Sleep habits in children affected by autism spectrum disorders: A preliminary case-control study

Introduction: The core of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) consists of alterations of neurological functions that affect the typical developmental trajectory leading to deficits in social interaction and non-verbal behaviors. In general, ASD is diagnosed at age three and many other frequent neurological signs may be present, such as sleep disorders. The aim of study is evaluating sleep habits in a sample of ASD children. Material and methods: The study population consists of 65 ASD children (43 males and 22 females), aged between 2 and 11 years (mean 5.73 ± 2.39 years). The control group consists of 114 children with typical development (68 males and 46 females), aged between 3 and 10 years …

Executive dysfunction in children affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: an observational study

Maria Esposito,1 Lorenzo Antinolfi,1 Beatrice Gallai,2 Lucia Parisi,3 Michele Roccella,3 Rosa Marotta,4 Serena Marianna Lavano,4 Giovanni Mazzotta,5 Francesco Precenzano,1 Marco Carotenuto1 1Sleep Clinic for Developmental Age, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 3Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 4Department of Psychiatry, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 5Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, AUSL Umb…

Deficit della "Teoria della mente" in bambini con sindrome di Asperger: utilizzo del questionario "strane storie" di Happè.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents with Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Emotional/Behavioral Symptoms and Parental Stress.

The objective of our study was to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the emotional and behavioral symptoms in minors with neuropsychiatric disorders and on parental stress through a standardized neuropsychological assessment, comparing the data collected before the pandemic with those collected during the lock-down. Another goal of our study was to analyze the relationship between parental stress and behavioral/emotional symptoms in children. Our study was conducted on 383 families of patients who had already been referred at the Child Neuropsychiatry Unit of the University Hospital of Salerno for different neuropsychiatric conditions. All the parents completed two neuropsychol…

Visuomotor competencies and primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis in prepubertal aged children

Maria Esposito,1 Beatrice Gallai,2 Lucia Parisi,3 Michele Roccella,3 Rosa Marotta,4 Serena Marianna Lavano,4 Giovanni Mazzotta,5 Giuseppina Patriciello,1 Francesco Precenzano,1 Marco Carotenuto1 1Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Italy; 2Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Italy; 3Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Italy; 4Department of Psychiatry, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 5Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, AUSL Umbria 2, Terni, Italy Background: Primary …

Pediatric neurofibromatosis 1 and parental stress: a multicenter study

Maria Esposito,1 Rosa Marotta,2 Michele Roccella,3 Beatrice Gallai,4 Lucia Parisi,3 Serena Marianna Lavano,2 Marco Carotenuto1 1Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Department of Psychiatry, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 3Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 4Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy Background: Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a complex and multifaceted neurocutaneous syndrome with many and varied comorbidities. The litera…

Anabolic steroid abuse and dependence: psychiatric effects in adolescents and young adults

Quality of life in children with duchenne de boulogne muscular dystrophy

Omo-unioni: convivenza e genitorialità

Psychosis and melancholy in the paintings of the 16th century

Neuropsychological dysfunctions in absence epilepsy.

Psychological aspects in children affected by duchenne de boulogne muscular dystrophy.

Impairment of intelligence in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients was described by Duchenne de Boulogne himself in 1868. Further studies report intelligence disorders with mayor impairment of memory. The aim of the present study was to assess the presence of affective and personality disorders in a group of children affected by DMD. Twenty six male DMD patients, mean age eleven and four months years old, were assessed for their affective and personality disorder. Only eight subjects had a total IQ below average with major difficulties in verbal and visual-spatial memory, comprehension, arithmetic and vocabulary. All the subjects presented some disorders: tendency to marginalization a…

Implementation of Sample Pooling Procedure Using a Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Real-Time PCR Test Performed Prior to Hospital Admission of People with Intellectual Disabilities

Reliability, accuracy, and timeliness of diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection have allowed adequate public health management of the disease, thus notably helping the timely mapping of viral spread within the community. Furthermore, the most vulnerable populations, such as people with intellectual disability and dementia, represent a high-risk group across multiple dimensions, including a higher prevalence of pre-existing conditions, lower health maintenance, and a propensity for rapid community spread. This led to an urgent need for reliable in-house rapid testing to be performed prior to hospital admission. In the present study, we describe a pooling procedure in which oropharyngeal…

On the Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a tsunami that has deeply changed the lives of the people all over the planet [...]

Exome sequencing in a child with neurodevelopmental disorder and epilepsy: Variant analysis of the AHNAK2 gene

Background The AHNAK2 gene encodes a large nucleoprotein expressed in several tissues, including brain, squamous epithelia, smooth muscle, and neuropil. Its role in calcium signaling has been suggested and to date, clear evidence about its involvement in the pathogenesis of clinical disorders is still lacking. Methods Here, we report a female 24-year-old patient diagnosed with a cardio-facio-cutaneous-like phenotype (CFC-like), characterized by epilepsy, psychomotor development delay, atopic dermatitis, congenital heart disease, hypotonia, and facial dysmorphism, who is compound heterozygote for two missense mutations in the AHNAK2 gene detected by exome sequencing. Results This patient had…

Symbolic function explored in children with epilepsy and headache.

Introduzione. L’attacco alla capacità di pensare è uno dei possibili effetti che possiamo osservare quando il corpo si ammala. Lo scopo di questo studio è esplorare la funzione simbolica in bambini con epilessia e cefalea. Metodi. Sono stati reclutati 75 piccoli pazienti della Clinica Neuropsichiatrica infantile dell’Università di Palermo - 48 maschi (61%) e 27 femmine (39%). Tutti soffrivano di epilessia (53 - 71%) e cefalea primaria (22 - 29%). La loro età variava dai 7 agli 11 anni (media: 9.4±1.2). È stato reclutato anche un gruppo di controllo composto da soggetti che non avevano mai sofferto di malattie croniche o neurologiche. Tale gruppo era pareggiato con il gruppo di pazienti per …

Enuresis in childhood migraine: a retrospective study

Effects of androgen administration in HIV-positive children with the wasting syndrome

Epilepsy: A Multifaced Spectrum Disorder

Epilepsy is one of the most widespread chronic conditions, affecting about 50 million people worldwide [...]

Periodic syndromes in childhood migraine: a case-control study

Adolescents with Neuropsychiatric Disorders during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Focus on Emotional Well-Being and Parental Stress

(1) Introduction: The aim of our research was to explore emotional/behavioral changes in adolescents with neuropsychiatric conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic, and parental stress levels through a standardized assessment, comparing the data collected before and during the first months of lockdown. Moreover, an additional goal was to detect a possible relationship between emotional/behavioural symptoms of adolescents and the stress levels of their parents. (2) Methods: We enrolled 178 Italian adolescents aged between 12–18 that were referred to the Child Neuropsychiatry Unit of the University Hospital of Salerno with different neuropsychiatric diagnoses. Two standardized questionnaires w…

Qualità della vita, regolazione affettiva e capacità resilienza in pazienti adulti affetti da fibrosi cistica

Obiettivo. Noi riteniamo che in pazienti affetti da Fibrosi Cistica (FC) lo studio della qualità della vita (QdV), costrutto strettamente associato al recente miglioramento dei protocolli di cura e all’aumento dell’età media di sopravvivenza, dovrebbe prendere in considerazione anche il ruolo della regolazione affettiva. Con il presente lavoro si intende studiare 1) la relazione tra la qualità della vita, la regolazione affettiva e la capacità di resilienza, ed esplorare 2) la relazione tra i suddetti psicologici e le condizioni mediche dei pazienti affetti da FC. Metodi. Quaranta pazienti maggiorenni afferenti al Centro Regionale FC di Palermo hanno compilato 3 questionari: Cystic Fibrosis…

Emotional–Behavioral Disorders in Healthy Siblings of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background and Objectives: Siblings of disabled children are more at risk of developing mental illnesses. More than 50 international studies show that about 8% of children and adolescents suffer from a mental disorder, which is almost always a source of difficulties both at the interpersonal level (in the family and with peers) and at school. Healthy siblings of children with disabilities are one of the groups most at risk for consequences in psychological health and well-being. As some authors suggest, siblings build their idea of &ldquo

VISUOMOTOR INTEGRATION SKILLS IN CHILDREN AFFECTED BY OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA SYNDROME: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY

Introduction: Sleep related breathing disorders (SRBD) consist of frequent and repetitive episodes of pharyngeal obstruction during sleep, with consequent intermittent hypoxia, sleep architecture fragmentation, daytime sleepiness and/or behavioural problems and executive impairment in children. When untreated, SRBD and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) mainly, may impact school performance, cognition, metabolism, and cardiovascular function. Aim of the present study is assessing the visuomotor integration skills in children affected by OSA. Materials and methods: 57 subjects affected by mild-to severe OSA, PSG diagnosed according to international diagnostic criteria, (31 males and 26 f…

