Evaluación funcional de niños, niñas y adolescentes con diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro autista en Argentina: estudio multicéntrico TEA-CIFunciona / Functional assessment of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder in Argentina: ICF-ASD multicenter study

Introducción. El trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) se caracteriza por dificultades de comunicación social y comportamientos repetitivos y estereotipados. Además de la categoría diagnóstica, las actividades que los niños, niñas y adolescentes (NNyA) pueden realizar y la participación social son los aspectos principales por considerar desde el marco de la Clasificación Internacional del Funcionamiento, la Discapacidad y la Salud (CIF), propuesta por la Organización Mundial de la Salud, para describir los estados de salud. En una investigación previa, elaboramos la primera versión de una herramienta pediátrica basada en la CIF llamada TEA-CIFunciona para evaluación funcional de NNyA con diagnóstico de TEA, que permitió captar características funcionales adaptadas a nuestro contexto cultural. Se propuso como objetivo posterior aplicar TEA-CIFunciona en formato multicéntrico para evaluar NNyA de diferentes regiones, revisar y actualizar la herramienta, e identificar barreras y facilitadores. Población y métodos. Se administró TEA-CIFunciona versión 1.0 a NNyA con diagnóstico confirmado de TEA (según criterios del DSM-5), menores de 16 años, en seguimiento en cinco centros de atención pediátrica del país. Resultados. Se obtuvo la versión 2.0 de TEA-CIFunciona con 34 categorías (10 funciones corporales, 15 actividades y participación, y 9 factores ambientales). Se elaboró el perfil funcional de la muestra completa (n = 308). Conclusiones. La versión actualizada de TEA-CIFunciona contribuye a estandarizar y a sistematizar la obtención de información necesaria para adecuar el seguimiento de los NNyA con TEA a nivel nacional. Además, permite identificar barreras por superar y facilitadores para generalizar

Introduction. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by difficulties in social communication and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. In addition to the diagnostic category, the activities performed by children and adolescents and their social involvement are the main aspects to be considered according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) proposed by the World Health Organization to describe health status. In a previous study, we developed the first version of a pediatric tool based on the ICF called ICF-ASD for the functional assessment of children and adolescents with ASD to capture functional characteristics adapted to our cultural setting. Our subsequent objective was to apply the ICF-ASD in a multicenter format to assess children and adolescents from different regions, review, and update it, and identify barriers and facilitators. Population and methods. The ICF-ASD version 1.0 was administered to children and adolescents younger than 16 years with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD (as per DSM-5 criteria), who were receiving follow-up at 5 children's health centers across Argentina. Results. Version 2.0 of the ICF-ASD was obtained, which included 34 categories (10 under body function, 15 under activities and participation, and 9 under environmental factors). A functional profile was developed for the whole sample (n = 308). Conclusions. The updated version of the ICF-ASD helps to standardize and systematize the collection of necessary data for an adequate follow-up of children and adolescents with ASD at a national level. It also allows to identify barriers to overcome and facilitators to be generalized

Sistema de juegos inclusivos para el desarrollo de la coordinación motriz en estudiantes con trastorno del espectro autista

La Educación Física ha demostrado ser una herramienta eficaz para desarrollar condiciones físicas y mentales en el ser humano. Sin embargo, aún las propuestas a favor de hacer realidad la educación inclusiva en estudiantes con trastorno del espectro autista no logra los niveles mundialmente esperados. Es por ello que en esta obra se plantea como objetivo diseñar un sistema de juegos inclusivos para el desarrollo de la coordinación motriz en estudiantes con trastorno del espectro autista, en la clase de Educación Física. Para lograr este propósito se emplearon como métodos fundamentales del nivel empírico la encuesta, la prueba pedagógica y la observación. Los resultados del diagnóstico apuntan a un deficiente conocimiento por parte de los docentes de Educación Física sobre el tratamiento de los estudiantes con este trastorno, por lo que se procede a la tarea de elaborar un sistema de juegos para el desarrollo de la coordinación motriz que gradualmente los incorpore a la socialización en el grupo, y un sistema evaluativo pertinente donde se pudieron apreciar resultados superiores cuantitativa y cualitativamente.

A Educação Física tem se mostrado uma ferramenta eficaz para desenvolver as condições físicas e mentais do ser humano. No entanto, mesmo as propostas a favor de tornar a educação inclusiva uma realidade para alunos com perturbação do espectro do autismo não atingem os níveis globalmente esperados. Por isso o objetivo deste trabalho é desenhar um sistema de jogos inclusivos para o desenvolvimento da coordenação motora em alunos com transtorno do espectro do autismo, na aula de Educação Física. Para atingir este propósito, o inquérito, o teste pedagógico e a observação foram utilizados como métodos fundamentais a nível empírico. Os resultados do diagnóstico apontam para pouco conhecimento por parte dos professores de Educação Física sobre o tratamento dos alunos com esse transtorno, por isso passam à tarefa de desenvolver um sistema de jogos para o desenvolvimento da coordenação motora que os incorpore gradativamente à socialização em o grupo, e um sistema avaliativo pertinente onde resultados superiores pudessem ser vistos quantitativa e qualitativamente.

Physical Education has proven to be an effective tool to develop physical and mental conditions in human beings. However, even the proposals in favor of making inclusive education a reality for students with autism spectrum disorder do not achieve the globally expected levels. That is why, the objective of this work is to design a system of inclusive games for the development of motor coordination in students with autism spectrum disorder, in the Physical Education class. To achieve this purpose, the survey, the pedagogical test and observation were used as fundamental methods at the empirical level. The results of the diagnosis point to poor knowledge on the part of Physical Education teachers about the treatment of students with this disorder, so it is proceed to the task of developing a system of games for the development of motor coordination that gradually incorporated them into socialization in the group, and a pertinent evaluative system where superior results could be seen quantitatively and qualitatively.

