Student Year Card 5209700 2

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Organization
Prof. Juma Al Kaabi Acting Dean

Dr. Mariam Al Shamsi Assistant Dean for Student & Alumni Affairs
Dr. Rami Beiram Assistant Dean for Research & Graduate Studies
Dr. Saeeda Al Marzooqi Assistant Dean for medical Education
Prof. Chris Howarth Physiology, Coordinator Undergraduate Research
Prof. Michal Grivna Director, Institute of Public Health
Ms. Geraldine Kershaw Chair, Oral Evaluation Committee
Dr. Mark Campbell Chair, Poster Evaluation Committee 1
Dr. Michael Tunzi Chair, Poster Evaluation Committee 2
Prof. Chris Howarth Co-Chair, Undergraduate Oral Session
Dr. Rami Al-Rifai Co-Chair, Graduate Oral Session
Nujum Thajudeen Facilities
Khalid Ghadban Facilities
Samir Mohamed Facilities
Meera Al Housani Media Unit
Zeeshan Noor IT
Alsajir Basheer IT
Student Organizing Committee
Saoud Altamimi President MMSA, Head Organization Committee

Shamma Alkuwaiti President FMSA, Head Organization Committee
Khalifa Alseiari Vice President MMSA
Shamma Almeqbaali Vice President FMSA
Nasser Al Shamsi Chair, Scientific Committee
Mariam AlSeqetri Co-Chair, Scientific Committee
Fatima Ali Alsaedi Chair, Media & IT Committee
Shamma Alkuwaiti Chair, Awards & Certificates Committee
Omar Alzaabi Chair, Undergraduate Oral Session
Ayeshe Al Qemzi Chair, Graduate Oral Session
Evaluation Committee
Geraldine Kershaw Chair, Oral Evaluation Committee

Prof. Syed Shah Member, Oral Evaluation Committee
Dr. Mariam Al Shamsi Member, Oral Evaluation Committee
Yasin J. Yasin Member, Oral Evaluation Committee
Abdulrahman Alkaabi Member, Oral Evaluation Committee
Dr. Mark Campbell Chair, Poster Evaluation Committee 1

Dr. Rami Beiram Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 1
Dr. Alya Arabi Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 1
Preetha Karuveetil Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 1
Zakaria Ouda Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 1
Dr. Michael Tunzi Chair, Poster Evaluation Committee 2
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Dr. Sahar Mohsen Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 2
Dr. Jane Koester Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 2
Asma AlNababteh Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 2
Mohamed Albastaki Member, Poster Evaluation Committee 2
CMHS Faculty - Research Project Supervisors
Prof. Ernest Adeghate Department of Anatomy

Dr. Sahar Mohsin Department of Anatomy
Prof. Mohd Allouh Department of Anatomy
Prof. Sherif Karam Department of Anatomy
Prof. Emerald Starling Department of Anatomy
Prof. Ahmed Al Marzouqi Department of Biochemistry
Prof. Maria Cabezudo Department of Biochemistry
Dr. Suraiya Ansari Department of Biochemistry
Dr. Emdadul Haque Department of Biochemistry
Dr. Alya Arabi Department of Biochemistry
Dr. Fadwa Al Mughairbi Department of Clinical Psychology
Dr. Moien Khan Department of Family Medicine
Dr. Mohd Hashim Department of Family Medicine
Dr. Romona Devi Department of Family Medicine
Prof. Fatima Al Jasmi Department of Genetics & Genomics
Prof. Bassam Ali Department of Genetics & Genomics
Dr. Nadia Akawi Department of Genetics & Genomics
Prof. Juma Al Kaabi Department of Internal Medicine
Prof. Salah Gariballa Department of Internal Medicine
Dr. Mohd Al Houqani Department of Internal Medicine
Dr. Saif Al Shamsi Department of Internal Medicine
Prof. Basel Ramadi Department of Medical Microbiology
Prof. Gulfaraz Khan Department of Medical Microbiology
Dr. Zakeya Rasbi Department of Medical Microbiology
Dr. Farah Al Marzooq Department of Medical Microbiology
Dr. Mushtaq Khan Department of Medical Microbiology
Dr. Habiba Ali Department of Nutrition & Health
Dr. Amita Attlee Department of Nutrition & Health
Prof. Suhail Al-Salam Department of Paythology
Dr. Saeeda Al Marzooqi Department of Pathology
Prof. Salah Aburuz Department of Pharmacology
Dr. Rami Beiram Department of Pharmacology
Dr. Shreesh Ojha Department of Pharmacology
Dr. Cham Zin Alabdin Department of Pharmacology
Dr. Amal Akkour Department of Pharmacology
Prof. Milos Ljubisavljevic Department of Physiology
Prof. Anatoliy Shmygol Department of Physiology
Prof. Mauro Pessia Department of Physiology
Prof. Abderrahim Nemmar Department of Physiology
Prof. Chris Howarth Department of Physiology
Dr. Sandeep Subramanya Department of Physiology
Dr. Karim Abdel Aziz Department of Psychiatry
Dr. Javaid Syed Department of Psychiatry
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Prof. Michal Grivna Institute of Public Health
Prof. Syed Shah Institute of Public Health
Prof. Fatima Al Maskari Institute of Public Health
Prof. Mohamud Sheek-Hussein Institute of Public Health
Dr. Balazs Adam Institute of Public Health
Dr. Luai Ahmed Institute of Public Health
Dr. Iffat Elbarazi Institute of Public Health
Dr. Rami Al-Rifai Institute of Public Health
Dr. Azhar Rahmi Institute of Public Health
Dr. Javaid Nauman Institute of Public health
Dr. Klaus Gorkom Department of Radiology
Dr. Taleb Al Mansoor Department of Radiology
Dr. Yauhen Statsenko Department of Radiology
Dr. Mohammed Safi Department of Speech Language Pathology
Prof. Fayez T Hammad Department of Surgery
Dr. Loay Lubbad Department of Surgery
Dr. Ashraf Hefny Department of Surgery
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Contents
Page
Preface 6
Program 7
Keynote Speaker Biography 8
Oral presentations - Session 1 9
Oral presentations - Session 2 10
Abstracts for Oral Presentations (Undergraduate Students) 11
Abstracts for Oral Presentations (Graduate Students) 17
Abstracts for Poster Presentations (Undergraduate Students) 23
Abstracts for Poster Presentations (Graduate Students) 40
Abstracts for Case Studies 83
Index for Oral Presentation Titles 86
Index for Poster Presentation Titles 87
Sponsors 90
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Preface
CELEBRATING STUDENTS’ RESEARCH AT
CMHS
Taking part in research and integrating research as part of the
learning process are important parts of both medical
undergraduate and graduate education at the College of
Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) at the United Arab
Emirates University. The College understands that student
participation in research is an effective method of enhancing
critical thinking and communication skills, factors that will enable our CMHS medical
graduates and future UAE doctors to better apply the process of life-long learning,
needed to become successful physicians. Researchers soon learn that they must be
knowledgeable about their subjects, that they need to be thoughtful in their hypotheses
and questions, and that they have to be critical of their methodology. Young researchers
learn that it is challenging to stand before a group of fellow scientists to present their
results. Presenting original research work to an audience, including professors and peers,
or submitting the results of studies as for publication are fundamental components of the
research process. Furthermore, the research process is fundamental to medicine and
health sciences. We live in an age of remarkable scientific discovery, technological
development and the evolution of new patient care and population health models. It is
critical that CMHS develop the workforce and innovations that will enable Emiratis to
translate these advancements to health care delivery to the benefit of patients and
populations in the UAE. The Medicine of the Future requires that faculty, students,
trainees and staff take discoveries and innovations developed at the UAEU and apply
them to the needs of Emiratis for the benefit of humanity across the world. Thus, the
College strongly supports the ‘Students Research Day’ at the CMHS to enable our
medical students to present their results, and for faculty and technical staff to share the
knowledge and experiences, gained by students conducting research at the College. The
actual process of presenting and responding to queries and suggestions is truly unique.
Research work can be really improved by listening and responding to questions from the
audience and critiques by the faculty.
On behalf of the CMHS faculty and staff, we wish all our student presenters, their peers
and research collaborators an effective, successful and pleasant ‘Students Research Day’.
Professor Prof. Juma Alkaabi

Acting Dean College of Medicine & Health Sciences
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STUDENTS RESEARCH DAY
February 21, 2023
Program at a Glance
VENUES
Oral presentations will take place in Yanah Auditorium.
Poster presentations will take place in the foyer areas between Sheikha Fatima and Yanah Auditorium.
Tea and coffee and a buffet lunch will be served in the foyer areas between Sheikha Fatima and Yanah
Auditorium.
College of Medicine & Health Sciences. 7
Keynote Speaker
Professor Yousef Mohamed Abdulrazzaq Al Bastaki is Emeritus

Professor of Paediatrics & Neonatology at the College of Medicine
& Health Sciences, UAE University. He obtained his MD in 1979
and PhD in 1985. He also has FRCPI and FRCPCH. He was a
prominent member of the Foundation Committee that established
the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences in 1986, for which he
received the Faculty of Medicine Award for Exemplary Service in
2000. Throughout his working life he has continued his clinical
practice, conducted groundbreaking research and was an active
educator. He established the concept of Continuing Medical
Education and had an important role to play in its legislation as
requirement for licensure. He has been examiner for the undergraduate MD programmes
for Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Jordan, senior examiner for the RCPCH and Director of
examinations for the RCPCH in the UAE. He has been an examiner for the Arab Board of
Paediatrics since 1988. He introduced and laid the foundation for the Fellowship of
Neonatology at the Arab Boards. He has won several national awards including the United
Arab Emirates Appreciation Award in the field of Medicine in the 2007 and the lifetime
achievement award by the Abu Dhabi Health Authority in 2009.
Professor Yousef has around 130 publications. He established the UAE children’s growth
curves. He is still the only person to study cot death in the UAE and established the
incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. He has also studied asthma, allergic rhinitis
and eczema and established baseline incidence rates in the UAE population. He has also
studied energy metabolism in newborn infants and was one of the first to be able to
measure oxygen consumption in newborn infants. He was the first to describe the
incidence of low birth weight in infants in the UAE population. He also established the
first metabolic laboratory at the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences. He has been a
Journal Editor since 1989 serving for 13 years as editor-in-chief of Emirates Medical
Journal, then establishing and being the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Medical Sciences
for 3 years. He along with others also established the International Journal of Diabetes
and Metabolism in 1996 and still serves as its publishing editor. He along with other
members of the Arab Neonatology Forum established the Journal of the Arab
Neonatology Forum and acted as its foundation editor from 2003 to 2006. He is also a
member of the editorial boards of other international journals. His opinion has been
sought regularly by UAE authorities and he has been the chair of a number of national
committees. In 2009 he was asked by the cabinet to chair the Higher Committee for
Medical Liability which is the decision making body for medical negligence by health
workers.
Professor Yousef Mohamed Abdulrazzaq Albastaki

Emeritus Professor of Paediatrics & Neonatology at the College of Medicine & Health
Sciences, UAE University.
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Oral presentations - Session 1, Undergraduate Students, 1130-1300,
Yanah Auditorium
1130-1145 (O1) Mental health, wellbeing and burnout among medical students in the
United Arab Emirates. AlKhyeli F (Undergraduate Student), AlNeyadi N (Undergraduate
Student), AlSheryani M (Undergraduate Student), Alyammahi S (Undergraduate
Student), Abdel Aziz K.
1145-1200 (O2) Anti-inflammatory role of Irisin treating type 1 diabetic osteopathy.
Alnuaimi SAR (Undergraduate), Aldhaheri MTF, Alderei AGH, Hamam EAHM, Hraiz
NSJ, Kaimala S, Alaeeli M, Mohsin S.
1200-1215 (O3) The role of Thymoquinone in Cerulein-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in

Mice. Albesher AM, Alhosani HY, Ouda SH, Venkataraman B, Almarzooqi S,
Subramanya SB.
1215-1230 (O4) Effects of Methylglyoxal on Vascular Tone in Normotensive Male Rats.

Alshamma D (Undergraduate Student), Alblooshi J, Aldhefairi A, Alshehhi M,
Alyaqoubi R, Hag N, Shmygol A.
1230-1245 (O5) Carnosol alleviates thrombogenicity and vascular inflammation,

oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by pulmonary exposure to diesel exhaust
particles in mice. Alzaabi A, Alkaabi A, Alseiari K, Alshamsi N, Beegam S, Zaaba NE1,
Elzaki O, Nemmar A.
1245-1300 (O6) Comparative assessment of human gut bacterial groups in colorectal

cancer patients compared to healthy population. Alkuwaiti S (Undergraduate), Alkaabi O,
Alnuaimi S, Zoughbor S, Ajab S, Al Rasbi Z.
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Oral presentations - Session 2, Graduate Students, 1400-1530, Yanah
Auditorium
1400-1415 (O7) Elucidating the effect of iron acquisition systems and beta lactamases on
susceptibility to the novel siderophore-cephalosporin (cefiderocol) in Klebsiella
pneumoniae. Daoud L (Graduate Student), Al-Marzooq F, Moubareck C, Ghazawi A,
Collyns T.
1415-1430 (O8) Limonene, a monoterpene mitigates rotenone-induced dopaminergic

neurodegeneration by modulating neuroinflammation, Hippo signaling and apoptosis in
rats. Eddin LB (Graduate Student), Azimullah S, Jha NK, Meeran MFN, Beiram R, Ojha
S.
1430-1445 (O9) Deciphering the salivary microbiome in Crohn’s disease patients with
different factors predisposing to dysbiosis. Elzayat H (Graduate Student), Al-Marzooq F.
1445-1500 (O10) Low self-esteem among children and adolescents in United Arab
Emirates: Disparity by nationality. Nadia G (Graduate Student), Syed S.
1500-1515 (O11) Identification of a Novel Pathogenic Variant In FBN1 By Exome

Sequencing In A Patient With Marfan Syndrome. Irshaid M (Graduate Student),
Aleissaee S, Alnuaimi M, Al Ghaithi S, Almansoori G, Alblooshi H, Allam M, Al
Dhahouri N, Albawa'neh A, Valappil A, Tabouni M, Baydoun I, Kizhakkedath P, 1R. Ali
B, Al Jasmi F, Akawi N.
1515-1530 (O12) Medical Doctors practice: gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis in the
United Arab Emirates. Bashir MM (Graduate Student), Ahmed LA, Al-Rifai RH,
Elbarazi I, Aldhanhani S (Undergraduate Student), Almadhaani S (Undergraduate
Student), Alktifan H, AlJailani M, Afandi B, Alkaabi JM, Al-Maskari F.
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Abstracts for Oral Presentations (Undergraduate Students)
O1 - Mental health, wellbeing and burnout among medical students in the United
Arab Emirates.
AlKhyeli F, AlNeyadi N, AlSheryani M, Alyammahi S (Undergraduate Students),
Abdel Aziz K.
Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Medical students experience high levels of stress during their studies, that
can result in mental health disorders and burnout, affecting their academic performance
and later their ability to practice. There have been no studies regarding mental health,
wellbeing and burnout among medical students in the UAE.
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to investigate mental health issues (previous and
current), significant sources of stress, burnout, and substance use among medical students
at the College of Medicine & Health Sciences (CMHS), United Arab Emirates University
(UAEU).
Materials & Methods: We conducted a quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive study in

a sample of 385 medical students attending the CMHS, UAEU. Data was collected through
an online English-language survey using google forms. Ethical approval for the study was
granted by the Research Ethics Committee at the UAEU (ERS_2022_8512). The survey
included questions regarding student demographics, hours of work/week, educational level
of parents, mental health issues (previous and current) and significant sources of stress.
The questionaries used were: 12-question short version of the general health questionnaire
(GHQ-12), Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI), and the CAGE questionnaire.
Results: Our results indicated that 5.7% of participants had been diagnosed with a mental
health condition prior to joining medical school, and that 21.6% of participants were
diagnosed with a mental illness while in medical school. On the OLBI, 77.4% screened
positive for burnout, with 74.5% screening positive for mental health difficulties on the
GHQ-12 and <1% screening positive on the CAGE for problem drinking. There was a
statistically significant positive correlation between scores on the OLBI and the GHQ-12.
Conclusion: Our study indicated that high levels of stress, burnout and mental illness are
experienced among medical students in the UAE. Future efforts should aim at providing
adequate screening and support for mental health issues through college counselling
services, to increase awareness amongst students as to the availability of student wellness
and mentoring services and to encourage faculty and staff to have a low index of
suspicion that a student might be experiencing burnout or mental health issues.
Acknowledgments: The authors wish to thank Dr Maryam Al Shamsi, Vice-Dean for

Student Affairs, CMHS; the Deans Group at the CMHS; and Professor Sami Shaban,
Professor of Medical Education, CMHS for their valuable support in providing data
related to student numbers used in this study.
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O2 - Anti-inflammatory role of Irisin treating type 1 diabetic osteopathy.
Alnuaimi SAR (Undergraduate Student) , Aldhaheri MTF, Alderei AGH, Hamam
EAHM, Hraiz NSJ, Kaimala S, Alaeeli M, Mohsin S.
Departments of Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Type one diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease affecting multiple

organs. It is known to increase the risk of fractures by deteriorating bone microstructure
and bone mineral density. Activation of the immune system has a prominent role in T1D.
Irisin a new peptide produced mainly by the skeletal muscle plays an important role in
glucose/energy homeostasis and bone metabolism. Irisin is known to improve bone
metabolism. However exact mechanisms are not known.
Aims & Objectives: To investigate the anti-inflammatory role of irisin on rat skeletons in
treating diabetic osteopathy.
Materials & Methods: Male Wistar rats were obtained from the Animal House Facility at
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). The animals (n=24) were equally divided into
control and experimental groups. Experimental diabetes mellitus was induced in 12 adult
Wistar rats by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin 60mg/kg body weight.
Animals were given an intraperitoneal injection of a low dose of recombinant irisin (5 μg
kg–1) once a week for 4 weeks after the onset of a duration of DM. The animals were
humanely sacrificed 6 months after the induction of diabetes. The blood and bones were
collected to estimate inflammatory markers using ELISA, Western blot, and RT-PCR
techniques. The bone microstructure was analysed using histological techniques. Two-way
ANOVA and Independent Samples t Test were used for statistical analysis.
Results: It was found that T1D deteriorates the trabecular bone microstructure by
increasing trabecular separation and decreasing trabecular thickness. Irisin treatment
positively affects bone quality by increasing the trabecular number p < 0.05 and improving
Tb-Sp. Inflammatory markers IL10 and TNFα significantly increase in diabetic osteopathy.
Irisin exerts its anti-inflammatory effect on bones by bringing the level of IL10 and TNFα
levels significantly down p<0.01. The results also showed non-significant improvement in
IL6 levels (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Bone inflammation contributes to bone loss in type I diabetic osteopathy. A

low dose of irisin has an anti-inflammatory effect on bones in the state of hyperglycemia
and could be used as a potential treatment for bone fragility in TID.
Acknowledgments: College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Faculty Grant G00003027

& SURE PLUS- 2022 G00003979
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O3 - The role of Thymoquinone in Cerulein-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Mice.
Albesher AM1, Alhosani HY1, Ouda SH1 (Undergraduate Students) Venkataraman
B2, Almarzooqi S3, Subramanya SB2.
15th year medical students, 2Departments of Physiology & 3Pathology, College of
Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a life-threatening condition of the exocrine

pancreas characterized by abnormal inflammation. One in five patients with AP could
develop a severe form characterized by lengthy hospitalization and a high mortality rate.
The majority of treatment for AP is supportive. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new
therapeutic approaches to prevent aberrant inflammatory processes. Using phytochemicals
in the diet to decrease abnormal inflammatory reactions is one strategy. Thymoquinone
(TQ) is an active component of the nigella sativa seed oil extract that is commonly
consumed in the Middle Eastern diet. TQ is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
agent.
Aims & Objectives: We aimed to determine the effect of thymoquinone pretreatment on

mice with acute pancreatitis induced by cerulein.
Materials & Methods: C57BL/6 black mice were administered with TQ (20 and 40 mg/kg
bd wt doses) for four days before induction of acute pancreatitis. To induce acute
pancreatitis, cerulein was injected (IP) at 50μg/kg bd wt dose hourly for 6 hours. Mice were
euthanized by cervical dislocation, and the pancreas was collected from different
experimental groups. The pancreas was processed for histology, myeloperoxidase enzyme,
serum lipase, amylase, and proinflammatory cytokine mRNA expression by real-time
PCR. One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison post hoc test was
employed for statistical analysis. Ethical approval (ERA_2022_8529) was obtained from
the Animal Research Ethics Committee, UAE University.
Results: Based on our findings, TQ pretreatment inhibited cerulein-induced

myeloperoxidase enzyme activity dose-dependently. Analyses of the histopathology of the
pancreas demonstrated that pretreatment with TQ significantly protected against pancreatic
edema and cell infiltration generated by cerulein administration. Cerulein dramatically
increased serum levels of the enzymes lipase and amylase. Pretreatment with TQ
significantly lowered serum levels of lipase and amylase. Cerulein increased the mRNA
expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α). TQ administration
significantly decreased the mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines.
Conclusion: Pretreatment with TQ effectively protected mice from cerulein-induced

acute pancreatitis.
Acknowledgments: UAEU, SURE+ grant 2022.
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O4 - Effects of Methylglyoxal on Vascular Tone in Normotensive Male Rats.
Alshamma D (Undergraduate Student), Alblooshi J, Aldhefairi A, Alshehhi M,
Alyaqoubi R, Hag N, Shmygol A.
Department of Physiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound that is

harmful to health, it is present in the blood of diabetic patients with poorly controlled
glucose levels. A prolonged increase in MGO has been linked to most of the complications
of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It has been suggested that MGO might be involved
in the development of diabetes-related hypertension, nonetheless it remains unclear
whether MGO alters the vascular tone via direct action on the vascular smooth muscle or
by impacting the endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation.
Aims & Objectives: The Aim of our study was to investigate the effects of MGO on the
endothelium-mediated vasorelaxation in order to improve our understanding of the
pathogenic process that takes place in diabetes-related hypertension.
Materials & Methods: Experiments were performed on isolated aortic rings with intact
endothelium using classical organ bath technique. Ethical approval was obtained from the
Animal Research Ethics Committee, UAE University. Approximately 2mm-wide rings
were dissected from the aortas of humanely euthanized adult normotensive male rats,
mounted in the two-channel computer-controlled automated organ bath system
(750TOBS, Danish Myotechnology, Denmark) and precontracted by depolarization with
60 mM extracellular K+. Changes in vascular tone were recorded in response to the
addition of 1 mM MGO. Endothelium-mediated vasorelaxation was assessed before and
after the addition of MGO by applying 1 M acetylcholine (ACh). Paired T- test was
used for statistical comparison of the responses to ACh in control vs MGO.
Results: Application of MGO to pre-contracted aortic rings further increased vascular

tone by 11 ± 2%. The endothelium-mediated vasorelaxation was reduced from 14.7 ±
1.8% in control to 7.8 ± 1.5% in the presence of MGO (P<0.01 n=10). The MGO-
induced increase in vascular tone was partially inhibited by AP-18, a specific blocker of
the Transient Receptor Potential Ankirin1 (TRPA1) channels, however the reduced
response of ACh-induced vasorelaxation remained unaffected by this drug.
Conclusion: MGO exerts pro-hypertensive effects by both direct potentiation of vascular

smooth muscle contractility, in addition to reducing the effect of endothelium-mediated
vasorelaxation.
Acknowledgments: Supported by the SURE Plus grant from the UAEU, Grant 31R133.
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O5 - Carnosol alleviates thrombogenicity and vascular inflammation, oxidative
stress and DNA damage induced by pulmonary exposure to diesel exhaust particles
in mice.
Alzaabi A (Undergraduate Student), Alkaabi A, Alseiari K, Alshamsi N, Beegam S,
Zaaba NE, Elzaki O, Nemmar A.
Departments of Physiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Adverse cardiovascular effects of inhaled particulate air pollution persist

even at lower concentrations than those of the current air quality limit. Consequently,
identification of safe and effective measures against particle-induced cardiovascular
pathophysiologic effects is needed. Carnosol is a naturally occurring phenolic diterpene
found in rosemary with diverse bioactivities including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
actions. However, its protective effect on the thrombotic and vascular injury induced by
diesel exhaust particles (DEP) has not been studied before.
Aims & Objectives: We assessed the potential alleviating effect of carnosol (20 mg/kg)
administered intraperitoneally 1h before intratracheal (i.t.) instillation of DEP (20
μg/mouse). Twenty-four hours after the i.t. administration of DEP, various thrombotic and
vascular parameters were assessed.
Results: Carnosol administration prevented the increase in the plasma concentrations of

