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Thompson DK, Kelly CE, Dhollander T, Muggli E, Hearps S, Lewis S, Nguyen TNN, Spittle A, Elliott EJ, Penington A, Halliday J, Anderson PJ. Associations between low-moderate prenatal alcohol exposure and brain development in childhood. Neuroimage Clin 2024; 42:103595. [PMID: 38555806 PMCID: PMC10998198 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2024.103595] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of low-moderate prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on brain development have been infrequently studied. AIM To compare cortical and white matter structure between children aged 6 to 8 years with low-moderate PAE in trimester 1 only, low-moderate PAE throughout gestation, or no PAE. METHODS Women reported quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy. Magnetic resonance imaging was undertaken for 143 children aged 6 to 8 years with PAE during trimester 1 only (n = 44), PAE throughout gestation (n = 58), and no PAE (n = 41). T1-weighted images were processed using FreeSurfer, obtaining brain volume, area, and thickness of 34 cortical regions per hemisphere. Fibre density (FD), fibre cross-section (FC) and fibre density and cross-section (FDC) metrics were computed for diffusion images. Brain measures were compared between PAE groups adjusted for age and sex, then additionally for intracranial volume. RESULTS After adjustments, the right caudal anterior cingulate cortex volume (pFDR = 0.045) and area (pFDR = 0.008), and right cingulum tract cross-sectional area (pFWE < 0.05) were smaller in children exposed to alcohol throughout gestation compared with no PAE. CONCLUSION This study reports a relationship between low-moderate PAE throughout gestation and cingulate cortex and cingulum tract alterations, suggesting a teratogenic vulnerability. Further investigation is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanne K Thompson
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claire E Kelly
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thijs Dhollander
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Evelyne Muggli
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Hearps
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon Lewis
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alicia Spittle
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elizabeth J Elliott
- The University of Sydney, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Kids Research, Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Penington
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Halliday
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter J Anderson
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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Boerma T, Ter Haar S, Ganga R, Wijnen F, Blom E, Wierenga CJ. What risk factors for Developmental Language Disorder can tell us about the neurobiological mechanisms of language development. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 154:105398. [PMID: 37741516 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105398] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Language is a complex multidimensional cognitive system that is connected to many neurocognitive capacities. The development of language is therefore strongly intertwined with the development of these capacities and their neurobiological substrates. Consequently, language problems, for example those of children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), are explained by a variety of etiological pathways and each of these pathways will be associated with specific risk factors. In this review, we attempt to link previously described factors that may interfere with language development to putative underlying neurobiological mechanisms of language development, hoping to uncover openings for future therapeutical approaches or interventions that can help children to optimally develop their language skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessel Boerma
- Institute for Language Sciences, Department of Languages, Literature and Communication, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sita Ter Haar
- Institute for Language Sciences, Department of Languages, Literature and Communication, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Cognitive Neurobiology and Helmholtz Institute, Department of Psychology, Utrecht University/Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rachida Ganga
- Institute for Language Sciences, Department of Languages, Literature and Communication, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Frank Wijnen
- Institute for Language Sciences, Department of Languages, Literature and Communication, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elma Blom
- Department of Development and Education of youth in Diverse Societies (DEEDS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Language and Culture, The Arctic University of Norway UiT, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Corette J Wierenga
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, the Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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3
