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Wallis KE, Guthrie W. Screening for Autism: A Review of the Current State, Ongoing Challenges, and Novel Approaches on the Horizon. Pediatr Clin North Am 2024; 71:127-155. [PMID: 38423713 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.12.003] [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] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Screening for autism is recommended in pediatric primary care. However, the median age of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis is substantially higher than the age at which autism can reliably be identified, suggesting room for improvements in autism recognition at young ages, especially for children from minoritized racial and ethnic groups, low-income families, and families who prefer a language other than English. Novel approaches are being developed to utilize new technologies in aiding in autism recognition. However, attention to equity is needed to minimize bias. Additional research on the benefits and potential harms of universal autism screening is needed. The authors provide suggestions for pediatricians who are considering implementing autism-screening programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate E Wallis
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; PolicyLab, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Clinical Futures, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Whitney Guthrie
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Clinical Futures, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social interaction and communication and the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. The importance of early detection of ASD and subsequent early intervention is well documented. Efforts have been made over the years to clarify ASD diagnostic criteria and develop predictive, accurate screening tools and evidence-based, standardized diagnostic instruments to aid in the identification of ASD. In this article, we review the most recent changes in ASD diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision, summarize evidence-based instruments for ASD screening and diagnostic evaluations as well as the assessment of co-occurring conditions in ASD, the impact of COVID-19 on ASD assessment, and directions for future research in the field of ASD assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- University of California, Davis, Sacramento, USA
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Tsiplova K, Ungar WJ. Why it is so challenging to perform economic evaluations of interventions in autism and what to do about it. Autism Res 2023; 16:2061-2070. [PMID: 37606004 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3014] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Economic evaluation is used to determine the optimal provision of services and programs under budget constraints and to inform public and private payer funding decisions. To maximize value-for-money in the design and delivery of programs and services for persons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it's essential to generate high-quality economic evidence to inform budget allocation. There is a paucity however, of economic evaluations of interventions for ASD. This is due in part to challenges in conducting economic evaluations in this population and the lack of guidance on suitable approaches. These challenges are related to the inherent heterogeneity of the autistic population; establishing short- and long-term effectiveness; measurement of costs and the availability of valid instruments for collecting economic data; the appropriateness of outcomes for use in economic evaluation; and achieving statistical power. This commentary addresses a lack of awareness and needed guidance on these issues by discussing the challenges and providing recommendations for how economic evaluations in ASD could be improved to generate high-quality evidence for program funding decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Tsiplova
- Program of Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Wendy J Ungar
- Program of Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Barbaro J, Winata T, Gilbert M, Nair R, Khan F, Lucien A, Islam R, Masi A, Diaz AM, Dissanayake C, Karlov L, Descallar J, Eastwood J, Hasan I, Jalaludin B, Kohlhoff J, Liaw ST, Lingam R, Ong N, Tam CWM, Woolfenden S, Eapen V. General practitioners' perspectives regarding early developmental surveillance for autism within the australian primary healthcare setting: a qualitative study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:159. [PMID: 37563549 PMCID: PMC10416397 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02121-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Significant challenges remain in the early identification of child developmental disabilities in the community. Implementing supports and services early in the life course has been shown to promote positive developmental outcomes for children at high likelihood of developmental disabilities, including autism. As part of a cluster randomised controlled trial, this study seeks to examine and compare the perspectives and experiences of Australian general practitioners (GPs) in relation to a digital developmental surveillance program for autism and usual care pathway, in general practice clinics. METHODS A qualitative research methodology with semi-structured interviews and thematic inductive analysis underpinned by grounded theory was utilised. All GPs from South Western Sydney (NSW) and Melbourne (Victoria) who participated in the main program ("GP Surveillance for Autism") were invited to the interview. GPs who provided consent were interviewed either over online or in-person meeting. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo12 software. Inductive interpretive approach was adopted and data were analysed thematically. RESULTS Twenty-three GPs across the two sites (NSW: n = 11; Victoria: n = 12) agreed to be interviewed; data saturation had reached following this number of participants. Inductive thematic coding and analysis yielded eight major themes and highlighted common enablers such as the role of GPs in early identification and subsequent supports, enhanced communication between clinicians/professionals, relationship-building with patients, and having standardised screening tools. Specific facilitators to the feasibility and acceptability of a digital screening program for the early identification of developmental disabilities, including the early signs of autism, and encouraging research and education for GPs. However, several practical and socioeconomic barriers were identified, in addition to limited knowledge and uptake of child developmental screening tools as well as COVID-19 lockdown impacts. Common and specific recommendations involve supporting GPs in developmental/paediatrics training, streamlined screening process, and funding and resources in the primary healthcare services. CONCLUSIONS The study highlighted the need for practice and policy changes, including further training of GPs alongside sufficient time to complete developmental checks and appropriate financial remuneration through a Medicare billing item. Further research is needed on implementation and scale up of a national surveillance program for early identification of developmental disabilities, including autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Barbaro
