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Saletin JM, Koopman-Verhoeff ME, Han G, Barker DH, Carskadon MA, Anders TF, Sheinkopf SJ. Sleep Problems and Autism Impairments in a Large Community Sample of Children and Adolescents. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:1167-1175. [PMID: 36515855 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01470-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sleep problems are common in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). How sleep problems reflect specific ASD phenotypes is unclear. We studied whether sleep problems indexed functional impairment in a heterogeneous community sample of individuals with ASD. We analyzed 977 probands (233 females; age = 11.27 ± 4.13 years) from the Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment dataset, a unique public-private-academic collaboration involving all major points of service for families in Rhode Island. We found that individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD were more likely to have sleep problems. However, across the whole sample and above and beyond a formal diagnosis, sleep problems were dimensionally associated with worse social impairment and poorer adaptive functioning. By using a large dataset reflective of the diversity of presentations in the community, this study underscores the importance of considering sleep problems in clinical practice to improve adaptive functioning in individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Saletin
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, East Providence, RI, USA.
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - M Elisabeth Koopman-Verhoeff
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, East Providence, RI, USA
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Gloria Han
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - David H Barker
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- The Bradley Hasbro Children's Research Center, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Mary A Carskadon
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, East Providence, RI, USA
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Thomas F Anders
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, East Providence, RI, USA
| | - Stephen J Sheinkopf
- Brown Center for the Study of Children at Risk, Women & Infants Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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2
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Ruffing S, Ullrich C, Flotats-Bastardas M, Poryo M, Meyer S. [Assessment of the importance of neuropediatric diagnostics in the initial clarification of autism]. Wien Med Wochenschr 2024; 174:231-241. [PMID: 37133629 PMCID: PMC11347487 DOI: 10.1007/s10354-023-01012-w] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnostics of autism spectrum disorder is complex due to missing biological markers and numerous comorbidities. The aim was to assess the role of neuropediatric diagnostics and to develop a standard operating procedure for a targeted assessment. METHOD All patients presenting to the neuropediatric outpatient clinic at Saarland University Hospital between April 2014 and December 2017 with ICD code F84 pervasive developmental disorders were included. RESULTS A total of 82 patients were included (male 78%, female 22%; mean age 5.9 ± 2.9 years, range 2-16 years). The most frequent examination was electroencephalography (EEG) (74/82; 90.2%) with pathological findings in 33.8% (25/74). Based on the history and/or EEG epilepsy was diagnosed in 19.5% (16/82). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed in 49/82 (59.8%) patients, 22/49 (44.9%) showed at least 1 cerebral abnormality and definite pathologies could be detected in 63.6% (14/22). A metabolic diagnostic work-up was performed in 44/82 (53.7%) cases and in 5/44 (11.4%) it resulted in a diagnosis or suspicion of a metabolic disease. Genetic testing results were available in 29/82 (35.4%) children and 12/29 (41.4%) showed abnormal results. Delay in motor development was more frequently associated with comorbidities, EEG abnormalities, epilepsy and abnormalities in metabolic and genetic testing. CONCLUSION Neuropediatric examination in cases of suspected autism should include a detailed history, a thorough neurological examination and an EEG. An MRI, comprehensive metabolic and genetic testing are only recommended if clinically indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ruffing
- Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Kirrberger Str., Geb. 9, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland.
| | - Christine Ullrich
- Klinik für Allgemeine Pädiatrie und Neonatologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Marina Flotats-Bastardas
- Klinik für Allgemeine Pädiatrie und Neonatologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Martin Poryo
- Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Kirrberger Str., Geb. 9, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Sascha Meyer
- Klinik für Allgemeine Pädiatrie und Neonatologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
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Barger B, Salmon A, Moore Q. Medical Home, Developmental Monitoring/Screening, and Early Autism Identification. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:3242-3261. [PMID: 37477840 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06044-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Developmental monitoring/screening predict early identified autism spectrum disorders (ASD), but studies have not yet robustly controlled for a key health care service impacting early identification: medical home. National Surveys of Children's Health (NSCH; 2016-2020) were used to determine the relationship between medical home, developmental monitoring/screening, and identified ASD. NSCH overall medical home variable had a minimal relationship with ASD (under 5 years of age, under 5 identified in last year, under 5 identified over a year prior). Usual source of care was positively, and care coordination negatively, associated with ASD identified in last year, suggesting the overall medical home variable may mask variance from subscales. Research is needed to determine how medical home relates to identification in applied settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Barger
- Center for Leadership in Disability, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, 75 Piedmont Rd., Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
- Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA.
| | - Ashley Salmon
- Center for Leadership in Disability, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, 75 Piedmont Rd., Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Quentin Moore
- Center for Leadership in Disability, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, 75 Piedmont Rd., Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
- Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA
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McNally Keehn R, Paxton A, Delaney M, Ciccarelli M. Training and Sustaining: Training and Learning Collaborative Outcomes Across a Statewide Network for Early Autism Diagnosis. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024:00004703-990000000-00206. [PMID: 39190424 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to describe the development of a primary care professional (PCP) autism diagnosis training model and to report on outcomes related to PCP training and sustained engagement in a longitudinal learning collaborative. METHODS We developed Accelerating the Diagnosis of Autism with Primary care Training (ADAPT), a training program to prepare PCPs to develop independent competency in evaluation of autism in children aged 14 to 48 months. ADAPT includes didactic and case-based modules and practice-based coaching delivered by an expert diagnostic specialist; after training, PCPs participate in a longitudinal learning collaborative. Aligned with competency-based medical education standards, measures of autism evaluation knowledge and diagnostic competency are collected. RESULTS From 2021 to 2023, 13 PCPs completed ADAPT didactic and practicum training to reach competency in independent autism evaluation. Clinicians demonstrated significant improvement in total autism knowledge after didactic training (p = 0.02). Scoring agreement on an autism observational assessment tool between clinicians and expert diagnosticians improved over case observations and practicum evaluations. Similarly, PCPs demonstrated improved evaluation competence, moving on average from Advanced Beginner to Competent Performer as rated by expert diagnosticians. After training, PCPs attended 57% of monthly learning collaborative sessions. CONCLUSION Training PCPs to deliver autism evaluations for young children as part of tiered community-based models of care is a promising solution to address access and waitlist challenges. ADAPT is an intensive, standardized PCP training model that results in achievement of independent competency and sustained engagement in autism evaluation. Effectiveness-implementation studies are needed to ensure scalability and sustainability of training models.
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Turkstani H, Alfaifi A, Ramachandran M, Bushra A, Stoopler E, France K. Severe manifestation of plasma cell mucositis in a patient with autism spectrum disorder: A unique overlap illustrating challenges with diagnosis and management. SPECIAL CARE IN DENTISTRY 2024. [PMID: 39152628 DOI: 10.1111/scd.13053] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Plasma cell mucositis (PCM) is a rare inflammatory condition affecting the oral tissues, often triggered by allergens or inflammation. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition, poses unique challenges in oral care and hygiene due to behavioral and sensory issues. These conditions have not previously been reported in concert but may share risk factors including through the development of inflammation. We present a case of severe PCM in a 23-year-old male with ASD, illustrating diagnostic complexities and management strategies. The patient presented with widespread and severe lesions, raising the possibility of underlying causes. After multiple interventions, including topical steroids and trigger avoidance, the patient achieved near-complete resolution of the oral lesions. Immunohistochemical and serological investigations suggested an underlying monoclonal gammopathy, warranting hematological evaluation. Our case shows how PCM and ASD can affect each other, highlighting the importance of understanding how these conditions interact, and the need for tailored approaches to oral health in this population. Further research is needed to elucidate any pathophysiological or risk-based link between ASD and inflammatory oral conditions and to refine management strategies for PCM in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Turkstani
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Afrah Alfaifi
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maya Ramachandran
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ahmedi Bushra
- Access Dental Associates, BrookHaven, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric Stoopler
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Katherine France
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Oudet S, Howard K, Gilhuber C, Robert M, Zimmerli J, Katsos N, Durrleman S. Parent-led Communication Therapy for Young Bilingual Autistic Children: A Scoping Review. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06478-0. [PMID: 39127972 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06478-0] [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: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
A scoping review of the literature was undertaken using JBI guidelines to map the evidence of parent-led therapy (PLT) for young autistic children (≤ 6 years) raised in bilingual environments. Reviewers used Covidence to screen located sources. Sixteen papers met inclusion criteria. A strong acceleration of reports of PLT for young autistic children measured in bilingual environments was observed, with 93.8% of papers (n = 15) published since 2015. Reporting of participants' language environments (home language(s)/L1s and societal language(s)/L2s) was inconsistent. A large majority of these studies, 87.5% (n = 14) were conducted in North America or in collaboration with a North American institution. Diverse PLT programs and methodologies were identified. There is variation in demographic information collected and outcomes reported. Evidence gaps in the literature are identified and the value of undertaking systematic review on this topic is considered. This scoping review points to the necessity of further empirical research and practice that centres parents in early and specific support for autistic children raised in bilingual environments. Suggestions for improving reporting standards of language profiles are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Oudet
- University of Fribourg (Science and Medicine), Fribourg, CH, Switzerland.