C-reactive protein, fibrinogen and tissue factor induced by DEP exposure. Moreover,
carnosol inhibited the prothrombotic effect induced by DEP in pial microvessels in vivo
and platelet aggregation in whole blood in vitro. The shortening of activated partial
thromboplastin time and prothrombin time induced by DEP was significantly abated by
carnosol administration. Carnosol inhibited the increase of aortic homogenate levels of
proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor α), adhesion molecules
(intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, E-selectin and P-
selectin), markers of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and catalase) and vascular DNA
damage induced by DEP. Western blot analysis of the aorta showed that carnosol prevented
the decrease in the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) caused
by DEP.
Conclusion: Carnosol alleviates DEP-induced thrombogenicity and vascular

inflammation, oxidative stress and DNA damage, at least partly, through nuclear factor
erythroid-derived 2-like 2 activation.
Acknowledgments: Zayed Center for Health Sciences (grants # 12R008) and SURE+
(grant # 8929).
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O6 - Comparative assessment of human gut bacterial groups in colorectal cancer
patients compared to healthy population.
Alkuwaiti S1 (Undergraduate Student), Alkaabi O1, Alnuaimi S1, Zoughbor S1, Ajab
S2, Al Rasbi Z1.
1Department of Microbiology & Immunology, 2Institute of Public Health, College of
Introduction: Each person's gastrointestinal system contains a unique microbiota that

serves as a defense system. Significant changes in the gut microbiota are thought to be
linked to major gastrointestinal dysfunctions such as colorectal cancer. In our study, we
linked gastrointestinal tract cancer to five bacterial species to compare the composition of
intestinal microbiota in colorectal cancer patients and healthy controls.
Aims & Objectives: Investigate the quantitative and qualitative features of five bacterial
groups in relation to gastrointestinal cancer type, treatment regimen, and number of
treatment cycles. Furthermore, we intend to compare the prevalence and abundance of
bacterial groups in gastrointestinal cancer patients to healthy controls.
Materials & Methods: Case-control study comprised 29 participants divided into

colorectal cancer patients and cancer-free subjects. DNA was extracted from stool
samples using the QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit, concentration was assessed using ND-
1000 spectrophotometer. Five pairs of Genus-specific primers (Enterobacteriaceae,
Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, F. prausnitzii, Desulfovibrio) were designed based on 16S
rRNA gene sequence. The specificity of primers was evaluated by nucleotide BLAST
algorithm. Detection was carried with Hot FIREPOL®EvaGreen®qPCR using Real-
Time PCR. Demographic characteristics were analyzed using the cross-tabulation and
frequency tables in IBM SPSS and Microsoft Excel.
Results: 44.8% (n=16) were CRC patients and 55.2% (n=55.2) were cancer-free; the
mean, median and range of age of the study groups were 55.45, 52, and (29-87) years,
respectively. Males (n=20, 69.0%) were counted twice as many as females (n=9, 31.0%).
Our data indicated that the Lactobacillus sp. is significantly higher in CF group
(median Lacto. 1.18; p >0.001) compared to CRC patients (median Lacto.: 0.035),
whereas there are no significant differences (P>0.05) in the relative gene expression
obtained from it the other four bacterial groups. Modest changes in the gut bacterial
community component were observed, Desulfovibrio spp., Enterobacteriaceae spp.,
and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii gene expression levels were slightly higher in the CF
group. In contrast, Lactobacillus spp. and Bacteroides spp. were expressed slightly lower
in CF compared to CRC.
Conclusion: Human gut bacterial groups are different between healthy population and
CRC patients, associated factors should be investigated such as diet, treatments, type, and
age, etc.
Acknowledgments: Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) PLUS grant

2022, UAEU.
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Abstracts for Oral Presentations (Graduate Students)
O7 - Elucidating the effect of iron acquisition systems and beta lactamases on
susceptibility to the novel siderophore-cephalosporin (cefiderocol) in Klebsiella
pneumoniae.
Daoud L1 (Graduate Student), Al-Marzooq F1, Moubareck C2, Ghazawi A1, Collyns
T3 .
1Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University; 2College of Natural & Health Sciences, Zayed University, Dubai,
UAE; 3Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE.
Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health threat. Limited

therapeutic options are currently available to treat infections caused by multi-drug resistant
(MDR) bacteria. Cefiderocol (CFDC) is a novel siderophore-cephalosporin, recently
approved for treating MDR infections; but it is not yet in clinical use in the UAE.
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the role of siderophores and iron uptake
receptors in defining Klebsiella pneumoniae susceptibility to CFDC, and to explore the
effect of β-lactamases on the drug activity. It also aimed to explore methods for improving
drug activity.
Materials & Methods: 103 K. pneumoniae strains were characterized for susceptibility to
different antibiotics including CFDC. PCR was used to detect β-lactamase genes. Also,
iron acquisition genes were detected, and qPCR was used to study their expression on
selected strains. Experiments were conducted in iron depleted and enriched media. Whole
genome sequencing was conducted on the resistant strain. The effect of combining CFDC
with β-lactamase inhibitors (BLIs) and outer membrane permeabilizer (PMBN) was also
tested.
Results: CFDC showed highest susceptibility (96.1%), being superior to all other
antibiotics. It was potent against strains resistant to the last resort drugs such as colistin and
carbapenems, including dual carbapenemase producers. CFDC was stable against several
β-lactamases including CTX-M, DHA, OXA-48, NDM, and KPC. One strain exhibited
extreme resistance to CFDC and whole genome analysis revealed several resistance
mechanisms including multiple β-lactamases, efflux pumps, and mutations resulting in
outer membrane defects. CFDC MICs increased significantly in iron-enriched media, due
to reduction in expression of siderophore receptors, with negative correlation between
enterobactin receptor (fepA) and CFDC MICs. Moreover, higher expression of iron
transport genes (fecA and kfu) was associated with reduced susceptibility to CFDC. MICs
were significantly reduced upon addition of BLIs and PMBN in both iron-depleted and
enriched conditions.
Conclusion: CFDC is a promising antibiotic against MDR K. pneumoniae. Iron acquisition
systems have a significant impact on CFDC activity, and their altered expression can lead
to reduced susceptibility. Synergistic combinations with BLIs and PMBN re-sensitized the
bacteria to CFDC; thus, improved its activity. We report the emergence of CFDC resistance
in the UAE.
Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University, UAE (grant number G00003542

and G00003430).
17
O8 - Limonene, a monoterpene mitigates rotenone-induced dopaminergic
neurodegeneration by modulating neuroinflammation, Hippo signaling and
apoptosis in rats.
Eddin LB1 (Graduate Student), Azimullah S1, Jha NK2, Meeran MFN1, Beiram R1,
Ojha S1. 1Department of Pharmacology; College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University; 2Department of Biotechnology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India.
Introduction: Rotenone (ROT) is a naturally derived pesticide and a well-known

environmental neurotoxin associated with the induction of Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Limonene (LMN), a naturally occurring monoterpene is found ubiquitously in citrus fruits
and peels. PD is one of the prevalent slow-progressing disorders, pathologically featured
by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta
(SNpc) with no current pharmacological agents to completely cure or halt the progression
of PD.
Aims & Objectives: There is enormous interest to find out novel therapeutic agents that
can cure or halt progressive degeneration, therefore, the main aim of this study is to
investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of LMN employing a rodent model of PD
measuring parameters of oxidative stress, neuro-inflammation, and apoptosis to elucidate
the underlying mechanisms.
Materials & Methods: PD in experimental rats was induced by intraperitoneal injection

of ROT (2.5 mg/kg) five days a week for a total of 28 days. The rats were treated with
LMN (50 mg/kg, orally) along with the intraperitoneal injection of ROT (2.5 mg/kg) for
the same duration in ROT-administered rats.
Results: ROT injections induced a significant loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the
substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and DA striatal fibers, following the activation of
glial cells (astrocytes and microglia). ROT treatment enhanced oxidative stress, altered
NF-κB/MAPK signaling, and motor dysfunction, and enhanced the levels/expressions of
inflammatory mediators and proinflammatory cytokines in the brain. There was a
concomitant mitochondrial dysfunction followed by the activation of Hippo signaling and
intrinsic pathway of apoptosis as well as altered mTOR signaling in the brain of ROT-
injected rats. Oral treatment with LMN (50 mg/kg) corrected the majority of the
biochemical, pathological, and molecular parameters altered following ROT injections
Conclusion: Our study findings demonstrate the efficacy of LMN in providing protection
against ROT-induced neurodegeneration. This experimental study is supportive of
nutritional application or pharmaceutical development of LMN for PD, though further
preclinical and clinical studies on safety and pharmacokinetics are warranted before
human usage.
Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University for the award of the research
grants (# 12R104, 12R121)
18
O9 - Deciphering the salivary microbiome in Crohn’s disease patients with different
factors predisposing to dysbiosis.
Elzayat H (Graduate Student), Al-Marzooq F.
Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the

gastrointestinal tract. Microbiota is necessary to maintain a healthy gut environment.
Dysbiosis can predispose to many diseases including CD.
Aims & Objectives: This study aims to investigate the alterations in the salivary
microbiome in patients with CD compared to healthy controls (HC), and to compare CD
patients for microbiome complexity and diversity according to different factors
contributing to dysbiosis. Finally, it aims to find any correlation between inflammatory
biomarkers in CD and any possible link to oral dysbiosis.
Materials & Methods: Saliva samples were collected from CD patients and HC (n=40 in
each group) attending two hospitals in Abu Dhabi, UAE. DNA was extracted from saliva
and sequenced using Oxford nanopore technology for salivary microbiome profiling.
Salivary inflammatory biomarkers including C-reactive protein and calprotectin were
measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Results: Five dominant species were enriched in CD and depleted in HC, namely
Veillonella dispar, Megasphaera stantonii, Provetella jejuni, Dolosigranulum pigrum and
Lactobacillus backii. Oral health is confirmed to have paramount significance in the oral
microbiota dysbiosis since most significant features are cariogenic such as Streptococcus
mutans or periopathogenic such as Fusobacterium periodonticum. Loss of diversity was
shown by multiple alpha diversity indices, as well as dissimilarities between CD samples
that were interpreted through beta diversity measures. The activity of the disease, duration
and the relapse of symptoms also led to disruption of the normal balance of the oral
microbiota. Interestingly, treatment with biologicals led to the emergence of a novel
species (Simonseilla muelleri). When immunomodulatory agents were used in conjunction
with biologicals, pathogenic species such as Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli,
Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were recognized. There was a
significant association between the presence of inflammation biomarkers and low diversity
in the oral microbiome.
Conclusion: The salivary microbiome in CD was deciphered proving the interplay of

various factors contributed to dysbiosis. Each factor seems to have a unique effect on the
oral microbiome; nevertheless, oral health had the greatest impact. Microbiota homeostasis
is essential for well-being; thus, restoring the microbiota can be a promising future
therapeutic approach.
Acknowledgments: UAEU
19
O10 - Low self-esteem among children and adolescents in United Arab Emirates:
Disparity by nationality.
Nadia G (Graduate Student), Syed S.
Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Self-esteem the ‘feeling of self-appreciation’ is an indispensable emotion

for children and adolescents’ to adapt to society and the environment where they live. Low
self-esteem is a major risk factor for poor academic achievement, mental illness, and
suicide. Few data were available about the levels of self-esteem among school children and
adolescents in United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to measure low self-esteem among children and
adolescents in UAE and to evaluate disparity by nationality and risk factors associated with
the low self-esteem.
Materials & Methods: We obtained Ethics approval from the UAEU Ethics Committee
and obtained informed consent from parents of study participants and assent from
participants aged 12 to 17 years. We used a cross-sectional design to enrol a random sample
(n=518) from 111 public and private schools in Al Ain, UAE. A structured standard
questionnaire self-administered in English and Arabic language. The questionnaire
included sociodemographic, lifestyle, and clinical variables. We used the 10-item
Rosenberg self-esteem scale to obtain self-esteem scores. Participants having a total score
below 12 were considered as having a low self-esteem. We used multivariate linear
regression analysis to identify independent correlates of self-esteem levels.
Results: Overall prevalence of the low-self-esteem was 22.4% (95% CI 18.9-26.2). The
prevalence of low-self-esteem varied by nationality, 24.1% among native Emirati, 20.4%
Arabs, 17.0% among Westerners, and 33.3% among South Asian children and adolescents.
Out of 518 participants, the majority (61%) were girls, and the mean age of participants
was 14.3 years (SD± 1.8). The overall prevalence of low self-esteem increased with
increase in the body mass index categories, 19.9% in non-overweight, 22.4% in
overweight, and 30% in the obese study participants. After controlling for the age and
gender, we found a significant association between BMI and total self-esteem scores, β=-
17 (95% CI -2.77 to 0.67). We also found a positive association between self-reported
moderate and vigorous physical activity on the International Physical activity
Questionnaire (IPAQ) and self-esteem scores, β=1.62 (95% CI 0.51 to 2.74), after
controlling for age and sex in the multivariable linear regression analysis.
Conclusion: A high proportion of school adolescents reported low elf-esteem. Low self-
esteem significantly associated nationality, obesity low physical activity. There was
disparity in the prevalence of low-self-esteem by gender, BMI, and nationality.
Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University
20
O11 - Identification of a Novel Pathogenic Variant in FBN1 by Exome Sequencing in
a Patient with Marfan Syndrome.
1 Irshaid M (Graduate Student), 1 Aleissaee S, 1 Alnuaimi M, 1 AlGhaithi S,
2Almansoori G, 1 Alblooshi H, 1Allam M, 1Al Dhahouri N, 1Albawa'neh A, 1 Valappil
A, 1Tabouni M, 1Baydoun I, 1Kizhakkedath P, 1R. Ali B, 1,3 Al Jasmi F, 1Akawi N.

1Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University; 2Department of Cardiology, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United
Arab Emirates; 3Department of Cardiology, Tawam Hospital.
Introduction: Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder

affecting connective tissues, mainly caused by mutations in FBN1 gene encoding for
fibrillin-1 protein, an essential constitute of extracellular microfibrils that provide
structural support for the connective tissue, providing elasticity and resiliency. Other genes
involved in MFS pathogenesis include FBN2, TGFBR2, TGFBR1, LTBP1-3, and SKI, all
of which relate to the phenotypic presentation of patients.
Aims & Objectives: Whole Exome Sequencing and data analysis were performed to detect
possible variants in FBN1 gene, to confirm MFS diagnosis in a suspected case and family
members.
Materials & Methods: A family with suspected Marfan Syndrome was recruited for this
study. Blood samples were collected from proband and all available family members, DNA
was extracted, and exome sequencing was performed using Illumina NovaSeq6000 at the
UAEU Genomic Lab. The clean reads were aligned to the human genome assembly (hg
19). VarSeq software was used for variant filtering, annotation, and pathogenicity
assessment. Pathogenicity of detected variants was evaluated using ACMG guidelines and
best causative candidates were verified by Sanger Sequencing.
Results: A 27-year-old female presented to the adult congenital heart disease clinic, with
clinical features of MFS presented with complaints of palpitations and dyspnea not related
to exertion. Exome sequencing on proband and all available family members was
performed. A hetrozygous deletion of 2 nucleotides in FBN1 gene was detected at genomic
position chr15:48791206 (hg19), NM_000138.5:c.2142_2143del, leading to a frameshift
and predicting a premature stop codon in exon 18 of 66, p.(Pro715ArgfsTer8). This
frameshift in FBN1 was found to be inherited from father to all his offspring. The
frameshift segregated with variable cardiac pathologies in all crriers. This variant was not
found in our cohort of inhouse exomes and was not reported in literature. It was also
missing from public and clinical databases.
Conclusion: All family members were found to have same pathogenic variant segregating
with various cardiac pathologies. As the variant is 100% penetrant in heterozygous state,
and segregated with the disease in 3 generations, preimplantation genetic testing is
recommended for affected family members to avoid passing the variant to more children.
Acknowledgment: This study was funded by the United Arab Emirates University (grant
number 12M106).
21
O12 - Medical Doctors practice: gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis in the United
Arab Emirates.
Bashir MM1 (Graduate Student), Ahmed LA1,2, Al-Rifai RH1,2, Elbarazi I1,
Aldhanhani S1 (Undergraduate Student), Almadhaani S1 (Undergraduate Student),
Alktifan H1, AlJailani M1, Afandi B3, Alkaabi JM3, Al-Maskari F1,2.
1Institute of Public Health, 2Zayed Centre for Health Sciences & 3Department of
Internal Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) screening and diagnosis is a

contentious topic worldwide, and guidelines used by medical doctors are widely
inconsistent1. Different diagnostic criteria use make it difficult to accurately combine or
compare GDM burden, locally and globally2. Hence it is important to evaluate doctors’
practice. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the local guideline recommends using the
WHO 2013 criteria in diagnosing GDM.
Aims & Objectives: This study assessed doctors' correct use of the recommended criteria
with associated factors. This will inform targeted practice recommendations and areas of
emphasis in future guidelines.
Materials & Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among medical doctors who
attend to pregnant women at 11 facilities in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE, from October 2021
to June 2022. A validated self-administered questionnaire3 collected data from the doctors,
online or in person. Data analysis was conducted using STATA statistical software version
16.1.
Results: 120 doctors were recruited. 87% were females. 43% were Family Physicians,
37% were Obstetricians, 10% were Endocrinologists, and 10% were General Practitioners.
60% vs. 40% worked at primary vs. tertiary facilities, respectively. About 40% specialized
outside the Middle East and North African (MENA) region. Only 31% of the doctors
reported using the recommended GDM diagnostic criteria correctly. Factors associated
with the correct use of the criteria include the doctor's place of specialization (Abroad (US
& UK) vs. MENA, 50.0% vs. 24.3%, p=0.013), place of practice (Tertiary vs. Primary
facilities, 43.8% vs. 20.4%, p=0.011) and specialty [OBGYN (46.7%), Endo (41.7%),
Family physicians (16.7%) and GPs (0.0%) (p=0.003)]. Up to 16% of the doctors were
using multiple GDM guidelines.
Conclusion: Our study has shown gaps in doctors' practice regarding GDM diagnosis in
the UAE. We recommend training and re-training doctors with regular monitoring and
evaluation by the UAE Health Authorities regarding use of GDM guidelines. Further
qualitative research could reveal specific challenges experienced by doctors in GDM
management.
Acknowledgement: UAEU SURE Grant
22
Abstracts for Poster Presentations (Undergraduate Students)
P1 - Effects of High-Fat Diet on the Morphology of Murine Skeletal Muscle Fibers:
An Immunocytochemical Study.
Awda H1 (Undergraduate Student), Saleh M1, Alkaabi S1, Ahmad S1
(Undergraduate Student), Albastaki M1 (Undergraduate Student), Ouda Z1
(Undergraduate Student), Allouh MZ1.
1Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: There is limited and conflicting information about the effects of a High
Fat Diet (HFD) on the morphology of skeletal muscle fibers.
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to clarify the morphological effects of HFD on
murine skeletal muscle fibers. These effects include changes in both fiber type and size.
Materials & Methods: Adult male mice of the C57BL/6 strain were fed either normal
chow (control) or HFD for 20 weeks. Tibialis anterior (TA) muscle was obtained from
both groups (control and HFD). Immunocytochemical and morphometric image analysis
techniques were applied to determine the fiber type and size within the muscle.
Results: There was no type I slow oxidative fibers in the TA muscle. In contrast, type IIB
fast glycolytic fibers were the most common fiber type in the TA. A significant decrease
in the frequency of moderate and fast oxidative fibers (IIA, p = 0.024; IIX, p = 0.014)
was observed in the HFD group compared to the control group. However, no difference
in the frequency of glycolytic fibers (IIB, p = 0.051) was found between the HFD and
control groups. Additionally, there was a significant increase in the size of the oxidative
fibers (IIA, p = 0.002; IIX, p = 0.021) in the HFD group compared to the control group.
However, there was no difference in the size of the glycolytic fibers (IIB, p = 0.583)
between the HFD and control groups.
Conclusion: long-term feeding with a HFD induces morphological changes in the

oxidative fibers (IIA and IIX) within the TA muscle by reducing their frequency and
increasing their fiber sizes. The increase in the fiber size is most likely owned to the
extra-accumulation of intramyocellular lipids within these fibers. Further studies are
warranted to investigate the accumulation of intramyocellular lipids within the oxidative
fibers.
Acknowledgment: This project was funded by a SURE Plus grant (# G00003888) for the
authors from the Research Office at UAEU.
23
P2 - Clinical decision support to improve healthcare at the point-of-care. AlSheryani
M1 (Undergraduate Student), Hraiz N, Almeheiri S, Alhammadi S, Hashim MJ1,
Seher Ahmad2.
1Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University; 2Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Introduction: Clinical Decision Support (CDS) refers to information provided to

physicians and other health professionals during patient care. CDS systems are intended to
improve healthcare by enhancing medical decisions with targeted information. Such
information includes treatment guidelines, drug dosing, drug-drug interactions, and
preventive care recommendations. CDS systems are often integrated within electronic
health records and provide useful information to clinicians. Typically, an alert is displayed
via a pop-up window to the clinician. CDS alerts are based on the context such as the
patient’s age, gender, medical problems and the setting (clinic, inpatient ward, emergency
department). An alternative to electronic CDS is paper-based printed CDS. This format
includes printed charts, guidelines summaries and forms with text to guide clinicians.
Aims & Objectives: We aimed to review the effectiveness of clinical decision support
systems based on previous studies published in the peer-reviewed research.
Materials & Methods: We searched online for “clinical decision support” on PubMed
MEDLINE with the following filters: Abstract, Free full text and Review articles only.
The search yielded 110 articles. Selected articles which met the inclusion criteria were
reviewed. Key highlights from each article were collated. Emerging themes from the
literature search were compiled.
Results: Several research articles reported the benefits and drawbacks of CDS. Studies
conducted on the effectiveness of computerized CDS showed mixed results. While there
were improvements in the healthcare process, the evidence for improving patient
outcomes was sparse. Concerns have been raised about the cost of CDS systems, and the
deleterious effect on physician workload and efficiency. Too many electronic alerts can
lead to ‘alert fatigue’. This alert fatigue can lead to doctors and nurses ignoring the CDS
recommendations. A promising alternative to electronic CDS is paper-based printed CDS
charts and wall posters.
Conclusion: Clinical decision support systems can improve the quality of healthcare,
reduce medical errors and provide support to healthcare professionals. These systems can
be used to support medical education and training programs. Paper-based CDS materials
have the potential to be used alongside electronic health records.
Acknowledgments: Mubadala Abu Dhabi Research Grant, CDS2023
24
P3 - A Computational Study Targeting Common Kinases for Cancer and COVID-
19.
Alyaa A. Alkarbi, Bakhita S. Alhemeiri, Hind A. Al Ali, Mezna M. Almansoori, and
Thuraya A. Almessabi (Undergraduate Students), Dr. Alya A. Arabi.
Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology; College of Medicine & Health
Introduction: COVID-19 is a widespread virus that is easily transmissible among

people. Cancer is a fatal disease where tumor cells grow uncontrollably due to oncogenic
activation. These two diseases could share a common treatment in which their common
receptors could be inhibited. Studies that identify specific inhibitors that could be used in
treating both diseases are minimal and poorly understood.
Aims & Objectives: This computational study aims to test fourteen ligands (i.e.,
inhibitors) categorized under cancer-specific, COVID-19-specific, and common
inhibitors and test their effectiveness at inhibiting the common kinases for both diseases.
Materials & Methods Four cancer-specific inhibitors, four COVID-19-specific

inhibitors, and six common inhibitors were identified according to the literature to be
tested on the common kinases. The ligands were chosen based on their compatibility with
5 identified common receptors. Using the MakeReceptor Software and FRED docking
method, possible conformers of the fourteen ligands were demonstrated, and the best
conformers were determined. Docking scores were collected from the 70 ligand-receptor
complexes, and the superimposing of experimental and docked ligands was done to
confirm the similarity of the positions of the binding sites.
Results: A larger negative binding score indicates a more significant attraction between
the receptor and the inhibitor. A repulsive attraction will be produced if the binding score
moves toward positive numbers. The docking scores revealed that two of the selected
inhibitors have the potential to inhibit the common receptors for Cancer and COVID-19.
Results revealed that the BTK receptor received the highest scores among these docking
results when interacting with the weaker inhibitors, and the RIP1 receptor had the
weakest interaction with these inhibitors.
Conclusion: The hypothesis, which states that COVID-19-specific inhibitors, cancer-

specific inhibitors, and common inhibitors will show effectiveness on common receptors,
is supported by the findings of our studies. Quantum mechanics (QM) could be applied to
this research to enhance its accuracy further and improve results.
Acknowledgments: (SURE) Plus Program by the UAEU, and the assistance of our peers
in the Lab. Students (Ms. Tabeer Fatima, Ms. Alaa Osman), and OpenEye
(https://www.eyesopen.com/) for the software to complete this project.
25
P4 - Knowledge, attitude, and practices of plastics use during the COVID-19
pandemic among UAEU students.
Al Mohammad M (Undergraduate Student), AlKaabi F, AlKhyeli F, AlNufaili A,
Karkaz I, Ádám B.
Introduction: Plastic is a widely used material due to its excellent physicochemical

properties and economic viability. A large proportion of generated waste derives from
plastic items, the fate of which raises environmental and public health concerns. With the
emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a shift of focus to fight against the
viral infection, which resulted in significant drawbacks in the use and management of
plastics.
Aims & Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and
practices of plastics usage during the COVID-19 pandemic among students at the United
Arab Emirates University.
Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of the
United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Science, and College
of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine. All 18-24 years-old students were eligible for
the study regardless of their nationalities and social backgrounds. An online questionnaire
was distributed among them to obtain information on knowledge, attitude, and usage of
plastics, specifically the change in plastics use since the emergence of the pandemic. The
SPSS statistical software package was used to conduct descriptive and inferential
statistics.
Results: According to our results, 77.6% of the participants reported increased use of
disposable plastics during the lockdown. Of all participants, 30.2% indicated a 10% to
20% increase of usage. Results showed that this increase was mainly contributable to
online shopping (72.7%) and use of personal protective equipment (98.7%). Furthermore,
55.3% of the respondents indicated that there were no efforts in separating and recycling
plastic waste during the lockdown; nevertheless, 84.2% showed interest in working to
reduce the application of single-use plastics in their day-to-day life after the pandemic.
Conclusion: Our study highlights that the use of plastics has dramatically increased
during the pandemic. Although participants showed awareness regarding the harmful
consequences and willingness for change, their practice during the pandemic focused on
reducing risk of contamination. Future efforts should aim at further increasing awareness
as well as providing more environment friendly alternatives to the use of plastics.
Acknowledgments: SURE PLUS Grant, UAEU
26
P5 - Developing an Early Autism Identification Severity Scale for UAE children 12
to 36 months of age.
Al-Azzani k (Undergraduate Student), AL-Yammahi S, Al-Shamsi H, AL-Kabbi F,
Safi M FC.
Department of Speech Language Pathology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University.
Introduction: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is one of the common disabilities in

