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"