An MEG Investigation of Neural Biomarkers and Language in Nonverbal Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Abstract
In the proposed study, magnetoencephalography (MEG) is used to measure brain activity during auditory and language-specific processing in nonverbal children with ASD, verbal children with ASD, and healthy comparison children. The proposed project will address the challenges involved in imaging nonverbal children by: a) assessing function that does not necessitate a verbal response, b) including multiple pre-imaging training methods to increase participant comfort and cooperation, and c) applying motion correction techniques post-recording to minimize movement artifacts. In addition, behavioral language measures will be collected to validate these neural markers as measures of language function. Thus far, we have consented and collected imaging and behavioral data from 15 participants (9 ASD minimally verbal, 6 ASD verbal) and are expanding our recruitment efforts through a recently approved no-cost extension into a third year. Thus far, the combination of motion-correcting technology and positive behavior supports (via a multimedia participant orientation kit) has resulted in improved data quality for difficult-to-image children.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- AD1000556
Entities
People
- Susan Hepburn
Organizations
- University of Colorado Boulder