Biography:

Azza A Ali from Al-Azhar University, Egypt. She is currently in Al-Azhar University.

Abstract:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized clinically by memory impairment and other cognitive problems. Caff eine and nicotine are the most commonly co-used psychostimulants. Caff eine is one of the major contributors to the dietary antioxidants which prevent oxidative damage and may reduce the risk of chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Nicotine has the ability to decrease level of ROS in the hippocampus and suggested to attenuate the impairment of memory associated with AD. Th e purpose of the study was to evaluate the infl uence of caff eine and nicotine co-administration against aluminium-induced AD in rats. Five groups of rats were used and received daily for fi ve weeks: Saline for control group, ALCl3 (70mg/kg, IP) for AD group, while treated groups received together with ALCl3, either Caff eine (5mg/kg, IP), Nicotine (1mg/kg, SC) or both Caff eine and Nicotine. Th ree behavioral experiments were performed: Forced swimming test, Morris water maze task and Conditioned-avoidance and learning test. Histopathological changes in the brain and biochemical changes in Acetyl cholinesterase (ACHE) as well as oxidative parameters; (MDA, SOD, TAC) were also evaluated for all groups. Results of the behavioral tests showed that caff eine and nicotine co-administration had more pronounced protecting eff ect from learning and memory impairment induced by ALCL3 than each one alone. Th ey signifi cantly increased both swimming and climbing score as well as time spent in the correct quadrant, while signifi cantly decrease number of learning trials. Caff eine and nicotine co-administration also prevent neuronal degeneration in the hippocampus and the eosinophilic plagues in the striatum induced by ALCL3 while nicotine alone still showed mild gliosis in striatum. Th e marked protection of caff eine and nicotine co-administration confi rmed also by the signifi cant increase in TAC and SOD and decrease in MDA and ACHE in brain tissue. In conclusion, co-administration of caff eine and nicotine can reduce the risk of neuronal degeneration in the hippocampus and attenuate the impairment of learning and memory associated with AD.

Biography:

Eef Hogervorst is an internationally renowned expert in psychoneuroendocrinology. She did her PhD at Masstricht and was subsequently employed (as Blasschko Fellow and then Research Scientist) at the University of Oxford for 5 years working as a neuropsychologist and epidemiologist. She was awarded several grants, fellowships and prizes for her research into the association between hormones and cognitive decline/dementia. she has also worked as a Research Associate Professor at the Donald W. Reynolds Department of Geriatrics (ranked 8th nationally) of the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences USA to investigate rural ageing and memory with hormone expert neurologist Prof Henderson and at the University of Cambridge (Department of Psychiatry, with Profs Huppert and Brayne) as Senior Research Associate, before she obtained a Chair in Biological Psychology at Loughborough University. She is Visiting Professor at the University of Trisakti Jakarta and Adjunct Professor at the University of Indonesia where she works for the Center for Aging Studies to investigate risk and protective factors for dementia in multi ethnic Indonesian cohorts. She has set-up collaborations with several other large multi-centre observational and treatment studies for agerelated cognitive decline and dementia (EPIC NORFOLK and MRCCFAS in the U.K. and the H-ABC, WHIMS and KEEPS studies in the U.S.A) and this work is now also extended to China (Shanghai). She is often invited as a key-note speaker at major international conferences (World Conference on Menopause as chair and keynote speaker 2011 and 2014, European (2012, 2010) and North American Menopause Conferences, ISSAM, Aging Male, Alzheimer’s Association ICAD meeting etc to speak about her work in hormones. She has over 200 international peerreviewed publications and was cited 4152 times. She has received funding from NDA, i4i, Research into Ageing/Help the Aged, Nederlandse Hersenstichting, Alzheimer’s Association, MRC, BMS & other industry, and sits on several editorial boards (JAD, JADP etc.) and grant review bodies (EUR-AGE, Horizon, MRC etc).

