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Bredewold R, Washington C, Veenema AH. Vasopressin regulates social play behavior in sex-specific ways through glutamate modulation in the lateral septum. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01987-z. [PMID: 39304743 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01987-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the neural basis of social play in juvenile rats may ultimately help restore social play deficits in autistic children. We previously found that administration of a vasopressin (AVP) V1a receptor (V1aR) antagonist into the lateral septum (LS) increased social play behavior in male juvenile rats and decreased it in females. Here, we demonstrate that glutamate, but not GABA, is involved in this sex-specific regulation. First, we found a sex difference in extracellular LS glutamate/GABA ratio (lower in females) that was eliminated by V1aR antagonist infusion in the LS that caused an increase in glutamate release in females only. Second, infusion of the glutamate receptor agonist L-glutamic acid into the LS mimicked the V1aR antagonist-induced decrease in female social play while preventing the increase in male social play. Third, infusion of the glutamate receptor antagonists AP-5 and CNQX into the LS prevented the V1aR antagonist-induced decrease in female social play. Fourth, there were no sex differences in extracellular GABA release in the LS upon either V1aR antagonist infusion or in social play expression upon infusion of the GABA-A receptor agonist muscimol into the LS, suggesting that GABA is not involved in the sex-specific regulation of social play by the LS-AVP system. Last, we found no sex differences in the type (GAD1/2, somatostatin, calbindin 1, Sox9) of V1aR-expressing LS cells, suggesting other cellular mechanisms mediating the sex-specific effects on glutamate release in the LS by the LS-AVP system. In conclusion, we demonstrate that the LS-AVP system regulates social play sex-specifically via glutamatergic neurotransmission. These findings have relevance for potential sex-specific effects of AVP-based treatment of social deficits in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remco Bredewold
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Catherine Washington
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Alexa H Veenema
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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2
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Marquardt AE, Basu M, VanRyzin JW, Ament SA, McCarthy MM. The transcriptome of playfulness is sex-biased in the juvenile rat medial amygdala: a role for inhibitory neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.11.612456. [PMID: 39314276 PMCID: PMC11419002 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.11.612456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Social play is a dynamic behavior known to be sexually differentiated; in most species, males play more than females, a sex difference driven in large part by the medial amygdala (MeA). Despite the well-conserved nature of this sex difference and the importance of social play for appropriate maturation of brain and behavior, the full mechanism establishing the sex bias in play is unknown. Here, we explore "the transcriptome of playfulness" in the juvenile rat MeA, assessing differences in gene expression between high- and low-playing animals of both sexes via bulk RNA-sequencing. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify gene modules combined with analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we demonstrate that the transcriptomic profile in the juvenile rat MeA associated with playfulness is largely distinct in males compared to females. Of the 13 play-associated WGCNA networks identified, only two were associated with play in both sexes, and very few DEGs associated with playfulness were shared between males and females. Data from our parallel single-cell RNA-sequencing experiments using amygdala samples from newborn male and female rats suggests that inhibitory neurons drive this sex difference, as the majority of sex-biased DEGs in the neonatal amygdala are enriched within this population. Supporting this notion, we demonstrate that inhibitory neurons comprise the majority of play-active cells in the juvenile MeA, with males having a greater number of play-active cells than females, of which a larger proportion are GABAergic. Through integrative bioinformatic analyses, we further explore the expression, function, and cell-type specificity of key play-associated modules and the regulator "hub genes" predicted to drive them, providing valuable insight into the sex-biased mechanisms underlying this fundamental social behavior.
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3
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Matsushima K, Kato T. An Exploratory Study on the Association between Atypical Behavioral Responses to Tickling and Autistic Traits in Japanese Children. Occup Ther Health Care 2024; 38:666-685. [PMID: 38174406 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2023.2297358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Although play is an essential occupation for children, parents of children with autistic traits tend to struggle with play-based interpersonal interaction with them. Tickling play appears to be one of the most interpersonal forms of play because nobody can tickle themselves. However, atypical tactile processing (e.g. tactile sensitivity) has been reported in children with autistic traits, who may exhibit atypical behavioral responses during tickling play. Our aim was to investigate the association between autistic traits and behavioral responses during parent-child tickling play in Japanese young children. We recorded tickling interaction between children and their parents using behavior coding with six behavioral items. Autistic traits and tactile sensitivity were measured using parent-reported questionnaires. Results showed two behavioral responses were significantly associated with autistic traits in all children: "approach with positive emotional response" and "no response" were negatively and positively correlated with autistic traits, respectively. This exploratory study suggests that behavioral responses during tickling play may be associated with autistic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanae Matsushima
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kato
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
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Pritchard-Rowe E, de Lemos C, Howard K, Gibson J. Diversity in Autistic Play: Autistic Adults' Experiences. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2024; 6:218-228. [PMID: 39139511 PMCID: PMC11317800 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2023.0008] [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] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Background Play is important for mental health and well-being. Descriptions of autistic play have typically focused on "deficits" and are based on comparisons to neurotypical "norms". According to the neurodiversity paradigm, it is important that autistic voices are highlighted and that difficulties, differences, and strengths are explored. With this in mind, we designed the present study to focus on the experiences and perspectives of autistic people concerning the topic of autistic play. Methods We conducted a consultation with autistic stakeholders, as well as with parents and teachers of autistic individuals to help us design the study and interview questions. We used semi-structured interviews with 22 autistic adults aged 18-57 years (clinically confirmed diagnosis, n = 21; self-diagnosed, n = 1) who live in the United Kingdom. We analyzed the data using interpretative phenomenological analysis to identify themes. Results We found important commonalities and differences in the ways that socialization in play, imaginary play, and flow (a state involving intense focus on the play) are experienced. Autistic adults discussed the importance of both solitary play and social play, with solitary play having an important recuperative function. They also reported preferences for parallel play and playing with similar autistic people. They also discussed imaginary play experiences, including social role-play and grounded-in-reality play, and the dual nature of flow experiences during play. Conclusions The findings of this study contrast with deficit-focused understandings of autistic play and build on neurodiversity-informed studies. We highlight, for example, the importance of considering the different circumstances under which solitary play or social play are preferred, as well as the importance of taking an individual approach to play. We encourage wider understanding and acceptance of these play preferences and experiences to support autistic people's well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Pritchard-Rowe
- Play & Communication Lab, Play in Education, Development and Learning (PEDAL) Centre, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Carmen de Lemos
- Play & Communication Lab, Play in Education, Development and Learning (PEDAL) Centre, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Howard
- School of Education, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Gibson
- Play & Communication Lab, Play in Education, Development and Learning (PEDAL) Centre, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Maisterrena A, de Chaumont F, Longueville JE, Balado E, Ey E, Jaber M. Female mice prenatally exposed to valproic acid exhibit complex and prolonged social behavior deficits. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110948. [PMID: 38244714 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized mainly by deficits in social communication and stereotyped and restricted behavior and interests with a male to female bias of 4.2/1. Social behavior in ASD animal models is commonly analyzed in males, and seldomly in females, using the widely implemented three-chambers test procedure. Here, we implemented a novel procedure, the Live Mouse Tracker (LMT), combining artificial intelligence, machine learning procedures and behavioral measures. We used it on mice that were prenatally exposed to valproic acid (VPA) (450 mg/kg) at embryonic day 12.5, a widely recognized and potent ASD model that we had previously extensively characterized. We focused on female mice offspring, in which social deficits have been rarely documented when using the 3-CT procedure. We recorded several parameters related to social behavior in these mice, continuously for three days in groups of four female mice. Comparisons were made on groups of 4 female mice with the same treatment (4 saline or 4 VPA) or with different treatments (3 saline and 1 VPA). We report that VPA females show several types of social deficits, which are different in nature and magnitude in relation with time. When VPA mice were placed in the LMT alongside saline mice, their social deficits showed significant improvement as early as 1 h from the start of the experiment, lasting up to 3 days throughout the duration of the experiment. Our findings suggest that ASD may be underdiagnosed in females. They also imply that ASD-related social deficits can be ameliorated by the presence of typical individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Maisterrena
- Université de Poitiers, Inserm, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques U1084, Poitiers, France
| | - Fabrice de Chaumont
- Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Longueville
- Université de Poitiers, Inserm, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques U1084, Poitiers, France
| | - Eric Balado
- Université de Poitiers, Inserm, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques U1084, Poitiers, France
| | - Elodie Ey
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, Inserm, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch, France
| | - Mohamed Jaber
- Université de Poitiers, Inserm, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques U1084, Poitiers, France; CHU de Poitiers, Poitiers, France.
