International conference on Cannabis and Medicinal Research November 15-16, 2018 Osaka Japan

Biography:

Samantha received her Master of Science degree from the University of Guelph studying Molecular and Cellular Biology. Her experience investigating human physiology and cellular biology has allowed her to develop sophisticated laboratory and project management skills that contribute to Avicanna Inc’s (Toronto, Canada) competitive edge in the department of Research and Development. Samantha has been published on several different occasions and has lead various conferences and presentations related to plant gene manipulation, cloning and most relevant, the foundations and use benefits of medicinal cannabis.

Abstract:

Cannabis has long been acknowledged for its therapeutic contributions to natural medicine and, historically, the plant has demonstrated a wide variety of positive effects in the treatment of a number of chronic, as well as acute, medical conditions such as those associated with pain and nausea.  With the stigma towards cannabis becoming less prevalent, more and more scientific minds are shifting their focus towards the study of individual chemical compounds found within the plant.  In particular, research relating to the cannabinoids Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) have started to generate supporting evidence of the therapeutic benefits for specific medical indications. However, as research unveils the medical applications of THC and CBD, there still remains an incredulous lack of information – A paucity that is particularly relevant to the actual delivery mechanisms of cannabinoids across submucosal membranes and physiological barriers including skin, and intestinal linings.  As such, modern scientific advancements have begun harbouring novel technologies that may partition cannabinoids in such ways that pertain to specific ailments using unique formulations for immediate or sustained release.  Together, these advancements are providing insights that not only optimize the absorption of cannabinoids, but also assist in revealing the therapeutic potentials of cannabis and its chemical constituents. 

Biography:

Regina Nelson is President of The eCS Therapy Center a national non-profit organization. She is also the C.E.O. of Integral Education & Consulting, LLC which is leading a Sexual Health and Cannabis study launching in 2018. As an international educator, Nelson’s mission is to demystify the endocannabinoid system and normalize the nutritional use of cannabis through education of clinical and public audiences. The Plant a Seed for Cannabis Education Tour founded in 2017 is scheduled to visit more than 20 U.S. and International cities in 2018. The first portion of the tour celebrates the release of “Time for the Talk: Talking to Your Doctor or Patient about Medical Cannabis.” On July 11^th Dr. Nelson will release an updated and expanded edition of Nelson’s book, “The eCS Therapy Companion Guide” entitled “The Survivor’s Guide to Medical Cannabis” at the Hanf Museum in Berlin, Germany.

Abstract:

This presentation represents a unique and innovative opportunity for research and analysis. The creative, mixed-methodology of the study takes advantage of both quantitative and qualitative data, allowing integral theory’s framework to analyze data from large pools of self-selected participants, including consumers of novel cannabis products. The use of narrative theory is a pedagogical approach that will provide a reflective and interpretive methodology for making sense of stories and experiences shared by consumer respondents, and for bringing clarity to clinical quantitative data sets. This sexual function and health study will focus on critical areas in need of review: emotional and physical satisfaction with and without a partnered sexual relationship; satisfaction with sexual health and function; and the importance of sex, sexual function and health to quality of life. Further, this study seeks to understand how introducing novel cannabis products designed for sexual enhancement and health affect consumer respondents’ sexual experiences. The presenter, the principal investigator in the mixed methods study will provide a broad overview of this new research and methodological approach, including the study’s design, research questions, and initial data. 

Biography:

Dr. Jeremy Riggle received his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Idaho in Moscow, ID, after being awarded a M.S. in Environmental Chemistry also from the University of Idaho and a B.S. in Biology from Eastern Oregon University in La Grande, OR. He then worked in the Division of Atmospheric Sciences at Desert Research Institute in Reno, NV, where he focused on the characterization and source apportionment of carbonaceous particulate matterFollowing his time at DRI, he worked in the Food Safety and Environmental Stewardship laboratory at Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR, a toxicology lab where he concentrated on the environmental fate of Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons. More recently, Dr. Riggle was an associate professor of chemistry in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at his alma mater, Eastern Oregon University.

Shortly after arriving at EOU, Dr. Riggle co-founded EOA, a cannabis research and quality control laboratory and, prior to joining Mary’s, spent the past several years focusing on the analytics of cannabis, its associated compounds and various cannabinoid formulations.

