Multisensory Conflict Impairs Cortico-Muscular Network Connectivity and Postural Stability: Insights from Partial Directed Coherence Analysis / 神经科学通报·英文版

Sensory conflict impacts postural control, yet its effect on cortico-muscular interaction remains underexplored. We aimed to investigate sensory conflict's influence on the cortico-muscular network and postural stability. We used a rotating platform and virtual reality to present subjects with congruent and incongruent sensory input, recorded EEG (electroencephalogram) and EMG (electromyogram) data, and constructed a directed connectivity network. The results suggest that, compared to sensory congruence, during sensory conflict: (1) connectivity among the sensorimotor, visual, and posterior parietal cortex generally decreases, (2) cortical control over the muscles is weakened, (3) feedback from muscles to the cortex is strengthened, and (4) the range of body sway increases and its complexity decreases. These results underline the intricate effects of sensory conflict on cortico-muscular networks. During the sensory conflict, the brain adaptively decreases the integration of conflicting information. Without this integrated information, cortical control over muscles may be lessened, whereas the muscle feedback may be enhanced in compensation.

Efectos del apego y procesamiento sensorial en el desarrollo de niñas y niños. Una revisión sistemática / Efeitos do apego e do processamento sensorial no desenvolvimento da criança. Uma revisão sistemática / Effects of parental attachment and sensory processing on child development. Systematic review

Resumen Esta revisión se enfoca en la intersección de dos factores fundamentales en el desarrollo infantil: el procesamiento sensorial y el apego. Las transformaciones rápidas y profundas que ocurren en el cerebro durante la infancia influyen en la regulación emocional, la autoestima y la capacidad para establecer relaciones saludables. Siguiendo los lineamientos PRISMA, se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática para explorar la relación entre el procesamiento sensorial y el apego en niños y niñas de 0 a 14 años. Se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos Web of Science, Scopus, Pubmed y PsycINFO, utilizando palabras clave relacionadas con la teoría del apego y el procesamiento sensorial. Los estudios se seleccionaron de los disponibles hasta mayo de 2022. De un total inicial de 87 artículos, 17 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y proporcionaron una variedad de perspectivas sobre la relación entre el procesamiento sensorial y el apego en la infancia temprana. Se identificó una conexión significativa entre el trastorno del procesamiento sensorial y el apego, destacando la importancia de la visión en el desarrollo social y la comunicación, así como las estrategias parentales efectivas, los estilos de apego saludables y un procesamiento sensorial adecuado. Se respalda la idea de que un apego saludable durante la infancia favorece el desarrollo del procesamiento sensorial. Se evidencia la utilidad de la integración sensorial para mejorar las relaciones y orientar futuras investigaciones y prácticas en terapia ocupacional.

Resumo Esta revisão se concentra na intersecção de dois fatores fundamentais no desenvolvimento infantil: o processamento sensorial e o apego. Transformações rápidas e profundas que ocorrem no cérebro durante a infância influenciam a regulação emocional, a autoestima e a capacidade de estabelecer relações saudáveis. Seguindo as diretrizes PRISMA, foi realizada uma revisão sistemática para explorar a relação entre o processamento sensorial e o apego em crianças de 0 a 14 anos. Foram utilizadas as bases de dados Web of Science, Scopus, Pubmed e PsycINFO, usando palavras-chave relacionadas à teoria do apego e ao processamento sensorial. Os estudos foram selecionados entre os disponíveis até maio de 2022. De um total inicial de 87 artigos, 17 atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e forneceram uma variedade de perspectivas sobre a relação entre o processamento sensorial e o apego na primeira infância. Foi identificada uma conexão significativa entre o transtorno do processamento sensorial e o apego, destacando a importância da visão no desenvolvimento social e na comunicação, bem como estratégias parentais eficazes, estilos de apego saudáveis e um processamento sensorial adequado. É apoiada a ideia de que um apego saudável durante a infância favorece o desenvolvimento do processamento sensorial. Se evidencia a utilidade da integração sensorial para melhorar as relações e orientar futuras pesquisas e práticas em terapia ocupacional.

Abstract This review focuses on the intersection of two fundamental factors in child development: sensory processing and attachment. The rapid and profound transformations that occur in the brain during childhood influence emotional regulation, self-esteem, and the ability to establish healthy relationships. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was carried out to explore the relationship between sensory processing and attachment in boys and girls aged 0 to 14 years. The Web of Science, Scopus, Pubmed, and PsycINFO databases were searched using keywords related to attachment theory and sensory processing. Studies were selected from those available through May 2022. Of an initial 87 articles, 17 met the inclusion criteria and provided a variety of perspectives on the relationship between sensory processing and attachment in early childhood. A significant connection was identified between sensory processing disorder and attachment, highlighting the importance of vision in social development and communication, as well as effective parenting strategies, healthy attachment styles, and appropriate sensory processing. The idea that healthy attachment during childhood promotes the development of sensory processing is supported. The usefulness of sensory integration to improve relationships and guide future research and practices in occupational therapy is evident.

