1. Adako OP, Adeusi OC, Alaba PA. Enhancing education for children with ASD: a review of evaluation and measurement in AI tool implementation. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol;2025 (Mar 13):1-18.

This article addresses the gaps in current research regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to educate children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The proposed metrics are specifically designed to evaluate the progress of learning in AI-assisted education, considering the unique needs of this demographic. The review highlights the potential of long-term impact studies to determine the lasting effects of AI on social skills, emotional development, and overall academic achievement. The ethical considerations surrounding AI intervention in autistic education are thoroughly examined. By combining diverse methodologies utilized in existing studies, a comprehensive analysis of the challenges is presented, along with interdisciplinary approaches for improvement that can serve as a roadmap for future research. The manuscript provides innovative perspectives, bridges existing gaps, and advocates for the ethical and effective integration of AI tools in educating children with ASD. Metrics: In the context of AI-assisted education, metrics refer to the quantitative and qualitative measures used to evaluate the effectiveness of AI tools in supporting learning. These may include student engagement levels, progress in skill development, accuracy in task completion, and behavioral improvements.Traditional Assessment Methods: Traditional assessment methods refer to conventional ways of evaluating learning outcomes, such as standardized tests, teacher observations, and structured evaluations. These methods typically focus on academic performance but may not always capture the unique learning patterns of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).AI Interventions: AI interventions in autism education involve the application of artificial intelligence technologies—such as machine learning algorithms, speech recognition, and adaptive learning platforms—to personalize learning experiences, provide real-time feedback, and enhance the educational process for children with ASD.AI-Supported Progress Assessment: AI-supported progress assessment refers to the use of AI-driven analytics to track and measure learning advancements over time. These assessments often include dynamic data analysis, pattern recognition, and adaptive modifications to teaching strategies based on individual learning needs.Standardized Assessment Frameworks: Standardized assessment frameworks are structured models used to evaluate educational progress consistently across different learners. In AI-assisted autism education, these frameworks help ensure that AI tools align with established educational benchmarks while allowing for personalized learning adaptations.Explainability and Accountability in AI: Explainability refers to the ability of an AI system to provide clear, understandable reasons for its decisions or recommendations. Accountability ensures that AI developers, educators, and stakeholders take responsibility for the outcomes of AI-driven educational interventions, ensuring fairness, reliability, and ethical use.Privacy and Data Security: Privacy and data security involve the ethical handling, storage, and protection of sensitive personal and behavioral data collected by AI systems. Given the vulnerable nature of children with ASD, AI interventions must comply with strict data protection regulations to safeguard student information.Ethical AI Implementation: Ethical AI implementation refers to the responsible design, deployment, and use of AI technologies in autism education. This includes considerations such as bias prevention, equitable access, human oversight, and ensuring that AI complements rather than replaces human educators.Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Interdisciplinary collaboration in AI-assisted education involves experts from various fields—such as education, psychology, computer science, and behavioral therapy—working together to develop, assess, and refine AI tools that best support the needs of children with ASD.Inclusive Research Practices: Inclusive research practices ensure that AI-driven educational tools and methodologies account for the diverse needs of children with autism, incorporating perspectives from students, educators, parents, and autism advocates to minimize bias and promote equitable learning opportunities. eng

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2. Ahmadani A, Kittana M, Al-Marzooq F, Subramanya S, D’Adamo MC, Attlee A, Pessia M. Zinc Ion Dyshomeostasis in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Nutr Res Rev;2025 (Mar 13):1-65.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with significant social, communicative, and behavioral challenges, and its prevalence is increasing globally at an alarming rate. Children with ASD often have nutritional imbalances, and multiple micronutrient deficiencies. Among these, zinc (Zn(2+)) deficiency is prominent and has gained extensive scientific interest over the past few years. Zn(2+) supports numerous proteins, including enzymes and transcription factors, and controls neurogenesis and cell differentiation. It modulates synaptic transmission and plasticity by binding to receptors, ion channels, and transporters. These interactions are crucial as changes in these processes may contribute to cognitive and behavioral abnormalities in neurodevelopmental disorders, including ASD. Notably, mutations in genes linked to ASD result in Zn(2+) dyshomeostasis, altering pivotal biological processes. Additionally, Zn(2+) promotes gut health by maintaining gut wall integrity, preventing inflammation and leaky gut, translocation of gut bacteria and their metabolites into systemic circulation, and supporting cognitive processes via the gut-brain axis. Zn(2+) deficiency during pregnancy alters gut microbiota composition, induces pro-inflammatory cytokine production, may affect neuronal functioning, and is associated with ASD etiology in offspring and exacerbation of autistic traits in genetically predisposed children. This review focuses on Zn(2+) dyshomeostasis, discussing various Zn(2+)-dependent dysfunctions underlying distinct autistic phenotypes and describing recent progress in the neurobiology of ASD in human and animal models. Comprehensive research on the physiological processes altered by Zn(2+) deficiency is crucial for designing preventive and innovative therapeutic measures for this disorder.

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3. Al-Salihy AAS. Female reproductive health trends and autism spectrum disorder prevalence between 2000 and 2024. Sci Rep;2025 (Mar 12);15(1):8507.

This study investigates the correlation between female reproductive health parameters and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence from 2000 to 2024. The analysis used advanced statistical and machine learning models to identify trends in key reproductive indicators and their association with ASD prevalence. Significant positive correlations were observed between ASD prevalence and maternal age, while negative correlations were found with antral follicle count, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels, and fertility rate. The Random Forest model emerged as the most accurate predictive tool, explaining 96.9% of the variance in ASD prevalence. Maternal age was the dominant predictor of the variables analyzed, contributing approximately 75% of the model’s predictive power, while estradiol levels and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) contributed significantly less. These findings highlight potential statistical associations but do not establish causality. Further research is necessary to validate these associations and explore underlying biological mechanisms.

