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Mittal P, Bhadania M, Tondak N, Ajmera P, Yadav S, Kukreti A, Kalra S, Ajmera P. Effect of immersive virtual reality-based training on cognitive, social, and emotional skills in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2024; 151:104771. [PMID: 38941690 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2024.104771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual Reality (VR) based diagnostic and therapeutic interventions have opened up new possibilities for addressing the challenges in identifying and treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). AIM To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials to investigate the impact of Immersive VR techniques on the cognitive, social, and emotional skills of under-18 children and adolescents with ASD. METHODS AND PROCEDURES Four databases were systematically searched as per "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses" guidelines and assessed six RCTs for further analysis. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. OUTCOMES Pooled results favoured VR and reported significant differences between experimental and control groups concerning social skills (SMD:1.43; 95 % CI: 0.01-2.84; P: 0.05), emotional skills (SMD: 2.45; 95 % CI: 0.21-4.18; P: 0.03) and cognitive skills. CONCLUSION VR offers an array of benefits that make it a promising tool for children and adolescents with ASD to improve their cognitive, social and emotional skills in a safe and supportive setting. However, accessibility, affordability, customization, and cost are also significant aspects to consider when developing and implementing VR-based interventions for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palka Mittal
- School of Allied Health Sciences & Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Mahati Bhadania
- School of Allied Health Sciences & Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Navya Tondak
- School of Allied Health Sciences & Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Priyansh Ajmera
- K.K. Birla Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Goa Campus, India
| | - Sapna Yadav
- School of Allied Health Sciences & Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Aditya Kukreti
- School of Allied Health Sciences & Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Sheetal Kalra
- School of Physiotherapy, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Puneeta Ajmera
- School of Allied Health Sciences & Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India.
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Shayestehfar M, Nakhostin-Ansari A, Jahandideh P, Memari S, Geoffrey Louie WY, Memari A. Pivotal response treatment and applied behavior analysis interventions for autism spectrum disorder delivered by human vs robotic agents: a systematic review of literature. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39066520 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2024.2382906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Robotic technology-aided instruction and interventions have been designed to support both Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) interventions for children with ASD. However, to the best of our knowledge, this field has not been systematically reviewed. Thus, we aimed to systematically review the literature to determine whether ABA or PRT methods in a robotic therapeutic context yield better outcomes for individuals with ASD, specifically in terms of approaching and accepting robots. A comprehensive search of electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar was conducted. Randomized control trials (RCT) and pre-post-test design investigations that assessed the impact of ABA vs. PRT approach via robot-mediated technology vs. human trainers on intervention outcomes of children with ASD were selected and included in this systematic review. Finally, 13 papers met the criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. Two independent reviewers extracted the associated data from each selected study according to the standardized data extraction form. Two reviewers also assessed the quality of each study independently using the Cochrane Back Review Scale and JBI tool for quasi-experimental studies. We categorized two general classifications of findings including ABA vs. PRT as well as robotic technology vs. human. In conclusion, the existing investigations on the effect of robotic assistive technology using ABA or PRT approach are promising particularly in therapeutic contexts with a more natural context and social flavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monir Shayestehfar
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Nakhostin-Ansari
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pardis Jahandideh
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeideh Memari
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Amirhossein Memari
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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3
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Feng XW, Hadizadeh M, Cheong JPG. Effects of Family-Professional Partnerships in Adapted Physical Education on the Fundamental Motor Skills, Adaptive Behaviors, and Physical Activity Levels of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and on Parent Satisfaction. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06342-1. [PMID: 38607473 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06342-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the effect of family-professional partnerships in adapted physical education on the fundamental motor skills, physical activity levels, and adaptive behaviors of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and on parental satisfaction. METHODS A randomized controlled trial design was used, with pre-and post-intervention evaluations. Participants (n = 40), including children with ASD and their parents, were divided into three groups: (a) a family-school group (FSG-A, n = 14), (b) a school group (SG-B, n = 13), and (c) a control group (CG-C, n = 13). RESULTS After 12 weeks of intervention, the within-group comparison revealed that the FSG-A performed better than the SG-B and CG-C for all variables. The among-group comparison further revealed that the FSG-A had greater fundamental motor skill scores than the SG-B (p = 0.021) and CG-C (p < 0.001), had greater adaptive behavior and family-professional partnership scores than the SG-B and CG-C (p < 0.001 for all), and had higher physical activity levels than the SG-B (p < 0.05) and CG-C (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study underscores the significance of robust family-professional partnerships in exercise interventions for children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wei Feng
- Faculty of Sports and Exercise Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Maryam Hadizadeh
- Faculty of Sports and Exercise Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
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4
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Pino MC, Vagnetti R, Tiberti S, Valenti M, Mazza M. Involving autism stakeholders in identifying priorities for interventions based on augmented reality. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024; 19:712-720. [PMID: 36074593 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2022.2120103] [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: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Literature supports the use of technological tools such as augmented reality, 3 D avatars and mobile devices to improve individuals with autism spectrum disorder skills. Possibilities of including these technological tools in intervention and the critical issues related to intervention design are essential research questions. The aim of the current work is to present an interdisciplinary research study on the design of an autism intervention considering these technologies. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study used qualitative evidence and thematic analysis to identify the main design guidelines. A semi-structured interview was administered to a total of twenty participants representing four stakeholder categories: ASD, clinicians, therapists and caregivers. Interviews focussed on three dimensions related to user, technology and environment since they represent a complex system within which the individual using technology is situated. RESULTS Thematic analysis of the interviews identified a total of 10 themes considered central to the design of the technological intervention. CONCLUSIONS Since the application of technology in autism intervention is a relatively new area, the guidelines related to the potential incentives and barriers of the proposed technology are helpful to inform future treatment studies.Implications for RehabilitationThis study highlights the strengths and barriers associated with the use of smartphones and augmented reality in autism spectrum disorder interventions considering the dimensions within which the user using assistive technology is located.Strengths and major concerns that emerged are key points to consider during the development of the technological intervention.Considering these points can foster the use of technology within the intervention and promote its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Pino
- Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- Regional Reference Centre for Autism of the Abruzzo Region, Local Health Unit ASL 1, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Roberto Vagnetti
- Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sergio Tiberti
- Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco Valenti
- Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- Regional Reference Centre for Autism of the Abruzzo Region, Local Health Unit ASL 1, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Monica Mazza
- Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- Regional Reference Centre for Autism of the Abruzzo Region, Local Health Unit ASL 1, L'Aquila, Italy
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5
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Singh JKA, Ling WH, Sivanesom RS, Huay CCS, Lan ACS. Age at autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and its association with child and family characteristics in a tertiary care hospital in Malaysia. Autism Res 2024; 17:637-649. [PMID: 38400514 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3106] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Despite the absence of a cure, early diagnosis and intensive early intervention can improve the outcomes. However, little is known about the median age at ASD diagnosis in Malaysia or the child/family characteristics associated with early diagnosis. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the median age at ASD diagnosis among Malaysian children presenting to the country's largest public tertiary neurodevelopmental center and to investigate the possible demographic, child, and family characteristics associated with an early age at diagnosis. Data were collected between February 2017 and February 2019 from a database maintained by the child development unit of the country's largest publicly funded tertiary hospital, containing data from an ethnically diverse population. Among Malaysian children attending the clinic, the median age at ASD diagnosis was 48 months. Early autism diagnosis (<36 months of age) was associated with increased severity of social communication and interaction impairments, coexisting intellectual impairment, children from high socioeconomic status families, and children who receive joint care from their families and a maid or babysitter. The study findings highlight the socioeconomic inequalities in the country, a lack of parental awareness of early ASD signs, and the presence of cultural influences on the age at diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wong Hoi Ling
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Tunku Azizah, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Cindy Chan Su Huay
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Tunku Azizah, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Audrey Chong Shuk Lan
- Clinical Research Centre, Sabah Woman & Children's Hospital, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
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6
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Konishi S, Kuwata M, Matsumoto Y, Yoshikawa Y, Takata K, Haraguchi H, Kudo A, Ishiguro H, Kumazaki H. Self-administered questionnaires enhance emotion estimation of individuals with autism spectrum disorders in a robotic interview setting. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1249000. [PMID: 38380121 PMCID: PMC10877007 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1249000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Robots offer many unique opportunities for helping individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Determining the optimal motion of robots when interacting with individuals with ASD is important for achieving more natural human-robot interactions and for exploiting the full potential of robotic interventions. Most prior studies have used supervised machine learning (ML) of user behavioral data to enable robot perception of affective states (i.e., arousal and valence) and engagement. It has previously been suggested that including personal demographic information in the identification of individuals with ASD is important for developing an automated system to perceive individual affective states and engagement. In this study, we hypothesized that assessing self-administered questionnaire data would contribute to the development of an automated estimation of the affective state and engagement when individuals with ASD are interviewed by an Android robot, which will be linked to implementing long-term interventions and maintaining the motivation of participants. Methods Participants sat across a table from an android robot that played the role of the interviewer. Each participant underwent a mock job interview. Twenty-five participants with ASD (males 22, females 3, average chronological age = 22.8, average IQ = 94.04) completed the experiment. We collected multimodal data (i.e., audio, motion, gaze, and self-administered questionnaire data) to train a model to correctly classify the state of individuals with ASD when interviewed by an android robot. We demonstrated the technical feasibility of using ML to enable robot perception of affect and engagement of individuals with ASD based on multimodal data. Results For arousal and engagement, the area under the curve (AUC) values of the model estimates and expert coding were relatively high. Overall, the AUC values of arousal, valence, and engagement were improved by including self-administered questionnaire data in the classification. Discussion These findings support the hypothesis that assessing self-administered questionnaire data contributes to the development of an automated estimation of an individual's affective state and engagement. Given the efficacy of including self-administered questionnaire data, future studies should confirm the effectiveness of such long-term intervention with a robot to maintain participants' motivation based on the proposed method of emotion estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunta Konishi
- Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masaki Kuwata
- Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshio Matsumoto
- Department of Medical and Robotic Engineering Design, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Yoshikawa
- Department of Systems Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keiji Takata
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Haraguchi
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Azusa Kudo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ishiguro
