Search Results (4,110)

As modern society grows increasingly complex, access to essential services such as healthcare, legal aid, tailored education, and psychological support remains heavily gated by socio-economic, neurological, and systemic barriers. This paper explores the transformative potential of Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative Artificial Intelligence not merely as industrial productivity enhancers, but as vital “social scaffolds” capable of fostering a more inclusive society. Crucially, we propose a paradigm shift in the concept of Ethical Computing—moving from a passive defensive framework of non-maleficence (“do no harm”) to an active mandate of beneficence, where AI systems are explicitly developed to serve marginalized and un(der)served populations. Through this expanded ethical lens, we systematically analyze the democratizing impact of AI across four primary axes of inclusivity: socio-economic (providing zero-cost medical triage and legal translation for undocumented populations), neurospicy (acting as a non-judgmental communicative bridge for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder), pedagogical (delivering hyper-personalized executive function support for Special Educational Needs), and psychological (serving as an accessible, first-level triage system for mental health crises). By framing LLMs as a modern social safety net, we outline a clear trajectory for future research, advocating for an “ethical-by-design” development paradigm that explicitly prioritizes equity, accessibility, and the active dismantling of historical barriers for the digitally and socially disenfranchised. Full article

Mathematical abilities are critical for the developmental outcomes of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, little is known about these abilities and their association with the approximate number system (ANS) in preschoolers with ASD beyond Western samples, including Chinese children. This cross-sectional study examined whether formal and informal mathematical abilities differed between children with and without ASD and assessed the extent to which these abilities were associated with ANS acuity. Participants included 47 children with ASD and 47 typically developing (TD) children aged 3–7 years. All children were assessed on measures of formal and informal mathematical abilities, ANS acuity, and non-verbal IQ. No significant group differences in mathematical abilities were found among children aged 3–5 years. However, among children aged 6–7 years, the ASD group showed significantly lower performance in mathematical abilities compared to their TD peers. ANS acuity was significantly correlated with both formal and informal mathematical abilities in the ASD group, but only with informal mathematical abilities in the TD group. Furthermore, ANS acuity accounted for 5.4% of the unique variance in formal mathematical abilities specifically within the ASD group. The patterns of mathematical abilities and their relationship with ANS acuity differ between preschoolers with and without ASD. These findings suggest a differential association between ANS and formal mathematics learning in children with ASD, highlighting implications for the design of early numeracy interventions. Full article

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition for which non-pharmacological interventions remain the primary therapeutic approach. Although research output in this field has increased substantially, a comprehensive synthesis of its developmental trajectory and emerging directions is still lacking. Methods: We conducted a bibliometric analysis of publications on non-pharmacological interventions for ASD indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection between 2001 and 2025. Knowledge structures, research hotspots, and temporal trends were visualized and analyzed using CiteSpace. Results: The field has transitioned from an early focus on behavioral interventions in children to a diversified and interdisciplinary research ecosystem spanning the lifespan. Recent growth has been driven by the integration of neuroscience-based approaches, particularly neuromodulation techniques, alongside continued refinement of behavioral, sensorimotor, and complementary therapies. Increasing attention has been paid to individual heterogeneity, methodological rigor, and mechanism-oriented research. Current frontiers emphasize multimodal intervention strategies, neural plasticity-based mechanisms, and the development of personalized precision intervention frameworks. Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis delineates the intellectual evolution of non-pharmacological intervention research for ASD and identifies key research gaps, particularly the need for longitudinal and pragmatic studies targeting individualized treatment response. The findings provide an evidence-informed overview of current concepts and emerging research directions in non-pharmacological care for ASD, with important implications for future clinical research, intervention design, and strategic research planning. Full article

Background: Cognitive and psychiatric disorders are caused by a complex interplay between genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and dynamic molecular regulation in the brain. Animal models provide a controlled environment for examining these mechanisms, and advances in transcriptome and epigenomic technologies have greatly expanded our knowledge of disease-relevant pathways. Objective: This scoping review systematically maps and synthesizes the epigenetic and transcriptomic findings from the established animal models of four neuropsychiatric conditions—autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, depression, and Rett syndrome—drawing on a PRISMA-ScR-guided literature search. The review characterizes the breadth of evidence, identifies convergent and divergent molecular pathways, and highlights the translational gaps and therapeutic implications. Methods: Research employing chromatin accessibility testing, genome-wide DNA methylation mapping, single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing, histone modification profiling, and multi-omics integration in mouse and other validated animal models was thoroughly reviewed. A quality appraisal of the primary experimental studies (n = 63) was performed using a modified CAMARADES checklist. Results: Beyond generalized cellular stress responses, multi-omics analysis emphasizes the cell-type- and context-dependent nature of epigenetic changes in animal models, including isoform-specific histone modifications and model-dependent binding of HDAC/MeCP2 complexes to genes involved in synaptic plasticity. Single-cell RNA sequencing analyses have uniformly shown transcriptional changes in parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons. Conclusions: The specific convergence of epigenetic disruptions in neural circuits involved in synaptic structure and inhibitory function could play a role in the generation of neuropsychiatric phenotypes in animal models, highlighting the importance of circuit- and cell-type-specific epigenetics while pointing to potential therapeutic avenues. Full article

