Treatment Of Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Articles

Attitudes of Special Educators Towards Use of Socially Assistive Robots for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Serbia and the United States

Purpose This research explores the initial attitudes of special educators towards socially assistive robots (SAR) and considers how cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds shape these attitudes. Special educators providing services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the United States and Serbia were surveyed, representing distinct cultural and socioeconomic contexts. Comparing their attitudes offers valuable insights into facilitating SAR adoption for ASD treatment across different cultural landscapes. Additionally, this study conducts a comparative analysis of cultural dimensions in the two countries to contextualize attitudes toward SAR use in ASD treatment. Methods A nonexperimental quantitative approach was employed utilizing a cross-sectional survey design with purposive samples of special educators who provide services to individuals with ASD in the U.S. and Serbia to establish initial attitudes toward SARs. Results The outcomes derived from this investigation reflect the pervasive influence of the cultural contexts. Apprehension has been identified as a significant factor shaping attitudes toward SAR adoption among the Serbian cohort, while a more favorable disposition towards this technology typifies the U.S. participants. The adoption and utilization of SARs, as reported by participants in the U.S., face relatively fewer attitudinal barriers.

Farm Animal-Assisted Therapy Using Farm Animals for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects an individual's ability to communicate, create social relationships, and regulate sensory input and repetitive behaviors. An uncommon intervention used in ASD treatment is farm animal-assisted therapy (AAT). AAT interventions focus on the use of animals in adjunct to achieve goals and outcomes. Farm AAT is defined as the use of farm animals such as cows, sheep, goats, horses, and pigs in AAT interventions. There is a lack of evidence on the use of farm animals and their benefits within the scope of AAT and in recreational therapy. The purpose of this study was to provide evidence, from the perspective of parents, of the potential benefits of farm AAT as a recreational therapy intervention for individuals with ASD. Data collection using a semi-structured interview guide was conducted over the phone with parents who participated in family session programs at the study location. Five participants were selected who matched the inclusion criteria for this study. The findings from this study reported that there were increases in social behaviors, regulation of behaviors, and a sense of normalcy for the children. The findings from this study provide a foundation for future research related to farm AAT such as evidenced-based curriculums and practices. The data provide therapists and parents with an understanding of the potential benefits that are gained from participation in farm AAT interventions.

The Role of Dietary Patterns and Nutritional Supplements in the Management of Mental Disorders in Children and Adolescents: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses: Le rôle des habitudes alimentaires et des suppléments nutritionnels dans la prise en charge des troubles mentaux chez les enfants et les adolescents : une méta-revue de méta-analyses.

In recent years, the relationship between nutrition and mental health has gained considerable interest. We identified, synthesized, and appraised all meta--analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting on the efficacy of dietary patterns and nutrient supplements in the prevention and treatment of mental disorders in children and adolescents. Systematic research in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was completed on 8 January 2024. Our research found 24 meta-analyses: 14 on RCTs, 8 on observational studies, and 2 combining both. Emerging evidence suggests that omega-3, in particular eicosapentaenoic acid, and Vitamin D may have adjunctive benefits in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while no evidence was found for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Observational data also indicated that prenatal folic acid supplementation (>400 μg daily) was associated with a reduced risk of ASD in offspring. In terms of dietary habits, several meta-analyses of observational data revealed that healthy dietary patterns (rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre, low in saturated fats) during the prenatal period, childhood, and adolescence were linked to a significantly reduced risk of internalizing disorders and externalizing disorders. Conversely, unhealthy dietary habits (high in sugars, saturated animal fats, and industrial foods, low in fruits, vegetables, and fibre) are associated with an elevated risk of these mental health issues. However, the number of available studies on dietary interventions for the treatment of depression, ASD, and ADHD was limited, and the results obtained were either nonsignificant or contradictory. Our findings emphasize the need to establish clear causal relationships between dietary habits and the risk of mental illness in children and adolescents. Moreover, further investigation of the benefits observed with some nutrient supplements (such as omega-3 and vitamin D for ADHD) through larger-scale RCTs is imperative to establish more robust conclusions.