Cognitive profile in BECTS treated with levetiracetam: A 2-year follow-up

Introduction: Benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is a common epileptic syndrome in childhood, characterized by brief and infrequent partial motor seizures, with or without generalization and mostly recurring during sleep. Because of its favorable efficacy, tolerability, and safety profile, levetiracetam (LEV) monotherapy is often administered in these patients. Long-term effects of LEV therapy and its influence on cognitive functions remain controversial.Purpose: This evaluated the changes in the cognitive profile of children with BECTS treated with LEV monotherapy for 2 years, compared with a control group of children with specific learning disabilities.Method: Our patient …

Personality assessment of mothers of children affected by migraine

Profili neuropsicologici nei bambini pretermine con basso peso alla nascita

AIM: Several studies focus on the psychic development of extremely low birth weight (ELBW) preterm infants and highlight the presence of neurological, cognitive and relating disorders. Several contributions have in fact shown that in these subjects in school age disturbances of cognitive functions may be encountered; in particular, disturbances of specific neuropsychological functions, such as attention defects, impaired visuo-spatial function, memory and language have been reported in subjects with a globally normal intelligence quotient. METHODS: Forty-three school-aged children were studied (21 males and 22 females). They had a low birth weight (weight between 1,050-2,450 g), the gestati…

Adhd-like symptoms in children affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: A case-control study

Introduction: ADHD is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or a combination of these symptoms. Sleep disorders may be considered as a not secondary underlying cause of ADHD and growing evidence evidenced that obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) symptoms may overlap ADHD's ones. Aim of the present study is verifying the presence of ADHD-like symptoms in other frequent condition such as sleep-related breathing disorders in pediatric age. Materials and methods: 34 children (19 males and 15 females) aged 6-10 years (mean age 9.706 ± 3.434) with polysomnographic diagnosis of OSA, according to ICSD-3 criteria, were recruited. Control group was composed by 89 typical develo…

People with Down's syndrome:adolescence and the journey towards adulthood

Introduzione. La sessualità nella persona con disabilità viene affrontata con difficoltà e con inadeguatezza se non con franco rifiuto, con il risultato che le giovani persone disabili vengono, spesso, relegate ad un destino di solitudine e abbandono. E ciò si realizza ancora di più quando la condizione di disabilità comporta ritardo mentale. Metodi. Sono stati reclutati 25 ragazzi di età compresa tra 13 e 25 anni - 14 maschi (56%) e 11 femmine (44%) – insieme alle loro madri. Tutti frequentano l’Associazione Famiglie Persone Down di Palermo. Le giovani persone con sindrome di Down sono state invitate a svolgere una attività di disegno libero, quindi, a descrivere ciò che avevano disegnato.…

The neurochemistry of autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to complex neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior or interests, and altered sensory processing. Environmental, immunological, genetic, and epigenetic factors are implicated in the pathophysiology of autism and provoke the occurrence of neuroanatomical and neurochemical events relatively early in the development of the central nervous system. Many neurochemical pathways are involved in determining ASD; however, how these complex networks interact and cause the onset of the core symptoms of autism remains unclear. Further studies on ne…

Minor Neurological Dysfunctions (MNDs) in Autistic Children without Intellectual Disability

Background: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require neurological evaluation to detect sensory-motor impairment. This will improve understanding of brain function in children with ASD, in terms of minor neurological dysfunctions (MNDs). Methods: We compared 32 ASD children without intellectual disability (IQ ≥ 70) with 32 healthy controls. A standardized and age-specific neurological examination according to Touwen was used to detect the presence of MNDs. Particular attention was paid to severity and type of MNDs. Results: Children with ASD had significantly higher rates of MNDs compared to controls (96.9% versus 15.6%): 81.3% had simple MNDs (p < 0.0001) and 15.6% had comple…

Embracing the Complexity of Neurodevelopmental Disorders.

Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of neuropsychiatric diseases that affect the developing brain due to a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors [...]

Gross-Motor and Cognitive Abilities in Down Syndrome: The efficacy of an integrated Exercised Training

Primary nocturnal enuresis as a risk factor for sleep disorders: an observational questionnaire-based multicenter study

Maria Esposito,1 Beatrice Gallai,2 Lucia Parisi,3 Michele Roccella,3 Rosa Marotta,4 Serena Marianna Lavano,4 Giovanni Mazzotta,5 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 3Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 4Department of Psychiatry, “Magna Graecia” University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 5Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, AUSL Umbria 2, Terni, ItalyIntroductio…

Myasthenia gravis in evolutive age:response of thymectomy

Are mutations in the dhrs9 gene causally linked to epilepsy? A case report

The DHRS9 gene is involved in several pathways including the synthesis of allopregnanolone from progesterone. Allopregnanolone is a positive modulator of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) action and plays a role in the control of neuronal excitability and seizures. Whole-exome sequencing performed on a girl with an early onset epilepsy revealed that she was a compound heterozygote for two novel missense mutations of the DHRS9 gene likely to disrupt protein function. No previous studies have reported the implication of this gene in epilepsy. We discuss a new potential pathogenic mechanism underlying epilepsy in a child, due to a defective progesterone pathway.

I bambini di famiglie omoparentali: valutazione dello sviluppo psicologico e sessuale

In the last few years some studies have been made about homosexual parenthood and especially if this interferes with the child's development, identity and future sexual tendency. These studies prove that the parents' homosexuality does not seem to compromise the child's psychosexual development and that the child's possible homosexuality does not depend on the parents' sexual behaviour but on different factors linked to the relationship; as a matter of fact there are no relevant differences in the occurrence of homosexuality in children born from homosexual and hereosexual parents. The present study investigated the psychological and sexual development in a group of children of homoparental…

DISTURBO MOTORIO E QUALITA' DELLA VITA. VALUTAZIONE DELLA QUALITA' DELLA VITA IN BAMBINI CON PARALISI CEREBRALI

Evaluation of creative thinking in children with epilepsy.

Neuropsychological Assessment In Children With Duchenne De Boulogne Muscular Dystrophy

Sympathetic, metabolic adaptations, and oxidative stress in autism spectrum disorders: How far from physiology?

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a complex and multifaceted neurobehavioral syndrome with no specific cause still identified, despite the worldwide increasing (prevalence for 1,000 children from 6.7 to 14.6, between 2000 and 2012). Many biological and instrumental markers have been suggested as potential predictive factors for the precocious diagnosis during infancy and/or pediatric age. Many studies reported structural and functional abnormalities in the autonomic system in subjects with ASD. Sleep problems in ASD are a prominent feature, having an impact on the social interaction of the patient. Considering the role of orexins (A and B) in wake-sleep circadian rhythm, we could speculate…

Perampanel and Visuospatial Skills in Children With Epilepsy

Introduction: Perampanel (PER) is a non-competitive AMPA glutamate receptor antagonist approved for focal and generalized seizures as add-on therapy. PER does not seem to negatively affect the cognitive profile in children and adolescents, but its influence on visuospatial abilities is still to be assessed. The aim of our study was to assess visuospatial skills through a standardized neuropsychological evaluation in adolescents taking PER for 12 months.Methods: Our sample included 46 adolescents aged 12–18 years with focal and generalized drug-resistant epilepsy already in therapy with one or two antiseizure medications. Changes in visuospatial perception and memory were assessed by the Rey…

The quality of life in the girls with Rett Syndrome

Motor disabilities in the Rett Syndrome

Hypersonnia in children affected by migraine whitout aura: a questionnaire-based case-control study

Children and Coronavirus Infection (Covid-19): What to Tell Children to Avoid Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop in subjects who have been or have witnessed a traumatic, catastrophic or violent event, or who have become aware of a traumatic experience that happened to a loved one. Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) usually begins immediately after the traumatic event and lasts from three days to a month, while Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may be the continuation of an acute stress disorder and it may happen that it does not develop until 6 months after the event itself. Generally most people overcome the shock that a blatant event can cause without the need for additional support. In a percentage of cases, the victim's suffering c…

Sviluppo psicologico e tutela giuridica dei bambini appartenenti a famiglie omoparentali.

