April 2015   

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In This Issue
ARI Director Returns to Moscow this May
Succinct reviews of current ASD research
50th Anniversary Edition of "Infantile Autism" released
Launch Your Autism Awareness Campaign
Register for free Webinars: Visit the Online Learning Hub
ARI's Scientific Advisory Board
Content Collaboration with Cleveland Clinic
Holiday Tips and Tricks: Passover & Easter Ideas
Share Your Favorite Photos
ARI-Funded Research
Adult support course resumes
ATEC Translations: Now in Dutch
Watch Free Webinar Recordings
Join Our Mailing List
Print and Share: CME for Medical Professionals

This activity - offered in joint providership by Cleveland Clinic and ARI - provides expert insight about behavioral improvement that can be achieved when underlying comorbid medical and neurological issues associated with ASD are addressed.

Print and share this flyer (.pdf)
ARI Director Set for Return Trip to Moscow this May

 

For the last two years, Dr. Edelson traveled to Moscow to co-chair a three-day conference on autism. This year he returns to Moscow to help organize the International Research and Practical Conference III: Autism, Challenges, and Solutions, scheduled for May 21 to 23, 2015.

 

Among the numerous presentations, there will be talks and workshops by people associated with ARI, including Jill Young (ABA), Paul Shattock (adult living settings), and David Geslak (physical exercise). Additional speakers will soon be added.

 

Registration will begin soon, and we will provide more information about this important international conference.



ARI has published a quarterly newsletter, the Autism Research Review International (ARRI), since 1987. The ARRI has received worldwide praise for its thoroughness and objectivity in reporting the current developments in biomedical and educational research. 

The latest findings are gleaned from a computer search of the 25,000 scientific and medical articles published every week.  A one-year subscription is $20 (U.S. funds; $24 outside the U.S. - includes shipping). Each issue is sent via first class mail.

 

Keep up with the latest research updates - subscribe now through ARI's Autism Store on Amazon.com

 

Visit the ARRI archives to peruse a clickable, alphabetical article index of Autism Research Review International issues 1987 to 2006, Volumes 1 to 20.

 

Visit the online archives & subscribe  

Receive a Certificate of Participation after attending a free online webinar
You can receive a free Certificate of Attendance for select webinars. After the webinar, you simply click a link in your webinar confirmation email and complete a short, online knowledge-verification quiz. A printable certificate will be available immediately upon passing the test.
Add a description  
Tune in April 15, 2015

Register and tune in for this webinar with Maya Shetreat-Klein, M.D.  

50th Anniversary Updated Edition of Bernard Rimland's Infantile Autism
 
With updates from some of the best-known names in the autism field, Bernard Rimland's seminal work on autism theory is now available for a new generation of readers in this anniversary edition of Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implications for a Neural Theory of Development.

'Dr. Rimland is to be commended for presenting the first evidence that autism was a biological condition. When his book was published, he was a lone visionary.'
- from the foreword by Temple Grandin, Ph.D.

Bonus: ARI will be giving away one copy of this new book every month to an enews subscriber.  
Raise Awareness & Support Research That Makes a Difference - Order Your Free Kit Now

puzzle pieces 

Launch your Puzzle Piece campaign today to promote autism awareness in your community & support ARI.  

 

It's so easy: we send you a free kit with everything you need - you simply pass it around the office, take it to local stores, or sell pieces at meetings and events.   