Programas de estimulación temprana para niños dentro del espectro autista durante la pandemia por COVID-19

Los programas de estimulación temprana son intervenciones dirigidas a niños con trastornos del desarrollo, como lo es el autismo, estos buscan favorecer la adaptación e integración social, así como mejorar habilidades cognitivas, comunicativas y emocionales. Sin embargo, la pandemia del COVID-19 fue un gran desafío para la continuidad y la efectividad de estos programas, debido a las restricciones de movilidad, el cierre de centros educativos y sanitarios, y el aumento del estrés familiar. En este artículo se revisan los principales estudios que evaluaron el impacto de la pandemia en los programas de estimulación temprana para niños dentro del espectro autista y las estrategias para adaptarlos al contexto actual. Metodología: se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de estudios publicados entre 2020 y 2023 en Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, Latindex y Google Scholar. Aplicando ecuaciones de búsqueda elaboradas con los descriptores y operadores booleanos: "programas de estimulación temprana", "trastorno del espectro autista", "pandemia COVID-19". Se seleccionaron 29 trabajos que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión como el aborde de programas de estimulación temprana para niños dentro del espectro autista, producto de investigación empírica o teórica sobre el tema. Los resultados coinciden con los de otras investigaciones que han analizado la misma temática. Se concluye que la pandemia afectó negativamente tanto la calidad como la efectividad de los programas de estimulación temprana, elevando la vulnerabilidad de los niños y niñas con TEA, y que es necesario desarrollar e implementar medidas específicas para garantizar el acceso y la atención adecuada a este colectivo vulnerable.

Early stimulation programs are interventions aimed at children with developmental disorders, such as autism, which seek to promote adaptation and social integration, as well as improve cognitive, communicative and emotional skills. However, the COVID-19 pandemic was a great challenge for the continuity and effectiveness of these programs, due to mobility restrictions, the closure of educational and health centers, and increased family stress. This article reviews the main studies that evaluated the impact of the pandemic on early stimulation programs for children within the autism spectrum and the strategies to adapt them to the current context. Methodology: a bibliographic review of studies published between 2020 and 2023 in Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, Latindex and Google Scholar was carried out. Applying search equations created with Boolean descriptors and operators: "early stimulation programs", "autism spectrum disorder", "COVID-19 pandemic". 29 works were selected that met the inclusion criteria such as addressing early stimulation programs for children within the autism spectrum, product of empirical or theoretical research on the topic. The results coincide with those of other investigations that have analyzed the same topic. It is concluded that the pandemic negatively affected both the quality and effectiveness of early stimulation programs, increasing the vulnerability of boys and girls with ASD, and that it is necessary to develop and implement specific measures to guarantee access and adequate care for this vulnerable group.

Os programas de estimulação precoce são intervenções dirigidas a crianças com perturbações do desenvolvimento, como o autismo, que procuram promover a adaptação e a integração social, bem como melhorar as competências cognitivas, comunicativas e emocionais. No entanto, a pandemia da COVID-19 representou um grande desafio para a continuidade e eficácia destes programas, devido às restrições de mobilidade, ao encerramento de centros educativos e de saúde e ao aumento do stress familiar. Este artigo revisa os principais estudos que avaliaram o impacto da pandemia nos programas de estimulação precoce para crianças do espectro do autismo e as estratégias para adaptá-los ao contexto atual. Metodologia: foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica de estudos publicados entre 2020 e 2023 nas bases Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, Latindex e Google Scholar. Aplicando equações de busca criadas com descritores e operadores booleanos: "programas de estimulação precoce", "transtorno do espectro do autismo", "pandemia de COVID-19". Foram selecionados 29 trabalhos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão como abordar programas de estimulação precoce para crianças do espectro do autismo, produto de pesquisas empíricas ou teóricas sobre o tema. Os resultados coincidem com os de outras investigações que analisaram o mesmo tema. Conclui-se que a pandemia afetou negativamente tanto a qualidade como a eficácia dos programas de estimulação precoce, aumentando a vulnerabilidade de meninos e meninas com TEA, e que é necessário desenvolver e implementar medidas específicas para garantir o acesso e cuidados adequados a este grupo vulnerável.

Disfagia no Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA): uma revisão integrativa / Dysphagia in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An integrative review / Disfagia en el trastorno del espectro autista (TEA): una revisión integradora

Introdução: O Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) é um distúrbio do neurodesenvolvimento caracterizado por déficits na comunicação social, alterações de sensibilidade e dificuldades alimentares.Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão integrativa das alterações de deglutição em indivíduos com TEA.Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de uma busca por artigos nacionais e internacionais, utilizando descritores para a pesquisa, bem como critérios de inclusão e exclusão para a seleção da amostra final. A estratégia PPOT foi utilizada para definir critérios de elegibilidade, incluindo população (crianças e adultos), preditor (diagnóstico de TEA), desfecho (relato ou diagnóstico de disfagia oral, faríngea ou esofágica) e tipo de estudo (estudos observatórios). A busca foi realizada no período de junho a agosto de 2023, nas bases de dados: Pubmed, Scopus, Embase e Google Scholar. Resultados: Foram selecionados dez estudos com pacientes diagnosticados com TEA que relataram sintomas de disfagia orofaríngea e esofágica, além de queixas sobre ingestão alimentar. Os estudos sugerem que crianças com TEA podem apresentar algum problema de disfunções motoras orais, frequência alimentar inadequada, padrões alimentares obsessivos, apresentação específica de determinados alimentos, seletividade alimentar e dificuldades de processamento sensorial. Conclusão: Conclui-se que não há evidências científicas robustas sobre a presença de disfagia em pacientes com TEA. (AU)

