Autism (Audio)

This panel focuses on empowering neurodiverse individuals and their families through open discussions about communication and connection. Participants share personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of providing a voice to those who may struggle to express themselves. Key themes include support, understanding, and the journey toward fostering independence and confidence. The panelists encourage parents to prioritize their well-being while navigating the challenges of raising neurodiverse children, creating a community that values shared learning and growth. Through inspiration and insight, the panel explores practical strategies for enhancing communication and building meaningful relationships. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Education] [Show ID: 40212]

Ths discussion captures the experiences of parents raising neurodivergent children, emphasizing the importance of finding joy, fostering inclusion, and supporting sibling relationships. Parents share personal stories of resilience, from guiding neurotypical siblings to embrace their roles with love to advocating for inclusive school environments. They highlight the unexpected ways their children teach them patience and strength, as well as the deep sense of community that emerges when families, educators, and peers come together. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40214]

This engaging panel discussion delves into the evolving representation of autistic characters in literature, comics, and pop culture, featuring authors and creators who bring authentic perspectives to their work. The conversation highlights the importance of intentionality in storytelling, challenges stereotypes, and explores the nuances of portraying neurodiverse experiences with depth and empathy. Panelists share personal journeys, writing inspirations, and the transformative power of seeing oneself reflected in stories, creating a thoughtful and inclusive dialogue that resonates with readers of all ages. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Arts and Music] [Show ID: 40330]

Carissa Cascio, Ph.D., explores how autistic individuals perceive and process sensory experiences, focusing on internal sensations of the body, known as interoception, and their impact on emotions, anxiety, and sleep. Cascio highlights the challenges of heightened sensory awareness, including how it can disrupt rest, and underscores the importance of understanding these experiences to improve therapy and overall well-being. Cascio shares personal anecdotes and challenges myths about autism, emphasizing the rich internal worlds of autistic individuals. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40215]

Christine Wu Nordahl, Ph.F., offers an insightful exploration into the unique needs and experiences of autistic teens, focusing on fostering inclusive spaces. Highlighting themes of gender diversity, underdiagnosis in girls, and the impact of societal perceptions, she emphasizes the importance of tailored support for neurodiverse individuals. Through powerful participant stories and an inspiring poem, Nordahl underscores the resilience and creativity within the autistic community. Her passionate advocacy for better diagnostic tools and inclusive interventions makes this talk a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand and empower autistic youth. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40213]

Carrie Bearden, Ph.D., delves into how sleep patterns and brain activity influence memory and cognitive abilities in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. Her research reveals that while these individuals tend to sleep longer, their brain activity shows unique differences, such as reduced slow-wave power, which may limit the cognitive benefits typically associated with sleep. Bearden also spotlights groundbreaking studies using advanced tools like stem cells and brain organoids to investigate how specific genes might drive these differences, offering hope for deeper insights and potential interventions. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 40211]

Rob Knight, Ph.D., delves into the incredible world of our gut microbiome. Knight underlines the crucial link between our diet, our gut, and our overall health. 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: "Excerpts" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40041]

As part of the 2024 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Elizabeth Vosseller and Ian Nordling demonstrate techniques for helping autistic people who cannot use speech reliably to communicate. They discuss the neuroscience behind techniques for helping people with sensory and movement differences to use spelling and typing to communicate. Ian Nordling, a nonspeaking autistic man, provides insights into the lived experience of learning to communicate. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39751]

As part of the 2024 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Vikram Jaswal, Professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia, presents research using objective measurements of eye gaze and speed of movements. He demonstrates that prompting by supporters is not a plausible explanation for the success nonspeaking autistic people have had communicating using letterboards held by a trained Communication Regulation Partner. He also presents data that nonspeaking autistic people can tolerate Augmentative Reality headsets and engage with virtual buttons to play games and point to letters on a virtual letterboard. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 39750]

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]

Gaia Navarino shares her work on disorder-causing genetic mutations at the system, cellular and molecular level. With a focus on autism spectrum disorder, she explains techniques used to identify common pathophysiological mechanisms in ASD and how that could provide a framework for the development of effective pharmacological therapies. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 38325]

There is a critical need for early diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders. Elizabeth Torres, Ph.D., Rutgers University, shares new developments in that could aid in early detection of autism. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38391]

Michael Levy, M.D. discusses how adolescence impacts autism. He is joined by a panel who discuss how the arts - from comic books to performance - have impacted their lives on the spectrum. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 38395]

The county of San Diego has instituted inclusionary hiring practices to recruit neurodivergent individuals to the workforce and ensure departments have the proper skills to interview, train, and work with these members of the San Diego community. Garret Hoff, Brandy Winterbottom, Brian Lafferty, and Megan Elledge-LeVota discuss how this initiative came to be and what it means for the future. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Public Affairs] [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38394]

