Neurodevelopment and Autism
Our research in neurodevelopment and autism focuses on early detection, intervention effectiveness, and understanding the complex interplay between behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. Through large-scale studies and innovative technologies, we aim to improve diagnostic tools, optimize treatments, and enhance outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families.
Developing predictive algorithim for autism
This study developed an automatic prediction model for early childhood autism screening based on longitudinal data from routine developmental surveillance. The cohort study of 1.2 million children found that the prediction models achieved performance on par with the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT), a popular autism screening tool. This tool can be seamlessly integrated into clinical workflows to improve early identification of children who may benefit from timely interventions.
Conducted in collaboration with KI Research Institute
Sleep Disturbances, Sensory Sensitivities, and Irritability in ASD Children
This study examined the relationship between sleep disturbances, sensory sensitivities, and irritability in 237 children with ASD and found that sleep disturbances were strongly linked to sensory sensitivity and irritability. Sleep problems were significantly associated with irritability only in children with moderate to severe sensory sensitivities, suggesting these domains interact and may be addressed through targeted interventions.
Conducted in collaboration with The Azrieli National Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment Research (ANCAN)
Melatonin Treatment for Sleep Disturbances in Children with ASD
This study assessed melatonin treatment effectiveness in children with ASD through parental reports and found that median treatment adherence exceeded 88 months, with parents reporting improvements in sleep onset (86%), sleep duration (54%), and night awakenings (45%). Notably, over 28% of children also showed daytime behavioral improvements, demonstrating melatonin's safety and effectiveness for children with ASD.
Conducted in collaboration with The Azrieli National Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment Research (ANCAN)
Automated Analysis of Stereotypical Movements in Videos of Children with ASD
This study developed an open-source AI algorithm to automatically detect and quantify stereotypical motor movements (SMMs) in children with ASD. The research analyzed 580 hours of video recordings from 241 children (ages 1.4–8.0 years) and found that the algorithm accurately detected 92.53% of SMMs with strong correlation to manual annotations (r = 0.88), enabling objective and direct measurement of SMM severity in children with ASD.
Conducted in collaboration with The Azrieli National Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment Research (ANCAN)
