| 1. |
- Achermann, Sheila, et al.
(författare)
-
Motor atypicalities in infancy are associated with general developmental level at 2 years, but not autistic symptoms
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications Ltd. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 24:7, s. 1650-1663
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Atypical motor development has frequently been reported in infants at elevated likelihood for autism spectrum disorder. However, no previous study has used detailed motion capture technology to compare infant siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder and infant siblings with no familial history of autism spectrum disorder. We investigated reaching movements during an interceptive action task in 10-month-old infants using kinematic data with high spatiotemporal resolution. The results indicated that several measures were different in infants at elevated likelihood. However, longitudinal analyses revealed that while specific infant motor measures (e.g. number of movement units) were related to broad measures of general developmental level in toddlerhood, the associations with later autism spectrum disorder symptomatology were not significant. These findings confirm that some aspects of motor functioning are atypical in infants at elevated likelihood for autism spectrum disorder, but provide no support for the view that these issues are specifically linked to autism spectrum disorder symptoms, but may rather reflect neurodevelopment more generally.Lay abstractAtypicalities in motor functioning are often observed in later born infant siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder. The goal of our study was to investigate motor functioning in infants with and without familial history of autism spectrum disorder. Specifically, we investigated how infants catch a ball that is rolling toward them following a non-straight path, a task that requires both efficient planning and execution. Their performance was measured using detailed three-dimensional motion capture technology. We found that several early motor functioning measures were different in infants with an older autistic sibling compared to controls. However, these early motor measures were not related to autistic symptoms at the age of 2 years. Instead, we found that some of the early motor measures were related to their subsequent non-social, general development. The findings of our study help us understand motor functioning early in life and how motor functioning is related to other aspects of development.
|
|
| 2. |
|
|
| 3. |
|
|
| 4. |
- Arnell, Susann, 1971-, et al.
(författare)
-
Parents’ perceptions and concerns about physical activity participation among adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 24:8, s. 2243-2255
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The parents of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder have a vital and proactive role in encouraging healthy physical activity habits, and they possess important knowledge about the adolescents’ needs when it comes to enhancing participation in physical activity. But promoting healthy physical activity habits in adolescents can be difficult. The purpose of this study was thus to describe parents’ perceptions of their adolescent child’s participation in physical activity and to describe the parental role in promoting such participation. Twenty-eight parents of adolescents aged 12–16 years with autism spectrum disorder were interviewed. The interviews were analyzed using an inductive content analysis approach. The parents described how challenging participation in physical activities could be for their adolescents. Despite this, they wanted to see their children participate more in physical activity but found the promotion of physical activity to be an overwhelming task that was difficult to cope with on their own. The results reveal a need for support and collaborative efforts among different actors to give these issues increased priority in order to promote the adolescents’ physical activity participation.
|
|
| 5. |
- Arvidsson, Thomas, et al.
(författare)
-
Autism in 3-6-Year-Old Children in a Suburb of Goteborg, Sweden
- 1997
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 1:2, s. 163-173
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- 1941 ofthe 3-6-year-old children living in a community outside Gbteborg on the Swedish west coast were screened with a view to identifying all individuals with severe degrees of autistic behaviour. All children in the population were known to well baby clinic staff, and any child suspected of suffering from autism was referred to a specialized clinical research team. The nurses and doctors working in the well baby clinics were well informed about autism. Clinical and ADI-R diagnoses of autism were established after thorough clinical assessments of each suspected case. All children were seen at least twice, and all were over the age of 3 years at the time of diagnosis. The general population prevalence for autism was 3 I in I o,ooo children (9; percent confidence interval 7/ g;). Classic Kanner autism was found in I o in Io,ooo children (9; percent confidence interval-4/24). These rates appear to reflect higher rates than previously reported. Some reasons for the possibly higher prevalence are discussed.
|
|
| 6. |
- Bang, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Modality-specific associations between sensory differences and autistic traits
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 27:7, s. 2158-2172
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Sensory processing differences measured by self- or parent-report co-segregate with quantitative autistic traits and have potential endophenotypic properties. It is not known to what extent this reflects generalized sensory dysfunction versus more specific associations involving individual senses or autistic trait domains. We combined Bayesian variable selection with dominance analysis to obtain a more nuanced understanding of modality-specific associations. We recruited two independent samples of adults to complete the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire and the Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire. For each domain of autistic traits (social interaction, communication, cognitive rigidity), we performed stochastic search variable selection using Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire modality subscales as predictors while controlling for uncertainty in other variables. Dominance analysis was applied to the reduced models to evaluate the relative importance of predictors. Only auditory scores reliably predicted all three autistic traits when other modalities were accounted for. The proprioceptive scale, which included motor and interoceptive deficits, predicted communicative autistic traits more than other trait domains. The tactile scale appeared most specific for social autistic traits. Although the findings must be interpreted in light of the limitations of the questionnaires, the study suggests that auditory differences may be more likely than differences in other senses to be a robust sensory endophenotype relevant to autism. Lay abstract Sensory symptoms are a major source of distress for many autistic people, causing anxiety, stress, and avoidance. Sensory problems are thought to be passed on genetically together with other autistic characteristics, such as social preferences. This means that people who report cognitive rigidity and autistic-like social function are more likely to suffer from sensory issues. We do not know what role the individual senses, such as vision, hearing, smell, or touch, play in this relationship, because sensory processing is generally measured with questionnaires that target general, multisensory issues. This study aimed to investigate the individual importance of the different senses (vision, hearing, touch, smell, taste, balance, and proprioception) in the correlation with autistic traits. To ensure the results were replicable, we repeated the experiment in two large groups of adults. The first group contained 40% autistic participants, whereas the second group resembled the general population. We found that problems with auditory processing were more strongly predictive of general autistic characteristics than were problems with the other senses. Problems with touch were specifically related to differences in social interaction, such as avoiding social settings. We also found a specific relationship between proprioceptive differences and autistic-like communication preferences. The sensory questionnaire had limited reliability, so our results may underestimate the contribution of some senses. With that reservation in mind, we conclude that auditory differences are dominant over other modalities in predicting genetically based autistic traits and may therefore be of special interest for further genetic and neurobiological studies.