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Achterberg EJM, Biemans B, Vanderschuren LJMJ. Neurexin1α knockout in rats causes aberrant social behaviour: relevance for autism and schizophrenia. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06559-z. [PMID: 38418646 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06559-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Genetic and environmental factors cause neuropsychiatric disorders through complex interactions that are far from understood. Loss-of-function mutations in synaptic proteins like neurexin1α have been linked to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia (SCZ), both characterised by problems in social behaviour. Childhood social play behaviour is thought to facilitate social development, and lack of social play may precipitate or exacerbate ASD and SCZ. OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that an environmental insult acts on top of genetic vulnerability to precipitate psychiatric-like phenotypes. To that aim, social behaviour in neurexin1α knockout rats was assessed, with or without deprivation of juvenile social play. We also tested drugs prescribed in ASD or SCZ to assess the relevance of this dual-hit model for these disorders. RESULTS Neurexin1α knockout rats showed an aberrant social phenotype, with high amounts of social play, increased motivation to play, age-inappropriate sexual mounting, and an increase in general activity. Play deprivation subtly altered later social behaviour, but did not affect the phenotype of neurexin1α knockout rats. Risperidone and methylphenidate decreased play behaviour in both wild-type and knockout rats. Amphetamine-induced hyperactivity was exaggerated in neurexin1α knockout rats. CONCLUSION Deletion of the neurexin1α gene in rats causes exaggerated social play, which is not modified by social play deprivation. This phenotype therefore resembles disinhibited behaviour rather than the social withdrawal seen in ASD and SCZ. The neurexin1α knockout rat could be a model for inappropriate or disinhibited social behaviour seen in childhood mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Marijke Achterberg
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Animals in Science and Society, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Barbara Biemans
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Louk J M J Vanderschuren
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Animals in Science and Society, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Achterberg EJM, Vanderschuren LJMJ. The neurobiology of social play behaviour: Past, present and future. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105319. [PMID: 37454882 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105319] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Social play behaviour is a highly energetic and rewarding activity that is of great importance for the development of brain and behaviour. Social play is abundant during the juvenile and early adolescent phases of life, and it occurs in most mammalian species, as well as in certain birds and reptiles. To date, the majority of research into the neural mechanisms of social play behaviour has been performed in male rats. In the present review we summarize studies on the neurobiology of social play behaviour in rats, including work on pharmacological and genetic models for autism spectrum disorders, early life manipulations and environmental factors that influence play in rats. We describe several recent developments that expand the field, and highlight outstanding questions that may guide future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Marijke Achterberg
- Dept. of Population Health Sciences, Section Animals in Science and Society, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Louk J M J Vanderschuren
- Dept. of Population Health Sciences, Section Animals in Science and Society, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Harder HJ, Searles CT, Vogt ME, Murphy AZ. Perinatal opioid exposure leads to decreased social play in adolescent male and female rats: Potential role of oxytocin signaling in brain regions associated with social reward. Horm Behav 2023; 153:105384. [PMID: 37295323 PMCID: PMC10330883 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, the number of infants exposed to opioids in utero has quadrupled in the United States, with some states reporting rates as high as 55 infants per 1000 births. Clinical studies report that children previously exposed to opioids during gestation show significant deficits in social behavior, including an inability to form friendships or other social relationships. To date, the neural mechanisms whereby developmental opioid exposure disrupts social behavior remain unknown. Using a novel paradigm of perinatal opioid administration, we tested the hypothesis that chronic opioid exposure during critical developmental periods would disrupt juvenile play. As oxytocin is a major regulator of sociability, the impact of perinatal morphine exposure on oxytocin peptide expression was also examined. Juvenile play was assessed in vehicle- or morphine-exposed male and female rats at P25, P35, and P45. Classical features of juvenile play were measured, including time spent engaged in social play, time not in contact, number of pins, and number of nape attacks. We report that morphine-exposed males and females spend less time engaged in play behavior than control males and females, with a corresponding increase in time spent alone. Morphine-exposed males and females also initiated fewer pins and nape attacks. Together, these data suggest that male and female rats exposed to morphine during critical developmental periods are less motivated to participate in social play, potentially due to alterations in oxytocin-mediated reward signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah J Harder
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, 100 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30303, United States of America
| | - Christopher T Searles
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, 100 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30303, United States of America
| | - Meghan E Vogt
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, 100 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30303, United States of America
| | - Anne Z Murphy
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, 100 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30303, United States of America.
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Bredewold R, Washington C, Veenema AH. Vasopressin regulates social play behavior in sex-specific ways through glutamate modulation in the lateral septum. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.31.535148. [PMID: 37034639 PMCID: PMC10081315 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.31.535148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Social play is a highly rewarding behavior that is essential for the development of social skills. Social play is impaired in children diagnosed with autism, a disorder with a strong sex bias in prevalence. We recently showed that the arginine vasopressin (AVP) system in the lateral septum (LS) regulates social play behavior sex-specifically in juvenile rats: Administration of a AVP 1a receptor (V1aR) antagonist increased social play behavior in males and decreased it in females. Here, we demonstrate that glutamate, but not GABA, is involved in the sex-specific regulation of social play by the LS-AVP system. First, males show higher extracellular glutamate concentrations in the LS than females while they show similar extracellular GABA concentrations. This resulted in a baseline sex difference in excitatory/inhibitory balance, which was eliminated by V1aR antagonist administration into the LS: V1aR antagonist increased extracellular glutamate release in females but not in males. Second, administration of the glutamate receptor agonist L-glutamic acid into the LS prevented the V1aR antagonist-induced increase in social play behavior in males while mimicking the V1aR antagonist-induced decrease in social play behavior in females. Third, administration of the glutamate receptor antagonists AP-5 and CNQX into the LS prevented the V1aR antagonist-induced decrease in social play behavior in females. Last, both sexes showed increases in extracellular LS-GABA release upon V1aR antagonist administration into the LS and decreases in social play behavior upon administration of the GABA-A receptor agonist muscimol into the LS, suggesting that GABA is not involved in the sex-specific regulation of social play by the LS-AVP system. Finally, to start identifying the cellular mechanism mediating the sex-specific effects of the LS-AVP system on LS-glutamate, we determined the presence of potential sex differences in the type of LS cells expressing V1aR. However, no sex differences were found in the percentage of Avpr1a+ LS cells expressing markers for either GABAergic neurons, somatostatin-expressing neurons, calbindin 1-expressing neurons, or astrocytes. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that the LS-AVP system regulates social play sex-specifically via differential local glutamatergic neurotransmission in male and female juvenile rats. Further research is required to uncover the underlying cellular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remco Bredewold
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Catherine Washington
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Alexa H Veenema
- Neurobiology of Social Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Harder HJ, Searles CT, Vogt ME, Murphy AZ. Perinatal Opioid Exposure Leads to Decreased Social Play in Adolescent Male and Female Rats: Potential Role of Oxytocin Signaling in Brain Regions Associated with Social Reward. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.10.532122. [PMID: 36945450 PMCID: PMC10028981 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.10.532122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, the number of infants exposed to opioids in utero has quadrupled in the United States, with some states reporting rates as high as 55 infants per 1000 births. Clinical studies report that children previously exposed to opioids during gestation show significant deficits in social behavior, including an inability to form friendships or other social relationships. To date, the neural mechanisms whereby developmental opioid exposure disrupts social behavior remain unknown. Using a novel paradigm of perinatal opioid administration, we tested the hypothesis that chronic opioid exposure during critical developmental periods would disrupt juvenile play. As oxytocin is a major regulator of sociability, the impact of perinatal morphine exposure on oxytocin peptide and receptor expression was also examined. Juvenile play was assessed in vehicle- or morphine-exposed male and female rats at P25, P35, and P45. Classical features of juvenile play were measured, including time spent engaged in social play, time not in contact, number of pins, and number of nape attacks. We report that morphine-exposed females spend less time engaged in play behavior than control males and females, with a corresponding increase in time spent alone. Morphine-exposed females also initiated fewer pins and nape attacks. Oxytocin receptor binding was reduced in morphine-exposed females in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region critical for social reward. Together, these data suggest that females exposed to morphine during critical developmental periods are less motivated to participate in social play, potentially due to alterations in oxytocin-mediated reward signaling.
