Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

How Music Is Used To Facilitate Communication In Speech-Language And Music Therapy For Children With A Diagnosis Of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anna Mcgreevy

Honors College Theses

The goal of this research was to determine how music is being used in speech and music therapy sessions for children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, to discover the most common targets of these therapy sessions, and to examine the anatomical and physiological constructs that support the inclusion of music. This study was a review of literature, and included research from a variety of articles, several written in the past 25 years. Overall, results showed that music-based speech interventions such as Melodic Based Communication Therapy and Developmental Speech and Language Training, as well as music therapy interventions, are …

Effect Of Food Selectivity On Dyslipidemia In Autism Spectrum Disorder, Ankith Rao

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

This survey-based study sought to determine whether there is a correlation between food selectivity and blood lipid levels in autistic patients.

Perceptions Of Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy On Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Via Social Media, Kaitlyn Drilling

Honors Thesis

The use of Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy (ABA) on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a controversial topic. Stakeholders have strong opinions, and the use of social media allows them to reach a bigger audience to share their perceptions. Stakeholders such as parents of children with ASD, adults with ASD who have been treated using ABA therapy, and ABA clinicians themselves may post on long-form social media such as Reddit or Facebook to ASD specific forums. These forums provide stakeholders with information, community, and support that they might not have otherwise. The perceptions of ABA on children with ASD …

A Program To Address Adl Independence For Young Adults With Autism And Sensory Processing Disorder And Their Caregivers, Benjamin Stovall, Ots, Mary Greer, Phd, Otr, Elizabeth Mcbride, Otr

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sensory processing disorder (SPD) often have difficulty understanding the steps to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and may become overstimulated when performing their ADLs. Difficulties performing their ADLs cause dependence on their caregivers, which in turn causes both the client and caregiver to have increased stress and avoidance of these ADLs. Occupational therapists (OT) work with individuals with ASD and SPD, but there is little literature to support OT intervention with young adults or to reduce caregiver stress. This capstone found resources and techniques to improve young adults independence in ADLs …

Sibling Involvement: Highlighting The Influential Role Of Siblings In Supporting Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Gracie Krueger, Robyn Otty

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Social impairments experienced by children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can limit participation in meaningful occupations. Incorporating typically developing siblings of children with ASD in occupational therapy-based community settings is an emerging practice approach that aims to support children with ASD during social challenges to enhance their participation in daily activities. The inclusion of siblings in occupational therapy practice presents a unique opportunity to address social skill development while facilitating positive sibling relationships. In this Opinions in the Profession paper, the influential role siblings play as social models for their siblings with ASD will be examined. The purpose of …

Apigenin Alleviates Autistic-Like Stereotyped Repetitive Behaviors And Mitigates Brain Oxidative Stress In Mice, Petrilla Jayaprakash, Dmytro Isaev, Keun-Hang Susan Yang, Rami Beiram, Murat Oz, Bassem Sadek

Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Sciences Faculty Articles and Research

Studying the involvement of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), specifically α7-nAChRs, in neuropsychiatric brain disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has gained a growing interest. The flavonoid apigenin (APG) has been confirmed in its pharmacological action as a positive allosteric modulator of α7-nAChRs. However, there is no research describing the pharmacological potential of APG in ASD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the subchronic systemic treatment of APG (10–30 mg/kg) on ASD-like repetitive and compulsive-like behaviors and oxidative stress status in the hippocampus and cerebellum in BTBR mice, utilizing the reference drug aripiprazole (ARP, 1 …

Assessing Language Abilities In School-Age Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Practices Of Speech-Language Pathologists, Mckayla M. Sprague, Cassandra Callahan, Tyrell Perrigo, Ran An

SACAD: John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days

Through an online survey conducted with 64 certified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) from 23 U.S. states, this study sheds light on the complex process of assessing language skills in school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The responses gathered reveal the significant challenges SLPs face, stemming from the vast diversity within the ASD spectrum. These insights strongly suggest a need for adopting assessment strategies that are not only more adaptable and thorough, but also deeply mindful of neurodiversity and the distinct communication skills present in children with ASD.

Strategies Over Knowledge: Training Gaps Present In Caring For Patients With Autism Spectrum Disorder For Pediatric And Student Nurses, Jasmine E. Johnson

Honors Thesis

With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence ever increasing among the pediatric population, nurses can expect to see an increase in the number of autistic patients within their clinical practice settings. Previous researchers have shown that pediatric nurses are required to overcome many barriers when working with autistic patients, and adequate training is necessary to achieve genuine patient-centered care. However, parents have reported less than optimal care received by their children with ASD within the healthcare system. Therefore, research is needed to determine where training could be improved for this patient population. This study aimed to identify where training deficits are …

The Ci-Asd Program: Implementation Of Contextual Interventions For Autism Spectrum Disorder (Ci-Asd) With Latino Families (Preliminary Report), Gabriel Gonzalez, Erik Pérez, Angela Blackwell

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience sensory processing differences that affect their participation in daily activities and routines. Autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. However, Latino children are diagnosed two years later than white children. Latino families still have the greatest disparities in accessing ASD resources throughout the U.S. compared to white families. The lack of ASD services and resources led to decreased parental self-efficacy, quality of life, and increased child behavioral problems.

