MedWorm: Autism

Autism Act 2009 Ch.15

PCCAS: Full newsfeed — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:32:53 +0100

The Autism Bill was unusual, in that it was a Private... (Source: PCCAS: Full newsfeed)

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The Brown University Child & Adolescent Psychopharmacology Update — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:30:27 +0100

Risperidone Reduces Acute Manic Symptoms in Bipolar I YouthAripiprazole Study Indicates Promise for Atypicals in Treating Autism SymptomsCommentary by Lead Author Magali Haas, M.D., Ph.D.Weight Gain With Antipsychotics in Treatment-Naïve YouthQuetiapine vs. Risperidone in PsychosisMisuse of ADHD Drugs by College StudentsAdjunctive Lithium for Clozapine-Induced NeutropeniaAntiepileptic Drug Treatment and SchizophreniaTopiramate for Treating Tourette SyndromeLamotrigine-Induced Mania in an Epileptic Child With AutismNew ApprovalUpdated List of Authorized GenericsSafe Drug Disposal (Source: The Brown University Child & Adolescent Psychopharmacology Update)

Autism Act 2009 Ch.15

Mental Health NSF Newsfeed — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:30:05 +0100

The Autism Bill was unusual, in that it was a Private... (Source: Mental Health NSF Newsfeed)

Autism: Current Theories and Evidence

Pediatric Neurology — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:37:10 +0100

Parents of children with autistic spectrum disorders are frustrated by the healthcare professional's inability to tell them what caused their child's disease, and are desperate to find a “cure” that will allow their children to live independently, to have friends, and to communicate effectively. Too often, these parents are willing to pay thousands of dollars for unproven “therapies” that offer no evidence in support of their use, and that may even be dangerous. (Source: Pediatric Neurology)

Chromosomal Microarray Interpretation: What Is a Child Neurologist to Do?

Pediatric Neurology — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:37:08 +0100

The chromosomal microarray now plays a central role in the evaluation of children with neurologic developmental disorders, including global developmental delay, mental retardation, and increasingly also autistic spectrum disorders. As arrays become more sophisticated and their use more widespread, the child neurologist is likely to encounter abnormal chromosomal microarray results. The interpretation of such data is not always straightforward. This review article discusses in a practical manner the nature of chromosomal microarray results, describes an algorithm to help the child neurologist navigate a variety of testing scenarios, and proposes a standardized system for ranking array data based on levels of evidence of genotype-phenotype correlation. (Source: Pediatric Neurology)

Parents desperate for autism strategy

CBC | Health — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:37:54 +0100

Long wait times in P.E.I. for the diagnosis of autism, up to two years, are leaving parents in a "state of panic," said a protester at the legislature Thursday. (Source: CBC | Health)

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Curemark Opens Patient Enrollment For Autism Treatment At Three More Clinical Trial Sites

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Curemark LLC, a drug research and development company focused on the treatment of neurological diseases, announced that the company has begun enrolling patients in Phase III clinical trials for CM-AT, its autism treatment, at three additional clinical trial sites. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Curemark Opens Patient Enrollment For Autism Treatment At Three More Clinical Trial Sites

Autism News From Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Comprehensive synthesis of early intensive behavioral interventions for young children with autism based on the UCLA young autism project model

Neurological Conditions Specialist Library — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:25:33 +0100

A structured abstract written by CRD reviewers. The abstract was published on 28 October 2009 from an original article published in 2009. (Source: Neurological Conditions Specialist Library)

Scientific Link To Autism Identified

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0100

During its research into the application of neuroscience in business, a New Jersey based think tank, The Center for Modeling Optimal Outcomes®, LLC (The Center) made an inadvertent and amazing discovery. The Center examined the neuroscientific dynamics of logic and emotion in decision making while researching neuroscience in business. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Scientific Link To Autism Identified

Biology / Biochemistry News From Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0100

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UPDATE: Sam's Story

OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

In a special KTLA investigation we told you about one young California boy whose parents are giving him medical marijuana to treat his autism symptoms. The response to our report has been overwhelming... so we took this very personal, ground-breaking... (Source: OrlandoSentinel: Medical Research)

Brief Report: Impaired Temporal Reproduction Performance in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Martin JS, Poirier M, Bowler DM Although temporal processing has received little attention in the autism literature, there are a number of reasons to suspect that people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have particular difficulties judging the passage of time. The present study tested a group of 20 high-functioning adults with ASD and 20 matched comparison participants on a temporal reproduction task. The ASD group made reproductions that were significantly further from the base durations than did the comparison group. They were also more variable in their responses. Furthermore the ASD group showed particular difficulties as the base durations increased, tending to underestimate to a much greater degree than the comparison group. These findings support earlier evidence...

Autism and EEG Phase Reset: Deficient GABA Mediated Inhibition in Thalamo-Cortical Circuits

Developmental Neuropsychology — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:40:44 +0100

(Source: Developmental Neuropsychology)

UA Research Finds Ritalin's Benefits in Treating Children with Autism

Health — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +0100

UA researchers present evidence that the Ritalin is effective in treating preschoolers with Autism in a first-ever clinical trial to test the medication's efficacy with children with the disorder. (Source: Health)

Novel variants identified in methyl-CpG-binding domain genes in autistic individuals

Neurogenetics — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:48:49 +0100

Abstract Misregulation of the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene has been found to cause a myriad of neurological disorders including autism, mental retardation, seizures, learning disabilities, and Rett syndrome. We hypothesized that mutations in other members of the methyl-CpG-binding domain (MBD) family may also cause autistic features in individuals. We evaluated 226 autistic individuals for alterations in the four genes most homologous to MECP2: MBD1, MBD2, MBD3, and MBD4. A total of 46 alterations were identified in the four genes, including ten missense changes and two deletions that alter coding sequence. Several are either unique to our autistic population or cosegregate with affected individuals within a family, suggesting a possible relation of these varia...

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Bowling Champ Says Asperger's Helps Concentration

ABC News: Health — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:21:25 +0100

Women's college bowling MVP says she practices up to 15 hours a week. Bowling - Sport - Organizations - Ten-Pin - United States (Source: ABC News: Health)

Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee

Videocast - All Events — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:26:00 +0100

Presented by: IACCCategory: Advisory BoardsAired date: 11/10/2009 (Source: Videocast - All Events)

Bowling Champ Says Asperger's Helps

ABC News: Health — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:23:13 +0100

Women's college bowling MVP says she practices up to 15 hours a week. Bowling - Sport - Organizations - Ten-Pin - United States (Source: ABC News: Health)

Voice as a tool communicating intentions.

Logopedics, Phoniatrics, Vocology. — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Imaizumi S, Furuya I, Yamasaki K Abstract The ability to understand speakers' intentions is examined for typically developing children (TDC), children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Four types of spoken phrases, expressing praise, sarcasm, blame, and banter, were presented, and subjects were asked to judge if the speaker praises you or not, or if she blames you or not. The children could correctly judge the speaker's intention for congruent phrases such as praise and blame. TDC younger than 8 years had significantly lower correct percent compared to the TDC older than them for the sarcastic and banter phrases, which have incongruent linguistic and affective valences. The correct percent was significantly...

The Role of High Level Play as a Predictor Social Functioning in Autism.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Manning MM, Wainwright LD Play and social abilities of a group of children diagnosed with high functioning autism were compared to a second group diagnosed with a variety of developmental language disorders (DLD). The children with autism engaged in fewer acts of high level play. The children with autism also had significantly lower social functioning than the DLD group early in the play session; however, these differences were no longer apparent by the end of the play session. In addition, a significant association existed between play and social functioning regardless of diagnosis. This suggests that play may act as a current indicator of social ability while providing an arena for social skills practice. PMID: 19921415 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journa...

