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Nordin V, Palmgren M, Lindbladh A, Bölte S, Jonsson U. School absenteeism in autistic children and adolescents: A scoping review. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1622-1637. [PMID: 38159071 PMCID: PMC11191666 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231217409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Autistic children and teenagers are, on average, absent from school more than their peers. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the research on absence from school in autistic learners in primary and secondary school, to help guide future research. We sifted through 4632 reports and found 42 studies with a focus on school absence and autism. We looked at how, when, and where the studies were conducted. We also summarized the results and outlined how absence was measured in the studies. Absence from school may lead to problems later in life, like incomplete education and unemployment. It is therefore important to know how common this problem is among autistic learners, what the reasons may be, and what type of support they need. The studies were from high-income countries and were mainly published in the last 10 years. Studies based on school registers from the United States and the United Kingdom clearly showed that children and teenagers with autism had higher risk of school absence than those without autism. Absence was often linked to problems with mental health or additional neurodevelopmental conditions. Several studies also showed that absence in autistic children and adolescents was related to problems in school, like bullying or lack of knowledge about autism. Support programs were only evaluated in a few studies with a small number of study participants. We conclude that more research is needed to better understand why autistic learners are absent and what they need to thrive in school.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviann Nordin
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maud Palmgren
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Lindbladh
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sven Bölte
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Curtin Autism Research Group, Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Ulf Jonsson
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Varley AN, Browning KN. Gastrointestinal dysfunction in the valproic acid induced model of social deficit in rats. Auton Neurosci 2024; 253:103161. [PMID: 38461695 PMCID: PMC11128350 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2024.103161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased in incidence over the past several decades, and is associated with a range of co-morbidities including gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunctions including gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea. Several animal models have been used that replicate several aspects of ASD but no single model has been able to replicate the entire disease pathophysiology. In humans, prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been identified as a significant risk factor and rodent models have shown that in utero VPA exposure leads to behavioral deficits in offspring. The present study aimed to investigate whether in utero exposure to VPA induces GI dysfunction in rats. Timed pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with a single dose of VPA at embryonic day 12.5. Both male and female offspring subsequently underwent behavioral studies and assessment of GI function in adulthood. In utero VPA treatment induced social deficits in both male and female offspring, decreasing sociability and social novelty. Histological examination showed that VPA treated offspring had decreased thickness of GI muscle and mucosa, while immunohistochemical studies showed a decrease in myenteric neuron number in the fundus. Functional studies showed that both male and female VPA offspring had a delay in gastric emptying compared to vehicle treated offspring. Results of the current study suggest that the rat VPA model of behavioral deficits may be a convenient model by which both mechanistic and functional insights into GI dysfunction may be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Varley
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States of America
| | - Kirsteen N Browning
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States of America.
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O'Nions E, Brown J, Buckman JE, Charlton R, Cooper C, El Baou C, Happé F, Hoare S, Lewer D, Manthorpe J, McKechnie DG, Richards M, Saunders R, Mandy W, Stott J. Diagnosis of common health conditions among autistic adults in the UK: evidence from a matched cohort study. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2024; 41:100907. [PMID: 39119101 PMCID: PMC11306212 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2024.100907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Background Autistic people are disproportionately likely to experience premature mortality and most mental and physical health conditions. We measured the incidence of diagnosed conditions accounting for the most disability-adjusted life years in the UK population according to the Global Burden of Disease study (anxiety, depression, self-harm, harmful alcohol use, substance use, migraine, neck or back pain, and gynaecological conditions). Methods Participants were aged 18 years or above and had an autism diagnosis recorded in the IQVIA Medical Research Database between 01/01/2000 and 16/01/2019. We included 15,675 autistic adults without intellectual disability, 6437 autistic adults with intellectual disability, and a comparison group matched (1:10) by age, sex, and primary care practice. We estimated crude incidences and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) adjusted for age and sex. Findings Autistic adults without intellectual disability experienced a higher incidence (IRR, 95% CI) of self-harm (2.07, 1.79-2.40), anxiety (1.91, 1.76-2.06), depressive disorders (1.79, 1.67-1.92), and substance use (1.24, 1.02-1.51) relative to comparison participants. Incidences of harmful alcohol use (1.01, 0.85-1.18), migraine (0.99, 0.84-1.17), and gynaecological conditions (1.19, 0.95-1.49) did not differ. Neck or back pain incidence was lower (0.88, 0.82-0.95). Autistic adults with intellectual disability experienced a higher incidence of self-harm (2.08, 1.69-2.56). Incidences of anxiety (1.14, 1.00-1.30), gynaecological conditions (1.22, 0.93-1.62), and substance use (1.08, 0.80-1.47) did not differ, and lower incidences were found for depressive disorders (0.73, 0.64-0.83), harmful alcohol use (0.65, 0.50-0.84), migraine (0.55, 0.42-0.74), and neck or back pain (0.49, 0.44-0.55). Interpretation Although our findings cannot be directly compared to previous prevalence studies, they contrast with the higher frequency of mental and physical health conditions in autistic adults reported in studies that directly assessed and/or surveyed autistic people about co-occurring conditions. The present findings may suggest under-diagnosis of common conditions in autistic people, particularly those with intellectual disability. Improved detection should be a clinical and policy priority to reduce health inequalities. Funding Dunhill Medical Trust, Economic and Social Research Council, National Institute of Health and Care Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth O'Nions
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Duckworth Lane, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | - Jude Brown
- National Autistic Society, 391-393 City Rd, London, EC1V 1NG, UK
