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Background: Sublime is a centuries old concept of emergent experience arising from immense and threatening awareness provoked by overwhelming fear and dread when faced with an incomprehensible situation as is common to autistic people. Extended Reality (XR) technologies have been used since the mid-1990s, in regulating emotions, behaviour and supporting social skill development for autistic people. Aims: To understand utility of XR technologies in creating immersive experiences for autistic people to alleviate anxiety and the relationship to the sublime. Method: A State of the Art literature review and narrative synthesis was conducted. PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science were searched with terms Autism AND Technology. In addition, fields of digital technologies and wellbeing, digital art and mental health, generative arts and the sublime were explored through web searches of grey literature, conversations with digital designers and explorations of extended reality platforms. No time limits were placed. Searches were done in English. Papers were screened and shortlisted using the inclusion criteria applied by two reviewers. Results: Fifty-eight papers/articles met the preliminary inclusion criteria for in-depth review of which 31 were found suitable for the narrative synthesis related to XR technologies and sublime experiences as related to autistic people. Narrative synthesis lent itself to four themes that is current utility of XR Technologies in autism, the impact of immersive experiences on Behavioural, phenomenological and biological markers of autistic people, the Benefits of increased sensory stimulation using XR on autism and an inquiry into the potential of the sublime for autism. Conclusions: Mixed reality environments that experiment with a broad range of XR technologies including incorporating notions of the sublime, might be beneficial in reducing emotional dysregulation and improving social development in autistic people especially if co-designed with them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve outcomes for youth who do not respond optimally to existing treatments, we need to identify robust predictors, moderators, and mediators that are ideal targets for personalisation in mental health care. We propose a solution to leverage the Individual Patient Data Meta‐analysis (IPDMA) approach to allow broader access to individual‐level data while maintaining methodological rigour. Such a resource has the potential to answer questions that are unable to be addressed by single studies, reduce researcher burden, and enable the application of newer statistical techniques, all to provide data‐driven strategies for clinical decision‐making. Using childhood anxiety as the worked example, the editorial perspective outlines the rationale for leveraging IPDMA methodology to build a data repository, the Platform for Anxiety Disorder Data in Youth. We also include recommendations to address the methods and challenges inherent in this endeavour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Observation of child behaviour provides valuable clinical information but often requires rigorous, tedious, repetitive and time expensive protocols. For this reason, tests requiring significant time for administration and rating are rarely used in clinical practice, however useful and effective they are. This article shows that Artificial Intelligence (AI), designed to capture and store the human ability to perform standardised tasks consistently, can alleviate this problem. Case study: We demonstrate how an AI‐powered version of the Manchester Child Attachment Story Task can identify, with over 80% concordance, children with insecure attachment aged between 5 and 9 years. Discussion: We discuss ethical issues to be considered if AI technology is to become a useful part of child mental health assessment and recommend practical next steps for the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Research in adults suggests that intrusive memories and intrusive thoughts (often referred to as intrusive cognitions) are common in members of the general population and are often seen in clinical disorders. However, little is known about the experience of intrusive cognitions in adolescents, particularly in adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD) and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The present study sought to gather fundamental data on these phenomena (i.e., frequency, characteristics and appraisals of intrusive cognitions) in adolescents with MDD and PTSD. Methods: Adolescents aged 11–18 with MDD (n = 11), PTSD (n = 13) and a non‐clinical control group (n = 25) completed structured interviews concerning their intrusive memories and thoughts. Results: Intrusive thoughts were common in all three groups but were particularly frequently experienced in the MDD group. Intrusive memories were expectedly very common in the PTSD group but also experienced by over half of the adolescents with MDD. Both clinical groups reported more negative emotions in response to their intrusive thoughts or memories and appraised these cognitions more negatively than the non‐clinical group. Conclusion: Intrusive memories and thoughts are common experiences in adolescents with MDD and PTSD. Emotions and appraisals relating to these cognitions may be targets for psychological intervention in this age group. However, small sample sizes limit the conclusions that can be drawn. Replication is needed with larger numbers of clinical participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The purpose of this study was to estimate the extent to which neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD's) symptoms (motor, sensory, attention and executive function) are associated with aspects of social function among school aged children. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 39 children aged 6–9 years old (71.8% boys) who were referred to child development centers due to motor, sensory, and/or cognitive difficulties. The parents completed NDD's symptoms questionnaires: Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire; Child Sensory Profile-2; Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) Rating Scale and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function. They also completed the Social Skills Improvement System and a social participation measure. Results: Analysis demonstrated low to moderate correlations between social functioning aspects and the majority of NDD's symptoms. Executive functioning was the only predictor of social skills and social participation and accounted for most of the variability of behavioral problems, alongside a small contribution of ADHD symptoms. Conclusion: The findings contribute to the accumulating body of knowledge regarding social abilities of children with NDD's and suggest new information as to the effect of executive functions in this domain. Along with conducting a routine evaluation of social skills among children suspected to have NDD's, executive functions should also be comprehensively evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a serious complication in monochorionic (MC) pregnancies. Fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) is the primary treatment for advanced TTTS, but managing Quintero stage I TTTS is still controversial. We conducted an observational study evaluating the 2-year neurodevelopment of fetuses, which underwent FLS for stage I TTTS, compared with advanced TTTS and uncomplicated monochorionic diamniotic twins (MCDTs). The study included 156 children: 14 in stage I TTTS group, 28 in advanced TTTS group, and 114 in uncomplicated twin group. In stage I TTTS, 92.9% showed normal neurodevelopment, with no severe neurological impairments observed. These results were comparable with uncomplicated twins (92.1% normal neurodevelopment, P =.921, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.42-5.79; 1.8% severe impairment, P =.617). Advanced TTTS had a non-significant lower rate of normal neurodevelopment (89.3%, P =.710, aOR = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.12-14.87). In conclusion, FLS for stage I TTTS shows favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, similar to uncomplicated MC pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An internal model deficit is considered to underlie developmental coordination disorder (DCD); thus, children with DCD have an altered sense of agency (SoA), which is associated with depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the perception of action-outcome regularity is present in early development, is involved in the generation of SoA, and has roles in adaptive motor learning and coordinated motor skills. However, perceptual sensitivity to action-outcome regularity has not been examined in children with DCD. Methods: We investigated perceptual sensitivity to action-outcome regularity in 6–15-year-old children with DCD and age- and sex-matched typically developing (TD) children. Both groups were assessed for coordinated motor skills with the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2nd Edition, while the DCD group was assessed with the DCD Questionnaire, Social Communication Questionnaire, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder-Rating Scale, and Depression Self- Rating Scale for Children. Results: Perceptual sensitivity to action-outcome regularity was significantly reduced in children with DCD. However, there was a significant correlation between perceptual sensitivity to action-outcome regularity and age in DCD and TD children. Perceptual sensitivity to action-outcome regularity was significantly lower in younger children with DCD than in younger and older TD children, but there were no significant differences between older children with DCD and younger and older TD children. Conclusion: The current results suggest that children with DCD have significantly reduced perceptual sensitivity to action-outcome regularity at younger ages, which may alter SoA and inhibit internal model development, thereby reducing motor skill coordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data on Emotion Dysregulation among youth in Lebanon is scarce. Given that Emotion Dysregulation is associated with psychopathology and has a negative impact on youth outcomes, there is a need to better understand the prevalence, clinical and demographic correlates of Emotion Dysregulation. Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of the Psychopathology in Children and Adolescents in Lebanon Study which recruited 1517 youth and one parent from a nationally representative sample. Participants completed The Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders, Mood and Feelings Questionnaire, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Peer Relations Questionnaire, Conflict Behavior Questionnaire (CBQ).Parents completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire-Dysregulation Profile was used to measure Emotion Dysregulation. Results: The prevalence of Emotion Dysregulation was 11.26% among children aged 5 to < 8 years, 9.40% among children aged 8 to < 12 years and 6.60% among those older than 12 years. Emotion Dysregulation was associated with psychopathology across age groups and a number of correlates were identified. In the final regression models, among children aged 5 to < 8 years; Emotion Dysregulation was associated with lower odds of father employment (OR = 0.235;CI[0.078,0.704]). For those aged 8 to < 12 years old, Emotion Dysregulation was associated with acceptable school performance (OR = 2.246,CI[1.209,4.173]) as opposed to a good school performance, having a chronic physical illness (OR = 2.962; CI [1.495,5.867)], and higher parental GHQ scores (OR = 1.034;CI [1.010,10.58)] indicating worse parental mental health. Adolescents aged 12 years and older who screened positive for Emotion Dysregulation were more likely to be younger (OR = 0.688, CI[0.527,0.899]), be a bully (OR = 2.467;CI[1.036,5.875] and to have higher parental CBQ scores (OR = 1.092;CI [1.011,1.180]), indicating worse parent-child conflict. Youth who screened positive for emotion dysregulation were more likely to seek psychiatric care than their counterparts who screen negative for emotion dysregulation. Conclusion: Age, school performance, parental mental health, parental conflict, chronic physical illness and bullying emerge as important correlates of Emotion Dysregulation. Findings add to the limited data on Emotion Dysregulation in Lebanon and the region and are a first step towards developing intervention and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to determine neonatal neurodevelopmental follow-up (NDFU) practices across academic centers. Study Design This study was a cross-sectional survey that addressed center-specific neonatal NDFU practices within the Children's Hospitals Neonatal Consortium (CHNC). Results Survey response rate was 76%, and 97% of respondents had a formal NDFU program. Programs were commonly staffed by neonatologists (80%), physical therapists (77%), and nurse practitioners (74%). Median gestational age at birth identified for follow-up was ≤32 weeks (range 26–36). Median duration was 3 years (range 2–18). Ninety-seven percent of sites used Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, but instruments used varied across ages. Scores were recorded in discrete electronic data fields at 43% of sites. Social determinants of health data were collected by 63%. Care coordination and telehealth services were not universally available. Conclusion NDFU clinics are almost universal within CHNC centers. Commonalities and variances in practice highlight opportunities for data sharing and development of best practices. Key Points Neonatal NDFU clinics help transition high-risk infants home. Interdisciplinary neonatal intensive care unit follow-up brings together previously separated outpatient service lines. This study reviews the current state of neonatal NDFU in North America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Research on psychiatric comorbidities associated with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) primarily compares ARFID versus anorexia nervosa (AN). Little is known about comorbidities associated with mixed ARFID/other eating disorder (ED) history or ARFID comorbidities relative to EDs beyond AN. This study assessed lifetime and current psychiatric factors in a large college sample with varying ED histories. Method: Participants were United States students from the 2021/2022 Healthy Minds Study who endorsed lifetime professionally diagnosed EDs (N = 4657). Chi‐square tests compared lifetime ED groups (ARFID, ARFID + Non‐ARFID ED, Non‐ARFID ED) on lifetime neurodevelopmental, anxiety, obsessive‐compulsive, trauma/stressor‐related, and depressive disorder prevalence, and suicidality and counseling/therapy receipt. Multivariate analysis of variance evaluated current depressive, anxiety, and ED symptom differences. Results: Lifetime neurodevelopmental and anxiety disorders were less prevalent in "Lifetime Non‐ARFID ED" than ARFID groups. Lifetime depressive, trauma/stressor‐related, and obsessive‐compulsive disorders were relatively more prevalent in "Lifetime ARFID + Non‐ARFID ED." This group demonstrated relatively greater current depressive symptoms and past‐year suicide attempts. Lifetime ARFID groups demonstrated relatively greater current anxiety. All groups differed on current ED symptoms. Effects were small. Discussion: Historical ARFID is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and historical/current anxiety. Mixed ARFID/non‐ARFID ED history may indicate increased propensity toward varied psychopathology. Public Significance Statement: This study replicated findings that ARFID is associated with neurodevelopmental and anxiety disorders in the lifespan through young adulthood. Extending prior work, results suggest a history of ARFID is associated with increased anxiety in young adulthood. Finally, a history of both ARFID and other eating pathology is associated with increased risk for a wide range of psychiatric difficulties (e.g., obsessive‐compulsive symptoms, suicide attempts) in the lifespan through young adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While research has shown that the prevalence of ADHD in the general population has increased over time, there have been no studies focused on ADHD prevalence in patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). This study compares two cohorts of adults with rigorously diagnosed BPD recruited nearly three decades apart (1992 vs. 2020). Participants from the 1992 McLean Study of Adult Development (MSAD) (N = 290) and the 2020 Flourishing study (N = 147) were assessed for ADHD using DSM-III-R and DSM-5 criteria respectively. Compared to MSAD subjects, the prevalence of ADHD among Flourishing subjects was significantly higher overall, and in female (but not male) subjects. This increased prevalence, which is likely due to the broadening of the DSM criteria over time, highlights what many observers believe to be a problematic expansion of the diagnostic criteria for ADHD that may have decoupled this criteria set from capturing a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the impact of parental obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) on children is well known, there is a still need to investigate additional psychopathological effects that parental OCD may have on children. To our knowledge, the relationship between Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS), previously referred to as Sluggish Cognitive Tempo CDS in children and parents' OCD has not been investigated to date. In this study, we examined the relationship between parental OCD and children's CDS, while adjusting for parental anxiety, depression, as well as symptoms of internalization, externalization, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their children. 50 parents with OCD and 45 healthy parents were assessed through Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The children were applied Child Behavior Checklist, Children ADD/ADHD DSM-IV Based Diagnostic Screening, and Barkley Child Attention Scale (BCAS). BCAS showed significant correlations with BAI (r = 0.280, p =.049), child ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity (r = 0.407, p =.003), and ADHD-inattention (r = 0.628, p <.001). The severity of ADHD-inattention (β = 0.618, p =.001) and parental OCD (β = 0.275, p =.016) were significant predictors of CDS severity in the children. Our findings may suggest a significant association between the severity of CDS and ADHD-inattention in children and parental OCD, even after controlling for parental anxiety. Plain language summary: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can significantly disrupt many facets of children's emotional, social, academic and cognitive development. To our knowledge, the relationship between Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS), previously referred to as Sluggish Cognitive Tempo CDS in children and parents' OCD has not been investigated to date. In this study, we examined the relationship between parental OCD and children's CDS, while adjusting for parental anxiety, depression, as well as symptoms of internalization, externalization, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their children. 