Joint attention training for children with autism using behavior modification procedures

Please click the link in order to read the article.
http://www.thelearninglane.com/documents/jointattention4.pdf

First Do No Harm: Alternative Medicine Can Be Lethal to Kids

First Do No Harm: Alternative Medicine Can Be Lethal to Kids: "'Natural' remedies may seem a lot safer to give a child than some medication with a mysterious, multisyllabic name with a lot of x's and y's. But a just-published study has found that complementary and alternative medicine treatments can be dangerous and even fatal to children."

Children with autism and their friends: a multidim... [J Abnorm Child Psychol. 2008] - PubMed result

Children with autism and their friends: a multidim... [J Abnorm Child Psychol. 2008] - PubMed result: "This study of Israeli and American preadolescent children examined characteristics of friendship in 44 children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) compared to 38 typically developing children (TYP), as they interacted with a close friend Participants were 8-12 years of age (HFASD: Israel, n = 24; USA, n = 20; TYP: Israel, n = 23; USA, n = 15), and were matched on SES, receptive language vocabulary, child age, and gender (each study group included one girl). Multidimensional assessments included: individual behaviors of target children and observed child-friend interactions during construction and drawing scenarios; target child's and friend's self-perceived mutual friendship qualities; and mother-reported characteristics (friendship's duration/frequency; friend's age/gender/disability status). Overall, children with HFASD displayed a number of differences on individual and dyadic friendship measures. Both age and verbal abilities affected friendship behaviors. Children with HFASD and their friends perceived friendship qualities similarly, suggesting that preadolescents with HFASD have capacities for interpersonal awareness. Between-group similarities also emerged on several complex social behaviors, suggesting that friendship follows a developmental trajectory in autism and may enhance social interaction skills in autism."

A social adjustment enhancement intervention for h... [J Autism Dev Disord. 2004] - PubMed result

A social adjustment enhancement intervention for h... [J Autism Dev Disord. 2004] - PubMed result: "This paper reports the findings of a 20-week social adjustment enhancement curriculum for boys aged 8-12. The curriculum was designed to address three areas hypothesized to be deficient in persons with HFA, AS, and PDDNOS: emotion recognition and understanding; theory of mind; and executive functions/real life type problem solving. Parents attended a semi-structured concurrent psychoeducational training meeting during children's sessions. Statistically significant improvements in facial expression recognition, and problem solving were reported for intervention group children compared to waiting list control group children. For the intervention group (the only group for whom data were available), older and less cognitively able boy's scores on a depression inventory decreased significantly more than younger children's. Mother's depression scores tended to decrease and there were significant reductions in child problem behaviors reported. Results are discussed in the context of individual differences in participant cognitive levels and profiles, symptom severity, and affect-related variables."

The effectiveness of parent-child interaction ther... [J Autism Dev Disord. 2008] - PubMed result

The effectiveness of parent-child interaction ther... [J Autism Dev Disord. 2008] - PubMed result: "We report the results of a pilot trial of an evidence-based treatment-Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT; Eyberg et al. Psychopharmacology Bulletin, 31(1), 83-91, 1995) for boys aged 5-12 with high functioning autism spectrum disorders and clinically significant behavioral problems. The study also included an investigation of the role of shared positive affect during the course of therapy on child and parent outcomes. The intervention group showed reductions in parent perceptions of child problem behaviors and child atypicality, as well as an increase in child adaptability. Shared positive affect in parent child dyads and parent positive affect increased between the initial and final phases of the therapy. Parent positive affect after the first phase was related to perceptions of improvement in problem behaviors and adaptive functioning."

Autism Teaching Tools: Play and Language Therapy

Engage With Your Child with Autism

Parent Child Interaction Video Dr. Solomon

Videos By Topic

Videos By Topic: "Videos and audio are now exclusively available in the new UC Davis MIND Institute Media Player. Adobe Flash and Javascript are needed to play back all media on the MIND Institute website. Chances are that Flash and Javascript are already a part of your browser as they are installed on almost all computers connected to the Internet. However, if you are having difficulty playing any media on this site, Adobe Flash can be downloaded from Adobe's website and instructions for enabling Javascript in your browser are available here."


Excellent video presentations regarding research and treatment.

Parent Training for Young Children With Developmental Disabilities: Randomized Controlled Trial

Parent Training for Young Children With Developmental Disabilities: Randomized Controlled Trial: "A randomized controlled trial was used to evaluate a parent training intervention for caregivers with preschool-age children with developmental disabilities. The 21 families in the experimental group received usual care plus the 12-week Incredible Years Parent Training Program with developmental delay modifications. Families in the control group (n = 23) received usual care, including early childhood education and related services. Results suggest that this parent training intervention was superior to usual care for young children with developmental delays or disabilities in reducing negative parent–child interactions and child behavior problems. Participants in the experimental group indicated high satisfaction with treatment. Additional research is necessary to document maintenance and generalization of treatment outcomes."

Autism Speaks, Press Updates, Early Intervention For Toddlers With Autism Highly Effective, Study Finds

Autism Speaks, Press Updates, Early Intervention For Toddlers With Autism Highly Effective, Study Finds: "'This is the first controlled study of an intensive early intervention that is appropriate for children with autism who are less than 2½ years of age. Given that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all 18- and 24-month-old children be screened for autism, it is crucial that we can offer parents effective therapies for children in this age range,' said Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D., chief science officer of Autism Speaks and the study's lead author. 'By starting as soon as the toddler is diagnosed, we hope to maximize the positive impact of the intervention.'"