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4. Barkley SB, Day T, Lerner MD, Nelson BD. Autism, Personality Pathology, and the Neural Response to Rewards. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Mar 13)

The autism social motivation hypothesis suggests that diminished reward value of social stimuli contributes to deficits in social motivation. Research indicates that autistic individuals show decreased neural responding to both social and non-social reward, suggesting domain-general reward system differences. However, autism is heterogenous with extensive co-occurring psychopathology, and the autism phenotype may not be the best way to understand its relationship with neural reward response. Autism has been associated with normative and pathological personality domains that may better represent the heterogeneity and comorbidity of autism. The present study examined associations between autism traits, pathological personality, and the neural response to multiple reward types. The sample included 18-33-year-old undergraduates who completed monetary, social, and restricted interests reward tasks while we recorded electroencephalography to measure the reward positivity (RewP), an event-related potential indicator of reward sensitivity. Participants completed self-report measures of autism traits and the pathological personality traits negative emotionality, detachment, and anankastia. Autism traits were not directly related to the RewP but were positively associated with pathological personality dimensions. Across all reward tasks, negative emotionality was related to a larger RewP while detachment and anankastia were related to a smaller RewP. All three pathological personality dimensions mediated the relationship between autism traits and the RewP. The present study suggests that autism and neural reward response is at least partially mediated by comorbid psychopathology. Moreover, the results are inconsistent with the social motivation hypothesis and instead suggest that autism is linked to domain-general neural response to rewards.

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5. Ben-Ari Y, Danchin É. Limitations of genomics to predict and treat autism: a disorder born in the womb. J Med Genet;2025 (Mar 13)

Brain development involves the sequential expression of vulnerable biological processes including cell proliferation, programmed cell death, neuronal migration, synapse and functional unit formation. All these processes involve gene and activity-dependent events that can be distorted by many extrinsic and intrinsic environmental factors, including stress, microbiota, inflammatory signals, hormonal signals and epigenetic factors, hence leading to disorders born in the womb that are manifested later in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Predicting and treating such disorders call for a conceptual framework that includes all aspects of developmental biology. Here, taking the high incidence of ASDs as an example, we first discuss the intrinsic limitations of the genetic approach, notably the widely used twin studies and SNPs. We then review the long list of in utero events that can deviate developmental sequences, leading to persistent aberrant activity generated by immature misplaced and misconnected neuronal ensembles that are the direct cause of ASD. In a clinical perspective, we suggest analysing non-genetic maternity data to enable an early prediction of babies who will develop ASD years later, thereby facilitating early psycho-educative techniques. Subsequently, agents capable of selectively silencing malformed immature networks offer promising therapeutic perspectives. In summary, understanding developmental processes is critical to predicting, understanding and treating ASD, as well as most other disorders that arise in the womb.

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6. Chase A, Hamrick L, Arnold H, Smith J, Hantman R, Cortez K, Adayev T, Tortora ND, Dahlman A, Roberts J. Reduced Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia in Infants with the FMR1 Premutation. Int J Mol Sci;2025 (Feb 28);26(5)

The fragile X premutation (FXpm) is caused by a CGG repeat expansion on the FMR1 gene. In adults, FXpm is linked with autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction and impairment is associated with CGG repeat length. Given scant infancy research, we examined ANS functioning, via respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and interbeat interval (IBI), in 82 FXpm and neurotypical infants and their associations with CGG repeats. FXpm infants exhibited lower RSA but no IBI differences. There were no associations between ANS functioning and CGG repeat length. These findings identify an ANS biomarker consistent with the emerging pediatric phenotype in FXpm.

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7. Galligan DE, Payne L, Sullivan DP, Bhadravathi Lokeshappa M, Ziser L, Nunn L, Wallace LM, Andersen I, Howarth S, Kato A, Karunanithi M, Mingin C, O’Scanaill S, Aouira N, Paramecwari A, Sanders MR, Cobham VE, Wray NR, Henders AK, Byrne EM, Heussler H, Middeldorp CM. Improving Outcomes in Mental Health (IOMH)-an Australian longitudinal clinical study of families with children with neurodevelopmental problems: cohort profile. BMJ Open;2025 (Mar 13);15(3):e091676.

PURPOSE: Children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) face a range of challenges which impact their daily functioning and that of their family. NDDs are often associated with significant mental health problems which can influence the course. The Improving Outcomes in Mental Health cohort described in this article aims to investigate the risk factors for the persistence and severity of mental health problems in children with NDDs. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 1084 families (primary caregivers and children) were recruited from the Child Development Program at the Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service in Brisbane, Australia. 1471 caregivers (female n=1036) participated in the study, which included 382 families with 2 or more caregivers participating. The children were predominantly male (71%), with the average age of all children 5.6 years. FINDINGS TO DATE: The most prevalent child clinical diagnoses were ASD and ADHD, with half of children receiving more than one diagnosis. Caregiver reports indicated that children were experiencing clinical levels of depression (30.8%) and anxiety (27.6%). Approximately 39% of caregivers scored in the subclinical or clinical range for at least one Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders measure, the majority reporting depressive problems. FUTURE PLANS: Future plans for this data set include analysis of environmental variables such as family structure, income, school achievements and leisure activities as risk factors for the persistence of mental health problems in children with NDDs. Genetic data will be used to provide insights into the heritability of mental illness and improve prediction.

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8. Gouveia FV, Germann J, Ibrahim GM. Brain network alterations in fragile X syndrome. Neurosci Biobehav Rev;2025 (Mar 10);172:106101.

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by FMR1 gene mutations, leads to widespread brain alterations significantly impacting cognition and behaviour. Recent advances have provided a deeper understanding of the neural substrates of FXS. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of neuronal network alterations in FXS. We highlight imaging studies that demonstrate network-level disruptions within resting-state networks, including the default mode network, frontoparietal network, salience network, and basal ganglia network, linked to cognitive, emotional and motor deficits in FXS. Next, we link dysregulated network activity in FXS to molecular studies showing neurometabolic imbalances, particularly in GABAergic and glutamatergic systems. Additionally, gene-brain-behavior correlations are explored with gene expression maps to illustrate regional FMR1 expression patterns tied to clinical symptoms. A graph analysis and meta-analytic mapping further link these dysfunctional networks to the specific symptoms of FXS. We conclude by highlighting gaps in the literature, including the need for greater global collaboration, inclusion of underrepresented populations, and consideration of transdiagnostic effects in future research to advance neuroimaging and therapeutic approaches for FXS.