- Department of Systems Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kumazaki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- College of Science and Engineering, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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7
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Feldman JI, Dunham K, DiCarlo GE, Cassidy M, Liu Y, Suzman E, Williams ZJ, Pulliam G, Kaiser S, Wallace MT, Woynaroski TG. A Randomized Controlled Trial for Audiovisual Multisensory Perception in Autistic Youth. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:4318-4335. [PMID: 36028729 PMCID: PMC9417081 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05709-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Differences in audiovisual integration are commonly observed in autism. Temporal binding windows (TBWs) of audiovisual speech can be trained (i.e., narrowed) in non-autistic adults; this study evaluated a computer-based perceptual training in autistic youth and assessed whether treatment outcomes varied according to individual characteristics. Thirty autistic youth aged 8-21 were randomly assigned to a brief perceptual training (n = 15) or a control condition (n = 15). At post-test, the perceptual training group did not differ, on average, on TBWs for trained and untrained stimuli and perception of the McGurk illusion compared to the control group. The training benefited youth with higher language and nonverbal IQ scores; the training caused widened TBWs in youth with co-occurring cognitive and language impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob I Feldman
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, MCE 8310 South Tower, 1215 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
- Frist Center for Autism & Innovation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Kacie Dunham
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Gabriella E DiCarlo
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Mass General Brigham Neurology Residency Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Margaret Cassidy
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yupeng Liu
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Evan Suzman
- Master's Program in Biomedical Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Southwestern School of Medicine, University of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Zachary J Williams
- Frist Center for Autism & Innovation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Grace Pulliam
- Neuroscience Undergraduate Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sophia Kaiser
- Cognitive Studies Undergraduate Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Mark T Wallace
- Frist Center for Autism & Innovation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Tiffany G Woynaroski
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, MCE 8310 South Tower, 1215 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Frist Center for Autism & Innovation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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McCormack L, Wong SW, Campbell LE. 'If I don't Do It, I'm Out of Rhythm and I Can't Focus As Well': Positive and Negative Adult Interpretations of Therapies Aimed at 'Fixing' Their Restricted and Repetitive Behaviours in Childhood. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:3435-3448. [PMID: 35781855 PMCID: PMC10465631 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05644-6] [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] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Restricted and repetitive behaviours (RRBs) are observed in many children presenting with characteristics of autism and are frequently the targets of psychological interventions. This study used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to identify positive and negative interpretations from four young adults who received behavioural interventions in their childhood designed to 'fix' RRBs. Two superordinate themes were identified: (1) Doubt, stigma and being fixed according to others, and (2) Embracing Authenticity. They highlighted juxtaposed positions from exclusion, rejection, criticism, and self-doubt in childhood, to rejecting societal censure and embracing authentic growth in adult life. As adults, though the participants recognised themselves as neurologically different from others, they redefined themselves through a lens of neurodiversity, and therefore as not needing to be fixed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynne McCormack
- School of Psychology, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, 2308, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sze Wing Wong
- University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- School of Psychology, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, 2308, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Linda E Campbell
- School of Psychology, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, 2308, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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9
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Vitale SR, Schneider H, Gardner L, Alessandri M, Marker C. Challenging Behavior and Parental Depression: The Effects of Everyday Stressors and Benefit Finding for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:3356-3368. [PMID: 35749002 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05627-7] [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] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder present with challenging behaviors that can impact caregivers by increasing parental perceived stress and risk for depression. However, positive coping strategies have also been identified as protective factors for parents of children with ASD. The present study examined parental perceived daily stressors and positive coping strategies (i.e., benefit finding) as mediators to depression for parents of children with ASD. A latent profile analysis identified three classes of behavior severity for children with ASD. Across all classes, higher levels of perceived daily stressors predicted increased parental depression, while benefit finding predicted lower parental depression. Results support interventions that increase positive coping strategies to decrease levels of depression in parents of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Rose Vitale
- Department of Psychology, College of Health Professions, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Hoa Schneider
- Center for Neuropsychology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren Gardner
- Autism Program, Department of Psychology, John's Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Michael Alessandri
- UM Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Craig Marker
- Department of Psychology, College of Health Professions, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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10
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Porter M, Sugden-Lingard S, Brunsdon R, Benson S. Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children with an Early History of Paediatric Acquired Brain Injury. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4361. [PMID: 37445396 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that arises from a combination of both genetic and environmental risk factors. There is a lack of research investigating whether early acquired brain injury (ABI) may be a risk factor for ASD. The current study comprehensively reviewed all hospital records at The Brain Injury Service, Kids Rehab at the Children's Hospital at Westmead (Australia) from January 2000 to January 2020. Of the approximately 528 cases, 14 children with paediatric ABI were subsequently given an ASD diagnosis (2.7%). For this ASD sample, the mean age at the time of the ABI was 1.55 years, indicating a high prevalence of early ABI in this diagnostic group. The mean age of ASD diagnosis was, on average, 5 years later than the average ASD diagnosis in the general population. Furthermore, 100% of children had at least one medical comorbidity and 73% had three or more co-occurring DSM-5 diagnoses. Although based on a small data set, results highlight early paediatric ABI as a potential risk factor for ASD and the potential for a delayed ASD diagnosis following early ABI, with comorbidities possibly masking symptoms. This study was limited by its exploratory case series design and small sample size. Nonetheless, this study highlights the need for longitudinal investigation into the efficacy of early screening for ASD symptomatology in children who have sustained an early ABI to maximise potential intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Porter
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Sindella Sugden-Lingard
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Ruth Brunsdon
- Kids Rehab, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, SCHN, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Suzanne Benson
- Kids Rehab, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, SCHN, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
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11
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Alsubaiei SRM, Alfawaz HA, Bhat RS, El-Ansary A. Nutritional Intervention as a Complementary Neuroprotective Approach against Propionic Acid-Induced Neurotoxicity and Associated Biochemical Autistic Features in Rat Pups. Metabolites 2023; 13:738. [PMID: 37367896 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13060738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Since there is no known cure for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), its incidence rate is on the rise. Common comorbidities like gastrointestinal problems are observed as common signs of ASD and play a major role in controlling social and behavioral symptoms. Although there is a lot of interest in dietary treatments, no harmony exists with regard to the ideal nutritional therapy. To better direct prevention and intervention measures for ASD, the identification of risk and protective factors is required. Through the use of a rat model, our study aims to assess the possible danger of exposure to neurotoxic doses of propionic acid (PPA) and the nutritional protective effects of prebiotics and probiotics. Here, we conducted a biochemical assessment of the effects of dietary supplement therapy in the PPA model of autism. We used 36 male Sprague Dawley albino rat pups divided into six groups. Standard food and drink were given to the control group. The PPA-induced ASD model was the second group; it was fed a conventional diet for 27 days before receiving 250 mg/kg of PPA orally for three days. The four other groups were given 3 mL/kg of yoghurt daily, 400 mg/Kg of artichokes daily, 50 mg/kg of luteolin daily and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG at 0.2 mL daily for 27 days before being given PPA (250 mg/kg BW) for three days along with their normal diet. All groups had their brain homogenates tested for biochemical markers, which included gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), glutathione (GSH), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF). When compared with the control group, the PPA-induced model presented increased oxidative stress and neuroinflammation but groups treated with all four dietary therapies presented improvements in biochemical characteristics for oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. As all of the therapies show sufficient anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, they can be used as a useful dietary component to help prevent ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Razhan M Alsubaiei
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan A Alfawaz
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Research Laboratory, Female Campus, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Tincani M, Ji H, Upthegrove M, Garrison E, West M, Hantula D, Vucetic S, Dragut E. Vocational Interventions for Individuals with ASD: Umbrella Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-023-00368-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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Eckes T, Buhlmann U, Holling HD, Möllmann A. Comprehensive ABA-based interventions in the treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder - a meta-analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:133. [PMID: 36864429 PMCID: PMC9983163 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04412-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies display promising results for interventions that are based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS This meta-analysis assessed the effects of such treatments on developmental outcomes in children with ASD and on parental stress based on 11 studies with 632 participants. RESULTS Compared to treatment as usual, minimal or no treatment, comprehensive ABA-based interventions showed medium effects for intellectual functioning (standardized mean difference SMD = 0.51, 95% CI [0.09; 0.92]) and adaptive behavior (SMD = 0.37, 95% CI [0.03; 0.70]). Language abilities, symptom severity or parental stress did not improve beyond the improvement in control groups. Moderator analyses indicate that language abilities at intake could influence the effect sizes and the influence of treatment intensity might decrease with older age. CONCLUSIONS Practical implications and limitations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Eckes
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstr. 21, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Ulrike Buhlmann
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstr. 21, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Heinz-Dieter Holling
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstr. 21, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Anne Möllmann
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstr. 21, 48149, Münster, Germany. .,Institute of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bremen, Grazer Str. 6, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
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14
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Storch EA, Shepherd WS. Improving access in 2023: Evidence-based psychotherapy for autistic youth with anxiety. Bull Menninger Clin 2023; 87:1-5. [PMID: 36856479 DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2023.87.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Storch
- The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Whitney S Shepherd
- The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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15
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Changes in Autistic Symptoms and Adaptive Functioning of Children Receiving Early Behavioral Intervention in a Community Setting: A Latent Growth Curve Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:901-917. [PMID: 34813033 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05373-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite showing effects in well-controlled studies, the extent to which early intensive behavioral intervention (EBI) produces positive changes in community-based settings remains uncertain. Thus, our study examined changes in autistic symptoms and adaptive functioning in 233 children with autism receiving EBI in a community setting. The results revealed nonlinear changes in adaptive functioning characterized by significant improvements during the intervention and a small linear decrease in autistic symptoms from baseline to follow-up. The intensity of intervention, initial age, IQ and autistic symptoms were associated either with progress during the intervention or maintenance during the follow-up. The next step to extend this line of research involves collecting detailed data about intervention strategies and implementation fidelity to produce concrete recommendations for practitioners.
