1. Dehghan F, Alizadeh Zarei M, Khosro Abadi R, Farhangdost H, Soltani Tehrani AA, Joghataei MT. Eye Movements During Sentence Processing in High-functioning Autistic Children Compared to Neurotypical Peers: An Eye Tracking Study. Basic Clin Neurosci;2025;16(Spec Issue):273-282.

INTRODUCTION: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The pattern of eye movements during reading can significantly impact reading quality. This study aimed to examine the eye movement patterns, which are essential for reading, in children with ASD compared to their neurotypical peers. METHODS: This study focused on two crucial indicators influencing reading: Eye fixation time and saccade movement. A comparison of parameters of saccade movements and eye fixation in a sentence reading task was done between two groups using an eye tracker device. Autistic children (15 children, mean age: 102.33 months) and their neurotypical peers (17 children, mean age: 101.69 months) participated in this study. RESULTS: Compared to their neurotypical peers, children with ASD had lower amplitude while reading sentences (P=0.02). These children used more fixations to read the words in the sentence (P=0.02). Comparing the total time spent reading a sentence between the two groups shows that autistic children need more time to read a sentence (P=0.02). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that low-level sensorimotor processes in generating accurate eye movements, such as the dorsal visual pathway and cerebellum, can significantly impact the reading quality of children with ASD.

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2. Gadban A, Gunapala KM, Taylor V, Benvenisty N. Therapeutic strategies for fragile X syndrome and implications for other gene-silencing disorders. Nat Genet;2025 (Jul 17)

Gene-silencing disorders, of which fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most prevalent, are diseases caused by a blockade of gene transcription, usually due to DNA hypermethylation. FXS is a common form of inherited intellectual disability and autism. Unlike most hereditary diseases driven by mutations within the protein-coding region of a gene, FXS is caused by a trinucleotide expansion in the 5′-untranslated region of the FMR1 gene, leading to hypermethylation and transcriptional silencing. Modeling FXS with human pluripotent stem cells offers a clinically relevant platform to study disease mechanisms and explore potential therapies through reactivating FMR1 expression by genetic and epigenetic means or through drug screening. This Perspective reviews the various cellular models and therapeutic strategies proposed over the past decade, highlighting their potential to advance the treatment of FXS. We also discuss the benefits and challenges of gene activation therapies, drawing comparisons with other gene-silencing disorders, including imprinting diseases and X-linked disorders.

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3. Hagerman R. Bringing fragile X-associated neuropsychiatric disorders into the phenotypic fold of premutation conditions. Brain;2025 (Jul 18)

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4. Jonkman KM, den Hartog C, Sloot B, Begeer S, Back E, Scheeren AM. Experiences of Autistic Individuals, Caregivers and Healthcare Providers with ABA-Derived Therapies: a Sequential Exploratory Mixed Methods Study. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely recommended intervention for autistic children, but it has recently been criticized because of its potential negative effects on mental health. This study aims to map experiences with ABA and related techniques in the Netherlands by investigating different types of ABA interventions, experiences and satisfaction levels, and explores variations across techniques and stakeholders. An exploratory sequential mixed methods design was employed, beginning with qualitative focus groups (n = 22) followed by a quantitative online survey (n = 219). Participants included autistic adults, parents/legal representatives, and healthcare professionals. Focus groups revealed six main themes: diverse interpretations of ABA, variations in its application, positive experiences, concerns about overburdening and psychological impacts, criticisms of the healthcare system, and quality control issues. Survey results indicated that satisfaction with ABA interventions varied, with autistic adults being less satisfied than parents and healthcare professionals. Positive outcomes included improved communication and independence, while negative experiences involved trauma and concerns about ethical application. Better quality interventions were associated with higher satisfaction levels. The study reveals diverse experiences and interpretations of ABA. Participants raised significant concerns that merit attention alongside the noted benefits of ABA. Improving training and ensuring ethical practices are crucial to maximize ABA’s potential to positively impact the lives of autistic individuals. Future efforts should focus on enhancing regulation, standardization, and incorporating autistic perspectives to optimize outcomes.

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5. Juárez JCC, Díaz AES, Arévalo GS. « Gabapentin and Fragile X Syndrome: A call to recognize the role of glial cells in neuropsychiatric pharmacology ». Pharmacol Res;2025 (Jul 15):107859.

