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Maula MI, Ammarullah MI, Fadhila HN, Afif IY, Hardian H, Jamari J, Winarni TI. Comfort evaluation and physiological effects/autonomic nervous system response of inflatable deep pressure vest in reducing anxiety. Heliyon 2024; 10:e36065. [PMID: 39211928 PMCID: PMC11357748 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Deep pressure therapy treats anxiety by triggering physiological responses and promoting calmness. Moreover, measuring user comfort can improve product quality. Objective To investigate the physiological effects and subjective comfort level of inflatable deep pressure vests to enhance their calming effect. Methods Experimental research was conducted with a one-group pretest-posttest design for physiological effects using pulse oximetry for peripheral pulse rate and a one-shot case study for three subscale parameters that help evaluate comfort (pressure, touch, and mobility) using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Deep pressure intervention using the Inflatable Vest was performed for three sessions, each lasting 5 min. Results This study was conducted with 46 participants (24 males, 22 females) aged 17-20 (19.52 ± 0.78). Although pulse rate consistently decreased in all sessions, session 1 showed a significant decrease (p = 0.014*, d = 0.379), whereas sessions 2 (p = 0.274, d = 0.163) and 3 (p = 0.597, d = 0.078) demonstrated non-significant decreases with small effect sizes. The pressure comfort subscale showed that 87.0 %, 4.3 %, and 8.7 % of the participants, and the touch comfort subscale test revealed that 82.6 %, 8.7 %, and 73.9 % of the participants rated it as comfortable, very comfortable, and less comfortable, respectively. The mobility subscale test showed that 73.9 % of the participants rated no limitation, 17.4 % rated somewhat limited, and only 8.7 % rated limitation. Decreased pulse rate and pressure comfort were significantly positively correlated (r = 0.282**, p < 0.01), whereas touch pressure and mobility were not (r = 0.160, p > 0.05; and r = 0.121, p > 0.05, respectively). Decreased pulse rate was also positively correlated with the overall score for the three aspects (r = 0.201*, p < 0.05). Conclusions A comfortable inflatable deep pressure vest provides a physiologically calming effect for therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Izzur Maula
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Undip Biomechanics Engineering & Research Centre (UBM-ERC), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Department of Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Akademi Inovasi Indonesia, Salatiga, 50721, Central Java, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Imam Ammarullah
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Undip Biomechanics Engineering & Research Centre (UBM-ERC), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Sustainable Energy and Bioengineering Research Centre, University of Liberia, Monrovia, 1000, Montserrado, Liberia
| | - Hanifa Nur Fadhila
- Undip Biomechanics Engineering & Research Centre (UBM-ERC), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
| | - Ilham Yustar Afif
- Undip Biomechanics Engineering & Research Centre (UBM-ERC), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Muhammadiyah Semarang, Semarang, 50273, Central Java, Indonesia
| | - Hardian Hardian
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
| | - Jamari Jamari
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Undip Biomechanics Engineering & Research Centre (UBM-ERC), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
| | - Tri Indah Winarni
- Undip Biomechanics Engineering & Research Centre (UBM-ERC), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
- Center for Biomedical Research (CEBIOR), Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Central Java, Indonesia
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Kilmer M, Hong M, Randolph D, Reichel A, Huetter S, Bowden M, Kilmer C. Animal-assisted therapy in pediatric autism spectrum disorder: A case report. Nurse Pract 2024; 49:31-39. [PMID: 38386471 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000000000000151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The use of therapy or service dogs to assist children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing in clinical settings. Research studies indicate that children with ASD display enhanced prosocial behavior and emotional regulation when canines are included in therapy. Despite increased application of animal-assisted therapy in clinical and inpatient settings, healthcare providers show limited understanding of best practices for its use and require a research-based approach to incorporate animals effectively into therapeutic plans of care for pediatric patients with ASD.
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Man MQ, Yang S, Mauro TM, Zhang G, Zhu T. Link between the skin and autism spectrum disorder. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1265472. [PMID: 37920540 PMCID: PMC10619695 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1265472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurological disorder. Although the etiologies of ASD have been widely speculated, evidence also supports the pathogenic role of cutaneous inflammation in autism. The prevalence of ASD is higher in individuals with inflammatory dermatoses than in those without inflammatory diseases. Anti-inflammation therapy alleviates symptoms of ASD. Recent studies suggest a link between epidermal dysfunction and ASD. In the murine model, mice with ASD display epidermal dysfunction, accompanied by increased expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines in both the skin and the brain. Children with ASD, which develops in their early lifetime, also exhibit altered epidermal function. Interestingly, improvement in epidermal function alleviates some symptoms of ASD. This line of evidence suggests a pathogenic role of cutaneous dysfunction in ASD. Either an improvement in epidermal function or effective treatment of inflammatory dermatoses can be an alternative approach to the management of ASD. We summarize here the current evidence of the association between the skin and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao-Qiang Man
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Dermatology Service, San Francisco VA Medical Center,San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Shuyun Yang
- Department of Dermatology, The People’s Hospital of Baoshan, Baoshan, China
| | - Theodora M. Mauro
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Dermatology Service, San Francisco VA Medical Center,San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Guoqiang Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Tingting Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Kutuk MO, Tufan AE, Kilicaslan F, Vural P, Gokcen C, Alsen Guney S, Kutuk B, Ozyurt G, Inal N, Mutluer T, Acikalin EY, Ozer FH, Pamuk EN, Yesilmese SC, Karadag M, Hangul Z, Bilginer C, Sahin N, Bilac O, Kandemir H, Ercan ES, Eseroglu Soylemez T, Acikel SB, Guler Aksu G, Dag P, Toros F, Mutlu C, Kardas O, Kardas B, Kizildag S, Demirci E, Ozmen S, Sevicin L, Karagoz YS, Isik U, Aktepe E, Altun H, Yektas Ç, Polat Tuysuz B, Buber A, Cansiz MA, Ogutlu H, Eray S, Taner HA, Altintas E, Kutuk O. functional outcome in late adolescence/early adulthood of patients with autism spectrum disorder and its relationships with parental burnout and depression: A preliminary multi-center, cross-sectional study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20766. [PMID: 37867841 PMCID: PMC10589842 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20766] [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: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to determine the functioning of adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) diagnosed in childhood and depression and burnout levels among their parents. A total of 261 adults with ASDs and their parents were recruited for the study. Both parents completed the Beck Depression and Maslach Burnout Inventories and reported the functioning of their adult offspring with ASDs. Only 5.4 % of our sample reported "good" or "very good" outcomes. The most common psychiatric comorbidities were intellectual disabilities and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Maternal burnout and depression scores were significantly elevated compared to those of fathers. There is an undeniable urgent need for more research to identify the needs of adults and families suffering from ASD. Modifications for those with ASD may have to be made for support in workplaces, achieving driving licenses, using public transportation and attendance at tertiary education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryem Ozlem Kutuk
