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Purpose: (1) To compare sensory processing patterns as expressed in daily life between substance dependents and typical controls; (2) profile the prevalence of sensory processing disorders (SPD) among substance dependents; and (3) examine gender effect on SPD within and between groups. Methods: Two hundred ninety people aged 19-64 participated in this study. The study group included 145 individuals who lived in the community or took part in an outpatient program because of addiction to drugs/alcohol and had been clean for over three months. The control group included 145 individuals who were not exposed to drugs or alcohol on a regular basis and did not suffer from addictive behavior. All participants filled a demographic questionnaire. Those who met the inclusion criteria completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) so that their sensory processing patterns could be assessed. Results: When comparing both groups, the study group showed greater sensory sensitivity and significantly higher prevalence of SPD. Significant group/gender interaction was found in regard to sensation seeking. Discussion: SPD among substance dependents may be expressed in daily life by either hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity. The behavioral outcomes reflected by the AASP support neurophysiological manifestations about SPD of substance dependents. The evaluation process of substance dependents should refer to their sensory processing abilities. In case SPD is diagnosed, Occupational Therapy and specific sensory–based interventions should be considered in order to fit the specific needs of individuals and enhance their performance, meaningful participation, and quality of life.

Date Presented 04/06/19 Children with vision or hearing impairment may suffer from sensory processing difficulties and limited participation. Understanding the outcomes of this relationship may assist in creating programs that enhance the inclusion of these children in the community and contribute to their quality of life. Primary Author and Speaker: Shaima Hamed-Daher Additional Authors and Speakers: Batya Engel-Yeger

Developmental coordination disorders (DCD) is one of the most common disorders affecting school-aged children. The study aimed to characterize the handwriting performance of children with DCD who write in Arabic, based on triangular evaluation. Participants included 58 children aged 11-12 years, 29 diagnosed with DCD based on the DSM-IV criteria and the M-ABC, and 29 matched typically developed controls. Children were asked to copy a paragraph on a sheet of paper affixed to a digitizer supplying objective measures of the handwriting process. The handwriting proficiency screening questionnaire (HPSQ) was completed by their teachers while observing their performance and followed by evaluation of their final written product. Results indicated that compared to controls, children with DCD required significantly more on-paper and in-air time per stroke while copying. In addition, global legibility, unrecognizable letters and spatial arrangement measures of their written product were significantly inferior. Significant group differences were also found between the HPSQ subscales scores. Furthermore, 82.8% of all participants were correctly classified into groups based on one discriminate function which included two handwriting performance measures. These study results strongly propose application of triangular standardized evaluation to receive better insight of handwriting deficit features of individual children with DCD who write in Arabic.

Deterioration in the frontal and prefrontal cortex associated with executive functions (EF) occurs with age and may be associated with changes in daily performance. The aim of the present study was to describe changes occurring with age in Executive Functions (EF) and handwriting activity, as well as to analyze relationships between age, EF and handwriting performance. The study population included 80 healthy participants (aged 31 to 76+) living in the community. After answering five questions about their writing habits, the participants completed the Behavioral Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome (BADS). In addition, they performed a handwriting task on a digitizer included in the Computerized Penmanship Evaluation Tool (ComPET), which provides kinematic measures of the handwriting process. Significant differences were found between the four age groups for both EF and temporal and spatial handwriting measures. A series of regressions indicated that age predicted 35% of the variance of the BADS profile score (EF control) and 32% of the variance of in-air time while writing. The results of this study indicated age effect on both EF control and handwriting performance. Possible implications for further research and clinical evaluation and intervention are discussed.

To explore the role of physical status versus mental status in predicting the quality of life (QOL) of patients with lumbar disk herniation (LDH).In this correlative study 51 patients with LDH were recruited in their conservative stage of treatment. After profiling their physical status, all participants reported about pain level (according to VAS), pain perception using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and disability level (according to Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire). Their mental status was evaluated using the Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II). Their QOL was evaluated by the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire, brief version (WHOQOL-BREF).Physical status/disability level correlated with anxiety and depression. While Physical status predicted physical QOL, mental status, and mainly anxiety and depression were the significant predictors of psychological, social, and environmental QOL.Mental status may play a significant role in reducing most QOL domains among patients with LDH. The evaluation and intervention process should consider both physical and mental status and their relation to the person's QOL. Since QOL is a major parameter in determining intervention type and success this elaborated perspective may contribute to the intervention planning and outcomes. Implications for rehabilitaion A significant mental distress may accompany the physical disability of patients with LDH. The role of this mental distress in reducing the QOL of patients with LDH may be greater than that of their physical disability. The evaluation and intervention for patients with LDH should refer to both physical and mental status and explore their impacts on quality of life in order to elevate intervention success.

Background Researchers have theorized that adolescents high in sensation seeking are particularly sensitive to positive reinforcement and the rewarding outcomes of alcohol use, and thus that the personality vulnerability is a direct causal risk factor for alcohol use. In contrast, the routine activity perspective theorizes that part of the effect of sensation seeking on alcohol use goes through the propensity that sensation seekers have towards unstructured socializing with peers. The study tests a model with indirect and direct paths from sensation seeking and participation in unstructured peer socialization to adolescent alcohol use. Methods Cross-sectional data were collected from 360 students in a state-secular Jewish high school (10th to 12th grade) in the center region of Israel. The sample was equally divided between boys (51.9%) and girls (48.1%), respondents' age ranged from 15 to 17 years (mean = 16.02 ± 0.85). Structural equation modeling was used to test the direct and indirect paths. Results While sensation seeking had a significant direct path to adolescent alcohol use, part of the association was mediated by unstructured socializing with peers. The mediated paths were similar for boys and girls alike. Conclusions Sensation seeking is primarily biologically determined and prevention efforts are unlikely to modify this personality vulnerability. The results of this study suggest that a promising prevention avenue is to modify extracurricular participation patterns of vulnerable adolescents.

