Restricted Behaviors Research Articles

MS-RRBR: A Multi-Model Synergetic Framework for Restricted and Repetitive Behavior Recognition in Children with Autism

Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors (RRBs) are hallmark features of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and are also one of the diagnostic criteria for the condition. Traditional methods of RRBs assessment through manual observation are limited by low diagnostic efficiency and uncertainty in outcomes. As a result, AI-assisted screening for autism has emerged as a promising research direction. In this study, we explore the synergy of visual foundation models and multimodal large language models (MLLMs), proposing a Multi-Model Synergistic Restricted and Repetitive Behavior Recognition method (MS-RRBR). Based on this method, we developed an interpretable multi-model autonomous question-answering system. To evaluate the effectiveness of our approach, we collected and annotated the Autism Restricted and Repetitive Behavior Dataset (ARRBD), which includes 10 ASD-related behaviors easily observable from various visual perspectives. Experimental results on the ARRBD dataset demonstrate that our multi-model collaboration outperforms single-model approaches, achieving the highest recognition accuracy of 94.94%. The MS-RRBR leverages the extensive linguistic knowledge of GPT-4o to enhance the zero-shot visual recognition capabilities of the MLLM, while also providing clear explanations for system decisions. This approach holds promise for providing timely, reliable, and accurate technical support for clinical diagnosis and educational rehabilitation in ASD.

Atypical early neural responses to native and non-native language in infants at high likelihood for developing autism

BackgroundLanguage difficulties are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social communication as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors. Amongst infant siblings of children with an ASD diagnosis – who are at higher likelihood for developing ASD – a high proportion also show difficulties and delays in language acquisition.MethodsIn this study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine differences in language processing in 9-month-old infants at high (HL) and typical (TL) familial likelihood for ASD. Infants were presented with native (English) and novel (Japanese) speech while sleeping naturally in the scanner. Whole-brain and a priori region-of-interest analyses were conducted to evaluate neural differences in language processing based on likelihood group and language condition.ResultsHL infants showed attenuated responses to speech in general, particularly in left temporal language areas, as well as a lack of neural discrimination between the native and novel languages compared to the TL group. Importantly, we also demonstrate that HL infants show distinctly atypical patterns of lateralization for speech processing, particularly during native speech processing, suggesting a failure to left-lateralize. Limitations: The sample size, particularly for the TL group, is relatively modest because of the challenges inherent to collecting auditory stimulus-evoked data from sleeping participants, as well as retention and follow-up difficulties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The groups were not matched on some demographic variables, but the present findings held even after accounting for these differences.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first fMRI study to directly measure autism-associated atypicalities in native language uptake during infancy. These findings provide a better understanding of the neurodevelopmental underpinnings of language delay in ASD, which is a prerequisite step for developing earlier and more effective interventions for autistic children and HL siblings who experience language impairments.

Direct and indirect genetic effects on early neurodevelopmental traits.

Neurodevelopmental conditions are highly heritable. Recent studies have shown that genomic heritability estimates can be confounded by genetic effects mediated via the environment (indirect genetic effects). However, the relative importance of direct versus indirect genetic effects on early variability in traits related to neurodevelopmental conditions is unknown. The sample included up to 24,692 parent-offspring trios from the Norwegian MoBa cohort. We use Trio-GCTA to estimate latent direct and indirect genetic effects on mother-reported neurodevelopmental traits at age of 3 years (restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, inattention, hyperactivity, language, social, and motor development). Further, we investigate to what extent direct and indirect effects are attributable to common genetic variants associated with autism, ADHD, developmental dyslexia, educational attainment, and cognitive ability using polygenic scores (PGS) in regression modeling. We find evidence for contributions of direct and indirect latent common genetic effects to inattention (direct: explaining 4.8% of variance, indirect: 6.7%) hyperactivity (direct: 1.3%, indirect: 9.6%), and restricted and repetitive behaviors (direct: 0.8%, indirect: 7.3%). Direct effects best explained variation in social and communication, language, and motor development (5.1%-5.7%). Direct genetic effects on inattention were captured by PGS for ADHD, educational attainment, and cognitive ability, whereas direct genetic effects on language development were captured by cognitive ability, educational attainment, and autism PGS. Indirect genetic effects on neurodevelopmental traits were primarily captured by educational attainment and/or cognitive ability PGS. Results were consistent with differential contributions to neurodevelopmental traits in early childhood from direct and indirect genetic effects. Indirect effects were particularly important for hyperactivity and restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests and may be linked to genetic variation associated with cognition and educational attainment. Our findings illustrate the importance of within-family methods for disentangling genetic processes that influence early neurodevelopmental traits, even when identifiable associations are small.