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Adana Dr. Turgut Noyan Medical and Research Center, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ali Evren Tufan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Faculty of Medicine, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Fethiye Kilicaslan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Harran University, Faculty of Medicine, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Pınar Vural
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uludag University, Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Cem Gokcen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep University, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Sevay Alsen Guney
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Bahtim Kutuk
- Department of Psychology, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gonca Ozyurt
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, İzmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Neslihan Inal
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tuba Mutluer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Koc University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Zip code: 34450, Turkey
| | - Eren Yavuz Acikalin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Koc University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Zip code: 34450, Turkey
| | - Fadime Hande Ozer
- Department of Psychology, Hasan Kalyoncu University, Gaziantep, Zipcode: 27410, Turkey
| | - Esma Nur Pamuk
- Department of Psychology, Cag University, Mersin, Zip code: 33800, Turkey
| | | | - Mehmet Karadag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep University, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep, Zip code: 27310, Turkey
| | - Zehra Hangul
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep University, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep, Zip code: 27310, Turkey
| | - Cilem Bilginer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Karadeniz Technical University, Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Zip code: 61080, Turkey
| | - Nilfer Sahin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Faculty of Medicine, Mugla, Zip code: 48000, Turkey
| | - Oznur Bilac
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Manisa Celal Bayar University, Faculty of Medicine, Manisa, Zip code: 45030, Turkey
| | - Hasan Kandemir
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Manisa Celal Bayar University, Faculty of Medicine, Manisa, Zip code: 45030, Turkey
| | - Eyup Sabri Ercan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ege University, Faculty of Medicine, İzmir, Zip code: 35040, Turkey
| | - Tugba Eseroglu Soylemez
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Baskent University, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medical and Research Center, Istanbul, Zip code: 34662, Turkey
| | - Sadettin Burak Acikel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Konya City Training and Research Hospital, Konya, Zip code: 42090, Turkey
| | - Gulen Guler Aksu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mersin University, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin, Zip code: 33343, Turkey
| | - Pelin Dag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mersin City Training and Research Hospital, Mersin, Zip code: 33240, Turkey
| | - Fevziye Toros
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mersin University, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin, Zip code: 33343, Turkey
| | - Caner Mutlu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Zip code: 34494, Turkey
| | - Omer Kardas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dicle University, Faculty of Medicine, Diyarbakır, Zip code: 21280, Turkey
| | - Burcu Kardas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gazi Yasargil Education and Research Hospital, Diyarbakir, Zip code: 21010, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Kizildag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dicle University, Faculty of Medicine, Diyarbakır, Zip code: 21280, Turkey
| | - Esra Demirci
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Zip code: 38039, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Ozmen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Zip code: 38039, Turkey
| | - Leyla Sevicin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erciyes University, Faculty of Medicine, Kayseri, Zip code: 38039, Turkey
| | - Yuksel Sumeyra Karagoz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Zip code: 25240, Turkey
| | - Umit Isik
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Suleyman Demirel University, Faculty of Medicine, Isparta, Zip code: 71100, Turkey
| | - Evrim Aktepe
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Suleyman Demirel University, Faculty of Medicine, Isparta, Zip code: 71100, Turkey
| | - Hatice Altun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras, Zip code: 46000, Turkey
| | - Çigdem Yektas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uskudar University, Istanbul, Zip code: 34662, Turkey
| | - Berna Polat Tuysuz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Sanliurfa Education and Research Hospital, Sanliurfa, Zip code: 63250, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Buber
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pamukkale University, Faculty of Medicine, Denizli, Zip code: 20070, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Akif Cansiz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Yozgat Bozok University, Faculty of Medicine, Yozgat, Zip code: 66100, Turkey
| | - Hakan Ogutlu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Zip code: 06800, Turkey
| | - Safak Eray
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, Bursa, Zip code: 16059, Turkey
| | - Hande Ayraler Taner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Baskent University, Medical Faculty, Ankara, Zip code: 06490, Turkey
| | - Ebru Altintas
- Department of Psychiatry, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Adana Dr. Turgut Noyan Medical and Research Center, Adana, Zip code: 01110, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Kutuk
- Department of Immunology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Adana Dr. Turgut Noyan Medical and Research Center, Adana, Zip code: 01110, Turkey
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Kononova S, Kashparov M, Xue W, Bobkova N, Leonov S, Zagorodny N. Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis as a Potential Risk Factor for Idiopathic Toe-Walking in Children: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13204. [PMID: 37686011 PMCID: PMC10488280 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713204] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic toe walking (ITW) occurs in about 5% of children. Orthopedic treatment of ITW is complicated by the lack of a known etiology. Only half of the conservative and surgical methods of treatment give a stable positive result of normalizing gait. Available data indicate that the disease is heterogeneous and multifactorial. Recently, some children with ITW have been found to have genetic variants of mutations that can lead to the development of toe walking. At the same time, some children show sensorimotor impairment, but these studies are very limited. Sensorimotor dysfunction could potentially arise from an imbalanced production of neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in motor control. Using the data obtained in the studies of several pathologies manifested by the association of sensory-motor dysfunction and intestinal dysbiosis, we attempt to substantiate the notion that malfunction of neurotransmitter production is caused by the imbalance of gut microbiota metabolites as a result of dysbiosis. This review delves into the exciting possibility of a connection between variations in the microbiome and ITW. The purpose of this review is to establish a strong theoretical foundation and highlight the benefits of further exploring the possible connection between alterations in the microbiome and TW for further studies of ITW etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Kononova
- Institute of Protein Research, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
| | - Mikhail Kashparov
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (M.K.); (N.Z.)
- Scientific and Practical Center for Child Psychoneurology, 119602 Moscow, Russia
| | - Wenyu Xue
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia; (W.X.); (S.L.)
| | - Natalia Bobkova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia;
| | - Sergey Leonov
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia; (W.X.); (S.L.)
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia;
| | - Nikolaj Zagorodny
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (M.K.); (N.Z.)