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Bandoli G, Hayes S, Delker E. Low to Moderate Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes: A Narrative Review and Methodological Considerations. Alcohol Res 2023; 43:01. [PMID: 36950180 PMCID: PMC10027299 DOI: 10.35946/arcr.v43.1.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although abstinence is recommended in pregnancy, many pregnancies are exposed to alcohol. Observational studies of the effects of low to moderate prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and neurodevelopmental outcomes have yielded inconsistent results, with some studies finding an increased risk of adverse neurobehavioral and cognitive outcomes, and other studies finding no changes or reduced risk of the same outcomes. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize these inconsistencies and apply a methodological framework to discuss how different parameters contribute to the findings. The authors also provide recommendations on how to advance future research in this area. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched, along with reference lists of selected systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Search terms used were (infant or child or children or adolescent or offspring) AND (low or light or mild or moderate or low-to-moderate) AND (drinking or alcohol or drinks) AND (pregnancy or prenatal or fetal) AND (neurodevelopment or behavioral or psychological or cognitive or developmental) NOT (mice or rat or fish or animal) NOT (meta-analysis or review). Peer-reviewed original research studies were included if they analyzed associations between an exposure defined and characterized as low/light or moderate PAE with offspring neurodevelopmental outcomes. Animal studies, studies that did not provide clear cutoff points to classify PAE categories, studies lacking an abstinence control group, and studies that did not present a multivariable-adjusted measure of association were excluded. SEARCH RESULTS The searches identified 2,422 papers, with 36 papers meeting eligibility criteria. These studies were carried out across nine countries and included samples ranging from approximately 500 to 40,000 participants. Cognitive, academic, socioemotional, and behavioral outcomes were assessed from infancy through age 19. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION When the findings from the selected articles were summarized by geographic region, exposure definition, or neurodevelopmental outcome, no consistent observations or patterns emerged between low to moderate PAE and offspring outcomes. Although some studies found positive (i.e., beneficial) associations between low to moderate PAE and outcomes (primarily outcomes related to cognition) and others found negative (i.e., detrimental) associations (primarily for behavioral outcomes), most findings were null (i.e., showed no effect of PAE). The heterogeneity in study results is likely due to methodological issues, including residual confounding, effect measure modification, and exposure misclassification that make synthesis of studies difficult. Alternative study designs, including longitudinal trajectory analysis, sibling design, negative controls, and instrumental variable analyses, may reduce biases and are discussed. To date, the consequences of light to moderate levels of PAE on neurodevelopment remain unresolved; studies that advance methodological rigor will be important contributions to the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen Bandoli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Shana Hayes
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Erin Delker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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4
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Chu JTW, McCormack J, Marsh S, Wells A, Wilson H, Bullen C. Impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on neurodevelopmental outcomes: a systematic review. Health Psychol Behav Med 2022; 10:973-1002. [PMID: 36238426 PMCID: PMC9553152 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2022.2129653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prenatal exposure to alcohol (PAE) represents a significant public health concern. Previous research linking PAE to neurodevelopmental outcomes has been mixed and often has limited focus on residual confounding or moderating factors. Methods A systematic review of prospective cohort studies (n = >1000) assessing the impact of PAE on neurodevelopmental outcomes was undertaken (neurophysiology, motor skills, cognition, language, academic achievement, memory, attention, executive function, affect regulation, and adaptive behaviour, social skills, or communication). Electronic searches of EMBASE, Medline, CINAHL, and Psychinfo were conducted in May 2021. A quality assessment was conducted using an adapted version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results Thirty longitudinal cohort studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence of the impact of PAE was mixed across domains. We found no evidence that PAE affects executive function, but there were impacts on motor skills, cognition, language, academic achievement, attention, affect regulation, and adaptive behaviour. The most consistent adverse effect was on affect regulation (nine out of thirteen studies, six of which found an association between heavy alcohol consumption or binge drinking during pregnancy). We found no protective factors. Few studies controlled for variables in the postnatal environment. Discussion This review was unable to conclude a safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Methodological improvements are needed to improve the quality and consistency in which PAE is studied. Further research into residual confounding variables is vital, including a greater focus on the postpartum environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Ting Wai Chu