  


ARI is Pleased to Announce a New Online Resource, Autism Jobs, The Autism Employment Resource Center

 

For Job Seekers, Families and Caregivers, Job Coaches and Employers 

 

Discover the advantages of hiring individuals with autism. Access practical information that helps candidates become "job ready" and helps employers create autism-friendly workplaces. This database is a searchable collection of autism employment resources with a wealth of practical advice. It includes links to a variety of resources including articles, videos, books and more. Guides highlight key steps in the employment process.  We hope you'll find this database helpful in matching job seekers and employers in ways that reward both. Learn more and visit Autism Jobs 


Keep up with the latest research
A cornerstone of our mission at ARI is to stay abreast of the latest scientific research. Keep up-to-date with these two publications: 

Autism Research Review International
The latest findings are gleaned from a computer search of the 25,000 scientific and medical articles published every week. A one-year subscription is $20 (US funds; $24 outside the US). Each issue is sent via first class mail.
Clinical Research in ASD
In collaboration with the
Schafer Autism Report, the Autism Research Institute publishes a free quarterly e-newsletter titled "Clinical Research in Autism." It provides online links to up-to-date clinical research related to patient care, and is for pediatricians, nurses and obstetricians.
Charity NavigatorGive now to support our work in 2015

 

Advancing the research agenda while providing the latest science-based information for people of all ages on the autism spectrum is our focus at the Autism Research Institute. We do so through our annual think tank, in-person and online educational events and courses, free webinars, and by funding the studies that hold the most promise for making a difference in the lives of people with autism. Our urgent goal is to democratize access to the latest information for parents and professionals around the world through our efforts, made possible thanks to supporters like you.  Ready to give?  

Donate Now 

Quick Links
Join Our Mailing List
Dear ARI Subscriber,  

 

There are different perspectives on what Autism Awareness month entails. Some view April as an opportunity to inform the general public and the media about the remarkable lives as well as the numerous challenges faced by many of those on the spectrum and their family members. Parents, especially those in third-world countries, also spend much time this month informing health professionals about basic autism awareness and diagnosis.

 

Others also see April as a chance to inspire and motivate scientists to focus their efforts on relevant and promising areas of research. This month is also a time to urge health-related government and insurance agencies to truly recognize the high prevalence rate of autism and set aside the necessary funds to support those on the spectrum and their families, as well as support research that makes a difference. Although an official month for autism has its advantages, these should be year-round concerns, especially if we want solutions in our lifetime.

 

Few breakthroughs in the autism field have occurred since Dr. Leo Kanner first wrote about autism over 75 years ago; and for many years, and still today, autism is often characterized as a puzzle. To complicate matters, we now know there are numerous puzzle images (or types) of autism, where some pieces belong to many puzzles, and others are unique to only one or two puzzles.

 

To truly take steps forward, we need to move away from the "us versus them" attitude, and take the perspective that "we're all in it together." This can be accomplished by better networking and collaborating among various autism organizations and professionals worldwide, as well as those on the spectrum and their families. Consistent with this message, ARI recently released a statement on where we stand regarding biological research. We hope you will share it with others. Read the Statement 

 

ARI-related landmark anniversaries:

  • 2014: 50th anniversary edition of ARI Founder Dr. Bernard Rimland's seminal book, Infantile Autism released 
  • April, 2015: the 20th anniversary of ARI's annual think tanks in which researchers and experienced clinicians meet to share their insights and observations on autism
  • 2015: 50th anniversary of the Autism Society of America (founded by Dr. Rimland)
  • 2017: ARI will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Please do what you can to support and strengthen the autism community.   

 

Steve Edelson, Ph.D.
Director, Autism Research Institute 
Announcing: ARI's Scientific Advisory Board 2015
ARI's Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) provides informed support and direction for our research initiatives. Dr. Stephen M. Edelson leads the group, assembling thought leaders in the medical and scientific community in order to further ARI's ongoing commitment to research that makes a difference. Learn more about the research we fund.

This year's ARI SAB members include:

 

Jim Adams, Ph.D.
Arizona State University

Harumi Jyonouchi, M.D. 

St. Peter's University Hospital

New Bruiswick, NJ 

Paul Ashwood, Ph.D. 

University of California, Davis

 

Rafail Kushak, Sc.D., Ph.D. 

Massachusetts General Hospital

 

Kelly Barnhill, MBA, CN, CCN

Johnson Center for Child Health & Development

Marvin Natowicz, M.D., Ph.D.   

