Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Articles

Data-centric automated approach to predict autism spectrum disorder based on selective features and explainable artificial intelligence

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by notable challenges in cognitive function, understanding language, recognizing objects, interacting with others, and communicating effectively. Its origins are mainly genetic, and identifying it early and intervening promptly can reduce the necessity for extensive medical treatments and lengthy diagnostic procedures for those impacted by ASD. This research is designed with two types of experimentation for ASD analysis. In the first set of experiments, authors utilized three feature engineering techniques (Chi-square, backward feature elimination, and PCA) with multiple machine learning models for autism presence prediction in toddlers. The proposed XGBoost 2.0 obtained 99% accuracy, F1 score, and recall with 98% precision with chi-square significant features. In the second scenario, main focus shifts to identifying tailored educational methods for children with ASD through the assessment of their behavioral, verbal, and physical responses. Again, the proposed approach performs well with 99% accuracy, F1 score, recall, and precision. In this research, cross-validation technique is also implemented to check the stability of the proposed model along with the comparison of previously published research works to show the significance of the proposed model. This study aims to develop personalized educational strategies for individuals with ASD using machine learning techniques to meet their specific needs better.

Bridging the gap in talent: A framework for interdisciplinary research on autism spectrum disorder persons in accounting and information systems

The accounting profession continues to face a talent shortage. In addition, the skills and demands of accountants continue to evolve as technology changes. At the same time, many autism spectrum disorder (ASD) persons remain unemployed or underemployed. Companies, including the Big 4, have begun hiring programs looking at a diverse set of individuals, including ASD persons. General anecdotes suggest ASD persons are thriving in terms of innovation, efficiency, and productivity. While neurotypical (NT) persons have been shown in multiple studies to rely on simple heuristics, which reduce judgment quality, we argue that there are neuropsychological differences in visual perception and attention that play a vital role in why ASD persons may be less susceptible to heuristics and biases; hence, increasing judgment quality. This paper presents an interdisciplinary research framework that adapts the human information processor model of cognition to bring together the judgment and decision-making, autism, and neuropsychological literatures to focus on areas where ASD persons may have judgment-related advantages over NT persons. We discuss the framework and present example research questions for two areas where ASD accountants are performing tasks: cybersecurity and software development. Our framework presents a guide for future empirical research where accounting academics can lead an interdisciplinary effort to support company inclusion programs of ASD persons and, more broadly, of neurodivergent persons.

Traits of Developmental Disorders in Adults With Listening Difficulties Without Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder And/or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Background: Some individuals have a normal audiogram but have listening difficulties (LiD). As many studies have investigated the relationship between listening and developmental disorders, the traits of developmental disorders might explain the symptoms of LiD. In this study, we examined the traits of developmental disorders of adults with LiD to help clarify the cause of LiD symptoms. Methods: In total, 60 adults with LiD and 57 adults without LiD were included. Participants completed a questionnaire for the autism spectrum quotient (AQ) test, the Adult Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Rating Scale (A-ADHD), the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (SP), and the severity of subjective LiD in daily life. Results: Before analysis, we excluded participants with LiD who were already diagnosed or met the criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or ADHD, and the results of the remaining 30 participants (50.0%) with LiD were analyzed. Adults with LiD showed higher scores than those without LiD in the AQ. Attention switching in the AQ and attention ability in the A-ADHD scale were correlated with the severity of LiD symptoms in everyday life. The AQ scores were also significantly correlated with subscales of the SP. Conclusions: Adults with LiD showed greater autistic traits than those without LiD; therefore, LiD symptoms are possibly related to autistic symptoms. Furthermore, adults with LiD might have attention disorder traits of both ASD and ADHD and sensory processing problems. These findings suggest that the attention problems in adults with LiD noted in previous studies might be related to these traits of developmental disorders.

Artificial Intelligence to support Children with Autism

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face challenges in communication, social interaction, and behavioral flexibility, which can affect their development and everyday functioning. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers innovative tools to support children with autism by providing personalized and adaptive interventions. AI-powered systems, such as robots, virtual assistants, and machine learning models, can be used to enhance social skills training, improve communication, and manage sensory sensitivities. These technologies can monitor progress, adjust strategies, and provide real-time feedback, enabling more effective, individualized care. This paper explores the potential of AI in autism support, focusing on AI applications for social skill enhancement, early detection, and therapeutic intervention, while also addressing the ethical considerations and challenges involved in integrating AI into autism care.

