1. Church EJ. {{Using medical imaging to decipher autism}}. {Radiol Technol};2009 (Jul-Aug);80(6):523-542.
A steady stream of news stories reflects a growing focus on research concerning autism. Increasingly, scientists endeavor to identify the possible causes of the disorder, to explore the differences between autistic and neurotypical brains and to emphasize the need for accurate, timely diagnosis and early intervention. Several controversies surround the puzzle that is autism, including what culprits might be responsible for so many newly diagnosed cases each year. Fortunately, exciting advances in imaging technology and brain research promise a greater understanding of the disorder and extend much-needed hope to families and professionals facing the challenges of autism. This article is a Directed Reading. Your access to Directed Reading quizzes for continuing education credit is determined by your area of interest. For access to other quizzes, go to www.asrt.org/store.
2. Minio-Paluello I, Lombardo MV, Chakrabarti B, Wheelwright S, {{Baron-Cohen S. Response to Smith’s Letter to the Editor ‘Emotional Empathy in Autism Spectrum Conditions: Weak, Intact, or Heightened?’}} {J Autism Dev Disord};2009 (Jul 8)
3. Pan CY, Tsai CL, Chu CH. {{Fundamental Movement Skills in Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder}}. {J Autism Dev Disord};2009 (Jul 9)
The purpose of this study was to compare the movement skills of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and those without disabilities. Ninety-one children (ASD, n = 28; ADHD, n = 29; control, n = 34), ages 6-10 years, were of average IQ participated. After controlling for age, both ASD and ADHD groups scored significantly lower than controls (p’s < .05) on overall gross motor development as well as locomotor and object control subtests, and the ASD group performed more poorly than the ADHD group (p’s < .01) on both subtests. Of the children with ASD and ADHD, only 16% had clinical levels of impairment. Potential underlying factors are discussed, with suggestions for future research.
4. Tay G, Graham H, Graham HK, Leonard H, Reddihough D, Baikie G. {{Hip displacement and scoliosis in Rett syndrome – screening is required}}. {Dev Med Child Neurol};2009 (Jul 3)
Aim This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hip displacement and spinal deformity in a clinic population of females with Rett syndrome to define implications for screening and management. Method Age, MECP2 gene status, gross motor function, prevalence of hip displacement, as measured by migration percentage, and spinal deformity, determined by measurement of Cobb angle, were recorded. Results Thirty-one females with a mean age of 15 years 6 months (SD 5y 4mo) fulfilled a clinical diagnosis of Rett syndrome. Fifteen (48%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 30-67) of the cohort had a hip migration percentage of 30% of more. Eight of the 31 patients (95% CI 12-45) had undergone surgery for the prevention or treatment of hip displacement or dislocation. Twenty-seven of the 31 patients (95% CI 70-96) had a scoliosis, with a Cobb angle of less than 10 degrees ; 20 patients (95% CI 45-81) had a Cobb angle greater than 30 degrees . Eleven (95% CI 19-55) patients have required spinal fusion surgery. Interpretation The prevalence of hip displacement and spinal deformity in a clinic cohort of females with Rett syndrome in Victoria, Australia, was very high. Early, repeated, and consistent clinical and radiological surveillance for hip displacement and spinal deformities is recommended in all young patients with Rett syndrome.