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16
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Hustyi KM, Ryan AH, Hall SS. A Scoping Review of Behavioral Interventions for Promoting Social Gaze in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2023; 100:102074. [PMID: 36843962 PMCID: PMC9956996 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2022.102074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly experience difficulties maintaining social gaze with others during interactions. Although behavioral interventions targeted to promote social gaze in ASD are evident in the literature, to our knowledge, no review of the literature has been conducted to summarize and evaluate the evidence for these interventions. Methods We reviewed and summarized behavioral intervention studies designed to promote social gaze in individuals diagnosed with ASD and other developmental disabilities published in English between 1977 and January 2022 using PsychINFO and PubMed databases. Results 41 studies met the inclusion criteria describing interventions conducted on 608 individuals. A variety of intervention strategies were employed to promote social gaze in these individuals including discrete trial instruction, prompting, modeling, and imitation. Most studies employed single-case research designs and reported successful outcomes, but limited data were available concerning the generalization, maintenance and social validity of these interventions. An increasing number of studies utilized technology-based procedures including computer application gameplay, gaze-contingent eye tracking devices and humanoid robots. Conclusions The present review indicates that behavioral interventions can be successfully employed to promote social gaze in individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities. However, future research is needed to establish the generalization, maintenance and social validity of these interventions. There are also important ethical issues to be addressed given the increasing divide between treatment advocates and proponents of the neurodiversity movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Hustyi
- LittleStar ABA Therapy, 550 Congressional Boulevard, Suite 220, Carmel, IN 46032
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305-5795
| | - Alexa H. Ryan
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305-5795
| | - Scott S. Hall
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305-5795
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17
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Alsubaiei SRM, Alfawaz HA, Almubarak AY, Alabdali NA, Ben Bacha A, El-Ansary A. Independent and Combined Effects of Probiotics and Prebiotics as Supplements or Food-Rich Diets on a Propionic-Acid-Induced Rodent Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Metabolites 2022; 13:metabo13010050. [PMID: 36676975 PMCID: PMC9863040 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The link between nutrition and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as a neurodevelopmental condition, which is clinically presented as significant delays or deviations in interaction and communication, has provided a fresh point of view and signals that nutrition may play a role in the etiology of ASD, as well as playing an effective role in treatment by improving symptoms. In this study, 36 male albino rat pups were used. They were randomly divided into five groups. The control group was fed only a standard diet and water for the 30 days of the experiment. The second group, which served as a propionic acid (PPA)-induced rodent model of ASD, received orally administered PPA (250 mg/kg body weight (BW)) for 3 days, followed by feeding with a standard diet until the end of the experiment. The three other groups were given PPA (250 mg/kg body weight (BW)) for 3 days and then fed a standard diet and orally administered yogurt (3 mL/kg BW/day), artichokes (400 mL/kg BW/day), and a combination of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG at 0.2 mL daily (1 × 109 CFU; as the probiotic of yogurt) and luteolin (50 mg/kg BW/day; as the major antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient of artichokes) for 27 days. Biochemical markers, including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-10 (IL-10), were measured in brain homogenates in all groups. The data showed that while PPA demonstrated oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the treated rats, yogurt, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG as a probiotic, and luteolin as a prebiotic ingredient in artichokes were effective in alleviating the biochemical features of ASD. In conclusion, nutritional supplementation seems to be a promising intervention strategy for ASD. A combined dietary approach using pro- and prebiotics resulted in significant amelioration of most of the measured variables, suggesting that multiple interventions might be more relevant for the improvement of biochemical autistic features, as well as psychological traits. Prospective controlled trials are needed before recommendations can be made regarding the ideal ASD diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Razhan M. Alsubaiei
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan A. Alfawaz
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (H.A.A.); (A.E.-A.); Tel.: +00966-508462529 (A.E.-A.); Fax: +00966-4683579 (A.E.-A.)
| | - Abdullah Yaseen Almubarak
- Experimental Surgery and Animal Lab, College of Medicine, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf Ahmed Alabdali
- Experimental Surgery and Animal Lab, College of Medicine, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abir Ben Bacha
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Research Laboratory, Female Center for Medical Studies and Scientific Section, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (H.A.A.); (A.E.-A.); Tel.: +00966-508462529 (A.E.-A.); Fax: +00966-4683579 (A.E.-A.)
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Smith SG, Mattson SL, Aguilar J, Pyle N, Higbee TS. Behavioral Skills Training with Adult Interventionists: a Systematic Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-022-00339-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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19
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Gitimoghaddam M, Chichkine N, McArthur L, Sangha SS, Symington V. Applied Behavior Analysis in Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Scoping Review. Perspect Behav Sci 2022; 45:521-557. [PMID: 36249174 PMCID: PMC9458805 DOI: 10.1007/s40614-022-00338-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThis manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of applied behavior analysis (ABA) on children and youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Seven online databases and identified systematic reviews were searched for published, peer-reviewed, English-language studies examining the impact of ABA on health outcomes. Measured outcomes were classified into eight categories: cognitive, language, social/communication, problem behavior, adaptive behavior, emotional, autism symptoms, and quality of life (QoL) outcomes. Improvements were observed across seven of the eight outcome measures. There were no included studies that measured subject QoL. Moreover, of 770 included study records, only 32 (4%) assessed ABA impact, had a comparison to a control or other intervention, and did not rely on mastery of specific skills to mark improvement. Results reinforce the need for large-scale prospective studies that compare ABA with other non-ABA interventions and include measurements of subject QoL to provide policy makers with valuable information on the impacts of ABA and other existing and emerging interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Gitimoghaddam
- University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, British Columbia Canada
| | | | - Laura McArthur
- Club Aviva Recreation Ltd., Coquitlam, British Columbia Canada
| | - Sarabjit S Sangha
- Club Aviva Recreation Ltd., Coquitlam, British Columbia Canada
- University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Australia
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20
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Pellicano E, den Houting J. Annual Research Review: Shifting from 'normal science' to neurodiversity in autism science. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:381-396. [PMID: 34730840 PMCID: PMC9298391 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Since its initial description, the concept of autism has been firmly rooted within the conventional medical paradigm of child psychiatry. Increasingly, there have been calls from the autistic community and, more recently, nonautistic researchers, to rethink the way in which autism science is framed and conducted. Neurodiversity, where autism is seen as one form of variation within a diversity of minds, has been proposed as a potential alternative paradigm. In this review, we concentrate on three major challenges to the conventional medical paradigm - an overfocus on deficits, an emphasis on the individual as opposed to their broader context and a narrowness of perspective - each of which necessarily constrains what we can know about autism and how we are able to know it. We then outline the ways in which fundamental elements of the neurodiversity paradigm can potentially help researchers respond to the medical model's limitations. We conclude by considering the implications of a shift towards the neurodiversity paradigm for autism science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Pellicano
- Macquarie School of EducationMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC)BrisbaneQldAustralia
| | - Jacquiline den Houting
- Macquarie School of EducationMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC)BrisbaneQldAustralia
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21
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Masi A, Azim SI, Khan F, Karlov L, Eapen V. Dissemination of Early Intervention Program for Preschool Children on the Autism Spectrum into Community Settings: An Evaluation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052555. [PMID: 35270253 PMCID: PMC8909550 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to address a policy-relevant research area with high priority, namely disseminating early intervention for children on the autism spectrum into mainstream community settings. The study cohort comprised 47 children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) receiving the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) intervention: 23 children attending an Autism Specific Early Learning and Care Centre (ASELCC) and 24 children attending a mainstream preschool setting. Group comparisons revealed that the overall response to intervention was in the majority of cases not significantly different between settings. One difference was found in that children in the mainstream preschool setting showed a significant reduction in externalising behaviours compared to the children attending the autism-specific preschool. Intervention duration was found to influence outcomes with a one-month increase in duration found to improve expressive language skills. While the results need to be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size, these findings suggest that early intervention can be successfully delivered in both autism-specific and mainstream settings. However, those families needing additional parent support may be better served by a specialised service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Masi
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia; (A.M.); (S.I.A.); (F.K.); (L.K.)