Psychomotor approach in children affected by nonretentive fecal soiling (FNRFS): A new rehabilitative purpose

Maria Esposito,1 Francesca Gimigliano,1,2 Maria Ruberto,2 Rosa Marotta,3 Beatrice Gallai,4 Lucia Parisi,5 Serena Marianna Lavano,3 Giovanni Mazzotta,6 Michele Roccella,5 Marco Carotenuto1 1Center for Childhood Headache, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Department of Odontostomathologic Disciplines, Head Pathology, Orthopedic Sciences, Second University of Naples, Italy; 3Department of Psychiatry, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 4Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 5Child Neuropsychiatry, Departmen…

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures in pediatric population: A review

Abstract Introduction Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are observable abrupt paroxysmal changes in behavior or consciousness that resemble epileptic seizures, but without concurrent electroencephalographic abnormalities. Methods In this manuscript, we reviewed literature concerning pediatric PNES and focused on those articles published in the last 10 years, in order to try to understand what the state of the art is at the moment, particularly as regards relationship and differential diagnosis with epilepsy. Results Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures have been extensively described in literature mainly in adults and less frequently in children. Despite the potential negative impact of…

Neuropsychologic phenotypes in familial hemiplegic migraine

Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) is a rare autosomal dominant-type migraine with aura. Attacks are characterised by hemiparesis in addition to other aura and migraine symptoms. Few studies have examined the influence of FHM on cognitive functions. This study was aimed to investigate neuropsychological functions in 3 adolescent siblings suffering from FHM assessed six months after the last attack. No relevant deficits were found on a battery of multisectorial tests exploring cognitive functions. Sporadic FHM attack therefore seems not to affect cognition in these patients, at least far from the crises.

Profili neuropsicologici in soggetti con epilessia parziale: dati preliminari

The child with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDS): Behavioral and neurobiological aspects

Introduction: The Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) have onset in the first years of life and are characterized clinically by qualitative impairments in social interaction, communication and a restricted repertoire, stereotyped and repetitive interests and activities. Currently there is a medical consensus on the causes of autism: they should not be psychosocial but should be based in biology, especially in the central nervous system abnormalities caused by both inherited and environmental causes. The aim of this study was to study a sample of subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) with a wide protocol, including neurophysiological and radiological investigations as well as laborator…

Sleep in children with autistic spectrum disorder: a questionnaire and polysomnographic study.

Abstract Objective To evaluate sleep in children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) by means of sleep questionnaires and polysomnography; moreover, to analyze their cyclic alternating pattern (CAP). Methods Thirty-one patients with ASD (28 males, 3 females, aged 3.7–19 years) and age-matched normal controls were included. ASD children were evaluated by a standard sleep questionnaire that consisted of 45 items in a Likert-type scale covering several areas of sleep disorders and by overnight polysomnography in the sleep laboratory after one adaptation night. Results The questionnaire results showed that parents of ASD children reported a high prevalence of disorders of initiating and maint…

Sturge-Weber syndrome: a report of 14 cases

Sturge-Weber-Krabe syndrome (SWS), also known as encephalotrigeminalangiomatosis and named the forthfacomatosis, recall the names of the authors who first describedit in its basic clinical, radiological andanatomopathological aspects. We report here 14 cases of Sturge-Weber disease. In 6 of these, despite what had been previously described in literature, an extension of the angioma has been noted in other parts of the body. The study of these subjects stresses not only the need for a pharmacological/neuropsychomotor intervention, but alsothe need of a psychotherapeutic approach, for the emotional and affective implications thatcould derive from this syndrome. The reported cases are similar …

Studio delle abilità visuo-percettive e visuo-costruttive nell'epilessia parziale benigna a parossismi occipitali.

Autism spectrum disorder in Kabuki syndrome: clinical, diagnostic and rehabilitative aspects assessed through the presentation of three cases

Kabuki syndrome (KS) (Kabuki make-up syndrome, Niikawa-Kuroki syndrome) is a rare genetic disorder first diagnosed in 1981. Kabuki make-up syndrome (KMS) is a multiple malformation/intellectual disability syndrome that was first described in Japan but is now reported in many other ethnic groups. KMS is characterized by multiple congenital abnormalities: craniofacial, skeletal, and dermatoglyphic abnormalities; intellectual disability; and short stature. Other findings may include: congenital heart defects, genitourinary anomalies, cleft lip and/or palate, gastrointestinal anomalies including anal atresia, ptosis and strabismus, and widely spaced teeth and hypodontia. The KS is associated wi…

A Preliminary Study on Cranio-Facial Characteristics Associated with Minor Neurological Dysfunctions (MNDs) in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Background. Craniofacial anomalies and minor neurological dysfunction (MNDs) have been identified, in literature, as risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders. They represent physical indicators of embryonic development suggesting a possible contributory role of complications during early, even pre-conceptional, phases of ontogeny in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Limited research has been conducted about the co-occurrence of the two biomarkers in children with ASD. This study investigates the associative patterns of cranio-facial anomalies and MNDs in ASD children, and whether these neurodevelopmental markers correlate with intensity of ASD symptoms and overall functioning. Methods. …

Personality profiles of dyslexic children: a study with the Big Five Questionnaire

Social cognition and executive functions in children and adolescents with focal epilepsy

Objectives: Deficits in facial emotion recognition and Theory of Mind are frequent in patients with epilepsy. Although this evidence, studies on pediatric age are few and the relation between these abilities and other cognitive domain remains to be better elucidated. The purpose of our study is to evaluate facial emotion recognition and Theory of Mind in children and adolescents with focal epilepsy, and correlate them with intelligence and executive functions. Materials and methods: Our work is a cross-sectional observational study. Sixty-two children and adolescents aged between 7-16 years diagnosed by focal epilepsy and 32 sex/age-matched controls were recruited. All participants were adm…

Maternal personality profile of children affected by migraine

Maria Esposito,1 Michele Roccella,2 Beatrice Gallai,3 Lucia Parisi,2 Serena Marianna Lavano,4 Rosa Marotta,4 Marco Carotenuto1 1Center for Childhood Headache, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 3Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 4Department of Psychiatry, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy Background: Empirical evidence of the important role of the family in primary pediatric headache has grown significantly in the last few years, although the interconnections between the dysfunctional process and the family interaction are still unclear. Even th…

La qualità della vita in soggetti in età evolutiva affetti da patologie renali croniche

Atra. Renai pathologies bave an hard impact on ili children's life style, psychic and physical development. Inthelastyears, evenif medicai cures allowed these children to live longer and to bave a better quality of life, today both their families and themselves bave to face a lot of difficulties due to thè kind of pathology. These cbildren show behaviour troubles, bad sociability, aggressiveness, poorschool performance, anxiety and depression, and then thè subjects with chronic renai failure show a retard in neurological and cognitive development In this study we evatuated thè impact that thè chronic renai illness has on children and adolescente' quality life. Methods. Por this study, we ba…

Infantile autism and Duchenne de Boulogne Muscular Dystrophy

1H-NMR-Based Metabolomics in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome

We recently described a unique plasma metabolite profile in subjects with pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS), suggesting pathogenic models involving specific patterns of neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Here, we extend the analysis to a group of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as a consensus has recently emerged around its immune-mediated pathophysiology with a widespread involvement of brain networks. This observational case-control study enrolled patients referred for PANS and ASD from June 2019 to May 2020, as well as neurotypical age and gender-matched control subjects. Thirty-four PANS outpatients, fifteen ASD outpatients, an…

Temperamental characteristics in childhood migraine without aura:A multicenter study

Background: Children with migraine seem to be more anxious, sensitive, deliberate, cautious, fearful, vulnerable to frustration, tidy, and less physically enduring than comparisons. To the best our knowledge no studies about the temperamental and the characterial dimension aspects in childhood migraine was conducted. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to describe the temperamental and character aspects in a sample of children affected by migraine without aura (MoA) and their relationship with clinical aspects of MoA such as frequency, duration, and severity of attacks. Materials and methods: In our study, 486 children affected by MoA (239 male, 247 female) aged 7-12 years, (mean 10…

DESCRIPTION AND EVALUATION OF CREATIVE THINKING IN PRETERM LOW BIRTH WEIGHT INFANTS.

AIM: Since the 1950s, the problem of how to evaluate creativity has been addressed in studies on the definition of measurement criteria and on the relationship between intelligence and creative thinking. Many revealed cognitive and relational disorders in preterm infants, particularly in preterm very low birth weight infants (birth weight 2500 g. The test battery included: Torrance Test of Creative Thinking (TCTT); WISC-R intelligence test; Goodenough Human Figure Drawing Test. RESULTS: Statistical analysis (Mann-Whitney U test) showed a statistically significant difference (P>0.05) between the 2 groups; scores for figure originality, figure fluidity and figure elaboration were consistently…

G.P.15.09 Memory deficit of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Maternal hyperphenylalaninemia syndrome: neuropsychological evaluation of four subjects during childhood and adolescence.