Although a ubiquitous situation, it is not clear how effective is a learning experience when task-irrelevant, sensory noise occurs in the background. Here, young adults were trained on the finger opposition sequence task, in a well-established training and testing protocol affording measures for online as well as off-line learning. During the training session, one group experienced a minor background vibratory stimulation to the trunk by the means of vibrating cushion, while the second group experienced recorded sound vibrations. A control group was trained with no extra sensory stimulation. Sensory stimulation during training had no effect on the online within-session gains, but dampened the expression of the off-line, consolidation phase, gains in the two sensory stimulation groups. These results suggest that background sensory stimulation can selectively modify off-line, procedural memory consolidation processes, despite well-preserved on-line learning. Classical studies have shown that neural plasticity in sensory systems is modulated by motor input. The current results extend this notion and suggest that some types of task-irrelevant sensory stimulation, concurrent with motor training, may constitute a ‘gating’ factor - modulating the triggering of long-term procedural memory consolidation processes. Thus, vibratory stimulation may be considered as a behavioral counterpart of pharmacological interventions that do not interfere with short term neural plasticity but block long-term plasticity.

Introduction The involvement of extreme sensory processing patterns, impulsivity, alexithymia, and hopelessness was hypothesized to contribute to the complex pathophysiology of major depression and bipolar disorder. However, the nature of the relation between these variables has not been thoroughly investigated. Aims This study aimed to explore the association between extreme sensory processing patterns, impulsivity, alexithymia, depression, and hopelessness. Methods We recruited 281 euthymic participants (mean age=47.4±12.1) of which 62.3% with unipolar major depression and 37.7% with bipolar disorder. All participants completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), second version of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS), and Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS). Results Lower registration of sensory input showed a significant correlation with depression, impulsivity, attentional/motor impulsivity, and alexithymia. It was significantly more frequent among participants with elevated hopelessness, and accounted for 22% of the variance in depression severity, 15% in greater impulsivity, 36% in alexithymia, and 3% in hopelessness. Elevated sensory seeking correlated with enhanced motor impulsivity and decreased non-planning impulsivity. Higher sensory sensitivity and sensory avoiding correlated with depression, impulsivity, and alexithymia. Limitations The study was limited by the relatively small sample size and cross-sectional nature of the study. Furthermore, only self-report measures that may be potentially biased by social desirability were used. Conclusion Extreme sensory processing patterns, impulsivity, alexithymia, depression, and hopelessness may show a characteristic pattern in patients with major affective disorders. The careful assessment of sensory profiles may help in developing targeted interventions and improve functional/adaptive strategies.

Several studies documented the involvement of sensory perception in emotional processes. The long-term consequences of traumatic experiences and alexithymia have been demonstrated as well. However, the role of extreme sensory processing patterns, traumatic childhood experiences, and alexithymia has not been thoroughly examined in major affective disorders. The present study aimed to: (1) compare unipolar/bipolar patients with regard to their sensory processing patterns, alexithymia, childhood traumatic experiences and quality of life; (2) examine the correlations between sensory processing patterns and childhood traumatic experiences; (3) investigate the relative contribution of diagnostic groups (unipolar/bipolar), sensory processing patterns, alexithymia, and childhood traumatic experiences in predicting quality of life. The sample included 336 participants, 197 with unipolar and 139 with bipolar disorder. All participants completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP), Toronto Alexithymia Scale, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)-II, and Short Form 12 Health Survey version 2 (SF-12). Bipolar patients showed significantly higher physical neglect, emotional abuse, and emotional neglect compared with unipolar patients. Both in unipolar and bipolar groups, lower registration of sensory input as well as hypersensitivity correlated with enhanced childhood trauma events. Reduced sensory sensitivity accounted for 11% of the variance in physical health composite score (PCS) of SF-12 whereas reduced depression accounted for 8% of the variance in mental health composite score (MCS). Furthermore, elevated MCS was predicted by depression, physical and emotional neglect. Sensory processing patterns and childhood traumatic experiences may specifically characterize individuals with major affective disorders and play a role in the prediction of their quality of life.

Previous studies highlighted the involvement of sensory perception in emotional processes. However, the role of extreme sensory processing patterns expressed in hyper- or hyposensitivity was not thoroughly considered. The present study, in real life conditions, examined the unique sensory processing patterns of individuals with major affective disorders and their relationship with psychiatric symptomatology. The sample consisted of 105 participants with major affective conditions ranging in age from 20 to 84 years (mean=56.7±14.6). All participants completed the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego (TEMPS-A), the second version of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP). Sensory sensitivity/avoiding hypersensitivity patterns and low registration (a hyposensitivity pattern) were prevalent among our sample as compared to normative data. About seventy percent of the sample showed lower seeking tendency. Stepwise regression analyses revealed that depression and anxious/cyclothymic affective temperaments were predicted by sensory sensory/avoiding. Anxious and irritable affective temperaments were predicted by low registration. Hyperthymic affective temperament and lower severity of depression were predicted by sensation seeking. Hyposensitivity or hypersensitivity may be "trait" markers of individuals with major affective disorders. Interventions should refer to the individual unique sensory profiles and their behavioral and functional impact in the context of real life.

