Creative Strengths in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Reassessing Performance and Attitudes

This research paper delves into the realm of creative expression in adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), shedding light on the complexities surrounding their creative abilities. It contrasts the findings of past research, highlighting the unique creative advantages possessed by individuals with ASD.   Redefining Creativity in ASD: A Shift in Focus   Past studies … Read more

Navigating the Transition to Adulthood: Insights from Caregivers of Autistic Individuals

Publish in Journal of Autism  On December 2023 By  Samara M. Wolpe, Amanda R. Johnson, and Sunny Kim.   Overview   The article aims to learn more about the experiences of caregivers of autistic young adults, their challenges and needs in helping their children transition to adulthood, and what steps could be taken by various … Read more

Disrupted extracellular matrix and cell cycle genes in autism-associated Shank3 deficiency are targeted by lithium

Shank3 and Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMDS)   The Shank3 gene plays a crucial role in brain development and function. Mutations in Shank3 cause Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMDS), a genetic disorder characterized by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability, and seizures.   Effects of Shank3 deficiency on gene expression   Shank3 deficiency disrupts the expression of many genes, … Read more

Challenges in future all round digitalized ASD care services

 by Laura Tarantino, Margherita Attanasio, Marco Valenti, and Monica Mazza   This paper presents a vision of ICT-based personalized continuous integrated ASD care services that support not only ASD treatment but also all the involved stakeholders, such as professionals, families, caregivers, and social networks. The paper argues that the adoption of Digital Twin as a … Read more

The global prevalence of autism spectrum disorder: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

Procedure This is a meta-analysis that sought to estimate the global prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It reviewed 74 studies conducted between 2008 and 2021 that met the inclusion criteria. The studies were conducted in 24 countries across 6 continents and included over 500,000 participants.   Prevalence of ASD The analysis found that the … Read more

Using a Game Like Procedure as a Test of Executive Functions in Children

Overview The thesis explores the use of a novel assessment tool called the Alien Game, which aims to measure concept formation (CF) abilities in children aged 6 to 11 years. CF is a key component of executive functions (EFs), which are higher-order cognitive processes that enable flexible and goal-directed behavior. EFs are important for academic … Read more

Discrimination sensitivity of visual shapes sharpens after category learning in autistic adults but only after explicit category feedback

Introduction   Visual perception is a complex process that involves not only detecting the physical features of objects, but also organizing them into meaningful categories. For example, we can easily recognize different types of animals, even if they vary in shape, color, or size. This ability to categorize and generalize is essential for efficient information … Read more

Autism and theory of mind in everyday life

by Uta Frith and Francesca Happé   Overview The article explores how autistic people understand the mental states of others, such as beliefs, desires, and intentions. This ability is often referred to as theory of mind (ToM), and it is crucial for social interaction and communication. The authors review the evidence from cognitive and developmental … Read more

A comparison of methods for measuring camouflaging in autism

published in the journal Autism Research. By Benjamin Hannon, William Mandy, Laura Hull, and others.   Introduction The article is divided into two parts: a systematic review and an empirical study. The aim of the article is to evaluate the existing methods for measuring camouflaging in autism, which is the process of hiding or compensating … Read more