UAE. ASD often go undetected in toddlers. Trained and licensed professionals
(pediatricians, nurses, therapists, and teachers) should serve as facilitators for referrals.
However, we ought to have a reliable and culturally sensitive screening and assessment
tool to achieve good early Autism detection. In the western societies, research have
shown that Autism can be detected reliably in children as early as 12 months old
(Zwaigenbaum et al., 2015). Further research shows that early intervention leads to
positive outcomes later in the lives of individuals with autism (Boyd et al., 2010).
Aims & Objectives: standardized scale for children aged 12 to 36 months of age in the
Emirati society.
Materials & Methods:

1. Several reliable Autism Scales were reviewed, and the items of the scale were
developed, as well as early ASD symptoms were identified based on retrospective
perspectives of parents who have ASD children in the UAE society.
2. Refining scale items for relevance, clarity, and unambiguousness. The
following criteria will be used to evaluate each item in the scale:
a. Avoid items in the past tense;
b. Constructing items that include a single thought;
c. Avoid double-negatives;
d. Prefer items with simple sentence structure;
e. Avoid words denoting absoluteness such as only or just, always, none;
f. Avoid items likely to be endorsed by everyone;
g. Avoid items with multiple interpretations;
h. Use simple and clear language;
i. Keep items under 20 words.
3. Expert panel reviewing of test items.
4. Pilot testing the Items (Pretesting). This will involve administering the scale on
~ 5 – 7 normal children who are 18 – 36 months of age. Then will obtain
statistical information on the items, comments, and suggestions). Item analysis
will be used for selecting the best items. The item analysis will assist in the
detection of items that are: 1) ambiguous, 2) incorrectly keyed or scored, 3) too
easy or too hard, and 4) not discriminative enough.
Results: An Early Autism Identification Severity Scale for UAE children 12 to 36

months of age was developed. The test include the following subscales: a) Never
b)Rarely c)Unlikely d)Probable e) Very Likely. “The results are ongoing”.
27
P6 - A Pilot Study on the effect of Site-Placements of e-TACT® Accelerometer on
Assessing Physical Activity Levels Among UAE University Students.
Saqer R (Undergraduate Student), Ali A (Undergraduate Student), Kittana M
(Graduate Student), Ahmadani A (Graduate Student), Attlee A.
Department of Nutrition & Health; College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Physical activity (PA) has a significant impact on the individual’s lifestyle
as it provides a variety of physical and mental health benefits; however, determining
physical activity level (PAL) in nutrition assessment studies is under-utilized.
Accelerometers are considered as a primary tool for evaluating PAL. eTACT® (BodyCap,
France) is a recently manufactured accelerometer that collects actimetric data using time
above threshold (TAT) to assess PA; however, studies utilizing eTACT®, specifically in
different body placements, are limited.
Aims & Objectives: To examine the effect of eTACT® site placements at three body sites
(wrist, chest, and ankle) in assessing PAL among university students.
Materials & Methods: Twelve students, males and females, aged between 18-30 years
from the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) were recruited. Normal weight
students with a body mass index of 18.5-24.9 kg/m2, and within the low-to-moderate PAL
based on the Long-Version International Physical Activity Questionnaire were selected.
The participants were asked to simultaneously wear three eTACTs®, on the chest, and non-
dominant wrist and ankle, for seven consecutive days, except when they indulged in a
water-based activity. The eTACT® was configured to collect data on acceleration every 2
minutes with a sampling frequency of 25Hz. The transition threshold from low to medium
activity was set at 250 TAT, and 500 TAT to transition from medium to high activity.
Results: PA time using eTACT® did not differ between site placements, however, there
was a significant difference in recording PAL. Higher time for high-intensity PAL was
recorded on the ankle in comparison to the wrist and chest (29.8, 23.0, and 6.0 minutes,
respectively; p=0.001), while a higher duration of moderate PA was recorded on the wrist
eTACT compared to the ankle and chest (79.4, 60.7, and 26.4 minutes, respectively;
p=0.004). No significant difference was reported for low PAL among the three site-
placements.
Conclusion: These findings indicate the variability in PAL recording times based on
central vs. peripheral body site-placement, which could be attributed to the increased
utilization of the extremities. Signals recorded from different sites are not necessarily
comparable; however, further research is warranted to validate the findings of this pilot
study.
Acknowledgments: UAEU Human Research Ethics Committee ERH_2022_8471

2022_02, and study participants.
28
P7 - First report on colistin resistance and plasmid-mediated mcr genes in
Escherichia coli isolated from camels in UAE.
Yaaqeib D1 (Undergraduate Student), Ahmed A1, Alhosani A1, Alshehhi M1,
Ghazawi A2, Anes F2, Baig A2, Khan M2.
1 4th year medical student, 2 Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology
College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Escherichia coli a member of normal gut flora may serve as a significant
reservoir of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), causing severe infections with less
therapeutic options available. Emerging resistance to the last-resort antibacterial colistin
by fecally transmitted AMR E. coli poses serious health hazards worldwide including in
the UAE. Camels play a role in the history of the UAE. The close interaction between
camels and humans facilitates the potential transference of colistin-resistant bacteria. AMR
requires international and multidisciplinary cooperation using a One Health approach.
Within this approach, targeted research is essential to identify reservoirs of AMR and
demonstrate potential transmission routes within and between the human-animal-
environmental interfaces.
Aims & Objectives: In the UAE, information on AMR in healthy husbandry animals is
poor, and studies of E. coli clonal lineages linked to colistin resistance genes are scarce.
This research is aimed to assess the levels of mobile colistin resistance (mcr) genes in E.
coli isolated from the fecal samples of camels in Dubai Emirate.
Materials & Methods: Fresh fecal samples were collected directly from rectum of 50
camels. Whole genome sequencing reads of isolates were obtained using Illumina NovaSeq
(150 bp paired-end). Online bioinformatics tools were used for the analysis.
Results: The results of current study revealed the presence of colistin resistant E. coli in
22% (11/50) camels, harboring mcr 1.1 gene. The mcr 1.1 positive E. coli strains belonged
to different STs (ST 58, 2144, 1431, 2732, 155, 23, 206). Most of the isolates had TEM-1
beta-lactamase, sulfonamide, quinolone, tetracycline resistance and aminoglycoside
modifying enzyme coding genes. The mcr 1.1 gene was carried on plasmids belongs to
IncL2 and IncX4 incompatibility type. The isolates were MDR, notably, lincosamide
resistance, determined by the presence of the lnu(F) gene was exclusively found in ST
1431.
Conclusion: The findings in this study suggests that most likely the mcr-1 gene has locally
disseminated through MGEs that are mainly IncL2 and IncX4 plasmids and provides
additional support for the hypothesis of the animal reservoir, that is driven by the use of
colistin in livestock, as a source of mcr-1 in humans.
Acknowledgments: Grant number (G00003950).
29
P8 - Attitudes and perceptions of Medical Students towards Communication Skills -
Cross Sectional Study.
Ayesha Al Blooshi, Maryam Alfadli (Undergraduate Students), Moien AB Khan.
Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: The ability of physicians to communicate effectively with their patients is

essential to build strong doctor-patient relationships. It has been demonstrated that
healthcare providers with better communication skills deliver better care, while being more
satisfied with their jobs, and receive fewer complaints
Aims & Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine third year medical students’
attitudes and perception towards communication skills. Further, we would like to examine
how communication competence has developed between pre and post communication
skills structured training. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to examine attitudes and
perceptions of learning communication skills among third year medical students. A web-
based survey was sent to third-year students from the years 2020 (73 students) and 2021
(82) before the clinical skills module was introduced. The same batch was sent a post-
training survey to analyze their attitudes and perceptions after the communication skills
module training was completed.
Materials & Methods: The cross-sectional survey was conducted before the start of the
module, and a post-module survey was conducted after week six..
Results: There were 151 students in total, 116 of whom were females and 35 of whom
were males. In total, 144 students participated in the pre-module survey, with a
participation rate of 95.36 %. The post-module survey had 124 participants with an 82.11%
response rate. In the pre-course and post-course, female participation rates were 96.55%
and 89.65%, respectively. In the pre and post-test modules, male participation was 91.42%
and 57.14%, respectively. Positive attitudes toward communication skills performance
were strongly correlated with gender in our study. In the current observational study,
medical students with higher IELTS score had lesser negative attitudes when compared to
their peers.
Conclusion: Students confidence, communication, and motivation were boosted post

Communication Skills Training.
30
P9 - Attitudes and perceptions of Medical Students towards Communication Skills -
Qualitative Study.
Fakhra Al Rubaei (Undergraduate Student), Maryam Eisa Alsqetri, Moien AB Khan.
University.
Introduction: It has been demonstrated that healthcare providers with better

communication skills deliver better care, while being more satisfied with their jobs, and
receive fewer complaints.
Aims & Objectives: This study employs a qualitative methodology. The study’s main
purpose was to investigate the attitudes of medical undergraduate students towards
communications skills. To achieve this, medical students, educators, and simulated patients
were recruited. Three interview guides were developed for each group of participants
(students, educators, SPs) separately. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to get a
thorough understanding of undergraduate students’ attitudes towards acquiring
communication skills in their undergraduate studies.
Materials & Methods: Participants were selected from the CMHS. MD students in the
third to final-year of the program Medical Students Year 3 - Year 6 (n=24), educators
(n=6), and SPs (n=16) were selected using a purposive sampling technique.
Results: A conceptual framework was used to guide the analysis of the data, including
elements of both content analysis and framework analysis. The students recommended
mixed gender classes, Arabic as a means of communication, special teaching sessions to
improve their body language, and feedback from clinical tutors. The tutors at the college
cited a number of barriers, including cultural barriers, inadequate SP training, the lack of a
college-owned curriculum, and the absence of teaching hospitals..
Conclusion: Furthermore, exposing students to real patients and clinics early on will help
them greatly improve their communication skills. Tutors stressed the importance of
communication skills for students, using direct approaches when counselling students
facing problems, constant practice, and constructive criticism.
31
P10 - Health and lifestyle behaviors among healthcare professionals.
Hamda Alsaedi , Maryam Eisa Alsqetri (Undergraduate Students), Moien AB Khan.
University.
Introduction: Due to their heavy workloads and shift schedules, healthcare professionals
(HCPs) have greater rates of depression and burnout. Patient safety and the standard of
care may suffer as a result of such an influence, both directly and indirectly. There are
many different aspects to health and fitness. This comprises physical wellness, spiritual
wellness, as well as mental wellness and emotional stability. Understanding the health,
wellness, and lifestyle behaviors of HCPs will enable us to put into practice important
methods to enhance quality of life for HCPs.
Aims & Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the factors that can have an effect on the
health of health care professionals. We aim to explore and identify occupational health,
life-style, sleep, resilience, and physical activity among healthcare professionals employed
in the healthcare settings in the United Arab Emirates.
Materials & Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A cross-sectional

questionnaire was designed and deployed among healthcare professionals in UAE. The
survey was completed by 710 healthcare professionals. The responses collected were
analyzed through quantitative analysis software SPSS 2.0.
Results: Majority of the healthcare professionals spent less days per week spent on
vigorous and moderate physical activity. Healthcare professionals spent more time sitting
on a weekday. Lack of time, job stress, routine and long working hours were stated as
topmost barriers that affect health and lifestyle behaviors. Healthcare professionals
emphasized on the need to have more physical activity and healthier food options for a
better lifestyle change. Healthcare professionals sleeping hours were affected negatively
by their working hours and shifts of work. Majority of participants consumed fast food
with higher proportion not counting calories of the fast food meals. Fast was preferred
because of its taste and it’s convenience/availability.
Conclusion: The results showed that healthcare professionals lack physical activity in their
routines. This is attributed to the occupational stress and nature of job such as working for
longer hours and stressful events. Healthcare professionals deemed the importance of
eating healthy food and involving in physical activity. A higher proportion of healthcare
professionals in this study indulged in eating fast food and were not aware of the calorie
intake from such kind of food. Overall, participants in this study had varying sleeping
patterns, lacked physical activity and were unaware of their calorie intake.
Acknowledgement: We would like to acknowledge our supervisor Dr. Moien Khan.
32
P11 - Wellness and lifestyle behaviors among healthcare professionals.
Aysha Al Blooshi, Fakhra Al Rubaei, Maryam Alfadli (Undergraduate Student),
Moien AB Khan.
University.
Introduction: The provision of wellness is crucial for an HCP. Work-life imbalance and
HCP burnout have been vastly debated over the years and may have a negative impact on
the standard of care. We can enhance the wellness setting by better understanding HCPs'
lifestyle behaviors, which will benefit medical professionals in the long run. HCP’s are
burdened with excessive workloads, shift pattern of work, which contributes to higher rates
of burnout, depression, and suicide among medical professionals, and can have a direct and
negative impact on quality of care.
Aims & Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the factors that can have an effect on the
health and wellness of health care professionals. We aim to explore specific behaviors that
are associated with negative wellbeing of HCPs and to assess the extent to which such
practices are actually associated with increased well-being, and to promote further research
in this area.
Materials & Methods: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A cross-sectional
questionnaire was designed and deployed among healthcare professionals in UAE. The
survey was completed by 710 healthcare professionals. The responses collected were
analyzed through quantitative analysis software SPSS 2.0.
Results: Majority of the healthcare professionals were optimistic about good things
happening to them. They deemed their relationship with God and with themselves as very
important. Healthcare professionals felt active and refreshed less than half of the time at
work. The negative determinants affecting well-being behaviors were identified as being
a lack of time, job stress, routine, and lengthy work hours. Behaviors that promote
wellbeing among healthcare specialists were the need for increased physical exercise and
healthier eating selections. Healthcare workers' working schedules and shifts had a
negative impact on their ability to sleep. The majority of individuals ate fast food, with a
higher percentage not accounting for calories in the meals.
Conclusion: The results showed that negative behaviors that impacted the well being of
healthcare professionals were lack of physical activity. This is associated to work-related
stress and aspects of the profession, like long working hours. Behaviors such as the need
of engaging in physical activity and eating a balanced diet can have beneficial effects on
the well-being of HCPs. HCPs were optimistic about positive things in life. They had a
stronger spiritual relationship with their God and themselves. However, they were less
active and refreshed at their work, which could be attributed to their long working hours.
Acknowledgement: We would like to acknowledge our supervisor Dr. Moien Khan.
33
P12 - Diabetes mellitus reduces the expression of high-density lipoprotein in
pancreatic beta cells of Wistar rats.
Mariam K. Alotaiba1, Suhail H. Al Amry1, Maha MK. Harara1, Aisha A.
Almuhsin1, Shamma J. Almehairbi1(Undergraduate Students), Crystal D’Souza1,
Heba Elabadlah1,2, Saeeda Al Jaberi1, Saeed Tariq1, Frank Christopher Howarth3,
Ernest A. Adeghate1.
1Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University,
2Cambridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center, Al Ain, UAE. 1Department of
Physiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Recent research has linked very low-density lipoproteins to the

development of type 2 diabetic complications. High density lipoprotein (HDL) on the other
hand has been shown to protect pancreatic beta cells.
Aims & Objectives: The primary goal of the research was to analyze how HDL, in islets
cells of animal models with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, was distributed in the pancreas,
namely streptozotocin-induced diabetes Wistar rat, Goto-Kakizaki (GK) and Zucker
diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Through these findings, the degree of co-localization with islets
hormones was also examined.
Materials & Methods: Pancreatic tissue samples from normal, non-diabetic Wistar,
diabetic Wistar, GK, Zucker lean (ZL), and ZDF mice were examined by double-labelled
immunohistochemistry. To determine the specific location of HDL in pancreatic islet cell
cytoplasmic organelles, additional tissues were processed for immunoelectron
microscopy. The entirety of the experimental methods was carried out in compliance with
the regulations of the United Arab Emirates University's Research Advisory Committee
Review Board.
Results: In non-diabetic Wistar, GK, ZL, and ZDF rats, HDL was found in the central
and peripheral regions of pancreatic islets of Langerhans. However, as compared to
Wistar controls and ZL, the number of HDL-positive cells was considerably lower in GK
and ZDF rats. In Wistar rats, HDL-positive cells almost disappeared following the onset
of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. An immunofluorescence co-localization investigation
revealed that HDL co-localizes with insulin in pancreatic beta cells, where they are
situated within the secretory granules, additionally, HDL does not associate with
glucagon.
Conclusion: In non-diabetic rats' pancreatic beta cells, HDL co-localizes with insulin.
After the onset of diabetes, the presence of HDL in islet cells is significantly reduced. As
a result, HDL may have a role in insulin production and release.
Acknowledgments: College of Medicine & Health Sciences, and United Arab Emirates
University Research Grants, Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates
University, UAE.
34
P13 - Modelling lifelong volumetric changes in hippocampus and lateral ventricles.
Alshamsi L1, Aldhaheri S1 (Undergraduate Students), Almansoori T1, Niedl-Van
Gorkum K1, Ljubisavljevic M2, Gelovani J3, Statsenko Y1.
1Departments of Radiology and 2Physiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University, 3Provost’s Office, UAE University.
Introduction: Well-defined criteria for normal brain imaging will aid in early diagnostics
of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. A rate of changes in the brain
structures varies from a region to region.
Aims & Objectives: The study's major objective was to provide knowledge of normal
brain aging in order to enhance diagnostic models of delayed development and
neurodegenerative illnesses. To reach the objective we reviewed the literature on the
percentage of the total intracranial volume occupied by hippocampus which is vulnerable
to aging and by the lateral ventricles serving as a marker of age-related hemisphere
shrinkage. We developed and compared descriptive models of brain morphometric
changes in these brain parts.
Materials & Methods: We reviewed 28 journal articles reporting the relative volume of
hippocampus in different age groups and 28 articles about the size of lateral ventricles.
To model the lifelong evolution of volumetric data for specific brain areas, we considered
linear, quadratic, cubic or higher degree models (see Equation 1). Bayesian Information
Criterion was used to identify the best model type among the candidate models.
V ol = β0 + β1Age + β2Age2 + ... + βkAgek, k = 1, 10 (1)
Results: The type of study design may affect the results. For example, a longitudinal
observation of adults aged 31-84 years illustrated a faster atrophy rate in the
hippocampus compared to a cross-sectional comparison of the same study cohort. The
best model types for hippocampus and lateral ventricles are the seventh- and the third-
degree equations correspondently. The U-shape trajectory of age-related changes in the
white matter volume may account for the lifelong dynamics in the volume of lateral
ventricles.
Conclusion: The human-driven assessment of follow-up MRI examinations is

challenging. We proposed models that can be used as reference norms of yearly atrophy
rates in the brain structures. The normative values can aid in the early detection of
delayed development and neurodegenerative disease. This study will provide
neuroscientists with new information on whether various brain areas grow and age evenly
or disproportionally.
35
P14 - Multimodal approach to early diagnostics of mild cognitive impairment and
Alzheimer’s dementia.
Al Banna M1 (Undergraduate Student), Taleb M. Almansoori1, Klaus Neidk-Van
Gorkom1, Ljubisavljevic M2, Gelovani J3, Statsenko Y1.
1Departments of Radiology and Physiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAEU, 3Provost’s Office, UAE University.
Introduction: Contemporary neuroscience lacks a reliable tool for the early detection of
cognitive impairment.
Aims & Objectives: We aimed to improve the early-stage diagnostics of mild cognitive
impairment (MCI) and dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We hypothesized that
the implementation of a new multimodal approach based on structure-function association
concept will increase the sensitivity of disease detection. To reach the aim we performed
the following tasks: (i) build models of brain structure-function associations in cognitively
normal (CN) individuals and in patients with MCI and AD; (ii) work out an approach for
classification of examinees into the CN, MCI and AD cohorts according to best model fit.
Materials & Methods: We used a total of 1,337 study cases from 800 subjects aged 55-
90 from publicly available Alzheimer’s disease neuroimaging initiative database (200
CN, 400 MCI and 200 AD). We collected MRI, scores in cognitive tests (MMSE, ADAS-
cog, RAVLT). The structural MRI T1- weighted images were segmented with the
FreeSurfer software to calculate the subcortical and cortical parcellation volumes - voxel-
based morphometry data and surface-based morphometry data. The volumes of brain
parts adjusted to the total intracranial volume were the predictors of the machine learning
models which we trained to compute cognitive scores and results in psychophysiological
tests. The machine learning algorithms were trained on each study cohort separately
(CN, MCI, AD), and ranked the predictors by their informative values thus providing an
insight into SFA patterns which can be either similar or different within those cohorts.
Results: The highest accuracy was achieved with the model trained to predict the MMSE
score from voxel-based morphometry data. The application of the majority voting
technique to models predicting results in cognitive tests improved the classification
performance up to 91.95% true positive rate for CN, 86.21% - for MCI and 80.18% - for
AD.
Conclusion: We implemented the multimodal diagnostic approach to early MCI and AD

