Scientific Program

Conference Series Ltd invites all the participants across the globe to attend World Brain Congress Carlton Palace Hotel, Dubai. UAE.

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Scientific Program Day 1
Scientific Program Day 2
Scientific Program Day 3

Day 1 :

Keynote Forum

Khashayar Pazooki

Neuroacademy Luxembourg & Traumainstitut Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Keynote: QEEG and ERP measurements combined with other psychometric instruments into an innovative model for individualized and personalized medicinal use in the treatment of psychological and psychiatric disorders

Time : 09:30-10:20

Conference Series BRAIN 2018 International Conference Keynote Speaker Khashayar Pazooki photo
Biography:

Khashayar Pazooki Group Psylux S.A / Neuroacademy Luxembourg Specialized In Neurobiology, Neurophysiology, Clinical Psychotherapy Sciences and Neurocognitive Sciences. Head of the Research Department at Group Psylux. S.A, Member Of The Scientific Committee Of Avm-Luxembourg, Head Of Traumainstitut Luxembourg and Neuro Academy Luxembourg, Lecturer At Different Institutes Such As Aap-Wien, Msk-Cario, Key Speaker At World Food Programme (Wfp) In Madrid, Guest Lecturer At Sigmund Freud Private University In Vienna.

 

Abstract:

Treatment success and positive outcomes are very important goals in clinical work. This research study shows significant positive changes in the treatment outcomes of a group of participants (n=9, average age:38-66 years). The application of this multimodal and innovative approach makes it possible to obtain very detailed differential diagnostic data and allow for the individualization and personalization of the therapeutic planning for the patients. This model provides an overview of dysfunctional correlations in respect of neurophysiological, neurobiological, peripheral and psychological functions that can be regulated with the Multi-Modal Treatment (MMT) approach in a more efficient and effective manner.

Keynote Forum

Justin James Kennedy

Keynote: The vital role of coaching leadership skills of nurses with applied neurological tools and in the development of the first Nursing Leadership Academy in the Middle East Region of Neuroscience to sustain performance in the hospital context and the application of appropriate neuro-cardiac technology.

Time : 10:20-11:00

Conference Series BRAIN 2018 International Conference Keynote Speaker Justin James Kennedy photo
Biography:

Prof. Kennedy is a Thought Leader & Executive Coach in Organizational Neuroscience. His corporate career was interrupted by a motorbike accident, which left him in a coma. After several brain surgeries and a lengthy recovery process, he learned what was needed to reboot his brain again. With strict discipline and endless willpower, he presented a Ph.D. thesis based on his research in neuroscience in Switzerland several years later. He was invited to do a TED talk and presented his research in applied neuroscience at the Institute of Coaching, Harvard Medical School Conference, in Boston in 2016. His book "Brain Reboot - A Change of Mind Will Change Your Brain" will be published in 2018 and was endorsed by the #1 leading coach Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, in the USA.

Today Dr. Kennedy is a globally recognized professor of neuroscience and Organizational Behavior with bespoke Business Schools and Universities in Switzerland, the UK, South Africa, and the UAE. Besides his academic roles, Dr. Kennedy holds several US coaching accreditations and a clinical healthcare license. He runs an executive coaching practice (profkennedy.com) out of NY and Dubai and engages as keynote speaker in the US, Africa, and the Middle East, aspiring executives to peak performance.

He developed the neuroscience-based N3 Coaching model offering various programs designed to sustain well-being while developing behavioral techniques to perform at peak. His work is based on brain data to ensure medically measurable results in his clinical, academic and corporate work.

 

Abstract:

The literature has not yet been synthesized and there is a lack of clarity on what constitutes effective leadership for research use, in the Middle East or what kinds of intervention effectively develop leadership for the purpose of coaching and enhancing clinical practice. We synthesized the evidence on leadership coaching behaviors amongst nurses to then determine the effectiveness of interventions that promote these leadership behaviors Methods/Design A narrative synthesis will be further conducted to synthesize diverse forms of evidence. Narrative synthesis integrates evidence from multiple research designs, including experimental, quasi-experimental and observational studies to generate new insights for policy and practice and will be helpful in generating hypotheses for future experimental studies. This approach has been selected because the majority of leadership and management research is descriptive. A review of leadership research in health and business found that only 5 of 5,728 articles (less than 0.3%) investigated a correlation between leadership and measurable outcomes in nursing. With recent interests in healthcare leadership and research use, however, we anticipate more studies in the ME region. We used a systematic four-stage approach to conduct the review, in line with methodological guidelines set forth by Grimshaw. Using an integrated knowledge translation approach that supports a partnership between researchers and knowledge users throughout the research process, we further follow principles of knowledge synthesis using a systematic method to synthesize different types of evidence involving: searching the literature, study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment, and analysis. A narrative synthesis will be further conducted to explore relationships within and across studies and meta-analysis will be performed if sufficient homogeneity exists across studies employing experimental randomized control trial designs along with interviews of current nurses pre and post coaching. Findings and Discussion With coaching leadership to enhance engagement we will further synthesize healthcare and leadership research to understand what enables nurses to develop the leadership within an academy for the purpose of enhancing research use in clinical practice. The current results show a pressing need for such an academy. We present the medical, hospital needs achieved from the development of a leadership academy and coaching journey for nurses. The result has been the formulation of a leadership academy for nurses within a leading hospital group to coach and develops leading nurses.