| | - Joshua E.J. Buckman
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- iCope – Camden & Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, London, NW1 0PE, UK
| | - Rebecca Charlton
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, New Cross, London, SE14 6NW, UK
| | - Claudia Cooper
- Queen Mary, University of London, Centre for Psychiatry and Mental Health, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, London, E1 2AD, UK
| | - Céline El Baou
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Francesca Happé
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Memory Lane, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Sarah Hoare
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Dan Lewer
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Duckworth Lane, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
- Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Jill Manthorpe
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Health & Social Care Workforce, King's College London, Strand, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Douglas G.J. McKechnie
- UCL Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, UCL Medical School (Royal Free Campus), Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Marcus Richards
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing at UCL, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Rob Saunders
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Will Mandy
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Joshua Stott
- UCL Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, 1 – 19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
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Rushendran R, Begum RF, Singh S A, Narayanan PL, Vellapandian C, Prajapati BG, Paul PK. Navigating neurological disorders: harnessing the power of natural compounds for innovative therapeutic breakthroughs. EXCLI JOURNAL 2024; 23:534-569. [PMID: 38741726 PMCID: PMC11089094 DOI: 10.17179/excli2024-7051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Novel treatments are needed as neurological issues become more frequent worldwide. According to the report, plants, oceans, microorganisms, and animals contain interesting drug discovery compounds. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and stroke reviews emphasize neurological disorders' complexity and natural substances' safety. Learn about marine-derived and herbal substances' neuroprotective characteristics and applications. Molecular pathways show these substances' neurological healing effects. This article discusses clinical usage of Bryostatin-1, Fucoidan, Icariin, Salvianolic acid, Curcumin, Resveratrol, etc. Their potential benefits for asthma and Alzheimer's disease are complex. Although limited, the study promotes rigorous scientific research and collaboration between traditional and alternative medical practitioners. Unexplored natural compounds, quality control, well-structured clinical trials, and interdisciplinary collaboration should guide future study. Developing and employing natural chemicals to treat neurological illnesses requires ethical sourcing, sustainability, and public awareness. This detailed analysis covers natural chemicals' current state, challenges, and opportunities in neurological disorder treatment. See also the graphical abstract(Fig. 1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rapuru Rushendran
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur- 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rukaiah Fatma Begum
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur- 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ankul Singh S
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur- 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Pavithra Lakshmi Narayanan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur- 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chitra Vellapandian
- Department of Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur- 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bhupendra G. Prajapati
- Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, 384012, Gujarat, India
| | - Pijush Kumar Paul
- Department of Pharmacy, Gono Bishwabidyalay University, Mirzanagar, Savar, Dhaka-1344, Bangladesh
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Palmieri R, Albano V, Guerriero S, Craig F, La Torre F, Filoni S, Sardella D, Petruzzelli MG, Lecce P, De Giacomo A. Beyond Diagnosis: Preliminary Study of Impact on Children and Parents in Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-Associated Uveitis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:275. [PMID: 38337791 PMCID: PMC10855410 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14030275] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic diseases are a growing problem for global health due to the large number of people they involve, the repercussions they have on the mental and physical well-being of those affected, and the costs to society. Particularly, chronic illnesses of childhood have important psychological implications, not only for affected children but also for their parents. Among these pathologies, neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and uveitis associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA-U) may affect mental and physical health, emotions, memory, learning, and socializing. This study evaluates the psychological and behavioral/emotional impact of NDDs and JIA-U on children and parents. Specifically, 30 children with active JIA-U and 30 children with NDDs and their parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Parent Stress Index-Short Form (PSI) questionnaires. Children with NDDs have statistically significant differences in all the emotional and behavioral variables compared to JIA-U children, and parents of children with NDDs experience an increased stress load compared to parents of children with JIA-U. This study emphasizes the wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that parents face with NDDs. This study emphasizes that parents of children with NDDs not only experience higher levels of stress compared to parents of normally developing children but also experience higher levels of stress compared to parents of children with potentially debilitating chronic diseases such as JIA-U.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Palmieri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (D.S.); (M.G.P.); (P.L.); (A.D.G.)
| | - Valeria Albano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Institute of Ophthalmology, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (V.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Silvana Guerriero
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Institute of Ophthalmology, University of Bari, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (V.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Francesco Craig
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society (DICES), University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy;
| | - Francesco La Torre
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Rheumatology Center, “Giovanni XXIII”, Pediatric Hospital, Via Giovanni Amendola 207, 70126 Bari, Italy;
| | - Serena Filoni
- I.R.C.C.S. Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy;
| | - Dario Sardella
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (D.S.); (M.G.P.); (P.L.); (A.D.G.)
| | - Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (D.S.); (M.G.P.); (P.L.); (A.D.G.)
| | - Paola Lecce
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (D.S.); (M.G.P.); (P.L.); (A.D.G.)
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (D.S.); (M.G.P.); (P.L.); (A.D.G.)