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jessica McCormack
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Samantha Marsh
- Social and Community Health, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alesha Wells
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Holly Wilson
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Chris Bullen
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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5
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Young SL, Steane SE, Kent NL, Reid N, Gallo LA, Moritz KM. Prevalence and Patterns of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in Australian Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies: A Systematic Review of Data Collection Approaches. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13144. [PMID: 36293721 PMCID: PMC9603223 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to determine data collection approaches in Australian cohort studies and explore the potential impact on reported prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) prevalence and patterns. Inclusion criteria were that studies related to a general Australian antenatal population where PAE was assessed and reported. Studies were excluded if they were not peer reviewed, examined the prevalence of PAE in pregnancies complicated by alcohol-use disorders, or were published in a language other than English. A systematic search of five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus) was conducted. Risk of bias was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project quality assessment tool. Results were synthesised using MetaXL. Data from 16 separate birth cohorts (n = 78 articles) were included. Included cohorts were either general cohorts that included alcohol as a variable or alcohol-focused cohorts that were designed with a primary focus on PAE. PAE prevalence was estimated as 48% (95% CI: 38 to 57%). When subgroup analysis was performed, estimates of PAE prevalence when self-administered surveys and interviews were used for data collection were 53% (95% CI: 41% to 64%) and 43% (95% CI: 28% to 59%), respectively. Use of trained assessors was an influencing factor of the prevalence estimates when data were collected via interview. Alcohol-focused studies reported higher prevalence of PAE, regardless of method of survey administration. Where interviewer training is not possible, self-administered questionnaires will likely provide the most reliable PAE estimates. No funding sources are relevant to mention. Review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020204853).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia L. Young
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Sarah E. Steane
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Nykola L. Kent
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Natasha Reid
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Linda A. Gallo
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Petrie, QLD 4502, Australia
| | - Karen M. Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
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Maternal Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Offspring: a Meta-analysis. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-022-00336-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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7
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Muggli E, Halliday J, Elliott EJ, Penington A, Thompson D, Spittle AJ, Forster D, Lewis S, Hearps S, Anderson PJ. Cohort profile: early school years follow-up of the Asking Questions about Alcohol in Pregnancy Longitudinal Study in Melbourne, Australia (AQUA at 6). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e054706. [PMID: 35039298 PMCID: PMC8765013 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The Asking Questions about Alcohol in Pregnancy (AQUA) study, established in 2011, is a prebirth cohort of 1570 mother and child pairs designed to assess the effects of low to moderate prenatal alcohol exposure and sporadic binge drinking on long-term child development. Women attending general antenatal clinics in public hospitals in Melbourne, Australia, were recruited in their first trimester, followed up three times during pregnancy and at 12 and 24 months postpartum. The current follow-up of the 6-8-year-old children aims to strengthen our understanding of the relationship between these levels of prenatal alcohol exposure and neuropsychological functioning, facial dysmorphology, brain structure and function. PARTICIPANTS Between June 2018 and April 2021, 802 of the 1342 eligible AQUA study families completed a parent-report questionnaire (60%). Restrictions associated with COVID-19 pandemic disrupted recruitment, but early school-age neuropsychological assessments were undertaken with 696 children (52%), and 482 (36%) craniofacial images were collected. A preplanned, exposure-representative subset of 146 children completed a brain MRI. An existing biobank was extended through collection of 427 (32%) child buccal swabs. FINDINGS TO DATE Over half (59%) of mothers consumed some alcohol during pregnancy, with one in five reporting at least one binge-drinking episode prior to pregnancy recognition. Children's craniofacial shape was examined at 12 months of age, and low to moderate prenatal alcohol exposure was associated with subtle midface changes. At 2 years of age, formal developmental assessments showed no evidence that cognitive, language or motor outcome was associated with any of exposure level. FUTURE PLANS We will investigate the relationship between prenatal alcohol exposure and specific aspects of neurodevelopment at 6-8 years, including craniofacial shape, brain structure and function. The contribution of genetics and epigenetics to individual variation in outcomes will be examined in conjunction with national and international collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyne Muggli