Adherence to the Ayres Sensory Integration® Fidelity Measures: Malaysian Occupational Therapists’ Practices

@#Introduction: A popular intervention for paediatric clients, Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) must adhere to sensory integration (SI) fidelity. This study describes fidelity adherence in ASI intervention by occupational therapy practitioners in Malaysia. Methods: A questionnaire on ASI fidelity was developed before being tested for its validity by seven experts and for its internal consistency and test-retest reliability by 30 occupational therapists. The questionnaire was then used nationally to collect data on ASI practitioners. Data were collected from 161 occupational therapists working in various settings. Results: The mean of the sub-scales I-CVI was excellent, ranging between 0.97 and 1.00. The total S-CVI/Ave of the form was also reported as excellent, at 0.98, with subscales S-CVI ranging between 0.75 and 1.00. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.80 for the questionnaire’s internal consistency and the ICC for test-retest reliability ranged from 0.80 to 0.95. The survey received 161 responses, indicating that most respondents perceived themselves as having ‘moderate competence’ and showing ‘high interest’ in ASI implementation. Most fidelity aspects were addressed in their practices. Majority of the respondents adhered to the process elements. It was indicated that three aspects of physical space under the structural elements could not be provided by most occupational therapists in the study. Conclusion: To implement evidence-based practice, adherence to fidelity when providing ASI is important to ascertain its effectiveness. Improvements to ensure optimal space, ASI certification, and more related training are the first steps that can be taken by the related agencies to ensure effective ASI intervention could be delivered.

The influence of cognitive tasks on sensory organization test performance / A influência das tarefas cognitivas no desempenho do teste de organização sensorial

Abstract Introduction: Many static postural tasks requiring vestibular contributions are completed while dual- tasking. Objective: We investigated the influence of dual-tasks on sensory integration for postural control and cognitive performance during the sensory organization test and examined the relationship between cognitive function and dual-task cost during the sensory organization test. Methods: Twenty adults completed single and dual-task versions of the six conditions of the sensory organization test were completed during two visits separated by one week. A subset of 13 participants completed three National Institute of Health (NIH)-toolbox cognitive tests including the Flanker inhibitory control and attention test, dimensional change card sort test and pattern comparison processing speed test. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to compare postural sway during single and dual-task sensory organization test. Friedman's test, with pairwise comparison post-hoc tests, was used to compare single task serial subtraction performance to the 6 dual-task sensory organization test conditions. Spearman's correlation coefficients were used to assess the relationship between cognitive performance on NIH-toolbox test and postural and cognitive dual-task cost during the sensory organization test. Results: Performing a cognitive dual-task during the sensory organization test resulted in a significant increase in postural sway during condition 1 (Z = −3.26, p = 0.001, ES = 0.73), condition 3 (Z = −2.53, p = 0.012, ES = 0.56), and condition 6 (Z = −2.02, p = 0.044, ES = 0.45). Subtraction performance significantly decreased in during condition 6 (Z = −2.479, p = 0.011, ES = 0.55) compared to single-task. The dimensional change card sort test demonstrated moderate correlations with dual-task cost of serial subtraction performance in condition 5 (dimensional change card sort test: r = −0.62, p = 0.02) and condition 6 (dimensional change card sort test: r= −0.56, p = 0.04). Pattern comparison processing speed test scores were significantly correlated with dual-task cost of postural control during condition 2. Conclusion: Performing a cognitive task during the sensory organization test resulted in significantly increased postural sway during three conditions, particularly during visual environment manipulation oppose to vestibular and somatosensory manipulation. Cognitive performance decreased during the most complex sensory organization test condition. Additionally, we found participants with poorer executive function had greater dual-task cost during more complex sensory integration demands.

