1. Atladottir HO, Schendel DE, Henriksen TB, Hjort L, Parner ET. {{Gestational Age and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Trends in Risk Over Time}}. {Autism Res};2015 (Sep 12)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a serious neurodevelopmental disorder. Several previous studies have identified preterm birth as a risk factor for ASD but none has studied whether the association between gestational age and ASD has changed over time. This is a Danish population-based follow-up study including live-born singletons born in Denmark between 1980 and 2009, identified in the Danish Medical Birth Registry, a study population of 1,775,397 children. We used a Cox regression model combined with spline to study the risk for ASD by gestational age across three decades of birth cohorts. We included 19,020 children diagnosed with ASD. Across all birth year cohorts, we found that the risk of being diagnosed with ASD increased with lower gestational age (P-value: <0.01). Across all gestational weeks, we found a statistically significant higher risk estimates in birth cohort 1980 to 1989, compared to birth cohorts 1990 to 1999 and 2000 to 2009, respectively. No statistically significant difference in risk estimates was observed between birth cohort 1990 to 1999 and 2000 to 2009. The observed time trend in risk of ASD after preterm birth may reflect: (1) a change in the risk profile of persons with ASD due to the broadening of ASD diagnostic criteria over time; or (2) improved neonatal care for low GA infants, which has reduced risk of adverse outcomes like ASD in preterm children. Autism Res 2015. (c) 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
2. Baron-Cohen S. {{Autism, maths, and sex: the special triangle}}. {Lancet Psychiatry};2015 (Sep);2(9):790-791.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
3. Barton EE, Harris B, Leech N, Stiff L, Choi G, Joel T. {{An Analysis of State Autism Educational Assessment Practices and Requirements}}. {J Autism Dev Disord};2015 (Sep 12)
States differ in the procedures and criteria used to identify ASD. These differences are likely to impact the prevalence and age of identification for children with ASD. The purpose of the current study was to examine the specific state variations in ASD identification and eligibility criteria requirements. We examined variations by state in autism assessment practices and the proportion of children eligible for special education services under the autism category. Overall, our findings suggest that ASD identification practices vary across states, but most states use federal guidelines, at least in part, to set their requirements. Implications and recommendations for policy and practice are discussed.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
4. Blanche EI, Diaz J, Barretto T, Cermak SA. {{Caregiving Experiences of Latino Families With Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185010p6905185011-6905185010p6905185011.
OBJECTIVE: Prior research has documented caregiving difficulties in families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, Latino families may encounter unique challenges. The purpose of this study was to understand the caregiving experiences of Latino families with children with ASD, including daily activities, coping strategies, and service utilization. METHOD: Fifteen Latino parents of children with ASD were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed for analysis to identify themes of experiences unique to this population. RESULTS: Latino families of children with ASD encounter many similar issues as non-Latino families but also unique issues that affect service utilization. Four themes were identified: dealing with the diagnosis, dealing with stigma and isolation from family and community, understanding the role of mothers in changing family routines, and utilizing services. CONCLUSION: To meet the unique needs of Latino families, services need to be provided in culturally sensitive context that address children’s needs within family units.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
5. Bodison SC. {{Developmental Dyspraxia and the Play Skills of Children With Autism}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185060p6905185061-6905185066.
OBJECTIVE: This study sought to investigate the impact of developmental dyspraxia on the play skills of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHOD: The praxis abilities of 32 children with ASD (mean age = 7.5 yr) were assessed using two subtests of the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests and the Planning and Ideas domain of the Sensory Processing Measure Home Form. Play and leisure skills were measured with the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition. Utilizing correlation coefficients, we investigated the relationship between developmental dyspraxia and the play skills of children with ASD. RESULTS: Children with ASD demonstrated definite dysfunction in imitative praxis abilities, the generation of ideas, and participation in age-appropriate play and leisure activities. CONCLUSION: Praxis problems in children with ASD greatly affect their successful participation in play and leisure activities.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
6. Brown HK, Plourde N, Ouellette-Kuntz H, Vigod S, Cobigo V. {{Brief report: cervical cancer screening in women with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have had a pregnancy}}. {J Intellect Disabil Res};2015 (Sep 10)