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication, changes in sensitivity and eating difficulties. Objective: To carry out an integrative review of swallowing changes in individuals with ASD. Methods: The research was carried out through a search for national and international articles, using descriptors for the research, as well as inclusion and exclusion criteria for selecting the final sample. The PPOT strategy was used to define eligibility criteria, including population (children and adults), predictor (ASD diagnosis), outcome (report or diagnosis of dysphagia oral, pharyngeal or esophageal), and study type (observatory studies). The search was carried out from June to August 2023, in the databases: Pubmed, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar. Results: Ten studies were selected with patients diagnosed with ASD who reported symptoms of oropharyngeal and esophageal dysphagia, in addition to complaints about food intake. Studies suggest that children with ASD may present problems with oral motor dysfunction, inadequate eating frequency, obsessive eating patterns, specific presentation of certain foods, food selectivity and sensory processing difficulties. Conclusion: It is concluded that there is no robust scientific evidence about the presence of dysphagia in patients with ASD. (AU)

Introducción: El Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA) es un trastorno del neurodesarrollo caracterizado por déficits en la comunicación social, cambios en la sensibilidad y dificultades alimentarias. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión integradora de los cambios en la deglución en individuos con TEA. Métodos: La investigación se realizó mediante una búsqueda de artículos nacionales e internacionales, utilizando descriptores para la investigación, así como criterios de inclusión y exclusión para la selección de la muestra final. La estrategia PPOT se utilizó para definir los criterios de elegibilidad, incluida la población (niños y adultos), el predictor (diagnóstico de TEA), el resultado (informe o diagnóstico de enfermedad oral, faríngea o esofágica) y el tipo de estudio (estudios observatorios). La búsqueda se realizó de junio a agosto de 2023, en las bases de datos: Pubmed, Scopus, Embase y Google Scholar. Resultados: Se seleccionaron diez estudios con pacientes diagnosticados de TEA que refirieron síntomas de disfagia orofaríngea y esofágica, además de quejas sobre la ingesta de alimentos. Los estudios sugieren que los niños con TEA pueden presentar problemas de disfunción motora oral, frecuencia inadecuada de alimentación, patrones alimentarios obsesivos, presentación específica de ciertos alimentos, selectividad alimentaria y dificultades en el procesamiento sensorial. Conclusión: Se concluye que no existe evidencia científica robusta sobre la presencia de disfagia en pacientes con TEA. (AU)

Abordaje de los trastornos del sueño en los trastornos del neurodesarrollo / Treatment of sleep disorders in neurodevelopmental disorders

Resumen Los trastornos del sueño son frecuentes en niños y afectan al desarrollo neurológico, con importante repercusión cognitiva, emocional y conductual. Existe una alta prevalencia de trastornos del sueño (TS) en los trastornos del neurodesarrollo (TND), como trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) y trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (TDAH). Los TS en población pediá trica tienen una prevalencia del 6-25%, mientras que en los niños con TND esta cifra asciende al 50-80%. En los TND se observa un incremento de las dificultades para conciliar el sueño, de los despertares nocturnos y de la somnolencia diurna. Así mismo, presentan alteracio nes del ritmo circadiano y trastornos respiratorios del sueño. Como consecuencia se produce una reducción de la alerta para las actividades diarias con incremento de trastornos conductuales, problemas emocionales y dificultades académicas asociadas a disfunciones eje cutivas y de memoria. La evaluación del sueño debe formar parte sistemática en la valoración clínica de los niños con TND, con el fin de realizar un diagnóstico y un tratamiento adecuados a cada caso, permitiendo mejorar la calidad de vida del niño y de su familia.

Abstract Sleep disorders are common in children and affect neurological development with important cognitive, emotional and behavioral repercussions. There is a high prevalence of sleep disorders (SD) in neurodevelop mental disorders (NDD) such as autism spectrum dis order (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sleep disorders in pediatric population have a prevalence of 6-25%, while in children with NDD this number rises to 50-80%. In NDDs, higher rates of dif ficulties in falling asleep, nocturnal awakenings and daytime sleepiness are observed. Disturbances in the circadian rhythm as well as respiratory sleep disorders are also observed. Consequently, there is a decrease in alertness for daytime activities with increased be havioral disorders, emotional problems and academic difficulties associated with executive and memory dys functions. Sleep assessment has to be a systemic part in the clinical evaluation of children with NDDs, so as to give a convenient diagnosis and treatment in each case, allowing to improve the quality of life of children and their families.

A biomarker-based solution for the limited access to early diagnosis and assessment of autism / Una solución basada en biomarcadores para el acceso limitado al diagnóstico precoz y evaluación del autismo

Abstract With the upsurge of community uptake in popula tion-based early screening for autism, the main obstacle to increasing access to early treatment and intervention services is the extremely limited access to high quality diagnosis, specifically the shortage of expert clinicians. Diagnostic evaluation models deployed by academic cen ters of excellence, which typically require the investment of 6-10 hours by specialized multidisciplinary teams, is not a viable solution to the vast needs of communities, resulting in parents' "diagnostic odysseys" and delays, often of several years, for treatment, interventions and supports. Biomarker-based objective procedures for early diagnosis and assessment of autism are now available, clinically validated, and cleared for broad implementa tion by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are intended to increase access while maintaining high quality. Such solutions, however, will require change in entrenched models of diagnostic care, and aggressive prioritization of the needs of the community at large. If these innovations are successful, the number of children diagnosed in the first three years of life will double or triple. This will, in turn, require much greater inves tments in resources for treatment, including massive workforce training of providers capable of delivering community-viable caregiver-mediated interventions, and of early educators capable of serving autistic children in therapeutic inclusive preschool settings.

