1. Afsharnia S, Liang V, Lunsky Y, Orsini AP, Tint A, Lin HY. Knowledge, perceptions, and use of psychedelics for mental health among autistic adults: An online survey. PLOS Ment Health;2025;2(12):e0000514.

Psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA have shown promise in treating mental health conditions (e.g., depression, post-traumatic stress disorder) among neurotypical individuals, i.e., typically developing individuals without a diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition. However, their therapeutic potential for treating co-occurring mental-health conditions in autistic individuals remains under-explored. Autistic individuals often face co-occurring mental health challenges but are frequently excluded from clinical trials, creating a gap in effective treatments. This study aimed to explore knowledge, perceptions, and experiences of autistic adults regarding psychedelics. In this survey, « psychedelics » included classical psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD, as well as MDMA. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with English-speaking autistic adults. We assessed participants’ knowledge of psychedelics, willingness to use them for mental health treatment, and any past psychedelic experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess group differences. A total of 424 participants began the survey, with 261 completing it. Nearly half resided in Canada. Participants generally viewed psychedelics positively, with 77.8% expressing a willingness to try them, and 69.7% reported past use-most commonly psilocybin mushrooms. Higher doses and highly meaningful experiences correlated with longer-lasting mental health improvements. Barriers included legal concerns, health risks, and logistical challenges. Participants with prior experience reported greater perceived knowledge and lower perceived risks. Autistic adults in this self-selecting sample demonstrated strong interest in psychedelics as potential treatments for mental health, despite significant barriers to access and research participation. These results highlight the importance of considering education, policy reform, and inclusive research practices to ensure that autistic people have opportunities to explore psychedelic therapies. These findings should be interpreted cautiously, as the sample may not be representative of the broader autistic population. Future trials should optimize dosing and explore long-term benefits of psychedelics in this population.

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2. Akkaş Ö, Köse S, Akgün Z, Demirkilinç Biler E. Ophthalmological Findings and Their Clinical Correlations in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comparative Study. Int J Psychiatry Med;2026 (Feb 9):912174261425404.

ObjectiveAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) can affect vision both directly through central nervous system involvement and indirectly by complicating ophthalmological examinations due to limited eye contact and poor cooperation. Visual impairments may exacerbate social interaction difficulties and affect motor development in individuals with ASD. Previous studies reported ophthalmological involvement in 27-71% of children with ASD, including refractive errors, strabismus, and amblyopia. The purpose of this study was to investigate visual impairments in children with ASD and examine their relationship with ASD severity, anxiety levels, and attention disorders, while highlighting the importance of routine ophthalmological examinations.MethodParticipants were 57 children aged 7-18 years diagnosed with ASD. All except for 2 participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmological examinations and were assessed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Turgay DSM-IV-based Child and Adolescent Behavior Disorders Screening Scale (T-DSM-IV-S), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED), and Repetitive Behaviors Scale-Revised (RBS-R).ResultsVisual impairment was detected in 24 (42.1%) participants, with exotropia (21%), stereopsis deficits (15.8%), and convergence insufficiency (5.3%) being the most common findings. The visually impaired group showed significantly higher scores in attention deficit (P < .001), peer relationship problems (P = .003), social phobia (P < .001), stereotypic behaviors (P < .001), and self-injurious behaviors (P < .001) compared to those without visual impairment.ConclusionsVisual impairments significantly impact attention, peer relationships, social anxiety, and repetitive behaviors in children with ASD. Early identification and treatment of visual disorders through routine ophthalmological screening may improve overall outcomes in this population.

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3. Alanazi AO, Alshammari NF, Alsuhibani W. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Long-Term Survival in Attenuated Molybdenum Cofactor Deficiency Type A: A Case Report From Saudi Arabia. Cureus;2026 (Jan);18(1):e100887.

We report the case of an 18-year-old male with genetically confirmed molybdenum cofactor deficiency type A (MoCD-A) due to a homozygous pathogenic MOCS1 variant. He presented in infancy with hypotonia and developmental delay and experienced a generalized tonic seizure at 20 months of age, followed by long-term seizure remission. His clinical course was notable for preserved motor function, below-average cognitive ability, marked speech delay, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and prominent inattentive symptoms. Metabolic testing demonstrated elevated urinary xanthine, hypoxanthine, and S-sulfocysteine levels, supporting impaired sulfite oxidase activity. Neuroimaging revealed a small, focal hypodensity in the left basal ganglia without progressive changes. This case illustrates an attenuated phenotype of MoCD-A, with survival into adulthood and detailed neuropsychiatric characterization, expanding the recognized clinical spectrum and underscoring the importance of considering metabolic etiologies in patients with overlapping developmental and behavioral features.

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4. Ashworth E, Bray L, Hanlon C, Pavlopoulou G, Moore D, Donaghy B, Coen E, Stanway H, Firth E. « Constantly overwhelmed and desperate for help »: Parents’ experiences of supporting their autistic child with mental health difficulties in the United Kingdom. PLOS Ment Health;2025;2(9):e0000377.

Autistic children and young people are at increased risk of experiencing mental health difficulties, but often face delays or barriers to accessing support. While evidence exists regarding parents’ experiences of supporting an autistic child, there is a lack of focus on parenting autistic children who are also experiencing mental health difficulties. This is despite the high likelihood of co-occurrence, the increased complexity this can bring, and the potential impact on the parents and their children. Thus, the present study aimed to explore parents’ experiences of supporting their autistic child with mental health difficulties in the United Kingdom (UK). Mixed-methods surveys were completed by 300 parents/carers of autistic children who had previously sought help for their child’s mental health difficulties. Qualitative data were extracted from open-text questions pertaining to parents’ perceived impact of their children’s mental health difficulties on all aspects of their life. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes, along with associated subthemes, were identified, namely 1) Deteriorating parental wellbeing, 2) The knock-on effect on the whole family, and 3) A lack of support. Findings underscore the significant challenges faced by parents, as they were often left to manage their child’s deteriorating mental health without sufficient professional support. The emotional and physical toll on parents was thought to be exacerbated by long waiting times, inadequate support services, and a lack of understanding of autism within healthcare and educational systems. There is an urgent need for more neuroaffirmative, personalised approaches to supporting autistic children and their families, along with timely access to effective interventions. By ensuring earlier intervention and reducing systemic barriers, both the mental health of children and the wellbeing of their families can be significantly improved, ultimately fostering better outcomes for all involved.