Investigating the longitudinal bi-directional relationship between self-reported restrictive eating behaviours and sleep in UK adolescents within the Millennium Cohort Study.

This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal bi-directional relationship between self-reported restrictive eating behaviours and sleep characteristics within a sample of UK adolescents from the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS). Using a Structural Equation Modelling approach, the present study investigated the prospective associations between individual sleep behaviours (e.g., sleep timing, sleep onset latency, social jetlag) at age 14 and restrictive eating behaviours at age 17. Moreover, the association between restrictive eating behaviours (age 14) and self-reported sleep quality (age 17) was tested. A mediation analysis was conducted to explore the role of depressive symptoms in these relationships. In total, N = 6,041 young people provided self-report data at both timepoints (sweep 6 & 7) and a subsample of N = 2,164 additionally provided diary data on their sleep behaviours over two separate 24h periods. Sleep indicators at age 14 did not significantly predict changes in restrictive eating behaviours across time. However, engagement in restrictive eating behaviours at age 14 significantly predicted poorer self-perceived sleep quality three years later (β = 0.06, SE = 0.01, p <.01). Depressive symptoms fully mediated this relationship (indirect effect: β = 0.05, SE = 0.04, p <.001). The present study provides evidence for a prospective positive association between restrictive eating behaviours and subsequent poorer sleep quality in a large, general population sample. Findings of the mediation analysis suggest mood as a potential target for tertiary prevention when addressing restrictive eating behaviours as an eating disorder risk factor in adolescents.

Silent Struggles: Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) in Female Athletes

Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) is a condition caused by prolonged periods of reduced energy intake relative to expenditure, specifically in sport. Although estimates of prevalence vary, most of the athletic population likely suffers from REDs. This interview-based project examined the state of REDs knowledge, awareness, and practices in female athletes and those working with them. Female athletes were the primary focus given their relative absence from existing research. Results from this project suggest that most cases of REDs are caused by unintentional nutrient restriction with parents, society, and social media spreading poor nutrition information and behaviors that athletes eventually adopt. Identifying and treating REDs is complicated by the need for cooperation from athletes, who may be unaware of their inadequate fueling practices or are intentionally hiding their restrictive behaviors. Obtaining an official diagnosis is often a complex and lengthy process, with many healthcare professionals working together to exclude other potential medical conditions. Overall, this study suggests that at-large REDs education is necessary for athletes and those working with them. Additionally, implementing REDs screening practices, employing dietitians, and making support and similar resources available at sports institutions may decrease the prevalence of REDs and expedite the identification and treatment process.

Examining Concurrent Associations Between Gesture Use, Developmental Domains, and Autistic Traits in Toddlers With Down Syndrome.

Toddlers with Down syndrome (DS) showcase comparable or higher rates of gestures than chronological age- and language-matched toddlers without DS. Little is known about how gesture use in toddlers with DS relates to multiple domains of development, including motor, pragmatics, language, and visual reception (VR) skills. Unexplored is whether gesture use is a good marker of social communication skills in DS or if gesture development might be more reliably a marker of motor, language, pragmatics, or VR skills. This study examined the concurrent association of gesture use on other areas of development and investigated the association of autistic traits with gesture use in toddlers with DS. Thirty toddlers with DS (15 females; M = 26.12 months, SD = 6.42 months) completed the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Second Edition (ADOS-2). Parents completed the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventories Words and Gestures form and the Language Use Inventory (LUI; pragmatic language) about their child. Controlling for child chronological age and sex, total gestures was strongly positively associated with the LUI total score (pragmatic language) and MSEL language (receptive, expressive) raw scores, moderately positively associated with motor (fine, gross) raw scores, but not significantly associated with VR raw scores. Higher ADOS social affect (SA) calibrated severity scores was strongly negatively associated with total gestures but not significantly associated with restricted and repetitive behaviors. Gestures track together with language, pragmatics, and motor skills. Higher ADOS SA calibrated severity scores were associated with fewer gestures in toddlers with DS. Clinicians can consider each child's developmental profile (e.g., motor, pragmatics, language, social communication skills) to better understand their gesture development. https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28169186.