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9. Jertberg RM, Begeer S, Geurts HM, Chakrabarti B, Van der Burg E. Slow but Steady: Similarities and Differences in Executive Functioning Between Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults. Autism Res;2025 (Mar 13)

Prior research has established differences between autistic and non-autistic individuals across the domains of executive function (EF). While some early theories portrayed these differences as universal to the autism spectrum, recent findings have been quite mixed. Factors like small samples, the components of EF being measured, and the age and intelligence quotient (IQ) of those being compared may contribute to this diversity in results. Moreover, research suggests performance over time might fluctuate in different patterns for autistic and non-autistic individuals. To test EF differences and the possible influence of these factors upon them, we recruited a sample of over 900 autistic and non-autistic participants (with generally average/above average IQ levels) from 18 to 77 years of age. They completed a battery of tasks measuring inhibition, cognitive flexibility, working memory, and attentional orienting to social and nonsocial cues. We found that performance was similar between groups in our primary measures of EF, although autistic participants were consistently slower, more susceptible to the effects of spatial cueing, and more prone to certain errors in the working memory task. Differences between groups were generally not influenced by participants’ age, gender, or IQ. Performance over time varied only in the working memory task. While autistic adults may still face related challenges in real life, these findings suggest that being autistic does not necessarily imply executive dysfunction on a basic cognitive level, contradicting theories assuming universal impairments therein. Moreover, the lack of influence of included demographic factors suggests that explanations for discrepancies in the literature lie elsewhere.

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10. Julie AOJ, Bébé NO, Sandrine MNY, Emmanuel OP, Antoine KK, Dupon AAB, Cicilien NPQ, Emmanuel NNF, Laure NJ, Claude BD, Désiré DDP. Phytochemical, In Silico, In Vitro, and In Vivo Research on Piptadeniastrum africanum (Fabaceae) Unveiling Anti-Stereotypic, Anxiolytic, and Analgesic Effects in a Sodium Valproate-Induced Autistic Disorders Model. Brain Behav;2025 (Mar);15(3):e70408.

OBJECTIVE: Individuals with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) primarily exhibit deficits in communication and social interaction, along with repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. This disorder is often associated with anxiety, nociceptive disorders, and pain. While medical treatment generally focuses on treating the symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes, traditional medicine is sometimes used as an alternative. Piptadeniastrum africanum is used in Cameroonian medicinal folks to treat cognitive disorders. However, its effects and mechanisms of action regarding the inhibition of ASD-like symptoms remain unclear. The primary goal of the present study was to evaluate the anxiolytic and analgesic effects of the water extract of P. africanum on autistic triad induced in rats by sodium valproate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study investigated the secondary metabolites in P. africanum extract using UHPLC-MS. DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests were performed to assess the extract’s ability to neutralize free radicals. Molecular docking was utilized to evaluate the extract’s binding to various receptors. For the experimental study, 33 pregnant female rats were divided into two groups after pregnancy was confirmed. One group was given distilled water orally at 10 mL/kg, while the other group received sodium valproate at 800 mg/kg on gestation days 11, 12, and 13. When the male offspring reached 3 weeks old, they were evaluated for anxiety, social interaction, and pain sensitivity, with those displaying any disorders selected for further study. The remaining rats were split into six groups of five and treated with either a vehicle, bumetanide, or P. africanum extract at 190 and 760 mg/kg. Behavioral assessments focusing on sociability, anxiety, and pain sensitivity were conducted on days 28 and 37 after weaning. In the end, biochemical markers related to GABA metabolism, serotonin levels, and oxidative status were analyzed in the cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala alongside histopathological analyses in the brain. RESULTS: UHPLC-MS allows us to identify several compounds. They bind to H3R (7F61) and HDAC2 through conventional hydrogen bonding. Findings showed that prenatal administration of sodium valproate induced in male offspring a deficit in social interaction (p < 0.001), anxiety disorders (p < 0.001), hypersensitivity to pain (p < 0.001), increased GABA and serotonin concentration (p < 0.001), disturbed oxidative status (p < 0.001), and neuronal loss (p < 0.001) as well as neuronal disorganization in the hippocampus, cerebellum and amygdala in young rats compared to neurotypical animals. P. africanum extract at doses used, like bumetanide, corrected these disorders and protected against neuronal loss. These results suggest that the extract has anxiolytic and anti-nociceptive effects. It has been found that the positive effects can be achieved by restoring GABAergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, coupled with antioxidant and neuromodulatory activity. CONCLUSION: The current findings support that P. africanum induces anxiolytic and analgesic effects in a sodium valproate-induced autistic disorders model.

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11. Karaca S, Özbingöl D, Karaca Özer P, Yavuz ML, Tansel T, Nişli K. A Comparison of Long-Term Right Ventricular Functions in Children with Transcatheter and Surgically Closed Secundum Atrial Septal Defects (ASDs): A Strain Echocardiography Study. Diagnostics (Basel);2025 (Mar 2);15(5)

Background/Objectives: Secundum-type atrial septal defect (ASD) is one of the most common congenital heart defects, with an incidence of 5.64 per 10,000 live births worldwide. In our study, long-term follow-up results of children who underwent percutaneous ASD closure and patients who underwent surgical treatment were evaluated using right ventricular strain echocardiography and electrocardiography. Methods: 30 patients who underwent transcatheter ASD closure and 30 patients provided with surgical ASD closure were prospectively compared with 50 healthy children with similar demographic characteristics. ECG and transthoracic echocardiography were performed for all patients. The evaluated echocardiography variables are Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), 2D right ventricle (RV) and right atrium (RA) dimensions, right ventricular segmental longitudinal strain, and global longitudinal strain. ECG evaluation was performed especially in terms of QRS duration and its correlation with strain echo measurements. Results: The surgical treatment group has statistically significant ASD size compared to patients who underwent transcatheter closure (20 ± 3.6 and 14.87 ± 3.7 mm, p < 0.001). Patients who had surgical treatment have increased RA and RV diameters, and a statistically significant decrease was observed in right ventricular free-wall longitudinal strain and right ventricular four-chamber longitudinal strain compared to patients in transcatheter and the control group (p < 0.001). QRS durations were similarly normal in electrocardiography in the transcatheter and the control groups, and the QRS duration was observed as statistically significantly increased in the patients in the surgical treatment group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Strain values of the patients who underwent surgical closure were lower, and the QRS values on the ECG were longer, compared to the transcatheter group, which is an indicator that a large ASD diameter has a negative effect on long-term right ventricular function. With this in mind, we argue that early surgical closure is an appropriate treatment option for children whose ASD is large for their age and who are not suitable candidates for transcatheter treatment.