Background. Sensory-processing abilities are known to deteriorate in the elderly. As a result, daily activities such as handwriting may be impaired. Yet, knowledge about sensory-processing involvement in handwriting characteristics among older persons is limited. Purpose To examine how age influences sensory-processing abilities and the impact on handwriting as a daily performance. Method. The study participants were 118 healthy, independently functioning adults divided into four age groups: 31–45, 46–60, 61–75 and 76+ years. All participants completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP). Handwriting process was documented using the Computerized Handwriting Penmanship Evaluation Tool (ComPET). Findings. Age significantly affects sensory processing and handwriting pressure as well as temporal and spatial measures. Both handwriting time and spatial organization of the written product were predicted by sensory seeking. When examining age contribution to the prediction of handwriting by sensory processing, sensory seeking showed a tendency for predicting handwriting pressure (p = .06), while sensory sensitivity significantly predicted handwriting velocity. Implications. Age appears to influence sensory-processing abilities and affect daily performance tasks, such as handwriting, for which sensitivity and seeking for sensations are essential. Awareness of clinicians to sensory-processing deficits among older adults and examining their impact on broader daily activities are essential to improve daily performance and quality of life.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to (1) validate the Hebrew version of the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP); (2) screen sensory processing difficulties, as expressed in daily living in a vast range of ages of healthy Israeli adolescents, adults and older people; and (3) examine gender effect on sensory processing in the different age groups. Findings: Good internal consistency was found for each of the AASP quadrants, although factor analysis did not find total similarity between the Hebrew version of the AASP and the original AASP. Sensory processing difficulties were shown by 22–42% of the participants in the different age groups. Older participants had lower tendency for Sensation Seeking. Females were more sensitive than males in the age groups of 11–17 years and 18–64 years. Conclusion: In general, the Hebrew version of the AASP was found to be valid and succeeded in profiling sensory processing difficulties along the life span of typical Israeli adolescents and adults. Further studies should apply the Hebrew version of the AASP to screen sensory processing difficulties among individuals with disabilities and elaborate their impact on people's performance/participation in daily activities.

Difficulty in executive functions (EF) is a core symptom of ADHD. Yet, the EF assessments are still in controversy. It is still unclear whether the everyday implementation of EF can be assessed under laboratory conditions. Therefore, the purposes of the present study are: (a) to examine EF among boys with ADHD both in everyday behavior (as reported by parents) and in a performance-based test. (b) To examine correlations between the two tests. Both the Behavior Assessment of Dysexecutive Functions for Children (BADS-C) and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functions (BRIEF) were independently applied to 25 boys aged 8-11 years with ADHD and 25 age-matched typical boys. Results of the two assessments were compared between the two groups to indicate differences in EF. Correlations between the two assessments for all participants were evaluated. Overall, significant differences in EF were found between the two groups on both assessments. Significant correlations were found between BADS-C and BRIEF, specifically in metacognition but not in behavioral regulation. Findings indicate that poor EF manifests itself in everyday behavior. These difficulties are found in metacognitive and behavioral regulation components. Nevertheless, applying a valid ecological assessment of behavior regulation merits future research.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between sensory processing difficulties (SPD) which refers to detection, modulation and response to sensory input and interpersonal relationships. 139 students participated in the study and completed two self report questionnaires: The Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile measuring sensory processing abilities as expressed in daily living and the Hebrew version of the MMPI-2. The results demonstrated strong associations between different patterns of SPD and a wide range of symptomathology, including anxiety, somatization, distress, and demoralization, difficu- lties in social interactions, family, work and therapeutic relationships. The findings of this study indicate that extreme sensory processing patterns are strongly related to distress and psychological difficulties. Therefore, it is recommended that clinical therapists relate to sensory processing as part of their dynamic conceptualization of patients’ difficulties. This also emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary treatment that takes sensory processing into consideration in order to create an intervention program that considers the person’s specific sensory needs and their relationship with personality.

Purpose: Growing evidence exists regarding the relationship between sensory processing and affective disorders. However, most of this evidence relates to children. This study aimed to explore the relationship between positive/negative affect and sensory processing patterns as expressed in daily situations among healthy adults. Procedure: Two hundred and thirteen healthy individuals aged 18–50 years completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Results: Negative affect correlated positively with Sensory Sensitivity, Sensation Avoiding and Low Registration. Positive affect correlated with Sensation Seeking. Conclusion: Sensory processing patterns might be related to the person's affect. In practical terms, this relationship among typical individuals suggests that people could benefit from knowledge about the impact of their sensory processing patterns on everyday life or, in some cases, from occupational therapy intervention. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to elucidate this relationship and its impacts on participation, quality of life and wellbeing.

Nutrition, essential in the daily living functions promoting life quality of persons with intellectual developmental deficits (IDD), is adversely affected by the highly prevalent eating problems in these persons. The current study explores the characteristics of eating problems in population of children with intellectual developmental disorders. We elaborate existing knowledge on the relationship of severity of eating/feeding disorders and intellectual handicap level in children who suffer from IDD. This study investigated differences in the kind of these disorders observed in children with IDD on three levels: mild, moderate, and severe/profound. Ninety-one children aged 4-9 participated in this study: 25 had mild IDD, 32 moderate IDD, and 34 severe/profound IDD. Feeding/eating functions were examined with the screening tool of eating problems (STEP) which was used as the main dependent measure (Matson & Kuhn, 2001). Results suggest that the prevalence of eating problems is higher than previously reported in the literature. Eating/feeding problems proved prevalent across all levels, in almost all of those with IDD, but certain categories of problems (i.e., skills and aspiration risk) are more prevalent among the group falling within the severe/profound range of intellectual disability. This finding makes a new important experimental contribution, suggesting that everyday functions such as eating/feeding be examined in all children with IDD and that clinical differences be considered in light of categorization according to IDD level. Results are discussed in light of the need to consider its implications for practice.