- Victorian Infant Brain Studies, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Halliday
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elizabeth J Elliott
- Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Penington
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Plastic and Maxillofacial Unit, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deanne Thompson
- Victorian Infant Brain Studies, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alicia Jane Spittle
- Victorian Infant Brain Studies, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Della Forster
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon Lewis
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Hearps
- Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter J Anderson
- Victorian Infant Brain Studies, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Simpson S, Eadie T, Khoo ST, Titmuss A, Maple-Brown LJ, Thompson R, Wunungmurra A, Jeyaseelan D, Dunham M, D'Aprano A. The ASQ-TRAK: Validating a culturally adapted developmental screening tool for Australian Aboriginal children. Early Hum Dev 2021; 163:105481. [PMID: 34678586 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2021.105481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developmental monitoring, performed using culturally relevant tools, is of critical importance for all young children. The ASQ-TRAK is the culturally and linguistically adapted Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3), a developmental screening tool, for Australian Aboriginal children. While the ASQ-TRAK has been well received in practice, investigating its psychometric properties will enable professionals to make informed decisions about its use. AIMS To conduct a rigorous validation study of the ASQ-TRAK by applying Kane's argument-based approach. SUBJECTS The ASQ-TRAK, Bayley-III and/or BDI-2 were administered cross-sectionally to 336 Australian Aboriginal children aged 2-48 months across ten participating sites in the Northern Territory and South Australia. A sample of staff and caregivers completed feedback surveys about the ASQ-TRAK. RESULTS ASQ-TRAK domain scores were moderately positively correlated with corresponding domain scores on the Bayley-III or BDI-2. Inter-rater and inter-instrument reliability were high. Sensitivity (83%), specificity (83%) and negative predictive value (99%) were acceptable. Staff and caregivers expressed high levels of satisfaction with the ASQ-TRAK. CONCLUSIONS Regular developmental screening can provide important information about developmental vulnerability and the need for services. The ASQ-TRAK should be administered by trained Aboriginal community-based workers and the implementation approach carefully planned. Areas for future research include longitudinal follow-up of children, investigating existing norms and cut-off scores, and considering the appropriateness of the ASQ-TRAK with Aboriginal people from different locations. The ASQ-TRAK has the potential to fill an important gap by enabling better access to high-quality developmental monitoring and targeted early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Simpson
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Tricia Eadie
- Graduate School of Education, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Angela Titmuss
- Wellbeing and Preventable Chronic Diseases Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, NT, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Division of Women, Children and Youth, Royal Darwin Hospital, NT, Australia
| | - Louise J Maple-Brown
- Wellbeing and Preventable Chronic Diseases Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, NT, Australia; Department of Endocrinology, Royal Darwin Hospital, NT, Australia
| | - Regina Thompson
- Department of Education, Northern Territory Government, NT, Australia
| | - Alison Wunungmurra
- Department of Education, Northern Territory Government, NT, Australia; Yolŋu
| | - Deepa Jeyaseelan
- Child Development Unit, Women's and Children's Hospital, Women's and Children's Health Network, SA, Australia
| | - Marilyn Dunham
- Child and Family Health Service, Women's and Children's Health Network, SA, Australia
| | - Anita D'Aprano
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Centre for Child Development and Education, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, NT, Australia; Population Health Theme, Policy and Equity Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, VIC, Australia
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9
