VOL. 34 • NO.4 • JULY/AUGUST 2019

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE WORLD FEDERATION OF NEUROLOGY

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN The Importance of WFN Council of Delegates Meeting

s all who receive the World The Council of Delegates Meeting Neurology publication know, the is held annually, as it must be according A XXIV World Congress of Neurology to the United Kingdom Charities’ The World Congress will also host a range of is almost upon us. It will commence Commission. It is at this meeting that Oct. 27 in Dubai. The World Congress decisions critical to the WFN will be important business meetings for the WFN. will showcase the most made. The Annual COD Meeting Foremost among these is the Annual Council of topical subjects in neurology, that coincides with a WCN, as this facilitate the learning one in Dubai does, often assumes Delegates (COD) Meeting. experience of all attendees, greater significance than those in and provide a forum for wide- the intervening years. The simple ranging discussion of these. reason is that more national The World Congress will also member representatives attend the London Office staff. Under the WFN rules, (Steven Lewis). Both are entitled to stand host a range of important COD in a WCN. There is no doubt only member societies that are “financial” for re-election, and both are exercising business meetings for the WILLIAM that the larger number of delegates will be able to vote on resolutions and this option. You will find their personal WFN. Foremost among these CARROLL, MD increases the range of opinions elections. statements in this issue. That they are is the Annual Council of that are offered by delegates on the At this year’s COD, there are critical both standing unopposed may be regarded Delegates (COD) Meeting. topics discussed. It is also clear that decisions to be made. Two elected as a testament to the quality of their The Global Neurology Alliance will also the WFN benefits from this in the quality trustee positions are to be decided, the contribution to the WFN to date. Their meet as will numerous WFN committees of the decisions that are made. This year’s 2023 WCN venue will be resolved and personal statements provide important such as Education, Membership, Finance, COD will occur at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 26. elections to membership of the WFN will insights into their views of the WFN, Congress, e-Communications and Seventy to eighty delegates or their proxies be determined. The two trustee positions its function and future role as the global Constitutions, and Bylaws, which all will be present from the 120 member are those of treasurer, currently occupied neurological organization. together represent the heart of the WFN. societies, observers, trustees, and the by Richard Stark, and an elected trustee see PRESIDENT page 5

INSIDE

Migraine in Cameroon: CANDIDATE STATEMENTS ECHOS OF KINDNESS FOR WCN 2023 Serendipity brought my mentors together From the Painful Truth to the Powerful Tribute Three countries vie for the opportunity at the EAN regional teaching course in to host WCN 2023: Brazil, Mexico, and Ouagadougou, and discussions ensued BY ALFRED KONGNYU NJAMNSHI, MD, MA, Canada. See each country’s statements. that culminated in the opportunity to DMS, FMH In organizing this congress, a great PAGES 3 AND 4 begin my formal training in EMG/NCS n 2008, when then-president of the need was felt to reach out for the in Austria. World Federation of Neurology (WFN) preparation of future neurologists in WORLD BRAIN DAY 2019 PAGE 8 I Prof. Johan A. Aarli set foot in Yaoundé the country. This was done through a IN PAKISTAN CRITICAL MINDS ON THE BRAIN for the 18th Congress of the Pan African pre-congress activity that consisted of Pakistan’s NARF organized countrywide IN THE 17TH CENTURY activities to mark the fifth Annual World Association of Neurological Sciences, selecting the best students from some Medical students of human and animal Brain Day, with the theme Migraine: bodies in the 17th century demonstrated (PAANS1), Cameroon—fondly referred to primary, secondary, and university The Painful Truth. 2 a critical attitude toward the knowledge by its citizens as “Africa in miniature” — institutions in Yaoundé, introducing them PAGE 6 that was taught in books and by their was a peaceful, prosperous, powerful, and to the neurosciences, and evaluating their teachers. Inspired by the new mechanistic promising nation of the central African performances after a short educational or iatrophysical physiology of René sub-region. At that time, there were only intervention on the epilepsies3. WORLD BRAIN DAY IN TURKEY Descartes, they not only questioned the anatomical and physiological views of a handful of neurologists in Cameroon, Concerning this innovative program, The Turkish Neurological Society reports previous generations of anatomists and and there was no training program for Prof. Aarli had this to say: “The type on its World Brain Day activities. PAGE 7 physicians, but also Descartes’ own ideas. neurologists in the medical schools of the of outreach program presented in PAGE 10 country. see CAMEROON page 2 2 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

from their own internal crises in the Central African Republic and the multiple consequences thereof. Second, more severe attacks have ravaged the western mountainous region of the Far North, spreading terror, panic, and chronic phobia in the populations. Third, as if this were not enough, for the past three years, the North-West and the South-West regions of the country are the theater of a hemorrhagic conflict, and the populations of these two regions have been victims of uncountable, painful, persistent, and pervasive attacks, sometimes caught as it were between the hammer and the anvil. The full extent of the reality of this extremely painful truth has not been Dr. Edwige L. Mendo, neurologist trained in and may never be adequately measured, Cameroon and serving in the South region of the country, presenting the key message of Dr. Mbome Njie Victor, representing the prime minister, delivers the speech at the closing but one thing is certain: the nausea and ceremony on WBD. the painful truth of migraine at the ST Muna emesis accompanying the atrocities, the Foundation on WBD. CAMEROON [DRC] and nine from Cameroon), five photophobia and sonophobia associated continued from page 1 neurosurgeons, and six psychiatrists with the increasingly sophisticated and undertreated (crisis-treatment) despite (one from DRC) have been trained in firearms, will have long-lasting and many laudable efforts. Cameroon is important because it makes these programs. Also, our neurology far-reaching consequences on brain The country has become peaceless and neurosciences not a foreign and exotic department recently hosted a trainee health and on health and development in sleepless, running short of its prosperous subject, but a part of their daily life neurologist from Belgium (now a general. It is disheartening to note that and promising nature. Land of promise, and of public health.”1 On the congress practicing neurologist) for a period of six two-year-old internally displaced children where is your promise? Land of glory, proper, he reported, “I had the pleasure to months5. It is worth noting that one of are familiar with and easily recognize the where is your glory? Nevertheless, attend the PAANS congress in Yaoundé, our youngest trainees just received his sound of firearms. together as a TEAM (Together Each Cameroon, in November 2008 ... The award as fellow of the European Board You may be tempted to observe that Achieves More), we all can use our brains PAANS Congress served as an important of Neurology on June 28, 2019, as the what appeared to be a simple migraine to make sure that the suffering brains and information and discussion forum for sole candidate from sub-Saharan Africa, aura, rapidly and unexpectedly developed bodies of the people in Cameroon affected African neurology. The meeting also following a tight examination in Oslo into a hemiplegic migraine with one by this migraine receive the help they was attended by local politicians and with his European counterparts and whole side of the nation completely need as the key messages of the World representatives from the government, neurologists of other nationalities, in the paralyzed intermittently through the Brain Day7 2019 suggest to become once which is essential in increasing the international examination organized by “ghost-towns,” then to chronic migraine again a peaceful and prosperous land of visibility of neurology.”4 the European Academy of Neurology.6 or better still “chronic hemiplegic promise and glory. The congress organizers had worked migraine.” The prevailing situation could May I remark in passing, but seriously hard to convince the government of the The Painful Truth best be described as a “chronic familial so, that the migraine in Cameroon is not Republic of Cameroon on the importance In recent years, however, the indescribable hemiplegic migraine” as many family unique to Cameroon. Although some of of neuroscience to national development. beauty of this young and healthy nation, members of the people of this one-time the aggravating factors of these migraines Indeed, this was the first time in the 36-year like that of a young headache-stricken peaceful nation are now directly or generally tend to be environmental, not history of PAANS that the government of patient, has been significantly threatened indirectly affected. easily lending themselves to intrinsic the host country was the unique sponsor and bruised by a series of crises that The painful truth is that every part control mechanisms in the context of a of the entire congress. At the opening can be described by no other word than of the whole is seriously hurting. The total absence of biofeedback mechanisms, and closing ceremonies, several cabinet migraine, and that is the painful truth. migraine crisis in Cameroon, which is the it would appear that only a concerted, members accompanied the Vice Prime Indeed, the pain has been throbbing, most common crisis in the country, has concentrated, and constant effort for lasting Minister H.E. Amadou Ali, the chair of the sparing no part of the country. First is severely impacted every aspect of national prophylactic solutions, coming from the congress, which was held under the highly the eastern tropical forest region of the life and has been underrecognized, ingenuity and strong will of endogenous distinguished patronage of the president of country with the influx of refugees fleeing underdiagnosed, thus underresearched, see CAMEROON page 3 the republic, head of state. The primary theme of that congress was “The Epilepsies,” and the secondary theme was “Headaches.” It was attended by the then-president of the International League Against Epilepsy, Prof. Peter Wolf. The president of the International Headache Society could not attend due to a last-minute emergency. It was during this congress that Prof. Aarli challenged the government of Cameroon to start residency programs in the neurological sciences that could serve the country as well as the sub-region. This challenge was well received, and two years later, residency programs in neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry were established in the Yaoundé School of Medicine in the University of Yaoundé I. More details on the fruits of this development over the years shall be reported subsequently. Closing ceremony group photograph with representative of the prime minister (4th), BRAIN Board Members (Pr Etya’ale Daniel, 1st , Pr Leke Currently, 11 neurologists (two from Rose 2nd) and president of ST Muna Foundation (Battonier Benard Muna, fifth from right, in front row). the Democratic Republic of Congo 3 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

