1. AlShaban F, Fombonne É, Ghazal I, Al-Faraj F, Aqel S, Thompson IR, Al-Shammari H, El-Hag S, Nasir B. Exploring the Association Between Parental Age and Autism Spectrum Disorder Risk in Qatar. J Autism Dev Disord;2026 (Jan 5)

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2. Andresen J, Jeppesen ACE, Due AS, Mariegaard LS, Parvaiz R, Hjorthøj C, Pinkham AE, Nordentoft M, Letnar G, Jepsen JRM, Glenthøj LB. The Effect of Virtual Reality-Based Social Cognitive Training for Autistic Adults: Protocol for STEPS (Social Cognitive Training Enhancing Pro-Functional Skills) Randomized Clinical Trial. JMIR Res Protoc;2026 (Jan 5);15:e72854.

BACKGROUND: Autistic adults constitute a growing and largely overlooked population with limited clinical and research resources. Social cognitive impairments are key deficits faced by this population, significantly impacting social interactions, educational and vocational functioning, and quality of life. Interventions targeting social cognition in autistic adults have shown promising results. Recent studies investigating the effect of virtual reality (VR)-based interventions for autistic adults have provided preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility and effectiveness of using this innovative technology. These studies indicate that VR interventions can enhance functional and social skills and improve specific neurocognitive and social cognitive functions. However, large-scale randomized clinical trials are urgently needed to fully assess the effectiveness of VR-based interventions for autistic adults. OBJECTIVE: This protocol aims to provide a comprehensive description of the design and methodology of the STEPS (Social Cognitive Training Enhancing Pro-Functional Skills) trial. METHODS: STEPS is a clinical, randomized, assessor-blinded, parallel-group superiority trial. A total of 140 participants will be allocated to receive either virtual reality-based social cognitive training (VRSCT) + treatment as usual (TAU) or TAU alone. The experimental group will receive 12 weekly 1-hour sessions of VRSCT, aiming at improving psychosocial functioning and social cognition through exposure to virtual social environments. The intervention comprises 3 core modules, namely emotions, social understanding, and complex social interactions. The exact content and duration of TAU received by each participant will be mapped and documented upon trial completion. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, at cessation of the intervention (3 months post baseline), and at 6 months post baseline. RESULTS: Participant enrollment began in May 2024. As of February 2025 (initial manuscript submission), 34 participants had been enrolled, increasing to 97 participants as of December 2025. Completion of enrollment is expected in April 2026. Data analysis is expected to begin in October 2026 following the final 6-month follow-up assessment. Results are anticipated in December 2026 and will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, STEPS is the hitherto largest randomized clinical trial globally investigating the effect of VRSCT for autistic adults. The results of this innovative intervention approach may significantly advance research in the field of autism. VRSCT holds potential to improve psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and co-occurring clinical symptoms, and to reduce social cognitive deficits in autistic adults. Establishing evidence-based interventions is crucial for addressing the debilitating psychosocial challenges faced by this population, especially considering the absence of established gold-standard treatments.

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3. Arnold DR, Reddy M, Cantor J, McBain RK, Yu H, Whaley CM, Singh Y. Private Equity in Autism Services. JAMA Pediatr;2026 (Jan 5)

This economic evaluation reports the number of therapeutic services for autism spectrum disorder that were acquired by private equity companies between 2015 and 2024. eng

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4. Chatterjee D, Maparu K. CHD8 dysregulation in neurodevelopment: Emerging insights into autism pathophysiology. Int J Biol Macromol;2026 (Jan 2);340(Pt 1):149985.

Autism is considered a multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition, marked by impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours. Recent genetic research has highlighted mutations in the CHD8 (Chromodomain Helicase DNA-binding Protein 8) gene as one of the most significant risk factors associated with ASD. CHD8 encodes a chromatin remodeler protein that regulates gene expression by altering chromatin accessibility. This review aims to comprehensively review current findings on CHD8 mutations, with a focus on the gene’s role in brain development, synaptic function, and ASD-related phenotypes. Previous studies have reported that CHD8 haploinsufficiency leads to altered transcriptional regulation of key neurodevelopmental genes, disrupted synaptic plasticity, and ASD-like behaviours in animal models. These results align with human genetic studies that link CHD8 mutations to macrocephaly, intellectual disability, and social deficits in ASD patients. Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which CHD8 mutations contribute to ASD can provide insights into the broader genetic architecture of the disorder and pave the way for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. This review highlights the importance of CHD8 in neurodevelopment and emphasizes the potential of precision medicine approaches for addressing ASD-associated genetic mutations.

