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"

Vitamin D Recommendations for Kids

Vitamin D Benefits: Researchers recommend a goal of 40-60ng/ml 25-OH vitamin D levels (60-75ng/ml for cancer patients per cancer researcher Donald Trump, MD). The benefits of sufficient 25-OH vitamin D levels include preventing rickets, strengthening muscles, bones and teeth, lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of falling, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular disease and death from all causes, as well as boosting the immune system against viruses (including influenza), bacteria, and tuberculosis. Vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of depression, preeclampsia in pregnancy and perhaps even autism.
Please read the rest of the article including precautions here.

Sun-sational Vitamin D: D-fense against disease

Preliminary research has also suggested a connection between low vitamin D levels and dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and autism. It seems that lacking this type of vitamin plays a role in the development or progression of most chronic diseases.
Click here to read the rest of the article.

Asperger Syndrome, Autism, And Empathy: Study Links 27 Genes

ScienceDaily (July 16, 2009) — Scientists from the University of Cambridge have identified 27 genes that are associated with either Asperger Syndrome (AS) and/or autistic traits and/or empathy. The research will be published July 16 in the journal Autism Research. This is the first candidate gene study of its kind.
Click here to read the rest of the article.

Dr. Anthony Alessi: Sports can help autistic children

When a child is diagnosSports can help autistic childrened with autism, parents are rightly concerned. Autism should not exclude anyone from participation in sports, and exercise and fitness should be encouraged as a form of therapy.
Click here to read the article.

New gene for autism gives hope for future

The University of Aberdeen finding could hold the key to the future development of new treatments for autism - a brain development disorder which affects how a person communicates and relates to others.
To read the article click here.

Magnetism tested as autism treatment

LOUISVILLE, Ky., June 24 (UPI) -- A neuroscientist says a project he is working on at the University of Louisville in Kentucky uses magnetism to treat individuals with autism.
Dr. Manuel Casanova said rather than providing autism sufferers with medication, his research team has been exposing patients' brains to a low-frequency magnetic field to help them in their battle against the medical condition, the Louisville (Ky.) Courier-Journal said Tuesday.
To read the article, click here.

Weighted Belt for Autism? -- Research Summary

Click here to read the article.

Popular Autism Treatment Yields No Benefits

Popular Autism Treatment Yields No Benefits
By SHIRLEY S. WANG
Kids with autism don't benefit from treatment with the popularly prescribed antidepressant citalopram, according to a large, government-funded trial of children with autism and related conditions.
Click above to read the article.

Lessons From The Vaccine-autism Wars

Lessons From The Vaccine-autism Wars

ScienceDaily (May 27, 2009) — Researchers long ago rejected the theory that vaccines cause autism, yet many parents don't believe them. Can scientists bridge the gap between evidence and doubt?

Please click the above link to read the article.

Asperger's Diagnoses May Redefine What Is Normal

Asperger's Diagnoses May Redefine What Is Normal
May 23, 2009 08:00 AM
by Sarah Amandolare
Instead of looking for cures for those with autism spectrum disorders, some think society should value their special gifts.

Please click the above link to read the article.

Pressurized Chamber Treatments May Help Kids With Autism

Pressurized Chamber Treatments May Help Kids With Autism

This is very controversial and there are many professionals who say this is absolutely bunk, and perhaps even dangerous; however, if the researchis valid, conducted under a good objective design, it is worth looking at more closely and worth posting here for you to decide.

Pete

Interesting article; but please do not become overly optomistic.

Research suggests children can recover from autism

It would be more accurate that some children can recover from autism. Somewhere between 6 and 25%. The research also indicates that this applies to young children with a higher functioning type of autism. Here are some of the positive predictors:

PDD/NOS diagnosis in lieu of a diagnosis of Autism was a better predictor.
Earlier joint attention also a good predictor
Higher skills in imitation, language and social interest also provided some positive prediction

Good behavioral intervention a positive.

Help to understand research

As mentioned above, if you have any questions about these articles or if you have questions about the research at the Quality Treatment for Children web page, please ask in these comments sections and I will do my best to explain what the research means. This is a place to make sense on articles and research on Autism and Asbergers.

Research Offers Hope for Autism Blood Test

Research Offers Hope for Autism Blood Test