Contextual Interventions Adapted for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CI-ASD) are an emerging intervention for occupational therapy (OT) practitioners. Recent literature shows …

Disabling Conditions Of Para-Alpine Athletes: An Education Series For Ski Instructors, Meghan Hawes, Steven M. Gerardi, Heather Rennerfeldt

Spring 2024 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

Para-alpine ski instructors in the United States need more training on disabling conditions and their definition, deficits, and adaptations for para-alpine skiing; This capstone closes the gap. Para-Alpine skiing is discussed in detail, highlighting instructor training, adaptive equipment, and para-athletes. The disabling conditions of para-athletes are identified along with details related to their para-alpine skiing experience. The methods of this capstone consisted of creating an educational series of videos highlighting five disabling conditions: Autism, spinal cord injuries and conditions, vision impairments, cerebral palsy, and progressive neurodegenerative disorders. The product was presented following a 14-week experience with the National Sports Center …

In This Issue 14:3, Stephen J. Langendorfer Ph.D.

International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education

In This Issue 14:3

Metabolomic Profiles In Jamaican Children With And Without Autism Spectrum Disorder, Akram Yazdani, Maureen Samms-Vaughan, Sepideh Saroukhani, Jan Bressler, Manouchehr Hessabi, Amirali Tahanan, Megan L Grove, Tanja Gangnus, Vasanta Putluri, Abu Hena Mostafa Kamal, Nagireddy Putluri, Katherine A Loveland, Mohammad H Rahbar

Journal Articles

BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with a wide range of behavioral and cognitive impairments. While genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to its etiology, the underlying metabolic perturbations associated with ASD which can potentially connect genetic and environmental factors, remain poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a metabolomic case-control study and performed a comprehensive analysis to identify significant alterations in metabolite profiles between children with ASD and typically developing (TD) controls.

OBJECTIVE: To elucidate potential metabolomic signatures associated with ASD in children and identify specific metabolites that may serve as biomarkers for the disorder. …

Economic Impacts Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Families Of Children With Autism And Other Developmental Disabilities., Olivia M. Pokoski, Hayley Crain, Carolyn Diguiseppi, Sarah M. Furnier, Eric J. Moody, Cy Nadler, Karen Pazol, Jessica Sanders, Lisa D. Wiggins, Maureen S. Durkin

Manuscripts, Articles, Book Chapters and Other Papers

BACKGROUND: To control the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), many jurisdictions throughout the world enacted public health measures that had vast socio-economic implications. In emergency situations, families of children with developmental disabilities (DDs), including autism, may experience increased difficulty accessing therapies, economic hardship, and caregiver stress, with the potential to exacerbate autism symptoms. Yet, limited research exists on the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on families of children with autism or another DD compared to families of children from the general population.

OBJECTIVES: To assess impact of the COVID-19 pandemic related to parental employment and economic difficulties in …

Reducing Emergency Department Visits Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Teri Nguyen

Nursing | Student Research Posters

In the realm of pediatric healthcare, children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face unique challenges alongside their caregivers. Caregivers face challenges in accessing appropriate support and resources to effectively address the needs of children with ASD. Children with ASD struggle with sensory sensitivities, impaired safety awareness, and difficulties perceiving potential dangers which put them at greater risk for injuries. As a result, children with autism have higher rates of emergency department visits compared to their neurotypical peers. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of nurse-led home injury prevention and education in reducing emergency department visits for children with …

Furry Friends & Brighter Futures: Enhancing The Life Skills Of Toddlers With Autism Through Animal Assisted Therapy, Abigail Rosales Tolentino

Nursing | Senior Theses

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a broad spectrum of challenges that impact social interaction, communication, and behavior. While Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) stands as a common therapeutic approach, there is a growing recognition of the need for personalized interventions. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) emerges as a promising avenue for enhancing social interactions. This study focuses on the utilization of dogs in AAT for toddlers aged 12 to 36 months with confirmed ASD diagnoses. The experimental group will undergo a combined intervention involving standard ABA therapy alongside weekly AAT sessions, whereas the control group will receive standard ABA therapy alone. Pre- …