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| | - Teresa Winata
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Academic Unit of Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Melissa Gilbert
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| | - Radhika Nair
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| | - Feroza Khan
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Abbie Lucien
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Raisa Islam
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anne Masi
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Antonio Mendoza Diaz
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Academic Unit of Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisa Karlov
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Academic Unit of Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joseph Descallar
- Academic Unit of Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - John Eastwood
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iqbal Hasan
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bin Jalaludin
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane Kohlhoff
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Siaw-Teng Liaw
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Raghu Lingam
- Population Child Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie Ong
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chun Wah Michael Tam
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Primary and Integrated Care Unit, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Sue Woolfenden
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Women and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Population Child Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia.
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Academic Unit of Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
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Liu X, Zhao W, Qi Q, Luo X. A Survey on Autism Care, Diagnosis, and Intervention Based on Mobile Apps Focusing on Usability and Software Design. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:6260. [PMID: 37514555 PMCID: PMC10384173 DOI: 10.3390/s23146260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a systematic review on autism care, diagnosis, and intervention based on mobile apps running on smartphones and tablets. Here, the term "intervention" means a carefully planned set of activities with the objective of improving autism symptoms. We guide our review on related studies using five research questions. First, who benefits the most from these mobile apps? Second, what are the primary purposes of these mobile apps? Third, what mechanisms have been incorporated in these mobiles apps to improve usability? Fourth, what guidelines have been used in the design and implementation of these mobile apps? Fifth, what theories and frameworks have been used as the foundation for these mobile apps to ensure the intervention effectiveness? As can be seen from these research questions, we focus on the usability and software development of the mobile apps. Informed by the findings of these research questions, we propose a taxonomy for the mobile apps and their users. The mobile apps can be categorized into autism support apps, educational apps, teacher training apps, parental support apps, and data collection apps. The individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are the primary users of the first two categories of apps. Teachers of children with ASD are the primary users of the teacher training apps. Parents are the primary users of the parental support apps, while individuals with ASD are usually the primary users of the data collection apps and clinicians and autism researchers are the beneficiaries. Gamification, virtual reality, and autism-specific mechanisms have been used to improve the usability of the apps. User-centered design is the most popular approach for mobile app development. Augmentative and alternative communication, video modeling, and various behavior change practices have been used as the theoretical foundation for intervention efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongyi Liu
- Department of Curriculum and Foundations, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
| | - Wenbing Zhao
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
| | - Quan Qi
- College of Information Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832003, China
| | - Xiong Luo
- School of Computer and Communication Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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Gilbert M, Gore K, Hawke M, Barbaro J. Development, delivery, and evaluation of a training program for the early identification of autism: Monitoring of Social Attention, Interaction, and Communication. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1201265. [PMID: 37483439 PMCID: PMC10361691 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1201265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Early identification of Autistic children is an important precursor to diagnosis, and access to supports and services. Here we describe the training of the maternal and child health (MCH) workforce in the state of Victoria, Australia in the early identification of infants and toddlers with a high likelihood of autism. Methods In 2019, 1,428 MCH nurses completed early autism training held at venues across the state, with an additional 82 nurses completing online-only training. A training needs analysis enabled the research team to determine the workforce's current skill and knowledge levels, and to identify knowledge gaps, training needs and workplace barriers. The professional development program, known as Monitoring of Social Attention, Interaction, and Communication (MoSAIC), comprised: online pre-workshop modules; a face-to-face instructor-led workshop, which included the use of the Social Attention and Communication-Revised (SACS-R) tool; and online post-workshop modules, which included a recording of a face-to-face workshop with all accompanying resources. This was the first time that the MCH workforce received this training package. Attendees were asked to complete a training satisfaction survey immediately following the face-to-face instructor-led workshop and a follow-up survey regarding their autism knowledge and SACS-R implementation 4-6 weeks after the workshop. Results Over 90% (n = 325) of MCH nurses who completed the training satisfaction survey agreed or strongly agreed with statements that the training was clear and of high quality. Most nurses also reported that the training was well-presented and that they would recommend it to a colleague. In the 6 months following the training, a total of 82,581 SACS-R assessments were conducted by the MCH workforce, reflecting that MCH nurses had successfully integrated SACS-R assessments into their work practice after receiving the early autism identification training. Discussion This study demonstrated that training on the early identification of autism can be successfully designed, customized, and delivered to a large primary healthcare workforce for universal developmental surveillance of autism.