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5. Chen X, Peng J, Zhang Z, Song Q, Li D, Zhai G, Fu W, Shu Z. Constructing a Predictive Model for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Based on Whole-Brain MR Radiomics: A Machine Learning Study. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol;2026 (Jan 5);47(1):109-116.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Current autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis depends on subjective behavioral assessments causing delays and variability. Structural MRI shows brain abnormalities but traditional analysis lacks sensitivity. This study aims to construct a prediction model based on whole-brain imaging radiomics analysis by using machine learning for identifying children with ASD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study used imaging and clinical data from 223 subjects in the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange database, including 120 patients diagnosed with ASD. These data were randomly divided into training and test sets in a 7:3 ratio. An independent external test set comprising 87 participants (38 with ASD) from the Georgetown University and University of Miami ASD data set was also utilized. Then, quantitative radiomics features of white matter, gray matter, and CSF were extracted from the whole-brain MR structural images of each subject, and feature dimensionality reduction was performed based on the training set data to construct radiomics signature. Afterward, multivariate logistic regression was used to screen independent predictors of ASD from clinical features and then, combined with radiomics signature, multiple machine learning models were constructed to predict ASD. Finally, the optimal model was selected, and the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the training, test, and external test sets data. Simultaneously, the model divides the data set into low-risk and high-risk subgroups, comparing the actual number of individuals with ASD between the 2 subgroups to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the model. RESULTS: The areas under the curve (AUCs) of radiomics markers in the training set, test set, and external test set were 0.78 (95% CI, 0.71-0.85), 0.75 (95% CI, 0.67-0.83), and 0.74 (95% CI, 0.64-0.83), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression showed that the Verbal Intelligence Quotient (VIQ) was a predictor of ASD. The joint model constructed by the decision tree algorithm with radiomics markers performed best, with AUC of 0.87 (95% CI, 0.81-0.92), 0.84 (95% CI, 0.76-0.91), and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.74-0.91), a sensitivity of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.82-0.95), 0.84 (95% CI, 0.73-0.93), and 0.86 (95% CI, 0.72-0.96), and the specificity of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.60-0.79), 0.63 (95% CI, 0.52-0.74), and 0.66 (95% CI, 0.49-0.80), respectively. The low-risk subgroup and high-risk subgroup classified according to the cutoff value of 0.4285 of the model showed statistically significant differences in the actual number of patients with ASD in the training set (χ(2) = 21.325; P < .05), the test set (χ(2) = 5.379; P < .05), and the external test set (χ(2) = 21.52; P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Radiomics signature for identifying ASD can be constructed based on whole-brain MRI imaging features. The performance of identifying ASD can be improved by adding VIQ data and the decision tree algorithm model, which can provide an adaptive strategy for clinical practice.

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6. Dana B, Elkana K, Ariela H, Matitiahu B, Ilia B, Eli H, Inbar H, Mirit L, Danel W, David M, Liron S, Orit S. CBD-Rich Cannabis Therapy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder May Improve Symptoms of Hyperactivity and Attention Deficit: An Open-Label Study. Curr Neuropharmacol;2026 (Jan 5)

INTRODUCTION: Medical cannabis has gained growing attention as a potential treatment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), particularly in cases where conventional pharmacological approaches have proven ineffective. Emerging evidence suggests that cannabinoid-based therapies may alleviate Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) related symptoms in children with ASD. The objective of this study is to evaluate changes in ADHD symptoms over six months of treatment with a CBD-rich cannabis oil, using the Conners’ Teacher Rating Scale as the assessment tool. METHODS: This was a prospective, single-arm, open-label study conducted at a single center. A total of 109 children and young adults diagnosed with ASD and ADHD symptoms were recruited between November 2019 and April 2021. Of these, 53 participants were assessed by their schoolteachers using the Conners’ Teacher Rating Scale (CTRS) questionnaire, both before and after a three- to sixmonth treatment period with a CBD-rich, cannabis oil-based product. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment to measure cannabinoid levels, including CBD, 6-OH-CBD, 7-COOHCBD, and 7-OH-CBD. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in the following categories: anxious-shyness, perfectionism, ADHD index, emotional lability, and hyperactivity-impulsivity (p < 0.001). Additional trends toward improvement were identified in oppositional behavior (p = 0.009), cognitive inattention (p = 0.009), hyperactivity (p = 0.006), the Conners' Global Index (p = 0.007), and DSM-IV inattention scores (p = 0.003). No significant correlations were found between cannabinoid dosage or blood levels and changes in CTRS scores, except for emotional lability, where higher CBD concentrations were predictive of greater symptom improvement. DISCUSSION: This is the first prospective study to evaluate the effects of CBD-rich cannabis on ADHD symptoms in children with ASD using standardized teacher-based Assessments (CTRS). The findings indicate improvements in core behavioral domains. While previous studies have focused primarily on parent-reported outcomes or small-scale trials, our results support emerging evidence on the role of cannabinoids in modulating attention and emotional regulation. The main limitations of the study were its open-label design. CONCLUSION: CBD-rich cannabis oil may reduce ADHD symptoms in children with ASD. These findings support the need for future clinical trials to validate efficacy and determine optimal dosing.