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Loke YJ, Muggli E, Saffery R, Ryan J, Lewis S, Elliott EJ, Halliday J, Craig JM. Sex- and tissue-specific effects of binge-level prenatal alcohol consumption on DNA methylation at birth. Epigenomics 2021; 13:1921-1938. [PMID: 34841896 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Binge-level prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) causes developmental abnormalities, which may be mediated in part by epigenetic mechanisms. Despite this, few studies have characterised the association of binge PAE with DNA methylation in offspring. Methods: We investigated the association between binge PAE and genome-wide DNA methylation profiles in a sex-specific manner in neonatal buccal and placental samples. Results: We identified no differentially methylated CpGs or differentially methylated regions (DMRs) at false discovery rate <0.05. However, using a sum-of-ranks approach, we identified a DMR in each tissue of female offspring. The DMR identified in buccal samples is located near regions with previously-reported associations to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) and binge PAE. Conclusion: Our findings warrant further replication and highlight a potential epigenetic link between binge PAE and FASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuk Jing Loke
- Molecular Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Evelyne Muggli
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.,Victorian Infant Brain Studies, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Molecular Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Joanne Ryan
- Molecular Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Biological Neuropsychiatry & Dementia Unit, School of Public Health, Monash University, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Sharon Lewis
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.,Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Elizabeth J Elliott
- Specialty of Child & Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, University of Sydney, NSW, 2050, Australia.,The Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, NSW, 2045, Australia
| | - Jane Halliday
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.,Reproductive Epidemiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Jeffrey M Craig
- Molecular Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.,The Institute of Mental & Physical Health & Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Victoria, 3220, Australia
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10
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Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and the Facial Phenotype in Adolescents: A Study Based on Meconium Ethyl Glucuronide. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11020154. [PMID: 33503863 PMCID: PMC7911744 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11020154] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we explore the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) in adolescence. We investigated associations between meconium ethyl glucoronide (EtG) and facial malformation. For 129 children (66/63 male/female; M = 13.3, SD = 0.32, 12–14 years), PAE was implemented by newborn meconium EtG and maternal self-reports during the third trimester. Cognitive development was operationalized by standardized scores (WISC V). The EtG cut-off values were set at ≥10 ng/g (n = 32, 24.8% EtG10+) and ≥112 ng/g (n = 20, 15.5% EtG112+). The craniofacial shape was measured using FAS Facial Photographic Analysis Software. EtG10+− and EtG112+-affected children exhibited a shorter palpebral fissure length (p = 0.031/p = 0.055). Lip circularity was smaller in EtG112+-affected children (p = 0.026). Maternal self-reports were not associated (p > 0.164). Lip circularity correlated with fluid reasoning (EtG10+ p = 0.031; EtG112+ p = 0.298) and working memory (EtG10+ p = 0.084; EtG112+ p = 0.144). The present study demonstrates visible effects of the facial phenotype in exposed adolescents. Facial malformation was associated with a child’s cognitive performance in the alcohol-exposed group. The EtG biomarker was a better predictor than maternal self-reports.
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11
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Negrão MEA, Rocha PRH, Saraiva MCP, Barbieri MA, Simões VMF, Batista RFL, Ferraro AA, Bettiol H. Association between tobacco and/or alcohol consumption during pregnancy and infant development: BRISA Cohort. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 54:10252-0. [PMID: 33338100 PMCID: PMC7780373 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x202010252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Fetuses exposed to alcohol and/or tobacco are at risk for perinatal adversities.
However, little is currently known about the association of the separate or
concomitant use of alcohol and tobacco with infant motor and cognitive
development. Thus, the objective of the present study was to investigate the
association between maternal consumption of alcohol and/or tobacco during
pregnancy and the motor and cognitive development of children starting from the
second year of life. The study included 1006 children of a cohort started during
the prenatal period (22-25 weeks of pregnancy), evaluated at birth and
reevaluated during the second year of life in 2011/2013. The children were
divided into four groups according to the alcohol and/or tobacco consumption
reported by their mothers at childbirth: no consumption (NC), separate alcohol
consumption (AC), separate tobacco consumption (TC), and concomitant use of both
(ACTC). The Bayley Scale of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition
screening tool was used for the assessment of motor and cognitive development.