| | - Syeda Ishra Azim
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia; (A.M.); (S.I.A.); (F.K.); (L.K.)
| | - Feroza Khan
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia; (A.M.); (S.I.A.); (F.K.); (L.K.)
| | - Lisa Karlov
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia; (A.M.); (S.I.A.); (F.K.); (L.K.)
- South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool 2170, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, Level 1, Mental Health Centre, Liverpool Hospital, 1 Elizabeth Street, Liverpool 2170, Australia
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia; (A.M.); (S.I.A.); (F.K.); (L.K.)
- South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool 2170, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, Level 1, Mental Health Centre, Liverpool Hospital, 1 Elizabeth Street, Liverpool 2170, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool 2170, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +612-9616-4205
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22
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Spjut Janson B, Heimann M, Koch FS. Combining a Being Imitated Strategy With IBT Improves Basic Joint Attention Behaviors in Young Children With ASD. Front Psychiatry 2022; 12:784991. [PMID: 35069288 PMCID: PMC8777221 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.784991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we examined how an initial being imitated (BIm) strategy affected the development of initiating joint attention (IJA) among a group of children newly diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One group received 3 months of BIm followed by 12 months of intensive behavior treatment (IBT) which equaled treatment as usual whereas a second group received IBT for the entire 15-month study period. We utilized two measures of IJA: an eye gaze and a gesture score (point and show). IJA did not change during the first 3 months of treatment, nor were any significant between-group differences noted. However, at the end of the 15-month-long intervention period, the BIm group used eye gaze significantly more often to initiate joint attention. No significant change was noted for the gesture score. These results suggest that an early implementation of a being imitated strategy might be useful as less resource intensive but beneficial "start-up" intervention when combined with IBT treatment as a follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mikael Heimann
- Infant and Child Lab, Division of Psychology, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Felix-Sebastian Koch
- Infant and Child Lab, Division of Psychology, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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23
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Development of a visual attention based decision support system for autism spectrum disorder screening. Int J Psychophysiol 2022; 173:69-81. [PMID: 35007668 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Visual attention of young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been well documented in the literature for the past 20 years. In this study, we developed a Decision Support System (DSS) that uses machine learning (ML) techniques to identify young children with ASD from typically developing (TD) children. Study participants included 26 to 36 months old young children with ASD (n = 61) and TD children (n = 72). The results showed that the proposed DSS achieved up to 87.5% success rate in the early assessment of ASD in young children. Findings suggested that visual attention is a unique, promising biomarker for early assessment of ASD. Study results were discussed, and suggestions for future research were provided.
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24
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Srinivasan S, Patel S. Efficacy of a novel augmentative and alternative communication system in promoting requesting skills in young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in India: A pilot study. AUTISM & DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENTS 2022; 7:23969415221120749. [PMID: 36382077 PMCID: PMC9620693 DOI: 10.1177/23969415221120749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Background & aims: The study assessed the efficacy of a novel, child-friendly, socio-culturally sensitive, icon-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system called Jellow Communicator, in teaching requesting skills to young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a special school in Mumbai, India. Jellow is a comprehensive AAC system with a lexicon and pictorial library designed using a participatory, user-centric design process. The content of Jellow has been developed bearing in mind the socio-cultural and linguistic diversity of India. Jellow is available in low-tech (flashcards, booklet) and high-tech (Android and iOS app and desktop application) versions. Methods: The quasi-experimental longitudinal study involved seventeen 3.5-12-year-old children with ASD with communication challenges. Children were taught to use the Jellow AAC system to request for preferred items, as part of their regular speech therapy sessions. Each child received one-on-one training sessions with a licensed speech therapist twice a week over a 3-month duration, with each session lasting around 20-30 min. A systematic training protocol adapted from the original Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was developed to train children to use the Jellow system, progressing from flashcards to the app version of Jellow. Behavioral training strategies such as modeling, least-to-most prompting, differential reinforcement, and behavior chain interruption were used to facilitate requesting behaviors. The speech therapist assessed children's developmental level across multiple domains at pretest and posttest. We coded 3 videos per child, i.e., one early, one mid, and one late training session each, to assess changes in children's stage of communication, spontaneous requesting abilities, level of attention during training trials, and average time to completion for requesting trials. In addition, caregivers filled out questionnaires to assess training-related changes in children's adaptive functioning levels as well as the psychosocial impact of the Jellow AAC system on children's quality of life. Results: Children significantly improved their stage of communication, and a majority of children transitioned from flashcards to using the Jellow app to request for preferred items. Children also increased the proportion of spontaneous requests over the course of training. Caregivers reported a positive perceived psychosocial impact of the Jellow AAC system on their child's self-esteem, adaptability, and competence. Conclusions: The findings from our pilot study support the use of the novel, socio-culturally adapted, Jellow Communicator AAC system for teaching requesting skills to young children with ASD who use multiple communication modalities. Future studies should replicate our findings with a larger group of participants using a randomized controlled trial design. Implications: This is the first experimental study to systematically assess the effects of an indigenously-developed comprehensive AAC system adapted to the sociocultural and linguistic landscape of India. Our study results provide support for the use of the cost-effective Jellow Communicator AAC system in facilitating requesting skills in children with ASD who use multiple communication modalities. Clinicians can use low-tech and high-tech versions of Jellow to promote communication skills in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Srinivasan
- Sudha Srinivasan, Physical Therapy Program,
Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, 3107 Horsebarn Hill Road,
U-4137, Storrs, CT-06269, USA.
