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Dahshi H, Kalvakuntla S, Lee M, Goodspeed K. Beyond the Diagnosis: Evaluation of Quality-of-Life Measures and Family Functioning in SLC6A1-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder. Pediatr Neurol 2024; 155:160-166. [PMID: 38663152 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2024.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND SLC6A1-related neurodevelopmental disorder (SLC6A1-NDD) is a rare genetic disorder linked to autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and developmental delay. In preparation for future clinical trials, understanding how the disorder impacts patients and their families is critically important. Quality-of-life (QoL) measures capture the overall disease experience of patients. This study presents QOL findings from our SLC6A1-NDD clinical trial readiness study and the Simons Searchlight SLC6A1-NDD registry. METHODS We compiled QoL data from participants with SLC6A1-NDD enrolled in our clinical trial readiness study (n = 20) and the Simons Searchlight registry (n = 32). We assessed the distribution of scores on the Quality-of-Life Inventory-Disability (QI Disability), Quality of Life of Childhood Epilepsy (QOLCE-55), and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Family Impact Module (PedsQL-FIM) administered to caregivers. RESULTS In our cohort of 52 participants, the mean QI Disability total score was 73 ± 12.3, the QOLCE-55 mean total score was 49 ± 17.1, and the mean total PedsQL score was 51 ± 17.6. Longitudinal QoL scores for a subset of participants (n = 7) demonstrated a reduction in the Family Relationship domain of PedsQL-FIM (Δ-10.0, P = 0.035). Bootstrap resampling of total scores displays nonoverlapping 95% confidence intervals for the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles on all three measures. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to investigate QoL measures for SLC6A1-NDD. Findings suggest that scores within the 10th percentile's confidence interval could be clinically significant, referring to QI-Disability scores of <61, QOLCE-55 scores of <46, and PedsQL-FIM scores of <42. Future validation studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Dahshi
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, O'Donnell Brain Institute, Dallas, Texas.
| | - Sanjana Kalvakuntla
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Medical School, Dallas, Texas
| | - MinJae Lee
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, Dallas, Texas
| | - Kimberly Goodspeed
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
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2
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Nisbet LC, Ellis K, Mihai R, Croft E, Davey MJ, Nixon GM. Improvement in quality of life with continuous positive airway pressure outweighs the treatment burden in children with obstructive sleep apnea. Pediatr Pulmonol 2024; 59:1288-1297. [PMID: 38353401 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may pose a significant burden on families. We assessed the impact of CPAP for children on quality of life (QOL) and caregiver treatment burden. METHODS Prospective cohort study of children commencing outpatient CPAP in a specialist sleep centre 2020-2022. Questionnaires regarding sleep-related symptoms (PROMIS Pediatric Sleep Disturbance and Sleep-Related Impairment), QOL (OSA-18, QI-Disability), caregiver burden (Caregiver Strain Questionnaire) and overall health impact (Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory) were completed by caregivers at CPAP commencement and 6 weeks later. RESULTS Twenty-six patients completed follow-up (7 female; median age 11.4 year, baseline obstructive apnea hypopnea index 10.3/h; 77% overweight or obese, 73% comorbidity other than obesity). OSA-related QOL (OSA-18) significantly improved at follow-up (p < 0.01), as did child general QOL (p < 0.001), sleep disturbance (p < 0.01) and sleep-related impairment (p < 0.001). Caregivers mostly rated CPAP as beneficial to their child's health but 19% rated CPAP as harmful or having no effect. Caregiver strain reduced at follow-up (p < 0.001) and benefit outweighed inconvenience (p < 0.0001) in 81%. CPAP adherence was correlated with overall health impact (r = 0.67, p < 0.01) but not with caregiver rating of inconvenience. CONCLUSIONS CPAP resulted in improvements in QOL and sleep-related symptoms, and reduced caregiver strain. Perceived benefits outweighed the burden of treatment for most but not all families. CPAP adherence was moderately correlated with family-reported measures of benefit but not related to perceived inconvenience. This study provides reassuring evidence regarding the benefits and impacts of CPAP for children, many of whom already have complex health care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Nisbet
- Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kirsten Ellis
- Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rebecca Mihai
- Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Emma Croft
- Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margot J Davey
- Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gillian M Nixon
- Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Ferrera G, Ricci E, Peron A, Parrini E, Vignoli A, Canevini MP. Continuous spike-wave of slow sleep in a patient with KCNB1-related epilepsy responsive to highly purified cannabidiol: a case report and comparison with literature. Neurocase 2024; 30:68-72. [PMID: 38769754 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2024.2354952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
KCNB1-associated encephalopathy is characterized by intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy. Specific treatments are still lacking. We describe a 12-year-old boy with severe ID and treatment-resistant seizures due to a pathogenic KCNB1 variant. His EEG showed a CSWS pattern. Aged 11, he started treatment with highly purified cannabidiol (CBD) and has been seizure free for 18 months, with significant EEG and social skills improvements. This suggests CBD may benefit CSWS, likely due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Some preclinical studies also indicate CBDs interact with voltage-gated channels, leading us to speculate its possible role for treating KCNB1 related encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ferrera
- Epilepsy Center-Sleep Medicine, University of Milan and ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilia Ricci
- Epilepsy Center-Sleep Medicine, University of Milan and ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Peron
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, USA
- Medical Genetics, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Ospedale San Paolo, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Parrini
- Pediatric Neurology, Neurogenetics and Neurobiology Unit and Laboratories, Meyer Children's Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Aglai Vignoli
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatr, University of Milan and ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Canevini
- Epilepsy Center-Sleep Medicine, University of Milan and ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
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Keeley J, Benson-Goldberg S, Saldaris J, Lariviere J, Leonard H, Marsh ED, Demarest ST, Benke TA, Jacoby P, Downs J. Communication of individuals with CDKL5 deficiency disorder as observed by caregivers: A descriptive qualitative study. Am J Med Genet A 2024:e63570. [PMID: 38425131 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) is a genetically caused developmental epileptic encephalopathy that causes severe communication impairments. Communication of individuals with CDD is not well understood in the literature and currently available measures are not well validated in this population. Accurate and sensitive measurement of the communication of individuals with CDD is important for understanding this condition, clinical practice, and upcoming interventional trials. The aim of this descriptive qualitative study was to understand how individuals with CDD communicate, as observed by caregivers. Participants were identified through the International CDKL5 Disorder Database and invited to take part if their child had a pathogenic variant of the CDKL5 gene and they had previously completed the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Checklist (CSBS-DP ITC). The sample comprised caregivers of 23 individuals with CDD, whose ages ranged from 2 to 30 years (median 13 years), 15 were female, and most did not use words. Semistructured interviews were conducted via videoconference and analyzed using a conventional content analysis. Three overarching categories were identified: mode, purpose and meaning, and reciprocal exchanges. These categories described the purposes and mechanism of how some individuals with CDD communicate, including underpinning influential factors. Novel categories included expressing a range of emotions, and reciprocal exchanges (two-way interactions that varied in complexity). Caregivers observed many communication modes for multiple purposes. Understanding how individuals with CDD communicate improves understanding of the condition and will guide research to develop accurate measurement for clinical practice and upcoming medication trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Keeley
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sofia Benson-Goldberg
- Center for Literacy and Disability Studies, Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jacinta Saldaris
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Judy Lariviere
- Assistive Tech 4 ALL, Inc., Rancho Cordova, California, USA
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Eric D Marsh
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Scott T Demarest
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Precision Medicine Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Tim A Benke
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Paediatrics and Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Downs J, Ludwig NN, Wojnaroski M, Keeley J, Schust Myers L, Chapman CAT, Hecker J, Conecker G, Berg AT. What does better look like in individuals with severe neurodevelopmental impairments? A qualitative descriptive study on SCN2A-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Qual Life Res 2024; 33:519-528. [PMID: 38064015 PMCID: PMC10850209 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03543-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE There are limited psychometric data on outcome measures for children with Developmental Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs), beyond measuring seizures, and no data to describe meaningful change. This study aimed to explore parent perceptions of important differences in functional abilities that would guide their participation in clinical trials. METHODS This was a descriptive qualitative study. Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted with 10 families (15 parent participants) with a child with a SCN2A-DEE [8 male, median (range) age 7.5 (4.5-21)] years. Questions and probes sought to understand the child's functioning across four domains: gross motor, fine motor, communication, and activities of daily living. Additional probing questions sought to identify the smallest differences in the child's functioning for each domain that would be important to achieve, if enrolling in a traditional therapy clinical trial or in a gene therapy trial. Data were analyzed with directed content analysis. RESULTS Expressed meaningful differences appeared to describe smaller developmental steps for children with more limited developmental skills and more complex developmental steps for children with less limited skills and were different for different clinical trial scenarios. Individual meaningful changes were described as important for the child's quality of life and to facilitate day-to-day caring. CONCLUSION Meaningful change thresholds have not been evaluated in the DEE literature. This study was a preliminary qualitative approach to inform future studies that will aim to determine quantitative values of change, applicable to groups and within-person, to inform interpretation of specific clinical outcome assessments in individuals with a DEE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, PO Box 855, West Perth, WA, 6872, Australia.