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11
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Marquardt AE, VanRyzin JW, Fuquen RW, McCarthy MM. Social play experience in juvenile rats is indispensable for appropriate socio-sexual behavior in adulthood in males but not females. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 16:1076765. [PMID: 36755666 PMCID: PMC9899815 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.1076765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Social play is a dynamic and rewarding behavior abundantly expressed by most mammals during the juvenile period. While its exact function is debated, various rodent studies on the effects of juvenile social isolation suggest that participating in play is essential to appropriate behavior and reproductive success in adulthood. However, the vast majority of these studies were conducted in one sex only, a critical concern given the fact that there are known sex differences in play's expression: across nearly all species that play, males play more frequently and intensely than females, and there are qualitative sex differences in play patterns. Further limiting our understanding of the importance of play is the use of total isolation to prevent interactions with other juveniles. Here, we employed a novel cage design to specifically prevent play in rats while allowing for other forms of social interaction. We find that play deprivation during the juvenile period results in enduring sex-specific effects on later-life behavior, primarily in males. Males prevented from playing as juveniles exhibited decreased sexual behavior, hypersociability, and increased aggressiveness in adulthood, with no effects on these measures in females. Importantly, play deprivation had no effect on anxiety-like behavior, object memory, sex preference, or social recognition in either sex, showing the specificity of the identified impairments, though there were overall sex differences in many of these measures. Additionally, acute play deprivation impaired performance on a test of prosocial behavior in both sexes, indicating a difference in the motivation and/or ability to acquire this empathy-driven task. Together, these findings provide novel insight into the importance and function of juvenile social play and how this differs in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley E. Marquardt
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jonathan W. VanRyzin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rebeca W. Fuquen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Margaret M. McCarthy
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States,Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States,*Correspondence: Margaret M. McCarthy
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12
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Brienza L, Zennaro A, Vitolo E, Andò A. Affective Neuroscience Personality Scale (ANPS) and clinical implications: A systematic review. J Affect Disord 2023; 320:178-195. [PMID: 36174784 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.09.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Affective neuroscience (AN) theory assumes the existence of seven basic emotional systems (i.e., SEEKING, ANGER, FEAR, CARE, LUST, SADNESS, PLAY) that are common to all mammals and evolutionarily determined to be tools for survival and, in general, for fitness. Based on the AN approach, the Affective Neuroscience Personality Scales (ANPS) questionnaire was developed to examine individual differences in the defined basic emotional systems. The current systematic review aims to examine the use of ANPS in clinical contexts attempting to define those behavioral elements associated with underlying stable personality traits. METHODS The systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA statements. PubMed and PsycInfo were used for research literature from March 2003 to November 2021. RESULTS Forty-four studies including ANPS were identified from 1763 studies reviewed. Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. LIMITATIONS The review comprised some papers with incomplete psychological assessments (e.g., lack of other measures in addition to the ANPS) and missing information (e.g., on the [sub]samples), which may affect the generalizability of findings. CONCLUSION Specific endophenotypes and/or patterns of emotional/motivational systems were found for several mental disorders. Specifically, endophenotypes emerged for the Depressive and Autism Spectrum Disorders, Borderline and Avoidant Personality Disorders, type I and II Bipolar Disorders, and the Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. The endophenotypes can provide useful reflective elements for both psychodiagnosis and intervention. Overall, the current study may represent an attempt to contribute to the understanding of the basic emotional systems involved in the psychopathological manifestations identified by AN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Enrico Vitolo
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Agata Andò
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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13
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Fedewa M, Watkins L, Barnard-Brak L, Akemoglu Y. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Single Case Experimental Design Play Interventions for Children with Autism and Their Peers. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-022-00343-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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14
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Westby C. Playing to Pretend or "Pretending" to Play: Play in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Semin Speech Lang 2022; 43:331-346. [PMID: 35896409 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1750348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit early delays and deficits in play. In infancy, they engage in unusual exploratory behaviors with toys. As toddlers, they are slow to develop functional play, and in preschool some children with ASD fail to develop symbolic play despite having the necessary cognitive and language skills. Furthermore, when children with ASD are engaged in play, they demonstrate less playfulness. This article reviews the literature on the characteristics of exploratory, functional, and symbolic/pretend play in children with ASD and possible reasons for their unusual patterns of play development. Increased quantity and quality of play are frequent therapeutic goals for children with ASD. If play interventions are to be successful, it is critical that speech-language pathologists have an adequate assessment of children's play skills. Several frameworks and tools appropriate for assessing play in typical children and children with ASD are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Westby
- Bilingual Multicultural Services in Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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Beheshti SZ, Hosseini SS, Maroufizadeh S, Almasi-Hashiani A. Occupational performance of children with autism spectrum disorder and quality of life of their mothers. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:18. [PMID: 35033183 PMCID: PMC8760686 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-021-05890-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Limited studies were found to investigate the occupational performance of autistic children and their parents' quality of life. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate occupational performance of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and QoL of their mothers. RESULTS In this study, 88 participants were selected from autism centers in Arak, Iran, 2020. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and the parent version of Quality of Life in Autism Questionnaire (QoLA-P) were used to assess the occupational performance of ASD children and their mothers QoL. QoLA-P consists of parts A which is related to the quality of life and part-B related to the problems that these children have and are related to the parents or their caregivers. Regarding occupational performance, the first priority of mothers is self-care with frequency 64.8%. The finding suggested a significant correlation between total function score of COPM and the score of part-A (r = 0.227, p = 0.033) of QoLA-P. Also, the results revealed a significant correlation between the total satisfaction score of COPM and the score of part-A (r = 0.236, p = 0.026) and part-B of QoLA-P questionnaire (r = 0.231, p = 0.030). The mothers' first priority is self-care and, the total satisfaction and function score of COPM showed a significant correlation with mothers' QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Zeinab Beheshti
- School of Rehabilitation, Department of Occupational Therapy, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | | | - Saman Maroufizadeh
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Amir Almasi-Hashiani
- School of Health, Department of Epidemiology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
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Perkovich E, Sun L, Mire S, Laakman A, Sakhuja U, Yoshida H. What children with and without ASD see: Similar visual experiences with different pathways through parental attention strategies. AUTISM & DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENTS 2022; 7:23969415221137293. [PMID: 36518657 PMCID: PMC9742584 DOI: 10.1177/23969415221137293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Background and aims Although young children's gaze behaviors in experimental task contexts have been shown to be potential biobehavioral markers relevant to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we know little about their everyday gaze behaviors. The present study aims (1) to document early gaze behaviors that occur within a live, social interactive context among children with and without ASD and their parents, and (2) to examine how children's and parents' gaze behaviors are related for ASD and typically developing (TD) groups. A head-mounted eye-tracking system was used to record the frequency and duration of a set of gaze behaviors (such as sustained attention [SA] and joint attention [JA]) that are relevant to early cognitive and language development. Methods Twenty-six parent-child dyads (ASD group = 13, TD group = 13) participated. Children were between the ages of 3 and 8 years old. We placed head-mounted eye trackers on parents and children to record their parent- and child-centered views, and we also recorded their interactive parent-child object play scene from both a wall- and ceiling-mounted camera. We then annotated the frequency and duration of gaze behaviors (saccades, fixation, SA, and JA) for different regions of interest (object, face, and hands), and attention shifting. Independent group t-tests and ANOVAs were used to observe group comparisons, and linear regression was used to test the predictiveness of parent gaze behaviors for JA. Results The present study found no differences in visual experiences between children with and without ASD. Interestingly, however, significant group differences were found for parent gaze behaviors. Compared to parents of ASD children, parents of TD children focused on objects and shifted their attention between objects and their children's faces more. In contrast, parents of ASD children were more likely to shift their attention between their own hands and their children. JA experiences were also predicted differently, depending on the group: among parents of TD children, attention to objects predicted JA, but among parents of ASD children, attention to their children predicted JA. Conclusion Although no differences were found between gaze behaviors of autistic and TD children in this study, there were significant group differences in parents' looking behaviors. This suggests potentially differential pathways for the scaffolding effect of parental gaze for ASD children compared with TD children. Implications The present study revealed the impact of everyday life, social interactive context on early visual experiences, and point to potentially different pathways by which parental looking behaviors guide the looking behaviors of children with and without ASD. Identifying parental social input relevant to early attention development (e.g., JA) among autistic children has implications for mechanisms that could support socially mediated attention behaviors that have been documented to facilitate early cognitive and language development and implications for the development of parent-mediated interventions for young children with or at risk for ASD.Note: This paper uses a combination of person-first and identity-first language, an intentional decision aligning with comments put forth by Vivanti (Vivanti, 2020), recognizing the complexities of known and unknown preferences of those in the larger autism community.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lichao Sun
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sarah Mire
- Educational Psychology Department, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Anna Laakman
- Department of Psychological Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Urvi Sakhuja
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hanako Yoshida
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Northcutt KV, Leal-Medina TS, Yoon YS. Early postnatal hypothyroidism reduces juvenile play behavior, but prenatal hypothyroidism compensates for these effects. Physiol Behav 2021; 241:113594. [PMID: 34536436 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2021.113594] [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: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal hypothyroidism causes long-lasting effects on behavior, including hyperactivity, cognitive delays/deficits, and a reduction in anxiety. Although there is some evidence that hypothyroidism during fetal development in humans has been associated with later autism spectrum disorder diagnosis or autism-like traits, the relationships between early thyroid hormones and social behaviors are largely unknown. Previously, we found that a moderate dose of the hypothyroid-inducing drug methimazole during embryonic and postnatal development dramatically increased juvenile play in male and female rats. The goal of the current study was to determine the extent to which thyroid hormones act in prenatal or postnatal development to organize later social behaviors. Subjects were exposed to methimazole in the drinking water during prenatal (embryonic day 12 to birth), postnatal (birth to postnatal day 23), or pre- and postnatal development; control animals received regular drinking water throughout the experiment. They were tested for play behavior as juveniles (P30-32). We found an interaction between pre- and postnatal methimazole administration such that postnatal hypothyroidism decreased some play behaviors, whereas sustained pre- and postnatal hypothyroidism restored play to control levels. The effects were similar in males and females. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an interaction between pre- and postnatal hypothyroidism on later behavior. The complexity of the timing of these effects may help explain why epidemiological studies have not consistently found a relationship between gestational hypothyroidism and later behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine V Northcutt
- Biology Department and Neuroscience Program, Mercer University, 1501 Mercer University Dr., Macon, GA 31207, USA.
| | - Tanya S Leal-Medina
- Biology Department and Neuroscience Program, Mercer University, 1501 Mercer University Dr., Macon, GA 31207, USA
| | - Ye S Yoon
- Biology Department and Neuroscience Program, Mercer University, 1501 Mercer University Dr., Macon, GA 31207, USA
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Román V, Adham N, Foley AG, Hanratty L, Farkas B, Lendvai B, Kiss B. Cariprazine alleviates core behavioral deficits in the prenatal valproic acid exposure model of autism spectrum disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:2381-2392. [PMID: 34264367 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05851-6/figures/5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction and restricted, repetitive behaviors. The unmet medical need in ASD is considerable since there is no approved pharmacotherapy for the treatment of these deficits in social communication, interaction, and behavior. Cariprazine, a dopamine D3-preferring D3/D2 receptor partial agonist, is already approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults; investigation in patients with ASD is warranted. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cariprazine, compared with risperidone and aripiprazole, in the rat prenatal valporic acid (VPA) exposure model on behavioral endpoints representing the core and associated symptoms of ASD. METHODS To induce the ASD model, time-mated Wistar rat dams were treated with VPA during pregnancy. Male offspring were assigned to groups and studied in a behavioral test battery at different ages, employing social play, open field, social approach-avoidance, and social recognition memory tests. Animals were dosed orally, once a day for 8 days, with test compounds (cariprazine, risperidone, aripiprazole) or vehicle before behavioral assessment. RESULTS Cariprazine showed dose-dependent efficacy on all behavioral endpoints. In the social play paradigm, only cariprazine was effective. On the remaining behavioral endpoints, including the reversal of hyperactivity, risperidone and aripiprazole displayed similar efficacy to cariprazine. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, cariprazine effectively reversed core behavioral deficits and hyperactivity present in juvenile and young adult autistic-like rats. These findings indicate that cariprazine may be useful in the treatment of ASD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrew G Foley
- Berand Neuropharmacology Limited, NovaUCD, Belfield Innovation Park, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lynsey Hanratty
- Berand Neuropharmacology Limited, NovaUCD, Belfield Innovation Park, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Béla Kiss
- Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
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A Systematic Review of Play-Based Interventions Targeting the Social Communication Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Educational Contexts. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-021-00286-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractChildren with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience social communication difficulties which can be compounded by increased social demands and expectations of the school environment. Play offers a unique context for social communication development in educational settings. This systematic review aimed to synthesize play-based interventions for the social communication skills of children with ASD in educational contexts and identified nine studies. Overall, studies in this review provided a promising evidence base for supporting social communication skills through play in education for children with ASD. The review also highlighted gaps in research on play-based interventions for the social communication skills of children with ASD within naturalistic educational settings.