- N.N. Priorov Central Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics, 127299 Moscow, Russia
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Cheng MK, Guo YY, Kang XN, Zhang L, Wang D, Ren HH, Yuan G. Advances in cardiovascular-related biomarkers to predict diabetic peripheral neuropathy. World J Diabetes 2023; 14:1226-1233. [PMID: 37664477 PMCID: PMC10473952 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v14.i8.1226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common chronic complication of diabetes mellitus. One of the most common types is distal symmetric poly-neuropathy, which begins as bilateral symmetry pain and hyperesthesia and gradually progresses into hypoesthesia with nerve fibre disorder and is frequently accompanied by depression and anxiety. Notably, more than half of patients with DPN can be asymptomatic, which tends to delay early detection. Furthermore, the study of adverse outcomes showed that DPN is a prominent risk factor for foot ulceration, gangrene and nontraumatic amputation, which decreases quality of life. Thus, it is essential to develop convenient diagnostic biomarkers with high sensitivity for screening and early intervention. It has been reported that there may be common pathways for microvascular and macrovascular complications of diabetes. The pathogenesis of both disorders involves vascular endothelial dys-function. Emerging evidence indicates that traditional and novel cardiovascular-related biomarkers have the potential to characterize patients by subclinical disease status and improve risk prediction. Additionally, beyond traditional cardiovascular-related biomarkers, novel cardiovascular-related biomarkers have been linked to diabetes and its complications. In this review, we evaluate the association between major traditional and nontraditional car-diovascular-related biomarkers of DPN, such as cardiac troponin T, B-type natriuretic peptide, C-reactive protein, myeloperoxidase, and homocysteine, and assess the evidence for early risk factor-based management strategies to reduce the incidence and slow the progression of DPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Ke Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yao-Yao Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiao-Nan Kang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hui-Hui Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Gang Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
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Garg P, Sudol-Szopinska I, Kolodziejczak M, Bhattacharya K, Kaur G. New objective scoring system to clinically assess fecal incontinence. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:4593-4603. [PMID: 37621752 PMCID: PMC10445003 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i29.4593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several scoring systems are used to assess fecal incontinence (FI), among which, the most commonly used are Wexner and Vaizey's scoring systems. However, there are significant lacunae in these scoring systems, due to which they are neither accurate nor comprehensive. AIM To develop a new scoring system for FI that is accurate, comprehensive, and easy to use. METHODS A pro forma was made in which six types of FI were included: solid, liquid, flatus, mucous, stress, and urge. The weight for each FI was determined by asking a group of patients and laypersons to give a disability score to each type of FI from 0 to 100 (0- least, 100- maximum disability). The disability was assessed on a modified EQ-5D+ (EuroQol) description system, 4D3L (4 dimensions and 3 levels) for each FI. The average score of each FI was calculated, divided by 10, and rounded off to determine the weight of each FI type. The scores for the three levels of frequency of each FI were assigned as never = 0 (No episode of FI ever), occasional = 1 (≤ 1 episode of FI/ wk), and common = 2 (> 1 episode of FI/ wk), and was termed as frequency score. The score for each FI would be derived by multiplying the frequency score and the weight for that FI type. In the second phase of the study, a group of colorectal surgeons was asked to rank the six FI types in order of severity, and their ranking was compared with the patient and laypersons' rankings. RESULTS Fifty patients and 50 laypersons participated in the study. The weight was assigned to each FI (solid-8, liquid-8, urge-7, flatus-6, mucus-6, and stress-5), and an new scoring system was formulated. The maximum possible score was 80 (total incontinence), and the least 0 (no incontinence). The surgeons' ranking of FI severity did not correlate well with patients' and laypersons' rankings of FI, highlighting that surgeons and patients may perceive the severity of FI differently. CONCLUSION A new scoring system for FI was formulated, which was simple, logical, comprehensive, and easy to use, and eliminated previous shortcomings. Patients' and surgeons' perceptions of FI severity of FI did not correlate well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Garg
- Colorectal Surgery, Garg Fistula Research Institute (GFRI), Panchkula 134113, Haryana, India
- Colorectal Surgery, Indus International Hospital, Mohali 140507, Punjab, India
| | - Iwona Sudol-Szopinska
- Department ofRadiology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw 02-637, Poland
| | | | - Kaushik Bhattacharya
- Department of Surgery, MGM Medical College and LSK Hospital, Kishanganj 855107, Bihar, India
| | - Gurleen Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, Adesh Medical College and Hospital, Shahbad 136143, Haryana, India
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Portnova GV, Proskurnina EV, Skorokhodov IV, Sokolova SV, Semirechenko AN, Varlamov AA. Salivary Oxytocin and Antioxidative Response to Robotic Touch in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12322. [PMID: 37569698 PMCID: PMC10419114 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512322] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with ASD are known to have a tendency to have tactile sensory processing issues that could be associated with their impairment as regards social communication. The alterations in tactile processing in autistic subjects are usually accompanied by hypersensitivity and other unpleasant emotions induced by tactile contact. In our study, we investigated the impact of the velocity and the force of a tactile stroke received impersonally by a custom-built robotic device. A total of 21 adults with ASD and 22 adults from a control group participated in our study. The participants' responses were assessed according to subjective scales, EEG changes, and the dynamics of saliva antioxidants and oxytocin. It was found that the oxytocin level was significantly lower in subjects with ASD but increased after tactile stimulation. However, contrary to expectations, the increase in the oxytocin level in the target group negatively correlated with the subjective pleasantness of tactile stimulation and was probably associated with a stress-induced effect. The basic levels of antioxidants did not differ between the TD and ASD groups; however, these had significantly increased in individuals with ASD by the end of the study. The EEG findings, which revealed enhanced antioxidant levels, contributed to the relief of the cognitive control during the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina V. Portnova
- Laboratory of Human Higher Nervous Activity, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 5A Butlerova Str., 117485 Moscow, Russia
- Tactile Communication Research Laboratory, Pushkin State Russian Language Institute, 6 Volgina Str., 117485 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena V. Proskurnina
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Research Centre for Medical Genetics, 1 Moskvorechye Str., 115522 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Ivan V. Skorokhodov
- Tactile Communication Research Laboratory, Pushkin State Russian Language Institute, 6 Volgina Str., 117485 Moscow, Russia
- Autonomous Non-Profit Organization “Our Sunny World”, 98 Nizhegorodskaya Str., 109052 Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana V. Sokolova
- Medical Scientific and Educational Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Lomonosovsky Prosp. 27-10, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey N. Semirechenko
- Tactile Communication Research Laboratory, Pushkin State Russian Language Institute, 6 Volgina Str., 117485 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anton A. Varlamov
- Autonomous Non-Profit Organization “Our Sunny World”, 98 Nizhegorodskaya Str., 109052 Moscow, Russia
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9