Abstract:

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS), discovered at the end of the twentieth century, is a G-protein coupled receptor system involved in a number of physiological processes including pain sensation, metabolism, immunomodulation and inflammation. The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), primarily found in the central nervous system, and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), found predominantly in the lymphatic system. In addition to CB1 and CB2 receptors, there are also endocannabinoids and associated enzymes responsible for their synthesis and degradation that the body produces naturally. Phytocannabinoids have been found to modulate and influence ECS tone, with the two most well known compounds being D-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). This receptor system, including the endocannabinoids and their synthesis/degradation enzymes, is also found in virtually all human skin cell types, indicating a significant role of the ECS in skin pathophysiology. In this presentation the potential role of phytocannabinoids for treating different skin conditions will be discussed. The challenges and obstacles to their use in cosmetic products, including regulatory hurdles, chemical compatibility issues, specific cannabinoids for certain indications and appropriate dosing will also be covered.        

Biography:

Jeremy Riggle received his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Idaho in Moscow, ID, after being awarded a M.S. in Environmental Chemistry also from the University of Idaho and a B.S. in Biology from Eastern Oregon University in La Grande, OR. He then worked in the Division of Atmospheric Sciences at Desert Research Institute in Reno, NV, where he focused on the characterization and source apportionment of carbonaceous particulate matter.

Following his time at DRI, he worked in the Food Safety and Environmental Stewardship laboratory at Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR, a toxicology lab where he concentrated on the environmental fate of Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons. More recently, Dr. Riggle was an associate professor of chemistry in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at his alma mater, Eastern Oregon University.

Shortly after arriving at EOU, Dr. Riggle co-founded EOA, a cannabis research and quality control laboratory and, prior to joining Mary’s, spent the past several years focusing on the analytics of cannabis, its associated compounds and various cannabinoid formulations.

Abstract:

Biography:

Eva Milz, Medical Practice for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy.

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Biography:

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Biography:

Emily Rigby completed a Bachelor of Science (Hons) at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia. Emily is Director of Research Programs for the Australian Institute for Medical Cannabis (AIMC), is a not-for-profit research organisation committed to open science research into medicinal cannabis, building awareness and sharing knowledge  and Director of Research and Compliance for Cannatrek Medical, a fully licensed Australian medical cannabis enterprise. Emily is President of the Australian Society for Horticultural Science, Director of Protected Cropping Australia and a 2016 Nuffield Australia Scholar. Emily taught scientific research methods at the University of the Sunshine Coast for 8 years.

Abstract:

The cannabis plant has been used for thousands of years to treat neurological indications.  A majority of current users, source the plant and self-medicate.  PTSD diagnosis results from an inability of sufferers to properly process traumatic events.  There is a 600% increase in suicide risk among acute sufferers and many die with the condition.  The negative impact is trans-generational and cost to community and country are enormous. The Australian Institute for Medical Cannabis (AIMC) believes one of the most at-risk groups are sufferers from PTSD.   Medicinal Cannabis (MC) legislation recently introduced in Australia allows research and use of MC to treat wide range of diseases in humans. A number of at-risk groups have been identified in the community for clinical trials.

Current PTSD treatment regimes for military veterans claim over 80% success rates, although the suicide statistics tell another story.  Around the world, PTSD related suicides among this group tend to heavily outnumber battlefield casualties. An estimated 8% of the population suffer PTSD symptoms.  Although some research has been done with cannabis to treat PTSD, evidence of its efficacy is inconclusive.  AIMC proposes a 12 month MC study involving diagnosed PTSD patients.  The study aims to test the efficacy of various genetic of MC in the treatment of PTSD and correlate current patient use with reaction analytics from existing and new patient data bases. Our aim is to develop an alternative treatment of PTSD, that may promise a better quality of life to diagnosed PTSD patients and their families.

Biography:

Dr. Felice writes and develops educational materials, including instructional videos, for cannabis education curricula for academic institutions and private businesses such as Seattle Central College, and Medical Marijuana 411, a nationally recognized cannabis educator.  His CME cannabis courses for doctors and pharmacists have now been translated into three languages.  He is available for speaking and training seminars for both industry and academia.  Dr. Felice continues to develop and write continuing education classes for physicians and nurses, including for the American Academy of Cannabinoid Medicine (AACM) and the Washington Association for Naturopathic Physicians (WANP) and Medical Marijuana 411.   Dr. Felice is one of the few industry experts in the area of topical cannabis.

