
Tailoring Treatment Targets for Early Autism Intervention in Africa
Autism Spectrum DisorderNaturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs), an evidence-based early autism spectrum disorder (ASD) intervention approach, target key behaviors that help language development. While efforts to use NDBIs are increasing worldwide, important gaps in our knowledge remain on whether the behaviors targeted by NDBIs are cross-culturally valid. This study in South Africa, a multi-cultural setting, will provide critical information on NDBI treatment targets and a novel digital outcome measure of treatment response. COVID-19 adaptations: We aim to develop and implement telehealth NDBI coaching and utilize a mixed methods approach to gather implementation and preliminary effectiveness data on the telehealth intervention.

Effectiveness of Picture Exchange Communication System on Gingival Health of Children With Autism...
Autism Spectrum DisorderThe Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a communication system for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a PECS-based tooth-brushing program on gingival health in children with ASD and assess parents' perception of PECS. This was a prospective interventional study. Using PECS as a pictures/cards series showing a structured tooth-brushing method, 37 children with ASD (31 males, 6 females) (average age 9.49±4.10, 4-16 years) and their parents/caregivers were trained on tooth-brushing twice, two weeks apart. Data collected after examinations (baseline, 3, 6-months) included gingival and plaque indices (GI, PI) and two questionnaires (baseline, 6-months) for demographic data and parents' perception of PECS including: difficulty rating (easy, hard, very hard) and PECS usefulness.

From Molecules to Cognition: Inhibitory Mechanisms in ASD and NF1
Autism Spectrum DisorderNeurofibromatosis 1This study aims to investigate synaptic physiology and behavioral inhibition in patients with NF1 and ASD and to answer whether inhibitory deficits at these levels are modulated by lovastatin. Structure: (1) Visit 1: Baseline assessment- participant's characterization, baseline outcome measures and additional evaluations, (2) 3 consecutive days of physiologically probing drug/placebo intake, (3) Visit 2: Outcome measures and additional evaluations in the day after the last drug/placebo intake, (4) Washout period of 4 to 6 weeks, (5) 3 consecutive days of drug/placebo intake, (6) Visit 3: Outcome measures and additional evaluations in the day after the last placebo/drug intake.

Ayres Sensory Integration Therapy on Occupational Performance in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder...
Autism Spectrum DisorderAyres Sensory Integration (ASI) Therapy is an individualized intervention designed to address specific underlying sensorimotor issues that may affect children's performance during daily routines and occupations. The intervention takes place in the context of play, emphasizes the active participation of the child, involves a collaborative relationship between the occupational therapist and the child, and focuses on participation-oriented outcomes that are collected at regular intervals throughout the intervention program. In general, its content is to improve the child's occupational performance. The program, which will be carried out in accordance with the Ayres Sensory Integration Fidelity Measure®, it is aimed to reduce the autism-specific symptoms of the child with autism and the dependence of the child on the caregiver in self-care activities. It is predicted that this whole process will increase the participation and his performance of the child with autism in his occupations related to his daily life. H0: Ayres Sensory Integration Therapy has no effect on the occupational performance of the child with autism spectrum disorder.

Examining the Active Ingredients of Consultation to Improve Implementation of a Parent-mediated...
Autism Spectrum DisorderParent-mediated interventions are considered best practice for treating children with autism spectrum disorder, but these interventions are underutilized in community settings. Implementation strategies like consultation can improve the implementation of these interventions, but little is known about the active ingredients of consultation. This study uses an experimental design (ABCD single-case design with multiple baselines) to identify the active ingredients of a consultation model designed to support the implementation of a parent-mediated intervention for autism spectrum disorder in a low-resourced community mental health system.

Brain Imaging of Intranasal Oxytocin Treatment in Autism
Autism Spectrum DisordersThis is a 4 part study: Phase 1a. -functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) ( with oxytocin 24 IU vs. placebo = oxytocin 0 IU) - funded by grant #U54 HD079124-01, Phase 1b-eye-tracking(oxytocin 24 IU vs. placebo = oxytocin 0 IU), Phase 2a. fMRI (oxytocin 8 IU vs. oxytocin 40IU), Phase 2b. -eye-tracking (oxytocin 8IU vs. oxytocin 40IU). Time course of effect will also be assessed within session.

Characterisation of Circadian Rhythm in Autistic Spectrum Disorder
Autistic DisorderAutism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by deficits in social communication, delay in language and repetitive behaviors. Results from genetic studies reveal one pathway associated with susceptibility to ASDs, which includes synaptic cell adhesion molecules. Among the factors that could modulate this pathway are the genes controlling circadian rhythms. Sleep disorders and low melatonin levels are frequently observed in ASDs. Thus investigator will characterize the circadian rhythms of patients with ASD and search for circadian rhythms genes polymorphisms.

Translating Evidence-based Interventions for ASD: Multi-Level Implementation Strategy
Autism Spectrum DisorderThe purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of the "Translating Evidence-based Interventions (EBI) for ASD: Multi-Level Implementation Strategy" (TEAMS) model on provider-level implementation outcomes when used to enhance provider training in two evidence-based interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The TEAMS- Leadership Institute (TLI) module includes training to program/school district leaders in implementation of EBI, and the TEAMS Individualized Provider Strategy for Training (TIPS) module applies Motivational Interviewing strategies to facilitate individual provider behavior change. TEAMS will be tested in combination with two clinical interventions in two community service setting contexts (1) AIM HI intervention in mental health programs and (2) CPRT intervention in schools. It is expected that the addition of TLI and / or TIPS will improve use of EBI by community providers.

Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Autism Replication Evaluation
Autism Spectrum DisorderECHO Autism was intended to assess rigorously the impact of a 12-session telemedicine training program on participating Primary Care Providers (PCP) knowledge, clinical behavior, and self-efficacy in the screening and care of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Each session is referred to as an "ECHO clinic".

SeRenade Parent-Child Music Class Program
Autism Spectrum DisorderThis pilot study examines the impact of the SeRenade Parent-Child Music Class Program, which emphasizes parent training, peer inclusion, and musical play combined with established behavioral techniques, on the development of child social engagement, positive behavior, and parental well-being.