CAMEROON year, BRAIN created the concept of the seven of the 10 administrative regions continued from page 2 “Brain Week in Cameroon” involving five of the country (including some of the main BRAIN activities beginning from a migrainous regions), thus bringing brain healthy brains, will be effective. week before the WBD and climaxing with health care closer to the populations. This would involve a deliberate, the celebration of the WBD. The goal was Second, multimedia sensitization talks, directed, and delicate mix of multiple to have a nationwide campaign of: workshops, and symposia were carried neuronal networks, that work together in • Bringing BRAIN health closer to the out to raise brain awareness and the synchrony and symphony, in promoting populations (diagnosing and treating national communication media had at brain health and through brain health, disease in sick brains) least a nationwide audience. promoting health at large as there is no • Raising BRAIN awareness among the Third, the first two activities provided health without brain health. To ensure populations (sensitizing healthy brains a forum for networking and building success in this endeavor, in terms of to remain healthy) partnerships for the promotion of brain effective and efficient neurophysiological • Activating BRAIN networks with the health. Specific public-private partnership mechanisms especially neurotransmission, institutions (building partnerships for agreements were also established between neuromediation, and neuromodulation, brain health) state and private institutions. this approach may also involve • Increasing BRAIN capacity in the Fourth, with the participation of state neuroepigenetics as we are dealing here professionals (training through profes- universities, academic symposia were with a migraine. This process, in itself is sional education) conducted in two faculties of medicine to not pain free. • Nurturing future generations of BRAIN increase the capacity of medical students, professionals (celebrating excellence physicians, and other health personnel The Powerful Tribute: The novel to generate interest in neuroscience in the management of brain disease, Alfred K. Njamnshi, founder and executive concept of the “Brain Week careers among the youth). particularly migraine. director of BRAIN, delivering the inaugural in Cameroon” The inaugural “Brain Week in Finally, a general symposium was Monekosso-Muna BRAIN Lecture: The In the midst of this deeply rooted pain and Cameroon” ran from July 15 to 22, 2019, conducted in the nation’s capital city of Foundations of Neuroscience Research in mounting pressure, Brain Research Africa under the distinguished patronage of the Yaoundé on primary headaches, with Cameroon and Africa. Initiative (BRAIN) has chosen to hope Prime Minister, Head of Government, special emphasis on migraine, and the rational use in dialogue, constructive for peace and to work for peace in this Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute and in icing on the cake was the establishment communication, and negotiations, and to fatherland of Cameroon. Since inception partnership with the government of of the novel concept of “The Monekosso- resolve interpersonal, intergroup, or even by the WFN, we in Cameroon have always Cameroon. Muna BRAIN Lecture,” in honor of and international conflicts. Thus, BRAIN has celebrated the World Brain Day (WBD) First, free neurology, neurosurgery as a tribute to the founding fathers of attempted to extend and contextualize but this was generally limited to an or psychiatry consultations in regional Cameroonian and African neuroscience the WFN concept of “World Brain academic or professional audience. This or tertiary health facilities took place in research. Day” to the concept of “Brain Week in The late Prof. Gotlieb Lobe Monekosso Cameroon.” employed field epidemiological and Most of the activities of Brain Week in CANDIDATE CITY STATEMENT FOR WCN 2023 clinical approaches in the 1960s in Nigeria Cameroon were carried out by or under to study what was variably called at that the leadership of brain health specialists time, endemic neuropathies, degenerative or experts trained in Cameroon and tropical neuropathies, tropical nutritional serving in the different regions of the neuropathy, or tropical ataxic neuropathy country, some of them under extremely while late Prof. Walinjom FT Muna difficult conditions. BRAIN received the since the 1990s set the pace for clinical partnering support of public and private research on HTLV-associated myelopathy, media agencies as well as some private stroke, neuroAIDS, and the epilepsies in health institutions in this endeavor. Brain Cameroon. Week in Cameroon has come to stay The Monekosso-Muna BRAIN Lecture and to grow, and the Prime Minister celebrates excellence in neuroscience and of Cameroon, writing on brain health, aims to stimulate and attract the young has encouraged BRAIN to “continue generations to consider taking up careers to sensitize the government and other in neuroscience. partners on this important aspect of The theme of Brain Week in human health.” Cameroon 2019 was, “Promoting Brain Health and Conflict Resolution,” and The Way Forward the core messages highlighted the fact BRAIN, in partnership with the Cameroon that we all need healthy brains, free from Government, has chosen to light a drugs and disease, in healthy bodies, for see CAMEROON page 9 will provide the WFN with an excellent opportunity to accomplish its mission Brazil to promote education in neurology in Brazil and Latin America. Rio de ith 95 certified residency Janeiro, with a wide infrastructure of programs in neurology, offering tourist services, receives more than 2 W 375 PGY-1 annually, and 4,300 million foreign tourists annually. affiliated members, Brazil is a strong Rio de Janeiro is ranked among candidate to host the World Congress of the most popular destinations in the Neurology 2023. world for hosting cultural, commercial, Many countries already have given technical, and scientific events— their support to Rio during a meeting fairs, symposiums, congresses, and in October 2018 at the PAFNS Congress exhibitions. in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Holding the The convention center is in a safe WFN Congress will provide a unique area of Barra da Tijuca and offers a opportunity for this large population variety of accommodations, food, of neurologists and professionals in the entertainment, beaches, shopping areas, Past prime minister and board chair of BRAIN, H.E. Philemon Yang (center), took time off field to join us in a memorable meeting. and among other things, an intense to attend a reception on WBD. He congratulated and encouraged the young BRAIN leaders Also, holding this Congress in Brazil night. • from the seven regions of Cameroon to continue to work for brain health with courage, determination, and patience. 4 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