High frequency of sensory processing dysfunctions (SPD) is prevalent among children with intellectual developmental disabilities and contributes to their maladaptive behaviors. However, the knowledge about the expressions of SPD in different levels of IDD severity is limited. As SPD may reduce adaptive responses and limit participation, this knowledge should be elaborated. The purpose of the present study was to examine the specific expressions of sensory processing among children with different severity levels of IDD. Participants were 91 children aged 4-9 years with mild, moderate severe-profound and IDD. Their parents completed the short sensory profile (SSP). According the results, SPD were manifested across all levels of IDD. Groups differed in specific behaviors related to sensory stimuli. The highest percentage of children with severe sensory processing difficulties was found among children with mild and sever IDD level. SPD may characterize children with all severity levels of IDD. Nevertheless, the probability that children with a specific IDD level will be more vulnerable to specific aspects of SPD emphasizes the need for early evaluation and intervention to address the specific sensory needs of children with different IDD levels. This may enhance their development, performance and participation in daily living.

Aim: To examine whether the complexity of atopic dermatitis (AD) symptoms and the sensory modulation deficiencies (SMD) that accompany it may limit child’s preference to participate in leisure activities. Methods: Thirty-seven children diagnosed with AD and 104 healthy peers aged 6–11 years participated in this study. Disease severity was assessed using SCORAD scores. Both groups were compared in regard to their sensory modulation abilities measured by the ‘Short Sensory Profile’ (SSP) and in regard to their activity preference measured by the ‘Preference for Activities of Children’ (PAC). Results: Children with AD showed lower preference to participate in leisure activities as compared with healthy peers (F = 4.63, p

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between extreme sensory reactivity as expressed in daily living situations, and trait and state anxiety, among healthy individuals. Procedures: One hundred and thirty-five healthy individuals filled in the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile regarding their responses to daily sensory experiences. Anxiety was assessed by Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Findings: Participants with sensory hypersensitivity, as well as those with Low Registration of sensory input, showed elevated trait anxiety and state anxiety. Men with lower registration had more elevated trait anxiety than women. Sensation Avoiding was found to be the significant predictor for state anxiety. Conclusion: Trait anxiety and state anxiety might be related to extreme sensory processing patterns. Occupational therapy intervention with people who express enhanced anxiety level should refer to their sensory reactivity as a means to optimise intervention outcomes, increase their self-confidence, improve their functioning and participation in daily living, and enhance their wellbeing.

Sensory processing difficulties (SPD) are prevalent among children with ADHD. Yet, the question whether different SPD characterize children with different types of ADHD has not received enough attention in the literature. The current study characterized sensory processing difficulties (SPD) of children with different types of ADHD and explored the relationship between SPD and leisure activity preference. Participants were 58 boys aged 6-10 years: 29 boys with ADHD: 15 with hyperactive-impulsive type and 14 characterized as inattentive. The controls were 29 typical peers. SPD were evaluated by The Short Sensory Profile (SSP) completed by the parents. Participants answered the preference for activities of children (PAC). According the results, SPD were manifested among children with both ADHD types. Children with both ADHD types showed significantly lower preference to participate in leisure activities than the controls. Their lower preference correlated with SPD. The findings suggest that children with different ADHD types may share common SPD, which may negatively impact their activity preference. In this study it seemed that children with ADD were more vulnerable to these impacts. SPD and participation should be considered in evaluation and intervention programs for children with ADHD in order to focus on child's abilities, needs and preferences, and enhance intervention success, child's relationships with peers and child's well-being.

The objective of this study was to examine the applicability of the short sensory profile (SSP) for screening sensory processing disorders (SPDs) among typical children in Israel, and to evaluate the relationship between SPDs and socio-demographic parameters. Participants were 395 Israeli children, aged 3 years to 10 years 11 months, with typical development. Parents of all children completed the SSP. Factor analysis found similarity between the Hebrew version of the SSP and the original SSP. About 15% of the children had SPD. Differences between age groups and sexes were found in several SSP sections. In conclusion,typical children may have SPD. The SSP may be appropriate for screening SPD among Israeli children.These results should be strengthened by additional studies conducted on children with typical development as well as children with disabilities in which sensory processing problems are involved.

Children with autism may have atypical sensory processing abilities, which are known to impact child's performance and participation. However, lack of information exists regarding the expression of these abilities in specific groups on the spectrum, as children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD). This study aimed to characterize the sensory processing abilities of children with HFASD and examine their relationship to participation in leisure activities. Participants were 50 children aged 6–11 years: 25 children with HFASD and 25 with typical development. Sensory processing abilities were examined by the short sensory profile (SSP). Participation was assessed by the children's assessment of participation and enjoyment (CAPE). Children with HFASD had atypical sensory processing abilities. They also had lower participation in leisure activities expressed in limited range of activities, performed less often, mainly alone and at home. Their atypical sensory processing patterns were correlated with lower participation, specifically in social, physical and informal activities. In conclusion, children with HFASD may have atypical sensory processing abilities and restricted participation. Intervention should refer to each of these parameters and to the relationship between them in order to enable optimal inclusion of children with HFASD in society.