Reducing Emergency Department Visits For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Nurse-Led Home Interventions, Teri Nguyen

Nursing | Senior Theses

In the realm of pediatric healthcare, children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face unique challenges alongside their caregivers. Caregivers face challenges in accessing appropriate support and resources to effectively address the needs of children with ASD. Children with ASD struggle with sensory sensitivities, impaired safety awareness, and difficulties perceiving potential dangers which put them at greater risk for injuries. As a result, children with autism have higher rates of emergency department visits compared to their neurotypical peers. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of nurse-led home injury prevention and education in reducing emergency department visits for children with …

Exploring The Usefulness Of Pre-Visit Materials For Children With Autism At A Public Museum, Jennifer K. Fortuna, Elaine Chamberlain, Libby Filice, Madeline Kurt, Taylor Porter, Shannon Twichell, Stephanie Ogren

Translational Science in Occupation

Abstract

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) participate in community-based settings at lower rates than typically developing children. Museums provide a structured, predictable, and supportive place for children with ASD to learn. Visiting a museum may create unique challenges for children with ASD and their families. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a common barrier to participation that makes it difficult to process information coming in through the senses. For children who are easily overstimulated, crowds, noise, and long lines can be a source of anxiety and stress. Providing pre-visit materials such as social stories, accessibility maps, and communication books can …

Nursing Care Of The Pediatric Patient With Autism, Cayley Frolik

Honors Capstones

The purpose of this project is to help educate current and future nurses on ways to understand and better connect with pediatric patients with autism. Standard nursing curriculum tends to focus primarily on the clinical approach for mainstream patients. In one short year, I recognized a glaring need for nurses to learn how to care for those with autism, as well as how to support and educate their families to create the best environment for whole success. It is very difficult to understand the needs of these specific patients without the proper toolkit. It is my intention to research and …

Exploration Of Occupational Therapy Practice For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders In The Dominican Republic, Katherine Lally, Michelle Messer, Vanessa D. Jewell

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: To better understand the current practice trends of ASD treatment globally and promote practitioner collaboration, it is important to complete studies in countries where little is known about the diagnosis and treatment of ASD through an occupational lens. The aim of this study was to gain an insight into how occupational therapists in the Dominican Republic evaluate and treat children diagnosed with ASD.

Method: This qualitative descriptive study explored the perception of occupational therapists (n = 6) and caregivers of children with ASD (n = 28) through a questionnaire and focus group. Interview transcripts and questionnaire text …

Eeg Functional Connectivity In Infants At Elevated Familial Likelihood For Autism Spectrum Disorder, Christian O'Reilly, Scott Huberty, Stefon Van Noordt, James Desjardins, Nicky Wright, Julie Scorah, Sara Jane Webb, Mayada Elsabbagh, Basis Team

Publications

Background

Many studies have reported that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with atypical structural and functional connectivity. However, we know relatively little about the development of these differences in infancy.

Methods

We used a high-density electroencephalogram (EEG) dataset pooled from two independent infant sibling cohorts, to characterize such neurodevelopmental deviations during the first years of life. EEG was recorded at 6 and 12 months of age in infants at typical (N = 92) or elevated likelihood for ASD (N = 90), determined by the presence of an older sibling with ASD. We computed the functional connectivity between …

Improving The Subjective Well-Being Of Autistic Youth Utilizing A Positive Psychology Intervention, Nicolette Bauermeister

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This study utilized a single-case multiple-baseline design to analyze the effects of a ten-week multi-component positive psychology intervention, the Well-Being Promotion Program, on the subjective well-being of Autistic youth. This thesis addressed a gap in the literature regarding the effectiveness of positive psychology interventions when administered to Autistic middle schoolers. Three Autistic middle schoolers participated in this single-case design study. Dynamic decision-making was used to stagger intervention implementation across the three participants. Life satisfaction and positive/negative affect data were collected via a Qualtrics survey that was administered twice per week. Through visual analysis and Baseline Corrected Tau calculations, it was …

Talking With Horses: Equine Assisted Activities To Promote Social Engagement In Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Amy Ezhaya

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

Purpose of Project: The purpose of this evidenced-based project is to gather data on how therapeutic horseback riding (THR) facilitates social engagement in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The project aims to provide alternative treatment options and disseminate information to providers on the importance of community partnerships.

