Methodological considerations in the use of Noldus EthoVision XT video tracking of children with autism in multi-site studies

Biol Psychol. 2019 Sep:146:107712. doi: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2019.05.012. Epub 2019 Jun 1.

Abstract

Animal models of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) contribute to understanding of the role of genetics and the biological mechanisms underlying behavioral phenotypes and inform the development of potential treatments. Translational biomarkers are needed that can both validate these models and facilitate behavioral testing paradigms for ASD in humans. Automated video tracking of movement patterns and positions recorded from overhead cameras is routinely applied in behavioral paradigms designed to elicit core behavioral manifestations of ASD in rodent models. In humans, laboratory-based observations are a common semi-naturalistic context for assessing a variety of behaviors relevant to ASD such as social engagement, play, and attention. We present information learned and suggest guidelines for designing, recording, acquiring, and evaluating video tracking data of human movement patterns based on our experience in a multi-site video tracking study of children with ASD in the context of a parent-child, laboratory-based play interaction.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Automated behavioral assessment; Parent-child interaction; Play-based assessment; Video tracking.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Attention
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / psychology
  • Behavior Observation Techniques / methods*
  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Video Recording

Substances

  • Biomarkers