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Underwood JFG, DelPozo-Banos M, Frizzati A, Rai D, John A, Hall J. Neurological and psychiatric disorders among autistic adults: a population healthcare record study. Psychol Med 2023; 53:5663-5673. [PMID: 36189783 PMCID: PMC10482712 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722002884] [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: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Co-occurring psychiatric disorders are common in autism, with previous studies suggesting 54-94% of autistic individuals develop a mental health condition in their lifetime. Most studies have looked at clinically-recruited cohorts, or paediatric cohorts followed into adulthood, with less known about the autistic community at a population level. We therefore studied the prevalence of co-occurring psychiatric and neurological conditions in autistic individuals in a national sample. METHODS This retrospective case-control study utilised the SAIL Databank to examine anonymised whole population electronic health record data from 2001 to 2016 in Wales, UK (N = 3.6 million). We investigated the prevalence of co-occurring psychiatric and selected neurological diagnoses in autistic adults' records during the study period using International Classification of Diseases-10 and Read v2 clinical codes compared to general population controls matched for age, sex and deprivation. RESULTS All psychiatric conditions examined were more common amongst adults with autism after adjusting for age, sex and deprivation. Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (7.00%), bipolar disorder (2.50%), obsessive-compulsive disorder (3.02%), psychosis (18.30%) and schizophrenia (5.20%) were markedly elevated in those with autism, with corresponding odds ratios 8.24-10.74 times the general population. Depression (25.90%) and anxiety (22.40%) were also more prevalent, with epilepsy 9.21 times more common in autism. CONCLUSIONS We found that a range of psychiatric conditions were more frequently recorded in autistic individuals. We add to understanding of under-reporting and diagnostic overshadowing in autism. With increasing awareness of autism, services should be cognisant of the psychiatric conditions that frequently co-occur in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack F. G. Underwood
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Aura Frizzati
- Cedar Healthcare Technology Research Centre, Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dheeraj Rai
- Bristol Medical School, Bristol Population Health Science Institute, Bristol, UK
| | - Ann John
- Population Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Jeremy Hall
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Burns J, Phung R, McNeill S, Hanlon-Dearman A, Ricci MF. Comorbidities Affecting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Retrospective Chart Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1414. [PMID: 37628413 PMCID: PMC10453739 DOI: 10.3390/children10081414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction/communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. Recent discussions have emerged worldwide regarding the heterogeneity around presentation/etiology and comorbidities. This study aimed to determine the frequency and characteristics of comorbidities among children diagnosed with ASD in Manitoba and to evaluate differences in presentation between those with and without medical comorbidities. We conducted a retrospective chart review of >1900 electronic charts at the only publicly funded referral site for children ≤6 years requiring evaluation for ASD in Manitoba. All children aged 0-6 years diagnosed with ASD at this site between May 2016 and September 2021 were identified. χ2 and t-tests were used to compare groups. Of the total of 1858 children identified, 1452 (78.1%) were boys, 251 (13.5%) were prematurely born, and 539 (29.0%) had ≥1 medical comorbidity. Global developmental delay (GDD) was diagnosed in 428 (23.0%). The age of referral and diagnosis did not differ between groups. Comorbidities were more common among premature children (16.0% vs. 12.5%, p: 0.005) and children with comorbid GDD (34.9% vs. 18.2%, p < 0.001). Neurological comorbidities were most common (37.1%). No sex difference in the overall presence of comorbidities was found (boys = 77.1% vs. 78.5%, p: 0.518); however, girls had a higher incidence of neurological comorbidities, e.g., cerebral palsy, seizures, hypotonia (14.8% vs. 9.64%, p: 0.009), as well as genetic comorbidities (4.92% vs. 2.75%, p: 0.04). The high rates of associated neurological conditions, GDD, and prematurity add heterogeneity to this group leading to potential difficulties with prognosis and service allocation. Primary vs. secondary ASD can be a way of separating individuals based on relevant medical comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessy Burns
- SSCY Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3G1, Canada; (S.M.); (A.H.-D.); (M.F.R.)
| | - Ryan Phung
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z3, Canada;
| | - Shayna McNeill
- SSCY Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3G1, Canada; (S.M.); (A.H.-D.); (M.F.R.)
| | - Ana Hanlon-Dearman
- SSCY Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3G1, Canada; (S.M.); (A.H.-D.); (M.F.R.)
| | - M. Florencia Ricci
- SSCY Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3G1, Canada; (S.M.); (A.H.-D.); (M.F.R.)
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Bölte S, Neufeld J, Marschik PB, Williams ZJ, Gallagher L, Lai MC. Sex and gender in neurodevelopmental conditions. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:136-159. [PMID: 36747038 PMCID: PMC10154737 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00774-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Health-related conditions often differ qualitatively or quantitatively between individuals of different birth-assigned sexes and gender identities, and/or with different gendered experiences, requiring tailored care. Studying the moderating and mediating effects of sex-related and gender-related factors on impairment, disability, wellbeing and health is of paramount importance especially for neurodivergent individuals, who are diagnosed with neurodevelopmental conditions with uneven sex/gender distributions. Researchers have become aware of the myriad influences that sex-related and gender-related variables have on the manifestations of neurodevelopmental conditions, and contemporary work has begun to investigate the mechanisms through which these effects are mediated. Here we describe topical concepts of sex and gender science, summarize current knowledge, and discuss research and clinical challenges related to autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and other neurodevelopmental conditions. We consider sex and gender in the context of epidemiology, behavioural phenotypes, neurobiology, genetics, endocrinology and neighbouring disciplines. The available evidence supports the view that sex and gender are important contributors to the biological and behavioural variability in neurodevelopmental conditions. Methodological caveats such as frequent conflation of sex and gender constructs, inappropriate measurement of these constructs and under-representation of specific demographic groups (for example, female and gender minority individuals and people with intellectual disabilities) limit the translational potential of research so far. Future research and clinical implementation should integrate sex and gender into next-generation diagnostics, mechanistic investigations and support practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Bölte
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Curtin Autism Research Group, Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Janina Neufeld
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Swedish Collegium for Advanced Study (SCAS), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter B Marschik
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Centre for Psychiatry Research; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen and Leibniz ScienceCampus Primate Cognition, Göttingen, Germany