Resumen Con el aumento de la aceptación comunitaria de la detección temprana del autismo basada en la pobla ción, el principal obstáculo para aumentar el acceso al tratamiento temprano y a los servicios de intervención es el acceso extremadamente limitado a un diagnóstico de alta calidad, específicamente la escasez de médicos expertos. Los modelos de evaluación diagnóstica imple mentados por centros académicos de excelencia, que normalmente requieren la inversión de 6 a 10 horas por parte de equipos multidisciplinarios especializados, no son una solución viable para las vastas necesidades de las comunidades, lo que resulta en "odiseas diagnósti cas" y retrasos, a menudo de gran importancia, para los padres varios años, para tratamiento, intervenciones y apoyos. Los procedimientos objetivos basados en bio marcadores para el diagnóstico temprano y la evaluación del autismo ya están disponibles, clínicamente validados y aprobados para su amplia implementación por la Ad ministración de Alimentos y Medicamentos de EE. UU. (FDA). Su objetivo es aumentar el acceso manteniendo una alta calidad. Sin embargo, tales soluciones requeri rán cambios en los modelos arraigados de atención de diagnóstico y una priorización agresiva de las necesida des de la comunidad en general. Si estas innovaciones tienen éxito, el número de niños diagnosticados en los primeros tres años de vida se duplicará o triplicará. 51 Esto, a su vez, requerirá inversiones mucho mayores en recursos para el tratamiento, incluida la capacitación masiva de la fuerza laboral de proveedores capaces de brindar intervenciones comunitarias viables mediadas por cuidadores, y de educadores tempranos capaces de atender a niños autistas en entornos preescolares terapéuticos inclusivos.

Demanda de cuidado nutricional de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista em uma região de acesso remoto / Demandas de atención nutricional de niños con trastorno del espectro autista en una región de acceso remoto / Nutritional care demands of children with autism spectrum disorder in a remote access region

Introdução: O transtorno do espectro autista é uma condição neuropsiquiátrica que demanda atenção interdisciplinar e multiprofissional. A abordagem nutricional é necessária frente aos possíveis sintomas associados, como seletividade alimentar e alterações do hábito intestinal. Famílias residentes em locais de acesso limitado à serviços de saúde podem possuir dificuldades para o adequado acompanhamento. Objetivo: Relatar a experiência de atendimentos em nutrição realizados pela Liga Acadêmica de Nutrição e Saúde Coletiva a crianças com transtorno do espectro autista explorando as principais demandas identificadas e enfrentadas em uma região de acesso remoto. Metodologia: Abordagem descritiva, do tipo relato de experiência, de atendimentos realizados no município de Coari, interior do Amazonas. Os encontros foram realizados com vista a identificar demandas e refletir sobre a melhor maneira de auxiliar as crianças com essas comorbidades. Resultados: Foram atendidas 9 crianças, nem todas com o diagnóstico fechado. Seletividade alimentar, distúrbios gastrointestinais e excesso de peso foram desafios recorrentes. Nota-se a carência da percepção da importância do acompanhamento nutricional, em um cenário de relatos importantes sobre as dificuldades no acesso a medicações, por falta no município ou por ausência de recursos para aquisição, assim como terapias especializadas. Aspectos que se tornam ainda mais desafiadores frente à distância geográfica e carência de profissionais especializados e que realizem uma atenção multiprofissional. Conclusões: O acompanhamento nutricional adequado é essencial para atender às necessidades específicas e melhorar a qualidade de vida dessas crianças. Diante das limitações identificadas na região, são necessários esforços contínuos para desenvolver soluções que garantam uma assistência inclusiva e eficaz às crianças com transtorno do espectro autista no interior do Amazonas. A colaboração entre instituições, a conscientização da comunidade e o fortalecimento da rede de saúde local são cruciais para promover uma abordagem abrangente e de alta qualidade para essas crianças e suas famílias (AU).

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder is a neuropsychiatric condition that demands interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary attention. Nutritional intervention is necessary in the face of possible associated symptoms, such as food selectivity and changes in bowel habits. Families living in places with limited access to health services may have difficulties in obtaining adequate support and follow-up.Objective: Reporting the experience of nutrition services provided by the Academic League of Nutrition and Public Health to children with autism spectrum disorder, exploring the main identified demands and challengesfaced in a remote access region. Methodology:Descriptive approach, experience of an report, of services provided in the municipality of Coari, in the interiorof Amazonas. The meetings were held with the aim identifying demands and reflecting on the best way to assistchildren with these comorbidities. Results: Ninechildren attended to, not all with a confirmed diagnosis. Food selectivity, gastrointestinal disorders and overweight were recurring challenges. There is a lack of perception of the importance of nutritional monitoring, in a scenario where there areimportant reportsofdifficulties in accessing medications, either due to lack of availability in the municipality or lack of resources for acquisition, as well as specialized therapies. Theseaspects become even more challenging given the geographical distance and scarcity of specialized professionals whocanprovide multidisciplinary care. Conclusions: Adequate nutritional monitoring is essential to meet the specific needs and improve the quality of life of these children. Given the limitations identified in the region, continuous efforts are needed to develop solutions that guarantee inclusive and effective assistance for children with autism spectrum disorder in the interior of Amazonas. Collaboration between institutions, community awareness, and strengthening the local health network are crucial to promoting a comprehensive, high-quality approach for these children and their families (AU).