50 parents with OCD and 45 healthy parents were assessed through Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The children were applied Child Behavior Checklist, Children ADD/ADHD DSM-IV Based Diagnostic Screening, and Barkley Child Attention Scale (BCAS). BCAS showed significant correlations with BAI, child ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity, and ADHD-inattention. The severity of ADHD-inattention and parental OCD were significant predictors of CDS severity in the children. Our findings may suggest a significant association between the severity of CDS and ADHD-inattention in children and parental OCD, even after controlling for parental anxiety. The children with parents who have OCD may alleviate the fear and anxiety arising from negative parental attitudes by exhibiting cognitive symptoms. Certain parental styles in OCD patients may predispose their children to display an impaired pattern of social interaction, including social isolation and withdrawal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a leading cause of neurodevelopmental disability globally. International organizations have highlighted an urgent need for improved prevention, diagnosis, and support. However, the evidence base needed to inform this is thought to be limited. We conducted two complementary reviews to (i) describe trends in the volume and characteristics of original FASD research articles (Review 1) and (ii) compare the volume of published research on FASD to that of other neurodevelopmental disorders (Review 2). In Review 1, we systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and PsycInfo for original studies with FASD terms in the title, published between 2000 and 2023. We summarised study characteristics including the article topic(s), sample population, country of origin, and publication year using quantitative content analysis and time‐series plots. A total of 854 studies were eligible. Studies showed a relative focus on diagnosis and screening, compared to prevention and intervention. FASD research originated from 31 countries, however most countries (68%) had fewer than 10 articles published over the 23‐year review period. In Review 2, we searched PubMed for records published between 2000 and 2023 with FASD, autism, or attention‐deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) terms in the title. We compared the volume of records for these conditions using descriptive statistics and time‐series plots. Of the 64,069 records retrieved, 2% were for FASD, compared to 60% for autism and 38% for ADHD. FASD remains considerably under‐researched. While there has been an increase in the number of original FASD research articles published annually over time, this is much lower than expected compared to publication trends for other neurodevelopmental conditions, and the wider scientific literature. Further research is needed to understand the impact of FASD across the lifespan, to inform evidence‐based policy and support, and to advance progress in strength‐based, stigma‐reducing approaches to FASD research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, we examined adaptive skills and trajectories over time in 257 individuals with Angelman syndrome (AS) using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd Edition. Multilevel linear models were used to examine differences between molecular subtypes over time, from one year to 13 years of age, in the adaptive domains of communication, daily living skills, socialization and motor skills. Individuals with non-deletion subtypes typically demonstrated a higher level of adaptive skills compared to those with deletion subtypes. Statistically significant growth was observed in all adaptive domains through at least early adolescence. Individuals with AS should continue to receive developmental services and educational supports through adolescence and into adulthood given the slow rates of growth being observed across adaptive domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article proposes the concept of participatory training to guide the integration of critical perspectives in the training of professionals who provide clinical/educational services and other supports for autistic individuals and families. Topics include opportunities for participatory training in neurodevelopmental disabilities, considerations in designing training programs, and description of the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Related disorders (LEND) program.

Objectives: The rate of mental health services provided to children and young people is increasing worldwide, including in Australia. The aim of this study was to describe patterns of hospital and ambulatory mental health service use among a large population cohort of adolescents followed from birth, with consideration of variation by age, sex and diagnosis. Methods: Characteristics of services provided for children with mental disorder diagnoses between birth and age 17.5 years were ascertained for a population cohort of 85,642 children (52.0% male) born between 2002 and 2005, from 'Admitted Patients', 'Emergency Department' and 'Mental Health Ambulatory' records provided by the New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory Health Departments. Results: A total of 11,205 (~13.1%) children received at least one hospital or ambulatory health occasion of service for a mental health condition in the observation period. More than two-fifths of children with mental disorders had diagnoses spanning multiple categories of disorder over time. Ambulatory services were the most heavily used and the most common point of first contact. The rate of mental health service contact increased with age across all services, and for most categories of mental disorder. Girls were more likely to receive services for mental disorders than boys, but boys generally had an earlier age of first service contact. Finally, 3.1% of children presenting to mental health services experienced involuntary psychiatric inpatient admission. Conclusions: The extent of hospital and ambulatory-based mental healthcare service among children emphasises the need for primary prevention and early intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of caregiving on caregivers' mental health is typically considered within the caregiver stress and burden literature; however, more recently, research has investigated the experience of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in caregivers. As an emerging area of research, it is timely to conduct a scoping review to map the existing literature in relation to PTSS among adult caregivers of children and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), neurocognitive disorders, and psychiatric disorders. The scoping review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines and Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage methodology framework. Published and unpublished gray literature between 2005 and 2022 was included in the scoping review. Nine thousand one hundred and twenty-five studies were originally identified for screening and 22 studies were selected for inclusion in the final review. Trauma and PTSS experienced by NDD caregivers were related to news breaking, NDD diagnosis, and behavioral issues, whereas caregivers of individuals with psychosis reported aggression and violence as traumatic events. Studies showed that up to half of caregivers reported PTSS, although no conclusions could be drawn about prevalence rates. A wide variety of tools measuring PTSS were used across the 22 studies. Many symptoms of PTSS were reported by caregivers, and cognitive appraisals were associated with PTSS in caregivers. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing the impact of trauma in caregiver mental health and the potential value of using traumatic stress frameworks with these populations. Research should be expanded to establish prevalence rates and to examine the long-term impact of trauma on caregiving as caregivers and care recipients age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS), formerly termed sluggish cognitive tempo, is a set of symptoms characterized by excessive daydreaming, mental confusion, and slowed behavior/thinking. CDS is distinct from symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other psychopathologies and uniquely associated with functional impairment. However, despite significant progress in developing and evaluating rating scale measures of CDS, no clinical interview of CDS exists with established psychometric properties that can facilitate a multimethod approach assessing CDS. Accordingly, the present study evaluated the psychometric properties of the semistructured Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome–Clinical Interview (CDS-CI). The CDS-CI and the ADHD inattention (ADHD-IN) and hyperactive-impulsivity (ADHD-HI) modules from the Kiddie Schedule of Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children (K-SADS) were administered to a sample of early adolescents (N = 341, ages 10–12 years) and their caregivers. Adolescents and caregivers also completed rating scale measures of CDS and ADHD symptoms. The CDS-CI demonstrated high internal consistency and interrater reliability. CDS-CI scores showed excellent same-source discriminant validity from K-SADS, ADHD-IN, and ADHD-HI scores and encouraging convergent and discriminant validity with rating scale measures, especially for caregivers. Above and beyond K-SADS, ADHD-IN, and ADHD-HI scores, higher parent and adolescent CDS-CI scores were both significantly associated with greater functional impairment. A threshold of ≥ 6 out of 15 symptoms was selected as an initial threshold for determining clinically elevated CDS using the CDS-CI. Findings provide psychometric support for the CDS-CI as a tool in the multimethod assessment of CDS. Public Significance Statement: Given major advancements in understanding cognitive disengagement syndrome (previously termed sluggish cognitive tempo) over the past decade, the present study provides initial support for the Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome–Clinical Interview. The Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome–Clinical Interview is a semistructured clinical interview for assessing CDS in youth based on caregiver and/or youth report and offers a new tool in the multiinformant assessment of CDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the United States, weight-based peer victimization (herein "bullying") is prevalent and has been shown