detection by building models of structure-function associations and training the models
on the data from each study cohort. The final models were disease-specific and therefore
they could be used for diagnostics.
36
P15 - Optimal settings for detecting and classifying epileptic seizures from EEG
recordings.
Alzarooni N1, Mardood D1, Aljneibi D1, AlMeqbaali S1, AlBadi S1, Alsuwaidi M1,
Alali A1 (Undergraduate Students), Niedl-Van Gorkum K2, Statsenko Y2, Gelovani
J3, Ljubisavljevic M1.
1Departments of Physiology and 2Radiology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University, 3Provost’s Office, UAE University.
Introduction: Automatic assessment of EEG with deep learning (DL) is a promising tool
for accurate seizure detection. However, recent studies failed to reach the reliable
performance in detecting and classifying seizures. The optimal setting for EEG recoding
in epilepsy has not yet been found.
Aims & Objectives: We aimed to determine the optimal settings for acquiring EEG data
and their processing with DL algorithms. The precise settings would provide the
researchers with the high accurate automatic detection of epileptic episodes and their
classification into eight major types.
Materials & Methods: Comparative analysis of DL algorithms was conducted. The

criteria for selecting the optimal model differed between the binary and the multi group
classification. Based on the literature findings, we resorted to the two-step approach:
identifying an epileptic episode with a binary classification model and detecting its type -
with the multigroup classification model. Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model
was applied for binary classification, while Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) was used
for the multigroup classification. We trained the DL algorithms on EEG recordings of 13
cases from the Temple University Hospital Dataset and compared the performance of the
final models. Then, we analyzed the model outcomes with different number of electrodes
and sampling frequencies used for the EEG acquisition. Activation Maximization was
applied to visualize the patterns that allow for seizure detection.
Results: Accuracy of seizure detection was slightly higher with the increased sampling
rate of 250 Hz (p>0.05). The rate did not impact the performance of the multigroup
classification. The binary classification was not affected by the rising number of EEG
detectors: 87.90% vs 87.69% sensitivity and 89.94% vs 91.49% specificity in 8 and 21-
electrode system respectively. Contrarily, the quality of the multigroup classification
worsened with lowering the number of detectors (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The proposed system successfully detected epileptic episodes and identified
the eight seizure types. The implementation of interpretable machine learning helped to
visualize the study results and to increase the trust on clinicians in the system. However,
more investigation is required to evaluate whether seizure onset analysis will enhance the
classification of epileptic episodes into types.
37
P16 - Potentiation of the antibacterial activity of cefiderocol on Pseudomonas
aeruginosa by combined β-lactamase inhibition and outer membrane permeation.
Al Ali A 1 (Undergraduate Student), Al Nuaimi S1, Al Shamsi M1, Al Hammadi A1, Al
Fadli M1, Daoud L1, Al-Marzooq F1,
1Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University.
Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen capable of causing

a wide array of life-threatening infections. Cefiderocol (CFDC) is a new siderophore-
cephalosporin, which utilizes iron transport systems to penetrate bacterial outer membrane
(OM). Resistance can occur due to mutations in these systems reducing drug uptake.
Recent reports indicated that β-lactamases (BL) can also contribute to CFDC resistance.
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to test the combined effect of OM permeabilizers
and β-lactamase inhibitors to improve CFDC activity on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in iron-
depleted and iron-enriched conditions.
Materials & Methods: Fifty clinical strains of P. aeruginosa were characterized for
susceptibility to different antibiotics and screened for BL genes by PCR. OM
permeabilizers (polymyxin B nonapeptide, and colistin), with and without BL inhibitors
(avibactam, and tazobactam) were tested in combination with CFDC using the
checkerboard assay with and without iron.
Results: All the strains were susceptible to CFDC in iron-depleted media with minimum
inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≤ 4 µg/ml, although 58% of the strains were multidrug-
resistant and carbapenem-resistant with detection of VIM (12%) and NDM (10%)
carbapenemase genes. The bacteria lost the characteristic green color, and 26% of the
strains became non-susceptible to CFDC (MIC: 8-64 µg/ml) in iron-enriched media. Loss
of bacterial green color indicates less expression of bacterial pigments (pyocyanin and
pyoverdine) that act as siderophores to capture iron. If iron acquisition systems are inactive,
drug uptake will be reduced explaining higher CFDC MICs in iron-enriched conditions.
Combinations with OM permeabilizers significantly lowered CFDC MICs in the presence
and absence of iron, and the effect was more potent with the addition of BL inhibitors.
Conclusion: Synergistic combination of OM permeabilizers and BL inhibitors is an

effective strategy for potentiating CFDC activity on P. aeruginosa. Improved CFDC
activity with the addition of OM permeabilizers and BL inhibitors can be attributed to
increased drug penetration and inactivation of BL that can degrade the drug, even if iron
transport systems are inactive. Synergistic combinations can extend the life of existing
antibiotics and reduce the potential of antibiotic resistance. More studies are required in
the future to explore the synergistic effects on other species.
Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University, Sure + Grant (G00003820)
38
P17 - Attitude and needs of the community pharmacists in Abu-Dhabi Emirates
about administering Flu and COVID vaccine: A cross sectional study.
Alalawi A. 1 , Almaskari H (Undergraduate Student), Almarzooqi, Alalawi O,
Alhosani S (Undergraduate Students), Rahma A.
Introduction: A rising number of countries have been enlarging the role of pharmacists to
offer vaccination services, which magnified vaccination access and rates. Currently the
Department of Health in Abu- Dhabi is proposing and piloting changing the paradigm of
community pharmacists in Abu -Dhabi role to include administering both Flu and COVID
vaccine to the public.
Aims & Objectives: The aim of this study is to explore and assess the needs, attitudes of
the community pharmacists in Abu Dhabi about administering Flu and COVID vaccine
and exploring their perceived challenges and enablers.
Materials & Methods: a cross-sectional study design had been adopted using a validated
questionnaire. Ethical approval was obtained from the Social Research Ethics Committee,
UAE University. Binary and multiple binary logistic regression model was used to
identify factors associated with the willingness of the respondents to provide vaccine
services. IBM SPSS was used for the analysis.
Results: The majority of the respondents were female (58.8%), married (58.9%), non-
Emiratis (90.4%), and had more than five years of work experience (53.8%), in which at
least one year working in the UAE (80.2%). The majority agreed that pharmacy students
must be trained to administer vaccines and it should be part of the curriculum (81.0%).
On the other hand, 82.2% of participants doubt the ability of their pharmacy to arrange a
space for the administration of the vaccines. Having experience in administering
subcutaneous (AOR=4.12, 95% CI=1.06-16.81, P=0.045), having the belief that students
should be trained (AOR=18.88, 95% CI=9.00-39.58, P<0.001) were significantly
associated with willingness to administer vaccines after adjusting for confounders.
Conclusion: The explored perspectives and needs of the community pharmacists will
help stakeholders to have an evidence-based approach and strategy. Addressing the
enablers and challenges will streamline the implementation of such initiative to the seven
Emirates of UAE.
Acknowledgments: SURE Plus, UAEU, Grant G00003829.
39
Abstracts for Poster Presentations (Graduate Students)
P18 - Prevalence and associated factors of metabolic syndrome using the
harmonized criteria among adults aged 18-40 years in the United Arab Emirates:
The UAE Healthy Future Study.
AlMuhairi S1 (Graduate Student), Abdullahi A1, Al-Maskari F1, Nauman J1, Ahmed
L1, Raghib A2, Shah S1.
1 Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 2
Public Health Research Center, New York University, Abu Dhabi.
Introduction: The presence of multiple risk factors simultaneously in Metabolic

Syndrome (MetS) has been shown to increase the risk for atherosclerosis development in
young and middle-aged adults and risk of cardiovascular disease in middle age. Few data
were available about the burden and determinants of MetS using the current harmonized
definition.
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MetS and its
associated factors among young adults in the UAE, using the harmonized definition.
Materials & Methods: Data was drawn from the UAE Healthy Future Study participants
18 to 40 years old. Demographic and health information was collected through self-
reported questionnaires. Anthropometric data and blood pressure were measured, and
blood samples were also collected for biochemical parameters.
Results: The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome based on the harmonized criteria
was estimated at 22.4% (95% confidence interval = 21.2 – 23.5%). Metabolic syndrome
was more prevalent among men and older subjects. The most observed component of
metabolic syndrome was abdominal obesity (56.8%), and about 7% of the participants
had all the five components of MetS. The significant risk factors of MetS in the studied
cohort included male gender, older age group, being married and a lower level of
education.
Conclusion: In this young population, MetS is highly prevalent with about one in four
young Emiratis being affected. This indicates an increase in the burden of CVD. Further
research is needed to understand and tackle this syndrome in order to decrease its burden.
Acknowledgments: Institute of Public Health, CMHS and Public Health Research

Center, New York University Abu Dhabi.
40
P19 - Bacterial Inhibition and Osteogenic Potentials of Sr/Zn Co-Doped Nano-
Hydroxyapatite-PLGA Composite Scaffold for Bone Tissue Engineering
Applications.
Hassan M1 (Graduate Student), Khaleel A2, Karam S1, Al-Marzouqi A3, Rehman I4,
Mohsin S1.
Departments of 1Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, 2Chemistry &
3Chemical & Petroleum Engineering, UAE University; 4Lancaster University, UK.
Introduction: Bacterial infection associated with bone grafts is one of the major
challenges that can lead to implant failure. Treatment of these infections is a costly
endeavor; therefore, an ideal bone scaffold should merge both biocompatibility and
antibacterial activity. Antibiotic-impregnated scaffolds may prevent bacterial colonization
but exacerbate the global antibiotic resistance problem. Recent approaches combined
scaffold with metal ions that have antimicrobial properties.
Aims & Objectives: To fabricate and investigate the antimicrobial properties of Zn/Sr
doped nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAp) with and without PLGA polymer, to assess the effect
of PLGA incorporation on Zn antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, to evaluate Zn/Sr-
nHAp-PLGA composite scaffolds' cytocompatibility and the effect of Zn/Sr co-doping on
osteoblastic cell proliferation.
Materials & Methods: Sr/Zn doped nHAp-PLGA scaffolds were fabricated with different
ratios of Sr and/or Zn ions (1%, 2.5%, and 4%) using the chemical precipitation method
and supercritical CO2 gas. The scaffolds' antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus
aureus was evaluated by counting bacterial CFU numbers after direct contact with the
scaffolds. MTT assay was used to estimate osteoblast cell proliferation in the fabricated
scaffolds.
Results: The results showed a dose-dependent reduction in CFU numbers as Zn

concentration increased, with 4% Zn-nHAp showing the best antibacterial properties.
Sr/Zn co-doped nHAp-PLGA scaffolds also showed a reduction in bacterial numbers
compared to the pure nHAp and pure PLGA controls. MTT assay showed that Sr/Zn co-
doping supported osteoblast cell proliferation with no apparent cytotoxicity and the highest
doping percentage in 4% Sr/Zn-nHAp-PLGA was found to be ideal for cell growth.
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the potential for a 4% Sr/Zn-nHAp-PLGA

scaffold with enhanced antibacterial activity and cytocompatibility as a suitable candidate
for bone regeneration.
Acknowledgments: This research work was funded by UAEU Program for Advanced
Research (UPAR) grant G00003460.
41
P20 - Machine Learning for the Prediction of Quantum Mechanical Properties: A
Proposal.
Alsalloum G1 (Graduate Student), Arabi A1.
1Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine & Health
Introduction: With the increase in computational resources and power, computational

methods such as quantum mechanics are heavily used in medicinal chemistry, especially
in drug design and to address unmet challenges in pharmaceutical research. These methods
are, however, computationally expensive. With the advancement of new learning
algorithms, Machine Learning (ML) provides the opportunity to perform approximate
quantum calculations at a fraction of the computational cost. It can be used to predict
quantum mechanical observables of molecules, based on reference calculations.
Aims & Objectives: The current research project tackles the issue of computationally
expensive calculations of evaluating useful properties in drug design. It is ultimately
desired to predict properties of molecules with a high accuracy at a reduced computational
cost.
Materials & Methods: The study involves multiple phases; the collection/generation of
data and the selection of suitable representation of the molecules using cheminformatic
fingerprinting and descriptor design tools, training of machine learning models followed
by validating and testing it. The materials and methods to be used in the study include the
Gaussian package and Bayesfusion.
In the initial phase of collecting data and generating descriptors, different databases were
explored for data collection such as Pubchem and Chemspider.
Results: The study is currently in its initial phase of collecting data and generating
descriptors. Results are expected to be generated soon.
Conclusion: The study aims to create a machine learning model to predict molecular
properties with high accuracy and efficiency.
Acknowledgments: This study is supported by the College of Graduate Studies in the

UAE University and The Biochemistry Department in The College of Medicine and
Health Sciences.
42
P21 - In-Silico Analysis of DNA Methylation.
Tiyyaba Furqan (Graduate Student), Alya A. Arabi.
Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine & Health
.
Introduction: DNA methylation is a fundamental epigenetic mechanism. The
modifications in a gene expression that are independent of gene sequences are known as
epigenetic alterations. The addition of a methyl group on 5 cytosine is a common DNA
methylation type. Hypermethylation or hypomethylation at the 5 cytosine position results
in the development of various cancers by the silencing or activation of genes. While the
methylation at position 5 cytosine has been extensively studied, little has been explored
about the methylation on other sites like the 4 methycytosine, 6 methyl adenine, and 7
methyl guanine that are also involved in different diseases like cancer.
Aims & Objectives: The aim of our study is to use computational chemistry techniques to
investigate all possible methylation sites that can occur on DNA bases, and to understand
the mechanism of specific DNA methylation.
Materials & Methods: The In-silico computational techniques and relevant software will
be used in this project. Different DNA methylation structures will be constructed using
Gaussview 6.1. Amber tool and quantum chemistry methods will be used to find binding
energies and to explore the mechanism of the specific DNA methylation.
Results: This is the initial stage of our project and results will be generated soon.
Conclusion: Epigenetics mechanism involves regulation of the gene expression through

reversible and heritable changes in the DNA without causing alterations in the DNA
sequence. In humans, epigenetic modifications cause variations in phenotype leading to
numerous ailments, such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancers. In our study, we will
explore the DNA methylation and its mechanism in detail.
Acknowledgments: College of Graduate Studies and College of Medicine and Health

Sciences, UAEU
43
P22 - Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) validation studies: A scoping review.
ElKhalil R (Graduate Student), ElBarazi I.
Introduction: Following a systematic assessment of mental health literacy tools in 2014,

O’Conner and Casey developed a comprehensive mental health literacy measure in 2015,
which was based on the six attributes endorsed by Jorm et al. in 1997. Since it was first
developed, the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) has found widespread application in
mental health literacy research worldwide.
Aims & Objectives: This scoping review aims to map the existing MHLS validation
research and summarize its validity in different populations.
Materials & Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the guidelines of the
Joanna Briggs Institute. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in December
2022 on PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Medline, and
ERIC from 2015 to 2022. The review focused on validation studies of O’Conner and Casey
MHLS. The study participants and locations were not limited in the search. Reference list
search and publication suggestions from MHLS authors were performed as well. Non-
English studies and grey literature were excluded.
Results: The study included 14 articles that have validated the MHLS worldwide. The
scale was validated and translated into Chinese, French, Persian, Portuguese, Slovenian,
Arabic, Turkish, and Urdu. Seven studies performed Exploratory Factor Analysis, Six
performed Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and one performed Principal Component
Analysis. The sample size average was 662 (282-1189), the expert panel average was 9 (4-
21), the Cronbach’s alpha average was 0.818 (0.744-0.89), and the Interclass Correlation
Coefficient (ICC) average was 0.85 (0.741-0.99). In addition, items 20, 21, and 22 were
commonly removed based on the individual article’s CFA results.
Conclusion: This review provided a compendium of MHLS validation research by

systematically searching, selecting, and synthesizing existing publications. It also provided
an evidence map for future researchers attempting to utilize the MHLS in their local
settings.
Acknowledgments: Dr. Emad Masuadi and Dr. Mohamad AlMekkawi.
44
P23 - Oncogenesis of Epstein–Barr virus-encoded RNA (EBER): the role of EBER1
structure.
Hassan Z1 (Graduate Student), Philip PS1, Khan G1.
1Departments of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, College of Medicine & Health
Introduction: Epstein–Barr virus-encoded RNAs (EBERs) are two small, noncoding,

structurally conserved RNAs, constitutively expressed in million copies per EBV-infected
cell. They are considered as the key molecules in EBV pathogenesis and functional
backups of the viral oncoprotein, LMP1. One of the mechanisms of EBERs oncogenic
potentials is that they drive cell growth. However, the mechanism(s) involved in EBER-
induced proliferation is not clear.
Aims & Objectives: To investigate the molecular mechanisms and structural impact of
EBER1 on cell proliferation.
Materials & Methods: Sequences of EBER1 stem-loops (SL) 1, 3, and 4 were deleted,
creating three mutants: ΔSL1, ΔSL3, and ΔSL4. These mutants were cloned into pHebo
plasmids and expressed in Jurkat cell lines. Cells transfected with wildtype EBER1 and
pHebo were used as controls. Cell proliferation was monitored by microscopy and flow
cytometry. Microarray, qPCR, and Western blotting were used to investigate the cell
cycle markers.
Results: There was significantly higher cell proliferation in wildtype EBER1 cells
compared to pHebo, ΔSL1, and ΔSL3, but not ΔSL4 mutants. There was also significant
upregulation of S-phase and G2/M phase markers in wildtype EBER1 and ΔSL4 mutant.
Furthermore, CDT1, a factor for DNA replication, was upregulated in wildtype EBER1
and ΔSL4 mutant. However, in ΔSL1 mutant, CDT1 was significantly downregulated
and translocated to the cytoplasm.
Conclusion: The mechanism of EBER1-induced cell proliferation could be by infringing

cell cycle regulations found in the G1-phase. This in turn facilitates G1/S phase transition
and cell division. Deleting SL1 abolished EBER1-induced proliferation and, thus, seemed
to restore normal cell growth. The structure of EBER1, especially SL1, appears to be
important in its induced cell proliferation.
Acknowledgments: CMHS Faculty Grant 12M091, and Al Jalila Foundation Grant

AJF2018020.
45
P24 - Structural impact of Epstein–Barr virus-encoded RNA 1 (EBER1) on its
intracellular transport and secretion.
Hassan Z1 (Graduate Student), Philip PS1, Baby B2, Akhtar MK2, Shmygol A3,
Khan G1.
1Departments of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, College of Medicine & Health
Sciences; 2Department of Chemistry, College of Science; 3Department of Physiology,

Introduction: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded RNAs (EBERs) are structurally

conserved small, noncoding RNAs constitutively expressed in EBV infection. EBERs are
known to exist in the form of ribonucleoproteins, interacting with several EBV and cellular
proteins, including ribosomal protein, L22 (RPL22) and lupus antigen (La). EBERs are
primarily localised in the nucleus. Nonetheless, a proportion of them is found in the
cytoplasm and exosomes. The mechanism(s) of EBERs transport is not known. However,
RPL22 and La proteins are believed to be involved in EBER1 transport and secretion.
Aims & Objectives: To investigate the structural impact of EBER1 on its intracellular
transport and secretion.
Materials & Methods: EBER1 stem-loop (SL) deletion mutants (ΔSL1, ΔSL3 and
ΔSL4) were stably transfected into HEK293T cells. The expression of EBER1 was
quantified in total cell, nuclear, cytoplasmic and exosomal fractions relative to the
wildtype EBER1 transfectants. The quantification was performed in the presence of
physiological expression of RPL22 and La, and after silencing them by siRNA.
Results: The expression level of EBER1 in all mutants was significantly lower in the
total cell, cytoplasmic and exosomal fractions. However, ΔSL3 mutant showed
significant nuclear retention. Silencing RPL22 resulted in increased nuclear-cytoplasmic
trafficking of EBER1. Silencing La protein did not affect EBER1 secretion.
Alternatively, the store-operated intracellular Ca2+ was found to correlate with EBER1
expression in exosomes.
Conclusion: The findings from this study indicate that the conserved structure of
EBER1, especially ΔSL3, is crucial in its nuclear-cytoplasmic trafficking. RPL22 appears
to play a role in retaining EBER1 in the nucleus. This could explain why EBERs are
primarily localised to the nucleus in EBV-infected cells.
Acknowledgments: CMHS Faculty Grant 12M091 and Al Jalila Foundation Grant

AJF2018020.
46
P25 - Gestational diabetes mellitus burden in the United Arab Emirates: Impact of
the new COVID-19 criteria.
Bashir MM1 (Graduate Student), Ahmed LA1,2, Al-Rifai RH1,2, Alkaabi JM3, Al-
Maskari F1,2. 1Institute of Public Health, 2Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, &
3Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common pregnancy
conditions with major complications for mothers and children if undiagnosed and
untreated. In the UAE, GDM affects 1 in 4 pregnancies. Due to the negative effects of
COVID-19 disease on maternal and child health1, and its higher risk among pregnant
women2, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) recommended a
new criteria for GDM screening and diagnosis, thereby suspending the usual diagnostic
criteria using oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) till after the pandemic2.
Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of the new COVID-19 RCOG
criteria on GDM burden in the UAE. This is the first study to conduct this evaluation in the
MENA region.
Materials & Methods: The Mutaba’ah Study is the largest ongoing birth cohort study in
the UAE. Data from Emirati mothers screened with OGTT at 24 to 28wks of pregnancy
were analyzed from January 2018 to January 2021 to compare GDM incidence using the
WHO 2013, NICE, and the new COVID-19 criteria which is defined by fasting plasma
glucose (FPG) ≥5.3 mmol/L or HbA1c ≥5.7%. Analysis was by STATA statistical software
version 16.1 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX, USA).
Results: 1008 participants with at least valid FPG results were included with a mean age
of 29.5±5.8yrs, gravidity of 3.4±2.1, and booking BMI of 27.6±5.5kg/m2. GDM incidences
are compared below.
Table 1. GDM Incidence by the 3 diagnostic criteria (N=1008)