Background: In 2020, it was estimated that 1 in 54 children had ASD, which is a 170% increase since 2000. Often, those diagnosed with ASD also experience co-occurring mental health diagnoses placing a large burden of care on our healthcare system. THR is a growing alternative treatment option and has been found …

Dynamic Assessment Of Aac Verb Symbols For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Valerie Prieto, Cindy Gevarter, Cathy Binger, Mary Hartley

Speech and Hearing Sciences ETDs

This study used dynamic assessment (DA) with graduated prompting to evaluate whether preschool-aged children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrated learning potential with verb-based augmentative alternative communication (AAC) symbols. Four participants completed DA sessions across three instructional conditions: (a) requesting actions embedded in play, (b) labeling actions embedded in play, and (c) labeling actions presented via video. Performance across these conditions along with a control condition was compared using an adapted multielement single-case design. Three participants demonstrated learning in at least two instructional conditions, and only one showed progress in the control condition. Overall, participants initially required less cueing to …

Contributions To Auditory System Conduction Velocity: Insights With Multi-Modal Neuroimaging And Machine Learning In Children With Asd And Xyy Syndrome, Jeffrey I. Berman, Luke Bloy, Lisa Blaskey, Carissa R. Jackel, Judith S. Miller, Judith Ross, J. Christopher Edgar, Thimothy P.L. Roberts

Department of Pediatrics Faculty Papers

Introduction: The M50 electrophysiological auditory evoked response time can be measured at the superior temporal gyrus with magnetoencephalography (MEG) and its latency is related to the conduction velocity of auditory input passing from ear to auditory cortex. In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and certain genetic disorders such as XYY syndrome, the auditory M50 latency has been observed to be elongated (slowed).

Methods: The goal of this study is to use neuroimaging (diffusion MR and GABA MRS) measures to predict auditory conduction velocity in typically developing (TD) children and children with autism ASD and XYY syndrome.

Results: Non-linear TD …

In This Issue (14:1), Stephen J. Langendorfer Ph.D.

International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education

In This Issue 14:1 introduces and overviews the research and education articles and position statement associated with the first issue of the fourteenth volume of the International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asd), Morgan E. Fambro, Kendahl Schlosser, Carmen H. Ausserer

Client Educational Handouts

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder often caused by genetic predisposition combined with environmental factors. ASD can be present in many different forms and severity levels. On the mild end of the spectrum people are often able to enter into mainstream education and integrate into the workplace with the use of therapeutic learned skills to improve their social skills. On the more severe end of the spectrum, autistic people may never learn functional social skills or ways to communicate. These barriers can be challenging for the autistic person and their family. It is a disorder that is lifelong. Treatments …

Coaching Student Clinicians And Parents To Use Naturalistic Communication Techniques For Children With Signs Of Autism, Erin M. Gallegos

Speech and Hearing Sciences ETDs

In this study, researchers implemented a short-term cascading coaching program focusing on naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions (NDBIs) with three participant triads consisting of a graduate student clinician, a minimally verbal child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or signs of ASD, and the child’s parent. The efficacy of several short-term instruction sessions, in-session coaching, and student clinician parent coaching was evaluated using a multiple baseline across interventionists design. The primary dependent variables were clinician and parent use of elicitation techniques, including creating communication temptations and prompting, and response techniques, including reinforcing child communication and using vocal models. Following targeting coaching, all …

Transition Ready: Improving Transition Planning For Students With Asd In Rural Georgia Using An Occupational Therapy Based Program, Christen Flowers, Keisa Boykin, Thais Petrocelli

Spring 2023 Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium

PURPOSE To develop an occupational therapy based program to educate school staff and personnel about the transition planning process

Developmental Intervention With Cbd On Bdnf Levels And Prosocial Behavior In A Mouse Model Of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Jenika Staben, Josh Kaplan

WWU Honors College Senior Projects

Cannabis-based medicines have emerged as a promising therapeutic for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This manuscript encompasses research investigating the application of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) in treating core symptoms of ASD. Chapter one includes a literature review of the neurodevelopmental etiology and current pharmacological strategies for ASD. The second chapter is a paper illustrating the prosocial effects of CBD and cannabis-inspired terpenes in our mouse model of ASD. The third chapter is a pilot study looking into the developmental pathology and adolescent exposure to CBD as an interventional strategy in our preclinical model. This …

Developmental Intervention With Cbd On Bdnf Levels And Prosocial Behavior In A Mouse Model Of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Jenika Staben, Josh Kaplan

WWU Honors College Senior Projects

Cannabis-based medicines have emerged as a promising therapeutic for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This manuscript encompasses research investigating the application of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) in treating core symptoms of ASD. Chapter one includes a literature review of the neurodevelopmental etiology and current pharmacological strategies for ASD. The second chapter is a paper illustrating the prosocial effects of CBD and cannabis-inspired terpenes in our mouse model of ASD. The third chapter is a pilot study looking into the developmental pathology and adolescent exposure to CBD as an interventional strategy in our preclinical model. This …