Alterations of triple network dynamic connectivity and repetitive behaviors after mini-basketball training program in children with autism spectrum disorder

Physical exercise has been demonstrated to effectively mitigate repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the underlying dynamic brain network mechanisms are poorly understood. The triple network model consists of three brain networks that jointly regulate cognitive and emotional processes and is considered to be the core network underlying the aberrant manifestations of ASD. This study investigated whether a mini-basketball training program (MBTP) could alter repetitive behaviors and the dynamic connectivity of the triple network. 28 male children with ASD were scanned twice with resting-state functional MRI and assessed for repetitive behaviors using the repetitive behavior scale (RBS-R). 15 children in the exercise group participated in a 12-week MBTP, while 13 in the control group maintained their regular routines. The feature of Dynamic independent component analysis (dyn-ICA) is its ability to capture the rate of change in connectivity between brain regions. In this study, it was specifically employed to examine the triple network dynamic connectivity in both groups. Compared to the control group, the exercise group exhibited distinct dynamic connectivity patterns in two networks: Network 1 involved cross-network dynamic connectivity changes within the triple network, and Network 2 pertained to dynamic connectivity alterations within the default mode network. Furthermore, a reduction in the RBS-R Total score was observed in the exercise group, reflecting improvements in self-injurious behavior and restricted behavior. Correlation analysis revealed that the amelioration of repetitive behaviors was associated with enhanced dynamic connectivity in parts of the triple network. These findings suggest that MBTP can improve repetitive behaviors in ASD children and is linked to changes in triple network dynamic connectivity.

Executive function, limbic circuit dynamics and repetitive and restricted behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder.

Repetitive and restricted behaviors (RRBs) are a core symptom of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but effective treatment approaches are still lacking. Executive function (EF) has been identified as a promising target, as research increasingly shows a link between EF deficits and the occurrence of RRBs. However, the neural mechanisms that connect the two remain unclear. Since the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) plays a role in both EF and RRBs, its functional connectivity dynamics could offer valuable insights into this relationship. This study analyzed data from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) II database to explore brain function in 93 boys with ASD and 110 typically developing (TD) boys. Time-varying functional connectivity was analyzed between eight OFC subregions and other brain areas. By employing linear regression, the study assessed how atypical connectivity dynamics and EF influence RRBs. Additionally, mediation analysis with bootstrapping was used to determine how EF mediates the relationship between atypical connectivity and RRBs. We found significant differences in the variance of FC between ASD and TD groups, specifically in the OFC subregion in L-prefrontal and the left amygdala (t = 5.00, FDR q < 0.01). Regression analyses revealed that increased variance of this FC and EF significantly impacted RRBs, with inhibition, emotional control, and monitor showing strong associations (standardized β = 0.60 to 0.62, p < 0.01), which also had significant indirect effects on the relationship between the above dynamic FC and RRBs, which accounted for 59% of the total effect. This study highlights the critical role of EFs as a key mechanism in addressing RRBs in ASD. Specifically, it points out that EFs mediate the influence of atypical time-varying interactions within the OFC-amygdala circuit on RRBs.

Developmental regression of novel space preference in an autism spectrum disorder model is unlinked to GABAergic and social circuitry.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by social deficits and restricted behaviors, with developmental defects in GABAergic circuits proposed as a key underlying etiology. Here, we introduce the V-Y assay, a novel space preference test in which one arm of the Y-maze is initially hidden and later revealed as a novel space. Using an ASD mouse model with FOXG1 haploinsufficiency, which exhibits ASD-like social impairments that can be either exacerbated or ameliorated by GABAergic circuit manipulations, we observed impaired novel space preference and exploratory behavior in the V-Y assay. Interestingly, unlike social phenotypes, novel space preference was initially established by 3 weeks of age but regressed by 6 weeks. Furthermore, alterations in GABAergic signaling via Gad2 mutation did not affect novel space preference, in contrast to their impact on social behaviors. These findings reveal that the regression of novel space preference in ASD follows a distinct developmental trajectory from GABA-driven social impairments, providing new insights into the mechanisms underlying ASD.

