Ajay Kumar Rana | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Contribution to Forensic Biology Award

Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Contribution to Forensic Biology Award

Central Forensic Science Laboratory | India

Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana is a highly accomplished forensic biologist and Scientist-B at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory, Hyderabad, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, India, with over a decade of expertise in DNA analysis, serology, and forensic molecular biology. He earned his Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi/Central Drug Research Institute, where he conducted pioneering work on methyltransferases of Wolbachia endosymbionts and anti-filarial drug development, followed by postdoctoral training at the Israel Institute of Technology (Technion-IIT) focusing on tRNA methyltransferases and ribonucleases. Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana’s professional journey spans roles from Scientific Assistant to Assistant Director (Biology) at the State Forensic Science Laboratory, Jharkhand, and now leadership of the DNA/Biology Division at CFSL Hyderabad, where he manages NABL-accredited laboratories, oversees quality compliance, and supervises forensic sample analysis. He has reported over 750 cases, attended more than 35 crime scenes, and mentored numerous scientific assistants and law enforcement personnel in forensic protocols. His research integrates molecular biology, DNA methylation, and advanced forensic genetics, including strategies for extracting DNA from challenging samples, contributing to both theoretical knowledge and practical forensic applications. Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana has published 12 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, accumulating 208 citations with an h-index of 8, as indexed in Scopus, in journals including Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (2013), Frontiers in Genetics (2016), and Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences (2018). Recognized with prestigious awards including the DST-SERB International Travel Award, CSIR fellowships, and national competitive selections, Dr. Rana exemplifies scientific excellence, innovation, and dedication to advancing forensic biology.

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Featured Publications

Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2013). Current drug targets for helminthic diseases. Parasitology Research, 112(5), 1819–1831.

Rana, A. K., & Ankri, S. (2016). Reviving the RNA world: An insight into the appearance of RNA methyltransferases. Frontiers in Genetics, 7, 99.

Rana, A. K., & Kumar, N. (2023). Current wildlife crime (Indian scenario): Major challenges and prevention approaches. Biodiversity and Conservation, 32(5), 1473–1491.

Rana, A. K. (2018). Crime investigation through DNA methylation analysis: Methods and applications in forensics. Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 8(7), 38.

Kushwaha, S., Singh, P. K., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2011). Cloning, expression, purification and kinetics of trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase of filarial parasite Brugia malayi. Acta Tropica, 119(2–3), 151–159.

Kumar, N., Yadav, V. K., & Rana, A. K. (2017). Wildlife forensic: Current techniques and their limitations. Journal of Forensic Science & Criminology, 5(4), 402.

Singh, P. K., Kushwaha, S., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2014). Cofactor independent phosphoglycerate mutase of Brugia malayi induces a mixed Th1/Th2 type immune response and inhibits larval development in the host. BioMed Research International, 2014, 590281.

Kushwaha, S., Singh, P. K., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2013). Immunization of Mastomys coucha with Brugia malayi recombinant trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase results in significant protection against homologous challenge infection. PLoS ONE, 8(8), e72585.

Yongyi Yan | Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Yongyi Yan | Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Henan University of Science and Technology | China

Prof. Dr. Yongyi Yan, Professor of Control Science at Henan University of Science and Technology, has devoted over 15 years to advancing robust control and intelligent optimization for industrial and autonomous systems, demonstrating a rare blend of theoretical excellence and practical impact. He has authored 65 publications, including influential articles in IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering and SCIENCE CHINA Information Sciences, accumulating 506 citations with an h-index of 10, reflecting his work’s high recognition and application in both academia and industry. Professor Yan has led multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China projects (U1804150, 62073124, 12571584), supervised three PhD graduates, and served as associate editor for Control Engineering Practice. His pioneering contributions include an adaptive robust control algorithm that reduces oscillation by 40% in high-precision machining and an AI-driven optimization framework (patents ZL2021 1 0419210.4 and ZL202110418903.1) that decreases energy consumption by 18% in automotive assembly lines, now adopted by leading manufacturers. His collaborations with Luoyang Sanwu Cable Group have resulted in significant breakthroughs in high-conductivity aluminum stranded wire cable production, integrating multi-machine coordination, dynamic compensation, and laser-guided visual positioning to enhance efficiency, product quality, and equipment control. By bridging fundamental research with industrial applications, Professor Yan has advanced smart manufacturing, autonomous navigation, and process optimization. His sustained innovation, leadership, and scholarly achievements exemplify research excellence, making him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award for transformative contributions to control science and engineering.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Li, X., Yan, Y., Yue, J., & Zhang, S. (2025, September). Algebraic insight into universal logic functions and implications for logical system modeling.