  • Molecular Brain Research | Brain Diagnosis | Neuropsychiatry and Mental Health | Brain Degenerative Disorders | Case Reports in Neurological Medicine
Speaker

Chair

Khashayar Pazooki

Neuroacademy Luxembourg & Traumainstitut Luxembourg

Speaker

Co-Chair

Justin James Kennedy

Psychologist

Session Introduction

Jiri Novotny

Charles University, Czech Republic

Title: Alterations in the rat brain proteome induced by early maternal separation
Speaker
Biography:

Jiri Novotny is the Associate Professor of Animal Physiology, Charles University in Prague has completed his Ph.D. in 1996 at the Czech Academy of Sciences. He has worked as a Postdoctoral Associate in the Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences and in 2007 he became a Head of the Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University. His research has focused on the biochemistry of cell signaling under different physiological and pathophysiological conditions. He has published more than 80 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an Editorial Board Member of several journals. 

Abstract:

Mother-infant contacts play an important role in the shaping of newborns' physiological system along with the development and maturation of the brain and behavior. There are some indications that stressful experiences in the early neonatal period may adversely affect the development of brain neurotransmitter systems and contribute to the development of certain mental illnesses. Here, we investigated the effect of early maternal separation on protein expression in selected brain regions and, in parallel we monitored the behavior of rat pups and young adults in a light-dark box. Rat pups (Long-Evans) were separated from their mothers on postnatal days 2 to 21 for 3h per day or normally reared. On day 22, some animals were subjected to the light-dark box test and the others were used for the isolation of brain tissue (cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum). Some animals were maintained until 3 months of age and then used for analyses. Brain tissues were homogenized and subjected to label-free quantitative proteomic analysis. Results of proteomic analyses revealed differences in protein profiling of different brain regions and indicated that early maternal separation diversely affected protein expression in the cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum. Changed protein expression was observed also in brain tissues from young adult rats. Animals subjected to maternal separation exhibited anxiety-like behavior, which lasted into young adulthood. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that early life stressful experiences may affect protein expression in some brain regions and lead to behavioral alterations.

Ammar Mallouhi

Medical University of Vienna, Austria

Title: Structural and microstructural 3T MR imaging of glioma
Speaker
Biography:

Ammar Mallouhi has completed his specialization in diagnostic radiology in Innsbruck, Austria in 2006 and he was awarded a Venia Docendi“ in 2007. Currently a consultant at the Department of Neuroradiology at Vienna Medical University in Vienna, Austria since 2010. In 2012, he was nominated as an associate professor at Vienna Medical University. He has published more than 50 papers and proceedings in reputed journals. He was awarded several international scientifi c awards including three “Certifi cate of Merit” from the RSNA.

Abstract:

MR imaging is an integral part of the management of gliomas. Morphologic and functional MR imaging modalities help in the assessment of location and extent of the tumor and of its biologic activity. techniques and imaging findings of WHO II, III and IV gliomas at structural (high-resolution T2W, Flair, MPR, SWI) as well as at functional (DWI and DTI, MR Spectroscopy, dynamic susceptibility-weighted contrast-enhanced MR perfusion, arterial spin labeling) MR imaging will be summarized. In particular, the predictive value of multimodality MRI in detecting anaplastic transformation and the Value of multimodality MRI in detecting pseudoprogression and pseudoresponse will be emphasized. The major teaching points of this presentation are: 
1. understanding the spectrum of key image characteristics of glioma at various 3T MR techniques. 2. conjoint interpretation of structural and functional MR imaging findings helps in recognizing glioma grade, tumor tendency for progression (upgrading) and tumor response after therapy. 3. choosing a multimodality MRI approach assists biopsy and surgery planning.
 

Kumaar Bagrodia

Neuroleap, India

Title: Assessing & enhancing brainwaves for treating psychological disorders
Speaker
Biography:

Kumaar Bagrodia is the Founder of NeuroLeap, India’s leading applied neuroscience company and also LeapVault group including digital healthcare.  Kumaar has several years of cross-functional expertise across industries and domains. He has earlier worked with companies like Infosys and WNS where he was an associate director globally. He has consistently been rated very highly by customers across the globe which include leading global investment banks, consulting firms, financial research houses and Fortune 100 corporates.  Kumaar holds an MBA degree from the University of Oxford, is a country champion and ambassador for the Oxford Business Alumni in India.  He has been featured in various media in India and abroad including Knowledge@Wharton, Wall Street Journal, The Economic Times, Hindustan Times, Bloomberg TV and Forbes to name a few. He co-authored an article in Harvard HBR.