Resumo Introdução: Muitas tarefas posturais estáticas que requerem contribuições vestibulares são feitas durante a dupla tarefa. Objetivo: Investigamos a influência da dupla tarefa na integração sensorial para o controle postural e desempenho cognitivo durante o teste de organização sensorial e examinamos a relação entre a função cognitiva e o custo da dupla tarefa durante o teste de organização sensorial. Método: Vinte adultos completaram versões da tarefa única e dupla tarefa das seis condições do teste de organização sensorial, que foram concluídas em duas consultas com um intervalo de uma semana. Um subgrupo de 13 participantes completou três testes cognitivos do NIH-toolbox, inclusive o flanker inhibitory control and attention test, dimensional change card sort test e o pattern comparison processing speed test .O teste de postos sinalizados de Wilcoxon foi usado para comparar a oscilação postural durante o teste de organização sensorial de tarefa única e dupla. O teste de Friedman, com testes post hoc de comparação pareada, foi usado para comparar o desempenho da subtração em série de tarefa única para as 6 condições do teste de organização sensorial de dupla tarefa. Os coeficientes de correlação de Spearman foram usados para avaliar a relação entre o desempenho cognitivo no teste NIH-toolbox e o custo da dupla tarefa postural e cognitivo durante o teste de organização sensorial. Resultados: A feitura de uma dupla tarefa cognitiva durante o teste de organização sensorial resultou em um aumento significativo na oscilação postural durante a condição 1 (Z = -3,26, p = 0,001, TE = 0,73), condição 3 (Z = -2,53, p = 0,012, TE = 0,56) e condição 6 (Z = -2,02, p = 0,044, TE = 0,45). O desempenho de subtração diminuiu significativamente durante a condição 6 (Z =-2,479, p = 0,011, TE = 0,55) em comparação com a tarefa única. O dimensional change card sort test demonstrou correlações moderadas com o custo da dupla tarefa de desempenho de subtração em série na condição 5 (dimensional change card sort test: r=-0,62, p = 0,02) e condição 6 (dimensional change card sort test: r = -0,56, p = 0,04). Os escores do pattern comparison processing speed test foram significativamente correlacionados com o custo da dupla tarefa do controle postural durante a condição 2. Conclusão: A feitura de uma tarefa cognitiva durante o teste de organização sensorial resultou em um aumento significativo na oscilação postural em três condições, principalmente durante a manipulação do ambiente visual em oposição à manipulação vestibular e somatossensorial. O desempenho cognitivo diminuiu durante a condição de teste de organização sensorial mais complexa. Além disso, observamos que os participantes com função executiva pior apresentaram maior custo da dupla tarefa durante demandas de integração sensorial mais complexas.

Trastorno del procesamiento sensorial. Una mirada conjunta desde la terapia ocupacional y la otorrinolaringología / Sensory processing disorder. A vision statement from occupational therapy and otolaryngology

Resumen El trastorno del procesamiento sensorial (TPS) es una condición frecuente, pero poco conocida por muchos profesionales de la salud. El procesamiento sensorial se define como la capacidad que posee el sistema nervioso central de interpretar y organizar las sensaciones del propio cuerpo y del ambiente, para su uso efectivo en el entorno mediante respuestas adaptativas. Por lo tanto, cualquier disfunción en el procesamiento (registro, modulación y/o discriminación) de estos estímulos se expresa como una respuesta desadaptativa, siendo significativo cuando esta impacta en la vida diaria del paciente. Es deber del médico sospechar este trastorno, acogiendo al paciente y su familia, derivando oportunamente a terapia ocupacional para su correcta evaluación y eventual manejo de acuerdo con las necesidades de cada paciente.

Abstract Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is an unknown condition for many health care professionals. Sensory processing is defined as the capacity of the central nervous system to interpretate and organize sensations from our own body and from the environment, for their proper use by adaptive responses. Any dysfunction in this processing (registration, modulation and or discrimination) is expressed by a maladaptive response, being considered abnormal when this response has a negative impact in the patient's daily activities. Is our duty as health care workers to suspect this disorder, help our patients and their families by doing a proper referral to an occupational therapist for their evaluation and management, according to each patient needs.

Application of sensory integration therapy in cerebral palsy rehabilitation: a systematic review / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To systematically review the research progress of sensory integration therapy in the rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy. Methods The literatures related to the application of sensory integration therapy in the rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy was retrieved from Web of Sciences, PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang data, and VIP databases until November 27, 2021, using subject search. And the contents of the literatures were extracted to review the implementation plan of sensory integration therapy and the effectiveness of its application in the rehabilitation of children with cerebral palsy. Results Six literatures were included. The main focus was on the research of sensory integration therapy on postural control, gross motor function, intelligence level and cognitive function, and treatment modalities in children with cerebral palsy. Conclusion Sensory integration therapy is effective on motor function, posture control and intelligence in children with cerebral palsy. To maximize the effect of sensory integration therapy, a suitable rehabilitation treatment plan should be formulated according to the degree of sensory integration disorder and the age, gender and tolerance of children.

