Background Psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with epilepsy.Reasons for the co-occurrence of psychiatric conditions and epilepsy remain poorly understood.Aim We aimed to triangulate the relationship betw...Background Psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with epilepsy.Reasons for the co-occurrence of psychiatric conditions and epilepsy remain poorly understood.Aim We aimed to triangulate the relationship between epilepsy and psychiatric conditions to determine the extent and possible origins of these conditions.Methods Using nationwide Swedish health registries,we quantified the lifetime prevalence of psychiatric disorders in patients with epilepsy.We then used summarydata from genome-wide association studies to investigate whether the identified observational associations could be attributed to a shared underlying genetic aetiology using cross-trait linkage disequilibrium score regression.Finally,we assessed the potential bidirectional relationships using two-sample Mendelian randomisation.Results In a cohort of 7628495 individuals,we found that almost half of the 94435 individuals diagnosed with epilepsy were also diagnosed with a psychiatric condition in their lifetime(adjusted lifetime prevalence,44.09%;95%confidence interval(Cl)43.78%to 44.39%).We found evidence for a genetic correlation between epilepsy and some neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions.For example,we observed a genetic correlation between epilepsy and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(r,=0.18,95%Cl 0.09 to 0.27,p<0.001)—a correlation that was more pronounced in focal epilepsy(r=0.23,95%CI 0.09 to 0.36,p<0.001).Findings from Mendelian randomisation using common genetic variants did not support bidirectional effects between epilepsy and neurodevelopmental or psychiatric conditions.Conclusions Psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with epilepsy.Genetic correlations may partially explain some comorbidities;however,there is little evidence of a bidirectional relationship between the genetic liability of epilepsy and psychiatric conditions.These findings highlight the need to understand the role of environmental factors or rare genetic variations in the origins of psychiatric comorbidities in epilepsy.展开更多
AIM: To examine the possible ameliorative effect of breastfeeding and the uptake of human colostrum against coeliac disease in autistic rats. METHODS: Female rats were fed a standard diet and received a single intrape...AIM: To examine the possible ameliorative effect of breastfeeding and the uptake of human colostrum against coeliac disease in autistic rats. METHODS: Female rats were fed a standard diet and received a single intraperitoneal injection of 600 mg/kg sodium valproate on day 12.5 after conception. In study 1, neonatal rats were randomly subjected to blood tests to investigate autism. In study 2, the 1st group was fed by the mother after an injection of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and administration of gliadin. The pups in the 2nd group were prevented from accessing maternal milk, injected IFN-γ, administered gliadin, and hand-fed human colostrum. The normal littermates fed by the table mothers were injected with physiological saline and served as normal controls in this study.RESULTS: The protein concentration was higher in group 2 than in group 1 in the duodenum (161.6 ± 9 and 135.4 ± 7 mg/g of tissue, respectively, P < 0.01). A significant increase (P < 0.001) in body weight was detected in human colostrum-treated pups on post natal day (PND) 7 and 21 vs suckling pups in group 1. A delay in eye opening was noticed in the treated rats in group 1 on PND 13 compared with the control group and group 2. Administration of a single intraperitoneal injection of 600 mg/kg sodium valproate on day 12.5 after conception resulted in significantly reduced calcium and vitamin D levels in study 1 compared with the control groups (P < 0.001). However, human colostrum uptake inhibited increases in the level of transglutaminase antibody in autistic pups with coeliac disease. CONCLUSION: The effects of early-life nutrition and human colostrum on the functional maturation of the duodenal villi in autistic rats with coeliac disease that might limit or prevent the coeliac risk with autism.展开更多
AIM To evaluate the characteristics that are associated with successful transition to school outcomes in preschool aged children with autism.METHODS Twenty-one participants transitioning from an early intervention pro...AIM To evaluate the characteristics that are associated with successful transition to school outcomes in preschool aged children with autism.METHODS Twenty-one participants transitioning from an early intervention program were assessed at two time points; at the end of their preschool placement and approximately 5 mo later following their transition to school. Child characteristics were assessed using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales, Social Communication Questionnaire and the Repetitive Behaviour Scale. Transition outcomes were assessed using Teacher Rating Scale of School Adjustment and the Social Skills Improvement System Rating Scales to provide an understanding of each child's school adjustment. The relationship between child characteristics and school outcomes was evaluated. RESULTS Cognitive ability and adaptive behaviour were shown to be associated with successful transition to school outcomes including participation in the classroom and being comfortable with the classroom teacher. These factors were also associated with social skills in the classroom including assertiveness and engagement. CONCLUSION Supporting children on the spectrum in the domains of adaptive behaviour and cognitive ability, including language skills, is important for a successful transition to school. Providing the appropriate support within structured transition programs will assist children on the spectrum with this important transition, allowing them to maximise their learning and behavioural potential.展开更多