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20
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Bauminger-Zviely N, Shefer A. Naturalistic evaluation of preschoolers' spontaneous interactions: The Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:1520-1535. [PMID: 33626914 PMCID: PMC8323330 DOI: 10.1177/1362361321989919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Peer interaction can be challenging in autism spectrum disorder, but naturalistic peer-observation scales for preschoolers are limited. This study examined the newly developed Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale, with 17 subcategories, which evaluate naturalistic peer interaction processes in preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder and typical development. We tested the Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale to (a) characterize peer interactions of preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder who were cognitively able versus typical age-mates, (b) explore each group's hierarchical pattern of peer interaction behaviors, and (c) identify Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale's links with standard reports for assessing social-communication functioning (Vineland Behavior Scales, 2nd ed.), social impairment (Social Responsiveness Scale, 2nd ed.), autism severity (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd ed.), and intelligence quotient (Mullen) in the cognitively able preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder group. Participants comprised 85 preschoolers (50 cognitively able preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder, intelligence quotient > 75; 35 typical). Groups were matched according to age, intelligence quotient, and maternal education. Significant group differences emerged on all Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale categories, with the typical group showing better social-communication functioning as compared to the cognitively able preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder group. Also, in cognitively able preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder that observed as demonstrating more typical peer relations on the Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale showed better adaptive and socialization skills on the Vineland (Vineland Behavior Scales, 2nd ed.) and fewer social atypicalities on the Social Responsiveness Scale, 2nd ed. Higher intelligence quotient scores were linked with better observed social-communication functioning (on Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale). Few Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale social-communicative categories significantly correlated with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd ed. Findings highlight the Autism Peer Interaction Observation Scale as differentiating the two preschooler groups and providing additional knowledge about socially communicative peer interaction in natural settings. This new tool can help personalize social-communication programs and evaluations of early intervention outcomes, thereby leading to a fuller picture of these young children's functioning.
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21
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Vitor-Vieira F, Vilela FC, Giusti-Paiva A. Hyperactivation of the amygdala correlates with impaired social play behavior of prepubertal male rats in a maternal immune activation model. Behav Brain Res 2021; 414:113503. [PMID: 34331970 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Maternal infection during pregnancy is an environmental risk factor for neurodevelopmental dysfunction, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study investigated the effect of maternal immune activation (MIA) on the behavior profile of prepubertal offspring and whether MIA alters the neuronal activation pattern of brain areas related to social play behavior. Pregnant Wistar rats received 500 μg/kg of lipopolysaccharide or saline solution on gestational day 16. Their offspring were tested using behavioral tasks to capture some of the core and associated ASD-like symptoms. Neuronal activation, indexed via c-fos expression after social play behavior, was evaluated in several brain areas. MIA had a number of adverse effects on dams and reduced the number of successful births and litter size. MIA induced sex-specific autistic-like features by a reduction in ultrasonic vocalizations in response to separation from the mother and nest, reduction in discrimination between neutral odors and their nest odor, moderate effect in stereotypies in the hole-board test, impaired risk assessment phenotype, and reduction in social play behavior without changes in locomotor activity only in prepubertal male offspring. A decrease in social play behavior may be associated with a decrease in the number of c-fos-positive cells in the prefrontal cortex and striatum, but hyperactivation of the basolateral and basomedial amygdala. Prenatal immune challenge results in ASD-like symptoms such as impaired risk assessment behavior, communication, and social interactions in male prepubertal offspring. Impaired social play behavior is correlated with neuronal hyperactivation in the amygdala.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Vitor-Vieira
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Fabiana C Vilela
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas-MG, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Giusti-Paiva
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas-MG, Alfenas, Brazil.
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22
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Marwick H, Jarvie K, Cowie H, Johnston L, Hammond-Evans N, Cockayne R. Developing Pretend Play in Autistic Children Using the Playboxes Joint Play Approach as Part of Ongoing Practice. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:3050-3060. [PMID: 34244915 PMCID: PMC9213294 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05156-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A repeated measures single subject design was used to examine the effectiveness of a joint play approach embedded in professional practice, in supporting pretend play for autistic children. Seven autistic children, aged 5–8 years, with a placement within a specialist educational provision, and who demonstrated restricted play, participated in weekly sessions using the Playboxes approach over a period of 3 months. Pre- and post-approach pretend play abilities were assessed using the Symbolic Play Test and the Test of Pretend Play. Every child gained increased age-equivalent scores on the Test of Pretend Play, ranging from + 8 to + 30 months. Pretend Play abilities can support developmental outcomes and incorporation of this approach into regular practice could be of value for autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Marwick
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Education, Lord Hope Building, University of Strathclyde, 141, St James Road, Glasgow, G4 0LT, UK.
| | - Karena Jarvie
- Psychological Services, Children and Families, City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Lorna Johnston
- Additional Support for Learning Services, Children and Families, City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nicola Hammond-Evans
- Additional Support for Learning Services, Children and Families, City of Edinburgh Council, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rachael Cockayne
- NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
- Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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23
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Influence of Ideational Praxis on the Development of Play and Adaptive Behavior of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comparative Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115704. [PMID: 34073380 PMCID: PMC8197801 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditionally, assessment of praxis skills in children with ASD has focused on the evaluation of aspects related to the planning and execution of actions. This study aimed to evaluate the ideational abilities of children with ASD and analyze possible relationships with the development of play and adaptive behaviors. METHODS 40 children between 4 to 6 years (TD = 20; ASD = 20) were evaluated with the Test of Ideational Praxis, the Revised Knox Preschool Play Scale, and the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System II. RESULTS Statistically significant relationships were obtained between ideational praxis and play skills development (r = 0.649; p = 0.01), adaptive leisure behavior (r = 0.338; p = 0.04) and social adaptive behavior (r = 0.319; p = 0.04). Results of multiple linear regression models found a linear relationship between ideational praxis and play development (p = 0.005) and adaptive leisure skills (p = 0.004), but not with social interaction skills (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Objective evaluation with a specific ideational praxis assessment facilitates understanding of the ideational abilities and widens understanding of praxis skills and their impact on play and adaptive behaviors in children with ASD.
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de Novais CO, Batista TH, Ribeiro ACAF, Vitor-Vieira F, Rojas VCT, Ferri BG, Vieira JS, Giusti-Paiva A, Vilela FC. Maternal overweight induced by reduced litter size impairs the behavioral neurodevelopment of offspring. Life Sci 2021; 277:119611. [PMID: 33984359 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
AIMS We assessed the influence of maternal overweight on the behavioral neurodevelopment of male and female offspring in prepubertal age by reducing the litter size. MAIN METHODS To reduce litter size in Wistar rats, the offspring of generation 0 (G0) were culled for 12 pups (6 males and 6 females: normal litter, NL-G1) or 4 pups (2 males and 2 females: small litter, SL-G1). In G1 dams, overweight was characterized, maternal behavior and locomotor activity were assessed. At G2, we quantified the ultrasonic vocalizations in post-natal day 5 (PND5); we evaluated olfactory discrimination in the homing behavior test on PND13; and in PND28-32 (prepubertal age), we performed the following tests: social play behavior, hole board, object recognition, and open field. At the end of the experiments, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were dissected to quantify the synaptophysin by western blotting. KEY FINDINGS Our data demonstrated that a reduction in litter size was able to induce maternal overweight without altering the parameters related to overweight in the offspring. The SL-G2 offspring showed deficits in early social communication, olfactory discrimination, social play behavior, and the exploration of objects, in addition to increasing repetitive and stereotyped movements. There were also changes in the synaptophysin levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of the offspring from reduced litter dams. In conclusion, maternal overweight caused by litter reduction impairs behavioral neurodevelopment, inducing autism-like symptoms in the offspring. SIGNIFICANCE This study alerts the public about the negative consequences of maternal overweight in the descendants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cíntia O de Novais
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saude, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Tatiane H Batista
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia A F Ribeiro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saude, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Fernando Vitor-Vieira
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Viviana C T Rojas
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Bárbara G Ferri
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Jádina S Vieira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saude, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Giusti-Paiva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saude, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Fabiana C Vilela
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências Aplicadas à Saude, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, Brazil.