|
|
| 7. |
- Bejerot, Susanne, 1955-
(författare)
-
An autistic dimension : a proposed subtype of obsessive-compulsive disorder
- 2007
-
Ingår i: Autism. - London, United Kingdom : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 11:2, s. 101-110
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This article focuses on the possibility that autism spectrum disorder (ASD: Asperger syndrome, autism and atypical autism) in its milder forms may be clinically important among a substantial proportion of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and discusses OCD subtypes based on this proposition. The hypothesis derives from extensive clinical experience of OCD and ASD, and literature searches on MEDLINE. Neuropsychological deficits are more common in OCD than in panic disorder and depression. Moreover, obsessive-compulsive and schizotypal personality disorders are over-represented in OCD. These may constitute mis-perceived clinical manifestations of ASD. Furthermore, repetitive behaviours and hoarding are common in Asperger syndrome. It is suggested that the comorbidity results in a more severe and treatment resistant form of OCD. OCD with comorbid ASD should be recognized as a valid OCD subtype, analogous to OCD with comorbid tics. An odd personality, with paranoid, schizotypal, avoidant or obsessive-compulsive traits, may indicate these autistic dimensions in OCD patients.
|
|
| 8. |
- Benderix, Ylva, et al.
(författare)
-
Parents' experience of having a child with autism and learning disabilities living in a group home: A case study.
- 2006
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 10:6, s. 629-641
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Some children with autism and learning disabilities also have aberrant behaviours that are difficult to regulate and stressful for both the child and family members. This case study concerns experiences of 10 parents from five families before and 2 years after entrusting their 10- to 11-year-old child with autism to a group home. Hermeneutic phenomenological analysis of narrative interviews with the parents before the child’s moving showed them experiencing grief and sorrow, total exhaustion because of inability to regulate their child’s behaviours, social isolation, and negative effects on the child’s siblings, but experiencing themselves as more sympathetic than previously towards other people with problems. Two years later they experienced relief for the family due to the group home arrangement and the child’s improvement, but with an ethical dilemma which made them feel guilty, despite increased hope for the future. Some also felt unhappy with the staff situation at the group home.
|
|
| 9. |
- Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, Hanna, 1976-, et al.
(författare)
-
Cutting our own keys : New possibilities of neurodivergent storying in research
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 27:5, s. 1235-1244
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- A lot of people who do research are also neurodivergent (such as being autistic or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), but neurodivergent people do not always feel welcome in research spaces which are often shaped around neurotypical people. Some neurotypical researchers lack confidence in talking to neurodivergent people, and others feel like neurodivergent people might not be able to do good research about other people who are like them without being biased. We think it is important that all researchers are able to work well together, regardless of whether they are neurotypical, autistic, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (or any other neurotype) – in truly ‘neurodiverse’ teams. In this article we talk about how to create better spaces for all researchers, where we feel valued for who we are and take each others’ needs into account. We do this using some approaches from other areas of research and talking about how they relate to our personal experiences of being neurodivergent researchers with our own personal stories. This article adds to a growing work on how we can work with people who are different from us, in more respectful and kind ways.
|
|
| 10. |
- Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, Hanna, 1976-, et al.
(författare)
-
Knowing and accepting oneself : Exploring possibilities of self-awareness among working autistic young adults
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 27:5, s. 1417-1425
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Autistic people have historically been described as incapable of developing a deeper sense of self-awareness, and autistic understandings of self-awareness have been largely disregarded. The aim of this study is to explore the way young autistic adults try to understand their functionality and who they are, or to develop their sense of self-awareness, in work and in private life contexts. In 12 qualitative interviews conducted with four autistic adults without learning difficulties, we identified a rich set of reflections on knowing and accepting oneself. The overarching theme of self-knowledge has three subthemes: learning from previous experiences, learning about oneself by securing the support of others, and understanding and accepting autistic functionality. The strategy of self-knowledge was used by these young adults to help them achieve functional lives in the work and private domains. Our results show that young autistic adults both actively explore and develop their self-awareness. We suggest that it is important for practitioners and employers working with autistic individuals to engage with their journeys of self-awareness as a vital part of understanding and supporting them.
|
|
| 11. |
- Billstedt, Eva, 1961, et al.
(författare)
-
Aspects of quality of life in adults diagnosed with autism in childhood: a population-based study.
- 2011
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 15:1, s. 7-20
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The present study is a long-term prospective follow-up study of a population-based cohort of 120 individuals diagnosed with autism in childhood, followed into late adolescence/early adulthood. Specific aims of the study were to attempt to measure and study social aspects/quality of life in those 108 individuals with autism alive and available for study at the time of follow-up (13-22 years after original diagnosis). A newly constructed scale for rating 'autism-friendly environment'/quality of life was used alongside a structured parent/carer interview assessing current occupation, educational history, services provided, accommodation type, and recreational activities. The majority of the group with autism remained dependent on parents/caregivers for support in education, accommodation and occupational situations. In spite of this, the estimation of the study group's general quality of life was encouragingly positive. Nevertheless, there was an obvious need for improvements in the areas of occupation and recreational activities. Future studies need to look in more depth at the concept of an autism-friendly environment and develop more detailed quality of life assessment tools relevant for people in the autism spectrum.
|
|
| 12. |
- Black, MH, et al.
(författare)
-
Complex facial emotion recognition and atypical gaze patterns in autistic adults
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 24:1, s. 258-262
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- While altered gaze behaviour during facial emotion recognition has been observed in autistic individuals, there remains marked inconsistency in findings, with the majority of previous research focused towards the processing of basic emotional expressions. There is a need to examine whether atypical gaze during facial emotion recognition extends to more complex emotional expressions, which are experienced as part of everyday social functioning. The eye gaze of 20 autistic and 20 IQ-matched neurotypical adults was examined during a facial emotion recognition task of complex, dynamic emotion displays. Autistic adults fixated longer on the mouth region when viewing complex emotions compared to neurotypical adults, indicating that altered prioritization of visual information may contribute to facial emotion recognition impairment. Results confirm the need for more ecologically valid stimuli for the elucidation of the mechanisms underlying facial emotion recognition difficulty in autistic individuals.
|
|
| 13. |
- Black, MH, et al.