Valproate-Induced Model of Autism in Adult Zebrafish: A Systematic Review.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social skills and the presence of repetitive and restricted behaviors and interests. The social behavior of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) makes this organism a valuable tool for modeling ASD in order to explore the social impairment typical of this disorder. In addition to transgenic models, exposure of zebrafish embryos to valproic acid (VPA) has been found to produce ASD-like symptoms. This review first sets out to examine the existing literature on adult social behavior in the zebrafish VPA-induced model of autism, and the authors also aim to identify the ideal VPA dosage able to induce a persistent and long-lasting ASD-like phenotype while minimizing the suffering and distress of research animals in compliance with the principles of replacement, refinement, and reduction (3Rs).

Digitising “The Big Lie”: Algorithmic Curation as an Inhibitor of Media Exposure Diversity Online

While multiple scholarly disciplines have scrutinised algorithms and their social power, this article examines algorithmic recommender systems in terms of their potential to reduce exposure diversity online. The paper positions the debate on algorithmic content curation within the theoretical framework of media diversity studies, emphasising the normative ideal of media diversity as a social good, and examining the impact of algorithmic behaviour on personal autonomy, specifically focusing on exposure diversity in online environments. The discussion then introduces a complementary concept to Pariser's (2011) notion of the “filter bubble,” namely the shrinkage funnel, and discusses this concept in terms of online exposure diversity, personal choice sovereignty, and its potential to initiate the illusory truth effect. The paper reviews selected examples of content restrictive algorithmic behaviour to demonstrate how shrinkage funnels can undermine personal autonomy and prompt detrimental societal or political outcomes. By distinguishing between filter bubbles and shrinkage funnels, this study provides a foundation for future empirical investigations and potential policy interventions aimed at promoting exposure diversity in algorithmically curated online environments.

Associations of cord blood concentrations of perfluoroalkyl substances with autistic traits in Singaporean children: The growing up in Singapore towards healthy outcomes study.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits and repetitive behaviors. Environmental pollutants may contribute to the etiology of ASD, but studies of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have shown conflicting results. We assessed associations between cord blood concentrations of PFAS with autistic traits at age seven years in a Singaporean birth cohort. We measured cord blood concentrations of eight PFAS in a sample of 430 mother-child pairs from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort. We assessed autistic traits using the Social Responsiveness Scale Second Edition (SRS-2) and its sub-scores, in which higher scores indicate more autistic traits. We estimated covariate-adjusted associations between the PFAS and SRS-2 scores using Bayesian weighted quantile sum (BWQS) regression models for the PFAS mixtures and multivariable regressions for single PFAS. We additionally evaluated effect modification by biological sex. We observed a positive association between the PFAS mixture and SRS-2 cognition sub-scores (β per SD increase=1.25 points, 95% CI -0.03, 2.40). Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) was the strongest contributor to the mixture effect. In single PFAS models, exposure to PFNA was associated with a higher SRS-2 total score (β=0.93 points, 95% CI 0.29, 1.58), cognition sub-score (β=1.26 points, 95% CI 0.55, 1.97), communication sub-score (β=0.88 points, 95% CI 0.20, 1.56), and restrictive and repetitive behaviors sub-score (β=0.93 points, 95% CI 0.23, 1.63). We also observed evidence of effect modification by sex for perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA) for the total score (p-effect modification [EM]=0.03), cognition sub-score (p-EM=0.03), and communication sub-score (p-EM=0.04), with negative associations seen in females and null associations in males. Cord blood PFAS concentrations were positively associated with autistic traits measured by SRS-2.