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7. Ferreira de Oliveira K, Cardoso AA, Pinheiro Silva M, Magalhães LC. Relationship Between Social Communication, Sensory Processing, and Daily Living Skills in Young Children with Autism. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr;2026 (Jan 5):1-17.

BACKGROUND: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulties in social communication and sensory processing. This study examined how these challenges affect daily living activities (ADLs) in young children with ASD. METHODS: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, we assessed 60 Brazilian children aged 3-5 years with ASD. The primary outcome, ADL performance, was assessed using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory – Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT/ADL). The Autism Classification System of Functioning: Social Communication (ACSF:SC) and the Sensory Profile, Second Edition (SP2), were employed to examine the influence of social communication abilities and sensory processing on ADL performance. We used correlation and regression analyses to identify interrelationships. FINDINGS: While most children scored within age-expected values on the PEDI-CAT, only a few (8/13.3%) scored within the typical range on the SP2. Regression analysis revealed that while ACSF:SC-performance, age, and gender significantly influenced the PEDI-CAT score (p < .001), sensory processing did not. CONCLUSION: The importance of social communication for daily activities was reaffirmed. While functional performance declined with age, sensory processing issues did not affect daily function in young children with ASD. Cultural expectations may have influenced parents' ratings of ADLs, especially for girls. Longitudinal cross-cultural studies are needed to clarify gender and sensory processing roles in daily functioning of children with ASD.

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8. Friedman C. The direct support professional (DSP) workforce as a social determinant of health of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Disabil Health J;2025 (Dec 23):102023.

BACKGROUND: Direct support professionals (DSPs) play a key role in supporting the health and quality of life of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Despite the importance of their roles, the DSP workforce also represents a major threat to the health and quality of life of people with IDD due to the instability of the workforce, and the consequences of this instability. OBJECTIVE: We theorize and purport that the status, availability, and quality of the DSP workforce should be considered a social determinant of health of people with IDD. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the relationship between DSP turnover, and people with IDD’s health and social determinants of health-related outcomes. METHODS: We analyzed secondary Personal Outcome Measures (POM) data from 5457 people with IDD (January 2018 and December 2024) using descriptive statistics, binary logistic regressions, and negative binomial regression models. RESULTS: People with IDD who experienced DSP turnover were significantly less likely to have health outcomes present, and to receive person-centered health supports (odds ratios ranged from 0.50 to 0.77). People with IDD who experienced DSP turnover also had a 19.10 % decrease in other social determinants of health-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The harms of an unstable DSP workforce can be two-fold, in that it both directly negatively impacts people with IDD’s health outcomes and health services, and it negatively impacts other areas of people with IDD’s lives that also serve as social determinants of health, which also go on to hinder people with IDD’s health.

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9. Han T, Zhang CM, Liu XL, Jin Y, Song C, Wang ZP. Internal and external factors related to anxiety and depression in parents of children with autism: the significance of psychological resilience. BMC Public Health;2026 (Jan 5)

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10. Hou W, Zhang L, Li J. Sensorimotor synchronization in children with autism spectrum disorder: The role of timing and modality. Psychon Bull Rev;2026 (Jan 5);33(1):29.

Impaired sensorimotor synchronization is observed in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet the underlying mechanism of this impairment remains unclear. The current study investigated the impact of the inter-stimulus interval and the modality of stimulus on synchronization performance in children with ASD. Twenty-one high-functioning children with ASD and 21 typically developing (TD) children participated in a finger-tapping task. There were no significant group differences in age, gender, or IQ. Results showed that children with ASD exhibited greater asynchrony at longer time intervals and lower efficiency in multisensory integration compared to TD children. Notably, children with ASD were able to benefit from multisensory cues to improve their sensorimotor synchronization at longer intervals. Children’s synchronization performance was correlated with total IQ, fluid reasoning, and visual spatial ability. These findings shed light on the underlying mechanism of atypical synchronization in children with ASD and provide a new avenue for developing targeted training on sensorimotor synchronization for children with ASD.

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11. Kebede SA, Williams K, Alshawsh MA, Brignell A. Global Prevalence of Children With Complex Communication Needs With or Without Autism or Intellectual Disability: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Lang Commun Disord;2026 (Jan-Feb);61(1):e70180.