(författare)
-
Considerations of the built environment for autistic individuals: A review of the literature
- 2022
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 26:8, s. 1904-1915
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Until recently, built environments have been designed exclusively to meet the needs of neurotypical populations; however, there is increasing recognition of the need to make built environments more accommodating for neurodiverse populations, including autistic individuals. This scoping review aims to comprehensively explore and synthesise this literature on the internal built environment for autistic individuals providing recommendations for designers, policymakers and clinicians. Five electronic databases were searched, resulting in a total of 28 studies being reviewed. Recommendations are provided for design and construction, lighting, sound, aesthetics, temperature and air quality. While in its early stages, evidence demonstrating the impact that particular qualities of light, colour, sound and spatial planning have on the human sensorium is emerging. In turn, this new knowledge is informing design decisions that are progressing interior environments towards inclusivity. Understanding the positive and negative impacts of decisions made in the design of the built environment has the potential to facilitate the participation and inclusion of autistic individuals. Factors related to the interiors of buildings, including the layout of rooms, colours, smells, noises, temperature, ventilation, colour and clutter, among other things, can change the way we interact with our environment and the people around us. Autistic individuals can have differences in processing sensory information and may find aspects of the built environment (BE) over-whelming and difficult to navigate. We reviewed the existing literature exploring the BE and autism. This study found that it is possible to make changes to the BE to create more inclusive and friendly environments for everyone, including autistic individuals. Findings from this study provide clear recommendations that can be used by interior designers, architects, builders, and clinical practitioners to make a positive difference. Key recommendations include using simple spatial layouts, compartmentalising and zoning spaces into specific activity sections and providing retreat spaces. The thoughtful placement of windows and blinds and the installation of dimmable lights, for example, will allow users to manage or reduce sensory over-stimulation caused by lights. Similarly, we recommend creating soundproofing and sound absorbent materials to reduce background noise and sound levels. We also recommend using neutral or simple colour palettes and restrained use of patterns. Finally, and most importantly, the BE needs to be flexible and adaptable to meet the unique needs of each person. This study provides a starting point for design guidelines and recommendations towards making a difference to the everyday experiences of the interiors of buildings.
|
|
| 14. |
|
|
| 15. |
- Bolic, Vedrana, et al.
(författare)
-
Support for learning goes beyond academic support : Voices of students with Asperger’s disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 20:2, s. 183-195
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The purpose of this study was to describe and explore the experiences of support at school among young adults with Asperger’s disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and also to examine what support they, in retrospect, described as influencing learning. Purposive sampling was used to enroll participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 young adults aged between 20 and 29 years. A qualitative analysis, based on interpreting people’s experiences, was conducted by grouping and searching for patterns in data. The findings indicate that the participants experienced difficulties at school that included academic, social, and emotional conditions, all of which could influence learning. Support for learning included small groups, individualized teaching methods, teachers who cared, and practical and emotional support. These clusters together confirm the overall understanding that support for learning aligns academic and psychosocial support. In conclusion, academic support combined with psychosocial support at school seems to be crucial for learning among students with Asperger’s disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
|
|
| 16. |
|
|
| 17. |
|
|
| 18. |
- Bolte, S
(författare)
-
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
- 2012
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 16:6, s. 555-556
-
Tidskriftsartikel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)
|
|
| 19. |
- Bolte, S, et al.
(författare)
-
Hard talk: Does autism need philosophy?
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 23:1, s. 3-7
-
Tidskriftsartikel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)
|
|
| 20. |
- Bolte, S, et al.
(författare)
-
Sex differences in cognitive domains and their clinical correlates in higher-functioning autism spectrum disorders
- 2011
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 15:4, s. 497-511
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Despite the skewed sex ratio, few studies have addressed possible cognitive sex differences in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). This study compared visual attention to detail (ATTD) and selected executive functions (EF) in 35 males and 21 females with higher-functioning ASD and unaffected sibling controls. Females with ASD outperformed males on EF as assessed by the Trail Making Test B-A. Males with ASD showed superior performance for ATTD as measured by the Block Design Test (BD) when compared with females. EF difficulties in males were correlated with more stereotypic behaviours and interests on the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised or the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. The results indicated clinically meaningful cognitive sex differences in ASD, particularly an association between EF and stereotypic behaviours and interests. ATTD as a potential basis for specific cognitive strengths (e.g. scientific/savant skills) might be more pronounced in males with ASD.
|
|
| 21. |
- Bolte, S
(författare)
-
The good, the bad and systematic reviews
- 2015
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 19:1, s. 3-5
-
Tidskriftsartikel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)
|
|
| 22. |
|
|
| 23. |
|
|
| 24. |
|
|
| 25. |
|
|
| 26. |
- Bölte, Sven, et al.
(författare)
-
The Gestalt of functioning in autism spectrum disorder : Results of the international conference to develop final consensus International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health core sets
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 23:2, s. 449-467
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Autism spectrum disorder is associated with diverse social, educational, and occupational challenges. To date, no standardized, internationally accepted tools exist to assess autism spectrum disorder–related functioning. World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health can serve as foundation for developing such tools. This study aimed to identify a comprehensive, a common brief, and three age-appropriate brief autism spectrum disorder Core Sets. Four international preparatory studies yielded in total 164 second-level International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health candidate categories. Based on this evidence, 20 international autism spectrum disorder experts applied an established iterative decision-making consensus process to select from the candidate categories the most relevant ones to constitute the autism spectrum disorder Core Sets. The consensus process generated 111 second-level International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health categories in the Comprehensive Core Set for autism spectrum disorder—one body structure, 20 body functions, 59 activities and participation categories, and 31 environmental factors. The Common Brief Core Set comprised 60 categories, while the age-appropriate core sets included 73 categories in the preschool version (0- to 5-year-old children), 81 in the school-age version (6- to 16-year-old children and adolescents), and 79 in the older adolescent and adult version (⩾17-year-old individuals). The autism spectrum disorder Core Sets mark a milestone toward the standardized assessment of autism spectrum disorder–related functioning in educational, administrative, clinical, and research settings.
|
|
| 27. |
- Callenmark, Björn, et al.