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6. Kaplan-Kahn EA, Ong MJW, Ki D, Caplan R, Duncan A, Kleiner JR, Larkin-Gilmore N, Clayton AL, Maddox BB, Pugliese C, Wallace GL, Kenworthy L, Yerys BE. « Everyone Uses Different Skills and Resources to Live Independently »: A Brief Report on Autistic Young Adults’ Perspectives on Independence and Daily Living Skills. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

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7. Khoshtaria T, Matin A, Rinella S, Polizzi A. Teachers’ technology acceptance of language skills applications use for children with autism spectrum disorders. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol;2025 (Jul 18):1-18.

PURPOSE: Digital technology fosters great opportunities to care children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).This study investigates the key determinants for the acceptance of language skills applications among 592 teachers working with children with ASD, aged 7-10, from the country of Georgia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A modified version of the ‘Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology’ (UTAUT) model, enhanced by incorporating customization as an additional construct, was employed. The analysis utilized Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to validate the framework. RESULTS: SEM revealed that habit and customization significantly impact app adoption, while perceived-joyfulness had limited effects on behavioural-intention. Performance-expectancy, effort-expectancy and facilitating-conditions were found to be relevant for app adoption. ANN analysis confirmed these findings. CONCLUSION: Habit and customization are the most important predictors of both intention and adoption of digital applications among special education teachers to support children with ASD. Technology supports neuroplasticity and cognitive growth:Regular use of digital tools provides repeated opportunities to practice language, promoting neuroplasticity and cognitive development.Positive habit formation enhances adherence:Integrating apps into daily clinical and educational routines fosters habit formation, increasing adherence to therapy plans and supporting improvements in communication, cognitive functioning.Customization improves clinical and educational outcomes:Personalized digital applications can better address the sensory, cognitive, and communication needs of children with ASD.Reducing access disparities in underserved areas:Access to digital resources and providing professional training, technology can help reduce healthcare and educational inequalities, expanding opportunities. eng

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8. Kilmer M, Shah E, Randolph D, Quetsch L. Predictors of caregiver satisfaction with a hybrid care model for autism diagnostic evaluations. J Pediatr Nurs;2025 (Jul 16);85:9-15.

BACKGROUND: Decreased access to diagnostic services is a known barrier in autism care management. Utilizing a hybrid care model incorporating telehealth and face-to-face appointments may be one option to increase access to care. The current study examined caregivers’ satisfaction with a hybrid model used to administer pediatric autism diagnostic evaluations. METHODS: We used a quantitative research design with convenience sampling to administer a telehealth satisfaction survey to caregivers of children living in medically underserved areas who were referred for an autism diagnostic evaluation. Timeliness and accuracy of diagnostic evaluations via the hybrid model were also assessed. FINDINGS: Most caregivers did not report barriers to telehealth, and indicated the hybrid services were either better or equal to traditional appointments. Clinician competence and courtesy, the importance of the child’s care to the staff, and access to telehealth appointments predicted caregiver satisfaction with the hybrid care model. The hybrid care model resulted in improved timeliness, and the accuracy of the evaluation results was verified with those obtained using traditional, face-to-face evaluations. DISCUSSION: A hybrid care model may be a solution to increase access to autism diagnostic evaluations for pediatric patients, especially for those living in medically underserved areas. Clinicians who administer autism screening assessments should consider incorporating telehealth appointments to facilitate pediatric autism diagnostic evaluations. Clinicians referring a patient to a hybrid program should assess for potential factors that would impede the use of telehealth prior to referral.