BACKGROUND: Women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have lower cervical cancer screening rates than women without IDD. Key barriers to screening uptake include physician or caregiver assumptions that screening is unnecessary because women with IDD are not sexually active. Our objective was to compare cervical cancer screening rates in women with and without IDD who had had a pregnancy. METHOD: We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using linked Ontario (Canada) health and social services administrative data. We identified 20- to 64-year-old women with (N = 5033) and without (N = 527 437) IDD who had had a pregnancy. We examined the occurrence of cervical cancer screening between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2010. We compared screening rates in women with and without IDD using logistic regression, controlling for age, region of residence, neighbourhood income quintile and morbidity level. RESULTS: Women with IDD who had had a pregnancy were more likely than those without IDD to be young, to live in the lowest neighbourhood income quintile, to live in rural areas and to have high or very high morbidity. Even after controlling for these factors, women with IDD were less likely than women without IDD to be screened (67.7% vs. 77.0%; adjusted odds ratio 0.61; 95% confidence interval 0.58-0.65). CONCLUSIONS: Even among women who have had a pregnancy and are therefore known to have been sexually active, women with IDD face significant disparities in cervical cancer screening. Strategies to promote equitable uptake of cervical cancer screening for women with IDD need to be implemented.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
7. Chaaya M, Saab D, Maalouf FT, Boustany RM. {{Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nurseries in Lebanon: A Cross Sectional Study}}. {J Autism Dev Disord};2015 (Sep 12)
In Lebanon, no estimate for autism prevalence exists. This cross-sectional study examines the prevalence of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in toddlers in nurseries in Beirut and Mount-Lebanon. The final sample included 998 toddlers (16-48 months) from 177 nurseries. We sent parents the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) for screening, and a self-administered questionnaire (associated factors). We imputed missing M-CHAT data with successful answers. Since there were no follow-up interviews for the M-CHAT, we used the positive predictive value (0.058) from a large study for prevalence estimates. ASD prevalence was 1 in 66 children (comparable to US). Ratios were: male/female: 1.05; Beirut/Mount-Lebanon: 1.2. Using a more representative sample and ascertaining results are needed for better prevalence estimates in Lebanon.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
8. Cordeiro L, Abucayan F, Hagerman R, Tassone F, Hessl D. {{Anxiety disorders in fragile X premutation carriers: Preliminary characterization of probands and non-probands}}. {Intractable Rare Dis Res};2015 (Aug);4(3):123-130.
A very high proportion of individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) (FMR1 full mutation, > 200 CGG repeats) experience clinically significant anxiety. Recent evidence suggests that adult fragile X premutation carriers (55-200 CGG repeats) also are at risk for anxiety disorders, and they demonstrate limbic system alterations mediated by FMRP and/or elevated FMR1 mRNA that may explain this heightened risk. However, less is known about psychiatric symptoms including anxiety among children and adolescents with the premutation. We completed structured DSM-IV based diagnostic interviews focused on current anxiety in 35 children, adolescents or young adults with the premutation (ages 5-23 years, M = 11.3 +/- 4.3; 27 male; 20 probands and 15 non-probands) and 31 controls (ages 5-18 years, M = 9.9 +/- 3.6; 22 males). Among premutation carriers, 70.6% met criteria for at least one anxiety disorder (most frequently generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, social phobia, or obsessive compulsive disorder), compared to 22.6% of controls and 9.8% of the general population in this age range. Premutation carriers with intellectual disability, male gender, and proband status were associated with the highest rates of anxiety disorders. However, non-probands did have higher rates of having any anxiety disorder (40.0%) compared to general population norms. Although the results implicate anxiety as a target of screening and intervention among youth with the premutation, larger studies of unselected samples from the population of premutation carriers are needed to confirm and specify the degree and extent of psychiatric disorders in this condition.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
9. Dimitrova N, Ozcaliskan S, Adamson LB. {{Parents’ Translations of Child Gesture Facilitate Word Learning in Children with Autism, Down Syndrome and Typical Development}}. {J Autism Dev Disord};2015 (Sep 12)
Typically-developing (TD) children frequently refer to objects uniquely in gesture. Parents translate these gestures into words, facilitating children’s acquisition of these words (Goldin-Meadow et al. in Dev Sci 10(6):778-785, 2007). We ask whether this pattern holds for children with autism (AU) and with Down syndrome (DS) who show delayed vocabulary development. We observed 23 children with AU, 23 with DS, and 23 TD children with their parents over a year. Children used gestures to indicate objects before labeling them and parents translated their gestures into words. Importantly, children benefited from this input, acquiring more words for the translated gestures than the not translated ones. Results highlight the role contingent parental input to child gesture plays in language development of children with developmental disorders.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
10. Green J, Charman T, Pickles A, Wan MW, Elsabbagh M, Slonims V, Taylor C, McNally J, Booth R, Gliga T, Jones EJ, Harrop C, Bedford R, Johnson MH. {{Parent-mediated intervention versus no intervention for infants at high risk of autism: a parallel, single-blind, randomised trial}}. {Lancet Psychiatry};2015 (Feb);2(2):133-140.