Autism spectrum disorders(ASDs)are complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by dysfunctions in social interactions,abnormal to absent verbal communication,restricted interests,and repetitive stereotypic verb...Autism spectrum disorders(ASDs)are complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by dysfunctions in social interactions,abnormal to absent verbal communication,restricted interests,and repetitive stereotypic verbal and non-verbal behaviors,influencing the ability to relate to and communicate.The core symptoms of ASDs concern the cognitive,emotional,and neurobehavioural domains.The prevalence of autism appears to be increasing at an alarming rate,yet there is a lack of effective and definitive pharmacological options.This has created an increased sense of urgency,and the need to identify novel therapies.Given the growing awareness of immune dysregulation in a significant portion of the autistic population,cell therapies have been proposed and applied to ASDs.In particular,mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)possess the immunological properties which make them promising candidates in regenerative medicine.MSC therapy may be applicable to several diseases associated with inflammation and tissue damage,where subsequent regeneration and repair is necessary.MSCs could exert a positive effect in ASDs through the following mechanisms:stimulation of repair in the damaged tissue,e.g.,inflammatory bowel disease;synthesizing and releasing anti-inflammatory cytokines and survival-promoting growth factors;integrating into existing neural and synaptic network,and restoring plasticity.The paracrine mechanisms of MSCs show interesting potential in ASD treatment.Promising and impressive results have been reported from the few clinical studies published to date,although the exact mechanisms of action of MSCs in ASDs to restore functions are still largely unknown.The potential role of MSCs in mediating ASD recovery is discussed in light of the newest findings from recent clinical studies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Differential diagnosis,comorbidities and overlaps with other psychiatric disorders are common among adults with autism spectrum disorder(ASD),but clinical assessments often omit screening for personality di...BACKGROUND Differential diagnosis,comorbidities and overlaps with other psychiatric disorders are common among adults with autism spectrum disorder(ASD),but clinical assessments often omit screening for personality disorders(PD),which are especially common in individuals with high-functioning ASD where there is less need for support.AIM To summarize the research findings on PD in adults with ASD and without intellectual disability,focusing on comorbidity and differential diagnosis.METHODS PubMed searches were performed using the key words“Asperger’s Syndrome”,“Autism”,“Personality”,“Personality disorder”and“comorbidity”in order to identify relevant articles published in English.Grey literature was identified through searching Google Scholar.The literature reviews and reference sections of selected papers were also examined for additional potential studies.The search was restricted to studies published up to April 2020.This review is based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method.RESULTS The search found 22 studies carried out on ASD adults without intellectual disability that met the inclusion criteria:16 evaluated personality profiles or PD in ASD(comorbidity),five compared ASD and PD(differential diagnosis)and one performed both tasks.There were significant differences in the methodological Cluster A and cluster C PD are the most frequent co-occurring PD,but overlapping features should be considered.Data on differential diagnosis were only found with cluster A and cluster B PD.CONCLUSION ASD in high-functioning adults is associated with a distinct personality profile even if variability exists.Further studies are needed to explore the complex relationship between ASD and PD.展开更多
AIM To identify factors that promote a positive start to school for children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD).METHODS Web of Science,MEDLINE,Scopus,and Psych INFO searches were conducted to identify literature publi...AIM To identify factors that promote a positive start to school for children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD).METHODS Web of Science,MEDLINE,Scopus,and Psych INFO searches were conducted to identify literature published after 1991 and relevant to school transition processes in children with ASD.Twenty studies were deemed eligible for inclusion.These studies evaluated a range of factors including school readiness,parent and teacher perspectives on transition practices,characteristics of children with ASD that are associated with successful transition to school and the impact of school based intervention programs.RESULTS A review of these studies showed that children with ASD are less school ready emotionally than their peers and those children with ASD appear to have more externalising behaviours and self-regulation difficulties that affect their school engagement and their relationships with their teachers.There was a paucity of research looking at interventions targeting school readiness.However,school-based behavioural interventions appear to improve cognitive,language and daily living skills,but have less impact on socialisation and peer inclusion.CONCLUSION Children with ASD face more challenges transitioning to school,particularly with social interaction.Further development and implementation of specific schoolbased interventions is needed in order to assist children with autism to maximise their success in starting school.展开更多