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
| | - Natasha N Ludwig
- Department of Neuropsychology/Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mary Wojnaroski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health/Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital/Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jessica Keeley
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, PO Box 855, West Perth, WA, 6872, Australia
| | | | | | - JayEtta Hecker
- DEEP Connections/SCN8A Alliance Wishes for Elliott, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Anne T Berg
- FamilieSCN2A Foundation, E. Longmeadow, MA, USA
- DEEP Connections/SCN8A Alliance Wishes for Elliott, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Berg AT, Ludwig NN, Wojnaroski M, Chapman CAT, Hommer R, Conecker G, Hecker JZ, Downs J. FDA Patient-Focused Drug Development Guidances: Considerations for Trial Readiness in Rare Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies. Neurology 2024; 102:e207958. [PMID: 38165374 PMCID: PMC10834124 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) are rare, often monogenic neurodevelopmental conditions. Most affected individuals have refractory seizures. All have multiple severe impairments which can be as life-limiting as or more limiting than the seizures themselves. Mechanism- and gene-targeted therapies for these individually rare, genetic conditions hold hope for treatment, amelioration of disease expression, and even cure. The near absence of fit-for-purpose (FFP) clinical outcome assessments (COA) to establish the benefits for nonseizure outcomes of these new therapies in clinical trials poses significant challenges to drug development. The Food and Drug Administration Patient-Focused Drug Development guidance series provides direction for how to overcome these challenges and to ensure FFP measures are available for trials. The goal is to have measures that address outcomes of importance to patients and caregivers, reliably and accurately measure the outcome in the spectrum of abilities for the target disease, and are sensitive to meaningful change over time. The guidances identify 3 primary strategies: (1) directly adopting and implementing available outcome measures; (2) creating measures de novo; and (3) a middle path of adapting or modifying existing measures. Emphasized throughout the guidances is the indispensable and extensive role of the patient or caregiver to assuring the goal of having fit measures is achieved. This review specifically considers the difficulties of adopting available COAs in severely impaired patient groups and ways to adapt or modify existing COAs to be FFP as encouraged in the guidances. Adaptations include alternative scoring, use of assessments in out-of-intended age ranges, and modifications for individuals with sensory or motor impairments. Some additional considerations that may facilitate achieving adequate clinical outcome measures, especially for rare diseases, include use of personalized endpoints, merging of existing COAs, and developing a consortium of rare DEE advocates and researchers to ensure fitness of adapted COAs across multiple rare disease groups. The FDA guidances help ensure that clinical trials targeting nonseizure outcomes, especially in severely impaired populations, will have adequately valid and sensitive outcome measures. This in turn will strengthen the ability of trials to provide informative tests of whether treatments provide meaningful therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Natasha N Ludwig
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Mary Wojnaroski
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Chere A T Chapman
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Rebecca Hommer
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Gabrielle Conecker
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - JayEtta Z Hecker
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- From the Department of Neurology (A.T.B.), Northwestern-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Decoding Developmental Epilepsies (A.T.B., G.C., J.Z.H.), Washington, DC; Department of Neuropsychology (N.N.L.), Kennedy Krieger Institute; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.N.L.), The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Psychology (M.W.), Nationwide Children's Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (M.W.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; Ardea Outcomes (C.A.T.C.), Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Connections Beyond Sight and Sound Maryland & DC Deaf-Blind Project (R.H.), University of Maryland, College Park; The Inchstone Project (J.Z.H.); Telethon Kids Institute (J.D.), The University of Western Australia; and Curtin School of Allied Health (J.D.), Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
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Jacinto M, Matos R, Gomes B, Caseiro A, Antunes R, Monteiro D, Ferreira JP, Campos MJ. Physical Fitness Variables, General Health, Dementia and Quality of Life in Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2688. [PMID: 37830725 PMCID: PMC10572461 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11192688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The average life expectancy of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) is increasing. However, living more years does not mean living better, leading to the need for research on comorbidities associated with the aging process. Associated with this process are the physical characteristics most prevalent in an individual with IDD: low levels of all physical capacities, the accumulation of central fat, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, variables considered to be some of the main risk factors of the onset of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, and variables that can negatively impact quality of life (QoL). Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate a sample of 21 institutionalized adults with IDD (42.81 ± 10.99 years old) in terms of their anthropometric characteristics, body composition, general health status, functional capacity, neuromuscular capacity, and dementia/cognitive function, and the possible associations with QoL. All assessments were performed in the laboratory of the Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education-University of Coimbra. Participants, in the present study, have low levels of physical fitness and high metabolic and cardiovascular markets, which need to be improved. On the other hand, functional and neuromuscular ability seems to be associated with QoL (p ≤ 0.05). This study highlights the role of primary and secondary care providers in diagnosis, prevention, and supporting individuals with IDDs to promote QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Jacinto
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal; (B.G.); (A.C.); (J.P.F.); (M.J.C.)
- Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal; (R.M.); (R.A.); (D.M.)
- ESECS—Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Rui Matos
- Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal; (R.M.); (R.A.); (D.M.)
- ESECS—Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Gomes
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal; (B.G.); (A.C.); (J.P.F.); (M.J.C.)
- Research Center for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - André Caseiro
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal; (B.G.); (A.C.); (J.P.F.); (M.J.C.)
- Research Center for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raul Antunes
- Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal; (R.M.); (R.A.); (D.M.)
- ESECS—Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Diogo Monteiro
- Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal; (R.M.); (R.A.); (D.M.)
- ESECS—Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Portugal Research Center in Sport Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - José Pedro Ferreira
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal; (B.G.); (A.C.); (J.P.F.); (M.J.C.)
- Research Center for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria João Campos
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal; (B.G.); (A.C.); (J.P.F.); (M.J.C.)
- Research Center for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), 3040-248 Coimbra, Portugal
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Weerackody SC, Clutterbuck GL, Johnston LM. Measuring psychological, cognitive, and social domains of physical literacy in school-aged children with neurodevelopmental disabilities: a systematic review and decision tree. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:3456-3475. [PMID: 36322528 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2131004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify and assess the clinimetric properties of psychological, cognitive, and social competence assessment tools relevant to physical activity for school-aged children (5-17 years) with neurodevelopmental disabilities. METHODS Seven electronic databases were searched. Study findings and methodologies were evaluated using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist. Psychometric strength of assessment tools was determined using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation principles (GRADE) (Trial registration: CRD42020180616). RESULTS Study criteria were met by eight subscales from the BRIEF2, DMQ17, QI-Disability, SAID, and SDQ. Most subscales examined psychological competence (n = 5), with fewer addressing social competence (n = 2), or cognitive competence (n = 1). Validity was moderate to high strength for most subscales. Reliability was of moderate and unclear strength for two subscales. A five-level decision tree was devised to summarise: (1) physical literacy domains/elements, (2) populations, (3) assessment focus, (4) required resources, and (5) psychometric evidence. CONCLUSIONS Subscales are available to assess psychological, cognitive, or social competence. For school-aged children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, these have moderate to high strength psychometric support. A decision tree will assist practitioners in subscale selection. Future studies are needed to establish gold standard assessment of physical literacy for this population.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONPsychological Activity Competence can be measured for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, subscales from The Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function, Second Edition (BRIEF2; The Dimensions of Mastery Questionnaire 17.0 (DMQ17); and The Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability).Cognitive Activity Competence can be measured using a subscale from The Scale of Attention in Intellectual Disability (SAID).Social Activity Competence can be measured using subscales from the BRIEF2, and The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).Clinicians can use the Physical Literacy decision tree to guide selection of these tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep C Weerackody
- School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
- Children's Motor Control Research Collaboration, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Georgina L Clutterbuck
- School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
- Children's Motor Control Research Collaboration, St. Lucia, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, Australia
| | - Leanne M Johnston
- School of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
- Children's Motor Control Research Collaboration, St. Lucia, Australia
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9
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Leoncini S, Boasiako L, Lopergolo D, Altamura M, Fazzi C, Canitano R, Grosso S, Meloni I, Baldassarri M, Croci S, Renieri A, Mastrangelo M, De Felice C. Natural Course of IQSEC2-Related Encephalopathy: An Italian National Structured Survey. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1442. [PMID: 37761403 PMCID: PMC10528631 DOI: 10.3390/children10091442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Pathogenic loss-of-function variants in the IQ motif and SEC7 domain containing protein 2 (IQSEC2) gene cause intellectual disability with Rett syndrome (RTT)-like features. The aim of this study was to obtain systematic information on the natural history and extra-central nervous system (CNS) manifestations for the Italian IQSEC2 population (>90%) by using structured family interviews and semi-quantitative questionnaires. IQSEC2 encephalopathy prevalence estimate was 7.0 to 7.9 × 10-7. Criteria for typical RTT were met in 42.1% of the cases, although psychomotor regression was occasionally evidenced. Genetic diagnosis was occasionally achieved in infancy despite a clinical onset before the first 24 months of life. High severity in both the CNS and extra-CNS manifestations for the IQSEC2 patients was documented and related to a consistently adverse quality of life. Neurodevelopmental delay was diagnosed before the onset of epilepsy by 1.8 to 2.4 years. An earlier age at menarche in IQSEC2 female patients was reported. Sleep disturbance was highly prevalent (60 to 77.8%), with mandatory co-sleeping behavior (50% of the female patients) being related to de novo variant origin, younger age, taller height with underweight, better social interaction, and lower life quality impact for the family and friends area. In conclusion, the IQSEC2 encephalopathy is a rare and likely underdiagnosed developmental encephalopathy leading to an adverse life quality impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Leoncini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.); (M.A.); (C.F.)
- Rett Syndrome Trial Center, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Lidia Boasiako
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.); (M.A.); (C.F.)