Abstract:

Phytoestrogens like estrogens were thought to exert protective eff ects on the aging brain and should theoretically protect against dementia. However our data showed increased risk of dementia with high tofu consumption in East Asian countries. On the other hand, tempe a fermented soy product, showed protective eff ects on brain function in the elderly, We will show observational, animal and treatment data suggesting that tempe may have a role in protecting against dementia and improving memory function

Biography:

Xin Xu is from University of Singapore, Singapore. She is currently in University of Singapore

Abstract:

Phytoestrogens found in soy products such as tofu have been shown to exert protective eff ects on brain function. However, in this talk we review the data from observational and treatment studies which show discrepant results. Many studies have either shown no associations or even negative associations. Th e importance of age and estrogen status, duration of treatment and ethnicity will be discussed

Biography:

Veronika completed her Masters in Developmental Psychology at Utrecht University/The Netherlands in 2006 and then started her PhD research at Loughborough University. She investigated the relationship between cognitive abilities and sports performance in people with intellectual disabilities, for which she developed and tested a computerized cognitive test battery. Her postdoctoral research included studies investigating the association between cognition, well-being and use of new technologies in older people and emotion recognition patterns in people with and without cognitive impairment. Her current projects examine antihypertensive treatment in people with dementia and the development of a falls intervention programme for people with mild cognitive impairment and early stage dementia.

Abstract:

Phytoestrogens found in soy products such as tofu have been shown to exert protective eff ects on brain function. However, in this talk we review the data from observational and treatment studies which show discrepant results. Many studies have either shown no associations or even negative associations. Th e importance of age and estrogen status, duration of treatment and ethnicity will be discussed

Biography:

Francesca Pistollato has completed her PhD in Developmental Sciences and Programming Medicine at the University of Padua, Italy. She obtained a Master in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Ancona, Italy. She worked as Post-doctoral fellow and research leader at the University of Padua, and at the Joint Research Centre (JRC, European Commission). She is currently working as research fellow at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), Washington DC. She published several papers and book chapters in reputed scientific journals.

Abstract:

Animal models of Alzheimer disease (AD) have been extensively utilized in the last few decades in an effort to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms of this disease and to test novel therapeutic approaches. However, research success has not effectively translated into therapeutic success for human patients. We investigated the reasons for this translational discrepancy. Our analysis revealed that translational failure is due – at least in part – to the overuse of animal models that cannot accurately recapitulate human AD etiopathogenesis or drug responses and the inadequate use of human-based investigational methods. Here we present the challenges and opportunities in AD research and propose how we can mitigate this translational barrier by employing human-based methods to elucidate disease processes occurring at multiple levels of complexity (from gene expression to protein, cellular, tissue/organ to individual and population level). Novel human-based cellular and computational models are already being applied in toxicology and regulatory testing, and the adoption and the widespread implementation of such tools in AD research will undoubtedly facilitate human-relevant data acquisition. Additionally, clinical studies focused on nutritional and lifestyle intervention strategies to reduce and/or prevent early symptoms of AD represent another relevant and important way to elucidate AD pathogenesis and treatment options in a human-based setting. Taken together, it is clear that a paradigm shift towards human-based research is the best way to tackle the ever-increasing prevalence of AD in the 21st century.

Biography:

Liu received his PhD in Physiological Sciences from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1990. He completed post-doctoral scientifi c training at Stanford University and then went on to a faculty position at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Liu continued a vigorous scientifi c research program at Tsinghua University, and leads and oversee as CEO the multiple clinical development programs of Neurocentria. He is a world renowned expert in synaptic physiology, learning, andmemory. His research focuses primarily on discovering principles that regulate synapse density in the brain under physiological and pathological conditions and developing novel strategies for treating neurodegeneration and preventing brain atrophy.

Abstract:

Background: Age-related cognitive decline is a major problem in elderly, aff ecting quality of life. Pre-clinical studies show that MMFS-01, a synapse density enhancer, is eff ective at reversing cognitive decline in aging rodents. Objective: Since brain atrophy during aging is strongly associated with both cognitive decline and sleep disorder, we evaluated the effi cacy of MMFS-01 in its ability to reverse cognitive decline and improve sleep. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel designed trial in elderly subjects (age 50- 70) with complaints of memory impairment, sleep disorder, and anxiety. Subjects were treated with MMFS-01 (n=23) or placebo (n=21) for 12 weeks and cognitive ability, sleep quality, and emotion were evaluated. Overall cognitive ability was determined by a composite score of tests in four major cognitive domains. Results: With MMFS-01 treatment, overall cognitive ability improved signifi cantly relative to placebo (p=0.002; Cohen’s d=0.92). Age-related cognitive fl uctuation was also reduced. Although the study population had more severe executive function defi cits than age-matched controls, MMFS-01 treatment nearly restored impaired executive function, demonstrating that MMFS-01 was clinically signifi cant. Sleep quality and anxiety were improved in MMFS-01 treatment group; however, similar degrees of improvement were also observed in the placebo control group. Conclusions: Th e current study demonstrates the potential of MMFS-01 for treating age-related cognitive decline in elderly.