Introduction: Africa was noted as a challenging place for allied health care professions including occupational therapy. Those challenges include promotion of occupational therapy and educational program. The Universi...Introduction: Africa was noted as a challenging place for allied health care professions including occupational therapy. Those challenges include promotion of occupational therapy and educational program. The University of Rwanda started the occupational therapy training program in 2014 with support of different stakeholders such as Humanity & Inclusion (HI), Rwanda. Aim: This study aimed to explore the contribution of different stakeholders in the development of occupational therapy programs and impact on the profession in Rwanda. Methods: A survey and mixed method of qualitative and quantitative approach was used. Client satisfaction questionnaire, semi-structured self-generated questionnaire were administered to the participants. Results: The majority of occupational therapists were between 20 and 30 years old and only half of the entire population were employed. Majority of the involved Universities excellently achieved their responsibilities. However, few of them reported to have achieved only 50% of their responsibilities. Other contributors like lecturers reported to have excellently achieved their duties while others reported to have achieved only 50%. Non-Governmental Organizations reported to contribute to enough level however there were some organizations contributed to the lowest level below 50%. The client receiving the Occupational Therapy services showed that they are very satisfied at the level of 73.5%, satisfied at 59% and not all satisfied at 20%. Conclusion: This study concluded that there is need for various stakeholders’ contributions, and a need for further study to explore the impact of occupational therapy profession in rehabilitation healthcare system of Rwanda.展开更多
基金the National Institutes of Health(1R01NS107607-01A1)Erik and Edith Fernstrom Foundation for Medical Research(2020-00321)+5 种基金Karolinska Institutet(2020-00160,2020-01172)the Swedish Society for Medical Research(RM21-0005)This study was also supported by the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at the University of Bristol and University Hospitals Bristol and the Weston NHS Foundation TrustThe Medical Research Council(MRC)and the University of Bristol supported the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit(MC_UU_00011/1)NMD was supported by the Norwegian Research Council(grant number 295989)The Swedish Research Council(523-2010-1052)supports the(Psychiatry Sweden)register linkage.
文摘Background Psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with epilepsy.Reasons for the co-occurrence of psychiatric conditions and epilepsy remain poorly understood.Aim We aimed to triangulate the relationship between epilepsy and psychiatric conditions to determine the extent and possible origins of these conditions.Methods Using nationwide Swedish health registries,we quantified the lifetime prevalence of psychiatric disorders in patients with epilepsy.We then used summarydata from genome-wide association studies to investigate whether the identified observational associations could be attributed to a shared underlying genetic aetiology using cross-trait linkage disequilibrium score regression.Finally,we assessed the potential bidirectional relationships using two-sample Mendelian randomisation.Results In a cohort of 7628495 individuals,we found that almost half of the 94435 individuals diagnosed with epilepsy were also diagnosed with a psychiatric condition in their lifetime(adjusted lifetime prevalence,44.09%;95%confidence interval(Cl)43.78%to 44.39%).We found evidence for a genetic correlation between epilepsy and some neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions.For example,we observed a genetic correlation between epilepsy and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(r,=0.18,95%Cl 0.09 to 0.27,p<0.001)—a correlation that was more pronounced in focal epilepsy(r=0.23,95%CI 0.09 to 0.36,p<0.001).Findings from Mendelian randomisation using common genetic variants did not support bidirectional effects between epilepsy and neurodevelopmental or psychiatric conditions.Conclusions Psychiatric comorbidities are common in patients with epilepsy.Genetic correlations may partially explain some comorbidities;however,there is little evidence of a bidirectional relationship between the genetic liability of epilepsy and psychiatric conditions.These findings highlight the need to understand the role of environmental factors or rare genetic variations in the origins of psychiatric comorbidities in epilepsy.