to have short- and long-term detrimental effects on adolescents' mental health. We utilized secondary data analysis to explore associations between adolescents' weight-based bullying, internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and parental involvement. Moderated mediation models found depressive symptoms mediated the relation between weight-based bullying and both callousness and social anxiety symptoms, but only in the context of low parent involvement. This study highlights parental involvement as a potential protective factor and demonstrates the need for mental health screening and intervention for adolescents who experience weight-based bullying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective We aimed to examine the association between respiratory severity score (RSS; mean airway pressure × fraction of inspired oxygen) and neurodevelopmental outcomes in extremely preterm infants. Study Design This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study. We analyzed data from extremely preterm infants who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Okayama Medical Center between 2010 and 2019. Infants without invasive respiratory management during the first day of life were excluded. The exposure variable was the highest RSS during the first day of life. RSS was categorized into two groups: low (<3.5) and high (≥3.5) RSS. The primary outcome was death or neurodevelopmental impairment at age 3 years, defined as cognitive impairment (developmental quotient <70) or the presence of cerebral palsy. Secondary outcomes were the components of the primary outcome. We conducted robust Poisson regression analyses to investigate the association between RSS category and primary and secondary outcomes, adjusting for perinatal confounders. Results The cohort included 97 infants with neurodevelopmental data, of whom 34 and 63 infants were in the low- and high-RSS categories, respectively. The median (interquartile range) gestational age and birth weight were 26.0 (24.7–26.9) and 25.7 (24.6–26.7) weeks and 761 (584–866) and 806 (618–898) g for infants in the low- and high-RSS categories, respectively. Compared with infants in the low-RSS category, those in the high-RSS category had a greater risk of death or neurodevelopmental impairment at age 3 years (26.3 vs. 42.3%; adjusted risk ratio [RR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–3.5) and neurodevelopmental impairment at age 3 years (17.6 vs. 28.6%; adjusted RR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.3–5.9). Conclusion High RSS (≥3.5) during the first day of life was associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental impairment at age 3 years in extremely preterm infants. Key Points RSS is a valuable tool for assessing respiratory failure. RSS = Mean airway pressure × fraction of inspired oxygen. RSS at age 1 day was associated with neurodevelopment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mental health of youth with chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been increasingly recognized as an area of clinical need. The development of mental health concerns is influenced by a range of physiological, psychological, and environmental factors. Some of these factors are common across child development, but some are more unique to youth with CKD. Mental health concerns are associated with increased risk for a range of poor medical outcomes (e.g., adherence, risk of transplant rejection) and quality of life concerns. In this educational review, we discuss the current evidence base regarding the development of mental health concerns in youth with CKD. The review covers multiple domains including mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic stress, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Estimated prevalence and hypothesized risk factors are outlined, and the potential impact of mental health on medical care and functional outcomes are reviewed. Finally, we introduce options for intervention to support positive mental health and offer recommendations for building access to mental health care and improving the mental health education/training of medical professionals. "A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information" [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children begin to show symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders early on in their development. Providing early intervention that is culturally responsive to both families and the child receiving the service is vital for the child's growth. The purpose of this study was to qualitatively explore 14 Latin American Spanish-speaking parents' reactions to and perceptions of Communication Interaction Training on Autism for Spanish-speaking caregivers (CITAS), a waitlist-style parent-mediated program that focuses on teaching parents strategies to support their child's language development and enhance learning. Focus group, interview, and field note data were analyzed using the Ecological Validity Framework to determine areas of cultural fit and cultural misalignment. Notably, participants demonstrated appreciation for the CITAS program, including several specific elements that provided unique cultural fit. Some logistical and contextual challenges were also identified. Implications for research and practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental healthcare for children and adolescents with a history of childhood abuse constitutes a major public health issue. Indeed, abuse exposes children to severe and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD) but also to neurodevelopmental and psychological repercussions impacting the developmental trajectory. Trauma-focused care is essential to avoid the chronicization of symptoms and disorders. Objective: The aim of this prospective case series study was to investigate the efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) on complex post-traumatic symptoms and associated psychiatric disorders in adolescents with a history of abuse. Method: Twenty-two adolescents, aged 12 to 17, who had been abused during childhood were included. All adolescents met ICD-11 criteria for complex PTSD. Subjective measures of PTSD and associated psychiatric disorders were taken before (T0) and after 3 months of EMDR therapy (T1). Results: The average PTSD symptom score on the CPTS-RI significantly decreased from 40.2 to 34.4 after EMDR, indicating improvement in post-traumatic symptoms. A significant decrease in the average depression score (CDI from 18.2 at T0 to 10.6 at T1), anxiety score (R–CMAS from 21.3 at T0 to 13.3 at T1), emotional regulation score (ALS from 29 at T0 to 10.8 at T1), insomnia score (ISI from 18.5 at T0 to T1 of 9.2 at T1), and harmful use of alcohol and drugs score (ADOSPA from 2.3 at T0 to 0.3 at T1) was observed after EMDR therapy, as well as an increase in quality of life (CBCL 4–16 score from 57.9 at T0 to 77.4 at T1). Conclusions: The results of this study are encouraging and suggest that EMDR may be effective in the symptom management reducing post-traumatic symptoms and certain comorbid disorders frequently seen in adolescents who have experienced childhood abuse. Further research is needed on adolescent populations suffering from cPTSD (e.g., randomized controlled trials with control groups and other therapies or evaluating the action of the different phases of the study). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alexithymia, characterized by difficulty identifying and describing emotions and an externally oriented thinking style, is a personality trait linked to various mental health issues. Despite its recognized importance, research on alexithymia in early childhood is sparse. This study addresses this gap by investigating alexithymia in preschool-aged children and its correlation with psychopathology, along with parental alexithymia. Methods: Data were analyzed from 174 parents of preschoolers aged 3 to 6, including 27 children in an interdisciplinary intervention program, all of whom attended regular preschools. Parents filled out online questionnaires assessing their children's alexithymia (Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire–Parent Report) and psychopathology (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire), as well as their own alexithymia (Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire) and emotion recognition (Reading Mind in the Eyes Test). Linear multivariable regressions were computed to predict child psychopathology based on both child and parental alexithymia. Results: Preschool children's alexithymia could be predicted by their parents' alexithymia and parents' emotion recognition skills. Internalizing symptomatology could be predicted by overall child alexithymia, whereas externalizing symptomatology was predicted by difficulties describing negative feelings only. Parental alexithymia was linked to both child alexithymia and psychopathology. Conclusions: The findings provide first evidence of the importance of alexithymia as a possible risk factor in early childhood and contribute to understanding the presentation and role of alexithymia. This could inform future research aimed at investigating the causes, prevention, and intervention strategies for psychopathology in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this tutorial is to (a) provide an updated review of the literature pertaining to proposed early features of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), (b) discuss the findings of recent treatment studies of infants and toddlers with suspected CAS (sCAS), and (c) present evidence-based strategies and tools that can be used for the identification of and intervention for infants and toddlers with sCAS or at high risk for the disorder. Method: Since Davis and Velleman's (2000) seminal work on assessment and intervention in infants and toddlers with sCAS, limited research has guided clinicians in the complex task of identifying and treating early speech motor difficulties prior to a definitive diagnosis of CAS. Following the structure of Davis and Velleman, we explore the proposed early characteristics of CAS with reference to contemporary research. Next, we describe the limited treatment studies that have investigated intervention for infants and toddlers at risk of or suspected of having CAS. Finally, we present practical suggestions for integrating this knowledge into clinical practice. Conclusions: Many of the originally proposed correlates of CAS in infants and toddlers now have research supporting their presence. However, questions remain about the developmental trajectory of the disorder. Although limited in number and restricted by lack of experimental control, emerging treatment studies can help guide clinicians in providing appropriate intervention to infants and toddlers with sCAS who need not wait for a definitive diagnosis to initiate intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Involving parents in mental health treatment services can empower parents to manage their child's illness. We conducted this study to develop a tool to assess parental care for children with mental illness. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in five phases that included in-depth interviews with parents in the outpatient department (OPD), focus group discussions (FGDs) with parents in an in-patient setting, and with a multidisciplinary team, item development, and the assessment of psychometric properties of the tool. Results: Parental care for children with mental illness (PCCMI) has 50 items derived from a thematic analysis of in-depth interviews of 31 parents and 2 FGDs with eight parents admitted at CPC and eight mental health professionals experienced in child and adolescent psychiatry. It is a 5-point Likert scale. The tool showed a high item-level Content Validity Index (I-CVI range: 0.8--1.0) and a high Scale Content Validity Index (S-CVI = 0.91). The test--retest method was used to calculate reliability. A total of 38 parents were included in the test--retest method. The mother and father's mean age and standard deviation (SD) scores were 39.7 ± 5.8 and 45.1 ± 4.9, respectively. Most parents' education level is above graduation (mothers: 86.8% and fathers: 86%). Around 63% of mothers were housewives and had normal pregnancies. The single measure two-way mixed absolute agreement intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) value for 38 subjects was 0.96 with a 95% confidence interval (CI: 0.90--0.95), indicating high reliability. Conclusion: PCCMI has high I-CVI and S-CVI and good ICC test--retest reliability. This tool will help mental health professionals in the formal assessment of parental care for children with mental illness and provide the intervention to address issues related to the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a concerning decline in childhood vaccination rates, which could lead to a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles and varicella. Topics discussed include the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccination coverage, the importance of early genetic testing for neurodevelopmental disorders, and recent advancements in treatments for conditions like Rett syndrome and metachromatic leukodystrophy.

Background: Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health problems in childhood. Early detection and treatment are essential. We aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale - parent version (SCAS-P) in children with various psychiatric disorders in Hong Kong. Methods: Children aged 6 to 12 years and their parents or guardians were recruited by convenience sampling from the child and adolescent psychiatry specialist out-patient clinic at Queen Mary Hospital. The parents or guardians were asked to complete the SCAS-P, the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children version IV (DISC-IV) anxiety module, the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders parent version (SCARED-P), and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Results: In total, 135 child-parent pairs were included. The median age of the children (78 male and 57 female) was 10 (interquartile range, 8-11) years. The children had various psychiatric diagnoses; 43.7% had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and 41.4% had autism spectrum disorder. In addition, 57 (42.2%) children were diagnosed by a psychiatrist with at least one anxiety disorder (based on the DISC-IV anxiety module). The median SCAS-P score was 36.0; it was higher in children with anxiety disorder (n = 57) than in children without anxiety disorder (n = 78) [46.0 vs 28.5, p < 0.001]. The internal consistency of the SCAS-P was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.938). Convergent validity of the SCAS-P was confirmed with the SCARED-P and CBCL subscales of internalising and anxiety, whereas divergent validity of the SCAS-P was confirmed with the CBCL subscales of externalising, aggression, and delinquency. Test-retest reliability of the SCAS-P was good (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.90). The SCAS-P had satisfactory criterion validity for any anxiety disorder (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.77), obsessive compulsive disorder (AUC = 0.76), social anxiety disorder (AUC = 0.70), separation anxiety disorder (AUC = 0.81), generalised anxiety disorder (AUC = 0.82), and physical injury fears (AUC = 0.86). Conclusion: The SCAS-P has satisfactory validity and reliability in screening anxiety disorders among children with various psychiatric disorders. In a busy clinic setting, we recommend using the total SCAS-P score to screen anxiety among children with psychiatric disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) have traditionally been considered separate disorders, although some similarities and overlaps in certain aspects of language have been detected. In this paper, we compare the deficits in receptive grammar in these two disorders. We analyse the proportion of grammatical errors in relation to semantic complexity in 84 children divided into four groups: children with autism language impairment (ALI), with autism language normal (ALN), with DLD, and with typical development (TD), all groups with the same age of receptive vocabulary. The results show significant differences in the comprehension of grammatical structures, both simple (canonical and non-reversible) and complex (non-canonical and reversible). Children with ASD and DLD show different language profiles depending on the syntactic complexity. In the simplest structures, no differences are found between the groups, starting at an equivalent vocabulary age of 7:8 years. However, there are differences between the ALI and DLD groups with respect to the TD group in the more complex structures, starting at an equivalent vocabulary age of 3 years. Therefore, both groups ALI and DLD present the greatest difficulties compared to ALN and TD. The paper discusses the importance of attending to these differences, since the repercussion of comprehension difficulties increases as children grow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first investigation of psychological, medical, and neurodevelopmental problems in children with versus without cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS) (formerly sluggish cognitive tempo) in autism, ADHD-Combined, ADHD-Inattentive, and general population samples. Mothers rated 987 children with autism, 700 with ADHD-Combined, and 303 with ADHD-Inattentive (5–17 years) and 665 elementary school children (6–12 years) on the Pediatric Behavior Scale. Comorbid problems that were significantly more prevalent in children with versus without CDS in all or most of the four diagnostic groups in order of significance were cognitive problems (comprehension problems, illogical thinking, forgetful, and thinks and works slowly), gross motor incoordination, depression, somatic complaints (stomachaches, headaches, other body aches, and feels sick), excessive sleep, anxiety, inattention, insomnia, academic impairment, bully victimization, autism, dysgraphia, and overweight. Comorbidities not differing between children with and without CDS in all or most diagnostic groups were hyperactivity, impulsivity, oppositional behavior, irritability/temper outbursts, aggression, bullying, suicide ideation and attempts, incontinence, underweight, seizures, speech problems, and low IQ. Given CDS's association with multiple problems and functional impairment, its general population prevalence similar to that of other childhood disorders, and its high frequency in clinical children, it is important to evaluate CDS symptoms and comorbidity in referred children and intervene when symptoms are present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most mental disorders appear by age 14, but in most cases, they remain undiagnosed and untreated well into adulthood. A scoping review showed an absence of systematic reviews that address prevalence rates of mental disorders among children and adolescents in Europe that are based on community studies conducted between 2015 and 2020. To estimate the updated pooled prevalence of Anxiety Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Conduct Disorder (CD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Eating Disorders, Substance Use Disorders (SUD), among children and adolescents living in Europe, a search strategy was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase and Psych Info and studies were also identified from reference lists and gray literature. Eligible studies were evaluated for reliability, validity, and bias. Trends of prevalence rates for each mental disorder were calculated. Almost one in five young people in Europe were found to suffer from a mental disorder, with a pooled prevalence rate of 15.5%. Anxiety disorders had the highest pooled prevalence rate (7.9% (95% CI 5.1–11.8%, I2: 98.0%)), followed by ADHD (2.9% (95% CI 1.2–6.9%, I2 = 94.3%)), ODD (1.9% (95% CI 1.0–3.7%, I2 = 98.4%)), depressive disorder (1.7% (95% CI 1.0–2.9%, I2 = 97.7%)), CD (1.5% (95% CI 0.6–3.8%, I2 = 98.8%)) and ASD (1.4% (95% CI 0.4–5.4%, I2 = 99.7%). No studies on SUD were identified. The mental health of children and adolescents may be improved by introducing routine screening, refining diagnostic sensitivity, raising awareness of mental disorders, minimizing stigma and socioeconomic inequality, as well as developing early intervention services. These facilitators of good mental health need to be prioritized, especially at a time of unprecedented risk factors for poor mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The categorization of silent intervals during speech production is necessary for accurate measurement of articulation rate and pauses. The primary purpose of this preliminary study was to examine the within-word silent interval associated with the stop closure in word-final stop consonants produced by children with and without neurodevelopmental disorders. Method: Seven children diagnosed with either cerebral palsy or Down syndrome (i.e., children with neurodevelopmental disorders) and eight typically developing children produced a reading passage. Participants were between the ages of 11 and 16 years. Fifty-eight words from the reading passage were identified as having word-final stop consonants. The closure duration of the word-final stop consonant was calculated, both in absolute duration and percent pause time. The articulation rate of the entire passage was calculated. The number of closure durations that met or exceeded the minimum duration threshold to be considered a pause (150 ms) was examined descriptively. Results: Children with neurodevelopmental disorders produced significantly longer closure durations and significantly slower articulation rates than typically developing children. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders produced closure durations that met or exceeded the minimum duration threshold of a pause, but typically developing children, generally, did not. Conclusion: These data indicate the need to examine the location of silent intervals that meet the minimum duration threshold of a pause and correct for articulatory events during the measurement of articulation rate and pauses in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preterm birth affects 10% of all births annually in the United States. Outcomes of people born preterm are challenging to predict because of multiple influences, including gestational age, birth weight, and social and environmental contexts, that contribute to an individual's growth and developmental trajectory. The influence of toxic stress is underrepresented in the literature assessing preterm birth outcomes. Objectives: The current analyses use the eco-bio-developmental model of poverty and preterm birth as a framework to model the pathways among toxic stress, preterm birth, and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Poverty and toxic stress were hypothesized to increase the risk for impaired neurodevelopmental and academic outcomes--both directly and indirectly. Methods: The analytic sample of 55,873 children aged 6-17 years was derived from the National Survey of Children's Health 2020-2021. Structural equation models with combined measurement and path models for each dependent variable were constructed using latent toxic stress variables. The structural path equations included direct paths from the latent measure of prenatal toxic stress, preterm birth status, and the latent measure of childhood toxic stress to the neurodevelopmental outcome, as well as an indirect, mediated path from prenatal toxic stress through preterm birth status to the outcome. Results: Across models, higher levels of prenatal toxic stress were significantly associated with preterm birth and lower birth weight ranges. Preterm low birth weight status was associated with a greater likelihood of neurodevelopmental impairment, repeating a grade, and special education plans. The predicted probabilities of neurodevelopmental impairment, repeating grades, and special education plans are significantly higher with above-average levels of exposure to prenatal and childhood toxic stress. Discussion: There is a need for prospective studies that assess predictors and outcomes of preterm birth that are stratified by gestational age and consider the timing, chronicity, and influence of toxic stress and environmental exposures. There is an imperative for public health programs and policies designed to support families, caregivers, and children to address the individual and structural social determinants of health that contribute to toxic stress, thereby increasing preterm birth rates and negatively affecting the outcomes of children born preterm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Schema Therapy has emerged as an effective treatment for a large range of psychopathology, there is limited research on its effectiveness with children and adolescents, especially for preventive purposes, in individual or group settings and with the involvement of parents. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of a newly developed group prevention program based on Schema Therapy (rationale, principles, and techniques) for children and their parents. It is a psychoeducational, developmentally-appropriate program addressing core emotional needs, early maladaptive schemas, schema modes, coping styles, and parent-child relationship with the aim of preventing the emergence of psychopathology in children. Participants were 90 Greek children (aged 9-13) who attended 16 weekly meetings and their parents who attended 10 biweekly meetings. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated with pre-and-post-intervention assessment (i.e., pre-experimental design). Children's early maladaptive schemas (self-reports) and strengths and difficulties (self- and parent-reports), as well as parents' early maladaptive schemas (self-reports) were assessed. Results showed a significant decrease in most early maladaptive schemas of children and in many early maladaptive schemas of parents. A significant decrease was found in children's emotional symptoms, peer relationship problems and total difficulties score and a significant increase in prosocial behavior. The supporting evidence for the effectiveness of the program and the necessity of evidence-based prevention programs based on Schema Therapy for children and parents are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal hypoxia due to placental dysfunction is the hallmark of fetal growth restriction (FGR). Preferential perfusion of the brain (brain-sparing effect), as a part of physiological placental cardiovascular compensatory mechanisms to hypoxia, in FGR was reported. Therefore, the correlation between vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) protein expression in the FGR placentas and newborns' early neurological outcome was examined. This study included 50 women with FGR complicated pregnancies and 30 uneventful pregnancies. Fetal hemodynamic parameters, neonatal acid–base status after delivery, placental pathohistology and VEGF-A expression were followed. Early neonatal morphological brain evaluation by ultrasound and functional evaluation of neurological status by Amiel – Tison Neurological Assessment at Term (ATNAT) were performed. VEGF-A protein expression level was significantly higher in the FGR placentas than normal term placentas (Fisher–Freeman–Halton's test, p≤0.001). No statistically significant correlation between placental VEGF-A expression and different prenatal and postnatal parameters was noticed. Whereas the alteration of an early neurological status assessed by ATNAT was found in 58 % of FGR newborns, morphological brain changes evaluated by UZV was noticed in 48 % of cases. No association between the level of placental VEGF-A expression and the early neurological deficits was found. As far as we know this is the first study of a possible connection between VEGF-A protein expression in the FGR placentas and neonates' early neurological outcomes. The lack of correlation between the FGR placental VEGF-A expression and neonates' neurological outcome could indicate that optimal early neurodevelopment may take place due to compensatory mechanism not related to placental VEGF-A expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with deficits in cognitive development and childhood psychopathology. Previous studies have focused on older children and the few studies of early childhood have yielded inconsistent findings. We studied cognitive development and psychopathology in children at familial high risk (FHR) of schizophrenia and matched controls from 1 to 6 years and hypothesized that FHR children would show consistent deficits across cognitive and behavioral measures in early childhood. Cognitive development in children at high familial risk for schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (n = 33) and matched healthy controls (n = 66) was assessed at 1 and 2 years with the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, and at 4 and 6 years with the Stanford Binet Intelligence Scales, BRIEF-P/BRIEF and CANTAB. Psychopathology was assessed at 4 and 6 years with the BASC-2. General linear models were used to examine differences on outcome scores, and chi-square analyses were used to explore differences in the proportion of "at risk" or "below average" score profiles. FHR children scored significantly lower than controls on Mullen Composite at age 2, and demonstrated broad deficits in IQ, executive function and working memory and 4 and 6 years. FHR children were also rated as significantly worse on most items of the BASC-2 at ages 4 and 6. Children at FHR for schizophrenia demonstrate abnormal cognitive development and psychopathology at younger ages than previously detected, suggesting that early detection and intervention needs to be targeted to very early childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Children with medical complexity (CMC) may be at a high risk of neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions given disease comorbidities and lived experiences. Little is known about the prevalence of these conditions at a population level. In this study, we estimated the prevalence of neurodevelopmental and mental health diagnoses in CMC relative to children without medical complexity and measured associations between these diagnoses in CMC and subsequent health care utilization and in-hospital mortality. METHODS: We applied the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Disorders Classification System to identify neurodevelopmental and mental health diagnoses using all-payer claims data from three states (2012-2017). Poisson regression was used to compare outcomes in CMC with neurodevelopmental and mental health diagnoses to CMC without these diagnoses, adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. RESULTS: Among 85 581 CMC, 39 065 (45.6%) had ≥1 neurodevelopmental diagnoses, and 31703 (37.0%) had ≥1 mental health diagnoses, reflecting adjusted relative risks of 3.46 (3.42-3.50) for neurodevelopmental diagnoses and 2.22 (2.19-2.24) for mental health diagnoses compared with children without medical complexity. CMC with both neurodevelopmental and mental health diagnoses had 3.00 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.98-3.01) times the number of ambulatory visits, 69% more emergency department visits (rate ratio = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.66-1.72), 58% greater risk of hospitalization (rate ratio = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.50-1.67), and 2.32 times (95% CI: 2.28-2.36) the number of hospital days than CMC without these diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS: Neurodevelopmental and mental health diagnoses are prevalent among CMC and associated with increased health care utilization across the continuum of care. These findings illustrate the importance of recognizing and treating neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It has been suggested that inhibin B (InhB), Anti-Müllerian hormone (Müllerian-inhibiting substance, AMH) levels, and 2D/4D finger length ratios are related to sex differences in neurodevelopmental disorders. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of InhB, AMH levels, and 2D/4D finger length ratios in male children with specific learning disorder (SLD). Methods: The study included 38 male children diagnosed with SLD and 38 males of similar ages without SLD as the control group. Tests used in the evaluation were the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime version, Specific learning disorder clinical observation battery, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R), and Conners' Parent Rating Scale-Revised: Short Form. Serum AMH, InhB, and Testosterone levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Male children diagnosed with SLD demonstrated significantly higher levels of serum InhB compared to controls (t= 2.59 p=0.009); both groups had similar levels of serum testosterone and AMH. The 2D/4D finger ratios in the SLD group were found to be lower than those in the control group (t= 2.92 p= 0.005). Serum InhB levels were positively correlated with WISC-R verbal scores (p= 0.003). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that serum InhB levels and the 2D/4D ratio, which is an indicator of prenatal testosterone exposure, may play a role in the male predominance of SLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gender clinic and single‐item questionnaire‐based data report increased co‐occurrence of gender diversity and neurodevelopmental conditions. The nuances of these associations are under‐studied. We used a transdiagnostic approach, combining categorical and dimensional characterization of neurodiversity, to further the understanding of its associations with gender diversity in identity and expression in children. Methods: Data from 291 children (Autism N = 104, ADHD N = 104, Autism + ADHD N = 17, neurotypical N = 66) aged 4–12 years enrolled in the Province of Ontario Neurodevelopmental Network were analyzed. Gender diversity was measured multi‐dimensionally using a well‐validated parent‐report instrument, the Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children (GIQC). We used gamma regression models to determine the significant correlates of gender diversity among age, puberty, sex‐assigned‐at‐birth, categorical neurodevelopmental diagnoses, and dimensional neurodivergent traits (using the Social Communication Questionnaire and the Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD Symptoms and Normal Behavior Rating Scales). Internalizing and externalizing problems were included as covariates. Results: Neither a categorical diagnosis of autism nor ADHD significantly correlated with current GIQC‐derived scores. Instead, higher early‐childhood dimensional autistic social‐communication traits correlated with higher current overall gender incongruence (as defined by GIQC‐14 score). This correlation was potentially moderated by sex‐assigned‐at‐birth: greater early‐childhood autistic social‐communication traits were associated with higher current overall gender incongruence in assigned‐males‐at‐birth, but not assigned‐females‐at‐birth. For fine‐grained gender diversity domains, greater autistic restricted‐repetitive behavior traits were associated with greater diversity in gender identity across sexes‐assigned‐at‐birth; greater autistic social‐communication traits were associated with lower stereotypical male expression across sexes‐assigned‐at‐birth. Conclusions: Dimensional autistic traits, rather than ADHD traits or categorical neurodevelopmental diagnoses, were associated with gender diversity domains across neurodivergent and neurotypical children. The association between early‐childhood autistic social‐communication traits and overall current gender diversity was most evident in assigned‐males‐at‐birth. Nuanced interrelationships between neurodivergence and gender diversity should be better understood to clarify developmental links and to offer tailored support for neurodivergent and gender‐diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sibling bullying is associated with mental health difficulties; both in the short and long term. It is commonly assumed that sibling bullying leads to mental health difficulties but additional explanations for the relationship between the two are seldom investigated. Methods: To address this gap in knowledge, we used a genetically sensitive design with data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (maximum N = 3,959, 53% female). At ages 11–13 years, individuals self‐reported their involvement in sibling bullying, as a victim and perpetrator, and parents reported on their child's mental health difficulties. Polygenic scores, indices of genetic risk for psychiatric disorders (major depressive disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) were computed using children's genetic data. Regression and structural equation models were fitted to the data. Results: Sibling bullying, victimisation and perpetration, and polygenic scores both predicted mental health difficulties in an additive manner but there was no interaction between them. Polygenic scores for mental health difficulties were also associated with sibling bullying. Conclusions: These findings suggest that sibling bullying, victimisation and perpetration, is associated with mental health difficulties, even after accounting for some genetic effects. Additionally, the relationship between sibling bullying and mental health difficulties may be, at least partly, due to shared genetic aetiology. One possibility is that genetic risk for mental health difficulties influences the onset of mental health difficulties which in turn make children more susceptible to sibling bullying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there is considerable evidence to support Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) in the adult population, it has not been empirically studied in youth. EFT does not rely on an individual's adherence to manualized strategies or between-session homework tasks, focusing instead on within-session processes. These processes activate and transform core emotions that are often linked to experiences with primary caregivers, family members, and other significant relationships. This novel study reports on an adaptation of EFT for youth. Building upon the evidence base for EFT with adults, we examined the impact of an 8-session EFT-Y intervention on clinical disorders in youth (n = 43). Using a single-site randomized waitlist-controlled design, outcomes from a treatment group (n = 22) were compared to a waitlist control group (n = 21), similar in age and presenting problems. In comparison to youth in the waitlist control group, the treatment group reported a significant decrease in their emotion dysregulation and depression scores at the end of treatment. Youth in the treatment group also demonstrated a decrease in their emotion difficulties, conduct problems, and overall difficulties, with baseline scores controlled for. These findings provide preliminary evidence that EFT-Y is an efficacious therapeutic approach for common child and adolescent psychopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the neurodevelopmental and psychiatric risks in children born to mothers who use cannabis during pregnancy. Topics include the association of prenatal cannabis exposure with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the potential impact on cognitive and motor skills, and the need for further research to clarify these connections.