Introducción: El trastorno del espectro autista es una condiciónneuropsiquiátrica que requiere atención interdisciplinaria y multidisciplinaria. El enfoque nutricionales frente a losposibles síntomas, como selectividad alimentaria y alteraciones delhábitosintestinales. Las familias que viven en lugares con accesolimitado a los servicios de salud pueden tener dificultades para recibir un seguimiento adecuado. Objetivo: Reportar la experiencia de los servicios de nutrición brindados por la Liga Académica de Nutrición y Salud Pública a niños con trastorno del espectro autista, explorando las principales demandas identificadas y enfrentadas en una región de acceso remoto.Metodología: Enfoque descriptivo, relato de experiencia, de los servicios prestados en Coari, en el interior de Amazonas. Los encuentros se realizaron con el objetivo de identificar demandas y reflexionar sobre la mejor manera de ayudar. Resultados:Se atendieron 9 niños, no todos con diagnóstico confirmado. Selectividad alimentaria, trastornos gastrointestinales y exceso de peso fueron desafíos recurrentes. Se observa una falta percepción de la importancia del seguimiento nutricional, en un escenario de informes importantes sobre las dificultades en el acceso a medicamentos, debido a lafaltade suministro en el municipio o a la falta de recursos para su adquisición, así como terapias especializadas. Estosaspectos que se vuelven aún más desafiantes dada la distancia geográfica y falta de profesionales especializados que brinden una atención multidisciplinaria.Conclusiones: Un adecuado seguimiento nutricional es fundamental para satisfacerlas necesidades específicas y mejorar la calidad de vida de estos niños. Antelas limitaciones identificadas, se necesitan esfuerzos continuos para desarrollar soluciones que garanticen una atención inclusiva y efectiva estosniños en el interior de Amazonas. Colaboración entre instituciones, concientización comunitaria y fortalecimiento de la red de salud local son cruciales para promover un enfoque integral y de alta calidad para estos niños com trastorno del espectro autista y sus familias (AU).

Intervención psicoeducativa en familiares de educandos con trastornos del espectro autista

Fundamento: el trastorno del espectro autista es una entidad de origen neurobiológico, caracterizada por una variedad de signos y síntomas. Objetivo: elevar el nivel de conocimiento en familiares de educandos con trastorno del espectro de autismo. Métodos: se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental, de intervención educativa en los nueve Servicios de Rehabilitación de las áreas de salud del municipio de Camagüey, durante los meses enero-diciembre de 2022. La muestra quedó constituida por 25 familiares que cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad. Para evaluar los resultados de la intervención se aplicó un cuestionario antes y después de desarrollada la intervención. Resultados: existió predominio del sexo femenino 23 (92 %), un rango de edad de 30-39 años 11 (44 %) y un nivel escolar de bachiller 13 (52 %). Antes de la intervención fue insuficiente el nivel de conocimiento general sobre el trastorno del espectro autista en un 68 %. En lo referente a la competencia emocional, alcanzó el 84 %, el tratamiento indicado el 84 %, y los métodos educativos el 60 %. Posterior a la estrategia se logró elevar el nivel de conocimiento general en el 100 %, el 92 % alcanzó el objetivo de la competencia emocional, el 100 % logró suficiencia sobre el tratamiento indicado y en el 92 % obtuvo mejoría en el conocimiento sobre los estilos educativos. Conclusiones: se logró elevar el nivel de conocimientos generales sobre el trastorno del espectro autista, la competencia emocional, cumplimiento del tratamiento neurosensorial y estilos educativos.

Background: autism spectrum disorder" is an entity of neurobiological origin, characterized by a variety of signs and symptoms. Objective: raise the knowledge level in relatives of students with autism spectrum disorder. Methods: a quasi-experimental study of educational intervention was carried out in the nine Rehabilitation Services of the Camagüey municipality health areas, from January to December 2022. The sample consisted of 25 family members who met the eligibility criteria. To evaluate the results of the intervention, a questionnaire was applied before and after the intervention was developed. Results: there was a predominance of the female sex 23 (92%), an age range of 30-39 years 11 (44%) and a high school level 13 (52%). Before the intervention, the level of general knowledge about autism spectrum disorder was insufficient by 68%. Regarding emotional competence, it reached 84%, the indicated treatment 84%, and educational methods 60%. After the strategy, it was possible to raise the level of general knowledge by 100%, 92% achieved the objective of emotional competence, 100% achieved sufficiency regarding the indicated treatment and 92% obtained improvement in educational styles knowledge. Conclusions: it was possible to raise the level of general knowledge about autism spectrum disorder, emotional competence, compliance with neurosensory treatment and educational styles.