| | | | | | - Marie Robert
- Agence Régionale de Santé (Hauts-de-Seine), Nanterre, France
| | | | - Napoleon Katsos
- University of Cambridge (Experimental Pragmatics), Cambridge, UK
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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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Herzberg MP, Nielsen AN, Luby J, Sylvester CM. Measuring neuroplasticity in human development: the potential to inform the type and timing of mental health interventions. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01947-7. [PMID: 39103496 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01947-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Neuroplasticity during sensitive periods, the molecular and cellular process of enduring neural change in response to external stimuli during windows of high environmental sensitivity, is crucial for adaptation to expected environments and has implications for psychiatry. Animal research has characterized the developmental sequence and neurobiological mechanisms that govern neuroplasticity, yet gaps in our ability to measure neuroplasticity in humans limit the clinical translation of these principles. Here, we present a roadmap for the development and validation of neuroimaging and electrophysiology measures that index neuroplasticity to begin to address these gaps. We argue that validation of measures to track neuroplasticity in humans will elucidate the etiology of mental illness and inform the type and timing of mental health interventions to optimize effectiveness. We outline criteria for evaluating putative neuroimaging measures of plasticity in humans including links to neurobiological mechanisms shown to govern plasticity in animal models, developmental change that reflects heightened early life plasticity, and prediction of neural and/or behavior change. These criteria are applied to three putative measures of neuroplasticity using electroencephalography (gamma oscillations, aperiodic exponent of power/frequency) or functional magnetic resonance imaging (amplitude of low frequency fluctuations). We discuss the use of these markers in psychiatry, envision future uses for clinical and developmental translation, and suggest steps to address the limitations of the current putative neuroimaging measures of plasticity. With additional work, we expect these markers will significantly impact mental health and be used to characterize mechanisms, devise new interventions, and optimize developmental trajectories to reduce psychopathology risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max P Herzberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Ashley N Nielsen
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Joan Luby
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chad M Sylvester
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Radiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Sandbank M, Pustejovsky JE, Bottema-Beutel K, Caldwell N, Feldman JI, Crowley LaPoint S, Woynaroski T. Determining Associations Between Intervention Amount and Outcomes for Young Autistic Children: A Meta-Analysis. JAMA Pediatr 2024; 178:763-773. [PMID: 38913359 PMCID: PMC11197026 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.1832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Importance Health professionals routinely recommend intensive interventions (ie, 20-40 hours per week) for autistic children. However, primary research backing this recommendation is sparse and plagued by methodological flaws. Objective To examine whether different metrics of intervention amount are associated with intervention effects on any developmental domain for young autistic children. Data Sources A large corpus of studies taken from a recent meta-analysis (with a search date of November 2021) of early interventions for autistic children. Study Selection Studies were eligible if they reported a quasi-experimental or randomized clinical trial testing the effects of a nonpharmacological intervention on any outcome in participant samples comprising more than 50% autistic children 8 years or younger. Data Extraction and Synthesis Data were independently extracted by multiple coders. Meta-regression models were constructed to determine whether each index of intervention amount was associated with effect sizes for each intervention type, while controlling for outcome domain, outcome proximity, age of participants, study design, and risk of detection bias. Data were analyzed from June 2023 to February 2024. This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary predictor of interest was intervention amount, quantified using 3 different metrics (daily intensity, duration, and cumulative intensity). The primary outcomes of interest were gains in any developmental domain, quantified by Hedges g effect sizes. Results A total of 144 studies including 9038 children (mean [SD] age, 49.3 [17.2] months; mean [SD] percent males, 82.6% [12.7%]) were included in this analysis. None of the meta-regression models evidenced a significant, positive association between any index of intervention amount and intervention effect size when considered within intervention type. Conclusions and Relevance Findings of this meta-analysis do not support the assertion that intervention effects increase with increasing amounts of intervention. Health professionals recommending interventions should be advised that there is little robust evidence supporting the provision of intensive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheal Sandbank
- Department of Health Sciences, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | | | | | - Nicolette Caldwell
- Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
| | - Jacob I. Feldman
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation at Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Shannon Crowley LaPoint
- TEACCH Autism Program, Research Fellow, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
| | - Tiffany Woynaroski
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Frist Center for Autism and Innovation at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu
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Ruan L, Chen G, Yao M, Li C, Chen X, Luo H, Ruan J, Zheng Z, Zhang D, Liang S, Lü M. Brain functional gradient and structure features in adolescent and adult autism spectrum disorders. Hum Brain Mapp 2024; 45:e26792. [PMID: 39037170 PMCID: PMC11261594 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26792] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding how function and structure are organized and their coupling with clinical traits in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a primary goal in network neuroscience research for ASD. Atypical brain functional networks and structures in individuals with ASD have been reported, but whether these associations show heterogeneous hierarchy modeling in adolescents and adults with ASD remains to be clarified. In this study, 176 adolescent and 74 adult participants with ASD without medication or comorbidities and sex, age matched healthy controls (HCs) from 19 research groups from the openly shared Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange II database were included. To investigate the relationship between the functional gradient, structural changes, and clinical symptoms of brain networks in adolescents and adults with ASD, functional gradient and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analyses based on 1000 parcels defined by Schaefer mapped to Yeo's seven-network atlas were performed. Pearson's correlation was calculated between the gradient scores, gray volume and density, and clinical traits. The subsystem-level analysis showed that the second gradient scores of the default mode networks and frontoparietal network in patients with ASD were relatively compressed compared to adolescent HCs. Adult patients with ASD showed an overall compression gradient of 1 in the ventral attention networks. In addition, the gray density and volumes of the subnetworks showed no significant differences between the ASD and HC groups at the adolescent stage. However, adults with ASD showed decreased gray density in the limbic network. Moreover, numerous functional gradient parameters, but not VBM parameters, in adolescents with ASD were considerably correlated with clinical traits in contrast to those in adults with ASD. Our findings proved that the atypical changes in adolescent ASD mainly involve the brain functional network, while in adult ASD, the changes are more related to brain structure, including gray density and volume. These changes in functional gradients or structures are markedly correlated with clinical traits in patients with ASD. Our study provides a novel understanding of the pathophysiology of the structure-function hierarchy in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Ruan
- Department of NeurologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain FunctionLuzhouChina
| | - Guangxiang Chen
- Department of RadiologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Menglin Yao
- College of Integrated MedicineSouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Cheng Li
- Department of PediatricsThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Birth DefectsLuzhouChina
| | - Xiu Chen
- Department of NeurologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain FunctionLuzhouChina
| | - Hua Luo
- Department of NeurologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain FunctionLuzhouChina
| | - Jianghai Ruan
- Department of NeurologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain FunctionLuzhouChina
| | - Zhong Zheng
- Center for Neurological Function Test and Neuromodulation, West China Xiamen HospitalSichuan UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Dechou Zhang
- Department of NeurologySouthwest Medical University Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineLuzhouChina
| | - Sicheng Liang
- Department of GastroenterologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
| | - Muhan Lü
- Department of GastroenterologyThe Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhouChina
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Egilmez CB, Pazarlar BA, Erdogan MA, Uyanikgil Y, Erbas O. Choline chloride shows gender-dependent positive effects on social deficits, learning/memory impairments, neuronal loss and neuroinflammation in the lipopolysaccharide-induced rat model of autism. Int J Dev Neurosci 2024; 84:392-405. [PMID: 38721665 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10335] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The neuroprotective effects of choline chloride, an essential nutrient, a precursor for the acetylcholine and synthesis of membrane phospholipids, have been associated with neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Its contribution to autism spectrum disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder, remains unknown. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of choline chloride on social behaviours, and histopathological and biochemical changes in a rat autism model. The autism model was induced by administration of 100 μg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the 10th day of gestation. Choline chloride treatment (100 mg/kg/day) was commenced on PN5 and maintained until PN50. Social deficits were assessed by three-chamber sociability, open field, and passive avoidance learning tests. Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-2 (IL) and IL-17, nerve growth factor (NGF), and glutamate decarboxylase 67 (GAD67) levels were measured to assess neuroinflammatory responses. In addition, the number of hippocampal and cerebellar neurons and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression were evaluated. Social novelty and passive avoidance learning tests revealed significant differences in choline chloride-treated male rats compared with saline-treated groups. TNF-α, IL-2, and IL-17 were significantly decreased after choline chloride treatment in both males and females. NGF and GAD67 levels were unchanged in females, while there were significant differences in males. Histologically, significant changes in terms of gliosis were detected in hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions and cerebellum in choline chloride-treated groups. The presence of ameliorative effects of choline chloride treatment on social behaviour and neuroinflammation through neuroinflammatory, neurotrophic, and neurotransmission pathways in a sex-dependent rat model of LPS-induced autism was demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cansu Bilister Egilmez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Burcu Azak Pazarlar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
- Neurobiology Research Unit, University Hospital Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mumin Alper Erdogan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yiğit Uyanikgil
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Oytun Erbas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bilim University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Zuckerman KE, Rivas Vazquez LA, Morales Santos Y, Fuchu P, Broder-Fingert S, Dolata JK, Bedrick S, Fernandez J, Fombonne E, Sanders BW. Provider perspectives on equity in use of mobile health autism screening tools. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1947-1958. [PMID: 38078430 PMCID: PMC11164823 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231215399] [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: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Families may find information about autism online, and health care and education providers may use online tools to screen for autism. However, we do not know if online autism screening tools are easily used by families and providers. We interviewed primary care and educational providers, asking them to review results from online tools that screen for autism. Providers had concerns about how usable and accessible these tools are for diverse families and suggested changes to make tools easier to use.