Ayres Sensory Integration ® Implementation in Malaysian Occupational Therapists: Challenges and Limitations (Perlaksanaan Ayres Sensory Integration ® Terhadap Terapis Carakerja di Malaysia: Cabaran dan Limitasi) / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

@#One of the most popular interventions provided by occupational therapists for pediatric clients is Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI). Strict fidelity measures consisting of procedural and structural elements must be adhered to when using it. These fidelity measures distinguish Ayres Sensory Integration® from other sensory-based interventions. This study involved the development of a survey instrument and outlined the challenges that Malaysian occupational therapists face when using Ayres sensory integration® (ASI). The questionnaire development involved the processes of assessing its validity and reliability. A total of 161 occupational therapists working in various healthcare settings responded to the survey by answering a self-administered questionnaire. The results identified eight themes or issues: (1) Inadequate Training, (2) Resource Issues, (3) Physical Constraints, (4) Time Constraints, (5) Limited Information/ Support Provided By Family, (6) Limited Support From Management, (7) Limited Information/Support Provided By Suppliers, and (8) Issues in Implementing Evidence-Based Practice. Identifying the challenges of implementing ASI is an important aspect of improving occupational therapy assessments and interventions, which would establish the effectiveness of the interventions provided.

Association between cesarean section and sensory integration dysfunction in preschool children: a prospective cohort study / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To study the association between cesarean section and sensory integration dysfunction (SID) in preschool children through a prospective cohort study.@*METHODS@#Based on the multicenter mother-infant cohort established by the Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in 2012, the sensory integration functions (three dimensions: vestibular balance, tactile defensiveness, and proprioception) of 392 preschool children were evaluated by the Chinese Children Sensory Integration Capacity Development Rating Scale in 2017. Births by cesarean section were the exposure factors, and the children born by vaginal delivery were enrolled as controls. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association of cesarean section with each dimension of SID.@*RESULTS@#The prevalence rate of SID was 21.9% (86/392) among the preschool children, and the prevalence rates of vestibular balance disorder, tactile over-responsivity, and proprioceptive disorder were 5.9% (23/392), 5.4% (21/392), and 15.1% (59/392) respectively. After adjustment for the confounding factors including maternal age at delivery and maternal educational level and child birth situation, the cesarean section group had a significant increase in the risk of proprioceptive disorder (@*CONCLUSIONS@#Cesarean section can significantly increase the risk of proprioceptive disorder in preschool children, especially in boys.

Desarrollo de un procedimiento estructurado de observación clínica de la modulación táctil y desempeño de dos muestras clínicas de niños con y sin defensividad táctil / Development of an estructured procedure of clinical observations of the sensory modulation and the performance of two clinical samples of children with and without tactile defensiveness

La defensividad táctil es una de las disfunciones de integración sensorial que fueron tempranamente descritas por Jean Ayres (Lane, 2020). Sin embargo, para su diagnóstico se carece de instrumentos de evaluación basados en la observación del desempeño del niño, y en cambio, se suele utilizar casi exclusivamente el reporte de los padres por medio de cuestionarios sensoriales. Basado en diversos fundamentos teóricos se diseñó un procedimiento estructurado de observación clínica de la modulación táctil, compuesto por dos juegos con exposición a estímulos táctiles, el cual fue aplicado en contexto de práctica clínica privada, registrándose sus observaciones textualmente en fichas clínicas. El objetivo de esta investigación es describir los signos de defensividad táctil que pueden ser detectados con este procedimiento. Por medio de una pauta de análisis de 29 ítems de respuesta dicotómica, se examinaron retrospectivamente 83 fichas, de una población clínica de niños con y sin defensividad táctil, de 2 a 11 años de edad. Se comparó los resultados de una muestra de niños con defensividad táctil con otra de niños sin defensividad táctil, por medio de estadística descriptiva y pruebas no paramétricas. El desempeño de niños con defensividad táctil estadísticamente difiere de manera significativa del de niños sin defensividad táctil en el procedimiento de observación estudiado. Además, este instrumento puede contribuir con el proceso diagnóstico de defensividad táctil, por medio de la contabilización de indicadores para sugerir el diagnóstico, o de la identificación específica de algunos de ellos que serían más relevantes.

Tactile defensiveness is one of the first sensory integration dysfunctions described by Jean Ayres. However, for the diagnosis, evaluation procedures based on the observation of the child's performance are lacking, and instead, parents' reports are usually used almost exclusively. Based on several theoretical foundations, a structured procedure of clinical observations of tactile modulation was designed, consisting of two games that expose children to tactile stimuli. The observation was applied in a private clinic, using recording used for the purpose of documentation in clinical records. The objective of this research is to describe the tactile defensiveness signs that may be detected with this procedure. Through a guideline with 29 items of dichotomous response, 83 clinical records were retrospectively examined, from a clinical population of children with and without tactile defensiveness, aged 2 to 11 years. The results of a sample of children with tactile defensiveness were compared with another one of children without tactile defensiveness, through descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. The performance of children with tactile defensiveness are significantly different from children without tactile defensiveness. In addition, this instrument can contribute to the diagnostic process of tactile defensiveness, through the analysis of indicators that suggest the diagnosis, or the specific identification of relevant signs of tactile defensiveness.