BACKGROUND: Children with complex communication needs (CCN) are those who have profound language difficulties or do not use spoken language as their primary means of communication. Having CCN can lead to difficulty accessing and participating in everyday activities. AIMS: This systematic review aims to estimate the global prevalence of CCN among children with or without autism or intellectual disability (ID). METHODS AND PROCEDURES: We will include observational (cross-sectional or longitudinal) studies that have reported the prevalence of CCN among children without acquired or physical conditions. Populations, including children, can have (1) no co-occurring conditions or (2) autism or ID. This protocol for a systematic review has been developed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis for Protocols (PRISMA-P) guideline. Studies published in all languages will be searched in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, ProQuest central, CINAHL, Scopus and through grey literature searches. Retrieved records will be independently screened by two authors, and relevant data will be independently extracted. Random effects model will be fitted to obtain an overall prevalence estimate. Interstudy heterogeneity will be assessed using the I(2) statistic and explored through subgroup analysis. Egger’s test and visual inspection of the funnel plot will be used to assess publication bias. Quality appraisal of each included study will be performed independently by two authors using Hoy risk of bias tool, and overall quality of evidence will be assessed using GRADEpro. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: The findings will provide a global estimate of the prevalence of CCN and a description of the prevalence for different settings or clinical subgroups. This information is needed to optimise resource allocation for assessment and intervention, and to direct future research to fill knowledge gaps, if identified. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject Children with CCN are variably described as minimally verbal (MV), nonspeaking or nonverbal (NV). Few prevalence studies have included children with CCN, including studies of autistic children. The reported prevalence of CCN in children varies widely due to the use of different definitions and study exclusions. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge This paper provides a protocol for the first systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the global prevalence of CCN in children with and without commonly associated diagnoses. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? Global and up-to-date prevalence estimates are essential for allocating adequate resources and services for children with CCN and their family. Additionally, determining prevalence direct future research to fill knowledge gaps, if identified.

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12. Kritsotakis G, Morfidi E. Unraveling nonliteral meaning: Figurative competence in autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia. Res Dev Disabil;2026 (Jan 5);169:105187.

The aim of the current study was to examine figurative competence among upper-elementary Greek-speaking children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and dyslexia compared to typically developing (TD) peers, with a specific focus on how structural language skills (i.e., receptive vocabulary and morphosyntax), nonlinguistic factors (i.e., chronological age and nonverbal reasoning ability), and reading comprehension (RC) contribute to figurative language understanding. A total of 105 children (35 per group; M = 10.5 years, SD = 1), matched for age, gender, and nonverbal reasoning ability had participated. Results indicated that both clinical samples performed significantly lower than TD controls on the figurative language comprehension task, regardless of figurative type, with no statistically significant differences observed between the ASD and Dyslexia groups. Proverbs were consistently more challenging than idioms across all participants, a disparity especially marked in those with neurodevelopmental conditions. In addition, both groups demonstrated reduced performance in reading comprehension relative to their TD peers. While structural language deficits were evident among participants with ASD and dyslexia, the ASD group displayed a more heterogeneous profile, showing comparatively milder impairments. Regression analyses showed distinct predictive patterns: in the TD group, figurative competence was positively associated with age and RC, whereas in both target groups, morphosyntactic ability emerged as the primary predictor. These findings underscore the persistent difficulties figurative language poses for children with ASD and dyslexia and highlight the role of structural language skills, particularly morphosyntactic ability, in supporting nonliteral understanding. Implications for educational assessment and intervention practices are also discussed.

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13. Lee J, Schwichtenberg AJ, Spratling R. Sleep in Children With Developmental Disabilities: How Can Videosomnography Inform Intervention?. J Pediatr Health Care;2026 (Jan 5)

INTRODUCTION: Sleep problem treatments are commonly used by families raising children with developmental disabilities (DD). However, intervention targets often build exclusively on parent reports which can include inherent biases or missing information. To inform sleep intervention targets in this population, the present study explored using videosomnography-a video-based sleep assessment method. METHODS: This qualitative descriptive study observed nine school-aged children (M age = 10 years, majority African American boys) with DD for 7-consecutive nights. Videos captured sleep-wake behaviors, caregiver-child interactions, and environmental factors. Thematic analysis identified themes/intervention targets. RESULTS: Three themes emerged: (1) « children are active and awake when they should be asleep »; (2) « mothers engaged in various caregiving and nighttime activities, » including co-sleeping; and (3) « poor sleep hygiene and environment, » which did not meet clinical recommendations. DISCUSSION: Videosomnography provided unique insights into sleep behaviors, nighttime parenting, and sleep environments, highlighting intervention targets to improve sleep in children with DD.