CANDIDATE CITY STATEMENT FOR WCN 2023 Mexico t is a pleasure and an honor to present to take one or two flights to attend the where many beautiful religious Mexico’s candidacy to host the WFN congress. This significantly reduces travel and historical buildings can I World Congress in 2023. costs for attendees. be appreciated, including the Mexico represents the 15th largest Although a WFN world congress has Metropolitan Cathedral, the economy in the world and the 15th largest never been held in Central America, we National Palace, and the Fine exporting power. have experience in organizing international Arts Palace, a beautiful art One of the principal economic bases congresses, such as the congress of the Pan nouveau style building. The of the country is tourism. According to American Section of the WFN (PANFS) second World Heritage Site the World Tourism Organization, Mexico which took place in in 2016 in Cancun, is the Xochimilco Ecological ranks sixth in terms of the number of Mexico. Other examples of international Park, considered by many as visits by foreign tourists. Also, it promotes events held in Mexico City are International the “Venice of Mexico,” thanks the diffusion of the natural, cultural, Conference on Emergency Medicine 2018 to its beautiful canals that can gastronomic, and historical attractions of and World Congress of Cardiology and be visited on board a trajinera the country. Cardiovascular Health 2016, among many (a curious wooden gondola- Mexico has a well-earned reputation others. type vessel decorated with for being a hospitable country with people It is important to mention that flowers). friendly to tourists. We currently have Mexican government provides the The third World Heritage agreements with more than 97 countries possibility to calculate zero percent VAT Site is the Autonomous whose citizens do not require a visa to for International Congresses when these National University of Mexico, visit us. are carried out by foreign organizations. and the fourth one is the Luis Due to its geographical location (in In addition to its economic, geographic, Barragan´ studio. Mexico the center of the American continent), and logistical advantages, Mexico City has City offers a large variety of museums, the Guadalupe Basilica, the second-most Mexico is the gateway to Central and South much more to offer its visitors. including The National Museum of visited religious sanctuary in the world America. Its air connectivity is one of its Once known as the “City of Palaces,” Anthropology, the National Museum after Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. advantages; today, there are daily direct Mexico City has four areas declared World of Art, and the National Museum of We hope to count on your support to international flights to 51 destinations so Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. The first is History (located in Chapultepec Castle). continue promoting the development of it is highly likely that attendees only have the “Centro Histórico” or downtown area To the north of the city, you can visit neurology in this region of the world. •

CANDIDATE CITY STATEMENT FOR WCN 2023 Montréal

ontréal tops the rankings of The Neuro is the first Open Science host cities in the Americas for institute in the world, helping accelerate M most international conferences1. new therapy research and solutions. Its attractions and qualities have made The WCN 2023 will also be an it a go-to location for business and opportunity to expand the annual grants leisure travellers. As one of the largest and awards program the CNS jointly hubs for neuroscience in Canada—240 administers with the World Federation neuroscience professionals and over of Neurology. A new program being 40 companies related to neuroscience, developed will focus on colleagues from Montréal is a first-rate destination Sub-Saharan Africa. for all with a passion for innovation, Montréal is a smart choice for WCN understanding the brain and treating 2023. Recognized as Canada’s research and patients with neurological disorders. higher education capital, the city has 1,500 Together with the Canadian institutions active in R&D, 200 research Neurological Society (CNS), generous centres, 11 higher learning institutions funding for travel grants by the city’s including four major universities, and convention community will enable a two academic health centres—neurology record number of scholars and fellows from pediatric to adult, from general to from emerging economies, such as Latin highly specialized—making it a high- America and Africa, to attend this major tech, artificial intelligence, health and event. life sciences hub. Among the Top 20 In order to foster innovative care and safest big cities in Canada and the United research on a global scale, The Neuro— States2, Montréal also enjoys one of McGill University’s Montreal Neurological the most vibrant urban scenes, thanks America. The wide range of downtown Participants will be able to partake Institute and Hospital—will make its open to its numerous world-class festivals, accommodations includes 16,000 hotel in technical tours of The Neuro and data platforms available to the members international cuisine, legendary hospitality rooms within a 10-minute walk from several other university and hospital sites of the WFN and help identify potential and European flair. It is home to a richly the city’s convention centre, 4,000 of during their stay in Montréal. Success, Canadian collaborators. Founded by multicultural community where 100 which are directly linked to the centre. innovation, and expertise await you in Dr. Wilder Penfield, The Neuro is a languages are spoken. Easily accessible Its proximity to 90 million Northeastern Montréal. October is when the city really world leader in the field and has a rich and practical, it is only 20 minutes from Americans less than a two-hour flight shows its true autumn colours. • history of welcoming the international the airport, which services 150 direct away, or within driving distance, means neuroscientific community—trainees, flights from North Africa, the Middle East, even more students, young researchers, 1. Union of International Associations 2017/2018 researchers and clinicians alike. A pioneer, Asia, Latin America, Europe, and North and clinicians can attend the congress. 2. FBI & Statistics Canada 2018 5 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

FROM THE EDITORS

BY STEVEN L. LEWIS, MD, EDITOR, Painful Truth) is also used as a thoughtful AND WALTER STRUHAL, MD, CO-EDITOR analogy to the author’s view of the current situation in the country. e would like to welcome all In the President’s column, WFN neurologists to the July-August President Prof. William Carroll updates W 2019 issue of World Neurology, us on important issues at hand to be the official newsletter of the World decided at this year’s Council of Delegates

Editors-in-Chief Federation of Neurology (WFN). This (COD) meeting that will be held during Steven L. Lewis (Editor) issue includes three well illustrated articles the upcoming XXIV World Congress STEVEN L. WALTE R Walter Struhal (Co-editor) from around the globe reporting from of Neurology (WCN) Oct. 26 in Dubai. LEWIS, MD STRUHAL, MD WFN London Office each country’s involvement and activities Regarding these important issues to be Chester House Fulham Green 81-83 Fulham High St., London SW6 3JA surrounding World Brain Day 2019, decided at the COD, this issue features the accepted at the time. United Kingdom including reports from Turkey, Pakistan, statements from the three cities/countries This issue also features a thank-you Tel.: +44 (0)20 3542 1657/1658 Fax: +44 (0)20 3 542 1301 and the report from Cameroon where the vying for the site of WCN 2023, to be held note from a neurologist from Nigeria to [email protected] World Brain Day theme (Migraine: The within the Americas (in alphabetical order his teachers from Austria who dedicated