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Al-Mazidi SH, El-Ansary A, Abualnaja A, AlZarroug A, Alharbi T, Al-Ayadhi LY. Exploring the Potential Role of ADAM 17 and ADAM 22 in the Etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2023; 13:972. [PMID: 37371450 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060972] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a group of disorders characterized by difficulties with social interaction and repetitive behavior. The condition is supposed to originate from early shifts in brain development, while the underlying processes are unknown. Moreover, a considerable number of patients with ASD experience digestive difficulties. Metalloproteases (ADAMs) are a class of enzymes capable of cleaving membrane-bound proteins. Members of this family, ADAM17 and ADAM22, have the ability to cleave proteins like the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-ά and glutamate synaptic molecules, which are both engaged in neuro-inflammation and glutamate excitotoxicity as crucial etiological mechanisms in ASD. ADAM17 and ADAM22 may also have a role in ASD microbiota-gut-brain axis connections by regulating immunological and inflammatory responses in the intestinal tract. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Using ELISA kits, the plasma levels of ADAM17 and ADAM22 were compared in 40 children with ASD and 40 typically developing children. All of the autistic participants' childhood autism rating scores (CARS), social responsiveness scales (SRS), and short sensory profiles (SSP) were evaluated as indicators of ASD severity. RESULTS Our results showed that plasma levels of ADAM17 were significantly lower in ASD children than in control children, while ADAM22 demonstrated non-significantly lower levels. Our data also indicate that while ADAM17 correlates significantly with age, ADAM22 correlates significantly with CARS as a marker of ASD severity. CONCLUSIONS Our interpreted data showed that alteration in ADAM17 and ADAM22 might be associated with glutamate excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and altered gut microbiota as etiological mechanisms of ASD and could be an indicator of the severity of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Al-Mazidi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Center, Lotus Holistic Alternative Medical Center, Abu Dhabi 110281, United Arab Emirates
- Autism Research and Treatment Centre, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Abualnaja
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah AlZarroug
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Alharbi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Y Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Centre, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Aljubour A, AbdElBaki M, El Meligy O, Al-Jabri B, Sabbagh H. Effect of Culturally Adapted Dental Visual Aids on Anxiety Levels in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1040. [PMID: 37371271 DOI: 10.3390/children10061040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence has risen dramatically in recent decades; it is now common for children with ASD to seek dental care. Because their distinct behavioral patterns prevent them from receiving dental care in a traditional dental clinic, structured dental visual aids are required to help prepare them for their dental appointment. This study aimed to test the effect of "culturally adapted dental visual aids" in decreasing anxiety levels during dental visits in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A randomized, controlled, blinded clinical trial was performed. Sixty-four children with ASD ages 6-12 years were assigned randomly into test and control groups based on the type of dental visual aids they received. The test group received "culturally adapted dental visual aids" created especially for the study, and the control group received "regular dental visual aids". Anxiety levels were assessed before and after using both dental visual aids. All data were processed using SPSS version 25.0. The test group had a significant decrease in anxiety levels compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The "culturally adapted dental visual aids" have effectively reduced anxiety levels in children with ASD during dental visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala Aljubour
- Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Medhat AbdElBaki
- Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar El Meligy
- Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Basma Al-Jabri
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heba Sabbagh
- Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Su WC, Culotta M, Mueller J, Tsuzuki D, Bhat A. fNIRS-Based Differences in Cortical Activation during Tool Use, Pantomimed Actions, and Meaningless Actions between Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Brain Sci 2023; 13:876. [PMID: 37371356 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060876] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulties with tool use and pantomime actions. The current study utilized functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to examine the neural mechanisms underlying these gestural difficulties. Thirty-one children with and without ASD (age (mean ± SE) = 11.0 ± 0.6) completed a naturalistic peg-hammering task using an actual hammer (hammer condition), pantomiming hammering actions (pantomime condition), and performing meaningless actions with similar joint motions (meaningless condition). Children with ASD exhibited poor praxis performance (praxis error: TD = 17.9 ± 1.7; ASD = 27.0 ± 2.6, p < 0.01), which was significantly correlated with their cortical activation (R = 0.257 to 0.543). Both groups showed left-lateralized activation, but children with ASD demonstrated more bilateral activation during all gestural conditions. Compared to typically developing children, children with ASD showed hyperactivation of the inferior parietal lobe and hypoactivation of the middle/inferior frontal and middle/superior temporal regions. Our findings indicate intact technical reasoning (typical left-IPL activation) but atypical visuospatial and proprioceptive processing (hyperactivation of the right IPL) during tool use in children with ASD. These results have important implications for clinicians and researchers, who should focus on facilitating/reducing the burden of visuospatial and proprioceptive processing in children with ASD. Additionally, fNIRS-related biomarkers could be used for early identification through early object play/tool use and to examine neural effects following gesture-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Chun Su
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
- Biomechanics & Movement Science Program, College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
| | - McKenzie Culotta
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
- Biomechanics & Movement Science Program, College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
| | - Jessica Mueller
- Department of Behavioral Health, Swank Autism Center, A. I. du Pont Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Daisuke Tsuzuki
- Department of Information Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Kochi University, Kochi 780-8520, Japan
| | - Anjana Bhat
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
- Biomechanics & Movement Science Program, College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Graduate (ING) Program, Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
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12
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Dell'Osso L, Cremone IM, Nardi B, Tognini V, Castellani L, Perrone P, Amatori G, Carpita B. Comorbidity and Overlaps between Autism Spectrum and Borderline Personality Disorder: State of the Art. Brain Sci 2023; 13:862. [PMID: 37371342 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the relationship between Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and personality disorders (PD) still being scarcely understood, recent investigations increased awareness about significant overlaps between some PD and autism spectrum conditions. In this framework, several studies suggested the presence of similarities between BPD and ASD symptoms and traits, based on the recent literature that increasingly reported increased comorbidity rates and significant symptomatologic overlaps between the two conditions. The aim of this review is to describe the available studies about the prevalence of the association between different forms of autism spectrum (full-fledged clinical conditions as well as subthreshold autistic traits) and BPD. Despite some controversial results and lack of homogeneity in the methods used for the diagnostic assessment, the reviewed literature highlighted how subjects with BPD reported higher scores on tests evaluating the presence of AT compared to a non-clinical population and hypothesized the presence of unrecognized ASD in some BPD patients or vice versa, while also describing a shared vulnerability towards traumatic events, and a greater risk of suicidality in BPD subjects with high autistic traits. However, the specific measure and nature of this association remain to be explored in more depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivan Mirko Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Benedetta Nardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valeria Tognini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Castellani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Perrone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Amatori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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13