Medication adherence among Japanese patients with developmental disabilities: a survey study

AimDevelopmental disabilities (DD) often persist into adulthood, necessitating early and continuous treatment. Although pharmacotherapy is a viable treatment option, managing medication can be challenging. Prior research has not explored medication use among patients with DD in Japan. Thus, this study aimed to identify the medication challenges faced by these patients.MethodsA questionnaire survey was administered to 200 outpatients to collect data on the number of prescribed medications, the timing of administration, the frequency of missed doses, and the use of medication notebooks. This was a prospective observational study without intervention and a random sampling.ResultsThe survey revealed that 57.0% of the participants were non-adherent to their medication regimen. Specifically, medication non-adherence rates were 44.7% among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), 86.9% for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and 30.4% for patients with comorbid ASD and ADHD. Despite 48.3% of the participants taking measures to prevent forgetting their medication, 65.3% of them still failed to take their medication as prescribed. The possession rate of medication record books was 96.0%.ConclusionThe study indicates that the frequency of medication non-adherence among patients with DD in Japan mirrors that in other countries. Patients who reported taking preventative measures still experienced high rates of non-adherence, suggesting limited effectiveness of these strategies. It is essential to develop more effective measures to improve adherence, enhance disease awareness, and increase understanding of medication instructions. The high possession rate of medication record books suggests they could play a significant role in managing DD, and their use is expected to increase in the future.

Understanding the Difference Between Autism and the Autistic Spectrum: A Focus on the South African Context

Autism is a group of severe developmental disorders with impairments beginning before 30 months of age and characterized by a qualitative disturbance of social development and of language for communication, a stereotyped behaviour, and a lack of a broad set of interests. The expression of autism varies from one individual to the next. It is a communicative disorder and is not due to poor reception. The researchers drew their literature from reputable journal articles, book chapters from established publishers, and informal community conversations amid the researchers’ experiential intuition. Currently, South African children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) lack government support structures and rely primarily on families for assistance with education and therapy. An additional challenge is that in some South African black communities, autism is not recognized as a disorder. A study exploring differences in the nature, application, experience, and examination of social awareness and understanding of selected educators about new terminology in their environment found that local black teachers had less exposure to autism knowledge, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in their communities, and little understanding, awareness, or acceptance of this condition. This article underscores the crucial role of social service professionals, such as psychologists, registered counsellors, social workers, etc, in these communities. Their presence and active involvement provide hope in these challenging times. It recommends that they conduct psychotherapeutic education, which could involve awareness campaigns and counselling about psychotherapeutic education. Their role would be to provide support, guidance, and education to the community members, helping them to build their resilience to fight the coronavirus.

Lactobacillus reuteri or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG intervention facilitates gut barrier function, decreases corticosterone and ameliorates social behavior in LPS-exposed offspring

Probiotic therapy with Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) demonstrates potential as an adjunctive treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In a rat model of ASD induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection during pregnancy, we evaluated the effects of these probiotics on offspring. Administration of L. reuteri or LGG for three weeks post-birth improved social deficits and reduced anxiety in LPS-exposed rats. Additionally, probiotics significantly modified short-chain fatty acid profiles, increasing butyric acid levels and decreasing propionic acid levels. They also enhanced colonic barrier integrity by upregulating tight junction proteins, including ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin4. RNA sequencing identified differential gene expression in pathways related to inflammation, the HPA axis, and reactive oxygen species metabolism, with NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1) emerging as a crucial gene. Validation studies confirmed that Lactobacillus strains reduced inflammatory cytokines, inhibited corticosterone secretion, increased antioxidant levels, and suppressed the NF-κB/NOX1 pathway. In an H2O2-induced oxidative stress model using Caco-2 cells, pre-treatment with L. reuteri, LGG, or NF-κB inhibitors enhanced cellular antioxidants, inhibited NF-κB/NOX1 activation, and improved barrier function. Overall, L. reuteri and LGG administration improved social behavior, bolstered colonic barrier function, and mitigated HPA axis overactivation in LPS-exposed rats, while also alleviating oxidative stress in the colon and Caco-2 cells. These findings suggest that L. reuteri and LGG have substantial clinical potential for ASD treatment by targeting multiple pathophysiological mechanisms, including inflammation, HPA axis dysregulation, and oxidative stress, thereby presenting a promising adjunctive therapeutic strategy for enhancing social behavior and gut health in ASD.

An Analysis of the Time Required for the Diagnosis of ASD and the Factors Influencing Its Duration in a Sample of the Pediatric Population from Poland.