Parent implemented early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review - McConachie - 2006 - Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice - Wiley Online Library

Parent implemented early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review - McConachie - 2006 - Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice - Wiley Online Library: "The review found very few studies that had adequate research design from which to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of parent-implemented early intervention. Both randomized and controlled studies tended to suggest that parent training leads to improved child communicative behaviour, increased maternal knowledge of autism, enhanced maternal communication style and parent child interaction, and reduced maternal depression."

Study finds link between autism, air pollutants - San Jose Mercury News

Study finds link between autism, air pollutants - San Jose Mercury News: "Researchers have found that children who live near freeways at birth have twice the risk of autism, suggesting that environmental factors may play a role in the disorder's growing incidence.
A study by researchers at the Saban Research Institute of Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that babies who lived within 1,000 feet of a freeway, but not a major road, were at risk.
Lead researcher Helen Volk says that may be due to the type and high level of pollutants on a freeway.
The study, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, looked at 304 children with autism and 259 normally developing children."

How a gene mutation leads to autism

How a gene mutation leads to autism: "Researchers from Mount Sinai School of Medicine have developed a mouse model to find how a gene mutation leads to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
They found that when one copy of the SHANK3 gene in mice is missing, nerve cells do not effectively communicate and do not show cellular properties associated with normal learning."

Clinical Trial For Rett Syndrome Launched -- BOSTON, Dec. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Clinical Trial For Rett Syndrome Launched -- BOSTON, Dec. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --: "Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston have begun a randomized, placebo-controlled trial to test a potential drug treatment for Rett syndrome, the leading known genetic cause of autism in girls. The drug, mecasermin, a synthetic form of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), is already FDA-approved for children with short stature due to IGF-1 deficiency.
The trial, now enrolling patients, marks the beginning of a trend toward drug treatments seeking to modify the underlying causes of autism spectrum disorders, rather than just behavioral symptoms such as anxiety or aggression. It follows research in animal models, published in 2009(1), which suggested that raising IGF-1 levels can reverse features of Rett syndrome by enhancing maturation of synapses —the points of communication between brain cells."

Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders -- Myers et al. 120 (5): 1162 -- AAP Policy

Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders -- Myers et al. 120 (5): 1162 -- AAP Policy: "Pediatricians have an important role not only in early recognition and evaluation of autism spectrum disorders but also in chronic management of these disorders. The primary goals of treatment are to maximize the child's ultimate functional independence and quality of life by minimizing the core autism spectrum disorder features, facilitating development and learning, promoting socialization, reducing maladaptive behaviors, and educating and supporting families. To assist pediatricians in educating families and guiding them toward empirically supported interventions for their children, this report reviews the educational strategies and associated therapies that are the primary treatments for children with autism spectrum disorders. Optimization of health care is likely to have a positive effect on habilitative progress, functional outcome, and quality of life; therefore, important issues, such as management of associated medical problems, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic intervention for challenging behaviors or coexisting mental health conditions, and use of complementary and alternative medical treatments, are also addressed."

SpringerLink - Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, Volume 40, Number 1

SpringerLink - Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, Volume 40, Number 1: "The authors analyzed the results of a social validation survey to determine if autism service providers including special education teachers, parents, and administrators demonstrate a preference for the intervention components of Applied Behavior Analysis or Training and Education of Autistic and other Communication Handicapped Children. They also investigated the comprehensiveness of these treatment models for use in public school programs. The findings indicate no clear preference for either model, but a significantly higher level of social validity for components inherent in both approaches. The authors discuss the need for research to define what is meant by comprehensive programming in autism."

Early Intervention Improves Autism Symptoms

Early Intervention Improves Autism Symptoms: "Dec. 8, 2010 -- A six-month, group-based early intervention program with a special emphasis on social development can improve some of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in children as young as 2, according to a study in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.
“This and other autism studies suggest that the ‘wait and see’ method, which is often recommended to concerned parents, could lead to missed opportunities for early intervention,” Rebecca Landa, PhD, director of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders and the REACH research program at Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, says in a news release. “By acting early, we are providing toddlers tools and skills to increase social opportunities throughout their lifetime and positioning them to have the best possible outcomes.”"

Targeted intervention improves social skills in toddlers with autism

Targeted intervention improves social skills in toddlers with autism: "In a new study, researchers found that targeting the core social deficits of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in early intervention programs yielded sustained improvements in social and communication skills even in very young children who have ASD.
Although some research suggests that ASD may be reliably diagnosed earlier than the current average age of 3 years, few interventions have been tested in children younger than 3."

Cell Energy Dysfunction Seen in Autism | Psych Central News

Cell Energy Dysfunction Seen in Autism Psych Central News: "Autism in children is strongly associated with defects in the mitochondria, the cell’s energy producer, according to a UC Davis study. Researchers believe that built-up damage and oxidative stress in mitochondria may perpetuate the development of autism as well as the severity of the disorder"

VOA | US Scientists Developing Autism Test | Health | English

VOA US Scientists Developing Autism Test Health English: "American scientists think they have developed a test – using MRI brain scans – that can determine whether someone has autism.