A study of health fitness levels and influence factors of preschool children with autism spectrum disor-ders / 中国康复医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the level of healthy fitness in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD),to explore the factors influencing healthy fitness in children with ASD,and to provide reference for their comprehensive rehabilitation treatment and home exercise guidance. Method:Fifty children in the ASD group and 50 children in the normal group were selected to test the health fitness level using seven indexes:body mass index,20m round-trip run,tennis long throw,standing long jump,isometric push-up,one-legged stance,and seated forward bend.The differences in health fitness levels between preschool children with ASD and normal children were analyzed using independent samples t-test,and the effects of gender,BMI,average daily sleep time,average daily sedentary time,average daily TPA time,average daily MVPA time,mother's education level,father's education level,family income,and age of child's primary caregiver on health fitness of preschool children with ASD were analyzed using multiple linear regression models. Result:Comparative analysis between groups showed that the ASD group had a much lower tennis ball toss than the normal group(P＜0.05),and significantly lower scores in the 20-meter round-trip run,isometric push-ups and one-leg stand test than the normal group(P＜0.001),while the differences in body mass index,stand-ing long jump and seated forward bend scores were not statistically significant(P＞0.05).Multiple linear regres-sion model analysis showed that the mean daily sleep,Total Physical Activity(TPA),and Moderate to Vigor-ous Intensity Physical Activity(MVPA)time had a good fit for the 20 m round-trip run(20 m round-trip run=-9.561+1.048 x average daily sleep time+0.076 x average daily TPA time+0.066 × average daily MVPA time);average daily TPA time was well fitted for the isometric push-ups(isometric push-ups=-87.625+0.428x average daily TPA time);average daily TPA and MVPA times were well fitted for the single-leg stand(aver-age duration of single-leg stand=6.627+0.094 x average daily total physical activity time+0.071 x average daily moderate-to-vigorous activity time). Conclusion:The cardiopulmonary fitness,motor fitness and upper limb muscle fitness of preschool children with ASD are lower than those of normal children,and physical fitness training should be included in the comprehensive rehabilitation intervention program.The longer sleep time,the longer TPA time and the longer MVPA time may suggest the better cardiorespiratory fitness and motor fitness of preschool children with ASD,and the effective duration of sleep time and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity of preschool children with ASD should be enhanced.

Efficacy of esketamine combined with propofol for colonic transendoscopic enteral tubing in pediatric patients with autism / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy of esketamine combined with propofol for colonic transendoscopic enteral tubing (TET) in pediatric patients with autism.Methods:Sixty pediatric patients with autism of both sexes, aged 3-12 yr, weighing 15-45 kg, of American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status classification Ⅰ or Ⅱ, who underwent painless transendoscopic enteral tubing (TET) from October 2022 to August 2023, were selected and divided into 2 groups ( n=30 each) by a random number table method: normal saline + propofol group (group NP) and esketamine + propofol group (group EP). In group NP, normal saline 10 ml was intravenously injected, and 30 s later propofol 2.0 mg/kg was given. In group EP, esketamine 0.3 mg/kg (diluted to 10 ml in normal saline) was intravenously injected, and 30 s later propofol 2.0 mg/kg was given. TET was performed when the Modified Observer′s Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale score ≤2. Propofol 0.5-1.0 mg/kg was added if the sedation depth was not enough, and the Modified Observer′s Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale score was maintained ≤2 until the end of surgery. The degree of body movement during TET was observed and recorded. The injection pain during induction, total consumption of propofol, operation time, spontaneous emergence time, and completion of operation were recorded. Adverse reactions such as respiratory depression, nausea and vomiting, hypotension, bradycardia, and postoperative agitation were recorded during operation and in the emergence period. Results:Compared with group NP, the degree of intraoperative body movement was significantly lighter, the total consumption of propofol and incidence of injection pain and intraoperative hypotension were significantly lower, and no significant change was found in the spontaneous emergence time and incidence of adverse reactions during recovery in group EP ( P<0.05). Conclusions:Esketamine (0.3 mg/kg) combined with propofol (2.0 mg/kg) can be safely and effectively used for colonic TET in pediatric patients with autism, and esketamine does not increase the risk of adverse reactions during resuscitation in a resuscitation strategy without early awakening.

Survey on autism knowledge of child health care professionals in primary health care institutions in Guangzhou / 中华全科医师杂志

Objective:To evaluate the knowledge of autism among child health care professionals in primary health care institutions.Methods:The study was a cross-sectional survey. An online questionnaire survey was conducted from February to March 2023 in primary health care institutions in Guangzhou to investigate the knowledge on autism among medical staff engaged in children′s health services and the influencing factors.Results:A total of 341 questionnaires were returned and 312 questionnaires were valid with a recovery rate of 91.5%. The age of 312 respondents was (35.9±7.9) years, of which 303 (97.1%) were female. One hundred and fifty-two (48.7%) child health care professionals in primary health care institutions had received specialist training in assessing the psychological and behavioral development of children, and only 139 (44.6%) reported that they were aware of the"five no"principle for early identification of autism. The questionnaire scores were 88.1% pass (275/312) and 53.2% excellent (166/312). The three questions with low accuracy were: autism can be cured with drugs, autism has a genetic basis and rehabilitation training has no effect, and the accuracy for these questions was 42.6% (133/312), 52.2% (163/312) and 70.2% (219/312), respectively. The passing of autism-related knowledge was positively associated with receiving relevant training ( OR=2.585, 95% CI:1.200-5.569), and the excellence was positively associated with the highest education ( OR=1.939, 95% CI:1.220-3.083) and receiving relevant training ( OR=2.016, 95% CI:1.247-3.260). Conclusions:There is a need for more professional training in autism knowledge among child health care professionals in primary health care institutions.

Supplementing applied behavioral analysis with speech-language therapy better improves the language ability of children on the autism spectrum / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To observe any effect of supplementing applied behavior analysis with speech-and-language therapy in improving the language ability of children on the autism spectrum.Methods:A total of 60 children with an autism spectrum disorder were divided at random into an experimental group ( n=30) and a control group ( n=30). The control group accepted 3 hours of applied behavior analysis 5 days per week for 3 consecutive months. Over the same period the experiment group accepted 1.5 hours of applied behavior analysis and 1.5 hours of speech-language therapy. Before and after the intervention, sign-significate relations (S-S) and the language retardation examination were used to evaluate the language comprehension, expression, oral communication, the complexity of oral expression content, and the vocabulary of comprehension and expression of the two groups. Results:After the intervention, comprehension and expression in each stage of the S-S had improved significantly in both groups, but the average comprehension and language expression of the experimental group was significantly better than that of the control group. Oral communication improved significantly in both groups but complexity and the vocabulary used had improved significantly more in the experimental group.Conclusion:Supplementing applied behavioral analysis with speech-language therapy can improve the language ability of children on the autism spectrum significantly better than behavioral analysis alone.