Abstract Maternal hyperphenylalanemia during pregnancy may induce a severe embryopathy characterized by microcephaly, mental retardation, facial dysmorphy and congenital heart defects. Four subjects, two pairs of sibs, with maternal hyperphenylalaninemia syndrome were included in this study and their neuropsychological performances were assessed. Maternal levels of hyperphenylalaninemia were similar in both mothers, one of them had not been diagnosed with the condition until her two children were examined at the ages of 10 and 6 years. A severe cognitive deficit was detected in all 4 subjects, with a typical profile of impaired perceptive abilities, behavioural disturbances, motor difficult…

“CALCIAPENSIERI” PROJECT: AN ADD-ON TREATMENT IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SUBJECTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA

Introduction If physical activity is a pivotal component of good health for everyone, there is an increasing emphasis on its importance for psychiatric patients affected from schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s dementia, major depressive disorder (Knochel et al. 2012). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of soccer practice on the self reported health quality of life (SRHQL) and sports performance (SP) in psychotic subjects. Methods Eighteen schizophrenic male patients were randomized into either a trained (TG) and control group (CG). TG was trained for 12 weeks by two soccer training sessions/week. CG did not perform any regular sports activity during experimental period. Anthropome…

Nuove dipendenze del terzo millennio: l'utilizzo di steroidi anabolizzanti come sostanza d'abuso

Obiettivo. L'abuso di sostanze anabolizzanti si sta configurando come un problema di rilevanza psicosociale. L'uso di steroidi anabolizzanti in questi ultimi anni si è spostato dalla pratica sportiva professionale allo sport amatoriale e ad ambiti occupazionali particolari (buttafuori, modelli, ect.). La letteratura indica l'assuntore di steroidi come un poliassuntore che mette in atto condotte pericolose e aggressive per sé e per gli altri. L'obiettivo di questo studio è indagare le abitudini, le condotte di vita e il profilo psicologico di un gruppo di soggetti che frequentano centri sportivi nella città di Palermo (Italia), per verificare come l'utilizzo sconsiderato di sostanze anaboliz…

Polysomnographic Findings in Fragile X Syndrome Children with EEG Abnormalities

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a genetic syndrome with intellectual disability due to the loss of expression of the FMR1 gene located on chromosome X (Xq27.3). This mutation can suppress the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) with an impact on synaptic functioning and neuronal plasticity. Among associated sign and symptoms of this genetic condition, sleep disturbances have been already described, but few polysomnographic reports in pediatric age have been reported. This multicenter case-control study is aimed at assessing the sleep macrostructure and at analyzing the presence of EEG abnormalities in a cohort of FXS children. We enrolled children with FXS and, as controls, children wit…

Evaluation of creative thinking in children with idiopathic epilepsy (absence epilepsy).

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) application in sport medicine: A brief review

Since 1985, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been used for non-invasive exploration of motor control in humans and for a wide range of applications in all ages of life. This brief review examined briefly the potential interest in sport medicine.

SUNCT/SUNA in Pediatric Age: A Review of Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options

The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD3) defines Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks (SUNHA) as attacks of moderate or severe, strictly unilateral head pain lasting from seconds to minutes, occurring at least once a day and usually associated with prominent lacrimation and redness of the ipsilateral eye. Two subtypes of SUNHA are identified: Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with Conjunctival injection and Tearing (SUNCT) and Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial Autonomic symptoms (SUNA). These pathologies are infrequent in children and difficult to diagnose. The authors reviewed the ex…

Noli Me Tangere: Social Touch, Tactile Defensiveness, and Communication in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Tactile defensiveness is a common feature in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Since the first studies, tactile defensiveness has been described as the result of an abnormal response to sensory stimulation. Moreover, it has been studied how the tactile system is closely linked to socio-communicative development and how the interoceptive sensory system supports both a discriminating touch and an affective touch. Therefore, several neurophysiological studies have been conducted to investigate the neurobiological basis of the development and functioning of the tactile system for a better understanding of the tactile defensiveness behavior and the social touch of NDDs. Given the lack of rece…

ACQUISIZIONE E SVILUPPO DEL LINGUAGGIO NEL BAMBINO BILINGUE. Aspetti dell'apprendimento in una prospettiva interculturale e plurilingue.

Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment for the Treatment of Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Purpose: The importance of dental care and oral hygiene is often underestimated in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Comorbidity with dental anxiety is greater in ASD subjects who also show unusual reactions to sensory stimuli. The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy for a sensory-adapted environment and targeted methods in reducing anxiety and positively influencing cooperation in children with ASD during a dental examination or specific treatments. Material and methods: The sample consisted of 50 Italian children with a diagnosis of ASD (36 males and 14 females; aged 9–10 years) presenting with mild intellectual disability (ID) and verbal language skills. The subjects en…

Temperamental characteristics in childhood migraine without aura: a multicenter study

Maria Esposito,1 Rosa Marotta,2 Beatrice Gallai,3 Lucia Parisi,4 Giuseppina Patriciello,1 Serena Marianna Lavano,2 Giovanni Mazzotta,5 Michele Roccella,4 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Department of Psychiatry, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 3Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 4Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 5Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, AUSL Umbria 2, …

Parental Stress and Parental Ratings of Behavioral Problems of Enuretic Children.

Background: Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) may have a stressful impact on the everyday life of children and parents, and it may represent a cumulative stress factor increasing feelings of "learned helplessness." Methods: The current study investigated parental stress in a group of parents (n = 330) of children affected by PMNE, compared to a group of parents (n = 330) of typical developing children (TDC). In addition, the study evaluated whether parents of PMNE children experience more emotional, social, and behavioral problems in their children, compared to parents of TDC. Finally, the study correlated frequency of enuresis with stress values and Child Behavior Checklist…

Depressive symptoms and childhood sleep apnea syndrome

Marco Carotenuto,1 Maria Esposito,1 Lucia Parisi,2 Beatrice Gallai,3 Rosa Marotta,4 Antonio Pascotto,1 Michele Roccella21Sleep Clinic for Developmental Age, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 3Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, 4Department of Psychiatry, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, ItalyBackground: The relationship between sleep and mood regulation is well known, and some reports suggest a key role of sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD) in the development of …

Maternal stress and coping strategies in developmental Dyslexia: An Italian multicenter study

BackgroundStudies about the impact of developmental dyslexia (DD) on parenting are scarce. Our investigation aimed to assess maternal stress levels and mothers’ copying styles in a population of dyslexic children.MethodsA total of 874 children (500 boys, 374 girls; mean age 8.32 ± 2.33 years) affected by DD was included in the study. A total of 1,421 typically developing children (789 boys, 632 girls; mean age 8.25 ± 3.19 years) were recruited from local schools of participating Italian Regions (Abruzzo, Calabria, Campania, Puglia, Umbria, Sicily) and used as control-children group. All mothers (of both DD and typically developing children) filled out an evaluation for parental stress (Pare…

Internalizing symptoms in children affected by childhood absence epilepsy: A preliminary study

Introduction: Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) is a common type of pediatric idiopathic generalized epilepsy, characterized by multiple seizures of typical absence, with typical EEG pattern consisting in bilateral synchronous and symmetrical discharges of generalized 3 Hz spike-wave (SWDs). Recently, some researchers have suggested that the underlying epileptogenic mechanism of absence seizures selectively involves the frontal cortical circuits, also supported by video-electroencephalography data(3). These data may be considered as a new window in CAE comprehension and management, particularly about symptoms different from seizure that children affected may present. In this light, aim of th…

NREM Sleep Instability in Pediatric Migraine Without Aura

Children with migraine headaches appear to have a range of sleep disturbances. The aim of the present study was to assess the NREM sleep instability in a population of school-aged individuals affected by migraine without aura (MoA). Thirty-three children with MoA (20 males, 13 females, mean age 10.45 ± 2.06 years) underwent to overnight Polysomnographic (PSG) recordings and Cyclic Alternating Pattern (CAP) analyses accordingly with international criteria. MoA group showed a reduction in sleep duration parameters (TIB, SPT, TST; p ≤ 0.001 for all) and in arousal index during REM sleep and an increase in awakenings per hour (AWK/h) vs. Controls (C) (p = 0.008). In particular, MoA children sho…

Intellectual disabilities and physical education

Life events and primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis: A pediatric pilot study

Introduction: The association between primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) and behavioral disorders was highlighted frequently, suggesting psychiatric origin. On the other hand, there is no difference between the incidence of mental disorders in children with PMNE and controls, although the psychological genesis could provide additional secondary forms, in which the child might react to stressful events with the resumption of involuntary urination at night, with a possible alteration of bowel control due to a high vulnerability to stressors. The purpose of this study is assessing the stressful events of life in a sample of children with PMNE. Materials and methods: 56 subjects …

HIV-Associated Neuromuscular Weakness Syndrome (HANWS) in two children

Neuropsychological Profile in Children with Partial Epilepsy

Aspetti psicopatologici dell'uso di sostanze anabolizzanti come sostanza d'abuso.

Prosocial priming and bystander effect in an online context.