- Rett Syndrome Trial Center, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Diego Lopergolo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
- UOC Neurologia e Malattie Neurometaboliche, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, 53100 Siena, Italy
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Molecular Medicine for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, 56018 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Altamura
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.); (M.A.); (C.F.)
- Rett Syndrome Trial Center, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Fazzi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.); (M.A.); (C.F.)
- Rett Syndrome Trial Center, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Roberto Canitano
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Mental Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Grosso
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Meloni
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (I.M.); (M.B.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Margherita Baldassarri
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (I.M.); (M.B.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Susanna Croci
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (I.M.); (M.B.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Renieri
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (I.M.); (M.B.); (S.C.); (A.R.)
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Mario Mastrangelo
- Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.); (M.A.); (C.F.)
- Rett Syndrome Trial Center, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
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10
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Sullivan KR, Ruggiero SM, Xian J, Thalwitzer KM, Ali R, Stewart S, Cosico M, Steinberg J, Goss J, Pfalzer AC, Horning KJ, Weitzel N, Corey S, Conway L, Rigby CS, Bichell TJ, Helbig I. A disease concept model for STXBP1-related disorders. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:320-333. [PMID: 36625631 PMCID: PMC10235567 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE STXBP1-related disorders are rare genetic epilepsies and neurodevelopmental disorders, but the impact of symptoms across clinical domains is poorly understood. Disease concept models are formal frameworks to assess the lived experience of individuals and their families and provide a basis for generating outcome measures. METHODS We conducted semistructured, qualitative interviews with 19 caregivers of 16 individuals with STXBP1-related disorders and 7 healthcare professionals. We systematically coded themes using NVivo software and grouped concepts into the domains of symptoms, symptom impact, and caregiver impact. We quantified the frequency of concepts throughout the lifespan and across clinical subgroups stratified by seizure history and developmental trajectories. RESULTS Over 25 hours of interviews, we coded a total of 3626 references to 38 distinct concepts. In addition to well-recognized clinical features such as developmental delay (n = 240 references), behavior (n = 201), and seizures (n = 147), we identified previously underrepresented symptoms including gastrointestinal (n = 68) and respiratory symptoms (n = 24) and pain (n = 30). The most frequently referenced symptom impacts were autonomy (n = 96), socialization (n = 64), and schooling (n = 61). Emotional impact (n = 354), support (n = 200), and daily life & activities (n = 108) were highly cited caregiver impacts. We found that seizures were more commonly referenced in infancy than in other age groups, while behavior and socialization were more likely to be referred to in childhood. We found that caregivers of individuals with ongoing seizures were less likely to reference developmental delay, possibly due to the relatively high impact of seizures. SIGNIFICANCE STXBP1-related disorders are complex conditions affecting a wide range of clinical and social domains. We comprehensively mapped symptoms and their impact on families to generate a comprehensive disease model as a foundation for clinical endpoints in future trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie R. Sullivan
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Sarah M. Ruggiero
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Julie Xian
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kim M. Thalwitzer
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Rahma Ali
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Sydni Stewart
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Mahgenn Cosico
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - James Goss
- STXBP1 Foundation, ApexHolly SpringsNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Kyle J. Horning
- Vanderbilt UniversityNashvilleTennesseeUSA
- COMBINEDBrainBrentwoodTennesseeUSA
| | | | | | - Laura Conway
- Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Terry Jo Bichell
- Vanderbilt UniversityNashvilleTennesseeUSA
- COMBINEDBrainBrentwoodTennesseeUSA
| | - Ingo Helbig
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi)Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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11
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Downs J, Blackmore AM, Wong K, Buckley N, Lotan M, Elefant C, Leonard H, Stahlhut M. Can telehealth increase physical activity in individuals with Rett syndrome? A multicentre randomized controlled trial. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023; 65:489-497. [PMID: 36284370 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effects of a physical activity programme on sedentary behaviour and physical activity in ambulant individuals with Rett syndrome (RTT). METHOD In this multicentre randomized waitlist-controlled trial, we recruited 43 ambulatory individuals with RTT in Australia and Denmark. Adequate baseline data were obtained from 38 participants (mean age 20 years, range 6-41, SD 10 years 6 months, one male). All completed the trial. Participants received 12 weeks of usual care (n = 19) or a goal-based, telehealth-supported programme in which activities occurred in their familiar environments (n = 19). Sedentary time and daily steps were assessed at baseline, post-test, and 12-week follow-up. The data analyst was blinded to group allocation. RESULTS Sedentary time decreased in the intervention group by 2.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] -6.0 to 0.6) and increased in the control group by 1.3% (95% CI -4.8 to 7.4). Intervention and control groups increased the number of their steps per day by 264.7 (95% CI -72.2 to 601.5) and 104.8 (95% CI -178.1 to 387.7) respectively. No significant differences were found on any outcomes at post-test. There were three minor adverse events. INTERPRETATION A goal-based telehealth intervention seemed to produce small improvements in physical activity for individuals with RTT. Families require more support to increase these individuals' extremely low physical activity levels. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS A telehealth-supported intervention may produce small changes in physical activity in Rett syndrome (RTT). Increasing physical activity in individuals with RTT is challenging for caregivers. Families require substantial out-of-home support to increase their children's activity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - A Marie Blackmore
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas Buckley
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Meir Lotan
- Department of Physiotherapy, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Rett Syndrome National Clinic, Sheba Hospital, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Cochavit Elefant
- School of Creative Arts Therapies, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michelle Stahlhut
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Center for Rett Syndrome, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Saldaris JM, Jacoby P, Leonard H, Benke TA, Demarest S, Marsh ED, Downs J. Psychometric properties of QI-Disability in CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder: Establishing readiness for clinical trials. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 139:109069. [PMID: 36634535 PMCID: PMC9899310 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.109069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD) is a rare genetic disorder with symptoms of epilepsy, developmental impairments, and other comorbidities. Currently, there are no outcome measures for CDD with comprehensive evidence of validation. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability) in CDD. Quality of Life Inventory-Disability was administered to 152 parent caregivers registered with the International CDKL5 Disorder Database (ICDD). Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted and the goodness of fit of the factor structure was assessed. Fixed-effects linear regression models examined the responsiveness of QI-Disability to reported changes in child health. A subset of parent caregivers (n = 56) completed QI-Disability, as well as additional health-related questions, on two occasions separated by four weeks to evaluate test-retest reliability. Test-retest reliability was assessed using intra-class correlations (ICCs) calculated from QI-Disability scores. Based upon adjustments for changes in child health, ICCs were recalculated to estimate responsiveness to change. Confirmatory factor analysis, internal consistency, and divergent validity were mostly satisfactory, except divergent validity was not satisfactory for the Social Interactions and Independence domains. The Physical Health, Social Interactions, Leisure, and Total scores responded to changes in the child's Physical health, and the Negative Emotions and Leisure domains responded to changes in the child's behavior. Unadjusted and adjusted ICC values were above 0.8 for the Positive Emotions, Negative Emotions, Social Interactions, Leisure, Independence domains and Total score, and above 0.6 for the Physical Health domain. Findings suggest that QI-Disability is suitable to assess the quality of life of children and adults with CDD and could be of value for upcoming clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta M Saldaris
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tim A Benke
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Pediatric Neurology, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Scott Demarest
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Pediatric Neurology, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Eric D Marsh
- Division of Child Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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13
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Shields N, Bennell KL, Southby A, Rice LJ, Markovic T, Bigby C, Prendergast L, Watts JJ, Schofield C, Loughnan G, Franklin J, Levitt D, Chikani V, McCallum Z, Blair S, Proietto J, Taylor NF. Progressive resistance training in young people with Prader-Willi syndrome: protocol for a randomised trial (PRESTO). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060306. [PMID: 36549735 PMCID: PMC9791392 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preliminary evidence suggests that progressive resistance training may be beneficial for people with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic condition that results in muscle weakness and low muscle tone.To establish whether community-based progressive resistance training is effective in improving the muscle strength of people with PWS; to determine cost-effectiveness; and, to complete a process evaluation assessing intervention fidelity, exploring mechanisms of impact, understanding participant experiences and identifying contextual factors affecting implementation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A multisite, randomised controlled trial will be completed. Sixty participants with PWS will be randomised to receive either progressive resistance training (experimental) or non-progressive exercise (placebo control). Participants will be aged 13 to 60 years, be able to follow simple instructions in English and have no contraindications to performing progressive resistance training. The experimental group will complete progressive resistance training two times weekly for 24 weeks supervised by an exercise professional at a community gym. The control group will receive all aspects of the intervention except progressive overload. Outcomes will be assessed at week 25 (primary endpoint) and week 52 by a blinded assessor. The primary outcome is muscle strength assessed using one repetition maximum for upper limb and lower limb. Secondary outcomes are muscle mass, functional strength, physical activity, community participation, health-related quality of life and behaviour. Health economic analysis will evaluate cost-effectiveness. Process evaluation will assess safety and intervention fidelity, investigate mechanism of impact, explore participant experiences and identify contextual factors affecting implementation. Data collection commenced in February 2020 and will conclude in September 2023. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained from The Royal Children's Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/50874/RCHM-2019) under the National Mutual Acceptance initiative. Research governance approvals were obtained from five clinical sites. Results will be disseminated through published manuscripts, conference presentations, public seminars and practical resources for stakeholder groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12620000416998; Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Shields
- Department of Physiothearpy, Podiatry and Prosthetics and Orthotics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kim L Bennell
- Centre for Health, Exercise & Sports Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alesha Southby
- Department of Physiothearpy, Podiatry and Prosthetics and Orthotics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lauren J Rice
- Westmead Clinical School (Child & Adolescent Health), University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tania Markovic
- Boden Collaboration, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Metabolism & Obesity Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christine Bigby
- Living with Disability Research Centre, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luke Prendergast
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer J Watts
- School of Health & Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cara Schofield
- Department of Physiothearpy, Podiatry and Prosthetics and Orthotics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Georgina Loughnan
- Metabolism & Obesity Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janet Franklin
- Metabolism & Obesity Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Levitt
- Department of Paediatric Medicine and Dermatology, Queensland Children's Hospital, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Viral Chikani
- Department of Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Zoe McCallum
- Department of Neurodevelopment and Disability, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan Blair
- Prader-Willi Research Foundation of Australia, Heidelberg, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph Proietto
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas F Taylor
- Department of Physiothearpy, Podiatry and Prosthetics and Orthotics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Allied Health Clinical Research Office, Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Wolters-Leermakers N, Van den Bogaard KJHM, Prins M. Understanding quality of life in people with complex and multiple communicative disabilities: A narrative overview of the empirical research literature. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES : JOID 2022:17446295221146849. [PMID: 36515674 DOI: 10.1177/17446295221146849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The fundamental characteristics of quality of life (QoL) are considered the same for all people. However, the relative importance of QoL domains may vary for specific populations. No studies have focused on understanding QoL for people with intellectual disabilities with additional communicative disabilities (developmental language disorder or hearing impairment), who experience complex and multiple communicative disabilities (CMCD). This study provides a narrative overview of QoL domains and indicators for this population, highlighting the role of communication. The 16 selected studies proved to be heterogeneous in study design, objective and conceptualization of QoL. The eight domains of QoL by Schalock and Verdugo (2002) are recognized, but few studies specify the importance of communication related to QoL for people with CMCD. The current overview attempts to emphasize not only the indirect role of communication for every QoL domain, but also the importance of acknowledging communication as a prerequisite for QoL in general.