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9. Lee EAL, Milbourn B, Afsharnejad B, Gizzi C, Marinovich A, Milne A, Zimmerman L, Girdler S. « They Showed Me How to Improve My Drawings and That Made Me Happy »: A Realist Evaluation of a Digital Arts Multimedia Program for Autistic Adolescents. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

The use of strengths-based arts programs for autistic adolescents is not effectively described within current literature and is an emerging area of practice. This study explores the outcomes and essential components underpinning a digital arts multimedia program delivered to autistic adolescents. A realist evaluation framework was used to describe the impact and essential components of a strengths-based digital arts multimedia program for autistic adolescents. Twenty-eight autistic adolescents and their parents were recruited and participated in the program. Data were collected via ethnographic methods including participant observations and interviews. Data were analysed deductively using a context-mechanism-outcome thematic analysis framework. Findings identified needs and preferences, individuality, art mentor support and shared interests as components significantly influencing the effectiveness of the strengths-based digital arts program. Results highlighted the importance of understanding the personal factors of autistic adolescents and the mechanisms within the program in influencing the outcomes for participants. This study offers a preliminary framework for future programs, highlighting key components of strengths-based digital arts programs.

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10. Lee GT, Sun Y, Xu S, Kang K. Using matrix training to promote recombinative generalization by children on the autism spectrum in China. J Appl Behav Anal;2025 (Jul 18)

We implemented tact matrix training to teach tacts of spatial locations to four children (male, 4-7 years of age) on the autism spectrum in China. The experimental design involved a multiple-probe design across participants with pre- and postinstruction probes on untaught tacts and listener responses. Learning outcomes included taught tacts of object-preposition combinations, generalization of untaught tacts, and derived listener responses to all combinations in the matrix. All four participants acquired taught tacts after matrix training. Untaught tacts and listener responses were demonstrated with direct teaching, indicating the occurrence of recombinative generalization. Two participants maintained these skills with high accuracy for 4 or 8 weeks. The remaining two participants demonstrated high accuracy in untaught tacts and listener responses immediately after instruction; however, accuracy in taught and untaught tacts declined during the 4- or 8-week maintenance probes, whereas listener responses remained stable.

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11. Lin Y, Qiu Y, Gao Y, Wu X, Zeng Y, Wu J. Effects of Computerized Cognitive Training in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder often accompanied by cognitive impairments. Computerized cognitive training (CCT) has emerged as a scalable and engaging intervention to address these deficits. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of CCT in improving cognitive functions among children and adolescents with ASD. A comprehensive search across seven databases was conducted from inception to February 24, 2025, supplemented by manual searches. A total of 15 studies involving 763 children and adolescents with ASD, aged 3 to 15 years, were included. CCT significantly improved social cognition, executive function, and attention. However, long-term follow-up data were limited. CCT holds potential as a complementary intervention for cognitive deficits in ASD, particularly through adaptive and immersive technologies. Future research should prioritize longitudinal designs, ecological validity, and standardized protocols to optimize clinical utility.

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12. McGrath JC, Gong J, Hegarty JP, Fung LK, Uljarevic M, Hardan AY. Placebo Effect in Clinical Trials in Autism: Experience from a Pregnenolone Treatment Study. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

PURPOSE: The placebo effect is a significant limitation in subjective report, particularly when using informant-based outcome measures. In autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this effect is particularly complex due to high expectations for positive treatment outcomes. Therefore, interventional research in ASD needs to account for and remediate the placebo response. METHODS: This preliminary pilot report examines placebo effect in a single-blind, two-week placebo lead-in that preceded the double-blind phase of a randomized controlled trial. The trial assessed pregnenolone, an endogenous neurosteroid, for reducing irritability in adolescents and young adults (ages 14-25) with ASD. The Aberrant Behaviors Checklist (ABC) irritability subscale (ABC-I) was the primary outcome measure used to identify correlates of the placebo effect (IQ, age, sex, and baseline symptom severity). Paired, 2-tailed t-tests compared outcome measures at baseline and following the lead-in. RESULTS: Twenty-five participants (23 males, 2 females; mean age 18.5 ± 3.1 years) have completed the trial to date. The two-week lead-in resulted in a 30.2% decrease in irritability symptoms (t(24) = 5.090(24), p < 0.001; Cohen's d = 1.018) across all participants. The remaining ABC subscales also decreased significantly. The magnitude of change in ABC-I was correlated (r(s)=0.488, p = 0.013) with baseline ABC-I score, but not sex, IQ, or age. CONCLUSION: Findings from this preliminary pilot trial provide evidence of a significant placebo effect in a clinical trial for ASD, further highlighting the challenges that this phenomenon presents for interventional research. A single-blind placebo lead-in within ASD clinical trials is a recommended approach to both account and mitigate for the placebo effect.