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5. Bainazarova N, Zhumabayeva K, Yermukhanova G, Hajiyeva YH, Abdykerimova K, Orakbay L, Zhumageldiyeva F, Karibayeva I, Jainakbayev N. Oral hygiene and caries experience in children with down syndrome and autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Dent Med;2025;6:1726952.

INTRODUCTION: Children with Down syndrome (DS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at increased risk for oral health problems due to anatomical, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. However, evidence on their caries experience and oral hygiene remains inconsistent. This study systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed case-control and cross-sectional studies comparing oral health indices in children with DS or ASD to neurotypical peers. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar using a standardized strategy. Eligible studies included children aged 0-18 years. Pooled mean differences (MD) in Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), DMFT (decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth), dmft (primary teeth), and Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated in R using meta and metafor packages. RESULTS: Twenty-four studies were included (527 children with DS, 1,221 with ASD, 1,875 controls). For PI, children with DS had MD = 0.53 (95% CI: -0.13-1.18; I (2) = 90%) and children with ASD 0.28 (95% CI: -0.05-0.61; I (2) = 93.3%) compared to controls. GI was MD = 12.10 (95% CI: -0.14-162.92; I (2) = 99.7%) for DS and 0.33 (95% CI: -0.13-0.78; I (2) = 93.1%) for ASD. DMFT showed MD = -0.29 (95% CI: -0.97-0.39; I (2) = 54.7%) for DS and 0.29 (95% CI: -0.53-1.11; I (2) = 97.6%) for ASD. dmft was MD = -0.14 (95% CI: -0.61-0.33; I (2) = 0%) for DS and -0.33 (95% CI: -1.49-0.82; I (2) = 94.6%) for ASD. OHI-S was MD = 0.28 (95% CI: -0.92-1.47; I (2) = 92.2%) for DS and 0.31 (95% CI: -1.37-1.98; I (2) = 65.7%) for ASD. Most differences were not significant due to high heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis identified one influential study affecting PI; excluding it strengthened the effect (MD = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.17-0.70; p = 0.0047). No publication bias was detected for DMFT and dmft indices. Overall certainty of evidence was low. CONCLUSIONS: Children with DS and ASD showed no consistent differences in PI, GI, DMFT, dmft, or OHI-S scores compared to neurotypical peers. Public health strategies should focus on inclusive oral health education, provider training, and equitable access to dental services to improve outcomes for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD420251155866, identifier: CRD420251155866.

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6. Bhusal I, Regmi A, Bajracharya SL. Perceived burden and coping strategies among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder attending in tertiary hospital, Kathmandu. PLOS Ment Health;2025;2(4):e0000254.

The parents of children with autism spectrum disorder face a mountain of practical problems. Helpful coping resources enable to restore equilibrium, otherwise, parents can perceive burden. The aim of the study was to find out the perceived burden and coping strategies among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Kanti Children’s Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal among 78 parents of children with autism spectrum disorder selected by purposive sampling and interviewed using structured questionnaire. Zarit Burden Interview-22 tool was used to assess perceived burden and BRIEF COPE inventory tool was used to assess coping strategies among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 16. Frequency, mean, range and standard deviation were used to represent socio-demographic variables, clinical variables, perceived burden level and coping strategies. Chi-square test was used to find out association between socio-demographic variables and perceived burden level. Spearman rank correlation was used to find out relationship between perceived burden and coping. Mild burden was perceived by 42.3%, moderate perceived by 39.7%, severe perceived by 10.3% and no burden were perceived by 7.7%. The mean score (26.85) was higher at emotional focused coping strategies. No association was found between demographic factors and level of burden. Emotional focused coping (r = 0.288, p = 0.01) was positively correlated with overall burden.Majority of parents had mild burden while more than one third had moderate burden. The most popular coping mechanism, emotional focused, had a positive correlation with overall burden.

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7. Calipo A, Green EL, Huang I, Sobotka SA. Parents’ Perceptions of Delays and Disabilities in Their Children Requiring Invasive Mechanical Ventilation. Pediatr Pulmonol;2026 (Feb);61(2):e71481.

OBJECTIVE: To assess parents of children requiring invasive mechanical ventilation’s (IMV) perceptions of their children’s developmental delays and disabilities. METHODS: Parents of children <3 years of age who required IMV after neonatal disease were interviewed as a consecutive series from a state-wide agency (n = 20) and a ventilator clinic (n = 15). Interview topics included parents': (1) perception of their child's current developmental functioning, (2) understanding of their child's disability risks, and (3) prior conversations with providers about developmental milestones and disability risks. Interviews were coded using a modified template approach and discussed to consensus. Main and sub-themes were determined iteratively with all investigators. RESULTS: Thirty-five parents were interviewed. Themes were categorized under two topics: (1) Parents' recall of conversations with providers; (2) Parents' perspectives on developmental delays. Topic 1 themes: (1) Despite wanting information on developmental outcomes, parents report unclear expectations for delay and disability based on limited conversations; (2) Parents reported a lack of access to neurodevelopmental expertise, most often directing questions to therapists or other parents. Topic 2 themes: (1) Parents can identify specific developmental milestones and delays; (2) Parents have an idea of overall disability, sometimes attributed to specific diagnoses or medical complexity; (3) Parents are hopeful for their child's future development. CONCLUSION: Parents of children requiring IMV value honesty about disability and recall few prior conversations. Most parents can identify developmental delays yet expect catch-up. Ultimately, improving communication between providers and parents about disability risk is critical to support children requiring IMV.

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8. Chan CKY, Wong CHM, Wong PWC. Caregiver transformation and relational growth in a parent-mediated intervention for autism in Hong Kong – A qualitative study. PLOS Ment Health;2025;2(10):e0000263.