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Valles SL, Singh SK, Campos-Campos J, Colmena C, Campo-Palacio I, Alvarez-Gamez K, Caballero O, Jorda A. Functions of Astrocytes under Normal Conditions and after a Brain Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098434. [PMID: 37176144 PMCID: PMC10179527 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the central nervous system (CNS) there are a greater number of glial cells than neurons (between five and ten times more). Furthermore, they have a greater number of functions (more than eight functions). Glia comprises different types of cells, those of neural origin (astrocytes, radial glia, and oligodendroglia) and differentiated blood monocytes (microglia). During ontogeny, neurons develop earlier (at fetal day 15 in the rat) and astrocytes develop later (at fetal day 21 in the rat), which could indicate their important and crucial role in the CNS. Analysis of the phylogeny reveals that reptiles have a lower number of astrocytes compared to neurons and in humans this is reversed, as there have a greater number of astrocytes compared to neurons. These data perhaps imply that astrocytes are important and special cells, involved in many vital functions, including memory, and learning processes. In addition, astrocytes are involved in different mechanisms that protect the CNS through the production of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory proteins and they clean the extracellular environment and help neurons to communicate correctly with each other. The production of inflammatory mediators is important to prevent changes in brain homeostasis. On the contrary, excessive, or continued production appears as a characteristic element in many diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and in neurodevelopmental diseases, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and autism. Furthermore, different drugs and techniques have been developed to reverse oxidative stress and/or excess of inflammation that occurs in many CNS diseases, but much remains to be investigated. This review attempts to highlight the functional relevance of astrocytes in normal and neuropathological conditions by showing the molecular and cellular mechanisms of their role in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya L Valles
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Sandeep Kumar Singh
- Indian Scientific Education and Technology Foundation, Lucknow 226002, India
| | - Juan Campos-Campos
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Colmena
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ignacio Campo-Palacio
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Kenia Alvarez-Gamez
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Oscar Caballero
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Adrian Jorda
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Blasco Ibañez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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14
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Zhang J, Guo X, Zhang W, Liu D, Chen P, Zhang Y, Ru X. Maternal Variability of Amplitudes of Frequency Fluctuations Is Related to the Progressive Self-Other Transposition Group Intervention in Autistic Children. Brain Sci 2023; 13:774. [PMID: 37239246 PMCID: PMC10216674 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13050774] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The self-to-other model of empathy (SOME) states that a key reason for the empathic deficiency in autistic individuals is the imbalance of the self-other switch. The existing interventions of theory of mind contain training of self-other transposition ability but combined with other cognitive trainings. The self-other distinction brain areas of autistic individuals have been revealed, but the brain areas of the self-other transposition ability and its intervention have not been investigated. There are normalized amplitudes of low-frequency fluctuations (mALFFs) within 0.01-0.1 Hz and many normalized amplitudes of frequency fluctuations (mAFFs) within 0-0.01, 0.01-0.05, 0.05-0.1, 0.1-0.15, 0.15-0.2, and 0.2-0.25 Hz. Therefore, the current study established a progressive self-other transposition group intervention to specifically and systematically improve autistic children's self-other transposition abilities. The transposition test with a three mountains test, an unexpected location test, and a deception test was used to directly measure autistic children's transposition abilities. The Interpersonal Responsiveness Index Empathy Questionnaire with perspective-taking and fantasy subscales (IRI-T) was used to indirectly measure autistic children's transposition abilities. The Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) was used to measure autistic children's autism symptoms. The experiment was designed with two (intervention: experimental group vs. control group) independent variables and two (test time: pretest vs. posttest or tracking test) × three (test: transposition test vs. IRI-T test vs. ATEC test) dependent variables. Furthermore, it used eyes-closed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate and compare the relevant maternal mALFFs and average energy rank and energy rank variability of mAFFs of autistic children's transposition abilities, autism symptoms, and intervention effects. The results showed the following: (1) There were many improvements (pretest vs. posttest or tracking test) greater than chance 0 in the experimental group, such as the three mountains, lie, transposition, PT, IRI-T, PT tracking, cognition, behavior, ATEC, language tracking, cognition tracking, behavior tracking, and ATEC tracking improvements. However, there was no improvement greater than chance 0 in the control group. (2) The maternal mALFFs and maternal average energy rank and energy rank variability of mAFFs could predict the autistic children's transposition abilities, autism symptoms, and intervention effects with some overlap and some difference in maternal self-other distinction, sensorimotor, visual, facial expression recognition, language, memory and emotion, and self-consciousness networks. These results indicated that the progressive self-other transposition group intervention successfully improved autistic children's transposition abilities and reduced their autism symptoms; the intervention effects could be applied to daily life and last up to a month. The maternal mALFFs, average energy rank, and energy rank variability of mAFFs were three effective neural indictors of autistic children's transposition abilities, autism symptoms, and intervention effects, and the average energy rank and energy rank variability of mAFFs were two new neural indictors established in the current study. The maternal neural markers of the progressive self-other transposition group intervention effects for autistic children were found in part.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxin Zhang
- The Autism Research Center, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China;
- School of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiaorong Guo
- Department of Radiology, Dushu Lake Public Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Medical Center of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (X.G.); (W.Z.)
| | - Weiguo Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Dushu Lake Public Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Medical Center of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (X.G.); (W.Z.)
| | - Dianzhi Liu
- The Autism Research Center, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China;
- School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (P.C.); (Y.Z.); (X.R.)
| | - Peiqi Chen
- School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (P.C.); (Y.Z.); (X.R.)
| | - Yuqing Zhang
- School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (P.C.); (Y.Z.); (X.R.)
| | - Xiaoyuan Ru
- School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (P.C.); (Y.Z.); (X.R.)