Adjusted Poisson regression models were used to determine the association
between groups and delayed development. The results indicated that only the ACTC
group showed a higher risk of motor delay, specifically regarding fine motor
skills, compared to the NC group (RR=2.81; 95%CI: 1.65; 4.77). Separate alcohol
or tobacco consumption was not associated with delayed gross motor or cognitive
development. However, the concomitant use of the two substances increased the
risk of delayed acquisition of fine motor skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E A Negrão
- Departamento de Puericultura e Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - P R H Rocha
- Departamento de Puericultura e Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - M C P Saraiva
- Departamento de Clínica Infantil, Faculdade de Odontologia Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - M A Barbieri
- Departamento de Puericultura e Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - V M F Simões
- Departamento de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - R F L Batista
- Departamento de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - A A Ferraro
- Departamento de Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - H Bettiol
- Departamento de Puericultura e Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
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Römer P, Mathes B, Reinelt T, Stoyanova P, Petermann F, Zierul C. Systematic review showed that low and moderate prenatal alcohol and nicotine exposure affected early child development. Acta Paediatr 2020; 109:2491-2501. [PMID: 32603488 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM We systematically reviewed the literature on the influence of low and moderate amounts of prenatal alcohol and nicotine exposure on early child development. This paper also suggests possible directions for future research in order to tackle the controversial findings identified. METHODS The PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases were searched together with the reference lists of the selected papers. Empirical studies were included if they focused on the effects of low or moderate exposure, reported outcomes on child development within the first 2 years of life and were published in English between January 2009 and December 2019. The eligibility of the included studies was based on three authors reading the full text. RESULTS The final sample comprised 17 papers. Of these, 13 focused on the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure and they reported decreased sensory sensibility, smaller body sizes and increased cognitive capacities. The other four looked at prenatal nicotine exposure, and they primarily found impairments in children's orienting, communication and motor skills. CONCLUSION Any amount of prenatal alcohol and nicotine exposure appeared to risk healthy child development. There were many reasons for consumption and numerous effects on the child, but representative data from interdisciplinary research were missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Römer
- Centre for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation University of Bremen Bremen Germany
| | - Birgit Mathes
- Centre for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation University of Bremen Bremen Germany
| | - Tilman Reinelt
- Centre for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation University of Bremen Bremen Germany
| | - Polina Stoyanova
- Centre for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation University of Bremen Bremen Germany
| | - Franz Petermann
- Centre for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation University of Bremen Bremen Germany
| | - Claudia Zierul
- Centre for Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation University of Bremen Bremen Germany
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13
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Garrison L, Morley S, Chambers CD, Bakhireva LN. Forty Years of Assessing Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in Infants: What Have We Learned? Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:1632-1642. [PMID: 31206743 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
It has been known for over 4 decades that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can adversely affect neurodevelopment and behavior (NDB). Yet, early detection of altered NDB due to PAE continues to present a major clinical challenge. Identification of altered NDB in the first 2 years of life, before higher-order cognitive processes develop, invites early interventions for affected children to improve long-term outcomes. Studies published in English from January of 1980 to July of 2018 were identified in PubMed/MEDLINE. The review focused on prospective birth cohort studies which used standardized NDB assessments in children up to 2 years of age, wherein PAE was the main exposure and NDB was the main outcome. NDB was categorized into the domains of neurocognitive, adaptive, and self-regulation based on the 2016 Updated Clinical Guidelines for Diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. An initial search resulted in 1,867 articles for which we reviewed abstracts; 114 were selected for full-text review; and 3 additional abstracts were identified through review of references in eligible publications. Thirty-one publications met criteria and were included: of these, 24 reported neurocognitive outcomes, 24 reported adaptive behavior outcomes, and 12 reported outcomes in the domain of self-regulation. Although self-regulation was assessed in the fewest number of studies, 8/12 (75%) reported PAE-associated deficits. In contrast, results were mixed for the other 2 domains: 13/24 (54%) of the selected studies that included neurocognitive outcomes showed poorer performance following PAE, and 8/24 (33%) studies that assessed adaptive functioning found significant differences between PAE and comparison infants. There is considerable evidence to support the value of early-life assessments of infant NDB when PAE is known or suspected. More studies focusing on infant self-regulation, in particular, are needed to determine the utility of early evaluation of this critical developmental domain in infants with PAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Garrison