Parent-mediated interventions (PMI) have demonstrated effectiveness in supporting autistic children’s emotional regulation, social engagement, and communication. However, most research has focused on quantitative child outcomes, with limited attention to caregivers’ lived experiences, particularly within non-Western urban contexts such as Hong Kong. This study explored how a culturally adapted PMI shaped caregiving practices and parent-child relationships among Hong Kong caregivers of autistic children. Using a qualitative design, five focus groups were conducted with 22 caregivers of children diagnosed with or suspected to be on the autism spectrum. Reflexive thematic analysis identified two central themes: (1) Caregiver transformation, capturing shifts in caregivers’ mindsets, emotional regulation, reflective parenting, and interactional practices as they moved from being supporters to co-regulators; and (2) Cultivating togetherness, encompassing enhanced parent-child synergy through deeper emotional attunement, mutual responsiveness, and relational engagement. Caregivers described a shift from technical caregiving to authentic relational engagement, marked by greater sensitivity to their children’s needs and strengthened reciprocal dynamic in daily interaction. Structured guidance and individualised feedback were consistently identified as critical enablers, providing practical, context-sensitive strategies suited for small living environment. Furthermore, children were increasingly recognised as relational stakeholders rather than passive recipients of care. Some caregivers noted ripple effects, with other family members adopting supportive practices that fostered more cohesive family environments. This study provides qualitative evidence that culturally adapted PMI can encourage caregiver transformation, promote well-being, relational attunement, and developmental pathways that affirm neurodivergent identities. Findings underscore the value of inclusive, family-centred approaches that nurture mutual understanding and long-term relational well-being.

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9. Chen Y, Fu S, Sit TPH, Wynshaw-Boris A. PTEN variant and genetic backgrounds combine to modify cerebellar neuronal differentiation in autism spectrum disorder. Hum Mol Genet;2026 (Feb 9);35(2)

Mutations in the PTEN gene have been implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), particularly among individuals with comorbid macrocephaly. In our previous study, we demonstrated that the PTEN p.Ile135Leu variant, in an ASD-related genetic background dependent fashion, disrupts both cortical neurogenesis and gliogenesis. While abnormal cerebellar development is a recognized feature of ASD, the specific cellular targets and timing of disruptions during cerebellar differentiation and development remain poorly understood. To investigate these aspects, we applied our previously established cerebellar organoid protocol and used isogenic human iPSC lines harboring this PTEN-variant. We examined the expression of Purkinje cells, granule cells, interneurons, and glial cells prior to 22 weeks of differentiation, assessed genes expression at 8 weeks, and evaluated spontaneous spikes activity in Purkinje cells after 11 weeks. We observed that cell-type-specific expression patterns differed between the PTEN p.Ile135Leu variant in control versus ASD-genetic backgrounds. However, these background differences were diminished in PTEN knockout lines across both backgrounds. Our single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) dataset revealed that the PTEN p.Ile135Leu variant increased the number of interneuron progenitor cells, whereas PTEN knockout led to an expansion of meningeal-like cells in both genetic contexts. Moreover, both the PTEN p.Ile135Leu variant and PTEN knockout abolished spontaneous simple spikes activity in Purkinje cells across both backgrounds, including PTEN-corrected patient-derived lines. Together, these findings provide direct evidence linking PTEN dysfunction and genetic background to altered cerebellar differentiation and neuronal network activity in human cerebellar organoids.

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10. Conde-Pumpido-Zubizarreta S, Cruz S, Pozo-Rodríguez M, Suárez-Rama JJ, Díaz-Hernández A, Carracedo A, Tubío-Fungueiriño M, Fernández-Prieto M. The association between autism, camouflaging and anxiety with suicidal ideation in women. Front Psychol;2025;16:1685845.

INTRODUCTION: Camouflaging behaviors in women have been associated with mental health outcomes, like anxiety and suicidality but the mechanisms underlying these relationships remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the relationship between autism, camouflaging and anxiety with suicidal ideation and to investigate the possible mediating role of anxiety in the relationship between camouflaging and suicidal ideation in women. METHODS: Four hundred and seventy-one women (72 autistic, aged 18-64 years, and 399 non-autistic, aged 18-66 years) participated in this study. The Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), the General Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) and item 9 of the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) were used to assess camouflaging, anxiety and suicidal ideation, respectively. RESULTS: The results showed that autistic women scored higher than non-autistic women on all measures. In addition, anxiety, having a depression diagnosis and the assimilation strategy were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Furthermore, anxiety mediated the relationship between autism diagnosis and camouflaging with suicidal ideation. DISCUSSION: The results highlight the importance of considering anxiety in the relationship between camouflaging and suicidal ideation, particularly among autistic women, and to recognise it as a target for intervention approaches aimed at reducing the likelihood of suicidal ideation.

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11. Cooper M, Tuschick E, Giles EL, Hodgson J, Stubbs E, Barker J. Barriers and facilitators to healthcare access for adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults in England: A scoping review and meta-aggregation. J Intellect Disabil;2026 (Feb 9):17446295261422395.

Background: Adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults in England face significantly higher rates of premature mortality, 22 years earlier for those with learning disabilities and over 6 years earlier for autistic adults. Barriers to healthcare access contribute to missed diagnoses and treatments. There, the aim of this review was: What are the barriers and facilitators to healthcare appointment attendance for adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults in England? Methods: A systematic search across ten databases (March 2023; updated June 2024) identified 1,727 papers. Studies were included if they reported qualitative evidence on clinical appointment accessibility for autistic adults or adults with learning disabilities in England. Fifteen studies were included and critically appraised. Findings were synthesised using Joanna Briggs Institute meta-aggregation and interpreted through a socio-ecological lens. Findings and Conclusions: Facilitators included flexible booking systems, positive healthcare professional attitudes, and the ability to develop a positive and trusting relationship between HCPs and the person they were supporting. Barriers existed at individual, relational, organisational, and policy levels, including poor communication, inadequate appointment systems, and lack of professional knowledge. Recommendations include enhanced staff training, use of liaison nurses, flexible appointment systems, and accessible communication. Policy and structural changes are needed, though further evaluation of their impact is essential.

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12. Esler AN, Hall-Lande J, Poynter JN, Hallas L. Autism Prevalence, Co-occurring Intellectual Disability, and Support Needs Differ for Somali and Hmong Communities in Minnesota. J Autism Dev Disord;2026 (Feb 9)

PURPOSE: Previous research has documented disparities in autism prevalence and the co-occurrence of intellectual disability (ID) with autism for children from immigrant communities. The current study compared autism prevalence and co-occurrence of ID in 8-year-olds across racial/ethnic groups using data from the Minnesota site of the CDC Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, with a focus on two large racial/ethnic groups: Somali and Hmong. METHODS: Systematic review of health and educational records was performed within a defined geographic area, and data were combined from 2014 to 2016 surveillance years to obtain adequate sample sizes to compare prevalence and co-occurrence of ID across race/ethnicity. RESULTS: Somali children had a higher autism prevalence compared to Hispanic, Hmong, and non-Hmong Asian children, with prevalence ratios (PR) of 1.8, 2.1, and 2.1, respectively. Hmong children had a significantly lower autism prevalence compared to White (PR 0.6) and non-Somali Black (PR 0.7) children. Significant differences in co-occurring ID status were found by race/ethnicity. CONCLUSION: Identifying subgroups of children with higher prevalence of autism or greater co-occurring ID can inform public health policy and improve outcomes for individuals with autism and their families. Differences in prevalence and co-occurring ID by race/ethnicity may suggest barriers to service utilization.