The precise mechanism by which gonadal hormones influence pain perception is still obscure. However, no studies have examined experimental pain responses at supra-physiological hormone levels. This study explored the influence of pharmacological estradiol (E2) levels on the stability of pain perception obtained via quantitative sensory testing. A repeated measures design was used with 31 women, treated by a same In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) protocol. Patterns of experimental pain response were assessed in three different sessions (baseline, down regulation, maximal ovarian stimulation). Correlations between hormonal levels (E2, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH)) and pain perceptions were assessed at each session. While in the entire sample the pattern of response to pain stimulations remained unchanged regardless of hormonal manipulations, a greater pain sensitivity was associated with supra-physiological levels of E2 during the maximal ovarian stimulation session (for 47 °C stimulation: r = .383, p = 0.044). Mixed model repeated measures ANOVA indicated that participants who over-responded to the ovarian stimulation session (E2 > 10,500 pmol/l) showed significant enhanced pain responses under this condition (p = 0.004). No correlations between progesterone, LH and experimental pain perception were found in any of the study sessions. Although pain perceptions at different E2 levels remained constant, the enhancement of pain scoring at supra-physiological E2 levels, underscore the possible role of sex hormones in pain modulation and experience.

Purpose. This study aimed (1) to compare visual memory and meta-memory abilities, including the use of strategies as context, of children with cochlear implant (CI) and children with normal hearing; (2) to examine the concurrent and construct validity of ‘The Contextual Memory Test for Children’ (CMT-CH). Method. Twenty children with CI and 20 children with normal hearing, aged 8–10 years, participated in this study. Memory abilities were measured by two subtests of the Children’s Memory Scale (CMS) and by CMT-CH, which also measures meta-memory abilities. Results. Children with CI scored significantly lower in both tests of memory and meta-memory and showed less efficient use of context to memorise. Significant positive correlations were found between CMS and CMT-CH memory tests in both groups. Conclusions. Visual memory and meta-memory abilities may be impaired in children with CI. Evaluation and intervention for children with CI should refer to their memory and meta-memory abilities in order to measure the outcomes of CIs, and enhance language development academic achievements. Although more studies on CMT-CH should be performed, the CMT-CH may be used for the evaluation of visual memory of children with CI.

Participation is recognised as a key to health and wellbeing and is considered to be a vital part of the development of children and youth. The purpose of this study was to examine the participation patterns of children and adolescents in their time outside formal school. More specifically, the influence of age and gender on after-school participation patterns was explored. Method: Three hundred and thirty-two children and adolescents (5 to 18 years old) were divided into five age groups and completed the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment (CAPE). To test the interaction effect of gender and age on participation measures, ANOVAs were conducted. Results: The results indicated differences with moderate to high effect size in participation patterns across age, where a decline in participation was detected as children made the transition to adolescence. Differences with negligible effect size in participation were found between boys and girls in some of the activity types. No interaction effect between age and gender was observed. Conclusion: Participation patterns change with age, particularly as children make the transition to adolescence; however, this change does not depend on gender. Intervention strategies might take into account these inherent changes. Future studies might consider additional factors (for example, environment) while examining participation throughout age.

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) has been associated with sensory hypersensitivity in children. Objective To examine the sensory profile of adults with AD using a standardized questionnaire that measures sensory processing and related behaviours in daily living. Methods Thirty-two patients aged 18–53 years with AD and 32 healthy, sex- and age-matched control subjects completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP). Severity of AD was assessed by the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Results Patients with AD showed higher sensory sensitivity and avoidance than the controls, mainly in the tactile, vestibular, visual and auditory modalities. Conclusions Adults with AD may suffer from sensory hypersensitivity. Additional studies should examine the influence of the peripheral and the central nervous system on sensory hypersensitivity. Better understanding of the sensory impairment of patients with AD may help improving treatment strategies for the disease.

Background Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD) may negatively impact children's self-efficacy and limit their performance and participation in school as well as in leisure activities performed after school hours. However, a lack of information exists regarding the relationships between DCD, child's self-efficacy and participation. Moreover, the literature about the way children with DCD experience these limitations and report about them is scarce. This study aimed to compare the perceived self-efficacy and the preference to participate in leisure activities of children with DCD and typical peers and to illuminate the relationship between self-efficacy, activity preference and DCD severity. Methods Participants were 37 children with DCD and 37 typical peers, aged 5.08–9.83 years. All children performed the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, the Perceived Efficacy and Goal Setting System and the Preference for Activities of Children. Results The scores of the Movement Assessment Battery for Children confirmed the motor gaps between the two groups. Children with DCD scored significantly lower in self-efficacy on all the Perceived Efficacy and Goal Setting System subscales and demonstrated a lower preference to participate in leisure activities according to all scales of the Preference for Activities of Children. The lower their self-efficacy, the lower their motor performance and their preference to participate in activities. Conclusions Children's preference to participate in activities may be limited by motor difficulties, but further hindered by low self-efficacy. Early identification of DCD and associated negative outcomes, also based on child's self-reports, should receive special attention in intervention programmes in order to enhance children's self-confidence, feelings of belonging, optimal development and participation in daily activities.

To examine the impact of prolonged graphomotor tasks on tripod-pinch strength and on handwriting process and product measures of children with dysgraphia and typical peers.Participants were 51 children in third to fifth grades, divided into two groups: 23 children with dysgraphia and 28 typical peers, as determined by the Handwriting Proficiency Screening Questionnaire. The procedure included two sessions, with a 15-min break between sessions. In each session, the participants performed two tasks: the visual-motor control subtest of Bruininks-Oseretsky and a handwriting copying task, both performed on an electronic tablet as part of the Computerised Penmanship Evaluation Tool. Tripod pinch strength was evaluated before and after each session.Significantly lower tripod-pinch strength was found among children with dysgrphia in comparison to typically developed peers. This deterioration in tripod-pinch strength was associated with a significant deterioration in handwriting process and product measures along the protracted task.Pinch force that is required for mastering the handwriting tool needs to be considered in the evaluation process of children with dysgraphia. Combining the pinch factor with an evaluation of handwriting's process and product may supply a better insight about the child's deficits and assist in focusing treatment objectives.