Criteria GDM Incidence 95% Confidence Interval
IADPSG 22.1% 19.6 - 24.8
NICE 2015 22.3% 19.8 - 25.0
RCOG COVID-19 7.5% 6.0 - 9.3
The new COVID-19 criteria missed 82.7% of GDM cases diagnosed by the NICE criteria
and 66.4% diagnosed by the WHO 2013.
Conclusion: Our study has shown that the new RCOG COVID-19 criteria missed most of
the GDM cases identified by the two most recommended criteria in our population.
Considering the burden of GDM in our population and the high standard of COVID-19
public health measures in the UAE3, we recommend that the use of the new COVID-19
criteria should not be adopted in this population.
Acknowledgement: Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAEU, Grant #31R183.
47
P26 - Accurate Binding Energies of Amino Acids interacting with transition metals.
Fatima T (Graduate Student), Alya A. Arabi.
Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine & Health Science, UAE University.
Introduction: First-row transition metals are essential to sustain normal body functions in
living beings. Humans need these metal ions in trace amounts. They usually intake them
in their dietary routines or sometimes as supplements. The most important and biologically
relevant transition metal ions are chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, and
zinc. In the human body, these metal ions serve different biological roles. In many proteins,
these metal ions provide structural stabilities, and they act as cofactors in different catalytic
reactions of enzymes. However, a little imbalance in the concentration of these metal ions
may lead to deformed structures of proteins which ultimately malfunction affecting normal
body activities. Hence, it is required to understand the binding of these metal ions with
proteins to see the bigger picture of their impact on daily life.
Aims & Objectives: High-level quantum chemical simulations are performed to

accurately predict the binding of the first-row metal ions with amino acids as the building
blocks of proteins and to generate a state-of-the-art binding energy reference database.
Materials & Methods: All calculations were carried out using Molpro quantum chemistry
program. Provided that metals interacting with amino acids are multireference systems, it
is crucial to select a method that accurately describes such challenging systems. The
complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) calculations were performed with
the active space which was comparable to the full CASSCF by using atomic valence active
space (AVAS) program integrated within Molpro. The basis set used for these calculations
is aug-cc-pvtz for all atoms to obtain equilibrium geometries.
Results: Theoretical calculations and experimental evidence of Cu+ with serine binding
show that this complex can have several stable forms. Multiple coordination modes and
sites were considered among which monodentate binding of the metal ion with the nitrogen
of the amine group and O of carboxyl is more stable and in good agreement with
experimental value within 1 kcal/mol.
Conclusion: A computational method, CASSCF with reasonable active space and a triple
zeta basis set, proved to be highly accurate for describing the challenging binding energies
of amino acids with transition metals. The protocol is developed to reproduce experimental
values and will be used to evaluate binding energies with a high degree of accuracy to
generate a database that, despite its importance, is not available in the literature.
Acknowledgment: Authors are thankful to the College of Medicine and Health Sciences,
UAEU for the computational facility. TF acknowledges the funding from CGS.
48
P27 - Dominance of blaOXA-48 like among carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella
pneumoniae isolated from Abu Dhabi hospitals.
Baig A, (Graduate Student), Ghazawi A, Anes F, Khan, M.
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University.
Introduction: With the discovery of the first antibiotics some hundred years ago, the
danger of infectious diseases caused by bacteria diminished, or at least humanity perceived
so. As a consequence of the extensive use and often misuse of antibiotics for more than 70
years, different new mechanisms of antibiotic resistance arise in a dangerously high rate,
and spreads globally. Over the past two decades, mobile genetic elements (MGE) have
moved antibiotic resistance genes amongst bacteria in and out of hospitals, making
bacterial infections difficult. Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are
designated by the WHO and CDC as one of the most urgent antibiotic resistance threats.
Aims & Objectives: Several studies have been performed for the prevalence and
characterization of carbapenem resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) in the UAE,
but they rarely used advanced molecular typing methods to uncover the clonality of the
strains. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use WGS to study the genetic relatedness
of CRKP isolates.
Materials & Methods: In this study, 183 Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were collected
from five hospitals in Abu Dhabi Emirate. Whole genome sequencing of the isolates was
performed using Illumina NovaSeq. Online bioinformatics tools were used for the analysis.
Results: Our study investigating the molecular epidemiology of carbapenem resistant

Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) isolated over a year-long period in major hospitals of Abu
Dhabi revealed an alarmingly high rate (26%) of extremely drug resistant isolates, as well
as a high rate of colistin resistance among XDRs (83.72%). The most prevalent
carbapenemase gene belonged to blaOXA-48 like (57.83%), followed by blaNDM (24.7%).
MLST analysis showed that the CRKP isolates belonged to 25 different sequence types
(STs). Twenty three percent of this collection belonged to a K. pneumoniae ST231 clone,
most of the members of which were restricted to one hospital. This clone showed
significant association with blaOXA-232 production, with extreme and multi-drug resistance.
Conclusion: Our data demonstrating a local spread of a high-risk Klebsiella pneumoniae

clone in Abu Dhabi Emirate which highlights the necessity of surveillance and
epidemiological investigations to monitor the antibiotic resistance situation countrywide in
the United Arab Emirates.
Acknowledgments: Grant number (G00003543).
49
P28 - Binding Energy Prediction of DNA Intercalation.
AbdelRahman A. Atef (Graduate Student), Alya A. Arabi.
Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: In DNA, drugs can adopt several binding modes with intercalation being
the most commonly studied. Intercalation is the stacking of drugs in between base pairs.
This insertion ultimately leads to a disruption in the overall DNA topology and thereby
causes cell death. Given their mechanism of action, the use of DNA intercalators (e.g.,
doxorubicin and daunorubicin) in cancer treatment is very common. Most of the
intercalators are sequence specific. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how strongly an
intercalator binds to its target DNA sequence in order to relate it to its bioactivity.
Eventually, this could aid in designing more sequence specific intercalators with less side
effects.
Aims & Objectives: The main aim of this study is to benchmark and accurately predict
binding energies for a set of DNA intercalators. The study will also explore the effect of
common contributing factors such as pH, temperature, and salt concentration on the
binding affinities of different intercalators into their specific sequence.
Materials & Methods: Docking of the intercalators at the binding site is done using
Openeye. ESMACS (enhanced sampling of molecular dynamics with approximation of
continuum solvent) is used to evaluate the binding energies of the intercalators to the DNA
according to the molecular mechanics poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MMPBSA).
Amber 22 is used for the system preparation and NAMD is used for the production runs.
Results: Initial results showed a binding energy of 50±5 kcal/mol for doxorubicin in DNA.
These figures can be further improved by increasing the number of replicas, this solves the
issue of the trajectories being stuck in one local energy minimum or by fine-tuning the time
of the simulation.
Conclusion: ESMACS protocol has been used in the literature for predicting the binding
energies of numerous protein-ligand complexes. However, in this study, we use the
ESMACS protocol for the first time on DNA-ligand complexes, and show promising
results.
Acknowledgments: Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAEU, Grant 31R154.
50
P29 - The association between BMI and self-reported eight-items Patient Health
Questionnaire (PHQ-8) in the UAE Healthy Future Pilot Study.
Al Balushi M1,3 (Graduate Student), Al-Maskari F3, Javaid S2, Ahmed L3, Abdulle
A1, Ahmad A1, Ali R1.
1Public Health Research Center, New York University, Abu Dhabi, UAE; 2Department
of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences; 3Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine &
Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: The UAE Healthy Future Study (UAEHFS) is one of the largest prospective
cohort studies in the region which examines causes and risk factors for chronic diseases
among the nationals of the UAE. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship
between Body Mass Index (BMI) and the PHQ-8 score as a screening instrument for
depression among the UAEHFS pilot participants.
Materials & Methods: A multivariate linear regression model was used to investigate the
association between PHQ-8 score and BMI adjusted for age and gender. In a sensitivity
analysis, 100 multiple imputations (MI) were performed using classifications and
regression trees. The analysis was performed using the software R.
Results: Data from 487 eligible participants (67.8% male) with median age of 30 years
(Interquartile-Range: 23-38) was used. Of these 231 (44.7%) were included in the complete
case analysis. The estimated effect of BMI from the fitted multivariate linear regression
model was 0.139 (95%CI: 0.060-0.218), and 0.097 (95%CI: 0.025-0.169) for the omitted
data, and MI respectively.
Conclusions: The finding of this study shows that excess BMI may be associated with an
increased risk of developing depression and vice versa; and this could add to the future
direction of the field of mental-health research. Additional research is needed, using the
main UAEHFS data after completing recruitment. Our results can help contribute to the
knowledge based on current and potential population mental health in the UAE and Gulf
Region.
Acknowledgments: UAE Healthy Future Study team, Public Health Research Center,
NYUAD
51
P30 - Association between depression, happiness, and sleep duration: Data from the
UAE Healthy Future Pilot Study.
Al Balushi M1,3 (Graduate Student), Al Balushi S1, Javaid S2, Leinberger-Jabari A1,
Al-Maskari F3, Al-Houqani M3, Al Dhaheri A3, Al Nuaimi A4, Al Junaibi A4,
Oumeziane N5, Kazim M5, Al Hamiz A1, Haji M1, Al Hosani A1, Wareth LA7, Al
Mahmeed W8, Alsafar H9, AlAnouti F10, Al Zaabi E11, Inman CK1, El Shahawy O12,
Weitzman M12, Schmidt AM12, Sherman S1,12, Abdulle A1, Ahmad A1, Ali R.1
1 Public Health Research Center, New York University, Abu Dhabi, UAE; 2
Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences; 3Institute of Public Health; 4Zayed
Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE; 5Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services - Seha, Abu
Dhabi, UAE; 7Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Abu
Dhabi, UAE; 8Heart & Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE;
9Department of Biomedical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, UAE;
10College of Natural & Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, UAE; 11Sheikh
Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE; 12Department of Population Health, NYU
School of Medicine, New York, USA.
Introduction: The United Arab Emirates Healthy Future Study (UAEHFS) is one of the
first large prospective cohort studies and one of the few studies in the region which
examines causes and risk factors for chronic diseases among the nationals of the United
Arab Emirates (UAE).
Aims & Objectives: To investigate the eight-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8)
as a screening instrument for depression among the UAEHFS pilot participants.
Materials & Methods: The UAEHFS pilot data were analyzed to examine the relationship
between the PHQ-8 and possible confounding factors, such as self-reported happiness, and
self-reported sleep duration (hours) after adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), and
gender.
Results: Out of 517 participants who met the inclusion criteria, 487 (94.2 %) participants
filled out the questionnaire and were included in the statistical analysis using 100 multiple
imputations. 231 (44.7%) were included in the primary statistical analysis after omitting
the missing values. Participants’ median age was 32.0 years (Interquartile Range: 24.0,
39.0). In total, 22 (9.5%) of the participant reported depression. Females have shown
significantly higher odds of reporting depression than males with an odds ratio =3.2 (95%
CI:1.17, 8.88), and there were approximately 5-fold higher odds of reporting depression
for unhappy than for happy individuals. For one interquartile-range increase in age and
BMI, the odds ratio of reporting depression was 0.34 (95% CI: 0.1, 1.0) and 1.8 (95% CI:
0.97, 3.32) respectively.
Conclusion: Females are more likely to report depression compared to males. Increasing
age may decrease the risk of reporting depression. Unhappy individuals have
approximately 5-fold higher odds of reporting depression compared to happy individuals.
A higher BMI was associated with a higher risk of reporting depression. In a sensitivity
analysis, individuals who reported less than 6 hours of sleep per 24 hours were more likely
to report depression than those who reported 7 hours of sleep.
Acknowledgments: UAE Healthy Future Study team, Public Health Research Center,
NYUAD.
52
P31 - Evaluation of knowledge, screening practice, and potential risk prevalence of
breast cancer among women in UAE.
Abbas M1,2 (Graduate Student), Baig M1.
1Department of Clinical Pharmacy & Therapeutics, Dubai Pharmacy College for Girls,
Dubai, UAE; 2Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Breast cancer is considered the most dangerous cancer for women, driving
the highest number of mortalities in women worldwide. According to the WHO 2020
report, breast cancer showed the highest five-year prevalence in the UAE, among other
cancers.
Aims & Objectives: This research assessed breast cancer awareness, potential risk factors
prevalence, screening approaches and practices, barriers to screening, and attitudes toward
seeking medical help among UAE women.
Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted through

a web-based validated questionnaire included 37 questions. Data analysis was carried out
using IBM SPSS version 27. The questionnaire was sent through different social media
platforms over I month April 2021. The eligible completed responses were 616.
Results: This study showed a prevalence of breast cancer of 3.1% among the study
population. Regarding Breast cancer knowledge, most of the participants, 65.8% had
moderate knowledge, 19% had poor knowledge, and only 7.6% had good knowledge.
Breast cancer screening methods were the most recognized section at 76%, followed by
knowledge of symptoms and risk factors. Twenty-five percent of respondents had at least
one breast cancer symptom. About 37.1% of women aged more than 40 years had never
undergone mammography. The majority of participants 72.6% were at moderate risk, while
9.1% at high risk based on the presence of risk factors.
Conclusion: most participants had adequate knowledge about breast cancer with relatively
higher knowledge scores for screening methods and symptoms. Participants who received
information from healthcare providers or attended awareness events had a higher
knowledge score. In contrast, insufficient mammography screening had been revealed. At
the same time, potential risk evaluation revealed a high percentage of participants suffering
from many potential risk factors.
53
P32 - Bullying in private schools in the United Arab Emirates: A cross-sectional
study.
Al-Ketbi A1 (Graduate Student), Elkonaisi I1,2, Elbarazi I1, Abu-Hamada B1,
Abdullahi A1, Grivna M1.
1Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University;
2Population Health & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine,
King’s College London, UK.
Introduction: School bullying is a problematic behavior among children and adolescents

because it directly impacts school achievements and the psychological well-being of both
victims and perpetrators. Bullying may take many forms, including physical, verbal, cyber,
and relational.
Aims & Objectives: The study aimed to assess students' experiences with bullying
victimization, perpetration, and witnessing and reviewed students' attitudes toward
bullying across their schools.
Materials & Methods: Three private schools were randomly selected in Al Ain city,
United Arab Emirates (UAE). Students in cycle 2 (grades 6-9) filled self-reported validated
questionnaire. All students present on the day of data collection participated. IBM SPSS
version 28.0. was used for statistical analysis.
Results: From a total of 321 students, 41% were UAE nationals. The mean age was 12.5
years (SD 1.13); 51% were females. Total of 47% students reported being bullied in the
past 12 months: 25% experienced bullying one or more times a day, 37% one or more times
a week, and 38% one or more times a month. The classroom was the most common place
of bullying (84%), the playground was the second (35%). Verbal bullying was the major
form of bullying; "called me bad names 70%", "made fun of me" 69%, and "said mean
things behind my back" 66%. Physical bullying also occurred, such as "broke my things"
(29%) and "I was attacked" (23%). Most victims stated that the bullying made them feel
sad (72%), and 25% did not go to school because of the bullying. 60% of the students
witnessed bullying.
Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of bullying in private schools in the UAE. The
study results fill a major gap in the knowledge of school bullying in the UAE. It can provide
useful information to decision-makers to develop national policies against bullying to
improve safety at schools.
Acknowledgments: College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAEU, Grant #G00003567
54
P33 - The effect of nerolidol on the renal dysfunction following ischemia-reperfusion
injury in the rat.
Fayez T. Hammada, Suhail Al-Salamb, Rahaf Ahmada (Graduate Student), Javed
Yasinc, Awwab F. Hammadd, Loay Lubbada.
aDepartment of Surgery, bDepartment of Pathology and cDepartment of Internal
Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; dSchool of

Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
Introduction: Efforts to decrease the deleterious effects of the renal ischemia-reperfusion

injury (IRI). are ongoing. Recently, there has been a growing interest in using natural
phytochemical compounds as treatment alternatives in several diseases. Nerolidol is a
natural product which is extracted from some plants and was proven to be effective in some
conditions
Aims & Objectives: To study the effect of nerolidol in a rat model of renal IRI.
Materials & Methods: Nerolidol was dissolved in a vehicle and administered orally as
single daily dose of 200 mg/kg for 5 days prior to IRI and continued for 3 days post-IRI.
G-Sham (n=10) underwent sham surgery whereas G-IRI (n=10) and G-IRI/NR (n=10)
underwent bilateral warm renal ischemia for 20 minutes and received the vehicle/nerolidol,
respectively. Renal functions and histological changes were assessed before starting the
medication, just prior to IRI and 3 days after IRI.
Results: Nerolidol significantly attenuated the alterations in serum creatinine and urea,
creatinine clearance, urinary albumin and urinary albumin creatinine ratio. Nerolidol has
also significantly attenuated the alterations in markers of renal injury, pro-inflammatory,
pro-fibrotic and apoptotic cytokines, oxidative stress markers and histological changes.
Conclusion: Nerolidol has a reno-protective effect on the IRI-induced renal dysfunction.

These findings might have clinical implications.
Acknowledgments: CMHS grant NP-22-13.
55
P34 - Preparation and characterization of blank and nerolidol-loaded chitosan –
alginate nanoparticles.
Rahaf M. Ahmad 1,2 (Graduate Student), Yaser E. Greish 3,4, Hesham F. El-
Maghraby 3,4, Loay Lubbad 1, Yahia Makableh 2 and Fayez T. Hammad 1.
1Department of Surgery, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University;
2Institute of Nanotechnology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan;
3Department of Chemistry, College of Science, UAE University, 4Department of
Ceramics, National Research Centre, NRC, Cairo, Egypt.
Introduction: Recently, there has been a growing interest in using natural products as
treatment alternatives in several diseases. Nerolidol is a natural product which has been
shown to have protective effects in several conditions. The low water solubility of nerolidol
and many other natural products limits their delivery to the body.
Aims & Objectives: To fabricate a drug delivery system composed of alginate and
chitosan and to load it with nerolidol to enhance its water solubility.
Materials & Methods: The chitosan-alginate nanoparticles were fabricated using a new
method including the tween 80 pre-gelation, followed by poly-ionic crosslinking between
chitosan negative and alginate positive groups. Several characterization techniques were
used to validate the fabricated nanoparticles. The molecular interactions between the
chitosan, alginate, and nerolidol molecules were confirmed using the Fourier transform
infrared spectroscopy.
Results: The ultraviolet spectroscopy showed an absorbance peak of the blank

nanoparticles at 200 nm and for the pure nerolidol at 280 nm. Using both scanning and
transmission electron microscopy, the nanoparticles were found to be spherical in shape
with an average size of 12 nm and 35 nm for the blank chitosan-alginate nanoparticles and
the nerolidol-loaded chitosan-alginate nanoparticles, respectively. The nanoparticles were
also shown to have a loading capacity of 51.7% and an encapsulation efficiency of 87 %.
A controlled release profile of the loaded drug for up to 28 hours using an in-vitro model
was also observed, which is more efficient than the free form of nerolidol.
Conclusion: Chitosan-alginate nanoparticles and nerolidol loaded chitosan-alginate

nanoparticles were successfully fabricated and characterized to show potential
encapsulation and delivery using and in-vitro model.
56
P35 - Effect of Maternal Obesity on Embryonic brain development and Neurogenesis
through epigenetic mechanisms. Alawathugoda TT1 (Graduate Student), Ansari SA2.
Department of 1,2Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine & Health
Introduction: Neurodevelopmental disorders have a complex etiology that might be

similar and start very early-on during embryonic development through the involvement of
epigenetic mechanisms. Research shows that saturated fatty acids alter developmental
neurogenesis due to reduced progenitor proliferation and increased differentiation into
neurons. Histone modification induced by the change in expression of enzymes, regulate
signaling pathways and affect the expression of several transcription factors responsible
for de novo fatty acid and cholesterol biosynthesis, possibly leading to defective
neurogenesis.
Aims & Objectives: (1) Genome wide high-throughput RNA-sequencing to identify the
genes differently expressed due to high saturated fatty acid levels during human embryonic
neurogenesis, (2) The effect of saturated fat on global histone acetylation and methylation
by high-throughput ChIP-Seq during cortical neurogenesis, (3) Identification of the
underlying molecular mechanisms determining the effect of Maternal obesity on
neurogenesis and embryo brain development and
(4) Functional validation of genome wide mRNA targets and promoter sequences identified
by mRNA-Seq and ChIP-Seq data
Materials & Methods: This study uses the rat model of maternal obesity and pluripotent
human embryonic stem cells’ directed differentiation into cortical neurons for the
identification and functional validation of novel molecular mechanism/s of saturated fatty
acid mediated alterations on embryonic neurodevelopment at the transcriptional/epigenetic
level. Harvested cell and tissue samples are subjected to an array of molecular and
biochemical techniques such as high-throughput RNA sequencing, real-time qPCR
techniques, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing
(ChIP-Seq) and immunocytochemistry.
Results: Genes particularly involved with early embryo-brain development, differently

expressed due to high saturated fatty acid levels have been identified and confirmed.
Potential histone modifications causing these differential expressions, have been checked
and identified. Possible molecular mechanisms driving these specific histone modifications
have been tested for and proposed thus providing a complete molecular picture of the
potential effect of a high fatty acid maternal environment on the development of the brain
of the embryo.
Conclusions: The knowledge thus gained will be critical in the development of

preventative strategies and verifying therapeutic or diet interventions for abnormal
neurogenesis and faulty embryo brain development.
57
P36 - The effect of Bariatric Surgery in pregnant women with Bariatric Surgery
history on micronutrients status, maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Al Mansouri A (Graduate Student), Ali H.
Department of Nutrition & Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) is an effective approach than dieting in

morbidity obese women, which reduces comorbidities such as hypertension and gestational
diabetes and improves the fertility in MBS population. However, being pregnancy
following bariatric surgery may cause micronutrient deficiencies particularly B12 and
vitamin D. B12 and vitamin D (25 (OH) D) play a potential role in healthy pregnancy and
neonates outcomes.
Aims & Objectives: Investigate the role of bariatric surgery in the micronutrient status in
pregnant women with bariatric surgery history in comparison to women without bariatric
surgery history.
Materials & Methods: Prospective comparative study comprising two-hundred seventeen

pregnant women, one -hundred six with bariatric surgery history and one-hundred eleven
without bariatric surgery. The primary outcome was micronutrients level including B12 and
vitamin, and secondary outcome gestational gain weight, gestational age, and neonatal
birth weight. Ethical approval was obtained from the ethic committee at Danat hospital.
Independent t-test and Man-Whitney tests were used. Multiple linear regression was used
to assess the predictor of the B12 and neonatal birth weight.
Results: There was a significant difference in vitamin the first B12 in pregnant women with
and without bariatric surgery history (309 vs 236 pg/ml; p = <0.001) and B12 level at the
third trimester (254 vs 222 pg/ml; p = 0.034). The mean of gestational gain weight in
pregnant women with BS and pregnant women without BS were (7.99 ± 5.61 vs 11.28 ±
5.73 kg; p = < 0.001). The mean gestational age in pregnant women with BS and without
BS were (268.76 ± 11.06 vs 265.22 ± 12.12 days; p = 0.034). There was a significant
difference in the mean of the birth weight in non-BS and BS cohorts (3092 ± 451 vs 2821
± 533 g, p = <0.001). Multiple linear regression showed 4% of the variance in the vitamin
B12 is explained by (parity, age, gestational age), and the variables in the step 2 (surgery
type) explained 6% of the variance in B12.
Conclusion: Bariatric surgery influences micronutrients status including vitamin B12 and
vitamin D in pregnant women with bariatric surgery and consequently affects the
gestational age and weight as well as neonatal birth weight.
Acknowledgments: Danat hospital, Abu Dhabi.
58
P37 - Targeting the endothelin type A receptor (ETAR) as a new treatment modality
for metastatic cancer.
Ali E1 (Graduate Student), Almahrook F1, Mohamed YA1, Bashir G1, Naser H1, Al-
Sbiei A2, Fernandez-Cabezudo MJ2,3, Al-Ramadi BK1,3.
Departments of 1Medical Microbiology & Immunology, 2Biochemistry, College of
Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 3Zayed Center for Health Sciences,
UAE University, Al Ain, UAE.
Introduction: Ambrisentan is a selective antagonist of the endothelin type A receptor

(ETAR) and is FDA-approved for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension. Interestingly,
however, we have recently demonstrated a potential role for Ambrisentan in limiting the
growth and metastasis of breast cancer. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer,
characterized by its high metastatic potential and rising drug resistance. The incidence of
melanoma is increasing worldwide. Hence, new and effective modalities are needed to treat
melanoma.
Aims & Objectives: To investigate the effect of Ambrisentan on invasive, metastatic,