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13. Geiser M, Guggisberg N, Convertini J, Crettol S, Ansermot N, Guinchat V. Case Report: Scurvy-a modifiable cause of psychiatric refractoriness and lithium pharmacokinetic abnormalities in autism. Front Psychiatry;2025;16:1741734.

Scurvy, although rare in developed countries, can notably occur in individuals with extreme dietary selectivity, particularly those with neurodevelopmental disorders. We describe the case of an 18-year-old woman with autism spectrum disorder and severe intellectual disability who presented with severe behavioral dysregulation and limited response to multiple psychotropic regimens. Despite progressive lithium dose escalation, serum levels remained subtherapeutic. The turning point came with the diagnosis of profound vitamin C deficiency (ascorbic acid <1 µmol/L), prompting high-dose supplementation. Within days, the patient showed rapid behavioral improvement and a marked rise in serum lithium concentrations, necessitating dose reduction. First, nutritional deficiencies-particularly scurvy-can manifest primarily through psychiatric and behavioral symptoms in vulnerable populations, often resulting in misdiagnosis and polypharmacy. Second, although still speculative, we hypothesize that vitamin C status may affect lithium pharmacokinetics. This case underscores the importance of nutritional screening in refractory psychiatric presentations, particularly in individuals with restrictive diets, and highlights a potentially underrecognized interaction between vitamin C and lithium that warrants further investigation.

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14. Hancock M, Zhang R, Brown SJ, Boyder C, Mullin S, Campbell PJ, Wilson SG, Lim EM, Whitehouse AJO, Walsh JP. Circulating thyroid hormones and metabolites in children with autism spectrum disorder. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne);2025;16:1716586.

CONTEXT: Thyroid hormones affect neurological development and function, but detailed studies of thyroid hormones and metabolites in autism are lacking. OBJECTIVE: To characterize thyroid function and metabolism in autistic children. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study compared 788 autistic children (mean age 7.6 ± 3.9 years, 78% male) with 301 non-autistic children (mean age 7.8 ± 4.0 years, 48% male; comprising 215 (71.4%) non-autistic siblings of participants and 86 (28.6%) unrelated individuals). Plasma TSH, free T4 (FT4) and free T3 (FT3) were measured by automated immunoassay, and total T4, total T3 and thyroid hormone metabolites by customized liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/MS). Regression analyses were adjusted for age and sex. RESULTS: TSH concentrations were similar in autistic and non-autistic children (median 2.3 vs 2.1 mU/L, P = 0.64). FT4 was significantly lower in autistic children (18.4 vs 18.7 pmol/L, P = 0.0003), as was FT3 (7.0 vs 7.1pmol/L, P<0.0001), with no significant difference in the FT4:FT3 ratio (P = 0.24). Total T4 was lower in autistic children (178 vs 194 nmol/L, P = 0.0026, as was total T3 (2.2 vs 2.4 nmol/L, P = 0.018), with no significant difference in the T4:T3 ratio (P = 0.099). Two metabolites were significantly lower in autistic children: 3,5-T2 (0.010 vs 0.021 nmol/L, P<0.0001) and 3,3'-T2 (0.12 vs 0.16 nmol/L, P<0.0001), whereas T0 levels were higher (1.5 vs 1.1 nmol/L, P = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS: Circulating thyroid hormones and metabolites differ between autistic and non-autistic children, although the observed differences are small. The study demonstrates the utility of LCMS/MS for in-depth characterization of thyroid hormone economy, with potentially wide applications.

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15. Lorenz-Artz K, Bierbooms J, Kneepkens M, Bongers I. Exploring Open Dialogue and autism: A qualitative client-perspective study. PLOS Ment Health;2025;2(10):e0000449.

Mental health care for people diagnosed with autism is transforming towards recovery-oriented, person-centered network care. Within this changing landscape, the Open Dialogue approach is acknowledged as a promising approach that exemplifies this transformation. Characterized by its transparent and equitable collaboration between client, their network and mental health care professionals, the Open Dialogue approach shows promise for people diagnosed with autism but also poses potential challenges, leaving uncertainty regarding its suitability. Given these potential benefits and challenges, the present study aims to explore how clients diagnosed with autism experience the Open Dialogue approach firsthand. This qualitative study explores how 12 participants diagnosed with autism experienced the OD approach at a specialized mental health care center for autism. The study employs six in-depth interviews and two focus groups, utilizing a hybrid analysis approach that combines both inductive and deductive thematic techniques. Findings reveal that participants generally have positive experiences with the Open Dialogue approach, highlighting key elements such as connectedness, reassurance, recognition, agency, and support through collaborative interaction. However, a minority reported negative experiences linked to feelings of uncertainty and discomfort with therapist reflections. These findings suggest that people diagnosed with autism evaluate the Open Dialogue approach in a similar way to other mental health service users. Despite the potential challenges posed by Open Dialogue, our results indicate that providing Open Dialogue care may be valuable for people diagnosed with autism, as it is for other mental health service users. Further research is needed to substantiate this indication.

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16. Luchese F, Lohmann C, Ferreras BI, Cassano P. Transcranial Photobiomodulation in Rett Syndrome: A Mechanistic Review and Therapeutic Hypothesis. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg;2026 (Feb 9):25785478251415480.

OBJECTIVE: To propose a mechanistic framework for the use of transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) as an adjunctive treatment in Rett syndrome (RTT). BACKGROUND DATA: RTT is a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused mainly by MECP2 variants, with limited disease-modifying therapies. tPBM delivers red-to-near-infrared light to the brain and shows promising effects in several neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric conditions. METHODS: We reviewed key cellular mechanisms of RTT, namely mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and impaired synaptic plasticity, and summarized established bioenergetic, redox, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic actions of tPBM. RESULTS: The convergence between these pathways suggests that tPBM could partially compensate for bioenergetic and signaling abnormalities in RTT, acting as a multi-target, pathophysiology-informed neuromodulation strategy. CONCLUSIONS: Although speculative, this mechanistic convergence supports prioritizing preclinical studies in Mecp2-deficient models and early-phase feasibility trials of tPBM in individuals with RTT.

