Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social interaction and communication challenges, intersects with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It most directly correlates with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), emphasizing the need for early diagnosis, intervention services, and sustained healthcare across the lifespan for those with autism. Additionally, it aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), stressing the necessity of inclusive education and lifelong learning opportunities for individuals with autism. Autism's link with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) is prominent, underscoring the importance of reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive societies that respect and uphold the rights of all, including those with autism. The ability of individuals with autism to participate fully and effectively in society also intersects with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), necessitating the promotion of inclusive economic growth and employment opportunities.
World Autism Awareness Day 2024: SDG Resources' Deep Dive
On April 2, 2024, the global community will come together to observe World Autism Awareness Day 2024. This occasion, significantly elevated by the commitment of SDG Resources, showcases the powerful intersection of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and autism advocacy.
Introduction: The Importance of April 2
Neural Engineering Techniques for Autism Spectrum Disorder Volume 1: Imaging and Signal Analysis 2021, Pages 1-8
Emerging Programs for Autism Spectrum Disorder Improving Communication, Behavior, and Family Dynamics 2021, Pages 243-264
Objective imaging-based biomarker discovery for psychiatric conditions is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Using a machine learning framework, this work investigated the utility of brain's functional network topology (complex network features) extracted from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) functional connectivity (FC) as viable biomarker of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To this end, we utilized resting-state fMRI data from the publicly available ABIDE dataset consisting of 432 ASD patients and 556 matched healthy controls.
Neuroprotection in Autism, Schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease, Volume , 16 October 2019
Altered synaptic structure and function is a major hallmark of fragile X syndrome (FXS), autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), and other intellectual disabilities (IDs), which are therefore classified as synaptopathies. FXS and ASDs, while clinically and genetically distinct, share significant comorbidity, suggesting that there may be a common molecular and/or cellular basis, presumably at the synapse.
Recent progress in the genomics of non-syndromic autism spectrum disorder (nsASD) highlights rare, large-effect, germline, heterozygous de novo coding mutations. This distinguishes nsASD from later-onset psychiatric disorders where gene discovery efforts have predominantly yielded common alleles of small effect. These differences point to distinctive opportunities for clarifying the neurobiology of nsASD and developing novel treatments.