Abstract:

Ahmad Faleh Tamimi

Jordan University Hospital, Jordan

Title: Can vagus nerve stimulation decrease the risk of bone fracture
Speaker
Biography:

Ahmad Tamimi Started his study at University of Oviedo graduating as Medical Doctor in 1977, he got his training in Neurosurgery at General Hospital of Asturias, Spain as from 1977-1981, he had his Ph.D. in Medicine from University of Oviedo, Spain, in 1981. He worked as a consultant at General Hospital of Asturias as from 1981until 1984, a consultant at General Hospital of Las Palmas as from 1984 until 1990, and consultant at Jordan University Hospital since 1990 till present. He was appointed as Chairman of Neurosurgical Department as from 2000 until 2013. In 2000, he became a full professor of Neurosurgery. Prof. Tamimi became a Dean of Medical School at Muatah University during the period from 2005-2007. and General Director of Jordan University Hospital from 2013-106. Member of the scientifi c committee the Arab Board in Neurosurgery and Member of the scientifi c committee Jordanian Board scientifi c committee member in Neurosurgery. Special interest in Neuro-oncology and epilepsy surgery. He is the author of over 150 publications in Neurosurgery, Medical Ethics, Medical Education and Health care system.

Abstract:

Background: Most epilepsy treatments are associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) and increased risk of bone fracture. Recent studies have demonstrated that cholinergic activity has an anabolic effect on bone metabolism. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a promising treatment of epilepsy that, as a side effect can increase cholinergic activity. Accordingly, we hypothesize that VNS can increase BMD in epilepsy patients. Methods: A series of 16 epilepsy patients (6 females and 10 males; 5 to 46 years old) scheduled for VNS insertion were assessed for BMD before and after the VNS insertion. VNS insertions were performed between May 2012 and October 2015. Paired t-test was used to compare BMD a before and a VNS. Results: Initial BMD z score values were - 1.1 ± 0.741 (mean ± SD) gr/cm2 for femoral neck and -1.027 ±1.129 for L1-L4. BMD has assessed 446.5 ±151.2 days ethics, VNS insertion. BMD from was significantly higher aft er VNS insertion for L1-L4 (p=0.033) with mean BMD increasing from -1.027 to – 0.897. VNS had no eff ect on the BMD of the femoral neck (p=0.62). Conclusions: Epilepsy patients undergoing VNS might benefi t from an improvement in lumbar spine BMD thereby decreasing the risk of bone fractures. Further studies are warranted to confi rm this finding.

Reza Nejat

Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBMU), Iran

Title: Neuroprotective effect of erythropoietin
Speaker
Biography:

Reza Nejat is a board certifi ed Anesthesiologist and FCCM. After graduating from Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) as a GP, he could achieve the ECFMG certifi cation and also board certifi cation in Anesthesiology from Iran University of Medical Sciences. He passed the fellowship programme in Critical Care Medicine at Sina Hospital, TUMS. During this period he was inclined to study molecular medicine in the fi eld of sepsis, acute heart failure, and neurocritical care. Administration of EPO to neurologically injured patients has been one of his fi eld of interests and experience for the past 4 years. He was the chief of few hospitals and associate professor in Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences for 8 years. Dr. Nejat has 4 published books in the fields of cardiology, nephrology, fluid and electrolyte, nutrition, metabolism, and endocrinology. Recently, he contributed to the chapter of “Acute Heart Failure” in the reference book “Comprehensive Textbook of Therapeutics” studied by post-doc residents of pharmacotherapy. On his website, rezanejat.com, he publishes his articles. 
 

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: During the last 25 years in an animal, ex-vivo, in-vitro and even in some clinical studies, cell protective effect of erythropoietin, a growth hormone used for erythropoiesis, was clarified even though the German Multicenter EPO Stroke Trial revealed that administration of this growth factor might even be hazardous to humans. On the contrary, a huge amount of studies thereafter, like the conclusion achieved in 2010 by Elmahdy and colleagues, could elucidate the anti-inflammatory cell-protective potentials of erythropoietin in neurological injuries and disorders recently categorized as, entities. The neuroprotective effect of this endo-hormone and its safety, if proved clinically might change the fate of many disabled patients in the future. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: Near 270 articles including reviews and animal, in-vitro, ex-vivo and clinically case-control studies downloaded from science direct and PubMed websites were studied. Conclusion & Significance: It has long been believed that neural cells do not have the potentials to proliferate nor regenerate in case they encounter diverse sorts of insults including of hypoxic, hypoglycemic, oxidative and even apoptotic origin. A growing number of studies have shown that erythropoietin receptor is distributed extensively in the nervous system on the neurovascular unit cells and erythropoietin participates in many cell-protective anti-apoptotic pathways in the central and peripheral nervous systems. These pathways also have significant contributions to the plasticity of the neuronal tissues which by itself shows the probable role of this growth factor in even restoring of memory and intelligence in the post-injury period. A recent phase II study in infants with moderate to severe hypoxic/ischemic encephalopathy has demonstrated EPO’s effect in diminishing MRI brain injury and improving the motor function of the infant's after 1 year. It seems to be a must to conduct more sophisticated methodological case-control studies to elucidate the magical effects of this endo-hormone. 