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17. Lv C, Song D, Ni J, Qing H, Quan Z. Multiple neural networks from cognition to motivation of prosocial behaviour in rodents: Potential mechanism between empathy and autism spectrum disorder. Prog Neurobiol;2026 (Feb 6):102892.

Prosocial behaviour, as a facet of social behaviour across species, entails voluntary actions that benefit others, including helping and comforting behaviours. To explain how external sensory information is integrated to generate motivation and ultimately govern prosocial action, we organize its emergence into three interacting components: a social orientation process centered on the superior colliculus (SC), which selects and evaluates social cues and calibrates attention and arousal; a framework formed by the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), which transforms perceived distress into internal representations, forming empathic memory that guides subsequent behavior; and neuromodulatory systems (e.g., oxytocin and dopamine) together with projections linking the insular cortex (IC), thalamus, and ventral tegmental area (VTA), that compose social motivation, assign value to prosocial acts and promote helping. Evidence across these processes suggests alignment and potential generalisation in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is marked by atypical attention to social signals and diminished responsiveness to social reward. We define prosocial neural network mapping as the characterisation of interregional projections and their neuromodulatory regulation to explain how social information is organised and transformed, offering new insights into circuit-level pathology in ASD and helping identify therapeutic targets aimed at restoring social salience and enhancing social motivation.

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18. Naushad SM, Esdhan Basha S, Kanaka Durga Devi YR, Palanikumar P, Konanki R. Elucidation of crucial metabolic pathways in the etiology of autism spectrum disorder through whole exome sequencing and chromosomal microarray. Psychiatr Genet;2026 (Jan 21)

BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a complex genetic etiology, with limited data from Indian populations. This study delineates the genetic architecture of ASD in Indian children using whole exome sequencing (WES) and exploratory genetic association studies (GASs). METHODS: WES was performed on 142 Indian children with ASD, diagnosed per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual V criteria. GAS compared cases to 180 age- and ethnicity-matched Indian controls (aged 4-8 years) who exhibited normal neurological development. Variants were annotated using annotate variation, classified per the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines, and analyzed for gene ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, and GAS associations. Chromosomal microarray 750K was used to confirm the copy number variations. RESULTS: WES identified pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in 20 cases (14.08%) (12 autosomal dominant, five autosomal recessive, and three X-linked) and variants of uncertain significance in 107 cases (75.35%). Chromosomal microarray analysis revealed six pathogenic variants in 49 autism cases. Functional enrichment implicated neurotransmitter function, synaptic transmission, chromatin remodeling, and glutamatergic/GABAergic imbalances. GAS revealed significant variants (rs2014562 and rs7730228) and a chromosome 11 hotspot (MUC6, ZDHHC13, OR8U1, OR9G1), with chr5 : 130-131 Mb single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) interacting with ADAMTS19. CONCLUSION: This study highlights genetic heterogeneity in Indian ASD cases, identifying novel variants and pathways of potential biological relevance. Moderate GAS sample size and high variants of uncertain significance burden warrant further validation.

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19. Niharika DG, Salaria P, Reddy MA. Unveiling Molecular Mechanisms and Salient Targets in Phthalates-Induced Neurodevelopmental Disorders Through Comprehensive Network Toxicology and Molecular Docking Strategy. J Biochem Mol Toxicol;2026 (Feb);40(2):e70731.

Phthalates are well-known emerging contaminants in the environment and food packaging, posing serious risks to human health as endocrine disruptors with significant neurotoxic potential. Epidemiological and experimental evidence have linked early-life phthalate exposure to neurodevelopmental disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the precise molecular mechanisms responsible for these associations remain poorly understood. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the putative toxic targets and molecular pathways underlying phthalate-induced ADHD and ASD through integrated network toxicology and molecular docking approaches. Targets related to phthalates, ADHD, and ASD were extracted from various databases, yielding 21 potential targets associated with ADHD and ASD, which are common to the studied phthalates. Network analysis highlighted BDNF and ESR1 as the top two core targets. Functional enrichment analyses demonstrated that the core targets are involved in multiple pathways. Furthermore, the GEO database was queried to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and gene modules through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) using the R package. Moreover, molecular docking demonstrated high binding affinity between phthalates and core targets, with di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate with BDNF and diisononyl phthalate with ESR1, emphasizing the potential role of phthalate exposure in neurodevelopmental disorders. The stability of these complexes was demonstrated through molecular dynamics simulations, which confirmed their binding interactions remained constant throughout the simulation. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate molecular mechanisms of phthalate-induced neurotoxicity, offering a valuable foundation for the development of future therapeutic strategies to mitigate their adverse effects on neurodevelopment.

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20. Ojha P, Kozareva V, Barlowe A, Schulte F, Lam RM, Tomasello DL, Fraenkel E, Jaenisch R, Sur M. IGF1 peptide targets Rett Syndrome astrocytes to degrade IGF binding protein, rescue synaptogenesis and restore mitochondrial function. bioRxiv;2026 (Jan 23)

Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in MECP2, leads to profound synaptic and circuit deficits in the brain. While neurons have historically been the focus of RTT pathology, emerging evidence implicates astrocytes in non-cell autonomous mechanisms that impair synaptic structure, function and development. Here, we uncover a central role for astrocyte-secreted IGFBP2 in mediating these deficits and demonstrate that treatment with an IGF1-derived peptide restores synapse formation by promoting IGFBP2 degradation. Using an indirect astrocyte-neuron co-culture system, we show that astrocytes derived from RTT model mice suppress excitatory synapse formation in wild-type neurons and that this impairment is reversed when RTT astrocytes are treated with IGF1(1-3) peptide. Proteomic analysis reveals elevated levels of IGFBP2 in RTT astrocytes and their conditioned media. IGF1(1-3) peptide treatment leads to proteasomal degradation of IGFBP2, increasing IGF1 bioavailability, restoring mitochondrial function, and enhancing downstream PI3K/Akt signaling in neurons. Our data define a molecular mechanism by which astrocyte dysfunction in RTT can be rescued and provide a mechanistic basis for the therapeutic efficacy of IGF1(1-3) peptide, including Trofinetide, an FDA-approved IGF1 peptide mimetic, in RTT. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Astrocyte dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a contributor to neurodevelopmental disorders, yet precise mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we identify IGFBP2 as a key astrocyte-derived inhibitor of synaptogenesis in Rett syndrome. We show that an IGF1-derived peptide, IGF1(1-3), depletes IGFBP2 via proteasomal degradation. This restores IGF1 bioavailability and rescues synaptic function in a non-cell-autonomous manner. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the clinical efficacy of IGF1 peptide and its mimetics in Rett syndrome, and highlight astrocytes as rational therapeutic targets in neurodevelopmental and other disorders.