WFN OFFICERS by city): Mexico City, Mexico; Montreal, their time to provide him with the benefit President William Carroll (Australia) Canada; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. of their experience and skills in nerve First Vice President Ryuji Kaji (Japan) Secretary General Wolfgang Grisold (Austria) Statements from the candidates for WFN conduction studies and electromyography. Treasurer Richard Stark (Australia) Treasurer and Elected Trustee also appear Finally, we look forward to seeing

ELECTED TRUSTEES in this issue. many of you at the upcoming WCN Riadh Gouider (Tunisia) In the History column, Prof. Peter Oct. 27-31, 2019 in Dubai. Please note the Alla Guekht (Russia) Steven L. Lewis (USA) Koehler discusses two important 17th reminders in this issue for WFN member century figures in the history of the societies to field teams of four—with free CO-OPTED TRUSTEE Jean-Marc Léger, MD (France) science of the brain who provided critical registration—for this year’s sure-to-be- insights beyond that that had been well exciting Tournament of the Minds. • REGIONAL DIRECTORS Saeed Bohlega (Pan-Arab) James C.Stevens (North America) Franz Fazekas (Europe) Marco Tulio Medina (Latin America) PRESIDENT Man Mohan Mehndiratta (Asian-Oceania) continued from page 1 Mansour Ndiaye (Pan-Africa) There is no doubt that the larger number of EDITOR OF THE JOURNAL The 2023 WCN will be held in the OF THE NEUROLOGICAL SCIENCES delegates increases the range of opinions that are John England (USA) Americas. It will be hotly contested by the Mexican Academy of Neurology offered by delegates on the topics discussed. (Mexico City), the Canadian Neurological Foundation (Montreal), and the Brazilian Society of Neurology (Rio de Janiero). The decision is a crucial matter for the representative requirements, there was an illustrate that these decisions are carefully

WORLD NEUROLOGY, an official publication of WFN as its signature biennial education important additional consideration. This considered before proceeding to the vote. the World Federation of Neurology, provides reports event. The promotional summaries from was whether Kosovo should be regarded It is, in some respects, similar to the due from the leadership of the WFN, its member societ- ies, neurologists around the globe, and news from each member society vying to host the as a separate independent country. In consideration given to the membership the cutting-edge of clinical neurology. Content for WCN are also contained in this issue. order for this to be judged fairly, the of the Hong Kong Neurological Society World Neurology is provided by the World Federa- tion of Neurology and Ascend Integrated Media. During the COD, each contender will Membership Committee sought the views when the Chinese Neurological Society

Disclaimer: Articles in World Neurology represent have 10 minutes to present their case and of the trustees, and more widely, before became a member. As long as the reasons the authors’ personal views and do not necessarily 5 minutes to answer questions from the making a decision. are transparent and do not interfere with represent the opinions of the editors, trustees, or leadership of the World Federation of Neurology or delegates. Kenes, professional conference Essential to these views was whether the function of other member societies, I the publisher. The World Federation of Neurology organizer (PCO) for the WFN, will then Kosovo had the right to apply, whether it feel confident that the COD will make a and Ascend Media will not assume responsibility for damages, loss, or claims of any kind arising present a summary of the pros and was already represented by the Serbian fair decision. from or related to the information contained in cons for each venue, which will be then Society of Neurology and whether it had As mentioned at the commencement this publication, including any claims related to products, drugs, or services. followed by the vote. While not binding access to membership elsewhere, or placed of this report, the Global Neurology

Editorial Correspondence: Send editorial correspon- on the WFN, the vote is usually accepted restrictions on who could be members of Alliance will also meet at 12:30 p.m. on dence to World Neurology, Dr. Lewis at Steven_L. given the democratic principles upon the Kosovo Neurological Society. These Monday, Oct. 28. This is an important [email protected] or Dr. Struhal at walter.struhal@ akh.linz.at. which the WFN functions. matters were considered in detail, and element of the WCN and for international

World Neurology, ISSN: 0899-9465, is published Respect for democratic principles formal and informal opinions solicited from neurology. By combining the views of bimonthly by Ascend Integrated Media 7171 W. is at the heart of a third matter to be other interested parties. The Membership the members of the GNA in the WCN 95th St., Suite 300, Overland Park, KS 66212 Phone +1-913-344-1300 Fax: +1-913-344-1497 subjected to a vote at the COD. It is on Committee deemed that Kosovo was a program and providing a forum for ©2019 World Federation of Neurology the matter of two neurological societies separate country according to the WFN the GNA, the WFN seeks to maintain applying for membership of the WFN. Articles of Association, had satisfied all a working relationship between all the The applications are from the Nepalese requirements for membership, and that in GNA participants. As I have mentioned Society of Neurology and the Kosovo the interests of fairness for it to represent before, the Global Neurology Alliance Neurological Society and will be presented Kosovo neurologists in the WFN, its is essentially a topic-based global at the Council of Delegates. The process application should go forward to the COD organization that strongly complements

PUBLISHING PARTNER to be followed is first a recommendation where the final decision would be made. the national and geographic global Ascend Integrated Media from the Membership Committee to the An important consideration in this structure of the WFN. In so doing, it President and CEO Trustees, which after approval by the decision was that the EAN apparently provides world neurology the flexibility, Barbara Kay trustees, then goes forward to the Council had to decline the same application by expertise, and credibility to address almost Vice President of Content Rhonda Wickham of Delegates to vote on the application. the Kosovo Neurological Society because any global matter requiring the attention

Director of eMedia As judged by the Membership Kosovo did not comply with EAN Bylaws of neurologists. Conrad Stolze Committee, the application from the in not being a WHO “European” country. Central to this meeting of the GNA Project Manager Nepalese Society was straightforward. The This view differed from that of the WFN. In are at least three matters of substance. Amanda Nevala application from the Kosovo Neurological our situation, a country is determined to be The first is the issue raised at the GNA Graphic Design Tim Nord Society presented some challenges. such by the trustees on behalf of the WFN. meeting in Lisbon during the 2018 EAN While the Kosovo Neurological Society is I have taken this time to detail the meeting on the need for the GNA to properly constituted and satisfied all the path that this application has followed to see PRESIDENT page 9 6 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