Dopamine Dysregulation in Reward and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is primarily characterized by core deficits in social skills, communication, and cognition and by repetitive stereotyped behaviors. These manifestations are variable between individuals, and ASD pathogenesis is complex, with over a thousand implicated genes, many epigenetic factors, and multiple environmental influences. The mesolimbic dopamine (DA) mediated brain reward system is held to play a key role, but the rapidly expanding literature reveals intricate, nuanced signaling involving a wide array of mesolimbic loci, neurotransmitters and receptor subtypes, and neuronal variants. How altered DA signaling may constitute a downstream convergence of the manifold causal origins of ASD is not well understood. A clear working framework of ASD pathogenesis may help delineate common stages and potential diagnostic and interventional opportunities. Hence, we summarize the known natural history of ASD in the context of emerging data and perspectives to update ASD reward signaling. Then, against this backdrop, we proffer a provisional framework that organizes ASD pathogenesis into successive levels, including (1) genetic and epigenetic changes, (2) disrupted mesolimbic reward signaling pathways, (3) dysregulated neurotransmitter/DA signaling, and finally, (4) altered neurocognitive and social behavior and possible antagonist/agonist based ASD interventions. This subdivision of ASD into a logical progression of potentially addressable parts may help facilitate the rational formulation of diagnostics and targeted treatments.

Acute, chronic and conditioned effects of intranasal oxytocin in the mu-opioid receptor knockout mouse model of autism: Social context matters

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders whose diagnosis relies on deficient social interaction and communication together with repetitive behaviours. Multiple studies have highlighted the potential of oxytocin (OT) to ameliorate behavioural abnormalities in animal models and subjects with ASD. Clinical trials, however, yielded disappointing results. Our study aimed at assessing the behavioural effects of different regimens of OT administration in the Oprm1 null mouse model of ASD. We assessed the effects of intranasal OT injected once at different doses (0.15, 0.3, and 0.6 IU) and time points (5, 15, and 30 min) following administration, or chronically, on ASD-related behaviours (social interaction and preference, stereotypies, anxiety, nociception) in Oprm1+/+and Oprm1-/- mice. We then tested whether pairing intranasal OT injection with social experience would influence its outcome on ASD-like symptoms, and measured gene expression in the reward/social circuit. Acute intranasal OT at 0.3 IU improved social behaviour in Oprm1-/- mice 5 min after administration, with limited effects on non-social behaviours. Chronic (8–17 days) OT maintained rescuing effects in Oprm1 null mice but was deleterious in wild-type mice. Finally, improvements in the social behaviour of Oprm1-/- mice were greater and longer lasting when OT was administered in a social context. Under these conditions, the expression of OT and vasopressin receptor genes, as well as marker genes of striatal projection neurons, was suppressed. We detected no sex difference in OT effects. Our results highlight the importance of considering dosage and social context when evaluating the effects of OT treatment in ASD.

Approaches, Goals, and Scientific Integrity in Music Therapy Research with Individuals on the Autism Spectrum: An Integrative Review.

Scientific integrity is fundamental to evidence-based practice (EBP) and essential in music therapy (MT) research and clinical practice. Researchers conducted an integrative review of approaches and interventions employed by music therapists (MTs) with individuals on the autism spectrum in the context of how studies are analyzed by the National Autism Center (NAC) and National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (NCAEP). Researchers identified 880 database records meeting initial search criteria (i.e., autism spectrum disorder, autism, PDD-NOS, MT, and music interventions); 36 studies remained after screening for duplication, topic relevance, and adherence to inclusion criteria. Included studies were published between 1964 and 2021, in English language, in free open-access journals, worldwide; peer reviewed; conducted by MTs; empirical quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods design; intervention-based; and presented separate data for participants on the autism spectrum. Content and quantitative analyses identified deficits in scientific integrity and the following gaps in studies reviewed: Motor Skills and Placement (NAC-defined intervention targets), Computer-based and Songwriting and Composition (MT techniques), and Wellness and Bonny Method of Guided Imagery in Music (clinical approaches); no patterns were evident among NAC Interventions with MT techniques and approaches. Analysis of 5-point Scientific Merit Ratings yielded a mean 2.78 rating. A comparison of NAC and NCAEP terminology (i.e., how MT researchers report independent variables) indicated eight titles mention specific non-music interventions, 19 mention MT, 14 include music-based technique descriptors, and two mention both non-music interventions and MT. Researchers offer guidelines regarding identity-inclusive language, scientific integrity, and clarity of EBPs within MT intervention research with individuals on the autism spectrum.