Children's success with participating in life depends heavily on intact executive function (EF) skills. The Behavioural Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome for Children (BADS-C) was developed to address the need for a standardised ecologically valid test of children's EF performance. This study aimed to establish the construct validity of the BADS-C in relation to socio-demographic parameters. Participants were 208 Israeli children, aged 8-15 years, who were divided into three age groups (8 years to 9 years and 11 months; 10 years to 11 years and 11 months; 12 to 15 years) and tested with the BADS-C. The older age groups achieved significantly better scores than the younger groups. No significant differences were found between genders in any of the BADS-C scores. Similar results were found for familial socio-economic status and parents' education. Construct validity was demonstrated for the BADS-C by providing a profile for different age groups. Additional studies are needed to examine further the validity and reliability of the BADS-C and the relationships between socio-demographic factors and EF.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic condition. Recent studies raise the possible relationship between allergic conditions and sensory modulation disorders, mainly expressed in sensory hypersensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate sensory modulation abilities of children with AR and to assess whether these abilities have stronger expression in specific sensory systems, compared to healthy peers. Twenty-eight children with moderate/severe persistent AR and 28 healthy children, aged 4–11 years, participated in this study. Sensory modulation abilities were assessed using the Short Sensory Profile (SSP). Children with rhinitis showed significantly worse sensory modulation abilities than did healthy controls, in most SSP sections. The highest percentage of children with rhinitis showed deficiencies in the Taste/Smell Sensitivity and Low Energy/Weak SSP sections. Among the AR group, these sections were found to be impacted by age and gender. Children with AR may suffer from sensory modulation deficiencie...

This study aims to investigate the impact of sensory hypersensitivity in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to evaluate a possible relationship between sensory hypersensitivity, sleep quality and disease severity in AD. Fifty-seven AD patients and 37 healthy children, aged 3-10 years, participated in this study. Disease severity was assessed using the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) Score. The sensory profile was assessed using the Short Sensory Profile (SSP) and sleep characteristics were evaluated using the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ). The AD group demonstrated significantly worse sleep quality compared with the controls in the following CSHQ subscales: sleep duration; parasomnias; sleep disordered breathing and daytime sleepiness. Sensory hypersensitivity was correlated with lower sleeping quality. Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis Scores was positively correlated with sleep anxiety and with parasomnias. Sensory hypersensitivity and disturbed sleep patterns were common in the children with AD that participated in this study. A possible common underlying mechanism of hyper-arousability may account for both phenomena. Evaluation of AD children should also refer to their sensory processing abilities and sleep habits to create optimal intervention programs that will be better focused on the child and family needs.

Background. One determinant of participation is activity preferences, which may be influenced by sensory processing patterns. Purpose. To compare daily activity preferences of Israeli children who have typical versus atypical sensory processing patterns, according to age and gender. Methods. Twenty-five children with atypical sensory processing patterns and 109 typical peers aged 6 – 10.75 years completed the Preference for Activities of Children (PAC) questionnaire. Sensory processing patterns were determined according to the Short Sensory Profile (SSP). Results. Children with atypical sensory processing patterns showed greater preference for active physical activities. Lower energy level was correlated with greater preference for self-improvement activities. Practice implications. Activity preferences may be affected by children's sensory processing patterns. These effects are minimal among children with atypical sensory processing but no other co-morbidities. Evaluating these effects may assist in establishing occupational therapy interventions, facilitate children's engagement in the intervention, and enhance their participation in daily living.

Background. Knowledge about factors that affect participation, as preference of activities, has major intervention implications. Purpose. To evaluate culture and gender effects on Israeli Jewish and Druze children's preference of activities performed outside mandated school. This study used the “Preference Assessment of Children” (PAC) (King et al., 2004). Findings. On most scales, the Jewish children showed significantly less interest in activities than the Druze children. Among the Jews, girls showed higher preference in most PAC scales than boys while among the Druze girls showed higher preference than the boys only in social skills. Implications. Culture and gender may influence children's preference of activity. More studies should elaborate the knowledge about individuals' preferred activities; understanding the factors that affect these preferences may enhance occupational therapy evaluation and intervention processes. Canadian occupational therapists, as health care professionals in a multicultural society, must develop cultural competency and explore people's experience as cultural beings.

Sensory modulation symptoms are common in persons with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however have a heterogeneous presentation. Results from 14 studies indicated a significant high difference between ASD and typical groups in the presence/frequency of sensory symptoms, with the greatest difference in under-responsivity, followed by over-responsivity and sensation seeking. Three moderators that reduced the variability in findings among studies were: chronological age, severity of autism, and type of control group. Sensory differences were highest for studies of children ages 6-9 years, samples with more than 80% with an autism diagnosis, and compared to a CA matched versus a MA or DD matched group. It is important to consider these moderators in the design of studies and interventions addressing sensory symptoms.

Background The increasing prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) combined with the limited efficacy of current therapies emphasizes the need to improve care quality for patients with AD. This study aims to characterize the sensory profile of children with AD as expressed in daily living. Methods In all, 53 patients with AD and 61 healthy children, aged 3 to 10 years, participated in this study. Disease severity was assessed using the Severity Scoring of AD (SCORAD) score. The sensory profile was assessed using the Short Sensory Profile. Results The study group had significantly higher sensory sensitivity than the control group (t = 2.855; P = .013). These results were seen in all sensory modalities except vestibular sensation. Limitations This study was composed of a relatively small number of participants with a wide spectrum of disease severity. Conclusions Children with AD demonstrated hypersensory sensitivity. Understanding the sensory and behavioral characteristics of children with AD can promote the development of innovative intervention processes better geared to focus on patients' needs.