| | - Siddhi Patel
- Department of Audiology & Speech Therapy,
Topiwala National Medical College & BYL Nair Charitable Hospital,
Mumbai, India
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25
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Blanc R, Latinus M, Guidotti M, Adrien JL, Roux S, Dansart P, Barthélémy C, Rambault A, Bonnet-Brilhault F, Malvy J. Early Intervention in Severe Autism: Positive Outcome Using Exchange and Development Therapy. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:785762. [PMID: 34976896 PMCID: PMC8714880 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.785762] [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: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Early intervention programs positively affect key behaviors for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, most of these programs do not target children with severe autistic symptomatology associated with intellectual disability (ID). This study aimed to investigate the psychological and clinical outcomes of children with severe autism and ID enrolled in the Tailored and Inclusive Program for Autism-Tours (TIPA-T). The first step of the TIPA-T is the Exchange and Development Therapy (EDT): an individual neurofunctional intervention consisting of one-to-one exchanges between a child and a therapist taking place in a pared-down environment. It aims to rehabilitate psychophysiological abilities at the roots of social communication through structured sequences of "social play." Cognitive and socio-emotional skills and general development were evaluated with the Social Cognitive Evaluation Battery scale and the Brunet-Lézine Scale-Revised, respectively, before and after 9 months of intervention in 32 children with ASD and ID. Autistic symptomatology was evaluated with the Behavior Summarized Evaluation-Revised scale at five time-points in a subset of 14 children, both in individual and group settings. Statistically significant post-intervention improvements were found in cognitive and socio-emotional skills. All but one child showed improvements in at least one social domain, and 78% of children gained one level in at least four social domains. Twenty-nine children improved in cognitive domains, with 66% of children improving in at least three cognitive domains. Autistic symptomatology evaluated in one-to-one settings significantly decreased with therapy; this reduction was observed in more than 85% of children. In group settings, autistic symptomatology also decreased in more than 60% of children. Global developmental age significantly increased by 3.8 months. The TIPA-T, including EDT in particular, improves socio-emotional skills of most children with ASD and reduces autistic symptomatology, yet with heterogeneous outcomes profiles, in line with the strong heterogeneity of profiles observed in ASD. At the group level, this study highlights the benefits of the TIPA-T for children with severe autism and associated ID. Assessment of autistic core symptoms showed an improvement of social interaction, both in one-to-one and group evaluations, demonstrating the generalizability of the skills learned during the EDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Blanc
- Exac-T, Centre Universitaire de Pédopsychiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
- Université de Paris, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Marianne Latinus
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, INSERM, Tours, France
- Centro de Estudios en Neurociencia Humana y Neuropsicología, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marco Guidotti
- Exac-T, Centre Universitaire de Pédopsychiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, INSERM, Tours, France
| | - Jean-Louis Adrien
- Université de Paris, Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Sylvie Roux
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, INSERM, Tours, France
| | - Pascale Dansart
- Exac-T, Centre Universitaire de Pédopsychiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | | | - Aude Rambault
- Exac-T, Centre Universitaire de Pédopsychiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Frédérique Bonnet-Brilhault
- Exac-T, Centre Universitaire de Pédopsychiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, INSERM, Tours, France
| | - Joëlle Malvy
- Exac-T, Centre Universitaire de Pédopsychiatrie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, INSERM, Tours, France
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Haglund N, Dahlgren S, Råstam M, Gustafsson P, Källén K. Improvement of Autism Symptoms After Comprehensive Intensive Early Interventions in Community Settings. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2021; 27:483-495. [PMID: 32321353 PMCID: PMC8581718 DOI: 10.1177/1078390320915257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preschool children with autism in southern Sweden participated in a comprehensive Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) program. AIMS To evaluate the ongoing NDBI program by comparing the pre- and postintervention outcomes in terms of improved autism symptom severity. METHOD The improvement of Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-R) test results between baseline and evaluation among children participating in the NDBI program (n = 67) was compared with the results among children receiving community treatment as usual (n = 27) using analysis of covariance. RESULTS The study showed that children in the NDBI group improved their ADOS-R total scores between baseline and evaluation (-0.8 scores per year; 95% CI [-1.2, -0.4]), whereas no improvement was detected in the comparison group (+0.1 scores per year; 95% CI [-0.7, +0.9]). The change in the NDBI group versus the change in the comparison group was statistically significant after adjusting for possible confounders as well. Children in the NDBI group also significantly improved their ADOS severity scores, but the scores were not significantly different from those of the comparison group. CONCLUSIONS The results from the current naturalistic study must be interpreted cautiously, but they do support earlier studies reporting on improvement of autism symptoms after early intensive interventions. Results from observational studies are difficult to interpret, but it is nevertheless of uttermost importance to evaluate costly autism intervention programs. The results do indicate that children with autism benefit from participating in early comprehensive intensive programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Haglund
- Nils Haglund, PhD, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - SvenOlof Dahlgren
- SvenOlof Dahlgren, PhD, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Råstam
- Maria Råstam, MD, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Peik Gustafsson, MD, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Karin Källén
- Karin Källén, PhD, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Kaur M, Eigsti IM, Bhat A. Effects of a creative yoga intervention on the joint attention and social communication skills, as well as affective states of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2021; 88:101860. [PMID: 34552663 PMCID: PMC8452228 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2021.101860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Yoga is gaining popularity as a multisystem intervention due to its impact on both the physical and mental well-being of children with typical development. However, there is limited empirical evidence to support the use of this approach in school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The current pilot study evaluated the impact of a creative yoga intervention on the joint attention, social communication, and affective states of children with ASD. METHODS 24 school-aged children with ASD received eight weeks of yoga (e.g., breathing, poses, relaxation) or tabletop play/academic intervention (e.g., reading, arts-crafts, building activities). Children were tested before and after the intervention using a standardized measure of responsive joint attention. Additionally, changes in socially directed verbal communication and affective states of children were assessed three times during the intervention period, i.e. during early, mid, and late intervention sessions. RESULTS Children with ASD showed improvements in responsive joint attention in both groups in the posttest vs. the pretest. Furthermore, children in the yoga group showed improvements in socially directed verbal communication skills across the intervention sessions, i.e. greater spontaneous and responsive communication from early/mid to late intervention sessions compared to the academic group. There were no changes in affective states with the intervention, however, the yoga group showed greater interested and less negative affect compared to the academic group. CONCLUSIONS Creative yoga intervention is a promising tool that led to improvements in intervention-related social communication skills and generalized joint attention skills of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maninderjit Kaur
- Biomechanics & Movement Sciences Program & Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
| | - Inge-Marie Eigsti
- Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269
| | - Anjana Bhat
- Biomechanics & Movement Sciences Program & Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716
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Heimann M, Holmer E. Neonatal Imitation, Intersubjectivity, and Children With Atypical Development: Do Observations on Autism and Down Syndrome Change Our Understanding? Front Psychol 2021; 12:701795. [PMID: 34512459 PMCID: PMC8430258 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.701795] [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: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Almost all studies on neonatal imitation to date seem to have focused on typically developing children, and we thus lack information on the early imitative abilities of children who follow atypical developmental trajectories. From both practical and theoretical perspectives, these abilities might be relevant to study in children who develop a neuropsychiatric diagnosis later on or in infants who later show impaired ability to imitate. Theoretical in the sense that it will provide insight into the earliest signs of intersubjectivity—i.e., primary intersubjectivity—and how this knowledge might influence our understanding of children following atypical trajectories of development. Practical in the sense that it might lead to earlier detection of certain disabilities. In the present work, we screen the literature for empirical studies on neonatal imitation in children with an Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Down syndrome (DS) as well as present an observation of neonatal imitation in an infant that later was diagnosed with autism and a re-interpretation of previously published data on the phenomenon in a small group of infants with DS. Our findings suggest that the empirical observations to date are too few to draw any definite conclusions but that the existing data suggests that neonatal imitation can be observed both in children with ASD and in children with DS. Thus, neonatal imitation might not represent a useful predictor of a developmental deficit. Based on current theoretical perspectives advocating that neonatal imitation is a marker of primary intersubjectivity, we propose tentatively that an ability to engage in purposeful exchanges with another human being exists in these populations from birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Heimann
- Infant and Child Lab, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emil Holmer
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, The Swedish Institute for Disability Research, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Ayatollahi A, Bagheri S, Ashraf-Ganjouei A, Moradi K, Mohammadi MR, Akhondzadeh S. Does Pregnenolone Adjunct to Risperidone Ameliorate Irritable Behavior in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial? Clin Neuropharmacol 2021; 43:139-145. [PMID: 32947424 DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pregnenolone is a neurosteroid with modulatory effects on γ-aminobutyric acid neurotransmission. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of pregnenolone add-on to risperidone in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). METHODS Sixty-four ASD patients were randomly allocated to receive either pregnenolone (n = 32) or matching placebo (n = 32) in addition to risperidone. The Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community Edition scale was used to evaluate the behavioral status of patients at baseline, week 5, and the trial end point. The change in score of irritability subscale was the primary outcome. Frequency of adverse effects due to trial medications was compared between the treatment groups. RESULTS Fifty-nine patients completed the trial (30 in pregnenolone and 29 in the placebo arm). Baseline characteristics of both treatment groups were similar (P > 0.05). Repeated measures analysis was suggestive of greater exhibited improvement for the pregnenolone group on irritability, stereotypy, and hyperactivity subscales of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community Edition over the trial period (F = 3.84, df = 1.96, P = 0.025; F = 4.29, df = 1.39, P = 0.029; F = 6.55, df = 1.67, P = 0.004, respectively). Nonetheless, the alterations in lethargy and inappropriate speech domains scores were similar for both arms (F = 0.93, df = 1.49, P = 0.375; F = 1.10, df = 1.60, P = 0.325, respectively). There was no significant difference in frequency as well as severity of adverse effects between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS Pregnenolone adjunct to risperidone could attenuate core features associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arghavan Ayatollahi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Wainer AL, Arnold ZE, Leonczyk C, Valluripalli Soorya L. Examining a stepped-care telehealth program for parents of young children with autism: a proof-of-concept trial. Mol Autism 2021; 12:32. [PMID: 33964979 PMCID: PMC8105688 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00443-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intervention during the first years of life for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have the strongest impact on long-term brain development and functioning. Yet, barriers such as a shortage of trained professionals contribute to significant delays in service. The goal of this proof-of-concept study was to explore strategies that support timely and equitable deployment of ASD-specific interventions. Methods This 15-week, randomized proof-of-concept study explored the acceptability of a digital parent mediated intervention online reciprocal imitation training (RIT; a naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention) and compared it to a treatment as usual (TAU) control on parent and child outcomes. Eligible children were between 18 and 60 months, met the cutoff for ASD on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2nd Edition and demonstrate significant social imitation deficits. Primary outcomes include the acceptability of RIT (Scale of Treatment Perceptions) and the feasibility of the Online RIT digital intervention (online RIT attributes). Secondary outcomes included parent fidelity (RIT parent fidelity form) and parental self-efficacy (Early Intervention Parenting Self-Efficacy Scale). Exploratory outcome measures included child social communication (Social Communication Checklist), child imitation skills (Unstructured Imitation Assessment), and family quality of life (Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale). Results Twenty participants were randomized in a 1:1 fashion. The acceptability and feasibility of RIT and the Online RIT digital intervention were rated highly. Among the secondary outcomes, there were significant group differences in parent fidelity (p < .001) and self-efficacy (p = .029). On exploratory outcomes, there were group differences in child social communication (p = .048). There were no significant group differences in imitation ability (p = .05) or family quality of life (p = .22). Limitations There are several limitations with this study, including the small sample size as well as lack of data on enactment and website engagement. This study was not able to address questions related to which variables predict program engagement and treatment response, which will be critical for determining which families may benefit from such a stepped-care delivery model. Conclusions Overall, the Online RIT program delivered in a stepped-care format shows strong acceptability and holds promise as an innovative delivery model. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04467073. Registered 10 July 2020- Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04467073
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison L Wainer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 603, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Zachary E Arnold
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1300 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Caroline Leonczyk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 603, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Latha Valluripalli Soorya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 603, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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Upadhyay J, Patra J, Tiwari N, Salankar N, Ansari MN, Ahmad W. Dysregulation of Multiple Signaling Neurodevelopmental Pathways during Embryogenesis: A Possible Cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Cells 2021; 10:958. [PMID: 33924211 PMCID: PMC8074600 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the autistic brain and the involvement of genetic, non-genetic, and numerous signaling pathways in the etiology and pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complex, as is evident from various studies. Apart from multiple developmental disorders of the brain, autistic subjects show a few characteristics like impairment in social communications related to repetitive, restricted, or stereotypical behavior, which suggests alterations in neuronal circuits caused by defects in various signaling pathways during embryogenesis. Most of the research studies on ASD subjects and genetic models revealed the involvement of mutated genes with alterations of numerous signaling pathways like Wnt, hedgehog, and Retinoic Acid (RA). Despite significant improvement in understanding the pathogenesis and etiology of ASD, there is an increasing awareness related to it as well as a need for more in-depth research because no effective therapy has been developed to address ASD symptoms. Therefore, identifying better therapeutic interventions like "novel drugs for ASD" and biomarkers for early detection and disease condition determination are required. This review article investigated various etiological factors as well as the signaling mechanisms and their alterations to understand ASD pathophysiology. It summarizes the mechanism of signaling pathways, their significance, and implications for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Upadhyay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Energy Acre Campus Bidholi, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India; (J.U.); (J.P.)