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15
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Leonard H, Whitehouse A, Jacoby P, Benke T, Demarest S, Saldaris J, Wong K, Reddihough D, Williams K, Downs J. Quality of life beyond diagnosis in intellectual disability - Latent profiling. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 129:104322. [PMID: 35939908 PMCID: PMC9792277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare quality of life (QOL) across diagnoses associated with intellectual disability, construct QOL profiles and evaluate membership by diagnostic group, function and comorbidities. METHOD Primary caregivers of 526 children with intellectual disability (age 5-18 years) and a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, CDKL5 deficiency disorder or Rett syndrome completed the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability) questionnaire. Latent profile analysis of the QI-Disability domain scores was conducted. RESULTS The mean (SD) total QOL score was 67.8 (13.4), ranging from 60.3 (14.6) for CDD to 77.5 (11.7) for Down syndrome. Three classes describing domain scores were identified: Class 1 was characterised by higher domain scores overall but poorer negative emotions scores; Class 2 by average to high scores for most domains but low independence scores; and Class 3 was characterised by low positive emotions, social interaction, and leisure and the outdoors scores, and extremely low independence scores. The majority of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and Down syndrome belonged to Class 1 and the majority with CDKL5 deficiency disorder belonged to Class 3. Those with better functional abilities (verbal communication and independent walking were predominately members of Class 1 and those with frequent seizures were more often members of Class 2 and 3. CONCLUSION The profiles illustrated variation in QOL across a diverse group of children. QOL evaluations illustrate areas where interventions could improve QOL and provide advice to families as to where efforts may be best directed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, Child Disability, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, CliniKids Autism Research, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, Child Disability, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tim Benke
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Paediatric Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Scott Demarest
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Paediatric Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jacinta Saldaris
- Telethon Kids Institute, Child Disability, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, Child Disability, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Dinah Reddihough
- Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Paediatric Education and Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, Child Disability, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Curtin University, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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16
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Ozlu C, Chelliah P, Dahshi H, Horton D, Edgar VB, Messahel S, Kayani S. ECHS1 deficiency and its biochemical and clinical phenotype. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:2908-2919. [PMID: 35856138 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
ECHS1 gene encodes a mitochondrial enzyme, short-chain enoyl-CoA hydratase (SCEH). SCEH is involved in fatty acid oxidation ([Sharpe and McKenzie (2018); Mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation disorders associated with short-chain enoyl-CoA hydratase (ECHS1) deficiency, 7: 46]) and valine catabolism ([Fong and Schulz (1977); Purification and properties of pig heart crotonase and the presence of short chain and long chain enoyl coenzyme A hydratases in pig and guinea pig tissues, 252: 542-547]; [Wanders et al. (2012); Enzymology of the branched-chain amino acid oxidation disorders: The valine pathway, 35: 5-12]), and the dysfunction of SCEH leads to a severe Leigh or Leigh-like Syndrome phenotype in patients ([Haack et al. (2015); Deficiency of ECHS1 causes mitochondrial encephalopathy with cardiac involvement, 2: 492-509]; [Peters et al. (2014); ECHS1 mutations in Leigh disease: A new inborn error of metabolism affecting valine metabolism, 137: 2903-2908]; [Sakai et al. (2015); ECHS1 mutations cause combined respiratory chain deficiency resulting in Leigh syndrome, 36: 232-239]; [Tetreault et al. (2015); Whole-exome sequencing identifies novel ECHS1 mutations in Leigh, 134: 981-991]). This study aims to further describe the ECHS1 deficiency phenotype using medical history questionnaires and standardized tools assessing quality of life and adaptive skills. Our findings in this largest sample of ECHS1 patients in literature to date (n = 13) illustrate a severely disabling condition causing severe developmental delays (n = 11), regression (n = 10), dystonia/hypotonia and movement disorders (n = 13), commonly with symptom onset in infancy (n = 10), classical MRI findings involving the basal ganglia (n = 11), and variability in biochemical profile. Congruent with the medical history, our patients had significantly low composite and domain scores on Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Third Edition. We believe there is an increasing need for better understanding of ECHS1 deficiency with an aim to support the development of transformative genetic-based therapies, driven by the unmet need for therapies for patients with this genetic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Ozlu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Priya Chelliah
- University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Hamza Dahshi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Daniel Horton
- Children's Health, Dallas, Texas, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Veronica B Edgar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States.,Children's Health, Dallas, Texas, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Souad Messahel
- Perot Foundation Neuroscience Translational Research Center, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Saima Kayani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States.,Children's Health, Dallas, Texas, United States
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17
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Downs J, Jacoby P, Saldaris J, Leonard H, Benke T, Marsh E, Demarest S. Negative impact of insomnia and daytime sleepiness on quality of life in individuals with the cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 deficiency disorder. J Sleep Res 2022; 31:e13600. [PMID: 35415902 PMCID: PMC9489598 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) gene pathogenic variants result in CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD). Early onset intractable epilepsy and severe developmental delays are prominent symptoms of CDD. Comorbid sleep disturbances are a major concerning symptom for families. We aimed to explore the relationship between insomnia, daytime sleepiness, sleep medications and quality of life in children with CDD. Caregivers of 129 children with CDD in the International CDKL5 Disorder Database completed the Quality-of-Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability) questionnaire and "Disorders of Maintaining Sleep" (DIMS) and the "Disorders of Excessive Somnolence" (DOES) items of the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children. Adjusting for covariates, a unit increase in DOES score was associated with reduced quality of life total (coefficient -3.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.35-7.80), physical health (coefficient -7.20, 95% CI -10.64, -3.76) and negative emotions (coefficient -3.90, 95% CI -7.38, -0.42) scores. Adjusting for covariates, a unit increase in DIMS score was associated with reduced negative emotions (coefficient -6.02, 95% CI -10.18, -2.86). Use of sleep medications had small influences on the effect sizes. This study highlights the importance of sleep problems as a determinant of quality of life in children with CDD, consistent with effects observed for other groups of children with intellectual disability. Excessive daytime sleepiness was particularly associated with detrimental effects on quality of life. Further research in optimal behavioural and pharmaceutical management of sleep problems for this population is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health ResearchThe University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia,Curtin School of Allied HealthCurtin UniversityPerthAustralia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health ResearchThe University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | - Jacinta Saldaris
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health ResearchThe University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health ResearchThe University of Western AustraliaPerthAustralia
| | - Tim Benke
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Paediatric NeurologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Eric Marsh
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Scott Demarest
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Paediatric NeurologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
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18
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Walton K, Krahn GL, Buck A, Andridge R, Lecavalier L, Hollway JA, Davies DK, Arnold LE, Havercamp SM. Putting "ME" into measurement: Adapting self-report health measures for use with individuals with intellectual disability. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 128:104298. [PMID: 35816978 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-report is important for measuring health outcomes; however, most research in intellectual disability (ID) relies on proxy report. The lack of cognitively accessible measures is one barrier to accurate self-reporting by individuals with ID. AIMS This paper describes the process of adapting self-report measures of health status, health-related quality of life, and environment for use by individuals with ID and presents evidence on their usability (accessibility), usefulness (independent self-report), and reliability (internal consistency and test-retest). METHODS AND PROCEDURES We used an inclusive research approach, in which we collaborated with adults with ID to revise, cognitively test, and pilot test cognitively accessible self-report measures. Technology supported the independent completion of measures. We assessed usability, usefulness, and reliability of these measures in 41 adults with ID. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS The resulting measures are useful (independently completed) and usable (elicit a range of responses), with modest reliability (internal consistency and test-retest). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Self- report by adults with ID is feasible. A key element of this measure adaptation process was engaging adults with ID. More research is needed to understand the reliability and validity of the adapted measures and the characteristics of the population for whom they are most usable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Walton
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychology, 1835 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | | | - Andrew Buck
- The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Rebecca Andridge
- Division of Biostatistics, The Ohio State University College of Public Health, 1841 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Luc Lecavalier
- The Ohio State University, Department of Psychology, 1835 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Jill A Hollway
- The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Daniel K Davies
- AbleLink Smart Living Technologies, LLC, 6745 Rangewood Dr. Suite 210, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, USA.