Efectividad de un programa estructurado de integración sensorial con un grupo de escolares con dificultades de aprendizaje: estudio retrospectivo en Bogotá / Development of a structured procedure of clinical observations of the sensory modulation and the performance of two clinical samples of children with and without tactile defensiveness: retrospective study in Bogotá

Las relaciones entre las dificultades de aprendizaje y las disfunciones de integración sensorial están reportadas en la literatura norteamericana, aunque en Latinoamérica la información disponible es limitada. Por lo anterior, se orientan los objetivos de este estudio a aportar a la literatura que describe los problemas sensoriales en niños con dificultades de aprendizaje y del impacto del tratamiento basado en la teoría de integración sensorial. El método de tipo retrospectivo utilizó el análisis anónimo de datos de diecisiete estudiantes derivados a terapia ocupacional por presentar dificultades en el entorno escolar. Se aplicaron evaluaciones estandarizadas: el test de Integracion Sensorial y Praxis; y el Perfil Sensorial, que al inicio reconocieron disfunciones entre 53% y el 88% y en reevaluación entre el 27% y el 88% reflejando cambio positivo después del programa. El análisis de varianza ANOVA permitió precisar el efecto del programa y contribuyó a explicar la relación de los déficits del procesamiento sensorial con las dificultades académicas y de comportamiento.

The relationships between learning difficulties and sensory integration dysfunctions are reported in American literature, in Latin America the information available is limited, guiding the objectives of this study to contribute to literature describing sensory problems in children with learning difficulties and the impact of treatment based on sensory integration theory. The retrospective method, I use anonymous analysis of data from seventeen students derived to occupational therapy because they present difficulties in the school environment. The Sensory Integration and Praxis test and sensory profile were applied as a standardized evaluation, which initially recognized dysfunctions between 53% and 88% and in re-evaluation between 27% and 88% reflecting positive change after the program. The ANOVA variance analysis allowed to specify the effect of the program and helped explain the relationship of sensory processing deficits with academic and behavioral difficulties.

La intolerancia a la incertidumbre en el autismo / Intolerance to uncertainty in autism

Partimos de las evidencias que confirman una mayor vulnerabilidad a la ansiedad de las personas con autismo para preguntarnos en qué medida la intolerancia a la incertidumbre media en dicha ansiedad. Además, las alteraciones de las habilidades predictivas en el autismo podrían explicar la coherencia existente entre mayor intolerancia a la incertidumbre y algunas particularidades inherentes al autismo como los patrones de comportamientos, intereses y actividades restrictivos y estereotipados, y las particularidades en el procesamiento de la información sensorial. Esta información nos permitirá desarrollar intervenciones centradas específicamente en este constructo para la prevención y mejora de la sintomatología ansiosa en el autismo en los casos en los que la severidad de la intolerancia a la incer tidumbre constituya un factor de riesgo significativo.

We start from the evidence that confirms a greater vulnerability to anxiety in people with autism and to wonder to what extent the intolerance to the uncertainty mediates in that anxiety. In addition, the alterations of the predictive abilities in autism could explain the coherence between greater intolerance to uncertainty and some peculiarities inherent in autism such as patterns of restrictive and stereotyped behaviors, interests and activities, and particularities in the processing of sensory information. This information will allow us to develop interventions specifically focused on this construct for the prevention and improvement of anxiety symptoms in autism in cases that the severity of intolerance to uncertainty constitutes a significant risk factor.

Evidencia científica de integración sensorial como abordaje de terapia ocupacional en autismo / Scientific evidence of sensory integration as an approach to occupational therapy in autism

Este artículo presenta brevemente los antecedentes teóricos y prácticos de Integración Sensorial de Ayres (ASI, Ayres Sensory Integration) y su aplicación en el trastorno del espectro autista (TEA). Se revisan críticas históricas sobre la evidencia de ASI como intervención terapéutica y se presenta evidencia contemporánea. Según estándares establecidos por el Consejo para Niños Excepcionales (CEC, Council for Exceptional Children), organismo internacional que desarrolla criterios para categorizar prácticas basadas en la evidencia, ASI es una práctica basada en la evidencia.

This article briefly presents the theoretical and practical background of Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) and its application in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Historical criticisms on the evidence of ASI as a therapeutic intervention are reviewed and contemporary evidence is presented. According to standards established by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), an international organization that develops criteria for categorizing evidence-based practices, ASI is an evidence-based practice.

