cristina T V Teixeira
- Mackenzie Presbyterian University, Developmental Disorders Program, R. da Consolação, 930 - Consolação, São Paulo, SP, 01302-907, Brazil.
| | - Rosane Lowenthal
- Mental Health Department, Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dona Veridiana, 56 - Higienópolis, São Paulo, SP, 01238-010, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane Silvestre de Paula
- Mackenzie Presbyterian University, Developmental Disorders Program, R. da Consolação, 930 - Consolação, São Paulo, SP, 01302-907, Brazil; Department of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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16
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Macoun SJ, Schneider I, Bedir B, Sheehan J, Sung A. Pilot Study of an Attention and Executive Function Cognitive Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:2600-2610. [PMID: 33029666 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04723-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This pilot study investigated the efficacy of a game-based cognitive training program (Caribbean Quest; CQ) for improving attention and executive function (EF) in school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). CQ is a 'serious game' that uses a hybrid process-specific/compensatory approach to remediate attention and EF abilities through repetitive, hierarchically graded exercises delivered in an adaptive format. Game-play is accompanied by instruction in metacognitive strategies delivered by an adult trainer. Twenty children diagnosed with ASD (ages 6-12 years) completed 12 h of intervention in schools over 8-10 weeks that was facilitated by a trained Research Assistant. Pre-post testing indicated near transfer gains for visual working memory and selective attention and far transfer effects for math fluency. Exit interviews with parents and school staff indicated anecdotal gains in attention, EF, emotion-regulation, flexibility, communication, and social skills. Overall, this study provides preliminary support for the feasibility and potential efficacy of the CQ when delivered in schools to children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Macoun
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, PO Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Isabel Schneider
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, PO Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Buse Bedir
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, PO Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - John Sheehan
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, PO Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Andrew Sung
- Educational Psychology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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17
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Gardiner E, Hutchison SM, McLachlan K, Rasmussen C, Pei J, Mâsse LC, Oberlander TF, Reynolds JN. Behavior regulation skills are associated with adaptive functioning in children and adolescents with prenatal alcohol exposure. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-CHILD 2021; 11:691-701. [PMID: 34155949 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2021.1936528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Children with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) experience a range of adverse outcomes that impact multiple domains of functioning, including cognitive, physical, mental health, behavioral, social-emotional, communication, and learning. To inform tailored clinical intervention, the current study examined the relation between caregiver-reported cognitive skills (executive function; EF) and adaptive functioning. The study conducted a secondary analyses of data provided by caregivers of 87 children and adolescents (aged 5-18 years, M = 11.7; 52% male) with confirmed PAE, including a subset (n = 70) with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), who reported on their child's EF (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function) and adaptive function (Adaptive Behavior Assessment System, 2nd Edition) skills. Findings from the current study showed that caregivers reported significantly poorer EF and adaptive functioning skills for children with PAE as compared to normative samples. Poorer behavior regulation skills were associated with all aspects of adaptive functioning (i.e., practical, conceptual, and social skills). Specifically, shifting skills emerged as the best predictor of adaptive functioning among children with PAE. These results highlight the possibility that targeting particular EF domains among individuals with PAE may benefit behavior regulation, which may also extend to adaptive skills. This highlights the need to develop EF interventions for children and adolescents who have been prenatally exposed to alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Gardiner
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sarah M Hutchison
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Carmen Rasmussen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Pei
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Louise C Mâsse
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Tim F Oberlander
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - James N Reynolds
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queens University, Kingston, Canada
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18