Background/Objectives: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition increasingly associated with dysregulated neuroimmune signaling and altered neurotrophic homeostasis. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) has been implicated in ASD pathophysiology; however, the downstream effects of TNF-α blockade on cytokine–neurotrophin interactions during neurodevelopment remain insufficiently characterized. In this study, we evaluated the effects of infliximab (IFX), a monoclonal anti-TNF-α antibody, on behavioral performance, neuroinflammatory cytokine profiles, glial activation, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling in a propionic acid (PPA)-induced experimental ASD rat model. Methods: Experimental ASD was induced by propionic acid administration in rats. Animals were divided into control and treatment groups. Behavioral performance was assessed using the Morris Water Maze, direct social interaction, and three-chamber sociability tests. Levels of TNF-α, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and BDNF were measured in serum, hippocampal, and cerebellar tissues. Microglial and astrocytic activation were evaluated using CD11 and GFAP immunohistochemistry. Results: PPA administration resulted in pronounced impairments in learning, memory, and social behaviors, accompanied by elevated proinflammatory cytokine levels, increased BDNF expression, and marked glial activation in the hippocampus and cerebellum. Although IFX treatment significantly reduced TNF-α levels in central tissues, it did not improve behavioral deficits and was associated with persistently elevated IL-1β and IL-6 levels, sustained glial reactivity, and further alterations in BDNF levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that TNF-α suppression alone does not normalize the disrupted cytokine–neurotrophin axis and may differentially modulate BDNF-related neuroplastic signaling during development. In conclusion, this study indicates that non-selective TNF-α blockade during neurodevelopment fails to confer behavioral benefit in experimental ASD and highlights the importance of considering cytokine–BDNF pathway interactions when designing immunomodulatory strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders. Full article

Background: Occupational therapists often provide sensory integration therapy (SIT) as part of interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, evidence supporting its effectiveness remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the potential benefits of once-weekly SIT for children with ASD and co-occurring intellectual disability. Methods: A non-blinded single-group pre–post study was conducted using SIT once a week for 8 weeks. Participants were children aged 2–6 years who had been diagnosed with ASD, had a developmental index score of ≤70, and were classified as having severe autism according to the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. Outcome measures included the Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition (VABS-II), Short Sensory Profile (SSP), and Parenting Stress Index, Short Form (PSI-SF). Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare pre- and post-intervention results. Results: Ten children completed the full intervention protocol. Changes were observed in some domains of the GAS and VABS-II; however, these findings were characterized by substantial uncertainty and considerable variability across participants. In contrast, no apparent changes were observed in the SSP or PSI-SF. Conclusions: The findings of this study do not support the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy (SIT) and should not be interpreted as evidence of intervention-related benefit. Rather, the results should be considered as exploratory observations obtained under real-world clinical conditions. Future research employing more rigorous designs, including the use of control groups, larger sample sizes, and blinded assessments, is required. Full article

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition marked by heterogeneous behavioral symptoms and systemic comorbidities, including immune and gastrointestinal dysfunctions. Emerging studies suggest that glycosylation—a fundamental post-translational modification regulating cellular communication and immune responses—may play a role in ASD pathophysiology, yet its contribution remains underexplored. Methods: In this study, we developed an integrative transcriptomic and network analysis framework to investigate glycosylation-related gene expression changes and their functional associations in ASD. Using publicly available datasets from bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of brain and blood tissues, we focused on four prior-knowledge gene subsets: glycogenes, extracellular matrix glycoproteins, immune response genes, and autism risk genes. Results: Differential expression and pathway enrichment analyses revealed consistent dysregulation of glycosylation pathways, including mucin-type O-glycan biosynthesis, glycosaminoglycan metabolism, GPI-anchor formation, and sialylation, across ASD tissues. These transcriptional changes were functionally linked to altered immune signaling (e.g., IL-17, Toll-like receptor, and complement pathways) and synaptic development pathways, forming a distinct glyco-immune axis. Network analysis identified key glycogenes such as GALNT10, NEU1, LMAN2L, and CHST1 as central molecular nodes, interacting with immune and neuronal regulators. Linkage disequilibrium analysis further revealed ASD-associated SNPs influencing the expression of these glycogenes in both blood and brain tissues. Conclusions: Together, these findings support a model in which disrupted glycosylation contributes to ASD pathophysiology by mediating immune dysregulation and altered neuronal connectivity. This study offers a systems-level framework to understand the molecular complexity of ASD and highlights glycogenes as potential biomarkers and targets for future therapeutic exploration. Full article