Biography:

Linda Levine Madori is a two time Fulbright Scholar, Professor, Author, Researcher and Trainer of a non-pharmaceutical approach utilizing all the creative arts for brain stimulation and enhancing socialization found in her first book titled; Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming, in 2007 (TTAP Method.com). Her second book; Transcending Dementia through the TTAP Method; A New Psychology of Art, Brain and Cognition, expands on the current significant research demonstrating cost effectiveness utilizing this innovative multimodal approach for the geriatric and Alzheimer’s population.

Abstract:

This Paper will establish through an examination of neurobiology the how and why the creative art therapies most effectively be utilized in the treatment with those individuals afflicted with early to middle stages of dementia, specifically Alzheimer’s Disease, which currently comprises approximately 80% of all dementia’s. An in-depth overview on how Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming© (TTAP Method) stimulates both right and left brain functioning in the early stages to middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease will be analyzed from various clinical studies done in 2011, 2012 , 2013. This paper will cover the most recent and basic functional organization of the brain, neuroplasticity, including neurons, neurotransmitters and areas of the brain involved in transforming perceptual inputs into physiological responses and behaviors (Damasio, 1998, 1999; Golomb, J.,1996, Grober, E., 1999; Kandel, Schwartz & Jessel, 2000; LeDoux, 2000; Levine Madori, 2007-2014). A review the innovative new methodology, the TTAP Method© which utilizes person centered themes within the therapeutic process to engaged participants in a twelve step process that incorporates mediation & mindfulness, drawing, sculpture, movement, phototherapy and other forms of the creative arts into an ongoing enriching non-pharmaceutical approach for this special and rapidly growing population. This method substantiates how art therapy is quickly becoming a powerful window into brain functioning and self-discovery (Cozolino, 2012, Luzebrink, 2013, Hass-Cohen, 2014).

Biography:

Asokan Chinnasamy has completed his PhD at the age of 27 years from University of Madras and postdoctoral studies from Columbia University. USA. He is the Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, Sokoto State University, Sokoto. Nigeria. He has published more than 36 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an editorial board member of repute.

Abstract:

Accumulation of Serum amyloid A and fi brillar form is strongly associated with Chronic infl ammatory disease. Cell membrane binding study is especially important in relation to the activity of membrane proteins, because losing the activity of such systems will ultimately lead to malfunction or death of the cell. Serum amyloid Afi brils species are potent neurotoxins, however the molecular mechanism responsible for amyloid toxicity is still unknown. Th e interactions of Serum Amyloid a (SAA) and Serum Amyloid aprotofi brils with Neuro 2a cells of the mouse are dealt with in detail to study the binding of SAA protofi brils in various conditions. Th e FACScan and MTT assay results have shown the SAA and SAA fi brils binding and cell toxicity with the Neuro 2a cells with diff erent concentrations of Serum amyloid P component and Amyloid enhancing factor. Specifi cally, interaction of serum amyloid A fi brils with a cell surface binding site/receptor might alter the local environment to cause cellular dysfunction and to be more favorable for amyloid formation. Previous study have shown RAGE (receptor for advanced glycationend products) a polyvalent receptor in the immunoglobulin super family has been implicated in binding with the isoform of SAA (SAA1.1) which has the highest fi birillogenic property. In the present study, concluding the SAA fi brils more binding and cell cytotoxicity than SAA protein.

Biography:

Abstract:

Biography:

Laure Rouch has completed her PharmD and was appointed University Hospital Assistant in 2013 in Toulouse, France. She is a PhD student at the INSERM 1027 Unit. As a Clinical Pharmacist, she works with geriatricians especially in an Alzheimer’s care unit. She has been teaching clinical pharmacy since 2011. She is currently working as research fellow in Epidemiology on dementia. She is mainly interested in the relationship between antihypertensive drugs, cognitive decline and dementia. She also works on care management of dementia, potentially inappropriate drugs in the elderly and frailty. She has published in reputed scientifi c journals and has been asked to review papers in the fi eld of antihypertensive therapy.