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110 local infants needed for autism brain imaging study

uwnews.org | Health and Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:59:50 +0100

University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital researchers are looking for 110 6-month-old infants in the Puget Sound area to participate in a new study investigating brain development in autism. (Source: uwnews.org | Health and Medicine)

David Cameron Responds To UKAF's Call On Public Services

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

David Cameron Responds To UKAF's Call On Public Services

Autism News From Medical News Today — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

The Leader of the Opposition, David Cameron, has responded to the call of the charity the UK Autism Foundation urging him to protect the vulnerable from the 'savage cuts' to public services. Ivan Corea CEO of the UK Autism Foundation had written to Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg urging the three political leaders to shield parents, carers, children and adults with autism and Asperger's Syndrome from the cuts to public services. (Source: Autism News From Medical News Today)

Call for Entries: Submit Your Short Video to the Neuro Film Festival

ScanGrants feed — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

One in six Americans is affected by a brain disorder such as Alzheimer's disease, migraine, autism, MS, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, ALS, stroke, and more. Make a film telling us your story, or the story of a loved one, affected by a brain disorder. Help us make the case for why more brain research is needed to find cures. Win Up to $1,500 in Prizes Eligible entries could win up to $1,500 in prizes. You don't have to be an expert filmmaker to share your story. Learn more about contest rules and guidelines and judging criteria. DEADLINE: February 16, 2010 Contest Prizes Three prizes are offered for different audience types and achievement levels. Anyone participating in the contest is eligible for the $1,000 Filmmaker Prize or the $500 Storyteller Prize. All entries are automatical...

Libel in Fact: Aspiring to Rational Judgments Using DSM-I

Psychology Today Personality Center — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:29:49 +0100

A 1964 poll Fact magazine invited members of the American Psychiatric Association to comment on then-Senator Barry Goldwater's personality. Last week, I continued my examination of the results of the poll, particularly focusing on the difference between, intuitive, automatic-seeming perceptions of personality versus logical, analytical reactions (see here).An example of a likely intuitive reaction was a respondent's comment regarding the Senator: "He frightens the hell out of me."In contrast to such intuitive reactions, diagnostic evaluations of Senator Goldwater ought to be more logical and analytical. Psychiatrists are trained in diagnosis, and to diagnose successfully requires both experience and expertise. Although the Fact poll did not specifically request diagnoses of the Senator, a ...

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'Love Hormone' May Trigger Jealousy, Too

Forbes.com Health News — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Oxytocin could be inappropriate for use with autism, expert cautions (Source: Forbes.com Health News)

Treating Bipolar Disorder

Sound Medicine — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

A study in a recent Journal of the American Medical Association warned psychiatrists that children and teens who take medications for conditions such as bipolar disorder and autism tend to put on a substantial, and worrisome, amount of weight. That weight gain can put young people at risk for chronic health problems as adults, including diabetes and metabolic syndrome. That study will no dou.... (Source: Sound Medicine)

Ca(V)1.2 channelopathies: from arrhythmias to autism, bipolar disorder, and immunodeficiency.

Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of Physiology — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Liao P, Soong TW Mutations of human Ca(V)1.2 channel gene were identified only recently. The gain-of-function mutations were found at two mutually exclusive exons in patients with Timothy syndrome (TS). These patients exhibit prolonged QT interval and lethal cardiac arrhythmias. In contrast, the loss-of-function mutations of Ca(V)1.2 channel in patients with Brugada syndrome produce short QT interval that could result in sudden cardiac death. TS patients also suffer from multi-organ dysfunction that includes neurological disorder such as autism and mental retardation reflecting the wide tissue distribution of Ca(V)1.2 channel. Mutations found on different mutually exclusive exons determine the severity of the disease. Unexpectedly, TS patients may develop recurrent infections ...

Medical Marijana For Kids With Autism

About.com Addictions — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

An article on controvery discussion site "Opposing Views" suggests that medical marijana may help reduce aggressive behavior in children with autism. Although this is a complex issue, my gut reaction is negative. Here are some of the reasons why. Firstly, people with developmental disabilities are at increasing risk of developing addictions later in life. According to expert Barbara Ludwig, who works extensively with developmentally delayed adults with addictions, one of the reasons for this is that they are drugged with medications during childhood, increasing their tolerance for drugs and their comfort with drugged states. Secondly, marijuana is known to be harmful to the developing brains of children and teenagers. Children with autism already have brain abnormalities, so adding drugs ...

Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism

About.com Addictions — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Image (c) Hyperorbit/sxc.hu An article on controvery discussion site "Opposing Views" suggests that medical marijuana may help reduce aggressive behavior in children with autism. Although this is a complex issue, my gut reaction is negative. Here are some of the reasons why. Read more...Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism originally appeared on About.com Addictions on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 12:30:27.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Addictions)

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Health headlines: H1N1 news, yoga for kids and peanut-sniffing dogs

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:00:28 +0100

Other stories we’ve been reading: Educators are turning to yoga to connect with kids, with positive results. Once again, Children’s made the honor roll. We found out that childhood scents occupy a special spot in our brains, and that autistic children often struggle with handwriting. Many adults, including parents and high-priority adults still don’t have access to the H1N1 vaccine. A new experimental drug, Peramivir, is being used in emergencies to treat patients hospitalized with H1N1. College students don’t plan on getting the H1N1 vaccine and at least 540 children have been killed by H1N1 in the United States since April. Man’s best friend is helping out children in all kinds of ways: Dogs are teaching kids to read and are being trained to sniff our peanut products for kids w...

Local Congressman Eliot Engel And Easter Seals New York Work Together To Help Individuals With Autism And Other Special Needs In Our Community

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Local Congressman Eliot Engel And Easter Seals New York Work Together To Help Individuals With Autism And Other Special Needs In Our Community

Autism News From Medical News Today — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Easter Seals New York, the leading provider of autism services nationally, honored Congressional expert on autism and disabilities, Representative Eliot Engel, last night at the 2009 Easter Seals New York Annual Meeting in Westchester, New York. Congressman Engel's tremendous track record of supporting children with disabilities was recognized by Easter Seals New York on behalf of those who receive disability services in our community. (Source: Autism News From Medical News Today)

Visual attention in autism families: 'unaffected' sibs share atypical frontal activation

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results establish a neurophysiological correlate of familial susceptibility to ASC, and suggest that whilst abnormal time courses of frontal activation may reflect processes permissive of autistic brain development, abnormal patterns of functional correlation across a wider array of brain regions may relate more closely to autism's determinants. (Source: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry)

A Comprehensive Profile of Decoding and Comprehension in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Huemer SV, Mann V The present study examined intake data from 384 participants with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a comparison group of 100 participants with dyslexia on nine standardized measures of decoding and comprehension. Although diagnostic groups were based on parental reports and could not be verified independently, we were able to observe significant distinctions between subject groups. Overall findings confirm previous results of a disassociation between decoding and comprehension in ASD. Using a larger sample than previous studies and a greater variety of measures, a pattern of relatively intact decoding skills paired with low comprehension was found in autism, PDD-NOS, and Asperger's. In contrast, the dyslexic group showed the opposite pattern of stronger co...

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Landmark UK Autism Law

Disabled World — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:36:13 +0100

The Autism Bill will receive Royal Assent today making it the Autism Act: England's first ever disability-specific law. (Source: Disabled World)

Recovery Act Grant Aims to Teach Kids with Autism How to Better Express Themselves

National Institute of Mental Health — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:33:59 +0100

Most children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) seem to have trouble engaging in everyday social interactions. They may seem to have no reaction to other people or may respond atypically when others show anger or affection. Their own facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language may not match what they are saying, making it difficult for others to respond appropriately. Such barriers to communication can isolate children with ASD from their peers. (Source: National Institute of Mental Health)

Landmark Autism Law Receives Royal Sign Off, UK

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 01:00:00 +0100

The Autism Bill will receive Royal Assent today making it the Autism Act: England's first ever disability-specific law. The National Autistic Society (NAS) heralded the new law as "groundbreaking" and said health and social care services could now face legal action if they failed to provide support for people with the condition, which affects over half a million people in the UK. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Landmark Autism Law Receives Royal Sign Off, UK

Autism News From Medical News Today — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 01:00:00 +0100

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association International Research Travel Award

ScanGrants feed — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The objectives of IRTA are to provide individuals an opportunity to (a) learn more about current research across different regions of the globe in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), (b) network with seasoned professionals currently conducting research in the area of ASD, (c) establish collaborative partnerships that focus on research and clinical service delivery best practices and (d) to advance global investigation and understanding of ASD.IRTA EligibilityAn individual is eligible to apply for an International Research Travel Award (IRTA) if he/she meets all of the following criteria at the time of application submission: * Has documented experience working with (clinically or research) the target population * Is a current ASHA member * Is a U.S. citizen * Is either o An advanced P...