Effect of Gymnastics Exercise on Sensory Integration Disorder in Children Aged Three to Six Years / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To explore the effect of gymnastic exercise on sensory integration disorder (SID) in children aged three to six years. Methods:From March to June 2018, 27 children aged three to six years with SID were recruited from Chengdu U-Beller International Children Education Center (Pidu Campus), and were randomly divided into control group (n = 13) and experimental group (n = 14). The experimental group accepted gymnastic exercise, 60 minutes a time, three times a week, for 16 weeks. The control group received no intervention. They were assessed with Assessment Scale for Children Sensory Integration Development, for vestibular dysfunction, tactile defense and proprioception dysfunction. Results:After intervention, the SID improvement was better in the experimental group than in the control group (χ2 > 6.639, P < 0.05), several children with mild disorder returned to normal level, and several with severe disorder returned to mild level. There was no difference in the scores of vestibular dysfunction, tactile defense and proprioception dysfunction before and after intervention in the control group (P > 0.05), and the scores significantly improved in the experimental group (|t| > 7.015, P < 0.01), and was higher in the experimental group than in the control group after intervention (t > 2.193, P < 0.01). Conclusion:Gymnastic exercise can improve vestibular dysfunction, tactile defense and proprioception dysfunction for children with SID aged three to six years.

Advisory Panel Review on the Feasibility of Three Intervention Programmes for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

@#Introduction: The prevalence of children with autism spectrum disorder is increasing each year. Intervention programmes towards improving the occupational needs such as daily activities of these children are limited. This study aimed to collect opinions from advisory panel for the content validation of the three developed intervention programmes to be implemented among children with autism spectrum disorder aged between 6 to 12 years. The intervention programmes are; i) self-regulated learning, ii) sensory integration intervention and iii) activity-based intervention. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Twenty occupational therapists with more than three years’ experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders were recruited as advisory panel members. Researchers-developed questionnaire was used. The questionnaire consists of nine to eleven items. Each item consists of a five-point Likert scale for quantitative responses and open-ended questions for qualitative responses. Results: Advisory panel ratings of ‘Good’ to ‘Excellent’ was reported across most items in all three intervention programmes. Overall results suggested that the intervention programmes content was rated to be suitable for children with autism spectrum disorder. Constructive comments were adopted to clarify the activities and structure of the intervention programmes. Final development of the intervention programmes is presented. Conclusion: This study provides confidence for the interventions to be incorporated into the future randomised controlled trial.

Neurological Soft Signs and cognitive processes in Mexican schoolchildren aged 6 to 11 years / Sinais Neurológicos Sutis e processos cognitivos em crianças escolares mexicanas de 6 a 11 anos / Signos Neurológicos Blandos y procesos cognitivos en niños escolares mexicanos de 6-11 años

Abstract Neurological Soft Signs (NSS) are indicative of generalized disruptions in neurological networks of cortico-subcortical areas. Their presence leads to problems in children's cognitive development with future academic repercussions. The presence of NSS was assessed and compared in 144 children aged 6 to 11 years of low-medium socioeconomic status from Mexico City and the metropolitan area through the Infant Neuropsychological Maturity Questionnaire (CUMANIN, for its Spanish acronym) and the School Neuropsychological Maturity Questionnaire (CUMANES, for its Spanish acronym). Results indicate significant differences by sex. Girls showed better performance in word articulation. In groups by age, significant differences were found in leximetric-comprehension, visual perception and executive function-errors. Participants showed the presence of developmental NSS which include: language (articulation disorders, oral and written language disturbances, difficulty finding words), psychomotricity, visual perception and other cognitive functions. There are several factors related to those impairments such as age, socioeconomic context and critical stages in child's development. Identification and early diagnosis can reduce the risk of school failure.

Resumo Os Sinais Neurológico Sutis (SNS) são indicadores de interrupções generalizadas nas redes de trabalho neural de áreas córtico-subcorticais, cuja presença leva a problemas no desenvolvimento neurocognitivo da criança que representam repercussões acadêmicas negativas. Na presente pesquisa, foi avaliada e comparada a presença de SNS com os processos cognitivos de 144 participantes mexicanos de estrato socioeconómico médio-baixo com idades entre 6 e 11 anos, sem antecedentes neurológicos ou psiquiátricos, por meio dos Cuestionarios de Madurez Neuropsicológica (CUMANIN) e Madurez Neuropsicológica Escolar (CUMANES). Os resultados indicaram diferenças significativas por gênero, já que as meninas apresentaram melhor desempenho na articulação de palavras. Nos grupos por idade, as diferenças significativas foram encontradas na velocidade de leitura e compreensão, visuopercepção e função executiva e erros. Em geral, os participantes mostraram presença de SNS de desenvolvimento, que incluem interferências na linguagem (problemas articulatórios, alterações da linguagem oral e escrita, dificuldade para encontrar palavras), psicomotricidade, visuopercepção e outras funções cognitivas. Ao final, conclui-se que a identificação e o diagnóstico precoce dos SNS permite diminuir o risco de fracasso escolar.