| | - Jeevan Patra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Energy Acre Campus Bidholi, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India; (J.U.); (J.P.)
| | - Nidhi Tiwari
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Defence Research and Development Organisation, Delhi 110054, India;
| | - Nilima Salankar
- School of Computer Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Energy Acre Campus Bidholi, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India;
| | - Mohd Nazam Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wasim Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, Mohammed Al-Mana College for Medical Sciences, Dammam 34222, Saudi Arabia;
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A Systematic Review of Family-Mediated Social Communication Interventions for Young Children with Autism. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021; 9:208-234. [PMID: 33821200 PMCID: PMC8012416 DOI: 10.1007/s40489-021-00249-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Social communication deficits are a core symptom of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The present paper reviews 54 studies evaluating social communication interventions delivered by parents and siblings to children with ASD under 6 years old. Fifty studies evaluated parent-mediated intervention, and four studies evaluated sibling-mediated intervention. Fourteen studies evaluated interventions using telehealth. Treatment effects and research strength were variable across studies. Treatment modality, setting, and dosage had inconclusive impact on treatment effect. Parent-implemented intervention packages, Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), and Joint Attention, Symbolic Play, Engagement & Regulation (JASPER), qualified as established evidence-based practice for this population. Most studies reported successful generalization of skills for some, but not all, children. Telehealth and sibling-mediated intervention are promising areas of further research and clinical practice.
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Zeleke WA, Hughes TL, Kanyongo G. Assessing the Effectiveness of Professional Development Training on Autism and Culturally Responsive Practice for Educators and Practitioners in Ethiopia. Front Psychiatry 2021; 11:583674. [PMID: 33708144 PMCID: PMC7940830 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.583674] [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: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examines the effect of professional development training on educators' and practitioners' knowledge of Autism and the use of culturally responsive practices. Using a single group, pre-post design, data was gathered from 34 educators and health professionals (i.e., teachers, counselors, psychologists, therapists, therapeutic care workers, social workers, and nurses) in Ethiopia. A week-long training covering ASDs and culturally responsive evidence-based training was provided to participants. Results showed significant improvement in participants' knowledge about ASD symptoms, nature, characteristics, as well as intervention selection. Participants' use of culturally informed approaches, in their area of professional service, showed a high level of participants' knowledge and low-level use of culturally responsive practices, policies, and procedures. Recommendations for addressing cultural factors impacting the diagnosis and treatment-seeking approaches to ASD in Africa are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waganesh A. Zeleke
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Tammy L. Hughes
- Department of Counseling, Psychology and Special Education, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Gibbs Kanyongo
- Department of Educational Foundations and Leadership, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Uljarević M, Billingham W, Cooper MN, Condron P, Hardan AY. Examining Effectiveness and Predictors of Treatment Response of Pivotal Response Treatment in Autism: An Umbrella Review and a Meta-Analysis. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:766150. [PMID: 35153850 PMCID: PMC8830537 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.766150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed to provide a comprehensive appraisal of the current evidence on the effectiveness of Pivotal Response Training (PRT) for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and to explore predictors of treatment response. We conducted a systematic review of the following electronic databases and registers: PsycINFO, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ERIC, Linguistics and Language Behavior Abstracts. Six systematic reviews were identified, two with meta-analytic component. Identified reviews varied widely in terms of their aims, outcomes, and designs which precluded a unified and consistent set of conclusions and recommendations. Ten RCTs were identified. Eight of identified RCTs reported at least one language and communication-related outcome. Statistically significant effects of PRT were identified across a majority of identified RCTs for a range of language and communication skills. However, evidence for positive treatment effects of PRT on outcome measures assessing other domains was less robust and/or specific. Overall, both previous systematic reviews and new meta-analysis of the RCTs suggest that PRT shows promise for improving language and communication. Only four RCTs examined the association between baseline child characteristics and treatment outcomes, however, no consistent pattern emerged. This review has identified several key methodological and design improvements that are needed to enable our field to fully capitalize on the potential of RCT designs and characterize detailed profiles of treatment responders. These findings are essential for informing the development of evidence-based guidelines for clinicians on what works for whom and why.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Uljarević
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,La Trobe University, Bundora, VIC, Australia
| | - Wesley Billingham
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Matthew N Cooper
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Patrick Condron
- University Library, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Antonio Y Hardan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
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One-Year Follow-Up Diagnostic Stability of Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis in a Clinical Sample of Children and Toddlers. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11010037. [PMID: 33401390 PMCID: PMC7823497 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11010037] [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: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Some studies show that the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder could be considered reliable and stable in children aged 18 to 24 months. Nevertheless, the diagnostic stability of early ASD diagnosis has not yet been fully demonstrated. This observational study examines the one-year diagnostic stability of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in a clinical sample of 147 children diagnosed between 18 and 48 months of age. The ADOS-2 scores were used in order to stratify children in three levels of symptom severity: Autism (AD; comparison score 5–7), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD; comparison score 3–4), and Sub-Threshold Symptoms; (STS; comparison score 1–2). Results: Overall, the largest part of children and toddlers diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder between 18 and 48 months continued to show autistic symptoms at one-year follow-up evaluation. Nevertheless, a significant percentage of children with higher ADOS severity scores exhibited a reduction of symptom severity and, therefore, moved towards a milder severity class one year later. Conversely, the number of subjects of the STS group meaningfully increased. Therefore, at one-year follow-up a statistically significant (χ2(2) = 181.46, p < 0.0001) percentage of subjects (25.2% of the total) who had received a categorical diagnosis of Autistic Disorder or Autism Spectrum Disorder in baseline no longer met the criteria for a categorical diagnosis. Furthermore, children who no longer met the criteria for autism spectrum disorder continue to show delays in one or more neurodevelopmental areas, possibly related to the emergence of other neurodevelopmental/neuropsychiatric disorders. Overall, the comprehensive results of the study account for a high sensibility but a moderate stability of ASD early diagnosis.