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Enjoying school is key to tackling teenage pregnancy

OnMedica Latest News — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Projects that aim to improve school experiences are most successfulRelated items from OnMedicaPregnancy complications may increase autism risk Smoking in pregnancy increases risk of behavioural problemsScheme to reduce teenage pregnancies a 'failure'Childhood abuse associated with psychosis in womenMore children being born with Down’s syndrome (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Urinary Excretion of 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid, Serotonin and 6-Sulphatoxymelatonin in Normoserotonemic and Hyperserotonemic Autistic Individuals

Neuropsychobiology : Last 20 articles — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Neuropsychobiology 2010;61:27-32 (DOI:10.1159/000258640) (Source: Neuropsychobiology : Last 20 articles)

Eye response may reveal autism

Health News - UPI.com — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:40:44 +0100

COLUMBIA, Mo., Nov. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers say measuring eye response to light could help diagnose autism earlier. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Understanding the Increased Prevalence of Autism

Videocast - All Events — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:06:00 +0100

Presented by: Peter S. Bearman, PhD, Columbia UniversityCategory: BSSR Lecture SeriesAired date: 10/22/2009 (Source: Videocast - All Events)

Author's reply to review of his book on autism

BMJ Online First — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:07:24 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

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In Strategic Plan For Autism Research IACC Includes Vaccine Research Objective

Autism News From Medical News Today — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

Autism Speaks is encouraged by the decision of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) to include vaccine research studies in the objectives of the updated Strategic Plan for Autism Research. The new language, approved unanimously, calls for studies to determine if there are sub-populations that are more susceptible to environmental exposures such as immune challenges related to naturally occurring infections, vaccines or underlying immune problems. (Source: Autism News From Medical News Today)

In Strategic Plan For Autism Research IACC Includes Vaccine Research Objective

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

Language Support In Schools Vital For Children With Autism

ScienceDaily Headlines — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Slower Pupil Responses Seen In Children With Autism, University Of Missouri-Columbia Study Finds

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0100

Autism affects 1 in 150 children today, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. Despite its widespread effect, autism is not well understood and there are no objective medical tests to diagnose it. Recently, University of Missouri researchers have developed a pupil response test that is 92. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Slower Pupil Responses Seen In Children With Autism, University Of Missouri-Columbia Study Finds

IT / Internet / E-mail News From Medical News Today — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0100

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In the Hunt: Entrepreneurs Press On, and Obstacles Fall

NYT > Health — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 05:36:44 +0100

Along with two technology companies, Jennifer VanDerHorst-Larson created the Holland Center for the treatment of young children with autism. (Source: NYT > Health)

Autistic Kids Struggle With Handwriting

Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

A new study suggests children with autism lag behind their classmates in the area of handwriting and can benefit from targeted therapies to improve those skills. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com)

The Ebbinghaus illusion deceives adults but not young children

Developmental Science — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The sensitivity of size perception to context has been used to distinguish between 'vision for action' and 'vision for perception', and to study cultural, psychopathological, and developmental differences in perception. The status of that evidence is much debated, however. Here we use a rigorous double dissociation paradigm based on the Ebbinghaus illusion, and find that for children below 7 years of age size discrimination is much less affected by surround size. Young children are less accurate than adults when context is helpful, but more accurate when context is misleading. Even by the age of 10 years context-sensitivity is still not at adult levels. Therefore, size contrast as shown by the Ebbinghaus illusion is not a built-in property of the ventral pathway subserving vision for perce...

Exploring the Relationship Between Autistic-Like Traits and ADHD Behaviors in Early Childhood: Findings from a Community Twin Study of 2-Year-Olds.

Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This study aimed to explore the nature of the relationship between autistic-like traits and ADHD behaviors in a community sample of 2-year-olds. Twins from the Boston University Twin Project (N = 312 pairs) were assessed by their parents on autistic-like traits and ADHD behaviors using the Childhood Behavior Checklist. Phenotypic analyses showed that after controlling for general cognitive ability and socioeconomic status, autistic-like traits (total scale as well as social and nonsocial subscales) correlated positively with ADHD behaviors (r = 0.23-0.26). Structural equation model-fitting analyses revealed that there were modest shared genetic influences between ADHD- and autistic traits (genetic correlation = 0.27) as well as some common environmental influences explaining their covariat...

Neurofeedback Outcomes in Clients with Asperger's Syndrome.

Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Thompson L, Thompson M, Reid A This paper summarizes data from a review of neurofeedback (NFB) training with 150 clients with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) and 9 clients with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) seen over a 15 year period (1993-2008) in a clinical setting. The main objective was to investigate whether electroncephalographic (EEG) biofeedback, also called neurofeedback (NFB), made a significant difference in clients diagnosed with AS. An earlier paper (Thompson et al. 2009) reviews the symptoms of AS, highlights research findings and theories concerning this disorder, discusses QEEG patterns in AS (both single and 19-channel), and details a hypothesis, based on functional neuroanatomy, concerning how NFB, often paired with biofeedback (BFB), might produce a change in sy...

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Why can't chimps speak? Study links evolution of single gene to human capacity for language

UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:00:00 +0100

This study demonstrates how critical chimps and macaques are for studying humans," Preuss said. "They open a window into understanding how we evolved into who we are today." Because speech problems are common to both autism and schizophrenia, the new molecular pathways will also shed light on how these disorders disturb the brain's ability to process language. The National Institute of Mental Health, the A.P. Giannini Foundation and the National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression funded the study. Co-authors included Jamee Bomar, Giovanni Coppola, Fuying Gao, Sophia Peng, Kellen Winden, James Wohlschlegel and Zophonias Jonsson, all of UCLA. For more news, visit the UCLA Newsroom or follow us on Twitter. (Source: UCLA Newsroom: Health Scie...

Language support key to kids with autism

Health News - UPI.com — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:45:05 +0100

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Students with autism or Asperger's syndrome often have problems with reading comprehension, writing and spelling, researchers in Sweden said. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Children With Autism Show Slower Pupil Responses, Study Finds

ScienceDaily Headlines — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

Researchers have developed a pupil response test that is 92.5 percent accurate in separating children with autism from those with typical development. In the study, the scientists found that children with autism have slower pupil responses to light change. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

How to “Deliver” a Diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder to Parents

Psychiatric Times — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

It is usually traumatic when parents learn that their child has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Be clear about the diagnosis and let families know that treatment will begin as soon as possible, said Doris Greenberg, MD, associate clinical professor of pediatrics at Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, Ga. In her presentation at the US Psychiatric and Mental Health Congress in Las Vegas, Dr Greenberg discussed strategies for talking to the families of children with ASDs. “Don’t talk around the diagnosis—identify the elephant in the room and get on with it,” she said. (Source: Psychiatric Times)

Center For Autism And Related Disorders Study Finds Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Ineffective Treatment For Children With Autism

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Research conducted by the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc. (CARD), shines new light on the effects of a popular form of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) treatment for children with autism and related disorders. The "Randomized Trial of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Children with Autism" study reveals that HBOT, consisting of 24% oxygen delivered at 1. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Center For Autism And Related Disorders Study Finds Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Ineffective Treatment For Children With Autism

Autism News From Medical News Today — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

IACC Includes Vaccine Research Objective In Strategic Plan For Autism Research

Pharmaceutical Online News — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:09:00 +0100

