Active clinical trials for "Child Development Disorders, Pervasive"

Specific Aims: This study aims to examine the hypothesis that individuals with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their unaffected siblings shared alterations in gray and white matter volume and their associated intrinsic functional connectivity, to build upon limited literature about neuroimaging endophenotypes of ASD. The investigators also aim to test whether these shared differences are associated with behavioral autistic traits.

A significant group of children with functional constipation (FC) continues to have symptoms despite recommended standard therapy. Underlying psychiatric problems could explain therapy resistance. However, a work-up for psychiatric problems is only recommended after unsuccessful 6 months standard therapy. Earlier detection and check-up could lead to faster start-up of a more adequate therapy. Therefore, we investigate the prevalence of emotional, behavioural and social problems in the FC-population at the first contact with a paediatric gastroenterologist in a tertiary care hospital.

Analyze, describe, and understand how the human gut microbiome (i.e. bacteriome and mycobiome) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are related.

The proposed pilot study will begin to assess whether driving impairments are included in the functional deficits associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). This will be completed by obtaining data on velocity, collision risk, and visual attention of subjects with ASDs who drive in a simulator. The study includes 2-3 visits for the screening period (approximately 6 hours of assessments) and one driving simulation visit (approximately 2.5 hours). The investigators expect to enroll 20 adolescents and adults (ages 16-50, inclusive) who have been identified as having an ASD from a prior diagnosis or participation in community conferences for individuals with ASDs.

The purpose of this study is to develop an Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) based neurological screening method to detect increased risk for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other neurological conditions in newborns.

The main objective for this research study is to gather additional information to help confirm identification of new subgroups within the autism spectrum.

Although motor limitations are not currently considered a as clinical manifestation of autism spectrum disorder, they should not be ignored due to their high incidence and considerable influence on life quality functional activity

The purpose of this study is tTho establish test-retest reliability of electrodermal markers used to quantify physiologic response to sensation using the Sensory Challenge Protocol in children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

There are three purposes to this study. The first purpose is to evaluate the value of a genetic test in determining risk for autism spectrum disorder. Processing for genetic samples will be completed at the Cleveland Clinic using research equipment provided by IntegraGen. The second purpose is to identify genetic changes that may be associated with autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The third purpose is to examine whether genetic differences and changes may predict which individuals benefit from medicine used to treat attention problems or other psychiatric difficulties. Between 600-800 people are expected to participate in this study - approximately 300 individuals with an autism spectrum disorder, 75 individuals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder or another developmental or psychiatric disorder, 100 healthy siblings, and 125 unrelated individuals without a developmental or psychiatric disorder. Study procedures will vary based upon the specific group participants are suspected to fall into (autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, psychiatric concerns/developmental delay, healthy sibling, or unrelated healthy control). All individuals will be asked to participate in a cheek swab (gently swabbing the inside of your cheek) to obtain cells used for genetic testing. Genetic material will be stored with identifiers such as numbers, letters or codes. Parents or caregivers will be asked to complete questionnaires that examine medical and family history as well as current symptoms and quality of life for the participant. Participants may undergo speech and language testing. This involves answering questions, looking at pictures or identifying items. Information recorded in participant medical records will be reviewed and collected for this study.

The overarching aim of the study is to characterize children and adults with ASDs, and compare them with age-matched controls in relation to their functioning in family, academic, employment, and social spheres. Subjects will be comprehensively assessed in multiple non-overlapping domains of functioning, using psychiatric, cognitive, and psychosocial instruments.