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Almanza AJ, Rapp JT, Kierce ED. Does Awareness of either Psychotropic Medication or Behavioral Interventions Bias College Students' Ratings of a Child's Behavior? Dev Neurorehabil 2020; 23:448-456. [PMID: 32427014 DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2020.1764648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Caregiver awareness that a child receives either psychotropic medication or behavioral intervention could bias that caregiver's perception of the child's behavior and give rise to incorrect conclusions about intervention effectiveness. To evaluate bias for the effects of either medication or behavioral intervention, we randomly assigned 114 participants to one of the four groups: Medication information (Med info), Behavioral information (Beh info), No change (control group), and Reverse video (Rev Vid; also no change, but participants watched videos in the reverse order). Participants watched two 5-min video clips of a child engaging in low to moderate levels of problem behavior. After watching the first video, participants rated the child's problem behavior. Before viewing the second video, participants were informed that (a) the child received medication (Med info group), (b) the child received behavioral intervention (Beh info group), or (c) no treatment changes were made (No change groups). Results show that providing treatment information did not bias participants' ratings of the child's behavior. Instead, results indicate participants in the control groups correctly tracked actual changes in the child's behavior.
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Shkedy G, Shkedy D, Sandoval-Norton AH, Fantaroni G. Visual communication analysis (VCA): Applying self-determination theory and research-based practices to autism. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2020.1803581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Shkedy
- Research Department, Alternative Teaching Strategy Center, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Dalia Shkedy
- Research Department, Alternative Teaching Strategy Center, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Grace Fantaroni
- School of Education, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, CA, USA
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Adaptation of One-Session Treatment for Specific Phobias for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Using a Non-concurrent Multiple Baseline Design: A Preliminary Investigation. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:1015-1027. [PMID: 32613485 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04582-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are among the most common co-occurring disorders for individuals with ASD. Several adaptations to cognitive behavioral approaches have been proposed for this population (Moree & Davis, 2010). The current study examined feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an ASD-specific adaptation of one-session treatment (OST) for specific phobia (SP). Standard OST consists of one 3-h session followed by four weekly phone calls. Modifications for ASD included increased parental involvement, use of visual aids, and inclusion of four 1-h booster sessions in place of the four weekly phone calls. Visual inspection and Friedman tests revealed significant reductions in fear ratings and phobia severity from pre- to post-treatment and follow-up assessments. Modest changes were observed in behavioral avoidance. These findings provide initial evidence that this treatment merits further study.
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Mohammed Taresh S, Aniza Ahmad N, Roslan S, Ma’rof AM, Mohammed Zaid S. Mainstream Preschool Teachers' Skills at Identifying and Referring Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17124284. [PMID: 32560042 PMCID: PMC7344551 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17124284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background: Early intervention will help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to attain early learning reinforcement. This study focuses on exploring the ability of preschool teachers to identify children with ASD and their referral decision-making process. Method: This is a mixed-method study (qualitative and quantitative methods) involving 20 respondents. The qualitative study is based on an open question case study, while the quantitative study consists of questionnaire with demographic variables to identify the effect of the demographic variables on the preschool teachers’ ability to identify children with ASD. Sample: The sample was selected via convenience sampling among mainstream preschool teachers. The data was analyzed using SPSS software and thematic analysis. Results: The findings show that preschool teachers did not have skills at identifying children with ASD, and the majority of them labelled children with ASD as spoilt or hyperactive children. They also viewed children with ASD as having other disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or communication disorders such as introversion. Moreover, preschool teachers expressed that the reason for the child’s behaviour could be due to the parents’ inability to properly educate their child. Additionally, the demographic variables of the preschool teachers, such as age, education level and teaching experience, were found not to affect their ASD identification skills. Conclusion: Preschool teachers need to improve their skills in identifying ASD among children via training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Mohammed Taresh
- Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.M.T.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Nor Aniza Ahmad
- Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.M.T.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Samsilah Roslan
- Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.M.T.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
| | - Aini Marina Ma’rof
- Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia; (S.M.T.); (S.R.); (A.M.M.)
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Zhang YX, Cummings JR. Supply of Certified Applied Behavior Analysts in the United States: Implications for Service Delivery for Children With Autism. Psychiatr Serv 2020; 71:385-388. [PMID: 31822240 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.201900058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) underscores the importance of access to evidence-based interventions such as applied behavior analysis (ABA). Anecdotal evidence suggests limitations in the supply of ABA providers, but data remain scarce. The authors provide the first known examination of the supply of certified ABA providers in the United States. METHODS Using 2018 data from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, the authors compared the per capita supply of certified ABA providers in each state with a benchmark established using the Board's guidelines. Additionally, the authors examined state and regional variations in the supply of certified ABA providers. RESULTS The per capita supply of certified ABA providers fell below the benchmark in 49 states and was higher in the Northeast than in other regions (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS New workforce policies are needed to increase the supply of certified ABA providers to meet the needs of youths with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Xue Zhang
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta
| | - Janet R Cummings
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta
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Kinard JL, Mosner MG, Greene RK, Addicott M, Bizzell J, Petty C, Cernasov P, Walsh E, Eisenlohr-Moul T, Carter RM, McLamb M, Hopper A, Sukhu R, Dichter GS. Neural Mechanisms of Social and Nonsocial Reward Prediction Errors in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Res 2020; 13:715-728. [PMID: 32043748 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by impaired predictive abilities; however, the neural mechanisms subsuming reward prediction errors in ASD are poorly understood. In the current study, we investigated neural responses during social and nonsocial reward prediction errors in 22 adolescents with ASD (ages 12-17) and 20 typically developing control adolescents (ages 12-18). Participants performed a reward prediction error task using both social (i.e., faces) and nonsocial (i.e., objects) rewards during a functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Reward prediction errors were defined in two ways: (a) the signed prediction error, the difference between the experienced and expected reward; and (b) the thresholded unsigned prediction error, the difference between expected and unexpected outcomes regardless of magnitude. During social reward prediction errors, the ASD group demonstrated the following differences relative to the TD group: (a) signed prediction error: decreased activation in the right precentral gyrus and increased activation in the right frontal pole; and (b) thresholded unsigned prediction error: increased activation in the right anterior cingulate gyrus and bilateral precentral gyrus. Groups did not differ in brain activation during nonsocial reward prediction errors. Within the ASD group, exploratory analyses revealed that reaction times and social-communication impairments were related to precentral gyrus activation during social prediction errors. These findings elucidate the neural mechanisms of social reward prediction errors in ASD and suggest that ASD is characterized by greater neural atypicalities during social, relative to nonsocial, reward prediction errors in ASD. Autism Res 2020, 13: 715-728. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: We used brain imaging to evaluate differences in brain activation in adolescents with autism while they performed tasks that involved learning about social and nonsocial information. We found no differences in brain responses during the nonsocial condition, but differences during the social condition of the learning task. This study provides evidence that autism may involve different patterns of brain activation when learning about social information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Lynn Kinard
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Maya Gelman Mosner
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Rachel Kirsten Greene
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Merideth Addicott
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Science, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Joshua Bizzell
- Duke-UNC Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Chris Petty
- Duke-UNC Brain Imaging and Analysis Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Paul Cernasov
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Erin Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Tory Eisenlohr-Moul
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Neuropsychiatric Institute, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ronald McKell Carter
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado
| | - Marcy McLamb
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Alissa Hopper
- Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Rebecca Sukhu
- Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Gabriel Sviatoslav Dichter
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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42
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Jobin A. Varied treatment response in young children with autism: A relative comparison of structured and naturalistic behavioral approaches. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 24:338-351. [PMID: 31311289 PMCID: PMC6962565 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319859726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneity of treatment response is common in children with autism spectrum disorder. Thus, many providers vary the intervention used based on child characteristics and learning domain. An improved understanding of how to match treatments to different children and domain areas may enhance efforts to individualize treatment and improve treatment response. This study evaluated the relative efficacy of discrete trial training and pivotal response training for teaching young children at risk for autism spectrum disorder receptive and expressive language, play, and imitation skills. Using a single-subject adapted alternating treatments design, children received both the treatments for 12 weeks. Data were collected during treatment and at 3-month follow-up. All participants acquired target skills in both treatments and demonstrated some generalization, maintenance, and spontaneous skill use. Pivotal response training and discrete trial training were each more effective for some children and domains. The results suggest that early rates of learning may be predictive of longer-term treatment response and useful in informing treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Jobin
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center (CASRC), University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
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43
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Obrusnikova I, Novak HM, Cavalier AR. The Effect of Systematic Prompting on the Acquisition of Five Muscle-Strengthening Exercises by Adults With Mild Intellectual Disabilities. Adapt Phys Activ Q 2019; 36:447-471. [PMID: 31521057 DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2018-0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adults with intellectual disability have significantly lower musculoskeletal fitness than their peers without a disability. Appropriate instructional strategies are needed to facilitate their acquisition and maintenance of musculoskeletal fitness. In this multiple-baseline across-participants single-subject study, the authors evaluated the effects of a multicomponent package that included a video-enhanced system of least-to-most prompts on the acquisition of 5 muscle-strengthening exercises in 3 women with mild intellectual disability, age 24-37 yr. Results show substantive gains in correct and independent performance of steps in the 5 exercises during the treatment condition. The improved performance was maintained 2 wk after the last treatment session and in a large YMCA gym. The study suggests that use of the video-enhanced system of least-to-most prompts can lead to improved acquisition and maintenance of muscle-strengthening exercises by adults with mild intellectual disability.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to measure racial and ethnic disparities in autism-related services among U.S. children with parent-reported autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS Using the 2011 Survey of Pathways to Diagnosis and Services, we analyzed parent-reported data on 1420 children with current ASD in the nationally representative sample. An estimation method consistent with the Institute of Medicine's definition of health care disparities is used to measure racial and ethnic disparities. RESULTS The findings revealed Latino-white disparities in the percentage of children currently using school-based occupational and physical therapy and Latino-white and "other race"-white disparities in the percentage of children using physical therapy outside of school. There were no statistically significant black-white disparities. Instead, the study found that the percentage of black children with ASD receiving school-based services was 8 points higher than that of white children (p < 0.04). Factors unrelated to the need for autism services were largely unassociated with the receipt of services. CONCLUSION The findings provide a partial baseline and identify a need for further examination of the source of existing disparities and the lack of disparities found for specific services and minority groups.