Up until now, there has been no clear biological test to objectively conclude if someone has autism. Doctors currently diagnose autism, usually in children, by observing behavior and interactions with others."

Now, a simple test to detect autism in minutes!

Now, a simple test to detect autism in minutes!: "Now, a simple test that can detect autism in just 10 minutes, say scientists.
A team from the Harvard University-affiliated McLean Hospital and University of Utah has devised the revolutionary test which it claims not only takes just 10 minutes but also costs 100 pounds.
According to the scientists, using MRI scans to measure deviations in brain circuits, the test can detect high-functioning autism with 94 per cent accuracy.
The test could be available in hospitals in five years, replacing a series of checks carried out by psychologists and psychiatrists, which rely on subjective opinions only, the 'Daily Express' reported."

Children With Autism Appear More Likely To Have Cell Irregularity

Children With Autism Appear More Likely To Have Cell Irregularity: "Preliminary research has found that children with autism are more likely to have impaired mitochondrial function (structures within cells responsible for energy production) and mitochondrial DNA abnormalities than typically developing children, according to a study in the December 1 issue of JAMA"

Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med -- Abstract: Maternal and Paternal Age and Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorders, April 2007, Croen et al. 161 (4): 334

Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med -- Abstract: Maternal and Paternal Age and Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorders, April 2007, Croen et al. 161 (4): 334: "Risk of ASDs increased significantly with each 10-year increase in maternal age (adjusted RR, 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-1.62) and paternal age (RR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.09-1.51). Adjusted RRs for both maternal and paternal age were elevated for children with autistic disorder (maternal age: RR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.87-1.60; paternal age: RR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.06-1.69) and children with Asperger disorder or pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (maternal age: RR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.09-1.93; paternal age: RR, 1.24; 95% CI, 0.99-1.55). Associations with parental age were somewhat stronger for girls than for boys, although sex differences were not statistically significant."

Arch Gen Psychiatry -- Abstract: Advancing Paternal Age and Autism, September 2006, Reichenberg et al. 63 (9): 1026

Arch Gen Psychiatry -- Abstract: Advancing Paternal Age and Autism, September 2006, Reichenberg et al. 63 (9): 1026: "There was a significant monotonic association between advancing paternal age and risk of ASD. Offspring of men 40 years or older were 5.75 times (95% confidence interval, 2.65-12.46; P<.001) more likely to have ASD compared with offspring of men younger than 30 years, after controlling for year of birth, socioeconomic status, and maternal age. Advancing maternal age showed no association with ASD after adjusting for paternal age. Sensitivity analyses indicated that these findings were not the result of bias due to missing data on maternal age."

PINNACLE - Behavior Problems of Children With Autism, Parental Self-Efficacy, and Mental Health

PINNACLE - Behavior Problems of Children With Autism, Parental Self-Efficacy, and Mental Health: "Self-efficacy has been identified in the general parenting literature as an important variable affecting parent outcomes. In the present study, 26 mothers and 20 fathers of children with autism reported on their self-efficacy, anxiety, and depression. Teachers rated the behavior problems of the children. Regression analyses showed that self-efficacy mediated the effect of child behavior problems on mothers' anxiety and depression, but there was no evidence that it functioned as a mediator for fathers. However, there was evidence that self-efficacy moderated the effect of child behavior problems on fathers' anxiety. No evidence for the moderating effect of self-efficacy was apparent for mothers. Methodological issues and the theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed."

New drug to treat autism being tested at New Brunswick hospital | mycentraljersey.com | MyCentralJersey.com

New drug to treat autism being tested at New Brunswick hospital mycentraljersey.com MyCentralJersey.com: "'We are targeting the symptoms of autism,' said Dr. Joan Fallon, founder of Curemark LLC., a drug-research and development company located in Rye, N.Y. The company is testing its new product at 13 locations nationwide.The testing being conducted at Saint Peter's involves 170 youngsters, hospital spokesman Phil Hartman said.Fallon said the test pool covers children age 3 to 8. She said she expects results 'sometime early next year.'"

Opposing Views: Does Attachment Parenting Cause Autism?

Opposing Views: Does Attachment Parenting Cause Autism?: "It is perhaps the ultimate irony that advocates of attachment parenting who reject vaccination because of fear of autism have ignored the possibility that it is attachment parenting itself that causes autism.

Consider the ever growing body of evidence:"

Horses becoming a more common therapeutic tool | Dothan Eagle

Horses becoming a more common therapeutic tool Dothan Eagle: "After David Paul Harper gets a boost onto Trigger, one of the therapy horses at Camp DD in Cottonwood, he asks a simple question.

“How do you start it?”

With a chuckle, Camp Director Dina Bright tells David to put a quarter in it. All kidding aside, Bright then begins a series of instructions for David and another camp visitor who will be leading Trigger around the round pen as David rides."

New autism drug tested at New Brunswick hospital | APP.com | Asbury Park Press

New autism drug tested at New Brunswick hospital APP.com Asbury Park Press: "'We are targeting the symptoms of autism,' said Dr. Joan Fallon, founder of Curemark LLC, a drug-research and development company located in Rye, N.Y. The company is testing its new product at 13 locations nationwide.
The testing being conducted at Saint Peter's involves 170 youngsters, hospital spokesman Phil Hartman said.
Fallon said the test pool covers children age 3 to 8. She said she expects results 'sometime early next year.'"