MIGRAINE: THE PAINFUL TRUTH World Brain Day 2019 in Pakistan

executed by placing video messages and awareness posts in local languages as well as the matter provided from the WFN. World Brain Day posters were placed in almost all the major institutes and departments of neurology in Pakistan. On July 22, under the aegis of the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) in association with the International Headache Society (IHS), NARF celebrated the Fifth Annual World Brain Day with a free migraine clinic and press conference by the renowned neurologists of the country, including Prof. Mohammad Wasay, NARF president; Prof. Aziz Sonawala; former PHS president; and Profs. Arif D. Herakar and Dr. Abdul Malik from the Liaquat College of Medicine & Dentistry in Karachi. In the free migraine clinic, which was held BY DR. ABDUL MALIK, MD, DCN, PGDN, MBA at the Karachi Press Club, a large number of patients attended. They were provided he Neurology Awareness and free consultation as well as provided Research Foundation (NARF) in medications for the prophylactic treatment T Pakistan organized countrywide of migraine. activities to mark the fifth Annual World A unique activity was conducted for Brain Day, with the theme Migraine: The the awareness of migraine in collaboration Painful Truth. Migraine affects one in seven with the students of the Masters for the people and, together with other headache Headache Disorders (MHD) from the Management was held at Liaquat TV shows on migraine for public interest disorders, is one of the leading causes of University of Copenhagen and Danish College of Medicine & Dentistry (LCMD) as well a question-and-answer session disability worldwide. Headache Center in Denmark. This activity in context with #worldbrainday. about migraine signs and symptoms and Besides countrywide awareness was done under the patronage of the Prof. M. Wasay, Prof. Aziz B. Sonawala, treatment. In the Urdu language, an article activities in all four provinces across Prof. Rigmor Jenssen, course director. We and Associate Prof. Dr. Abdul Malik were was published in a local magazine about Pakistan, NARF organized the majority of had prepared and disseminated messages on the speakers. Prof. Rizwan Azami, director the awareness of migraine. its activities in the largest city of Karachi. migraine awareness provided by the WFN. of medical services DSH, and Dr. Rashid In short, a comprehensive advocacy Flyers about migraine were distributed for This included almost 20 videos messages in Naseem Khan, principal LCMD, were campaign for migraine awareness was the general public in the family medicine 16 languages from 14 countries (Colombia, the guests of honor. A large number of executed on the occasion of this year’s clinics. NARF also prepared migraine Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, undergraduate students, postgraduate World Brain Day 2019 in Pakistan, keeping signs/ symptoms/ treatment/ diet and Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Slovenia, trainees, and faculty members attended the in view that migraine is the most common lifestyle modifications awareness mounts, Spain, Sweden, the U.K., and the U.S. interactive session. neurologic disorder that is treatable. • which were placed in 1,000 clinics across On July 31, 2019, a Continuing The awareness activities were covered the country. A month-long Facebook Medical Education (CME) activity on in national and local newspapers as well Dr. Abdul Malik, MD, DCN, PGDN, MBA, is associate campaign as well as Twitter activities were #migraine #thepainfultruth: Diagnosis & as in the electronic media. There were professor of neurology in Karachi, Pakistan.

• treasurer of the Sydney 2005 WCN, WFN Treasurer: Richard Stark which was a huge financial success • treasurer of the Australian Association t has been a great privilege to be extends for some years into the The financial success of of Neurologists (1997-2003) treasurer of WFN since 2015. During future. We must be confident WCN depends largely on the • WCN 2005 took place at a time of I this time, I have been delighted to see that our position is sound (and support from pharmaceutical substantial exchange rate volatility, and the finances of the federation become will remain so) in order to make companies, which depends, in the strategies designed to minimize even stronger. the commitment to support turn, on the stage of commercial adverse impacts of this contributed to WFN’s mission statement is: “… to training for up to four years in development of their products. the financial success of the conference. foster quality neurology and brain health the future. These factors are outside our Subsequent experience as treasurer of worldwide, a goal we seek to achieve by The income stream for control. The management WFN over the past four years (with promoting global neurological education WFN derives in part from RICHARD of the WFN’s finances, the impact of Brexit) has reinforced and training, with the emphasis placed member society fees and STARK therefore, requires an astute the necessity to have funds diversified firmly on underresourced parts of the royalties from the Journal of and flexible approach, efficient in such a way as to minimize volatility world.” Neurological Sciences (which administration, and conservative while not excluding the possibility of I strongly support these aims, and my are both relatively stable), and more estimation of projected income streams. organic growth. experience on the board of trustees for the substantially from the Congress (WCN), My experience over the past four The WFN has a strong tradition of past four years confirms that it is applied which is much more volatile. The years has helped me to have a more efficient use of funds. This relies on the in practice. 2015 meeting in Santiago significantly indepth understanding of these issues generous donation of time from the The role of the treasurer is to advise exceeded expectations, and the Kyoto and should be helpful to the WFN over executive as well as the hard work of the other trustees about the state of meeting in 2017 was an outstanding the next four years. I believe, therefore, administrative staff. This efficiency must the finances, and thus which programs financial success. As treasurer, I must that I have something of substance to continue. If elected to a further term, I can be supported. For example, one of thank all those involved in those offer if elected. undertake to continue to work diligently our current major programs involves meetings for working so hard to ensure I should set out some aspects of my with the executive to ensure that the supporting training in Africa and Latin success. Early projections for Dubai 2019 background that have relevance to the financial management of the WFN allows America. The impact on the budget are positive also. position of treasurer of WFN. These include: it to pursue its aims and objectives. • 7 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019 World Brain Day in Turkey

BY PROF. SEREFNUR OZTURK

he Turkish Neurological Society has been celebrating World Brain Day since 2014. Every year, we follow WFN guidelines and create public awareness by organizing T meetings, public service announcements, and newsletters. This year, we partnered with İstanbul, Besiktas municipality, and organized a meeting about this year’s theme “Migraine: The Painful Truth.” The meeting took place on July 22, World Brain Day, and was open to public attendance. Migraine is a common disorder in our population (reported as one of five women and one of 10 men). Banners were distributed throughout İstanbul promoting the meeting along with powerful support by social media and the national press. We appreciate the WFN for supporting societies with toolboxes and webinars every year. We also encouraged our members to organize World Brain Day events, and this year, many meetings were held across Turkey. Furthermore, we collaborated with the International Headache Society to increase awareness for migraine. •

Prof. Serefnur Ozturk is president of the Turkish Neurological Society. 8 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