Chu Yin Man

Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Hong Kong

Title: A systematic review on the education for the patients and carers during early acute stroke period
Biography:

Chu Yin Man has obtained Master of Science degree in Stroke & Clinical Neurosciences in the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is currently an Advanced Practice Nurse in an acute stroke unit and Visiting Lecturer in Institute of Advanced Nursing Studies in hospital authority. He had published studies on thrombolytic therapy, carotid doppler screening, TIA service and lifestyle interventions in stroke. He had also organized many health promotion programs for brain health and stroke prevention. His research interests are evidence-based practice, stroke physiology, patient education and lifestyle modifi cation for stroke management.
 

Abstract:

Over 15 million people have suffered from a stroke every year. Studies showed that approximate one-third acute stroke patient would deteriorate after admission. In the acute phase of cerebral ischemia, the affected area is composed of an infarct core which is surrounded by penumbra area. The cerebral blood flow will diminish further and the brain cells cannot survive. The preservation of cerebral blood flow or cerebral perfusion is essential. Stroke is frightening to patient and family members, as it causes serious disability. Often people believe that active training can promote recovery. In fact, undue activities will diminish cerebral blood flow to the affected brain tissue and cause irreversible damage. Health care professional has the duty to correct patient and family's misconceptions at this time. It is crucial that the patient can understand the rationales and comply with management. A systematic review has been conducted to understand the patients’ and families’ information needs during admission of stroke and examine various methods in patients’ and families’ education in stroke. This systematic review concluded the information needs of stroke patients and carers persist from the admission period until the discharge process and further caring in the community. However, the information needs on acute stroke admission are not well researched, especially its therapeutic interplay towards patients and carers. Although education strategies such as personalized written materials have been developed for better patients and carers understanding and treatment compliance, the coverage of different types of stroke patients is limited and the outcome is limited.
 

  • The Importance of Leadership Development in Hospitals
Speaker

Chair

Justin James Kennedy

Consultant & Executive Career Coach in Organizational Neuroscience, USA

  • Brain Degenerative Disorders | Neuro Physiology & Neuropharmacology | Neuro Regeneration & Aging | Neuropsychiatry and Mental Health | Brain & Neuro Devices
Speaker

Chair

Katrina Wendel-Mitoraj

Brain Care Oy, Finland

Speaker

Co-Chair

Ahmad Faleh Tamimi

Jordan University Hospital, Jordan

Session Introduction

Sabah Enayah

Thi-Qar University, Iraq

Title: The protective role of N-acetyl Cysteine and vitamin C against atrazine-induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration in N27 Cells
Biography:

Abstract:

Jean-Charles Sanchez

University of Geneva, Switzerland

Title: Combining H-FABP and GFAP increases the capacity to differentiate between CT-positive and CT-negative patients with mild traumatic brain injury
Speaker
Biography:

Jean-Charles Sanchez has completed his Ph.D. at Buckingham University, UK and further professional carrier at the Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University. He is the Director of the Geneva Biomarker Center. He has published more than 200 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an Editor in Chief and associated with proteomics journal. He is the Founder of the Swiss Proteomics Society, the European Proteomics Association, Swiss-2Dservice, and ABCDx.

 

Abstract:

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) patients may have trauma-induced brain lesions detectable using CT scans. However, most patients will be CT-negative. There is thus a need for an additional tool to detect patients at risk. Combining several biomarkers into panels has become increasingly interesting for diagnoses and to enhance classification performance. The present study evaluated 13 proteins individually—H-FABP, MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-9, VCAM, ICAM, SAA, CRP, GSTP, NKDA, PRDX1, DJ-1, and IL-10—for their capacity to differentiate between patients with and without a brain lesion according to CT results. The best performing proteins were then compared and combined with the S100B and GFAP proteins into a CT scan triage panel. Patients diagnosed with mTBI, with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 and one additional clinical symptoms were enrolled at three different European sites. Patients were divided into two cohorts and further dichotomized into CT-positive and CT-negative groups. Single markers and panels were evaluated using Cohort 1. Four proteins—H-FABP, IL-10, S100B, and GFAP—showed significantly higher levels in CT-positive patients. The best-performing biomarker was H-FABP, with a specificity of 32% (95% CI 23–40) and sensitivity reaching 100%. The best-performing two-marker panel for Cohort 1, subsequently validated in Cohort 2, was a combination of H-FABP and GFAP, enhancing specificity to 46% (95% CI 36–55). When adding IL-10 to this panel, specificity reached 52% (95% CI 43–61) with 100% sensitivity. These results showed that proteins combined into panels could be used to efficiently classify CT-positive and CT-negative mTBI patients.