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14. Li M, Meng ZY, Li Q, Yang JT, Min KY, Hu ZM. Autism Spectrum Disorders in China: An Analysis of Temporal Trends in Prevalence, Incidence, and DALYs (1990-2021) Based on GBD 2021 Data. Chin Med Sci J;2025 (Dec 31);40(4):282-294.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the temporal trends in the prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in China from 1990 to 2021 and to project the future burden to 2036. METHODS: Data were sourced from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 provided by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). Join-point regression was applied to estimate the annual percentage change (APC) of prevalence, incidence, and DALYs. Age-period-cohort analysis was used to assess the effects of age, period, and cohort. Decomposition analysis quantified the contributions of population growth, demographic aging, and epidemiological changes. An AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was employed for projections to 2036. RESULTS: Between 1990 and 2021, the average annual percentage change (AAPC) was 0.22% (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 0.20%-0.24%) for prevalence, -0.07% (95% UI: -0.14%-0.28%) for incidence, and 0.23% (95% UI: 0.21%-0.25%) for DALYs. ASD prevalence and DALYs peaked in children aged 0-5 years and declined after age 60. Rising prevalence and DALYs were mainly attributable to population growth (89.7% and 95.2%) and epidemiological changes (32.6% and 36.2%), while aging offset growth (-22.4% and -16.0%). Projections indicated stable age-standardized incidence for both sexes but divergent prevalence trends, with rates increasing among males and decreasing among females. CONCLUSIONS: The ASD burden in China is rising, largely driven by demographic and epidemiological dynamics, with young children and males being the most affected groups. Prioritizing early detection and gender-sensitive interventions are recommended.

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15. Liang H, Wu C, Duncan M, Simpson L, Smith A, Harrold K, Pearman Z, Warren A, Shavel-Jessop S, Murphy T, Heyman I, Evans S, Catanzano M. Autism in children and young people with functional tic-like behaviours: a retrospective cross-sectional study. Arch Dis Child;2026 (Jan 5)

BACKGROUND: Functional tic-like behaviours (FTLB) are characterised by multiple, complex, vocal and/or motor tics, typically with adolescent onset. Emerging research highlights neurodevelopmental conditions as vulnerability markers for FTLB development, yet no studies have specifically studied this subgroup. This study (1) investigates the prevalence of autism in young people with FTLB, (2) compares demographic and clinical features between patients with FTLB with and without autism and (3) examines the diagnostic accuracy of the Development and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA) in identifying autism in this patient group. METHODS: The study comprised 63 children presenting to the Great Ormond Street Hospital Tic Service between August 2020 and May 2022 with an FTLB diagnosis. Demographic and clinical variables were determined through retrospective chart review. RESULTS: In the FTLB sample, 69.8% were diagnosed with autism and 37% had Tourette syndrome, both much higher than in the general population. Results indicated that young people with FTLB with and without autism have similar rates of reported impairment, as measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, but those with autism had higher rates of co-occurring attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, 61%) and specific learning disorders (27%). The DAWBA demonstrated poor sensitivity (ranging from 0.09 to 0.26) in predicting likelihood of autism in this group. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high prevalence of autism in patients with FTLB. Those with FTLB and autism may be more likely to have ADHD and specific learning disorder compared with those with FTLB alone. Better clinical screening for autism is essential in patients with FTLB as DAWBA is insufficient.

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16. Lin B, Zhu Z, Yang X, Li Z, Zhou H, Luo M, Guan J, Zou Y, Chen H, Zhuang Z, Meng S, Li W, Yang Q, Dai D. Protocol for the efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation in children with autism spectrum disorder: a prospective single-center, single-arm interventional study. Front Pediatr;2025;13:1660773.

BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting 0.7% of children globally, with 90% experiencing comorbid gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) may modulate ASD symptoms via the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA). METHODS: This open-label single-arm trial enrolls 30 children (2-12 years) with moderate-to-severe ASD, defined as a Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) score of ≥36. Participants receive 3 nasojejunal FMTs (5 mL/kg) over 5 days. The primary outcomes are GI symptom improvement, assessed using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), and ASD severity, assessed using the CARS. Secondary outcomes include social responsiveness (Social Responsiveness Scale, SRS), aberrant behaviors (Aberrant Behavior Checklist, ABC), and gut microbiota changes assessed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval obtained from Shenzhen Children’s Hospital Ethics Committee. Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.Clinical Trial Registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=229136, identifier ChiCTR2400083998. Registered on 2024-05-08. Registered title: « Efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation in treatment of autism spectrum disorder: a prospective single-center intervention study ».

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17. Liu D, Wei Z, Maurer U, Chung KKH, Datu JAD, Fern-Pollak L, Wydell T, Tso WW, Sun F, Luo L, Wang LC, Yum YN, Xu G, Li S. Profiling Chinese children with symptoms of SpLD, ADHD, or ASD: a transdiagnostic and biopsychosocial study. BMC Psychiatry;2026 (Jan 5)

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18. López C, Rubilar P, Muñoz MP, Hirmas-Adauy M, Iglesias V. Arsenic Exposure and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children: A Cross‑Sectional Study. Ann Glob Health;2025;91(1):90.