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Davis KS, Kennedy SA, Dallavecchia A, Skolasky RL, Gordon B. Psychoeducational Interventions for Adults With Level 3 Autism Spectrum Disorder: A 50-Year Systematic Review. Cogn Behav Neurol 2019; 32:139-163. [PMID: 31517698 PMCID: PMC6749978 DOI: 10.1097/wnn.0000000000000201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
There is face validity to the expectation that adults with level 3 autism spectrum disorder (ASD-3) will benefit from a range of psychoeducational interventions. This paper reviews the empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of these interventions, many of which are currently used in clinical settings. We reviewed 56 peer-reviewed studies of psychoeducational interventions for adults with ASD-3, written in English and since 1968, that met our criteria. The reviewing team included educators, clinicians, researchers, and a biostatistician. The available literature was limited, and most, if not all, of the studies presented some significant methodological limitations. When using Cochrane's criteria to assess seven key outcome domains-activities of daily living, aggressive/destructive behaviors, emotional functioning, language/communication skills, self-injurious behaviors, stereotypy/mannerisms, and vocational skills-we found only moderately reliable evidence to support the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve emotional functioning in adults with ASD-3. The reliability of evidence relevant to the six other outcome domains was rated as low or very low. Based on this review, we suggest directions for future study of interventions for adults with ASD-3, including topics, subpopulations, and approaches that should be explored. We also propose some crucial changes in how future studies regarding this population should be designed, analyzed, and documented, while balancing clinical considerations with scientific/educational utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie S. Davis
- Division of Cognitive Neurology/Neuropsychology, Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, New York, New York
| | - Sandra A. Kennedy
- Division of Cognitive Neurology/Neuropsychology, Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, New York, New York
| | - Alessandra Dallavecchia
- Division of Cognitive Neurology/Neuropsychology, Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, New York, New York
| | - Richard L. Skolasky
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Barry Gordon
- Division of Cognitive Neurology/Neuropsychology, Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, New York, New York
- Cognitive Science Department, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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46
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Saaybi S, AlArab N, Hannoun S, Saade M, Tutunji R, Zeeni C, Shbarou R, Hourani R, Boustany RM. Pre- and Post-therapy Assessment of Clinical Outcomes and White Matter Integrity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Pilot Study. Front Neurol 2019; 10:877. [PMID: 31456741 PMCID: PMC6701406 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This pilot study aims to identify white matter (WM) tract abnormalities in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) toddlers and pre-schoolers by Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), and to correlate imaging findings with clinical improvement after early interventional and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapies by Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP). Methods: DTI scans were performed on 17 ASD toddlers/pre-schoolers and seven age-matched controls. Nine ASD patients had follow-up MRI 12 months following early intervention and ABA therapy. VB-MAPP was assessed and compared at diagnosis, 6 and 12 months after therapies. Tract-Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) was used to measure fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial (RD) diffusivity. Results: VB-MAPP scores improved at 6 and 12 months after early intervention and ABA therapy compared to scores at baseline. TBSS analysis showed significant FA decrease and/or RD increase in ASD patients before therapy vs. controls in inferior fronto-occipital fasciculi, uncinate fasciculi, left superior fronto-occipital fasciculus, forceps minor, left superior fronto-occipital fasciculus, right superior longitudinal fasciculus, corona radiate bilaterally, and left external capsule. A significantly FA increase in 21 tracts and ROIs is reported in post- vs. pre-therapy DTI analysis. Conclusion: DTI findings highlighted ASD patient WM abnormalities at diagnosis and confirmed the benefits of 12 months of early intervention and ABA therapy on clinical and neuro imaging outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Saaybi
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Departments of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine/Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Natally AlArab
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Salem Hannoun
- Faculty of Medicine, Nehme and Therese Tohme Multiple Sclerosis Center, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Medicine, Abu-Haidar Neuroscience Institute, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maritherese Saade
- AUBMC Special Kids Clinic (ASKC), American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayyan Tutunji
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Cognition and Behaviour, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carine Zeeni
- Division of Neuro-Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesia, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rolla Shbarou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Departments of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine/Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roula Hourani
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rose-Mary Boustany
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Departments of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine/Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- AUBMC Special Kids Clinic (ASKC), American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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47
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Sandoval-Norton AH, Shkedy G. How much compliance is too much compliance: Is long-term ABA therapy abuse? COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2019.1641258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gary Shkedy
- Director of Research, Alternative Teaching Strategy Center, San Diego, CA, USA
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48
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Neural Mechanisms of Reward Prediction Error in Autism Spectrum Disorder. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2019; 2019:5469191. [PMID: 31354993 PMCID: PMC6634058 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5469191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have explored neural mechanisms of reward learning in ASD despite evidence of behavioral impairments of predictive abilities in ASD. To investigate the neural correlates of reward prediction errors in ASD, 16 adults with ASD and 14 typically developing controls performed a prediction error task during fMRI scanning. Results revealed greater activation in the ASD group in the left paracingulate gyrus during signed prediction errors and the left insula and right frontal pole during thresholded unsigned prediction errors. Findings support atypical neural processing of reward prediction errors in ASD in frontostriatal regions critical for prediction coding and reward learning. Results provide a neural basis for impairments in reward learning that may contribute to traits common in ASD (e.g., intolerance of unpredictability).
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49
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Lauterborn JC, Schultz MN, Le AA, Amani M, Friedman AE, Leach PT, Gall CM, Lynch GS, Crawley JN. Spaced training improves learning in Ts65Dn and Ube3a mouse models of intellectual disabilities. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:166. [PMID: 31182707 PMCID: PMC6557858 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0495-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Benefits of distributed learning strategies have been extensively described in the human literature, but minimally investigated in intellectual disability syndromes. We tested the hypothesis that training trials spaced apart in time could improve learning in two distinct genetic mouse models of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by intellectual impairments. As compared to training with massed trials, spaced training significantly improved learning in both the Ts65Dn trisomy mouse model of Down syndrome and the maternally inherited Ube3a mutant mouse model of Angelman syndrome. Spacing the training trials at 1 h intervals accelerated acquisition of three cognitive tasks by Ts65Dn mice: (1) object location memory, (2) novel object recognition, (3) water maze spatial learning. Further, (4) spaced training improved water maze spatial learning by Ube3a mice. In contrast, (5) cerebellar-mediated rotarod motor learning was not improved by spaced training. Corroborations in three assays, conducted in two model systems, replicated within and across two laboratories, confirm the strength of the findings. Our results indicate strong translational relevance of a behavioral intervention strategy for improving the standard of care in treating the learning difficulties that are characteristic and clinically intractable features of many neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Lauterborn
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - M N Schultz
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - A A Le
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - M Amani
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - A E Friedman
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - P T Leach
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Biogen Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - C M Gall
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - G S Lynch
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - J N Crawley
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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50
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Mouti A, Dryer R, Kohn M. Differentiating Autism Spectrum Disorder From ADHD Using the Social Communication Questionnaire. J Atten Disord 2019; 23:828-837. [PMID: 29936891 DOI: 10.1177/1087054718781945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the ability of the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) to differentiate between autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and typically developing (TD) children. METHOD Children ( Mage = 11.27 years, SDage = 3.28) identified with ASD Severity Levels "1" and/or "2" ( n = 28), ADHD ( n = 44), dual diagnoses of ADHD and ASD ( n = 29), and TD ( n = 61) were assessed using the SCQ. RESULTS The SCQ differentiated between ASD and non-ASD groups. Children with ASD had higher total and domain scores on the SCQ than ADHD and TD children. The optimal cutoff total score of 13 was identified for differentiating between ASD and ADHD groups (area under the curve [AUC] = .96). Twenty eight of the 39 items were identified as significant in differentiating between ASD and ADHD. CONCLUSION The SCQ continues to be a well-validated screening tool for ASD and is suitable for determining whether further ASD assessment is warranted in children with ADHD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anissa Mouti
- 1 Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachel Dryer
- 2 Australian College of Applied Psychology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Kohn
- 3 The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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