A DNN-based diagnosis on autism spectrum disorder in children

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) witnesses a sharp increasing in recent years, and early diagnosis and intervention of ASD are critically needed. This study explored the efficacy of Deep Neural Networks (DNN) in diagnosing ASD among children aged 0 to 10. Utilizing the latest dataset derived from the ASDTests mobile application, which encompasses behavioral characteristics of over 2,000 children, we implemented a DNN model to capture complex non-linear patterns indicative of ASD. The results of comparative analysis with traditional machine learning models revealed DNN's superior accuracy in predicting ASD, indicating that the DNN achieved a significant improvement in identifying minority classes post-imbalance learning treatment. The promising results, including the 99.55% accuracy rate, paved the way for future investigations into integrating DNN with multimodal data analysis and other advanced algorithms to enhance early diagnostic processes and intervention strategies for ASD.

Amelioration of propionic acid-induced autism spectrum disorder in rats through dapagliflozin: The role of IGF-1/IGFBP-3 and the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway

The biological effects of dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, reveal its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting therapeutic benefits beyond glycemic control. This study explores the neuroprotective effects of dapagliflozin in a rat model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) induced by propionic acid (PPA), characterized by social interaction deficits, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, cognitive impairments, and oxidative stress.Our research aims to find effective treatments for ASD, a condition with limited therapeutic options and significant impacts on individuals and families. PPA induces ASD-like symptoms in rodents, mimicking biochemical and behavioral features of human ASD. This study explores dapagliflozin’s potential to mitigate these symptoms, providing insights into novel therapeutic avenues.The findings demonstrate that dapagliflozin enhances the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant pathway and increases levels of neurotrophic and growth factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3). Additionally, dapagliflozin reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-17 (IL-17), and decreases the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA).Dapagliflozin’s antioxidant properties support cognitive functions by modulating apoptotic mechanisms and enhancing antioxidant capacity. These combined effects contribute to reducing learning and memory impairments in PPA-induced ASD, highlighting dapagliflozin’s potential as an adjunctive therapy for oxidative stress and inflammation-related cognitive decline in ASD.This study underscores the importance of exploring new therapeutic strategies targeting molecular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of ASD, potentially improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this disorder.

Effects of Donepezil on Clinical Symptoms, Language, and Executive Skills in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Background. This study assessed the potential efficacy of donepezil in treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors. Donepezil, primarily used to treat Alzheimer’s disease as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, has gained attention as a potential treatment for ASD symptoms. Methods. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted to investigate the effects of donepezil on individuals with ASD. Outcome measures assessed various aspects of ASD, including language skills, executive function, behavior, and core symptoms. Nine studies were identified, including four randomized controlled trials (RCTs), three retrospective studies, one open-label trial, and one case report. Results. One RCT reported significant improvements in expressive and receptive language skills, especially in younger children. Another study combining donepezil with choline supplementation showed enhanced receptive language skills, particularly in younger participants. An open-label trial indicated improved rapid eye movement sleep patterns in autistic children treated with donepezil. Several retrospective studies reported improvements in behavioral symptoms, such as aggression and hyperactivity. However, other RCTs did not find statistically significant improvements in executive functioning. Conclusion. In general, donepezil use in ASD demonstrates promise in specific areas, notably language development and behavioral symptom management. However, the results are contradictory, requiring further research to clarify its role, optimal dosing, long-term effects, and potential side effects in individuals with ASD. Practical Implications. Donepezil can be used to improve the clinical global impression and language skills of people with ASD.

The role of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the pathophysiology and pharmacotherapy of autism spectrum disorder: Focus on α7 nicotinic receptors

Postmortem studies have revealed that brains of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit abnormalities in various components of the cholinergic system including cholinergic receptors, projections, and nuclei. Deletions in the 15q13.3 region which encompasses CHRNA7, the gene that encodes the α7-nACh receptor, have been linked to various neurodevelopmental disorders, including ASD. In addition, the involvement of α7-nACh receptors in biological phenomena known to play a role in the pathophysiology of ASD such as cognitive functions, learning, memory, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress, as well as the excitation-inhibition balance in neuronal circuits and maternal immune activation have been reported in previous studies. Furthermore, evolving preclinical and clinical literature supports the potential therapeutic benefits of using selectively acting cholinergic compounds, particularly those targeting the α7-nACh receptor subtype, in the treatment of ASD. This study reviews the previous literature on the involvement of nACh receptors in the pathophysiology of ASD and focuses on the α7-nACh receptor as a potential therapeutic target.