ESTUDANTES COM TEA NO ENSINO SUPERIOR

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is due to neurodevelopment changes, characterized by difficulties in communication, social interaction and the presence of repetitive and restricted behaviors. In the present study, we mapped and analyzed theses and dissertations produced between 2012 and 2022, about the specialized care offered to students with ASD in higher education. The problematization of this theme was based on the question: what has been investigated in stricto sensu research on special and inclusive education for students with ASD in higher education? The study is characterized as a state of knowledge, as recommended by Romanovski and Ens (2006). The searches were carried out in the Capes Theses and Dissertations Bank and in the Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (BDTD), using the keywords “autism” and “higher education”; “ASD” and “higher education”; “autism” and “higher education”. In total, we selected and analyzed twenty research studies, fifteen of which were dissertations and five theses. The results highlight the complex process of including students with ASD in higher education, with emphasis on the inadequate teacher training to deal with the specificities of the spectrum, especially with regard to teaching methodological issues and the process of curricular adaptations and flexibility for this public.

Exploring pathological targets and advancing pharmacotherapy in autism spectrum disorder: Contributions of glial cells and heavy metals.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a globally recognized neurodevelopmental condition characterized by repetitive and restrictive behavior, persistent deficits in social interaction and communication, mental disturbances, etc., affecting approximately 1 in 100 children worldwide. A combination of genetic and environmental factors is involved in the etiopathogenesis of the disease, but specific biomarkers have not yet been identified. Due to the lack of clinical evidence, fluctuations in symptoms, and difficulties in in-vitro and in-vivo modeling, developing medications for ASD is quite difficult. Although several drugs are used to treat autism, only risperidone and aripiprazole have received FDA approval in the United States. Epidemiological studies have suggested that maternal exposure to valproic acid (VPA), acetaminophen, propionic acid, and metals, such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg), may contribute to the development of various neurodevelopmental disorders. Pathological targets directly implicated in the disease include excitatory-inhibitory (E/A) imbalance, hyperserotonemia, GSK-3 inhibition, and Akt pathway activation. However, while a combination of pharmacotherapy, behavioral, and nutritional/dietary interventions has been found to be the most effective conventional therapy to date, many patients have chosen to implement particular dietary supplements for reducing ASD symptoms. In this review, we briefly describe various pathological targets and their roles in the pathophysiology of ASD and treatment strategies, including some future research directions.

Characteristics for the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Introduction: autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is indeed a neurodevelopmental disorder whose exact cause is not yet fully understood. Symptoms can vary significantly among affected individuals, but generally include difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as repetitive and restricted behaviors. Identification of early indicators and early diagnosis, as well as effective management of ASD, may lead to earlier and improved intervention in affected patients.Methods: a search for information on diagnostic indicators of ASD was conducted in Pubmed, Cochrane and clinicaltrials.org databases. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses were identified without considering publication status, reported results, last five years of publication and with language restriction to English, Spanish and Portuguese.Results: a total of 12 studies published between 2013 - 2023 were selected, and 7 systematic reviews and meta-analyses published between 2013 - 2021 that met the established inclusion criteria were included.Conclusion: diagnostic indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children are crucial for the family as a whole to lead a more age-appropriate life. ASD is increasingly common in society, but many are still unaware of the signs in their children, which delays detection and creates difficulties for everyone. Early intervention and appropriate support can significantly improve the prognosis of the disorder and help find the best treatment for the child

Competition Concerns and Antitrust Responses to China's Health and Medical Data Openness Policy