BACKGROUND: Risk markers for later autism identified in the first year of life present plausible intervention targets during early development. We aimed to assess the effect of a parent-mediated intervention for infants at high risk of autism on these markers. METHODS: We did a two-site, two-arm assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial of families with an infant at familial high risk of autism aged 7-10 months, testing the adapted Video Interaction to Promote Positive Parenting (iBASIS-VIPP) versus no intervention. Families were randomly assigned to intervention or no intervention groups using a permuted block approach stratified by centre. Assessors, but not families or therapists, were masked to group assignment. The primary outcome was infant attentiveness to parent. Regression analysis was done on an intention-to-treat basis. This trial is registered with ISCRTN Registry, number ISRCTN87373263. FINDINGS: We randomly assigned 54 families between April 11, 2011, and Dec 4, 2012 (28 to intervention, 26 to no intervention). Although CIs sometimes include the null, point estimates suggest that the intervention increased the primary outcome of infant attentiveness to parent (effect size 0.29, 95% CI -0.26 to 0.86, thus including possibilities ranging from a small negative treatment effect to a strongly positive treatment effect). For secondary outcomes, the intervention reduced autism-risk behaviours (0.50, CI -0.15 to 1.08), increased parental non-directiveness (0.81, 0.28 to 1.52), improved attention disengagement (0.48, -0.01 to 1.02), and improved parent-rated infant adaptive function (chi(2)[2] 15.39, p=0.0005). There was a possibility of nil or negative effect in language and responsivity to vowel change (P1: ES-0.62, CI -2.42 to 0.31; P2: -0.29, -1.55 to 0.71). INTERPRETATION: With the exception of the response to vowel change, our study showed positive estimates across a wide range of behavioural and brain function risk-markers and developmental outcomes that are consistent with a moderate intervention effect to reduce the risk for later autism. However, the estimates have wide CIs that include possible nil or small negative effects. The results are encouraging for development and prevention science, but need larger-scale replication to improve precision. FUNDING: Autistica, Waterloo Foundation, Autism Speaks, and the UK Medical Research Council.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
11. Grimm D, Assouline B, Piero A. {{[Schooling of patients exhibiting Autism Spectrum Disorders without mental retardation]}}. {Encephale};2015 (Sep 7)
INTRODUCTION: Autism Spectrum Disorders belong to Pervasive Development Disorders. Although access to education is recommended by the French National High Authority for Health (HAS), the practice remains limited and the reasons for the low education rate of these children have still not been sufficiently explored in the literature. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study was to analyze the links between Autism Spectrum Disorder without mental retardation, psychiatric comorbidity and education. The secondary objective was to analyze the cognitive and contextual factors that could limit educational inclusion. METHOD: Eighty-three autistic patients (3-18years old; 73 males and 10 females) with childhood autism, atypical autism or Asperger’s syndrome (criteria from the International Classification of Diseases-10) without mental retardation and in education were assessed at the Alpine Centre for Early Diagnosis of Autism. The sample included 45 subjects with childhood autism, 12 subjects with atypical autism and 26 subjects with Asperger’s syndrome. The diagnosis was based on the Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised (ADI-R), in accordance with the recommendations of the HAS, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th edition (WISC-IV). RESULTS: Our results showed that childhood autism and atypical autism were mainly found in nursery and primary school, whereas Asperger’s syndrome was mainly found in secondary school (Chi2=18.23; df=6; P<.006). Individuals with childhood autism and atypical autism were more likely to receive the support of a special educational assistant (Chi2=15.61; df=2; P<.000) and underwent a higher number of consultations and treatment episodes than those with Asperger’s syndrome (Chi2=27.83; df=14; P<.015). The cognitive profiles obtained with the WISC-IV also differed: the Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) and Working Memory Index (WMI) were higher for Asperger’s syndrome than for childhood autism and atypical autism (respectively, F=23.11, P<.000; df=2; partial eta2=.576 and F=8.06, P<.001; df=2; partial eta2=.357). Linear regression showed that the VCI and Processing Speed Index (PSI) were inversely correlated to the number of hours spent with a special educational assistant: the lower these indexes, the greater the amount of time spent with a special educational assistant. No link was found between psychiatric comorbidity, type of psychological and psychiatric treatment, and education. DISCUSSION: The use of special educational assistants seems to be linked to the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders and neuropsychological functioning, as assessed by WISC-IV, along a continuum that ranges from childhood autism (more needs and deficits) to atypical autism to Asperger’s syndrome. The Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI) and the Processing Speed Index (PSI) could be used to evaluate the number of hours of support needed by children and to better target the deficits and specific needs of children without mental retardation who are in education. A study on a larger scale could help to more closely address the question of the cognitive abilities of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder without mental retardation, so as to better help them in their education.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
12. Heathcock JC, Tanner K, Robson D, Young R, Lane AE. {{Retrospective Analysis of Motor Development in Infants at High and Low Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185070p6905185071-6905185079.