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Sandbank M, Bottema-Beutel K, Syu YC, Caldwell N, Feldman JI, Woynaroski T. Evidence-b(i)ased practice: Selective and inadequate reporting in early childhood autism intervention research. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1889-1901. [PMID: 38345030 PMCID: PMC11301951 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241231624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT When researchers fail to report their findings or only report some of their findings, it can make it difficult for clinicians to provide effective intervention recommendations. However, no one has examined whether this is a problem in studies of early childhood autism interventions. We studied how researchers that study early childhood autism interventions report their findings. We found that most researchers did not register their studies when they were supposed to (before the start of the study), and that many researchers did not provide all of the needed information in the registration. We also found that researchers frequently did not publish their findings when their studies were complete. When we looked at published reports, we found that many of the studies did not report enough information, and that many studies were reported differently from their registrations, suggesting that researchers were selectively reporting positive outcomes and ignoring or misrepresenting less positive outcomes. Because we found so much evidence that researchers are failing to report their findings quickly and correctly, we suggested some practical changes to make it better.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ya-Cing Syu
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
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Valicenti-McDermott M, Rivelis E, Seijo R, Shulman L. Diagnosis of Autism in School Age and Adolescence in an Ethnically Diverse Population. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2024; 34:275-277. [PMID: 38656162 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2024.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Despite policy emphasis on early identification, many children with Autism are diagnosed late, with some being diagnosed as late as adolescence. The objective of this study was to examine the demographics and clinical characteristics of school-age children and adolescents initially diagnosed with Autism age 7 and older, in an urban, university-affiliated multidisciplinary center that evaluates/treats youth with developmental disabilities. A chart review of all school-age children and adolescents referred for evaluation to determine if the child has developmental disabilities from January 2019 to May 2023 was performed. Of all children evaluated in that period (n = 825), 164 (19.8%) were diagnosed with Autism, 123 (75%) had a previous diagnosis, and 41 (25%) were newly diagnosed with Autism. Patients newly diagnosed with Autism age ≥7 were more likely to be diagnosed with Language Disorder (100% vs. 82%, p = 0.001) and Anxiety Disorder (27% vs. 13%, p = 0.04), be prescribed with an antidepressant (10% vs. 1%, p = 0.03), and less likely to be diagnosed with Intellectual Disabilities (13% vs. 34%, p = 0.001) than those who had a previous diagnosis of Autism, with no other differences in demographics or developmental diagnosis between the groups. Of the 136 patients referred for evaluation with a previous diagnosis of Autism, 13 (9.5%) did not meet the criteria for Autism any longer after multidisciplinary evaluations but continued to present developmental disorders, including Language Disorder (100%), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (46%), and Speech Sound Disorder (38%). Of the 87 families who were concerned about Autism (without a previous diagnosis), 32 (36.8%) confirmed the diagnosis of Autism, 9 (1.5%) patients were newly diagnosed with Autism, and there were no parental concerns. In conclusion, in this ethnically diverse group of school-age children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, 25% received an initial diagnosis of Autism after age 7. Similar to previous reports, children who received a later diagnosis were more likely to present a language impairment, anxiety, and higher cognitive skills. Longitudinal studies, in ethnically diverse populations, are necessary to understand the trajectory and clinical profile of Autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Valicenti-McDermott
- R.F.K. Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Erin Rivelis
- R.F.K. Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rosa Seijo
- R.F.K. Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Lisa Shulman
- R.F.K. Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
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Mohammed MA, Abdalkhalig EM, Ali IA, Hassan SS, Osman H. Pattern of sleep disorders among children with autism spectrum disorder. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:539. [PMID: 39080546 PMCID: PMC11289913 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05981-z] [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: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep disorders (SDs) are among many co-morbid medical conditions that affect children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Raising awareness and improving the standard of care for children diagnosed with ASD may result from identifying SDs among them. This study aims to evaluate patterns of SDs among Sudanese children diagnosed with ASD. METHOD Using the Childhood Sleep Habit Questionnaire (CSHQ) to gather data on sleep disorders and SPSS version 26.0 for data analysis, a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the five main autistic centres in Khartoum state covering all registered patients with ASD between April and June 2022. Ninety-two children diagnosed with ASD were enrolled in this study after the purpose of the research was explained and consent was obtained from their guardians. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. RESULTS The mean age was 6.90 (± 2.6) years with a boys-to-girls ratio of 2.17:1. The prevalence of SDs (at least one sleep condition almost daily) was 95.65%. Sleep onset 71 (77.2%), limit setting 32 (32.6%), resistant onset to sleep 48 (52.2%), and combined 52 (56.5%) insomnia affected the majority of children. Additionally, there were significant associations between sex and Limit-setting insomnia, advanced sleep phase disorder, and narcolepsy type 2 (P values = 0.033, 0.009, and 0.037, respectively). Additionally, there was a significant association between age and sleep-related breathing disorders-snoring (p value = 0.031). CONCLUSION The frequency of SDs is significant among children diagnosed with ASD from Sudan, and certain SDs are associated with age and sex. Subsequent studies are required to develop national guidelines for the prevalence, presentation, screening, and treatment of SDs in children diagnosed with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muaath Ahmed Mohammed
- Pediatric Council, Sudan Medical Specialization Board, Khartoum, Sudan.
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, ibnsina University, Khartoum, Sudan.
| | | | - Ibrahim Abdelrhim Ali
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, The National Ribat University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Hayat Osman
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Neelain University, Khartoum, Sudan
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16
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Hill J, Copley J, Donovan S, Ashburner J, Taylor J, Bobir N. What supports do autistic adolescents and adults need? Perspectives of self-reporting adults and caregivers. Aust Occup Ther J 2024. [PMID: 39020514 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increasingly, autistic adolescents and adults are accessing occupational therapy. However, limited evidence exists on the type of supports that are important to them. Examining the patterns of supports valued by autistic adolescents and adults will inform the design of occupational therapy services. Therefore, this study aimed to identify what supports autistic adolescents and adults believed to be the most important. METHODS This study involved two anonymous online surveys. Survey one involved 54 items and was distributed to caregivers of autistic adolescents and/or adults. Survey two included 41 items and was distributed to self-reporting autistic adults. Surveys sought closed and open-ended responses about the support needs of autistic individuals living in Australia. Quantitative data were analysed as counts and frequencies of responses, whereas short-answer responses were analysed through content analysis. COMMUNITY AND CONSUMER INVOLVEMENT There was no consumer or community involvement in the completion of this project. RESULTS A total of 68 caregivers of autistic adolescents or adults and 59 self-reporting adults completed the survey resulting in 127 responses. Quantitative data from both autistic adolescents' and adults' closed-answer responses showed that the highest support needs were for supporting participation in employment and supporting health and wellbeing. Content analysis of open-ended responses, performed separately for each participant group, revealed six categories: employment, promoting independence, supporting positive social and communication experiences, supporting health and wellbeing, caregiver support, and promoting autism acceptance. CONCLUSION Results highlight that autistic individuals and their caregivers have a diverse range of priorities, all of which align with the scope of occupational therapy practice. Differences between the priorities of autistic individuals and their caregivers highlight the importance of therapists providing person and family-centred approaches tailored towards both the autistic person's and their caregiver's needs. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Increasingly, autistic adolescents and adults are accessing occupational therapy services. However, limited information exists regarding the type of supports that are important to them. Understanding what supports are valued by autistic adolescents and adults will support occupational therapists deliver effective and individualised services. Therefore, this study aimed to identify what supports autistic adolescents and adults believed to be the most important to them. This study involved two anonymous online surveys. Survey one was completed by caregivers of autistic adolescents and/or adults. Survey two was completed by self-reporting autistic adults. Surveys included both open-ended and closed-answer responses to better understand the support needs of autistic individuals living in Australia. A total of 68 caregivers of autistic adolescents or adults and 59 self-reporting adults completed the survey resulting in 127 responses. Closed-answer response questions from both the caregivers and self-reporting autistic adolescents and adults showed that the highest support needs were for supporting participation in employment and supporting health and wellbeing. Open-ended response questions revealed six main priorities including, employment, promoting independence, supporting positive social and communication experiences, supporting health and wellbeing, caregiver support, and promoting autism acceptance. This study found that autistic individuals and their caregivers have a diverse range of priorities, all of which align with the scope of occupational therapy. Further, participant responses highlight the importance of therapists providing person and family-centred approaches tailored towards both the autistic person's and their caregiver's needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hill
- The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jodie Copley
- The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sophie Donovan
- The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jill Ashburner
- Autism Queensland Limited, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Natasha Bobir
- Autism Queensland Limited, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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17
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Wei F, Chen T, Huang Y, Yang Y, Cheng X, Yang L. Multiple Exposures to Sevoflurane General Anesthesia During Pregnancy Inhibit CaMKII/CREB Axis by Downregulating HCN2 to Induce an Autism-Like Phenotype in Offspring Mice. J Mol Neurosci 2024; 74:69. [PMID: 39017898 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-024-02243-1] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this investigation was to examine the impact of multiple exposures to general anesthesia (GA) with sevoflurane on the offspring of pregnant mice, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Neurodevelopmental assessments, including various reflexes and behavioral tests, were conducted on the offspring in the GA group to evaluate neuronal cell development. Furthermore, neonatal mouse neuronal cells were isolated and transfected with a high-expression CREB vector (pcDNA3.1-CREB), followed by treatment with sevoflurane (0.72 mol/L), ZD7288 (50 μmol/L), and KN-62 (10 μmol/L), or a combination of these compounds. The expression of relevant genes was then analyzed using qRT-PCR and western blot techniques. In comparison to the sham group, neonatal mice in the GA group exhibited significantly prolonged latencies in surface righting reflex, geotaxis test, and air righting reflex. Furthermore, there was a notable deceleration in the development of body weight and tail in the GA group. These mice also displayed impairments in social ability, reduced reciprocal social interaction behaviors, diminished learning capacity, and heightened levels of anxious behaviors. Additionally, synaptic trigger malfunction was observed, along with decreased production of c-Fos and neurotrophic factors. Sevoflurane was found to notably decrease cellular c-Fos and neurotrophic factor production, as well as the expression of HCN2 and CaMKII/CREB-related proteins. The inhibitory effects of sevoflurane on HCN2 or CaMKII channels were similar to those observed with ZD7288 or KN-62 inhibition. However, overexpression of CREB mitigated the impact of sevoflurane on neuronal cells. Repetitive exposure to sevoflurane general anesthesia while pregnant suppresses the CaMKII/CREB pathway, leading to the development of autism-like characteristics in offspring mice through the reduction of HCN2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330052, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330052, China
| | - Yuanlu Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330052, China
| | - Yuxuan Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330052, China
| | - Xiaoe Cheng
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330052, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
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18
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McNally Keehn R, Penner M, Shannon J, Sohl K, Weitzman C, Zuckerman KE. Considerations and Actionable Steps to Promote Scaling of Early Autism Diagnosis in Community Primary Care Practice. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024:00004703-990000000-00189. [PMID: 38996205 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Melanie Penner
- Autism Research Centre, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kristin Sohl
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - Carol Weitzman
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; and
| | - Katharine E Zuckerman
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
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19
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Cohen TD, Koller J, Duku E, Kata A, Anderson C, Bennett T, Cauwenbergs A, Dekker K, DiRezze B, Drmic I, Eerkes J, Gentles SJ, Georgiades K, Hoult L, De Camargo OK, Mahoney B, Mesterman R, Ng O, Robertson S, Roncadin C, Georgiades S. The Association Between Autism Symptomatology and Adaptive Functioning Over Six Months: Findings from the Pilot Phase of the PARC Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06460-w. [PMID: 38990370 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06460-w] [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: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE In the context of developmental trajectories, the association between adaptive functioning and core autism symptomatology remains unclear. The current study examines the associations of adaptive behavior with autism symptom sub-domains and with different facets of symptom expression. METHODS Participants include 36 children with a recent diagnosis of autism (33 males; mean age = 56.4 months; SD = 9 months). Families were recruited in the context of the Pediatric Autism Research Cohort (PARC) project. Parents filled out questionnaires at two time points, six months apart, regarding their child's autism symptoms and adaptive functioning. The longitudinal relationship between adaptive functioning and autism symptoms was investigated using Mixed Linear Model analyses: one assessing the relationship between general symptom levels and adaptive functioning, and another examining the associations between symptom frequency and impact with adaptive functioning. We conducted Pearson correlation tests at both time points to assess the associations between symptom sub-domains and adaptive functioning. RESULTS Findings showed that higher autism symptoms associated with lower adaptive behavior skills, and that this association remained stable over time. Autism impact scores did not significantly relate to adaptive skills, as opposed to frequency scores. Associations between adaptive functioning and autism symptom sub-domains strengthened over time. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that adaptive functioning is associated with parent-report autism symptomatology, and that this association changes and, on average, becomes stronger over time. Findings may indicate that frequency and impact of symptoms have differential roles in the development of adaptive skills and are worthy of further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar David Cohen
- Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Seymour Fox School of Education, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Judah Koller
- Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Seymour Fox School of Education, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eric Duku
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Kata
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Teresa Bennett
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Kathleen Dekker
- Autism Program, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Briano DiRezze
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Irene Drmic
- Autism Program, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Judy Eerkes
- Autism Program, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Gentles
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Kathy Georgiades
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lorraine Hoult
- Autism Program, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Olaf Kraus De Camargo
- McMaster University, Pediatrics, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Bill Mahoney
- McMaster University, Pediatrics, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Olivia Ng
- Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation Program, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sue Robertson
- Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation Program, McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Stelios Georgiades
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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20
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Zhou D, Hua T, Tang H, Yang R, Huang L, Gong Y, Zhang L, Tang G. Gender and age related brain structural and functional alterations in children with autism spectrum disorder. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhae283. [PMID: 38997211 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae283] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
To explore the effects of age and gender on the brain in children with autism spectrum disorder using magnetic resonance imaging. 185 patients with autism spectrum disorder and 110 typically developing children were enrolled. In terms of gender, boys with autism spectrum disorder had increased gray matter volumes in the insula and superior frontal gyrus and decreased gray matter volumes in the inferior frontal gyrus and thalamus. The brain regions with functional alterations are mainly distributed in the cerebellum, anterior cingulate gyrus, postcentral gyrus, and putamen. Girls with autism spectrum disorder only had increased gray matter volumes in the right cuneus and showed higher amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation in the paracentral lobule, higher regional homogeneity and degree centrality in the calcarine fissure, and greater right frontoparietal network-default mode network connectivity. In terms of age, preschool-aged children with autism spectrum disorder exhibited hypo-connectivity between and within auditory network, somatomotor network, and visual network. School-aged children with autism spectrum disorder showed increased gray matter volumes in the rectus gyrus, superior temporal gyrus, insula, and suboccipital gyrus, as well as increased amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation and regional homogeneity in the calcarine fissure and precentral gyrus and decreased in the cerebellum and anterior cingulate gyrus. The hyper-connectivity between somatomotor network and left frontoparietal network and within visual network was found. It is essential to consider the impact of age and gender on the neurophysiological alterations in autism spectrum disorder children when analyzing changes in brain structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Ting Hua
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Huan Tang
- Department of Radiology, Huadong Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Rong Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Linsheng Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yujiao Gong
- Department of Pediatrics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Guangyu Tang
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, Fudan University, Shanghai 201103, China
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21
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Mazurek MO, Nevill RE, Orlando K, Page K, Howard M, Davis BE. Integration of Family Navigation into ECHO Autism for Pediatric Primary Care in Underserved Communities. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06445-9. [PMID: 38954361 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06445-9] [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: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Children with autism from underserved communities face complex system-, provider-, and family-level barriers to accessing timely diagnosis and early intervention. The current study evaluated the preliminary effects and feasibility of a new program (ECHO Autism LINKS) that integrated pediatric primary care provider (PCP) training with family navigation (FN) to bridge the gaps between screening, referral, and service access. Three cohorts of PCPs (n = 42) participated in the program, which consisted of 60-minute sessions delivered by Zoom twice per month for 12 months. Each session included didactics, case-based learning, and collaborative discussion with participants and an interdisciplinary team of experts. Family navigators were members of the expert team and provided FN services to families referred by PCP participants. Program attendance and engagement were strong, with 40 cases presented and 258 families referred for FN services, most of whom (83%) needed help accessing and connecting with services, and 13% required ongoing support due to complex needs. PCPs demonstrated significant improvements in self-efficacy in providing best-practice care for children with autism, reported high satisfaction, and observed improved knowledge and practice as a result of the program. The results of this initial pilot provide support for the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the ECHO Autism LINKS program. The model holds promise in addressing complex barriers to healthcare access by providing both PCPs and families with the knowledge and support they need. Future research is needed to evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of the program in improving child and family outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micah O Mazurek
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 417 Emmet Street South, PO Box 400267, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA.
| | - Rose E Nevill
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 417 Emmet Street South, PO Box 400267, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Karen Orlando
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 417 Emmet Street South, PO Box 400267, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Keith Page
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 417 Emmet Street South, PO Box 400267, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Mya Howard
- Department of Human Services, School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 417 Emmet Street South, PO Box 400267, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Beth Ellen Davis
- Division of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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22
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Van Dyke J, Rosenberg SA, Crume T, Reyes N, Alexander AA, Barger B, Fitzgerald R, Hightshoe K, Moody EJ, Pazol K, Rosenberg CR, Rubenstein E, Wiggins L, DiGuiseppi C. Child Age at Time of First Maternal Concern and Time to Services Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024; 45:e293-e301. [PMID: 38896561 PMCID: PMC11326974 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Early treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can improve developmental outcomes. Children with ASD from minority families often receive services later. We explored factors related to child's age at time of mother's first concerns about child's development and subsequent time to service initiation among children with ASD. METHODS Analysis included 759 preschool-age children classified with ASD based on comprehensive evaluations. Factors associated with retrospectively reported child age at time of first maternal concern and subsequent time to service initiation were investigated using multiple linear regression and Cox proportional hazards. RESULTS Earlier maternal concern was associated with multiparity, ≥1 child chronic condition, externalizing behaviors, and younger gestational age, but not race/ethnicity. Time to service initiation was longer for children of non-Latino Black or other than Black or White race and higher developmental level and shorter for children with ≥1 chronic condition and older child age at first maternal concern. CONCLUSION Parity, gestational age, and child health and behavior were associated with child age at first maternal concern. Knowledge of child development in multiparous mothers may allow them to recognize potential concerns earlier, suggesting that first time parents may benefit from enhanced education about normal development. Race/ethnicity was not associated with child's age when mothers recognized potential developmental problems; hence, it is unlikely that awareness of ASD symptoms causes racial/ethnic disparities in initiation of services. Delays in time to service initiation among children from racial/ethnic minority groups highlight the need to improve their access to services as soon as developmental concerns are recognized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Van Dyke
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Steven A Rosenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Tessa Crume
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Nuri Reyes
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Aimee Anido Alexander
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Brian Barger
- Center for Leadership in Disability, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Robert Fitzgerald
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Kristina Hightshoe
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Eric J Moody
- Wyoming Institute for Disabilities, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY
| | - Karen Pazol
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Cordelia R Rosenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Eric Rubenstein
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Lisa Wiggins
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Carolyn DiGuiseppi
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
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23
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Stein Elger R, Chowdhury SK, Pacheco Garrillo M, Sauls R, Sundaramurugan S, Rozen E, Puri H, Brice DJ, Liu J, Bakour C, Kirby RS. The Role of Adverse Childhood Experience in the Relationship Between Autism Severity and Early Intervention and Special Education Plan. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06444-w. [PMID: 38951310 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06444-w] [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: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine the association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) severity and having a special education or early intervention plan and the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on this association. This study used the 2020-2021 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) and included 2,537 children aged 3-17 years old who currently have ASD. Multivariable logistic regression, controlling for demographic and family characteristics and health status, was used to explore the association between autism severity and having an early intervention plan. The analysis was stratified by the number of ACEs to explore their role in the association. Children with moderate or severe ASD were more likely to have a special education or early intervention plan than those with mild ASD in the crude and adjusted models. This association continued to be true for children who experienced 1 ACE (aOR: 2.28, 95%CI: 1.09-4.77) but not true for those who experienced no ACEs (aOR: 1.16, 95%CI: 0.70-1.94) and 2 or more ACEs (aOR: 1.84, 95%CI: 0.92-3.69). Results demonstrate that children with moderate or severe autism were more likely to receive early intervention or special education. This association changed depending on the number of ACEs experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaella Stein Elger
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Suman Kanti Chowdhury
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Maria Pacheco Garrillo
- College of Public Health, Affiliated to the Ohio State University, 250 Cunz Hall, 1841 Neil Ave. Columbus, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Rachel Sauls
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Suruthi Sundaramurugan
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Emily Rozen
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Harsha Puri
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Dowensly Jean Brice
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Jing Liu
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Chighaf Bakour
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Russell S Kirby
- College of Public Health, Chiles Center, - Affiliated to the University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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24
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Zamstein O, Wainstock T, Gutvirtz G, Sheiner E. Assessing the impact of medically assisted reproduction on autism spectrum disorder risk. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024:10.1007/s10815-024-03180-z. [PMID: 38926295 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03180-z] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Techniques of medically assisted reproduction interact with the embryo at crucial developmental stages, yet their impact on the fetus and subsequent child's health remains unclear. Given rising infertility rates and more frequent use of fertility treatments, we aimed to investigate if these methods heighten the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. METHODS A population-based cohort study was conducted at Soroka University Medical Center, a tertiary referral hospital, encompassing singleton births. The incidence of ASD in offspring, incorporating either hospital or community-based diagnoses, was compared in relation to the conception method. To examine the cumulative incidence of ASD, a Kaplan-Meier survival curve was utilized. Cox proportional hazards model was employed to adjust for confounders. RESULTS Among 115,081 pregnancies, 0.5% involved ovulation induction (OI) and 1.7% in vitro fertilization (IVF), with the rest conceived naturally. Fertility treatments were more common in older patients and linked to more diabetes, hypertensive disorders, preterm, and cesarean deliveries. Out of 767 ASD diagnoses, offspring from OI and IVF had higher initial ASD rates (2.1% and 1.3%) than natural conceptions (0.6%). In a Cox model accounting for maternal age, ethnicity, and gender, neither OI nor IVF was significantly associated with ASD. The adjusted hazard ratios were 0.83 (95% CI 0.48-1.43) for OI and 1.34 (95% CI 0.91-1.99) for IVF. When considering fertility treatments combined, the association with ASD remained non-significant (aHR 1.11, 95% CI 0.80-1.54, p = 0.52). CONCLUSION Fertility treatments, including OI and IVF, do not exhibit a significant association with heightened ASD risk in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omri Zamstein
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Division, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel.
