Scientific Program

Conference Series Ltd invites all the participants across the globe to attend 31st Clinical Neuroscience and Neurogenetics Conference: Mobilizing Neurons to Rehabilitate Dubai, UAE.

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Scientific Program Day 1
Scientific Program Day 2

Day 1 :

Keynote Forum

Khurram Sadiq

Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation, UK

Keynote: Social Media - The antisocial media, it’s challenges and impact on mental health

Time : 09:45-10:30

Conference Series Neurogenetics 2018 International Conference Keynote Speaker Khurram Sadiq photo
Biography:

A highly professional, driven and resourceful Consultant Psychiatrist with a wealth of experience in Public Health Services, CAMHSS and Mental Health Services through to research and development of resources and services development, promotion of both educational and health development within the mental health sector. An inspirational leader and multilingual communicator with the ability to engage and empower individuals from all cultures, sectors and at all levels promoting awareness and improved health care and clinical leadership; naturally curious and driven by ideas with an exceptional ability to explore and debate multiple perspectives whilst maintaining a diagnostician's practical focus on problem-solving, planning and focusing on maximising clinical excellence as well as business objectives.
 

Abstract:

Well we live in a dynamic world of Social media. The world is divided into two Paradoxes , Real world and Online  which is now declared a domain. We know the advantages of Social Media , how connected we are, how easy it is to communicate  however what we disregard is the unknown dark realm of the Socail Media with a dynamic interface which is very engaging and addictive in nature. With the expansion of Social Media  and advent of smart phones, our universe is in our hands and just a touch away. Screen time has increased considerably, real time has decreased substantiality, there is a false perception of anonymity, closeness, proximity  and security. This leads to a lot of deviant behaviours. Outdoor activities has been replaced with Gaming consoles, VR Gismos and ever engaging Social Media. Social isolation is on the rise, there has been an increase in the mental health disorders amongst children, adolescents and adults. Social Media is now deemed as an addiction. There is a significant withdrawal, craving and dependence on Social Media, working on Rewards, surges, highs and pleasure system. The conundrum is to counter this addiction which impacts the young, impacting not only the social values but  institutions affecting skill sets and endangers the societal fabric. Amongst teenagers there has been an increase in mental health disorders by 75% in the past 2 decades. There has been relapses of bipolar illness and Psychotic disorder due to social Isolation instigated by Cyberworld that includes gadgets , gaming , social media etc Stalking has never been easy , instead of one there are multiple targets , paranoia and delusional word has become more elaborated fed by the addictive enchanting and enthralling world of Social media.
 

Keynote Forum

Ayesha Aslam

Muslim Mental Health, Islamic Counselling Services, UK

Keynote: The connection between neuroscience, mental health and Islam

Time : 10:30-11:1

Conference Series Neurogenetics 2018 International Conference Keynote Speaker Ayesha Aslam photo
Biography:

Ayesha is the Director and Founder of Sakoon Counselling Services. She is a Clinical Supervisor, BACP Accredited Integrative Psychotherapist, Psychologist and an Islamic counsellor. She has over 15 years of experience working with diverse issues from counselling to more severe psychological issues. She has been a keynote speaker at various conferences, recent one includes Training Muslim Chaplains and Imams in the UK. Has published articles in various magazines, provided workshops to organisations and appeared on radio/TV channels providing support and advice on key issues and not afraid to challenged Taboos. Ayesha a pioneer, a first in her field that set up Sakoon to address a need in the Muslim community which was to have access to a professional counseling service that would not compromise their faith. Today Sakoon has 10 counselors, 3 trainers, delivers accredited courses and works with clients as far as Phoenix Arizona and Australia. A first for the UK Ayesha Aslam has joined up with BIMA (British Islamic Medical Association) where she is a keynote speaker for Mental Health and Hajj Webinar, this will be going out live across the world.
 

Abstract:

  • Genetics & Neurogenetics| Neurodegeneration| Neuroimmunology & Neuroinfection|Diagnostic Tools and Imaging Technique| Neurological Rehabilitation & Genetic Counseling| Alzheimer and Dementia| Neuropharmacology| Pediatric Neurology| Neuroophthalmological| Neuro Oncology & Neurology
Location: Dubai, UAE

Session Introduction

Zahed Maher

Cairo University, Egypt

Title: Stroke related physical and bio mechanical changes related to stroke

Time : 11-30-12:00

Speaker
Biography:

Zahed Meher has done his bachelor degree in Physiotherapy at Cairo University, Egypt. And diploma degree of Physiotherapy from MC Gill University. Diploma and Neuropathy from École de massotherapies Adam, Quebec, Canada. He is DHA licensed general physical therapy syndicate Egypt, Dubai health authority and UAE and QUEBEC association of Neuropathy.
 