B16F10 melanoma using a syngeneic mouse model and gain a mechanistic understanding
by which antagonizing ETAR results in anti-tumor effects. The specific objectives
addressed in this study include the effect of Ambrisentan treatment on tumor growth and
metastasis as well as overall host survival, with a special focus on potential underlying
mechanisms.
Materials & Methods: C57Bl/6 mice were divided into two groups; the first group
received oral doses of dH2O (5 times/week) while the second received Ambrisentan (10
mg/kg). All treatments were started 3 weeks prior to tumor implantation and continued for
2 weeks post-implantation. Luciferase-expressing B16F10 tumor cells were used in our
study, allowing for continuous monitoring of tumor growth by in vivo life imaging (IVIS)
of animals. Mice were sacrificed 3 weeks post-implantation, and tumors, livers, lungs, and
spleens were excised for further analysis.
Results: Using this preventative hybrid treatment model, Ambrisentan significantly

reduced both tumor volume and tumor weight of B16F10 melanoma. Additionally,
Ambrisentan resulted in a significant reduction in pulmonary metastasis and melanotic
nodules in the lungs measured and imaged by luminescence signal as total flux (p/s).
Importantly, Ambrisentan treatment also improved overall host survival.
Conclusion: Taken together with our previous studies, our data demonstrate the
effectiveness of Ambrisentan treatment in limiting the growth and metastasis of highly
invasive melanoma as well as triple-negative breast cancer, leading to a significant
enhancement in host survival. These findings provide a scientific rationale for further
investigations aimed at potential repurposing of Ambrisentan as an adjuvant in cancer
therapy in a clinical setting.
Acknowledgments: This work is supported by grants from Al Jalila Foundation
(#AJF201709), Dubai, and the Research Grants Committee (#NP-21-17), CMHS, UAE
University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
59
P38 - The effect of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on the developing offspring.
Ahmed SAH1 (Graduate Student), Anil Kumar C1, Kaimala S1, Emerald BS1.
1Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic condition characterised by β-cell

dysfunction and consistent hyperglycaemia due to inadequate or no pancreatic insulin
production or weak cellular response to insulin signalling. Gestational diabetes mellitus
(GDM) is a type of DM that is defined as either glucose intolerance or diabetes that is
primarily detected during pregnancy. Studies have shown a link between GDM and an
increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome, especially DM. As these changes occur
over a long period of time, epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation are
increasingly implicated in these processes.
Aims & Objectives: Our goal is to gain more insight into the epigenetic mechanism (DNA
methylation) by which GDM alters a fetus’s pancreatic development and predisposes the
fetus towards metabolic diseases as an adult.
Materials & Methods: Our study investigates the expression of the pancreatic islet
hormones, insulin (Ins) and glucagon (Gcg), and some of the key transcription factors (TFs)
governing the differentiation and development of the pancreas: aristaless related homeobox
(Arx), paired box-6 (Pax6), NK2 homeobox-2 (Nkx2.2), NK6 homeobox-1 (Nkx6.1), and
pancreatic and duodenal homeobox-1 (Pdx1), in offspring of normal and GDM Wistar rats.
Two developmental time points, embryonic day 18.5 (E18.5), and 1-day-old, where
changes in the expression of islet hormones, Ins and Gcg, were seen, were chosen for
analysis.
Results: GDM offspring had bigger weights compared to those of control offspring and
showed increased glucose intolerance, although they are not physiologically diabetic.
Control offspring had significantly higher expression of Ins and significantly lower
expression of Gcg in comparison to GDM offspring through embryonic development and
right after birth. Furthermore, the expression of the investigated TFs was found to differ
significantly between the two groups.
Conclusion: GDM offspring were heavier at birth and showed impaired glucose tolerance.
They also showed changes in the expression of key TFs, which govern the development
and differentiation of the pancreas. Further analysis using the whole-genome DNA
methylation, and RNA expression analyses may help identify the pathways that might be
involved in the increased predisposition of GDM offspring towards metabolic diseases,
including DM, later in adult life.
Acknowledgements: Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAEU, Grant #31R089.
60
P39 - Eucalyptol, a dietary monoterpene attenuates isoproterenol induced myocardial
ischemia via inhibiting NF-κB/MAPK signaling and ER-stress mediated apoptosis in
rats.
Seenipandi Arunachalama (Graduate Student), M.F. Nagoor Meerana, Sheikh
Azimullaha, Hind Al Aryania, Maitha Al Shamshia, Maitha Al Nuaimia, Hanouf Al
Shakaa, Shreesh Ojhaa.
aDepartment of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine & Health
Aims & Objectives: The present study investigates the cardioprotective effect of
eucalyptol against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced MI in rats.
Materials & Methods: Male albino Wistar rats were pre- and co-treated with eucalyptol
(50 mg/kg, orally) twice daily for 10 days alongwith subcutaneous injection of ISO (85
mg/kg) at an interval of 24 h for two days (9th and 10th day).
Results: ISO-induced MI showed a significant decline in cardiac function, elevated levels

of serum cardiac marker enzymes and enhanced oxidative stress markers along with altered
NFκB/MAPK signaling and proinflammatory cytokine concentrations in ISO-induced MI.
Furthermore, activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mediated Hippo signaling
and intrinsic pathway of apoptosis were also witnessed in ISO-induced MI in rats.
Eucalyptol treatment resulted in significant protective effects on all biochemical and
molecular parameters analyzed. Histopathological evidences were found in line with our
findings.
Conclusion: Thus, our study revealed that eucalyptol protects the myocardium against
ISO-induced MI by virtue of its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic
properties.
61
P40 - α-bisabolol attenuates NF-κB/MAPK signaling by invoking Nrf2/Akt/mTOR
signaling activation against doxorubicin induced acute cardiotoxicity in rats.
M.F. Nagoor Meeran (Graduate Student), Sheikh Azimullah, Seenipandi
Arunachalam, Hind Al Aryani, Maitha Al Shamshi, Maitha Al Nuaimi, Hanouf Al
Shaka.
Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University.
Introduction: Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiac dysfunction has been one of the

major limitations for its clinical use. Numerous studies have demonstrated the
pharmacological and molecular mechanisms underlying the cardiotoxicity caused by
DOX, however no successful therapeutic or preventive agent have been recognized yet.
To date, antioxidants of pleiotropic nature and with multiple pharmacological and
molecular actions have been proposed beneficial in minimizing DOX-induced
cardiotoxicity.
Aims & Objectives: Considering the benefits of antioxidants of natural origin, the
present study has been designed to evaluate cardioprotective role of α-bisabolol (BSB) in
DOX-induced acute cardiotoxicity in rats and the underlying pharmacological and
molecular mechanisms.
Materials & Methods: DOX (12.5 mg/kg, single dose) was injected intraperitoneally to
the rats for induction of acute cardiotoxicity. BSB was given orally to rats (25 mg/kg,
twice daily) for a duration of five days.
Results: DOX-induced cardiac impairment as evidenced by altered body weight,

hemodynamics, and cardio specific diagnostic markers. Occurrence of oxidative stress
was observed by a significant decline of antioxidant defense was observed along with a
rise in lipid peroxidation. Additionally, DOX treatment also increased the
levels/expression of proinflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators and activates
NF-κB/MAPK signaling in the heart following alterations in the Nrf2/Akt/mTOR
signaling proteins. Furthermore, histopathological studies revealed cellular alterations of
the myocardium. Whereas treatment with BSB has been observed to reinstate all the
cellular, molecular and structural alterations induced by DOX.
Conclusion: The results clearly demonstrate the cardioprotective role of BSB against
DOX-induced heart failure owing to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
mediated alterations of numerous signaling pathways that protect the myocardium.
62
P41 - The prevalence of celiac disease in the United Arab Emirates children, a
single-center study.
AlNababteh AH1 (Graduate Student), Tzivinikos C2, Al-Rifai RH1, Al-Shamsi S3,
Govender RD4.
1Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 2
Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Dubai, UAE, 3 Department of Internal

Medicine; 4 Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University.
Introduction: Celiac disease has a worldwide prevalence of 1% and can occur at any
age. This is an autoimmune disease triggered by the intake of gluten in genetically
susceptible individuals. Gluten is found in wheat, rye, and barley. CD is characterized by
small intestine enteropathy resulting in malabsorption and maldigestion of nutrients and
vitamins. The intestinal symptoms are varied but in children diarrhoea, abdominal pain
and constipation are the common presentations while growth retardation and anaemia are
some extra-intestinal presentations.
Aims & Objectives: To determine the prevalence of CD in children presenting to a

tertiary hospital in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and to estimate CD prevalence among
multiple “at-risk” groups of developing the disease.
Materials & Methods: This chart-based review included all patients <18 years who had
undergone celiac disease serology. The study was conducted at Al Jalliah Children’s
Speciality Hospital Dubai from Jan 2018 to July 2021. Information collected included
demographics, laboratory findings, clinical presentation and associated co-morbidities.
Results: A total of 851 celiac disease blood tests were performed during the study period
of which 23 children were found to have confirmed celiac disease according to the
European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN)
criteria yielding a prevalence of 2.7%. Of the 23 diagnosed with CD, 10 patients had no
gastrointestinal symptoms. Diabetes type 1, iron deficiency anaemia and Hashimoto
thyroiditis were the most commonly associated comorbidities with values of 31%, 30%
and 9% respectively. The prevalence of CD among children with autoimmune thyroiditis
was 12.5% and among children with diabetes type 1 was 6.5%.
Conclusion: In our population, CD was more common than previously reported. Almost
half of our patients were diagnosed without having gastrointestinal symptoms, which
suggests a high index of suspicion of CD in children who have other associated
comorbidities even when asymptomatic.
Acknowledgments: Would like to thank my advisory committee at CMHS and the

research office at AlJalilah Children’s Speciality Hospital for giving all the support
needed for that research.
63
P42 - Evaluations of Carboxylic Acid Non-Classical Bioisosterism: In Silico study.
Alaa MA Osman (Graduate Student), Alya A. Arabi.
Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, 1College of Medicine & Health
Introduction: Bioisosterism is a drug design concept that is used to improve the

pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of drugs. Carboxylic acid is a functional group
in drugs. Bioisosteric replacements of the carboxylic acid have been used to improve the
properties of these medications. Computer-aided drug design tools, have been used to
assess non-classical bioisosterism. These include the electrostatic potential maps ESP maps
and the average electron densities (AED) tool.
Aims & Objectives: Non-classical bioisosterism of the carboxylic acid moiety was
evaluated using AED tool.
Materials & Methods: The non-classical bioisosteric moieties covered are, carboxylic
acid, furan, and sulfonamide.
Carboxylic acid Furan Sulfonamide

To estimate the environmental change effect on the bioisoteric moieties above-mentioned,
these moieties were capped with different capping groups (hydrogen, methyl, and chloro),
based on their abundancy and electronegativity. Then the moieties were optimized using
the Gaussian16 package [Level of theory: B3LYP, Basis set: 6–311++ G(d,p)]. Based on
the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM theory), AIMAll software package
was used to the atomic properties, including AED values (at isodensities: 0.004 au, 0.01
au, and 0.02 au.). ChemCraft 1.8 software package was used to calculate and visualize the
ESP maps of the bioisosteric moieties. The non-classical bioisosterism was evaluated
within the FDA-approved drug as realistic model named, furosemide as well as capped
moieties.
Results: Using AED tool, the difference (i) between carboxylic acid and sulfonamide
~11%, (ii) between carboxylic acid and furan ~17%, and (iii) between sulfonamide and
furan was the highest (~30%), which is in agreement with the experimental data. In fact,
sulfonamide has been used as bioisosteric replacement of carboxylic acid in many
medications, furan is only a potential bioisosteric replacement for carboxylic acid group,
while furan and sulfonamide are not bioisosteres of each other and therefore have the
highest difference in AED values. The AED tool is transferable between different
environments within a maximum of 5% difference. Using the ESP maps tool, the three
bioisosteric moieties revealed significant differences shown in the size, the shape, and the
number of lobes.
Conclusion: The AED tool is a robust, and reproducible tool to evaluate the non-classical
bioisosteres similarities. The ESP maps tool is a complementary, visual tool that can be
used for bioisosterism evaluation.
64
P43 - Assessing awareness of sexually transmitted diseases among students at United
Arab Emirates University.
Alshemeili A (Undergraduate Student), Alghais A, Alhammadi A, Al Ali M,
Alameeri E, Aminu Abdullahi, Sheek-Hussein M, Al-Rifai R H, Elbarazi I.
Introduction: Studies worldwide, have highlighted deficiencies in knowledge about

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDS) amongst different populations. Adolescents are at
higher risk for sexually transmitted infections due to lack of knowledge, risky behaviors,
social and gender inequality, and myths. In the United Arab Emirates, older studies
investigated STDs knowledge showed poor knowledge in the UAE. Awareness and
education may be complicated by social, religious, and cultural factors stemming from the
stigmatization of such topics
Aims & Objectives: The aim of the study is to estimate the level of awareness of Sexually
Transmitted Diseases amongst United Arab Emirates University students.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was utilized to assess the
knowledge of United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) students through an online survey.
The “Sexually Transmitted Disease Knowledge Questionnaire (STDs-KQ) which consists
of 27 items that comprehensively evaluate fundamental STDs information was used. The
tool was adapted and validated in Saudi Arabia on young population. After obtaining ethics
approval from the UAEU Social Sciences Ethics Committee. The online survey was
distributed via email to all students and in all programs (undergraduate and postgraduate).
A sample of 500 students was required.
Results: Reponses from a total of 778 participants were recorded and analyzed. Around
78.5% were Emirati nationals, 90% unmarried, 86% were from undergraduate programs
and 39.2% were from Health & Sciences Colleges. Knowledge was presented based on
mean scores and it was categorized into adequate and inadequate. Overall, the average
knowledge score was 7 (IQR=9.0), which corresponds to an average score of 25.9 percent.
In addition, 52.7 percent (95% CI=49.2–56.3) of the participants demonstrated inadequate
knowledge (below average). Being non-Emirati, married and from a health-related college
and postgraduate program were associated with adequate knowledge
Conclusion: There is lack of knowledge about signs and symptoms, mode of transmissions
and protective methods. Overall, the average level of knowledge remains unacceptably low
and warrants further intervention.
Acknowledgements: Ms. Bayan Abu Hamada
65
P44 - Burden of gestational diabetes mellitus in the United Arab Emirates;
Comparison of six diagnostic criteria: The Mutaba’ah Study.
Bashir MM1 (Graduate Student), Ahmed LA1,2, Elbarazi I1, Loney T4, Al-Rifai RH1,2,
Alkaabi JM3, Al-Maskari F1,2.
1Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University,
2Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, UAE University; 3Department of Internal Medicine,
College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 4Mohammed Bin Rashid
University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Dubai.
Introduction: There is currently a global epidemic of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)

with 1 in 6 pregnancies affected worldwide. Women diagnosed with GDM have poor
outcomes in their pregnancy, delivery and later in life, as do their children. Hence, it is of
utmost importance to accurately screen and diagnose the disease and manage it
accordingly.
Aims & Objectives: Our study aimed to assess how six diagnostic criteria diagnose GDM
by comparing their GDM incidence among the Emirati population in UAE.
Materials & Methods: For this analysis, we included singleton pregnancies from the
Mutaba’ah Study cohort screened with the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24-32
weeks from May 2017 to March 2021. We excluded pre-existing diabetics. GDM
cumulative incidence was determined using six commonly used criteria in the UAE
(IADPSG, WHO1999, NICE2015, ADIPS1998, EASD1996, and NZSSD2004 criteria).
Agreements among the six criteria were assessed using kappa statistics.
Results: 2,546 women were included with a mean(±SD) age of 30.5±6.0years. Mean(±SD)
gravidity was 3.5±2.1 and mean(±SD) body mass index (BMI) at booking was 27.7±5.6
kg/m2. GDM incidence as diagnosed by any of the six criteria collectively was 27.1%. It
ranged from 8.4% according to EASD1996 criteria to 21.5% according to NICE2015
criteria. The two most inclusive criteria were the NICE2015 and the IADPSG criteria with
GDM incidences of 21.5%(95% CI 19.9,23.1) and 21.3%(95% CI 19.8,23.0), respectively.
Agreement between the two criteria was moderate (k=0.66;p<0.001). The least inclusive
was the EASD1996 criteria [8.4%(95% CI 7.3,9.6)]. The locally recommended
IADPSG/WHO2013 criteria had weak to moderate agreement with the other criteria, with
Cohen's kappa coefficient ranging from (k=0.51;p<0.001) to (k=0.7;p<0.001).
Conclusion: There were discrepancies among the six diagnostic criteria in identifying
GDM cases. This emphasizes the need to unify GDM diagnostic criteria in this UAE
population to provide accurate and reliable incidence estimates for healthcare planning,
especially since the agreement with the recommended criteria was not optimal. Our study
also serves as a foundation for further research on improving GDM care in the UAE, and
ultimately maternal and child health which is in line with the health goals of Sustainable
Development and UAE’s National Agenda.
Acknowledgements: Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAEU, Grant #31R183.
66
P45 - Evaluation of rotenone mediated α-synuclein spreading and neurotoxicity in
intra-striatal injection of α-synuclein PFF model of Parkinson’s disease.
Engila Khan1 (Graduate Student), Mustafa T Ardah1, M Emdadul Haque1.
1Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular
Neurodegeneration, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent progressive

neurodegenerative disorders. It is characterized by a variety of motor symptoms like
tremors, bradykinesia, postural instability etc. which occur because of the selective loss of
dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SNc). While the exact cause of neuronal loss
remains unknown, the histopathological signature of PD is the presence of intraneuronal
aggregates of α-synuclein protein known as Lewy bodies. Mounting evidence indicate the
propagation of α-synuclein via cell-to-cell transfer in a prion-like fashion.
Aims & Objectives: We are investigating whether rotenone, an environmental

mitochondrial toxin can further enhance the propagation of α-synuclein and produce Lewy
body like pathology and neurotoxicity.
Materials & Methods: Human α-synuclein PFF seeds are injected into mouse (C57BL6)
striatum by stereotactic surgery, after which rotenone (2.5mg/kg.body-weight) is
administered intraperitoneal once daily for four consecutive weeks. Animals are sacrificed
twenty-four hours after the last injection for immunohistochemical analysis. Statistical
analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni test.
Results: Our preliminary immunofluorescence analysis suggests that rotenone

(2.5mg/kg.body-weight) enhances the spreading of endogenous synuclein in the cortex and
SNc area. We observed a decrease in the staining intensity for dopamine transporter in
striatal brain sections and a decrease in the number of TH neurons in the SNc of the
experimental group (PFF + Rotenone) as opposed to the control (PFF + Vehicle).
Conclusions: Our results indicate that administration of above mentioned dose of rotenone
causes enhancement of α-synuclein spreading and neurotoxicity, and provides a foundation
for the development of a robust PD animal model replicating the pathological processes
underlying PD.
Acknowledgements: College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University.
67
P46 - Increased fruits and vegetables consumption mitigate oxidative damage and
associated inflammatory response in obese Emirati citizens independent of body
weight change.
Al Bluwi G (Graduate Student), Yasin J, Gariballa S.
Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: The growing prevalence of obesity and related type 2 diabetes is reaching
epidemic proportions in the UAE. People with Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus have
increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease (CVD). Oxidative damage and
inflammation are possible mechanisms linking obesity to diabetes and other related
complications including CVD.
Aims & Objectives: to measure the effects of increase fruits and vegetables consumption
on body weight, waist circumference and metabolic risk factors including oxidative
damage and inflammatory markers.
Materials & Methods: We investigated the effects of structured dietary education to
increase antioxidants intake by increased fruits and vegetables consumption on waist
circumference (WC), oxidative damage and associated inflammatory risk factors in 936
community free-living obese subjects. Dietary intakes, physical activity, antioxidants
and markers of oxidative damage and inflammation were measured at baseline and follow
up. A validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire designed for self-
administration following a brief verbal discussion was used to assess subject’s fruit and
vegetables intake. Data obtained on frequency and duration of daily or weekly physical
activity. Multiple Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the
independent effects of prognostic factors on body weight and WC change.
Results: 963 obese subjects [497 (51%) females, mean (SD) age 39±12 years] had 13±5
education sessions. Increased fruits and vegetables alone with or without increased
physical activity was associated with significant decrease in inflammatory markers (Hs
CRP, TNF-α), oxidative damage markers (TBARs) and increased antioxidant enzymes
(catalase, Glutathione peroxidase), p<0.05. The benefits of increased fruits and
vegetables consumption in obese subjects was independent of body weight change and
maintained at a mean follow up period of 427±223 days.
Conclusion: Our results support a beneficial role of higher fruits and vegetables intake in
obese subjects independent of body weight change. These findings could have enormous
public health implications for reduction of obesity and its consequences in the UAE and
worldwide.
Acknowledgments: CMHS, UAEU, and Al Jalila Foundation (Grants NP-18-23 & AJF
201608, respectively)
68
P47 - Congenital anomalies in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: a scoping
review summarizing the literature and reporting the epidemiology.
Adam H (Graduate Student), Ahmed L.
Introduction: Congenital anomalies (CA) are defined as structural or functional

aberrations developed during the intrauterine life. Annually, an estimated eight million
children are born with a serious anomaly of genetic or partially genetic origin, with more
than three million dying before turning five. According to March of Dimes report, CA
burden is high in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries (GCC) countries; however, no
detailed assessment or synthesis of the literature on the epidemiology of these anomalies
in the GCC region has been established.
Aims & Objectives: Summarize the literature and reporting the epidemiology of
perinatally diagnosed CA in the GCC countries.
Materials & Methods: A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
A comprehensive literature search was done up to 12th August 2022 on MEDLINE-
PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science from 2007 to 2022. All studies reporting
the epidemiology of perinatally diagnosed CA in the GCC countries were included. Two
reviewers independently screened abstracts and full texts of potentially eligible records,
followed by data extraction from eligible studies. Non-English studies and grey literature
were excluded.
Results: The majority of the studies were cross-sectional, reporting prevalence (29),
including all CA (10 studies), from Saudi Arabia (27) and published ten or more years ago.
The UAE and Oman had the least studies, and certain anomalies were underrepresented.
Congenital dislocation of the hip (CDH) showed the highest incidence (50-100/1000);
while congenital heart defects (CHD) and Head and neck anomalies showed the highest
prevalence (50-100/1000).Two studies from the UAE reported a high prevalence (50-
100/1000), and only on study reported an incidence (10/1000). Gestational diabetes,
consanguinity and advanced maternal age were the main risk factors.
Conclusion: Marked discrepancies exist in the reported epidemiological data. The

majority reported a prevalence rather than an incidence, with scarcity of research on
specific anomalies. Future research is needed to accurately estimate the epidemiological
burden and investigate the potential risk factors.
69
P48 - Unraveling the role of the Transcription factor, HNF1β in Pancreatic ductal
adenocarcinoma.
Pallavi Muthyala1 (Graduate Student), Neha Mehra1, Challagandla Anil Kumar1,
Suneesh Kaimala1, Suraiya Anjum Ansari2, Saeeda Al Marzooqi3, Starling Emerald
Bright David1.
1Departmentst of Anatomy, 2Biochemistry, 3Pathology, College of Medicine & Health
Background: Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers as it is asymptomatic in

the early stages and the fifth most cause of cancer-related deaths including UAE. Pancreatic
ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type, accounting more than 90 percent
of all the pancreatic cancers. Only 5 percent PDAC patients survive for 5 years. Hepatocyte
nuclear factor 1-beta (HNF1β) encodes a member of the homeodomain-containing
superfamily of transcription factors and binds to DNA as either a homodimer or
heterodimer with the related protein hepatocyte nuclear factor 1-alpha (HNF1α). The
expression of HNF1 has been shown to be altered in some types of cancer.
Aims & Objectives: Although alteration in the expression of HNF1β has been implicated
in some type of cancers its role in pancreatic cancer, if any, is not known. Understanding
the role of HNF1β if any to PDAC may help in the development of better intervention
strategies for PDAC.
Materials & Methods: Publicly available RNA/ChIP-Seq data sets were utilized to
identify the HNF1β genomic binding locations, respective gene expression patterns and
how these are changed in PDAC. From these we have extracted the metastasis and EMT
related pathways to understand role of HNF1β in PDACs. We have also used PDAC tissue
array to verify the expression of HNF1. Stable ectopic expression of HNF1β and
CRISPR/cas9 mediated knockout cell lines are being generated to determine the role of
HNF1β in phenotypic conversion (epithelial-mesenchymal transition -EMT) using human
pancreatic carcinoma cells.
Results: The preliminary results from Oncomine database, PDAC tissue array and PDAC
cell lines showed the HNF1β expression was significantly reduced in PDAC suggesting
HNF1b may be a tumor suppressor gene in PDAC development. Publicly available RNA-
Seq data identified 6410 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among three PDAC cancer
cell lines, PANC1, CAPAN2 and CFPAC. We have found the cell migration, cell motility
and cell adhesion pathways were enriched based on the DEGs analysis. Based on the CHIP-
seq analysis we have also identified the genes who are direct targets of HNF1b and are
changed in PDAC.
Conclusion: The preliminary results suggest HNF1β may be a tumor suppressor gene for
PDAC.
Acknowledgment: This work is supported by CMHS faculty and UAE University grants.
70
P49 - Key potentially inappropriate drugs in Pediatrics: Prevalence and future
directions.
Mariam Diab1 (Graduate Student), Sham Zain Alabdin 1, Tasnim Dawoud 2, Salah
Aburuz.
1Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine & Health
Sciences, UAE University; 2Department of Pharmacy, Tawam Hospital.
Introduction: Appropriate drug prescribing in the pediatric population is challenging,