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12. Key AP, Jones D, Corbett BA. Social Functioning in Autistic Children with Below-Average vs. Average IQ: Limited Behavioral and Neural Evidence of Group Differences. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Mar 13)

Despite the relatively high rates of intellectual disability (ID) in autism, research studies and clinical trials commonly exclude autistic participants with below-average IQ. This study aimed to characterize the effect of intellectual ability on social functioning in autistic adolescents assessed using behavioral and neural measures. Caregiver reports and direct standardized behavioral assessments of social abilities along with event-related potential measures of social and nonsocial information processing were obtained in school-age children with autism and ID (n = 41) matched on age, sex, and autism symptom severity to autistic participants with average IQ (n = 41). Full-scale IQ differences did not affect caregiver reports of social functioning in daily life. Group differences were observed only for the direct behavioral assessments of social perception and cognition (NEPSY Memory for Faces delayed, Theory of Mind) as well as social behavior with an unfamiliar friendly confederate, where higher IQ was associated with better performance. Similarly, the impact of IQ on neural responses was limited to a minimal delay in the processing speed of all visual stimuli and the magnitude of differences between social and nonsocial images, but not on incidental memory for the repeated stimuli. The effects of IQ on behavioral or neural responses did not vary based on biological sex. Below-average full-scale IQ in autistic youth affects results of some but not all behavioral or neural measures probing social functioning. Therefore, enrolling participants with a wider range of intellectual ability could be feasible in future studies.

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13. Khanam SJ, Alam B, Kabir A, Khan N, Khan N. Effects of disability on early childhood development in 3 to 4-year-old children in three South Asian countries: evidence from multiple indicators cluster surveys. BMC Pediatr;2025 (Mar 13);25(1):189.

BACKGROUND: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) prioritize optimal early childhood development (ECD) for all children, emphasizing the principle of leaving no one behind. Despite this focus, the association between disability and ECD remains largely unknown in low- and middle-income countries. This study aims to investigate the impact of disability on ECD among 3 to 4-year-old children in three South Asian countries. METHODS: Data from 56,841 children were analyzed, extracted from six rounds of Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys conducted in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan between 2017 and 2020. The outcome variables considered was the early childhood development index (ECDI) and its domains (physical, learning, emotional, and social well-being). Disability status and types of disability considered as the main explanatory variables. The association between explanatory and outcome variables was determined using a multi-level mixed-effect binary logistic regression model, adjusting for potential covariates. RESULTS: Approximately 44% of children in three South Asian countries were not developmentally on track, with prevalence increasing to 58-76% among children with disability. Children with disability exhibited significantly higher odds of not being developmentally on track across all domains compared to those without disability. Country-specific variations were evident, with Nepal consistently showing lower odds than Bangladesh and Pakistan. Likelihoods of poor ECDI and its domains were also observed across types of disability. CONCLUSION: The findings emphasize that children with disability face challenges in achieving developmental milestones, indicating a long-term burden, such as poor education performance and dropout from school. This poses a risk to the achievement of SDGs related to inclusivity and early childhood development. Implementing inclusive education policies, especially in rural areas, and creating supportive environments for individuals with disability are crucial for addressing these challenges.

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14. Kovacheva E, Gevezova M, Mehterov N, Kazakova M, Sarafian V. The Intersection of Mitophagy and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci;2025 (Feb 28);26(5)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental and biobehavioral conditions that arises from complex interactions between environmental factors and physiological development in genetically predisposed individuals. Among the most frequently observed metabolic abnormalities in ASD is mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria respond to cellular stress by altering their dynamics or initiating mitophagy. In neurons, the buildup of dysfunctional mitochondria and reactive oxygen species (ROS) poses a significant risk, as these cells cannot regenerate through division. To safeguard mitochondrial health, cells rely on an efficient « clean-up mechanism » to remove compromised organelles. Mitophagy, a specific form of autophagy, is responsible for regulating the turnover of flawed and non-functional mitochondria. Impairments in this process result in the accumulation of defective mitochondria in neurons, a characteristic of several neurodegenerative disorders associated with behavioral abnormalities. This systematic review offers an in-depth summary of the present knowledge of mitophagy and underscores its pivotal role in the pathogenesis of ASD.

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15. Li H, Liu S, Lin C, Wu Y, Wu X, Huang Y, Wu Y, Tong X, Xu X. Intravenous esketamine in pediatric Rett syndrome: An open-label, early phase 1 pilot study. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev;2025 (Mar 13);33(1):101413.

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. N-Methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonism has shown therapeutic potential in preclinical RTT models. We performed a pilot study to explore whether intravenous esketamine, an NMDAR antagonist, alleviates the symptoms of pediatric RTT. This was a prospective, single-arm, single-site, open-label, early phase 1 pilot study. Three girls with classic RTT aged 5-10 years were enrolled. Esketamine was intravenously administrated once per week for 5 weeks. The efficacy assessments included RTT-related questionnaires and video electroencephalograms (VEEGs). Prespecified adverse events (AEs) were monitored using clinical observations and standard laboratory tests. The treatment with intravenous esketamine was generally well tolerated and safe, with some patients experiencing mild AEs, including self-alleviating nausea, vomiting, and irritability. Three participants showed minimal improvements in their Clinical Global Impression Scale-Improvement, Rett Syndrome Behavior Questionnaire, and Revised Motor Behaviors Assessment Scale scores. However, individual differences were observed in the efficacy measures. VEEGs indicated gradual increases in posterior dominant rhythm peak frequency throughout the intervention. This pilot study highlights the potential of esketamine treatment for improving behavioral dysfunction in patients with RTT. Investigating the appropriate dosage form of esketamine may enhance its beneficial effects in RTT with fewer undesirable features.

