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Ma Y, Mu X, Zhang T, Zhao Y. MAFT-SO: A novel multi-atlas fusion template based on spatial overlap for ASD diagnosis. J Biomed Inform 2024; 157:104714. [PMID: 39187170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbi.2024.104714] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurological condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for enhancing the life quality of individuals with ASD. However, most existing studies either focus solely on the brain networks of subjects within a single atlas or merely employ simple matrix concatenation to represent the fusion of multi-atlas. These approaches neglected the natural spatial overlap that exists between brain regions across multi-atlas and did not fully capture the comprehensive information of brain regions under different atlases. To tackle this weakness, in this paper, we propose a novel multi-atlas fusion template based on spatial overlap degree of brain regions, which aims to obtain a comprehensive representation of brain networks. Specifically, we formally define a measurement of the spatial overlap among brain regions across different atlases, named spatial overlap degree. Then, we fuse the multi-atlas to obtain brain networks of each subject based on spatial overlap. Finally, the GCN is used to perform the final classification. The experimental results on Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) demonstrate that our proposed method achieved an accuracy of 0.757. Overall, our method outperforms SOTA methods in ASD/TC classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuefeng Ma
- The School of Computer Science, Qufu Normal University, Rizhao, China.
| | - Xiaochen Mu
- The School of Computer Science, Qufu Normal University, Rizhao, China
| | - Tengfei Zhang
- The School of Computer Science, Qufu Normal University, Rizhao, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- The Logistics Department, Qufu Normal University, Rizhao, China
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2
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Trim MJ, Wheeler RV, Franklin TB. Maternal immune activation accelerates pup reflex development and alters immune proteins in pup stomach contents and brain. Brain Res 2024; 1845:149198. [PMID: 39187055 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149198] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal infection increases the risk for neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. To better understand this link, a number of maternal immune activation (MIA) rodent models have been studied. However, the majority of these studies focus on adult behavioural outcomes that mirror adult symptoms related to neurodevelopmental disorders. There is little research reporting the effects of MIA on early postnatal development and even fewer using outbred mouse strains. Here, we use a modified version of the Fox scale to assess the effects of two MIA models, a bacterial model (LPS) and a viral model (PolyIC), on overall mouse pup sensorimotor development in CD-1 mice. Surprisingly, both bacterial and viral MIA models resulted in early reflex development when compared with control pups. To better characterize potential factors related to these changes, we examined indicators of sickness/inflammation in the immune-activated dams and in their pups. Sickness behaviour in the dams resulting from immune activation was assessed using a telemetry implant that allowed for continuous recording of temperature and activity in dams exposed to bacterial or viral immune activation. Although MIA dams showed reduced activity on the day immediately following MIA compared to controls, there was no evidence of fever. All dams showed elevated cytokines/chemokines associated with parturition, but this resolved by day 10 post-parturition and was unaffected by previous immune activation. Although circulating cytokines/chemokines in the dams were similar across MIA treatments, there were differences in the amount of interleukin-12p70 and interleukin-13 present in milk taken from milk bands in MIA pups, and interleukin-4 was overall decreased in LPS pup brain. These findings demonstrate that bacterial and viral models of MIA can result in similar precocious development in mice but differing long-term effects on inflammatory markers in both the milk provided to the pups and in their brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Trim
- Dalhousie University, Faculty of Science, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ryan V Wheeler
- Dalhousie University, Faculty of Science, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Tamara B Franklin
- Dalhousie University, Faculty of Science, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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3
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Carty A, Green R, Goodman CV, McLaughlin JR, Hu H, Lanphear B, Muckle G, Till C. Performance of the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 for the Assessment of Autistic Behaviors in a Sample of Canadian Preschool-Aged Children. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06487-z. [PMID: 39102070 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06487-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Behavioral traits of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) typically present in early childhood, underscoring the importance of screening tools for the early identification of ASD. The current study compared scores on the Social Responsiveness Scale-Second Edition (SRS-2) Preschool Form between the US standardization sample (n = 247) and a Canadian cohort of preschool-aged children (n = 595) recruited from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) study. In the MIREC sample, we examined whether ASD-like traits are correlated with sociodemographic characteristics and child intellectual abilities, and how maternal ratings of social skills assessed by the SRS-2 are associated with maternal ratings of general problem behaviors. Mean total SRS-2 raw score was significantly lower in the MIREC sample (mean = 29.7, SD = 15.8) compared to the US standardization sample (mean = 41.9, SD = 26.0). Total raw score in the US standardization sample did not significantly differ between males (mean = 40.6, SD = 23.1) and females (mean = 42.8, SD = 28.7), whereas in the MIREC sample the total raw score was significantly higher among males (mean = 33.0, SD = 17.1) than females (mean = 26.6, SD = 13.9). A significantly larger proportion of the MIREC sample was White, younger in age, and had more educated parents compared to the US standardization sample. ASD-like traits were correlated with lower intellectual abilities, a less enriched home environment, more behavioral problems, and poorer adaptive skills. SRS-2 Preschool Form scores were significantly lower in the Canadian sample compared to the US standardization sample, which may reflect demographic differences between the two groups. Girls may be under-identified when SRS-2 Preschool Form norms are used for screening ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Carty
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rivka Green
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health, York University, 4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Carly V Goodman
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health, York University, 4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - John R McLaughlin
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Howard Hu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bruce Lanphear
- Child and Family Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec Research Centre, School of Psychology, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Christine Till
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health, York University, 4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.
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4
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Dey AD, Mannan A, Dhiman S, Singh TG. Unlocking new avenues for neuropsychiatric disease therapy: the emerging potential of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors as promising therapeutic targets. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:1491-1516. [PMID: 38801530 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06617-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are transcription factors that regulate various physiological processes such as inflammation, lipid metabolism, and glucose homeostasis. Recent studies suggest that targeting PPARs could be beneficial in treating neuropsychiatric disorders by modulating neuronal function and signaling pathways in the brain. PPAR-α, PPAR-δ, and PPAR-γ have been found to play important roles in cognitive function, neuroinflammation, and neuroprotection. Dysregulation of PPARs has been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depression disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. The limitations and side effects of current treatments have prompted research to target PPARs as a promising novel therapeutic strategy. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown the potential of PPAR agonists and antagonists to improve symptoms associated with these disorders. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of PPARs in neuropsychiatric disorders, their potential as therapeutic targets, and the challenges and future directions for developing PPAR-based therapies. METHODS An extensive literature review of various search engines like PubMed, Medline, Bentham, Scopus, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was carried out with the keywords "PPAR, Neuropsychiatric disorders, Oxidative stress, Inflammation, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Major depression disorder, Autism spectrum disorder, molecular pathway". RESULT & CONCLUSION Although PPARs present a hopeful direction for innovative therapeutic approaches in neuropsychiatric conditions, additional research is required to address obstacles and convert this potential into clinically viable and individualized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Deka Dey
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
| | - Ashi Mannan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
| | - Sonia Dhiman
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
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5
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Boylu ME, Taşdemir İ, Doğan M, Özcanlı T. Forensic psychiatric assessment in autism spectrum disorder: Experience of a forensic psychiatry inpatient clinic from Türkiye. J Forensic Sci 2024. [PMID: 39039689 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15586] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by marked differences in communication patterns, reciprocal social interactions, and restricted, stereotyped, and repetitive interests and activities. Various behavioral problems in ASD, more so when accompanied by coexisting psychopathology, can sometimes lead to legal problems. In this study, the cases in which an opinion was requested in terms of criminal responsibility with the diagnosis of ASD in the 5-year period between 2018 and 2022 in the expertise department of psychiatric observation, where psychiatric cases were hospitalized and observed in the Council of Forensic Medicine (CFM), which is the official expert institution in Türkiye, were retrospectively evaluated. The mean age of the group whose criminal responsibility was reduced or removed was 22.9 years (±7.52) and the mean IQ score was 76.63 ± 18.94. The most common crime in this group was intentional injury (5/11), and it is noteworthy that the victims of these crimes were usually relatives of people with ASD (5/6). The criminal acts of people with ASD are usually single-movement, spontaneous, unplanned, impulsive acts. In addition, although there is no problem in cognitive perception in people with high functioning ASD (HF-ASD), various forensic situations may arise due to defects in emotional awareness. When we look at the practices of the CFM in Türkiye, it is seen that in cases where the diagnosis of ASD is clear and can be associated with the crime, criminal responsibility is usually completely eliminated. In HF-ASD types, although it is important to be associated with the crime, it is seen that criminal responsibility is generally reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Emin Boylu
- Expertise Department of Psychiatric Observation, Council of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - İlker Taşdemir
- Expertise Department of Psychiatric Observation, Council of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Doğan
- Expertise Department of Psychiatric Observation, Council of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuba Özcanlı
- Expertise Department of Psychiatric Observation, Council of Forensic Medicine, Ministry of Justice, İstanbul, Turkey
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Pantouli F, Pujol CN, Derieux C, Fonteneau M, Pellissier LP, Marsol C, Karpenko J, Bonnet D, Hibert M, Bailey A, Le Merrer J, Becker JAJ. Acute, chronic and conditioned effects of intranasal oxytocin in the mu-opioid receptor knockout mouse model of autism: Social context matters. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01915-1. [PMID: 39020142 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01915-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders whose diagnosis relies on deficient social interaction and communication together with repetitive behaviours. Multiple studies have highlighted the potential of oxytocin (OT) to ameliorate behavioural abnormalities in animal models and subjects with ASD. Clinical trials, however, yielded disappointing results. Our study aimed at assessing the behavioural effects of different regimens of OT administration in the Oprm1 null mouse model of ASD. We assessed the effects of intranasal OT injected once at different doses (0.15, 0.3, and 0.6 IU) and time points (5, 15, and 30 min) following administration, or chronically, on ASD-related behaviours (social interaction and preference, stereotypies, anxiety, nociception) in Oprm1+/+ and Oprm1-/- mice. We then tested whether pairing intranasal OT injection with social experience would influence its outcome on ASD-like symptoms, and measured gene expression in the reward/social circuit. Acute intranasal OT at 0.3 IU improved social behaviour in Oprm1-/- mice 5 min after administration, with limited effects on non-social behaviours. Chronic (8-17 days) OT maintained rescuing effects in Oprm1 null mice but was deleterious in wild-type mice. Finally, improvements in the social behaviour of Oprm1-/- mice were greater and longer lasting when OT was administered in a social context. Under these conditions, the expression of OT and vasopressin receptor genes, as well as marker genes of striatal projection neurons, was suppressed. We detected no sex difference in OT effects. Our results highlight the importance of considering dosage and social context when evaluating the effects of OT treatment in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fani Pantouli
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, Inserm, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
- Florida Research & Innovation Center, Cleveland Clinic, 9801 SW Discovery Way, Port St. Lucie, FL, 34987, USA
- Pharmacology section, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
| | - Camille N Pujol
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, Inserm, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
- Department of Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, 67091, Strasbourg, France
| | - Cécile Derieux
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, Inserm, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Mathieu Fonteneau
- UMR1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Parc de Grandmont, 37200, Tours, France
| | | | - Claire Marsol
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR7200 CNRS/Université de Strasbourg, 74 route du Rhin, 67412, Illkirch, France
| | - Julie Karpenko
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR7200 CNRS/Université de Strasbourg, 74 route du Rhin, 67412, Illkirch, France
| | - Dominique Bonnet
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR7200 CNRS/Université de Strasbourg, 74 route du Rhin, 67412, Illkirch, France
| | - Marcel Hibert
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR7200 CNRS/Université de Strasbourg, 74 route du Rhin, 67412, Illkirch, France
| | - Alexis Bailey
- Pharmacology section, Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, London, SW17 ORE, UK
| | - Julie Le Merrer
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, Inserm, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
- UMR1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Parc de Grandmont, 37200, Tours, France.
| | - Jerome A J Becker
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, Inserm, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
- UMR1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Parc de Grandmont, 37200, Tours, France.