Abstract:

Jolanta Zieba

Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, USA

Title: Correlation of amniotic fluid hyaluronic acid levels with severity of spinal cord damage and astrogliosis in myelomeningocele model

Time : 12:00-12:30

Speaker
Biography:

Postdoctoral fellow. Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA A research program primarily focused on studying ECM and cellular components of amniotic fluid for early diagnosis and treatment of Myelomeningocele (MMC), a severe form of spina bifida, in retinoic acid induced rat model.  2015-2016 Graduate Visiting Research Scholar. Research Focus: The use of stem cells for treatment of Myelomeningocele in the animal model of this defect. Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University,  Philadelphia, Ph.D. student. Specialty: Molecular Biology, Scientific field: Medical Science; Department of Tumor Biology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland. Research Focus: Mechanisms of senescence in primary cell cultures in vitro.
 

Abstract:

Myelomeningocele (MMC) is the most severe and common form of spina bifida, which results in significant and lifelong neurological disabilities, impaired quality of life and difficult medical management. In MMC, the spinal cord is exposed to the Amniotic Fluid (AF) through openings in the overlying vertebrae and skin resulting in progressive spinal cord damage and astrogliosis at the MMC lesion site. Because the spinal cord damage is thought to be mediated by exposure of the spinal cord to the AF, closing the MMC lesion in utero could be beneficial to enhancing neurological outcome. However, the mechanisms underlying the pathological progression of MMC are not well understood and MMC still poses a therapeutic challenge. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is an important component of the AF determining its properties and plays a significant role in the unique fetal wound healing process and tissue regeneration. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to measure the HA concentration in AF at different stages during gestation in a clinically relevant rat model of MMC and compare them with age-matched normal controls. MMC was established using the retinoic acid-induced rat model, which is analogous to human MMC and develops the entire spectrum of disease severity. The HA concentration in AF was examined using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, the progression of spinal cord injury in MMC fetuses was assessed by immunohistochemical examination of astrogliosis. Our data shows a significant reduction in HA level and the viscosity of AF was observed in fetal rats with MMC at later stages of gestation compared to control fetuses. Moreover, lower HA level and viscosity corresponding with the increased severity of spinal cord damage and astrogliosis at the MMC site. In summary our results show deficiency in the HA level of AF that appear to correlate with MMC pathology in a rat model of MMC. Our findings may aid in our understanding of mechanisms underlying pathological progression of MMC and ultimately creating regenerative therapies for MMC repair directed at rebuilding the fetal environment.
 

Walter Bini

Healthpoint Hospital Abu Dhabi, UAE

Title: Adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of degenerative disc disease: Protocol and personal experience

Time : 12:30-13:00

Speaker
Biography:

Long time direct co-worker of Prof. Dr. Madjid Samii in Hannover, Germany. Besides general micro neurosurgery, special interest and expertise in the management of head trauma, neurooncologist, stereotaxic and radiosurgery, spinal surgery including less invasive techniques and neuroradiology. Presently since 2014, Middle East Chairman of ISLASS. Active Member and Board Member of numerous international societies, among these : SAS, German Neurosurgical Society, AANS and the Skull Base Study Group. Fluent in English, German, Spanish, Italian and with knowledge of French. Since 2017 , additionally , Lead Neurosurgeon at the Waldkrankenhaus for Special Surgeries by Leipzig , Germany-Trauma, Sport and Spine Department. Executive Board Member and Dean of the Faculty of the WAMS.
 

Abstract:

Lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD) poses an ongoing challenge as far as treatment options and alternatives, especially when considering younger patients. Over 80% of the adult population presents with one or more episodes of ongoingprogressive Low-Back Pain (LBP). The primary cause is associated with degeneration of the intervertebral disc and which is triggered by a decrease of the nucleus pulposus cell population, as evidenced in histological studies. Definitely, in the presence of a black disc without profusion and neurological compromise, microsurgery or even fusion surgery should not be contemplated. Numerous percutaneous techniques have been propagated as proper way to treat this condition throughout the literature in the past years. They have been primarily focused on the treatment of the pain generated by the involved disc and the subsequent segmental insufficiency, without addressing the degeneration of the disc and for this have had limited success and remain as pain management tools. Some significant trials in the past (i.e. chondrocyte transplantation trial) and the increasing recent research and achievements with more biological strategies as far as tissue regeneration, have motivated the development of a new treatment concept initially applicable to the lumbar spine which will be presented and discussed. Advancements have led to a significant improvement in the understanding of the cell environment and tissue transplantation at a molecular, cellular and immunobiological level. Adipose tissue has already become a central source of clinical and research work involving adipose tissue derived progenitor cells. Endothelial and mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue are being considered and used in an array of clinical conditions and seem to have clear therapeutic benefits for many disease conditions including those affecting bone, cartilage and muscle. The use of an accessible source with abundant cells which have a high potential for regeneration clearly is superior in comparison to the chondrocyte option for the lumbar disc. Mesenchymal cells have a high self-renewal capacity and a potential for multi lineage differentiation. For this, adipose tissue derived MSCs (ADMSCs) are optimal candidates for tissue regeneration and can be obtained from the patient in a one-step procedure-treatment.
 

Nimah I Alsomali

National Neuroscience Institute, Saudi Arabia

Title: Zebrafish as a model for neuroscience research

Time : 14:00-14:30

Biography:

Nimah Alsomali, Ph.D., is a neuroscientist. She obtained her Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom, in 2015. Her thesis title was Zebrafish as a model to study mylination defects in CNS &PNS. Afterward, she was appointed as a clinical research specialist at the national neuroscience institute (NNI) in King Fahd medical city(KFMC) Riyadh. Her current research focuses on understanding the molecular genetics of the neurological disorders with the emphasis on neurodegeneration diseases. Dr. Alsomali, is one of the few scientists, in the GCC area, who are utilizing Zebrafish in their research. She currently serves as a senior clinical research specialist in NNI, KFMC, Riyadh.
 

Abstract:

The zebrafish has become a popular vertebrate model in neuroscience to increase our understanding of brain development, dysfunction, function and their genetic and behavioral phenotype. The similarities of its brain morphology to that of other vertebrates also make this animal a valuable model. Additionally, the affected regions in most human neurological diseases are evolutionarily conserved in this model because of the high degree of genetic similarity between zebrafish and human. Zebrafish share more than 90% gene homology with human, including 85% of known disease-causing genes. Therefore, we utilized this model to investigate the oligodendrocyte development in GLE1 mutant zebrafish embryos. GLE1 mutations are associated with Lethal Congenital Contracture Syndrome 1, a severe autosomal recessive fetal motor neuron disease and more recently have been linked with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Homozygous GLE1-/- mutant zebrafish have been shown to model various aspects of LCCS, displaying severe developmental abnormalities. A previous gene expression study on the spinal cord from LCCS fetuses indicated that oligodendrocyte dysfunction might be an essential factor in LCCS. We, therefore, set out to investigate the development of myelinating glia in GLE1-/- mutant zebrafish embryos. While expression of myelin basic protein (mbp) in hindbrain oligodendrocytes appeared relatively normal, our studies revealed a prominent defect in Schwann cell precursor proliferation and differentiation in the posterior lateral line nerve. These findings illustrate the potential importance of glial cells such as myelinating Schwann cells in motor neuron diseases linked to RNA processing defects. Modeling in zebrafish therefore allows new insights into fundamental biological mechanisms of motor neuron degeneration linked to RNA processing defects and has the potential to identify novel therapeutic targets for motor neuron diseases.
 

Azza Attia

Bordeaux University, France

Title: Abnormal fetal features of neurogenetic origin

Time : 14:30-15:00

Speaker
Biography:

Azza Attia has completed her PhD from University of Bordeaux Faculty of Medicine, France. She has 20 years of experience in medical genetics. She is a Consultant of Medical Genetics at Feto Maternal and Genetics Center in Dubai Healthcare City. She has published more than 20 papers in reputed journals.
 

Abstract:

Fetal medicine is an expanding branch of medicine. Fetal ultrasound screening becomes one of the main targets of health ministries all over the world especially in developed countries. Its aim is early detection of major handicapping fetal anomalies and proper management of each pregnancy. Three main fetal scans are recommended during pregnancy to screen for any fetal or placental anomalies, one scan at a specific time in each trimester. Each scan is characterized by specific fetal features with well-known normal parameters and ranges. Some of the neurogenetic diseases will result in abnormal fetal features which will vary according to the timing of the scan. A deviation of any fetal parameter out of expected range should be treated with a careful and meticulous interpretation and follow up in order to reach the proper diagnosis, prognosis and management. We will present here the three main fetal scans and the abnormal fetal features which can be associated with some neurogenetic diseases. We will present also the complementary required genetic and or other radiological test which are required to confirm the diagnosis and hence the prognosis and the management. However, despite of advanced fetal echography and different detection techniques, we are still facing a lot of challenges regarding predictive factors and family counseling. 