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15
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Measuring Social Camouflaging in Individuals with High Functioning Autism: A Literature Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13030469. [PMID: 36979279 PMCID: PMC10046375 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13030469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In the recent years, growing attention has been paid to the use of camouflaging strategies by adult populations suffering from autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with milder manifestations and without intellectual impairment, which may lead to a delay in diagnosis or even a misdiagnosis. In fact, high-functioning ASD individuals were reported to be more aware of their communication difficulties and were more likely make considerable efforts to adjust their behavior to conventional rules of non-autistic individuals, learning to imitate other non-ASD individuals. Moreover, females reported a higher frequency of camouflaging strategies, suggesting a role of camouflaging in the gender gap of the ASD diagnosis. Although camouflaging strategies can sometimes grant a better level of adjustment, even resulting in a hyper-adaptive behavior, they are also often correlated with negative mental health consequences due to the long-term stress associated with continuous attempts to adapt in day-to-day life. In this framework, the aim of the present work was to review the available studies that assessed the presence and correlates of camouflaging strategies in individuals with ASD. Although the literature available on the topic is still scarce, some interesting correlations between camouflaging and anxious and depressive symptoms, as well as suicidality, were highlighted. In particular, the controversial and sometime opposite thoughts and results about camouflaging may be clarified and integrated in light of a dimensional approach to psychopathology.
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16
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The Autism Spectrum: Behavioral, Psychiatric and Genetic Associations. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030677. [PMID: 36980949 PMCID: PMC10048473 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) consists of a group of heterogeneous genetic neurobehavioral disorders associated with developmental impairments in social communication skills and stereotypic, rigid or repetitive behaviors. We review common behavioral, psychiatric and genetic associations related to ASD. Autism affects about 2% of children with 4:1 male-to-female ratio and a heritability estimate between 70 and 90%. The etiology of ASD involves a complex interplay between inheritance and environmental factors influenced by epigenetics. Over 800 genes and dozens of genetic syndromes are associated with ASD. Novel gene–protein interactions with pathway and molecular function analyses have identified at least three functional pathways including chromatin modeling, Wnt, Notch and other signaling pathways and metabolic disturbances involving neuronal growth and dendritic spine profiles. An estimated 50% of individuals with ASD are diagnosed with chromosome deletions or duplications (e.g., 15q11.2, BP1-BP2, 16p11.2 and 15q13.3), identified syndromes (e.g., Williams, Phelan-McDermid and Shprintzen velocardiofacial) or single gene disorders. Behavioral and psychiatric conditions in autism impacted by genetics influence clinical evaluations, counseling, diagnoses, therapeutic interventions and treatment approaches. Pharmacogenetics testing is now possible to help guide the selection of psychotropic medications to treat challenging behaviors or co-occurring psychiatric conditions commonly seen in ASD. In this review of the autism spectrum disorder, behavioral, psychiatric and genetic observations and associations relevant to the evaluation and treatment of individuals with ASD are discussed.
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17
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Pai Khot AJ, Choudhury AR, Ankola AV, Sankeshwari RM, Hampiholi V, Hebbal M, Jalihal S, Kumar RS, Kabra L, Kotha SL. Evaluation of a "Picture Assisted Illustration Reinforcement" (PAIR) System for Oral Hygiene in Children with Autism: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10020369. [PMID: 36832499 PMCID: PMC9955023 DOI: 10.3390/children10020369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the potential of a novel pre-validated "Picture Assisted Illustration Reinforcement" (PAIR) communication system and conventional verbal techniques for Oral Health Education (OHE) in terms of dentition status, gingival health, oral hygiene status, and practices in 7- to 18-year-old children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A double-blind randomized controlled trial was undertaken in a school for children with autism from July to September 2022. A total of 60 children were randomly assigned into two groups: a PAIR group (n = 30) and a Conventional group (n = 30). Cognition and pre-evaluation of all the children were assessed by standardized scaling measures. A pre-validated closed-ended questionnaire was administered to caregivers of both groups. At a 12-week post-intervention, a clinical examination was performed using the World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Assessment form 2013, gingival and Oral Hygiene Index Simplified (OHI-S). The gingival scores in the PAIR group (0.35 ± 0.12) exhibited a statistically significant decline in scores as compared to Conventional group (0.83 ± 0.37), p = 0.043. Meanwhile, the oral hygiene scores in the PAIR group and Conventional group were 1.22 ± 0.14 and 1.94 ± 0.15, respectively (p < 0.05). A significant improvement in oral hygiene practices was observed in the PAIR group. Incorporating the PAIR technique resulted in significant progress in child cognitive ability and adaptive behavior, which reduced gingival scores and improved oral hygiene scores, consequently improving oral hygiene practices among children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atrey J. Pai Khot
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Abhra Roy Choudhury
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Anil V. Ankola
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Roopali M. Sankeshwari
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Vinuta Hampiholi
- Department of Periodontics, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Mamata Hebbal
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sagar Jalihal
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Ram Surath Kumar
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Laxmi Kabra
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KLE University), Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Sree Lalita Kotha
- Department of Basic Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-11-8234922
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18
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Simone M, De Giacomo A, Palumbi R, Palazzo C, Lucisano G, Pompamea F, Micella S, Pascali M, Gabellone A, Marzulli L, Giordano P, Gargano CD, Margari L, Frigeri A, Ruggieri M. Serum Neurofilament Light Chain and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein as Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Preliminary Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033057. [PMID: 36769380 PMCID: PMC9917818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by a multifactorial etiology based on the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Recent evidence supports the neurobiological hypothesis based on neuroinflammation theory. To date, there are no sufficiently validated diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for ASD. Therefore, we decided to investigate the potential diagnostic role for ASD of two biomarkers well known for other neurological inflammatory conditions: the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and the neurofilament (Nfl). Nfl and GFAP serum levels were analyzed using SiMoA technology in a group of ASD patients and in a healthy control group (CTRS), age- and gender-matched. Then we investigated the distribution, frequency, and correlation between serum Nfl and GFAP levels and clinical data among the ASD group. The comparison of Nfl and GFAP serum levels between ASD children and the control group showed a mean value of these two markers significantly higher in the ASD group (sNfL mean value ASD pt 6.86 pg/mL median value ASD pt 5.7 pg/mL; mean value CTRS 3.55 pg/mL; median value CTRS 3.1 pg; GFAP mean value ASD pt 205.7 pg/mL median value ASD pt 155.4 pg/mL; mean value CTRS 77.12 pg/mL; median value CTRS 63.94 pg/mL). Interestingly, we also found a statistically significant positive correlation between GFAP levels and hyperactivity symptoms (p-value <0.001). Further investigations using larger groups are necessary to confirm our data and to verify in more depth the potential correlation between these biomarkers and ASD clinical features, such as the severity of the core symptoms, the presence of associated symptoms, and/or the evaluation of a therapeutic intervention. However, these data not only might shed a light on the neurobiology of ASD, supporting the neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration hypothesis, but they also might support the use of these biomarkers in the early diagnosis of ASD, to longitudinally monitor the disease activity, and even more as future prognostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Simone
- Regenerative and Precision Medicine Department and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Palumbi
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudia Palazzo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pompamea
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefania Micella