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21. Proteau-Lemieux M, Knoth IS, Davoudi S, Buckser R, Martin CO, Bélanger AM, Fontaine VK, Biag HMB, Abbeduto L, Jacquemont S, Hessl D, Hagerman RJ, Schneider A, Bolduc FV, Lippé S. Behavioral Phenotype Associations With Resting State EEG Signal Complexity and Power Spectral Density in Fragile X Syndrome. Autism Res;2026 (Feb 9):e70194.

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), an X-linked genetic condition, is associated with a wide range of phenotypic manifestations, namely intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and atypical behaviors. Individuals with FXS present robust electrophysiological (EEG) alterations, notably on signal complexity and power spectral density (PSD) resting state measures. To which extent they are associated to specific behavioral phenotypes in the FXS population remains to be comprehensively addressed. This study aimed to investigate the relations between resting state EEG markers and the most frequently observed symptoms in FXS. EEG and behavioral data from 41 individuals with FXS aged between 7 and 34 years old were collected, and correlational approaches were used to analyze the associations between EEG markers and symptomatology. We observed positive associations between complexity in higher scales and non-verbal intelligence quotient (NVIQ). Reduced alpha power, a robust biomarker in FXS, was associated with more social avoidance, a hallmark in FXS. Decreased high gamma power was linked to hyperactive symptoms. Our results suggest powerful relations between known biomarkers and core symptoms in FXS, highlighting that EEG biomarkers correspond to symptom severity which further supports their potential as objective, translational treatment outcome measures. Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a genetic condition that affects individuals in various ways and can lead to intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and unusual behaviors. People with FXS also show distinct brain wave patterns when measured with electroencephalogram (EEG), an instrument that records brain electrical signals. These patterns can include changes in the complexity and power of the electrical signals, especially while not performing any specific task (at rest). However, how these electrical changes relate to the specific symptoms of FXS has not been fully investigated. In this study, EEG data and behavioral information from 41 people with FXS, aged 7 to 34 years, were collected to explore the connections between brain electrical activity and common symptoms presented in FXS. Results revealed that certain brain wave patterns were linked to specific behaviors. For example, higher brain wave complexity was associated with better non‐verbal intelligence, while reduced alpha power, a common marker in FXS, was linked to more social avoidance. Additionally, reduced high gamma power, a known marker in ADHD, was connected to more hyperactivity. These findings suggest that brain wave patterns could help us better understand the severity of symptoms in FXS, supporting that EEG biomarkers should be used in future clinical trials to track changes in the condition and evaluate new treatments more objectively. eng

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22. Shaw KA, McArthur D, Bilder DA, Hughes MM, Rose CE, Bakian AV, Durkin MS, Fitzgerald RT, Howerton EM, Ladd-Acosta C, Lopez M, Pas ET, Zahorodny W, DiRienzo M, Patrick ME, Warren Z, Washington A, Hudson A, Pettygrove S, Shenouda J, Maenner MJ. Mortality Among Youth and Young Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, or Cerebral Palsy. JAMA Pediatr;2026 (Feb 9)

IMPORTANCE: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), and cerebral palsy (CP) are lifelong neurodevelopmental conditions accompanied by varying impairments. US mortality data for these groups are limited. OBJECTIVE: To compare mortality and causes of death among a multisite cohort identified at age 8 years with ASD, ID, or CP with the general population through youth or young adulthood. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Nine US sites identified 32 787 individuals who met case definitions for ASD, ID, and/or CP at age 8 years during active population-based cross-sectional surveillance conducted biennially from 2000 through 2016 by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. Individuals were linked to death certificates through 2021. Cases with multiple conditions (18.9%) were included in each case group. General population data from the National Vital Statistics System were matched to ADDM Network sites and years of participation. Analyses were completed in 2024. EXPOSURE(S): ASD, ID, or CP. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Death and International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10) International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) causes from death certificate linkage. RESULTS: There were 145 deaths among 23 393 people with ASD, 285 deaths among 14 031 people with ID, and 123 deaths among 1612 people with CP. Increased mortality compared with the general population was seen for ASD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.35; 95% CI, 1.15-1.59), ID (HR, 4.35; 95% CI, 3.87-4.88), and CP (HR, 9.62; 95% CI, 8.06-11.48). Further stratified by sex and co-occurring ID, mortality for ASD was higher only for females with co-occurring ID (HR, 5.04; 95% CI,3.21-7.91) compared with females in the general population. The distribution of causes of death varied across groups. The most common underlying cause of death ICD-10 chapters were external causes of morbidity and mortality (V01-Y98) for the general population and ASD case group, and diseases of the nervous system (G00-G99) for CP and ID case groups. The only ICD-10 chapter hazard of death that was not elevated for ID and CP compared with the general population was external causes as underlying cause of death. Mortality from external causes was also not elevated as underlying or any cause of death for ASD. There were also notable subchapter mortality differences with important clinical and public health implications. Only 11% of those with ASD, 1% of those with ID, and 49% of those with CP had an ICD-10 code for the respective disability on their death certificate. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this study, individuals with ASD, ID, or CP experienced higher mortality from a range of causes compared with the general population in youth and young adulthood. Mortality among these groups is difficult to ascertain using death certificates alone, since ICD-10 codes for these disabilities were rarely listed. These findings can inform public health and health care strategies to understand and prevent health disparities and excess mortality associated with developmental disabilities.

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23. Shields N, Cleary SL, McKenzie G, Hawke L, Bury S, Taylor NF. ‘Have a go, you might surprise yourself’: a qualitative study of the experiences of autistic adolescents and young adults of a community gym-based exercise programme. Disabil Rehabil;2026 (Feb 9):1-16.