| | - L Eugene Arnold
- The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Susan M Havercamp
- The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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19
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Jacoby P, Williams K, Reddihough D, Leonard H, Whitehouse A, Downs J. Modelling quality of life in children with intellectual disability using regression trees. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:1145-1155. [PMID: 35322406 PMCID: PMC9542381 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM To identify factors associated with quality of life (QoL) in children with intellectual disability. We aimed to identify patterns of association not observable in previous hypothesis-driven regression modelling using the same data set from a cross-sectional observational study. METHOD A questionnaire was completed by 442 caregivers of children with confirmed intellectual disability and a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or Rett syndrome. The Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability) questionnaire was used to assess child QoL. Independent variables described the child's health, functional abilities, community participation, and sociodemographics. The R package rpart was used to build the regression trees. RESULTS The mean total QI-Disability score was 69.2 out of a maximum 100. The subgroup with the lowest QoL scores comprised children with a high degree of daytime sleepiness (n=74, mean 57.5) while the subgroup with the highest QoL scores (n=91, mean 80.3) comprised children with little daytime sleepiness who participated more frequently in community activities and displayed good eye contact while listening. INTERPRETATION Regression tree analysis provides insights into the relative importance of associated factors. Sleep problems and community participation were more important than functional abilities in accounting for differences in QoL. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS A hypothesis-free regression tree analysis enables examination of multiple factors potentially influencing quality of life (QoL) in children with intellectual disability. Functional abilities were less strongly associated with QoL than sleep problems and community participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern Australia
| | | | - Dinah Reddihough
- Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation ResearchMurdoch Children's Research InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids InstituteThe University of Western AustraliaWestern Australia
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20
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Development and Psychometric Properties of the Multi-System Profile of Symptoms Scale in Patients with Rett Syndrome. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11175094. [PMID: 36079020 PMCID: PMC9457440 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11175094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a rare, neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a range of problematic symptoms. There is yet to be a robust instrument to adequately capture the range of disease severity across the lifespan. In this study, we aimed to develop and assess the validity of an RTT-specific electronic Observer Reported Outcome (eObsRO), the Multi-System Profile of Symptoms Scale (MPSS). Methods: The study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 consisted of a systematic literature review, focus groups, expert feedback, and a pilot test of the new scale. Modifications were made based on preliminary analysis and feedback collected in the pilot phase. Phase 2 consisted of the validation of the questionnaire based on two samples (Sample 1, n = 18; Sample 2, n = 106). Participants were all parents or caregivers of individuals with RTT. Results: The MPSS consists of 12 validated sub-scales (mental health problems, autonomic problems, cardiac problems, communication problems, problems in social behaviour, problems in engagement, gastrointestinal problems, problems in motor skills, neurological problems, orofacial problems, respiratory problems, and sleep problems), which explore symptom frequency in the past month and a supplement to the scale consisting of five sub-scales (sensory problems, immune dysfunction and infection, endocrine problems, skeletal problems, and dermatological problems), which is designed to capture symptom changes over a longer time period. The frequency of symptoms was rated on a 10-point slider scale, which then was automatically transformed into a 0 to 5 Likert score. All 12 sub-scales showed strong internal consistency (α ≥ 0.700) and good stability, ranging from 0.707 to 0.913. Pearson’s correlation showed a statistically significant (r = 0.649) correlation between the MPSS and the Rett Syndrome Behaviour Questionnaire (RSBQ) total score and significant correlations between sub-scales with items that were presented in both the MPSS and RSBQ. Conclusions: The MPSS is a psychometrically validated eObsRO using the HealthTrackerTM platform and has the potential to be used in clinical trials.
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21
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Cohen SR, Helbig I, Kaufman MC, Schust Myers L, Conway L, Helbig KL. Caregiver assessment of quality of life in individuals with genetic developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:957-964. [PMID: 35229292 PMCID: PMC10305579 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM To summarize quality of life (QoL) and its determinants, including disease severity, in individuals with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) through a tailored questionnaire. METHOD A questionnaire containing 89 items addressing demographic characteristics, genetic diagnosis, clinical features, and QoL was distributed to primary caregivers of individuals with DEEs through patient advocacy organizations. Composite scores were generated from the mean values of QoL items, grouped into domain scores. RESULTS Out of 176 received responses, the most common genetic diagnoses reported were SCN2A (n=42/173, 24%), SLC6A1 (n=28/173, 16%), SCN1A (n=22/173, 13%), and KCNQ2 (n=21/173, 12%). Composite QoL scores centered around a mean score of 61.67 of 100 (SD 17.10). QoL scores were strongly associated with the number of days minimally disrupted by seizures, medication side effects, genetic diagnosis, and community type. The mean QoL scores for individuals with DEEs was significantly lower than for individuals with Rett syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, and Down syndrome. INTERPRETATION QoL in DEEs can be assessed through a standardized instrument. QoL only partially overlaps with objective measurements of disease severity and may represent an independent outcome measure in precision medicine trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey R Cohen
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ingo Helbig
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael C Kaufman
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Laura Conway
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Katherine L Helbig
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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22
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Jacoby P, Whitehouse A, Leonard H, Saldaris J, Demarest S, Benke T, Downs J. Devising a Missing Data Rule for a Quality of Life Questionnaire-A Simulation Study. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2022; 43:e414-e418. [PMID: 35075044 PMCID: PMC9308825 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to devise an evidence-based missing data rule for the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability) questionnaire specifying how many missing items are permissible for domain and total scores to be calculated using simple imputation. We sought a straightforward rule that can be used in both research and clinical monitoring settings. METHOD A simulation study was conducted involving random selection of missing items from a complete data set of questionnaire responses. This comprised 520 children with intellectual disability from 5 diagnostic groups. We applied a simple imputation scheme, and the simulated distribution of errors induced by imputation was compared with the previously estimated standard error of measurement (SEM) for each domain. RESULTS Using a stringent criterion, which requires that the 95th percentile of absolute error be less than the SEM, 1 missing item should be permitted for 2 of the 6 QI-Disability subdomain scores to be calculated and 1 missing item per domain for the total score to be calculated. Other, less stringent criteria would allow up to 2 missing items per domain. CONCLUSION Empirical evidence about the impact of imputing missing questionnaire responses can be gathered using simulation methods applied to a complete data set. We recommend that such evidence be used in devising a rule that specifies how many items can be imputed for a valid score to be calculated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jacinta Saldaris
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Scott Demarest
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Paediatric Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Tim Benke
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Paediatric Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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23
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Romero-Galisteo RP, González-Sánchez M, Costa L, Brandão R, Ramalhete C, Leão C, Jacobsohn L. Outcome measurement instruments in Rett syndrome: A systematic review. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 39:79-87. [PMID: 35717810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to identify and characterize outcome measures for objective and subjective assessment in persons with Rett syndrome (RS). METHODS A systematic review was conducted consulting the EBSCO, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scielo, MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases for published studies describing the use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and other outcome measures in persons with RS. Validation studies and observational studies were included. The PROMs were first described, and then the measurement properties were evaluated using predefined criteria according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN). The outcome measures were then grouped according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to establish a relationship between outcome measures and ICF domains. RESULTS Twenty out of 2327 articles were appraised, and seventeen different outcome measures were identified and described. Ten outcome measures corresponded to evaluation questionnaires, while the remaining seven assessed functional outcomes: walking distance, physical activity level and ability to interact visually. A relation between these outcome measures that assess RS and the ICF allows understanding that most of the instruments (fifteen) include the assessment of activity limitations. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study seem to be promising for their use by clinicians and researchers, although they have methodological limitations. The accuracy and quality of these individual outcome measures should continue to be assessed in an attempt to gather a consensus on the best tools used in RS.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Romero-Galisteo
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Málaga, Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - M González-Sánchez
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Málaga, Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain.