Autism Speaks is encouraged by yesterday's decision of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) to include vaccine research studies in the objectives of the updated Strategic Plan for Autism Research. The new language, approved unanimously, calls for studies to determine if there are sub-populations that are more susceptible to environmental exposures such as immune challenges related to naturally occurring infections, vaccines or underlying immune problems. (Source: Pharmaceutical Online News)

Writing Study Ties Autism To Motor-Skill Problems

NPR Health and Science — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:01:00 +0100

Researchers who looked at handwriting samples found that children with autism struggle more than their peers to correctly form letters. The findings add to evidence that autism is a brain disorder that isn't limited to behavior, but affects motor skills, too.» E-Mail This » Add to Del.icio.us (Source: NPR Health and Science)

IACC includes vaccine research objective in strategic plan for autism research

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Autism Speaks) Autism Speaks is encouraged by the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee decision to include vaccine research studies in the objectives of the updated Strategic Plan for Autism Research. The new language calls for studies to determine if there are sub-populations more susceptible to environmental exposures, i.e. immune challenges related to naturally occurring infections, vaccines or underlying immune problems. As mandated by the Combating Autism Act, the IACC must annually update a strategic plan. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Poor Handwriting Prevalent in Children With Autism

Modern Medicine — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Children with autism spectrum disorders have worse handwriting than children without the condition, and can benefit from special handwriting instruction and fine motor control training, according to a study in the Nov. 10 issue of Neurology. (Source: Modern Medicine)

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Lay abstracts

Autism Research — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

No Abstract (Source: Autism Research)

The International Meeting for Autism Research

Autism Research — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

No Abstract (Source: Autism Research)

International Society for Autism Research News

Autism Research — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

No Abstract (Source: Autism Research)

Parents' Views and Experiences About Complementary and Alternative Medicine Treatments for Their Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, 38 Turkish parents of children with ASD were surveyed related with their use of CAM treatments, experiences, and views for each treatment. They mentioned "Vitamins and minerals", "Special Diet", "Sensory Integration", "Other Dietary Supplements", and "Chelation" as five frequently used CAM treatments. Communication, learning, health, and behavior were the main four areas rated as "improved" after five CAM treatments. Negative sides of treatments were listed as being expensive, difficult to apply, or harmful. The parents' views on some treatments have varied from great improvement to worse. Reported improvements were considerably higher than the negative sides of the treatments. PMID: 19904598 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal of Autism and Developmenta...

Do Gaze Cues in Complex Scenes Capture and Direct the Attention of High Functioning Adolescents with ASD? Evidence from Eye-tracking.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Freeth M, Chapman P, Ropar D, Mitchell P Visual fixation patterns whilst viewing complex photographic scenes containing one person were studied in 24 high-functioning adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and 24 matched typically developing adolescents. Over two different scene presentation durations both groups spent a large, strikingly similar proportion of their viewing time fixating the person's face. However, time-course analyses revealed differences between groups in priorities of attention to the region of the face containing the eyes. It was also noted that although individuals with ASD were rapidly cued by the gaze direction of the person in the scene, this was not followed by an immediate increase in total fixation duration at the location of gaze, which w...

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Brief Report: Randomized Test of the Efficacy of Picture Exchange Communication System on Highly Generalized Picture Exchanges in Children with ASD.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Yoder PJ, Lieberman RG A randomized control trial comparing two social-communication interventions in young children with autism examined far-transfer of the use of picture exchange to communicate. Thirty-six children were randomly assigned to one of two treatment conditions, one of which was the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). All children had access to picture symbols during assessments. Post-treatment measurement of the number of picture exchanges in a far-transfer, assessment context favored the PECS intervention. These findings were interpreted as support for the hypothesis that the PECS curriculum can successfully teach a generalized means of showing coordinated attention to object and person without requiring eye contact to children with ASD. PMID: 199...

Adapted to explore: Reinforcement learning in Autistic Spectrum Conditions.

Brain and Cognition — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Yechiam E, Arshavsky O, Shamay-Tsoory SG, Yaniv S, Aharon J Recent studies have recorded a tendency of individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) to continually change their choices in repeated choice tasks. In the current study we examine if this finding implies that ASC individuals have a cognitive style that facilitates exploration and discovery. Six decision tasks were administered to adolescents with ASC and matched controls. Significant differences in shifting between choice options appeared in the Iowa Gambling task (Bechara, Damasio, Damasio, & Anderson, 1994). A formal cognitive modeling analysis demonstrated that for about half of the ASC participants the adaptation process did not conform to the standard reinforcement learning model. These individuals wer...

For Smart Autistic Kids, Handwriting Is Barrier

ABC News: Health — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:42:56 +0100

For some kids with autism, penmanship is their biggest enemy in the classroom. (Source: ABC News: Health)

Maternal Cytokine Profile May Affect Autism Risk: Study

Medscape Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Headlines — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:43:02 +0100

Children who inherit polymorphisms in cytokine regulatory genes from their mothers appear to be at greater risk of autism, according to a presentation by US researchers here at the 5th Asia Pacific Congress in Maternal Fetal Medicine. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Ob/Gyn & Women's Health Headlines)

Children With Autism More Likely To Have Handwriting Problems

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0100

Children with autism may have lower quality handwriting and trouble forming letters compared to children without autism, according to a study published in the November 10, 2009, print issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study included 28 children between the ages of eight and 13. Half of the children had autism spectrum disorder. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Children With Autism More Likely To Have Handwriting Problems

Pediatrics News From Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0100

Word learning in children with autism spectrum disorders.

Developmental Psychology — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:53:03 +0100

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have been gaining attention, partly as an example of unusual developmental trajectories related to early neurobiological differences. The present investigation addressed the process of learning new words to explore mechanisms of language delay and impairment. The sample included 21 typically developing toddlers matched on expressive vocabulary with 21 young children with ASD. Two tasks were administered to teach children a new word and were supplemented by cognitive and diagnostic measures. In most analyses, there were no group differences in performance. Children with ASD did not consistently make mapping errors, even in word learning situations that required the use of social information. These findings indicate that some children with ASD, in developmenta...

Handwriting Is Real Problem For Children With Autism

ScienceDaily Headlines — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:00:00 +0100

How babies understand expressions and emotions

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:42:44 +0100

Today, the Boston Globe features the work of researcher Charles A. Nelson, PhD, who runs Children’s Hospital Boston’s cognitive neuroscience laboratory. Nelson studies how babies learn to decode facial expressions by monitoring the connection between children’s eye movements and their brain activity. He hopes to learn how people distinguish faces and how we learn to link expressions with emotions. Here, you can read about how Nelson’s lab is exploring how babies see race. In this article, find out how Nelson is studying the brain development of babies with a higher risk of autism to discover early indicators that could be used to identify the condition in infants. This story describes how Nelson spent time with Romanian orphans in foster homes to learn about what impact...

Handwriting Problems for Children with Autism

Disabled World — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:25:29 +0100

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Handwriting is real problem for children with autism

Medicineworld.org: New Article Alert — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:55:46 +0100

Handwriting skills are crucial for success in school, communication, and building children's self-esteem. The first study to examine handwriting quality in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has uncovered a relationship between fine motor control and poor quality of handwriting in children with ASD, as per research reported in the November 10, 2009, issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study, conducted by scientists at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, compared handwriting samples, motor skills, and visuospatial abilities of children with ASD to typically developing children. The scientists observed that overall, the handwriting of children with ASD was worse than typically developing children. Specifically, children with ASD had trouble...

Reading and arithmetic in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders: Peaks and dips in attainment.