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Simon J, Hyde C, Saravanapandian V, Wilson R, Distefano C, Besterman A, Jeste S. The diagnostic journey of genetically defined neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurodev Disord 2022; 14:27. [PMID: 35501684 PMCID: PMC9059413 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-022-09439-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of advanced genetic technologies has resulted in rapid identification of genetic etiologies of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and has transformed the classification and diagnosis of various NDDs. However, diagnostic genetics has far outpaced our ability to provide timely medical counseling, guidance, and care for patients with genetically defined NDDs. These patients and their caregivers present with an unmet need for care coordination across multiple domains including medical, developmental, and psychiatric care and for educational resources and guidance from care professionals. After a genetic diagnosis is made, families also face several barriers in access to informed diagnostic evaluations and medical support. METHODS As part of Care and Research in Neurogenetics (CARING), a multidisciplinary clinical program for children and adults with neurogenetic disorders, we conducted qualitative clinical interviews about the diagnostic journey of families. This included the overall timeline to receiving diagnoses, experiences before and after diagnosis, barriers to care, and resources that helped them to navigate the diagnostic process. RESULTS A total of 37 interviews were conducted with parents of children ages 16 months to 33 years. Several key themes were identified: (1) delays between initial caregiver observations and formal developmental or genetic diagnoses; (2) practical barriers to clinical evaluation and care, including long wait times for an appointment, lack of insurance coverage, availability of local evaluations, transportation difficulties, and native language differences; (3) the importance of being part of a patient advocacy group to help navigate the diagnostic journey; and (4) unique challenges faced by adults (18 years or older). CONCLUSIONS Families of children with complex neurodevelopmental and genetic disabilities face numerous challenges in finding adequate medical care and services for their child. They experience considerable delays in receiving timely diagnoses and face significant barriers that further delay the process of receiving access to services needed for the child's continued care. The gaps indicated in this study speak to the need for more comprehensive coordination of care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as the development of systematic, disorder-specific resources both for providers and families in order to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Simon
- UCLA, 760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Carly Hyde
- UCLA, 760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | | | - Rujuta Wilson
- UCLA, 760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | | | | | - Shafali Jeste
- CHLA, 4650 Sunset Blvd, MS #82, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA
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Green J, Leadbitter K, Ainsworth J, Bucci S. An integrated early care pathway for autism. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2022; 6:335-344. [PMID: 35303486 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(22)00037-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
In this Viewpoint, we argue for the need to reconceptualise an integrated early-care provision for autistic children in the light of their enduring support needs and relevant new findings from developmental and intervention research. This model goes beyond short-term reactive care to outline an early proactive, evidenced, developmentally phased, and scalable programme of support for autistic children and their families from the earliest opportunity, with timely access to later step-up care when needed. We also integrate this model with emerging opportunities from data science and digital health technologies as a potential facilitator of such a pathway. Building on this work, we argue that the best current autism intervention evidence can be integrated with concepts and evidence gained in the management of other enduring health conditions to support an autistic child and their family through their early development. The aim is to improve those children's social communication abilities, expand their range and flexibility of interests, and mitigate any negative impacts of sensory difficulties and restricted, repetitive behaviours on the child and their family wellbeing. The pathway solutions described could also be adapted for older adolescents and adults and could be used within the health systems of different countries, including within low-income and middle-income contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Green
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Manchester Royal Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK.