Resumen Los Signos Neurológicos Blandos (SNB) son indicativos de interrupciones generalizadas en las redes de trabajo neuronal de áreas cortico-subcorticales, cuya presencia conlleva a problemas en el desarrollo neurocognitivo del niño que representan repercusiones académicas negativas. En la presente investigación se evaluó y comparó la presencia de SNB con los procesos cognitivos de 144 participantes mexicanos de estrato socioeconómico medio-bajo con edades entre los 6 y 11 años sin antecedentes neurológicos o psiquiátricos por medio de los Cuestionarios de Madurez Neuropsicológica (CUMANIN) y Madurez Neuropsicológica Escolar (CUMANES). Los resultados indicaron diferencias significativas por sexo, ya que las niñas presentaron mejor desempeño en la articulación de palabras. En los grupos por edad, las diferencias significativas se encontraron en leximetría-comprensión, visopercepción y función ejecutiva-errores; y, en general, los participantes mostraron presencia de SNB de desarrollo, que incluyen afectaciones en: lenguaje (problemas articulatorios, alteraciones del lenguaje oral y escrito, dificultad para encontrar palabras), psicomotricidad, visopercepción y otras funciones cognitivas. Al final, se concluye que la identificación y diagnóstico temprano de los SNB permite disminuir el riesgo de fracaso escolar.

Reducción de las conductas autolesivas y autoestimulatorias disfuncionales en los trastornos del espectro del autismo a través de la terapia ocupacional / Reduction of dysfunctional self-injurious and self-stimulatory behaviors in autism disorders spectrum through occupational therapy

Las conductas auto estimulatorias y auto lesivas son muy frecuentes en los trastornos del neurodesarrollo, siendo una fuente de ansiedad y sufrimiento importante tanto para las personas que las presentan como para sus familias. En ocasiones estas conductas son tan intensas y frecuentes que llegan a ser un peligro para la salud del sujeto. Se realiza una revisión bibliográfica sobre las diferentes vías de atención de estas conductas desarrolladas hasta el momento, y se expone la metodología aplicada en nuestra clínica, presentando datos recopilados sobre el efecto de la terapia sobre las conductas auto lesivas y auto estimulatorias en 20 casos, como punto de partida para próximas investigaciones. Se destaca el modelo de integración sensorial que complementa el tratamiento farmacológico y el cognitivo conductual, ya que considera relevante las necesidades sensoriales y entrena la capacidad de auto regulación funcional.

Self-stimulatory and self-injurious behaviors are very frequent in neurodevelopmental disorders, being a source of anxiety and suffering for persons who have that behavior and their families. Sometimes these behaviors are so intense and frequent that it becomes a self-integrity risk. A bibliographic review was conducted on the different approaches that have been developed until today; in addition, this article explains the methodology applied in our clinic, with a data collection on the effect of therapy on self-injurious and self-stimulatory behaviors in 20 cases, as a starting point for future research. The sensory integration model that complements pharmacological and behavioral cognitive treatment is highlighted, since it considers sensory needs relevant and trains the capacity for functional self-regulation.

Advance in Sensory Integration for Children (review) / 中国康复理论与实践

Sensory integration treatment (SIT) corrects sensory dysfunction by controlling and regulating sensory input in the environment. SIT was currently used more and more widely, especially for children with behavioral and developmental disabilities. Based on the published researches for children in the past five years, SIT may work well for the population with something such as sensory processing and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Other specific results were different in the studies, and difficult to conclude. The research should be improved in the dificiencies as small sample size, confusing dosage and terrible fidelity. Intervention planning for individuals requires the integration of the information with specific knowledge of the patient's needs, expert consensus and professional judgment.

Desempeño de niños típicos entre 5 y 7.11 años de edad en una selección de observaciones clínicas: datos preliminares y propiedades psicométricas en una muestra chilena / The performance of typical children between 5 and 7.11 years in a selection of clinical observations: preliminary data and psychometric properties in a Chilean sample

La utilización de observaciones que proporcionan información acerca del funcionamiento sensorio-motor relacionado a procesamiento sensorial es común en la práctica clínica. Un grupo de observaciones, llamadas observaciones clínicas por A.J. Ayres ayuda a diagnosticar disfunciones sensoriales aunque no existen normas desarrolladas en Chile, ni su validez o confiabilidad establecida estadísticamente para su utilización. Para normar estas pruebas en Chile se entrenaron 4 evaluadores quienes recolectaron datos de niños entre 5 y 7.11 años de edad: 90 típicos y 26 identificados con problemas de procesamiento sensorial. Este estudio proporciona datos preliminares sobre 5 pruebas relacionadas a control postural y planeamiento motor: equilibrio en un pie (ojos cerrados y ojos abiertos), extensión antigravitatoria, flexion antigravitatoria, secuenciación de dígitos, y diadochokinesis. Los resultados indican que estas pruebas se pueden utilizar para diagnosticar niños con disfunciones sensorio-motoras en la práctica clínica e investigación.