MEMOIRS OF AUSTRIA Echos of Kindness BY OSIGWE P. AGABI, MBBS (BENIN), MWACP, FMCP communicating, as I speak no German? ndertaking my residency training I reached for my phone and looked in neurology in Nigeria had its down at the pictures of Profs. Walter U advantages. I got to learn and Struhal and Wolfgang Grisold I had practice in a culture where my expertise downloaded before the journey. It was would be deployed, and the diversity this duo of renowned neurologists who and sheer number of neurological cases had graciously agreed to offer themselves and conditions enabled me to hone my to train me in nerve conduction studies clinical skills. The training also afforded and electromyography at no cost that me the privilege of providing answers informed this journey. I thought about (and some succor, I hope) to patients my family and the neurology unit back at whose conditions had been undiagnosed the Lagos University Teaching Hospital or misdiagnosed, cursorily attributed in Nigeria. I thought most especially to “spiritual” forces in the absence of a about my teacher, mentor, and boss, Prof. logical alternative explanation. This was Njideka Okubadejo who had given her all enabled by the increase in availability to the actualization of this dream and how of some technologies, including lucky I was to have her. I was still in this brain imaging and support laboratory train of thought when I was jolted into They walked me through the rudiments warm and highly knowledgeable, yet diagnostics for those who could afford consciousness by the air hostess who was of NCS and EMG. They loved to teach humble. He had some teaching sessions them. waiting to take my order of refreshment. and made the process seamless. I with me at the KFJ hospital in Vienna. Despite these, however, one gaping I arrived in Vienna and headed straight cannot forget the patients who offered Before this experience, nerve void was the absence of expertise and for the University Hospital in Tullin where themselves freely to this exercise so I and muscle ultrasonography was a technology for electromyography and Prof. Struhal is head of neurology. Prof. could learn. I was glad to observe sessions distant reality for me. nerve conduction study (EMG/NCS) Struhal is a kind gentleman with a calm of transcranial magnetic stimulation, I also had the rare privilege of visiting testing. Four decades prior was the last disposition. I was taken to my apartment fiber-optic endoscopic evaluation of Prof. Michaela Auer-Grumbach, a time my training center had functioning that contained most of what I was going swallowing, and some autonomic nerve renowned neurogeneticist who added the EMG/NCS, and the combination of to require for the period of my stay. testing, among others. icing on the cake for me. Before long, my competing financial commitments and The next day, I was formally Twice every week, I commuted 32-day visit had come to an end. lack of expertise ensured this was not introduced to the neurology department by train to Vienna to catch up with I am overwhelmed by the revived. and completed some administrative Prof. Grisold in his private practice. In unconditional kindness, efforts, and That was until early 2018, when a formalities. Every morning, there was a his office, he laid bare nerve conduction support of Profs. Struhal and Grisold good natured alumnus donated EMG presentation of all patients, new and old, and electromyography. He taught with for bringing this dream to reality. This equipment and conducted a preliminary by the consultants with their relevant uncommon dedication and passion, experience has awakened in me a workshop that whet my appetite. About investigations and neuroimaging. I looked making sure I had an untainted restlessness to develop that which I have the same time, serendipity brought my forward to this exercise every morning understanding of the concepts. He taught acquired and to impart to others after mentors together at the EAN regional not only for its robust intellectual nature me many secrets that only years of me. Yes, St. Augustine was right when teaching course in Ouagadougou, and but also for the demonstration of genuine practice could bring. He had sessions with he opined that “the world is a book, and discussions ensued that culminated in the patient empathy. I was received warmly me as the patient. It is a great privilege to those who do not travel read only one opportunity to begin my formal training by all. I observed the team spirit, astute have been tutored by him. I will forever page.” • in EMG/NCS in Austria. dedication to duties of all, both young and remain grateful. As I sat down on the Lufthansa flight old. Prof. Grisold wanted me to broaden bound to Vienna from Lagos, Nigeria, The synergy between doctors, nurses, my horizons on my many spheres of my thoughts wandered. What would and other support staff was exemplary. neurology. He reached out to many of his Osigwe P. Agabi, MBBS (BENIN), MWACP, FMCP, Austria be like? What will this experience I worked closely with Drs. Andreas colleagues, including Dr. Stefan Meng, is a consultant physician and neurologist in the be? Will I achieve my objectives? Will the Seiser and Brigit Riemer who were the a radiologist with expertise in nerve and neurology unit of Lagos University Teaching Hospital weather be kind? Will I have problems neurologists in charge of neurophysiology. muscle ultrasonograpy. Dr. Meng was in Nigeria. 9 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019 Statement for Elected Trustee t has been a tremendous privilege the WFN Education Committee re-elected as trustee, I look forward to serving as elected trustee of the for the last six years, I have become continuing to help the WFN achieve I World Federation of Neurology integrated into the critical workings its mission via continued partnership (WFN). In my current roles as WFN of this organization in with national, regional, and trustee, chair of the WFN Education education, training, and international neurologic societies The 2019 World Congress Committee, and editor of World practice of neurology and disease-based organizations, of Neurology will bring together Neurology, I am indebted to this around the globe. I have and the WHO; optimizing our leading scientists, public health organization and the opportunities learned so much from our current regional teaching centers experts and policymakers to it has provided me to help achieve its talented staff, my esteemed for neurologic training—now translate recent momentous mission to foster quality neurology colleagues on the many four African training centers scientific advances into actions. and brain health worldwide via the WFN committees and and one in the Americas, with promotion of global neurologic related organizations, and plans for other region(s) as well; Join us this Oct. 27-31, education and training. all of the co-trustees up STEVEN L. growing our department visit in Dubai and: My initial involvement with the to the president(s) whom LEWIS, MD programs, which have recently • Hear the latest advances WFN occurred coincident with my I have been so privileged included wonderful partnerships in Neurology appointment by the American Academy to work with. Their with many European countries • Enjoy a stimulating program of Neurology (AAN) as editor-in-chief knowledge and expertise have been for African trainees, and one in the full of cutting-edge workshops, of Continuum. This joint program of the invaluable in my continued personal Americas for South American trainees; sessions and courses WFN and the AAN (and its publisher development and improving my increasing awareness of travel and • Take part in engaging Wolters Kluwer) provides print and effectiveness to our organization. In research grants for young neurologists debates leading to fruitful online access to Continuum to user groups my additional role as World Neurology from low- and lower-middle income collaborations from more than 40 neurological societies editor, I have had the privilege to help countries; and continuing to react • Experience Dubai, where high from low- and lower-middle income report on news about neurology and quickly to novel regional or global end style and architecture countries. I have appreciated being neurologists worldwide, a role that I neurological issues or threats as they meets the Old World charm. involved as our two organizations work cherish continuing as well as honing . arise. • Our esteemed experts helming closely together to provide this resource In my roles and experiences with I would be honored to be re-elected the WCN 2019 scientific for participants who would otherwise be the WFN, I have continued to meet so as WFN trustee, and if so, I pledge to program will undoubtedly offer unable to obtain it, including recent and many remarkably talented neurologists continue to faithfully serve our delegates a great educational experience. ongoing collaborative efforts to improve worldwide. I continue to be impressed and member neurologists for the mutual and enhance this important global by the similarities among us all, despite goal of improved neurological access Don’t miss this opportunity! educational program. differences in resources and access to and the highest quality of neurology and REGISTER TODAY As WFN trustee and as chair of care within and between regions. If neurological health worldwide. •

PRESIDENT Circadian Rhythm” by Russell Foster; CAMEROON programs and head of the neuroscience lab, FMBS- “Gene Therapy and Neurodegenerative UYI, and past president of PAANS, WFN delegate for continued from page 5 continued from page 3 Diseases” delivered by Sarah Tabrizi; Cameroon and emeritus regional director for Africa of formulate its role in raising the awareness “Brain-Machine Interfaces” by Miguel candle, rather than curse the darkness of the World Federation of Neurology. of brain health. The second is to report Nicoleilis; and “The Promise of the Brain the migraine in Cameroon through the on the success of the 2019 World Brain Initiative for Those With Neuro/Mental/ celebration of Brain Week in Cameroon References