Neurological and mental disorders are among the main causes of disability worldwide, affecting over three billion people and increasing the socioeconomic burden. Advances in molecular genetics and genome engineering have led to gene-targeted therapies that address root causes rather than just symptoms. This review covers current genome-editing tools, including CRISPR/Cas, base editing, and prime editing. The focus is on the benefits of gene editing in the central nervous system, where post-mitotic neurons allow lasting effects after a single treatment. It also discusses emerging delivery platforms such as viral vectors, nanoparticles, and exosome systems, as well as methods to bypass the blood–brain barrier. Recent clinical progress in spinal muscular atrophy, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease is highlighted, with promising preclinical results for autism, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, and other neurogenetic conditions. The review concludes with regulatory issues, market trends, and ongoing clinical trials, underscoring the potential of gene therapies to transform disease management and provide long-term solutions. Full article

Neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a common birth complication that can cause death or lifelong disabling conditions like cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. It is well established that maternal infection and inflammation are significant risk factors for HIE but reasons for this increase in neurological risk to the offspring remain unknown. Inflammation or infection are associated with epigenetic changes and may contribute to the increased risk of neurodevelopmental disability in exposed offspring. Here, we analyzed and compared DNA methylation patterns in brain monocytes isolated from control, maternal immune activation (MIA), and an inflammation sensitized HIE (IS-HIE) CF-1 mouse model at postnatal day 7. We found that maternal inflammation induced significant methylation differences in neonates relative to control samples in both MIA and IS-HIE samples with no significant differences identified between the MIA and IS-HIE groups. MIA samples showed hypermethylation at loci involving craniofacial development and transcription factors important for regulating neurodevelopment and immune function. MIA samples also demonstrated significant hypermethylation at multiple mitochondrial genome CpGs. These findings suggest that maternal inflammation induces epigenetic alterations in fetal brain immune cells that are detectable in neonates. These changes may contribute to heightened neurodevelopmental risk in offspring following hypoxic injury, highlighting potential molecular pathways for future therapeutic targeting. Full article

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition marked by challenges in social communication and repetitive behaviors. Current treatments, primarily behavioral therapies, often fail to address the core symptoms. Recent research has explored the potential of psychedelics, such as LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA, as a new therapeutic approach. While these substances primarily modulate the serotonin 5-HT_2A receptor, their therapeutic effects also involve interactions with other serotonergic, dopaminergic, and glutamatergic pathways, collectively promoting neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change and adapt. The specific receptors’ activation leads to structural and functional changes in the brain that can enhance social behavior and emotional regulation. Studies show that psychedelics may reduce symptoms of conditions like treatment-resistant depression and PTSD, highlighting their therapeutic potential. For ASD specifically, psychedelics may improve psychological flexibility, reduce distress, and enhance social interaction. While promising, the use of these substances requires careful consideration. Psychedelics can induce intense experiences and altered states of consciousness, necessitating strict monitoring and support during therapy. Ethical guidelines, including informed consent, are crucial, especially for vulnerable populations. In conclusion, psychedelics hold significant promise for treating ASD and other psychiatric disorders by promoting neuroplasticity and modulating complex signaling pathways. Continued research and clinical trials, conducted with strong ethical oversight, are essential to realizing their full therapeutic potential. Full article

This study presents a systematic review and an integrative interpretive synthesis of the architectural literature addressing sensory–interactive design strategies in early childhood learning environments that support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome (DS), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Following a systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines, twenty-nine peer-reviewed studies were analyzed to examine how environmental design variables may influence sensory load, cognitive processing, emotional stability, and behavioral engagement across neurodevelopmental profiles. Rather than remaining within conventional descriptive approaches, architectural variables—including lighting, color, acoustics, materials, spatial configuration, and environmental controllability—are reconceptualized as regulatory dimensions shaping child–environment interactions. The synthesis suggests that identical environmental variables may elicit divergent, and at times conflicting, sensory–emotional and behavioral responses among children with ASD, DS, and ADHD, highlighting the limitations of standardized design solutions. Accordingly, the study proposes the Sensory–Interactive Architecture Framework (SIAF), an analytical framework that links neurodevelopmental response patterns with sensory–emotional regulation mechanisms and environmental design variables as regulatory dimensions. The findings indicate that effective inclusive design does not rely on generalized sensory interventions but rather on the deliberate regulation of sensory variability through more legible, graded, and controllable spatial systems, thereby promoting learning engagement, emotional stability, and adaptive behavior in neurodiverse children. Full article