Dr. Jake F. Felice is an accomplished naturopathic physician with extensive experience in cannabinoid therapeutics and medical cannabis consultations.  He is licensed to practice medicine in the states of Washington and California.  Dr. Felice provides ongoing education to industry in Washington State which is required by law for cannabis professionals to obtain medical consultant certifications through the Washington State Department of Health.

Dr. Felice writes and develops educational materials, including instructional videos, for cannabis education curricula for academic institutions and private businesses such as Seattle Central College, and Medical Marijuana 411, a nationally recognized cannabis educator.  His CME cannabis courses for doctors and pharmacists have now been translated into three languages.  He is available for speaking and training seminars for both industry and academia.  Dr. Felice continues to develop and write continuing education classes for physicians and nurses, including for the American Academy of Cannabinoid Medicine (AACM) and the Washington Association for Naturopathic Physicians (WANP) and Medical Marijuana 411.  Dr. Felice has recently been invited to be the featured speaker at the WANP for this year’s conference focusing on clinical approaches to cannabis in the management of chronic pain.  He is one of the few industry experts in the area of topical cannabis. 

Dr. Felice is a distinguished public speaker on medical cannabis, having participated in numerous expert panels and forums.  He excels at live question and answers on this topic.  His depth of education combined with his extensive public speaking skills enables Dr. Felice to explain the complexities of cannabis science to non-medical audiences.  

As a national cannabis brand ambassador Dr. Felice provides scientific, medical, public relations, product development, and compliance based advice for companies in emerging and existing cannabis markets.  He has consulted for premier cannabis companies including Willie Nelson’s brand, Cannabis Basics, Medical Marijuana 411, Seattle Central College, and The Academy of Cannabis Science.  As a consultant he has advised on the development of specialized medical cannabis products tailored to specific conditions including PTSD, chronic pain, insomnia, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Qualified naturopathic physicians undergo rigorous training before they become licensed health-care practitioners. ND’s perform minor surgeries, such as removing cysts and suturing superficial wounds. They do not practice major surgery.  Naturopathic physicians work in private practices, hospitals, clinics and community health centers. ND’s practice throughout the United States and Canada.  ND’s are trained to utilize prescription drugs, although the emphasis of naturopathic medicine is the use of botanical drugs and natural healing agents.  Unlike most conventional MD’s, naturopathic doctors receive in depth training on botanical drugs and their interactions with pharmaceuticals, in addition to receiving formal education on cannabis the endocannabinoid system (ECS). 

Dr. Felice’s clinical expertise is in the treatment of chronic pain and the improvement of human performance. He is a graduate of, and former adjunct professor of Bastyr University, the world’s leading naturopathic university.  While at Bastyr, he taught Advanced Soft-Tissue Manipulation and Radiographic Lab Interpretation. Dr. Felice earned his undergraduate degree from Penn State University where he played Division I varsity lacrosse and majored in psychology with a focus on the study of peak human performance.

Abstract:

The 600-million-year-old endocannabinoid system (ECS) emerged as an early biological harm-reduction system.  The ECS maintains a constantly adaptive receptor system that functions as a biological scanning system, detecting biochemical information in the extracellular matrix. The ECS is the most dense of all receptor systems in the CNS, performing a myriad of vital functions. All types of cannabinoids protect neurons from multiple insults that produce neuronal death after TBI, including free radical production, neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, and calcium influx.  In humans, ECS coordination is integral to both health promotion and disease prevention. As a stress reduction system, the ECS responds positively not only to cannabinoids, but also to diet, lifestyle, and physical medicine interventions. The variable nature of the ECS dictates a patient-centered dosing paradigm, and necessitates a time-intensive, education-based approach to care.  This presentation takes an evidence based approach highlighting important clinical features of this formerly largely unknown system.