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Bharadwaj SV, Yeatts P, Headley J. Efficacy of cogmed working memory training program in improving working memory in school-age children with and without neurological insults or disorders: A meta-analysis. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-CHILD 2021; 11:891-903. [PMID: 34085876 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2021.1920943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This meta-analysis assessed the efficacy of the Cogmed Working Memory Training program in improving near-transfer measures (verbal and visuospatial working memory) and far-transfer measures (attention, executive function, and academic achievement) in school-age children with and without neurological insults or disorders. Relevant studies were searched in databases and clinical trial registries using the keyword Cogmed. Ten published studies and unpublished data from one study met the inclusion criteria. Hedges g was calculated for each outcome measure obtained at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 3-6 month time points. Analysis compared outcome measures in the control versus experimental groups and examined the role of moderators on treatment effects (control group intervention, intervention environment). Data revealed significant medium-size effects of the Cogmed program in improving verbal and visuospatial working memory post-intervention and for verbal working memory only at the 3-6 month time point. However, the training did not generalize to the far-transfer measures. Analyses indicated that only the type of intervention provided for the control group moderated treatment effects on verbal and visual working memory. Meta-analytic findings suggest that the Cogmed program leads to short-term improvements and in some cases, long-term improvements in working memory in school-age children; however, these effects may not generalize to far-transfer measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha V Bharadwaj
- Department of Communication Sciences and Oral Health, Texas Woman's University, Denton, Texas, USA
| | - Paul Yeatts
- Center for Research Design & Analysis, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, Texas Woman's University, Denton, Texas, USA
| | - Johnna Headley
- Department of Communication Sciences and Oral Health, Texas Woman's University, Denton, Texas, USA
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19
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Mallory C, Keehn B. Implications of Sensory Processing and Attentional Differences Associated With Autism in Academic Settings: An Integrative Review. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:695825. [PMID: 34512416 PMCID: PMC8430329 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.695825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of classroom environments on student engagement and academic performance is well-documented. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with atypical sensory processing and attentional impairments, which may lead to challenges in successfully accessing educational material within these settings. These symptoms may help explain why students with ASD show discrepancies between intellectual ability and academic performance. Given the increasing number of students with ASD present in classrooms, understanding strengths and weaknesses in sensory processing and attention is necessary in order to design better classroom environments and develop more efficacious accommodations and interventions to support optimal student success. Therefore, the objectives of this review are to provide a brief review of the current literature on sensory processing and attention in ASD, survey how sensory and attentional functions affect academic outcomes in both neurotypical and ASD learners, and suggest potential accommodations/interventions for students with ASD based on these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Mallory
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Brandon Keehn
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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20
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Waddell J, Hill E, Tang S, Jiang L, Xu S, Mooney SM. Choline Plus Working Memory Training Improves Prenatal Alcohol-Induced Deficits in Cognitive Flexibility and Functional Connectivity in Adulthood in Rats. Nutrients 2020; 12:E3513. [PMID: 33202683 PMCID: PMC7696837 DOI: 10.3390/nu12113513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the leading known cause of intellectual disability, and may manifest as deficits in cognitive function, including working memory. Working memory capacity and accuracy increases during adolescence when neurons in the prefrontal cortex undergo refinement. Rats exposed to low doses of ethanol prenatally show deficits in working memory during adolescence, and in cognitive flexibility in young adulthood. The cholinergic system plays a crucial role in learning and memory processes. Here we report that the combination of choline and training on a working memory task during adolescence significantly improved cognitive flexibility (performance on an attentional set shifting task) in young adulthood: 92% of all females and 81% of control males formed an attentional set, but only 36% of ethanol-exposed males did. Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging showed that functional connectivity among brain regions was different between the sexes, and was altered by prenatal ethanol exposure and by choline + training. Connectivity, particularly between prefrontal cortex and striatum, was also different in males that formed a set compared with those that did not. Together, these findings indicate that prenatal exposure to low doses of ethanol has persistent effects on brain functional connectivity and behavior, that these effects are sex-dependent, and that an adolescent intervention could mitigate some of the effects of prenatal ethanol exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaylyn Waddell
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.H.); (S.M.M.)
| | - Elizabeth Hill
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.H.); (S.M.M.)
| | - Shiyu Tang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (S.T.); (L.J.); (S.X.)
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (S.T.); (L.J.); (S.X.)
| | - Su Xu
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (S.T.); (L.J.); (S.X.)
| | - Sandra M. Mooney
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.H.); (S.M.M.)