Introduction: Persons diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) require adaptations to dental care that many undergraduate programmes may not explicitly treat. This cross-sectional pilot study assessed the extent of ASD-related content in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) dental and oral health curricula and explored Oral Health Therapy students’ knowledge and self-efficacy. Methods: Online surveys of academic staff across ANZ programmes and Bachelor of Oral Health Therapy students at the University of Newcastle were conducted. Quantitative data was summarised descriptively, and free text responses underwent thematic analysis. Results: Fifteen educator responses (8% of 178 invitees) suggest limited ASD-specific teaching and minimal use of simulation-based education. Among 38 student responses (from one institution), knowledge was generally foundational, but misconceptions persisted and no respondents reported high confidence in providing oral health care for Autistic patients. Interest in further training was high. Conclusions: Within the constraints of low response rates and a single institution student sample, these preliminary findings suggest opportunities to strengthen Autism-related teaching, particularly sensory adaptations, communication strategies, and experiential learning. Inferences should be considered exploratory and hypothesis generating. Limitations: Low educator responses and potential response bias due to limited external validity from a single student cohort. Full article

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) of omega-3 family, particularly docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, are essential nutrients that play a critical role in children’s growth and health. This review examines the evidence on the effects of omega-3 supplements and omega-3-enhanced foods on children’s development, as well as on neurological and metabolic disorders. Research consistently highlights the importance of DHA in brain and visual development, especially during early childhood, when rapid neural growth occurs. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and the Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant articles published up to January 2026. Adequate omega-3 intake has been associated with improvements in cognitive performance, attention, and learning outcomes. In children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder, omega-3 supplementation shows modest but potential benefits in reducing behavioral symptoms and supporting executive function, although results remain mixed. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that may positively influence metabolic health, including lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, and obesity-related risk factors in children. Omega-3-enhanced foods provide an alternative to supplements and may improve adherence and overall dietary quality. However, variability in dosage, study design, and baseline nutritional status limits definitive conclusions. Overall, omega-3 fatty acids appear to support healthy development and may aid in managing certain neurological and metabolic disorders in children. Full article

Background: TNRC6B encodes a core effector of the RNA-induced silencing complex and is essential for miRNA-mediated gene silencing. Pathogenic variants in TNRC6B have recently been associated with a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by developmental delay, intellectual disability, and behavioural difficulties. Methods: We report a three-generation family with a 22q13.1 deletion encompassing only exons 2–23 of TNRC6B. Clinical data were collected from medical records and family interviews, and the findings were compared with those of published cohorts. Results: Affected individuals presented with developmental delay, speech and language impairment, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, craniosynostosis, joint laxity, clinodactyly, and cardiac valve anomalies. The father and paternal grandmother had learning difficulties and neurobehavioral features, while the proband exhibited a more severe phenotype. Conclusions: This report expands the phenotypic spectrum of TNRC6B-related neurodevelopmental disorder, highlighting craniosynostosis, joint and connective tissue features, and cardiac involvement. Our findings also underscore variable expressivity across generations and emphasise the relevance of both copy-number and sequence variants in TNRC6B in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. Full article

Background: Developing physical literacy in children with developmental disabilities (DDs) is essential to fostering their participation in physical activity. According to the Canadian Framework, physical literacy encompasses multiple interrelated components (behavioral, physical, affective, and cognitive). Such engagement provides numerous benefits, including reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improved functional and cognitive health. However, children with DD appear to be less active than those without such conditions. Since individuals who are active during childhood and adolescence are more likely to remain active during adulthood, it becomes crucial to better understand how to support the physical literacy development of children with DD, hence enhancing their participation in physical activity. In addition, children with DD remain underrepresented in the literature, particularly with regard to their opportunities to develop their physical literacy and their varied needs, such as limited physical activity options. Objective: The aim of this scoping review was to identify and analyze the existing literature on the development of physical literacy and physical activity participation in young children (0–6 years) with DD. Methods: Four databases were searched (PsycInfo: n = 722; MEDLINE: n = 997; ERIC: n = 514; CINAHL: n = 771), and 25 articles were retained. Characteristics of these studies were analyzed quantitatively, while their scope was analyzed according to physical literacy components. Results: Most studies (80%) used a quantitative method, and nearly half (44%) concerned young children with autism spectrum disorder. A little more than half of the studies (52%) focused on early intervention programs. In regard to the scope of the studies, none addressed the cognitive component of physical literacy, indicating a lack in the current literature, and more than half provided information on how to support the affective component. Moreover, information regarding parents’ involvement in physical activity of children with DD emerged from six studies analyzed. Conclusions: The results yield interesting insights on how to support the physical literacy development of children with DD and the factors likely to influence their physical activity participation. Early intervention programs promoting physical literacy could be promising avenues to support lifelong physical activity habits for these children. Full article