Cleveland Clinic

Margaret Bauman, M.D.

Boston University Medical Center

Robert Naviaux, M.D.   

University of California, San Diego

Manuel Casanova, M.D.   

University of Louisville

 

Andrey Rhetsky, Ph.D.
University of Chicago

V. Mark Durand, Ph.D.   

University of South Florida, St. Petersburg 

 

Judy Van de Water Ph.D.
University of California, Davis
Richard Frye, M.D., Ph.D.
Arkansas Children's Hospital
Harland Winter, M.D.
Massachusetts General Hospital for Children
Paul Hardy, M.D.  
Hardy Healthcare, ARI Board President
Jill Young, Ph.D., BCBA
Therapeutic Pathways
Robert Hendren, D.O. 
UCSF Benoif Children's Hospital
Andy Zimmerman, M.D.
Kennedy Krieger Institute
S. Jill James, Ph.D. 
Arkansas Children's Hospital

  

 

View the Autism Spectrum Disorders: Research and Medical Treatment Implications webcast series. Learn how behavioral improvement can be achieved when underlying comorbid medical and neurological issues associated with autism spectrum disorders are addressed.     

 

Many individuals with autism experience chronic physical discomfort, yet lack the ability to describe their medical problems - particularly in clinical settings. Clinicians who have the ability to identify symptoms and communicate with patients on the autism spectrum can dramatically improve patient care. Participate in the webcast series today!    

 

Print and share the series flyer 


These activities have been approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.

April holiday tips and tricks for parents of children with food allergies 

 

Passover begins April 3rd and families observing this food-filled celebration while contending with food allergies can find it a challenge. Thankfully, several helpful websites offer alternative recipes for an inclusive holiday. For creative tips ranging from food-free Seder plates to nut-free charoset, see:

Stress-Relieving Recipes and Tips 

Allergy-free Passover Recipes 

Tips to Safely Celebrate Passover with Food Allergies 

 

Easter is also fast approaching, and many parents of food-sensitive kids are approaching Easter with that same dread we felt near Valentine's Day... It's coming
  
Have no fear - there are plenty of natural and better-tasting sweets to be had.  Many natural food stores carry naturally colored and flavored jellybeans, gumdrops, dairy-free chocolate eggs and bunnies. 
 
If your child participates in a community egg hunt, work out a trade deal, in which they trade in their standard candy for safe sweets that you've chosen.  For your own egg hunt, try dyeing eggs with natural vegetable colorants. Or if you're short on time, buy natural dyeing kits. And if you're baking up something but want more than plain white frosting, try making your own food coloring or buy some ready-made natural food coloring. You can even decorate cupcakes and cakes with fresh edible flowers like pansies and nasturtiums. 
 
Consider putting non-candy treats in eggs.  Cereal, grapes, nuts and crackers all fit in plastic eggs.  There are many non-food items that can be put in plastic eggs too.

Easter article excerpted from Have A Colorful Easter Without Artificial Food Dye

2015 Autism Research Institute 'Story in a Snapshot' Photo Share 

 

In 2012, we held a photo contest, and the response was overwhelming. Since then, we've continued to receive lovely photographs from families around the world. This month we hope you'll share your favorite photo of your loved one on the spectrum. When you do, we'll enter you in our drawing to win prizes in weekly drawings. Like us on Facebook, find us on Google+, or follow us on Twitter or Flipboard for more information and links to come. 

 

Seven lucky participants will win: A copy of Jon Pangborn's book, Nutritional Supplement Use for Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and a copy of Helen Landalf & artist Mark Rimland's book, The Secret Night World of Cats signed by Mark.

Weekly drawings for prizes - Bonus Prize Drawing April 30th (a $100 value): Win a $100 Amazon.com Gift Card


Professional photos may be shared - be sure to contact the photographer or store where the photos were taken ahead of time for a release if copyrights apply.