| | - Tamar Wainstock
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Gil Gutvirtz
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Division, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Eyal Sheiner
- The Obstetrics and Gynecology Division, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
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25
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Yang X, Li H, Yang C, Ge J. Supplementation with stigma maydis polysaccharide attenuates autism-like behaviors and improves gut function in valproic acid-induced autism model male rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2024. [PMID: 38923604 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Stigma maydis polysaccharide (SMPS) has regulatory effect on the intestinal microflora and promotes gastrointestinal peristalsis. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience gastrointestinal problems and dysbiosis in their gut microbiota. Our previous study revealed that SMPS interventions had an impact on the gut microbiota of valproic acid (VPA)-induced autism model rats. However, the effects of SMPS on the behavior and gut function of autism model rats remain poorly understood. Therefore, we gave different doses of SMPS intervention in the early stage of autism model rats to observe their developmental conditions and behavior performances. Through histological evaluation and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), integrity of the intestinal structure and the expression of tight junction-related gene Zo-1 and Occludin were detected. The results indicated that SMPS intervention improved the physical development, learning and memory impairment, and social performance of autism model rats. Meanwhile, SMPS promoted intestinal peristalsis and restored the integrity of the intestinal structure, reduced the number of inflammatory cells, and increased the expression of the Zo-1 and Occludin genes. Furthermore, the expression levels of neurotransmitters (substance P, enkephalin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, and 5-hydroxytryptamine) in the hippocampal tissues were altered after SMPS treatment. In conclusion, SMPS could ameliorate ASD-like phenotypes and gut problems in autism model rats. Collectively, these results provide new evidence for the relationship between the gut-brain axis and ASD and suggest a novel therapeutic target for ASD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Yang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Hongjie Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Department of Preventive Treatment, Qiqihar Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qiqihar, China
| | - Jie Ge
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
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26
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Habayeb S, Inge A, Eisenman E, Godovich S, Lauer M, Hastings A, Fuentes V, Long M, Marshall X, Khuu A, Godoy L. Short report: Integrated evaluations for autism spectrum disorder in pediatric primary care clinics. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024:13623613241260800. [PMID: 38907720 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241260800] [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: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Primary care providers often screen for autism during well child visits in the first few years of life and refer children for diagnostic evaluations when needed. However, most children do not receive a diagnosis until years later which delays access to services. Racism, socioeconomic status, and other systemic inequalities that limit access to health care further delay diagnostic evaluations. Mental health clinicians who work in primary care clinics can help address barriers to accessing diagnostic evaluation services once they are recommended by their primary care provider. However, mental health clinicians who work in primary care typically do not have training in diagnosing autism. The goal of this study was to evaluate a program training mental health professionals working in an urban primary care setting, primarily serving Black and Latinx families insured by Medicaid, to provide autism diagnostic evaluations. Two hundred and fifty children completed evaluations through the Autism in Primary Care (APC) program. The wait time to access an evaluation through APC was significantly shorter than through standard avenues of care (e.g. referring to a separate autism clinic). Referring primary care providers and caregivers endorsed high levels of satisfaction with the program. Conducting autism evaluations in primary care settings offers a promising opportunity to improve earlier diagnosis and treatment access for families, reduce inequities in care, and increase caregiver and child well-being.
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27
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Sharma A, Pantalone DW, Kohn B, Pereida ET, Nadwodny N, Faja S. Perceptions of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder on How Health Care Providers Address Sexual Health. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024:00004703-990000000-00179. [PMID: 38904653 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Medical providers report barriers that prevent them from discussing sexual health with patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). No investigations have examined the perspectives of adults with ASD about their sexual health care experiences. METHODS Twenty-five verbal young adults diagnosed with ASD and 40 young adults without ASD participated. An 8-item self-report survey assessed frequency of health care visits, age when sexual health was first discussed, and frequency/content of discussions with providers. RESULTS The likelihood of discussing sexual health topics did not differ by group, χ2s < 3.25; ps > 0.07, except sexual victimization, which the ASD group reported having discussed less than the non-ASD group (32 vs 9%), χ2 (1, N = 57) = 4.36, p = 0.04. Groups did not differ in their reported comfort level discussing sex/sexual health, having a primary care provider, or frequency of visits. The non-ASD group was significantly more likely to have received sexual health counseling (81%) than ASD group (52%), χ2 (1, N = 58) = 5.33, p = 0.02. Participants in both groups reported having received sexual health information from similar sources except the ASD group was more likely to receive information from parents than the non-ASD group (68% vs 30%), χ2 (1, N = 65) = 8.99, p = 0.003. CONCLUSION Participants in the ASD and non-ASD groups reported similar comfort levels with sexual health discussions and access to health providers. Yet, the ASD group received less counseling related to sexual health-particularly sexual victimization screening-suggesting that critical information may be missing. Future studies should determine how to help providers overcome barriers to providing young adults with ASD sexual health aligned with their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aanchal Sharma
- Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - David W Pantalone
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
| | - Brooke Kohn
- Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Erin T Pereida
- Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA
| | - Nicole Nadwodny
- Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA
| | - Susan Faja
- Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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28
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Stephenson KG, Vargo KC, Cacciato NM, Albright CM, Kryszak EM. Developmental Assessment in Children at Higher Likelihood for Developmental Delays - Comparison of Parent Report and Direct Assessment. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06420-4. [PMID: 38874836 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06420-4] [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: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Accurate assessment of cognitive development of young children is a vital component of developmental evaluations. Direct assessment of developmental skills is not always feasible, but there is limited information on the agreement between direct assessment and caregiver-reported cognitive skills. There is limited information regarding the accuracy of the parent-reported Developmental Profile 4 (DP-4) in comparison to the widely-used developmental measure, the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Fourth Edition (Bayley-4). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate whether a standardized parent interview can effectively identify children at risk for cognitive developmental delays. METHODS We compared the agreement between the Bayley-4 Cognitive and the Developmental Profile 4 (DP-4) in young children being evaluated in-person for early developmental delays. 182 children (134 with an autism diagnosis), ages 6-42 months, completed both assessments. RESULTS Results showed that Bayley-4 Cognitive scores had a moderately strong correlation with DP4-Cognitive scores (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). A cutoff of 70 or 69 on the DP-4 Cognitive was determined as ideal for identifying developmental delay based on diagnosis of global developmental delay or the Bayley-4 Cognitive. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses revealed good agreement between DP-4 and Bayley-4 Cognitive scores, even after controlling for confounding variables such as degree of ASD characteristics, age, and sex. These results suggest that caregiver-report measures can be a valid and useful tool in the assessment of young children, particularly when direct developmental assessment is not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin G Stephenson
- Child Development Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Dr, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA.