Khashayar Pazooki

Neuroacademy Luxembourg & Traumainstitut Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Title: Neuro feedback treatment for the negative symptoms of schizophrenia
Speaker
Biography:

Specialized in neurobiology, neuropsychology, clinical psychotherapy sciences affective and neurocognitive sciences. Head of the research department at Group Psylux. S.A (www.psylux.eu), member of the scientifi c committee of AVM-Luxembourg, head of Traumainstitut Luxembourg (www.traumainstitut.lu) and neuro academy Luxembourg (www.neuroacademy.lu), lecturer at different institutes such as AAP-Wien, MSK-Cario, Key speaker at World Food Programme (WFP) in Madrid, guest lecturer at Sigmund Freud Private University in Vienna.
 

Abstract:

Negative symptoms in schizophrenic patients include anhedonia, affective impoverishment, speech impoverishment, affective flattening, indifference, reduced drive, reduced psychomotor activities, such as mimic and gestures, limited voice modulation, impoverishment of speech and impulse dysregulation. In addition, there are usually cognitive impairments in the form of attention and concentration disorders. Neuro feedback is an operant method based on spontaneous EEG derivations. We applied a neurofeedback protocol consisting of two main phases to reduce the negative symptoms and to enhance the quality of speech. Each week, over the period of one month, there were five treatment sessions (Monday to Friday, one session per day). The training session took 45 minutes each. We performed pre-treatment and post-treatment assessments and they both included the following tests: GAF, PANSS, CompACT (different go/no-go tasks with measurement of the reaction time and reaction exactitude), QEEG data and speech analyses of speech protocols. The results were significant, as the posttreatment assessment confirmed that the participants no longer met the initial criteria set as preconditions to be met by participants in this study.

Najiha Syeda

School Psychologist, Dwight School, Dubai

Title: Mind monism in psychology. Does it exist?
Biography:

International Practiced School Counsellor with 14 years of experience in the education industry. My educational qualifi cation includes but is not limited to master’s in counseling and psychotherapy, Post Graduate Diploma in Child and Youth Counselling & bachelors in psychology. I have gained experience as a school counselor in Saudi Arabia, Australia, and UAE. My articles have been published in many international magazines and newspapers. I love to blog in my free time – Meet Your Counselor. My blog gives clarity to school counselors across UAE on how to run a successful counseling program which is in line with the Ministry of Education Behavior Program.

Abstract:

Aman Sohal

Neuropedia Children's Neuroscience Center, Dubai

Title: Prolonged video-EEG in identifying paroxysmal nonepileptic events in children with epilepsy: A useful tool
Speaker
Biography:

Aman PS Sohal is a U.K Board certifi ed Consultant Pediatric Neurologist with over 11 years of experience in Pediatrics which includes more than fi ve years of experience as a Consultant in Pediatric Neurology. He completed his comprehensive postgraduate training in General Pediatrics and Neonatology as a pediatric resident and registrar in prestigious Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool U.K. He obtained his Membership of the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH), U.K in 2006. He then trained as a senior registrar in the fi eld of Pediatric Neurology from The Great North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, U.K. He was awarded Completion of Certifi ed Training (CCT) in Pediatric Neurology and Pediatrics by the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health in 2012. Dr. Sohal is one of the very few Pediatric Neurologists in the U.K who also trained in Pediatric Neurophysiology as a post CCT fellow. Due to his additional experience, he is proficient in interpreting and carrying out pediatric EEG’s, Nerve conduction study and Needle Electromyography.
 
 

Abstract:

Habitual events, behaviors and non-epileptic events can be easily confused with epileptic seizures in children in the absence of clear description and can be challenging, even for an experienced clinician. The aim was to report on the usefulness of adding video-EEG to routine EEG studies of infants and children with frequent atypical paroxysmal events. A retrospective analysis of video-EEG carried over a 2-year period in a tertiary pediatric neurology center. Outcomes were classified as conclusive epileptic, conclusive non-epileptic, unremarkable and inconclusive. 44 children (M: F 19:25) with an age range of 1 to 15 years (mean: 7 years, median: 8.5 years) were analyzed. 30 (68%) children had successful epilepsy classification. A diagnosis of a specific non-epileptic event was reached in 55% of cases. Antiepileptic drugs were discontinued completely in 8 patients (20%) and the total number of antiepileptic drugs was reduced in 13 others (33%). Paroxysmal non-epileptic events can cause diagnostic confusion, particularly in children with developmental delay, epilepsy (especially refractory epilepsy), or those with previous "abnormal" EEG. Accurate diagnosis can be reached in the majority of cases using prolonged video-EEG monitoring.