Neuropsychology — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:46:20 +0100

In describing academic attainment in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), results are typically reported at the group mean level. This may mask subgroups of individuals for whom academic achievement is incommensurate with intellectual ability. The authors tested the IQ, literacy, and mathematical abilities of a large group (N = 100) of adolescents (14–16 years old) with ASD. Seventy-three percent of the sample had at least one area of literacy or mathematical achievement that was highly discrepant (approximately 14 standard score points) from full-scale IQ (FSIQ). The authors focused on four subgroups with either word reading (“Reading Peak” and “Reading Dip”) or arithmetic (“Arithmetic Peak” and “Arithmetic Dip”) higher or lower than FSIQ. These subgroups were largely mutual...

The Importance Of Language Support For Children With Autism

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Teachers and parents must be vigilant in observing difficulties with language comprehension, reading and spelling in children and young people with autism, Asperger's syndrome and ADHD. "It is important that pupils are offered the support to which they are entitled", says Jakob Ã�sberg in a new thesis at the University of Gothenburg. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

The Importance Of Language Support For Children With Autism

ADHD News From Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Teachers and parents must be vigilant in observing difficulties with language comprehension, reading and spelling in children and young people with autism, Asperger's syndrome and ADHD. "It is important that pupils are offered the support to which they are entitled", says Jakob Asberg in a new thesis at the University of Gothenburg. "Pupils with these neuropsychiatric disorders are often reported as having problems with spoken and written activities. (Source: ADHD News From Medical News Today)

When Handwriting Is Your Biggest Problem

ABC News: Health — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:17:48 +0100

For some kids with autism, penmanship is their biggest enemy in the classroom. (Source: ABC News: Health)

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Washington Insurance Program May Be A National Model, Massachusetts May Expand Autism Services

Pediatrics News From Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

News outlets report on health issues at the state level including a health insurance program in Washington State and a bill to increase coverage for autism services in Massachusetts. NPR reports: "Now, while members of Congress are trying to figure out how to help the so-called working poor afford health insurance, one state has a plan that's been doing just that. (Source: Pediatrics News From Medical News Today)

Washington Insurance Program May Be A National Model, Massachusetts May Expand Autism Services

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Abracadabra! Find Answers on Autism in Magic

ABC News: Health — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:24:24 +0100

Autistic children who can't spot social clues aren't fooled by magic tricks. (Source: ABC News: Health)

New Study Reveals Handwriting Is Real Problem For Children With Autism

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Handwriting skills are crucial for success in school, communication, and building children's self-esteem. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

New Study Reveals Handwriting Is Real Problem For Children With Autism

Neurology / Neuroscience News From Medical News Today — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0100

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Autistic Kids Need Handwriting Help

eMedicineHealth.com — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +0100

Kids With Autism Need Handwriting Help (Source: eMedicineHealth.com)

Kids With Autism Need Handwriting Help

MedicineNet Kids Health General — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Kids With Autism Need Handwriting HelpCategory: Health NewsCreated: 11/10/2009 10:14:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 11/10/2009 10:14:27 AM (Source: MedicineNet Kids Health General)

Children with autism show slower pupil responses, MU study finds

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Missouri-Columbia) Recently, University of Missouri researchers have developed a pupil response test that is 92.5 percent accurate in separating children with autism from those with typical development. In the study, MU scientists found that children with autism have slower pupil responses to light change. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Copy-number variants in neurodevelopmental disorders: promises and challenges.

Trends in Genetics : TIG — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Merikangas AK, Corvin AP, Gallagher L Copy-number variation (CNV) is the most prevalent type of structural variation in the human genome. There is emerging evidence that copy-number variants (CNVs) provide a new vista on understanding susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disorders. Some challenges in the interpretation of current CNV studies include the use of overlapping samples, differing phenotypic definitions, an absence of population norms for CNVs and a lack of consensus in methods for CNV detection and analysis. Here, we review current CNV association study methods and results in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia, and provide suggestions for design approaches to future studies that might maximize the translation of this work to etiological understanding. ...

Kids With Autism Need Handwriting Help

WebMD Health — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 23:18:47 +0100

Kids battling autism face an extra hurdle: handwriting. They need more help overcoming subtle motor-control issues that make handwriting difficult, researchers find. (Source: WebMD Health)

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Children with autism show specific handwriting impairments

Neurology — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:01:48 +0100

Conclusions: We addressed how different elements of handwriting contribute to impairments observed in children with autism. Our results suggest that training targeting letter formation, in combination with general training of fine motor control, may be the best direction for improving handwriting performance in children with autism. (Source: Neurology)

Handwriting Skills May Lag in Kids With Autism

Forbes.com Health News — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:00:00 +0100

Therapy to improve letter formation could boost self-esteem, researchers say (Source: Forbes.com Health News)

Handwriting Skills May Lag in Kids with Autism

MedlinePlus Health News — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:00:00 +0100

Therapy to improve letter formation could boost self-esteem, researchers say Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Topics: Autism, Learning Disorders (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Birth Weight and Health and Developmental Outcomes in US Children, 1997–2005

Maternal and Child Health Journal — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:26:16 +0100

Abstract The primary goal of this study was to assess the association between the full birth weight distribution and prevalence of specific developmental disabilities and related measures of health and special education services utilization in US children. Using data from the 1997–2005 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Sample Child Core, we identified 87,578 children 3–17 years of age with parent-reported information on birth weight. We estimated the prevalences of DDs (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], autism, cerebral palsy, hearing impairment, learning disability without mental retardation, mental retardation, seizures, stuttering/stammering, and other developmental delay) and several indicators of health services utilization within a range...

FELCOM Workshop: Administrative Jobs at the NIH

Videocast - All Events — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:52:00 +0100

Ovjective: Learn about career opportunities for PhD scientists away from the bench here at the NIH Speakers: Claire Driscoll, PHD, Office of Technology Transfer, NHGRI; David Kosub, PhD, Public Health Analyst, Strategic Planning and Evaluations Branch, NIAID; DaviD Vaier, PhD, Office of Science Education; Susan Daniels, PhD, Health Science Administrator, Office of Autism Research Coordination, NIMH Air date: 11/16/2009 2:00:00 PM (Source: Videocast - All Events)

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Language support in schools vital for children with autism

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Gothenburg) Teachers and parents must be vigilant in observing difficulties with language comprehension, reading and spelling in children and young people with autism, Asperger's syndrome and ADHD. "It is important that pupils are offered the support to which they are entitled", says Jakob Åsberg in a new thesis at the University of Gothenburg. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

New study reveals handwriting is real problem for children with autism

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Kennedy Krieger Institute) Handwriting skills are crucial for success in school, communication, and building children's self-esteem. The first study to examine handwriting quality in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has uncovered a relationship between fine motor control and poor quality of handwriting in children with ASD, according to research published in the Nov. 10, 2009, issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

This week on Thrive: Nov. 2 – 6

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

Here’s a quick look at what Thrive was up to last week. Read why the days of jumping back into a game after a possible concussion are over. A new study shows that adult survivors of childhood cancer are much more likely to experience suicidal thoughts than their peers. Children’s expert Ellen Hanson, PhD, questions whether autism really is on the rise. An experimental heart valve saves a child with H1N1. Children’s has established and unprecedented partnership with the state’s largest health plans. The HealthMap team gives its weekly H1N1 update. Children’s Dennis Rosen, MD, questions whether sleeping late can keep your child slim and Joanne Cox, MD, answers parents’ questions about H1N1. Our resident mediatrician tackles the question of graphic violent and sexual images in the...