KOMU.com - NewsFullStory

KOMU.com - NewsFullStory: "COLUMBIA - University of Missouri College of Education researchers announced Thursday a new autism curriculum being implemented in two Columbia schools. Researchers are conducting their curriculum in both Lange Middle School and West Junior High. The study is targeting both autistic boys and girls ages eleven to fourteen years old. Janine Stichter, special education professor at MU, said the new intervention curriculum will help autistic students because it focuses on a broad number of social issues that should appeal to kids with different abilities. 'In the past people have said 'oh they have social deficits. We can just use a social skills program in general and hopefully a bunch of that will fit a bunch of kids. Our approach has been to really target the intervention for their specific needs,' Stichter said. The new curriculum also features some computer programming that Stichter hopes will help students in rural areas get the special help they need."

Distinctive brain activity in autistic kids - World - Mail & Guardian Online

Distinctive brain activity in autistic kids - World - Mail & Guardian Online: "The pattern of brain activity in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is markedly different from that of children without the condition, according to a new brain-imaging study."

Study Reveals Children Recover From Autism With Intensive Three-Year Behavioral Therapy -- PHOENIX, Nov. 12, 2010 /PRNewswire/ --

Study Reveals Children Recover From Autism With Intensive Three-Year Behavioral Therapy -- PHOENIX, Nov. 12, 2010 /PRNewswire/ --: "A landmark study proves that children are capable of recovery from autism, or of making substantial gains in cognitive and adaptive functioning, as well as language skills, according to results released last night by Dr. Doreen Granpeesheh, founder of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc. (CARD)."

Testing Autism Drugs in Human Brain Cells - Technology Review

Testing Autism Drugs in Human Brain Cells - Technology Review: "A team from the University of California, San Diego, and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies devised a way to study brain cells from patients with autism, and found a way reverse cellular abnormalities in neurons that have been associated with autism.
The researchers took skin biopsies from patients with a severe form of autism called Rett syndrome, and genetically reprogrammed those cells into pluripotent stem cells. Pluripotent stem cells have the power to differentiate into any kind of cell in the body, depending on environmental cues during early development. The team differentiated the stem cells into fully functioning neurons, and then studied their functioning. They found that neurons derived from patients with Rett syndrome showed certain abnormalities, including markedly smaller cell bodies, dendrite connections, and decreased cell-to-cell communication."

Bracelet may help communication for people with autism | Marketplace From American Public Media

Bracelet may help communication for people with autism Marketplace From American Public Media: "For people with autism, communication can be a struggle, one that can seem insurmountable. But a team of researchers at MIT may have come up with a fairly simple solution: a bracelet. The Q Sensor wristband can provide a window into how the wearer is feeling at a given time."

DNA Variation Increases Autism and Schizophrenia Risk | Chromosome 17, DNA & Genetics | My Health News Daily

DNA Variation Increases Autism and Schizophrenia Risk Chromosome 17, DNA & Genetics My Health News Daily: "People who possess a specific change in one of their chromosomes are nearly 14 times more likely to develop an autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia than those without this change, according to a new study.
The change, which is called a deletion, happens when a section of chromosome 17 is missing. The deletion is found only in people who have an autism spectrum disorder, a developmental delay or schizophrenia, said study researcher David H. Ledbetter, a genetics professor at Emory University."

Community Magazine

Community Magazine: "Infants exposed to the highest levels of thimerosal, a mercury-laden preservative that used to be found in many vaccines, were no more likely to develop autism than infants exposed to small amounts, according to a study conducted by the immunization safety office at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and published in the journal Pediatrics. Thimerosal has been used as a preservative in vaccines since the 1930s. In the last decade, scientists have also presented evidence refuting an earlier claim that the MMR (mumps, measles, rubella) vaccine might trigger autism. In the wake of the latest study, Geraldine Dawson, chief science officer for a leading advocacy group, Autism Speaks, urged parents to have their children vaccinated."

Autism – Detected By A Simple Urine Test

Autism – Detected By A Simple Urine Test: "The test is similar to that of pregnancy can diagnose with a few drops of urine, write DailyMail. Such psychological tests and numerous visits to hospital, although necessary for diagnosis, can have a traumatic effect on children. Besides this benefit, the new method means starting treatment earlier, increasing chances of a life closer to normal for the child."

Acupuncture Helps Children with Autism - New Research

Acupuncture Helps Children with Autism - New Research: "New research demonstrates that a session of 12 acupuncture visits using electro-acupuncture improves functions in children with autism. Electro-acupuncture caused improvements in language comprehension and self-care ability for the children in this randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, clinical trial of acupuncture for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Electro-acupuncture also caused significant improvements in social initiation, receptive language, motor skills, coordination, and attention span. Improvements in motor coordination include better writing ability. Participants were better able to write words within set lines and squares. One participant had significant improvements in swimming ability and improvements in paper cutting were also noted. Interesting motor improvements include better walking posture, speed of walking, and ability to ascend and descend stairs."