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Kerrigan C Vargo
- Child Development Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Dr, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Nicole M Cacciato
- Child Development Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Dr, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Charles M Albright
- Child Development Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Dr, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Kryszak
- Child Development Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Dr, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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29
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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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30
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Brekke I, Alecu A, Ohrazda C, Lee J. Implications of Childhood Autism Spectrum Disorder for Maternal Employment: United States vs. Norway. Matern Child Health J 2024:10.1007/s10995-024-03961-z. [PMID: 38864988 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-024-03961-z] [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: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A country's social welfare system may play an important role in maternal employment. This study compared the labor market participation of mothers of children within the United States (U.S.) and Norway to examine whether the child's age and severity of the ASD affected mothers' employment differently between the two countries. METHODS The 2019 National Survey of Children's Health was used for the U.S. analysis, and the 2019 administrative register data were used for the Norwegian analysis. A logit model was used to analyze the impact of a child's age and ASD severity on maternal employment in the U.S. and Norway. We presented the results as average marginal effects obtained from the logistic regression analyses. RESULTS After adjusting for mothers' sociodemographic variables and the child's age, U.S. mothers of children with mild ASD and moderate/severe ASD had respectively 12 and 25% points lower probability of being employed than U.S. mothers of children without special health care needs. In Norway, mothers of children with moderate/severe ASD had a 13% points lower probability of employment than mothers without special health care needs. The probability of being employed for mothers caring for a child with ASD was significantly greater as the child got older in both countries. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE The employment gap was more substantial in the U.S. than in Norway. A general high employment participation rate among women and an elaborated welfare state and policy package seem to benefit employment among mothers of children with ASD in Norway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idunn Brekke
- Department of childhood and families, Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222, Skøyen, Oslo, N-0213, Norway.
| | - Andreea Alecu
- Consumption Research Norway, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Jiwon Lee
- School of Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A
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31
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Trew S. Close Relationships Despite the Challenges: Sibling Relationships and Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06412-4. [PMID: 38858310 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06412-4] [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: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
This study explores the experiences of siblings of autistic adolescents within families. Without the novel insights generated from engaging with siblings of autistic adolescents within a qualitative framework, it can be challenging to develop strategies for practicing effectively with this group or structuring interventions with these families. Using a social constructivist approach and qualitative participatory methodology, the exploratory study was conducted using in-depth interviews with ten non-autistic siblings, analyzed via a thematic analysis method. The results reveal a common feeling of uncertainty and apprehension in the relationships, leading siblings to physical and emotional detachment from their autistic brothers or sisters. The research emphasizes the caregiving roles predominantly taken up by sisters, especially when the autistic sibling is a brother with intellectual disability. These roles exert substantial demands, with unclear boundaries suggesting potential role confusion. The findings have important implications for family practice, necessitating the need to address role conflict and promote role clarity. They also underscore the gendered nature of caregiving, advocating for support to sister-siblings in these roles. This study revealed the complexities of sibling relationships in families with a member who is an autistic adolescent sibling. The study suggests interventions that promote open family dialogues for a balanced approach to family roles, providing valuable guidance to practitioners to enhance siblings and family well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Trew
- Institute of Child Protection Studies, Australian Catholic University, 223 Anthill Street, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, 2602, Australia.
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32
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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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Marinopoulou M, Åsberg Johnels J, Bornehag CG, Unenge Hallerbäck M, Billstedt E. Do Wechsler intelligence scales predict academic achievement in children with ADHD or autism? A systematic review and meta-analysis. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. CHILD 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38850546 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2024.2361022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Intelligence tests predict academic achievement in typically developed children, however if this is the case also in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not clear. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined if Wechsler intelligence scales predict academic achievement and/or grades in children, ages 6-16 years, with ADHD and/or ASD. We searched the databases PubMed, PsycINFO and Education Research Complete for studies published between 2000 and 2023. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to assess risk of bias. Narrative synthesis and meta-analysis were performed. Twelve studies (ADHD n = 1,834, ASD n = 176) were included in the review, and six samples (ADHD n = 1,112) of those were included in the meta-analyses. The results of the meta-analyses showed moderate overall weighted correlations between IQ and word reading, written language, and mathematics respectively. Similarly, the overall weighted correlations between processing speed and the aforementioned domains of academic achievement were moderate. Meta-analysis with additional Wechsler scales composite scores could not be conducted. In the narrative synthesis, Full Scale IQ was associated with academic achievement in both ADHD and ASD, and grades in ADHD. The limited number of ASD participants and the heterogeneity of the samples need to be considered when interpreting results. Generally, the results indicate that Wechsler scales are valuable in predicting academic achievement in children with ADHD or ASD. Motivation and other factors related with academic achievement need to be further explored in these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Marinopoulou
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Child and Adolescent Habilitation, Region Värmland, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Jakob Åsberg Johnels
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Child Neuropsychiatric Clinic, Queen Silvia's Childrens Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Speech and language pathology unit, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria Unenge Hallerbäck
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Eva Billstedt
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Child Neuropsychiatric Clinic, Queen Silvia's Childrens Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Shirley J, John JR, Montgomery A, Whitehouse A, Eapen V. Utilising Behavioural and Sensory Profiles and Associated Perinatal Factors to Identify Meaningful Subgroups in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06421-3. [PMID: 38842670 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06421-3] [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: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) clinically and aetiologically hinders intervention matching and prediction of outcomes. This study investigated if the behavioural, sensory, and perinatal factor profiles of autistic children could be used to identify distinct subgroups. Participants on the autism spectrum aged 2 to 17 years and their families were sourced via the Australian Autism Biobank (AAB). Latent class analysis was used to identify subgroups within this cohort, utilising twenty-six latent variables representing child's behavioural and sensory features and perinatal factors. Four distinct subgroups within the sample (n = 1168) distinguished by sensory and behavioural autism traits and exposure to perinatal determinants were identified. Class 2 and Class 4, which displayed the greatest behavioural and sensory impairment respectively, were associated with the highest perinatal factor exposure. Class 1, labelled "Most behavioural concerns and moderate sensory and behavioural skills concerns" had mixed exposure to perinatal determinants while Class 3, named "Least sensory and behavioural skills concerns" had the least perinatal determinant exposure, indicating a directly proportional correlation between severity of clinical features and perinatal factor exposure. Additionally, association between specific exposures such as maternal mental illness in Class 1 and significant behavioural concerns was recognised. Identifying distinct subgroups among autistic children can lead to development of targeted interventions and supports. Close monitoring of children exposed to specific perinatal determinants for developmental differences could assist early intervention and supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Shirley
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James Rufus John
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Ingham Institute of Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Alicia Montgomery
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Ingham Institute of Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, Liverpool Hospital, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
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Weitlauf AS, Foster T, Slaughter JC, Fleck M, Harris J, Coffield C, Simcoe K, Baggett J, Stainbrook A, Warren ZE. Screening Options in Autism Telediagnosis: Examination of TAP, M-CHAT-R, and DCI Concordance and Predictive Value in a Telediagnostic Model. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06427-x. [PMID: 38833028 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06427-x] [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: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Tele-assessment of autism in early childhood has increased. However, it is unclear how autism screening tools (M-CHAT-R, DCI) function as part of tele-assessment and relate to a commonly used tele-assessment instrument, the TAP. 361 families from a clinically referred sample of children (mean age: 27.63 months, sd = 4.86 months) completed the M-CHAT-R and DCI prior to a tele-assessment visit utilizing the TAP. Data was collected on demographic background, measure scores, and diagnostic outcome. No significant differences in measure scores or diagnostic findings emerged in age at referral, age group, age at diagnosis, or child sex, ethnicity, or racial background. The M-CHAT-R and DCI correlated strongly and positively. Older age was associated with lower risk scores on screening instruments. Children with autism had significantly higher scores on all screener and subdomain scores, with the exception of DCI Behavior. Subdomains of the DCI emerged as the strongest predictor of diagnostic outcome. Both the DCI total score and the M-CHAT-R significantly related to diagnostic outcome and TAP score in this tele-assessment model, regardless of child age or sex. Findings also support use of the DCI for children under 24 months of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Weitlauf
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA.
| | - Tori Foster
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA
| | - James C Slaughter
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mary Fleck
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA
| | - Jill Harris
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Specialized Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Caroline Coffield
- Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Kathleen Simcoe
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA
| | - Jenny Baggett
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA
| | - Alacia Stainbrook
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA
| | - Zachary E Warren
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 230 Appleton Place, PMB 74, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Martinez-Cayuelas E, Moreno-Vinués B, Pérez-Sebastián I, Gavela-Pérez T, Del Rio-Camacho G, Garcés C, Soriano-Guillén L. Sleep problems and circadian rhythm functioning in autistic children, autism with co-occurring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and typically developing children: A comparative study. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024:13623613241254594. [PMID: 38813763 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241254594] [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: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Sleep problems are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and different factors can contribute to its occurrence in this population. Misalignment of the biological clock (our circadian system) has been described as one possible explanation. While there is a body of research on sleep problems, relatively less is known about circadian functioning and the specific population of autistic children with co-occurring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using an ambulatory circadian monitoring (ACM) system, which resembles a common watch, we gathered sleep parameters and the different rhythms obtained from measuring motor activity, light exposure and distal temperature in 87 autistic children and adolescents, 27 of whom were diagnosed with co-occurring ADHD, and 30 neurotypical children and adolescents as a comparison group. Autistic children and, especially, those with co-occurring ADHD showed greater motor activity during sleep which would be worth studying in future projects which could better define this restless sleep. Of note, we observed an atypical pattern of wrist temperature, with higher values in neurotypical children, followed by autistic children and, ultimately, those with co-occurring ADHD. Temperature is one of the most valuable factors evaluated here as it is closely connected to sleep-wakefulness and the hormone melatonin. Its special pattern during day and nighttime would support the hypothesis of an atypical secretion of melatonin in autistic individuals which would also link with the higher presence of sleep problems in this neurodevelopmental condition.