As a policy trend in many jurisdictions around the world, health care data openness can effectively improve the level of public governance, drive innovation in the medical industry, and promote market competition in the medical industry to a certain extent. However, the process of opening up health care data often comes with the risk of competition. First, the opening of health care data may lead to more efficient and stable collusion in reaching and implementing collusion. Second, the opening of health care data will also lead to more exploitative and exclusive abuse in the health care industry. Third, the opening of health care data will also lead to the frequent occurrence of data-driven and leveraged mergers and acquisitions risks. In order to effectively eliminate competition risks, China should propose new anti-monopoly countermeasures. On the one hand, China should strengthen the legislative regulations on the opening of health and medical data, including the regulation concept of monopoly agreement should be adjusted from information transparency to the implementation of classification and classification, and the regulation of abuse of market dominance should pay attention to the quantification of market power and the identification of specific behaviors, so as to include operators' commitments in the regulation of data-driven mergers and acquisitions. On the other hand, China also needs to introduce a full-chain regulatory system that combines the dual effects of competition advocacy and law enforcement, in the form of prior routine market investigations and fair competition reviews, as well as a flexible in-process and after-action regulatory approach. In addition, it is also necessary for China to build a coordinated regulatory model across multiple departments. On the basis of emphasizing the fundamental position of competition policy, we should make full use of the power of social supervision to regulate the restrictive competition behavior in the process of health and medical data opening in a more comprehensive way, and improve the safety and innovation of health and medical data opening to the greatest extent. 健康医疗数据开放作为世界范围内多个司法辖区的政策趋向，能有效提高公共治理水平、驱动医疗行业创新，以及在一定程度上促进医疗行业的市场竞争。然而，健康医疗数据开放过程通常伴随着竞争风险。其一，健康医疗数据开放可能导致共谋的达成与实施更高效，以及共谋合意更加稳定。其二，健康医疗数据开放也会导致医疗行业的剥削性滥用与排他性滥用行为更加普遍。其三，健康医疗数据开放还会导致数据驱动类与杠杆并购类风险的频发。为了有效消除竞争风险，中国应提出新的反垄断应对方案。一方面，中国应强化健康医疗数据开放的立法规制，包括垄断协议规制理念应从调整信息透明度到实施分级分类，滥用市场支配地位的规制则需注重市场力量的量化与具体行为的识别，将经营者承诺前置纳入数据驱动型并购的规制中。另一方面，中国还需要导入全链条监管体系，以结合竞争倡导与执法的双重功效，具体表现为事前常规性市场调查与公平竞争审查双管齐下，以及构建弹性的事中与事后监管方式。此外，构建多部门的协同监管模式对中国而言同样必要。在强调竞争政策的基础地位上，充分借助社会监管的力量，较为全面地规制健康医疗数据开放过程中的限制竞争行为，最大程度提高健康医疗数据开放的安全性与创新性。

The Effects of Music Lessons on Social Skills Development for Children with Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Children with ASD often struggle with social skills, which can significantly impact their ability to form relationships and function effectively in social settings. Recent research has increasingly highlighted music lessons as a promising intervention to improve social skills in children with ASD, as they provide a structured and engaging environment for social interaction and learning. This review synthesizes findings from existing studies published between 2010 and 2024, focusing on three key aspects: the effectiveness of various musical pedagogical approaches, the critical role of specially trained music educators in implementing these interventions, and the measurable outcomes in social skill development. The research shows that organized music education consistently leads to improvements in social communication, peer interaction, and the ability to recognize emotions in children with ASD. The results are talked about in terms of what they mean for educational practices and therapeutic interventions. Suggestions are also made for future studies that will help build more evidence for music-based interventions in autism spectrum disorders. This thorough literature review looks at the growing role of music education in helping kids with ASD learn how to get along with others.

Dynamical complexity of postural control system in autism spectrum disorder: a feasibility study of linear and non-linear measures in posturographic analysis of upright posture

BackgroundAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication with restricted and repetitive behavior. Postural and motor disturbances occur more often in ASD, in comparison to typically developing subjects, affecting the quality of life. Linear and non-linear indexes derived from the trajectory of the center of pressure (COP) while subjects stand on force platforms are commonly used to assess postural stability. The aim of the present feasibility study was to investigate whether combining linear and non-linear parameters of the COP during stance in subjects with ASD, could provide insight on specific features of motor dysfunction possibly linked to ASD cognition and clinical characteristics.MethodsTwenty-two males, aged 10–15 years, including subjects with ASD and healthy controls (N = 11, respectively), were studied. They all had normal cognitive level and independent walking ability. A piezoelectric force platform was used to evaluate posture over three feet positions, with eyes open, closed and during visually-guided saccades. Linear (sway path, total area and root mean square) and non-linear parameters (fractal dimension and sample entropy) of the COP were measured to determine postural stability and the complexity and regularity of the COP signals. GLMM analyses were performed to assess COP parameter changes across experimental conditions and subject groups. Finally, Spearman correlations evaluated the significance of potential relationships between linear and non-linear measures as well as between non-linear parameters and clinical data in patients with ASD.ResultsCompared to controls, subjects with ASD showed reduced postural stability and complexity, with higher regularity of COP trajectories, particularly in the most unstable feet positions, during visually-guided saccades and in the medial-lateral direction. Spearman correlations indicated that, in the patients’ group, postural instability was associated with a decrease in the geometric complexity and an increase in the regularity of the COP trajectory. Moreover, the increase in regularity of the COP trajectory was associated to the severity of restricted and repetitive behavior.ConclusionsThe results of this study highlight the importance of combining linear and non-linear measures in evaluating postural control in patients with ASD, also with respect to the outcome of interventions on these patients targeting postural balance.