Can pets help keep you healthy? - Sleepy Eye, MN - The Sleepy Eye Herald Dispatch

Can pets help keep you healthy? - Sleepy Eye, MN - The Sleepy Eye Herald Dispatch: "People have lots of reasons for owning pets. A small but growing body of research suggests that owning or interacting with animals may have the added benefit of improving your health.
People and animals have a long history of living together and bonding. Perhaps the oldest evidence of this special relationship was discovered in Israel where a 12,000-year-old human skeleton was buried with its hand resting on the skeleton of a 6-month-old wolf pup."

Autism vs. pervasive developmental disorder - The Clinical Advisor

Autism vs. pervasive developmental disorder - The Clinical Advisor: "Is there a way to eliminate the confusion between autism and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)? It is often more difficult to obtain services for children in inner-city settings and to get parents involved in treatment with a diagnosis of PDD-NOS"

Autistic patients’ brains have less communication between regions, study finds | The Salt Lake Tribune

Autistic patients’ brains have less communication between regions, study finds The Salt Lake Tribune: "There is no definitive diagnostic test for autism. Instead, doctors ask questions and observe children to see if they have difficulty communicating and interacting with others.
Those imprecise measures can make the neurological disorder hard to identify, delaying the diagnosis.
Hoping to speed detection, and thus treatment, and distinguish between types of autism, Utah researchers have been scanning the brains of autistic boys and men and comparing them with those without the disorder."

Dogs may lower stress in children with autism | abc7.com

Dogs may lower stress in children with autism abc7.com: "A small new study has found that specially-trained service dogs may reduce stress in children with autism.
Researchers at the University of Montreal said the children in their study showed a decrease in levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.
Previous studies have shown that dogs can help autistic children in social situations and improve their daily routine.
However, this is the first time that dogs have been shown to have a physiological effect."

Autism treatment: FDA issues warning on chelation drugs - latimes.com

Autism treatment: FDA issues warning on chelation drugs - latimes.com: "Products called chelators that are sold over the counter as treatments for autism, heart disease and other conditions are dangerous and illegal, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned in a crackdown announced Thursday.

The chemicals, which help remove metals from the body, are potent drugs that carry serious risks, including kidney damage, dehydration and even death, said FDA Medical Officer Dr. Charles Lee. 'Chelation can be dangerous and can cause serious harm,' Lee said."

Jaundice in newborns may be linked to autism - CTV News

Jaundice in newborns may be linked to autism - CTV News: "The study, which appears in the journal Pediatrics, looked at more than 700,000 children in Denmark.
It found that babies who developed jaundice were 67 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with autism during early childhood.
The study authors say the study only linked jaundice and autism; it didn't show that jaundice caused autism. They suggest there could be a number of factors that predispose babies to both the development of jaundice and autism."

Language delays found in siblings of children with autism

Language delays found in siblings of children with autism: "Siblings of children with autism have more frequent language delays and other subtle characteristics of the disorder than previously understood. Girls also may be mildly affected more often than recognized in the past."

Therapy provides hope in abating autism » Features » Tahlequah Daily Press

Therapy provides hope in abating autism » Features » Tahlequah Daily Press: "Hope for recovery is a concept many people, including some physicians, do not generally associate with autism.

Carla Howard and Michelle Spencer are not among them.

The local moms spent a week training in the Son-Rise program in Sheffield, Mass. The program was created by parents of an autistic child, and today, their son directs the program."

Kids with autism don't experience contagious yawning - Health - Mental health - msnbc.com

Kids with autism don't experience contagious yawning - Health - Mental health - msnbc.com: "Molly Helt discovered an interesting aspect of her son's autism somewhat serendipitously, during a plane ride. When the plane descended, in an attempt to help relieve painful pressure in her son's ears, she tried to get him to yawn by yawning right in front of him.
About 45 percent of us yawn when we see someone else yawn, but Helt's yawns had no such effect on her little one.
The observation prompted Helt, a clinical psychology researcher at the University of Connecticut, to investigate the contagious yawning in children with autism."

Technology Review: A Drug Shows Promise in Autism

Technology Review: A Drug Shows Promise in Autism: "Though the research is still preliminary, scientists appear to be closing in on a molecular explanation for at least some cases of autism. Research in lab animals, cadavers, and now in a small clinical trial in children seems to support the idea that autism is caused by a lack of chemical regulation in synapses, the junction between brain cells."

"Swring" Making Impact On Kids With Autism - Health News Story - KXLY Spokane

"Swring" Making Impact On Kids With Autism - Health News Story - KXLY Spokane: "“Kids began to really not just enjoy it, but she could see definite progress in some of the children's behavior and their ability to be involved in a social setting with other kids,' Emory, who is also a grandfather to 11 kids, said.
The Swring, he says, brings out smiles and joy to autistic kids who normally struggle with the ability to show emotion."

Toddlers With Autism May Fix Their Eyes On Geometric Patterns Rather Than Children Playing

Toddlers With Autism May Fix Their Eyes On Geometric Patterns Rather Than Children Playing: "Children with autism may stare at geometric patterns when they are just 14 months old rather than look at kids playing around or doing yoga, say researchers in an article published in Archives of General Psychiatry. Children without autism prefer looking at other kids doing things, the authors added."

Where an infant fixes their gaze 'could be an early indicator of autism' | Mail Online

Where an infant fixes their gaze 'could be an early indicator of autism' Mail Online: "An early sign that a child may develop autism could be as simple as noting where they fix their gaze.Those considered at 'high-risk' of developing a form of the disorder were far more likely to become fixated with a non-social toy when left to their own devices."