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Participatory Action Research for Creating an Online-Based Play Therapy Training Program: Training on Play Therapy for Children with Developmental Disabilities for Experienced Play Therapists. ADONGHAKOEJI 2021. [DOI: 10.5723/kjcs.2021.42.2.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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26
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Embodied Imagination and Metaphor Use in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9020200. [PMID: 33668445 PMCID: PMC7918212 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9020200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper discusses different frameworks for understanding imagination and metaphor in the context of research on the imaginative skills of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In contrast to a standard linguistic framework, it advances an embodied and enactive account of imagination and metaphor. The paper describes a case study from a systemic therapeutic session with a child with ASD that makes use of metaphors. It concludes by outlining some theoretical insights into the imaginative skills of children with ASD that follow from taking the embodied-enactive perspective and proposes suggestions for interactive interventions to further enhance imaginative skills and metaphor understanding in children with ASD.
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Grady-Dominguez P, Ragen J, Sterman J, Spencer G, Tranter P, Villeneuve M, Bundy A. Expectations and Assumptions: Examining the Influence of Staff Culture on a Novel School-Based Intervention to Enable Risky Play for Children with Disabilities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18031008. [PMID: 33498773 PMCID: PMC7908254 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Risky play is challenging, exciting play with the possibility of physical, social, or emotional harm. Through risky play, children learn, develop, and experience wellbeing. Children with disabilities have fewer opportunities than their typically developing peers to engage in this beneficial type of play. Our team designed a novel, school-based intervention to address this disparity; however, our intervention yielded unexpected quantitative results. In the present study, we qualitatively examined divergent results at two of the five schools that participated in the intervention. Specifically, we aimed to explore how staff culture (i.e., shared beliefs, values, and practices) influenced the intervention. To explore this relationship, we employed a retrospective, qualitative, multiple case study. We used thematic analysis of evaluative interviews with staff members to elucidate the cultures at each school. Then, we used cross-case analysis to understand the relationships between aspects of staff culture and the intervention's implementation and results. We found that staff cultures around play, risk, disability influenced the way, and the extent to which, staff were willing to let go and allowed children to engage in risky play. Adults' beliefs about the purpose of play and recess, as well as their expectations for children with disabilities, particularly influenced the intervention. Furthermore, when the assumptions of the intervention and the staff culture did not align, the intervention could not succeed. The results of this study highlight the importance of (1) evaluating each schools' unique staff culture before implementing play-focused interventions and (2) tailoring interventions to meet the needs of individual schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Grady-Dominguez
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80528, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jo Ragen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Julia Sterman
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Grace Spencer
- Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
| | - Paul Tranter
- School of Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia;
| | - Michelle Villeneuve
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Anita Bundy
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80528, USA;
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.R.); (M.V.)
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Román V, Adham N, Foley AG, Hanratty L, Farkas B, Lendvai B, Kiss B. Cariprazine alleviates core behavioral deficits in the prenatal valproic acid exposure model of autism spectrum disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:2381-2392. [PMID: 34264367 PMCID: PMC8373751 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05851-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction and restricted, repetitive behaviors. The unmet medical need in ASD is considerable since there is no approved pharmacotherapy for the treatment of these deficits in social communication, interaction, and behavior. Cariprazine, a dopamine D3-preferring D3/D2 receptor partial agonist, is already approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults; investigation in patients with ASD is warranted. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cariprazine, compared with risperidone and aripiprazole, in the rat prenatal valporic acid (VPA) exposure model on behavioral endpoints representing the core and associated symptoms of ASD. METHODS To induce the ASD model, time-mated Wistar rat dams were treated with VPA during pregnancy. Male offspring were assigned to groups and studied in a behavioral test battery at different ages, employing social play, open field, social approach-avoidance, and social recognition memory tests. Animals were dosed orally, once a day for 8 days, with test compounds (cariprazine, risperidone, aripiprazole) or vehicle before behavioral assessment. RESULTS Cariprazine showed dose-dependent efficacy on all behavioral endpoints. In the social play paradigm, only cariprazine was effective. On the remaining behavioral endpoints, including the reversal of hyperactivity, risperidone and aripiprazole displayed similar efficacy to cariprazine. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, cariprazine effectively reversed core behavioral deficits and hyperactivity present in juvenile and young adult autistic-like rats. These findings indicate that cariprazine may be useful in the treatment of ASD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nika Adham
- grid.431072.30000 0004 0572 4227AbbVie, Madison, NJ USA
| | - Andrew G. Foley
- grid.7886.10000 0001 0768 2743Berand Neuropharmacology Limited, NovaUCD, Belfield Innovation Park, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lynsey Hanratty
- grid.7886.10000 0001 0768 2743Berand Neuropharmacology Limited, NovaUCD, Belfield Innovation Park, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bence Farkas
- grid.418137.80000 0004 0621 5862Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Lendvai
- grid.418137.80000 0004 0621 5862Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Béla Kiss
- grid.418137.80000 0004 0621 5862Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
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Khalulyan A, Byrd K, Tarbox J, Little A, Moll H. The role of eye contact in young children's judgments of others' visibility: A comparison of preschoolers with and without autism spectrum disorder. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2021; 89:106075. [PMID: 33388696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2020.106075] [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: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Typically-developing (TD) children under age 5 often deny that they can see a person whose eyes are covered (e.g., Moll & Khalulyan, 2017). This has been interpreted as a manifestation of their preference for reciprocal interactions. We investigated how 3- to 4-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, n = 12) respond in this situation. Because a lack of interpersonal connectedness and reciprocal communication are core features of this disorder, we predicted that young children with ASD will not make mutual regard a condition for seeing another person and therefore acknowledge being able to see her. Against this prediction, children with ASD gave the same negative answers as a group of TD (n = 36) age-mates. Various interpretations are discussed, including the possibility that some children with ASD are capable of relating to others as second persons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katie Byrd
- University of Southern California, United States.
| | | | | | - Henrike Moll
- University of Southern California, United States.
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30
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Mulder PA, van Balkom IDC, Landlust AM, Priolo M, Menke LA, Acero IH, Alkuraya FS, Arias P, Bernardini L, Bijlsma EK, Cole T, Coubes C, Dapia I, Davies S, Di Donato N, Elcioglu NH, Fahrner JA, Foster A, González NG, Huber I, Iascone M, Kaiser AS, Kamath A, Kooblall K, Lapunzina P, Liebelt J, Lynch SA, Maas SM, Mammì C, Mathijssen IB, McKee S, Mirzaa GM, Montgomery T, Neubauer D, Neumann TE, Pintomalli L, Pisanti MA, Plomp AS, Price S, Salter C, Santos-Simarro F, Sarda P, Schanze D, Segovia M, Shaw-Smith C, Smithson S, Suri M, Tatton-Brown K, Tenorio J, Thakker RV, Valdez RM, Van Haeringen A, Van Hagen JM, Zenker M, Zollino M, Dunn WW, Piening S, Hennekam RC. Development, behaviour and sensory processing in Marshall-Smith syndrome and Malan syndrome: phenotype comparison in two related syndromes. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2020; 64:956-969. [PMID: 33034087 PMCID: PMC8957705 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrarare Marshall-Smith and Malan syndromes, caused by changes of the gene nuclear factor I X (NFIX), are characterised by intellectual disability (ID) and behavioural problems, although questions remain. Here, development and behaviour are studied and compared in a cross-sectional study, and results are presented with genetic findings. METHODS Behavioural phenotypes are compared of eight individuals with Marshall-Smith syndrome (three male individuals) and seven with Malan syndrome (four male individuals). Long-term follow-up assessment of cognition and adaptive behaviour was possible in three individuals with Marshall-Smith syndrome. RESULTS Marshall-Smith syndrome individuals have more severe ID, less adaptive behaviour, more impaired speech and less reciprocal interaction compared with individuals with Malan syndrome. Sensory processing difficulties occur in both syndromes. Follow-up measurement of cognition and adaptive behaviour in Marshall-Smith syndrome shows different individual learning curves over time. CONCLUSIONS Results show significant between and within syndrome variability. Different NFIX variants underlie distinct clinical phenotypes leading to separate entities. Cognitive, adaptive and sensory impairments are common in both syndromes and increase the risk of challenging behaviour. This study highlights the value of considering behaviour within developmental and environmental context. To improve quality of life, adaptations to environment and treatment are suggested to create a better person-environment fit.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Mulder
- Autism Team Northern-Netherlands, Jonx Department of (Youth) Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - I D C van Balkom
- Autism Team Northern-Netherlands, Jonx Department of (Youth) Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
- Rob Giel Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - A M Landlust
- Autism Team Northern-Netherlands, Jonx Department of (Youth) Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - M Priolo
- Unità Operativa di Genetica Medica, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - L A Menke
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - I H Acero
- Genetics Unit, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - F S Alkuraya
- Saudi Human Genome Project, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, and Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - P Arias
- Institute of Medical and Molecular Genetics (INGEMM), Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPAZ, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, and CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - L Bernardini
- Cytogenetics Unit, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Foundation, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - E K Bijlsma
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - T Cole
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - C Coubes
- Département de Génétique Médicale, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - I Dapia
- Institute of Medical and Molecular Genetics (INGEMM), Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPAZ, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, and CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - S Davies
- Institute of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - N Di Donato
- Institute for Clinical Genetics, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - N H Elcioglu
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Marmara University Medical School, Istanbul and Eastern Mediterranean University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - J A Fahrner
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A Foster
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - N G González
- Unit Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - I Huber
- Sørland Hospital, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - M Iascone
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - A-S Kaiser
- Institute of Human Genetics, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - A Kamath
- Institute of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - K Kooblall
- Academic Endocrine Unit, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - P Lapunzina
- Institute of Medical and Molecular Genetics (INGEMM), Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPAZ, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, and CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Liebelt