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13. Munoz A, Meisinger D, Shirely K, Rollings H. Atypical Presentation of Catatonia in an Adolescent With Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Psychiatr Pract;2025 (Jul 1);31(4):230-233.

Catatonia in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can present atypically. Symptoms of catatonia can be difficult to recognize if they are atypical, which can delay proper medical workup and treatment. Comorbid catatonia can occur in individuals with ASD, with reported prevalence rates reaching as high as 12% to 18% in certain studies. However, there is a paucity of research on the management of catatonia in this demographic group. What evidence we currently have indicates that catatonia in individuals with ASD is less responsive to treatment with benzodiazepines than catatonia in individuals without ASD. We present the case report of an adolescent female with ASD presenting with signs of excited catatonia whose treatment spanned multiple inpatient admissions and trials of medications, including antipsychotics, lorazepam, zolpidem, and eventually electroconvulsive therapy. The complexities of treating catatonia that displays atypical symptomatology and is resistant to oral benzodiazepines are discussed.

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14. Muris P, Otgaar H, Donkers F, Ollendick T, Deckers A. Caught in the Web of the Net? Part II: A Motivation-Based Developmental Psychopathology Model for the Aberrant Internet Use in (Young) People with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev;2025 (Jul 18)

In Part I (Muris et al. in Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review 22:549-561, 2025), we provided meta-analytic evidence showing that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or high levels of autistic traits exhibit higher rates of problematic internet use (PIU), but paradoxically have lower levels of social media use compared to typically developing individuals or those with lower levels of autistic traits. The current theoretical article introduces a motivation-based developmental psychopathology model aimed at clarifying the motives behind the atypical internet and social media use observed in people with ASD or with high levels of autistic traits. We argue that excessive online activities, such as gaming and watching videos, can be understood through specific social, coping, and enhancement motives for internet use, which are especially prominent in ASD due to disorder-specific characteristics such as narrow interests and challenges in face-to-face interactions. In contrast, when it comes to social media use, these three motives operate differently, leading individuals with ASD to exhibit lower motivation to engage in online social interactions compared to neurotypical individuals. The current article emphasizes adolescence as a critical developmental period where internet use can easily become maladaptive and explores the role of parents in regulating the online behaviors of young people with ASD. Finally, the clinical implications of the model are briefly discussed.

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15. Neto SGB, de Araújo CO, Reis RC, Almeida K, Brunoni D, Cysneiros RM. Dataset of pharmacotherapy in autism spectrum disorder. Data Brief;2025 (Aug);61:111802.

Pharmacological interventions are widely used in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We investigated the profile of psychopharmaceutical in a sample of children with ASD of low socioeconomic stratum enrolled and the public school in the city of Embu das Artes, Sao Paulo Brazil. From 149 children with a diagnosis of ASD identified in the municipal education department, informant consents were obtained from 129 children’s parents. Data collection was performed through clinical evaluation of the children and face to face application of a questionnaire for parents regarding medication use. The participants socioeconomic stratum was mostly C (72.86 %), followed by B (16,27 %), D (10.07 %), and A (0.7 %) who do not undergo specialized multi-professional educational and behavioral intervention. Among the participants 57.36 % were under psychopharmacological intervention and 33.78 % were under a polypharmacy regimen. Typical antipsychotics were used for 35.4 % followed by atypical antipsychotics (27.43 %), antiseizure (19.47 %), and tricyclic antidepressants (7.08 %). The association of risperidone with valproic acid prevailed in 17.68 % of the sample. ASD levels 2 and 3, epilepsy and age were associated with a higher rate of psychopharmaceutical use. The present dataset can be used to investigate the rational use of medication in the ASD population to monitor potential adverse effects, and to compare with the ASD population across the world.

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16. Panjabud P, Kanlayaprasit S, Thongkorn S, Songsritaya K, Lertpeerapan P, Kasitipradit K, Jantheang T, Sarobol S, Saeliw T, Hu VW, Imai T, Sarachana T. Prenatal exposure to bisphenol A disrupts RNA splicing in the prefrontal cortex and promotes behaviors related to autism in offspring. Sci Rep;2025 (Jul 17);15(1):25996.

Prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), a common endocrine disruptor, has been increasingly implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder. This study explores the molecular mechanisms by which prenatal BPA exposure affects alternative RNA splicing in the prefrontal cortex and investigates the potential link between alternative RNA splicing and autism-related behaviors in rat offspring. Using RNA sequencing and high-resolution melting real-time PCR, we identified differentially alternative splicing events associated with autism candidate genes. Gene ontology and pathway analyses revealed significant enrichment of differentially alternative splicing genes and neurological pathways relevant to autism. BPA appears to act through autism-related transcription factors, affecting RNA-binding proteins. Altered expressions of these RNA-binding proteins influenced alternative RNA splicing events within key autism-related genes, implicating them in disrupted synaptogenesis. Behavioral analyses of offspring exposed to BPA revealed autism-associated traits, including hyperactivity, anxiety, and aggression, which correlated with the observed sex-specific alternative RNA splicing patterns. These findings suggest that BPA-induced alterations of transcription factors and RNA-binding proteins affect alternative RNA splicing and synaptic development, potentially contributing to autism pathophysiology. This research underscores the role of environmental factors in autism etiology and highlights the importance of awareness and preventive measures against prenatal BPA exposure.

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17. Pettinger KJ, Blower SL, Boyle EM, Hewitt CE, Fraser LK. Profiles of developmental disorder and associations with gestational age. Arch Dis Child;2025 (Jul 18);110(8):636-644.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine profiles of co-occurrence of developmental disorders and their association with birth before full term. DESIGN: Latent class analysis of cohort data with linked health data. SETTING: Bradford, England. PATIENTS: 13 172 children were included in the analysis. OUTCOME MEASURES: Developmental disorder in medical records. METHODS: Data were censored at each child’s 12th birthday. The latent class analysis identified patterns of developmental disorders. Multinomial logistic regression explored the association with gestational age while adjusting for clinical and socio-factors. RESULTS: The majority (12,536) had a low risk of developmental disorders; this group was named ‘typical development’. The remaining children were classified into three groups: ‘educational difficulties’ (347 children); ‘social, emotional, behavioural and communication difficulties’ (189 children) and ‘early developmental impairment, with physical and intellectual disabilities’ (100 children).Compared with ‘typical development’, very preterm birth was associated with an increased likelihood of being in the ‘early developmental impairment, with physical and intellectual disabilities’ group, adjusted relative risk ratio (aRRR): 9.22 (95% CI 4.58 to 18.55). Birth before full term was associated with increased likelihood of being in the ‘educational difficulties’ group; risk was highest <34 weeks (aRRR: 2.64 (95% CI 1.44 to 4.83)) but persisted up to 37-38 weeks: aRRR: 1.41 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.81). There was no association between gestational age and the 'social, emotional, behavioural and communication difficulties'' group. CONCLUSION: Four distinct profiles of developmental disorders were identified; gestational age was associated with two of these. Understanding which disorders children are most at risk of and how these co-occur can help provide accurate information to families and contribute to prompt diagnosis.

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18. Pruett JR, Jr., Todorov AA, Hawks ZW, Talovic M, Nishino T, Petersen SE, Davis S, Stahl L, Botteron KN, Constantino JN, Dager SR, Elison JT, Estes AM, Evans AC, Gerig G, Girault JB, Hazlett H, MacIntyre L, Marrus N, McKinstry RC, Pandey J, Schultz RT, Shannon WD, Shen MD, Snyder AZ, Styner M, Wolff JJ, Zwaigenbaum L, Piven J. Brain functional connectivity correlates of autism diagnosis and familial liability in 24-month-olds. J Neurodev Disord;2025 (Jul 18);17(1):40.