'I Am Autism' Advocacy Video Sparks Controversy

TIME.com: Top Science and Health Stories — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:56:09 +0100

The controversy over a video recently produced by the autism advocacy group Autism Speaks highlights the ongoing dissent that characterizes the autism community (Source: TIME.com: Top Science and Health Stories)

'I Am Autism': An Advocacy Video Sparks Protest

TIME.com: Top Science and Health Stories — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:41:22 +0100

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'I Am Autism': An Advocacy Video Sparks Parent Protest

TIME.com: Top Science and Health Stories — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:51:13 +0100

Sleep problems in autism spectrum disorders: Prevalence, nature, & possible biopsychosocial aetiologies

Sleep Medicine Reviews — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:10:23 +0100

This article summarizes and evaluates the current literature related to a) the higher prevalence of a sleep problem compared to typically developing children, b) the specific types of sleep problems for people with an ASD, and c) the possible aetiology of sleep problems in the ASDs within a biopsychosocial framework. It is concluded that recent studies confirm that the majority of this population are likely to experience sleep difficulties, with settling issues in children with an ASD the most commonly reported. However, exploration of the types of sleep difficulties and associated aetiological factors in the ASDs is still in its infancy. (Source: Sleep Medicine Reviews)

Sticks and stones

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:57:07 +0100

When did autism start becoming a term of abuse? (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Record Number Of Researchers, Advocates, Parents Drawn To Autism Consortium Symposium For Autism Update

Autism News From Medical News Today — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

The Autism Consortium, an innovative collaboration of researchers, clinicians, funders and families dedicated to catalyzing research and enhancing clinical care for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), held its fourth annual symposium on October 28th, 2009, at Harvard Medical School in Boston. (Source: Autism News From Medical News Today)

Record Number Of Researchers, Advocates, Parents Drawn To Autism Consortium Symposium For Autism Update

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

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Chelation Therapy Drug Found Safe And Beneficial For Children With Autism

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Two studies published by the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in the October issue of BMC Clinical Pharmacology investigated the use of oral dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), a prescription medicine approved by the FDA for treating lead poisoning, and used off-label in these studies for treating heavy metal toxicity in children with autism. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Chelation Therapy Drug Found Safe And Beneficial For Children With Autism

Autism News From Medical News Today — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +0100

Expression analyses of the mitochondrial complex I 75-kDa subunit in early onset schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder: increased levels as a potential biomarker for early onset schizophrenia

European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:34:40 +0100

Abstract Searching for a peripheral biological marker for schizophrenia, we previously reported on elevated mitochondrial complex I 75-kDa subunit mRNA-blood concentrations in early onset schizophrenia (EOS). The aim of this study was to further evaluate the utility of this gene as a potential marker for schizophrenia. Both—schizophrenia and autism—are suggested to be neuronal maldevelopmental disorders with reports of mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. Therefore we have investigated the expression levels of mitochondrial complex I 75-kDa subunit mRNA in whole blood of children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and a group of adolescent acute first-episode EOS patients in comparison to matched controls. We have found that compared to the resp...

What Is The Value Of A Life?

Psychology Today Parenting Center — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 04:16:53 +0100

I was once told that I shouldn't have kids, because the child could be born with Asperger's, like me. I answered with a question - "Would you have given the same advice to my parents?""Well," came the answer, "look at all the difficulties you've had, and the pain you've had to endure...surely you wouldn't wish that on a child." Well, it's true that living my life with Asperger's has often been difficult. Yes, I have dealt with my fair share of pain and rejection... In a perfect world I wouldn't want a child to go through the same issues. But I also had to wonder...is life just about avoiding pain? Or is there something more? Looking back on my life, I find that the most painful experiences taught me the most valuable lessons. But, you n...

What is smart?

Psychology Today Personality Center — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:07:53 +0100

"He's such a bright little boy!" My mother and her friends said things like that all the time, as they pointed to me when they thought I wasn't paying attention. Now that I'm grown, I can let them in on a secret: There was never a time when I didn't pay attention to grownups as a kid. I watched them really close, all the time. I may not have understood everything I heard, but I surely took it all in. But what did it mean? I got a new bike, and my mother said, "What a pretty red bicycle!" Everyone who saw it said the same thing. It was a nice, red bike. The attributes didn't change. It was always a bike, and always red. No one ever called it blue or green, because colors were absolute. Something was either red or green; it didn't change at your whim or mine. Unfortunately, phrases like, "Br...

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[Seminar] Autism

LANCET — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Autism spectrum disorders are characterised by severe deficits in socialisation, communication, and repetitive or unusual behaviours. Increases over time in the frequency of these disorders (to present rates of about 60 cases per 10 000 children) might be attributable to factors such as new administrative classifications, policy and practice changes, and increased awareness. Surveillance and screening strategies for early identification could enable early treatment and improved outcomes. Autism spectrum disorders are highly genetic and multifactorial, with many risk factors acting together. Genes that affect synaptic maturation are implicated, resulting in neurobiological theories focusing on connectivity and neural effects of gene expression. Several treatments might address core and com...

Clinical and anatomical heterogeneity in autistic spectrum disorder: a structural MRI study.

Psychological Medicine — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Adults with ASD have significant differences from controls in the anatomy of brain regions implicated in behaviours characterizing the disorder, and this differs according to clinical subtype. PMID: 19891805 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Psychological Medicine)

4,000 Percent Increase in Pediatric Bipolar Disorder Sobering Statistic or Sensational Twist?

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This week a headline snagged my attention in Google news proclaiming Bipolar Disorder Increases 4,000 Percent in Children and Adolescents. The article is Lynette Fleming's review of the book The Way of Boys: Raising Healthy Boys in a Challenging and Complex World by Anthony Rao and Michelle Seaton. The basic premise of the book is that "as a culture, we are increasingly failing to respect young boyhood, pathologizing normal boy behavior and foisting burdensome and stigmatizing diagnoses of ADHD, Asperger's syndrome, bipolar disorder, and more on boys as young as three years old." I haven't read the book, though it is now on my list, so I can't make any comment about its veracity or if it includes this specific statistic. 4,000 percent? Really? Is this figure accurate or a sensational twis...

Psychosis, Affective Disorders and Anxiety in Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Prevalence and Nosological Considerations

Karger Publishers — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Psychopathology 2010;43:8-16 (DOI:10.1159/000255958) (Source: Karger Publishers)

Autism Consortium Symposium - Autism Update

Disabled World — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:59:10 +0100

Autism Consortium symposium draws record number of researchers, advocates, parents for autism update. The Autism Consortium, an innovative collaboration of researchers, clinicians, funders and families dedicated to catalyzing research and enhancing clinical care for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), held its fourth annual symposium on October 28th, 2009, at Harvard Medical School in Boston. (Source: Disabled World)

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Exploring Genetic Susceptibility to Autism: An Expert Interview With Hakon Hakonarson, MD, PhD

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:55:18 +0100

Dr. Hakon Hakonarson reviews the latest findings on genetic susceptibility to autism spectrum disorders and discusses what impact they might have on clinical practice in the future. Medscape Genomic Medicine (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Chelation Therapy Drug Found Safe and Beneficial for Children With Autism

Drugs.com - Clinical Trials — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:02:44 +0100

The Autism Research Institute calls for further investigations into the use of chelation therapy for individuals with autism SAN DIEGO, Nov. 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Two studies published by the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in... (Source: Drugs.com - Clinical Trials)

Autism Consortium symposium draws record number of researchers, advocates, parents for autism update

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Autism Consortium) The Autism Consortium, an innovative collaboration of researchers, clinicians, funders and families dedicated to catalyzing research and enhancing clinical care for autism spectrum disorders, held its fourth annual symposium on Oct. 28, 2009, at Harvard Medical School in Boston. The meeting gave scientists, clinicians, advocates and parents an opportunity to gather for the latest information on causes of autism and their implications for diagnosis, prognosis and therapies for people with autism spectrum disorders. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

The Triad of Impairment in Autism Revisited

Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Exceptional pioneering work in the late 1970s gave rise to the concept of the triad of impairments as the central plank of the construct of autism: impaired communication; impaired social skills; and a restricted and repetitive way of being-in-the-world. This clear articulation of the structures of the phenomena allowed a new way for professionals and families to see and understand autism, and to relate to those with autism. Like the evolution of many concepts, this was a transitional idea. The original triad of impairments described the behavioral manifestation; the actual triad of impairments is at the level of cognitive processing. The actual triad of impairment is static and ubiquitous unlike the variable and fluctuating behavioral manifestation. The actual triad of impair...