Stay connected with ARI and follow the contest through social media for entry information and updates:

Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook Find us on Google+
 

About our Work: Research ARI funded in 2014 and Beyond 

 

research
The Autism Research Institute (ARI) conducts, sponsors, and supports research on the underlying causes of, and treatments for, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).  In order to provide parents and professionals with an independent, unbiased assessment of causal and treatment efficacy issues, ARI seeks no financial support from government agencies or drug manufacturers. We therefore rely on the generosity of donors so that we may continue to advance autism research.  Our founder Dr. Bernard Rimland would often say, 'Research that makes a difference!' to remind us of the need to focus on what might be beneficial here and now for people with ASDs.

  

Read about scientific research ARI funded in 2014

  

Tell Us What You'd Like to See - Take our Webinar Series Topic Survey  
At the Autism Research Institute we have focused on providing presentations that are unbiased and broad-reaching, to assist families in making informed treatment decisions. We also strive to provide professional education that gives thoughtful, inquisitive clinicians the means to offer support that is safe and effective.

We are gathering information for the development of several in-depth webinar series. We want to know what topics interest you - please take a moment to share your opinion.

Take our webinar series survey

agi course
   
Scholarships Available: Online Continuing Education Resumes Soon
Starting Monday, April 6, ARI's Autistic Global Initiative and the Houlton Institute will launch the next session of an online course emphasizing foundational knowledge and competencies needed to support adults with autism in daily living settings. Participants will learn to develop an individualized portfolio of evidence-based supports and strategies for people with autism or related disabilities. The course is designed for families, support providers, and anyone in a support role.

The AGI Residential/Daily Living Course will be held exclusively online. The new curriculum, replete with tools you can implement immediately, was developed by the Autistic Global Initiative (AGI), a division of the Autism Research Institute that builds new solutions for the growing number of adults with autism. Funded by a grant from Autism Speaks, the course is designed for parents and direct support providers; it allows them to work at their own pace, yet participate with fellow learners in an environment that is led by a professor.

 

Houlton faculty includes recipients of distinguished awards from the National Science Foundation, Ford Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, New York Academy of Science, and National Academies of Sciences, among others. The program faculty are highly experienced practitioners and scholars who have garnered prestigious book awards and research fellowships. View faculty list 

 

Cost of the program: $300 (12 modules)

There are also a limited number of scholarships available for those who qualify. Complete online scholarship application  

 

Have questions? Email [email protected]

or call 1855HOULTON to learn about enrollment.   
  
   
   
ARI's Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) Free assessment tool now available in 14 languages:

 

English, Chinese (simplified), Dutch, Italian, Turkish, Portuguese, German, Spanish, Russian, Romanian, French, Serbian, Czech, and Estonian.

 

A major obstacle in autism research has been the lack of a valid means of measuring the effectiveness of various treatments. The Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) was developed by Bernard Rimland and Stephen M. Edelson of the Autism Research Institute, to fill this need.  

ARI is grateful to the volunteers who have worked to translate the ATEC into these languages.  Do you speak a language that is missing?  Email [email protected] if you are able to contribute a new language translation to this ongoing project.

Our thanks to friends in Holland for assistance translating the ATEC to Dutch earlier this month.
Did You Know ARI Records and Uploads Webinars?  Watch and Share These Informative Talks by Top Experts 

We are grateful to our friends at the Johnson Center for Child Health & Development for working in partnership to offer presentations throughout the year. Upcoming webinars, Past Webinars


TITLE
PRESENTER
WATCH NOW
Optimistic Parenting: Hope and Help for Individuals with Challenging Behavior
V. Mark Durand, Ph.D.

Ask the Nutritionist - Live Q&A

Environmental Toxins & Autism Spectrum Disorder
Healthy Pregnancy Preconception thru Post Natal Strategies
Dana Laake, RDH, MS, LDN
Facilitating Community Think Tanks for Teams on the Autism Spectrum
Valerie Paradiz, PhD, & Chloe Rothschild


* Presented in partnership with The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development