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA
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21
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Kapasi A, Pei J, Kryska K, Joly V, Gill K, Thompson-Hodgetts S, McLachlan K, Andrew G, Rasmussen C. Exploring Self-Regulation Strategy Use in Adolescents with FASD. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, SCHOOLS, & EARLY INTERVENTION 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/19411243.2020.1822260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aamena Kapasi
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Pei
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Kathryn Kryska
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Vannesa Joly
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Kamaldeep Gill
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of British Colombia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Gail Andrew
- Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Edmonton, PAE Clinic, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Carmen Rasmussen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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22
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Kasuya-Ueba Y, Zhao S, Toichi M. The Effect of Music Intervention on Attention in Children: Experimental Evidence. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:757. [PMID: 32792900 PMCID: PMC7393235 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although music has been utilized as a therapeutic tool for children with cognitive impairments, how it improves children’s cognitive function remains poorly understood. As a first step toward understanding music’s effectiveness and as a means of assessing cognitive function improvement, we focused on attention, which plays an important role in cognitive development, and examined the effect of a music intervention on children’s attention. Thirty-five children, aged 6 to 9 years, participated in this study, with data from 29 of the children being included in the analysis. A single 30-minute interactive music intervention was compared with a single 30-minute interactive video game intervention accompanied by computer-generated background music using a within-subjects repeated-measures design. Each intervention was implemented individually. Participants completed a standardized attention assessment, the Test of Everyday Attention for Children, before and after both interventions to assess changes in their attentional skills. The results indicated significant improvement in attention control/switching following the music intervention after controlling for the children’s intellectual abilities, while no such changes were observed following the video game intervention. This study provides the first evidence that music interventions may be more effective than video game interventions to improve attention control in children, and furthers our understanding of the importance of music interventions for children with attention control problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Kasuya-Ueba
- Department of Human Health Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shuo Zhao
- Institute of Psychology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Affective and Social Neuroscience, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Motomi Toichi
- Department of Human Health Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,The Organization for Promoting Neurodevelopmental Disorder Research, Kyoto, Japan
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23
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Macoun SJ, Pyne S, MacSween J, Lewis J, Sheehan J. Feasibility and potential benefits of an attention and executive function intervention on metacognition in a mixed pediatric sample. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-CHILD 2020; 11:240-252. [PMID: 32701379 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2020.1794867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The term "metacognition" describes thinking about a cognitive phenomenon or, more simply put, thinking about thinking . Metacognition involves using knowledge about one's cognitive processes to change behavior, including monitoring and controlling cognition. Metacognition is vital for learning and is often more difficult for children with neurodevelopmental concerns (e.g. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD], Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder [FASD], Autism Spectrum Disorders [ASD]), possibly due to underlying deficits in attention and executive functioning (EF). The present study evaluated a 6- to 8-week cognitive intervention aimed at improving attention and EF and children's metacognitive abilities. Participants included a mixed sample of 50 children ages 6-12 years presenting with attention and/or EF deficits. Children within the active intervention group completed a game-based attention/EF intervention called Caribbean Quest (CQ), which combines process-specific and compensatory approaches to remediate attention and EF. Educational Assistants (EAs) supported children during gameplay by teaching explicit metacognitive strategies. Pre/post assessments included measures of attention and working memory (WM), metacognitive awareness (child, parent, and EA questionnaires), and metacognitive regulation (metacognitive monitoring and control). Results indicated post-intervention gains in WM, metacognitive awareness, and metacognitive regulation (self-monitoring and metacognitive control). These results provide preliminary support for CQ as potentially beneficial in improving aspects of EF and metacognition in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Macoun
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah Pyne
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jennifer MacSween
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jessica Lewis
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John Sheehan
- Psychology Department, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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24