The Impact of Sitagliptin on Sodium Valproate-Induced Autism in a Mouse Model

Abstract Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disease, is described by problems with social interaction and communication that arise at an early age. The only approved drugs for the treatment of ASD are risperidone and aripiprazole. Objectives: The aim of the article is to explore the potential therapeutic effects of sitagliptin on the induced offspring model of autism. Also, to evaluate the effect of sitagliptin on interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Materials and Methods: We induced the disorder in mice by injecting pregnant mice with sodium valproate (600 mg/kg). Prenatal sodium valproate–exposed mice were split into four different groups, with two experimental groups taking sitagliptin (10 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg) and risperidone (1 mg/kg), and a control group receiving normal saline. Behavioral tests, including social interaction assessments were divided into three phases: habituation, familiarization, and testing, and lasted for 15 min, were conducted on postnatal day 65; also, anti-inflammatory marker assessments like TNF-α and IL-6 were conducted on postnatal day 66. Results: The study found that sitagliptin significantly improved behavioral disorders (social communication) and reduced neuro-inflammation in the brain. Sitagliptin therapy forcefully enhanced the cognitive function of ASD mice by regulating neurogenesis that could be connected with the powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions that sitagliptin possesses. Conclusion: Sitagliptin showed potent anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties that improved behavioral activities in the mice. These findings suggest that sitagliptin could be promising a potential treatment option for individuals with ASD.

Systematic Review of Parents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Children in Southeast Asia: Work-related Factors

Considering the rising cases of ASD among children, this paper aims to investigate the extent to which work-related factors have been examined in studies conducted on parents of children with ASD within the Southeast Asia (SEA) region. Using the PRISMA framework, a search was conducted on three databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science), yielding 38 studies that met the following inclusion criteria: (1) focusing on parents of ASD children, (2) conducted in the SEA region, and (3) articles, excluding systematic and meta-analyses. Of the 38 studies, 24 were from Malaysia, 9 from Singapore, 3 from the Philippines, 1 from Indonesia, and 1 from Vietnam. No articles were found for Brunei, Burma, Myanmar, Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Laos and Thailand. The focus, across the 38 studies, was primarily on the effects of the ASD child's therapies and interventions on parents, followed by parenting stress and quality of life (QOL). Employment-related factors were seen in sub-themes of five studies from Malaysia and Singapore. The review showed a limited focus on employment-related concerns amongst working parents with ASD children within the SEA region. The study's limitations include the lack of studies from other SEA countries such as Brunei, Burma, Myanmar, Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Laos, and Thailand. It is suggested that future research should focus on work-related factors for this underrepresented population while considering the roles of individual, gender, cultural, and religious factors.

Early detection of autism spectrum disorder via deep-learning application of fMRI and machine learning for ASD children identifications

This study unveils an advanced convolutional-neural-network (CNN) algorithm that was meticulously engineered to examine resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for early ASD detection in pediatric cohorts. The CNN architecture amalgamates convolutional, pooling, batch-normalization, dropout, and fully connected layers, optimized for high-dimensional data interpretation. Rigorous preprocessing yielded 22,176 two-dimensional echo planar samples from 126 subjects (56 ASD, 70 controls) who were sourced from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE I) repository. The model, trained on 17,740 samples across 50 epochs, demonstrated unparalleled diagnostic metrics – accuracy of 99.39%, recall of 98.80%, precision of 99.85%, and an F1 score of 99.32% – and thereby eclipsed extant computational methodologies. Feature map analyses substantiated the model’s hierarchical feature extraction capabilities. This research elucidates a deep learning framework for computer-assisted ASD screening via fMRI, with transformative implications for early diagnosis and intervention. And, this study addresses the critical need for early detection and intervention in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using machine learning. Specific therapies are needed for ASD, a neurodevelopmental disease that affects social interaction and communication. To find trends in ASD, our research uses a variety of early childhood screening tests as training sets for machine learning algorithms. The methodology that has been suggested utilizes methods of machine learning to compute the ASD spectrum, considering its many expressions. By using multidisciplinary methods and sophisticated screening instruments, we want to create an accurate system for early ASD detection. Algorithmic transparency, data protection, and ethical considerations are essential. This study seeks to build precise instruments for early ASD detection by promoting collaboration between specialists in neurodevelopment, psychology, and machine learning. A robust instrument that enhances the knowledge of medical practitioners is machine learning. Results show how innovation may transform early interventions and help people on the autistic spectrum achieve enhanced results.