| | - L Costa
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - R Brandão
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - C Ramalhete
- Atlântica- Instituto Universitário, Oeiras, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - C Leão
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - L Jacobsohn
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
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24
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The Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Scale: Factor Analysis, MIMIC Modeling, and Cut-Off Score Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2022:10.1007/s10803-022-05610-2. [PMID: 35657447 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05610-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Our purpose in this study was to further examine the psychometric properties of the Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (QOLASD-C) scale. We first investigated the factor structure and the internal consistency of the scale. The bifactor model showed good fit and strong reliability. Second, we used multiple-indicators multiple-causes (MIMIC) modeling to examine the associations between demographic variables and the QOLASD-C dimensions. Results showed differences on overall QOL based on age, race/ethnicity, and autism spectrum disorder severity, but no relationships with gender. All demographic variables were associated with one or all three subscales (i.e., interpersonal relationships, self-determination, emotional well-being) of the QOLASD-C. Third, an optimal cut-off score of 37 was identified. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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25
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Leonard H, Downs J, Benke TA, Swanson L, Olson H, Demarest S. CDKL5 deficiency disorder: clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:563-576. [PMID: 35483386 PMCID: PMC9788833 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(22)00035-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) was first identified as a cause of human disease in 2004. Although initially considered a variant of Rett syndrome, CDD is now recognised as an independent disorder and classified as a developmental epileptic encephalopathy. It is characterised by early-onset (generally within the first 2 months of life) seizures that are usually refractory to polypharmacy. Development is severely impaired in patients with CDD, with only a quarter of girls and a smaller proportion of boys achieving independent walking; however, there is clinical variability, which is probably genetically determined. Gastrointestinal, sleep, and musculoskeletal problems are common in CDD, as in other developmental epileptic encephalopathies, but the prevalence of cerebral visual impairment appears higher in CDD. Clinicians diagnosing infants with CDD need to be familiar with the complexities of this disorder to provide appropriate counselling to the patients' families. Despite some benefit from ketogenic diets and vagal nerve stimulation, there has been little evidence that conventional antiseizure medications or their combinations are helpful in CDD, but further treatment trials are finally underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Tim A Benke
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lindsay Swanson
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heather Olson
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott Demarest
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Colorado at Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
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26
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A brief history of MECP2 duplication syndrome: 20-years of clinical understanding. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:131. [PMID: 35313898 PMCID: PMC8939085 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02278-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS) is a rare, X-linked, neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a duplication of the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene-a gene in which loss-of-function mutations lead to Rett syndrome (RTT). MDS has an estimated live birth prevalence in males of 1/150,000. The key features of MDS include intellectual disability, developmental delay, hypotonia, seizures, recurrent respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, behavioural features of autism and dysmorphic features-although these comorbidities are not yet understood with sufficient granularity. This review has covered the past two decades of MDS case studies and series since the discovery of the disorder in 1999. After comprehensively reviewing the reported characteristics, this review has identified areas of limited knowledge that we recommend may be addressed by better phenotyping this disorder through an international data collection. This endeavour would also serve to delineate the clinical overlap between MDS and RTT.
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27
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Improving clinical trial readiness to accelerate development of new therapeutics for Rett syndrome. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:108. [PMID: 35246185 PMCID: PMC8894842 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02240-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is associated with severe functional impairments and many comorbidities, each in urgent need of treatments. Mutations in the MECP2 gene were identified as causing Rett syndrome in 1999. Over the past 20 years there has been an abundance of preclinical research with some studies leading to human clinical trials. Despite this, few viable therapeutic options have emerged from this investment of effort. Reasons for this lack of success as they relate both to preclinical research and the clinical trial landscape are discussed. Considering what needs to be done to promote further success in the field, we take a positive and constructive approach and introduce the concept of clinical trial readiness and its necessary ingredients for Rett syndrome. These include: listening to the needs of families; support from advocacy groups; optimising use of existing clinic infrastructures and available natural history data; and, finally, the validation of existing outcome measures and/or the development and validation of new measures. We conclude by reiterating the need for a collaborative and coordinated approach amongst the many different stakeholder groups and the need to engage in new types of trial design which could be much more efficient, less costly and much less burdensome on families.
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Leonard H, Junaid M, Wong K, Aimetti AA, Pestana Knight E, Downs J. Influences on the trajectory and subsequent outcomes in CDKL5 deficiency disorder. Epilepsia 2021; 63:352-363. [PMID: 34837650 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study investigated the effect of seizure and medication burden at initial contact with the International CDKL5 Disorder Database on subsequent development and clinical severity and compared quality of life among those whose development progressed, remained stable, or regressed between baseline and follow-up. METHODS The effects of seizure and medication burden at baseline (high or low) on the CDKL5 Disorder Severity Scores and CDKL5 Developmental Score (CDS) at follow-up were assessed using linear and negative binomial regressions, respectively, with adjustment for age at baseline, gender, and follow-up duration with and without genotype. Seizure and medication burden were defined by average daily seizure count (high, ≥5/day; low, <5/day) and number of antiseizure medications (high, ≥3/day; low, <3/day), respectively. The effects of change in CDS over time (improved, stable, or deteriorated) on Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability) total and domain scores at follow-up were assessed in those aged at least 3 years at follow-up using linear regression models with adjustment for baseline CDS, gender, and follow-up duration. RESULTS The expected follow-up CDS was lower for individuals with high compared to low seizure burden at baseline (β = -.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -.84 to -.13). The average total QI-Disability score was 5.6 (95% CI = -.2 to 11.5) points higher among those with improved compared with stable or deteriorating CDS and 8.5 (95% CI = 3.1-13.8) points lower for those with deteriorating compared to stable or improved CDS. SIGNIFICANCE Our finding that later development showed slight improvement in those with better earlier seizure control even after adjustment for genotype suggests that the trajectory for an individual child is not necessarily predetermined and could possibly be influenced by optimal seizure management. This has implications for children's quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Centre of Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mohammed Junaid
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Elia Pestana Knight
- Pediatric Epilepsy Section, Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic, Neurological Institute, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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Reddihough D, Leonard H, Jacoby P, Kim R, Epstein A, Murphy N, Reid S, Whitehouse A, Williams K, Downs J. Comorbidities and quality of life in children with intellectual disability. Child Care Health Dev 2021; 47:654-666. [PMID: 33885172 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many children with intellectual disability live with medical comorbidities. This study examined the impacts of comorbidities on quality of life (QOL) of children with intellectual disabilities and whether impacts varied with caregiver perceptions that medical needs had been met. METHODS Primary caregivers of 447 children (aged 5-19 years) with an intellectual disability reported on their child's medical comorbidities and the extent to which they perceived their child's medical needs had been met in a cross-sectional observational study. The Quality of Life Inventory-Disability was used to measure QOL on a 100-point scale. Linear regression models including interaction terms were used to evaluate their associations. RESULTS Parent-reported recurrent child pain (-4.97, 95% CI -8.21, -1.72), night-time sleep disturbances (-4.98, 95% CI -7.23, -2.73), daytime somnolence (-8.71, 95% CI -11.30, -2.73), seizures that occurred at least weekly (-7.59, 95% CI -13.50, -1.68) and conservatively managed severe scoliosis (-7.39, 95% CI -12.97, -1.81) were negatively associated with child QOL. Despite the majority of parents (~70%) perceiving that their child's medical needs had been met to a great extent, this did not significantly moderate the association between any comorbidities and QOL. CONCLUSIONS Comorbidities were common and had marked associations with QOL. Evaluation and management of pain and sleep disturbance continue to be high priorities in improving QOL of young people with intellectual disabilities. Further research on the optimal methods of managing these comorbidities is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinah Reddihough
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachel Kim
- Department of Sociology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Amy Epstein
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nada Murphy
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sue Reid
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Paediatric Education and Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Brock DC, Demarest S, Benke TA. Clinical Trial Design for Disease-Modifying Therapies for Genetic Epilepsies. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:1445-1457. [PMID: 34595733 PMCID: PMC8609073 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01123-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Although trials with anti-seizure medications (ASMs) have not shown clear anti-epileptogenic or disease-modifying activity in humans to date, rapid advancements in genomic technology and emerging gene-mediated and gene replacement options offer hope for the successful development of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for genetic epilepsies. In fact, more than 26 potential DMTs are in various stages of preclinical and/or clinical development for genetic syndromes associated with epilepsy. The scope of disease-modification includes but is not limited to effects on the underlying pathophysiology, the condition's natural history, epilepsy severity, developmental achievement, function, behavior, sleep, and quality of life. While conventional regulatory clinical trials for epilepsy therapeutics have historically focused on seizure reduction, similarly designed trials may prove ill-equipped to identify these broader disease-modifying benefits. As we look forward to this pipeline of DMTs, focused consideration should be given to the challenges they pose to conventional clinical trial designs for epilepsy therapeutics. Just as DMTs promise to fundamentally alter how we approach the care of patients with genetic epilepsy syndromes, DMTs likewise challenge how we traditionally construct and measure the success of clinical trials. In the following, we briefly review the historical and preclinical frameworks for DMT development for genetic epilepsies and explore the many novel challenges posed for such trials, including the choice of suitable outcome measures, trial structure, timing and duration of treatment, feasible follow-up period, varying safety profile, and ethical concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan C Brock
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Scott Demarest
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Tim A Benke
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Departments of Neurology, Pharmacology, and Otolaryngology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, CO, 80045, Aurora, USA
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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Chezan LC, Liu J, Cholewicki JM, Drasgow E, Ding R, Warman A. A Psychometric Evaluation of the Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Scale. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:1536-1552. [PMID: 33961179 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05048-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Our purpose in this study was to validate the Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder scale. We first conducted an exploratory factor analysis to examine the factor structure. Results suggested that a three-factor model (Interpersonal Relationships, Self-Determination, and Emotional Well-Being) should be retained. Next, we conducted a confirmatory factor analysis to compare a higher-order factor model and additional models. Results showed acceptable model fit for the higher-order factor model. The scale had excellent reliability (α = .90) for the overall scale and for the three subscales (Interpersonal Relationships, α = .87; Self-Determination, α = .81; and Emotional Well-Being, α = .66). The 16-item scale showed convergent and divergent validity. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Chezan
- Old Dominion University, 4501 Hampton Blvd., Child Study Center 122, Norfolk, VA, 23529, USA.