OBJECTIVE: To measure upper-extremity and gross motor skill development in infants with and without risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHOD: Data were coded retrospectively from 39 infants who participated in longitudinal structured early developmental assessments. Twenty-five infants were at high risk for ASD, and the remaining 14 infants were classified as low risk. Upper-extremity and motor skill development were coded at ages 2, 4, and 6 mo. Five infants went on to receive an ASD diagnosis at age 2-4 yr. RESULTS: Infants at high risk for ASD demonstrated fewer midline behaviors with the upper extremities and delayed motor skill development than the low-risk group. Differences in motor skills were most apparent at age 4 mo. CONCLUSION: Early monitoring for motor delay in infants at high risk for ASD is warranted. Midline control and play with the upper extremities and overall motor skill development are possible assessment and therapeutic targets.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
13. Kuhaneck HM, Madonna S, Novak A, Pearson E. {{Effectiveness of Interventions for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Parents: A Systematic Review of Family Outcomes}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905180040p6905180041-6905180040p6905180014.
This systematic review examined the literature published from January 2006 to April 2013 related to the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents to improve parental stress and self-efficacy, coping, and resilience and family participation in daily life and routines. From the 4,457 abstracts, 34 articles were selected that matched the inclusion criteria. The results were mixed and somewhat inconclusive because this body of literature is in its infancy. Studies of children with ASD do not routinely measure parental and family outcomes. Recommendations include an emphasis on family measures other than parental stress and a greater focus on measures of parental and family functioning in all future studies of pediatric interventions to more fully understand the impact of interventions in a wider context.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
14. Kuhaneck HM, Watling R. {{Occupational Therapy: Meeting the Needs of Families of People With Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905170010p6905170011-6905170015.
Occupational therapy has much to offer to families of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, people outside the profession may be unaware of occupational therapy’s breadth and scope. It is our responsibility and our duty to express the full range of occupational therapy services through research, clinical practice, advocacy, and consumer education. This special issue of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, with its focus on autism, embarks on this endeavor by highlighting research and theoretical articles that address the various aspects of occupational therapy practice that can help to fully meet the needs of people with ASD and their families.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
15. Lawson RP, Friston KJ, Rees G. {{A more precise look at context in autism}}. {Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A};2015 (Sep 10)
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
16. Lord C. {{Infant autism: parents’ role in ameliorating risk?}}. {Lancet Psychiatry};2015 (Feb);2(2):112-113.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
17. Loth E, Spooren W, Murphy DG. {{New treatment targets for autism spectrum disorders: EU-AIMS}}. {Lancet Psychiatry};2014 (Nov);1(6):413-415.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
18. Pang EW, Valica T, MacDonald MJ, Taylor MJ, Brian J, Lerch JP, Anagnostou E. {{Abnormal Brain Dynamics Underlie Speech Production in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Autism Res};2015 (Sep 12)
A large proportion of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have speech and/or language difficulties. While a number of structural and functional neuroimaging methods have been used to explore the brain differences in ASD with regards to speech and language comprehension and production, the neurobiology of basic speech function in ASD has not been examined. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a neuroimaging modality with high spatial and temporal resolution that can be applied to the examination of brain dynamics underlying speech as it can capture the fast responses fundamental to this function. We acquired MEG from 21 children with high-functioning autism (mean age: 11.43 years) and 21 age- and sex-matched controls as they performed a simple oromotor task, a phoneme production task and a phonemic sequencing task. Results showed significant differences in activation magnitude and peak latencies in primary motor cortex (Brodmann Area 4), motor planning areas (BA 6), temporal sequencing and sensorimotor integration areas (BA 22/13) and executive control areas (BA 9). Our findings of significant functional brain differences between these two groups on these simple oromotor and phonemic tasks suggest that these deficits may be foundational and could underlie the language deficits seen in ASD. Autism Res 2015. (c) 2015 The Authors Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Autism Research.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
19. Poirier N, Vallee-Ouimet J. {{Le parcours des parents et des enfants presentant un TSA}}. {Sante Ment Que};2015 (Spring);40(1):203-226.