Anti-Inflammatory Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder

One of the defining factors of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is neuroinflammation, which may be targeted to find effective therapies in managing ASD symptoms. Some promising treatments include mesenchymal STEM cell (MSCs) therapy, cxytocin (OT), sulforaphane (SFN), and resveratrol (RSV). MSCs are located in many parts of the body that can reduce secondary neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation while promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis. OT is a hormone that moderates social and emotional communication, bonding, and social learning, while also having profound antiinflammatory effects. SFN is a naturally occurring compound in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and sprouts, and activates a transcription factor which regulates anti-inflammatory and antioxidant genes. RSV is found in plants, such as grapes and berries, and helps stabilize the central and peripheral immune response and oxidative stress markers, subsequently reducing neuroinflammation. All of these treatments have shown promising potential, but it is abundantly clear that further research is needed in addition to combined therapies. Since ASD is a spectrum, not every case can be treated the exact same way. By targeting neuroinflammation, we can address the root cause of ASD rather than the symptoms.

Exploring the Gut Microbiome - Autism Spectrum Disorder Connection: Implications for Therapeutic Interventions and Future Directions

The gut microbiome, a diverse community of microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, is vital for human health and has a symbiotic relationship with the host. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a complex condition affecting social interaction, speech, and behavior, manifests early in life and affects 1 in 36 children globally. Research shows a significant link between the gut microbiome and ASD symptoms, with dysbiosis observed in individuals with ASD compared to neurotypical populations. Pathogenic gut microbiota can produce toxins that increase gut permeability, impair the intestinal barrier, and activate the immune system. The vagal nerve, influencing central nervous system (CNS) activity, can release peripheral cytokines inducing depression-like behaviors. Thus, dietary changes and treatments targeting the gut microbiota, such as Microbiota Transfer Therapy (MTT), offer promising methods for treating ASD symptoms. Current research focuses on dietary therapies like gluten-free and casein-free diets, ketogenic diets, and probiotics/prebiotics supplementation to modify the gut microbiota and enhance ASD treatment outcomes. However, more research is needed to fully understand the gut microbiota-ASD connection and establish evidence-based interventions. Individualized approaches are crucial for the safety and effectiveness of therapeutic strategies for ASD. Exploring the gut microbiome's role in ASD offers promising avenues for novel treatments and improved understanding of the disorder.

Understanding autism and its treatment: The child's perspective

IntroductionWhile parents' and professionals’ perceptions regarding children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been studied extensively, limited data regarding the perspectives of children with ASD on their needs and the challenges they face are available. The study aimed to examine how children with ASD understand their condition and the aims of the interventions they undergo. MethodsNineteen children and adolescents (ages 5.7–14.2 years) formally diagnosed with ASD, with borderline to high intelligence (range 70–140), and able to converse verbally were interviewed in person at a child development clinic. A qualitative approach was used to capture children's perceptions of their strengths and challenges and their understanding of a novel ASD treatment. The interview included direct and projective open-ended questions on each topic. Interpretive content analysis was used to evaluate the children's answers. Medical data were extracted from medical records. The children's parents completed questionnaires on their children's disability levels, awareness of ASD diagnosis, and sociodemographic details. FindingsChildren spoke of their embodied sensations and feelings and discussed “normality” vs. “disability.” They varied in their awareness of their diagnosis/symptoms, and only one boy named his diagnosis and described its consequences in detail. Most children lacked an understanding of the educational and therapeutic aspects of the goals set for them. Discussion and conclusionsChildren with ASD are aware of their unique emotional and behavioral challenges. Nevertheless, they are frequently excluded from the process of patient information provision and lack an understanding of the goals of interventions. Findings suggest the need to explore developmentally and emotionally adaptive ways to involve children with ASD in discussions of their condition and possible interventions.

Supplementation with stigma maydis polysaccharide attenuates autism-like behaviors and improves gut function in valproic acid-induced autism model male rats.