Objective Longer duration of untreated illness, longer duration of current episode, and the severity of medication side effects may negatively impact on the perceived disability and psychosocial impairment of patients with major affective and anxiety disorders. Studies also suggested the involvement of sensory perception in emotional and psychopathological processes. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between Sensory Processing Disorders (SPD), duration of untreated illness and current illness episode, and the severity of side effects related to psychoactive medications. Methods The sample included 178 participants with an age ranging from 17 to 85 years (mean=53.84±15.55). Participants were diagnosed with unipolar Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) (50%), Bipolar Disorder (BD) (33.7%), and Anxiety disorders (16.3%). They completed a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser (UKU), and Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) questionnaire. Results Longer duration of current episode correlated with greater registration of sensory input and lower avoidance from sensory input among unipolar patients; with lower registration of sensory input, and higher tendency for sensory sensitivity/avoidance among bipolar participants; with lower sensory sensitivity/avoidance among anxiety participants, respectively. Also, mean UKU total scores correlated with lower sensory sensitivity among bipolar individuals. Conclusion SPD expressed in either hypo/hyper sensitivity may serve to clinically characterize subjects with major affective and anxiety disorders.

PURPOSE. This pioneer study examines the visual-motor and visual-perceptual performance of Israeli and Palestinian children, and makes comparisons among these respective populations according to age, place of residence, and parental education. In addition, the study evaluates the validity of standardized assessment tools for use with Palestinian children, with the view of establishing a sound assessment battery for this underserved population. METHODS. Participants included 101 Israeli and 125 Palestinian children from kindergarten, first grade, and second grade who underwent visual-motor and visual-perceptual tests. RESULTS. Significant differences were found between the two cultural groups in all assessments. Results also refer to grade, place of residence, and parents’ education variables. CONCLUSIONS. Although culture influences children’s performance, children from different societies should be screened and, when necessary, evaluated and treated in order to enable their optimal functioning at school. The validity of the assessment tools used, expressed in the ability to differentiate between Israeli and Palestinian children, should be further studied in order to suggest that these assessments may be considered as part of an evaluation battery for determining the school readiness and ability to advance in grade level among Palestinian children.

IntroductionLonger duration of untreated illness, longer duration of current episode, and severity of medication side effects may negatively influence the psychosocial functioning in major affective and anxiety disorders. Studies also suggested the involvement of sensory perception in emotional and psychopathological processes.ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to investigate the nature of the association between duration of untreated illness, duration of current episode, and severity of medication side effects.AimsThe study is aimed to examine the relationship between sensory processing disorders (SPD), duration of untreated illness, duration of current illness episode, and the severity of side effects related to psychoactive medications.MethodsThe sample included 178 participants with an age ranging from 17 to 85 years (mean = 53.84 ± 15.55); psychiatric diagnoses were as follow: unipolar major depressive disorder (MDD) (50%), bipolar disorder (BD) (33.7%), and anxiety disorders (16.3%). subjects completed a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersøgelser (UKU), and Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) questionnaire.ResultsLonger duration of current episode correlated with greater registration of sensory input and lower avoidance from sensory input among unipolar patients, lower registration of sensory input, and higher tendency for sensory sensitivity/sensation avoidance among bipolar participants. In addition? longer duration of current episode correlated with lower sensory sensitivity/avoidance among anxiety participants, respectively. Mean UKU total scores were associated with lower sensory sensitivity among bipolar individuals as well.ConclusionsSPD expressed in either hypo-/hypersensitivity may be used to clinically characterize subjects with major affective and anxiety disorders.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

This study compares the effects of mutations in the gap junction protein connexin 26 (Cx26), on outer hair cells (OHCs), inner hair cells (IHCs) and auditory nerve/brainstem among carriers of these mutations. One hundred and twenty eight individuals, from a village with widespread consanguinity and congenital deafness, due to three Cx26 mutations, were selected among relatives of deaf persons, and divided into non-carriers, carriers of one mutation, homozygous to one mutation, or compound heterozygous carriers of two different mutations. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs), auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and audiometric evaluation were compared in these genetic groups. Hearing loss among homozygotes and compound heterozygotes was comparable and ranged from mild to profound. Most ABRs from these groups showed no responses or partial responses (peaks III, V) with prolonged latencies, but some individuals had all peaks at normal latencies. DPOAEs were absent, except sporadic responses. Carriers of one mutation had significantly smaller DPOAEs compared to non-carriers, although normal pure tone audiograms and ABRs were found in these groups. In conclusion, based on DPOAEs, Cx26 mutations may impact OHC function among carriers of one or two Cx26 mutations. IHC/nerve impairment among homozygotes and compound heterozygotes is variable. OHCs may be more susceptible to Cx26 mutations compared to IHCs and the auditory nerve and brainstem pathway activated by them.

It is well established that physical activity during childhood contributes to children's physical and psychological health. The aim of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Hebrew version of the Teacher Estimation of Activity Form (TEAF) questionnaire as a screening tool among school-aged children in Israel. Six physical education teachers completed TEAF questionnaires of 123 children aged 5-12 years, 68 children (55%) with Typical Development (TD) and 55 children (45%) diagnosed with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). The Hebrew version of the TEAF indicates a very high level of internal consistency (α = .97). There were no significant gender differences. Significant differences were found between children with and without DCD attesting to the test's construct validity. Concurrent validity was established by finding a significant high correlation (r = .76, p.01) between the TEAF and the Movement-ABC mean scores within the DCD group. The TEAF demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity estimates. It appears to be a promising standardized practical tool in both research and practice for describing information about school-aged children's involvement in physical activity. Further research is indicated with larger samples to establish cut-off scores determining what point identifies hypo activity in striated age groups. Furthermore, the majority of the participants in this study were boys, and further research is needed to include more girls for a better understanding of the phenomena of hypo activity.