given the unique pharmacokinetics that this age group displays. This has inevitably led to
a high incidence of adverse drug reactions in this vulnerable population. To address this
issue, the Pediatric Pharmacy Association (PPA) compiled, in 2020, a list of 67 drugs that
are potentially inappropriate for use in pediatric population called the “KIDs list”.
Aims & Objectives: This research aims to evaluate the prevalence of potentially
inappropriate medications (PIM) use in pediatric wards at Tawam hospital using the
KIDs list criteria.
Materials & Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Tawam

hospital. Pediatric patients (≤16 years old) who were admitted to pediatric wards during
the years 2019-2021 were included in the study. The drugs in the KIDs list were matched
to the hospital formulary and 11 matched drugs were included in the study. For each
individual drug, the patient’s electronic file was reviewed to determine the prescription
appropriateness according to the KIDs list criteria.
Results: Among 3,166 pediatric patients admitted to pediatric wards during the specified
time period, a total of 415 patients received a PIM listed in the KIDs list. The mean age
was 8.6 (± 4.9) years old, and 60.0% (n= 251/415) were males. The overall prevalence of
PIM use was 13.0% (n= 415/3166). Among the prescribed PIM, metoclopramide was the
most commonly prescribed PIM 43.0% (n= 178/415), followed by tramadol 38.0%
(n=156/415). Of the identified PIMs, 36.0% (n= 149/415) were prescribed in the
pediatric oncology ward and 31.0% (n= 128/415) were prescribed in the pediatric
surgical ward.
Conclusion: Given the high prevalence of inappropriate medications use in the pediatric
ward, future research on strategies and interventions to limit the use of PIMs and provide
safer alternatives for the pediatric population is needed.
71
P50 - Mitochondrial control of the tumorigenicity and immunogenicity of colorectal
cancer.
Ahmed MA1,2 (Graduate Student), Haneefa SM1, Mohamed YA1, Naser H1, Bashir
G1, Al-Sbiei A3, Rincon M4, Fernandez-Cabezudo MJ3,5, Al-Ramadi BK1,5.
Departments of 1Medical Microbiology & Immunology, 2Pharmacology & Toxicology,
and 3Biochemistry, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University;
4Immunology & Microbiology Department, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical
Campus, Aurora, USA; 5Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE University.
Introduction: The Methylation controlled J (MCJ) protein is known to play a regulatory

role in the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs. Because of its function as
an endogenous inhibitor of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, MCJ controls
cellular metabolism whereby its expression is inversely correlated with the extent of
mitochondrial ATP production. Previously, we demonstrated that low expression of MCJ
by cancer cells results in increased resistance to chemotherapy in breast cancer patients.
Aims & Objectives: To investigate the relationship between MCJ expression and the
tumorigenicity of colon adenocarcinoma using a preclinical mouse model.
Materials & Methods: MC38 is a MCJ-positive colon adenocarcinoma cell line. We

developed an MCJ-negative derivative of MC38 using a short hairpin RNA (shRNA)
construct targeting MCJ. The stable derivative, designated MC38-SH3, has lost ~80% of
MCJ expression and was selected for our studies. Moreover, we investigated the
importance of MCJ expression in the host by using MCJ-deficient mice (MCJ-KO) in
which MCJ gene has been knocked out by homologous recombination. To gain a
mechanistic understanding of the role of MCJ, we compared the growth properties of
MC38 and MC38-SH3 cell lines in vitro as well as in vivo using syngeneic wild-type
C57BL/6 or MCJ-KO mice. The above approach allowed us to dissect the importance of
tumor cell-intrinsic MCJ versus extrinsic host MCJ expression in the tumorigenicity of
cancer cells.
Results: MC38 and MC38-SH3 cells exhibited similar growth characteristics in vitro.
However, after implanting in C57BL/6 mice, MC38-SH3 cells exhibited decreased
capacity to grow compared to parental MC38 cells. FACS analysis revealed increased
expression of MHC class I proteins on MC38-SH3 compared to MC38 cells. When
implanted in T-cell-deficient nude mice, MC38-SH3 grew indistinguishably from MC38
cells. Moreover, MCJ-KO mice were more resistant to MC38 tumor growth. Immuno-
histochemical analysis showed increased infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and a
decreased number of Ly6G+ granulocytes in tumors grown in MCJ-KO mice.
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that tumor cell-intrinsic MCJ influences tumor
immunogenicity while expression of MCJ by host immune cells determine their efficacy
against tumor growth.
Acknowledgments: Zayed Center for Health Sciences (Grant #04-4808/15), UAEU;
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum Award for Medical Sciences (Grant
#MRG/107/2018).
72
P51 - Implication of ER associated protein degradation (ERAD) in the pathology of
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia type 1 (HHT1).
Gariballa N (Graduate Student), Kizhakkedath P, Ali BR.
1Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia type 1 (HHT1) is an autosomaly

dominant inherited disease that is generally characterized by vascular malformation.
HHT1 has been associated with mutations in the TGF co-receptor Endoglin, encoded by
ENG gene. We have previously demonstrated that some Endoglin disease-causing
variants are trapped in the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) and fail to traffic to their normal
cellular localization in plasma membrane, which suggested the involvement of ER
associated protein degradation (ERAD) in their pathology.
Aims & Objectives: Investigate the cellular half-life and the degradation pathways of
wild type (WT) Endoglin compared to HHT1-causing mutant variants P165L and
V105D. We also aimed to elucidate the implication of major components of the ERAD
retro-translocon channel, such as HRD-1 E3 ubiquitin ligase in the degradation process.
Furthermore, we investigated if the mutants exert a dominant negative effects on WT
Endoglin.
Materials & Methods: Stably transfected HEK293 cell lines harboring the HA-tagged
ENG-WT and mutant variants P165L and V105D were generated. Cycloheximide chase
assay was used to determine the cellular half-life of ENG-WT and mutant variants.
HEK293 cells were incubated with ERAD, proteasomal, or lysosomal inhibitors to
investigation the degradation pathways. HEK293-HRD1-knockout cells were generated
using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. Western blotting, flow cytometry,
immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation techniques have also been used for our
investigations.
Results: Our data shows that WT Endoglin is degraded relatively quickly (2 hours)
through both proteasomal and lysosomal pathways, whereas the mutant variants P165L
and V105D have a much longer half-life(16 hours), and get degraded predominantly
through the proteasomal pathways. By means of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technique,
we confirm the important role of HRD-1 E3 ubiquitin ligase in the retro-translocation of
the mutant Endoglin variants from the ER to the cytosol for proteasomal degradation. We
have also shown that both variants exert a dominant negative effect on WT Endoglin,
which might impact the severity of the disease.
Conclusion: In this study, we demonstrate for the first time the implication of ERAD in
the pathogenesis of HHT1 disease. Furthermore, we have highlighted the dominant
negative effect that ER-retained mutant variants exert on the WT Endoglin.
Acknowledgements: We thank UAE University and ADEK for funding our project
through (AARE-19-086) and UAEU (31M439) grants, respectively.
73
P52 - Enhancement of chemotherapeutic outcome of metastatic breast cancer
through targeting the endothelin receptor pathway.
Almahrook F1 (Graduate Student), Ali E1, Mohamed YA1, Bashir G1, Naser H1, Al-
Sbiei A2, Fernandez-Cabezudo MJ2,3, Al-Ramadi BK1,3.
Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 3Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: The focus on using combination therapies for cancer treatment has been
increasing over the past years, especially for highly invasive, drug-resistant, metastatic
cancer types, such as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Recently, our laboratory
demonstrated a novel role for Ambrisentan, an endothelin type A receptor (ETAR)
antagonist, in cancer metastasis.
Aims & Objectives: Investigate the therapeutic potential of combining Ambrisentan with
a chemotherapeutic drug, Paclitaxel, in a preclinical model of metastatic TNBC. Outcome
measures investigated in the current study include the effect of monotherapy versus
combination therapy on primary tumor growth, metastasis to distant organs (lung and
liver), and overall host survival.
Materials & Methods: Using the 4T1 TNBC model, mice were divided into four groups
and received the following treatments starting 3 days post 4T1 tumor cell implantation.
The first group of mice, representing the placebo, received saline. The second group
received a suboptimal dose (5 mg/kg) of Paclitaxel i.p. once weekly. The third group
received Ambrisentan (20mg/kg) orally 5 days/week. The fourth group received a
combination of Ambrisentan plus Paclitaxel. Treatments continued for 3 weeks. Tumor
growth was followed for up to 4-5 weeks post tumor implantation, at which time mice were
sacrificed and tumor metastasis assessed in lungs and livers. Tumors and spleens were also
excised for further analysis.
Results: Tumor growth was significantly inhibited in the combination-treatment group

compared to monotherapy or placebo control groups. Combination therapy also retarded
metastasis to the lungs and livers. In addition, tumor tissues showed an increase in the
percentage of necrotic areas in mice that received combination treatment compared to the
other groups.
Conclusion: Oral dosing with Ambrisentan significantly boosted the treatment with a
suboptimal dose of Paclitaxel in a preclinical model of a highly invasive and metastatic
TNBC. These findings highlight the potential for targeting the endothelin pathway in
cancer therapy.
Acknowledgments: This work is supported by grants from Al Jalila Foundation

(#AJF201709), Dubai and Research Grants Committee (#NP-21-17), CMHS, UAE
University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
74
P53 - Manuka honey boosts anti-tumor immunity in a preclinical model of colon
cancer.
Masad RJ1 (Graduate Student), Mohamed YA1, Bashir G1, Al-Sbiei A2, Fernandez-
Cabezudo MJ2,3, Al-Ramadi BK1,3.
Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 3Zayed Center for Health Sciences,
UAE University.
Introduction: The focus on using alternative natural products for cancer prevention and
treatment has been increasing over the past few years. Among these natural products,
Manuka honey (MH) has been extensively researched. We previously demonstrated that
MH can inhibit the growth of several types of cancer cells in vitro and potentiates the
therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapy treatment in a murine melanoma model.
Aims & Objectives: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the potential
preventative effect of oral administration of MH on tumor growth using a syngeneic model
of colorectal cancer.
Materials & Methods: MH was orally administered for 4 weeks prior to tumor
implantation. Control mice were given a mixture of the three main sugars found in MH.
Tumor growth was followed up to 3 weeks at which time mice were sacrificed and tumors
excised for further analysis.
Results: Pretreating mice with MH resulted in a significant retardation of subsequently

implanted tumors. Further investigation indicated the ability of MH to induce a series of
immunomodulatory alterations within the tumor microenvironment. Flowcytometric
analysis revealed a significant enhancement in the infiltration of T lymphocytes into the
tumor microenvironment of MH-treated mice, and a significant decrease in the percentage
of intratumoral myeloid cells. In addition, the functional activity of myeloid cells was
qualitatively altered, as evidenced by an increase in the percentage of intratumoral myeloid
cells expressing MHC class II protein. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissues
showed an increase in the number of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and granzyme-B-
expressing cells following MH-treatment. Oral administration of MH to naïve, non-tumor,
bearing mice demonstrated the capacity of MH to upregulate the expression of the type I
IFN-inducible protein, Sca-1, on lymphoid cells in the mesenteric and peripheral lymph
nodes, suggesting the mechanism by which MH could be triggering the observed
alterations in host immune responses.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that MH pretreatment inhibits tumor growth by boosting
anti-cancer immune responses. These findings highlight the potential utility of MH as an
immunomodulatory agent in cancer.
Acknowledgments: This study is supported by a UAEU Program for Advanced Research

grant (#G00002993), University Research Council, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab
Emirates.
75
P54 - Role of prenatal zinc deficiency in inflammation, neuronal functioning and gut
microbiota and its contribution to autism spectrum disorder in offspring – Review.
Ahmadani A1 (Graduate Student), Kittana M1 (Graduate student), Al-Marzooq F2,
Attlee A1, Pessia M3.
1Departments of Nutrition & Health, 2Microbiology & Immunology, 3Physiology,
Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that

can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. Zinc deficiency
among several other micronutrient deficiencies is prominent among children with ASD
and has gained extensive scientific interest. Given the multi-dimensional effect of zinc on
brain, gut development, inflammation and general fetal morphology, maternal zinc status
may be an important factor to consider especially in context to ASD. Therefore, it is
important to determine the prenatal zinc deficiency (PZD) as a risk factor imposing direct
and indirect implications towards the etiology of ASD in offspring.
Aims & Objectives: To determine the involvement of zinc in the brain, gut microbiota
and inflammation of the deficient mothers and its role in the ASD phenotype among the
offspring.
Materials & Methods: A specific literature search, Title/Abstract was conducted using
PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar Search. Search terms included: ‘ASD’
OR ‘Children with ASD’ AND ‘Prenatal zinc deficiency’ OR ‘Maternal zinc status’
AND ‘Gastrointestinal tract’ OR ‘Gut microbiota’ AND ‘Inflammation’ AND ‘Central
nervous system’ OR ‘Brain’
Results: In animal models, there is a reported increase in Firmicutes, Bacteriodetes and

Actinobacteria and a decrease in Verrucomicrobia and Proteobacteria are found in the
gut of mice on zinc deficient diet. In the brain, zinc deficiency was shown to impact
neuronal precursor proliferation, and elevated cell death. Significant increase in IL-6
mRNA and IL-1b were found in the brain tissue of PZD mice. Additionally, learning and
memory impairments were reported. Diets containing < 1 mg/kg zinc appeared to cause
thymus atrophy thereby impacting T-helper cells and have teratogenic effects as
evidenced by resulting congenital defects in the mice offspring. Such systemic
inflammatory events and prenatal stress have been reported to aggravate the PDZ in
mothers and thereby increasing the risk for ASD.
Conclusion: Based on these data, we contribute to the novel approach by outlining how
PDZ might pathologically impact the offspring, and touch upon the impairments in brain-
gut-axis in relation to ASD, setting a basis for further studies in this direction.
Acknowledgments: Authors would like to acknowledge the Departments of Nutrition

and Health, Physiology, and Microbiology & Immunology – UAEU for the continuous
encouragement and support.
76
P55 - Investigating the anti-tumor activity of a powdered form of Manuka honey
against murine and human cancer cell lines.
Idriss I1 (Graduate Student), Naser HT1, Fernandez-Cabezudo MJ2,3, Al-Ramadi
BK1,3. Departments of 1Medical Microbiology & Immunology, 2Biochemistry, College of
Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 3Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: With the growing prevalence of cancer and the emergence of drug
resistance, there is a pressing need for new drug discovery. The monofloral Manuka honey
(MH) has garnered much attention due to its demonstrated anti-bacterial, antioxidant, anti-
inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties.
Aims & Objectives: This study is the first to investigate the potential anti-tumor effects of
a powdered form of MH (P-MH) on a panel of murine and human cancer cell lines with a
focus on the underlying mechanism.
Material & Methods: For this study, we used a panel of tumor cell lines, including
murine melanoma (B16F10) and colon adenocarcinomas (CT-26 and MC-38), and
human breast (MDA-MB-231) and lung cancer (A549) cells. Cells were cultured with
raw MH or P-MH (0.1-2.5% w/v) for 24-72 hrs and then assessed for viability. As a
control, a sugar control (SC) solution containing equivalent concentrations of the major
sugars in MH was used. Western blotting was performed by exposing cells to 1% MH, P-
MH or SC for 1 hr, after which cells were lysed using RIPA buffer. Total extracted
protein was resolved on 10% SDS-PAGE and probed with antibodies to STAT3,
tyrosine-phosphorylated STAT3 (pY-STAT3) or -actin. Band intensities were
quantified using ImageJ software.
Results: P-MH was shown to have an equivalent capacity to inhibit tumor cell growth
compared to raw MH. Inhibition of tumor cell viability was dependent on the concentration
used. A differential susceptibility to P-MH was observed among different tumor cell lines.
MC38 cells were the most sensitive, showing a 45% reduction in cell viability at a
concentration of just 0.3% (w/v). Treatment with 1% P-MH resulted in ~20% reduction in
viability of human breast and lung cancer cells. Moreover, as was observed previously with
raw MH, reduction in cell growth correlated with inhibition of pY-STAT3 in MDA-MB-
231 and A549 tumor cells.
Conclusion: Low concentration of P-MH has a direct anti-tumor effect on several types of
cancer cells. The effect is concentration and time dependent. Moreover, the inhibition of
pY-STAT3 in human cancer cell lines treated with P-MH indicates the possible signaling
pathway underlying its anti-tumor effect.
Acknowledgment: This study is supported by a UAEU Program for Advanced Research

grant (#G00002993), University Research Council, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab
Emirates.
77
P56 - Factors associated with quality of life in patients receiving pharmacist-guided
parenteral nutrition.
Elkhatib O1 (Graduate Student), Akour A1, Aburuz S 1, Fayoumi D 2, ZainAlbdin S1
1Department of Pharmacology Therapeutics, College of Medicine & Health Sciences,
UAE University; 2Inpatient Pharmacy Services, Tawam Hospital.
Introduction: Parenteral nutrition is a fundamental aspect in management of hospitalized

patients who are unable to resume on oral intake due to gastrointestinal malfunctions as
well as patients receiving chemotherapy or under similar conditions of stress and high
disease burden. Due to its complexity, parenteral nutrition therapy is ideally provided to
patients by a multidisciplinary team called the Nutrition Support Team (NST).
Aims & Objectives: This is study is aimed to assess quality of life and factors affecting
it in patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) while emphasizing role of pharmacist in
a structured NST.
Materials & Methods: This is a cross-sectional study which was carried out in patients
receiving PN in Tawam Hospital. The RAND 36 Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36)
was used for assessment of quality of life (QoL). Data analysis was then done using SPSS
program by descriptive statistics and correlation analysis.
Results: In this preliminary analysis, a total of 8 patients have been included in the
investigation with a median (IQR) length of stay 16 (11.25-34.50) days. The median age
of participants was 49.5 (47.2-76) years old majority of which were anaemic (87.5%,
n=7) with equal number of male and female participants. The median BMI across patient
sample was 23.09 (19.43-29.76) kg/m2.Renal function was assessed by CG equation and
median CrCl was 122.47 (53-198.07) ml/min. The median number of comorbidities
present was 1.5 (1-4.75) for which patients consumed a median of 1.5 chronic
medications (1-3.5). Health-related quality of life median scores were low in all the sub-
dimensions indicating poor quality of life among participants. There was a strong
significant positive correlation between age and social functioning parameter (r=0.756, p-
value=.030). In addition, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between
number of comorbidities and limitation due to physical functioning (r= -0.873, p-
value=0.005), as well as a significant negative correlation between length of stay and role
limitations due to physical health score (r=-0.764, p-value=0.027). No significant
difference QoL were illustrated by between genders.
Future Studies: We aim for a larger sample size and to re-assess health-related
parameters at discharge to evaluate the impact of pharmacists’ interventions.
78
P57 - Ceramide-induced cardiovascular dysfunction: mechanisms and modulation.
Shalaby Y1 (Graduate Student), Alzohily B1, Valappil A1, Ali B.R.1, Akawi N1.
Departments of 1Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: C16:0-ceramide, C18:0-ceramide, and C24:1-ceramide have become a

reliable diagnostic biomarker for coronary artery disease adverse outcomes. We previously
illustrated the detrimental role of ceramide in vascular redox signaling in a human cohort
(Akawi et al., 2021). We also identified a modulatory effect for Liraglutide, a glucagon-
like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1) analog, on ceramide levels in a randomized clinical trial
offering an opportunity to lower the risk of adverse outcomes in cardiac patients. Yet the
mechanism is unknown.
Aims & Objectives: Our aim is to evaluate the effects of Liraglutide and gliptins on the
circulating levels of high-risk ceramide as well as to reveal the underlying mechanism(s).
Materials & Methods: Human Aortic Endothelial cells (TeloHAECs) were purchased and
used for our in-vitro mechanistic model. MTT assay was used to estimate the percentage
of viable cells. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), amplex
red assay kit and western blot were exploited to quantify the concentration of ceramide
penetrating the cells, investigate their effects on oxidative stress and phosphorylation of
eNOS with and without Liraglutide treatment. One-way ANOVA and Student T-Test were
used for statistical analysis.
Results: C18:0-ceramide treatment of TeloHAECs induced cell apoptosis that was reduced
significantly by Liraglutide treatment (n=6). We developed and validated a sensitive
targeted LC-MS/MS method to measure intracellular levels of ceramide (C12:0, C16:0,
C18:0, C22:0, C24:0, C24:1). C18:0-ceramide levels had higher median (IQR) of 6.5 ng/ml
(5.9,10.3) in TeloHAEC treated with 20 µm of C18:0-ceramide for 20 minutes (n=6)
compared to control group 2.4 ng/ml (2.1,2.5). Cells treated with C18:0-ceramide also
showed a significant increase in reactive oxygen species production versus untreated cells
and this significance was negated after adding Liraglutide (n=9). Western blot analysis has
revealed a significant increase in phosphorylated Ser1177 indicating eNOS activation
induced by C18:0-ceramide.
Conclusion: Our findings in this project so far shed the light on the promising role of
liraglutide in improving cardiovascular pathological mechanisms via targeting C18:0-
ceramide. Further investigations are in progress on Sitagliptin and Saxagliptin to study
their favorable effects in alleviating the detrimental effects of ceramide on cardiovascular
system.
Acknowledgments: College of Medicine and Health Sciences-UAE University Grants

