Active clinical trials for "Child Development Disorders, Pervasive"

Background: the autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be related with abnormalities in cortical structures and cause behavior imbalances. In addition, as soon as the diagnosis is done, the better will be the prognosis. In this context, heart rate variability (HRV) stands out, which is a non-invasive tool representing autonomic modulation, with potential prognostic value. The literature showed there are no changes in HRV at rest using linear methods of analysis, but changes can be identified during tasks. Nonlinear methods of HRV are more sensitive and provide additional information to the linear. Objective: to analyze autonomic modulation using nonlinear and linear indexes of HRV in children with ASD at rest and during tasks in comparison to typical children. In addition, to correlate HRV analysis between them, also between behavior and severity of the disease. Methods: this study involves both typical children and children with ASD. Autonomic modulation will be performed using nonlinear indices (extracted from Poincaré plot, detrended fluctuation of tendency analysis and recurrence plot) and linear indices of HRV in the time (RMSSD e SDNN) and frequency domain (LF, HF, VLF). The tasks consist in games to identify and recognize faces and facial expressions. Behavior and severity of the disease will be evaluated using the Autism Behavior Checklist and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale respectively. Statistical Analysis: to identify differences between moments and protocols two-way analysis of variance will be used along with the Bonferroni post-test or Dunn post-test according to the data distribution. Statistical significance will be set at 5%.

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

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.

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.