Neurodiversity in Literature: Towards Authentic Representation - Autism Tree Project Foundation Global Neurodiversity Conference 2023

How can we improve the human connection for people with autism? In this program, Ty Verno, director of the UC Santa Barbara's Koegel Autism Center discusses novel methods for measuring, understanding, and altering the social developmental trajectories of individuals with autism and related conditions. Series: "GRIT Talks" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39439]

Brian A. Boyd, Ph.D., explores the health challenges faced by autistic individuals, especially those in diverse gender and sexual orientation groups. He highlights the impact of societal barriers on their mental and physical health. Boyd emphasizes the need for research considering race, income, and state healthcare laws. He discusses the importance of understanding intersectional identities and promoting inclusivity in autism research. Boyd stresses the significance of cultural humility, diverse representation, and systemic interventions to address disparities. He urges a comprehensive approach acknowledging the complexity of people's lives to improve the well-being of autistic individuals across diverse communities. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39169]

Join us for an eye-opening and heartfelt exploration of the intricate world surrounding autism, focusing on an often-overlooked perspective: the experiences of siblings. This compelling show delves deep into the lives of individuals whose stories are intricately woven with the journey of their autistic siblings, offering a poignant and illuminating portrayal of their challenges, triumphs, and the unbreakable bond that ties them together. Featuring: Giacomo Vivanti, Ph.D. Drexel University Jeniece Stewart-Dortch Special Needs Siblings Inc. Heather Nuske, Ph.D. University of Pennsylvania Eric Goll Empowering Ability Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39168]

Robert T. Fremeau, Jr., Ph.D., delves into Rett syndrome, a complex neurological condition. His research with brain organoids unveils its origins and progression. Fremeau uncovers disease markers and innovative treatments, offering insight into the pursuit of breakthrough therapies. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39167]

Eric Courchesne, Ph.D., explores autism, highlighting its complexity beyond the brain and its connection to genetics and brain development. He focuses on the "temporal cortex," a crucial area in autism research associated with gene regulation and social processing. Courchesne also shares how his personal journey with polio has informed his thinking on neurodiversity, research, and beating the odds. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39171]

Join a diverse panel discussing neurodiversity's power and potential. They share personal stories, advocating acceptance, and envisioning a future where differences are strengths, not limitations. Discover the beauty of embracing unique perspectives and supporting each other in this enlightening conversation. Featuring: Garret Hoff Duke Law School Neurodivergent Students Association Jeff Snyder Neurodiverse Advocate Meagan McKenna Actress & Television Creator Andrew Arboe Autistic Self-Advocate & Public Speaker Serena DeJesus First Female Autistic MMA Fighter Thomas Dougherty Artist & Children's Book Author Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39173]

Karen Pierce, Ph.D., explores using eye tracking to diagnose and treat autism. Her work identifies patterns in children's attention, aiming to streamline diagnosis, predict symptom severity, and tailor treatments. The focus is on early intervention by making social stimuli engaging for kids with varied attention patterns. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39170]

Join a captivating discussion where diverse voices, including neurodiverse speakers, take the stage to advocate for representation in literature and media. Explore the power of authentic storytelling and the impact of inclusive characters in shaping our understanding and empathy. This panel dives deep into the importance of diverse narratives, offering a compelling view on fostering connection and understanding through the art of storytelling. Featuring: Michael Levy, M.D., Ph.D. UC San Diego Otto Lana Neurodiverse Self-Advocate & Multi-Modality Communicator Bella Santoyo Neurodiverse Self-Advocate & Multi-Modality Communicator William Del Rosario Neurodiverse Self-Advocate & Multi-Modality Communicator Angie Kim Author, "Happiness Falls" Janelle Brown Author, "Pretty Things" Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39172]

Daniel Geschwind, M.D., Ph.D., explains autism's genetic roots using a polygenic model, where multiple genes, including common variations, contribute to the risk. Geschwind stresses a continuum in social behavior, showcasing features like synesthesia and exceptional talents as part of human variation. Geschwind,emphasizes the complexity of autism, urging recognition of strengths and vulnerabilities in the spectrum of human cognition and behavior. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39166]

Rob Knight, Ph.D., delves into the incredible world of our gut microbiome and its potential impact on our health, particularly its role in conditions like autism. By examining various dietary strategies and their effects on the gut, Knight reveals the remarkable potential of tailored diets in managing health conditions, offering hope for new, more accessible treatments. Moreover, Knight discusses the complex relationship between probiotics, their benefits, and potential risks, highlighting the importance of evidence-based choices. Knight underlines the crucial link between our diet, our gut, and our overall health, shedding light on the exciting future of microbiome-focused interventions in medicine. For parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in improving their health, this lecture provides valuable insights into how the foods we eat can be harnessed to nurture a healthier gut and, in turn, a healthier life. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 39165]