APC Protein Connected to Autism and Mental Retardation | Psych Central News

APC Protein Connected to Autism and Mental Retardation Psych Central News: "A study completed by neuroscientists at Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM) and Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts suggests that the causes of these disorders may rest with the dysfunction of a protein called adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), an important element that ffects the synapse’s ability to mature. A key player in the body’s nervous system, the synapse provides a gateway for neurons to quickly pass important signals to other cells and is essential for neurons to function properly."

Opposing Views: Research: Almost Certainly No Autism "Epidemic"

Opposing Views: Research: Almost Certainly No Autism "Epidemic": "OK, so it's well known to LBRB readers that I don’t think it's ever been scientifically established that there has been such a thing as an autism epidemic, but even so, looking at why autism numbers have changed over a certain period of time – the period of time people believe is part of the 'epidemic' – should be a good way to determine what contributed to that time period's rise in autism.So that's what Peter Bearman did. Summed up well in this week's New Scientist, Bearman’s study offers the first look at what actually did cause the 'epidemic.'"

Autism: MedlinePlus

Autism: MedlinePlus: "Autism is a disorder that is usually first diagnosed in early childhood. The main signs and symptoms of autism involve communication, social interactions and repetitive behaviors.

Children with autism might have problems talking with you, or they might not look you in the eye when you talk to them. They may have to line up their pencils before they can pay attention, or they may say the same sentence again and again to calm themselves down. They may flap their arms to tell you they are happy, or they might hurt themselves to tell you they are not. Some people with autism never learn how to talk."

Scientists identify new drug strategy against fragile X syndrome

Scientists identify new drug strategy against fragile X syndrome: "The researchers have found that a class of drugs called phosphoinositide-3 (PI3) kinase inhibitors can correct defects in the anatomy of neurons seen in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome. In experiments with cultured neurons from the hippocampus, a brain region involved in learning and memory, the drugs could restore normal appearance and levels of protein production at synapses, the junctions between cells where chemical communication occurs. The results, published online this week in the Journal of Neuroscience, suggest that PI3 kinase inhibitors could help improve learning and cognition in individuals with fragile X syndrome."

Quick brain scan could screen for autism | Reuters

Quick brain scan could screen for autism | Reuters: "(Reuters) - A 15-minute brain scan could in future be used to test for autism, helping doctors diagnose the complex condition more cheaply and accurately.
British scientists said on Tuesday their rapid test had proved more than 90 percent accurate in adults and there was no reason why it should not work equally well in children."

Antidepressants Not Beneficial in Autism | Psych Central News

Antidepressants Not Beneficial in Autism | Psych Central News: "According to a new statistical review of previously reported studies, the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs) antidepressants did not improve overall function."

3 different medical trials seek autism cure | abc7.com

3 different medical trials seek autism cure | abc7.com: "There is no cure for autism. And there are no FDA-approved drugs that target the cause. But researchers are working to change that. There are three trials searching for answers to autism."

Researchers Say Alzheimer's Drug May Help Autism - Health News Story - WDIV Detroit

Researchers Say Alzheimer's Drug May Help Autism - Health News Story - WDIV Detroit: "Henry is taking part in a new study involving a drug called memantine. Researchers said the drug has already proved effective in a much different type of patient.
'We know that it's active and effective in people with Alzheimer's disease. It actually serves to enhance cognitive function, or at least hold the line,' said Dr. Michael Aman, a researcher at the Ohio State University Medical Center."

U of L scientists: Promising results in autism treatment | WHAS11.com | Louisville news, Kentucky news & breaking news | WHAS11.com | News for Louisville, Kentucky

U of L scientists: Promising results in autism treatment | WHAS11.com | Louisville news, Kentucky news & breaking news | WHAS11.com | News for Louisville, Kentucky: "For nearly three years, a team of University of Louisville researchers has been making strides in rewiring the brains of autistic children. They do it with magnets."

Parents Can Learn to Teach Social and Language Skills to Children with Autism -- NEW YORK, July 26 /PRNewswire/ --

Parents Can Learn to Teach Social and Language Skills to Children with Autism -- NEW YORK, July 26 /PRNewswire/ --: "One of the most common initial red flags reported by parents of children with autism is that they suspect their child may be deaf because he or she no longer responds to his or her name, and does not look at them when they speak. However, the lack of response or eye contact can point to an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In fact, many children on the autism spectrum do not demonstrate typical language skills and social behavior, or even lose language or social skills they once had."

While there is some very good information in this article, the indication that ABA is the only well researched and effective treatment, is not correct, as you will see in other posts in this blog.

Autism in kids more prevalent among wealthier parents, study finds - JSOnline

Autism in kids more prevalent among wealthier parents, study finds - JSOnline: "Upper class parents are likelier to have children with autism, according to a University of Wisconsin-Madison study. The findings suggest either the genetics or the lifestyles of wealthier people predispose their children to autism.
Researchers have spent decades trying to untangle the factors that cause autism. Since the 1940s, scientists noticed wealthier and more educated families had children with the disorder, said Maureen Durkin, a UW-Madison epidemiologist and lead author of the study."