基金Supported by The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabiathe NPST Health Research and Studies program at King Saud University
文摘AIM: To examine the possible ameliorative effect of breastfeeding and the uptake of human colostrum against coeliac disease in autistic rats. METHODS: Female rats were fed a standard diet and received a single intraperitoneal injection of 600 mg/kg sodium valproate on day 12.5 after conception. In study 1, neonatal rats were randomly subjected to blood tests to investigate autism. In study 2, the 1st group was fed by the mother after an injection of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and administration of gliadin. The pups in the 2nd group were prevented from accessing maternal milk, injected IFN-γ, administered gliadin, and hand-fed human colostrum. The normal littermates fed by the table mothers were injected with physiological saline and served as normal controls in this study.RESULTS: The protein concentration was higher in group 2 than in group 1 in the duodenum (161.6 ± 9 and 135.4 ± 7 mg/g of tissue, respectively, P < 0.01). A significant increase (P < 0.001) in body weight was detected in human colostrum-treated pups on post natal day (PND) 7 and 21 vs suckling pups in group 1. A delay in eye opening was noticed in the treated rats in group 1 on PND 13 compared with the control group and group 2. Administration of a single intraperitoneal injection of 600 mg/kg sodium valproate on day 12.5 after conception resulted in significantly reduced calcium and vitamin D levels in study 1 compared with the control groups (P < 0.001). However, human colostrum uptake inhibited increases in the level of transglutaminase antibody in autistic pups with coeliac disease. CONCLUSION: The effects of early-life nutrition and human colostrum on the functional maturation of the duodenal villi in autistic rats with coeliac disease that might limit or prevent the coeliac risk with autism.
基金Supported by Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism(Autism CRC)established and supported under the Australian Government's Cooperative Research Centres Program as well as funding from the Commonwealth Department of Social Services
文摘AIM To evaluate the characteristics that are associated with successful transition to school outcomes in preschool aged children with autism.METHODS Twenty-one participants transitioning from an early intervention program were assessed at two time points; at the end of their preschool placement and approximately 5 mo later following their transition to school. Child characteristics were assessed using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales, Social Communication Questionnaire and the Repetitive Behaviour Scale. Transition outcomes were assessed using Teacher Rating Scale of School Adjustment and the Social Skills Improvement System Rating Scales to provide an understanding of each child's school adjustment. The relationship between child characteristics and school outcomes was evaluated. RESULTS Cognitive ability and adaptive behaviour were shown to be associated with successful transition to school outcomes including participation in the classroom and being comfortable with the classroom teacher. These factors were also associated with social skills in the classroom including assertiveness and engagement. CONCLUSION Supporting children on the spectrum in the domains of adaptive behaviour and cognitive ability, including language skills, is important for a successful transition to school. Providing the appropriate support within structured transition programs will assist children on the spectrum with this important transition, allowing them to maximise their learning and behavioural potential.
文摘Autism spectrum disorders(ASDs)are complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by dysfunctions in social interactions,abnormal to absent verbal communication,restricted interests,and repetitive stereotypic verbal and non-verbal behaviors,influencing the ability to relate to and communicate.The core symptoms of ASDs concern the cognitive,emotional,and neurobehavioural domains.The prevalence of autism appears to be increasing at an alarming rate,yet there is a lack of effective and definitive pharmacological options.This has created an increased sense of urgency,and the need to identify novel therapies.Given the growing awareness of immune dysregulation in a significant portion of the autistic population,cell therapies have been proposed and applied to ASDs.In particular,mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)possess the immunological properties which make them promising candidates in regenerative medicine.MSC therapy may be applicable to several diseases associated with inflammation and tissue damage,where subsequent regeneration and repair is necessary.MSCs could exert a positive effect in ASDs through the following mechanisms:stimulation of repair in the damaged tissue,e.g.,inflammatory bowel disease;synthesizing and releasing anti-inflammatory cytokines and survival-promoting growth factors;integrating into existing neural and synaptic network,and restoring plasticity.The paracrine mechanisms of MSCs show interesting potential in ASD treatment.Promising and impressive results have been reported from the few clinical studies published to date,although the exact mechanisms of action of MSCs in ASDs to restore functions are still largely unknown.The potential role of MSCs in mediating ASD recovery is discussed in light of the newest findings from recent clinical studies.