This study compared visual memory and meta-memory abilities of children with ABI to that of healthy peers. Participants included 16 children (aged 13.55 ± 3.29 years) with moderate or severe ABI and 16 healthy children (aged 12.44 ± 3.24 years) with typical development. Children completed the Contextual Memory Test for Children (CMT-CH). The study group showed significantly lower immediate and delayed recall abilities. While the controls used the context for better memorizing, most of the children with ABI used rehearsals. In both groups better delayed recall correlated with the use of a more efficient strategy. Meta-memory should be an integral part of the assessment for children with ABI. Therapists should enhance child's self-awareness to his/her abilities and encourage the use of strategies (e.g. context) for memorizing in daily life.

Purpose: To assess the cross-cultural clinical utility of the Visual Motor Integration (VMI) standardized U.S. norms for typically developing Palestinian, Israeli, and American kindergarten children. The cross-cultural comparisons tested the extent to which the VMI standardized U.S. norms for all three tests (a) are appropriate for use with the aforementioned groups without the need for cross-cultural adaptations, and (b) have adequate rates of test sensitivity and specificity such that study classification results are comparable with those obtained using the VMI U.S. norms. Methods: The sample was comprised of 134 typically developing kindergarten children. Results: The observed mean performance scores were not significantly different from the published U.S. norms on all three tests for the Palestinian group and significantly higher for the Israeli group on all three tests. For the American group, scores were higher on the Visual Motor Integration and Visual Perception tests, but lower on the Motor Coordination test. The sensitivity rates for eight of the nine calculations resulted in perfect agreement between the study classification results and the VMI standardized classification of true positive cases. The specificity rates for the Palestinian group demonstrated perfect agreement between the study classification results and the VMI standardized U.S. norms. The specificity rates obtained for the Israeli and American groups were moderate. Conclusions: These exploratory findings merit additional research to further assess the clinical utility of employing the VMI U.S. norms with or without cross-cultural adaptations for these specific or any other cultural groups.

Background: The function of the sensory systems decreases in the elderly. This may negatively impact the person's performance and independence in daily living. Most studies refer to the decrease in specific modalities and to sensory acuity rather than to general sensory processing in all modalities. Moreover, there is a lack of evaluation tools that focus on these general sensory processing abilities with functional daily life perspective in the elderly population. Objectives: To examine the psychometric characteristics of the Elderly Adult Sensory Sensitivity Questionnaire (ESRQ) - an adapted version of the Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire (SRQ) version II. The ESRQ aims to screen sensory processing difficulties among elderly adults, as expressed in daily living situations. Methods: The sample consisted of 361 participants, aged 50-86 years, who were and in good health and functionally independent. Participants were divided into three age groups: 50-59; 60-69 and 70-86. All participants completed a demographic and health status questionnaire and the ESRQ. Results: Analysis of ESRQ scales revealed five factors, which explained 45.66% of the total variance. Internal consistency was high for the full questionnaire and moderate to high for each factor. No significant differences were found between the age groups. Women showed significantly higher sensitivity than men in several modalities. Implications and conclusions: ESRQ may serve as a suitable tool for screening sensory processing difficulties in the elderly. Gender may play a role in sensory processing changes in the elderly. Further studies should examine the psychometric properties of the ESRQ among elderly people with disabilities. Establishing the prevalence of sensory processing difficulties in the elderly may be beneficial for developing and improving intervention strategies to overcome functional deficits.

(1) To compare participation patterns in out-of-school activities of Israeli Jewish and Muslim children in order to better understand the effect of culture on participation.Participants were 111 Jewish children and 134 Muslim children with typical development, aged between six and 11 years, who completed the CAPE. Muslim children showed significantly higher total participation diversity, and specifically in informal and recreational activities. Muslim children also showed higher participation intensity and higher enjoyment. They performed more activities with someone else and fewer activities in the community. In both cultures, sociodemographic factors including age, gender, parents' education, and familial socioeconomic level were related to the child's participation.Children's participation in out-of-school activities may be related to culture, gender, and other sociodemographic factors. Clinicians should integrate cultural values into therapeutic interventions and consider environmental opportunities or barriers when interpreting participation patterns in order to meet the person's needs and optimize intervention outcomes.

Hearing or visual impairments may negatively affect child's development and participation. Yet the literature about participation of children with hearing or visual impairments is insufficient. The present study aimed to compare participation patterns of children with visual impairments to those of children with hearing impairments and to typical peers and to examine the correlations between participation and socio-demographic parameters in each group. Participants were 70 children between the ages of 6-11: 25 with hearing impairments, 20 with visual impairments and 25 typical peers. All children filled the Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment (CAPE). This self-report refers to participation in daily out of school activities. Children with hearing or visual impairments showed significant limited participation compared to typical peers, expressed in lower number of activities, lower participation intensity; more activities performed at home and with someone else. The limited participation was more emphasized among children with visual impairments. Socio-demographic variables (age, mother's education and socio-economic level) correlated with participation dimensions in both study groups. In conclusion, children with hearing or visual impairments may have restricted participation in out of school activities. Socio-demographic parameters may play a role in encouraging child's participation. Participation among these populations should be further studied in order to assist service providers to create intervention programs together with the child, for enhancing his/her inclusion in the community.