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7
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Hantman RM, Zgodic A, Flory K, McLain AC, Bradshaw J, Eberth JM. Geographic Disparities in Availability of General and Specialized Pediatricians in the US and Prevalence of Childhood Neurodevelopmental Disorders. J Pediatr 2024:114188. [PMID: 39004171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
General pediatricians and those specialized in developmental-behavioral and neurodevelopmental disabilities support children with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We identified substantial geographic disparities in pediatrician availability (eg, urban > rural areas), as well as regions with low pediatrician access but high ASD/ADHD prevalence estimates (eg, the US Southeast).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Hantman
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA; Carolina Autism and Neurodevelopment Research Center, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| | - Anja Zgodic
- Rural and Minority Health Research Center, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | - Kate Flory
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Alexander C McLain
- Rural and Minority Health Research Center, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | - Jessica Bradshaw
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jan M Eberth
- Rural and Minority Health Research Center, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC; Department of Health Management and Policy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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8
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Balalian AA, Stingone JA, Kahn LG, Herbstman JB, Graeve RI, Stellman SD, Factor-Litvak P. Perinatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and child neurodevelopment: A comprehensive systematic review of outcomes and methodological approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118912. [PMID: 38615789 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), extensively used in various products, prompt ongoing concern despite reduced exposure since the 1970s. This systematic review explores prenatal PCB and hydroxylated metabolites (OH-PCBs) exposure's association with child neurodevelopment. Encompassing cognitive, motor development, behavior, attention, ADHD, and ASD risks, it also evaluates diverse methodological approaches in studies. METHODS PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases were searched through August 23, 2023, by predefined search strings. Peer-reviewed studies published in English were included. The inclusion criteria were: (i) PCBs/OH-PCBs measured directly in maternal and cord blood, placenta or breast milk collected in the perinatal period; (ii) outcomes of cognitive development, motor development, attention, behavior, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children≤18 years old. Quality assessment followed the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's tool. RESULTS Overall, 87 studies were included in this review. We found evidence for the association between perinatal PCB exposure and adverse cognitive development and attention issues in middle childhood. There appeared to be no or negligible link between perinatal PCB exposure and early childhood motor development or the risk of ADHD/ASD. There was an indication of a sex-specific association with worse cognition and attention scores among boys. Some individual studies suggested a possible association between prenatal exposure to OH-PCBs and neurodevelopmental outcomes. There was significant heterogeneity between the studies in exposure markers, exposure assessment timing, outcome assessment, and statistical analysis. CONCLUSIONS Significant methodological, clinical and statistical heterogeneity existed in the included studies. Adverse effects on cognitive development and attention were observed in middle childhood. Little or no apparent link on both motor development and risk of ADHD/ASD was observed in early childhood. Inconclusive evidence prevailed regarding other neurodevelopmental aspects due to limited studies. Future research could further explore sex-specific associations and evaluate associations at lower exposure levels post-PCB ban in the US. It should also consider OH-PCB metabolites, co-pollutants, mixtures, and their potential interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arin A Balalian
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Question Driven Design and Analysis Group (QD-DAG), New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jeanette A Stingone
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda G Kahn
- Departments of Pediatrics and Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julie B Herbstman
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard I Graeve
- Institute for Medical Sociology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Steven D Stellman
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pam Factor-Litvak
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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9
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Davis JM, Harrington MB, Howie FR, Mohammed KS, Gunderson JA. Reducing Time to Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder Using an Integrated Community Specialty Care Model: A Retrospective Study. J Pediatr 2024; 270:114009. [PMID: 38492915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate a fast-track triage model in an integrated community specialty clinic to reduce the age of diagnosis for patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). STUDY DESIGN A retrospective chart review was performed for patients seen in an integrated community specialty pediatric practice using a fast-track screening and triage model. The percentage of ASD diagnoses, age at diagnosis, and time from referral to diagnosis were evaluated. The fast-track triage model was compared with national and statewide estimates of median age of first evaluation and diagnosis. RESULTS From January 1, 2020, through December 31, 2021, 189 children with a mean (SD) age of 32.2 (12.4) months were screened in the integrated community specialty. Of these, 82 (43.4%) children were referred through the fast-track triage for further evaluation in the developmental and behavioral pediatrics (DBP) department, where 62 (75.6%) were given a primary diagnosis of ASD. Average wait time from referral to diagnosis using the fast-track triage model was 6 months. Mean (SD) age at diagnosis was 37.7 (13.5) months. The median age of diagnosis by the fast-track triage model was 33 months compared with the national and state median ages of diagnosis at 49 and 59 months, respectively. CONCLUSIONS With the known workforce shortage in fellowship-trained developmental behavioral pediatricians, the fast-track triage model is feasible and maintains quality of care while resulting in more timely diagnosis, and reducing burden on DBP by screening out cases who did not require further multidisciplinary DBP evaluation as they were appropriately managed by other areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Davis
- Division of Community Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Molly B Harrington
- Division of Community Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Flora R Howie
- Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Khaled S Mohammed
- Division of Community Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Jaclyn A Gunderson
- Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
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10
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Gallin Z, Kolevzon AM, Reichenberg A, Hankerson SH, Kolevzon A. Racial Differences in the Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06403-5. [PMID: 38941049 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06403-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Racial differences in prevalence rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have shifted in the United States (US) since the 1990s. This review addresses the nature and context of this shift and discusses potential contributing factors and areas for future research. METHODS Seventeen population-based epidemiological birth cohort studies on ASD prevalence in the US that included race as a variable are included in the review. Studies were identified via a keyword search on PubMed. To be included, studies were required to include race or ethnicity as a variable in the prevalence estimates, include at least 1000 cases with autism, and be published in English by June 3rd, 2023. RESULTS Results suggest that in nearly all birth cohorts prior to 2010, ASD prevalence rates were highest among White children. ASD prevalence rates among Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander (API) children (22.3, 22.5, and 22.2 per 1000, respectively) surpassed prevalence rates among White children (21.2 per 1000) in the 2010 birth cohort and continued to increase in the 2012 birth cohorts. CONCLUSIONS There are persistent racial differences in ASD prevalence in the US, and these differences were inverted after 2010, when ASD prevalence among Black, Hispanic, & API children surpassed ASD prevalence among White children. Possible drivers of this racial repatterning of ASD prevalence include changes in ASD screening and diagnosis, changes to health insurance policy, changes to immigration policy, and increased education attainment by minority groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Gallin
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Abraham Reichenberg
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sidney H Hankerson
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences & Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Kolevzon
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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11
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Ashrafun L, Uddin MJ, Debnath D. Caregiver Narratives of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Exploring Symptom Recognition, Diagnosis, and Interventions. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06440-0. [PMID: 38907780 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06440-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) poses myriad challenges for families, yet there is a scarcity of research focusing on their journey from recognizing initial anomalies to implementing interventions. This qualitative study examines how caregivers in Sylhet, Bangladesh, perceive and manage ASD in their children, including early symptom identification, diagnostic processes, and intervention strategies. Data for this study were collected through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and observations involving 22 caregivers of children with ASD. Participants were chosen using purposive-convenience sampling, and data collection continued until interpretive saturation was achieved. The study findings unveil nuanced caregiver perceptions of ASD causation, influenced by sociocultural factors, religious beliefs, and genetic predispositions. These determinants wield significant influence over treatment modalities and the child's developmental trajectory. Importantly, the prevalence of supernatural beliefs and myths often surpasses biomedical explanations, highlighting gaps in awareness, educational outreach, and understanding of ASD. Nevertheless, religious beliefs and rituals concurrently serve as adaptive coping mechanisms, offering solace amidst uncertainty. Furthermore, a striking observation emerges: despite parents frequently identifying anomalies in their children within a 24-month, a substantial delay of 3 to 5 years persists between initial symptom recognition and formal diagnosis. This delay predominantly stems from caregiver hesitancy driven by societal stigmatization, familial dismissal attitudes, and limited diagnostic and specialized services. This study highlights the challenging diagnostic journey and caregiving for children with ASD in Bangladesh, stressing the need for systemic improvements in services, awareness, and research to enhance the well-being of individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Ashrafun
- Department of Sociology, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Jasim Uddin
- Department of Sociology, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh.