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Zhang M, Jiao J, Hu X, Yang P, Huang Y, Situ M, Guo K, Cai J, Huang Y. Exploring the spatial working memory and visual perception in children with autism spectrum disorder and general population with high autism-like traits. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235552. [PMID: 32645114 PMCID: PMC7347168 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study is to compare the spatial working memory and visual perception between children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing control (TDC). Furthermore, this study validated whether this impairment was a feature of autism in general population with different autism-like traits (ALTs). This study contains two parts: case-control study and community population study. The ASD group and the control group were enlisted voluntarily (ASD group, n = 52; control group, n = 32). In the population study, we recruited 2994 children. Based on the scores of Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), children were divided into two groups (higher ALTs n = 122, lower ALTs n = 122). The participants completed the cognition tasks focusing on spatial working memory, visual-motor integration, and Intelligence. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was conducted, with potential confounders IQ, age, and gender were controlled. Pearson correlations were computed by controlling the IQ and age as covariate to better understand the relations between visual perception, spatial working memory, and autism-like traits. In the case-control study, the results of cognition tasks focusing on the spatial working memory and visual perception indicated underperformance in children with ASD. In the community population study, we found that individuals with higher ALTs performed worse than children with lower ALTs in spatial working memory. Pearson correlation analysis suggested that a correlation between SWM total errors and visual perception was identified both in the children with ASD and in community population (ASD group, r = -0.592, p<0.001; general population, r = -0.201, p = 0.003). It suggested that spatial working memory deficit was a characteristic of autism, and may be distributed across the general population. Furthermore, we speculated a correlation between spatial working memory and visual perception in children with ASD and in general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manxue Zhang
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Jiao
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Pingyuan Yang
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingjing Situ
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kuifang Guo
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Cai
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Psychiatric Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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25
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Boroda E, Krueger AM, Bansal P, Schumacher MJ, Roy AV, Boys CJ, Lim KO, Wozniak JR. A randomized controlled trial of transcranial direct-current stimulation and cognitive training in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Brain Stimul 2020; 13:1059-1068. [PMID: 32360392 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2020.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was a randomized double-blind sham-controlled trial examining the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) augmented cognitive training (CT) in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Prenatal alcohol exposure has profound detrimental effects on brain development and individuals with FASD commonly present with deficits in executive functions including attention and working memory. The most commonly studied treatment for executive deficits is CT, which involves repeated drilling of exercises targeting the impaired functions. As currently implemented, CT requires many hours and the observed effect sizes are moderate. Neuromodulation via tDCS can enhance brain plasticity and prior studies demonstrate that combining tDCS with CT improves efficacy and functional outcomes. TDCS-augmented CT has not yet been tested in FASD, a condition in which there are known abnormalities in neuroplasticity and few interventions. METHODS This study examined the feasibility and efficacy of this approach in 44 children with FASD. Participants were randomized to receive five sessions of CT with either active or sham tDCS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain that is heavily involved in executive functioning. RESULTS The intervention was feasible and well-tolerated in children with FASD. The tDCS group showed nominally significant improvement in attention on a continuous performance test compared to sham (p = .043). Group differences were observed at the third, fourth and fifth treatment sessions. There was no effect of tDCS on working memory (p = .911). Further, we found no group differences on a trail making task (p = .659) or on the verbal fluency test (p = .826). In the active tDCS group, a significant correlation was observed between improvement in attention scores and decrease in parent-reported attention deficits (p = .010). CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that tDCS-augmented CT is well tolerated in children with FASD and potentially offers benefits over and above CT alone.
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SoundFields: A Virtual Reality Game Designed to Address Auditory Hypersensitivity in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10092996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are characterised as having impairments in social-emotional interaction and communication, alongside displaying repetitive behaviours and interests. Additionally, they can frequently experience difficulties in processing sensory information with particular prevalence in the auditory domain. Often triggered by everyday environmental sounds, auditory hypersensitivity can provoke self-regulatory fear responses such as crying and isolation from sounds. This paper presents SoundFields, an interactive virtual reality game designed to address this area by integrating exposure based therapy techniques into game mechanics and delivering target auditory stimuli to the player rendered via binaural based spatial audio. A pilot study was conducted with six participants diagnosed with ASD who displayed hypersensitivity to specific sounds to evaluate the use of SoundFields as a tool to reduce levels of anxiety associated with identified problematic sounds. During the course of the investigation participants played the game weekly over four weeks and all participants actively engaged with the virtual reality (VR) environment and enjoyed playing the game. Following this period, a comparison of pre- and post-study measurements showed a significant decrease in anxiety linked to target auditory stimuli. The study results therefore suggest that SoundFields could be an effective tool for helping individuals with autism manage auditory hypersensitivity.