BACKGROUND: fcMRI correlates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis and familial liability were studied in 24-month-olds at high (older affected sibling) and low familial likelihood for ASD. METHODS: fcMRI comparisons of high-familial-likelihood (HL) ASD-positive (HLP, N = 23) and ASD-negative (HLN, N = 91), and low-likelihood ASD-negative (LLN, N = 27) 24-month-olds from the Infant Brain Imaging Study (IBIS) Network were conducted, employing object oriented data analysis (OODA), support vector machine (SVM) classification, and network-level fcMRI enrichment analyses. RESULTS: OODA (alpha = 0.0167, 3 comparisons) revealed differences in HLP and LLN fcMRI matrices (p = 0.012), but none for HLP versus HLN (p = 0.047) nor HLN versus LLN (p = 0.225). SVM distinguished HLP from HLN (accuracy = 99%, PPV = 96%, NPV = 100%), based on connectivity involving many networks. SVM accurately classified (non-training) LLN subjects with 100% accuracy. Enrichment analyses identified a cross-group fcMRI difference in the posterior cingulate default mode network 1 (pcDMN1)- temporal default mode network (tDMN) pair (p = 0.0070). Functional connectivity for implicated connections in these networks was consistently lower in HLP and HLN than in LLN (p = 0.0461 and 0.0004). HLP did not differ from HLN (p = 0.2254). Secondary testing showed HL children with low ASD behaviors still differed from LLN (p = 0.0036). CONCLUSIONS: 24-month-old high-familial-likelihood infants show reduced intra-DMN connectivity, a potential neural finding related to familial liability, while widely distributed functional connections correlate with ASD diagnosis.

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19. Rebbettes J, Bacon AM. A Qualitative Exploration of Self-Harm Among Autistic Women. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

BACKGROUND: Autistic individuals, particularly females, demonstrate a higher prevalence of self-harm compared to those who are not autistic. Core cognitive, affective, and sensory differences inherent to autism are linked to the increased vulnerability within autistic populations. However, these factors are not sufficiently explored in relation to individuals’ social and environmental contexts, resulting in a gap in understanding the self-harm experiences of autistic females. METHODS: Eleven autistic women participated in semi-structured interviews to explore their experiences of self-harm. Data was transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Three key themes were identified: Regulation of Emotional States, highlighting self-harm as a coping mechanism for managing high and low energy affective states; Navigating a Neurotypical World, exploring how societal and interpersonal challenges influence these behaviours; and Changes in Self-Harm Over the Lifespan, examining the evolution of self-harm across different life stages. CONCLUSIONS: Findings reveal that self-harm in autistic women stems from both autism-related differences and unique experiences, vulnerabilities, and societal expectations. Influences of delayed diagnosis, burnout, and victimisation, required self-harm for self-punishment and regulation. Mislabelling and misdiagnosis throughout participants’ lives exacerbate risks and demonstrates an ongoing misunderstanding of distress of autistic females. Future research should focus on adapting interventions to better address the challenges unique to this population, and improving diagnosis and identification by considering the functions of these behaviours.

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20. Ren Y, Mlodnicka A, Calub CA, Hertz-Picciotto I, Schweitzer JB. Predicting later ADHD presentation types from early childhood autism and intellectual disability. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry;2025 (Jul 17)

BACKGROUND: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism are both neurodevelopmental disorders associated with functional impairment in social, academic, and occupational domains. METHODS: This longitudinal study, a follow-up to the CHARGE Study (ReCHARGE), evaluated diagnosis of ADHD and its presentation type (Inattentive, Combined-Hyperactive/Impulsive), in a cohort of 8 to 20 year-olds from four developmental categories recruited at ages 2-5 years: Autism, developmental delay without autism (DD), other early concerns (OEC) or typical development (TD, controls from the general population) (n = 645). ADHD diagnosis was based on parent clinical interviews (DISC or MINI), observational methods and multiple rating scales. Multivariate Poisson log regression models were fit to estimate associations of early childhood neurodevelopment with later ADHD diagnoses. Adjusted confounding variables included child’s age, sex, parental ADHD, socioeconomic indicators, and maternal prenatal conditions. RESULTS: Of 645 participants, 213 (33.0%) met criteria for ADHD. Early childhood diagnosis was the strongest predictor. For Hyperactive/Impulsive or Combined presentation, relative risks (RRs [95% CI]) were 5.4 [3.0, 9.4] for autism, 4.4 [2.3, 8.4] for DD, and 3.1 [1.5, 6.1] for OEC. For Inattentive presentation, RRs were 2.6 [1.6, 4.2] for autism, 1.4 [0.7, 2.9] for DD, and 2.6 [1.4, 4.2] for OEC. For any ADHD presentation, RRs were 3.1 [2.2, 4.4] for autism, 2.4 [1.6, 3.6] for DD, and 2.4 [1.6, 3.6] for OEC. CONCLUSIONS: This study reinforces the need for evaluation of ADHD and its presentation type in autistic children and other developmental delays, as these youth are at high risk for ADHD. Clinicians should assess the presence of ADHD-related challenges across development and service needs in individuals with autism and/or DD due to their high ADHD risk.