Performance of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders on the Dimension-Change Card Sort Task.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Dichter GS, Radonovich KJ, Turner-Brown LM, Lam KS, Holtzclaw TN, Bodfish JW Restricted and repetitive behaviors in autism spectrum disorders have been conceptualized to reflect impaired executive functions. In the present study, we investigated the performance of 6-17-year-old children with and without an autism spectrum disorder on a dimension-change card sort task that explicitly indicated sorting rules on every trial. Diagnostic groups did not differ in speed of responses after the first rule switch or in speed or accuracy on blocks with mixed versus single sort rules. However, performance of the ASD group was significantly slower and less accurate overall than the typically-developing group. Furthermore, within the ASD group, poorer DCCS task performance did not predict m...

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Maternal Cortisol Levels and Behavior Problems in Adolescents and Adults with ASD.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Seltzer MM, Greenberg JS, Hong J, Smith LE, Almeida DM, Coe C, Stawski RS Using daily diary methods, mothers of adolescents and adults with ASD (n = 86) were contrasted with a nationally representative comparison group of mothers of similarly-aged unaffected children (n = 171) with respect to the diurnal rhythm of cortisol. Mothers of adolescents and adults with ASD were found to have significantly lower levels of cortisol throughout the day. Within the ASD sample, the son or daughter's history of behavior problems interacted with daily behavior problems to predict the morning rise of the mother's cortisol. A history of elevated behavior problems moderated the effect of behavior problems the day before on maternal cortisol level. Implications for interventions for both the mot...

Brief Report: Driving Hazard Perception in Autism.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This study investigated whether individuals with ASD (autistic spectrum disorders) are able to identify driving hazards, given their difficulties processing social information, Klin et al. (Archives of General Psychiatry 59: 809-816, 2002). Twenty-three adult males with ASD and 21 comparison participants viewed 10 video clips containing driving hazards. In half of the clips the source of the hazard was a visible person (social); in the other half the source was a car (non-social). Participants with ASD identified fewer social hazards than the comparison participants (U = 163.00, N = 44, p < .05) but not non-social. Participants with ASD were also slower to respond than comparison participants, F(1,40) = 4.93, p < .05. This suggests that, although people with ASD can perceive driving ...

Update on autism: A review of 1300 reports published in 2008.

Epilepsy and Behaviour — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hughes JR This publication, by reviewing 1300 studies published on autism in 2008, represents an update on this topic. Results include possible parental influences, maternal conditions, and studies on genes and chromosomes. Possible etiological factors involve the "extreme male brain," defects in the mirror neuron system, vaccines, underconnectivity, disorders of central coherence, and many other more specific etiologies. Assessments or tests for autism are also reviewed. Characteristics of autistic individuals include repetitive behavior, language disorders, sleep disturbances, social problems, joint attention disorders, seizures, allergic reactions, and various behavioral changes. Cognitive changes involve IQ, reasoning, and verbal and language disorders. The savant syndrome...

Recommended Childhood Vaccines Safe for Children With Inborn Errors of Metabolism

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:31:10 +0100

A preliminary study found no evidence of serious adverse events, including autism, in children with inborn errors of metabolism who received recommended childhood immunizations. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Pediatric safety of tizanidine: clinical adverse event database and retrospective chart assessment.

Paediatric Drugs — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:10:02 +0100

Authors: Henney HR, Chez M Tizanidine is an imidazoline with central alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonist activity at both spinal and supraspinal levels, which is indicated as a short-acting drug for the management of spasticity. Despite being used in pediatric populations, there is no adequate information or well controlled studies to document the safety and efficacy of tizanidine in this group. To evaluate the safety of tizanidine in the pediatric population. We compared spontaneous adverse event reports in the Acorda Therapeutics worldwide clinical adverse event database for children (</=16 years; n = 99) and adults (>16 years; n = 1153) who had received tizanidine and for whom at least one adverse event was reported, and performed a retrospective chart review of the safety of tizani...

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NIH Awards More than 50 Grants to Boost Search for Causes, Improve Treatments for Autism

National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:55:00 +0100

The National Institutes of Health has awarded more than 50 autism research grants, totaling more than $65 million, which will be supported with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds. These grants are the result of the largest funding opportunity for research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to date, announced in March 2009. (Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases)

Psychiatrists debate Asperger's label

CBC | Health — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:04:19 +0100

Some medical authorities are proposing to take Asperger's syndrome out of the next edition of psychiatry's diagnostic manual. (Source: CBC | Health)

NHS staff get employment rights 'Passport'

OnMedica Latest News — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

New guide will help workers faced with transfer to new employersRelated items from OnMedicaBMA concern over Tory NHS computer plansNew GMC regulations won't protect patientsGPs get social entrepreneurship advice'Trapped' migrant fights for NHS careGovernment unveils new autism czar (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Managers warned off mass redundancies

OnMedica Latest News — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

£20 billion NHS savings must come from smart thinking not staff cullsRelated items from OnMedicaBMA concern over Tory NHS computer plansNew GMC regulations won't protect patientsGPs get social entrepreneurship advice'Trapped' migrant fights for NHS careGovernment unveils new autism czar (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Gyrification patterns in monozygotic twin pairs varying in discordance for autism

Autism Research — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

In order to disentangle genetic and environmental contributions to cortical anomalies in children with autism, we investigated cortical folding patterns in a cohort of 14 monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs who displayed a range of phenotypic discordance for autism, and 14 typically developing community controls. Cortical folding was assessed with the gyrification index, which was calculated on high resolution anatomic MR images. We found that the cortical folding patterns across most lobar regions of the cerebral cortex was highly discordant within MZ twin pairs. In addition, children with autism and their co-twins exhibited increased cortical folding in the right parietal lobe, relative to age- and gender-matched typical developing children. Increased folding in the right parietal lobe was assoc...

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Patterns of Time Processing Ability in Children with and without Developmental Disabilities

Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The level of TPA seems to be a more valid overall base than the type of diagnosis for the planning of interventions in daily time management. (Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities)

Health News of the Day

Clinical Cases and Images — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:42:00 +0100

is a daily summary made from the selected links I post on Twitter. It is in a bullet points format with links to the original sources which include 350 RSS feeds that produce about 2,500 items per day:How long does hepatitis B vaccine protection last? More than 2 decades http://bit.ly/4lhMlHLarge trials required to clarify whether sodium bicarbonate has value for prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy http://bit.ly/yOE45List of Medical Journal Feeds Arranged by Topic - the University of Wisconsin http://bit.ly/4zxxdgNYT interviews researcher behind Gleevec for CML, "converting a fatal cancer into a manageable chronic condition" http://bit.ly/4cnIzEThe beginning of the end for impact factors and journals - Richard Smith in BMJ http://bit.ly/1KEF7B -- Most popular article ever published...

Autism Treatment Center planning to open new rehab office

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:31:42 +0100

The Autism Treatment Center is working to establish an electronic medical records system to help provide greater care to children and adults in San Antonio with the disorder. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Autism Treatment Center planning to open new rehab office

bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:31:42 +0100

Vaccination Safe for Kids With Genetic Disorders

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:36:16 +0100

A study shows vaccines in kids with rare disorders do not cause autism or other health problems. WebMD Health News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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IDSA: Vaccination Link to Health Problems Discounted (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Infectious Disease — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:29:18 +0100

PHILADELPHIA (MedPage Today) -- Vaccination does not appear to cause autism or other health problems in children with inborn errors of metabolism, a researcher said here. (Source: MedPage Today Infectious Disease)

Is autism really on the rise?

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:21:25 +0100

Photo by Webb Chappell By Ellen Hanson, PhD, Developmental Medicine Center “Has autism increased or hasn’t it?” As a researcher and psychologist with a specialty in developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), this is a question I get all the time. I wish I had a short answer, but I don’t. On the other hand, if you have a few minutes, read on. The question is a really important one. A study just came out in Pediatrics, saying that the prevalence of ASDs is now one in 91 U.S. children – and one in 58 boys. This is much higher than the most recently quoted rate of one in 150. And that is up from one in 1500 in the early 1990s. That jump would scare anyone! But is it real? This should be a “yes” or “no” question, right? But the first thing to remember is...