Introduction: Arsenic exposure has been identified as a possible risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). In Arica, research has been conducted to relate arsenic exposure to the prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, highlighting the need to explore other events, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this study aimed to evaluate the association between current urinary arsenic concentration and the prevalence of NDDs in children from Arica. Methods: A cross‑sectional study was conducted using secondary data from the FONIS project #SA22I0119. The sample consists of 450 children born between 2013 and 2016. The outcome variable, diagnosis of NDDs, was measured through parent self‑reporting. The exposure variable corresponds to the current concentration of urinary inorganic arsenic, corrected by creatinine. A logistic regression model adjusted for confounding variables was used. Results: According to parent self‑report, the prevalence of ADHD was 9.1%, ASD 5.3%, and NDDs 12%. The mean urinary inorganic arsenic concentration was 19.8 μg/g creatinine, and 7.6% of the children had levels ≥35 μg/g creatinine. After adjusting for tutors’ education, number of household members, sex, and indigenous origin, those children with urinary arsenic ≥ 35 μg/g creatinine were more likely to present some NDDs (OR: 2.93; 95% CI 1.11, 7.75). For ADHD, the association was also elevated (OR = 3.85; 95% CI 1.44, 10.29). Conclusion: The findings suggest an association between arsenic exposure and the prevalence of NDDs in children. These results contribute to the evidence of arsenic’s effect on the neurodevelopment of the child population.

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19. Matsumoto Y, Kawabe K, Horiuchi F, Jogamoto T, Hosokawa R, Nakachi K, Soga J, Inoue S, Kusunoki M, Eguchi M, Ueno SI. Factors associated with suicidal ideation in junior high school students with autism spectrum disorder in Japan: A cross-sectional observational study. PCN Rep;2026 (Mar);5(1):e70272.

AIM: Suicide is a leading cause of death among adolescents. Several studies have reported higher suicidal ideation (SI) rates in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than in those without ASD; however, risk factors for SI remain unclear, especially among adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to SI among junior high school students with ASD in Japan. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study of junior high school students who visited the Center for Child Health, Behavior, and Development, Ehime University Hospital. Medical records from April 2015 to March 2022 were examined. Participants completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and General Health Questionnaire 30 (GHQ30), while their parents completed the Autism Screening Questionnaire, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale, and Social Responsiveness Scale. SI was assessed using item 28 of the GHQ30: « make away with yourself. » Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed with SI as the dependent variable. RESULTS: Participants were categorized into ASD (n = 84) and non-ASD (n = 166) groups. The prevalence of SI was similar in both groups (p = 0.478). In the ASD group, multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the SDQ subscales « Peer Problems » and « Emotional Symptoms » were significantly associated with SI (odds ratio [OR]: 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-2.19, OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.14-1.83). CONCLUSION: Approximately 40% of junior high school psychiatric outpatients had SI, irrespective of autistic tendencies. Our study suggests the importance of enhancing peer connectedness among students with ASD who experience SI.

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20. Nair G, Adhikary S, Harshitha P, Aluru P, Dsouza HS. Lead-induced neurotoxic effects on the synaptic signalling pathways and its association with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Int J Environ Health Res;2026 (Jan 4):1-16.

Lead is a toxic heavy metal that poses significant health risks, which include neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This review examines the effects of lead neurotoxicity on synaptic pathways which are relatively unexplored and their potential role in the development of ASD. Lead exposure occurs through various environmental sources, including contaminated water, soil, paint, and industrial appliances. Once absorbed, lead accumulates in soft tissues and bones, causes prolonged neurological damage, especially in children. ASD is characterised by impaired communication, repetitive behaviours, and cognitive challenges, with increasing evidence linking environmental factors like heavy metal exposure to its onset. Synaptic signalling disruption is a key aspect of ASD and lead interferes with the synaptic pathways by inhibiting calcium influx, leading to cognitive impairments and memory issues. This review is an overview of the previously reported findings that explains the role of lead in reducing N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) function, disrupting the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathway, and impairing Wnt, GABAergic and dopaminergic signalling pathways. These alterations result in cognitive decline, impaired synaptic plasticity and increased ASD symptoms. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of lead exposure on neurodevelopment.