Leanne Chukoskie, Ph.D., Northeastern University, discusses her work using video games and play-based studies to learn more about autism and uncover potential therapies. Play-based relationships in early childhood are some of the primary tools that teach us where to look and find important information. Video games provide an excellent form of environmental learning by incorporating autonomy (user picks the game), purpose, mastery, uncertainty, competition, and peer reinforcement, and they've been linked to improvements in perception, visuo-spatial attention, movement skill, and memory. See how Chukoskie uses video games to study behavior, make assessments, and create interventions to help people with autism. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38392]

Treatment options for problematic behaviors associated with severe autism are limited. Can cannabidiol (CBD) be an effective therapy? Doris Trauner, M.D., discusses recent studies looking at the use of CBD and how it works in the brain. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38393]

Alysson Muotri discusses modeling Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PTHS) using stem cells and brain organoids. He shares how rescuing TCF4 expression with CRISPR-mediated epigenetic induction of AAV vector delivery provides a gateway for targeted therapeutics for PTHS and related conditions. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 38516]

What is gene therapy and how does it relate to autism? Alysson Muotri, Ph.D., contextualizes the autism spectrum, defines gene therapy, shares how human stem cells can contribute to research, and lays out how gene therapy could be used in the future. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 38387]

Epilepsy is a frequent co-morbidity in those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Maria Augusta Montenegro, M.D., Ph.D., discusses how cognitive abilities, motor deficit, and other associated symptoms can be factors, how epilepsy can be diagnosed, and recommended treatment options. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38389]

Diversity is a hallmark in autism yet autism research does not capture the full heterogeneity of individuals on the spectrum. Constance Smith-Hicks, M.D., Ph.D., Bradley Schlaggar, Ph.D., Ebony Holliday, Ph.D., and Omar Shanta discuss the current state of diversity research in autism and the roadblocks to include individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities as participants in autism research as well as the strategies that could address these challenges. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38390]

In individuals with Down syndrome, there is an aging-like phenotype known as senescence. Hiruy Meharena, Ph.D., UC San Diego, discusses how this impacts neurodevelopment. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 38388]

Dilek Colak, PhD, shares the results of recent work identifying aberrant Ca2+ signaling in ASD astrocytes as a mechanism that contributes to specific behavioral and neuronal deficits. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37673]

What is it like to be an adult with autism? A panel shares their journeys as well as the impact the pandemic has had on their lives. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37656]

Join a panel of typers as they explore the underlying themes of Daniel Keyes' "Flowers for Algernon." Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Humanities] [Science] [Show ID: 37657]

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented changes in routines across the globe. For individuals with autism (ASD) changes in routine can have a direct impact on behavioral symptoms. Doris Trauner, MD examines the effect the pandemic has had on children with moderate to severe autism. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37654]

Constance Smith-Hicks, MD, PhD provides an overview of the sensory challenges in autism spectrum disorder and explains how the sensory system develops. Learn about the somatosensory system as well as current treatments. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37653]

What is the prevalence of epilepsy in individuals with autism? Brian Moseley, MD explores the connection and influencing factors. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37660]

How can the principles of precision medicine apply to autism? Elizabeth Torres, PhD, shares how it has shaped her research. She also explains the three contemporary revolutions in science that have impacted research - neuroscience, genomics, and wearables. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37659]

How can employers and universities better support individuals with autism? A panel of experts including parents, employers, and researchers discusses the support programs that currently exist and what needs to change to make sure neurodiverse people are successful in the world of work and in post-secondary education. Series: "Autism Tree Project Annual Neuroscience Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37655]

Jonathan Sebat, PhD shares current research on how combinations of rare gene mutations and complex common variant risk factors contribute to autism. Series: "Autism Awareness Programs" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37658]

Sir Simon Baron-Cohen examines the changing nature of autism research and how it should become participatory and co-designed by the autistic community. He emphasizes the need for research and society to address neurodiversity and disability. He is joined by autism advocate Becca Lory Hector and special education advocate Michelle McGowan for an engaging discussion rooted in the perspective of the autism community. Series: "Autism Awareness Programs" [Health and Medicine] [Science] [Show ID: 37652]

Robert L Hendren, DO, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science discusses how to build resilience in children with or at risk of neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative biomedical and resilience enhancing interventions. Series: "Mini Medical School for the Public" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 36870]

Researcher Alysson Muotri is using stem cells to study everything from autism to the Zika virus. In this excerpt Muotri discusses stem cell and brain organoid research for possible applications to human diseases. Series: "Health Matters" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 36301]