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21. Ren Y, Xia Z, Zhang Y, Jiao Z. Brain-Shapelet: A Framework for Capturing Instantaneous Abnormalities in Brain Activity for Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng;2025 (Jul 18);Pp

Some symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), such as anxiety and depression, often manifest intermittently rather than continuously, complicating the identification of reliable pathophysiological biomarkers. Meanwhile, functional connectivity networks (FCNs) generate high-dimensional connectomes, making it difficult to accurately capture instantaneous abnormal biomarkers of neurological disorders. To address this issue, we propose a framework, called Brain-Shapelet, to extract discriminative subsequences (Shapelets) from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data for capturing instantaneous abnormalities in brain activity. It applies random walk algorithm on group-representative brain network to obtain brain region sets, and aggregates their blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signals to extract Shapelets that reflect the associations between different brain regions at the same time point. Specially, we develop a feature selection strategy to reduce redundancy in Shapelets and optimize classification performance. Brain-Shapelet places greater emphasis on short-term brain activity alterations, allowing it to capture instantaneous abnormalities more effectively. It is evaluated on the ABIDE dataset and achieves a classification accuracy of 82.8%, significantly outperforming traditional brain network modeling methods. The proposed co-occurrence rate, occurrence frequency, and Gini coefficient metrics quantify the contributions of brain regions from the perspective of Shapelets, offering valuable insights for ASD diagnosis.

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22. Sandakly J, Frasca A, Landsberger N. Rett syndrome: a complex disorder with promising therapeutic prospects. Trends Mol Med;2025 (Jul 16)

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23. Toraih EA, Hussein MH, Cronier J, Fawzy MS. The invisible crisis: reforming mental health systems for the adult autistic generation. Lancet Psychiatry;2025 (Aug);12(8):e15.

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24. Yang B, Zaks N, Kajantie E, Persson MSM, Reichenberg A, Gissler M, Risnes K, Kolevzon A, Ådén U, Susser E, Persson M, Ludvigsson JF, Tammimies K, Poon LC, Yip B, Döring N, Sandin S, Yin W. Risk Factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder in Individuals Born Preterm: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Population-Based Studies. Biol Psychiatry Glob Open Sci;2025 (Sep);5(5):100535.

BACKGROUND: Preterm children are at an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), although the determinants of ASD among them remain unclear. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we summarize the population-based literature on ASD risk factors in preterm-born individuals. METHODS: We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science through September 2023 for population-based studies on ASD risk factors in preterm cohorts (<37 weeks' gestation). From 3921 articles, 19 met inclusion criteria. Registered in PROSPERO and following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, data were extracted and analyzed using fixed and random effects meta-analysis models. Primary outcomes included ASD risk factors, pooled when consistently examined in at least 2 studies. RESULTS: The qualitative synthesis included 16 cohort studies, 2 case-control studies, and 1 cross-sectional study, while 3 cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Sample sizes ranged from 410 to 515,789. Male sex was the only risk factor eligible for meta-analysis and was associated with increased risk of ASD (relative risk 3.04; 95% CI, 2.02-4.57). Low birth weight suggested a potential positive association with ASD, while neonatal jaundice showed no clear link. Pooled estimates were unavailable for these exposures due to heterogeneity in exposure definitions and effect measures. All other risk factors were examined in two or fewer studies. CONCLUSIONS: Significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the risk of ASD in individuals born preterm. The only consistent risk factor identified is male sex, with potential links to low birth weight. To better understand the differences in ASD etiology between preterm and term-born individuals, further research is crucial. Premature birth is a recognized risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While the underlying causes of ASD may differ between preterm and full-term children, there is a significant gap in our understanding of ASD risk specifically within the preterm population. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of all population-based studies examining risk factors for ASD in preterm-born cohorts. Besides sex, our findings revealed limited available evidence, which hinders a comprehensive comparison of ASD risk between preterm and full-term children. eng

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25. Yaseen M, Alsayed Hassan D, O’Hara L. Sleep patterns in autistic children and adolescents and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: A systematic review. Acta Psychol (Amst);2025 (Jul 16);258:105258.