(författare)
-
Explicit versus implicit social cognition testing in autism spectrum disorder
- 2014
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 18:6, s. 684-693
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Although autism spectrum disorder is defined by reciprocal social-communication impairments, several studies have found no evidence for altered social cognition test performance. This study examined explicit (i.e. prompted) and implicit (i.e. spontaneous) variants of social cognition testing in autism spectrum disorder. A sample of 19 adolescents with autism spectrum disorder and 19 carefully matched typically developing controls completed the Dewey Story Test. ‘Explicit’ (multiple-choice answering format) and ‘implicit’ (free interview) measures of social cognition were obtained. Autism spectrum disorder participants did not differ from controls regarding explicit social cognition performance. However, the autism spectrum disorder group performed more poorly than controls on implicit social cognition performance in terms of spontaneous perspective taking and social awareness. Findings suggest that social cognition alterations in autism spectrum disorder are primarily implicit in nature and that an apparent absence of social cognition difficulties on certain tests using rather explicit testing formats does not necessarily mean social cognition typicality in autism spectrum disorder.
|
|
| 28. |
- Chan, WT, et al.
(författare)
-
Realist evaluation of a transdisciplinary mealtime management service for autistic children
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 27:6, s. 1547-1559
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Autistic children commonly experience mealtime difficulties; however, it is unknown what makes an effective transdisciplinary mealtime service for autistic children. This study used a realist evaluation framework to explore caregivers’ and therapists’ perceptions of the contexts, mechanisms and associated outcomes of a transdisciplinary mealtime management service for autistic children. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six caregivers of autistic children engaged in a transdisciplinary mealtime service and 10 therapists providing the service, with interview data analysed using a realist evaluation approach. Four-context (child factors, family factors, therapist factors and institutional parameters), three-mechanism (transdisciplinary collaboration, child-centred approach and managing caregiver expectations) and two-outcome (impact on the child and impact on the caregiver) themes were identified. Findings highlighted that transdisciplinary collaboration, a child- and family-centred approach and managing caregiver expectations are key mechanisms providing a foundation for the development of evidence-based mealtime services for autistic children. Mealtimes and eating can be difficult for autistic children. A service where different professions work together is required to address the varied and complex mealtime difficulties of autistic children. Little is known about what is needed for such services to be effective. We interviewed six caregivers of autistic children who were engaged in a mealtime service and 10 therapists who are involved in delivering the service to understand their perspectives on the factors that were driving the effectiveness of the mealtime service. We found that different health professionals from different disciplines working together, focusing on adapting intervention to the child and family and managing expectations of the caregiver were important in contributing to outcomes of the mealtime service. The findings of this study can be used to inform the development of more effective interventions and services to support the well-being and development of autistic children.
|
|
| 29. |
- Dahlgren, Sven-Olof, 1956, et al.
(författare)
-
Referential communication in children with autism spectrum disorder
- 2008
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 12:4, s. 335-348
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Referential communication was studied in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) including children with autism and Asperger syndrome. The aim was to study alternative explanations to the children’s communicative problems in such situations. Factors studied were theory of mind, IQ, verbal ability and memory. The main results demonstrated diminished performance in children with autism spectrum disorder mirroring performance in everyday life in comparison to verbal IQ and mental age matched typically developing children. Among children with autism spectrum disorders, there was a positive relationship between performance in referential communication and theory of mind. Memory capacity proved also to play a role for success in the task.
|
|
| 30. |
- Dahlgren Sandberg, Annika, 1946, et al.
(författare)
-
The Rett Syndrome Complex Communicative Functions in Relation to Developmental Level and Autistic Features
- 2000
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 4:3, s. 249-267
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Communicative functions and their relationship with overall developmental level and autistic features were studied in eight young women with disorders in the Rett syndrome complex, three with the classical variant and five with variants with partially preserved/ regained speech. The Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales, individual structured observation, and a specially designed structured interview covering early pre-linguistic and linguistic development, current receptive and expressive language and non-verbal communication skills, were used. Autistic features were evaluated in accordance with the DSM-IV. Low levels of communicative abilities and overall functioning were demonstrated. In most cases, the communicative abilities did not reach the level expected on the basis of overall development. Joint attention behaviours and expressions of communicative intent were rare. However, six of the eight subjects showed clear examples of social interaction abilities. ‘Eye pointing’, as distinct from ‘eye communication’, was demonstrated only in a minority of the cases. The level of communicative function at developmental arrest did not predict later language ability. It is suggested that intervention should focus on developing further the joint attention behaviours, intentional communications and communicative functions spontaneously used by individuals with disorders in the Rett syndrome complex.
|
|
| 31. |
- D'Arcy, E, et al.