Adult neurogenesis in the ventral hippocampus decreased among animal models of neurodevelopmental disorders

IntroductionAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social interaction and communication, along with restricted and repetitive behaviors. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to ASD, with prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) and nicotine being linked to increased risk. Impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis, particularly in the ventral region, is thought to play a role in the social deficits observed in ASD.MethodsIn this study, we investigated social behavior and adult hippocampal neurogenesis in C57BL/6J mice prenatally exposed to VPA or nicotine, as well as in genetically modified ASD models, including IQSEC2 knockout (KO) and NLGN3-R451C knock-in (KI) mice. Sociability and social novelty preference were evaluated using a three-chamber social interaction test. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis was assessed by BrdU and DCX immunofluorescence to identify newborn and immature neurons.ResultsVPA-exposed mice displayed significant deficits in social interaction, while nicotine-exposed mice exhibited mild impairment in social novelty preference. Both IQSEC2 KO and NLGN3-R451C KI mice demonstrated reduced adult neurogenesis, particularly in the ventral hippocampus, a region associated with social behavior and emotion. Across all ASD mouse models, a significant reduction in BrdU+/NeuN+ cells in the ventral hippocampus was observed, while dorsal hippocampal neurogenesis remained relatively unaffected. Similar reductions in DCX-positive cells were identified in VPA, nicotine, and NLGN3-R451C KI mice, indicating impaired proliferation or differentiation of neuronal progenitors.DiscussionThese findings suggest that impaired adult neurogenesis in the ventral hippocampus is a common hallmark across ASD mouse models and may underlie social behavior deficits. This study provides insight into region-specific neurogenic alterations linked to ASD pathophysiology and highlights potential targets for therapeutic interventions.

Early Language, Social Communication, and Autism Characteristics of Young Toddlers at Elevated Likelihood for Autism Identified by the First Years Inventory-Lite.

The purposes of this article were (a) to compare the developmental skills of toddlers whose scores on the First Years Inventory-Lite (FYI-Lite), an early screening tool, indicated an elevated likelihood of a later diagnosis of autism (ELA) to the developmental skills of toddlers at a lower likelihood of a later diagnosis of autism (LLA) and (b) to examine how autism characteristics are correlated with communication measures in toddlers at an ELA. We assessed the language, social communication (SC) skills, and characteristics of autism demonstrated by 45 toddlers at an ELA and 37 toddlers at an LLA between the ages of 11 and 18 months and compared group scores on these measures. We also examined the correlations between the characteristics of autism and language measures within the ELA group. Toddlers at an ELA demonstrated lower scores on measures of global expressive and receptive language, receptive vocabulary, gestures, and response to joint attention bids as well as SC characteristics of autism when compared to those demonstrated by toddlers at an LLA. There were no significant differences between groups on expressive vocabulary, language profiles (i.e., the relationship between receptive and expressive scores), or restrictive and repetitive behaviors. Within the ELA group, the SC characteristics of autism were significantly associated with their global receptive and expressive language skills. On the basis of the FYI-Lite screening tool, toddlers at an ELA are demonstrating delays in language and SC skills when compared to toddlers identified with an LLA. For toddlers at an ELA, the SC characteristics of autism are significantly associated with early language skills. https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27969444.