Smoking in pregnancy increases risk of behavioural problems

OnMedica Latest News — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Behavioural problems signicant by the time children reach threeRelated items from OnMedicaPregnancy complications may increase autism risk Poorest Scottish kids do the least exerciseChanges to health visiting service will put kids at risk Over 50% of premature pupils struggle in schoolDemanding work linked to low-weight and preterm births (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

A comprehensive volumetric analysis of the cerebellum in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

Autism Research — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and postmortem neuropathological studies have implicated the cerebellum in the pathophysiology of autism. Controversy remains, however, concerning the nature and the consistency of cerebellar alterations. MRI studies of the cross-sectional area of the vermis have found both decreases and no difference in autism groups. Volumetric analysis of the vermis, which is less prone to "plane of section artifacts" may provide a more reliable assessment of size differences but few such studies exist in the literature. Here we present the results of a volumetric analysis of the structure of the whole cerebellum and its components in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. Structural MRI's were acquired from 62 male participants (7.5 to 18.5 years-old) ...

A longitudinal study of gastrointestinal diseases in individuals diagnosed with infantile autism as children

Child: Care, Health and Development — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Overall, no evidence was found that patients with IA were more likely than control persons without IA to have defined GI diseases during the 30.3-year observation period. (Source: Child: Care, Health and Development)

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Autism and Sleep: Basics for the Clinician

Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology News — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology News 14(2): 9-11 (Source: Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology News)

Participation of Children with and without Disabilities in Social, Recreational and Leisure Activities

Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Research concerning activity participation should continue to take into account not only whether children are engaging in activities, but explore more precisely 'with whom' these activities are occurring. (Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities)

Employment Experiences, Perspectives, and Wishes of Mothers of Children with Autism in the People's Republic of China

Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Mothers in this study make sacrifices in their own lives, including employment, in order to promote and provide intervention for their children with autism. These families had fewer services available to them than in many developed Western countries, and most services are at a cost to the parents. Considerations that Chinese mothers of children with autism make regarding their own employment situation are unique. (Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities)

Impact of the Picture Exchange Communication System: Effects on Communication and Collateral Effects on Maladaptive Behaviors.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This study investigated the use of PECS with three young boys with autism to determine the impact of PECS training on use of pictures for requesting, use of intelligible words, and maladaptive behaviors. A multiple baseline-probe design with a staggered start was implemented. Results indicated that all of the participants quickly learned to make requests using pictures and that two used intelligible speech following PECS instruction; maladaptive behaviors were variable throughout baseline and intervention phases. Although all of the participants improved in at least one dependent variable, there remain questions regarding who is best suited for PECS and similar interventions. PMID: 19883285 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

MedWorm: Autism

Autism Act 2009 Ch.15

Table of Contents

Autism Act 2009 Ch.15

Autism: Current Theories and Evidence

Chromosomal Microarray Interpretation: What Is a Child Neurologist to Do?

Parents desperate for autism strategy

Curemark Opens Patient Enrollment For Autism Treatment At Three More Clinical Trial Sites

Curemark Opens Patient Enrollment For Autism Treatment At Three More Clinical Trial Sites

Comprehensive synthesis of early intensive behavioral interventions for young children with autism based on the UCLA young autism project model

Scientific Link To Autism Identified

Scientific Link To Autism Identified

UPDATE: Sam's Story

Brief Report: Impaired Temporal Reproduction Performance in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism and EEG Phase Reset: Deficient GABA Mediated Inhibition in Thalamo-Cortical Circuits

UA Research Finds Ritalin's Benefits in Treating Children with Autism

Novel variants identified in methyl-CpG-binding domain genes in autistic individuals

Bowling Champ Says Asperger's Helps Concentration

Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee

Bowling Champ Says Asperger's Helps

Voice as a tool communicating intentions.

The Role of High Level Play as a Predictor Social Functioning in Autism.

110 local infants needed for autism brain imaging study

David Cameron Responds To UKAF's Call On Public Services

David Cameron Responds To UKAF's Call On Public Services

Call for Entries: Submit Your Short Video to the Neuro Film Festival

Libel in Fact: Aspiring to Rational Judgments Using DSM-I

'Love Hormone' May Trigger Jealousy, Too

Treating Bipolar Disorder

Ca(V)1.2 channelopathies: from arrhythmias to autism, bipolar disorder, and immunodeficiency.

Medical Marijana For Kids With Autism

Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism

Health headlines: H1N1 news, yoga for kids and peanut-sniffing dogs

Local Congressman Eliot Engel And Easter Seals New York Work Together To Help Individuals With Autism And Other Special Needs In Our Community

Local Congressman Eliot Engel And Easter Seals New York Work Together To Help Individuals With Autism And Other Special Needs In Our Community

Visual attention in autism families: 'unaffected' sibs share atypical frontal activation

A Comprehensive Profile of Decoding and Comprehension in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Landmark UK Autism Law

Recovery Act Grant Aims to Teach Kids with Autism How to Better Express Themselves

Landmark Autism Law Receives Royal Sign Off, UK

Landmark Autism Law Receives Royal Sign Off, UK

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association International Research Travel Award

Enjoying school is key to tackling teenage pregnancy

Urinary Excretion of 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid, Serotonin and 6-Sulphatoxymelatonin in Normoserotonemic and Hyperserotonemic Autistic Individuals

Eye response may reveal autism

Understanding the Increased Prevalence of Autism

Author's reply to review of his book on autism

In Strategic Plan For Autism Research IACC Includes Vaccine Research Objective

In Strategic Plan For Autism Research IACC Includes Vaccine Research Objective

Language Support In Schools Vital For Children With Autism

Slower Pupil Responses Seen In Children With Autism, University Of Missouri-Columbia Study Finds

Slower Pupil Responses Seen In Children With Autism, University Of Missouri-Columbia Study Finds

In the Hunt: Entrepreneurs Press On, and Obstacles Fall

Autistic Kids Struggle With Handwriting

The Ebbinghaus illusion deceives adults but not young children

Exploring the Relationship Between Autistic-Like Traits and ADHD Behaviors in Early Childhood: Findings from a Community Twin Study of 2-Year-Olds.

Neurofeedback Outcomes in Clients with Asperger's Syndrome.

Why can't chimps speak? Study links evolution of single gene to human capacity for language

Language support key to kids with autism

Children With Autism Show Slower Pupil Responses, Study Finds

How to “Deliver” a Diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder to Parents

Center For Autism And Related Disorders Study Finds Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Ineffective Treatment For Children With Autism

Center For Autism And Related Disorders Study Finds Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Ineffective Treatment For Children With Autism

IACC Includes Vaccine Research Objective In Strategic Plan For Autism Research

Writing Study Ties Autism To Motor-Skill Problems

IACC includes vaccine research objective in strategic plan for autism research

Poor Handwriting Prevalent in Children With Autism

Lay abstracts

The International Meeting for Autism Research

International Society for Autism Research News

Parents' Views and Experiences About Complementary and Alternative Medicine Treatments for Their Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Do Gaze Cues in Complex Scenes Capture and Direct the Attention of High Functioning Adolescents with ASD? Evidence from Eye-tracking.

Brief Report: Randomized Test of the Efficacy of Picture Exchange Communication System on Highly Generalized Picture Exchanges in Children with ASD.

Adapted to explore: Reinforcement learning in Autistic Spectrum Conditions.

For Smart Autistic Kids, Handwriting Is Barrier

Maternal Cytokine Profile May Affect Autism Risk: Study

Children With Autism More Likely To Have Handwriting Problems

Children With Autism More Likely To Have Handwriting Problems

Word learning in children with autism spectrum disorders.

Handwriting Is Real Problem For Children With Autism

4,000 Percent Increase in Pediatric Bipolar Disorder Sobering Statistic or Sensational Twist?