- South Australian Clinical Genetics Services, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - S A Lynch
- UCD Academic Centre on Rare Diseases, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, and Clinical Genetics, Temple Street Children's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S M Maas
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - C Mammì
- Unità Operativa di Genetica Medica, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - I B Mathijssen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - S McKee
- Northern Ireland Regional Genetics Service, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
| | - G M Mirzaa
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, and Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - T Montgomery
- Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - D Neubauer
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - T E Neumann
- Mitteldeutscher Praxisverbund Humangenetik, Halle, Germany
| | - L Pintomalli
- Unità Operativa di Genetica Medica, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - M A Pisanti
- Medical Genetic and Laboratory Unit, "Antonio Cardarelli" Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - A S Plomp
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - S Price
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust, Northampton, UK
| | - C Salter
- Wessex Clinical Genetics Service, Princess Ann Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - F Santos-Simarro
- Institute of Medical and Molecular Genetics (INGEMM), Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPAZ, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, and CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - P Sarda
- Département de Génétique Médicale, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - D Schanze
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Segovia
- CENAGEM, Centro Nacional de Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C Shaw-Smith
- Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - S Smithson
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - M Suri
- Nottingham Clinical Genetics Service, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - K Tatton-Brown
- Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, Institute of Cancer Research, London and South West Thames Regional Genetics Service, St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - J Tenorio
- Institute of Medical and Molecular Genetics (INGEMM), Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPAZ, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, and CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - R V Thakker
- Academic Endocrine Unit, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - R M Valdez
- Genetics Unit, Hospital Militar Central "Cirujano Mayor Dr. Cosme Argerich", Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Van Haeringen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - J M Van Hagen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M Zenker
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Zollino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical Genetics, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - W W Dunn
- Department of Occupational Therapy Education, School of Health Professions, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - S Piening
- Autism Team Northern-Netherlands, Jonx Department of (Youth) Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
- Rob Giel Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - R C Hennekam
- Autism Team Northern-Netherlands, Jonx Department of (Youth) Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Gzielo K, Potasiewicz A, Hołuj M, Litwa E, Popik P, Nikiforuk A. Valproic acid exposure impairs ultrasonic communication in infant, adolescent and adult rats. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 41:52-62. [PMID: 32978035 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Persistent deficits of social communication are a hallmark of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Communication disabilities can be experimentally modeled using rodents' ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs). Although prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) is one of the most widely used animal models of ASD, little is known about communication impairments in this model. We performed a longitudinal study to characterize VPA-induced socio-communicative deficits in male and female rats. USVs were recorded in neonatal rats during maternal separation, in adolescent rats during social play, and in adult rats during social interactions. VPA male and female pups emitted a reduced number of USVs. Their calls were shorter and of an elevated peak frequency. Although social play deficits in adolescent rats were restricted to males only, both males and females demonstrated quantitative and qualitative changes in USVs. Altered vocalization also accompanied deficient social interactions in adult VPA males. In contrast to the adolescents, however, these differences were limited to a reduced number of USVs, but not to the call's structure. Present data suggest that ultrasonic vocalization measurement is a useful tool in detecting lifelong communicative disability in a VPA exposure-induced ASD model. We postulate that USV assessment in female rats may be a more sensitive indicator of juvenile autistic-like disturbances than other behavioral measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Gzielo
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience and Drug Development, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Potasiewicz
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience and Drug Development, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Hołuj
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience and Drug Development, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Litwa
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience and Drug Development, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Piotr Popik
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience and Drug Development, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Nikiforuk
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience and Drug Development, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland.
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Can We Play Together? A Closer Look at the Peers of a Peer-Mediated Intervention to Improve Play in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2860-2873. [PMID: 32037483 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04387-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Peer-mediated interventions (PMIs) are often used to support children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to develop social skills. However, more investigation is needed to better understand the role of peers as both intervention recipients and models. Sixty-five typically developing peers who participated in a PMI for children with ASD were investigated using a randomised control trial. Play sessions of the dyads were scored using the Test of Playfulness. Results showed a significant moderate intervention effect for the peers from pre- to post-intervention; outcomes for children with ASD were not influenced by peer characteristics; and, the children demonstrated a similar pattern of play interaction. Implications for practice are discussed.Clinical Trials Registry Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, https://www.anzctr.org.au/ (ACTRN12615000008527; Universal Trial Number: U1111-1165-2708).
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Park I, Gong J, Lyons GL, Hirota T, Takahashi M, Kim B, Lee SY, Kim YS, Lee J, Leventhal BL. Prevalence of and Factors Associated with School Bullying in Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Cultural Meta-Analysis. Yonsei Med J 2020; 61:909-922. [PMID: 33107234 PMCID: PMC7593096 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2020.61.11.909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Through this meta-analysis, we sought to examine the prevalence of, risks for, and factors associated with bullying involvement (victimization, perpetration, perpetration-victimization) among students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, we attempted to examine sources of variance in the prevalence and effect sizes of bullying in students with ASD across studies. Systematic database and literature review identified 34 relevant studies (31 for Western countries, three for Eastern countries). Pooled prevalence estimates for victimization, perpetration, and perpetration-victimization in general were 67%, 29%, and 14%, respectively. The risk of victimization in students with ASD was significantly higher than that in typically developing students and students with other disabilities. Further, deficits in social interaction and communication, externalizing symptoms, internalizing symptoms, and integrated inclusive school settings were related to higher victimization, and externalizing symptoms were related to higher perpetration. Finally, moderation analyses revealed significant variations in the pooled prevalences thereof depending on culture, age, school settings, and methodological quality and in the pooled effect sizes according to publication year and methodological quality. Our results highlight needs for bullying intervention for students with ASD, especially those who are younger, are in an inclusive school setting, and have higher social difficulties and externalizing/internalizing symptoms; for intensive research of bullying experiences among students with ASD in Eastern countries; and for efforts to improve the methodological quality of such research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inhwan Park
- Department of Psychology, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jared Gong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gregory L Lyons
- Center for ASD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tomoya Hirota
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michio Takahashi
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan
| | - Bora Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Seung Yeon Lee
- Department of Psychology, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Shin Kim
- Center for ASD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Jeongsoo Lee
- Department of Psychology, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bennett L Leventhal
- Center for ASD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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34
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Schiavi S, Melancia F, Carbone E, Buzzelli V, Manduca A, Peinado PJ, Zwergel C, Mai A, Campolongo P, Vanderschuren LJ, Trezza V. Detrimental effects of the 'bath salt' methylenedioxypyrovalerone on social play behavior in male rats. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:2012-2019. [PMID: 32506112 PMCID: PMC7547114 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0729-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is the most popular synthetic cathinone found in products marketed as 'bath salts', widely abused among teenagers and young adults. Synthetic cathinones have pharmacological effects resembling those of psychostimulants, which are known to disrupt a variety of social behaviors. However, despite the popular use of MDPV by young people in social contexts, information about its effects on social behavior is scarce. To investigate the impact of MDPV on social behavior at young age, and the underlying neurobehavioral mechanisms, we focused on social play behavior. Social play behavior is the most characteristic social behavior displayed by young mammals and it is crucial for neurobehavioral development. Treatment with MDPV reduced social play behavior in both juvenile and young adult male rats, and its play-suppressant effect was subject to tolerance but not sensitization. As the behavioral effects of MDPV have been ascribed to dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurotransmission, and given the role of these neurotransmitters in social play, we investigated the involvement of dopamine and noradrenaline in the play-suppressant effects of MDPV. The effects of MDPV on social play were blocked by either the α2 adrenoceptor antagonist RX821002 or the dopamine receptor antagonist flupenthixol, given alone or together at sub-effective doses. In sum, MDPV selectively suppresses the most vigorous social behavior of developing rats through both noradrenergic and dopaminergic mechanisms. This study provides important preclinical evidence of the deleterious effects of MDPV on social behavior, and as such increases our understanding of the neurobehavioral effects of this popular cathinone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Schiavi
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Department of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Melancia
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Department of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Emilia Carbone
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Department of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Buzzelli
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Department of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonia Manduca
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Department of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Clemens Zwergel
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Drug Chemistry & Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy ,Department of precision medicine, “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonello Mai
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Drug Chemistry & Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy ,grid.7841.aIstituto Pasteur—Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy ,grid.417778.a0000 0001 0692 3437Neurobiology of Behavior Laboratory, Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Louk J.M.J. Vanderschuren
- grid.5477.10000000120346234Department of Animals in Science and Society, Division of Behavioural Neuroscience, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy.