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Mara Pascali
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Giordano
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Concetta Domenica Gargano
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Regenerative and Precision Medicine Department and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Frigeri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maddalena Ruggieri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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19
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Cheng W, Sun Z, Cai K, Wu J, Dong X, Liu Z, Shi Y, Yang S, Zhang W, Chen A. Relationship between Overweight/Obesity and Social Communication in Autism Spectrum Disorder Children: Mediating Effect of Gray Matter Volume. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13020180. [PMID: 36831723 PMCID: PMC9954689 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
With advances in medical diagnostic technology, the healthy development of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is receiving more and more attention. In this article, the mediating effect of brain gray matter volume (GMV) between overweight/obesity and social communication (SC) was investigated through the analysis of the relationship between overweight/obesity and SC in autism spectrum disorder children. In total, 101 children with ASD aged 3-12 years were recruited from three special educational centers (Yangzhou, China). Overweight/obesity in children with ASD was indicated by their body mass index (BMI); the Social Responsiveness Scale, Second Edition (SRS-2) was used to assess their social interaction ability, and structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (sMRI) was used to measure GMV. A mediation model was constructed using the Process plug-in to analyze the mediating effect of GMV between overweight/obesity and SC in children with ASD. The results revealed that: overweight/obesity positively correlated with SRS-2 total points (p = 0.01); gray matter volume in the left dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus (Frontal_Sup_L GMV) negatively correlated with SRS-2 total points (p = 0.001); and overweight/obesity negatively correlated with Frontal_Sup_L GMV (p = 0.001). The Frontal_Sup_L GMV played a partial mediating role in the relationship between overweight/obesity and SC, accounting for 36.6% of total effect values. These findings indicate the significant positive correlation between overweight/obesity and SC; GMV in the left dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus plays a mediating role in the relationship between overweight/obesity and SC. The study may provide new evidence toward comprehensively revealing the overweight/obesity and SC relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cheng
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Zhiyuan Sun
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Kelong Cai
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Jingjing Wu
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Dong
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Zhimei Liu
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Yifan Shi
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Sixin Yang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Weike Zhang
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
| | - Aiguo Chen
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Institute of Sports, Exercise and Brain, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-139-5272-5968
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20
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Baykal Akmeşe Z, Karaca Saydam B, Kardeş G. The Effects of Individualized Information and Emotional Support Education on Midwifery Students' Anxiety during the COVID-19 Pandemic. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:1376. [PMID: 36295537 PMCID: PMC9609796 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Midwifery students were not able to participate in internship programs and related practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. This kept them from meeting graduation requirements because they could not do the one-on-one observations for clinical case management. In this study, we aim to determine the effects of Individualized Information and Emotional Support Education (IESE) on the midwifery students' anxiety levels during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This is an experimental study with two stages. In the first stage, the researchers determined the anxiety levels of 268 students. In the second stage, 76 students with high levels of anxiety were provided with IESE. The IESE was conducted in interviews on online platforms and took a minimum of 60 min. The students' anxiety levels were measured again one week after the IESE. Results: Statistically significant differences were found between the students' State Anxiety Scale scores before and after the IESE (t = 8.756, p = 0.000). Before the IESE, 65.8% of the students had high anxiety levels about COVID-19-related disease or death, and the possibility of losing loved ones. After the education, this rate fell by 17.1% to 48.7%, and this difference was significant (χ2 = 5.077, p = 0.024). Conclusions: The IESE positively affected the students' anxiety levels. Even just showing interest can make people feel cared for and valued, and people are sensitive to their needs. After this study, 30 students with high anxiety levels were sent for consultation with an expert and have been followed up by researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Baykal Akmeşe
- Department of Midwifery, Karşıyaka Suat Cemile Balcıoğlu Yerleşkesi, Ege University Faculty of Health Science, Izmir 35575, Turkey
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21
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Daniolou S, Pandis N, Znoj H. The Efficacy of Early Interventions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:5100. [PMID: 36079029 PMCID: PMC9457367 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11175100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The superiority of early interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) compared to treatment as usual (TAU) has recently been questioned. This study was aimed to investigate the efficacy of early interventions in improving the cognitive ability, language, and adaptive behavior of pre-school children with ASDs through a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In total, 33 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis using the random effects model. The total sample consisted of 2581 children (age range: 12-132 months). Early interventions led to positive outcomes for cognitive ability (g = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.58; p = 0.02), daily living skills (g = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.63; p = 0.01), and motor skills (g = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.62; p = 0.001), while no positive outcomes were found for the remaining variables. However, when studies without the blinding of outcome assessment were excluded, positive outcomes of early interventions only remained for daily living skills (g = 0.28; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.52; p = 0.02) and motor skills (g = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.69; p = 0.007). Although early intervention might not have positive impacts on children with ASDs for several outcomes compared to controls, these results should be interpreted with caution considering the great variability in participant and intervention characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Daniolou
- Department of Psychology, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nikolaos Pandis
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hansjörg Znoj
- Department of Psychology, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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22
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Parietal Alpha Oscillations: Cognitive Load and Mental Toughness. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12091135. [PMID: 36138871 PMCID: PMC9496702 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12091135] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive effort is intrinsically linked to task difficulty, intelligence, and mental toughness. Intelligence reflects an individual’s cognitive aptitude, whereas mental toughness (MT) reflects an individual’s resilience in pursuing success. Research shows that parietal alpha oscillations are associated with changes in task difficulty. Critically, it remains unclear whether parietal alpha oscillations are modulated by intelligence and MT as a personality trait. We examined event-related (de)synchronization (ERD/ERS) of alpha oscillations associated with encoding, retention, and recognition in the Sternberg task in relation to intelligence and mental toughness. Eighty participants completed the Sternberg task with 3, 4, 5 and 6 digits, Raven Standard Progressive Matrices test and an MT questionnaire. A positive dependence on difficulty was observed for all studied oscillatory effects (t = −8.497, p < 0.001; t = 2.806, p < 0.005; t = −2.103, p < 0.05). The influence of Raven intelligence was observed for encoding-related alpha ERD (t = −2.02, p = 0.049). The influence of MT was observed only for difficult conditions in recognition-related alpha ERD (t = −3.282, p < 0.005). Findings indicate that the modulation of alpha rhythm related to encoding, retention and recognition may be interpreted as correlates of cognitive effort modulation. Specifically, results suggest that effort related to encoding depends on intelligence, whereas recognition-related effort level depends on mental toughness.