| | - Dipa Debnath
- Department of Sociology, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
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12
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Shuffrey LC, Rennie B, Li X, Galai N, Pini N, Akbaryan A, Alshawabkeh A, Aschner J, Vargas JC, Costello L, D'Sa V, Deoni S, Dunlop A, Elliott AJ, Fifer WP, Hash J, Koinis-Mitchell D, Lai JS, Leventhal BL, Lewis J, Lucchini M, McArthur KL, Morales S, Nozadi SS, O'Connor TG, O'Shea TM, Page GP, Propper C, Sania A, Shuster C, Zimmerman E, Margolis AE. Combining developmental and sleep health measures for autism spectrum disorder screening: an ECHO study. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03306-0. [PMID: 38867029 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03306-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep problems are reported for up to 80% of autistic individuals. We examined whether parsimonious sets of items derived from the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R) and the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire (BISQ) are superior to the standard M-CHAT-R in predicting subsequent autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses. METHODS Participants from 11 Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) cohorts were included. We performed logistic LASSO regression models with 10-fold cross-validation to identify whether a combination of items derived from the M-CHAT-R and BISQ are superior to the standard M-CHAT-R in predicting ASD diagnoses. RESULTS The final sample comprised 1552 children. The standard M-CHAT-R had a sensitivity of 44% (95% CI: 34, 55), specificity of 92% (95% CI: 91, 94), and AUROC of 0.726 (95% CI: 0.663, 0.790). A higher proportion of children with ASD had difficulty falling asleep or resisted bedtime during infancy/toddlerhood. However, LASSO models revealed parental reports of sleep problems did not improve the accuracy of the M-CHAT-R in predicting ASD diagnosis. CONCLUSION While children with ASD had higher rates of sleep problems during infancy/toddlerhood, there was no improvement in ASD developmental screening through the incorporation of parent-report sleep metrics. IMPACT Parental-reported sleep problems are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We investigated whether the inclusion of parental-reports of infant/toddler sleep patterns enhanced the effectiveness of developmental screening for autism. We reported higher rates of difficulty falling asleep and resisting bedtime during infancy and toddlerhood among children later diagnosed with ASD; however, we did not find an improvement in ASD developmental screening through the incorporation of parent-report sleep metrics. In our sample, the standard M-CHAT-R had a sensitivity of 39% among children of mothers with government insurance compared with a sensitivity of 53% among children of mothers with employer-based insurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Shuffrey
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Brandon Rennie
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Xiuhong Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Mt Carmel, Israel
| | - Nicolò Pini
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anahid Akbaryan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Judy Aschner
- Department of Pediatrics, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Julianna Collazo Vargas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren Costello
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Viren D'Sa
- Department of Pediatrics, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sean Deoni
- Maternal Newborn and Child Health: Discovery & Tools, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Anne Dunlop
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amy J Elliott
- Center for Pediatric and Community Research, Avera Research Institute, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - William P Fifer
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Developmental Neuroscience, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonica Hash
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Daphne Koinis-Mitchell
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jin-Shei Lai
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bennett L Leventhal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Johnnye Lewis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Maristella Lucchini
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristen L McArthur
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Santiago Morales
- Departments of Psychology and Pediatrics, Developmental and Brain and Cognitive Science Areas, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sara S Nozadi
- Community Environmental Health Program, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Thomas G O'Connor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - T Michael O'Shea
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Grier P Page
- Analytics Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Cathi Propper
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ayesha Sania
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Coral Shuster
- The Brown Center for the Study of Children at Risk, Woman & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Emily Zimmerman
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northeastern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amy E Margolis
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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13
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Harrington CN, Morales A, Bernstein JA, Calderwood L. Implications of Provider Specialty, Test Type, and Demographic Factors on Genetic Testing Outcomes for Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06423-1. [PMID: 38858309 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06423-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
A minority of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are offered genetic testing by their providers or referred for genetics evaluation despite published guidelines and consensus statements supporting genetics-informed care for this population. This study aimed to investigate the ordering habits of providers of different specialties and to additionally assess the diagnostic utility of genetic testing by test type, patient sex, and race and ethnicity. We retrospectively analyzed data associated with orders for the indication of ASD from a large clinical laboratory over 6 years (2017-2022). Geneticists and neurologists were more likely than other specialists to order exome sequencing and neurodevelopmental (NDD) panel testing while other providers were more likely to order chromosomal microarray (CMA) and Fragile X testing. Exome had the highest diagnostic yield (24.5%), followed by NDD panel (6.4%), CMA (6.2%), and Fragile X testing (0.4%). Females were 1.4x (95% CI: 1.2-1.7) more likely than males to receive a genetic diagnosis. However, for Fragile X, males had a higher diagnostic yield than females (0.4% vs 0.2%). Our findings highlight the need to enable non-genetics providers to order comprehensive genetic testing or promote referral to genetics following negative CMA and/or Fragile X testing. Our data supports that ASD testing should include exome, CMA, and other clinically indicated tests, as first-tier tests, with the consideration of panel testing, in cases where exome sequencing is not an option. Lastly, our study helps to inform expectations for genetic testing yield by test type and patient presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin N Harrington
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Medicine Children's Health, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Ana Morales
- Translational Health Sciences Program, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jonathan A Bernstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Medicine Children's Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Laurel Calderwood
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Medicine Children's Health, Stanford, CA, USA
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14
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Jia SJ, Jing JQ, Yang CJ. A Review on Autism Spectrum Disorder Screening by Artificial Intelligence Methods. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06429-9. [PMID: 38842671 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06429-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE With the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), the importance of early screening and diagnosis has been subject to considerable discussion. Given the subtle differences between ASD children and typically developing children during the early stages of development, it is imperative to investigate the utilization of automatic recognition methods powered by artificial intelligence. We aim to summarize the research work on this topic and sort out the markers that can be used for identification. METHODS We searched the papers published in the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Medline, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, and EBSCO databases from 1st January 2013 to 13th November 2023, and 43 articles were included. RESULTS These articles mainly divided recognition markers into five categories: gaze behaviors, facial expressions, motor movements, voice features, and task performance. Based on the above markers, the accuracy of artificial intelligence screening ranged from 62.13 to 100%, the sensitivity ranged from 69.67 to 100%, the specificity ranged from 54 to 100%. CONCLUSION Therefore, artificial intelligence recognition holds promise as a tool for identifying children with ASD. However, it still needs to continually enhance the screening model and improve accuracy through multimodal screening, thereby facilitating timely intervention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Jia Jia
- Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Qi Jing
- Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang-Jiang Yang
- Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
- China Research Institute of Care and Education of Infants and Young, Shanghai, China.
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15
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Uke P, Gaikwad S, Vagha K, Wandile S. Unraveling the Spectrum: A Comprehensive Review of Autism Spectrum Disorder in India. Cureus 2024; 16:e62753. [PMID: 39036210 PMCID: PMC11260197 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62753] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors that profoundly impact the lives of affected individuals and their families. This article provides a comprehensive overview of ASD, focusing on screening, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. Early signs of ASD can manifest in infancy, but parents may not recognize them until their child falls behind in meeting social milestones. This delay in recognition is often due to a lack of awareness, societal stigma, and limited knowledge about developmental and behavioral disorders. Globally, ASD prevalence is increasing potentially due to broader diagnostic criteria, increased awareness, and improved screening practices. Screening for ASD is crucial for early identification and intervention. Various tools are available such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHATs), Trivandrum Autism Behavioral Checklist (TABC), and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Diagnosing ASD involves using established criteria such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and specific diagnostic tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Indian Scale for the Assessment of Autism (ISAA). Interventions for ASD should be multidisciplinary, involving professionals such as developmental pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, special educators, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and social workers. Applied behavior analysis (ABA), naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions (NDBIs), and parent-mediated treatment are among the evidence-based approaches. Additionally, speech-language therapy, motor therapy, and sensory integration therapy play vital roles in addressing the diverse needs of individuals with ASD. Medical interventions should be used alongside behavioral and environmental strategies. Early screening, accurate diagnosis, and tailored interventions are essential for improving the lives of individuals with ASD. A multidisciplinary approach and increased awareness are crucial in addressing the growing prevalence of ASD worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punam Uke
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Reseach, Wardha, IND
| | - Sarika Gaikwad
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Reseach, Wardha, IND
| | - Keta Vagha
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Reseach, Wardha, IND
| | - Shailesh Wandile
- Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Reseach, Wardha, IND
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16
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Ben-Sasson A, Guedalia J, Ilan K, Shaham M, Shefer G, Cohen R, Tamir Y, Gabis LV. Predicting autism traits from baby wellness records: A machine learning approach. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024:13623613241253311. [PMID: 38808667 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241253311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Timely identification of autism spectrum conditions is a necessity to enable children to receive the most benefit from early interventions. Emerging technological advancements provide avenues for detecting subtle, early indicators of autism from routinely collected health information. This study tested a model that provides a likelihood score for autism diagnosis from baby wellness visit records collected during the first 2 years of life. It included records of 591,989 non-autistic children and 12,846 children with autism. The model identified two-thirds of the autism spectrum condition group (boys 63% and girls 66%). Sex-specific models had several predictive features in common. These included language development, fine motor skills, and social milestones from visits at 12-24 months, mother's age, and lower initial growth but higher last growth measurements. Parental concerns about development or hearing impairment were other predictors. The models differed in other growth measurements and birth parameters. These models can support the detection of early signs of autism in girls and boys by using information routinely recorded during the first 2 years of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lidia V Gabis
- Maccabi Healthcare Services, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Israel
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17
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Paveenakiattikhun S, Likhitweerawong N, Sanguansermsri C. EEG findings and clinical severity and quality of life in non-epileptic patients with autism spectrum disorders. Child Neuropsychol 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38805362 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2024.2360651] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities could be seen in up to 60% of non-epileptic children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They have been used as biomarkers of ASD severity. The objective of our study is to identify EEG abnormalities in children with different degrees of ASD severity based on the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC). We also want to assess the quality of life for children with ASD. All of the children underwent at least one hour of sleep-deprived EEG. Forty-five children were enrolled, of whom 42 were male. EEG abnormalities were found in 10 (22.2%) children, predominantly in the bilateral frontal areas. There were no differences in EEG findings among the mild, moderate, and severe ASD groups. The severity of ASD was associated with female sex (p-value = 0.013), ASD with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (p-value = 0.032), ASD children taking medications (p-value = 0.048), and a lower Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) (p-value <0.001). Social and emotional domains were the most problematic for health-related quality of life in ASD children, according to parent reports of PedsQL. Further studies with a larger sample size will help to clarify the potential associations between EEG abnormalities and the severity of ASD, as well as the impact on quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirada Paveenakiattikhun
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Narueporn Likhitweerawong
- Child and Development Division, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Chinnuwat Sanguansermsri
- Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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18
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Kovacheva E, Gevezova M, Maes M, Sarafian V. The mast cells - Cytokines axis in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuropharmacology 2024; 249:109890. [PMID: 38431049 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disturbance, diagnosed in early childhood. It is associated with varying degrees of dysfunctional communication and social skills, repetitive and stereotypic behaviors. Regardless of the constant increase in the number of diagnosed patients, there are still no established treatment schemes in global practice. Many children with ASD have allergic symptoms, often in the absence of mast cell (MC) positive tests. Activation of MCs may release molecules related to inflammation and neurotoxicity, which contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD. The aim of the present paper is to enrich the current knowledge regarding the relationship between MCs and ASD by providing PPI network analysis-based data that reveal key molecules and immune pathways associated with MCs in the pathogenesis of autism. Network and enrichment analyzes were performed using receptor information and secreted molecules from activated MCs identified in ASD patients. Our analyses revealed cytokines and key marker molecules for MCs degranulation, molecular pathways of key mediators released during cell degranulation, as well as various receptors. Understanding the relationship between ASD and the activation of MCs, as well as the involved molecules and interactions, is important for elucidating the pathogenesis of ASD and developing effective future treatments for autistic patients by discovering new therapeutic target molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Kovacheva