Abstract:

Background: Chronic hypertension particularly midlife high blood pressure has been associated with an increased risk for cognitive decline and dementia. In this context, antihypertensive drugs might have a preventive eff ect but the association remains poorly understood. Objectives & Methods: Th e aim of our systematic review was to examine all published fi ndings that investigated this relationship and discuss the mechanisms underlying the potential benefi ts of antihypertensive medication use. We conducted a literature search using Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library. Results: 18 longitudinal studies, 11 randomized controlled trials and 9 meta-analyses were identifi ed from the 10.251 articles retrieved in the literature search. In the 7 longitudinal studies assessing the eff ect of antihypertensive medication on cognitive impairment or cognitive decline, antihypertensive drugs appeared to be benefi cial. Of the 11 longitudinal studies that assessed the eff ect of antihypertensive medication on incidence of dementia, only 3 did not fi nd a signifi cant protective eff ect. Antihypertensive medication could decrease the risk of not only vascular dementia but also Alzheimer’s disease. 4 randomized controlled trials showed a potentially preventive eff ect of antihypertensive drugs on the incidence of dementia or cognitive decline. Meta-analyses have sometimes produced confl icting results but this may be due to methodological considerations. Conclusion: Antihypertensive drugs particularly calcium channel blockers and renin-angiotensin system blockers may be benefi cial in preventing cognitive decline and dementia not only by lowering blood pressure but also trough a neuroprotective specifi c eff ect. However, further randomized controlled trials with longer periods of follow-up and cognition as the primary outcome are needed to confi rm these fi ndings.

Biography:

Siu Wan Lisa WONG has a Master degree in Care of Elderly People and is currently enrolled in a PhD programme at the University of Technology, Sydney. Her long-held passion to improve the quality of care for elderly people, especially those living with dementia has been realised in her numerous contributions across public health and community organisations which have advanced knowledge in the area and improved access to dementia care for older people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, especially to the Chinese community. Her work can be evidenced by the Northern Sydney Community Award by Australian government in 2014.

Abstract:

Introduction: Due to cultural barriers, caregivers with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds looking aft er people with dementia experience diffi culties in their care-giving role and access to services. Carer support is important in maintaining the home-based care for people with dementia and delaying institutionalization. Aim: To provide support to Chinese carers for people living with dementia and to describe their experience in the community carer support program. Method: Monthly career support program were conducted aft er the Community Carer Coaching Projectsince April 2013 with the aim to translate knowledge into practice. Data was collected during the monthly meetings. NVivo and thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. Results: One male and 19 female Chinese carers participated in monthly carer support program (n=20). Sixty per cent of carers were spouses and 40% were children. Six themes emerged from the analysis which included: Sharing of information and helping each other, eagerness to seek help, carers looking aft er their own health, acceptance and confi dence in the caring task, developing person-centred caring skills and positive thinking and psychological empowerment. Conclusion: Qualitative analysis of this carer support program showed perceived benefi ts of carers in improving their knowledge and skills in person-centred care and confi dence in the caring task. It is important to support these carers in the community to minimize institutional care for their family members living with dementia.

Biography:

Azza A Ali from Al Azhar University, Egypt. She is currently in Al-Azhar University.

Abstract:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized clinically by memory impairment and other cognitive problems. Caff eine and nicotine are the most commonly co-used psychostimulants. Caff eine is one of the major contributors to the dietary antioxidants which prevent oxidative damage and may reduce the risk of chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Nicotine has the ability to decrease level of ROS in the hippocampus and suggested to attenuate the impairment of memory associated with AD. Th e purpose of the study was to evaluate the infl uence of caff eine and nicotine co-administration against aluminium-induced AD in rats. Five groups of rats were used and received daily for fi ve weeks: Saline for control group, ALCl3 (70mg/kg, IP) for AD group, while treated groups received together with ALCl3, either Caff eine (5mg/kg, IP), Nicotine (1mg/kg, SC) or both Caff eine and Nicotine. Th ree behavioral experiments were performed: Forced swimming test, Morris water maze task and Conditioned-avoidance and learning test. Histopathological changes in the brain and biochemical changes in Acetyl cholinesterase (ACHE) as well as oxidative parameters; (MDA, SOD, TAC) were also evaluated for all groups. Results of the behavioral tests showed that caff eine and nicotine co-administration had more pronounced protecting eff ect from learning and memory impairment induced by ALCL3 than each one alone. Th ey signifi cantly increased both swimming and climbing score as well as time spent in the correct quadrant, while signifi cantly decrease number of learning trials. Caff eine and nicotine co-administration also prevent neuronal degeneration in the hippocampus and the eosinophilic plagues in the striatum induced by ALCL3 while nicotine alone still showed mild gliosis in striatum. Th e marked protection of caff eine and nicotine co-administration confi rmed also by the signifi cant increase in TAC and SOD and decrease in MDA and ACHE in brain tissue. In conclusion, co-administration of caff eine and nicotine can reduce the risk of neuronal degeneration in the hippocampus and attenuate the impairment of learning and memory associated with AD.