Najiha Syeda

Dwight School Dubai, UAE

Title: Accepted and commitment therapy

Time : 15:00-15:30

Speaker
Biography:

Najiha Syeda is an International Counselor who has worked in Saudi Arabia, Australia and UAE, with a proven track record of 13 years of experience in the education field. Her educational qualifications include MSc in Counseling and Psychotherapy, Bachelors in Psychology and Post Graduate Diploma in Child and Youth Counselling. She is a Member of American School Counselor Association (ASCA), International Association for Counselling (IAC) and Affiliate Member of Psychotherapy and Counseling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
 

Abstract:

All kids tend to misbehave at times but if over a period of six months there is a noticeable patterns of misbehavior involved hostile, aggressive or disruptive or even behaviors which is not age appropriate. Then it is time to step in and guide them towards more positive direction/behavior. The most common disruptive behavior disorders are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and a child or adolescent may have two disorders at the same time. Other exacerbating factors can include emotional problems, mood disorders, family difficulties and substance abuse. 8% of children under the age of 12 years around the world exhibit oppositional defiant disorder with boys outnumbering girls by two to one. Some of the typical behaviors’ of a child with ODD include aggressive, irritating and disturbing attitude. Around 5% of 10 year olds are thought to have CD with boys outnumbering girls by four to one. Around one-third of children with CD also have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Severe symptoms of the typical behavior of a child with ODD include physical fights, use of drugs and suicidal attempts. Around two to five percent of children are thought to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with boys outnumbering girls by three to one. The characteristics of ADHD can include: inattention, impulsivity and over activity. All children with symptoms of ADHD and ODD/CD need to be assessed so that both types of problem behaviors can be treated. These children are difficult to live with and parents need to understand that they do not need to deal with their ADHD and ODD/CD child alone. Interventions such as parent training at home and behavioral support in the school can make a difference and parents should not hesitate to ask for assistance. Providing appropriate instructional supports in the classroom can also lessen disruptive behavior which include, creating an accepting and supportive classroom climate, promoting social and emotional skills, establishing clear rules and procedures, monitoring child behavior, utilizing rewards effectively, responding to mild problem behaviors consistently and effectively managing anger or aggressive behavior. Risk factors in children’s behavioral disorders related with education field are learning difficulties; problems with reading and writing are often associated with behavior problems. Common problems noticeable with students in education are Auditory processing disorder, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyslexia and language processing disorder. Children with intellectual disabilities are twice as likely to have behavioral disorders, non-verbal learning disorder, visual perceptual disorder, dyspraxia, insufficient intellectual functioning and impaired memory.

Sami Salahia

GMRA, UAE

Title: Systematic review and meta-analysis in-action training workshop

Time : 15:30-16:30

Speaker
Biography:

Sami Salahia is co-founder at MRSA Group and GMRA in the UAE. He is a 5th year medical student (Candidate medical Doctor) at Ain Shams University in Egypt with an interest in medical research and have a number of publications in peer reviewed journals. Being a Team Leader, he gives training workshops to Undergraduate Medical Students in Egypt and the UAE Specially for Secondary Research. 

Abstract:

A training workshop for secondary research as collaboration between GMRA, UAE and Conference Series, we are hiring a practical session that’s related to systematic review and Meta-Analysis. Our aim from this session is to help physicians and doctors to start their own research ideas while outlines the basic skills needed to perform a meta-analysis After joining the training session, you will be able to: 1. define the meaning of systematic review and listing the important aspects of Meta-Analysis 2. Develop a research question with inclusion and exclusion criteria for related Studies 3. Registration of protocol with valid Idea 4. Perform searching Part for relevant literature 5. Construct data extraction form with QA while assess the risk of bias in a randomized controlled trial and observational studies. 6. Being able to work on endnote, mendeley as software for references. 7. Use of software to perform risk of bias assessment 8. Understanding the basic concepts of biostatistics related to Meta-Analysis 9. Being able to know the basic methods of meta-analysis 10. Understanding the GRADE approach and PRISMA guidelines