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Gevezova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Michael Maes
- Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610072, China; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand; Cognitive Fitness and Technology Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
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Ronconi L, Cantiani C, Riva V, Franchin L, Bettoni R, Gori S, Bulf H, Valenza E, Facoetti A. Infants' reorienting efficiency depends on parental autistic traits and predicts future socio-communicative behaviors. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:40-49. [PMID: 38696607 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae089] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Attentional reorienting is dysfunctional not only in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but also in infants who will develop ASD, thus constituting a potential causal factor of future social interaction and communication abilities. Following the research domain criteria framework, we hypothesized that the presence of subclinical autistic traits in parents should lead to atypical infants' attentional reorienting, which in turn should impact on their future socio-communication behavior in toddlerhood. During an attentional cueing task, we measured the saccadic latencies in a large sample (total enrolled n = 89; final sample n = 71) of 8-month-old infants from the general population as a proxy for their stimulus-driven attention. Infants were grouped in a high parental traits (HPT; n = 23) or in a low parental traits (LPT; n = 48) group, according to the degree of autistic traits self-reported by their parents. Infants (n = 33) were then longitudinally followed to test their socio-communicative behaviors at 21 months. Results show a sluggish reorienting system, which was a longitudinal predictor of future socio-communicative skills at 21 months. Our combined transgenerational and longitudinal findings suggest that the early functionality of the stimulus-driven attentional network-redirecting attention from one event to another-could be directly connected to future social and communication development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Ronconi
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina, 58, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Cantiani
- Child Psychopathology Unit, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Via Don Luigi Monza, 20, 23842 Lecco, Italy
| | - Valentina Riva
- Child Psychopathology Unit, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Via Don Luigi Monza, 20, 23842 Lecco, Italy
| | - Laura Franchin
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Corso Bettini, 84, 38068 Rovereto, Italy
| | - Roberta Bettoni
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo, 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Simone Gori
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Piazzale Sant'Agostino, 2, 24129 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Herman Bulf
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo, 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Eloisa Valenza
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Via Venezia 8, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Facoetti
- Developmental and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Department of General Psychology, Via Venezia 8, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
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20
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Kadak MT, Serdengeçti N, Seçen Yazıcı M, Sandıkçı T, Aydın A, Koyuncu Z, Meral Y, Haşimoğlu A, Çalışkan Y, Bayraktar G, Can Öztürk E, Gökler ME, Choueiri R, Tarakçıoğlu MC. Turkish Validation of the Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism in Toddlers. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1297-1304. [PMID: 38155361 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231217801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT It is important to diagnose autism spectrum disorder at an early age and to start an early intervention program without delay. In this study, we aimed to validate the Rapid Interactive Screening Test for Autism in Toddlers (RITA-T) in a group of Turkish children and found that the RITA-T which has been shown to be a valid and reliable screening test for 18- to 36-month-old children in studies conducted in different countries, is also valid in Turkish children. Similar to previous studies, our results showed that the RITA-T has good sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing children with autism spectrum disorder. We think that our study will contribute to the timely initiation of early intervention programs for many children with autism by enabling a valid test to be used in screening programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tuncay Sandıkçı
- Erenkoy Mental and Nervous Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Turkey
| | | | | | - Yavuz Meral
- Istanbul Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Turkey
| | - Abas Haşimoğlu
- Bakirkoy Research and Training Hospital for Psychiatry, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Turkey
| | - Yasin Çalışkan
- Istanbul Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Turkey
| | - Gizem Bayraktar
- Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Training and Research Hospital, Turkey
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21
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Fonteneau M, Brugoux A, Jaccaz D, Donello JE, Banerjee P, Le Merrer J, Becker JA. The NMDA receptor modulator zelquistinel durably relieves behavioral deficits in three mouse models of autism spectrum disorder. Neuropharmacology 2024; 248:109889. [PMID: 38401792 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficient social communication and interaction together with restricted, stereotyped behaviors. Currently approved treatments relieve comorbidities rather than core symptoms. Since excitation/inhibition balance and synaptic plasticity are disrupted in ASD, molecules targeting excitatory synaptic transmission appear as highly promising candidates to treat this pathology. Among glutamatergic receptors, the NMDA receptor has received particular attention through the last decade to develop novel allosteric modulators. Here, we show that positive NMDA receptor modulation by zelquistinel, a spirocyclic β-lactam platform chemical, relieves core symptoms in two genetic and one environmental mouse models of ASD. A single oral dose of zelquistinel rescued, in a dose-response manner, social deficits and stereotypic behavior in Shank3Δex13-16-/- mice while chronic intraperitoneal administration promoted a long-lasting relief of such autistic-like features in these mice. Subchronic oral mid-dose zelquistinel treatment demonstrated durable effects in Shank3Δex13-16-/-, Fmr1-/- and in utero valproate-exposed mice. Carry-over effects were best maintained in the Fmr1 null mouse model, with social parameters being still fully recovered two weeks after treatment withdrawal. Among recently developed NMDA receptor subunit modulators, zelquistinel displays a promising therapeutic potential to relieve core symptoms in ASD patients, with oral bioavailability and long-lasting effects boding well for clinical applications. Efficacy in three mouse models with different etiologies supports high translational value. Further, this compound represents an innovative pharmacological tool to investigate plasticity mechanisms underlying behavioral deficits in animal models of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agathe Brugoux
- UMR 1253, IBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Tours, France; Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France
| | - Déborah Jaccaz
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France; Unité Expérimentale de Physiologie Animale de l'Orfrasière, INRAE UE 0028, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Julie Le Merrer
- UMR 1253, IBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Tours, France; Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France
| | - Jérôme Aj Becker
- UMR 1253, IBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Tours, France; Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France
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22
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Sheldrick RC, Hooker JL, Carter AS, Feinberg E, Croen LA, Kuhn J, Slate E, Wetherby AM. The influence of loss to follow-up in autism screening research: Taking stock and moving forward. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:656-667. [PMID: 37469104 PMCID: PMC10801774 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13867] [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] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND How best to improve the early detection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the subject of significant controversy. Some argue that universal ASD screeners are highly accurate, whereas others argue that evidence for this claim is insufficient. Relatedly, there is no clear consensus as to the optimal role of screening for making referral decisions for evaluation and treatment. Published screening research can meaningfully inform these questions-but only through careful consideration of children who do not complete diagnostic follow-up. METHODS We developed two simulation models that re-analyze the results of a large-scale validation study of the M-CHAT-R/F by Robins et al. (2014, Pediatrics, 133, 37). Model #1 re-analyzes screener accuracy across six scenarios, each reflecting different assumptions regarding loss to follow-up. Model #2 builds on this by closely examining differential attrition at each point of the multi-step detection process. RESULTS Estimates of sensitivity ranged from 40% to 94% across scenarios, demonstrating that estimates of accuracy depend on assumptions regarding the diagnostic status of children who were lost to follow-up. Across a range of plausible assumptions, data also suggest that children with undiagnosed ASD may be more likely to complete follow-up than children without ASD, highlighting the role of clinicians and caregivers in the detection process. CONCLUSIONS Using simulation modeling as a quantitative method to examine potential bias in screening studies, analyses suggest that ASD screening tools may be less accurate than is often reported. Models also demonstrate the critical importance of every step in a detection process-including steps that determine whether children should complete an additional evaluation. We conclude that parent and clinician decision-making regarding follow-up may contribute more to detection than is widely assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alice S. Carter
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA
| | - Emily Feinberg
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, MA
| | - Lisa A. Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Jocelyn Kuhn
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, MA
| | - Elizabeth Slate
- Department of Statistics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL
| | - Amy M. Wetherby
- College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL
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23
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Chan DV, Doran JD. Mental health counseling is rated as most helpful by autistic adults: Service perspectives in adulthood. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1190-1202. [PMID: 37679948 PMCID: PMC10918044 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231197446] [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: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT The number of autistic adults is growing, but there are fewer services to support them in adulthood. Many autistic adults need some support services to lead successful adult lives. We know a lot about the services autistic adults use and some of the problems with using these services, but we do not know which services are most helpful to them and how the services they use relate to how they interact with their communities. Forty autistic adults took part in a study about service use and community participation. They completed surveys, interviews, and carried a global positioning system tracker. They answered questions about which services are most helpful in adulthood, things that make it hard to use services, and what services they needed. Most participants used two services in the past 2 years, most frequently mental health and employment services. Adults who were currently seeing a mental health counselor were more likely to be working full-time and visit more locations in the community compared to those who were not seeing a counselor. Mental health services were reported as the most helpful service they received as adults, followed by employment services. We often focus on the importance of employment services after high school, but our findings show a need for both mental health and employment services for autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dara V Chan
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
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24
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Thom-Jones S, Melgaard I, Gordon CS. Autistic Women's Experience of Motherhood: A Qualitative Analysis of Reddit. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06312-7. [PMID: 38668893 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06312-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Autistic mothers remain under-represented in parental and autism research despite the associated physical and psychosocial challenges that accompany the transition to motherhood. Extant literature suggests autistic mothers experience sensory difficulties, communication challenges, stigma, and comorbidities as difficulties, but these studies have focused on autistic women in the perinatal period. The aim of this study was to examine reflections on motherhood from a Reddit community for autistic parents. Identified themes were Autistic Mothering is Different, Autistic Mothers Need Autistic Mothers, Autistic Mothers Experience Stigma, and Learnings from Lockdown. Findings extend existing research by offering insight into the ways autism impacts mothers beyond the perinatal period and have important implications for the future design and delivery of support services for autistic mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Thom-Jones
- Australian Catholic University Limited, Melbourne, VIC, 3777, Australia.
| | - Imogen Melgaard
- School of Behavioural & Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Chloe S Gordon
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
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25
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Ben-Sasson A, Guedalia J, Nativ L, Ilan K, Shaham M, Gabis LV. A Prediction Model of Autism Spectrum Diagnosis from Well-Baby Electronic Data Using Machine Learning. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:429. [PMID: 38671647 PMCID: PMC11049145 DOI: 10.3390/children11040429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Early detection of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial for timely intervention, yet diagnosis typically occurs after age three. This study aimed to develop a machine learning model to predict ASD diagnosis using infants' electronic health records obtained through a national screening program and evaluate its accuracy. A retrospective cohort study analyzed health records of 780,610 children, including 1163 with ASD diagnoses. Data encompassed birth parameters, growth metrics, developmental milestones, and familial and post-natal variables from routine wellness visits within the first two years. Using a gradient boosting model with 3-fold cross-validation, 100 parameters predicted ASD diagnosis with an average area under the ROC curve of 0.86 (SD < 0.002). Feature importance was quantified using the Shapley Additive explanation tool. The model identified a high-risk group with a 4.3-fold higher ASD incidence (0.006) compared to the cohort (0.001). Key predictors included failing six milestones in language, social, and fine motor domains during the second year, male gender, parental developmental concerns, non-nursing, older maternal age, lower gestational age, and atypical growth percentiles. Machine learning algorithms capitalizing on preventative care electronic health records can facilitate ASD screening considering complex relations between familial and birth factors, post-natal growth, developmental parameters, and parent concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayelet Ben-Sasson
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel (L.N.)
| | - Joshua Guedalia
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel (L.N.)
| | - Liat Nativ
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel (L.N.)
| | - Keren Ilan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel (L.N.)
| | - Meirav Shaham
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel (L.N.)