12M012 and NP-22-24.
79
P58 - Locus Coeruleus Neurons’ firing pattern is regulated by ERG voltage-gated
K+ channels.
Haidar F1 (Graduate Student), Hasan S1, Delicata F2, Guasti L3, Duranti C4,
Arcangeli A4, Imbrici P6, Pessia M5,7, Valentino M7, D’Adamo MC7.
1Kuwait University, 2University of Manitoba, 3Queen Mary University of London,
4University of Florence, 5Department of Physiology, College of Medicine & Health
Sciences, UAE University, 6University of Bari, 7University of Malta.
Introduction: Locus coeruleus (LC) neurons with their extensive innervations throughout
the brain control a broad range of physiological processes. Several ion channels have been
characterized in LC neurons that control intrinsic membrane properties and excitability.
However, ERG (ether-à-gogo–related gene) K + channels that are particularly important
in setting neuronal firing rhythms and automaticity have not yet been discovered in the LC.
Aims & Objectives: Investigate the presence and localization of ERG channels in Locus
Coeruleus neurons and look at their electrophysiological properties to assess their
functional role.
Materials & Methods: Immunohistochemical investigations using brainstem tissue

dissected from young (P10) and adult (P60) mice (C57BL/6J), with the use of rabbit
polyclonal anti-ERG antibodies to determine the localization of ERG channel types.
Patch-clamp recordings were performed from LC neurons under visual control (using
Hamamatsu and Axioskop 2FS infrared optics) and were recorded in the current-clamp
configuration using an EPC-9 amplifier and acquired with Patch Master software (HEKA
Elektronik GmbH, Reutlingen, Germany). To assess the functional role of ERG channels
in LC neurons, 10 µM WAY-123,398 was used as an ERG channel blocker, followed by
wash-out period. A Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was carried out on each data set to test for
a normal distribution of data. A parametric or non-parametric one-way ANOVA with
multiple comparisons was subsequently performed to compare the means of datasets
before and after drug application and during wash-out. Statistical tests were carried out
using representative 60 s periods of the raw data.
Results: Numerous cell bodies located within the LC nucleus showed immunopositivity
for all ERG channel types. An enhancement of the spontaneous firing frequency was
observed in LC neurons after the addition of WAY but was reversed back during drug
wash-out.
Conclusion: The presence of ERG channel subunits in the LC was established. The
expression of ERG channels in the LC, indicates the importance of this channel type in
the regulation of CNS functions. The study brings forth the channel’s role in regulating
neuronal discharge patterns by preventing increased firing rates and discharge
irregularities in LC neurons.
Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) under grant no. 31M468,
31M452, and 21M149, the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) Research
& Innovation R&I-2017-029T BooKind.
80
P59 - Prevalence of pharmacogenomic variants associated with ACE-inhibitors
induced cough in Emirati population.
Altoum S1 (Graduate Student), Al-Mahayri Z1, Alsafar H2,3, Ali BR1.
Departments of 1Genetics and Genomics; College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
Emirates University; Department of 2Biomedical Engineering & 3Center for
Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, UAE.
Introduction: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are commonly

prescribed antihypertensives. ACEIs, act by modulating the renin-angiotensin-
aldosterone system, which have potent effects on the cardiovascular system. This group
of medications are usually well-tolerated. However, one of their most common side
effects is dry cough (ACE-cough) which limits their use and often result in drug
discontinuation. The precise mechanism of ACE-cough is not clear yet but several studies
have speculated on the possibility of a genetic predisposition to develop it. Association
between ACE-cough and variants in genes encoding the Angiotensin-converting enzyme
(ACE), Bradykinin B2 receptor (BDKRB2), and Kv Channel Interacting Protein 4
(KCNIP4) have been suggested.
Aims & Objectives: Given that ACEIs are the most used antihypertensives in the United
Arab Emirates (UAE), and a low adherence rate was reported in the country, we sought
to investigate the prevalence of these variants in the Emirati population.
Methods: Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) dataset of 119 Emiratis were analyzed for
three genes, ACE, BDKRB2, and KCNIP4. Genotypes and minor allele frequencies (AF)
of rs1799752, rs1799722, rs145489027, rs7675300, and rs1495509, suggested to be
implicated in ACE-cough, were analyzed.
Results: The results showed a high AF for all examined variants. The highest AF was for
BDKRB2:rs1799722 (0.37), followed by a similar AF, 0.26, for the KCNIP4 variants:
rs145489027, rs7675300 and rs1495509, then AF of 0.03 for ACE:rs1799752. About
82.3% of subjects in our cohort carry at least one minor allele, of whom 30 patients
(25.2%) have the minor alleles in five variants. The present results suggest that the
geographic distribution of minor alleles should be considered when studying their
associations with drugs’ side effects.
Conclusion: This study adds to data on pharmacogenetic allele frequencies in different

populations. The high prevalence of the studied alleles prompted us to pursue an
investigation of the association between these variants and ACE-cough in UAE.
81
P60 - In-vitro study of the protective effect of Kuromanin Chloride against Glutamate
induced excitotoxicity in Neuroblastoma cells.
Al Ahbabi W1 (Graduate Student), Nawaz R1, Al Mughairbi F1.
1Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Over-activation of the glutamatergic system can lead to glutamate toxicity

and neurodegeneration. There isn’t any available treatment to cure neurodegenerative
diseases or reverse the process of neurodegeneration so far. Neuroprotection broadly refers
to preserve the structure and function of neurons from neuronal injuries. This maybe
achieved by several mechanisms such as free radical trapping, inhibition of apoptosis and
preventing excitotoxicity.
Aims & Objectives: This study was designed to investigate the various cellular measures
in response to Kuromanin Chloride (anthocyanin) in neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y and
its neuroprotective effects against glutamatergic excitotoxicity induced by L-glutamic acid
monosodium (MSG).
Materials & Methods: SH-SY5Y cells were treated with various concentrations of
kuromanin chloride (1µM, 10µM, 20µM, 30µM, 40µM, 50µM) for 24 hours prior to
inducing excitotoxicity with 50mM of monosodium glutamic acid (MSG) for a period of
24, 48 and 72 hours. Cellular activities were assessed by MTT assay and lactate
dehydrogenase assay, respectively. The expression of apoptotic genes BDNF,
PPARGC1A, CASP3, CASP9, BRCA and BRCA1 and BRCA2 while GAPDH and Bcl-2
were used as endogenous loading control were measured by qRT-PCR. Further,
morphology of cells treated with kuromanin chloride versus the cells exposed to
glutamatergic excitotoxicity was also analyzed.
Results: SH-SY5Y Cells viability increased with lower concentration of kuromanin

chloride. Significant changes in cells toxicity were observed after 24 hours, while slight
changes were observed after 48 and 72 hours. Neuronal survival gene BDNF and DNA
damage response gene BRCA1 expression were significantly upregulated after treatment.
Tumor suppressor genes BRAC1 and BRAC2 were observed high in expression after
treatment with glutamate although significantly downregulated after treated with
kromanin. Apoptotic genes CASP3 and CASP9 expression were progressively
downregulated after kromanin treatment.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that kuromanin chloride can be a possible neuroprotective
agent against neurodegeneration caused by excitotoxicity. This will pave the path for future
studies to elucidate the precise molecular mechanism of neuroprotection exerted by
kuromanin chloride. Furthermore, kuromanin chloride may be a putative neuro-protective
agent that can be developed to a potential therapy to help protect neurons from
neurodegeneration.
Acknowledgment: Purchasing of chemicals and disposables used in this research were

kindly supported by the Department of Clinical Psychology, CMHS.
82
Abstracts for Case Studies
P61 - Case report: Reconstruction of Forearm Degloving Injury by the use of
Superiorly based Abdominal Pedicle Flap at Groote Schuur Hospital, South Africa
(A Novel Technique).
Ghaya Almarzooqi (Undergraduate Student), Dr. Jasem Alshemeili, Wadima
AlHameli, Safya Almadhaani.
College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University; 2Groote Schuur Hospital,
University of Capetown2.
Introduction: In cases of forearm & hand defects, pedicled flaps from the lower
abdomen based on the superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) or para-umbilical
perforators have long been utilized for reconstruction. When hand defects are too large to
be covered by this long established technique, reconstruction becomes challenging. The
use of free flap requires special micro vascular techniques which not all plastic surgeons
are well trained to do so. This is a case of an upper limb degloving injury of forearm
requiring an abdominal pedicle flap coverage, where the use of the established lower
abdomen pedicled flap not sufficient for coverage, and the use of superolateral abdominal
pedicled flap based on intercostal vessels resolved this reconstruction challenge.
Case Report: 49 years old male was involved in motor vehicle accident, where patient’s
right forearm was trapped following vehicle overturning. Physical examination revealed
right dorsal forearm degloving injury with radial and ulnar fracture. Upon further
examination of his open wound injury, patient was found with distal radial and ulnar
extension soft tissue loss, his tendons were exposed, and he sustained extensor tendons
loss of 3rd and 4th fingers. Patient was taken to theater, he underwent wound
debridement, and external fixation was placed. He was put on VAC machine as
temporary cover. 7 days later, external fixation was replaced with plates, and abdomen
pedicled flap based on intercostal vessels superolaterally was raised (with width of 15 cm
and length of 13 cm) and inserted into wound defect without tension. Abdominal donor
site was skin grafted.Post-operative day 21, flap division done by removing the hand
from the abdomen. Patient had physiotherapy to restore his motor function.
Discussion: Abdominal and groin flaps are well established flaps and well known to
cover upper limbs defects. Its a great alternative to free flap without the need for
microsurgery skills. Inferiorly based abdominal flaps and para umbilical based
perforators were described long ago. In this case, we used a superolateral based on
intercostal perforator vessels as a pedicle flap. Flap raise is easy and not time consuming
and there were no complications post flap division in 3 weeks.
Conclusion: Superolateral abdominal pedicled flap could be a great alternative to free
flap for upper limbs massive degloving injuries.
83
P62 - A rare case of traumatic lumbar hernia.
Ayesha A Al Qemzi4, Ashraf F Hefny1, Adel I Elbery2, Mohamed A Hefny3, Ghaya
M Almarzooqi4.
2Department of Radiology, Tawam Hospital, UAE; 3Department of Surgery, Faculty of
Medicine, Ain Shams, University, Cairo, Egypt; 4Department of Surgery, College of

Introduction: Acute traumatic lumbar hernia (ATLH) is a rare type of hernia resulting from
blunt abdominal trauma. The hernia can be overlooked or misdiagnosed as hematoma or
contusion. 1 Traumatic hernias are usually diagnosed during radiological examination or surgical
exploration. 2 High index of suspicion is essential for early diagnosis and prevention of serious
complications as bowel obstruction and strangulation. 3 Herein, we present a rare case of
traumatic lumbar hernia in an adult female.
Case Report: 35-year-old solo female traveler was involved in a road traffic
collision while she was coming from the airport. She was an unrestrained rear
seat passenger with no history of loss of consciousness. In the Emergency
Department, she was complaining of chest and abdominal pain. Her pulse rate
was 78 bpm, blood pressure 100/55 mmHg, and respiratory rate was 20
breath per minute. Her oxygen saturation was 100% on room air and GCS
was 15/15. Abdominal examination showed severe bilateral lower abdominal
bruising with severe tenderness. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography
(CT) scan of the abdomen revealed abdominal wall contusion and herniation
of bowels through a large defect in the right lateral abdominal wall muscles
(Fig 1A and B). CT scan of the chest showed bilateral lung contusions and a
small left pneumothorax. Patient was diagnosed as ATLH. The patient
refused surgical intervention. She was admitted to the hospital for observation
and was treated conservatively. The condition of the patient improved, and
she was discharged from the hospital on the 8th day. She was advised to
undergo an elective hernia repair at her home country.
Discussion: Although, the force of the blunt trauma is insufficient to breach

the elastic skin, however, it can cause abdominal wall musculature disruption.
In cases with multiple injuries, it is difficult to differentiate between hernia
and hematoma or contusion with physical examination alone. CT scan is the
gold standard diagnostic tool as it can discern the anatomy of disrupted
muscle, detection of the herniated bowels, reveal concomitant intra-
abdominal injuries, and distinguish the hernia from hematoma. Also, point of
care ultrasound (POCUS) can be used to differentiate between ATLH and
hematomata. While many authors prefer early surgical repair, it is important
to notice that it carries a higher risk of hernial recurrence due to less healing
capability of the contused muscles especially if synthetic mesh was not used
in the repair.
Conclusions: Acute traumatic lumbar hernia is a rare type of hernia. Early

recognition of the traumatic hernia is challenging and need a high index of clinical suspicion to
avoid serious complications. Conservative management can be adopted in the acute stage with
delayed repair of the hernia until recovery of the muscles' contusion. Delayed repair will allow
for better healing of the hernia and the use of synthetic mesh in the repair.
84
P63 - Etoricoxib as treatment of choice for Primary Hypertrophic
Osteoarthropathy.
Albawa'neh A (Graduate Student), Akawi N.
Department of Genetic & Genomics, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE
University.
Introduction: Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (PHO) is an orphan syndrome

characterized by abnormal proliferation of the skin and osseous tissues at the distal parts
of the extremities. Both autosomal recessive (PHOAR) and autosomal dominant
(PHOAD) forms of PHO have been described in literature.
Aims & Objectives: Here we present the first Emirati patient with a confirmed diagnosis
of PHOAR who was treated successfully with etoricoxib for 6 months and showed
clinical improvement in symptoms.
Case Summary: We report a 22-year-old Emirati male with autosomal recessive primary
hypertrophic osteoarthropathy caused by a new homozygous nonsynonymous mutation in
SLCO2A1gene (NM_005630.3:c.289C>T, p.Arg97Cys) presenting with joint swelling,
forehead furrowing, and significant clubbing in all fingers and toes. Currently, no
standard treatments are approved for this disease, medical care is palliative and includes
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, tamoxifen, retinoids, and
risedronate. Colchicine may be helpful for the pain due to subperiosteal new bone
formation. Our patient was treated with etoricoxib 60 mg once daily and showed a
significant clinical improvement at the six months mark that was reversed upon
withdrawal of this medication.
Conclusions: This case report highlights the importance of placing etoricoxib among
first-line therapy recommendations for cases with confirmed primary hypertrophic
osteoarthropathy diagnosis. To our knowledge this is the only case of primary
hypertrophic osteoarthropathy from middle eastern population of Arabs ethnicity that has
responded to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy.
Acknowledgments: This study was funded by the United Arab Emirates University
(grant number 12M106).
85
Index for Oral Presentation Abstracts
Oral title Page number
O1 - Mental health, wellbeing and burnout among medical students in 11

the United Arab Emirates.
O2 - Anti-inflammatory role of Irisin treating type 1 diabetic 12
osteopathy.
O3 - The role of Thymoquinone in Cerulein-Induced Acute 13
Pancreatitis in Mice.
O4 - Effects of Methylglyoxal on Vascular Tone in Normotensive 14
Male Rats.
O5 - Carnosol alleviates thrombogenicity and vascular inflammation, 15
oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by pulmonary exposure to
diesel exhaust particles in mice.
O6 - Comparative assessment of human gut bacterial groups in 16
colorectal cancer patients compared to healthy population.
O7 - Elucidating the effect of iron acquisition systems and beta 17
lactamases on susceptibility to the novel siderophore-cephalosporin
(cefiderocol) in Klebsiella pneumoniae.
O8 - Limonene, a monoterpene mitigates rotenone-induced 18
dopaminergic neurodegeneration by modulating neuroinflammation,
Hippo signaling and apoptosis in rats.
O9 - Deciphering the salivary microbiome in Crohn’s disease patients 19
with different factors predisposing to dysbiosis.
O10 - Low self-esteem among children and adolescents in United Arab 20
Emirates: Disparity by nationality.
O11 - Identification of a Novel Pathogenic Variant in FBN1 by Exome 21
Sequencing in a Patient with Marfan Syndrome.
O12 - Medical Doctors practice: gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis 22
in the United Arab Emirates.
86
Index for Poster Presentation Abstracts
Poster title Page number
P1 - Effects of High-Fat Diet on the Morphology of Murine Skeletal 23

Muscle Fibers: An Immunocytochemical Study.
P2 - Clinical decision support to improve healthcare at the point-of- 24
care.
P3 - A Computational Study Targeting Common Kinases for Cancer 25
and COVID-19.
P4 - Knowledge, attitude, and practices of plastics use during the 26
COVID-19 pandemic among UAEU students.
P5 - Developing an Early Autism Identification Severity Scale for 27
UAE children 12 to 36 months of age.
P6 - A Pilot Study on the effect of Site-Placements of e-TACT® 28
Accelerometer on Assessing Physical Activity Levels Among UAE
University Students.
P7 – First report on colistin resistance and plasmid-mediated mcr genes 29
in Escherichia coli isolated from camels in UAE.
P8 - Attitudes and perceptions of Medical Students towards 30
Communication Skills - cross Sectional Study.
P9 - Attitudes and perceptions of Medical Students towards 31
Communication Skills - Qualitative Study.
P10 - Health and lifestyle behaviors among healthcare professionals. 32
P11 - Wellness and lifestyle behaviors among healthcare professionals. 33
P12 - Diabetes mellitus reduces the expression of high-density 34
lipoprotein in pancreatic beta cells of Wistar rats.
P13 - Modelling lifelong volumetric changes in hippocampus and 35
lateral ventricles.
P14 - Multimodal approach to early diagnostics of mild cognitive 36
impairment and Alzheimer’s dementia.
P15 - Optimal settings for detecting and classifying epileptic seizures 37
from EEG recordings.
P16 - Potentiation of the antibacterial activity of cefiderocol on 38
Pseudomonas aeruginosa by combined β-lactamase inhibition and
outer membrane permeation.
P17 - Attitude and needs of the community pharmacists in Abu-Dhabi 39
Emirates about administering Flu and COVID vaccine: A cross
sectional study.
P18 – Prevalence and associated factors of metabolic syndrome using 40
the harmonized criteria among adults aged 18-40 years in the United
Arab Emirates: The UAE Healthy Future Study.
P19 - Bacterial Inhibition and Osteogenic Potentials of Sr/Zn Co- 41
Doped Nano-Hydroxyapatite-PLGA Composite Scaffold for Bone
Tissue Engineering Applications.
87
P20 - Machine Learning for the Prediction of Quantum Mechanical 42
Properties: A Proposal.
P21 - In-Silico Analysis of DNA Methylation. 43
P22 - Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) validation studies: A 44
scoping review.
P23 - Oncogenesis of Epstein–Barr virus-encoded RNA (EBER): the 45
role of EBER1 structure.
P24 - Structural impact of Epstein–Barr virus-encoded RNA 1 46
(EBER1) on its intracellular transport and secretion.
P25 - Gestational diabetes mellitus burden in the United Arab 47
Emirates: Impact of the new COVID-19 criteria.
P26 - Accurate Binding Energies of Amino Acids interacting with 48
transition metals.
P27 - Dominance of blaOXA-48 like among carbapenem-resistant 49
Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from Abu Dhabi hospitals.
P28 - Binding Energy Prediction of DNA Intercalation. 50
P29 - The association between BMI and self-reported eight-items 51
Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) in the UAE Healthy Future Pilot
Study.
P30 - Association between depression, happiness, and sleep duration: 52
Data from the UAE Healthy Future Pilot Study.
P31 - Evaluation of knowledge, screening practice, and potential risk 53
prevalence of breast cancer among women in UAE.
P32 - Bullying in private schools in the United Arab Emirates: A cross- 54
sectional study.
P33 - The effect of nerolidol on the renal dysfunction following 55
ischemia-reperfusion injury in the rat.
P34 - Preparation and characterization of blank and nerolidol-loaded 56
chitosan – alginate nanoparticles.
P35 - Effect of Maternal Obesity on Embryonic brain development and 57
Neurogenesis through epigenetic mechanisms.
P36 - The effect of Bariatric Surgery in pregnant women with Bariatric 58
Surgery history on micronutrients status, maternal and neonatal
outcomes.
P37 - Targeting the endothelin type A receptor (ETAR) as a new 59
treatment modality for metastatic cancer.
P38 - The Effect of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on the developing 60
offspring.
P39 - Eucalyptol, a dietary monoterpene attenuates isoproterenol 61
induced myocardial ischemia via inhibiting NF-κB/MAPK signaling
and ER-stress mediated apoptosis in rats.
P40 - α-bisabolol attenuates NF-κB/MAPK signaling by invoking 62
Nrf2/Akt/mTOR signaling activation against doxorubicin induced
acute cardiotoxicity in rats.
P41 - The prevalence of celiac disease in the United Arab Emirates 63
children, a single-center study.
88
P42 - Evaluations of Carboxylic Acid Non-Classical Bioisosterism: In 64
Silico study.
P43 - Assessing awareness of sexually transmitted diseases among 65
students at United Arab Emirates University.
P44 - Burden of gestational diabetes mellitus in the United Arab 66
Emirates; Comparison of six diagnostic criteria: The Mutaba’ah Study.
P45 - Evaluation of rotenone mediated α-synuclein spreading and 67
neurotoxicity in intra-striatal injection of α-synuclein PFF model of
Parkinson’s disease.
P46 - Increased fruits and vegetables consumption mitigate oxidative 68
damage and associated inflammatory response in obese Emirati
citizens independent of body weight change.
P47 - Congenital anomalies in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: 69
a scoping review summarizing the literature and reporting the
epidemiology.
P48 - Unraveling the role of the Transcription factor, HNF1β in 70
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
P49 - Key potentially inappropriate drugs in Pediatrics: Prevalence and 71
future directions.
P50 - Mitochondrial control of the tumorigenicity and immunogenicity 72
of colorectal cancer.
P51 - Implication of ER associated protein degradation (ERAD) in the 73
pathology of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia type 1 (HHT1).
P52 - Enhancement of chemotherapeutic outcome of metastatic breast 74
cancer through targeting the endothelin receptor pathway.
P53 - Manuka honey boosts anti-tumor immunity in a preclinical 75
model of colon cancer.
P54 - Role of prenatal zinc deficiency in inflammation, neuronal 76
functioning and gut microbiota and its contribution to autism spectrum
disorder in offspring – Review.
P55 - Investigating the anti-tumor activity of a powdered form of 77
Manuka honey against murine and human cancer cell lines.
P56 - Factors associated with quality of life in patients receiving 78
pharmacist-guided parenteral nutrition.
P57 - Ceramide-induced cardiovascular dysfunction: mechanisms and 79
modulation.
P58 - Locus Coeruleus Neurons’ firing pattern is regulated by ERG 80
voltage-gated K+ channels.
P59 - Prevalence of pharmacogenomic variants associated with ACE- 81
inhibitors induced cough in Emirati population.
P60 - In-vitro study of the protective effect of Kuromanin Chloride 82
against Glutamate induced excitotoxicity in Neuroblastoma cells.
P61 - Case report: Reconstruction of Forearm Degloving Injury by the 83
use of Superiorly based Abdominal Pedicle Flap at Groote Schuur
Hospital, South Africa (A Novel Technique).
P62 - A rare case of traumatic lumbar hernia. 84
89
P63 - Etoricoxib as treatment of choice for Primary Hypertrophic 85
Osteoarthropathy.
90
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1

Prof. Juma Al Kaabi Acting Dean

Student Organizing Committee

Saoud Altamimi President MMSA, Head Organization Committee

Geraldine Kershaw Chair, Oral Evaluation Committee

Dr. Mark Campbell Chair, Poster Evaluation Committee 1

Dr. Michael Tunzi Chair, Poster Evaluation Committee 2

CMHS Faculty - Research Project Supervisors

Prof. Ernest Adeghate Department of Anatomy

Keynote Speaker Biography 8

Oral presentations - Session 1 9

Oral presentations - Session 2 10

Abstracts for Oral Presentations (Undergraduate Students) 11

Abstracts for Oral Presentations (Graduate Students) 17

Abstracts for Poster Presentations (Undergraduate Students) 23

Abstracts for Poster Presentations (Graduate Students) 40

Abstracts for Case Studies 83

Index for Oral Presentation Titles 86

Index for Poster Presentation Titles 87

Professor Prof. Juma Alkaabi

Professor Yousef Mohamed Abdulrazzaq Al Bastaki is Emeritus

Professor Yousef Mohamed Abdulrazzaq Albastaki

1200-1215 (O3) The role of Thymoquinone in Cerulein-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in

1215-1230 (O4) Effects of Methylglyoxal on Vascular Tone in Normotensive Male Rats.

1230-1245 (O5) Carnosol alleviates thrombogenicity and vascular inflammation,

1245-1300 (O6) Comparative assessment of human gut bacterial groups in colorectal

1415-1430 (O8) Limonene, a monoterpene mitigates rotenone-induced dopaminergic

1500-1515 (O11) Identification of a Novel Pathogenic Variant In FBN1 By Exome

Materials & Methods: We conducted a quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive study in

Acknowledgments: The authors wish to thank Dr Maryam Al Shamsi, Vice-Dean for

Introduction: Type one diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease affecting multiple

Conclusion: Bone inflammation contributes to bone loss in type I diabetic osteopathy. A

Acknowledgments: College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Faculty Grant G00003027

Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.

Introduction: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a life-threatening condition of the exocrine

Aims & Objectives: We aimed to determine the effect of thymoquinone pretreatment on

Results: Based on our findings, TQ pretreatment inhibited cerulein-induced

Conclusion: Pretreatment with TQ effectively protected mice from cerulein-induced

Acknowledgments: UAEU, SURE+ grant 2022.

Introduction: Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound that is

Results: Application of MGO to pre-contracted aortic rings further increased vascular

Conclusion: MGO exerts pro-hypertensive effects by both direct potentiation of vascular

Introduction: Adverse cardiovascular effects of inhaled particulate air pollution persist

Results: Carnosol administration prevented the increase in the plasma concentrations of

Conclusion: Carnosol alleviates DEP-induced thrombogenicity and vascular

Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University.

Introduction: Each person's gastrointestinal system contains a unique microbiota that

Materials & Methods: Case-control study comprised 29 participants divided into

Acknowledgments: Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) PLUS grant

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health threat. Limited

Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University, UAE (grant number G00003542

Introduction: Rotenone (ROT) is a naturally derived pesticide and a well-known

Materials & Methods: PD in experimental rats was induced by intraperitoneal injection

Introduction: Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the

Conclusion: The salivary microbiome in CD was deciphered proving the interplay of

Introduction: Self-esteem the ‘feeling of self-appreciation’ is an indispensable emotion

Acknowledgments: United Arab Emirates University

A, 1Tabouni M, 1Baydoun I, 1Kizhakkedath P, 1R. Ali B, 1,3 Al Jasmi F, 1Akawi N.