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Sarah Morley
- Health Sciences Library and Informatics Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Christina D Chambers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Ludmila N Bakhireva
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, Substance Use Research and Education Center, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, New Mexico.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico.,Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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14
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Freeman J, Condon C, Hamilton S, Mutch RC, Bower C, Watkins RE. Challenges in Accurately Assessing Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in a Study of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in a Youth Detention Center. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:309-316. [PMID: 30427546 PMCID: PMC6590127 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can result in permanent disability, including physical, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive impairments, known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Individuals with FASD are more likely to engage with the law, including being placed in detention, than individuals without FASD. Young people who were sentenced to detention participated in a FASD prevalence study in Western Australia. The diagnosis of FASD requires a multidisciplinary assessment and confirmation of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Obtaining accurate assessment of PAE for young people participating in the study was challenging. METHODS An interview with the birth mother or other responsible adult for young people sentenced to detention in Western Australia was conducted as part of the FASD assessment. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test consumption subset (AUDIT-C), other relevant questions, and documentary evidence were used to assess PAE. PAE was categorized according to the Australian Guide to the Diagnosis of FASD: no PAE reported, confirmed or confirmed high-risk, or unknown. RESULTS Among the 101 participants, information on PAE was unable to be obtained for 13 (13%) young people. Of the remaining 88 participants with information of PAE, 41 reported no PAE and 47 had confirmed PAE. CONCLUSIONS Accurately assessing prenatal alcohol consumption is challenging in any setting, but it is exceptionally challenging when assessed 13 to 17 years retrospectively as part of a FASD assessment for a young person sentenced to detention. Recording and recoding detailed qualitative responses was required to provide an accurate assessment of PAE using the AUDIT-C. Standardized recording of PAE in antenatal and birth records would facilitate later assessments for FASD and provide opportunities for advice and support for women who continue to drink during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta Freeman
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Carmen Condon
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Sharynne Hamilton
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- School of Paediatrics and Child HealthUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Raewyn C. Mutch
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- School of Paediatrics and Child HealthUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- School of MedicineDentistry and Health SciencesUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Child and Adolescent Health ServiceDepartment of Health Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Carol Bower
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Rochelle E. Watkins
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
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15
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Römer P, Reinelt T, Petermann F, Teickner C. Alkoholkonsum während der Schwangerschaft. KINDHEIT UND ENTWICKLUNG 2019. [DOI: 10.1026/0942-5403/a000267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung. Kinder sind bereits im Mutterleib sensitiv für Umwelteinflüsse. Pränataler Alkoholkonsum zählt dabei zu den einflussreichsten Risikofaktoren für die frühkindliche Entwicklung. Das Ziel ist es, einen Überblick über die aktuelle Forschungslage zum Thema Alkoholkonsum während der Schwangerschaft zu geben. Darüber hinaus wird der Forschungsstand zu Belastungen und Folgeschäden für die frühkindliche Entwicklung durch pränatale Alkoholexposition, aber auch zu weiteren Risikofaktoren zusammengefasst. Es wird gezeigt, dass das Wissen um die Prävalenz für Alkoholkonsum während der Schwangerschaft sowohl für die Erforschung der Folgen als auch für das Umsetzen von präventiven Maßnahmen ausschlaggebend ist. Die Prävalenzen unterscheiden sich nicht nur regional, sondern können auch durch andere Faktoren beeinflusst werden. Es wird deutlich, dass der Risikofaktor Alkohol und dessen mögliche Auswirkungen auf die frühkindliche Entwicklung nicht isoliert, sondern in Abhängigkeit von weiteren genetischen und Umweltfaktoren betrachtet werden müssen. Denn auch Folgen von weiteren perinatalen Risikofaktoren machen sich in den ersten beiden Lebensjahren bemerkbar. Beispiele für Entwicklungsstörungen in dieser Entwicklungsspanne sind externalisierendes Verhalten und kognitive Beeinträchtigungen. Inwieweit sich perinatale Risikofaktoren jedoch auf Entwicklungsverläufe von Kindern, die durch pränatalen Alkoholkonsum belastet sind, auswirken, erfasst eine umfassende Diskussion. Diese Lücke gilt es zu schließen um das Zusammenspiel perinataler Risiken genauer zu verstehen und adäquat entgegenwirken zu können.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Römer
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Tilman Reinelt
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Franz Petermann
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Claudia Teickner
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
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