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16. Makin L, Meyer A, Zesch E, Mondelli V, Tchanturia K. Autism, ADHD, and Their Traits in Adults with Obesity: A Scoping Review. Nutrients;2025 (Feb 24);17(5)

Introduction: Autism and ADHD shape behaviours related to food, exercise, and body image, potentially influencing obesity treatment outcomes, as seen in eating disorder research. Resultantly, autistic and ADHD patients with obesity may have distinct experiences and differences compared to non-autistic and non-ADHD patients. This review maps existing literature on autism and ADHD in adults with obesity. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, six databases (Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and Scopus) were searched for studies on autism and/or ADHD (diagnosed, probable, or traits) in adults with obesity. Screening and data extraction were conducted twice independently for each record. Results: Thirty-one studies were included, with 1,027,773 participants. Two case reports described successful use of weight loss drugs in autistic people with obesity. Eight prevalence studies suggested ADHD is overrepresented in obesity, regardless of binge eating status. Nineteen studies examined clinical profiles: ADHD patients had lower socioeconomic status, poorer health-related quality of life, increased impulsivity, cognitive inflexibility, and neuroticism, alongside lower agreeableness, conscientiousness, self-directedness, and cooperativeness. ADHD patients also exhibited higher psychopathology, problematic alcohol use, and disordered eating. Eight studies assessed treatment responses, noting poorer outcomes from behavioural programs and obesity pharmacotherapy, but similar post-surgical weight outcomes, despite increased complications. Two studies considered ADHD-specific treatment adaptions, one reporting a successful trial of ADHD medication for weight loss and the other reporting on switching to transdermal ADHD medications after bariatric surgery. Conclusions: This review underscores the need for more research on autism and obesity. For ADHD, findings suggest frequent co-occurrence with obesity, but lived experiences and tailored interventions remain underexplored.

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17. Martin Loya MR, Meadan H, Yan X. Correction: Professional Development in Autism and Multilingualism for Behavior Analysts: A Randomized Waitlist Control Trial. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Mar 13)

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18. Meguid N, Ismail SR, Anwar M, Hashish A, Semenova Y, Abdalla E, Taha MS, Elsaeid A, Bjørklund G. Gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate system dysregulation in a small population of Egyptian children with autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis;2025 (Mar 13);40(3):146.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with various symptoms, including repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and deficits in proper communication. Earlier studies have linked these symptoms to abnormalities in the balance between excitatory (glutamatergic signaling) and inhibitory (GABAergic signaling) neurotransmission. The present study aimed to analyze the levels of different biomarkers in children with ASD compared to neurotypical (NT) controls. The study included 80 children, of whom 40 were cases (children with ASD) and 40 were age- and sex-matched NT controls. Serum levels of GABA(A), and GABA(B) receptors, glutamate, zinc, potassium, and calcium were measured in both groups. ASD diagnosis was verified using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). There was a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in the median serum levels of GABA(A) (0.6) and GABA(B) receptors (2.03) in children with ASD compared to controls. Additionally, a significant increase in median serum glutamate levels was observed in ASD children (102, P < 0.001) compared to controls. Children with ASD also showed a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in median levels of all studied blood minerals compared to controls, including potassium (3.8 vs. 4.6), calcium (9.0 vs. 9.7), and zinc (57.0 vs. 92.0). The roles of GABA(B) and zinc as potential pathological biomarkers were investigated due to their highly significant inverse correlations with stereotypic and repetitive behaviors (ADI-R domain), with rho = -0.393 (P = 0.012) and rho = -0.488 (P = 0.001), respectively. Further analysis of pathways regulating these biomarkers may provide deeper insights into the etiology and pathophysiology of ASD, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions.

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19. Moore J, Farquharson K, Lotter C. « Grooving in My Body »: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study of Vibroacoustic Therapy’s Effects on Emotion Regulation and Attention in Autistic Children. Healthcare (Basel);2025 (Feb 21);13(5)

Background: Autistic children often face challenges with attention and emotion regulation, which can impact their socio-communication skills and overall well-being. Vibroacoustic therapy (VAT), a sensory-based intervention using low-frequency sound vibrations, may offer a novel approach to address these challenges. The objective of this pilot study is to explore the feasibility and potential efficacy of VAT in improving attention and emotion regulation in autistic children aged 9-12 years. Methods: Eighteen children were recruited with assistance from the school psychologist, using purposive sampling to identify participants with autism spectrum disorder and attentional challenges. The study was conducted at a primary school in Pretoria, South Africa, in March 2023. Participants were divided into treatment (n = 9) and control (n = 9) groups. The treatment group underwent 10 VAT sessions over six weeks. Attention was assessed using the NEPSY-II and Joint-Attention Test (JTAT), focusing on sustained, selective, alternating, and joint attention. Qualitative data were collected through observations and creative semi-structured interviews to understand the children’s experiences of VAT. Tests were conducted at baseline, midway, post-intervention, and one week post-intervention. Statistical analysis was conducted using a Generalised Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) in R version 4.3.1, with significance assessed using a Likelihood Ratio Test (p < 0.05) to assess attention improvements. Results: Quantitative analysis revealed significant improvements in joint attention in the treatment group (X(2) = 11.64, df = 3, p = 0.008). Qualitative findings highlighted positive experiences related to emotion regulation, with children reporting a sense of calm and enjoyment during VAT sessions. Teachers also noted improvements in attention and engagement. Conclusions: VAT appears to be a feasible and acceptable intervention for autistic children, with potential benefits for attention and emotion regulation. These findings support further research to validate its efficacy and explore its adaptability for diverse sensory profiles. VAT may hold promise as a holistic therapeutic tool in autism intervention programmes.

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20. Orsmond GI, Krishnan SG, Munsell EGS, Cohn ES, Coster WJ. Predicting Post-School Outcomes in Autistic Young Adults One Year after High School Graduation. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Mar 13)

The aim of the present longitudinal study was to identify malleable factors during the last year of high school that predicted post-school outcomes in autistic youth one year after high school graduation. We then explored whether depressive symptoms in high school mediated the associations between other malleable factors and post-school outcomes. Thirty-two autistic youth and a parent completed surveys during the youth’s final year of high school (T1) and one-year post-high school graduation (T2). Malleable factors measured at T1 included social communication skills, executive functions, responsibility for daily tasks, and depressive symptoms. The T2 young adult outcome measure included both objective and subjective indicators of productivity, social well-being, and autonomy in living situation. All malleable factors except social communication skills were significantly correlated with young adult outcomes. T1 executive functions, responsibility for daily tasks, and depressive symptoms jointly predicted 40.2% of the variance in young adult outcomes. Only depressive symptoms explained a significant amount of unique variance in young adult outcomes. In addition, depressive symptoms mediated the predictive association between executive functioning and young adult outcomes. The findings suggest that depressive symptoms may be a key intervention target for autistic high school students. Adapting cognitive behavioral approaches to comprehensively address multiple transdiagnostic factors such as executive functions, responsibility for daily tasks, and mental health may be a promising avenue to promote positive post-school outcomes in this population.