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21. Pan Z, Liu X, Wen X, Wu K, Zhu D. Sports drinks improve bowel preparation compliance and quality in autistic children: A randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr;2026 (Jan 4)

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether sports drinks as polyethylene glycol (PEG) solvent improve compliance, bowel preparation, and acceptability in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS: In this randomized trial, 60 ASD children (30 per group) received PEG in sports drinks (experimental) or water (control). Outcomes included compliance, Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS) scores, need for enemas, safety (glucose and electrolytes), adverse events, and caregiver-reported tolerance. RESULTS: The sports drink group had higher compliance (83.3% vs. 60.0%, relative risk [RR]:1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00-1.94, p = 0.045), reaching borderline statistical significance, as well as better BBPS (7.5 ± 0.8 vs. 6.0 ± 1.0, p < 0.05), and more adequate preparation (96.7% vs. 66.7%, RR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.12-1.88, p = 0.003). They required fewer enemas (6.7% vs. 26.7%, RR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.06-1.08, p = 0.038) and had fewer adverse events (10.0% vs. 33.3%, RR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.09-0.98, p = 0.028). No concerning side effects were observed, and blood glucose and electrolyte levels remained within normal ranges. Caregiver tolerance scores were higher (median 8 vs. 6, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Sports drinks as PEG solvent significantly enhance compliance, bowel preparation, and acceptability in ASD children without safety concerns, offering a practical child-friendly strategy.

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22. Procopiou G, Jackson PJM, di Mascio D, Auer JL, Andriollo P, Pysz-Hosey I, Mantaj J, Rahman KM, Fox KR, Thurston DE. Synthesis, SAR, and biophysical mechanism of action of cyclopropabenzindole-pyridinobenzodiazepine (CBI-PDD) guanine-adenine DNA cross-linking agents. Eur J Med Chem;2026 (Jan 5);301:118196.

This study investigates the Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) and biophysical mechanism of action of a series of novel Cyclopropabenzindole-Pyridinobenzodiazepine (CBI-PDD) agents designed to alkylate adenine and guanine bases in the DNA minor groove. A library of 18 analogs was synthesized using a modular approach to vary linker length, rigidity and the CBI and PDD core structures. Structural modifications included alkyl, aromatic, heteroaromatic and sterically constrained linkers, as well as prodrug variants. Several compounds demonstrated potent in vitro cytotoxicity, with lead analogs achieving IC(50) values in the low picomolar range across multiple human tumor cell lines. Control compounds with inactivated electrophilic groups in either or both pharmacophores showed markedly reduced activity, confirming the necessity of dual alkylation for optimal cytotoxic potency. Fluorescence-based thermal denaturation (ΔT(m) up to 34 °C) and gel-based assays were used to assess DNA binding and provide mechanistic insights into the DNA sequence requirements for mono-alkylation and interstrand cross-linking. The study also includes a scalable synthesis of a linker-payload construct suitable for Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) applications based on these agents. Overall, these findings support the use of CBI-PDDs as a promising class of sequence-selective DNA cross-linking agents for targeted cancer therapies.

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23. Rahmati Y, Jarrold C. Concurrent measurement of working memory and inhibitory control and their correlations with autistic and ADHD traits in the general population. PLoS One;2026;21(1):e0339846.

Executive function can be defined as the combination of goal representation in working memory and the inhibition of goal-irrelevant responses. This paper comprises two complementary studies that assess these core components of executive function orthogonally and examine their correlation with ASD and ADHD traits in the general population. Both studies utilized a paradigm with two tasks, each assessing working memory and one type of inhibitory control concurrently: the modified flanker task, which measured working memory and interference control, and the modified spatial conflict task, which measured working memory and response inhibition. The aim was to explore the main effects of memory and inhibitory load in each task, investigate potential over-additive interactions between executive function components, and examine the correlations between autistic and ADHD traits and task performance. Each study involved 100 neurotypical adult participants. In Study 1, results showed that reaction time in the flanker task was significantly influenced by demands on both working memory and inhibitory control, whereas in the spatial conflict task only the inhibitory manipulation produced the expected effect. Study 2 introduced modifications that revealed effects on reaction time in the spatial conflict task due to both memory and congruency load. The flanker task demonstrated memory effects in reaction time, but congruency effects were only evident under low memory conditions. No interactions between executive function components in an over-additive way were observed in either Study 1 or Study 2. Bayesian linear regression and correlation analyses found evidence against any meaningful correlations between the size of the congruency or memory effect, computed for any dependent variable and ASC or ADHD traits in both studies.

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24. Russell ISB, Perreault ML. Missing the pattern: Pathogenic structural considerations in the maternal immune signature and autism risk. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev;2025 (Dec 31);87:124-127.

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25. Sandboge S, Seppälä V, Lintula S, Holmlund-Suila E, Hauta-Alus H, Kajantie E, Mäkitie O, Andersson S, Räikkönen K, Heinonen K. Vitamin D supplementation in the first 2 years and autism spectrum traits at 6-8 years – a randomized clinical trial. J Child Psychol Psychiatry;2026 (Jan 5)