- iDN - interdisciplinary Developmental Neuroscience, Division of Phoniatrics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Zachary J Williams
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Mendez AI, Tokish H, McQueen E, Chawla S, Klin A, Maitre NL, Klaiman C. A Comparison of the Clinical Presentation of Preterm Birth and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Commonalities and Distinctions in Children Under 3. Clin Perinatol 2023; 50:81-101. [PMID: 36868715 PMCID: PMC10842306 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Premature infants and infants later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) share many commonalities in clinical presentations. However, prematurity and ASD also have differences in clinical presentation. These overlapping phenotypes can lead to misdiagnoses of ASD or missing a diagnosis of ASD in preterm infants. We document these commonalities and differences in various developmental domains with the hope of aiding in the accurate early detection of ASD and timely intervention implementation in children born premature. Given the degree of similarities in presentation, evidence-based interventions designed specifically for preterm toddlers or toddlers with ASD may ultimately aid both populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana I Mendez
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, 36 Eagle Row, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Hannah Tokish
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Emma McQueen
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shivaang Chawla
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ami Klin
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Nathalie L Maitre
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Cheryl Klaiman
- Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1405 Clifton Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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10
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Lacasse BM, Beggs J, Lou J, Motta FC, Nemzer LR, Worth R, Cravens GD. A Literature Review of Similarities Between and Among Patients With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Epilepsy. Cureus 2023; 15:e33946. [PMID: 36819340 PMCID: PMC9937677 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.33946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been shown to be associated with various other conditions, and most commonly, ASD has been demonstrated to be linked to epilepsy. ASD and epilepsy have been observed to exhibit high rates of comorbidity, even when compared to the co-occurrence of other disorders with similar pathologies. At present, nearly one-half of the individuals diagnosed with ASD also have been diagnosed with comorbid epilepsy. Research suggests that both conditions likely share similarities in their underlying disease pathophysiology, possibly associated with disturbances in the central nervous system (CNS), and may be linked to an imbalance between excitation and inhibition in the brain. Meanwhile, it remains unclear whether one condition is the consequence of the other, as the pathologies of both disorders are commonly linked to many different underlying signal transduction mechanisms. In this review, we aim to investigate the co-occurrence of ASD and epilepsy, with the intent of gaining insights into the similarities in pathophysiology that both conditions present with. Elucidating the underlying disease pathophysiology as a result of both disorders could lead to a better understanding of the underlying mechanism of disease activity that drives co-occurrence, as well as provide insight into the underlying mechanisms of each condition individually.
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11
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Tallarico M, Leo A, Russo E, Citraro R, Palma E, De Sarro G. Seizure susceptibility to various convulsant stimuli in the BTBR mouse model of autism spectrum disorders. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1155729. [PMID: 37153775 PMCID: PMC10157402 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1155729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are one of the most severe chronic childhood disorders in terms of prevalence, morbidity, and impact on society. Interestingly, several systematic reviews and meta-analyses documented a bidirectional link between epilepsy and ASD, supporting the hypothesis that both disorders may have common neurobiological pathways. According to this hypothesis, an imbalance of the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) ratio in several brain regions may represent a causal mechanism underpinning the co-occurrence of these neurological diseases. Methods: To investigate this bidirectional link, we first tested the seizure susceptibility to chemoconvulsants acting on GABAergic and glutamatergic systems in the BTBR mice, in which an imbalance between E/I has been previously demonstrated. Subsequently, we performed the PTZ kindling protocol to study the impact of seizures on autistic-like behavior and other neurological deficits in BTBR mice. Results: We found that BTBR mice have an increased susceptibility to seizures induced by chemoconvulsants impairing GABAA neurotransmission in comparison to C57BL/6J control mice, whereas no significant difference in seizure susceptibility was observed after administration of AMPA, NMDA, and Kainate. This data suggests that deficits in GABAergic neurotransmission can increase seizure susceptibility in this strain of mice. Interestingly, BTBR mice showed a longer latency in the development of kindling compared to control mice. Furthermore, PTZ-kindling did not influence autistic-like behavior in BTBR mice, whereas it was able to significantly increase anxiety and worsen cognitive performance in this strain of mice. Interestingly, C57BL/6J displayed reduced sociability after PTZ injections, supporting the hypothesis that a tight connection exists between ASD and epilepsy. Conclusion: BTBR mice can be considered a good model to study epilepsy and ASD contemporarily. However, future studies should shed light on the mechanisms underpinning the co-occurrence of these neurological disorders in the BTBR model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Tallarico
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonio Leo
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- System and Applied Pharmacology@University Magna Grecia, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- *Correspondence: Antonio Leo,
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Rita Citraro
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- System and Applied Pharmacology@University Magna Grecia, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovambattista De Sarro
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
- System and Applied Pharmacology@University Magna Grecia, Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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12
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Goss M, Huynh CK, Taing M, Brumback AC. Approaching Autism Diagnosis and Care Through the Lens of Gender Diversity. Child Neurol Open 2023; 10:2329048X231219201. [PMID: 38116019 PMCID: PMC10729615 DOI: 10.1177/2329048x231219201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Goss
- UT Health Austin Pediatric Neurosciences at Dell Children's Medical Center, Austin, TX, USA
- Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Carolyn K. Huynh
- Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Matthew Taing
- Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Audrey C. Brumback
- UT Health Austin Pediatric Neurosciences at Dell Children's Medical Center, Austin, TX, USA
- Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, USA
- Center for Learning and Memory, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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13