(författare)
-
Content validation of common measures of functioning for young children against the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health and Code and Core Sets relevant to neurodevelopmental conditions
- 2022
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 26:4, s. 928-939
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Content validity describes the extent to which a measure represents, and is relevant to, the construct it aims to assess. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health and derived Core/Code Sets (Sets) for autism, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, cerebral palsy and early developmental delay and disability are adequate to establish the content validity of measures aiming to assess functioning in young children with neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs). This article aimed to assess the content validity of comprehensive assessments of functioning for young children with NDCs against these standards. Twenty-two common measures of functioning were evaluated for content validity against the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health at a domain level, with 10 measures analysed at the item-level and compared to the Sets relevant to young children with NDCs. Measures covered between 21% and 57% of the combined Set codes and 19% to 63% of codes from specific Sets. Much of this variation was between measures, with some variation due to differences between individual Sets. The percentages reflect that measures heavily focus on activities and participation areas, with environmental factors rarely assessed. These findings are useful for clinicians, policymakers, and researchers in identifying the most appropriate measures for assessing functioning in young children with neurodevelopmental conditions. Young children who have developmental delay, autism, or other neurodevelopmental conditions can have difficulties doing things in different areas of their life. What they can and cannot do is called their level of functioning. There are lots of assessment measures that aim to assess functioning. But, we are not sure if these measures assess all the things we need to know about these children’s functioning. Other research has identified lists of items (codes) that need to be assessed to understand functioning for young children with different neurodevelopmental conditions fully. These lists include body functions (the things a child’s body or brain can do), activities and participation (the activities and tasks a child does) and environmental factors (parts of the environment that can influence functioning). In this study, we looked at the items from these lists assessed by different functioning measures to see how they compared to what should be assessed. The measures that we looked at covered 21%–57% of all the codes and 19%–63% of the codes for lists specific to different conditions. Most of the measures focused on activity and participation codes, and they rarely assessed environmental factors. Knowing which codes and how much of the lists the measures assess can help researchers, clinicians and policymakers to choose measures that are more appropriate for young children with neurodevelopmental conditions.
|
|
| 32. |
|
|
| 33. |
|
|
| 34. |
- Flygare, Oskar, et al.
(författare)
-
Adapted cognitive behavior therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder with co-occurring autism spectrum disorder : A clinical effectiveness study
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 24:1, s. 190-199
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder and autism spectrum disorder commonly co-occur. Adapted cognitive behavior therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults with autism spectrum disorder has not previously been evaluated outside the United Kingdom. In this study, 19 adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder and autism spectrum disorder were treated using an adapted cognitive behavior therapy protocol that consisted of 20 sessions focused on exposure with response prevention. The primary outcome was the clinician-rated Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale. Participants were assessed up to 3 months after treatment. There were significant reductions on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale at post-treatment (d = 1.5), and improvements were sustained at follow-up (d = 1.2). Self-rated obsessive-compulsive disorder and depressive symptoms showed statistically significant reductions. Improvements in general functioning and quality of life were statistically non-significant. Three participants (16%) were responders at post-treatment and four (21%) were in remission from obsessive-compulsive disorder. At follow-up, three participants (16%) were responders and one (5%) was in full remission. Adapted cognitive behavior therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults with co-occurring autism spectrum disorder is associated with reductions in obsessive-compulsive symptoms and depressive symptoms. However, outcomes are modest; few patients were completely symptom free, and treatment engagement was low with few completed exposures and low adherence to homework assignments. We identify and discuss the need for further treatment refinement for this vulnerable group.
|
|
| 35. |
- Garvis, Susanne, 1981, et al.
(författare)
-
The importance of critical life moments: An explorative study of successful women with autism spectrum disorder.
- 2017
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 21:6, s. 670-677
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Ten women with autism spectrum disorder participated in oral interviews in order to share their experiences since their diagnosis and to discuss the factors that had enabled them to achieve success in different aspects of their life. Participants were encouraged to share their perspectives on their success and to discuss the challenges they encountered in their daily lives and how they overcame these. Interviews were analysed using a narrative-themed approach. Participants indicated that both internal and external factors enabled them to achieve success in different aspects of their lives. These included being an agent of change, a changed identity after diagnosis, experiencing the belief of others in their capability and seeing themselves as a mentor to others. Their experiences with overcoming obstacles in their lives enabled them to develop self-efficacy and to shape their own success.
|
|
| 36. |
- Gillberg, Christopher, 1950, et al.
(författare)
-
Auditory Integration Training in Children with Autism : Brief Report of an Open Pilot Study
- 1997
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 1:1, s. 97-100
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Nine children aged 3-I 6 years with an autistic disorder were given auditory integration training for half-hour sessions during 10 days according to guidelines suggested by Guy Berard. No significant change in overall autistic symptom level could be documented 9 months later. However a small but non-significant reduction of 'sensory problems' as rated by the Autism Behaviour Checklist was noted.
|
|
| 37. |
- Haglund, Nils, et al.
(författare)
-
Risk factors for autism and Asperger syndrome Perinatal factors and migration
- 2011
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 15:2, s. 163-183
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Using the Swedish Medical Birth Registry (MBR), obstetrical and demographic information was retrieved for 250 children with autism or Asperger syndrome who were born in Malmoe, Sweden, and enrolled at the local Child and Youth Habilitation Center. The reference group consisted of all children born in Malmoe during 1980-2005. Obstetric sub-optimality (prematurity, low Apgar scores, growth restriction, or macrosomia) was positively associated with autism but not with Asperger syndrome. Maternal birth outside the Nordic countries was positively associated with autism (adjusted OR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.6-3.1) and negatively associated with Asperger syndrome (OR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.3-0.97). The highest risk estimate for autism was found among children to women who were born in sub-Saharan Africa (OR: 7.3), or in East Asia (OR: 3.4).
|
|
| 38. |
- Helles, Adam, et al.
(författare)
-
Asperger syndrome in males over two decades: Quality of life in relation to diagnostic stability and psychiatric comorbidity
- 2017
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 21:4, s. 458-469
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This study examined objective quality of life (work, academic success, living situation, relationships, support system) and subjective quality of life (Sense of Coherence and Short-Form Health Survey-36) in an adult sample of males (n=50, mean age: 30years) with Asperger syndrome diagnosed in childhood and followed prospectively over two decades. The association between long-term diagnostic stability of an autism spectrum disorder and/or comorbid psychiatric disorders with quality of life was also examined. The results showed great variability as regards quality of life. The subsample that no longer fulfilled an autism spectrum disorder had full-time jobs or studies (10/11), independent living (100%), and reported having two or more friends (100%). In the stable autism spectrum disorder group, 41% had full-time job or studies, 51% lived independently, and 33% reported two or more friends, and a significant minority had specialized employments, lived with support from the government, or had no friends. Academic success was positively correlated with IQ. A majority of the total group scored average Sense of Coherence scores, and the mean for Short-Form Health Survey-36 was above average regarding psychical health and below average regarding mental health. Stability of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis was associated with objective but not subjective quality of life, while psychiatric comorbidity was associated with subjective but not objective quality of life.
|
|
| 39. |
- Hellquist, A, et al.