| | - Jin Liu
- University of South Carolina, 820 Main Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | | | - Erik Drasgow
- University of South Carolina, 820 Main Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Ruyi Ding
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, University Town of Shenzhen, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Adam Warman
- The Faison Center, 1701 Byrd Avenue, Richmond, VA, 23230, USA
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The effect of functioning on Quality of Life Inventory-Disability measured quality of life is not mediated or moderated by parental psychological distress. Qual Life Res 2021; 30:2875-2885. [PMID: 33939076 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-02855-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The measurement of quality of life (QOL) in children with intellectual disability often relies upon proxy report via caregivers. The current study investigated whether caregiver psychological distress mediates or moderates the effects of impairment on their ratings of QOL in children with intellectual disability. METHODS Caregivers of 447 children with an intellectual disability reported their child's day-to-day functioning, their own psychological distress using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, and the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability), a measure of QOL for proxy report of a child's observable behaviours that indicate quality of life. Linear regression was used to assess the effects of the child's functional abilities on their QI-Disability score and causal mediation analysis to estimate the extent to which these effects were mediated by caregivers' psychological distress. RESULTS A minority of caregivers (n = 121, 27.1%) reported no psychological distress. Lower day-to-day functional abilities, such as being fully dependent on others to manage their personal needs were associated with lower total QOL scores. There was no significant mediation effect of caregiver psychological distress on the association between child functioning and total QOL scores. Moderation analyses revealed small and largely nonsignificant interaction coefficients, indicating that caregiver psychological distress did not influence the strength of the relationship between child functioning and total QOL scores. CONCLUSION Caregiver psychological distress did not mediate or moderate the relationship between the level of functional abilities and QOL in children with intellectual disability. QI-Disability measured observable child behaviours which may reduce the influence of caregiver factors on the accurate measure of QOL for children with intellectual disability.
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Williams K, Jacoby P, Whitehouse A, Kim R, Epstein A, Murphy N, Reid S, Leonard H, Reddihough D, Downs J. Functioning, participation, and quality of life in children with intellectual disability: an observational study. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:89-96. [PMID: 32862445 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate associations between functioning, community participation, and quality of life (QoL) and identify whether participation mediates the effects of functioning on QoL. METHOD The caregivers of 435 children (211 females, 224 males; mean age 12y; SD 3y 11mo; age range 5-18y) with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or Rett syndrome reported on their child's functioning (dependence for managing personal needs, mobility, communication, eye contact when speaking), frequency of participation, and QoL. Linear regression and mediation analyses were used to evaluate the relationships between child functioning, participation, and QoL. RESULTS Children with greater dependency for managing personal needs and limited eye contact when speaking experienced poorer QoL. Less impaired functioning was associated with more frequent participation, which, in turn, was associated with a 3-point gain in QoL for each additional point in frequency of participation (coefficient=2.67, 95% confidence interval 1.56-3.78). The effect of impaired functioning on QoL was partially mediated by participation in children with greater dependency in managing personal needs and those with mildly impaired communication. INTERPRETATION Greater levels of impairments with poorer functioning, notably a high level of dependence, were associated with poorer QoL. Poorer QoL can be partly explained by less frequent community participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Williams
- Paediatric Education and Research, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachel Kim
- Department of Sociology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Amy Epstein
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nada Murphy
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sue Reid
- Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Dinah Reddihough
- Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Downs J, Lotan M, Elefant C, Leonard H, Wong K, Buckley N, Stahlhut M. Implementing telehealth support to increase physical activity in girls and women with Rett syndrome -ActivRett: protocol for a waitlist randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e042446. [PMID: 33376177 PMCID: PMC7778785 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-042446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Individuals with Rett syndrome (RTT) experience impaired gross motor skills, limiting their capacity to engage in physical activities and participation in activities. There is limited evidence of the effectiveness of supported physical activity interventions. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a telehealth-delivered physical activity programme on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and quality of life in RTT. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a multicentre study, conducted in Australia, Denmark and Israel. It is a randomised waitlist-controlled trial comparing an intervention to support physical activity with usual care. Participants are children and adults with RTT, recruited from the Australian Rett Syndrome Database, the Danish Center for Rett Syndrome and the Rett Syndrome Association of Israel. The intervention duration is 12 weeks, including fortnightly telephone contact to plan, monitor and develop individual activity programmes. Outcomes are measured at baseline, at 13 weeks and then at 25 weeks. The primary outcomes are sedentary behaviour assessed with an activPAL accelerometer and the number of daily steps measured with a StepWatch Activity Monitor. Secondary outcomes include sleep, behaviour and quality of life. Caregiver experiences will be assessed immediately after the intervention using a satisfaction questionnaire. Group differences for each outcome will be evaluated with analysis of covariance, adjusting for baseline values on an intention-to-treat basis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval has been obtained in Western Australia from the Child and Adolescent Health Services (RGS3371), in Denmark from the Capital Region Ethics Committee (H-19040514) and in Israel from the Ariel University Institutional Review Board (AU-HEA-ML-20190331). Manuscripts on the development of the intervention from pilot work and the results of the intervention will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals. Results will be presented at conferences and consumer forums. We will develop an online resource documenting the physical activity programme and available supporting evidence. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04167059; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Meir Lotan
- Department of Physiotherapy, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Cochavit Elefant
- School of Creative Arts Therapies, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas Buckley
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michelle Stahlhut
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Center for Rett Syndrome, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Leonard H, Junaid M, Wong K, Demarest S, Downs J. Exploring quality of life in individuals with a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder. Epilepsy Res 2020; 169:106521. [PMID: 33341033 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD) is a rare genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) gene. It is now considered to be a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy because of the early onset of seizures in association with severe global delay. Other features include cortical visual impairment, sleep and gastro-intestinal problems. Progress in clinical understanding, especially regarding the spectrum of functional ability, seizure patterns, and other comorbidities was initially slow but accelerated in 2012 with the establishment of the International CDKL5 Database (ICDD). Our aim was to use this data source to investigate quality of life (QOL) and associated factors in this disorder. METHOD A follow-up questionnaire was administered in 2018 to parents of children registered with the ICDD who had a pathogenic CDKL5 variant. QOL was assessed using QI Disability, an instrument, specifically developed to measure total and specific domains of QOL (physical health, positive emotions, negative emotions, social interaction, leisure and the outdoors (leisure) and independence) in children with intellectual disability. Associations with functional abilities, physical health, mental health and family factors were investigated, initially using univariate analyses followed by multivariate analyses for each of these groups with a final composite model which included the important variables identified from previous models. RESULTS Questionnaires were returned by 129/160 families with a child aged >3 years. Functional impairment, including lack of ability to sit, use hands and communicate had the greatest adverse impact on QOL. There were also some relationships with major genotype groupings. Individuals using three or more anti-epileptic medications had poorer QOL than those on one or no medication, particularly in the physical health domain. There was also variation by geographical region with those living in North America typically having the best QOL and those living in middle or lower income countries poorer QOL. CONCLUSION Although lower functional abilities were associated with poorer quality of life further research is needed to understand how environmental supports might mitigate this deficit. Comprehensive care and support for both the child and family have important roles to play in helping families to thrive despite the severity of CDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Mohammed Junaid
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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Glasson EJ, Forbes D, Ravikumara M, Nagarajan L, Wilson A, Jacoby P, Wong K, Leonard H, Downs J. Gastrostomy and quality of life in children with intellectual disability: a qualitative study. Arch Dis Child 2020; 105:969-974. [PMID: 32269039 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2020-318796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Children with intellectual disability and marked feeding difficulties may undergo gastrostomy insertion to assist with their nutritional and medication needs. Use has increased recently for younger children, and it is intended to provide long-term support. This study explored the perceived value of gastrostomy for the quality of life (QOL) of children with intellectual disabilities and their families. METHODS Twenty-one primary caregivers of children with intellectual disability aged 2-18 years participated in semistructured telephone interviews. Data were analysed using directed content analysis, and data were coded to existing QOL domains relevant to children with intellectual disability and their families. RESULTS Benefits in each of the child and family QOL domains were represented in the interview data. For children, the impacts of gastrostomy for the physical health domain were predominant, supplemented by experiences of value for emotional well-being, social interactions, leisure activities and independence. For families, gastrostomy was integrated into multiple aspects of QOL relating to family interactions, parenting, resources and supports, health and safety, and advocacy support for disability. Shortcomings related to difficulties with equipment and complications. CONCLUSIONS Our comprehensive overview of the value of gastrostomy for children with intellectual disability and their families was classified within a QOL framework. Gastrostomy was mainly supportive over long time periods across many QOL domains. Findings will be of use to patient counselling and education and the development of family support resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma J Glasson
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Forbes
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Madhur Ravikumara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lakshmi Nagarajan
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Children's Neuroscience Service, Department of Neurology, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Paediatrics, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Wilson
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Paediatrics, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, Centre for Child Health Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia .,School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Reliability of the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability Measure in Children with Intellectual Disability. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2020; 41:534-539. [PMID: 32412990 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000000815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess responsiveness and reproducibility using the estimates of test-retest reliability for the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability), accounting for changes in child health and parental stress. METHOD Quality of Life Inventory-Disability was administered twice over a 1-month period to a sample of 55 primary caregivers of children (aged 5-19 years) with intellectual disability. Caregivers also reported their child's physical and mental health and completed a 4-item Perceived Stress Scale to assess parental stress. Fixed-effects linear regression models examined responsiveness of QI-Disability to the reported change in child health and parental stress. Reliability was then assessed using intraclass correlations (ICCs) calculated from QI-Disability scores adjusted for changes in child health and parental stress. RESULTS Five of 7 unadjusted ICC values indicated at least moderate agreement (>0.70), and 2 values indicated fair agreement. After accounting for changes in child health and parental stress, adjusted ICC values showed substantial agreement for the total QI-Disability score and 4 domain scores (adjusted ICC ≥ 0.80). Adjusted ICC scores indicated moderate agreement for the Physical Health domain (adjusted ICC = 0.68) and fair agreement for the Positive Emotions domain (adjusted ICC = 0.58). Improvements in a child's physical health rating were associated with higher total, Physical Health, and Positive Emotion domain scores, whereas improvements in mental health were associated with higher total and Negative Emotions domain scores, indicating better quality of life. Changes in parental stress did not have a statistically significant relationship with quality of life. CONCLUSION Satisfactory test-retest reliability was shown. Preliminary evidence indicates that QI-Disability is responsive to changes in child health, but not to differing levels of parental stress.