| | - Lidia V. Gabis
- Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel-Aviv 6812509, Israel;
- Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Keshet Autism Center Maccabi Wolfson, Holon 5822007, Israel
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26
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Zamstein O, Sheiner E, Binyamin Y, Pariente G, Wainstock T. Examining the relationship between autism spectrum disorder in children whose mother had labour epidural analgesia for their birth: A retrospective cohort study. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2024; 41:282-287. [PMID: 38084085 DOI: 10.1097/eja.0000000000001932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Controversy exists regarding the association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children whose mother had labour epidural analgesia for their birth, as the few existing investigations have reported mixed findings. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the possibility of an association in our heterogeneous population. DESIGN A retrospective population-based cohort study. SETTING Vaginal deliveries that took place between the years 2005 and 2017 at Soroka University Medical Center, a tertiary referral hospital in Israel, and a follow-up on the incidence of ASD in the children. PATIENTS A hundred and thirty-nine thousand, nine hundred and eighty-one labouring patients and their offspring. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The incidence of children diagnosed with ASD (both hospital and community-based diagnoses) was compared based on whether their mothers had received labour epidural analgesia during their labour. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve compared cumulative incidence of ASD. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to control for relevant confounders. RESULTS Labour epidural analgesia was administered to 33 315 women. Epidural analgesia was more common among high-risk pregnancy groups (including pregnancies complicated with diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders, intrauterine growth restriction, and oligohydramnios; P < 0.001). In a Cox proportional hazards model, the association between epidural analgesia during labour and ASD in the children lost statistical significance following adjustment for confounders such as maternal age, gestational age, hypertensive disorders, diabetes mellitus, and ethnicity [adjusted hazard ratio = 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.96 to 1.34, P = 0.152]. CONCLUSION In our population, after adjusting for confounders, epidural analgesia is not independently associated with autism spectrum disorder in the children. These findings enhance our knowledge regarding the safety of epidural analgesia and enable patients to make informed decisions about their pain relief techniques during labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omri Zamstein
- From the Obstetrics and Gynecology Division, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel (OZ, ES, GP), Department of Anesthesiology, Soroka University Medical Center and the Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel (YB) and Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel (TW)
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27
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Ames JL, Davignon MN, Hayes EA, Croen LA. Health Care for Autistic Children: A Public Health Perspective. Pediatr Clin North Am 2024; 71:111-125. [PMID: 38423712 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2024.01.002] [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
Autism has been the subject of large-scale public health investment. These investments are increasingly shifting toward mitigating the lifelong disability and impairment associated with autism. Key efforts include bolstering screening schedules, accelerating the path to diagnosis and early entry into evidence-based therapies, and providing preventive management of common co-occurring conditions. Enhancing their implementation will necessitate addressing neurodiversity and health equity. Pediatric primary care teams continue to be important stewards in population-level initiatives to promote autistic health. To thrive in this role, these providers will benefit from specific educational and logistical supports from the health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Ames
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 4480 Hacienda Drive, Building B, Pleasanton, CA 94588, USA.
| | - Meghan N Davignon
- Kaiser Permanente Roseville Medical Center, 1600 Eureka Road, Building C, Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Roseville, CA 95661, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Hayes
- Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, 275 West Macarthur Boulevard, Oakland, CA 94611, USA
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 4480 Hacienda Drive, Building B, Pleasanton, CA 94588, USA
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28
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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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29
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Theoharides TC, Twahir A, Kempuraj D. Mast cells in the autonomic nervous system and potential role in disorders with dysautonomia and neuroinflammation. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2024; 132:440-454. [PMID: 37951572 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Mast cells (MC) are ubiquitous in the body, and they are critical for not only in allergic diseases but also in immunity and inflammation, including having potential involvement in the pathophysiology of dysautonomias and neuroinflammatory disorders. MC are located perivascularly close to nerve endings and sites such as the carotid bodies, heart, hypothalamus, the pineal gland, and the adrenal gland that would allow them not only to regulate but also to be affected by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). MC are stimulated not only by allergens but also many other triggers including some from the ANS that can affect MC release of neurosensitizing, proinflammatory, and vasoactive mediators. Hence, MC may be able to regulate homeostatic functions that seem to be dysfunctional in many conditions, such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, and Long-COVID syndrome. The evidence indicates that there is a possible association between these conditions and diseases associated with MC activation. There is no effective treatment for any form of these conditions other than minimizing symptoms. Given the many ways MC could be activated and the numerous mediators released, it would be important to develop ways to inhibit stimulation of MC and the release of ANS-relevant mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Assma Twahir
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
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30
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Leng LL, Zhu YW, Zhou LG. Explaining differences in autism detection timing: Age of diagnosis and associated individual and socio-familial factors in Chinese children. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:896-907. [PMID: 37491952 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231187184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Timely detection is an issue of paramount importance in the care of children with autism spectrum disorder. Whether the delayed autism spectrum disorder diagnosis can be explained by children's clinical presentations and socio-familial status in China is a question to be addressed. We investigated 1235 autism spectrum disorder children from 132 rehabilitation organisations in Shenzhen, China. These children were found to have a mean age of diagnosis of 31.4 ± 12.7 months and a median age of diagnosis of 30.0 months. The majority of these children were able to receive their diagnosis during toddlerhood. However, about one in six were not diagnosed until they entered preschool or later, thus missing the golden window of opportunity for early intervention. The age of diagnosis was likely to be late if the children were older, were less severe and presented with no intellectual impairment. The odds of having a delayed autism spectrum disorder diagnosis were more than 9 times higher among migrant autism spectrum disorder children than among those with local household registrations, thus underscoring the importance of identifying culturally sensitive socio-economic determinants in autism spectrum disorder detection, as these factors are likely to affect the quality of life of many autism spectrum disorder children and their families.
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31
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Weitlauf AS, Miceli A, Vehorn A, Dada Y, Pinnock T, Harris JW, Hine J, Warren Z. Screening, Diagnosis, and Intervention for Autism: Experiences of Black and Multiracial Families Seeking Care. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:931-942. [PMID: 36626007 PMCID: PMC10330934 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05861-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite advances in screening and awareness, Black and multiracial families continue to experience challenges when seeking an autism diagnosis for their children. METHODS We surveyed 400 Black and multiracial families of young children with autism from an existing research database in the United States about their retrospective diagnostic experiences. We gathered quantitative and qualitative data and engaged in iterative coding to understand timing and content of first concerns, families' experiences of care providers and systems, and the impact of race and culture on accessing care. RESULTS Families provided examples of early developmental concern and described provider, systemic, and cultural barriers and facilitators to care. Families also provided insight into the influence of culture and made recommendations on how the medical system could better care for Black and multiracial families of children with autism. CONCLUSIONS Results add to a growing body of literature supporting the need for culturally sensitive and accessible care related to developmental monitoring, diagnosis, and follow-up care for Black and multiracial children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Weitlauf
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Alexandra Miceli
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Alison Vehorn
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Yewande Dada
- Department of Pediatrics, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Theodora Pinnock
- Department of Pediatrics, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Joyce W Harris
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeffrey Hine
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Zachary Warren
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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32
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Dubois-Sage M, Jacquet B, Jamet F, Baratgin J. People with Autism Spectrum Disorder Could Interact More Easily with a Robot than with a Human: Reasons and Limits. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:131. [PMID: 38392485 PMCID: PMC10886012 DOI: 10.3390/bs14020131] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder show deficits in communication and social interaction, as well as repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Interacting with robots could bring benefits to this population, notably by fostering communication and social interaction. Studies even suggest that people with Autism Spectrum Disorder could interact more easily with a robot partner rather than a human partner. We will be looking at the benefits of robots and the reasons put forward to explain these results. The interest regarding robots would mainly be due to three of their characteristics: they can act as motivational tools, and they are simplified agents whose behavior is more predictable than that of a human. Nevertheless, there are still many challenges to be met in specifying the optimum conditions for using robots with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Dubois-Sage
- Laboratoire Cognitions Humaine et Artificielle, RNSR 200515259U, UFR de Psychologie, Université Paris 8, 93526 Saint-Denis, France
| | - Baptiste Jacquet
- Laboratoire Cognitions Humaine et Artificielle, RNSR 200515259U, UFR de Psychologie, Université Paris 8, 93526 Saint-Denis, France
- Association P-A-R-I-S, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Frank Jamet
- Laboratoire Cognitions Humaine et Artificielle, RNSR 200515259U, UFR de Psychologie, Université Paris 8, 93526 Saint-Denis, France
- Association P-A-R-I-S, 75005 Paris, France
- UFR d'Éducation, CY Cergy Paris Université, 95000 Cergy-Pontoise, France
| | - Jean Baratgin
- Laboratoire Cognitions Humaine et Artificielle, RNSR 200515259U, UFR de Psychologie, Université Paris 8, 93526 Saint-Denis, France
- Association P-A-R-I-S, 75005 Paris, France
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33
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Wu SI, Huang YH, Kao KL, Lin YW, Tsai PL, Chiu NC, Chung CH, Chen CP. Psychiatric disorders in term-born children with marginally low birth weight: a population-based study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:23. [PMID: 38331844 PMCID: PMC10854069 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00714-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marginally low birth weight (MLBW) is defined as a birth weight of 2000 ~ 2499 g. Inconsistent findings have been reported on whether children with low birth weight had higher rates of neurological, attention, or cognitive symptoms. No studies have explored the occurrence of clinically diagnosed psychiatric disorders in term- born MLBW infants. We aimed to investigate the risk of subsequent psychiatric disorders in term-born children with MLBW. METHODS This is a nationwide retrospective cohort study, by analysing the data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database from 2008 to 2018. The study population includes propensity-score-matched term-born infants with MLBW and those without MLBW (birth weight ≥ 2500 g). Cox proportional hazard analysis was used after adjustment for potential demographic and perinatal comorbidity confounders. Incidence rates and hazard ratios (HR) of 11 psychiatric clinical diagnoses were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 53,276 term-born MLBW infants and 1,323,930 term-born infants without MLBW were included in the study. After propensity score matching for demographic variables and perinatal comorbidities, we determined that the term-born MLBW infants (n = 50,060) were more likely to have attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (HR = 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.20, 1.33]), autism spectrum disorder (HR = 1.26, 95% CI [1.14, 1.40]), conduct disorder (HR = 1.25, 95% CI [1.03, 1.51]), emotional disturbance (HR: = 1.13, 95% CI [1.02, 1.26]), or specific developmental delays (HR = 1.38, 95% CI [1.33, 1.43]) than term-born infants without MLBW (n = 50,060). CONCLUSION MLBW was significantly associated with the risk of subsequent psychiatric disorder development among term-born infants. The study findings demonstrate that further attention to mental health and neurodevelopment issues may be necessary in term-born children with MLBW. However, possibilities of misclassification in exposures or outcomes, and risks of residual and unmeasured confounding should be concerned when interpreting our data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-I Wu
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, #46, Sec. 3, Zhongzheng Rd, Sanzhi Dist., New Taipei City, 252, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsin Huang
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, #46, Sec. 3, Zhongzheng Rd, Sanzhi Dist., New Taipei City, 252, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Liang Kao
- Department of Pediatrics, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Lin
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Li Tsai
- Division of Colorectum, Department of Surgery, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nan-Chang Chiu
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, #46, Sec. 3, Zhongzheng Rd, Sanzhi Dist., New Taipei City, 252, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Children's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hu Chung
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, #46, Sec. 3, Zhongzheng Rd, Sanzhi Dist., New Taipei City, 252, Taiwan.