PURPOSE: To explore the experiences of Autistic adolescents and young adults who participated in a 12-week student-mentored community based physical activity program called FitSkills. METHODS: This qualitative study was embedded within a large implementation trial. The data sources were: (i) trial screening forms, including reasons for participation from 30 Autistic young people (24 with intellectual disability), and (ii) semi-structured interviews completed by telephone with 7 Autistic young people (6 male; M(age) 18.6 years), 13 parents (11 mothers) and 16 student mentors (10 women). Data were analysed using content analysis (screening) and reflective thematic analysis (interviews). RESULTS: The most common reason Autistic young people and their parents gave for wanting to take part in FitSkills was improving physical fitness. Three themes were identified: (1) Relationships with student mentors ‘made it’ and evolved over time to becoming gym partners or friends; (2) Social support helped participants to navigate the gym environment, manage sensory needs and establish a routine; and (3) Exercise was perceived to have a positive effect on psychological wellbeing. CONCLUSION: A student-mentored community-based program can facilitate Autistic young people to exercise, by overcoming barriers to their participation and supporting them to navigate the community gym environment. The FitSkills model provides a framework of supporting exercise participation that is flexible, adaptable, and acceptable to Autistic young people and their families.Alongside a university-student mentor, Autistic young people can exercise confidently in a community gym and have positive, rewarding experiences.Support from a student mentor was especially important for: getting started, building a rhythm, trying new exercises, navigating the busy gym environment and learning social aspects of exercising at the gym.Improved psychological wellbeing was the most common benefit reported by participants, even though improved physical fitness was the most common reason given for participation. eng

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24. Siekierski P, Liu Y, Westerkamp G, Elmaghraby R, ElSayed Z, Gilbert D, Erickson CA, Pedapati EV. Alpha oscillations are dysrhythmic in Fragile X syndrome. bioRxiv;2026 (Jan 31)

BACKGROUND: Alpha oscillations are dominant rhythms in the human brain, supporting inhibitory control and coordination of neural activity. Altered alpha dynamics are observed across many neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, including Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common monogenic cause of autism and intellectual disability. FXS exhibits paradoxical alpha power: elevated absolute but reduced relative power. To resolve this incongruity, we considered that conventional power metrics, relying on averaging, may obscure the underlying critical temporal dynamics of such neural rhythms. METHODS: Here, we investigate alpha oscillations in FXS as a model to decompose nonspecific alpha abnormalities into underlying temporal features. We used cycle-by-cycle ( bycycle ) alpha burst analysis from source-localized resting-state EEG of 70 individuals with FXS (20.5±10.0 years; 32 females, 38 males) and 71 age- and sex-matched typically developing controls (22.2±10.7 years; 30 females, 41 males). Statistical modeling examined group, sex, and regional differences in alpha burst features using generalized linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS: We reveal that alpha bursts in FXS show reduced count only in males, prolonged periods across sexes, and elevated amplitudes, particularly in males. Spatial mapping identified differential circuit vulnerability: timing-associated dysregulation in cognitive-control regions and amplitude elevations in sensory cortices. Within the FXS group, global alpha burst amplitude correlated with hyperactivity symptoms and inversely with general intelligence scores, and burst count correlated with age. LIMITATIONS: This study is limited by its resting-state design and cross-sectional nature. Future studies should explore task-based modulation of alpha burst features and longitudinal trajectories in FXS. Additionally, fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein (FMRP) was not quantified for participants, limiting potential stratification by molecular severity. CONCLUSIONS: These findings resolve paradoxical alpha power in FXS into features consistent with interneuron dysfunction, demonstrating the potential for burst-level decomposition in mechanistic hypothesis generation and biomarker development across neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.

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25. Sterman J, Wagland Z, Scott-Cole L, Spassiani N, Njelesani J. Navigating racism, stigma, and autism services: A scoping review of the lived experiences of racially and ethnically minoritized families. PLOS Ment Health;2025;2(11):e0000481.

Research and clinical practice that addresses the needs of Autistic children often de-centres minoritized voices, despite the existing inequities that prevents their access to services and community participation. Grounded in Disability Critical Race Theory, this scoping review sought to collate and synthesise the research on the intersecting lived experiences of Autistic children and families from racially and ethnically minoritized backgrounds to inform more culturally attuned paediatric clinical practice. The authors systematically searched 8 databases up to June 2025. Extracted data from included articles were analysed using qualitative content analysis informed by Disability Critical Race Theory. Fifty-six studies were included in this scoping review, with a total of 1454 participants across the included studies. Findings illuminated that families had difficulty learning about and understanding autism, gaining access to services that met their cultural and language needs, and experienced disability-based stigma and racism. Families thrived when they were provided opportunities to learn about autism and available resources, could advocate for their child and others, access services from providers they trusted, and have their Autistic child celebrated within their community. To reduce inequities, there is a need for service providers to conduct culturally attuned paediatric clinical practice that centres the priorities of Autistic children and their families from racially and ethnically minoritized backgrounds. This paediatric practice needs to be neurodiversity-positive, culturally affirming, and financially, geographically, physically, socially, and culturally accessible.

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26. Stingone JA, McVeigh KH, Lednyak L. Early Intervention Developmental Programming and Childhood Academic Outcomes. JAMA Netw Open;2026 (Feb 2);9(2):e2555890.

IMPORTANCE: National monitoring surveys indicate that developmental disabilities among US children constitute a substantial public health issue. While scientific literature documents the benefits of targeted, developmental interventions, there has been less study of formal early intervention (EI) services provided through Part C of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. OBJECTIVE: To assess the population-level utilization of the New York City EI program and estimate the association between receipt of EI services before 3 years of age and academic achievement later in childhood. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This retrospective cohort study was performed within an administrative data linkage of public health and educational data systems in New York City, with records from January 1, 1994, to December 31, 2007. Participants included children born in New York City between January 1, 1994, and December 31, 1998, who attended public elementary school for third grade. Analyses were conducted from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024. EXPOSURE: Any use of EI services from birth through 3 years of age. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcomes were standardized test scores in math and English language arts (ELA) in third grade. After propensity score matching, linear and log-binomial regression were used to estimate differences in standardized test scores and incidence ratios of meeting test-based standards, comparing individuals who did and did not receive EI services. RESULTS: The study population consisted of 214 370 children with records through third grade. Of the 13 022 children who had received EI services (6.1%) before 3 years of age, 8516 (65.4%) were male (mean [SD] gestational age, 37.5 [3.8] weeks). When examining third grade standardized test scores, higher absolute test scores were observed among children who received EI in ELA (estimate, 0.045; 95% CI, 0.021-0.069) and greater incidence of meeting test-based standards in both math (incidence ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.06-1.10) and ELA (incidence ratio, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.07-1.12) when comparing propensity score-matched samples. Evidence of heterogeneity was observed, as individuals who required special education, those from households with lower socioeconomic status, and those born to immigrant mothers had greater test score benefits associated with EI. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The findings of this cohort study suggest that EI services for children younger than 3 years with moderate to severe developmental delays or disabilities had tangible academic benefits later in childhood. Future research should investigate the implementation of EI services among individuals with different diagnoses and developmental delays to determine the most beneficial service plans for children with differing needs.

