Comparisons: BASC-2 Parent and Teacher Reports for Children on the DSM-5 Autism Spectrum

With the publication of the DSM-5, the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been altered to follow a dimensional model that captures the essence of the autism spectrum. This new model features severity ratings of Social Communication (SC) and Restrictive/Repetitive Behaviors (RRB). Research indicates that there has also been a recent increase in the administration and adoption of broadband behavior-rating scales by clinicians, to ascertain a summary of the client’s behavior. A widely known and accepted measure is the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2), a multidimensional measure assessing internalizing and externalizing behaviors as well as adaptive functioning for individuals 2-25 years of age. Considerably less research has compared the Parent Rating Scale (PRS) and Teacher Rating Scale (TRS) of the BASC-2. The current study examined the PRS and TRS of the BASC-2 for children on the DSM-5 autism spectrum. Utilizing a sample of 67 children and adolescents with ASD, the PRS and TRS of the BASC-2 were compared to determine if a pattern of behavior exists for children and adolescents with ASD. Paired Sample T-tests were used to compare the BASC-2 Subscales scores on the PRS and TRS. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was conducted to determine the extent to which Parent and Teacher Ratings of logically selected BASC-2 Subscales account for the DSM-5 SC Severity Rating and RRB Severity Rating. Implications of these results for the assessment of children and adolescents with ASD are explained

The development of a web- and a print-based decision aid for prostate cancer screening

Background Whether early detection and treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) will reduce disease-related mortality remains uncertain. As a result, tools are needed to facilitate informed decision making. While there have been several decision aids (DAs) developed and tested, very few have included an exercise to help men clarify their values and preferences about PCa screening. Further, only one DA has utilized an interactive web-based format, which allows for an expansion and customization of the material. We describe the development of two DAs, a booklet and an interactive website, each with a values clarification component and designed for use in diverse settings. Methods We conducted two feasibility studies to assess men\u27s (45-70 years) Internet access and their willingness to use a web- vs. a print-based tool. The booklet was adapted from two previous versions evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the website was created to closely match the content of the revised booklet. Usability testing was conducted to obtain feedback regarding draft versions of the materials. The tools were also reviewed by a plain language expert and the interdisciplinary research team. Feedback on the content and presentation led to iterative modifications of the tools. Results The feasibility studies confirmed that the Internet was a viable medium, as the majority of men used a computer, had access to the Internet, and Internet use increased over time. Feedback from the usability testing on the length, presentation, and content of the materials was incorporated into the final versions of the booklet and website. Both the feasibility studies and the usability testing highlighted the need to address men\u27s informed decision making regarding screening. Conclusions Informed decision making for PCa screening is crucial at present and may be important for some time, particularly if a definitive recommendation either for or against screening does not emerge from ongoing prostate cancer screening trials. We have detailed our efforts at developing print- and web-based DAs to assist men in determining how to best meet their PCa screening preferences. Following completion of our ongoing RCT designed to test these materials, our goal will be to develop a dissemination project for the more effective tool

Dark Matter Science in the Era of LSST

Astrophysical observations currently provide the only robust, empirical measurements of dark matter. In the coming decade, astrophysical observations will guide other experimental efforts, while simultaneously probing unique regions of dark matter parameter space. This white paper summarizes astrophysical observations that can constrain the fundamental physics of dark matter in the era of LSST. We describe how astrophysical observations will inform our understanding of the fundamental properties of dark matter, such as particle mass, self-interaction strength, non-gravitational interactions with the Standard Model, and compact object abundances. Additionally, we highlight theoretical work and experimental/observational facilities that will complement LSST to strengthen our understanding of the fundamental characteristics of dark matter