Background/Objectives: Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a very important factor for improving the quality of life of people on the spectrum, but it still remains a major problem in Europe, especially concerning girls. In this study, we tried to answer the question of what factors affect the age of diagnosis in Poland. Additionally, we tried to establish the time between the first visit to the mental health center (MHC) and the diagnosis in this population, and what factors affect its length. Methods: 77 children were randomly recruited among the patients who came to local MHC at the Child and Family Health Centre in Sosnowiec. All participants were tested using the ADOS-2 protocol. In addition, the study used the TAS-20 test and BDI. Results: The mean age of the first enrollment in the MHC was 9.09 years for girls and 6.42 for the boys. The time needed to obtain a diagnosis from the first visit was consecutively 2.90 years and 4.29 years, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Obtaining a different psychiatric diagnosis did not affect the average time to diagnosis and the age of diagnosis. Conclusions: The results of the study indicate that the diagnosis of ASD is still a significant problem both in Poland and in the world. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis requires significant time, and it frequently involves consulting multiple specialists. The diagnostic process should be flexible, and the specialist should always take into account the axial symptoms but remain aware that the "overdiagnosis" of ASD can also have harmful consequences for the child.

Bayesian optimization of one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D CNN) for early diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a challenging neurological development disorder, which involves poor social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours. If autism is identified early enough it can be treated with better outcomes but present diagnostic tests are dependent on subjective opinion, consume a lot of time, and are vague. This study is aimed at optimizing one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D CNN) to improve the precision and speed of early ASD diagnosis. Four ASD datasets representing different age groups — toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults were modelled using one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D CNN). These datasets are accessible to the public on the UCI Machine Learning Repository and Kaggle, they consist of behavioural features relevant to ASD diagnosis. Each dataset underwent feature selection, categorical encoding, and missing value handling. Then, baseline 1D CNN with predefined hyperparameters was modelled on each of the datasets. Subsequently, the baseline models were optimized using the Tree-structured Parzen Estimator (TPE). An interactive web-based ASD diagnostic tool was developed, where user inputs are processed through age-specific pre-trained optimized models to determine ASD probability. The optimized 1D CNN models significantly outperformed the baseline models across all age groups and achieved scores of 100% in accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, MCC, and AUC ROC. This implies that the optimized models can reliably identify people in various age groups who have and do not have ASD. The development of an interactive web-based diagnostic tool extends the practical utility of the models, making them accessible for clinical and at-home use.

NLRP3 inflammasome-mitochondrion loop in autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behavior. To date, no single cause has been demonstrated but both genetic and environmental factors are believed to be involved in abnormal brain development. In recent years, immunological and mitochondrial dysfunctions acquired particular interest in the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of ASD. For this reason, our study focused on evaluating the mitochondrial component and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a critical player of the innate immune system. The assembly of NLRP3 with ASC mediates activation of Caspase-1, which in turn, by proteolytic cleavage, activates Gasdermin D and the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β/IL-18 with their subsequent secretion. Using primary fibroblasts of autistic and control patients we studied basal and stimulated conditions. Specifically, LPS and ATP were used to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome and MCC950 for its inhibition. In addition, FCCP was used as a mitochondrial stressor and MitoTEMPO as a scavenger of mitochondrial ROS. Our results showed a hyperactivation of NLRP3 inflammasome in ASDs, as evidenced by the co-localization of the two main components, NLRP3 and ASC, by the higher levels of ASC specks, oligomers and dimers and by the increased amounts of active Caspase-1 and IL-1β. In addition, increased mitochondrial superoxide anion and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential were detected in ASD cells. These data are in accordance with the abnormal mitochondrial morphology evidenced by transmission electron microscopy analysis. Interestingly, NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition with MCC950 improved mitochondrial parameters, while the use of MitoTEMPO, in addition to decrease mitochondrial ROS production, was able to prevent NLRP3 inflammasome activation suggesting for the first time an abnormal bidirectional crosstalk between mitochondria and NLRP3 inflammasome in ASD.

Descriptive Study on Nature of Perceived Stress of Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Qualitative Analysis

This study examines the nature and impact of parental stress specifically among mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Parental stress is a significant concern in families raising children with ASD due to the unique challenges associated with the condition. The study aims to explore the factors contributing to maternal stress, including caregiving demands, social support, coping mechanisms, and personal resilience. Methodologically, in-depth interviews as the mono-method approach are employed, to measure stress levels with qualitative insights into mothers' experiences. Participants are recruited from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Findings highlight the multifaceted nature of parental stress in this population, shedding light on the specific stressors and protective factors that influence maternal well-being. Implications for interventions and support services aimed at alleviating maternal stress and promoting family resilience are discussed based on the study's results.