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27. Tafolla M, Lerner J, Kim SH, Lord C. Bridging Languages, Broadening Access: Examining an Observation-Based Autism Assessment with a Latinx Sample. J Autism Dev Disord;2026 (Feb 9)

PURPOSE: Standardized observational tools are part of the gold standard for autism assessment, leading to the most reliable diagnoses. Widely used tools are often costly, require extensive training, and lack validation for use with multilingual and low-income populations, factors that contribute to prolonged diagnostic wait times. METHOD: This study examined psychometric properties of the Brief Observation of Symptoms of Autism (BOSA), a 12- to 14-min semi-structured observation designed as an autism assessment tool for both virtual and in-person administration. We evaluated the BOSA’s sensitivity and specificity in both English and Spanish within a Latinx, predominantly low-income sample (N = 98), among other psychometric properties. RESULTS: Findings indicate that the BOSA is a promising tool that can be used as a screener or as a part of a comprehensive evaluation administered across languages, settings (home, clinic, community), and interactants (caregivers, clinicians) for individuals with limited verbal abilities, though further research is needed to optimize its use with more verbally fluent populations. CONCLUSION: These results add to the literature, positioning the BOSA as a promising, affordable, and adaptable tool for improving timely access to high-quality autism assessments in culturally and linguistically diverse, underserved communities. Additional research is needed to assess its usefulness in different circumstances while aiming to increase ease and efficiency of coding. The BOSA’s suitability for use by non-specialists in intervention and school-based settings could help reduce diagnostic delays that disproportionately affect families of color from non-English-speaking households, making its optimization an important future goal.

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28. Teague V, Naughton S. Right response, right time, right pathway? Autism and the challenge of crisis resolution teams in Ireland. Ir J Psychol Med;2026 (Feb 9):1-4.

Crisis Resolution Teams (CRTs) are being piloted in Ireland as community-based, intensive, short-term services providing rapid intervention for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises. This perspective highlights a group over-represented in emergency care pathways: autistic adults without intellectual disability. For many autistic adults, crises can emerge from burnout, transition pressures and sensory or communication overload, often presenting with heightened distress or suicidality. In systems with limited onward pathways, brief-episode crisis care can become part of a cycle of repeated contacts, with limited scope to address enduring neurodevelopmental needs. We outline pragmatic adaptations: autism-informed workforce education; proactive crisis and safety planning; clear crisis service boundaries with connected pathways for ongoing support; and cross-sector coordination across health and social services. Embedding lived-experience and data capture in learning-sites can drive improvement. Aligned with the Crisis Resolution Service Model of Care and autism policy, these steps can improve safety, equity and continuity of care.

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29. Zhang TR, Li G, Magee JC, Zoghbi HY, Vaidya SP. Unconstrained Plasticity Disrupts Memory Consolidation in a Mouse Model of Rett Syndrome. bioRxiv;2026 (Jan 30)

Memory impairment is a hallmark cognitive deficit in Rett syndrome (RTT). Yet, long-term memory deficits in RTT animal models remain poorly understood, largely due to the technical challenges inherent in tracking neural activity over extended periods. Here, we used longitudinal two-photon calcium imaging to follow the same population of hippocampal CA1 neurons as RTT mice and their littermate controls formed cognitive maps of their environment during a spatial learning task. Neural representations in RTT mice were marked by excessive place cell (PC) activity, with individual PCs exhibiting pronounced instability across days. This disrupted single-cell stability propagated to the population level, resulting in unstable ensemble codes that poorly retained previously learned task information. Both excessive PC recruitment and instability could be attributed to a higher incidence of behavioral timescale synaptic plasticity (BTSP) in RTT mice. In wild-type littermates, place-cell consolidation across days is reflected by an increased likelihood of neuron-specific synaptic plasticity at the location of prior PC coding. This cellular mechanism of memory consolidation based on the location of BTSP was disrupted in RTT mice, where excessive and ectopic plasticity reduced PC stability, and degraded long-term stable representations. Backed by theoretical modeling, these results identify a plausible cellular and circuit-level mechanism underlying memory impairments in RTT mice and suggest principles that may be generalized to other neurological disorders involving memory deficits.

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30. Zhu L, Zhang H, Tang M, Yang X, Chen Y. Parents-child multiple sites of microbial and metabolic signatures in autism spectrum disorder. Front Microbiol;2025;16:1745874.

INTRODUCTION: To investigate the horizontal transmission of oral-gut microbiota in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) families and its potential implications for ASD pathogenesis. METHODS: The research employed a paired cohort design using family cohorts (23 ASD children/17 parents vs. 18 Non-ASD children/16 parents), conducting integrated microbiome and metabolomic analyses of oral and fecal samples. RESULTS: The findings revealed that ASD families exhibited significantly increased oral microbial species diversity alongside substantial alterations in gut microbiota composition, particularly demonstrating a lower Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio (3.60/2.97) compared to Non-ASD families (5.59/5.35). Specific microbial changes included notable enrichment of Prevotella_9 in ASD gut microbiota. Metabolomic profiling identified significant disruptions in multiple metabolic pathways, including impaired L-rhamnose degradation and glutathione metabolism. The study observed coordinated oral-gut axis alterations through synchronized changes in Caulobacter and Serratia abundances, suggesting a distinct dysbiotic pattern along this microbial continuum. Additional metabolic findings demonstrated reduced levels of fecal glutamine and Ala-Gly in ASD children, with glycylproline exhibiting high predictive value for family typing (AUC = 0.91). Integrative analysis further revealed significant correlations between Holdemanella and various lipid metabolites. DISCUSSION: It indicates that ASD families display characteristic oral-gut microbiota interactions accompanied by metabolic abnormalities, potentially reflecting familial microbial transmission patterns that may contribute to ASD pathophysiology.

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