文摘BACKGROUND Differential diagnosis,comorbidities and overlaps with other psychiatric disorders are common among adults with autism spectrum disorder(ASD),but clinical assessments often omit screening for personality disorders(PD),which are especially common in individuals with high-functioning ASD where there is less need for support.AIM To summarize the research findings on PD in adults with ASD and without intellectual disability,focusing on comorbidity and differential diagnosis.METHODS PubMed searches were performed using the key words“Asperger’s Syndrome”,“Autism”,“Personality”,“Personality disorder”and“comorbidity”in order to identify relevant articles published in English.Grey literature was identified through searching Google Scholar.The literature reviews and reference sections of selected papers were also examined for additional potential studies.The search was restricted to studies published up to April 2020.This review is based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method.RESULTS The search found 22 studies carried out on ASD adults without intellectual disability that met the inclusion criteria:16 evaluated personality profiles or PD in ASD(comorbidity),five compared ASD and PD(differential diagnosis)and one performed both tasks.There were significant differences in the methodological Cluster A and cluster C PD are the most frequent co-occurring PD,but overlapping features should be considered.Data on differential diagnosis were only found with cluster A and cluster B PD.CONCLUSION ASD in high-functioning adults is associated with a distinct personality profile even if variability exists.Further studies are needed to explore the complex relationship between ASD and PD.
基金the financial support of the Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC),established and supported under the Australian Government’s Cooperative Research Centres Program as well as funding from the Commonwealth Department of Social Services
文摘AIM To identify factors that promote a positive start to school for children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD).METHODS Web of Science,MEDLINE,Scopus,and Psych INFO searches were conducted to identify literature published after 1991 and relevant to school transition processes in children with ASD.Twenty studies were deemed eligible for inclusion.These studies evaluated a range of factors including school readiness,parent and teacher perspectives on transition practices,characteristics of children with ASD that are associated with successful transition to school and the impact of school based intervention programs.RESULTS A review of these studies showed that children with ASD are less school ready emotionally than their peers and those children with ASD appear to have more externalising behaviours and self-regulation difficulties that affect their school engagement and their relationships with their teachers.There was a paucity of research looking at interventions targeting school readiness.However,school-based behavioural interventions appear to improve cognitive,language and daily living skills,but have less impact on socialisation and peer inclusion.CONCLUSION Children with ASD face more challenges transitioning to school,particularly with social interaction.Further development and implementation of specific schoolbased interventions is needed in order to assist children with autism to maximise their success in starting school.
文摘Introduction: Africa was noted as a challenging place for allied health care professions including occupational therapy. Those challenges include promotion of occupational therapy and educational program. The University of Rwanda started the occupational therapy training program in 2014 with support of different stakeholders such as Humanity & Inclusion (HI), Rwanda. Aim: This study aimed to explore the contribution of different stakeholders in the development of occupational therapy programs and impact on the profession in Rwanda. Methods: A survey and mixed method of qualitative and quantitative approach was used. Client satisfaction questionnaire, semi-structured self-generated questionnaire were administered to the participants. Results: The majority of occupational therapists were between 20 and 30 years old and only half of the entire population were employed. Majority of the involved Universities excellently achieved their responsibilities. However, few of them reported to have achieved only 50% of their responsibilities. Other contributors like lecturers reported to have excellently achieved their duties while others reported to have achieved only 50%. Non-Governmental Organizations reported to contribute to enough level however there were some organizations contributed to the lowest level below 50%. The client receiving the Occupational Therapy services showed that they are very satisfied at the level of 73.5%, satisfied at 59% and not all satisfied at 20%. Conclusion: This study concluded that there is need for various stakeholders’ contributions, and a need for further study to explore the impact of occupational therapy profession in rehabilitation healthcare system of Rwanda.