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Mendoza J, Downs J, Wong K, Leonard H. Determinants of quality of life in Rett syndrome: new findings on associations with genotype. J Med Genet 2020; 58:637-644. [PMID: 32843489 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2020-107120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome is a genetically caused neurodevelopmental disorder associated with functional deficits and comorbidities. This study investigated relationships between genotype, functional abilities and comorbidities and quality of life in Rett syndrome. METHODS The International Rett Syndrome Database, InterRett, was used as a sampling frame for this observational study. Information was collected to describe functional abilities (walking and feeding), health (Sleep Disorder Scale for Children, the Rett Syndrome Behavioural Questionnaire), parental health (12-item Short Form Health Survey) sociodemographic factors (parental employment and education) and quality of life (Quality of Life Inventory-Disability) for 210 individuals with Rett syndrome. Univariate and multivariate regressions were used to analyse the relationships between the independent variables and quality of life. RESULTS Compared with individuals with the p.Arg270* mutation, those with the p.Arg294* mutation type had the poorest quality of life (coeff -12.81, 95% CI -23.49 to 2.12), despite this being recognised as a clinically milder genotype. Overall better walking and feeding skills and seizure parameters were more associated with better quality of life and poor sleep and behavioural difficulties with poorer quality of life. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that genotype, functioning and health each have implications for quality of life and should be considered when counselling families and planning clinical and support management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Mendoza
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia .,School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kingsley Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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Shields N, Epstein A, Jacoby P, Kim R, Leonard H, Reddihough D, Whitehouse A, Murphy N, Downs J. Modifiable child and caregiver factors that influence community participation among children with Down syndrome. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:600-607. [DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1773945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nora Shields
- Department of Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Prosthetics and Orthotics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amy Epstein
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Rachel Kim
- Department of Sociology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Dinah Reddihough
- Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Nada Murphy
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Stahlhut M, Downs J, Wong K, Bisgaard AM, Nordmark E. Feasibility and Effectiveness of an Individualized 12-Week "Uptime" Participation (U-PART) Intervention in Girls and Women With Rett Syndrome. Phys Ther 2020; 100:168-179. [PMID: 31584667 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzz138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Girls and women with Rett Syndrome (RTT) have low levels of daily physical activity and high levels of sedentary time. Reducing sedentary time and enhancing "uptime" activities, such as standing and walking, could be an important focus for interventions to address long-term health and quality of life in RTT. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility and health-related effects of an individualized 12-week uptime participation (U-PART) intervention in girls and women with RTT. DESIGN The study used a single-group pretest-posttest design with 4 assessments (2 baseline, postintervention, and follow-up). METHODS A participation-based intervention employing a whole-day approach was used. During a 12-week intervention period, individualized programs focused on participation in enjoyable uptime activities in home, school/day center, and community settings. Feasibility was assessed with a study-specific questionnaire. Primary outcome measures were sedentary time and daily step count. Secondary outcomes were gross motor skills, walking capacity, quality of life, and goal attainment scaling. RESULTS Fourteen girls and women who were 5 to 48 years old and had RTT participated. The U-PART intervention was perceived as feasible by caregivers. Similar scores were observed at baseline assessments in all outcomes. Positive effects with small to medium effect sizes (0.27-0.54) were seen in sedentary time (- 4%), daily step count (+ 689 steps/d), walking capacity (+ 18.8 m), quality of life (+ 2.75 points), and goal attainment scaling after the intervention. Positive effects were maintained in sedentary time (- 3.2%) and walking capacity (+ 12.1 m) at short-term follow-up. LIMITATIONS This study was limited by the lack of a control group. However, participants acted as their own control, and the stable baseline period partially mitigated this issue. CONCLUSIONS The U-PART intervention was found to be feasible and effective in the short term in girls and women with RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Stahlhut
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Center for Rett Syndrome, Copenhagen, Denmark; and Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jenny Downs
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; and School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | | | - Eva Nordmark
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, Lund University
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Assessment of Anxiety and Depression in Polish Primary Parental Caregivers of Children with Cerebral Palsy Compared to a Control Group, as well as Identification of Selected Predictors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16214173. [PMID: 31671833 PMCID: PMC6862674 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16214173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background: Taking care of a child with Cerebral Palsy (CP) may be linked with adverse effects in the parents’ physical and mental health. The causes of anxiety and depression symptoms associated with childcare are still not fully understood. Aim: To assess the intensity of anxiety and depression symptoms in parents of children with CP compared to a control group and to identify selected mental health predictors. Design and Methods: Data were collected from 301 respondents, including 190 parents of children with CP (study group) and 111 parents taking care of children developing normally (control group). Intensity of anxiety and depression was rated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scale. Gross Motor Function Classification System for Cerebral Palsy (GMFCS), Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-29), Berlin Support Social Scales (BSSS) scales and a specially designed questionnaire were used to assess the predictors. The investigated variables included the children’s and the parents’ characteristics, as well as environmental factors. The analyses applied Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, M(SD) as well as multiple regression. Results: The level of anxiety and depression was clearly higher in the parents of children with CP–the mean levels of anxiety and depression in the study group and the controls amounted to 8.1 vs. 4.7 and 6.8 vs. 3.7, respectively. The factors associated with intensity of anxiety and depression in the parents of children with CP included lack of social support, mainly perceived and received support, unsatisfying parental health status, poor economic status of the family, as well as difficult living conditions, sense of coherence, loneliness, the parent’s gender, and the child’s intellectual disability. Conclusions: Identification of significant anxiety and depression predictors, understood as modifiable factors, should be considered in determining and planning comprehensive support for a child with CP and his/her primary parental caregiver.
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Epstein A, Williams K, Reddihough D, Murphy N, Leonard H, Whitehouse A, Jacoby P, Downs J. Content validation of the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability. Child Care Health Dev 2019; 45:654-659. [PMID: 31163096 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Focus is shifting to better understand the lived experiences of children with intellectual disability in relation to their quality of life (QOL). Yet no available QOL measures are grounded in the domains important for this population. We previously conducted qualitative parent caregiver interviews identifying QOL domains in children with intellectual disability to constitute a new measure of QOL. This study describes the content validity of the Quality of Life Inventory-Disability (QI-Disability), a parent-report measure developed for children with intellectual disability. METHODS AND RESULTS Questionnaire items were extracted from a qualitative dataset of 77 parent caregiver interviews. To establish content validation, a draft of QI-Disability was administered to 16 parent caregivers of children with intellectual disability (Down syndrome, Rett syndrome, cerebral palsy, or autism spectrum disorder). Parents participated in a cognitive interviewing procedure known as the "think-aloud" method. The process of item generation, cognitive debriefing, and refinement of QI-Disability prior to its pilot testing are described. A conceptual framework is presented. CONCLUSIONS Satisfactory content validity is reported, where ongoing consumer feedback shaped the dataset from which the final items were selected. Use of QI-Disability for children with intellectual disability will allow for greater insight into service utility and targeted intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Epstein
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dinah Reddihough
- Developmental Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nada Murphy
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Strugnell A, Leonard H, Epstein A, Downs J. Using directed-content analysis to identify a framework for understanding quality of life in adults with Rett syndrome. Disabil Rehabil 2019; 42:3800-3807. [PMID: 31074665 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2019.1610801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder mainly affecting females and is caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene. Recent research identified the domains of quality of life (QOL) important for children with RTT but there has been no investigation of domains important for adults. This qualitative study explored QOL in adults with RTT and compared domains with those previously identified for children.Methods: The sample comprised parents and/or primary caregivers of 20 adults, aged 18-38 years, who were registered with the Australian Rett Syndrome Database. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted to investigate aspects of life that were observed to be satisfying or challenging. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis, based on existing QOL domains for children with RTT that related to health and wellbeing, daily activities, and community immersion and services.Results: Each of the domains identified for children with RTT was represented in the adult dataset, with no new domains emerging.Conclusion: This is the first study to identify QOL domains important for adults with RTT. Health and therapy needs are ongoing during adulthood but services may be limited. Findings will guide choice of an appropriate QOL measure for this group.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONKnowing the important domains of quality of life enables clinicians and service providers to systematically review and address key management issues.Despite a high level of dependency and sometimes poor health, parent caregivers perceive potential for strong quality of life in adulthood.Services that maintain functional skills and health throughout the lifespan are valued for their support of quality of life in adults with Rett syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleisha Strugnell
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Amy Epstein
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.,Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
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