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21. Osredkar J, Kumer K, Godnov U, Jekovec Vrhovšek M, Vidova V, Price EJ, Javornik T, Avguštin G, Fabjan T. Urinary Metabolomic Profile in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci;2025 (Mar 3);26(5)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been associated with disruptions in tryptophan (TRP) metabolism, affecting the production of key neuroactive metabolites. Investigating these metabolic pathways could yield valuable biomarkers for ASD severity and progression. We included 44 children with ASD and 44 healthy children, members of the same family. The average age in the ASD group was 10.7 years, while the average age in the control group was 9.4 years. Urinary tryptophan metabolites were quantified via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry operating multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). Urinary creatinine was analyzed on an Advia 2400 analyzer using the Jaffe reaction. Statistical comparisons were made between ASD subgroups based on CARS scores. Our findings indicate that children with ASD have higher TRP concentrations (19.94 vs. 16.91; p = 0.04) than their siblings. Kynurenine (KYN) was found at higher levels in children with ASD compared to children in the control group (82.34 vs. 71.20; p = 0.86), although this difference was not statistically significant. The ASD group showed trends of higher KYN/TRP ratios and altered TRP/ indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and TRP/5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) ratios, correlating with symptom severity. Although the numbers of the two groups were different, our findings suggest that mild and severe illnesses involve separate mechanisms. However, further comprehensive studies are needed to validate these ratios as diagnostic tools for ASD.

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22. Poleg T, Hadar N, Heimer G, Dolgin V, Aminov I, Safran A, Agam N, Jean MM, Freund O, Kaur S, Christodoulou J, Ben-Zeev B, Birk OS. Unraveling MECP2 structural variants in previously elusive Rett syndrome cases through IGV interpretation. NPJ Genom Med;2025 (Mar 13);10(1):23.

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder, with MECP2 mutations accounting for 90-95% of classic and 50-70% of atypical cases. However, many clinically diagnosed RTT patients remain without molecular diagnoses. While point mutations and large rearrangements in MECP2 are well studied, the role of small-intermediate structural variants (SVs) remains mostly elusive. Using standard short-read whole genome sequencing, we identified novel de novo SVs in three out of three previously unresolved RTT cases: a complex SV with two deletions ( ~ 5Kbp and ~60Kbp) and a ~105Kbp inversion; a ~200Kbp translocation; and a ~3Kbp deletion. These findings suggest that such elusive SVs might be a common cause for « MECP2-negative » RTT. Incorporating SV detection into routine genetic testing through bioinformatic analysis of short-read sequencing or manual review using IGV could improve diagnostic rates and expand our understanding of RTT and similar disorders.

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23. Remori V, Bondi H, Airoldi M, Pavinato L, Borini G, Carli D, Brusco A, Fasano M. A Systems Biology Approach for Prioritizing ASD Genes in Large or Noisy Datasets. Int J Mol Sci;2025 (Feb 27);26(5)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorder. Despite extensive research involving genome-wide association studies, copy number variant (CNV) testing, and genome sequencing, the comprehensive genetic landscape remains incomplete. In this context, we developed a systems biology approach to prioritize genes associated with ASD and uncover potential new candidates. A Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network was generated from genes associated to ASD in a public database. Leveraging gene topological properties, particularly betweenness centrality, we prioritized genes and unveiled potential novel candidates (e.g., CDC5L, RYBP, and MEOX2). To test this approach, a list of genes within CNVs of unknown significance, identified through array comparative genomic hybridization analysis in 135 ASD patients, was mapped onto the PPI network. A prioritized gene list was obtained through ranking by betweenness centrality score. Intriguingly, by over-representation analysis, significant enrichments emerged in pathways not strictly linked to ASD, including ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and cannabinoid receptor signaling, suggesting their potential perturbation in ASD. Our systems biology approach provides a promising strategy for identifying ASD risk genes, especially in large and noisy datasets, and contributes to a deeper understanding of the disorder’s complex genetic basis.

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24. Rivera RA, Robertson MC, McCleery JP. Exercise Interventions for Autistic People: An Integrative Review of Evidence from Clinical Trials. Curr Psychiatry Rep;2025 (Mar 12)

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review integrates recent findings from randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) research examining the impacts of physical exercise activities on various aspects and areas of functioning for autistic individuals. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent meta-analytic and clinical trials research indicates physical exercise intervention programs improve social and communication skills for autistic children and adolescents, improve executive functioning skills for autistic children, improve sleep-related behavior for autistic children and adolescents, and may be helpful for improving physical health for autistic children. There is very limited RCT research evidence on exercise intervention approaches or impacts for autistic adults, for autistic girls or women, for autistic people with co-occurring intellectual disability, and for reducing negative emotional symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) for any autistic population. The extant clinical trials research provides convincing, consistent evidence for positive impacts of physical exercise programs on multiple areas of functioning for autistic children and adolescents. Additional research is needed to determine and ensure potential impacts of physical exercise activity programs for important autistic sub-populations, including adults.

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25. Salloum-Asfar S, Ltaief SM, Taha RZ, Nour-Eldine W, Abdulla SA, Al-Shammari AR. MicroRNA Profiling Identifies Age-Associated MicroRNAs and Potential Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Autism. Int J Mol Sci;2025 (Feb 26);26(5)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which early diagnosis is critical for effective intervention and improved outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and have emerged as promising biomarkers for neurological disorders, including ASD. In our previous discovery study, we identified dysregulated expression of several miRNAs in the plasma samples of children with ASD aged 5-12 years. In this study, we aimed to validate these findings in a younger cohort with ASD (aged 2-4 years) and assess their potential use as biomarkers for the early diagnosis of ASD. A total of 108 young children aged 2-4 years were recruited, including 66 children with ASD and 42 age- and sex-matched controls. Using next-generation sequencing and advanced bioinformatics, we validated the differential expression of 17 miRNAs in ASD, which showed consistent dysregulation across both the current and previous cohorts. We also observed significant correlations between several miRNAs and participants’ age, suggesting that age is a key factor influencing dynamic miRNA changes, particularly in the ASD group. Pathway analysis linked these miRNAs to critical regulatory networks involved in neurodevelopment and immune responses. Finally, we found that a combination of four miRNAs (miR-4433b-5p, miR-15a-5p, miR-335-5p, and miR-1180-3p) exhibited high diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve (ROC-AUC) of 0.936 (95% CI = 0.892, 0.980; p < 0.001). These findings support the use of this four-miRNA panel as a robust biomarker for early ASD diagnosis and lay the groundwork for future research into miRNA-based diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for ASD.