(författare)
-
Access, utilization, and awareness for clinical genetic testing in autism spectrum disorder in Sweden: A survey study
- 2022
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 26:7, s. 1795-1804
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Clinical genetic testing is recommended for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. There are only a few reports of how these recommendations are followed and especially missing for European countries. We aimed to analyze the rate of access, utilization, and awareness of clinical genetic testing among autistic individuals in Sweden through online surveys targeting parents with at least one autistic child and autistic adolescents (from 15 years) and adults. In total, 868 parents of autistic children and 213 autistic adolescents or adults completed the survey. Only 9.1% ( n = 79) of parents and 2.8% ( n = 6) of autistic adolescents/adults reported having received a referral for clinical genetic testing after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. The autistic children offered a referral were younger at diagnosis ( p < 0.001) and more likely to have an additional neurodevelopmental diagnosis ( p < 0.01), including intellectual disability ( p < 0.001) or a language disorder ( p < 0.001). Genetic counseling was provided to less than half of the families that were referred for clinical genetic testing. Finally, we report that both respondent groups preferred to be informed by written text and an expert in genetics about clinical genetic testing. This study highlights a lack of awareness and access to clinical genetic testing after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in Sweden and demonstrates the need for additional studies on how clinical guidelines for genetic testing are followed in different countries. Several medical professional societies recommend clinical genetic testing for autistic individuals as many genetic conditions are linked to autism. However, it is unclear to what extent autistic individuals and parents of autistic children are offered clinical genetic testing. We conducted a community-based survey to estimate the access, utilization, and awareness for clinical genetic testing in Sweden. In total, 868 parents of autistic children and 213 autistic adolescents or adults participated as respondents. The referral rate for clinical genetic testing after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis was low, with only 9.1% for the autistic children as reported by their parents and 2.8% for autistic adolescents/adults. The autistic children who got referrals were more likely to have intellectual disability and language disorder. We also report that awareness of the clinical genetic testing possibility was low in both respondent groups. We also highlight preferred communication means and needs for information before clinical genetic testing. Our results show that utilization and access are low in Sweden, and more studies should be conducted to report these rates in different countries to analyze the effects of clinical genetic testing on healthcare for autistic individuals. Our results highlight the most important information for the families and how the information should be communicated prior to clinical genetic testing.
|
|
| 40. |
- Hesselmark, Eva, et al.
(författare)
-
Group cognitive behavioural therapy and group recreational activity for adults with autism spectrum disorders : a preliminary randomized controlled trial
- 2014
-
Ingår i: Autism. - London, United Kingdom : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 18:6, s. 672-683
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Although adults with autism spectrum disorder are an increasingly identified patient population, few treatment options are available. This preliminary randomized controlled open trial with a parallel design developed two group interventions for adults with autism spectrum disorders and intelligence within the normal range: cognitive behavioural therapy and recreational activity. Both interventions comprised 36 weekly 3-h sessions led by two therapists in groups of 6-8 patients. A total of 68 psychiatric patients with autism spectrum disorders participated in the study. Outcome measures were Quality of Life Inventory, Sense of Coherence Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and an exploratory analysis on measures of psychiatric health. Participants in both treatment conditions reported an increased quality of life at post-treatment (d = 0.39, p < 0.001), with no difference between interventions. No amelioration of psychiatric symptoms was observed. The dropout rate was lower with cognitive behavioural therapy than with recreational activity, and participants in cognitive behavioural therapy rated themselves as more generally improved, as well as more improved regarding expression of needs and understanding of difficulties. Both interventions appear to be promising treatment options for adults with autism spectrum disorder. The interventions' similar efficacy may be due to the common elements, structure and group setting. Cognitive behavioural therapy may be additionally beneficial in terms of increasing specific skills and minimizing dropout.
|
|
| 41. |
- Hirvikoski, T, et al.
(författare)
-
High self-perceived stress and poor coping in intellectually able adults with autism spectrum disorder
- 2015
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 19:6, s. 752-757
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Despite average intellectual capacity, autistic traits may complicate performance in many everyday situations, thus leading to stress. This study focuses on stress in everyday life in intellectually able adults with autism spectrum disorders. In total, 53 adults (25 with autism spectrum disorder and 28 typical adults from the general population) completed the Perceived Stress Scale. Autistic traits were assessed using the Autism Spectrum Quotient. Adults with autism spectrum disorder reported significantly higher subjective stress and poorer ability to cope with stress in everyday life, as compared to typical adults. Autistic traits were associated with both subjective stress/distress and coping in this cross-sectional series. The long-term consequences of chronic stress in everyday life, as well as treatment intervention focusing on stress and coping, should be addressed in future research as well as in the clinical management of intellectually able adults with autism spectrum disorder.
|
|
| 42. |
- Isaksson, Johan, et al.
(författare)
-
Familial confounding on the ability to read minds : A co-twin control study
- 2019
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 23:8, s. 1948-1956
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Alterations in social cognition are hypothesized to underlie social communication challenges in autism spectrum disorder. However, the etiologic underpinnings driving this association, as well as the impact of other psychiatric conditions on the association, remain unclear. Using a co-twin control design, we examined n = 308 twins (mean age = 16.63; 46% females) with autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affective disorders, or typical development using the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test to operationalize social cognition ability. Clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, as well as the extent of quantitative autistic traits, as measured by parental reports using the Social Responsiveness Scale-2, predicted fewer expected responses on the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test across the pairs. The association remained when adjusting for other diagnoses and IQ. In addition, male sex, lower age, and lower IQ predicted poorer performance on the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test. The associations between autism and social cognition ability were lost within pairs in both the full sample and the monozygotic subsample. We conclude that the association between autism and social cognition across the sample highlights the importance of social cognition alterations in autism spectrum disorder when compared with other conditions. The attenuation of the association in the within-pair models indicate familial confounding, such as genes and shared environment, influencing both autism and social cognition.
|
|
| 43. |
- Jonsson, Ulf, 1974-, et al.