Biography:

Mr. Mark Pinnock is a leading cannabis philosopher and activist for 25 years with a keen knowledge in the field. He has published many works in the world of cannabis through his Yukari Mark Publishing company and is regarded as a chief architect of its social acceptance in Canada for the last 20 years. He is the CEO of the cannabis lifestyle brand Kingston 12 Ganja and a micro licence producer (LP) applicant 

Abstract:

The history of hemp in Japan is rich and royal. Reigniting this majestic bond is most imperative to the burgeoning global hemp Industry spearheaded by Canada and its legalization of cannabis. "Taima"  should now be produced on an industrial scale in the 21st century so Japan spiritual love with the plant can be fully recognize to its potential. According to a published paper in 1916 by the Ise Shrine "jingu Taima" (Cannabis)  should be respected as a symbol of God. Shinto and cannabis have history over 10,000 years old with evidence in Fukui as well the many products produced proved it's significant economic strength that should be a focus for Japan developing in the 21st century. Emperor Hirohito promise to his subjects was kept and those 50 farmers have proven victorious for the once 25,000 strong who before 1948 produced the holy herb. The Cannabis Control Law should be changed with all due respect. With the introduction of Hemp-crete, this new material is the most ideal substance for modern Japan to now explore through scientific earthquake studies. It is stronger than concrete and less expensive to manufacture which makes it a more practical building material in an earthquake prone environment. Most patents for hemp are being obtained by China who is now the main producer of the materials imported into the country.  Cannabis is the fuel of the future and Japan has a role historically cemented to lead the world. A bill to decriminalize cannabis as been presented in the American Senate and Japan should start consider a process of approach to change in the same way.

Biography:

Jonathan Grunfeld completed his medical studies in Tel Aviv in 1996 and went on to specialize in adult neurology. Between 2002 and 2004 he completed a clinical fellowship in neuro-oncology in the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, USA. Upon returning to the Asaf HaRofeh Medical Center he turned to palliative care which he has been practicing since 2005 in the Institute of oncology. In the course of this service he has accumulated experience using cannabis for the alleviation of assorted symptoms in over 4,000 patients

Abstract:

Cannabis has been serving humanity in the management of health related adversities for millennia. However, in the course of the twentieth century it has fallen into disrepute and been formally banished from the realm of legitimate healthcare. It appears that this state of affair is changing one again, with interest growing in the development of cannabis based therapies for multiple indications.

For the present, a prominent gap exists between reliable anecdotal observations of exceptional clinical success and the lack of knowledge on cannabis based clinical applications that complies with standards of modern medical practice.

It is proposed that analysis of the current failure to develop the therapeutic potential of cannabis suggested by the sporadic reports of success could contribute substantially to the exploitation of this potential. Pertinent cases studies will be presented and reviewed with regard to current approaches to the clinical research of cannabis based preparations. These incluse apparent response of neoplasms to highly concentrated cannabis extracts as well as a case of rheumatoid arthritis. Subsequently, insights will be sought regarding necessary measures to promote the study of medical uses of cannabis, as well as obstacles hindering the acceptance and implementation of such uses. An outline of policies derived from this analysis will be drawn and considered for feasibility.

Biography:

Ian Quinn, Founder and CEO, Phyto Animal Health, USA

Abstract:

Hemp isn’t just a source of CBD. Hemp is the answer to promoting health for humans, our pets, and the planet we call home. It is this belief that drives Phyto Animal Health to act with environmental ethics in every decision we make each day. My goal in this keynote address is to inspire audience members and bring hope that smart business practices can help heal our planet.

The Phyto Animal Health brand was created to bring the CBD benefits that humans enjoy everyday to pets and livestock animals. Our products were developed alongside a team of veterinarians to ensure the safety and efficacy of all our products.

More than just a CBD pet brand, however, Phyto Animal Health has embraced our role as stewards of the Earth, working to reduce water use, minimize production of greenhouse gases, curtail landfill waste, and reduce the ecological impact of chemicals like pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. We focus on partnerships with businesses that share these moral obligations in order to further this central tenet of our company’s mission.