| | - Kathy Leadbitter
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester, UK
| | - John Ainsworth
- Division of Imaging, Informatics and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sandra Bucci
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Complex Trauma and Resilience Research Unit, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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A New Perspective on Assessing Cognition in Children through Estimating Shared Intentionality. J Intell 2022; 10:jintelligence10020021. [PMID: 35466234 PMCID: PMC9036231 DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence10020021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This theoretical article aims to create a conceptual framework for future research on digital methods for assessing cognition in children through estimating shared intentionality, different from assessing through behavioral markers. It shows the new assessing paradigm based directly on the evaluation of parent-child interaction exchanges (protoconversation), allowing early monitoring of children’s developmental trajectories. This literature analysis attempts to understand how cognition is related to emotions in interpersonal dynamics and whether assessing these dynamics shows cognitive abilities in children. The first part discusses infants’ unexpected achievements, observing the literature about children’s development. The analysis supposes that due to the caregiver’s help under emotional arousal, newborns’ intentionality could appear even before it is possible for children’s intention to occur. The emotional bond evokes intentionality in neonates. Therefore, they can manifest unexpected achievements while performing them with caregivers. This outcome shows an appearance of protoconversation in adult-children dyads through shared intentionality. The article presents experimental data of other studies that extend our knowledge about human cognition by showing an increase of coordinated neuronal activities and the acquisition of new knowledge by subjects in the absence of sensory cues. This highlights the contribution of interpersonal interaction to gain cognition, discussed already by Vygotsky. The current theoretical study hypothesizes that if shared intentionality promotes cognition from the onset, this interaction modality can also facilitate cognition in older children. Therefore in the second step, the current article analyzes empirical data of recent studies that reported meaningful interaction in mother-infant dyads without sensory cues. It discusses whether an unbiased digital assessment of the interaction ability of children is possible before the age when the typical developmental trajectory implies verbal communication. The article develops knowledge for a digital assessment that can measure the extent of children’s ability to acquire knowledge through protoconversation. This specific assessment can signalize the lack of communication ability in children even when the typical trajectory of peers’ development does not imply verbal communication.
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Barbaro J, Sadka N, Gilbert M, Beattie E, Li X, Ridgway L, Lawson LP, Dissanayake C. Diagnostic Accuracy of the Social Attention and Communication Surveillance-Revised With Preschool Tool for Early Autism Detection in Very Young Children. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2146415. [PMID: 35275169 PMCID: PMC8917423 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.46415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Early identification of children on the autism spectrum is crucial to facilitate access to early supports and services for children and families. The need for improved early autism identification tools is highlighted by the lack of sufficient diagnostic accuracy in current tools. OBJECTIVES To examine the diagnostic accuracy of the Social Attention and Communication Surveillance-Revised (SACS-R) and SACS-Preschool (SACS-PR) tools when used with a large, community-based, convenience sample and identify the prevalence of autism in this sample. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This diagnostic accuracy study was conducted in Melbourne, Australia, training maternal and child health nurses who monitored 13 511 children aged 11 to 42 months using the SACS-R and SACS-PR during their routine consultations (June 1, 2013, to July 31, 2018). Children identified as being at high likelihood for autism (12-24 months of age: n = 327; 42 months of age: n = 168) and at low likelihood for autism plus concerns (42 months of age: n = 28) were referred by their maternal and child health nurse for diagnostic assessment by the study team. Data analysis was performed from April 13, 2020, to November 29, 2021. EXPOSURES Children were monitored with SACS-R and SACS-PR at 12, 18, 24, and 42 months of age. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Diagnostic accuracy of the SACS-R and SACS-PR was determined by comparing children's likelihood for autism with their diagnostic outcome using clinical judgment based on standard autism assessments (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Second Edition and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised). RESULTS A total of 13 511 children (female: 6494 [48.1%]; male: 7017 [51.9%]) were monitored at least once with the SACS-R at their 12-, 18-, and 24-month-old routine maternal and child health consultations (mean [SD] age, 12.3 [0.59] months at 12 months; 18.3 [0.74] months at 18 months; 24.6 [1.12] months at 24 months) and followed up at their 42-month maternal and child health consultation (mean [SD] age, 44.0 [2.74] months) with SACS-PR (8419 [62.3%]). At 12 to 24 months, SACS-R showed high diagnostic accuracy, with 83% positive predictive value (95% CI, 0.77-0.87) and 99% estimated negative predictive value (95% CI, 0.01-0.02). Specificity (99.6% [95% CI, 0.99-1.00]) was high, with modest sensitivity (62% [95% CI, 0.57-0.66]). When the SACS-PR 42-month assessment was added, estimated sensitivity increased to 96% (95% CI, 0.94-0.98). Autism prevalence was 2.0% (1 in 50) between 11 and 30 months of age and 3.3% (1 in 31) between 11 and 42 months of age. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The SACS-R with SACS-PR (SACS-R+PR) had high diagnostic accuracy for the identification of autism in a community-based sample of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, indicating the utility of early autism developmental surveillance from infancy to the preschool period rather than 1-time screening. Its greater accuracy compared with psychometrics of commonly used autism screening tools when used in community-based samples suggests that the SACS-R+PR can be used universally for the early identification of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Barbaro
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nancy Sadka
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Melissa Gilbert
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Erin Beattie
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lael Ridgway
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lauren P. Lawson
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, Queensland, Australia
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Lord C, Charman T, Havdahl A, Carbone P, Anagnostou E, Boyd B, Carr T, de Vries PJ, Dissanayake C, Divan G, Freitag CM, Gotelli MM, Kasari C, Knapp M, Mundy P, Plank A, Scahill L, Servili C, Shattuck P, Simonoff E, Singer AT, Slonims V, Wang PP, Ysrraelit MC, Jellett R, Pickles A, Cusack J, Howlin P, Szatmari P, Holbrook A, Toolan C, McCauley JB. The Lancet Commission on the future of care and clinical research in autism. Lancet 2022; 399:271-334. [PMID: 34883054 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)01541-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 127.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Havdahl
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Paul Carbone
- Department of Pediatrics at University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Themba Carr
- Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Encinitas, CA, USA
| | - Petrus J de Vries
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Peter Mundy
- University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Chiara Servili
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Vicky Slonims
- Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Paul P Wang
- Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative, Simons Foundation, New York, NY, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Rachel Jellett
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Patricia Howlin
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Szatmari
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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12
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Divan G, Bhavnani S, Leadbitter K, Ellis C, Dasgupta J, Abubakar A, Elsabbagh M, Hamdani SU, Servili C, Patel V, Green J. Annual Research Review: Achieving universal health coverage for young children with autism spectrum disorder in low- and middle-income countries: a review of reviews. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2021; 62:514-535. [PMID: 33905120 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism presents with similar prevalence and core impairments in diverse populations. We conducted a scoping review of reviews to determine key barriers and innovative strategies which can contribute to attaining universal health coverage (UHC), from early detection to effective interventions for autism in low- and middle-income countries (LAMIC). METHODS A systematic literature search of review articles was conducted. Reviews relevant to the study research question were included if they incorporated papers from LAMIC and focused on children (<eight years old) with autism or their caregivers. The database search was supplemented with bibliographic search of included articles and key informant suggestions. Data were extracted and mapped onto a Theory of Change model toward achieving UHC for autism in LAMIC. RESULTS We identified 31 articles which reviewed data from over fifty countries across Africa, Latin America, Middle East, and Asia and addressed barriers across one or more of four inter-related domains: (a) the social context and family experience for a child with autism; (b) barriers to detection and diagnosis; (c) access to appropriate evidence-based intervention; and (d) social policy and legislation. Key barriers identified included: lack of appropriate tools for detection and diagnosis; low awareness and experienced stigma impacting demand for autism care; and the prevalence of specialist models for diagnosis and treatment which are not scalable in LAMIC. CONCLUSIONS We present a Theory of Change model which describe the strategies and resources needed to realize UHC for children with autism in LAMIC. We highlight the importance of harnessing existing evidence to best effect, using task sharing and adapted intervention strategies, community participation, and technology innovation. Scaling up these innovations will require open access to appropriate detection and intervention tools, systematic approaches to building and sustaining skills in frontline providers to support detection and deliver interventions embedded within a stepped care architecture, and community awareness of child development milestones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauri Divan