(författare)
-
Can findings from randomized controlled trials of social skills training in autism spectrum disorder be generalized? : The neglected dimension of external validity.
- 2016
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 20:3, s. 295-305
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Systematic reviews have traditionally focused on internal validity, while external validity often has been overlooked. In this study, we systematically reviewed determinants of external validity in the accumulated randomized controlled trials of social skills group interventions for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. We extracted data clustered into six overarching themes: source population, included population, context, treatment provider, treatment intervention, and outcome. A total of 15 eligible randomized controlled trials were identified. The eligible population was typically limited to high-functioning school-aged children with autism spectrum disorder, and the included population was predominantly male and Caucasian. Scant information about the recruitment of participants was provided, and details about treatment providers and settings were sparse. It was not evident from the trials to what extent acquired social skills were enacted in everyday life and maintained over time. We conclude that the generalizability of the accumulated evidence is unclear and that the determinants of external validity are often inadequately reported. At this point, more effectiveness-oriented randomized controlled trials of equally high internal and external validity are needed. More attention to the determinants of external validity is warranted when this new generation of randomized controlled trials are planned and reported. We provide a tentative checklist for this purpose.
|
|
| 44. |
- Leekam, Susan, et al.
(författare)
-
Comparison of ICD-10 and Gillberg's criteria for Asperger syndrome
- 2000
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 4:1, s. 11-28
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this study, algorithms designed for the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO) were used to compare the ICD-10 criteria for Asperger syndrome with those suggested by Gillberg. Two hundred children and adults were studied, all of whom met the ICD-10 criteria for childhood autism or atypical autism. Only three (1 percent) met criteria for ICD-10 Asperger syndrome. In contrast, 91 (45 percent) met criteria for Asperger syndrome defined by Gillberg, which more closely resemble Asperger’s own descriptions. Results showed that the discrepancy in diagnosis was due to the ICD-10 requirement for ‘normal’ development of cognitive skills, language, curiosity and self-help skills. When comparisons were based on Gillberg’s criteria only, results showed the participants diagnosed as having Asperger syndrome differed significantly from the rest on all but two of Gillberg’s criteria. However, all of these criteria could be found in some of those not diagnosed as having Asperger syndrome. The results emphasize the differences between the two diagnostic systems. They also question the value of defining a separate subgroup and suggest that a dimensional view of the autistic spectrum is more appropriate than a categorical approach.
|
|
| 45. |
- Lundin, Karl, et al.
(författare)
-
Functional gender differences in autism : An international, multidisciplinary expert survey using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health model.
- 2020
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : SAGE Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 25:4, s. 1020-1035
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- LAY ABSTRACT: In this study, we explored if professionals working with autistic people in different regions of the world perceive differences between females and males diagnosed with the condition. A total of 131 professionals responded to a survey that included an open question about gender differences in autism. Of these, 32 responded that they do not perceive gender differences in autism. The information provided by the other 99 experts was analyzed to identify common patterns. Three main differences were found, (1) Matching the clinical conceptualization of autism where professionals described differences in core symptoms of autism, and that autistic females were less similar to the conceptualization of autism. In (2) Co-existing problems, professionals described that autistic males display more apparent problems including hyperactivity, while autistic females were perceived as having more internalizing issues such as anxiety and eating disorders. In the last category, (3) Navigating the social environment, experts perceived autistic females as more socially motivated, and more inclined to camouflage social difficulties, making their challenges less evident. Professionals also perceived differences in the social environment, for example, that autistic girls receive more support from their peers while autistic boys are more often bullied. Our results suggest that professionals working in different parts of the world acknowledge gender differences in autism, but also that there might be some regional differences. Finally, we found that gender differences reported by the international professionals could largely be assessed with a shortened version of the International Classification of Functioning by the World Health Organization, specifically developed for autism.
|
|
| 46. |
- Mari-Bauset, S, et al.
(författare)
-
Systematic review of prenatal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals and autism spectrum disorder in offspring
- 2022
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 26:1, s. 6-32
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Epidemiological studies, which can have inherent methodological limitations, are used to study the relation between endocrine disrupting chemicals and autism spectrum disorder. The objective is to systematically review the treatment of methodological limitations and assess the quality and strength of the findings in the available literature. The quality and strength of the evidence were evaluated using the Navigation Guide Systematic Review Methodology. The overall quality and strength of the available studies were “moderate” and “limited,” respectively. Risk of bias due to the methodological limitations regarding the exclusion of potential confounding factors and the lack of accuracy of exposure assessment methods were the most prevalent and were also considered to arrive at these results. The omnipresence of endocrine disrupting chemicals, their persistence and bioaccumulation, and the biological plausibility of the association between prenatal exposure to these and later development of autism spectrum disorder highlight the need to carry out well-designed epidemiological studies that overcome the methodological limitations observed in the currently available literature in order to be able to inform public policy to prevent exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals. Autism spectrum disorders comprise a complex group with many subtypes of behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental abnormalities in two core areas: deficits in social communication and fixated, restricted, repetitive, or stereotyped behaviors and interests each with potential unique risk factors and characteristics. The underlying mechanisms and the possible causes of autism spectrum disorder remain elusive and while increased prevalence is undoubtable, it is unclear if it is a reflection of diagnostic improvement or emerging risk factors such as endocrine disrupting chemicals. Epidemiological studies, which are used to study the relation between endocrine disrupting chemicals and autism spectrum disorder, can have inherent methodological challenges that limit the quality and strength of their findings. The objective of this work is to systematically review the treatment of these challenges and assess the quality and strength of the findings in the currently available literature. The overall quality and strength were “moderate” and “limited,” respectively. Risk of bias due to the exclusion of potential confounding factors and the lack of accuracy of exposure assessment methods were the most prevalent. The omnipresence of endocrine disrupting chemicals and the biological plausibility of the association between prenatal exposure and later development of autism spectrum disorder highlight the need to carry out well-designed epidemiological studies that overcome the methodological challenges observed in the currently available literature in order to be able to inform public policy to prevent exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals and aid in the establishment of predictor variables to facilitate early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and improve long-term outcomes.
|
|
| 47. |
- Mevel, K, et al.