Exploratory Study on Various Types of Leisure Activities of Indian Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder- A Qualitative Analysis

The purpose of this study was to identify the important components of leisure and to comprehensively assess various leisure time activities, that entail the overall well-being of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with indispensable demanding care of children with autism. A cross-sectional design with interpretivism and an inductive approach on a sample of 61 mothers of children with ASD, in India was used to explore various leisure time activities. Mothers engaging in the leisure of individual choice for self-replenishment, social connectedness, and happiness in life despite the demanding care of the child with autism were identified. The face, content, and construct validity are maintained in its preliminary stage. This study aimed to explore various leisure activities in the lives of mothers of children with ASD. The 7 categories of Leisure activities (LA) are Entertainment activities, Outings, Social events, Sports and physical exercises, Homemaking and other fruitful involvements, Arts, and intellectuals, Resting and relaxation, as diversionary activities to energize, divert, and relax as fun and free-time identified in the context of Indian mothers.

The Power of Play: Strategies for Enhancing Development in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) underscores its significant impact on individuals and the importance of early intervention. ASD affects various aspects of life, including education, emotional development, and social interactions. Besides traditional therapeutic approaches, a novel strategy incorporating digital games has been introduced. Four games developed using Makey Makey and Scratch aim to enhance cognitive skills in children with ASD. This approach facilitates emotional and intellectual development, tracks progress, and offers personalized and engaging interventions. This study demonstrated significant improvements in memory and concentration among participants, with an average improvement of 23.38 points. The most notable enhancements were observed in children aged 10, who showed an average improvement of 25.67 points. Additionally, female participants exhibited a slightly higher average improvement compared to males. The Memory Maze game also effectively enhanced cognitive skills in children with different types of ADHD. Children with the Hyperactive-Impulsive type showed the highest average improvement, with 25.00 points, followed by those with the Combined type, with 24.15 points, and the Inattentive type, with 23.53 points. These findings highlight the potential use of these tools in both ASD and ADHD therapy, providing a structured and enjoyable learning environment that supports cognitive development and therapeutic outcomes.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Law in Chile

The TEA Law ensures the right to equal opportunities and safeguards the social inclusion of children, adolescents and adults with ASD, eliminating any form of discrimination. It promotes a comprehensive approach in the social, health and education areas, and raises awareness in society on this issue. The law is based on fundamental principles such as dignified treatment, progressive autonomy, gender perspective, intersectorality, participation and social dialogue, early detection, continuous monitoring, and neurodiversity.

An approach of designing a child-height-assisted robot with semi-autonomous enhances social reciprocity for children with autism spectrum disorders

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face significant challenges in social reciprocity, which involves the mutual exchange of social cues and interactions. This study investigates the potential of using a child-height assistive robot named Rudolf to enhance the social reciprocity skills of children with ASD. The research focused on two main questions: how the robot’s semi-autonomous functions influence the enhancement of social reciprocity and how its customizable features elicit and improve these skills. Rudolf was specifically designed to engage children with ASD in a structured, supportive environment, offering tailored interactions to practice social reciprocity. A multiple-probe design was employed over three months to evaluate the robot’s impact on the social skills of three participants with ASD. The study revealed significant improvements in the children’s social reciprocity, with participants demonstrating increased engagement, trust, and interaction within the robot-assisted environment. The customizable functionalities of Rudolf were particularly effective in eliciting and reinforcing interactive behaviors. This research highlights the potential of assistive robots, like Rudolf, in addressing the unique social challenges faced by individuals with ASD. The findings suggest that such robots, when designed with customizable, child-centered features, can significantly enhance social skills in this population. The study contributes to the development of tailored assistive technologies that improve social integration and overall quality of life for children with ASD.

The Transition to Adulthood: A Qualitative Study of Autism Spectrum Disorder From Military and Veteran Parents and Military-Dependent Young Adults.

Given the unique experiences of military service members and their families, military-dependent young adults (18-25 years old) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their military or veteran families experience unique barriers to accessing quality mental health care during the transition to adulthood. In fact, developing services to address ASD challenges for military families is a burgeoning area of interest for the department of defense. However, there is a limited knowledge on the specific needs of military families as the young adult's transition outside of high school and lose supports. The present study conducted 3 focus groups with 16 military and veteran parents, and 3 focus groups with 10 military-dependent young adults to evaluate the needs of military-dependent young adults (17-25 years old) with ASD and military/veteran parents with a young adult with ASD. Parents reported several key topics, including barriers to services (e.g., permanent change of station, recently moving to a state and lacking awareness of the available resources), defining adulthood in terms working in a cohesive family structure, and therapy recommendations for parents and young adults with ASD transitioning to adulthood. Young adults provided key information, including describing experiences with having a parent in the military, difficulty accessing services during the transition to adulthood, and recommendations on therapy for military-dependent young adults with ASD. Military and veteran families with autistic dependents lack access to important mental-health resources. When developing programs for military families and military-dependent autistic young adults, mental health providers should consider the frequent relocations, lack of access to important transition resources, and common military values. The presence of advocates at military bases should be encouraged to help military families navigate autism services in their local community.