The present study tested the effect of priming the concept of prosociality on the bystander effect in an online environment. Participants were sent an e-mail requesting a plea for help and randomly assigned to one of four conditions in a 2 (Bystander: 0 vs. 14) × 2 (Priming: present vs. absent) design. The results demonstrated support for the study hypothesis. As expected, the virtual presence of many others significantly reduced e-mail responsiveness except when the request for help is preceded by prosocial priming. Implications of these findings for the literature on the bystander effect and priming are discussed.

REFERENTIAL COMUNICATION SKILL IN CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to investigate the Referential Communication skill in children with Down Syndrome (DS). In particular in this research, we have studied the development of pragmatic language in relation to non-verbal skills. It’s analyzed the Referential Communication skills in children with DS, both in production and comprehension of referential messages: oriented and / or ambiguous , adequate (appropriate) and inadequate (inappropriate) METHODS: The participants in this research are a total of 24 children: 12 children with DS and 12 children with typical development (TD) (control group). The mean age children with DS is 7 years and 8 months and the mean age children wi…

Hypomelanosis of Ito: neurological and psychiatric pictures in developmental age.

The Impact of Celiac Disease on Quality of Life in Subjects in Developmental Age.

Merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy.

Sleep disturbances in Angelman syndrome: a questionnaire study.

Only few studies are available on sleep disorders in Angelman syndrome (AS), a neurodevelopmental disorder with several behavior disturbances. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sleep disorders in a relatively large group of AS subjects, compared to that of age-matched controls. Forty-nine consecutive parents of patients with AS (26 males and 23 females aged 2.3-26.2 years) were interviewed and filled out a comprehensive sleep questionnaire. Based on their genetic etiology, four groups were defined: deletion of chromosome 15q11-13 (25 subjects); methylation imprinting mutation (six subjects), UBE3A mutations (seven subjects) and paternal uniparental disomy (five subjec…

La sofferenza psichica in bambini con epilessia e cefalea

The rorschach test evaluation in chronic childhood migraine: A preliminary multicenter case-control study

Object Migraine headache prevalence ranges from 1.2 to 3.2% at 7 years of age, increasing with age up to 4-19% in adolescents.1 The aim of the present study is investigating the personality style associated with children and adolescent affected by Migraine without aura (MwA), through administration of the projective Rorschach test and statistical comparison with a group of age- and sex matched healthy controls. Methods 137 patients (74 males and 63 females), aged 7.3–17.4 years (mean age 11.4, SD 3.02 years), affected by MwA according to the IHs-3 criteria. The projective Rorschach test has been administrered to all the cases and controls. Statistical comparisons of groups were performed th…

THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MANAGEMENT OF BODY WEIGHT IN PSYCHOTIC SUBJECTS

Psychotic subjects live an unhealthy lifestyle that tends to reinforce the metabolic syndrome (1). It is known, indeed, that antipsychotic treatments stimulate appetite (2) and induce weight gain (3). Several therapeutic approaches including psycho-educational behavioral interventions and exercise training programs have been elaborated in order to manage antipsychotic-induced weight gain (4,5). Wirshing et al. (2006) elaborated a specific project based on oral presentations in order to educate psychotic subjects about lifestyle changes they can adopt to reduce weight gain. They showed that patients with mental illness are able to benefit from educational presentations about nutrition and a …

Disturbi del comportamento alimentare in età pre-scolare: variabili cliniche e temperamentali.

Autism spectrum disorders in children affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Background Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most frequent and severe form of the dystrophinopathies. The literature shows that about 30-40% of DMD subjects have intellectual disability. In males with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, neuropsychiatric disorders have also been observed: attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity, autism spectrum disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is not just a muscle disorder, but also a disease that affects the brain. The aim of the present study was to describe a case series of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy that have also the presence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). They have been assessed by mean…

Self-concept evaluation and migraine without aura in childhood

Maria Esposito,1 Beatrice Gallai,2 Lucia Parisi,3 Laura Castaldo,1 Rosa Marotta,4 Serena Marianna Lavano,4 Giovanni Mazzotta,5 Michele Roccella,3 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 3Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 4Department of Psychiatry, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 5Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, AUSL Umbria 2, Terni, I…

La sindrome di asperger è un'entità specifica? Delineazione del fenotipo comportamentale.

Can headache impair intellectual abilities in children? An observational study

Maria Esposito,1 Antonio Pascotto,1 Beatrice Gallai,3 Lucia Parisi,2 Michele Roccella,2 Rosa Marotta,4 Serena Marianna Lavano,4 Antonella Gritti,5 Giovanni Mazzotta,6 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Second University of Naples, Naples, 2Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, 3Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, 4Department of Psychiatry, “Magna Graecia” University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, 5Suor Orsola Benincasa University, Napoli, 6Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Azienda Sanitaria Locale 4, Terni, ItalyBackgrou…

Effectiveness and safety of Nintendo Wii Fit PlusTM training in children with migraine without aura a preliminary study

Maria Esposito,1 Maria Ruberto,2 Francesca Gimigliano,1,2 Rosa Marotta,3 Beatrice Gallai,4 Lucia Parisi,5 Serena Marianna Lavano,3 Michele Roccella,5 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Clinic, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, 2Department of Odonto-Stomathologic Disciplines, Pathology – Orthopedic Sciences, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 3Department of Psychiatry, “Magna Graecia” University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy; 4Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 5Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of …

Neurodevelopmental Pathways: Between Pathologisation and Neurodiversity.

Accurate identification of children’s pathogenic neuropsychological developmental trajectories or, on the contrary, of children’s typical developmental trajectories is one of the main objectives of developmental psychopathology [...]

The quality of life in children with cronic renal diseases

Memory deficit of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Several studies on intelligence of children suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) found impairments in linguistic functions and memory. Memory deficit mainly involves long-term memory; short-term memory impairment was also present, even if less frequently. Some studies tried to establish a correlation between the distal deletion of the dystrophin gene and low intelligence levels. The present study investigated the neuropsychological performance in a group of DMD children (26 subjects); neuropsychological tests included: Wechsler intelligence scale for children-revised; Raven’s progressive matrices test; Rey’s complex figure test; memory and digit span tests; Benton’s visual reten…

Symbolic Function Explored in Paedriatic Age Patients with Epilepsy and Headche

Neuropsychological Alterations in Children Affected by Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Sleep-related breathing disorders are a group of clinical conditions ranging from habitual snoring to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) during the lifespan. In children, other risk factors are represented by adenotonsillar hypertrophy, rhinitis, nasal structure alteration, cleft palate, velopharyngeal flap surgery, pharyngeal masses, craniofacial malformations, genetic syndrome (i.e. Down syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, and Apert syndrome), genetic hypoplasia mandibular (i.e. Pierre Robin syndrome, Treacher Collins syndrome, Shy-Drager syndrome, and Cornelia De Lange syndrome), craniofacial traumas, chronic or seasonal rhinitis, asthma, neuromuscular syndromes, brainstem pathologies (i.e.…

<p>Memory performances and personality traits in mothers of children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome</p>

Background Chronic diseases in pediatric age have been identified as stressful risk factors for parents. Studies on caregivers have documented the impact of chronic parenting stress on emotion and cognition. Aim To investigate the differences between a group of mothers of children affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) for at least 4 years and a group of mothers of typically developing children (TDC) in relation to parental stress, self-esteem, locus of control, and memory performances. Methods A group of 86 mothers (mean age 35.6±4.9, ranged between 32 and 41 years) of children with OSAS diagnosis, and a group of 52 mothers of TDC (mean age 35.9±4.2, ranged between 32 and 41 y…

Parenting stress and impact of illness in parents of children with coeliac disease

Coeliac disease (CD) is a chronic disease which could stress patients and their family. Although, poor attention has been paid to the quality of life in CD children and to the functioning of families with CD children. The study aims to evaluate the parenting perception of the CD impact and the parenting distress level. A group of 74 parents of CD children compiled the Impact Childhood Illness Scale and the Parenting Stress Index which is also compiled by 74 parents of health children. The assessment does not reveal a significant impact of CD on patient’s personal life although some critical areas emerged. Results evidenced an higher level of parenting stress in parents of CD children than p…

Reading–writing disorder in children with idiopathic epilepsy

Abstract Several studies have documented learning disabilities (LDs) in subjects with epilepsy, who have been shown to be at greater risk of mild neuropsychological damage, with the consequent risk of academic failure. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the peculiarities of reading and writing disorders in subjects with idiopathic epilepsy. The reading and writing performance of 35 children affected by reading and writing disorders and idiopathic epilepsy (R/WD + E group) has been compared with the performance of 37 children with only reading and writing disorders (R/WD group). A comparison group of 22 typical developing healthy children (TDC group) was also included in the study…

Evolving role of physical education on psycho-motor development in children with disabilities

Neuropsychiatric aspects of fetal alcohol syndrome in children.

