Constructing Healthy Experiences through Human-Animal Interactions for Autistic Children and Their Families: Implications for Research and Education

An introduction to the themed issue on RNA biology in China

Essays in Biochemistry ◽

10.1042/ebc20200031 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 64 (6) ◽

pp. 863-866

Author(s):

Zhe Wu

Keyword(s):

Molecular Biology ◽

Chinese Society ◽

Fortieth Anniversary ◽

Rna Biology ◽

Research And Education ◽

Education In China

Abstract The year 2019 marked the fortieth anniversary of the Chinese Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (CSBMB), whose mission is to promote biomolecular research and education in China. The last 40 years have witnessed tremendous growth and achievements in biomolecular research by Chinese scientists and Essays in Biochemistry is delighted to publish this themed issue that focuses on exciting areas within RNA biology, with each review contributed by key experts from China.

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Development of Neural Structure and Function in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Potential Implications for Learning Language

American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology ◽

10.1044/2020_ajslp-19-00209 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 29 (4) ◽

pp. 1783-1797

Author(s):

Kelly L. Coburn ◽

Diane L. Williams

Keyword(s):

Autism Spectrum Disorder ◽

Language Development ◽

Diffusion Tensor ◽

Autism Spectrum ◽

Language Intervention ◽

Spectrum Disorder ◽

Autistic Children ◽

Neural Structure ◽

Complex Information ◽

And Function

Purpose Neurodevelopmental processes that begin during gestation and continue throughout childhood typically support language development. Understanding these processes can help us to understand the disruptions to language that occur in neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method For this tutorial, we conducted a focused literature review on typical postnatal brain development and structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, magnetoencephalography, and electroencephalography studies of the neurodevelopmental differences that occur in ASD. We then integrated this knowledge with the literature on evidence-based speech-language intervention practices for autistic children. Results In ASD, structural differences include altered patterns of cortical growth and myelination. Functional differences occur at all brain levels, from lateralization of cortical functions to the rhythmic activations of single neurons. Neuronal oscillations, in particular, could help explain disrupted language development by elucidating the timing differences that contribute to altered functional connectivity, complex information processing, and speech parsing. Findings related to implicit statistical learning, explicit task learning, multisensory integration, and reinforcement in ASD are also discussed. Conclusions Consideration of the neural differences in autistic children provides additional scientific support for current recommended language intervention practices. Recommendations consistent with these neurological findings include the use of short, simple utterances; repetition of syntactic structures using varied vocabulary; pause time; visual supports; and individualized sensory modifications.

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