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Vidriales-Fernández R, Plaza-Sanz M, Hernández-Layna C, Verde-Cagiao M, Benito-Ruiz G, Carvajal-Molina F. Characterizing the physical and mental health profile of children, adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder in Spain. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1088727. [PMID: 36970262 PMCID: PMC10031816 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1088727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autistic men and women are more likely to experience health issues than the general population, although the available epidemiological studies addressing co-occurrence conditions are limited. This is the first Spanish epidemiologic study addressing the health profile and poor-health exacerbating factors in individuals of all ages with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods We analyzed 2,629 registries extracted from Autism Spain's sociodemographic registry (November 2017-May 2020). A descriptive health data analysis was conducted to assess the prevalence of other conditions associated to ASD in the Spanish population. Nervous system disorders (12.9%), mental health diagnoses (17.8%), and other comorbidities (25.4%) were reported. Men-to-women ratio was 4:1. Results Women, elder individuals and those with intellectual disability (ID) were at an increased risk of health comorbidities and psychopharmacological exposure. Women were also more prone to severe intellectual and functional impairment. Nearly all individuals had difficulties in their adaptative functioning, especially those with ID (50% of the population). Almost half of the sample received psychopharmacological treatments starting from infancy and early childhood, mostly antipsychotics and anticonvulsants. Discussion This study represents an important first approach to the health status of autistic people in Spain and can contribute to the development of public policies and innovative health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Guillermo Benito-Ruiz
- Confederación Autismo España, Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Isabel I, Burgos, Spain
- *Correspondence: Guillermo Benito-Ruiz,
| | - Fernando Carvajal-Molina
- Facultad de Psicología, Departamento de Psicología Biológica y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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14
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Arruda MA, Arruda R. Case report: Look at my eyes. HEADACHE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.48208/headachemed.2022.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The comorbidity of migraine and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) still remain unclear. In spite of plausible evidences of such comorbidity, there is a scarcity of populational studies focusing this hypothesis. The diagnosis of migraine in children with ASD is very challenge due to the large clinical heterogeneity and limited communication skills, particularly verbal abilities in young children and those with intellectual disability. ASD and migraine are chronic prevalent disorders sharing some pathophysiological changes (neurotransmission dysregulation, altered immune response, abnormal findings in the cortical minicolumn organization, and dysfunctions in the gut–brain axis), susceptibility genes (including calcium channel mutations and polymorphisms), and atypical sensory processing. Herein, we take advantage of a prototypical case of an adolescent with episodic migraine transformed to chronic, not responsive to preventive treatment, to explore the diagnostic workup and successful personalized clinical and therapeutical management.
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15
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Hopkins WD, Mulholland MM, Mareno MC, Webb SJN, Schapiro SJ. Neuroanatomical correlates of individual differences in the object choice task in chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes). Front Psychol 2022; 13:1057722. [PMID: 36507015 PMCID: PMC9732552 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1057722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Declarative and imperative joint attention or joint engagement are important milestones in human infant development. These have been shown to be a significant predictor of later language development and are impaired in some individuals with, or at risk for, a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Comparatively, while chimpanzees and other great apes have been reported to engage in imperative joint attention, evidence of declarative joint attention remains unclear based on existing studies. Some have suggested that differences in methods of assessing joint attention may have an influence on performance in nonhuman primates. Here, we report data on a measure of receptive joint attention (object choice task) in a sample of captive chimpanzees. Chimpanzees, as a group, performed significantly better than chance. By contrast, when considering individual performance, there was no significant difference in the number of those who passed and those who failed. Using quantitative genetic analyses, we found that performance on the object choice task was not significantly heritable nor were there any significant effects of sex, rearing history, or colony. Lastly, we found significant differences in gray matter covariation, between those who passed or failed the task. Those who passed contributed more to gray matter covariation in several brain regions within the social brain network, consistent with hypotheses regarding the importance of these regions in human and nonhuman primate social cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D. Hopkins
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States
| | - Michele M. Mulholland
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States
| | - Mary Catherine Mareno
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States
| | - Sarah J. Neal Webb
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States
| | - Steven J. Schapiro
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michale E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX, United States
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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16
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Efficacy and moderating factors of the Early Start Denver Model in Chinese toddlers with autism spectrum disorder: a longitudinal study. World J Pediatr 2022:10.1007/s12519-022-00555-z. [PMID: 35697958 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00555-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have shown the effectiveness of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), but few studies have explored the long-term efficacy of ESDM. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and moderating factors of ESDM in Chinese toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a longitudinal way. METHODS A total of 60 toddlers with ASD were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: ESDM group all received 24 weeks intervention; Control group were waiting for intervention. Baseline assessment (T0) was conducted before intervention, including Gesell Developmental Scale (GDS) and Psycho-educational Profile-3rd Edition (PEP-3). All toddlers with ASD were examined in the first assessment (T1) at 6 months and in the second assessment (T2) at 12 months. RESULTS In T1 assessment, the increments in speech and personal communication development quotient in GDS were significantly larger in the ESDM group than in the control group (P = 0.010, 0.047). In T2 assessment, the ESDM group had higher elevation in cognitive verbal/preverbal (CVP), social reciprocity and characteristic verbal behaviors assessed by PEP-3 (P = 0.021, 0.046, 0.014). In addition, the severity of stereotyped behavior was negatively associated with improvement in CVP. Family income was positively associated with improvement in speech and CVP (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS ESDM can effectively improve speech and communication in toddlers with ASD after 24-week intervention. More importantly, ESDM can promote cognition and social interaction and can reduce stereotyped verbal behavior in toddlers with ASD in longitudinal observation. The severity of stereotyped behavior and family ecological factors may be considered as affecting the efficacy of ESDM.