Defensive strategies in a big obese group [MECCANISMI DI DIFESA IN UN GRUPPO DI PERSONE CON OBESITA']

Aim. The aim of this study was to explore thè defense mechanisms of people with moderate and severe obesity. In fact, thè defensive structure is an effective predictor for thè best management of thè disease. Methods. 204 people (164 F-40 M) bave been recruited: 40 with BMI between 30 and 34.9, with moderate obesity, 36 with BMI between 35 and 39.9, with severe obesity, and 128 with BMI>40, with serious obesity, ali of them pertaining to thè clinic for obesity treatment at University Hospital of Palermo. Ali subjects were administered thè Defense Mechanisms Inventory (DMI), a type of reactive that explores defense mechanisms. The psychiatric comorbidity was excluded by thè DSM (SCIDI and II)…

Children and adolescents of homoparental family:psychosexual and psychiatric appraisal.

Omogenitorialità e atteggiamenti sulla competenza genitoriale.Un'indagine pilota.

Emotional intelligence in children with severe sleep-related breathing disorders

Background. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) affects up to 4% of a pediatric population, with many comorbidities in the medium-long term. Functional alterations in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) may explain why OSAS impacts aspects such as executive functions, memory, motor control, attention, visual-spatial skills, learning, and mood regulation. Emotional intelligence (EI) is a complex neuropsychological function that could be impaired in many clinical conditions. Purpose. The aim of the study is to evaluate the difference in emotional intelligence skills among children with OSAS and healthy subjects (nOSAS). Methods. 129 children (72 males; mean age 7.64±1.98 years) affected by OSAS w…

Effects on executive functions of antiepileptic monotherapy in pediatric age.

Abstract Objectives Cognitive abilities and executive functions in children and adolescents are important indicators of quality of life as well as academic and social achievements. Cognitive and executive functioning are often impaired in patients with epilepsy and can be exacerbated by seizures and antiseizure drugs. The aim of our observational retrospective study was to assess executive functioning in patients with pediatric epilepsy, currently taking a single antiseizure medication. Materials and methods Records of 172 children and adolescents aged between 6 and 18 years (mean age = 12 ± 3.4 years) with newly diagnosed epilepsy who had not yet commenced an antiepileptic treatment were i…

Autismo e disturbi generalizzati dello sviluppo. Metodi e strategie di intervento educativo-abilitativo

Preliminary data on cytogenetics and cytotaxonomy of cercopithecus albogularis labiatus (Samango monkey)

Does Attentional Style Moderate the Relationship between Time Perspective and Social Network Addiction? A Cross-Sectional Study on a Sample of Social Networking Sites Users

The present study investigates the role of attentional style as a moderator variable between temporal perspective and social network addiction, since little is known about users’ cognitive variables involved in this kind of addictive behavior. To achieve this goal, a sample of 186 volunteers and anonymous social networking sites users (M = 34%; F = 66%; Mage = 22.54 years; SD = 3.94; range: 18 ÷ 45 years) participated in a cross-sectional study. All participants filled out self-report instruments measuring temporal perspective, internal vs. external attentional style, and social network addiction. The results align with the previous literature and show that present fatalistic and past negat…

Mealtime behaviour disorders in Cornelia de Lange syndrome

Rationale and objectives: Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a multisystem congenital syndrome at variable expressivity. Children with CdLS can exhibit a range of “autistic-like” behaviours. Only a few studies have investigated the presence of eating "autistic-like" behaviors in individuals with CdLS. The aim of this study is investigating eating disorders and food selectivity among children affected by CdLS compared to autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and typical developing (TD) children. Materials and methods: 16 children affected by CDLs (10 M, mean age 5.12±1.98 years) were compared to 35 ASD children (20 M, mean age 4.94±1.72 years) and 77 TD children (41 M, mean age 4.78±2.06 years)…

The New COVID-19 Related Psychological Distress Pandemic.

Although a few years have passed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a large body of scientific literature is already present on the impact that the worldwide spread of the virus has had on people’s quality of life [...]

Disturbi del comportamento alimentare in età-prescolare: variabili cliniche e temperali.

EXPRESSIONS OF DISCOMFORT IN ADOLESCENTS. CLINICAL REFLECTIONS RESULTING FROM AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF A GROUP OF STUDENTS

Obiettivo. Considerati la diffusione e l’incremento dei comportamenti aggressivi e violenti, specie quelli che trovano come radicale comune la mancanza di un’effettiva motivazione e l’efferatezza, la nostra ricerca si è posta l’obiettivo di rintracciare gli indicatori e i segni predittivi di tali comportamenti. La letteratura, inoltre, dimostra che gli indicatori e i segni predittivi di maggiore affidabilità sono quelli legati alle invarianti strutturali (per esempio le strategie difensive, la capacità di controllo degli impulsi). Metodi. È stato realizzato, con un piano di ricerca trasversale, uno studio clinico di confronto reclutando un gruppo di adolescenti (26 soggetti di sesso maschil…

Can We Do Better Next Time? Italians' Response to the COVID-19 Emergency through a Heuristics and Biases Lens.

During the outbreak of COVID-19 in Italy, people often failed to adopt behaviors that could have stopped, or at least slowed down, the spread of this deadly disease. We offer cognitive explanations for these decisions, based on some of the most common heuristics and biases that are known to influence human judgment and decision-making, especially under conditions of high uncertainty. Our analysis concludes with the following recommendations: policymakers can and should take advantage of this established science, in order to communicate more effectively and increase the likelihood that people choose responsible actions in a public health crisis.

Behavioral phenotype and autism spectrum disorders in Cornelia de Lange syndrome

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a congenital disorder characterized by distinctive facial features, growth retardation, limb abnormalities, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems. Cornelia de Lange syndrome is associated with abnormalities on chromosomes 5, 10 and X. Heterozygous point mutations in three genes (<em>NIPBL</em>, <em>SMC3</em> and <em>SMC1A</em>), are responsible for approximately 50-60% of CdLS cases. CdLS is characterized by autistic features, notably excessive repetitive behaviors and expressive language deficits. The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptomatology is comparatively high in CdLS. However, the pro…

Soccer practice as an add-on treatment in the management of individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia

Giuseppe Battaglia,1,3 Marianna Alesi,2 Michele Inguglia,4 Michele Roccella,2 Giovanni Caramazza,3 Marianna Bellafiore,1,3 Antonio Palma1,3 1Department of Law, Social and Sport Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 2Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo Italy; 3Regional Sports School of CONI Sicilia, Sicily, Italy; 4Local Health of Palermo, Palermo, Italy Abstract: Physical activity is an important aspect of good health for everyone; it is even more important for psychiatric patients who usually live an unhealthy lifestyle. In recent years, there has been growing focus on the use of soccer as a vehicle to improve the health of subjects with severe mental illness…

A de novo heterozygous mutation in KCNC2 gene implicated in severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy

Abstract An increasing number of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies have been correlated with variants of ion channel genes, and in particular of potassium channels genes, such as KCNA1, KCNA2, KCNB1, KCNQ2, KCTD7 and KCNT1. Here we report a child with an early severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, spastic tetraplegia, opisthotonos attacks. The whole exome sequencing showed the de novo heterozygous variant c.1411G > C (p.Val471Leu) in the KCNC2 gene. Although this is, to our knowledge, the first case of encephalopathy associated with a KCNC2 gene variant, and further confirmatory studies are needed, previous preclinical and clinical evidence seems to suggest that KCNC…

Seizures in Rett Syndrome: clinical and electrophysiologic aspects.

Sindrome da deficit di attenzione/iperattività e disturbo dell'apprendimento: indicazioni e strategie terapeutiche attraverso l'analisi di un caso.

Impact of Three Kinds of Early Interventions on Developmental Profile in Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a rising prevalence disorder. This high-cost/high-burden condition needs evidence-based behavioral treatments that are able to reduce the impact of symptoms on children’s functioning. This retrospective chart review study compared the impact of different types of early interventions on toddlers diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder developmental profile. Analyses were conducted on 90 subjects (mean = 27.76 months, range 18–44 months; M:F = 4.29:1), of which 36 children underwent the usual treatment, 13 children underwent an intervention based on early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) and 41 children rece…

Neuropsychological performance of children with Duchenne de Boulogne muscular dystrophy

DISTURBI DELLO SPETTRO AUTISTICO E QUALITA' DELLA VITA

Dystrophie Musculaire de Duchenne de Boulogne:analyse neuropsychologique

On the Playing Field to Improve: A Goal for Autism.