Anjali Raj

JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, India

Title: Modulating olfactory dysfunction via lavender oil inhalation to treat dementia in a mice model of Alzheimer’s disease
Biography:

Anjali Raj has completed her Masters With GPAT scholarship at the age of 25 years from JSS Academy of higher education and research and is currently pursuing her doctoral studies from the same institution. Her major fi eld of interest is Alzheimer’s Disease and aspires to find a cure to the disease which benfi te the sufferers without affecting their quality of life. She is a DST inspire fellow and only has one publication to her credit.                                  
 

Abstract:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease pathetically affecting the quality of life of the individual struck by it, especially the geriatric population. Pathologically characterized by A-beta and tau depositions, the AD has a profound functional deficit of the “sense of smell” which remain unnoticed and could possibly be an effective target to diminish the dementia symptoms associated. Lavender oil (LO) is a rich source of linalool and is found to be a potent calming remedy in humans and an effective neuroprotective. Inhalation of LO by an Amyloid beta1-42 ((Aβ) Intracerebroventricular) injected female C57BL/6 mice could significantly reduce the Aβ induced primary olfactory dysfunction followed by memory deficits measured through behavioral studies. Levels of Serotonin, GABA and glutamate neurotransmitters in the olfactory bulb and hippocampus along with acetylcholinesterase levels were proportional to the animal’s behavioral response and provided basic mechanistic support of LO in the enhancement of cognitive domain. Aromatherapy is considered as one of the best alternative solutions to numerous health problems especially those related to brain and our study contributes significant evidence to consider them as an effective replacement to better the disease without affecting the patient’s daily life. Further combinatorial studies could also position them as a viable adjunct along with the conventional treatment routines prescribed for the AD sufferers.

Nuriza Omertassova

Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan

Title: Parkinsonism Protein DJ-1 Protects Cells via Post-Translational Modifi cation That is Different From Oxidation
Speaker
Biography:

Abstract:

Human protein DJ-1 protects neurons from oxidative stress and early onset of Parkinson’s disease via an unknown mechanism. We have recently demonstrated that a small fraction of hexahistidine-tagged human DJ-1 overexpressed in bacterial cells undergo a transient post-translational modification on reactive cysteine (Cys106) forming a stable carboxymethyl adduct upon purification of DJ-1 from the bacterial lysate. Here, we demonstrate that compared to bacterial expression, a much higher proportion of DJ-1 is modified on Cys106 when the protein is overexpressed in methylotrophic yeast. Since methylotrophic yeast oxidizes methanol using molecular oxygen to generate hydrogen peroxide and formaldehyde, DJ-1 is likely to be exposed to a significant oxidative stress, suggesting that the extent of transient post-translational modification may reflect the severity of oxidant stress. To test this hypothesis we have studied whether the extent of the post-translational modification of Cys106 correlates with oxidative stress. We have found that rotenone-induced oxidative stress increases the amount of posttranslationally modified DJ-1 in mammalian cells. The addition of mouse brain cytosol to cell lysate with overexpressed DJ-1 resulted in a reduction of transiently modified DJ-1 suggesting the existence of a pathway that converts modified DJ-1. We conclude that an unknown metabolite reacts with Cys106 of DJ-1 to result in a relatively stable post-translational modification. This modification is different from simple oxidation to sulfinic or sulfonic acids and confers altered binding properties to DJ-1 suggesting that it may serve as a signal for sensing of oxidant stress.
 

Mariam Chighladze

Akaki Tsereteli State University, Georgia

Title: Effects of Chronic Administration of Memantine on Okadaic Acid Induced Spatial Shortterm Memory impairment
Speaker
Biography:

Mariam Chighladze has completed her Ph.D. from Saint Andrew the First-Called Georgian University of the Patriarchate of Georgia. She is working as a Laboratory Assistant at Ivane Beritashvili Center of Experimental Biomedicine-Laboratory of Behavior and Cognitive Functions. She has published more than 4 papers.