Investigating the Impact of Social Communication Deficiencies in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder on Their Parents' Depression and Anxiety Levels

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) significantly impacts individuals' social communication abilities, affecting both the diagnosed children and their families, especially the mental health of their parents. While existing literature has focused on the direct implications for individuals with ASD, the psychological toll on caregivers is often overlooked. This study explores the relationship between children's social communication challenges due to ASD and the subsequent mental health outcomes in their parents, specifically depression and anxiety levels. Using a correlational design, the research involved 400 parents of children with ASD aged 4-18 from various urban centers in Turkey. Data were collected using the Social Communication Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory to assess children's social communication deficits and parents' psychological states. Spearman’s correlation coefficients and subgroup analyses evaluated the relationships between the severity of children's social communication problems and parental depression and anxiety levels. The findings revealed a strong correlation between the severity of social communication deficiencies in children with ASD and heightened levels of depression and anxiety among their parents. Spearman’s correlation coefficients showed significant negative correlations, with r=-0.218 for depression and r=-0.263 for anxiety. Parents of children with more severe communication deficits reported higher psychological distress. This pattern was consistent across different demographic subgroups. The study's unique contribution lies in its quantitative confirmation of these relationships within a Turkish urban population, underscoring the need for holistic, family-centered approaches in ASD management.

Autism Spectrum Disorder and Associated Factors in Children in Spain, 2017: Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with biological, multicausal and polygenic origins. The true prevalence of ASD has not been clearly established. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of ASD in children aged 3 to 14 years in Spain and to analyze the factors associated with it. A cross-sectional observational study using data from the 2017 National Survey of Health in Minors in Spain. Primary outcome was the diagnosis of ASD, and sociodemographic, behavioral, health-related, the use of health services, household and medication use variables was analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression model with a correction for modelling rare events was fitted. Complex sampling was undertaken, using the survey elevation factor in the analysis. A total of 4409 children were included, and there were 26 children with ASD, for a prevalence of 0.59%, representing 29,143 children with ASD. Factors significantly associated were male sex, having visited a psychologist, and/or a speech therapist in the past year, presenting probable problems with peers, antisocial behavior, taking antibiotics and taking other medications. The findings of this study may be useful to inform health policies and develop strategic plans to identify and address the needs of children with ASD.

Obstáculos para o diagnóstico e tratamento do transtorno do espectro autista

Objective: To understand the obstacles that reduce accessibility to the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Literature review: ASD is a disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, impairments in communication and restricted patterns of behavior. Its diagnosis is clinical, based on behavioral observations and the patient's history and on criteria defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM – 5). Treatment includes pharmacological and behavioral approaches. However, the difficulties and challenges found in the literature include the symptomatological heterogeneity of ASD, the need for training health professionals and a more accurate assessment through a multidisciplinary team. Late diagnosis or its absence can lead to unfavorable outcomes in adult life, such as: anxiety, depression, and difficulty in interpersonal relationships. Recent studies include the use of specific biomarkers and innovative therapies that are not yet accessible. Final considerations: Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are ideal for improving the quality of life of individuals with ASD. The importance of the doctor and new studies to improve therapeutic choice in ASD is also highlighted.

DESAFIOS E RESILIÊNCIA: UMA ANÁLISE DAS DIFICULDADES ENFRENTADAS POR MÃES DE FILHOS NO ESPECTRO AUTISTA

The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder presents some challenges and singularities, the limitations in its development entail a series of demands and significant changes in the family's routine and child care. The objective of this article is to understand the difficulties and experiences faced by mothers with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The expected results will be significant in highlighting the challenges faced by mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including the emotional impact of the diagnosis, the need to access specialized resources, the burden of care and difficulties in social interaction. Based on the studies analyzed, we hoped to understand this complex and significant issue faced by mothers of children with ASD in the care process. Research will play a relevant role in the development of policies and support programs that can protect the feminine essence and promote quality of life for families in society.