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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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Lopez-Espejo MA, Nuñez AC, Saez V, Ruz M, Moscoso OC, Vives A. The Influence of Social and Developmental Factors on the Timing of Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis of Preschool-Aged Children: Evidence from a Specialized Chilean Center. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06376-5. [PMID: 38744740 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06376-5] [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: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
We investigated the influence of developmental and social factors on the age of autism diagnosis (AoD) in a cohort of toddlers living in Chile. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 509 preschool children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder [M = 40.2 months (SD = 8.6), girls: 32%] in the neurodevelopmental unit of a university clinic in Santiago, Chile (2015-2023). Structural changes in the annual trend of AoD were tested. Generalized linear models (gamma distribution) with and without interaction terms were used for the multivariate analysis, adjusting for gender, residential area, year of diagnosis, developmental variables (language regression, delayed walking, and use of expressive verbal language), and primary caregiver age and education level (CEL). 95% confidence intervals of the unstandardized regression coefficients (B) were calculated using 1000 bootstrap resampling to estimate associations. AoD increased between 2021-2022 and decreased in 2023. Female gender (B = 2.72 [1.21-4.23]), no history of language regression (B = 3.97 [1.66-6.28]), and the presence of expressive verbal language at diagnosis (B = 1.57 [0.05-3.08]) were associated with higher AoD. Children whose caregivers had tertiary education were diagnosed earlier than those with ≤ 12 years of formal education. Although the influence of CEL increased with caregiver age, differences between CEL groups were significant only for caregivers aged ≥ 30 years. Improved education and early screening for clinical features of autism among healthcare professionals and the community, with a focus on young children without highly apparent developmental concerns and those from vulnerable social groups, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio A Lopez-Espejo
- Section of Neurology, Division of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
- Neurodevelopmental Unit, UC CHRISTUS Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Alicia C Nuñez
- Section of Neurology, Division of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Neurodevelopmental Unit, UC CHRISTUS Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | - Valentina Saez
- Neurodevelopmental Unit, UC CHRISTUS Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | - Melanie Ruz
- Neurodevelopmental Unit, UC CHRISTUS Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | - Odalie C Moscoso
- Neurodevelopmental Unit, UC CHRISTUS Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra Vives
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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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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40
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Mancilla-Martinez J, Oh MH, Luk G, Rollins A. Special Education Representation Trends Vary by Language Status: Evidence of Underrepresentation in Tennessee. JOURNAL OF LEARNING DISABILITIES 2024; 57:153-167. [PMID: 37309592 PMCID: PMC11044507 DOI: 10.1177/00222194231178285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Using U.S. state-level data, we report unadjusted and adjusted odds ratio of special education (SPED) trends in Tennessee from 2009 to 2019 for students in Grades 3 to 8 by three language groups: native English speakers (NES), English-proficient bilinguals (EPB), and Current English learners (Current EL). We report trends across all SPED disability categories and across five prevalent disability categories (specific learning disability, specific language impairment, intellectual disability, other health impairments, and autism). The cross-sectional analytic sample included 812,783 students from 28 districts that met the SPED risk ratio threshold set by the state. Results revealed that, compared with NES students, both EPB and Current EL students were generally less likely to receive SPED services, suggesting evidence of language status disparities in SPED representation. Furthermore, findings varied depending on whether adjustments were made to generate odds ratios, especially for higher-incidence disabilities (specific learning disability, specific language impairment, and intellectual disability). Finally, the most severe evidence of underrepresentation was in lower-incidence disabilities (other health impairments and autism). Our results underscore the need for further examination into low rates of SPED identification among learners whose first language is not English (EPB and Current EL). We discuss the contextualized research, practice, and policy implications of our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Hyun Oh
- University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Gigi Luk
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adam Rollins
- Tennessee Department of Education, Nashville, USA
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Wieckowski AT, Ramsey RK, Coulter K, Eldeeb SY, Algur Y, Ryan V, Stahmer AC, Robins DL. Role of Primary Care Clinician Concern During Screening for Early Identification of Autism. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024; 45:e187-e194. [PMID: 38564788 PMCID: PMC11192612 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001262] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the added value of primary care clinician (PCC)-indicated concern during primary care universal standardized screening in early identification of autism. METHODS Toddlers were screened for autism during primary care checkups (n = 7,039, aged 14.24-22.43 months) in 2 studies. Parents completed the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up. For each participant, PCCs indicated whether they had autism concerns (optional in 1 study-before or after viewing screening results, required before viewing screen results in the other). Children at high likelihood for autism from screen result and/or PCC concern (n = 615) were invited for a diagnostic evaluation; 283 children attended the evaluation. RESULTS Rates of PCC-indicated autism concerns were similar whether PCCs were required or encouraged to indicate concerns. High likelihood of autism indication on both screen and PCC concern resulted in the highest positive predictive value for autism and positive predictive value for any developmental disorder, as well as the highest evaluation attendance, with no significant difference between the positive screen-only and PCC concern-only groups. Although the frequency of PCC-indicated autism concern did not differ significantly based on the child's cognitive level, PCCs were more likely to identify children with more obvious autism characteristics compared with more subtle autism characteristics as having autism. CONCLUSION The findings support the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics that both screening and surveillance for autism be incorporated into well-child visits. High likelihood of autism on either screen or PCC concern should trigger a referral for an evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kirsty Coulter
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
| | | | - Yasemin Algur
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Victoria Ryan
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Aubyn C. Stahmer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA
| | - Diana L. Robins
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
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42
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Wallis KE, Usher R. Applying autism screening research to real-world scenarios: a commentary on Sheldrick et al. (2023). J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:720-722. [PMID: 38009449 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to be a challenge despite universal screening efforts. One explanation is that screening tools have lower sensitivity and specificity than initial studies report when accounting for incomplete follow-up for all children screened. Sheldrick and colleagues used statistical modeling to demonstrate the impact on sensitivity and specificity when assumptions about the diagnostic outcome of children who do not pursue diagnostic evaluation are altered. Crucially, the work of Sheldrick et al. serves as a reminder that autism screening in primary care is just one component of the clinical assessment and should not be conflated with a diagnostic evaluation. Thus, lack of follow-up after a positive screen is a feature, not only a bug when using a screen in a clinical setting. Engaging families in shared decision-making around screening may help encourage follow-up, and thus, screening tool psychometric performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate E Wallis
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rosalind Usher
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Havdahl A, Farmer C, Surén P, Øyen AS, Magnus P, Susser E, Lipkin WI, Reichborn-Kjennerud T, Stoltenberg C, Bishop S, Thurm A. Attainment and loss of early social-communication skills across neurodevelopmental conditions in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:610-619. [PMID: 36973172 PMCID: PMC10522798 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delays and loss of early-emerging social-communication skills are often discussed as unique to autism. However, most studies of regression have relied on retrospective recall and clinical samples. Here, we examine attainment and loss of social-communication skills in the population-based Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). METHODS Mothers rated their child's attainment of 10 early-emerging social-communication skills at ages 18 and 36 months (N = 40,613, 50.9% male). Prospectively reported loss was defined as skill presence at 18 months but absence at 36 months. At 36 months, mothers also recalled whether the child had lost social-communication skills. The Norwegian Patient Registry was used to capture diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (autism) and other neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs). RESULTS Delay in at least one skill was observed in 14% of the sample and loss in 5.4%. Recalled loss of social-communication skills was rare (0.86%) and showed low convergence with prospectively reported loss. Delay and especially loss were associated with elevated odds of an autism diagnosis (n = 383) versus no autism diagnosis (n = 40,230; ≥3 skills delayed: OR = 7.09[4.15,12.11]; ≥3 skills lost: OR = 30.66[17.30,54.33]). They were also associated with an increased likelihood of autism compared to some other NDDs. Delay (relative risk [RR] = 4.16[2.08, 8.33]) and loss (RR = 10.00[3.70, 25.00]) associated with increased likelihood of autism versus ADHD, and loss (RR = 4.35[1.28,14.29]), but not delay (RR = 2.00[0.78,5.26]), associated with increased likelihood of autism compared to language disability. Conversely, delay conferred decreased likelihood of autism versus intellectual disability (RR = 0.11[0.06,0.21]), and loss was not reliably associated with likelihood of autism versus intellectual disability (RR = 1.89[0.44,8.33]). CONCLUSIONS This population-based study suggests that loss of early social communication skills is more common than studies using retrospective reports have indicated and is observed across several NDD diagnoses (not just autism). Nevertheless, most children with NDD diagnoses showed no reported delay or loss in these prospectively measured skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Havdahl
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Centre, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cristan Farmer
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Pål Surén
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne-Siri Øyen
- Nic Waals Institute, Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per Magnus
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ezra Susser
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - W. Ian Lipkin
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health and Departments of Neurology and Pathology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | - Camilla Stoltenberg
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Somer Bishop
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Audrey Thurm
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD
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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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Hazan S, Haroon J, Jordan S, Walker SJ. Improvements in Gut Microbiome Composition and Clinical Symptoms Following Familial Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in a Nineteen-Year-Old Adolescent With Severe Autism. J Med Cases 2024; 15:82-91. [PMID: 38715916 PMCID: PMC11073461 DOI: 10.14740/jmc4209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
This case report describes a novel therapy for patients with severe autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that is worth further investigation. A 19-year-old male adolescent with ASD, who was not responding to standard treatment received fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) using donor material from his typically developing female sibling. The patient's ASD symptoms were assessed by assessors who were blind to the patient's past ASD symptomatology. Assessors used the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), an observation-based rating scale to assess developmental delay in children with autism (range of CARS scores is 15 - 60; a score > 28 is indicative of autism; higher score is positively correlated with degree of severity), at baseline and again at six timepoints post-FMT. The patient experienced marked improvements in microbiome diversity and composition over the year and a half period that followed the FMT procedure. Additionally, the patient who was previously nonverbal said his first two words and experienced a reduction in aggression 1-month post-FMT. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate the use of familial FMT in an adolescent patient with ASD. Given that ASD symptom improvements post-FMT tend to occur in younger patients, the authors hypothesize that the use of a familial donor may be an important factor that contributed to the improved outcomes experienced by this older child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Hazan