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17
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Cooper M, Gale K, Langley K, Broughton T, Massey TH, Hall NJ, Jones CRG. Neurological consultation with an autistic patient. Pract Neurol 2022; 22:120-125. [PMID: 34625468 DOI: 10.1136/practneurol-2020-002856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with a very heterogeneous presentation. Autistic people are more likely to have unmet healthcare needs, making it essential that healthcare professionals are 'autism-aware'. In this article, we provide an overview of how autism presents and use case studies to illustrate how a neurological consultation in an outpatient clinic environment could prove challenging for a autistic person. We suggest how to improve communication with autistic patients in clinic and highlight the importance of a patient-centred and flexible approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Cooper
- Neurodevelopmental Service, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Katherine Gale
- Neurodevelopmental Service, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
| | - Kate Langley
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Thomas Broughton
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Thomas H Massey
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Catherine R G Jones
- Wales Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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18
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Watkins LV, O'Dwyer M, Shankar R. A review of the pharmacotherapeutic considerations for managing epilepsy in people with autism. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:841-851. [PMID: 35341433 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2055461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autism, like other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), has a strong association with epilepsy. There are known common genetic pathways in both autism and epilepsy. There are also specific genetic syndromes associated with both complex epilepsy and the autism phenotype. AREAS COVERED This review explores the evidence for common genetic etiologies and pathophysiological pathways in relation to both epilepsy and autism. Autism with comorbid epilepsy are associated with a high prevalence of medical and psychiatric comorbidities. This paper discusses how this influences assessment, treatment, and outcomes. The evidence for the treatment of specific seizure types in the context of NDDs is also examined alongside clinical commentary. EXPERT OPINION Despite the strong association, there is a limited evidence base to support the efficacy and tolerability of anti-seizure medications specifically in autism, with no Level 1 evidence or National Guidance available. Autism and epilepsy should be approached under a NDD model with cautious introduction and titration of anti-seizure medication. Alongside this, there is evidence to support a move toward precision medicine in specific genetic syndromes such as Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and other genetic seizure disorders. The first-line treatments that should be considered for focal seizures include carbamazepine, lamotrigine, and levetiracetam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lance V Watkins
- Epilepsy Specialist Service Swansea Bay University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Maire O'Dwyer
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Rohit Shankar
- Department of Intellectual Disability Neuropsychiatry, Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Truro, UK.,Cornwall Intellectual Disability Equitable Research (CIDER) University of Plymouth Medical School, Truro, UK
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19
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Tang S, Liu X, Ran Q, Nie L, Wu L, Pan Z, He L. Application of Three-Dimensional Pseudocontinuous Arterial Spin Labeling Perfusion Imaging in the Brains of Children With Autism. Front Neurol 2022; 13:851430. [PMID: 35280268 PMCID: PMC8905523 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.851430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the application of three-dimensional pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (3D-PCASL) perfusion imaging in the brains of children with autism and to understand the characteristics of cerebral blood perfusion in children with autism. Methods A total of 320 children with autism (160 men and 160 women) aged between 2 and 18 years and 320 age- and sex-matched healthy children participated in the study. All children were scanned by 3.0 T magnetic resonance axial T1 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), T2 FLAIR, 3D-T1, and 3D-PCASL sequences. After postprocessing, cerebral blood flow (CBF) values in each brain region of children with autism and healthy children at the same age were compared and analyzed. Furthermore, CBF characteristics in each brain region of autistic children at various ages were determined. Results The CBF values of the frontal lobe, hippocampus, temporal lobe, and caudate nucleus of children with autism are lower than those of healthy children (P < 0.05). Additionally, as the ages of children with autism increase, the number of brain regions with decreased CBF values gradually increases. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis results show that the CBF values of the frontal lobe, hippocampus, temporal lobe, and caudate nucleus can distinguish children with autism [area under the ROC curve (AUC) > 0.05, P < 0.05]. Conclusion The 3D-PCASL shows lower brain CBF values in children with autism. Clinical Trial Registration www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: ChiCTR2000034356.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilong Tang
- Department of Radiology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Xianfan Liu
- Department of Radiology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiying Ran
- Department of Radiology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Lisha Nie
- GE Healthcare, MR Research China, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Wu
- Department of Radiology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengxia Pan
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling He
- Department of Radiology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
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20
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Isaksson J, Ruchkin V, Aho N, Lundin Remnélius K, Marschik PB, Bölte S. Nonshared environmental factors in the aetiology of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions: a monozygotic co-twin control study. Mol Autism 2022; 13:8. [PMID: 35183250 PMCID: PMC8858556 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-022-00487-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
A significant proportion of variation in likelihood of neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs) has been attributed to nonshared environmental (NSE) factors, although it remains unclear which NSE factors pose specific risks for certain NDCs.
Methods
A monozygotic co-twin design was applied in a sample of 224 twins (mean age = 17.70 years, SD = 6.28) controlling for confounders such as genes and shared environment. Generalized estimating equation models were fitted, using perinatal and postnatal indications of NSEs as exposure, operationalized both as separate risk factors and as cumulative risk loads. Categorical and dimensional operationalizations of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), intellectual disability and other NDCs were used as outcomes.
Results
Birth weight discordance was associated with dimensional autism and ADHD for the smaller twin, and medication during infancy was associated with dimensional autism. Among postnatal factors scarlet fever during early childhood was associated with lower IQ. Especially autism was associated with a greater cumulative perinatal or postnatal risk load.
Limitations
When exploring the associations between each condition and specific NSEs the risk of being statistically underpowered increases. Hence, we limit the reported findings on specific indicators of NSEs to trait levels and present descriptive data for categorical NDCs.
Conclusions
The findings support previous research by indicating an association between exposure to perinatal and postnatal risks and subsequent NDCs within twin pairs and suggest that autism may be especially linked to accumulative early environmental risks. The findings are potentially important for developmental outcomes prognoses and may inform targeted prevention and early interventions.