In recent years, there has been a renewed attention to lifestyle-based interventions in people with autism spectrum disorder. The positive effects of physical exercise programs have been well documented both in healthy people and in people with disabilities in the fields of psychological well-being, cognitive outcome and medical health. There is much less evidence about the opportunity to attempt a team-group sport for people with autism. Although researchers seem to suggest an overall positive effect, playing team sports for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) means dealing with difficulties in social interactions and limitations in motor functions. This narrative review aims to rep…

I BAMBINI HIV: VALUTAZIONE DEGLI ASPETTI RELAZIONALI.

ASPETTI DELLA QUALITA'DELLA VITA

L'aspetto clinico-psicologico

Memory performances and personality traits in mothers of children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Daniela Smirni*,1, Marco Carotenuto*,2, Francesco Precenzano,2 Pietro Smirni,3 Francesca Felicia Operto,4 Rosa Marotta,5 Michele Roccella11Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 2Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Università Degli Studi Della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy; 3Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; 4Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy; 5Department of Health …

Social Cognition in Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Epilepsy

Introduction: The purpose of our study was to perform a comparative analysis of social cognition in children and adolescents with epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), specific learning disorder (SLD) and in typical development (TD) controls. The secondary aim was to relate social cognition to some clinical and demographic characteristics.Methods: Our work is a transversal observational study. The recruits were 179 children and adolescents aged between 6 and 18 years diagnosed with epilepsy, ASD, or SLD and 32 subjects with TD. All the participants underwent neuropsychological assessment of Emotion Recognition (ER) and Theory of Mind (ToM) skills.Results: All three clinical groups perfo…

The evaluation of psychological discomfort in oncological,asthmatic and epileptic young patients.

Maternal stress and childhood migraine: a new perspective on management

"Background: Migraine without aura (MoA) is a primary headache frequent and disabling in developmental age. No reports concerning the prevalence and the degree of maternal stress and the impact of migraine in the parent-child interaction . The aim of study is to evaluate the prevalence of parental stress in a large pediatric sample of individuals affected by migraine without aura.. Methods: The study population consisted of 218 children (112 M, 106 F) aged between 6 and 13 years (mean 8.32 ± 2.06 years) and the control group was composed by 405 typical developing children (207 M, 198 F; mean age 8.54 ± 2.47 years). To assess the parental stress all individuals (MoA and comparisons), parents…

L'alessitimia come disturbo della regolazione affettiva

Alexithymia is a theoretical construct concerning the ability to contact our feelings and the ability to describe them in words. It is very useful in clinical experience and also in empirical research for its operationalization and applicability possibility. After more than 40 years from its original definition, with clinical observation of patients defined “psychosomatics” according a classic definition, alexithymia has become one of the most investigated disease in the last decades. This paper aims to explore etiopathogenetic hypotheses and contemporaneous prospective within which it is possible to understand the relevance of the construct both in clinical experience and in empirical rese…

Sleep disturbances in Algelman syndrome: a questionnaire study

Only few studies are available on sleep disorders in Angelman syndrome (AS), a neurodevelopmental disorder with several behavior disturbances. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sleep disorders in a relatively large group of AS subjects, compared to that of age-matched controls. Fourty-nine consecutive parents of patients with AS (26 males and 23 females aged 2.3–26.2 years) were interviewed and filled out a comprehensive sleep questionnaire. Based on their genetic etiology, four groups were defined: deletion of chromosome 15q11–13 (25 subjects); methylation imprinting mutation (six subjects), UBE3A mutations (seven subjects) and paternal uniparental disomy (five subje…

Psychopathological assessment in girls with Rett Syndrome

ESSERE PERSONE CON SINDROME DI DOWN. ESSERE ADOLESCENTI. DIVENTARE ADULTI

Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Parasomnias and Migraine: A Role of Orexinergic Projections

Introduction: Sleep and migraine share a common pathophysiological substrate, although the underlying mechanisms are unknown. The serotonergic and orexinergic systems are both involved in the regulation of sleep/wake cycle, and numerous studies show that both are involved in the migraine etiopathogenesis. These two systems are anatomically and functionally interconnected. Our hypothesis is that in migraine a dysfunction of orexinergic projections on the median raphe (MR) nuclei, interfering with serotonergic regulation, may cause Non-Rapid Eye Movement parasomnias, such as somnambulism. Hypothesis/theory: Acting on the serotonergic neurons of the raphe nuclei, the dysfunction of orexinergic…

Paternal and Maternal Transition to Parenthood: The Risk of Postpartum Depression and Parenting Stress

Transition to parenthood represents an important life event increasing vulnerability to psychological disorders. Postpartum depression and parenting distress are the most common psychological disturbances and a growing scientific evidence suggests that both mothers and fathers are involved in this developmental crisis. This paper aims to explore maternal and paternal experience of transition to parenthood in terms of parenting distress and risk of postpartum depression. Seventy-five couples of first-time parents were invited to compile the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form in the first month of children life. Study sample reported very high level…

Anxiety and depression levels in prepubertal obese children: a case-control study

Introduction Childhood obesity has become worldwide epidemic both in Western and in developing Countries and has been accompanied by many serious and severe comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea syndrome, depression, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose homeostasis, steatohepatitis, and intracranial hypertension, as well as medical concerns unique to youth such as accelerated pubertal and skeletal development and orthopedic disorders. To date no specific studies about the psychological assessment in pediatric obesity are present. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the putative relationship between psychological troubles and obesity in a sample of school-aged chil…

Risk behaviors among young people. Evaluation and descriptive analysis.

AIM: Risk behaviours--as they are defined by specialist literature for the damage these behaviours cause to young people's health and/or life--are getting more and more frequent among young people. They range from self-injuring behaviours to the consequences of a precocious, high-risk and/or promiscuous sexual activity, from abnormal eating behaviours to the deaths from fun. METHODS: The inquiry concerned a group of university students (100 males and 100 females), selected at random from the Faculties of Medicine and Surgery, Psychology, Economy and Jurisprudence of the University of Palermo, who were asked to answer a questionnaire composed of 91 questions and structured in 4 sections. The…

Neuropsichiatria dell'infanzia e dell'adolescenza

Questo manuale raccoglie i principali quadri patologici della neurologia e psichiatria dell'età evolutiva ed è stato pensato e scritto per l'insegnamento universitario della neuropsichiatria infantile. Gli studenti potranno, attraverso lo studio di questo libro, apprendere le tappe dello sviluppo del bambino e le cause che possono provocare le varie forme di disabilità, al fine di acquisire quelle competenze atte a prestare le cure e gli interventi specifici per il suo trattamento e la sua presa in carico.

The quality of life of children with pervasive developmental disorders

AIM: Quality of life is increasingly the focus of attention by health, psychological and social services. Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) are a group of psychiatric conditions in which the patient's clinical case history is characterized by disturbances in social interaction, deterioration of verbal and non-verbal communication, and presence of bizarre, limited and stereotyped activity. These disturbances affect multiple developmental areas and show up in very early stages of development, resulting in a permanent disorder. Many studies have sought to recognize causes and interventions for persons with PDD, however, they often take insufficient account of the effects these disorder c…

Anabolic steroid abuse and dependence: risk factors of the use of drug and psychoactive substances

Sindrome non verbale e abilità di percezione sociale:studio di un campione di soggetti in età evolutiva.

New Advances in Neuropsychiatric Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence.

Neurological and psychiatric disorders during developmental ages affect an increasing share of the pediatric population, both due to the increased understanding and attention paid to these issues and due to increased risk factors [...]

Neuropeptides’ Hypothalamic Regulation of Sleep Control in Children Affected by Functional Non-Retentive Fecal Incontinence

Functional non-retentive fecal incontinence (FNRFI) is a common problem in pediatric age. FNRFI is defined as unintended loss of stool in a 4-year-old or older child after organic causes have been excluded. FNRFI tends to affects up to 3% of children older than 4 years, with males being affected more frequently than females. Clinically, children affected by FNRFI have normal intestinal movements and stool consistency. Literature data show that children with fecal incontinence have increased levels of separation anxiety, specific phobias, general anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and oppositional defiant disorder. In terms of possible relationship between incontinence…

Attachment styles in children affected by migraine without aura

Maria Esposito,1 Lucia Parisi,2 Beatrice Gallai,3 Rosa Marotta,4 Anna Di Dona,1 Serena Marianna Lavano,2 Michele Roccella,4 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 3Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy; 4Department of Psychiatry, The Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, ItalyBackground: In recent years, great attention has been given to the presence of psychological problems and psyc…

Do mental health and vitality mediate the relationship between perceived control over time and fear of COVID-19? A survey in an Italian sample

Several studies evidenced increased elevated symptomatology levels in anxiety, general stress, depression, and post-traumatic stress related to COVID-19. Real difficulties in the effective control of time that could be responsible for mental health issues and loss of vitality were also reported. Prior literature highlighted how perceived control over time significantly modulates anxiety disorders and promotes psychological well-being. To verify the hypothesis that perceived control over time predicts fear of COVID-19 and mental health and vitality mediate this relationship, we performed an online survey on a sample of 301 subjects (female = 68%; Mage = 22.12, SD = 6.29; age range = 18–57 ye…