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35
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Ioannou S, Key AP, Muscatello RA, Klemencic M, Corbett BA. Peer Actors and Theater Techniques Play Pivotal Roles in Improving Social Play and Anxiety for Children With Autism. Front Psychol 2020; 11:908. [PMID: 32536887 PMCID: PMC7269006 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have significant difficulty in social functioning to include engaging in natural play with peers. Many children with ASD exhibit significantly less interactive play and more physiological stress during benign social encounters with same-age peers on a playground. Theatrical role-playing and performance with expert role models may provide a unique opportunity for children with ASD to learn to engage with other children in a safe, supportive environment. SENSE Theatre® is a peer-mediated, theater-based program aimed at improving social competence in youth with ASD. Previous studies have shown significant improvements in social and communication skills following SENSE Theatre® intervention. The current project examined play with novel peers and self-reported anxiety before and after participation in SENSE Theatre®. Participants included 77 children between 8 and 16 years with high-functioning (IQ ≥ 70) ASD. The combined sample of three cohorts was randomized to the experimental (EXP, N = 44) or waitlist control (WLC, N = 33) group. Participants in the EXP group received 40 h (10, 4-h sessions) of SENSE Theatre®. The Peer Interaction Paradigm (PIP), an ecologically valid measure of natural play, was administered before and after the intervention. Group Play and Self Play on the playground equipment during solicited (T4) and unsolicited (T1) play were used in the current study. The State Trait Anxiety Scale for Children (STAIC; Spielberger et al., 1983) was used to measure self-reported current and persistent anxiety, respectively. Following treatment, children in the EXP group engaged in significantly more Group Play with novel peers [F(2,73) = 7.78, p = 0.007] and much less Self Play [F(2,73) = 6.70, p = 0.01] during solicited play compared to the WLC group. Regression analysis revealed that pretreatment play and group status were significant predictors of solicited Group Play. Children in the EXP group reported significantly less Trait anxiety following intervention [F(2,71) = 6.87, p = 0.01]; however, State anxiety was comparable. Results corroborate previous findings of significant changes in social and play behavior in children with ASD following the peer-mediated, theater-based intervention. Acting and theatrical performance with supportive role models facilitates social engagement in everyday settings with novel peers and reductions in self-reported anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ioannou
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Alexandra P. Key
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | | | - Mark Klemencic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Blythe A. Corbett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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36
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Ševčíková M, Petríková I, Šlamberová R. Methamphetamine exposure during the first, but not the second half of prenatal development, affects social play behavior. Physiol Res 2020; 69:319-330. [PMID: 32199010 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MA), as a psychostimulant drug that crosses the placental barrier, may disrupt the development of social play. The present study aims to examine the effect of prenatal MA (5 mg/kg) exposure during the first (gestational day (GD) 1-11) or second (GD 12-22) halves of prenatal development of rats on social play behavior. To investigate an acute effect of MA on social play in adulthood, juvenile rats were exposed to a dose of 1 mg/kg MA or saline on the test day and tested for social play for 15 min. Prenatal exposure to MA during GD 1-11 increased social play behavior during 5-10 min interval of the test in males but not females. Prenatal MA during GD 12-22 did not influence social play in males nor females. However, social play occurred to a greater extent in GD 12-22 groups compared with GD 1-11. Acute exposure to MA eliminated playful behavior in all groups and decreased social exploration in GD 1-11. Our results suggest that manipulation of prenatal development during the first half of the gestational period has a greater impact on social play behavior than during the second half.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ševčíková
- Department of Physiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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37
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Galizio A, Higbee TS, Odum AL. Choice for reinforced behavioral variability in children with autism spectrum disorder. J Exp Anal Behav 2020; 113:495-514. [PMID: 32189362 DOI: 10.1002/jeab.591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Although individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to behave repetitively, certain reinforcement contingencies (e.g., lag schedules) can be used to increase behavioral variability. In a lag schedule, reinforcers only follow responses that differ from recent responses. The present study was designed to promote variable play behavior in preschoolers with ASD interacting with playsets and figurines and to assess preference for variability and repetition contingencies. Data have shown a preference for variability in pigeons and college students, but this effect has not been explored in clinical populations. In this experiment, preschoolers with ASD were taught to discriminate between variability and repetition contingencies. Only play behaviors that met a lag schedule were reinforced in the presence of one color, and only repetitive behaviors were reinforced in the presence of another. After differential performance was established, participants experienced a concurrent chains schedule. Participants chose between the colors taught in training and then completed a play session with the selected contingency. One participant selected variability and repetition equally. The other participants showed a slight preference for variability. These results indicate that some individuals with ASD may play repetitively, not because they prefer repetition, but because they require additional teaching to play variably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Galizio
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, USA
| | - Thomas S Higbee
- Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Utah State University, USA
| | - Amy L Odum
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, USA
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38
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Reppucci CJ, Gergely CK, Bredewold R, Veenema AH. Involvement of orexin/hypocretin in the expression of social play behaviour in juvenile rats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PLAY 2020; 9:108-127. [PMID: 33042634 PMCID: PMC7540609 DOI: 10.1080/21594937.2020.1720132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Social play is a highly rewarding and motivated behaviour displayed by juveniles of many mammalian species. We hypothesized that the orexin/hypocretin (ORX) system is involved in the expression of juvenile social play behaviour because this system is interconnected with brain regions that comprise the social behaviour and mesocorticolimbic reward networks. We found that exposure to social play increased recruitment of ORX-A neurons in juvenile rats. Furthermore, central administration of ORX-A decreased social play duration, while central blockade of ORX-1 receptors differentially altered social play duration in juvenile rats with low versus high baseline levels of social play (increasing social play in low baseline social play individuals and decreasing social play in high baseline social play individuals). Together, our results provided the first evidence of a role for the ORX system in the modulation of juvenile social play behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina J. Reppucci
- Department of Psychology; Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA University
| | | | - Remco Bredewold
- Department of Psychology; Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA University
| | - Alexa H. Veenema
- Department of Psychology; Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA University
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39
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Schéle E, Pfabigan DM, Simrén J, Sailer U, Dickson SL. Ghrelin Induces Place Preference for Social Interaction in the Larger Peer of a Male Rat Pair. Neuroscience 2020; 447:148-154. [PMID: 32032669 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Social interaction is important for survival in most social species including humans. To ensure social activities, individuals experience reward from social interaction, generating a powerfully reinforcing process. Here we hypothesized that reward from social interaction in a juvenile male rat pair may be enhanced by ghrelin, a circulating hormone that has been shown to enhance reward from other natural (e.g. food, sex) as well as artificial reinforcers (e.g. alcohol and other drugs of abuse). To this end, we assessed the impact of ghrelin and a ghrelin antagonist on preference for a chamber previously paired to the presence of a social partner in a conditioned place preference paradigm. We found that ghrelin increased and a ghrelin antagonist decreased preference for social interaction, but only in the heavier partner in a social pair. In addition, we found that administered ghrelin induced a positive association between preference for social interaction and body weight difference within socially interacting pairs, where larger ghrelin treated rats preferred social interaction, whereas smaller ghrelin treated rats avoided it, which raises the question if ghrelin could have a role in implementing social hierarchies in rats. In summary, we conclude that ghrelin signaling increases the reward from social interaction in a manner that reflects the degree of divergence in body weight between the social pair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Schéle
- Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Daniela M Pfabigan
- Department of Behavioural Sciences in Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Postboks 1111 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Joel Simrén
- Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Uta Sailer
- Department of Behavioural Sciences in Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Postboks 1111 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Suzanne L Dickson
- Institute for Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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40
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Facial responses of adult humans during the anticipation and consumption of touch and food rewards. Cognition 2020; 194:104044. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cognition.2019.104044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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41
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Kent C, Cordier R, Joosten A, Wilkes-Gillan S, Bundy A. Can I join in? Multiple case study investigation of play performance generalisation for children with autism spectrum disorder from dyad to triad. Aust Occup Ther J 2019; 67:199-209. [PMID: 31823379 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulties with play, social interaction with peers and generalisation of intervention outcomes. The Ultimate Guide to Play, Language and Friendship (PLF) has demonstrated effectiveness in improving play performance of children with ASD and their typically developing (TD) peers. The aim of this investigation was to examine the changes in play performance when an additional TD child is added to an existing dyad of a child with ASD and a TD playmate to inform future delivery and adaptations of the intervention. METHODS Participants in this multiple case study design were five children with ASD and their TD peer who completed a dyad intervention as part of a randomised control trial investigation of the PLF and an additional TD peer who joined the play dyad. A trained occupational therapist delivered an adapted version of the PLF to the triad over four clinic sessions. An independent rater scored each child (N = 15) on The Test of Playfulness at pre- and post-triad intervention. Line graphs were used to examine case data and compare to dyad play performance and patterns of interaction. RESULTS Four of the five children with ASD generalised their play performance from the dyad to the triad social environment. However, the triad intervention did not demonstrate improvements in play performance. The play performance scores for the children with ASD and their TD peers were variable and demonstrated changes in their play pattern from the dyad to the triad. CONCLUSION This investigation delivered preliminary evidence of play performance generalisation from a dyad to a triad with TD peers for children with ASD. Careful consideration of characteristics of all playmates is recommended for delivering the intervention to support play performance of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cally Kent
- School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University, Perth, WA, USA
| | - Reinie Cordier
- School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University, Perth, WA, USA.,School Department of Special Needs Education, Faculty of Educational Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Annette Joosten
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | | | - Anita Bundy
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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42
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Preschool Peer Social Intervention (PPSI) to Enhance Social Play, Interaction, and Conversation: Study Outcomes. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 50:844-863. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04316-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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43
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Ryan AM, Berman RF, Bauman MD. Bridging the species gap in translational research for neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2019; 165:106950. [PMID: 30347236 PMCID: PMC6474835 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence and societal impact of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) continue to increase despite years of research in both patient populations and animal models. There remains an urgent need for translational efforts between clinical and preclinical research to (i) identify and evaluate putative causes of NDD, (ii) determine their underlying neurobiological mechanisms, (iii) develop and test novel therapeutic approaches, and (iv) translate basic research into safe and effective clinical practices. Given the complexity behind potential causes and behaviors affected by NDDs, modeling these uniquely human brain disorders in animals will require that we capitalize on unique advantages of a diverse array of species. While much NDD research has been conducted in more traditional animal models such as the mouse, ultimately, we may benefit from creating animal models with species that have a more sophisticated social behavior repertoire such as the rat (Rattus norvegicus) or species that more closely related to humans, such as the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta). Here, we highlight the rat and rhesus macaque models for their role in previous psychological research discoveries, current efforts to understand the neurobiology of NDDs, and focus on the convergence of behavior outcome measures that parallel features of human NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Ryan
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, United States; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, United States
| | - R F Berman
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, United States
| | - M D Bauman
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, United States; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, United States.