Supported Play Date Interactions Between Children With Autism and Typically Developing Peers

Difficulties with social interaction are characteristic of
autism. This study presents data illustrating the use of
motivational strategies in play dates to improve the quality
of social interactions between children with autism
and their typically developing peers. Specifically, a multiple
baseline design across participants shows how a
contextual support package implemented during play
dates can promote reciprocal interactions and improve
affect. These results support the use of intervention strategies
that target the pivotal area of motivation and provide
evidence for using play dates as a context for intervention.
The findings are discussed in terms of promoting
quality interactions and encouraging friendship
development.

Speech Patterns May ID Kids With Autism

Speech Patterns May ID Kids With Autism: "July 19, 2010 -- Researchers have developed a new technology that uses the vocal recordings of children to assess their speech patterns and helps in identifying who has autism spectrum disorder or language delay, according to a report.
The new tool could have an impact on how children are screened for autism, language delay, and other developmental disorders.
The tool is a battery-powered device that attaches to children's clothing. Known as the LENA (Language Environment Analysis) system, it works by recording children's utterances, from infant cooing to preschoolers speaking words, and then analyzes these utterances for speech patterns and characteristics to create a vocal profile."

New "Signs of Autism" Findings

New "Signs of Autism" Findings: "Could picky eating be a sign of autism?
Could unusual speech patterns or pronunciation be a sign?
This week, researchers have published findings that suggest either or both could be the case.
The 'picky eating' study was conducted by researchers in the UK, and is published in the journal Pediatrics. A According to the website Disability Scoop:
Kids with autism tend to be picky eaters even at very young ages, opening a window into what could be an early sign of the developmental disorder, researchers said Monday."

Autism Treatment New Strategy : Horseback Riding

Autism Treatment New Strategy : Horseback Riding: "Mary Cusack has been raising her son who has been suffering from autism for eight years. Her son suffers from repetitive hand movements, also known as “stimming,” that are commonly associated with his condition. If the hand movements are not treated and curbed, they can begin to interfere with his everyday life. However, the family was able to find a solution to the problem -therapeutic horseback riding. The reasons behind the treatment are not fully understood at this time, but his hand movements seem to disappear when he rides the horse."

Study explores early signs of autism | Canada | News | Toronto Sun

Study explores early signs of autism | Canada | News | Toronto Sun: "CALGARY - Infants' response to speech patterns could hold clues to the early detection of autism, say University of Calgary researchers.
A study of infants whose siblings are already diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) suggests recognizing characteristics of early speech development and communication could allow for quicker treatment, said Suzanne Curtin.
'The sooner we can see differences in behaviours that are specific to infants who go on to receive a diagnosis of ASD, the sooner we can send these infants to targeted intervention programs,' said Curtin, head of the U of C's speech development lab."

Research presented at autism conference finds no benefit of special diet, potential link between autism risk and fertility treatment - Wellness - TIME.com

Research presented at autism conference finds no benefit of special diet, potential link between autism risk and fertility treatment - Wellness - TIME.com: "Meanwhile, in a small study analyzing the effect of gluten-free and casein-free diets on autism symptoms — the special diet has been widely embraced in the autism community and praised by controversial autism activist Jenny McCarthy — researchers from the University of Rochester suggest that it actually provides no substantial benefit. (Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat and barley; casein is a protein found in dairy products.)"

Treatment Options and Parent Choice is ABA the only way?

Treatment Options and Parent Choice is ABA the only way?

Randomized, controlled trial of an intervention fo... [Pediatrics. 2010] - PubMed result

Randomized, controlled trial of an intervention fo... [Pediatrics. 2010] - PubMed result: "Randomized, controlled trial of an intervention for toddlers with autism: the Early Start Denver Model.
Dawson G, Rogers S, Munson J, Smith M, Winter J, Greenson J, Donaldson A, Varley J.
Autism Speaks, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA. gdawson@autismspeaks.org"

Using Family Context to Inform Intervention Planning for the Treatment of a Child with Autism — Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions

Using Family Context to Inform Intervention Planning for the Treatment of a Child with Autism — Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions: "Using Family Context to Inform Intervention Planning for the Treatment of a Child with Autism
Doug R. Moes
University of California-Los Angeles
William D. Frea
California State University-Los Angeles"

A two-year prospective follow-up study of community-based early intensive behavioural intervention and specialist nursery provision for children with autism spectrum disorders. Iliana Magiati. 2007; Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry - Wiley InterScience

A two-year prospective follow-up study of community-based early intensive behavioural intervention and specialist nursery provision for children with autism spectrum disorders. Iliana Magiati. 2007; Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry - Wiley InterScience: "A two-year prospective follow-up study of community-based early intensive behavioural intervention and specialist nursery provision for children with autism spectrum disorders
Iliana Magiati 1 , Tony Charman 2 , and Patricia Howlin 1
1 Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, UK ; 2 UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Predictors of Optimal Outcome in Toddlers Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders
JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders"

Parent implemented early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Helen McConachie. 2006; Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice - Wiley InterScience

Parent implemented early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Helen McConachie. 2006; Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice - Wiley InterScience: "Parent implemented early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review
Helen McConachie MA MPhil PhD 1 and Tim Diggle BSc MSc DClin Psych 2
1 Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology, 2 Research Associate, School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Child Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, UK"

Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders -- Myers et al. 120 (5): 1162 -- Pediatrics

Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders -- Myers et al. 120 (5): 1162 -- Pediatrics: "Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Scott M. Myers, MD, Chris Plauché Johnson, MD, MEd the Council on Children With Disabilities
Pediatricians have an important role not only in early recognition and evaluation of autism spectrum disorders but also in chronic management of these disorders. The primary goals of treatment are to maximize the child's ultimate functional independence and quality of life by minimizing the core autism spectrum disorder features, facilitating development and learning, promoting socialization, reducing maladaptive behaviors, and educating and supporting families. To assist pediatricians in educating families and guiding them toward empirically supported interventions for their children, this report reviews the educational strategies and associated therapies that are the primary treatments for children with autism spectrum disorders. Optimization of health care is likely to have a positive effect on habilitative progress, functional outcome, and quality of life; therefore, important issues, such as management of associated medical problems, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic intervention for challenging behaviors or coexisting mental health conditions, and use of complementary and alternative medical treatments, are also addressed."

Joint Attention in Children With Autism — Focus Autism Other Dev Disabl

Joint Attention in Children With Autism — Focus Autism Other Dev Disabl: "Joint Attention in Children With Autism
Theory and Intervention
Emily A. Jones
Southampton College, Long Island University
Edward G. Carr
Department of Psychology at State University of New York at Stony Brook"

Guidelines for Early Identification, Screening, and Clinical Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders -- Greenspan et al. 121 (4): 828 -- Pediatrics

Guidelines for Early Identification, Screening, and Clinical Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders -- Greenspan et al. 121 (4): 828 -- Pediatrics: "Guidelines for Early Identification, Screening, and Clinical Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Stanley I. Greenspan, MDa, T. Berry Brazelton, MDb, José Cordero, MD, MPHc, Richard Solomon, MD, MPH, FAAPd, Margaret L. Bauman, MD, FAANPe, Ricki Robinson, MD, MPH, FAAPf, Stuart Shanker, DPhilg, Cecilia Breinbauer, MD, MPHh"

Focus on autism research - Google Books

Focus on autism research - Google Books: "This new book brings together the latest research in the battle against autism. According to numerous news reports, the increase in special needs children has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. Autism is a complex"

Child: Care, Health & Development - Abstract: Volume 29(5) September 2003 p 357-366 Factors affecting family-centred service delivery for children with disabilities.

Child: Care, Health & Development - Abstract: Volume 29(5) September 2003 p 357-366 Factors affecting family-centred service delivery for children with disabilities.: "Factors affecting family-centred service delivery for children with disabilities."

Expanding Interventions for Children With Autism — Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions

Expanding Interventions for Children With Autism — Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions: "Expanding Interventions for Children With Autism
Parents as Trainers"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Effects of Low-Intensity Behavioral Treatment for Children with Autism and Mental Retardation"

The Effects of an Accelerated Parent Education Program on Technique Mastery and Child Outcome — Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions

The Effects of an Accelerated Parent Education Program on Technique Mastery and Child Outcome — Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions: "The Effects of an Accelerated Parent Education Program on Technique Mastery and Child Outcome"

Engaging Autism: Using the Floortime Approach to Help Children Relate, Communicate, and Think

Engaging Autism: Using the Floortime Approach to Help Children Relate, Communicate, and Think: "Engaging Autism: Using the Floortime Approach to Help Children Relate, Communicate, and Think"

SpringerLink - Book Chapter

SpringerLink - Book Chapter: "The effectiveness of interventions for children with autism"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Effectiveness of a Home Program Intervention for Young Children with Autism"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Direct versus indirect response-reinforcer relationships in teaching autistic children"

The development of a treatment-research project for developmentally disabled and autistic children.

The development of a treatment-research project for developmentally disabled and autistic children.: "The development of a treatment-research project for developmentally disabled and autistic children."

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Designing Research Studies on Psychosocial Interventions in Autism"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Contextualized Behavioral Support in Early Intervention for Children with Autism and Their Families"

Coaching Families and Colleagues: A Process for Collaboratio... : Infants & Young Children

Coaching Families and Colleagues: A Process for Collaboratio... : Infants & Young Children: "Coaching Families and Colleagues: A Process for Collaboration in Natural Settings"

Can one hour per week of therapy lead to lasting changes in young children with autism? -- Vismara et al. 13 (1): 93 -- Autism

Can one hour per week of therapy lead to lasting changes in young children with autism? -- Vismara et al. 13 (1): 93 -- Autism: "Can one hour per week of therapy lead to lasting changes in young children with autism?"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "Can Children with Autism Recover? If So, How?"

The Best Quality Cooperation between Parents and Experts in Early Intervention.

The Best Quality Cooperation between Parents and Experts in Early Intervention.: "The Best Quality Cooperation between Parents and Experts in Early Intervention."

Behavioral Approaches to Promoting Play -- Stahmer et al. 7 (4): 401 -- Autism

Behavioral Approaches to Promoting Play -- Stahmer et al. 7 (4): 401 -- Autism: "Behavioral Approaches to Promoting Play"

SpringerLink - Journal Article

SpringerLink - Journal Article: "The Behaviors of Parents of Children with Autism Predict the Subsequent Development of Their Children's Communication"