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26. Scharoun Benson SM, Salters D, Benson AJ. Mapping Children’s Social and Motor Skill Profiles to Autistic Traits and Behavioral Tendencies. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Mar 13)

We used a person-centered approach to: (1) elucidate distinct configurations of social and motor skills across subgroups of children, (2) determine how profiles map to autistic traits and behavioral tendencies, and (3) identify how children with and without different diagnoses are categorized within profiles. Parents/guardians (N = 538) of 5- to 15-year-olds reported on their children’s autistic traits, social skills, motor skills, and behavioral tendencies. Factor scores were extracted as indicators for latent profile analysis and a series of profile solutions were generated. After selecting the final profile solution, mean-level differences were examined across each profile, pairing for key measures of interest. Frequency distribution analysis was used to identify the number of children with and without formal diagnoses in each profile. A 6-profile solution was identified, drawing attention to how social and motor competencies combine in qualitatively distinct ways across subpopulations. Whereas several profiles had similar levels of social and motor skills (Profile 2: weak social/motor, Profile 4: average social/motor, Profile 6: exceptional social/motor), other profiles showed divergent levels of social and motor competencies (Profile 1: weak motor but average social, Profile 3: above average social and strong motor, Profile 5: strong social and above average motor). These subpopulations differed in terms of their proportions of diagnoses (i.e., of autism specifically and co-occurring with other diagnoses), autistic traits, and behavioral difficulties. Findings support a person-centered approach that considers the relationships, interactions, and shared mechanisms of multiple developmental domains to better understand child development, optimize interventions, and improve outcomes.

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27. Tang YCV, Chan GFC. Prevalence of anxiety disorders in a clinical sample of Chinese children with autism spectrum disorder in Hong Kong. Australas Psychiatry;2025 (Mar 13):10398562251323749.

Little is known about the prevalence of anxiety disorders in Han Chinese children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is an important topic for research as symptoms may be written off as being due to ASD alone.ObjectiveTo provide prevalence rates of anxiety disorders in a clinical sample of Han Chinese children with ASD and identify correlates which may be amenable to intervention.MethodThe pre-existing ASD diagnosis of 165 Hong Kong Han Chinese was confirmed with the Chinese version of the Developmental, Dimensional and Diagnostic Interview (3Di). Anxiety comorbidities were confirmed with the Chinese version of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children-Version Four (DISC-IV): parent version.ResultsThe prevalence of comorbid anxiety disorders was 52.1%. The prevalence rate of specific phobis was 44.8%, separation anxiety disorder was 11.5%, social anxiety disorder was 9.1%, agoraphobia 0.6%, selective mutism 0.6%, panic disorder 0% and generalized anxiety disorder 0%. Autistic disorder subtype and more severe 3Di scores were significantly associated with anxiety rates, whereas high household income was protective.ConclusionPrevalence rates of comorbid anxiety are high in Hong Kong Han Chinese children with ASD and imperative to catch for early intervention.

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28. Wannapaschaiyong P, Vivattanasinchai T, Wongkwanmuang A. Predictors of successful Picture Exchange Communication System training in children with communication impairments: insights from a real-world intervention in a resource-limited setting. BMJ Paediatr Open;2025 (Mar 13);9(1)

BACKGROUND: Children with communication impairments-such as autism spectrum disorder or global developmental delay-face significant challenges affecting their emotional and behavioural development. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is an augmentative communication tool designed to enhance their skills. However, its effectiveness can vary in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to identify predictors of successful PECS training among children with communication impairments in such environments. METHODS: This retrospective study analysed records of 61 children with communication impairments who underwent PECS training at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, from 2020 to 2023. Success was defined as achieving PECS phase 3 proficiency and a Clinical Global Impression-Improvement score of 1-3 after 1 year. Logistic regression identified predictors of successful outcomes based on demographic, clinical, family and training-related factors. RESULTS: After 1 year, 46% (28 out of 61) of the children achieved successful PECS outcomes. Significant predictors of success were lower severity of communication impairment (Clinical Global Impression-Severity ≤4; adjusted OR= 15.24, p = 0.002), higher frequency of PECS sessions (>6 times per year; OR = 9.11, p = 0.010), higher family income (≥20,000 baht per month; OR = 9.83, p = 0.024) and frequent home practice (≥3 times per week; OR = 7.02, p = 0.066). CONCLUSIONS: In resource-limited settings, factors such as severity of impairment, intensity of intervention, socioeconomic status and caregiver involvement significantly influence the success of PECS training. Tailored interventions and strategic resource allocation are crucial to optimise communication outcomes for these children.

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29. Witke W, Di Domenico M, Maggi L, Di Nardo A, Stein V, Pilo Boyl P. Autism spectrum disorder related phenotypes in a mouse model lacking the neuronal actin binding protein profilin 2. Front Cell Neurosci;2025;19:1540989.

INTRODUCTION: Profilin 2 (PFN2) is an actin binding protein highly expressed in the brain that participates in actin dynamics. It has been shown in vitro and in vivo that in neurons it functions both post-synaptically to shape and maintain dendritic arborizations and spine density and plasticity, as well as pre-synaptically to regulate vesicle exocytosis. PFN2 was also found in protein complexes with proteins that have been implicated in or are causative of autism spectrum disorder. METHODS: We employ a genetically engineered knock-out mouse line for Pfn2 that we previously generated to study the mouse social, vocal and motor behavior in comparison to wild type control littermates. We also study neuronal physiology in the knock-out mouse model by means of cellular and field electrophysiological recordings in cerebellar Purkinje cells and in the Schaffer collaterals. Lastly, we study anatomical features of the cerebellum using immunofluorescence stainings. RESULTS: We show that PFN2 deficiency reproduces a number of autistic-like phenotypes in the mouse, such as social behavior impairment, stereotypic behavior, altered vocal communication, and deficits in motor performance and coordination. Our studies correlate the behavioral phenotypes with increased excitation/inhibition ratio in the brain, due to brain-wide hyperactivity of glutamatergic neurons and increased glutamate release not compensated by enhanced GABAergic neurotransmission. Consequently, lack of PFN2 caused seizures behavior and age-dependent loss of cerebellar Purkinje cells, comorbidities observed in a subset of autistic patients, which can be attributed to the effect of excessive glutamatergic neurotransmission. DISCUSSION: Our data directly link altered pre-synaptic actin dynamics to autism spectrum disorder in the mouse model and support the hypothesis that synaptic dysfunctions that asymmetrically increase the excitatory drive in neuronal circuits can lead to autistic-like phenotypes. Our findings inspire to consider novel potential pathways for therapeutic approaches in ASD.