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44
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Prenatal valproate in rodents as a tool to understand the neural underpinnings of social dysfunctions in autism spectrum disorder. Neuropharmacology 2019; 159:107477. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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45
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Schiavi S, Iezzi D, Manduca A, Leone S, Melancia F, Carbone C, Petrella M, Mannaioni G, Masi A, Trezza V. Reward-Related Behavioral, Neurochemical and Electrophysiological Changes in a Rat Model of Autism Based on Prenatal Exposure to Valproic Acid. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:479. [PMID: 31708750 PMCID: PMC6824319 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to the antiepileptic drug valproic acid (VPA) induces autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in humans and autistic-like behaviors in rodents, which makes it a good model to study the neural underpinnings of ASD. Rats prenatally exposed to VPA show profound deficits in the social domain. The altered social behavior displayed by VPA-exposed rats may be due to either a deficit in social reward processing or to a more general inability to properly understand and respond to social signals. To address this issue, we performed behavioral, electrophysiological and neurochemical experiments and tested the involvement of the brain reward system in the social dysfunctions displayed by rats prenatally exposed to VPA (500 mg/kg). We found that, compared to control animals, VPA-exposed rats showed reduced play responsiveness together with impaired sociability in the three-chamber test and altered social discrimination abilities. In addition, VPA-exposed rats showed altered expression of dopamine receptors together with inherent hyperexcitability of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). However, when tested for socially-induced conditioned place preference, locomotor response to amphetamine and sucrose preference, control and VPA-exposed rats performed similarly, indicating normal responses to social, drug and food rewards. On the basis of the results obtained, we hypothesize that social dysfunctions displayed by VPA-exposed rats are more likely caused by alterations in cognitive aspects of the social interaction, such as the interpretation and reciprocation of social stimuli and/or the ability to adjust the social behavior of the individual to the changing circumstances in the social and physical environment, rather than to inability to enjoy the pleasurable aspects of the social interaction. The observed neurochemical and electrophysiological alterations in the NAc may contribute to the inability of VPA-exposed rats to process and respond to social cues, or, alternatively, represent a compensatory mechanism towards VPA-induced neurodevelopmental insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Schiavi
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Iezzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Antonia Manduca
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Leone
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Melancia
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Carmen Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Guido Mannaioni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessio Masi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
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46
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Alugubelly N, Mohammad AN, Edelmann MJ, Nanduri B, Sayed M, Park JW, Carr RL. Proteomic and transcriptional profiling of rat amygdala following social play. Behav Brain Res 2019; 376:112210. [PMID: 31493430 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Social play is the most characteristic form of social interaction which is necessary for adolescents to develop proper cognitive, emotional, and social competency. The information available on neural substrates and the mechanism involved in social play is limited. This study characterized social play by proteomic and transcriptional profiling studies. Social play was performed on male Sprague Dawley rats on postnatal day 38 and protein and gene expression in the amygdala was determined following behavioral testing. The proteomic analysis led to the identification of 170 differentially expressed proteins (p ≤ 0.05) with 67 upregulated and 103 downregulated proteins. The transcriptomic analysis led to the identification of 188 genes (FDR ≤ 0.05) with 55 upregulated and 133 downregulated genes. DAVID analysis of gene/protein expression data revealed that social play altered GABAergic signaling, glutamatergic signaling, and G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. These data suggest that the synaptic levels of GABA and glutamate increased during play. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) confirmed these alterations. IPA also revealed that differentially expressed genes/proteins in our data had significant over representation of neurotransmitter signaling systems, including the opioid, serotonin, and dopamine systems, suggesting that play alters the systems involved in the regulation of reward. In addition, corticotropin-releasing hormone signaling was altered indicating that an increased level of stress occurs during play. Overall, our data suggest that increased inhibitory GPCR signaling in these neurotransmitter pathways occurs following social play as a physiological response to regulate the induced level of reward and stress and to maintain the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the neurotransmitter systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navatha Alugubelly
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, MS, USA; Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, USA
| | - Afzaal N Mohammad
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, MS, USA; Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, USA
| | - Mariola J Edelmann
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Bindu Nanduri
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, USA
| | - Mohammed Sayed
- Department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science, KY, USA
| | - Juw Won Park
- Department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science, KY, USA; KBRIN Bioinformatics Core, University of Louisville, KY, USA.
| | - Russell L Carr
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, MS, USA; Department of Basic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS, USA.
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47
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Parsons L, Cordier R, Munro N, Joosten A. The feasibility and appropriateness of a peer-to-peer, play-based intervention for improving pragmatic language in children with autism spectrum disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2019; 21:412-424. [PMID: 30175619 DOI: 10.1080/17549507.2018.1492630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: This study trialled a play-based, peer-to-peer intervention with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to identify suitable instruments for measuring changes in pragmatic language following the intervention, and evaluate preliminary effectiveness. It also aimed to investigate the appropriateness of the intervention for participants. Method: Ten children with ASD, their typically developing peers, and parents participated. The Pragmatics Observational Measure (POM), Social Emotional Evaluation (SEE) and Profiling Elements of Prosody in Speech Communication (PEPS-C) measured the participant's social communication skills before, after, and 2-months following the intervention. Parent interviews were conducted two months after the intervention and responses were analysed using a thematic approach. Result: Children demonstrated gains in pragmatic language on the POM (χ2(3) = 11.160, p = 0.011) and related higher-level language on the SEE (χ2(2) = 6.686, p = 0.035). The PEPS-C did not produce any significant results. Parent interview responses indicated the intervention was appropriate for the children and families involved. Conclusion: The intervention warrants further investigation of effectiveness with a more robust research design. Consideration should be given to using observational measures of pragmatic language away from the clinic environment to evaluate generalisation, and future development of the intervention might consider variations in playmates and group size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Parsons
- School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Reinie Cordier
- School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Natalie Munro
- School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University , Perth , Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia , and
| | - Annette Joosten
- School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University , Perth , Australia
- School of Allied Health, Australian Catholic University , Brisbane , Australia
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48
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Kent C, Cordier R, Joosten A, Wilkes-Gillan S, Bundy A, Speyer R. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Interventions to Improve Play Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-019-00181-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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49
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Chang YC, Shih W, Landa R, Kaiser A, Kasari C. Symbolic Play in School-Aged Minimally Verbal Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 48:1436-1445. [PMID: 29170936 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3388-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Few interventions exist for school-aged minimally verbal children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Even though play skills are associated with children's production of language, few studies have focused on play for minimally verbal children. Fifty-eight minimally verbal children with ASD received a naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention. Children were randomized to receive a speech generating device in the context of the intervention or not. Children in both conditions improved in play skills at exit. Children demonstrated an increase in play skills in proximal (sessions) and distal (during blind assessment) contexts. Minimally verbal children with ASD can improve their play skills within a targeted intervention. Increases in symbolic play were associated with increases in expressive language skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Chih Chang
- California State University, Los Angeles, 5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA. .,University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Wendy Shih
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Ann Kaiser
- Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Connie Kasari
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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50
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Schiavi S, Iezzi D, Manduca A, Leone S, Melancia F, Carbone C, Petrella M, Mannaioni G, Masi A, Trezza V. Reward-Related Behavioral, Neurochemical and Electrophysiological Changes in a Rat Model of Autism Based on Prenatal Exposure to Valproic Acid. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:479. [PMID: 31708750 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00479/bibtex] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to the antiepileptic drug valproic acid (VPA) induces autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in humans and autistic-like behaviors in rodents, which makes it a good model to study the neural underpinnings of ASD. Rats prenatally exposed to VPA show profound deficits in the social domain. The altered social behavior displayed by VPA-exposed rats may be due to either a deficit in social reward processing or to a more general inability to properly understand and respond to social signals. To address this issue, we performed behavioral, electrophysiological and neurochemical experiments and tested the involvement of the brain reward system in the social dysfunctions displayed by rats prenatally exposed to VPA (500 mg/kg). We found that, compared to control animals, VPA-exposed rats showed reduced play responsiveness together with impaired sociability in the three-chamber test and altered social discrimination abilities. In addition, VPA-exposed rats showed altered expression of dopamine receptors together with inherent hyperexcitability of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). However, when tested for socially-induced conditioned place preference, locomotor response to amphetamine and sucrose preference, control and VPA-exposed rats performed similarly, indicating normal responses to social, drug and food rewards. On the basis of the results obtained, we hypothesize that social dysfunctions displayed by VPA-exposed rats are more likely caused by alterations in cognitive aspects of the social interaction, such as the interpretation and reciprocation of social stimuli and/or the ability to adjust the social behavior of the individual to the changing circumstances in the social and physical environment, rather than to inability to enjoy the pleasurable aspects of the social interaction. The observed neurochemical and electrophysiological alterations in the NAc may contribute to the inability of VPA-exposed rats to process and respond to social cues, or, alternatively, represent a compensatory mechanism towards VPA-induced neurodevelopmental insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Schiavi
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Iezzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Antonia Manduca
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Leone
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Melancia
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Carmen Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Guido Mannaioni
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessio Masi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health -NEUROFARBA-, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Psychology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
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