- Child Development Group, Sangath, Bardez, Goa, India
| | | | - Kathy Leadbitter
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ceri Ellis
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Amina Abubakar
- Institute of Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mayada Elsabbagh
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Syed Usman Hamdani
- Human Development Research Foundation, Punjab, Pakistan.,University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Chiara Servili
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vikram Patel
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan Green
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK
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13
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Kunze MG, Machalicek W, Wei Q, St. Joseph S. Coaching via Telehealth: Caregiver-Mediated Interventions for Young Children on the Waitlist for an Autism Diagnosis Using Single-Case Design. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1654. [PMID: 33924440 PMCID: PMC8070073 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Years can elapse between parental suspicion of a developmental delay and a diagnostic assessment, ultimately delaying access to medically necessary, autism-specific intervention. Using a single-case, concurrent multiple baseline design, autism spectrum disorder symptomology (i.e., higher-order restrictive and repetitive behaviors and interests; higher-order RRBIs) was targeted in toddlers (21-35 months) waiting for a diagnostic appointment. Caregivers were coached via telehealth to mediate early intervention to decrease interfering, inflexible higher-order RRBIs during play using four evidence-based applied behavior analytic strategies: modeling, prompting, differential reinforcement of appropriate behaviors, and response interruption and redirection. Six mother-child dyads were recruited from pediatrician offices and early intervention service districts in the United States. All families were considered under-served, under-resourced, or living in rural locations. A visual analysis of the data combined with Tau-U revealed a strong basic effect between the intervention package and parent strategy use and child flexible and inflexible behavior. Findings were consistent across participants with one exception demonstrating a moderate effect for flexible behaviors yet a strong effect for inflexible behaviors. Standardized mean difference was beyond zero for all participants. Implications for science and practice include support for early intervention of higher-order RRBIs for young children with and at risk for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan G. Kunze
- Department of Special Education and Clinical Sciences, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA; (W.M.); (Q.W.); (S.S.J.)
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14
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Dahiya AV, DeLucia E, McDonnell CG, Scarpa A. A systematic review of technological approaches for autism spectrum disorder assessment in children: Implications for the COVID-19 pandemic. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 109:103852. [PMID: 33465590 PMCID: PMC9761928 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Screening and diagnostic assessments tools for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are important to administer during childhood to facilitate timely entry into intervention services that can promote developmental outcomes across the lifespan. However, assessment services are not always readily available to families, as they require significant time and resources. Currently, in-person screening and diagnostic assessments for ASD are limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to be a concern for situations that limit in-person contact. Thus, it is important to expand the modalities in which child assessments are provided, including the use of technology. AIMS This systematic review aims to identify technologies that screen or assess for ASD in 0-12 year-old children, summarizing the current state of the field and suggesting future directions. METHODS An electronic database search was conducted to gather relevant articles to synthesize for this review. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS 16 studies reported use of novel technology to assess children suspected of ASD. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Results strongly supported live-video evaluations, video observations, and online or phone methods, but there is a need for research targeting the feasibility of these methods as it applies to the stay-at-home orders required by the pandemic, and other situations that limit clients from seeing providers in-person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela V Dahiya
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Psychology, 109 Williams Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States.
| | - Elizabeth DeLucia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Psychology, 109 Williams Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States
| | - Christina G McDonnell
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Psychology, 109 Williams Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States
| | - Angela Scarpa
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Psychology, 109 Williams Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States; Virginia Tech Autism Clinic & Center for Autism Research, 3110 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States
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