Abstract:

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes progressive cognitive and behavioral impairment in the elderly. It is widely believed that changes in the cerebral activity of protein phosphatases have been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Okadaic acid (OA) is a potent and selective inhibitor of protein phosphatases. OA induced memory deficit and elevation of Ca2+ was found to be correlated with neurotoxicity and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor emerged as a plausible link. According to available data, the NMDA receptor antagonists (including memantine) have the potential to perform a neuroprotective role in neurodegenerative processes caused by Ca2+ ionotoxicity. In the present study, the possible beneficial effect of memantine on the Okadaic Acid (OA) induced spatial short-term memory impairment was examined in spatial alternation task. OA was dissolved in artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) and injected intracerebroventricularly (ICV) 200 ng in a volume of 10 μl bilaterally. Vehicle control received aCSF ICV bilaterally. Control and OA injected rats were divided into 2 subgroups injected i.p. with saline or memantine (5 mg/kg,) Memantine or saline were given daily for 13 days starting from the day of OA injection. The behavioral study showed that bilateral ICV microinjection of OA induced impairment in spatial short-term memory and chronic administration of memantine effectively attenuated OA induced spatial short-term memory impairment. Therefore, ICV injection of OA can be used as an experimental model to study mechanisms of neurodegeneration and define novel therapeutic targets for AD pathology.

Mariya Kilina

Novosibirsk State University, Russia

Title: Prolonged video-EEG in identifying paroxysmal nonepileptic events in children with epilepsy: A useful tool
Biography:

Mariya Kilina is an ungraduated student at the Humanitarian Institute of Novosibirsk State University. Alexander Savostyanov has completed his Ph.D. at the age of 24 years from Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine and Scientifi c Doctor Degree at the age of 31 years from Saint-Petersburg State University. He is the Full Professor at the Novosibirsk State University, and the head of the laboratory of Psychological Genetics at the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of SB RAS, and the staff-leading scientist at the Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia. He has published more than 50 papers in reputed journals.

Abstract:

Event-related potentials (ERPs) represent different phases of external signal recognition. The aim of our research was to compare the responses to adjectives referenced to self and other among subjects who differ in their personalities. 42 Novosibirsk State University students, all healthy and right-handed, were invited as participants (mean age is 22.6 years). All of them replied to psychological questionnaires defining their personality traits. 90 words in Russian describing people’s personalities were used. They were divided into 3 equal categories: emotionally neutral, positive and negative. Subjects were asked to consistently attribute each word to four people: self, loved one, unpleasant one and neutral one. EEG was recorded on a 128-channel Brain Products amplifier, Germany. Event-related potentials were chosen as a measure of brain activity in the condition of a task execution. We showed that the P300 component reflects reference to one of four people. The largest amplitude was observed when subjects matched adjectives to an unpleasant person. N600 component reflects the emotionality of the word itself. The largest amplitude of this component was observed in response to emotionally positive words. The amplitudes of these components correlated with such personality characteristics as extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism measured by the Goldberg’s questionnaire. In conclusion, ERPs reflect both semantic peculiarities of recognized words and the subject’s personality in self- and other-referenced adjectives recognition task. The study was supported by the Russian Science Foundation, grant 17-18-01019.

Panagiotis Zogopoulo

Metropolitan Hospital, Greece

Title: Treating Insomnia with Acupuncture – Current Evidence
Speaker
Biography:

Dr. Zogopoulos Panagiotis is a neurosurgeon specialized in medical acupuncture. He has completed his PhD
from the University of Athens (School of Medicine) and has received advanced clinical training (clinical research fellowship) at the Neurosurgery department of Osaka University hospital in Japan. He is currently the Chief of Medical Acupuncture Department at Metropolitan hospital (Athens, Greece) and has published a large number of papers in various international scientific journals.

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION
Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders that usually affects stroke and cancer patients, as well as perimenopausal women, among others. Current drug
treatment (e.g. hypnotics) is often ineffective or associated with undesirable side-effects. Acupuncture is a promising treatment modality for patients with insomnia since numerous experimental and clinical studies have documented its effectiveness in improving various sleep parameters.
 
RESULTS
Experimental Data
Acupuncture has been found effective in experimental rat models of insomnia and its effects were mediated through various pathways. Increased levels of pineal
melatonin (MT) protein, MT1, and MT2 mRNAs, as well as increased expressions of circadian clock genes of Period (Per) 1 and Per 2 mRNAs in the hypothalamic
suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), have been found after acupuncture treatment (P<0.05). Acupuncture also led to an improved sleep latency and duration (compared to
control group), through an up-regulation of expression levels of circadian Clock mRNA and Bmal 1 mRNA in hypothalamic regions, such as the ventrolateral preoptic
area (VLPO) and the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)(P<0.01). In another animal model of insomnia, acupuncture treatment significantly decreased levels of the
interleukins IL-1, IL-2, and IL-6 and the tumor necrosis factor-α in the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex (P<0.05). Moreover, levels of noradrenaline,
dopamine, and glutamic were also significantly decreased after acupuncture, contributing to better sleep parameters.
 