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Louw JG, Olivier L, Skeen S, van Heerden A, Tomlinson M. Evaluation of a Custom-Developed Computer Game to Improve Executive Functioning in 4- to 6-Year-Old Children Exposed to Alcohol in Utero: Protocol for a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e14489. [PMID: 31596247 PMCID: PMC6806122 DOI: 10.2196/14489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is one of the most common causes of preventable intellectual disability, and the key associated deficits are in executive function (EF). Aspects of EF can be improved using cognitive training interventions. The highest prevalence of FASD globally (at a rate of 135.1 per 1000) has been found in a South African population in the Western Cape province. There is a shortage of specialized health service personnel, and there are limited remedial services. Computer-based cognitive training, if age and culturally appropriate, could be an effective way to provide the interventions with minimal need for skilled personnel and other resources. The Foundation for Alcohol Related Research has developed such a program for the South African context. Objective This protocol aimed to evaluate whether it is feasible to use computerized cognitive training in a resource-poor context to improve cognitive function in children exposed to alcohol in utero. Methods We are conducting a randomized controlled trial in the Saldanha Bay Municipal area, evaluating a custom-developed cognitive training program to improve the cognitive function of children aged between 4 and 6 years who were exposed to alcohol in the prenatal stage. Participants will be recruited from local Early Childhood Development centers. Community workers will interview biological mothers to identify alcohol-exposed pregnancies. Alcohol-exposed children will be randomized into an intervention or a control group of 40 participants each using block randomization. A group of 40 children not exposed to alcohol will be included in a normative group using individual randomization. The intervention group will play the game for 6 months (40 sessions). Normative and control groups will receive no intervention. Neurodevelopmental assessments will be done at baseline and upon completion of the study with all participants. Results The intervention has started, and all baseline assessments have been done at the time of submission. Conclusions This study will provide insight into whether computerized cognitive training is viable and effective in the South African context. It has the potential to provide a means of intervention globally and in other resource-poor context and expand the knowledge base regarding executive functioning and FASD. This paper presents the research protocol and intervention design of the study. Trial Registration ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN17244156; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17244156. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/14489
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacobus Gidion Louw
- Foundation for Alcohol Related Research, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.,Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leana Olivier
- Foundation for Alcohol Related Research, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sarah Skeen
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alastair van Heerden
- Human and Social Development, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.,MRC/WITS Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mark Tomlinson
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queens University, Belfast, United Kingdom
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Working Memory Training Is Associated with Changes in Resting State Functional Connectivity in Children Who Were Born Extremely Preterm: a Randomized Controlled Trial. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-019-00150-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Children born extremely preterm (EP; < 28 weeks of gestation) or extremely low birth weight (ELBW; < 1000 g) are at increased risk of working memory deficits compared with their term-born peers and may benefit from working memory training. This study aimed to determine whether Cogmed Working Memory Training®, compared with a placebo training program, was associated with changes in resting-state functional connectivity (rsfc) and whether these changes correlated with working memory performance in EP/ELBW children. Twenty-one 7-year-old EP/ELBW children were enrolled in a double-blinded randomized controlled trial and had magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments (Cogmed, n = 12; placebo (a non-adaptive version of Cogmed), n = 9). Prior to training (baseline) and 2 weeks post-training, all children received a cognitive assessment, inclusive of immediate memory and working memory measures and an MRI. The Cogmed Improvement Index was used as a measure of improvement in trained activities in the Cogmed group. Resting-state functional MRI was used to measure training-related changes in intra- and inter-network rsfc. The networks assessed include the default mode network, the left and right central executive networks, the bilateral executive network, the dorsal attention network, and the salience network. rsfc data were compared between treatment groups and investigated in relation to changes in working memory performance. There was little evidence of differences in intra- or inter-network rsfc strength changes from baseline to post-training between treatment groups. In the Cogmed group, working memory performance was associated with increased rsfc from baseline to post-training within the precuneus network, but not in the placebo group. In the Cogmed group, results that did not survive multiple comparison correction further showed that improvement in trained activities was associated with increased rsfc between the left central and bilateral executive networks, and with decreased rsfc within the right central executive network and between the right central executive and salience networks. Changes in rsfc may facilitate working memory performance following Cogmed training. Further studies are needed to investigate how changes in rsfc are associated with behavioral changes to better support working memory in vulnerable groups.
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Adebiyi BO, Mukumbang FC, Erasmus C. The Distribution of Available Prevention and Management Interventions for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (2007 to 2017): Implications for Collaborative Actions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16122244. [PMID: 31242673 PMCID: PMC6617245 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16122244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The global prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) remains high despite the various preventive and management interventions that have been designed and implemented to tackle the issue in various settings. The aim of the scoping review is to identify and classify prevention and management interventions of FASD reported globally across the life span and to map the concentration of these interventions across the globe. We searched some selected databases with predefined terms. Framework and narrative approaches were used to synthesize and report on the findings. Thirty-two prevention intervention studies and 41 management interventions studies were identified. All the interventions were reported to be effective or showed promising outcomes for the prevention and management of FASD, except four. Although Europe and Africa have a relatively higher prevalence of FASD, the lowest number of interventions to address FASD were identified in these regions. Most of the interventions for FASD were reported in North America with comparatively lower FASD prevalence. The uneven distribution of interventions designed for FASD vis-à-vis the burden of FASD in the different regions calls for a concerted effort for knowledge and intervention sharing to enhance the design of contextually sensitive preventive and management policy in the different regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babatope O Adebiyi
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 8001, South Africa.
| | - Ferdinand C Mukumbang
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 8001, South Africa.
| | - Charlene Erasmus
- Child and Family Studies, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 8001, South Africa.