Stigma maydis polysaccharide (SMPS) has regulatory effect on the intestinal microflora and promotes gastrointestinal peristalsis. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience gastrointestinal problems and dysbiosis in their gut microbiota. Our previous study revealed that SMPS interventions had an impact on the gut microbiota of valproic acid (VPA)-induced autism model rats. However, the effects of SMPS on the behavior and gut function of autism model rats remain poorly understood. Therefore, we gave different doses of SMPS intervention in the early stage of autism model rats to observe their developmental conditions and behavior performances. Through histological evaluation and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), integrity of the intestinal structure and the expression of tight junction-related gene Zo-1 and Occludin were detected. The results indicated that SMPS intervention improved the physical development, learning and memory impairment, and social performance of autism model rats. Meanwhile, SMPS promoted intestinal peristalsis and restored the integrity of the intestinal structure, reduced the number of inflammatory cells, and increased the expression of the Zo-1 and Occludin genes. Furthermore, the expression levels of neurotransmitters (substance P, enkephalin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, and 5-hydroxytryptamine) in the hippocampal tissues were altered after SMPS treatment. In conclusion, SMPS could ameliorate ASD-like phenotypes and gut problems in autism model rats. Collectively, these results provide new evidence for the relationship between the gut-brain axis and ASD and suggest a novel therapeutic target for ASD treatment.

Feasibility and acceptability of a telehealth intervention for improving peer relationships for adolescents with neurofibromatosis type 1: a single-arm pilot study.

Elevated rates of social difficulties are evident for children and adolescents with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) but the effects of social skills interventions have not been investigated for this population. The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®), a widely established social skills intervention in autism spectrum disorders with expansion to other conditions, was recently modified to be offered virtually. This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of this telehealth intervention. 27 adolescents with NF1 with social skills difficulties and at least 1 caregiver enrolled in the study. 19 of those participants (Mage = 14.21 years, SD = 1.63; 7 females; 79% White) completed PEERS® via telehealth in a single-arm pilot study. Dropout rates, attendance records, helpfulness of the curriculum topics and caregiver-reported acceptability, including ratings on the Treatment Acceptability Questionnaire, were examined. Low study drop out (30% of enrolled participants; 14% of participants who began the intervention) and high attendance rates were observed. Caregivers found sessions related to common, everyday interactions most helpful. Adolescents indicated sessions related to having get-togethers and social nuances (e.g., humor) as most helpful. Caregiver ratings indicated acceptability of the intervention. This investigation supported the feasibility and acceptability of telehealth PEERS®, a social skills intervention program, among adolescents with NF1 and their caregivers based on attendance patterns as well as appraisal of the curriculum and telehealth modality.

Effect of probiotics on children with autism spectrum disorders: a meta-analysis

BackgroundResearches have found that alteration of intestinal flora may be closely related to the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, whether probiotics supplementation has a protective effect on ASD remains controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to analyze the outcome of probiotics in the treatment of ASD children.MethodsThe Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Embase were searched until Sep 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) relevant to the probiotics and placebo treatment on ASD children were screened. Quality assessment of the included RCTs was evaluated by the Cochrane collaboration’s tool. The primary outcomes were ASD assessment scales, including ABC (aberrant behavior checklist) and CBCL (child behavior checklist) for evaluating the behavior improvement, SRS (social responsiveness scale) for social assessment, DQ (developmental quotient) for physical and mental development and CGI-I (clinical global impression improvement) for overall improvement. The secondary outcome was total 6-GSI (gastrointestinal severity index).ResultsIn total, 6 RCTs from 6 studies with 302 children were included in the systemic review. Total 6-GSI (MD=-0.59, 95%CI [-1.02,-0.17], P < 0.05) decreased significantly after oral administration of probiotics. Whereas, there was no statistical difference in ABC, CBCL, SRS, DQ and CGI-I between probiotics and placebo groups in ASD children.ConclusionProbiotics treatment could improve gastrointestinal symptoms, but there was no significant improvement in ASD.

Modulation of Gut Microbiome and Autism Symptoms of ASD Children Supplemented with Biological Response Modifier: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.

The etiology and mechanisms of autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are not yet fully understood. There is currently no treatment for ASD for providing significant improvement in core symptoms. Recent studies suggest, however, that ASD is associated with gut dysbiosis, indicating that modulation of gut microbiota in children with ASD may thus reduce the manifestation of ASD symptoms. The aim of this pilot study (prospective randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled) was to evaluate efficacy of the biological response modifier Juvenil in modulating the microbiome of children with ASD and, in particular, whether Juvenil is able to alleviate the symptoms of ASD. In total, 20 children with ASD and 12 neurotypical children were included in our study. Supplementation of ASD children lasted for three months. To confirm Juvenil's impact on the gut microbiome, stool samples were collected from all children and the microbiome's composition was analyzed. This pilot study demonstrated that the gut microbiome of ASD children differed significantly from that of healthy controls and was converted by Juvenil supplementation toward a more neurotypical microbiome that positively modulated children's autism symptoms.