| | - Chie-Pein Chen
- Division of High Risk Pregnancy, MacKay Memorial Hospital, 92 Sec. 2 Zhong-Shan North Road, 104, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Ambigapathy R, Ramachandram S, Rahim FF. Referral patterns and outcomes of children who failed Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers screening during routine health screening at maternal and child health clinics in the northeast district of Penang: A retrospective cohort study. MALAYSIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS OF MALAYSIA 2024; 19:9. [PMID: 38496769 PMCID: PMC10944646 DOI: 10.51866/oa.378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that causes significant social, communication and behavioural challenges. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) is a parent-administered screening questionnaire for ASD used at 18 and 36 months of age. This study aimed to determine the outcomes of children who failed M-CHAT screening during routine health screening at maternal and child health clinics in northeast district, Penang and the prevalence of ASD among those with a final diagnosis. Methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted at 12 maternal and child health clinics. All children who failed M-CHAT screening at 18 and 36 months from January 2017 to December 2021 and received a final diagnosis before 31 March 2022 were recruited. All information required was recorded in a data collection form and analysed using SPSS. Multiple logistic regression was performed to assess the association between the factors and ASD status. Results Eighty-two children failed M-CHAT screening. Fifty children did not receive a final diagnosis. Among 32 children who received a final diagnosis, 25 were diagnosed with ASD (78.1%). Among the children who underwent M-CHAT screening, the odds of having ASD increased by a factor of 1.2 for every 1-unit increase in age at final diagnosis. Conclusion In northeast district, Penang, more than half of children who fail M-CHAT screening have no final diagnosis. The specificity of the M-CHAT is 78.1% among children with a final diagnosis of ASD. The age at final diagnosis is positively associated with the diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjini Ambigapathy
- MBBS, M.MED (FAM MED), Klinik Kesihatan Sungai Dua (Timur Laut), Lot 2544, Mukim 13, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Sathyabama Ramachandram
- MBBS, MRCPCH, FRCPCH, Department of Paediatrics, Penang General Hospital, Jalan Residensi Georgetown Penang, Malaysia
| | - Fairuz Fadzilah Rahim
- BScBiomed, MScMedStats, Department of Public Health Medicine, RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus 4, Sepoy Lines Road, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
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Konishi S, Kuwata M, Matsumoto Y, Yoshikawa Y, Takata K, Haraguchi H, Kudo A, Ishiguro H, Kumazaki H. Self-administered questionnaires enhance emotion estimation of individuals with autism spectrum disorders in a robotic interview setting. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1249000. [PMID: 38380121 PMCID: PMC10877007 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1249000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Robots offer many unique opportunities for helping individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Determining the optimal motion of robots when interacting with individuals with ASD is important for achieving more natural human-robot interactions and for exploiting the full potential of robotic interventions. Most prior studies have used supervised machine learning (ML) of user behavioral data to enable robot perception of affective states (i.e., arousal and valence) and engagement. It has previously been suggested that including personal demographic information in the identification of individuals with ASD is important for developing an automated system to perceive individual affective states and engagement. In this study, we hypothesized that assessing self-administered questionnaire data would contribute to the development of an automated estimation of the affective state and engagement when individuals with ASD are interviewed by an Android robot, which will be linked to implementing long-term interventions and maintaining the motivation of participants. Methods Participants sat across a table from an android robot that played the role of the interviewer. Each participant underwent a mock job interview. Twenty-five participants with ASD (males 22, females 3, average chronological age = 22.8, average IQ = 94.04) completed the experiment. We collected multimodal data (i.e., audio, motion, gaze, and self-administered questionnaire data) to train a model to correctly classify the state of individuals with ASD when interviewed by an android robot. We demonstrated the technical feasibility of using ML to enable robot perception of affect and engagement of individuals with ASD based on multimodal data. Results For arousal and engagement, the area under the curve (AUC) values of the model estimates and expert coding were relatively high. Overall, the AUC values of arousal, valence, and engagement were improved by including self-administered questionnaire data in the classification. Discussion These findings support the hypothesis that assessing self-administered questionnaire data contributes to the development of an automated estimation of an individual's affective state and engagement. Given the efficacy of including self-administered questionnaire data, future studies should confirm the effectiveness of such long-term intervention with a robot to maintain participants' motivation based on the proposed method of emotion estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunta Konishi
- Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masaki Kuwata
- Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshio Matsumoto
- Department of Medical and Robotic Engineering Design, Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Yoshikawa
- Department of Systems Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keiji Takata
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Haraguchi
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Azusa Kudo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ishiguro
- Department of Systems Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kumazaki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- College of Science and Engineering, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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Klaiman C, White S, Richardson S, McQueen E, Walum H, Aoki C, Smith C, Minjarez M, Bernier R, Pedapati E, Bishop S, Ence W, Wainer A, Moriuchi J, Tay SW, Deng Y, Jones W, Gillespie S, Klin A. Expert Clinician Certainty in Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder in 16-30-Month-Olds: A Multi-site Trial Secondary Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:393-408. [PMID: 36396807 PMCID: PMC9672659 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05812-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Differential diagnosis of young children with suspected autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is challenging, and clinician uncertainty about a child's diagnosis may contribute to misdiagnosis and subsequent delays in access to early treatment. The current study was designed to replicate and expand a recent report in this Journal (McDonnell et al. in J Autism Dev Disord 49:1391-1401, https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2020.1823850 , 2019), in which only 60% of diagnoses were made with complete certainty by clinicians evaluating 478 toddlers and preschool children referred for possible ASD to specialized clinics. In this study, secondary analyses were performed on diagnostic, demographic and clinical data for 496 16-30-month-old children who were consecutive referrals to a 6-site clinical trial executed by specialized centers with experienced clinicians following best-practice procedures for the diagnosis of ASD. Overall, 70.2% of diagnoses were made with complete certainty. The most important factor associated with clinician uncertainty was mid-level autism-related symptomatology. Mid-level verbal age equivalents were also associated with clinician uncertainty, but measures of symptomatology were stronger predictors. None of the socio-demographic variables, including sex of the child, was significantly associated with clinician certainty. Close to one third of early diagnoses of ASD are made with a degree of uncertainty. The delineation of specific ranges on the ADOS-2 most likely to result in clinician uncertainty identified in this study may provide an opportunity to reduce random subjectivity in diagnostic decision-making via calibration of young-child diagnostic thresholds based on later-age longitudinal diagnostic outcome data, and via standardization of decision-making in regard to clinical scenarios frequently encountered by clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Klaiman
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Autism & Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Stormi White
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Autism & Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shana Richardson
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Emma McQueen
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Autism & Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hasse Walum
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Autism & Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christa Aoki
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Mendy Minjarez
- Seattle Children's Hospital & Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Raphael Bernier
- Seattle Children's Hospital & Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ernest Pedapati
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Somer Bishop
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Whitney Ence
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Warren Jones
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Autism & Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Scott Gillespie
- Pediatric Biostatistics Core, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ami Klin
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Division of Autism & Related Disorders, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Goodrich AJ, Kleeman MJ, Tancredi DJ, Ludeña YJ, Bennett DH, Hertz-Picciotto I, Schmidt RJ. Ultrafine particulate matter exposure during second year of life, but not before, associated with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder in BKMR mixtures model of multiple air pollutants. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 242:117624. [PMID: 37956751 PMCID: PMC10872511 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117624] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal and early postnatal air pollution exposures have been shown to be associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk but results regarding specific air pollutants and exposure timing are mixed and no study has investigated the effects of combined exposure to multiple air pollutants using a mixtures approach. We aimed to evaluate prenatal and early life multipollutant mixtures for the drivers of associations of air pollution with ASD. This study examined 484 typically developing (TD) and 660 ASD children from the CHARGE case-control study. Daily air concentrations for NO2, O3, ultrafine (PM0.1), fine (PM0.1-2.5), and coarse (PM2.5-10) particles were predicted from chemical transport models with statistical bias adjustment based on ground-based monitors. Daily averages were calculated for each exposure period (pre-pregnancy, each trimester of pregnancy, first and second year of life) between 2000 and 2016. Air pollution variables were natural log-transformed and then standardized. Individual and joint effects of pollutant exposure with ASD, and potential interactions, were evaluated for each period using hierarchical Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) models, with three groups: PM size fractions (PM0.1, PM0.1-2.5, PM2.5-10), NO2, and O3. In BKMR models, the PM group was associated with ASD in year 2 (group posterior inclusion probability (gPIP) = 0.75), and marginally associated in year 1 (gPIP = 0.497). PM2.5-10 appeared to drive the association (conditional PIP (cPIP) = 0.64) in year 1, while PM0.1 appeared to drive the association in year 2 (cPIP = 0.76), with both showing a moderately strong increased risk. Pre-pregnancy O3 showed a slight J-shaped risk of ASD (gPIP = 0.55). No associations were observed for exposures during pregnancy. Pre-pregnancy O3 and year 2 p.m.0.1 exposures appear to be associated with an increased risk of ASD. Future research should examine ultrafine particulate matter in relation to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Goodrich
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
| | - Michael J Kleeman
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Daniel J Tancredi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Yunin J Ludeña
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA; Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Deborah H Bennett
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA; Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca J Schmidt
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA; Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Li X, Jiang M, Zhao L, Yang K, Lu T, Zhang D, Li J, Wang L. Relationship between autism and brain cortex surface area: genetic correlation and a two-sample Mendelian randomization study. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:69. [PMID: 38263034 PMCID: PMC10807092 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05514-8] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in surface area (SA) in specific regions of the cortex have been reported in many individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), however, the genetic background between ASD and SA is still unclear. This study estimated the genetic correlation and causal effect of ASD and cortical SA. METHODS Summarized data of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were separately downloaded from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (18,381 cases of ASD, and 27,969 controls) and the Enhancing Neuroimaging Genetics through Meta-Analysis Consortium (33,992 participants of Europeans). We used Linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and Heritability Estimation from Summary Statistics (HESS) to calculate the heritability of each trait. As for the genetic correlation between ASD and SA, LDSC was used for global correlation and HESS was used to examine the local genetic covariance further. We used three Mendelian randomization (MR) methods, Inverse-variance weighted, MR-Egger, and weighted median to estimate the causal relationship. RESULTS LDSC observed a nominal significant genetic correlation (rg = 0.1229, P-value = 0.0346) between ASD and SA of the rostral anterior cingulate gyrus whereas analysis through HESS did not reveal any significant loci having genetic covariance. Based on MR results, statistically meaningful estimations were found in the following areas, postcentral cortex (β (SE) = 21.82 (7.84) mm, 95% CI: 6.46 to 37.19 mm, PIVW = 5.38 × 10- 3, PFDR = 3.09 × 10- 2), posterior cingulate gyrus (β (SE) = 6.23 (2.69) mm, 95% CI: 0.96 to 11.49 mm, PIVW = 2.05 × 10- 2, PFDR = 4.26 × 10- 2), supramarginal gyrus (β (SE) = 19.25 (8.43) mm, 95% CI: 29.29 to 35.77 mm, PIVW = 2.24 × 10- 2, PFDR = 4.31 × 10- 2). CONCLUSION Our results provided genetic evidence to support the opinion that individuals with ASD tend to develop differences in cortical SA of special areas. The findings contributed to understanding the genetic relationship between ASD and cortical SA.
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Grants
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 2019B030335001 Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- 81971283, 82171537, 82071541, 81671363, and 81730037 National Natural Science Foundation of China
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Miaomiao Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Liyang Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Kang Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Tianlan Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Dai Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, Institute for Brain Research and Rehabilitation (IBRR), South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.
| | - Lifang Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.