OBJECTIVES: This research aims to study parents’ experiences (n = 41) of their autistic child. in regards to different aspects of his development, such as diagnosis, health, family, interventions, child care services, school and awareness of the disorder. METHODS: In order to ensure variability in the levels of severity of the disorder, forty-one parents of persons with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were recruited either through the Federation quebecoise de l’autisme (FQA) or through a convenience sample. Participants were asked to complete a 192-item questionnaire covering respondents’ demographic information, the child’s diagnosis as well as information regarding health, family, respite services, child care setting, interventions, school setting, adolescence, adulthood, individual rights and awareness of the disorder. This questionnaire was reviewed by ten doctoral students in psychology and by three ASD experts to assess the relevance, the correctness and the richness of the questions. The questionnaire was adapted accordingly and was administered to 10 parents within the framework of a qualitative study. RESULTS: This study revealed that parents’ primary concerns regarding their child’s development regarded language development, visual contact, isolation and motor abilities. These parents also mentioned feeling positive emotions, such as pride and joy, as well as negative emotions, such as worries about their child’s future. Only a few of these families used respite services and most deemed intervention services as insufficient; about half of parents were satisfied with the services provided at school. Moreover, most of adults with ASD have always lived with at least one of their parents; some have occupations, but their salary is minimal. In terms of disorder awareness, parents mentioned that they would have preferred that their child not have the disorder in order for them to live an easier life. CONCLUSION: Data obtained from this study serves to provide a better comprehension parents’ experiences, which can contribute to adapting the services for families of children living with ASD. In addition, an increase in public funding for intervention and respite services is recommended as it was considered insufficient.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
20. Robinson EB, Neale BM, Hyman SE. {{Genetic research in autism spectrum disorders}}. {Curr Opin Pediatr};2015 (Sep 12)
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The recent explosion of genetic findings in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) research has improved knowledge of the disorder’s underlying biology and etiologic architecture. This review introduces concepts and results from recent genetic studies and discusses the manner in which those findings can influence the trajectory of ASD research. RECENT FINDINGS: Large consortium studies have associated ASDs with many types of genetic risk factors, including common polygenic risk, de novo single nucleotide variants, copy number variants, and rare inherited variants. In aggregate, these results confirm the heterogeneity and complexity of ASDs. The rare variant findings in particular point to genes and pathways that begin to bridge the gap between behavior and biology. SUMMARY: Genetic studies have the potential to identify the biological underpinnings of ASDs and other neuropsychiatric disorders. The data they generate are already being used to examine disease pathways and pathogenesis. The results also speak to ASD heterogeneity and, in the future, may be used to stratify research studies and treatment trials.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
21. Saban-Bezalel R, Mashal N. {{The effects of intervention on the comprehension of irony and on hemispheric processing of irony in adults with ASD}}. {Neuropsychologia};2015 (Sep 7);77:233-241.
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience difficulty in comprehending figurative language in general and irony in particular. The current study measured the effectiveness of a short-term intervention in enhancing the comprehension of irony. Twenty-nine adults with ASD and 22 typically developing (TD) adults participated in the study. Participants with ASD were randomly assigned to a study (intervention) or control (passive intervention) group. TD participants were also assigned to a passive intervention control group. The intervention improved comprehension of irony in the ASD group. Furthermore, responses to ironic and literal targets were similar within each hemisphere prior to the intervention within the ASD study group, but after the intervention responses lateralized to the right. Thus, following the intervention, participants with ASD demonstrated a pattern of hemispheric processing of ironic target words that resembled the pattern seen in the TD group prior to the intervention. Our findings suggest that an intervention that focuses on comprehension of irony improves performance of adults with ASD and affects the pattern of hemispheric processing of irony.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
22. Santoso TB, Ito Y, Ohshima N, Hidaka M, Bontje P. {{Resilience in Daily Occupations of Indonesian Mothers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185020p6905185021-6905185028.
This qualitative study investigated how resilience functions in the context of daily occupations for mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Fourteen mothers of children with ASD participated in two focus groups that were used to elicit stories of the mothers’ resilience in daily occupations. A constant comparative method was used for data analysis. A model of resilience in daily occupations of mothers of children with ASD was developed consisting of four categories: (1) creating and re-creating accepting conditions, (2) finding solutions, (3) striving for balance among daily occupations, and (4) thinking about the child’s future. Sources of resilience were found to reside in both the mothers themselves and their social environments. Occupational therapy practitioners can use these findings in developing supportive approaches aimed at mothers, family members, and other people in the lives of children with ASD.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
23. Schaaf RC, Cohn ES, Burke J, Dumont R, Miller A, Mailloux Z. {{Linking Sensory Factors to Participation: Establishing Intervention Goals With Parents for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185005p6905185001-6905185008.
Parents often focus on independence in activities of daily living and social participation when setting goals for their children with autism spectrum disorders. Occupational therapy practitioners use clinical reasoning to translate these goals to define occupation-based outcomes. This article describes an exploratory analysis of 160 parent-identified goals for children with autism. We identified sensory integrative factors hypothesized to influence each goal and then categorized the goals using the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Most goals were at the ICF participation and activity levels. Activities of daily living were the most common area of occupation identified, followed by social participation and play. Sensory reactivity and somatopraxis were the most frequently occurring sensory integrative factors. The value of addressing parent goals using a systematic reasoning process to identify factors affecting participation and the importance of measuring participation outcomes are discussed.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
24. Suzuki K, Kobayashi T, Moriyama K, Kaga M, Hiratani M, Watanabe K, Yamashita Y, Hayashi T, Inagaki M. {{[Parenting resilience for rearing a child with autism spectrum disorder: a qualitative study]}}. {No To Hattatsu};2015 (Jul);47(4):283-288.