BACKGROUND: Early life vitamin D levels may be associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related traits, but causality is unknown. We examine whether higher-than-standard vitamin D(3) supplementation during the first 2 years, as well as higher pregnancy and childhood 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and their trajectories, are associated with lower ASD trait scores at ages 6-8 years in a non-clinical cohort. METHODS: This secondary analysis of the double-blind randomized clinical trial vitamin D intervention in infants (VIDI) comprised 366 Finnish children aged 6-8 years, 177 of whom were randomized to receive 400-IU and 189 to receive 1,200-IU daily oral vitamin D(3) supplementation between ages 2 weeks and 2 years. ASD-related traits were assessed at mean age 7.2 years (SD 0.4) using the parent-reported Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ). Predictor variables were supplementation group, 25(OH)D concentrations measured during pregnancy and at ages 1 and 2 years, as well as 25(OH)D trajectories (high vs. low) derived from these time points. RESULTS: None of the predictor variables of interest were associated with the outcome in the full sample. After sex stratification, among boys, 25(OH)D concentrations at 1 and 2 years were inversely associated with ASSQ scores (mean difference -0.2 of normalized SD score (95% CI -0.3 to -0.1, p = .003) and -0.2 (95% CI -0.3 to -0.05, p = .01) per 10 ng/mL 25(OH)D) after adjustment for age, breastfeeding, parental education, maternal depressive symptoms, and season of 25(OH)D assessment as was belonging to the higher 25(OH)D trajectory, -0.45 SD (95% CI -0.79 to -0.10, p = .01). CONCLUSIONS: We found no indication that higher-than-normal vitamin D(3) supplementation between ages 0 and 2 years decreases ASD-related trait scores at ages 6-8 years. Sex-stratified analysis suggested an inverse association, among boys, between early life 25(OH)D concentrations and ASD-related traits, warranting further studies on potential causal direction and sex specificity of associations.

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26. Wan L, Wu Y, Tang Y, Guo X, Sun L, He Q. Pressure and coping strategies of caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder in rural areas: a qualitative study. Sci Rep;2026 (Jan 5)

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27. Wang B, Ahmed A, Murari K, Cheng N. Alterations in electroencephalography signals in female fragile X syndrome mouse model on a C57BL/6J background. Physiol Behav;2026 (Jan 5);306:115217.

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder, exhibits sex differences in prevalence and phenotypic severity. Electroencephalography provides translational insights into its pathophysiology, yet prior research focuses predominantly on males. In C57BL/6J mice, male Fmr1 knockout models show increased absolute gamma power across developmental stages, while female phenotypes, particularly in juveniles, remain uncharacterized. This study addresses this gap by comparing juvenile female Fmr1 knockout and wild-type mice. Frontal-parietal differential electroencephalography was recorded in home cage, light-dark test, and open field test. Analyses included absolute/relative power, peak alpha frequency, theta-beta ratio, phase-amplitude coupling, amplitude-amplitude coupling, and multiscale entropy. Knockout mice exhibited reduced absolute theta, alpha, and beta power across all conditions. Relative power analysis revealed decreased alpha and increased gamma activity. Phase-amplitude coupling showed diminished alpha-gamma coordination, while amplitude-amplitude coupling displayed state-dependent alterations. Peak alpha frequency and theta-beta ratio were reduced or unchanged depending on condition. Signal complexity remained comparable between genotypes. Behaviorally, knockout mice demonstrated hyper-exploration in the open field test. No robust correlations emerged between electroencephalography power and behavior. Our results demonstrate that juvenile female Fmr1 KO mice on a B6 background exhibit EEG alterations highly consistent with those reported in FXS patients, particularly increased gamma and reduced alpha power. The increase in gamma activity represents a conserved biomarker of potential cortical hyperexcitability, while alpha power reductions and decreased peak alpha frequency implicate thalamocortical network involvement. Together, these findings highlight the translational value of this model for studying core circuit dysfunctions in FXS.

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28. Yıldız Bayındır B, Coskun M, Kucukgergin C, Karayagmurlu A. A case-controlled study of serum BDNF, GDNF, and NGF levels in autistic youth with and without bipolar disorder. J Affect Disord;2026 (Jan 5);399:121042.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Research on the different aspects of bipolar disorder (BD) in special populations, such as youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is limited. This case-controlled study aimed to investigate the serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and nerve growth factor (NGF) in youth with ASD with and without comorbid BD. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Forty young subjects (13.47 ± 2.89 years) diagnosed with ASD with comorbid BD were included in the case group, and 40 age/gender-matched subjects with diagnosis of ASD without any mood disorders were included in the control group. The serum levels of BDNF, GDNF, and NGF were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was used to assess ASD severity in the subjects. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Serum BDNF levels were significantly lower in the case group than in the control group (p = 0.002). No significant differences were observed in GDNF and NGF levels between the two groups (p > 0.05). The severity of ASD was significantly higher in the case group (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Low serum BDNF levels may be associated with BD comorbidity in youth with ASD. Given the difficulty in diagnosing BD in this population, serum BDNF levels may be a biomarker associated with the development/diagnosis of BD in youth with ASD. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to validate these findings.

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