Effects of Tuina targeting different body parts on the behaviors and gut microflora of autistic spectrum disorder rat models / 数字中医药（英文）

Objective @#To investigate the effects of Tuina targeting different body parts on the behaviors and gut microflora of rat models with valproic acid (VPA)-induced autistic spectrum disorder(ASD).@*Methods@#Twenty female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats with 12.5 d of pregnancy were randomly divided into VPA model group [intraperitoneal injection of VPA (600 mg/kg), n = 15] and saline group (intraperitoneal injection of equal amount of normal saline, n = 5). The offspring male rats injected with saline were secleted as control group. The offspring male rats injected with VPA were randomly divided into VPA, dorsal, and abdominal groups (n = 7 in each group). On the 21st day after birth, three-chamber social test, open field test, and marbleburying test were carried out to observe the social abilities, anxiety behaviors, and stereotypical behaviors of rats in the four groups. Rats in dorsal and abdominal groups underwent Tuina for 14 d, twice a day. On the 35th day, behavioral tests were conducted again, and intestinal contents were taken for species composition and structural analysis, as well as marker and differential species analysis.@*Result@#(i) According to behavioral observations, compared with VPA group, the social and movement time in the central open field of rats in dorsal group increased significantly (P <0.05), and the number of buried marbles decreased markedly (P < 0.01), indicating improvement on their social abilities, anxiety behaviors, and stereotypical behaviors as consequences of dorsal Tuina; and the number of buried marbles was reduced as well in abdominal group when compared with VPA group (P < 0.05), suggesting the improvement on their stereotypical behaviors following abdominal Tuina. In the marble-burying test, the number of marbles buried in dorsal group was less than in abdominal group, and the stereotypical behaviors were improved more significantly (P < 0.05), and there were no significant differences in the three-chamber social and open field tests between the two groups (P >0.05). (ii) In accordance with intestinal microflora detection results, compared with VPA group, both dorsal and abdominal groups showed increased richness (P < 0.05) and elevated diversity (P < 0.05 in dorsal group and P < 0.01 in abdominal group) in intestinal microflora. The results of differential analysis indicated that at the phylum level, compared with VPA group, the relative abundance of Firmicutes in rats in abdominal group showed a significant reduction trend (P < 0.05); at the genus level, compared with VPA group, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus in rats in dorsal and abdominal groups decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Dorsal group also showed significant increase in the genus Blautia in the analysis of marker species comparedwith VPA group (P < 0.05).@*Conclusion@#Tuina impacted the behavior and gut microflora structure of ASD model rats. Dorsal intervention had a significant effect on social abilities, anxiety behaviors, and stereotypical behaviors of ASD model rats, while abdominal intervention only had an obvious effect on stereotypical behaviors. Both dorsal and abdominal interventions increased the richness and diversity of gut microflora of ASD model rats, with abdominal intervention improving the intestinal microbial diversity more significantly and resulting in a more uniform species distribution.

Effects of early postnatal immune activation on autism-like behaviors and glial cells in mice / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To observe the effects of early postnatal immune activation (EPIA) on social behaviors of male and female mice, and to explore the possible role of the functional state of astrocytes and microglia in this process. 【Methods】 Using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced EPIA mice as study subjects, mice were divided into the male-control, male-model, female-control, and female-model groups, each containing 10 mice (n=10). Behavioral tests were performed at 25 - 32 days of age, and the social behavior ability of mice was evaluated by open field test, three-chamber sociability test, and marble burying test. The expression levels of GFAP, IBA-1, TLR4, and NFκB p65 in the cortex and hippocampus were detected by Western blot (n=3). 【Results】 In behavioral tests, social index significantly decreased in LPS treatment group (F=14.907, P<0.05). The interaction effect between treatment and sex was significant in the residence time (F=5.260, P<0.05) and the number of buried marbles (F=7.788, P<0.05). LPS treatment decreased the retention time of the central region in male mice (F=4.261, P<0.05), and increased the number of buried marbles in males (F=20.645, P<0.05). Western blot results showed that LPS treatment increased the expression of GFAP protein in the hippocampus (F=50.443, P<0.05) and cortex (F=30.116, P<0.05), as well as the expression of IBA-1 protein (F=21.844. P<0.05) and TLR4 protein (F=6.215, P<0.05) in the cortex. The results of NFκB p65 showed a significant interaction between treatment and sex in the cortex (F=6.558, P<0.05), and LPS increased the expression of NFκB p65 protein in the cortex in female mice (F=16.317, P<0.05). 【Conclusions】 EPIA is sufficient to induce sex-specific autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-like behavior and enhance astroglial and microglial reactivity in mice. ASD-like behavior induced by EPIA may be related to the TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway in the cortex.

Communication disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder from speech language pathology perspective / 中国儿童保健杂志

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face varying degrees of difficulties in communication, language, and social interactions.This article analyzes the basic communication abilities, language development characteristics, and social pragmatic features of ASD children from the perspective of speech pathology, introduces corresponding assessment tools and proposes intervention strategies based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). Meanwhile, this article emphasizes the adoption of a comprehensive intervention model that involves medical, family, and school components to enhance the communication, language, and social skills of this group comprehensively, with the aim of effectively improving their overall quality of life.