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30. Xing Y, Wu X. Effects of Motor Skills and Physical Activity Interventions on Motor Development in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel);2025 (Feb 24);13(5)

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an early childhood and lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder. Many studies have confirmed that motor skills and physical activity interventions can improve motor development in ASD individuals and ultimately improve their quality of life. However, systematic evidence is lacking on whether motor skills and physical activity interventions improve motor development among children with ASD. Methods: A systematic search of the CNKI, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases was conducted for publications through 30 July 2023. Citation tracking and reference tracking were also used, and this study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Results: Of 8908 studies initially retrieved, 57 met the selection criteria and were evaluated. The overall quality of the evidence, assessed using PEDro, was low. The evaluated studies included 1622 children with ASD, among which 517 were males, from level II to IV, and ranging in age from 3 to 17 years. Five types (physical activity interventions, motor skill interventions, hippotherapy, equine-assisted or simulated horse riding interventions, exergaming interventions, and physical education interventions) of motor development interventions were used, and 57 studies achieved some positive results for improvements in motor development among children with ASD. Furtherly, eight studies reported motor development acquisition, retention, or transfer. Children with ASD learn well from different types of instructors, including teachers, coaches, camp counselors, physical therapists, and peers. Conclusions: Motor skills and physical activity interventions improved motor development among children with ASD, the effect of which would continue until the end of the interventions.

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31. Yang J, Gao L, Strodl E, Chen J, Tong F, Chen W. Impact of Breastfeeding Practices on Autistic Traits in Chinese Children Aged from 3 to 4 Years: Cross-Sectional Study. Nutrients;2025 (Feb 28);17(5)

Background: Although breastfeeding has been extensively documented to confer health benefits to infants in the early stages of their lives, the sustained influence that it has on autistic traits throughout childhood remains unclear. This study endeavors to explore the correlation between the length of exclusive breastfeeding, the overall duration of breastfeeding, and the manifestation of autistic traits in Chinese children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 17,382 three-year-olds residing in Longhua District, Shenzhen, China. The participants’ socio-economic status, breastfeeding patterns, and autistic traits were recorded using questionnaires. Breastfeeding durations were analyzed both as continuous and categorical variables. Results: Of the 17,382 children studied, 666 exhibited autistic traits. Exclusive breastfeeding for ≥2 months was notably associated with a decreased risk of developing autistic traits when it was assessed using continuous measures. Furthermore, children who were breastfed for 13 months or longer exhibited a lower risk of developing autistic traits, as compared to those who were breastfed for 6 months or less, when this was measured using categorical methods. Similarly, when it was assessed using continuous measures, children who were breastfed for at least 8 months also demonstrated a reduced risk of developing autistic traits. Linear relationships were discernible between exclusive breastfeeding duration, overall breastfeeding duration, and autistic traits. Conclusions: Exclusive breastfeeding for a period from 2 to 6 months, coupled with extended breastfeeding lasting for at least 8 months, demonstrated a beneficial effect in alleviating autistic traits among Chinese children. These findings contribute to refining and strengthening the existing recommendations concerning breastfeeding practices.

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32. Yang T, Wang Y, Xu P, Tao Y. The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Improving the Mental Health of Parents of Children with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Mar 13)

This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in improving the mental health of parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), specifically focusing on outcomes such as parental stress, anxiety, depression, and parent-child relationships. A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and others, up to December 2024. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed bias risk using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Studies involving parents of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities who received mindfulness-based interventions and reported psychological outcomes were included. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software, with a random effects model applied. This systematic review included 15 studies (1124 participants), of which 14 were used for meta-analysis (1078 participants). The results indicate that mindfulness-based interventions reduced the stress levels [SMD = - 0.26, 95% CI (- 0.49, - 0.04)], depressive symptoms [SMD = - 0.37, 95% CI (- 0.66, - 0.08)], distress [SMD = - 0.26, 95% CI (- 0.43, - 0.09)] and anxiety symptoms[SMD = - 0.35, 95% CI (- 0.66, - 0.04)] of parents of children with IDDs, while also improving parent-child relationships [SMD = - 0.32, 95% CI (- 0.05, – 0.58)], although the effects were moderate. Subgroup analyses revealed that interventions lasting 8 weeks or more [SMD =- 0.41, 95% CI (-0.67, -0.14)] and those targeting only the parents [SMD = - 0.26, 95% CI (- 0.44, - 0.08)] showed some positive effects in improving parent-child relationships or parent stress. Mindfulness-based interventions appear to have a positive effect on improving the mental health of parents of children with IDDs. However, the evidence of their effectiveness in enhancing parental mindfulness remains inconclusive. Future studies should consider the key factors influencing intervention implementation and optimize the design of large-scale randomized controlled trials to systematically and comprehensively assess the effectiveness and applicability of mindfulness-based interventions.

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33. Yang X, Wei H, Li J, Li G, Zhang Y, Li H. Efficacy of sialic acid supplementation in early life in autism model rats. Sci Rep;2025 (Mar 12);15(1):8576.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions, the etiology of which remains elusive. Sialic acid (SA) is an essential nutrient for nervous system development, and previous studies reported that the levels of SA were decreased in the blood and saliva of ASD children. However, it is not clear whether SA supplementation can alleviate behavioral problems in autism. We administered SA intervention in the VPA-induced autism model rats, evaluated behavior performance, and measured the levels of Gne and St8sia2 genes, BDNF and anti-GM1. At the same time, untargeted metabolomics was used to characterize the metabolites. It was found that the stereotypical behaviors, social preference and cognitive function were improved after SA supplementation. Additionally, the number of hippocampal neurons was increased, and the shape was normalized. Moreover, 94 differentially abundant metabolites were identified between the high dose SA and VPA groups. These changes in metabolites were correlated with pyrimidine metabolism, lysine degradation metabolism, biosynthesis of amino acids, mineral absorption, protein digestion and absorption, galactose metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis and phenylalanine metabolism. In conclusion, SA could ameliorate ASD-like phenotypes and change metabolites in autistic animals, which suggests that it may be a therapeutic approach for ASD.

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