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21
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Contractor A, Ethell IM, Portera-Cailliau C. Cortical interneurons in autism. Nat Neurosci 2021; 24:1648-1659. [PMID: 34848882 PMCID: PMC9798607 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-021-00967-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The mechanistic underpinnings of autism remain a subject of debate and controversy. Why do individuals with autism share an overlapping set of atypical behaviors and symptoms, despite having different genetic and environmental risk factors? A major challenge in developing new therapies for autism has been the inability to identify convergent neural phenotypes that could explain the common set of symptoms that result in the diagnosis. Although no striking macroscopic neuropathological changes have been identified in autism, there is growing evidence that inhibitory interneurons (INs) play an important role in its neural basis. In this Review, we evaluate and interpret this evidence, focusing on recent findings showing reduced density and activity of the parvalbumin class of INs. We discuss the need for additional studies that investigate how genes and the environment interact to change the developmental trajectory of INs, permanently altering their numbers, connectivity and circuit engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anis Contractor
- Department of Neuroscience Feinberg School of Medicine, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Iryna M Ethell
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, UC Riverside School of Medicine, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Carlos Portera-Cailliau
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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22
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Precision Autism: Genomic Stratification of Disorders Making Up the Broad Spectrum May Demystify Its "Epidemic Rates". J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11111119. [PMID: 34834471 PMCID: PMC8620644 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, Autism has broadened and often shifted its diagnostics criteria, allowing several neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders of known etiology. This has resulted in a highly heterogeneous spectrum with apparent exponential rates in prevalence. I ask if it is possible to leverage existing genetic information about those disorders making up Autism today and use it to stratify this spectrum. To that end, I combine genes linked to Autism in the SFARI database and genomic information from the DisGeNET portal on 25 diseases, inclusive of non-neurological ones. I use the GTEx data on genes’ expression on 54 human tissues and ask if there are overlapping genes across those associated to these diseases and those from SFARI-Autism. I find a compact set of genes across all brain-disorders which express highly in tissues fundamental for somatic-sensory-motor function, self-regulation, memory, and cognition. Then, I offer a new stratification that provides a distance-based orderly clustering into possible Autism subtypes, amenable to design personalized targeted therapies within the framework of Precision Medicine. I conclude that viewing Autism through this physiological (Precision) lens, rather than viewing it exclusively from a psychological behavioral construct, may make it a more manageable condition and dispel the Autism epidemic myth.
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Eyring KW, Geschwind DH. Three decades of ASD genetics: building a foundation for neurobiological understanding and treatment. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:R236-R244. [PMID: 34313757 PMCID: PMC8861370 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Methodological advances over the last three decades have led to a profound transformation in our understanding of the genetic origins of neuropsychiatric disorders. This is exemplified by the study of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) for which microarrays, whole exome sequencing and whole genome sequencing have yielded over a hundred causal loci. Genome-wide association studies in ASD have also been fruitful, identifying 5 genome-wide significant loci thus far and demonstrating a substantial role for polygenic inherited risk. Approaches rooted in systems biology and functional genomics have increasingly placed genes implicated by risk variants into biological context. Genetic risk affects a finite group of cell-types and biological processes, converging primarily on early stages of brain development (though, the expression of many risk genes persists through childhood). Coupled with advances in stem cell-based human in vitro model systems, these findings provide a basis for developing mechanistic models of disease pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine W Eyring
- Neurogenetics Program, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Daniel H Geschwind
- Neurogenetics Program, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Center For Autism Research and Treatment, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Human Genetics and Institute for Precision Health, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Kuschner ES, Malow BA. Autism and physical health across the lifespan. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:599-602. [PMID: 33910389 DOI: 10.1177/13623613211006524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily S Kuschner
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, USAUniversity of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, USA
| | - Beth Ann Malow
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, USA
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Ferreira ML, Loyacono N. Rationale of an Advanced Integrative Approach Applied to Autism Spectrum Disorder: Review, Discussion and Proposal. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060514. [PMID: 34199906 PMCID: PMC8230111 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The rationale of an Advanced Integrative Model and an Advanced Integrative Approach is presented. In the context of Allopathic Medicine, this model introduces the evaluation, clinical exploration, diagnosis, and treatment of concomitant medical problems to the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. These may be outside or inside the brain. The concepts of static or chronic, dynamic encephalopathy and condition for Autism Spectrum Disorder are defined in this model, which looks at the response to the treatments of concomitant medical problemsto the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. (1) Background: Antecedents and rationale of an Advanced Integrative Model and of an Advanced Integrative Approach are presented; (2) Methods: Concomitant medical problems to the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and a discussion of the known responses of their treatments are presented; (3) Results: Groups in Autism are defined and explained, related to the responses of the treatments of the concomitant medical problems to ASD and (4) Conclusions: The analysis in the framework of an Advanced Integrative Model of three groups including the concepts of static encephalopathy; chronic, dynamic encephalopathy and condition for Autism Spectrum Disorder explains findings in the field, previously not understood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolás Loyacono
- TEA-Enfoque Integrador Group, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina;
- SANyTA (Sociedad Argentina de Neurodesarrollo y Trastornos Asociados), Migueletes 681, Piso 2, Departamento 2, BUE-Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1426, Argentina
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +54-911-5825-5209