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Benyakorn S, Calub CA, Riley SJ, Schneider A, Iosif AM, Solomon M, Hessl D, Schweitzer JB. Computerized Cognitive Training in Children With Autism and Intellectual Disabilities: Feasibility and Satisfaction Study. JMIR Ment Health 2018; 5:e40. [PMID: 29802090 PMCID: PMC5993974 DOI: 10.2196/mental.9564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Researchers are increasingly interested in testing and developing computerized cognitive training interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder due to the limited accessibility of treatments for this disorder. Understanding the feasibility of testing cognitive interventions for this population is critical, especially for individuals with ASD who have low to moderate intellectual ability. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of computerized cognitive training as measured by attrition rate and a parent satisfaction survey. METHODS A total of 26 participants aged 8-17 years with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and significant intellectual impairment were enrolled (mean age 11.1 years). They were instructed to complete 25 sessions of Cogmed Working Memory Training in 5 to 6 weeks with coach assistance. Attrition rate and parent satisfaction surveys were measured after the completion of training. RESULTS Most participants (96%, 25/26) completed the training and indicated high satisfaction (>88%). However, among the participants who completed the training, 5 participants (19%) were unable to finish in 6 weeks, the recommended training period by Cogmed. Parents noted various positive (eg, voice-overs) and negative (eg, particular graphic and sounds associated with a stimulus) features of the game that they thought affected their child's response. CONCLUSIONS Children with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual impairments can successfully participate in computerized cognitive training interventions but may require additional weeks to complete the training beyond the time needed for children without intellectual impairments. The overall completion rate, with extended time to complete the training, was high. Developers of cognitive training programs for this population should take into account potential issues regarding the noise level of stimuli and characteristics of the visual graphics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songpoom Benyakorn
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Ongkharak, Nakhonnayok, Thailand.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Catrina A Calub
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Steven J Riley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Andrea Schneider
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Ana-Maria Iosif
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Marjorie Solomon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - David Hessl
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Julie B Schweitzer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States.,MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
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Choline and Working Memory Training Improve Cognitive Deficits Caused by Prenatal Exposure to Ethanol. Nutrients 2017; 9:nu9101080. [PMID: 28961168 PMCID: PMC5691697 DOI: 10.3390/nu9101080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal ethanol exposure is associated with deficits in executive function such as working memory, reversal learning and attentional set shifting in humans and animals. These behaviors are dependent on normal structure and function in cholinergic brain regions. Supplementation with choline can improve many behaviors in rodent models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and also improves working memory function in normal rats. We tested the hypothesis that supplementation with choline in the postnatal period will improve working memory during adolescence in normal and ethanol-exposed animals, and that working memory engagement during adolescence will transfer to other cognitive domains and have lasting effects on executive function in adulthood. Male and female offspring of rats fed an ethanol-containing liquid diet (ET; 3% v/v) or control dams given a non-ethanol liquid diet (CT) were injected with choline (Cho; 100 mg/kg) or saline (Sal) once per day from postnatal day (P) 16–P30. Animals were trained/tested on a working memory test in adolescence and then underwent attentional set shifting and reversal learning in young adulthood. In adolescence, ET rats required more training to reach criterion than CT-Sal. Choline improved working memory performance for both CT and ET animals. In young adulthood, ET animals also performed poorly on the set shifting and reversal tasks. Deficits were more robust in ET male rats than female ET rats, but Cho improved performance in both sexes. ET male rats given a combination of Cho and working memory training in adolescence required significantly fewer trials to achieve criterion than any other ET group, suggesting that early interventions can cause a persistent improvement.
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Abstract
This grand rounds manuscript reviews important considerations in developing case conceptualizations for individuals with a history of prenatal alcohol exposure. This case study provides an introduction to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, diagnostic issues, a detailed description of the individual's history, presenting symptoms, neuropsychological test results, and an integrated summary. We describe a 9-year old girl diagnosed with a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD): Neurobehavioral Disorder Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (ND-PAE). This patient is a composite of a prototypical child who participated as part of a research project at the Center for Behavioral Teratology who was subsequently seen at an outpatient child psychiatry facility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Glass
- Center for Behavioral Teratology and Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92120
| | - Sarah N Mattson
- Center for Behavioral Teratology and Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92120
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