Improvement of gross motor and cognitive abilities by an exercise training program: three case reports

Marianna Alesi,1 Giuseppe Battaglia,2 Michele Roccella,1 Davide Testa,1 Antonio Palma,2 Annamaria Pepi1 1Department of Psychology, 2Department of Law, Social and Sport Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy Background: This work examined the efficacy of an integrated exercise training program (coach and family) in three children with Down syndrome to improve their motor and cognitive abilities, in particular reaction time and working memory. Methods: The integrated exercise training program was used in three children with Down syndrome, comprising two boys (M1, with a chronological age of 10.3 years and a mental age of 4.7 years; M2, with a chronological age of 14.6 years and a ment…

Hypersomnia in children affected by migraine without aura: a questionnaire-based case-control study

Maria Esposito,1 Michele Roccella,2 Lucia Parisi,2 Beatrice Gallai,3 Marco Carotenuto11Center for Childhood Headache, Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical, and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy; 2Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; 3Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, ItalyBackground: The relationship between sleep and headache is meaningful and complex. Children affected by migraines tend to show many sleep disorders, such as insufficient sleep duration and excessive daytime somnolence. Therefore, the aim of this study is…

NEUROPSICHIATRIA INFANTILE

Utilisation de stéroïdes anabolisants chez des adolescents ayant une activité sportive

Resume But de l’etude Jusqu’a ces dernieres annees, l’utilisation de SAA etait reservee exclusivement aux athletes professionnels. Dans les pays anglo-saxons, l’usage des SAA a une large diffusion parmi les adolescents et les lyceens. En Australie, aux Etats-Unis et en Angleterre, l’utilisation des SAA pourrait devenir un probleme de societe a moins qu’il ne le soit deja, du fait des troubles du comportement chez les consommateurs. La litterature met en evidence, chez les utilisateurs de SAA, la consommation concomitante de nombreuses autres substances, susceptibles de favoriser des comportements agressifs et dangereux envers autrui et envers soi-meme. L’objet de cette etude concerne les ha…

The quality of life in girls with Rett syndrome

Nowadays, quality of life is receiving an increasing attention in all scientific areas. Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurological development, affecting mainly females. The congenital disease affects the central nervous system, and is one of the most common causes of severe intellectual disability. The aim of our study is to evaluate the effect of RTT on the quality of life of people who are affected. Both parents of 18 subjects, all female, diagnosed with RTT, took part in the research. Quality of life was assessed using the Italian version of the Impact of Childhood Illness Scale. This scale consists of 30 questions that investigate the effect of illness on children, parents and families…

One-Year Follow-Up Diagnostic Stability of Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis in a Clinical Sample of Children and Toddlers

Some studies show that the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder could be considered reliable and stable in children aged 18 to 24 months. Nevertheless, the diagnostic stability of early ASD diagnosis has not yet been fully demonstrated. This observational study examines the one-year diagnostic stability of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in a clinical sample of 147 children diagnosed between 18 and 48 months of age. The ADOS-2 scores were used in order to stratify children in three levels of symptom severity: Autism (AD; comparison score 5–7), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD; comparison score 3–4), and Sub-Threshold Symptoms; (STS; comparison score 1–2). Results: Overall…

A study evaluatinf visual-perceptive and praxic abilities in benign childhood epilepsy with occipital paroxysms

Adventures of Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology strives to fully grasp the person in his totality and in his individuality, helping him adequately address his own deep internal suffering and discomfort, social uneasiness, and harmonize his own needs, desires and, attachments [...]

Cospleeping in childhood migraine

Visual–spatial training efficacy in children affected by migraine without aura: a multicenter study

Francesco Precenzano,1,* Maria Ruberto,2,* Lucia Parisi,3 Margherita Salerno,4 Agata Maltese,3 Beatrice Gallai,5 Rosa Marotta,6 Serena Marianna Lavano,7 Francesco Lavano,6 Michele Roccella3 1Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Headache Center for Children and Adolescent. Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 2Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, 3Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, 4Sciences for Mother and Child Health Promotion, University of Palermo, Palermo, 5D…

Letter to the Editor Regarding the Article Whole-Exome Sequencing in NF1-Related West's Syndrome Leads to the Identification of KCNC2 as a Novel Candidate Gene for Epilepsy

Adjunctive clotiapine for the management of delusions in two adolescents with anorexia nervosa

Clotiapine is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for the management of a series of acute psychotic disorders. The current literature lacks evidence concerning the tolerability and clinical use of this drug in the management of individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN). In this study, we report two cases of adolescents with AN, treated with clotiapine. The reason for the administration of clotiapine was, for both patients, the manifestation of bizarre delusions concerning food and calories. Patient 1 presented a presyncope after the first dose of clotiapine, and treatment was rapidly discontinued. Patient 2 was treated with clotiapine for 9 months; doses were titrated from 20 mg/day to 70 mg/d…

Prader–Willi Syndrome with Angelman Syndrome in the Offspring

We report the second case, to the best of our knowledge, of a mother with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) who gave birth to a daughter with Angelman syndrome (AS). The menarche occurred when she was 16, and the following menstrual cycles were irregular, but she never took sexual hormone replacement therapy. At the age of 26, our patient with PWS became pregnant. The diagnosis was confirmed by molecular genetic testing that revealed a ~5.7 Mb deletion in the 15q11.1–15q13 region on the paternal allele in the mother with PWS and the maternal one in the daughter with AS, respectively. Both the mother with PWS and the daughter with AS showed peculiar clinical and genetic features of the two syndrom…

The Role of Guilt and Empathy on Prosocial Behavior.

Research on the effects of guilt on interpersonal relationships has shown that guilt frequently motivates prosocial behavior in dyadic social situations. When multiple persons are involved, however, this emotion can be disadvantageous for other people in the social environment. Two experiments were carried out to examine the effect of guilt and empathy on prosocial behavior in a context in which more than two people are involved. Experiment 1 investigates whether, in three-person situations, guilt motivates prosocial behavior with beneficial effects for the victim of one’s actions but disadvantageous effects for the third individual. Participants were faced with a social dilemma in wh…

Memory deficit in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Temperamento materno ed infantile e legame di attaccamento.

Familial Hemiplegic Migraine: Neuropsychologic Phenotypes

Symbolic function Explored in Paediatric Age Patients with Epilepsy and Headache

Children of homoparental family:psychopathological assessment

Cognitive functions and psychopathological assessment in Duchenne de Boulogne muscular dystrophy

Cognitive functions and psychopathological assessment in Dchenne de Boulogne muscular dystrophy.

The integration of immigrant children in nursery school in cross-cultural perspective.

Poor School Academic Performance and Benign Epilepsy with Centro-Temporal Spikes

Background: Poor academic performance of students with epilepsy seems to be a multifactorial problem related to difficulties in reading, writing, math, and logic skills. Poor school and academic performances refer to learning problems in a specific academic area due to learning disorders and learning difficulties not excluding the ability to learn in a different manner during school and academic life. Sometimes, school, academic difficulties, and Rolandic epilepsy can coexist together, and there may be comorbidities. Consequently, the risk of impaired academic performance in people with epilepsy is high. Methods: This review analyzed the relationship between Benign Epilepsy with Centro-Temp…

Paternal shift-working and sleep disorders in children affected by primary nocturnal enuresis

Objectives: Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) is a common problem in childhood and studies about the sleep habits of affected children are not conclusive. Work-family conflict (WFC) results from the incompatibility between family demands and business/workplace needs. WFC can impact parental quality with many consequences on children health. Aim of study is assessing the prevalence of sleep disturbances in enuretic children, sons of work-shifters. Materials and methods: 80 children (67 males) aged 5-13 years (mean 10,43; SD ± 1,99), were consecutively referred for PMNE. Sleep habits were investigated with Sleep Disturbances Scale for Children (SDSC) and the results were compa…

Acupressure therapy for insomnia in adolescents: a polysomnographic study

Marco Carotenuto,1 Beatrice Gallai,2 Lucia Parisi,3 Michele Roccella,3 Maria Esposito11Sleep Clinic for Developmental Age, Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Second University of Naples, Naples, 2Unit of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, 3Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychology, University of Palermo, Palermo, ItalyBackground: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of acupressure therapy in a sample of adolescents with insomnia using a standard polysomnographic evaluation.Methods: For this study, 25 adolescents affected by psychophysiological insomnia (mean age 15.04 ± 1.18 years, 12 boys) were enrolled. A dev…

Anabolic steroids as a substance of abuse in adolescent

Topiramato. Case reports follow-up