- ProgenaBiome, LLC, Ventura, CA, USA
- Microbiome Research Foundation, Ventura, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Stephen J. Walker
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA
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Ouyang Y, Feng J, Wang T, Xue Y, Mohamed ZA, Jia F. Comparison of the efficacy of parent-mediated NDBIs on developmental skills in children with ASD and fidelity in parents: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:270. [PMID: 38664754 PMCID: PMC11044316 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04752-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, studies on behavioral interventions for autism have gained popularity. Naturalistic Developmental Behavior Interventions (NDBIs) are among the most effective, evidence-based, and widely used behavior interventions for autism. However, no research has been conducted on which of the several NDBI methods is most effective for parents and children with autism spectrum disorders. Therefore, we conducted a network meta-analysis to compare the specific effects of each type of parental-mediated NDBI on children's developmental skills and parent fidelity. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Medline, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), CINAHL, and Wanfang databases were searched from inception to August 30, 2023. A total of 32 randomized controlled trial studies that examined the efficacy of different NDBIs were included. RESULTS Parents of children with ASD who received Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) reported significant improvements in their children's social skills (SUCRA, 74.1%), language skills (SUCRA, 88.3%), and parenting fidelity (SUCRA, 99.5%). Moreover, parents who received Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) reported significant improvements in their children's language (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.79) and motor skills (SMD = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.79). In terms of the efficacy of improving parent fidelity, the results showed that the Improving Parents as Communication Teachers (ImPACT) intervention significantly improved parent fidelity when compared with the treatment-as-usual group (TAU) (SMD = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.39, 1.42) and the parental education intervention (PEI) (SMD = 1.10, 95% CI:0.28, 1.91).There was a difference in parent fidelity among parents who received PRT(SMD = 3.53, 95% CI: 2.26, 4.79) or ESDM(SMD = 1.42, 95% CI: 0.76, 2.09) training compared with PEI. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study revealed that parents can achieve high fidelity with the ImPACT intervention, and it can serve as an early first step for children newly diagnosed with ASD. It also showed that parent-mediated ESDM is effective in improving language and motor skills for children with ASD and can be used as part of the second stage of parent training. Parent-mediated PRT can also be used as a third stage of parent training with sufficient training intensity to further improve language, social, and motor skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Ouyang
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Junyan Feng
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Tiantian Wang
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yang Xue
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Zakaria Ahmed Mohamed
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Feiyong Jia
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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Adelson RP, Ciobanu M, Garikipati A, Castell NJ, Singh NP, Barnes G, Rumph JK, Mao Q, Roane HS, Vaish A, Das R. Family-Centric Applied Behavior Analysis Facilitates Improved Treatment Utilization and Outcomes. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2409. [PMID: 38673682 PMCID: PMC11051390 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082409] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by lifelong impacts on functional social and daily living skills, and restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRBs). Applied behavior analysis (ABA), the gold-standard treatment for ASD, has been extensively validated. ABA access is hindered by limited availability of qualified professionals and logistical and financial barriers. Scientifically validated, parent-led ABA can fill the accessibility gap by overcoming treatment barriers. This retrospective cohort study examines how our ABA treatment model, utilizing parent behavior technicians (pBTs) to deliver ABA, impacts adaptive behaviors and interfering behaviors (IBs) in a cohort of children on the autism spectrum with varying ASD severity levels, and with or without clinically significant IBs. Methods: Clinical outcomes of 36 patients ages 3-15 years were assessed using longitudinal changes in Vineland-3 after 3+ months of pBT-delivered ABA treatment. Results: Within the pBT model, our patients demonstrated clinically significant improvements in Vineland-3 Composite, domain, and subdomain scores, and utilization was higher in severe ASD. pBTs utilized more prescribed ABA when children initiated treatment with clinically significant IBs, and these children also showed greater gains in their Composite scores. Study limitations include sample size, inter-rater reliability, potential assessment metric bias and schedule variability, and confounding intrinsic or extrinsic factors. Conclusion: Overall, our pBT model facilitated high treatment utilization and showed robust effectiveness, achieving improved adaptive behaviors and reduced IBs when compared to conventional ABA delivery. The pBT model is a strong contender to fill the widening treatment accessibility gap and represents a powerful tool for addressing systemic problems in ABA treatment delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P. Adelson
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Madalina Ciobanu
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Anurag Garikipati
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Natalie J. Castell
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Navan Preet Singh
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Gina Barnes
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Jodi Kim Rumph
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Qingqing Mao
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Henry S. Roane
- Madison-Irving Medical Center, Upstate Medical University, 475 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13210-1756, USA;
| | - Anshu Vaish
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Ritankar Das
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
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Del Lucchese B, Parravicini S, Filogna S, Mangani G, Beani E, Di Lieto MC, Bardoni A, Bertamino M, Papini M, Tacchino C, Fedeli F, Cioni G, Sgandurra G. The wide world of technological telerehabilitation for pediatric neurologic and neurodevelopmental disorders - a systematic review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1295273. [PMID: 38694988 PMCID: PMC11061864 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1295273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for assessing and treating cognitive and motor disorders is promoting home-based telerehabilitation. This approach involves ongoing monitoring within a motivating context to help patients generalize their skills. It can also reduce healthcare costs and geographic barriers by minimizing hospitalization. This systematic review focuses on investigating key aspects of telerehabilitation protocols for children with neurodevelopmental or neurological disorders, including technology used, outcomes, caregiver involvement, and dosage, to guide clinical practice and future research. Method This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO. The PICO framework was followed to define the search strategy for technology-based telerehabilitation interventions targeting the pediatric population (aged 0-18) with neurological or neurodevelopmental disorders. The search encompassed Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. Independent reviewers were responsible for selecting relevant papers and extracting data, while data harmonization and analysis were conducted centrally. Results A heterogeneous and evolving situation emerged from our data. Our findings reported that most of the technologies adopted for telerehabilitation are commercial devices; however, research prototypes and clinical software were also employed with a high potential for personalization and treatment efficacy. The efficacy of these protocols on health or health-related domains was also explored by categorizing the outcome measures according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). Most studies targeted motor and neuropsychological functions, while only a minority of papers explored language or multi-domain protocols. Finally, although caregivers were rarely the direct target of intervention, their role was diffusely highlighted as a critical element of the home-based rehabilitation setting. Discussion This systematic review offers insights into the integration of technological devices into telerehabilitation programs for pediatric neurologic and neurodevelopmental disorders. It highlights factors contributing to the effectiveness of these interventions and suggests the need for further development, particularly in creating dynamic and multi-domain rehabilitation protocols. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of promoting home-based and family-centered care, which could involve caregivers more actively in the treatment, potentially leading to improved clinical outcomes for children with neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions. Systematic review registration PROSPERO (CRD42020210663).
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Del Lucchese
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Parravicini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Pediatric Neuroscience Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Filogna
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gloria Mangani
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Beani
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Di Lieto
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Marta Bertamino
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - Marta Papini
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Lecco, Italy
| | - Chiara Tacchino
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Cioni
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Sgandurra
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Sobieski M, Grata-Borkowska U, Bujnowska-Fedak MM. Implementing an Early Detection Program for Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Polish Primary Healthcare Setting-Possible Obstacles and Experiences from Online ASD Screening. Brain Sci 2024; 14:388. [PMID: 38672037 PMCID: PMC11047999 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040388] [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: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
A screening questionnaire for autism symptoms is not yet available in Poland, and there are no recommendations regarding screening for developmental disorders in Polish primary healthcare. The aim of this study was to assess the opinions of parents and physicians on the legitimacy and necessity of screening for autism spectrum disorders, potential barriers to the implementation of the screening program, and the evaluation and presentation of the process of online ASD screening, which was part of the validation program for the Polish version of one of the screening tools. This study involved 418 parents whose children were screened online and 95 primary care physicians who expressed their opinions in prepared surveys. The results indicate that both parents and doctors perceive the need to screen children for ASD in the general population without a clear preference as to the screening method (online or in person). Moreover, online screening is considered by respondents as a satisfactory diagnostic method. Therefore, online screening may prove to be at least a partial method of solving numerous obstacles indicated by participants' systemic difficulties including time constraints, the lack of experienced specialists in the field of developmental disorders and organizational difficulties of healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Sobieski
- Department of Family Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Syrokomli 1, 51-141 Wroclaw, Poland; (U.G.-B.); (M.M.B.-F.)
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吴 媛, 杨 亭, 陈 红, 龙 丹, 向 雪, 冯 钰, 韦 秋, 陈 洁, 李 廷. [Serum folate and vitamin B 12 levels and their association with neurodevelopmental features in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2024; 26:371-377. [PMID: 38660901 PMCID: PMC11057295 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2310091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the levels of serum folate and vitamin B12 (VB12) and their association with the level of neurodevelopment in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS A total of 324 ASD children aged 2-6 years and 318 healthy children aged 2-6 years were recruited. Serum levels of folate and VB12 were measured using chemiluminescent immunoassay. The Social Responsiveness Scale and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale were used to assess the core symptoms of ASD children, and the Gesell Developmental Schedule was employed to evaluate the level of neurodevelopment. RESULTS The levels of serum folate and VB12 in ASD children were significantly lower than those in healthy children (P<0.05). Serum folate levels in ASD children were positively correlated with gross and fine motor developmental quotients (P<0.05), and serum VB12 levels were positively correlated with adaptive behavior, fine motor, and language developmental quotients (P<0.05). In ASD children aged 2 to <4 years, serum folate levels were positively correlated with developmental quotients in all domains (P<0.05), and serum VB12 levels were positively correlated with language developmental quotient (P<0.05). In male ASD children, serum VB12 levels were positively correlated with language and personal-social developmental quotients (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Serum folate and VB12 levels in preschool ASD children are lower than those in healthy children and are associated with neurodevelopmental levels, especially in ASD children under 4 years of age. Therefore, maintaining normal serum folate and VB12 levels may be beneficial for the neurodevelopment of ASD children, especially in ASD children under 4 years of age.
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