Purpose The literature indicates that sexuality education provided in schools/colleges in the United Kingdom (UK) may not be appropriate for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). There appears to be a lack of understanding of the subject regarding young people with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and a dual diagnosis (ASD co-occurring with ADHD). Research also suggests that compared to neurotypical peers, young people with ASD tend to receive less support on sexuality from their parents, who often feel that they lack the appropriate skills to help their children with some sex-related issues. Some young people with ASD and ADHD also report lacking an understanding of the social nuances of dating and intimacy, which is crucial for navigating romantic relationships. Design/methodology/approach This study explored sexuality education and romantic relationships in young people based on a semi-structured interview approach to the topic. Thematic Analysis (TA) was employed to analyze the data. Findings Six themes were developed from the participants' narratives: Societal ideology about sexuality; Substandard school-based sexuality education; The role of adults in sexuality education; Pornography, as a very powerful alternative means of sexuality education; Young people and romance—a complicated world to navigate; Experience of abuse in the young neurodivergent population is a serious matter. Findings revealed that many neurodivergent and neurotypical young people received basic sex education in their schools/colleges and homes and encountered challenges navigating romantic relationships. Neurodivergent young people reported experiencing greater challenges related to their understanding of and building romantic relationships than their neurotypical peers. Originality/value To the researchers' knowledge, this is the first exploration of romantic relationships and sexuality education in neurotypical young people as well as three groups of neurodivergent young people (with ASD, ADHD, and ASD co-occurring with ADHD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Youth of parents who are experiencing psychopathology are more likely to develop emotional concerns, and these mental health symptoms can have a deleterious impact on parents' mental health. However, the relationship between the presentation of specific symptoms in parents and youth is infrequently examined. Symptom network analysis is an analytic approach that is increasingly being used to better understand the relationship of symptoms within and between disorders and can also be used to examine symptom relations within a dyad. The present study used symptom network analysis to examine bidirectional relationships among depressive and anxiety psychopathology in a transdiagnostic sample of treatment-seeking youth and their primary caregiver. Parental anhedonia and child worthlessness exhibited the greatest centrality within the network, suggesting that these may act as risk and maintenance factors for parent–child psychopathology and may be important intervention targets. Findings support the use of symptom network analysis to inform an understanding of the complex relationships among parent and child depressive and anxiety symptoms. Future research should consider the use of network analytic methods to examine the temporal relationships between parent and child psychopathology and to inform joint parent–child interventions for those with internalizing concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluate changes in two-wheel cycling skills and biking participation goals for children with neurodevelopmental disorders (ND) receiving a home visit and email following iCan Bike camp. Participants: 11 children with ND, 9–16 years, and one of their parents. A cycling skills checklist, two-wheel riding Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), and biking participation GAS were completed before camp (T1), at support visit after camp (T2), and three months following camp (T3). Parents completed biking practice logs. Participants received a support visit to provide instruction, coaching, and address questions, and an email to check progress. Significant changes were made in two-wheel riding GAS T1 to T2 (p = 0.01), biking participation GAS T2 to T3 (p = 0.02), and cycling skills T1 to T2 (p = 0.01) and T2 to T3 (p = 0.02). Practice frequency was related to cycling skills (0.72, p = 0.01) and biking participation (0.86, p < 0.001); cycling skills were related to biking participation (0.81, p = 0.003). Children improved cycling skills and biking participation following camp, support visit, and email check-in. Children who practiced more had greater cycling skills and biking participation. Encouraging weekly bicycling and providing support may promote cycling skills and participation following camp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to compare the social support in parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The sample consisted of 166 parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders in Isfahan, Iran. Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS, Sherbourne and Stewart 1991) was used for measuring the availability of social support. The collected data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance and multivariate analysis of variance. The results showed that there was no significant difference in social support scores between parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders based on the type of child disorder and the gender of the parents (p > 0.05). The results also showed that there was no significant difference in the subscale of emotional/informational support, tangible support, and affectionate support between parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders (p > 0.05) but in the one subscale (i.e. social interaction) parents of children with intellectual disability was significantly higher than parents of children with autism spectrum disorder and parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Moreover, The results showed that there was no significant difference in subscales of social support between parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders based on the gender of the parents (p > 0.05). Therefore, according to the research findings, the design and implementation of support and educational programs for parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, especially in parents of children with ASD and ADHD, and to increase social interactions are essential and should be a priority in the programs of organizations providing psychological services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to ascertain the impact of Modified Pilates Exercises (MPE) and neurodevelopmental therapy (NDT) on hemodynamic response in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Material and Method: We randomly assigned 18 CP children between expanded and revised gross motor function categorization system (GMFCS-E&R) I-III to study (MPE) and control (NDT) groups. Tests for core stability, the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and the pressure biofeedback unit test (PBU) were conducted. Prior to and following the 6MWT and physiotherapy sessions, hemodynamic responses, including heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), and blood pressure (BP), were assessed before (BPT) and after physiotherapy (APT). Results: There was a significant difference observed in the MPE group's BP (sistolic) of 6MWT (post) (p=0.006), the modified side bridge (MSBT) test (p<0.05), the sit-ups test (p=0.011), the pressure biofeedback unit test (p=0.024), and the abdominal fatigue test (AFT) (p=0.014) APT. The Modified Biering Sorensen Trunk Extensor Test (MBSTET) (p<0.001), MSBT (p=0.034), AFT (p=0.002), PBU (p=0.015), SUT (p<0.001), Modified Push Ups Test (MPUT) (p=0.018), BP (sistolic) of 6MWT (post) (p=0.007) following the walk, and RR (p=0.005) before and after 6MWT (p=0.006) in the MPE group were all significantly different APT, according to the initial measurements of the percentage changes. Conclusion: When compared to NDT, MPEs have a favorable impact on core stability muscles, transversus abdominus (TrAb) activity, and hemodynamic and respiratory responses in children with CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The ganglionic eminences (GE) are fetal-specific structures that give rise to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)- and acetylcholine-releasing neurons of the forebrain. Given the evidence for GABAergic, cholinergic, and neurodevelopmental disturbances in schizophrenia, we tested the potential involvement of GE neuron development in mediating genetic risk for the condition. Study Design We combined data from a recent large-scale genome-wide association study of schizophrenia with single-cell RNA sequencing data from the human GE to test the enrichment of schizophrenia risk variation in genes with high expression specificity for developing GE cell populations. We additionally performed the single nuclei Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin with Sequencing (snATAC-Seq) to map potential regulatory genomic regions operating in individual cell populations of the human GE, using these to test for enrichment of schizophrenia common genetic variant liability and to functionally annotate non-coding variants-associated with the disorder. Study Results Schizophrenia common variant liability was enriched in genes with high expression specificity for developing neuron populations that are predicted to form dopamine D1 and D2 receptor-expressing GABAergic medium spiny neurons of the striatum, cortical somatostatin-positive GABAergic interneurons, calretinin-positive GABAergic neurons, and cholinergic neurons. Consistent with these findings, schizophrenia genetic risk was concentrated in predicted regulatory genomic sequence mapped in developing neuronal populations of the GE. Conclusions Our study implicates prenatal development of specific populations of GABAergic and cholinergic neurons in later susceptibility to schizophrenia, and provides a map of predicted regulatory genomic elements operating in cells of the GE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]