http://idea.library.drexel.edu/handle/1860/1753 http://idea.library.drexel.edu/retrieve/8359 http://idea.library.drexel.edu/handle/1860/1753 Search the Channel search http://idea.library.drexel.edu/simple-search http://idea.library.drexel.edu/handle/1860/2632 Title: The epidemiology of autism spectrum disorders <br/> <br/>Authors: Newschaffer, Craig J.; Croen, Lisa A.; Daniels, Julie; Giarelli, Ellen; Grether, Judith K.; Levy, Susan E.; Mandell, David S.; Miller, Lisa A.; Pinto-Martin, Jennifer; Reaven, Judy; Reynolds, Ann M.; Rice, Catherine E.; Schendel, Diana; Windham, Gayle C. <br/> <br/>Abstract: Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex, lifelong, neurodevelopmental conditions of largely unknown cause. They are much more common than previously believed, second in frequency only to mental retardation among the serious developmental disorders. Although a heritable component has been demonstrated in ASD etiology, putative risk genes have yet to be identified. Environmental risk factors may also play a role, perhaps via complex gene-environment interactions, but no specific exposures with significant population effects are known. A number of endogenous biomarkers associated with autism risk have been investigated, and these may help identify significant biologic pathways that, in turn, will aid in the discovery of specific genes and exposures. Future epidemiologic research should focus on expanding population-based descriptive data on ASDs, exploring candidate risk factors in large well-designed studies incorporating both genetic and environmental exposure data and addressing possible etiologic heterogeneity in studies that can stratify case groups and consider alternate endophenotypes. Sun, 07 Jan 2007 22:58:59 GMT http://idea.library.drexel.edu/handle/1860/2625 Title: Predictors of language acquisition in preschool children with autism spectrum disorders <br/> <br/>Authors: Thurm, Audrey; Lord, Catherine; Lee, Li-Ching; Newschaffer, Craig J. <br/> <br/>Abstract: In 118 children followed from age 2 to 5 (59 with autism, 24 with PDD-NOS and 35 with nonspectrum developmental disabilities), age 2 and age 3 scores of non-verbal ability, receptive communication, expressive communication and socialization were compared as predictors of receptive and expressive language at age 5. Non-verbal cognitive ability at age 2 was generally the strongest predictor of age 5 language, while at age 3 communication scores were a stronger predictor of age 5 language for children with autism. Early joint attention as well as vocal and motor imitation skills were more impaired in children who did not develop language by age 5 (but had relatively strong non-verbal cognitive skills) than in children who did develop language by 5. Mon, 18 Dec 2006 22:58:59 GMT