OBJECTIVE: Resilience is defined as the dynamic process of positive adaptation despite the experience of adversity. The aims of this study were to apply the concept of resilience to the mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which we call « parenting resilience » for rearing a child with ASD, and to explain the construct of parenting resilience. METHODS: Interviews were conducted with 23 mothers of adults with ASD to collect data on rearing these children from infancy to adulthood. Data were analyzed using a modified grounded-theory approach. RESULTS: The analytic theme was the thought process from the problems associated with raising developmentally challenged children to the implementation of the appropriate coping method. We proposed a model comprising twelve concepts and five categories, i. e., « a sense of motherhood », « self-efficacy », « knowledge of the child’s characteristics », « perceived social support », and « foresight ». The model assumes that a sense of motherhood and self-efficacy motivate these mothers to cope with the problems associated with developmentally challenged children, and they derive the way of dealing with it from knowledge of the child’s characteristics, perceived social support, and foresight. DISCUSSION: We suggest that the construct of parenting resilience for rearing a child with ASD is composed of the proposed categories and concepts.
25. Swinth Y, Tomlin G, Luthman M. {{Content Analysis of Qualitative Research on Children and Youth With Autism, 1993-2011: Considerations for Occupational Therapy Services}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185030p6905185031-6905185039.
OBJECTIVE: Through a content analysis of qualitative research published 1993-2011, we sought to determine how qualitative research can inform clinical reasoning among occupational therapy practitioners to support evidence-based, occupation-focused services for children and youth with autism and their families. METHOD: A qualitative literature search of journals inside and outside occupational therapy, including international journals, yielded 125 articles. We reviewed 110 articles that met inclusion criteria, 79 of which were coded by four occupational therapists with experience working with families with a child or youth with autism. RESULTS: Nineteen content codes were initially derived. Three themes were identified: (1) service challenges for the family, (2) day-to-day experience of autism, and (3) reframing family. CONCLUSION: This content analysis illustrates how qualitative research may help occupational therapy practitioners make comprehensive, occupation-based intervention decisions by considering the lived experience of children and youth with autism and their families.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
26. Takahashi H, Komatsu S, Nakahachi T, Ogino K, Kamio Y. {{Relationship of the Acoustic Startle Response and Its Modulation to Emotional and Behavioral Problems in Typical Development Children and Those with Autism Spectrum Disorders}}. {J Autism Dev Disord};2015 (Sep 12)
Auditory hyper-reactivity is a common sensory-perceptual abnormality in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which interrupts behavioral adaptation. We investigated acoustic startle response (ASR) modulations in 17 children with ASD and 27 with typical development (TD). Compared to TD, children with ASD had larger ASR magnitude to weak stimuli and more prolonged peak startle-latency. We could not find significant difference of prepulse inhibition (PPI) or habituation in ASD children compared to TD. However, habituation and PPI at 70-dB prepulses were negatively related to several subscales of Social Responsiveness Scale and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, when considering all children. Comprehensive investigation of ASR and its modulation might increase understanding of the neurophysiological impairments underlying ASD and other mental health problems in children.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
27. Tanner K, Hand BN, O’Toole G, Lane AE. {{Effectiveness of Interventions to Improve Social Participation, Play, Leisure, and Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors in People With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905180010p6905180011-6905180010p6905180012.
People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly experience difficulties with social participation, play, and leisure along with restricted and repetitive behaviors that can interfere with occupational performance. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate current evidence for interventions within the occupational therapy scope of practice that address these difficulties. Strong evidence was found that social skills groups, the Picture Exchange Communication System, joint attention interventions, and parent-mediated strategies can improve social participation. The findings were less conclusive for interventions to improve play and leisure performance and to decrease restricted and repetitive behaviors, but several strategies showed promise with moderately strong supporting evidence. Occupational therapists should be guided by evidence when considering interventions to improve social participation, play, leisure, and restricted and repetitive behaviors in people with ASD. Additional research using more robust scientific methods is needed for many of the currently available strategies.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
28. Tomchek SD, Little LM, Dunn W. {{Sensory Pattern Contributions to Developmental Performance in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905185040p6905185041-6905185040p6905185010.