Day and to deliberate on themes and Substance Abuse Disorders” by Walter and World Brain Day. BRAIN plans to 1. Schneider ME. PAANS: Reaching out to future partnerships for World Brain Day 2020 Koroshetz. cover all of the 10 administrative regions neurologists, Success seen in African outreach. and beyond. The WFN has previously Each day will feature main topic of Cameroon in the next edition of Brain World Neurology, vol. 24, No. 1 February partnered with a major topic group like lectures on stroke, epilepsy, dementia, Week in Cameroon and World Brain Day 2009, pp1 &4. www.wfneurology.org

the World Stroke Organization and the demyelinating diseases, movement and to consolidate and spread this concept 2. Johnson-Hanks J. Education, Ethnic- International League Against Epilepsy and disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and and strategy for the promotion of brain ity, and Reproductive Practice in Cameroon this year with the International Headache headache. Interspersed are numerous health in the region. Population 2003/2 (Vol. 58) DOI : 10.3917/ Society. Third, the GNA will be asked to teaching course sessions, free paper Since it has been said that every cloud popu.302.0171 Pages 153 – 179.

contribute to the 2021 WCN in Rome and sessions, and poster sessions—all has a silver lining, BRAIN hopes that 3. Akinyemi R, Yepnjio F, Njamnshi AK. Neurosci- how best to incorporate activities and providing a lively interactive environment. the WFN and other partners such as the ence in Africa: raising the next generation and topics from the GNA members. The Tournament of the Minds, featuring World Brain Alliance will find an interest changing attitudes towards epilepsy: IBRO Finally, by the time this issue of teams of four, will provide a wealth in supporting BRAIN in its vision and (2008) brain campaign funds Pre-PAANS con- World Neurology is on your device, of clinical learning in a good-natured, mission so that as a team, we can work gress 2008, Yaoundé, Cameroon. http://www. the program will have been finalized competitive spirit. The program will be together toward the preventive treatment braincampaign.org/Pub/Pub_Main_Display. on the World Congress of Neurology WCN Congress app-based and social of the migraine in Cameroon, Africa, and asp?LC_Docs_ID=3740 (accessed December 5, website. The WCN will provide daily media platforms and the internet will the world, thus promoting brain health. • 2008). highlights throughout the Congress, be accessible throughout the Congress 4. Aarli JA, The President’s annual report: Out- teaching courses, and cutting-edge topics including a twitter wall. Readers should note that articles in World reach and Exchange. World Neurology, vol. 24, delivered by expert lecturers. Notable The 2019 WCN promises to be an Neurology represent the opinions of the author No. 1 February 2009, pp6. www.wfneurology.org among these are several plenary lectures outstanding event, and the WFN is most and not necessarily the view of the World 5. Naeije G, Yepnjio FN, Bissek AC, Tabah EN, such as “The Battle to Beat Parkinson’s grateful to all those who have worked to Federation of Neurology. Tatah G, Fonsah JY, Fogang Y, Kuate C, Dachy Disease” by Patrick Brundin; “Sleep and make it so. • B, Njamnshi AK. Yield of training exchanges Alfred Kongnyu Njamnshi, MD, MA, DMS, FMH is between Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. Acta professor of neurology and neuroscience, faculty of Neurol Belg. 2013 Mar; 113(1):31-4. As long as the reasons are transparent and do medicine and biomedical sciences at the University 6. Brain Research Africa Initiative, BRAIN has a of Yaoundé I, (FMBS-UYI), Yaoundé, Cameroon. new Fellow of the European Board of Neurol- not interfere with the function of other member He is also the founder and executive director of the ogy, https://brainafrica.org/brain-has-a-new- societies, I feel confident that the COD will make Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Geneva, fellow-of-european-board-of-neurology 2019. Switzerland, and Yaoundé, Cameroon. He is head 7. World Federation of Neurology, World Brain Day a fair decision. of the neurology department at the Yaoundé Central 2019, Migraine: The painful truth. https://www. Hospital, chair of neurology-neuroscience training wfneurology.org/world-brain-day-2019. 10 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

HISTORY Critical Minds on the Brain in the 17th Century

BY PETER J. KOEHLER

number of medical students of human and animal bodies in A the 17th century demonstrated a critical attitude toward the knowledge that was taught in books and by their teachers. Although inspired by the new mechanistic or iatrophysical physiology of René Descartes (1596-1650), they not only questioned the anatomical and physiological views of previous generations of anatomists and physicians (including Thomas Willis), but also Descartes’ own ideas. In this essay, I will discuss two of these critical young men. Swammerdam’s nerve-muscle preparation from the posthumously published Bybel der natuure of historie der insecten [Bible of nature or history of insects] (1737).

respiration, the student also had to study (frog) muscles and found that touching Title page of Descartes’ De Homine (1662). the nerve, even of a frog leg disconnected from the body, produced muscle found that many of his ideas were contractions. speculative. Mathematician/physicist and Like Stensen, he realized this was not astronomer Christiaan Huygens (1629- in accordance with the idea of spirits 1695), for instance, found that mechanical being conducted by (hollow) nerves to the laws, upon which Descartes founded muscles. He observed similar phenomena his physics, were not correct. Descartes while studying the diaphragm of living obviously had put into perspective the dogs. How could this be explained by Steno (by Justus Sustermans; public significance of observation as the senses material sent to the muscle from the domain). were fallible, but this seemed to be truth brain so fast? Therefore, he devised an also for the power of reason. ingenious experiment with a muscle-nerve Danish Student Discovering a Duct The criticism increased by the preparation in a glass tube, by which he One was born and raised in Copenhagen, posthumous publication of Descartes’ was able to prove that no material was Denmark, where one of his teachers, book on the functions of the human body, blown into the muscle upon contraction the physician Thomas Bartholin (1616- Tractatus de Homine (1662). Descartes had at all. His experiment stirred amazement, 1680) advised him to go to Holland, in written the discourse already in 1632, but and several colleagues, including Stensen, As there is no existing portrait of particular Amsterdam. Armed with a did not publish it, fearing the inquisition visited his Leiden room, where he, Jan Swammerdam, the title page of his Historia letter of recommendation from Bartholin, (as Galilei had experienced in Italy, 1632). Swammerdam (1637-1680), as some of Insectorum Generalis ofte Algemeene Verhandeling van de Bloedeloose Dierkens the young man was welcomed by Gerard Descartes had written his discourse to you may now have realized, demonstrated [General treatise of the bloodless animals] Blaes (Blasius, 1627-1682) who gave him show that the function of the human body this and other experiments. Stensen told (1669) is shown here. lodging, a frequent custom at the time, could be comprehended in mechanistic Bartholin about what he had seen in and taught him anatomy. terms, controlled by the brain by means springtime of 1663. The relationship was soon disturbed, of the nervous system. Clearly, Swammerdam and Stensen when the young man discovered a new had a kindred spirit, both believing in anatomical structure in the head of a Dutch Student Making their own critical insights to come to new sheep, notably the duct of the parotid a Nerve-Muscle Preparation knowledge, not merely accepting the salivary gland that became eponymously This inspired Stensen. He decided to ideas of previous generations. In this way, related with his name: Niels Stensen study the structure and physiology of the Stensen, experimenting with animals, (Steno, 1638-1686). His teacher Blaes, brain. He soon found that the old idea found that the heart was a muscle and not at several occasions, tried to turn the of spirits conducted by nerves to control an organ that produced heat. discovery to his own advantage. A few the muscles, an old Galenic concept, months later, Stensen continued his was difficult to prove. Around the same Criticizing Willis and Descartes studies at Leiden University, where he was time, another Leiden medical student Another subject Stensen wished to study taught by Johannes van Horne (1621-1670) worked on the same problem. Son of was the anatomy and function of the and Frans deleBoë (Sylvius, 1614-1672); an Amsterdam pharmacist, he started brain. He experienced it was difficult to his name is remembered in the term his medical studies in Leiden in 1661, deduct its function from the anatomy. He Sylvian fissure, both considered modern doing research on respiration with Frans reacted critically, when Thomas Willis’ professors, stimulating practical research, deleBoë. The old view was still that the (1621-1675) Cerebri anatome was published in contrast to the men of learning, who function of the lungs was to cool the (1664). Although it contained accurate kept to the old philosophy of Aristoteles. blood. According to Galen, the heart had anatomical plates (by Christopher Wren), Although the new philosophy an innate warmth, with which organisms and Willis described the well-known of Descartes, who had stayed in the were born and which was the source arterial circle (now known by the name Thomas Willis’ Cerebri Anatome (1664). Netherlands for a large part of his career, of body warmth. DeleBoë changed the circle of Willis) at the base of the brain, had inspired him as well as many other view based on his iatrochemical ideas, suggesting its function (“The joynings scholars, and his world view incited study effervescence by the combination of acid together of the Carotides, in most living of the individual phenomena, Stensen and alkaline substances. Working on see HISTORY page 11 11 WWW.WFNEUROLOGY.ORG • JULY/AUGUST 2019