(författare)
-
Multimodal brain imaging in autism spectrum disorder and the promise of twin research
- 2015
-
Ingår i: Autism : the international journal of research and practice. - : SAGE Publications. - 1461-7005. ; 19:5, s. 527-541
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Current evidence suggests the phenotype of autism spectrum disorder to be driven by a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors impacting onto brain maturation, synaptic function, and cortical networks. However, findings are heterogeneous, and the exact neurobiological pathways of autism spectrum disorder still remain poorly understood. The co-twin control or twin-difference design is a potentially powerful tool to disentangle causal genetic and environmental contributions on neurodevelopment in autism spectrum disorder. To this end, monozygotic twins discordant for this condition provide unique means for the maximum control of potentially confounding factors. Unfortunately, only few studies of a rather narrow scope, and limited sample size, have been conducted. In an attempt to highlight the great potential of combining the brain connectome approach with monozygotic twin design, we first give an overview of the existing neurobiological evidence for autism spectrum disorder and its cognitive correlates. Then, a special focus is made onto the brain imaging findings reported within populations of monozygotic twins phenotypically discordant for autism spectrum disorder. Finally, we introduce the brain connectome model and describe an ongoing project using this approach among the largest cohort of monozygotic twins discordant for autism spectrum disorder ever recruited.
|
|
| 48. |
- Neufeld, Janina, et al.
(författare)
-
A co-twin-control study of altered sensory processing in autism
- 2021
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 25:5, s. 1422-1432
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Autism spectrum disorder is associated with sensory processing alterations, such as sensory hyper- and hypo-responsiveness. Twin studies are scarce in this field, but they are necessary in order to disentangle the genetic and environmental contributions to this association. Furthermore, it is unclear how different neurodevelopmental/psychiatric conditions contribute to altering sensory processing. We investigated the association between autistic traits/autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and sensory processing alterations in twins (N = 269), using the adult/adolescent sensory profile, which differentiates four sub-domains: Low Registration, Sensation Seeking, Sensory Sensitivity, and Sensation Avoiding. While the associations between autistic traits and Low Registration and Sensation Avoiding persisted within monozygotic (genetically identical) twins, Sensory Sensitivity was only associated with autistic traits within dizygotic twins. In multivariate analyses with different neurodevelopmental/psychiatric diagnoses as predictor variables, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder were the strongest predictors for two adult/adolescent sensory profile sub-domains each. The results suggest that the association between autistic traits and Sensory Sensitivity is influenced by genetics while non-shared environmental factors influence the associations between autistic traits and Low Registration and Sensation Avoiding. They further indicate that altered sensory processing is not specific to autism spectrum disorder, while autism spectrum disorder is a strong predictor of certain sensory processing alterations, even when controlling for other (comorbid) neurodevelopmental/psychiatric conditions.
|
|
| 49. |
- Neufeld, Janina, et al.
(författare)
-
The impact of atypical sensory processing on adaptive functioning within and beyond autism : The role of familial factors
- 2021
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005. ; 25:8, s. 2341-2355
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Atypical sensory processing is prevalent across neurodevelopmental conditions and a key diagnostic criterion of autism spectrum disorder. It may have cascading effects on the development of adaptive functions. However, its unique contribution to adaptive functioning and the genetic/environmental influences on this link are unclear. In a clinically enriched twin sample (n = 289, 60 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder), we investigated the associations between the quadrants of the Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile (low registration, sensory sensitivity, sensation seeking, and sensation avoiding) and adaptive functioning. Associations were modeled across the cohort accounting for the effects of clinical diagnosis, IQ, sex and age, and within-twin pairs, additionally implicitly adjusting for familial factors. Furthermore, we explored interaction effects between atypical sensory processing and autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Sensory sensitivity and sensation avoiding were associated with reduced adaptive functioning across individuals, but not within-twin pairs. An interaction effect was found between sensation seeking and autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, showing a negative association between sensation seeking and adaptive functioning only in individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The results suggest that atypical sensory processing is associated with reduced adaptive functioning and that familial factors influence this link. In addition, sensation seeking behaviors might interfere with adaptive functioning specifically in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
|
|
| 50. |
- Nordin, Viviann, et al.
(författare)
-
School absenteeism in autistic children and adolescents : A scoping review
- 2023
-
Ingår i: Autism. - : Sage Publications. - 1362-3613 .- 1461-7005.
-
Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- School absenteeism is a major societal problem, with a range of potential adverse long-term consequences. This scoping review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the research on school absenteeism in autistic children and adolescents, expose important gaps in the literature, and explore possibilities for future systematic reviews. Five relevant databases were searched systematically from inception to June 2023, yielding a total of 46 eligible reports from 42 separate studies. All studies were conducted in high-income countries, and most were published in the last decade. Three major themes emerged: occurrence, contextual factors, and interventions. The results of large-scale population-based studies clearly suggested that autistic children and adolescents were absent from school more often than their non-autistic peers, which partly was attributable to co-occurring conditions. Bullying also emerged as a potential risk factor. Only a few preliminary studies were available on targeted interventions, emphasizing the need for more robust studies. More research is also needed on the mechanisms leading to and maintaining school absenteeism in this group of learners. Overall, the diversity of research questions, methods, and definitions used in this body of research suggests that systematic reviews with narrow focus on a few key questions may still be premature.
|
|