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Zavaleta-Ramírez P, Rosetti M, Albores-Gallo L, López ON, González PP. Pediatric and psychiatric models of autism care in Mexico: Differences in diagnostic tools and prescribed interventions. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 29:232-244. [PMID: 37541309 DOI: 10.1177/13591045231193817] [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: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Low- and middle-income countries face heterogeneity in the way clinicians' approach Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis and treatment. The current study analyzes the diagnostic tools, laboratory tests, pharmacological and psychosocial interventions received by patients during the steps to diagnosis and treatment of two specialized care centers. Researchers interviewed families with a child with ASD receiving services at either a child psychiatric or a pediatric hospital. Of the total sample, 47% reported clinicians not using a diagnostic tool, 20% reported not receiving any psychosocial intervention, and 88% reported receiving a pharmacological prescription. Patients at the pediatric hospital were more likely to receive interventions with some components of Applied Behavioral Analysis, Early Start Denver Model, Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children, and Sensory integration therapy; while patients at the psychiatric hospital were more likely to undergo learning, daily living skills, and socialization therapies. Patients at the psychiatric hospital received significantly more requests to obtain auditory and vision tests whilst genetic testing and imaging were more common in the pediatric hospital. The range and variability in terms of diagnostic tools, laboratory tests, and treatment options observed for both sites reflect a lack of consensus. Recommendations to improve ASD diagnostic and treatment in Mexico are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Zavaleta-Ramírez
- Hospital Psiquiátrico Infantil Dr. Juan N. Navarro, Servicios de Atención Psiquiátrica, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marcos Rosetti
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Dr. Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, México City, México
| | - Lilia Albores-Gallo
- Hospital Psiquiátrico Infantil Dr. Juan N. Navarro, Servicios de Atención Psiquiátrica, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Omar Nafate López
- Hospital de Especialidades Pediátricas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, México
| | - Paula Padierna González
- Hospital Psiquiátrico Infantil Dr. Juan N. Navarro, Servicios de Atención Psiquiátrica, Mexico City, Mexico
- Fundación Alicia Koplowitz, Madrid, España
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Nasir AK, Strong-Bak W, Bernard M. Diagnostic Evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Pediatric Primary Care. J Prim Care Community Health 2024; 15:21501319241247997. [PMID: 38650542 PMCID: PMC11036916 DOI: 10.1177/21501319241247997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continue to experience significant delays in diagnosis and interventions. One of the main factors contributing to this delay is a shortage of developmental-behavioral specialists. Diagnostic evaluation of ASD by primary care pediatricians (PCPs) has been shown to be reliable and to decrease the interval from first concern to diagnosis. In this paper, we present the results of a primary care ASD diagnosis program in which the PCP serves as the primary diagnostician and leverages the infrastructure of the primary care medical home to support the child and family during the pre- and post-diagnostic periods, along with data on parental satisfaction with this model. METHODS Retrospective data from a cohort of patients evaluated through this program were analyzed to determine the mean age at diagnosis and interval from referral for evaluation to diagnosis. We used survey methodology to obtain data from parents regarding their satisfaction with the process. RESULTS Data from 8 of 20 children evaluated from April 2021 through May 2022 showed a median age of diagnosis of 34.5 months compared to the national average of 49 months. Mean interval from referral for evaluation to diagnosis was 3.5 months. Parental survey responses indicated high satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS This model was successful in shortening the interval from referral to diagnosis resulting in significant decrease of age at diagnosis compared with the national average. Widespread implementation could improve access to timely diagnostic services and improve outcomes for children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa K. Nasir
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Marie Bernard
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Buffle P, Armijos C, Naranjo A, Gentaz E. Feasibility of an observational procedure to enhance early identification of autism spectrum disorder in paediatric settings: A mixed-methods study on an Ecuadorian sample. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:84-94. [PMID: 37313623 PMCID: PMC10771021 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231175587] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT In Ecuador, the low official estimate of the number of persons with autism spectrum disorder suggest that many children are not identified and are not receiving support. Screening tools are short parent-addressed questionnaires used to identify children that may be developing with autism. Their use is recommended, but their application can be perceived as challenging in paediatric routines. Some professionals prefer looking for autism-related behaviours in a child rather than using screening questionnaires. Although a short observation does not replace the use of validated screening questionnaires, tasks to guide the observation of autistic early signs can help professionals decide to screen or refer the family for assessment and early intervention. In this study, we tested observational tasks that could be adapted to the Ecuadorian paediatric contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Buffle
- University of Geneva, Switzerland
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Ecuador
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O’Hagan B, Augustyn M, Amgott R, White J, Hardesty I, Bangham C, Ursitti A, Foster S, Chandler A, Greece J. Using normalization process theory to inform practice: evaluation of a virtual autism training for clinicians. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1242908. [PMID: 38192729 PMCID: PMC10773704 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1242908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Background There is growing demand for developmental and behavioral pediatric services including autism evaluation and care management. Clinician trainings have been found to result in an increase of knowledge and attitudes. This study utilizes Normalization Process theory (NPT) to evaluate a clinician training program and its effects on practice. Methods The year-long virtual training program about autism screening and care management included didactic portions and case presentations. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with primary care clinicians (n = 10) from community health centers (n = 6) across an urban area five months post-training. Transcripts were deductively coded using NPT to uncover barriers to implementation of autism screening and care, benefits of the training program, and areas for future training. Results Participants were motivated by the benefits of expanding and improving support for autistic patients but noted this effort requires effective collaboration within a complex network of care providers including clinicians, insurance agencies, and therapy providers. Although there were support that participants could provide to families there were still barriers including availability of behavior therapy and insufficient staffing. Overall, participants positively viewed the training and reported implementing new strategies into practice. Conclusion Despite the small sample size, application of NPT allowed for assessment of both training delivery and implementation of strategies, and identification of recommendations for future training and practice sustainability. Follow-up focus groups explored participants' practice five months post-program. Variations in participants' baseline experience and context at follow-up to enable application of skills should be considered when using NPT to evaluate clinician trainings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda O’Hagan
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marilyn Augustyn
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rachel Amgott
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Julie White
- Center for Continuing Education, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ilana Hardesty
- Center for Continuing Education, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Candice Bangham
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Amy Ursitti
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sarah Foster
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alana Chandler
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jacey Greece
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
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Cirnigliaro L, Valle MS, Casabona A, Randazzo M, La Bruna F, Pettinato F, Narzisi A, Rizzo R, Barone R. The Developmental Autism Early Screening (DAES): A Novel Test for Screening Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06184-3. [PMID: 38109035 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06184-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to set a novel developmental screening test for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using the Griffiths Scales of Child Development (Griffith III) (Green et al., 2016; Stroud et al., 2016), in order to intercept the early atypical developmental patterns indicating ASD risk in the first 3 years of age. An observational and interactive ASD screener, the Developmental Autism Early Screening (DAES), was developed by detecting Griffiths III items differentiating toddlers with ASD risk from those with global developmental delay (DD) or neurotypical development. The DAES was validated with ASD-specific diagnostic instruments (ADOS-2) and the cut-off score based on sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value that best differentiates between ASD and non-ASD children was identified. We enrolled a total sample of 297 subjects, including children at risk for ASD or DD and neurotypical children. At a cut-off score of 12.5, the DAES had a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 98.4%, positive predictive value of 96.3% and negative predictive value of 96.9% for identifying children at risk for ASD from non-ASD participants (DD/neurotypical children). The DAES total score correlated significantly with the ADOS-2 calibrated severity scores (CSS) (R = 0.53, p < 0.001). Three ASD risk ranges were identified according to DAES total and ADOS-2 CSS: Little-to-no risk (CSS: 1-3, DAES: 1-7); Mild-to-moderate risk (CSS: 4-5, DAES: 8-14); Moderate-to-severe risk (CSS: 6-10, DAES ≥ 15). The DAES provides a direct approach based on developmental profiles to stratify risk for ASD in early childhood ensuring at risk children the most appropriate diagnostic procedures and targeted intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Cirnigliaro
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico Via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Stella Valle
- Laboratory of Neuro-Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Casabona
- Laboratory of Neuro-Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Martina Randazzo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico Via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca La Bruna
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico Via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Fabio Pettinato
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico Via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Renata Rizzo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico Via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Rita Barone
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico Via Santa Sofia, 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
- Reseach Unit of Rare Diseases and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy.