Methylation level of CNR1 in peripheral blood of children with autism spectrum disorder / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To explore the relationship between the methylation level of CNR1 and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), in order to provide a theoretical basis for the etiology of ASD. 【Methods】 A case-control study was conducted, recruiting 30 children with ASD from the Child Development and Behavior Research Center of Harbin Medical University and a rehabilitation facility, and 30 matched typically developed children from June 2017 to December 2018. The methylation levels of CNR1 in peripheral blood were measured by the Agena MassArray® Mass Spectrometry System. A univariate conditional Logistic regression model was used to analyze the potential association between the methylation level of CNR1 and the risk of ASD with adjustment for age, BMI, body fat percentage and body fat. The correlations between the methylation level of CNR1 and the score of Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) were evaluated by Pearson/Spearman correlation analysis. 【Results】 The methylation levels of the average methylation (t=2.224), CpG_3.4 (Z=2.187), CpG_9.10.11 (t=2.308), and CpG_28.29 (t=2.943) of the CNR1 promoter region in ASD children were significantly higher than controls (P<0.05). The methylation levels of the average methylation (OR=1.117, 95%CI: 1.003 - 1.245), CpG_9.10.11 (OR= 1.072, 95%CI:1.006 - 1.142), and CpG_28.29 (OR=1.078, 95%CI: 1.018 - 1.141) of the CNR1 promoter region were positively correlated with the risk of ASD (P<0.05). The methylation level of CpG_28.29 in ASD children was positively correlated with the scores of social motivation in SRS (r=0.421, P<0.05). 【Conclusions】 The methylation levels of CNR1 in peripheral blood are abnormal in ASD children and might be correlated with the risk of ASD and social function. The underlying mechanism needs to be further explored.

Advance in exercise intervention enhancing social function in children with autism spectrum disorder / 中国儿童保健杂志

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a commonly observed neuropsychological behavioral disorder in children.Communication difficulty is one of the typical symptoms, which may restrict building and maintaining of social relationship, cause severe impact on daily life and personal development.While traditional therapeutic approaches offer some effectiveness, they tend to be time-consuming and expensive.In contrast, exercise intervention, a burgeoning treatment strategy, has garnered widespread attention.Neurological studies validate that exercise can rectify brain functional anomalies in ASD patients and bolster their social skills.This paper synthesizes and analyzes existing studies on exercise intervention aimed at improving the social functioning of children with autism, offering a foundational reference for the development of therapeutic and interventional strategies for ASD.

Intervention methods and development trends of autism spectrum disorder / 中国儿童保健杂志

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which is manifested by symptoms such as difficulties in social interaction and communication, stereotypical repetitive behaviors, and narrow areas of interests.At present, the intervention methods for ASD mainly include behavioral intervention, pharmacological intervention, physical intervention, exercise intervention, complementary and alternative medicine intervention.With the progress of science and technology and in-depth research, the intervention methods of ASD will develop in the direction of personalized intervention, deep learning technology, gene therapy and neurofeedback technology.These new intervention methods would hopefully improve the treatment effect and the quality of life of patients.

Meta-analysis of the effect of probiotics on core symptoms of children with autism spectrum disorder / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To evaluate the therapeutic effect of probiotics on core symptoms in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), in order to provide theoretical basis for the treatment and intervention of ASD. 【Method】 Articles published from January 2000 to May 2023 on the effect of probiotics on core symptoms in ASD children were retrieved from 7 databases, including Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System (SinoMed), Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, VIP Citation Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science.Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4.Effect size, combine heterogeneity test sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were calculated. 【Result】 Totally 10 studies with 343 patients were included in this Meta-analysis.Meta-analysis showed that there was statistically significant difference in ASD core symptom score between the intervention group and the control group (SMD=-0.34, 95%CI: -0.55 - -0.12, P0.05), while the efficacy of a composite microbial community was significant (SMD=-0.51, 95%CI: -0.81 - -0.21, P<0.05). 【Conclusions】 Probiotic therapy is effective in improving the core symptoms of ASD patients, but is influenced by factors such as race, age and probiotic strain. Composite microbiota has better efficacy in Caucasian and underage populations.

Eating behaviors and sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorder and their correlation factors / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the distribution of sleep and eating behavior problems in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and to analyze their correlations with clinical characteristics, in order to provide basis for fwture mechanism research and clinical intervention. 【Methods】 A total of 211 ASD children aged 2 - 7 were enrolled into this study from outpatient department from January to June 2023, and 91 typically developed children matched with age and sex were enrolled into control group.Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Children′s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) and a self-made questionnaire were used to assess children′s autistic behavior, sleep problems and eating behaviors. Chi-square test, t test, non-parametric test and multinomial Logistic regression analysis were performed to analyze the relationship between sleep problems and eating behaviors in children with ASD. 【Results】 The prevalence rates of sleep problems and food selectivity were significantly higher in children with ASD than those in control group (χ2=6.876、17.299, P<0.05).The total score of CSHQ of ASD children (48.55±6.07) was significantly higher than that of control group (45.24±5.33)(t=4.494,P<0.05).ASD children were more likely to report bedtime resistance, sleep onset delay, sleep duration, night waking, parasomnias and sleep disordered breathing than control group (P<0.05).The total score of CSHQ was significantly higher in ASD children with aberrant eating behaviors, and the difference was statistically significant in food selectivity (type selectivity, texture selectivity and pica) (Z=2.803, P<0.05).Multinomial Logistic regression indicated that the occurrence of sleep onset delay was positively affected by body and object use (OR=1.063), and negatively affected without food texture selectivity (OR=0.524) and pica (OR=0.343). 【Conclusions】 ASD children have a higher risk of sleep problems and aberrant eating behaviors than the typically developed children.Moreover,ASD children with aberrant eating behaviors have more severe sleep problems.The influencing factors of sleep onset delay include body and object use, food texture selectivity and pica.