BACKGROUND: Sleep patterns significantly influence health and wellbeing, with disturbances to sleep quality and duration, and increased sleep disorders commonly affecting autistic people. The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown altered daily routines for almost all people, impacting their sleep patterns. AIM: This study aimed to systematically review studies on sleep patterns among autistic children, adolescents, and their caregivers during the COVID-19 lockdown. METHODS: In April 2023, six databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest Central, and CINAHL) were searched for quantitative and qualitative studies. Data from eligible studies were extracted and analyzed through narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Thirty-four studies were included, with thirty-one focusing on autistic children and adolescents and three on caregivers. Autistic males and mothers were the predominant demographic groups in the studies. The findings regarding sleep quality, duration, and disorders were inconsistent; some studies reported improvements, while others noted worsening sleep or no changes. The most common negative impacts in autistic children and adolescents were decreased sleep quality and an increase in sleep disorders. All caregiver studies indicated significant declines in sleep quality and duration. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 lockdown adversely affected sleep patterns in many autistic children, adolescents, and their caregivers. To address these challenges during extreme circumstances such as lockdowns, strategies are needed to maintain or improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of negative sleep patterns in these populations.

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26. Yuge K, Takahashi T, Kawahara Y, Sakai Y, Sato T, Kakuma T, Nishi A, Matsuishi T, Yamashita Y. Attenuated orexinergic signaling underlies sleep-wake problems in a Mecp2-null mouse model of Rett syndrome. Neurobiol Dis;2025 (Jul 18):107035.

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder mainly caused by mutations in the X-linked gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Previous studies reported sleep problems characterized by changes in architecture and sleep-wake patterns in both RTT patients and animal models of RTT. However, little is known about the neural mechanisms underlying the sleep-wake problems in humans or animals. In this study, Mecp2-null mice showed decreased locomotor activity during the dark period of light-dark conditions, but behaviorally showed no significant deficits in the photic regulation of circadian rhythms. Piezoelectric monitoring demonstrated that Mecp2-null mice slept mainly in short bouts and spent less time in long sleep bouts than their wild-type littermates. Electroencephalographic analysis revealed that Mecp2-null mice had very short, frequent periods of sleep during the dark period, indicating frequent state transitions between wakefulness and non-REM sleep during the dark period. Greater numbers of short sleep bouts during the dark period than during the light period could indicate that Mecp2-null mice spent more time napping during their typically active period. MeCP2 deficiency affected the expression of several neuromodulator genes in hypothalamic regions. Specifically, the expression of hypocretin/orexin receptor (Hcrtr) 1 and 2 genes were significantly lower in several brain regions of Mecp2-null mice, and these mice exhibited attenuated hypocretin/orexin receptor signaling in in vivo microdialysis studies of hypocretin/orexin receptor agonist YNT-185. These results indicate disturbance of the hypocretin/orexin system in Mecp2-null mice, which might cause sleep-wake problems such as increased somnolence in the active phase.

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27. Zhang W, Reszka S, Johnson KR. Exploring the Impact of Insurance Gaps on Healthcare Burden for Autistic Children. J Autism Dev Disord;2025 (Jul 18)

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between health insurance gaps, health care experience ratings, and the financial burden of self-payment for medical expenses among autistic children in the U.S. Using secondary data from the 2010-2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, multivariable regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between health insurance gaps and key outcomes: healthcare experience ratings over the past year and the percentage of medical expenses paid out-of-pocket. Autistic children with insurance gaps reported significantly lower satisfaction ratings for health care than autistic children without insurance gaps, with an estimated difference of -0.153 (p <.0001); the proportion of self-pay for children with insurance gaps was significantly higher compared to children without insurance gaps, with an estimated difference of 0.092 (p <.0001).. A health insurance gap significantly influences both the perceived quality of health care and the financial responsibility borne by families of autistic children. These findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to address differences in health care access and affordability.

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