Clinical Data
Acupuncture treatment in humans has been found to be effective in reducing insomnia, anxiety, fatigue and depression and these beneficial effects, assessed with the
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) (among others) were maintained for at least 3 months after treatment. Particularly, sleep
onset latency, the number of awakenings and wake after sleep onset was reduced, while total sleep time and sleep efficiency were significantly increased after acupuncture
treatment (all P<0.01). Acupuncture in patients with insomnia reduces serum levels of norepinephrine (NE) and increases serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT),
as well increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, and these alterations are significantly more effective compared to oral antidepressants (such as
trazodone). Acupuncture can improve the sleep quality of primary insomnia more effectively than estazolam (a benzodiazepine), and is more beneficial for regulation of
hyperarousal state. Furthermore, combined acupuncture treatment and estazolam administration (2mg) in patients with insomnia can even more significantly improve
total sleeping duration, sleeping latency, sleeping arousal and sleeping efficiency (P<0.05). Acupuncture in women with perimenopausal insomnia increased estradiol
(E2) levels and decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels 30 days after treatment. These acupuncture effects were superior to
those of the control group (oral administration of 0.4 mg or 0.8 mg alprazolam before sleep) (all P<0.05).
 
RESULTS
Current evidence suggests that acupuncture is an effective treatment modality for insomnia, as well as depression (which is commonly related to long-term insomnia).
In particular, it can significantly improve sleep duration and quality, as well as reduce sleep latency and disturbances. Thus, acupuncture can positively affect physical
and mental health and lead to a better quality of life.

 

  • Brain Degenerative Disorders Neuropsychiatry and Mental Health | Brain & Neuro Devices
Speaker

Chair

Mohamed A Fahmy Zeid

Alexandria University, Egypt

Session Introduction

Salah EL RAI

Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital, UAE

Title: Morphological imaging of dementia
Speaker
Biography:

Salah EL RAI currently serves as senior consultant radiologist and head of radiology department at Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital Ministry of Presidential Affairs (SKGH-MOPA), Umm Al Quwain, UAE. Dr. Salah completed his radiology degree in France and had more than 13 years of clinical radiology experience in France and UAE. He is an active member of the European Society of Radiology (ESR), the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), French Society of Radiology (SFR) and the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE). He is also, a reviewer of the American Journal of Radiology and member of the RSNA regional committee of the Middle East and Africa. He has published over 60 international publications, papers, and presentations at multiple conferences. He has special interests in body imaging and imaging quality assurance.

Abstract:

Dementias constitute a heterogeneous group of affections and morphological imaging is routinely requested in case of detection of any recent dementia. In the clinical practice, screening imaging examinations such as brain CT and MRI are useful to exclude secondary dementia from neurodegenerative disorders. This morphological imaging help guiding the second-line diagnostic process: oriented biology, functional and metabolic imaging. Through an iconographic review, we will try to explain the value of CT and MRI exams and to propose a simplified MRI protocol. Our paper will simplify the classification of dementias and explain the value of morphological brain imaging in dementia while differentiating neurodegenerative from secondary causes of dementia related to brain tumors, subdural hematomas, normal pressure hydrocephalus, cerebrovascular, inflammatory, infectious, nutritional, metabolic and toxic disorders.

Jamila Khatoon Adam

Durban University of Technology, South Africa

Title: The association of temporal lobe epilepsy with mental health or psychiatric disorder
Biography:

Jamila Khatoon Adam is the Chairperson of the Institutional Research Ethics Committee at the Durban University of Technology, Durban, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. She has published more than 30 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as Editorial Board Member of two international journals and as a Reviewer for 8 national and international journals. She was also a recipient of national and international awards for her contribution to medical research.

 

Abstract:

Temporal Lobe Epilepsy (TLE) is defined as a condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures, originating from medial and lateral temporal lobe. This common type of epilepsy is sometimes difficult to diagnose, but once diagnosed it can be effectively treated with medication. Patients exhibit varying severity of affective, behavioral, psychotic or personality, psychotic or personality abnormalities, which in turn, may not only lead to misdiagnosis but also affect the management of TLE. EEG remains the primary diagnostic test of brain function such as seizures or epilepsy, head injuries, dizziness, headaches, brain tumors, sleep disorders, stroke, and dementia. Activation procedures may be carried out. This includes hyperventilation (rapid, deep breathing) and photic stimulation (rhythmic flashes of a bright light). These additional procedures may evoke abnormalities that did not occur during the artifact-free EEG recording. consequences can occur if misdiagnosis is made, as it can often lead to the incorrect medication being described, which in some cases worsen the seizures or may exacerbate other symptoms such as depression and or panic. Epilepsy and psychiatric disorder are not a mutually exclusive diagnosis and could easily co-exist. Overlooking either diagnosis in a patient afflicted with both could possibly lead to treatment failures.