Sensory processing differences in preschool-age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affect their engagement in everyday activities, thereby influencing opportunities to practice and develop skills such as social communication and adaptive behavior. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which specific sensory processing patterns relate to aspects of development (i.e., adaptive behavior, expressive and receptive language, fine and gross motor skills, social behavior) in a sample of preschool-age children with ASD (N = 400). A retrospective chart review was used to gather clinical data. Results suggest that sensory processing patterns differentially affect children’s developmental skills and adaptive behavior. Certain sensory processing patterns predicted children’s development of language, motor, and adaptive skills. These findings have clear implications for occupational therapy practice with young children with ASD. Practitioners should consider how sensory processing in ASD both supports and limits children’s ability to engage in social communication and learning opportunities.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
29. Tomlin GS, Swinth Y. {{Contribution of Qualitative Research to Evidence in Practice for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905360010p6905360011-6905360014.
Appraising the best available evidence substantiating and informing occupational therapy practice is a commonly expressed obligation for the profession (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2007). In this article we argue for the full inclusion of qualitative research, on parity with quantitative research, as a source for evidence of relevant and effective occupational therapy practice, review the limitations of quantitative research, and outline the distinctive contributions of qualitative studies to the practice of occupational therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition, we describe the role of qualitative studies in the fulfillment of the Centennial Vision (AOTA, 2007) and recommend three action steps for the profession.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
30. Udayakumar AM, Al-Mamari W, Al-Sayegh A, Al-Kindy A. {{De Novo Duplication of 7p21.1p22.2 in a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Craniofacial Dysmorphism}}. {Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J};2015 (Aug);15(3):e415-419.
The duplication of the short arm of chromosome 7 as de novo is extremely rare. The phenotype spectrum varies depending on the region of duplication. We report a case of de novo duplication of chromosomal region 7p21.1p22.2 in a three-year-old male child with autism who presented to the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Muscat, Oman, in January 2012. The patient was diagnosed with craniofacial dysmorphism, global developmental delay, hypotonia and bilateral cryptorchidism. The duplication was detected by conventional G-banded karyotype analysis/fluorescence in situ hybridisation and confirmed by array comparative genomic hybridisation. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of chromosomal region 7p21.1 involvement in an autistic patient showing features of a 7p duplication phenotype. Identifying genes in the duplicated region using molecular techniques is recommended to promote characterisation of the phenotype and associated condition. It may also reveal the possible role of these genes in autism spectrum disorder.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
31. Wada M, Ide M. {{Rubber hand presentation modulates visuotactile interference effect especially in persons with high autistic traits}}. {Exp Brain Res};2015 (Sep 10)
Persons with high autistic traits showed diverse reactions as to their multisensory integration, whereas neurotypical persons adequately integrate visual and tactile information. Successive visual stimuli sometimes interfere ordering of successive tactile stimuli. Presentation of a hand-shaped object would affect the interference. Besides, its associations with autistic traits have not been reported. Here, we investigated the effect of a rubber hand presentation on interferences to tactile temporal order judgment by successive visual stimuli. We also investigated whether individual differences associated with autistic traits. A rubber hand was placed palm down in front of the participant in one condition, while in other conditions, it was inverted or was not presented. Participants were required to judge the temporal order of tactile stimuli presented to the index finger and ring finger of their unseen right hand, and needed to ignore the visual stimuli placed on the corresponding fingers of the rubber hand. When incongruent visual stimuli were delivered along with presentation of the rubber hand, the participant’s judgment was notably reversed. In contrast, the degree of reversals significantly decreased when the rubber hand was not presented or presented in an inverted direction. Additionally, we found that participants with high autistic traits tended to show large reversal with the rubber hand presentation, while they showed small reversal when the rubber hand was inverted. Our results suggest that rubber hand corresponding to one’s own hand facilitates visuotactile interference. Furthermore, autistic traits may affect the integration of visuotactile inputs when the rubber hand is presented.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
32. Watling R, Hauer S. {{Effectiveness of Ayres Sensory Integration((R)) and Sensory-Based Interventions for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905180030p6905180031-6905180030p6905180012.
This systematic review examines the literature published from January 2006 through April 2013 related to the effectiveness of Ayres Sensory Integration((R)) (ASI) and sensory-based interventions (SBIs) within the scope of occupational therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder to improve performance in daily life activities and occupations. Of the 368 abstracts screened, 23 met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Moderate evidence was found to support the use of ASI. The results for sensory-based methods were mixed. Recommendations include performing higher level studies with larger samples, using the Fidelity Measure in studies of ASI, and using carefully operationalized definitions and systematic methods in examination of SBIs.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
33. Weaver LL. {{Effectiveness of Work, Activities of Daily Living, Education, and Sleep Interventions for People With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review}}. {Am J Occup Ther};2015 (Sep-Oct);69(5):6905180020p6905180021-6905180020p6905180011.