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Al-Beltagi M. Autism medical comorbidities. World J Clin Pediatr 2021; 10:15-28. [PMID: 33972922 PMCID: PMC8085719 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v10.i3.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Medical comorbidities are more common in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) than in the general population. Some genetic disorders are more common in children with ASD such as Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, neurofibromatosis type I, and tuberous sclerosis complex. Children with autism are also more prone to a variety of neurological disorders, including epilepsy, macrocephaly, hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, migraine/headaches, and congenital abnormalities of the nervous system. Besides, sleep disorders are a significant problem in individuals with autism, occurring in about 80% of them. Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are significantly more common in children with ASD; they occur in 46% to 84% of them. The most common GI problems observed in children with ASD are chronic constipation, chronic diarrhoea, gastroesophageal reflux and/or disease, nausea and/or vomiting, flatulence, chronic bloating, abdominal discomfort, ulcers, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, food intolerance, and/or failure to thrive. Several categories of inborn-errors of metabolism have been observed in some patients with autism including mitochondrial disorders, disorders of creatine metabolism, selected amino acid disorders, disorders of folate or B12 metabolism, and selected lysosomal storage disorders. A significant proportion of children with ASD have evidence of persistent neuroinflammation, altered inflammatory responses, and immune abnormalities. Anti-brain antibodies may play an important pathoplastic mechanism in autism. Allergic disorders are significantly more common in individuals with ASD from all age groups. They influence the development and severity of symptoms. They could cause problematic behaviours in at least a significant subset of affected children. Therefore, it is important to consider the child with autism as a whole and not overlook possible symptoms as part of autism. The physician should rule out the presence of a medical condition before moving on to other interventions or therapies. Children who enjoy good health have a better chance of learning. This can apply to all children including those with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama P.O. Box 26671, Bahrain, Bahrain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 0000000, Al Gharbia, Egypt
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27
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Al-Beltagi M. Autism medical comorbidities. World J Clin Pediatr 2021. [PMID: 33972922 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v10.i3.15.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical comorbidities are more common in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) than in the general population. Some genetic disorders are more common in children with ASD such as Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, neurofibromatosis type I, and tuberous sclerosis complex. Children with autism are also more prone to a variety of neurological disorders, including epilepsy, macrocephaly, hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, migraine/headaches, and congenital abnormalities of the nervous system. Besides, sleep disorders are a significant problem in individuals with autism, occurring in about 80% of them. Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are significantly more common in children with ASD; they occur in 46% to 84% of them. The most common GI problems observed in children with ASD are chronic constipation, chronic diarrhoea, gastroesophageal reflux and/or disease, nausea and/or vomiting, flatulence, chronic bloating, abdominal discomfort, ulcers, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, food intolerance, and/or failure to thrive. Several categories of inborn-errors of metabolism have been observed in some patients with autism including mitochondrial disorders, disorders of creatine metabolism, selected amino acid disorders, disorders of folate or B12 metabolism, and selected lysosomal storage disorders. A significant proportion of children with ASD have evidence of persistent neuroinflammation, altered inflammatory responses, and immune abnormalities. Anti-brain antibodies may play an important pathoplastic mechanism in autism. Allergic disorders are significantly more common in individuals with ASD from all age groups. They influence the development and severity of symptoms. They could cause problematic behaviours in at least a significant subset of affected children. Therefore, it is important to consider the child with autism as a whole and not overlook possible symptoms as part of autism. The physician should rule out the presence of a medical condition before moving on to other interventions or therapies. Children who enjoy good health have a better chance of learning. This can apply to all children including those with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama P.O. Box 26671, Bahrain, Bahrain
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28
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Brimson JM, Brimson S, Prasanth MI, Thitilertdecha P, Malar DS, Tencomnao T. The effectiveness of Bacopa monnieri (Linn.) Wettst. as a nootropic, neuroprotective, or antidepressant supplement: analysis of the available clinical data. Sci Rep 2021; 11:596. [PMID: 33436817 PMCID: PMC7803732 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80045-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacopa monnieri (Linn.) Wettst. has been used in traditional medicine as a drug to enhance and improve memory. In this regard, this study aims to provide B. monnieri's efficacy as a neuroprotective drug and as a nootropic against various neurological diseases. Literatures were collected, following Prisma guidelines, from databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct and were scrutinized using a quality scoring system. Means, standard deviations and 'n' numbers were extracted from the metrics and analyzed. Jamovi computer software for Mac was used to carry out the meta-analysis. The selected studies suggested that the plant extracts were able to show some improvements in healthy subjects which were determined in Auditory Verbal Learning Task, digit span-reverse test, inspection time task and working memory, even though it was not significant, as no two studies found statistically significant changes in the same two tests. B. monnieri was able to express modest improvements in subjects with memory loss, wherein only a few of the neuropsychological tests showed statistical significance. B. monnieri in a cocktail with other plant extracts were able to significantly reduce the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and depression which cannot be solely credited as the effect of B. monnieri. Although in one study B. monnieri was able to potentiate the beneficial effects of citalopram; on the whole, currently, there are only limited studies to establish the memory-enhancing and neuroprotective effects of B. monnieri. More studies have to be done in the future by comparing the effect with standard drugs, in order to establish these effects clinically in the plant and corroborate the preclinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Brimson
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Age-Related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand ,grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Sirikalaya Brimson
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Mani Iyer Prasanth
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Age-Related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand ,grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Premrutai Thitilertdecha
- grid.10223.320000 0004 1937 0490Siriraj Research Group in Immunobiology and Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Dicson Sheeja Malar
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Age-Related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand ,grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Age-Related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand ,grid.7922.e0000 0001 0244 7875Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
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Alvarez-Arellano L, Salazar-García M, Corona JC. Neuroprotective Effects of Quercetin in Pediatric Neurological Diseases. Molecules 2020; 25:E5597. [PMID: 33260783 PMCID: PMC7731313 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a crucial event underlying several pediatric neurological diseases, such as the central nervous system (CNS) tumors, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Neuroprotective therapy with natural compounds used as antioxidants has the potential to delay, ameliorate or prevent several pediatric neurological diseases. The present review provides an overview of the most recent research outcomes following quercetin treatment for CNS tumors, ASD and ADHD as well as describes the potential in vitro and in vivo ameliorative effect on oxidative stress of bioactive natural compounds, which seems like a promising future therapy for these diseases. The neuroprotective effects of quercetin against oxidative stress can also be applied in the management of several neurodegenerative disorders with effects such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-obesity and anti-microbial. Therefore, quercetin appears to be a suitable adjuvant for therapy against pediatric neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcela Salazar-García
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Biología del Desarrollo y Teratogénesis Experimental, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico;
| | - Juan Carlos Corona
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
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