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Wagner L, Vehorn A, Weitlauf AS, Lavanderos AM, Wade J, Corona L, Warren Z. Development of a Novel Telemedicine Tool to Reduce Disparities Related to the Identification of Preschool Children with Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06176-3. [PMID: 38064003 PMCID: PMC11161552 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06176-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
The wait for ASD evaluation dramatically increases with age, with wait times of a year or more common as children reach preschool. Even when appointments become available, families from traditionally underserved groups struggle to access care. Addressing care disparities requires designing identification tools and processes specifically for and with individuals most at-risk for health inequities. This work describes the development of a novel telemedicine-based ASD assessment tool, the TELE-ASD-PEDS-Preschool (TAP-Preschool). We applied machine learning models to a clinical data set of preschoolers with ASD and other developmental concerns (n = 914) to generate behavioral targets that best distinguish ASD and non-ASD features. We conducted focus groups with clinicians, early interventionists, and parents of children with ASD from traditionally underrepresented racial/ethnic and linguistic groups. Focus group themes and machine learning analyses were used to generate a play-based instrument with assessment tasks and scoring procedures based on the child's language (i.e., TAP-P Verbal, TAP-P Non-verbal). TAP-P procedures were piloted with 30 families. Use of the instrument in isolation (i.e., without history or collateral information) yielded accurate diagnostic classification in 63% of cases. Children with existing ASD diagnoses received higher TAP-P scores, relative to children with other developmental concerns. Clinician diagnostic accuracy and certainty were higher when confirming existing ASD diagnoses (80% agreement) than when ruling out ASD in children with other developmental concerns (30% agreement). Utilizing an equity approach to understand the functionality and impact of tele-assessment for preschool children has potential to transform the ASD evaluation process and improve care access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Wagner
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1241 Blakemore Avenue, # 161, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Alison Vehorn
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1241 Blakemore Avenue, # 161, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Amy S Weitlauf
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1241 Blakemore Avenue, # 161, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ambar Munoz Lavanderos
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1241 Blakemore Avenue, # 161, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Joshua Wade
- Adaptive Technology Consulting, LLC, Murfreesboro, USA
| | - Laura Corona
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1241 Blakemore Avenue, # 161, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Zachary Warren
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1241 Blakemore Avenue, # 161, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Molani-Gol R, Alizadeh M, Kheirouri S, Hamedi-Kalajahi F. The early life growth of head circumference, weight, and height in infants with autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:619. [PMID: 38066466 PMCID: PMC10704616 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04445-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS The Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence has increased significantly over the past two decades. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the association between the early life growth of head circumference (HC), weight, and height with ASD in infants. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases were searched up to November 2021 using relevant keywords. All original articles are written in English evaluating the early life growth of HC, weight, and height in infants with ASD were eligible for the present review. RESULTS Totally, 23 articles involving 4959 infants were included in this review. Of 13 studies that evaluated HC of infants at birth, 10 studies (83.33%) showed that the HC at the birth of autistic children was similar to that of the average found in the control group. Among 21 studies that evaluated the HC and weight status in infants, 19 studies (90.47%) showed that autistic children had larger HC and weight than the control group or abnormal acceleration of head growth during infancy. Height growth of infants was investigated in 13 studies, of which 10 cases (76.92%) reported that infants with ASD were significantly longer than control groups. Most of he included studies had a good quality. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that in infants with ASD, without the contribution of birth growth factors and sex of the child, the growth of HC, weight, and height probably was faster than in infants with normal development, in early life. Therefore, these measurements might be useful as initial predictive biomarkers for the risk of developing ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roghayeh Molani-Gol
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Attar Nishabouri St, 14711, Tabriz, 5166614711, Iran
| | - Mohammad Alizadeh
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Attar Nishabouri St, 14711, Tabriz, 5166614711, Iran
| | - Sorayya Kheirouri
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Attar Nishabouri St, 14711, Tabriz, 5166614711, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Hamedi-Kalajahi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Attar Nishabouri St, 14711, Tabriz, 5166614711, Iran
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Hadoush H, Hadoush A. Modulation of Resting-State Brain Complexity After Bilateral Cerebellar Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: a Randomized Controlled Trial Study. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 22:1109-1117. [PMID: 36156195 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-022-01481-6] [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] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by aberrant neural networks. Cerebellum is best known for its role in controlling motor behaviors; however, recently, there have been significant reports showed that dysfunction in cerebellar-cerebral networks contributes significantly to many of the clinical features of ASD. Hereby, this is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) study examining the potential modulating effects of bilateral anodal tDCS stimulation over cerebellar hemispheres on the resting-state brain complexity in children with ASD. METHODS Thirty-six children with ASD (aged 4-14) years old were divided equally and randomly into a tDCS treatment group, which underwent 10 sessions (20-min duration, five sessions/per week) of bilateral anodal tDCS stimulation applied over left and right cerebellar hemispheres, and control group underwent the same procedures, but with sham tDCS stimulation. Resting-state brain complexity was evaluated through recording and calculating the approximate entropy (ApxEnt) values of the resting-state electroencephalograph (EEG) data obtained from a 64-channel EEG system before and after the interventions. RESULTS Repeated measures of ANOVA showed that tDCS had significant effects on the treatment group (Wilks' Lambda = 0.29, F (15, 16) = 2.67, p = 0.03) compared with the control group. Analyzed data showed a significant increase in the averaged ApxEnt values in the right frontal cortical region (F (1, 16) = 10.46, p = 0.005) after the bilateral cerebellar anodal tDCS stimulation. Besides, the Cohen's d effect size showed a large effect size (0.70-0.92) of bilateral cerebellar anodal tDCS on the ApxEnt values increases in the left and right frontal cortical regions, the right central cortical region, and left parietal cortical region. However, there were no any significant differences or increases in the brain complexity before and after the sham tDCS stimulation of the control group. CONCLUSION Bilateral cerebellar anodal tDCS modulated and increased the brain complexity in children with ASD with no any reported adverse effect. Hereby, cerebellum and cerebellar-cerebral circuitry would serve as a promising target for non-invasive brain stimulation and neuro-modulation as a therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmat Hadoush
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
| | - Ashraf Hadoush
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Palestine Technical University - Kadoorie, Tulkarm, Palestine
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Chladek M, Burbridge C, Gibbons E, Willgoss T, Smith J, Clinch S. Qualitative Exploration in Exit Interviews of Changes Observed in Clinical Trials for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder Without Intellectual Disability. Patient Relat Outcome Meas 2023; 14:313-335. [PMID: 38027417 PMCID: PMC10676099 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s385682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore, from the perspective of Study Partners (SPs; eg, caregivers) of clinical trial participants with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), any changes experienced in socialization and communication over the clinical trial, how these changes manifested, and the impact these changes had on the autistic individual, the SP, and family. This helps interpret whether changes in trial outcomes were meaningful. Patients and Methods Interviews were conducted with the SPs of individuals with ASD, without intellectual disability, from 2 clinical trials: 86 children (aged 5-12 years) or adolescents (aged 13-17 years) who took part in the aV1ation trial (83.7% male), and 41 adults (aged 18+ years) who took part in the V1aduct trial (80.5% male). The primary endpoint for both trials was change from baseline in the VinelandTM-II two-domain composite, consisting of the mean of the Socialization and Communication domains. In these interviews the participants verbally indicated level of change for each of these key domains on 7-point change scales. Results Improvements in the Socialization domain enabled greater awareness of the feelings of others and allowed for stronger empathy and kindness. Improvements in the Communication domain allowed for the autistic individual to be better at listening and better at self-expression. Together, changes in these two domains, which were considered most important, allowed for richer, deeper relationships. Study Partners noted that improvements in these domains allowed for better integration within the family unit, decreased stress, and increased optimism about the autistic individual's future. Conclusions The impacts of changes in either domain were synergistic, combining together to create positive experiences which in turn led to further positive impacts in other skills. These qualitative insights provide context to the changes that were observed during the clinical trial and captured using the VinelandTM-II, illustrating the meaning of these changes to the individuals with ASD without intellectual disability and their families, and the impact that they have on people's everyday lives and overall health-related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Chladek
- Clinical Outcome Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions LLC, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Claire Burbridge
- Clinical Outcome Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Folkestone, Kent, UK
| | - Elizabeth Gibbons
- Clinical Outcome Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Folkestone, Kent, UK
| | - Tom Willgoss
- Patient Centered Outcomes Research, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Janice Smith
- Global Development, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Susanne Clinch
- Patient Centered Outcomes Research, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK
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Clinch S, Hudgens S, Gibbons E, Willgoss T, Smith J, Polek E, Burbridge C. Quantitative and Qualitative Exploration of Meaningful Change on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (Vineland™-II) in Children and Adolescents with Autism Without Intellectual Disability Following Participation in a Clinical Trial. Patient Relat Outcome Meas 2023; 14:337-354. [PMID: 38027418 PMCID: PMC10675867 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s385542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The VinelandTM Adaptive Behavior Scale is often used in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) trials. The Adaptive Behavior Composite Score (VABS-ABC) is the standardized overall score (the average of the Socialization, Communication and Daily Living skills domains), and the standardized 2-Domain Composite Score (VABS-2DC) is a novel outcome measure (average of the Socialization and Communication domains). A within-person meaningful change threshold (MCT) has not been established for the VABS-2DC. This paper presents a quantitative and qualitative interpretation of what constitutes a meaningful change in these scores to individuals with ASD without Intellectual Disability (ID; IQ≥70) and their families, as reported by their study partners (SPs). Participants and Methods Data were obtained from the aV1ation clinical trial in children and adolescents with ASD and associated exit interviews. The intent-to-treat (ITT) clinical trial population included 308 individuals with autism (85.4% male; average age: 12.4 years [standard deviation (SD)=2.97]); 124 in the child cohort (aged 5 to 12 years; average age: 9.4 years [SD=1.86]), and 184 in the adolescent cohort (aged 13 to 17 years; average age: 14.5 years [SD=1.39]). Study partners of 86 trial participants were included in the Exit Interview Population (EIP): participants represented were 83.7% male, average age: 12.3 years [SD=2.98]). Anchor and distribution-based methods were used to estimate within-person change to support a responder definition, to aid interpretation of the clinical trial data; qualitative data were used to contextualize the meaning of changes observed. Results A within-person MCT range of 4 to 8 points was proposed for both VABS-ABC and VABS-2DC, which was associated with at least a 1-point improvement on 4 different anchors. Evidence for this within-person MCT was further supported by qualitative data, which suggested any change was considered meaningful to the individual with ASD, as reported by their SP, no matter what the magnitude. Conclusion A change in standardized score of 4 to 8 points constitutes a within-person MCT on both VABS-ABC and novel VABS-2DC in those with ASD and no ID. A change of this, or more, was reported by the SPs in this trial to be meaningful and highly impactful upon the individuals with ASD and their family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Clinch
- Patient Centered Outcomes Research, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Stacie Hudgens
- Quantitative Sciences, Clinical Outcomes Solutions, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Elizabeth Gibbons
- Clinical Outcome Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Folkestone, Kent, UK
| | - Tom Willgoss
- Patient Centered Outcomes Research, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Janice Smith
- Global Development, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Ela Polek
- Quantitative Sciences, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Folkestone, Kent, UK
| | - Claire Burbridge
- Clinical Outcome Assessments, Clinical Outcomes Solutions Ltd, Folkestone, Kent, UK
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Herkert D, Sullivan C, Zhu Y, Dawson G. Prevalence and nature of prior developmental and medical concerns in toddlers who screen positive for autism in primary care. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:2361-2371. [PMID: 37838915 PMCID: PMC10593482 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231162146] [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: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for autism at their 18- and 24-month well-child visit. For children who screen positive for autism, it is unknown whether this usually represents the first time a developmental concern has been raised or if other developmental concerns typically precede a positive autism screen. Such knowledge could help guide providers in how to appropriately convey feedback regarding autism screening. This study found that, for close to 80% of children with a positive autism screen, caregivers or providers had a prior autism, language, motor, or other developmental concern documented in the electronic health record. Many also had other prior concerns frequently linked to autism, such as sleep and gastrointestinal problems, and received physical or speech therapy. On average, prior to screening children who received a positive Modified-Checklist for Autism in Toddlers had two documented concerns by at 1 year of age and three concerns by 2 years of age. These findings imply that screening for autism as a part of routine pediatric care likely takes place in the context of larger conversations regarding existing developmental concerns, allowing for a less stigmatizing discussion of autism. Framing the presence of prior concerns in the setting of a positive screen in this context may create a reaffirming space for existing caregiver concerns and a lessened emotional burden on caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darby Herkert
- Duke University School of Medicine, 8 Searle Center Dr, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Connor Sullivan
- Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 2608 Erwin Road, Suite 300, Durham, NC 27705, U.S.A
| | - YiQin Zhu
- Duke University School of Medicine, 8 Searle Center Dr, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Geraldine Dawson
- Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 2608 Erwin Road, Suite 300, Durham, NC 27705, U.S.A
- Duke University School of Medicine, 8 Searle Center Dr, Durham, NC 27710
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Ishler KJ, Berg KA, Olgac T, Obeid R, Biegel DE. Barriers to service and unmet need among autistic adolescents and young adults. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:1997-2010. [PMID: 36740742 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221150569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Prior studies have described the roadblocks, or barriers, to needed services experienced by families with young autistic children, but less research has focused on those faced by autistic adolescents and young adults. In this study, we wished to understand the barriers to service experienced by autistic adolescents and young adults and their families. We surveyed 174 caregivers of autistic youth between 16 to 30 years old. We found that caregivers who felt more caregiving burden had more difficulty accessing services for their youth. Specifically, caregivers who felt more strongly that their daily lives had been disrupted, felt more financial strain, and worried more about their youth well-being experienced more roadblocks to getting services for the youth. Male caregivers also reported fewer difficulties related to service access. Importantly, the older the youth was when they had been diagnosed with autism, the more service barriers their caregivers reported. We did not see any differences in the level of barriers experienced by youth who lived in urban versus suburban settings, or between white and non-white families. However, when youth lived with their caregivers (rather than, for example, in a group home), fewer quality-related barriers to services were reported. Finally, greater access (but not quality) barriers were linked to youth having more unmet service needs. These findings can help to reduce the barriers to service experienced by autistic adolescents and young adults and their families.
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