OBJECTIVE: To examine interventions addressing work, activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), education, and sleep for people with autism spectrum disorder. METHOD: A total of 23 studies were identified, and 9 work-, 11 ADL/IADL-, and 3 education-related interventions were examined. No sleep studies were identified. RESULTS: Use of mobile and tablet technologies for vocational skills was supported. Support for ADL/IADL intervention is variable, with indications that Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance, sensory integration, and contextual interventions may increase occupational performance. Preliminary evidence suggests that daily yoga and brief exercise may improve classroom performance and behavior; group physical activities may assist with school readiness variables. Evidence for using technologies for IADLs was limited, as was evidence determining effective interventions for feeding and eating issues. CONCLUSIONS: Studies investigating interventions related to sleep are lacking. More studies are needed in all areas, presenting opportunities for the expansion of science-driven occupational therapy practice and research for people with ASD.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
34. Winarni TI, Schneider A, Ghaziuddin N, Seritan A, Hagerman RJ. {{Psychosis and catatonia in fragile X: Case report and literature review}}. {Intractable Rare Dis Res};2015 (Aug);4(3):139-146.
Fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) premutation associated phenotypes have been explored extensively since the molecular mechanism emerged involving elevated FMR1 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels. Lowered fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) can also occur which may have an additive effect to the high levels of mRNA leading to neurodevelopmental problems and psychopathology. This paper was aimed to review psychosis and catatonia in premutation carriers, express the role of elevated FMR1 mRNA and lowered FMRP in the phenotype of carriers and present a case of psychosis and catatonia in a carrier. This case also demonstrates additional genetic and environmental factors which may also affect the phenotype. We review the literature and report an exemplary case of a 25 year old male premutation carrier with elevated FMR1 mRNA, low FMRP, a cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily D polypeptide 6 (CYP2D6)*2xN mutation and a perinatal insult. This patient developed an autism spectrum disorder, psychosis, catatonia with subsequent cognitive decline after electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) for his catatonia. He had a premutation of 72 CGG repeat in FMR1, FMR1 mRNA level that was over 2.4 times normal and FMRP level at 18% of normal, and additionally, a CYP2D6 allelic variant which leads to ultrarapid metabolism (UM) of medication. There is an overlapping pathophysiological mechanism of catatonia and fragile X-associated premutation phenotypes including autism and psychosis. This case demonstrates the shared phenotype and the overlap of the pathophysiological mechanisms that can influence the intervention. Multiple genetic and environmental hits can lead to more significant involvement in premutation carriers.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
35. Zeedyk SM, Cohen SR, Eisenhower A, Blacher J. {{Perceived Social Competence and Loneliness Among Young Children with ASD: Child, Parent and Teacher Reports}}. {J Autism Dev Disord};2015 (Sep 12)
Perceived loneliness and social competence were assessed for 127 children with ASD without comorbid ID, 4-7 years old, through child self-report. Using an abbreviated version of the Loneliness and Social Dissatisfaction Questionnaire (LSDQ; Cassidy and Asher in Child Dev 63:250-365, 1992), the majority of children reported friendships, yet a considerable proportion also reported social difficulties. Factor analysis of the abbreviated LSDQ identified three factors, which were significantly associated with parent- and teacher-reported variables. Regression analyses revealed parent-reported social skills deficits and teacher-reported conflict in the student-teacher relationship to be associated with child-reported loneliness. Implications for practice are discussed.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
36. Zhen B, Blackwell AF, Coulouris G. {{Using Augmented Reality to Elicit Pretend Play for Children with Autism}}. {IEEE Trans Vis Comput Graph};2015 (May);21(5):598-610.
Children with autism spectrum condition (ASC) suffer from deficits or developmental delays in symbolic thinking. In particular, they are often found lacking in pretend play during early childhood. Researchers believe that they encounter difficulty in generating and maintaining mental representation of pretense coupled with the immediate reality. We have developed an interactive system that explores the potential of Augmented Reality (AR) technology to visually conceptualize the representation of pretense within an open-ended play environment. Results from an empirical study involving children with ASC aged 4 to 7 demonstrated a significant improvement of pretend play in terms of frequency, duration and relevance using the AR system in comparison to a non computer-assisted situation. We investigated individual differences, skill transfer, system usability and limitations of the proposed AR system. We discuss design guidelines for future AR systems for children with ASC and other pervasive developmental disorders.
Lien vers le texte intégral (Open Access ou abonnement)
37. Ziats MN, Comeaux MS, Yang Y, Scaglia F, Elsea SH, Sun Q, Beaudet AL, Schaaf CP. {{Corrigendum to « Improvement of regressive autism symptoms in a child with TMLHE deficiency following carnitine supplementation »}}. {Am J Med Genet A};2015 (Oct);167(10):2496.