Bullet Points:

• Phyto Animal Health is driven by a passion for healing the planet and its human and animal inhabitants with hemp.
• Our products were developed alongside leading veterinarians and CBD experts.
• Phyto Animal Health partners with suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors who share our mission for a healthier planet.
• We focus on the following to protect the environment:
  • Water conservation
  • Elimination of chemicals in our cultivation process
  • Reduction of greenhouse gases
  • Minimization of landfill waste
  • Curbing antibiotic resistance

Biography:

Michael started his Television and film making career in the early 80’s, completing multi degrees of higher education in tv and film production. Michael having been a visual artist most of his life he had no involved or interest in politics or medicine. Life threatening illness and the awareness of how cannabis could help humanity changed Michael’s path. Michael has grass root lobbied for humanin rights, ran for state legislative office several times, and has dedicated his life’s work to a worldwide understanding and legislation of Cannabis.

Abstract:

 For more than a decade I fought for my life. At the peak of my illnesses, I was suffering from an enlarged heart, high blood pressure, morbid obesity (I weight nearly 400 pounds), sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and several other issues leading to a cancer scare. Following doctors’ orders, I went through two operations. The last of which five places in my throat had been removed. After watching friends and family pass away from similar health issues I searched for other ways to heal myself and I found plant medicines. Literally, cannabis saved my life! Dismayed that such plant medicines were illegal or restricted was too much for me to bear. My path became clear. It was time for the truth to be told. I sought out to create positive change. As soon as I was well enough, I grabbed a camera and started documenting the legalization, regulation, and the removal of medical cannabis in Washington state. I've shot hundreds of hours about cannabis and other plant medicines, traveling all over interviewing and documenting doctors, scientist, researchers, patients, and the US politics system. All this work has led to me traveling nationally and internationally sharing what I've learned.

The journey gave me a unique opportunity to observe and learn from so many folks over the last several years. Watching these people change and seeing new information come to light about this amazing plant has been truly inspiring. Join me as I share a small amount of the knowledge that I have acquired. My presentation will include short segments from amazing cannabis presenters such as Brian Two Feathers, Dakota’s Nation spiritual leader, Dr. Mechoulam, Dr. Makriyannis, Dr. Heart, Dr. Sue Sisley. Kevin McKernan, Dr. Sunil Aggarwal, Dr. Ethan Russo, and a few other amazing stories of how cannabis has changed and saved lives. Cannabis is truly a wonderous plant that can help us with our mind, body, and spirit. Much of the video I've captured no one has ever seen and I am very excited to share the stories and the important information I've captured to help create the positive change we wish to see in this world.

Track: Scientific and Medical,Social, Behavioral, Education, and Public Health,Ethics, Regulation, Legalization, and Public Policy,Experiential Knowledge: Research, Teaching, and Learning

Biography:

Lauren de Freitas is currently completing her PhD at the age of 26 years from the University of Toronto with her research conducted at Canada’s leading mental health and addicitions teaching hospital, the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH). She is also a yoga instructor, incorporating her research work into mindfulness-based practices to serve those suffering from mental health and addictions.           

Abstract:

Cannabis is the most widely used substance in the world with Canadian youth aged 15-24 using this substance at a rate three times higher to that of the adult population (24.4% vs. 8.0%). This is especially important when considering the recent growing attention around enacting policy and legislation for the use of cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes especially in North America. There have been conflicting findings in the literature regarding CBD’s efficacy in attenuating delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced adverse effects such as anxiety, paranoia and deficits in cognition as well as cannabidiol (CBD)’s effects on THC’s rewarding properties. Much of the data examining these interactive effects comes from preclinical models. It is imperative to examine CBD’s capability in reducing harms incurred, particularly from vulnerable populations, from THC while still providing the benefits that users seek from cannabis. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature is being conducted to analyze randomized controlled trials that include healthy volunteers and medical populations. Studies that were included compare strains with CBD and THC together to THC-only or high-THC and low-CBD strains (in 2:1 ratio of THC:CBD or lower). Outcome measures being analyzed. Specifically, can CBD attenuate THC-induced adverse effects, including: (1) Subjective effects (wanting and craving of the drug, frequency of use); (2) Physiological effects (heart rate and blood pressure); (3) Cognitive effects (memory, psychomotor and cognitive performance); (4) Psychological effects (positive psychotic symptoms, paranoia, and anxiety). This emerging area of research will inform clinical and policy decisions on the effects ofcannabis for recreational and medicinal purposes