HISTORY sincere & publique, que ie n’y connois continued from page 10 rien » [Instead of promising you to satisfy your curiosity, with respect to the brain; Creatures, are made about the Basis of the I here have to confess sincerely and in Skull under the Dura Mater…”), Stensen public that I do not know anything about was particular critical about his speculative it]. discussion of the function of the brain. He ended the lecture by presenting Both Descartes and Willis still adhered suggestions how to continue research. to the concept of spiritus animalis, being The brain should be described accurately conducted by the ventricles and nerves, paying attention to all its aspects, the first explaining it in a mechanical way including anatomy, embryology, (iatrophysical physiology), the second comparative anatomy, function, etc. by chemical (iatrochemical physiology). “Dans les animaux vivans, il y a a He believed the little progress that had considerer toutes les choses que peuvent been made with respect to the knowledge causer quelque alteration aux actions du Section from the review of Steno’s Discours in Transactions of the Royal Society of brain function was due to the fact cerveau, soit qu’elles viennent du dehors, (September 20, 1669). that most physicians used the ancient comme les liqueurs, les blessures, les doctrines as points of departure, rather medicamens ; soit que les causes soient de Medici), both interested in science, his life, he studied insects often using small than critically describing what was internes, commes les maladies, dont la founding the Accademia del Cimento microscopes that he made himself. He observed, although he realized that the medecine compte un grand nombre » [In [Academy of Experiments] in 1657. Here, died in 1680 (age 43). His first biographer methods available to study the brain were living animals, one may consider all things he published his Elementorum myologiae (Leiden professor Herman Boerhaave) insufficient due to its soft structure. that may cause any change to the actions specimen, including detailed descriptions of published his Bybel der natuure of historie These and other comments, Stensen of the brain, whether they may come the structure and contraction of muscles der insecten [Bible of nature or history presented in a lecture on the anatomy from outside, as fluids, injuries, medicines; (1667). The work, however, was severely of insects] in 1737, in which we find the of the brain in Paris (1665, then 27 years or be it internal causes, as diseases of criticized by Mayow, Borelli, Bernoulli, experiments described above. • old and already well-known), at wealthy which medicine counts a large number]. and Boerhaave. amateur scientist and patron of many The publication was commented upon Interestingly, both Stensen and Literature scientists Melchisédech Thévenot’s (1620- in the Transactions of the Royal Society Swammerdam never practiced medicine. Kardel T. Steno. Life – Science – Philosophy. Acta 1692) group. It was published only in 1669 (September 20, 1669) in which we find They made a religious turn in their lives. Historica Scientiarum Naturalium et Medicinalium. (350 years ago) with the title Discours a three-page summary, containing the Although born in an orthodox Lutheran 1994;42:1-159. sur l’anatomie du cerveau (à Messieurs de sentence “Next, he entertains the reader family, Stensen converted to Catholicism Kooijmans L. Gevaarlijke kennis. Inzicht en angst l’Assemblée de chez Monsieur Thevenot). He with an enumeration of the chief errors in 1667. Later, he became a priest and in de dagen van Jan Swammerdam. [Dangerous started the lecture in an unusual way: of anatomists touching the brain. And bishop in northern Germany. He died in knowledge. Insight and fear in the days of Jan “Au lieu de vous promettre de contenter here he examins particularly the Systemes Schwerin in 1686 (age 48). Swammerdam Swammerdam] Houten, Bohn, Stafleu Van Loghum, votre curiosité, touchant l’Anatomie du of dr. Willis and Monsieur Des Cartes.” became depressive, possibly related to a 2007 Cerveau; ie vous fais icy une confession Stensen as well as Swammerdam were long-lasting conflict with his father on Stensen N. Discours sur l’anatomie du cerveau à both sponsored by Thévenot, and the providing means of sustaining life, but also Messieurs de l’Assemblée de chez Monsieur Theve- three worked together in 1665. Stensen by doubts about his future and a possible not. Paris, Robert de Ninville, 1669. moved to Florence in 1666, where he marriage. He became a member of the Swammerdam J. Bybel der natuure of historie der stayed with the Grand Duke of Tuscany, religious community of mystic Antoinette insecten [Bible of nature or history of insects]. Ferdinando II) and his brother (Leopoldo Bourignon (1616-1680). The last years of Leiden, Severinus et al., 1736

GET YOUR TEAM TOGETHER AND PARTICIPATE IN A GLOBAL FUN EXCHANGE OF IDEAS

Join the Tournament of Minds for a chance to win free* registration for the 2019 World Congress of Neurology in Dubai.

The Tournament of the Minds is a unique Steno’s Discours sur l’anatomie du cerveau opportunity for WCN 2019 participants to: (published 350 years ago in 1669). • Interact with colleagues • Test intellectual tenacity • Demonstrate national pride, while competing in country teams

Teams of 4 will take part in a knockout competition, to answer questions on a range of neurological topics based on clinical cases from around the world.

Review the guidelines and enter the competition.

* Free registration to the WFN 2019 Congress will be offered to the 4 people per team. Delegates will need to first register and pay - after their nomination is confirmed they will be reimbursed. From Steno’s Discours (1669). ACCELERATING THE PACE OF CHANGE

TAKE PART IN THE TOURNAMENT OF THE MINDS The Tournament of the Minds is a unique opportunity for WCN 2019 participants to interact with colleagues, test intellectual tenacity, and demonstrate national pride, all while competing in country teams. As such, the aim of the Tournament of the Minds is to provide an experience that is both educational and entertaining for participants, integrating various aspects of neurology.

This year, when your WFN member society signs up your team, you will receive free registration to WCN 2019 in Dubai. The winning team of the tournament will also receive free registration for our next congress in 2021.

The full details are available on the Congress website: www.wcn-neurology.com

Start building your team.