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Zhang Q, Li X, Liu X, Liu S, Zhang M, Liu Y, Zhu C, Wang K. The Effect of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation on the Downregulation of Negative Emotions: A Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060786. [PMID: 35741671 PMCID: PMC9221395 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Emotion regulation (ER) is regarded as a core treatment target for depression and other mental illnesses. In recent years, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) has been extensively used as an intervention for mental illnesses, but there has been no systematic review conducted regarding its effect on emotion regulation. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of NIBS for emotion regulation; (2) Methods: Systematic searches were conducted in Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. We analyzed the effects of NIBS on tasks assessing emotion regulation using a random-effects model, and further explored the moderating role of the following factors on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) studies by conducting subgroup analyses and meta-regression: target electrode placement, return electrode placement, current intensity, target electrode size, and duration of intervention; (3) Results: A total of 17 studies were included. Our meta-analysis indicated a small but significant effect of NIBS on the downregulation of negative emotions. Separate analyses indicated that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) had a medium and significant effect on the downregulation of negative emotions, whereas tDCS had no significant effect. Subgroup analyses showed that the effect of tDCS was moderated by target and return electrode placemen; (4) Conclusions: These results indicate that NIBS had a positive effect on the downregulation of negative emotions. The stimulation protocols should be carefully considered and the underlying mechanisms should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhang
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Xiaoming Li
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Xinying Liu
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Shanshan Liu
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Mengzhu Zhang
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Yueling Liu
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
| | - Chunyan Zhu
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei 230032, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Mental Health, Hefei 230032, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei 230011, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Kai Wang
- The School of Mental Health and Psychological Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; (Q.Z.); (X.L.); (X.L.); (S.L.); (M.Z.); (Y.L.); (K.W.)
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Cognition and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Hefei 230032, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Mental Health, Hefei 230032, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei 230011, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
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24
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Expectations and Concerns about the Use of Telemedicine for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Parents and Healthcare Professionals. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11123294. [PMID: 35743364 PMCID: PMC9224762 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11123294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine has recently been used for diagnosis and interventions inpatients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), traditionally performed in-person, but little attention has been paid to user expectations prior to its use. The aim of this study is to compare the expectations and concerns of 50 healthcare professionals and 45 parents of children with ASD regarding the use of telemedicine for diagnostic or treatment purposes. Parents have higher expectations for the use of telemedicine as an alternative (p = 0.0223) and supplement (p = 0.0061) to in-person diagnosis of ASD, as well as a supplement to traditional intervention (p ≤ 0.0001). In addition, while they also have greater hope for improvement in family routines (p = 0.0034) and parenting skills in child management (p = 0.0147), they express greater concern about the need for active parental involvement/supervision during telemedicine services (p = 0.015) and changes in the behaviour of the child with ASD during telemedicine services (p = 0.049). On the other hand, healthcare professionals are more concerned about barriers such as lack of devices (p = 0.000), unfamiliarity with the technology (p = 0.000), poor quality of internet connection (p = 0.006), and severity of ASD (p = 0.000). To achieve promising healthcare for ASD patients, the telemedicine service should try to meet the needs and preferences of both healthcare professionals and parents, as well as identify and, if possible, reduce perceived barriers.
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Altered Cerebral Curvature in Preterm Infants Is Associated with the Common Genetic Variation Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Lipid Metabolism. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11113135. [PMID: 35683524 PMCID: PMC9181724 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11113135] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm births are often associated with neurodevelopmental impairment. In the critical developmental period of the fetal brain, preterm birth disrupts cortical maturation. Notably, preterm birth leads to alterations in the fronto-striatal and temporal lobes and the limbic region. Recent advances in MRI acquisition and analysis methods have revealed an integrated approach to the genetic influence on brain structure. Based on imaging studies, we hypothesized that the altered cortical structure observed after preterm birth is associated with common genetic variations. We found that the presence of the minor allele at rs1042778 in OXTR was associated with reduced curvature in the right medial orbitofrontal gyrus (p < 0.001). The presence of the minor allele at rs174576 in FADS2 (p < 0.001) or rs740603 in COMT (p < 0.001) was related to reduced curvature in the left posterior cingulate gyrus. This study provides biological insight into altered cortical curvature at term-equivalent age, suggesting that the common genetic variations related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and lipid metabolism may mediate vulnerability to early cortical dysmaturation in preterm infants.
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PlanTEA: Supporting Planning and Anticipation for Children with ASD Attending Medical Appointments. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12105237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), skills related to anticipation and mental flexibility are often impaired, so their thinking tends to be very rigid and their behavior is based on establishing routines. For this reason, children with ASD may show disruptive behaviors when faced with disturbing but necessary activities, such as going to a doctor’s appointment. Therefore, it is very convenient and necessary for their families to prepare in advance for the visit and to explain the details of the procedure to be performed at the consultation. The use of anticipation boards in these situations allows to prepare such situations and to reduce stress for both the ASD child and their families or caregivers. In this context, the use of technology can provide great benefits for anticipating a new event, or whatever risks the control of their routines, as well as enhancing developmental skills such as communication, autonomy, social interaction, etc. This article describes a software tool, for mobile devices such as tablets, that allows the planning of the attendance of children with ASD to the necessary medical appointments throughout their childhood and adolescence, as well as communication with specialists. This app, named PlanTEA, has undergone a preliminary evaluation that has yielded very positive results. Most participants found the app useful in helping to anticipate (94.1%) and improve communication (94.2%) for people with ASD in medical contexts, considered it easy to use, with no technical support needed to use it (almost 100%), and would recommend its use (94.2%). This first evaluation has also allowed us to define the next steps to be taken to improve and enhance this tool and thus reach a wider population within the autistic disorder. As a result of the evaluation carried out and the comments received, it is proposed to extend its use to adult users and those with high-functioning autism, which supposes expanding and extending the functionalities of the current version of PlanTEA.
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