Clinical observations that provide information about sensory-motor performance related to sensory processing, are commonly used in clinical practice. A group of these observations, known as clinical observations by A. J. Ayres,help diagnose sensory related dysfunctions even when normative data and statistically established validity and reliability are not available for the Chilean children. In order to develop normative data, we trained 4 independent assessors who collected data on 90 typically developing children 5 to 7.11 years of age and 26 children identified as presenting with sensory processing problems. The present study provides preliminary data about 5 observations that relate to postural control and motor planning: Standing on one foot (eyes open and closed), extensión against gravity, flexion against gravity, sequential finger touching and diadochokinesis. The results of this study indicate that these observations can help diagnose children with sensory-motor dysfunctions and be utilized for clinical applications and research.

Dificultades de escritura en el contexto escolar chileno: abordaje de terapia ocupacional y la utilizacion de estrategias de integración sensorial / Handwriting difficulties in chilean school context: occupational therapy intervention and sensory integration strategies

La escritura y las dificultades de escritura son un tema importante para los Terapeutas Ocupacionales. La literatura evidencia que las dificultades de escritura constituyen uno de los motivos más frecuentes de derivación a Terapia Ocupacional (Feder et al., 2007) En la investigación participan 25 Terapeutas Ocupacionales chilenos que trabajan en Programas de Inclusión Educativa (PIE) con niños de 6 a 9 años. Los resultados indican que el 80 por ciento de la muestra considera que los problemas de escritura son un motivo frecuente de derivación a Terapia Ocupacional en el contexto escolar. Las estrategias de Integración Sensorial para abordar los problemas de escritura en el contexto escolar son utilizadas en promedio por el 57 por ciento de los participantes, observándose en 3er lugar en la frecuencia general, luego de la utilización de estrategias visomotoras y de estrategias volitivas/motivacionales. Las estrategias de Integración Sensorial son percibidas como las más efectivas para abordar los problemas de escritura en el contexto escolar en niños con Trastornos del Espectro Autista y Síndrome de Déficit Atencional, versus otras estrategias tales como las sensoriomotoras, volicionales / motivacionales, cognitivas o conductuales. Las estrategias de integración sensorial más utilizadas para abordar los problemas de escritura en el contexto escolar, son las “sugerencias a profesores basadas en dicho enfoque”, realizadas por el 87 por ciento de los Terapeutas Ocupacionales participantes en el estudio.

Writing and handwriting difficulties are a major issue for Occupational Therapists. The literature shows that the handwriting difficulties are one of the most common reasons for derivation to Occupational Therapy (Feder et al., 2007) In this research are participating 25 chilean Occupational Therapists whose work in Inclusion Educational Programs ( I E P ) with children 6 to 9 years. Regarding the results; 80 percent believe that writing problems are a common reason derivation to Occupational Therapy in the school context. Sensory integration strategies to address handwriting problems in school context are used on average by 57 percent of participants in the sample observed in 3rd place in the overall frequency after visual motor strategies of and volitional / motivational strategies. Sensory Integration strategies are perceived as the most effective in addressing the problems of writing in the school context in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder, versus other strategies such as sensorimotor, volitional /motivational, cognitive or behavioral. Sensory integration strategies most commonly used to address the problems of writing in the school context, are “suggestions to teachers” based on this approach, carried by 87 percent of occupational therapists in the study.

Intervención de integración sensorial en niños con trastorno del espectro autista / Intervention of sensory integration in children with autism spectrum disorder

El estudio aborda intervenciones de la terapia ocupacional con base teórica metodológica en el modelo de integración sensorial en dos niños de cinco y ocho años con trastorno del espectro autista. Son comparadas las evaluaciones antes y después de las intervenciones con base en el perfil sensorial y descriptas intervenciones en la clínica, delineando las acciones, como parte del tratamiento. Se confirmó que los resultados del estudio corroboran con los encontrados en la literatura, o sea, con base en la integración sensorial favorecen la mejora de varios aspectos del procesamiento sensorial y mejor desempeño funcional.

The study has with focus the occupational therapy interventions with theoretical and methodological basis of the sensory integration model with two children with five and eight years with autism spectrum disorder. The assessments are compared before and after the interventions based on the sensory profile and described the clinical interventions, outlining the actions and activities of sensory diet that children made in their homes as part of the treatment. The results confirms that this study corroborate the findings in the literature, ie, interventions based on sensory integration provides improvement in several aspects of sensory processing and better functional performance.