  • An, Z., Yan, Y., Yue, J., & Li, X. (2025, May). Construction of automaton observer based on matrix semi-tensor product. In Conference proceedings.

  • Wang, X., Yan, Y., Yue, J., & An, Z. (2025, May). Construction and synchronization analysis of state power set automata based on algebraic methods. In Conference proceedings.

  • Dong, C., Yan, Y., Li, H., & Yue, J. (2024, November). Semi-tensor product approach to controllability, reachability, and stabilizability of extended finite state machines.

  • Zhang, S., Yan, Y., Hao, P., & Yue, J. (2024, October). Structural simplification of finite state machines using pruning operators based on semi-tensor product of matrices. In Conference proceedings.

  • Zhang, S., Yan, Y., Wang, C., & Yue, J. (2024, October). Implementation of automaton product networks: From formal language to algebraic models. In Conference proceedings.

  • Yan, Y., Hao, P., Yue, J., & Feng, J. (2024, October). An STP look at logical blocking of finite state machines: Formulation, detection, and search.

  • Yan, Y., Dong, C., Li, H., & Yue, J. (2024, July). Algebraic implementation of extended finite state machine networks.

Long Chang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Long Chang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Peking Union Medical College Hospital | China

Dr. Long Chang is an accomplished physician and clinical researcher whose career demonstrates excellence in patient care and significant contributions to hematology. He currently serves as an Attending Physician at the Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China, building upon his medical training at Peking Union Medical College, Tsinghua University. His research focuses on rare hematologic disorders, particularly myeloproliferative neoplasms and histiocytic diseases, with emphasis on improving diagnostic precision, expanding therapeutic strategies, and enhancing patient outcomes. According to Scopus (Author ID: 57225110413), Dr. Long Chang has authored 39 publications, which have collectively received 165 citations across 152 documents, reflecting the impact of his work, and holds an h-index of 6. He has published influential studies in leading journals including Leukemia, EClinicalMedicine, Oncologist, and Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. His work has advanced treatment options for Rosai-Dorfman disease and Langerhans cell histiocytosis while also providing novel insights into gamma heavy chain disease. Notably, his clinical trials have introduced promising approaches such as low-dose cytarabine and novel immunomodulatory therapies, offering alternatives for conditions with limited treatments. Beyond publications, Dr. Long Chang demonstrates commitment to translational medicine by bridging molecular research with patient-centered care. Recognized by peers for his rigor, innovation, and leadership, he has progressed from Resident and Chief Resident to Attending Physician, reflecting both clinical expertise and academic excellence. With impactful contributions influencing practice worldwide, Dr. Long Chang exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated physician-scientist whose work continues to advance the frontiers of hematology.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Chang, L., Zhou, D. B., & Cao, X. X. (2023). Gamma heavy chain disease: A retrospective analysis of 6 cases. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 18(1), 77.

  • Chang, L., Qiao, B., Cai, H., et al. (2023). Clinical phenotypes, molecular analysis, and outcomes of patients with Rosai-Dorfman disease. Leukemia, 37(11), 2297–2300.

  • Chang, L., Lang, M., Lin, H., et al. (2024). Phase 2 study using low dose cytarabine for adult patients with newly diagnosed Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Leukemia, 38(4), 803–809.

  • Chang, L., Lang, M., Liu, T., et al. (2024). Lenalidomide and dexamethasone for Rosai-Dorfman disease: A single arm, single center, prospective phase 2 study. EClinicalMedicine, 73, 102685.

  • Chang, L., Cai, H. C., Lang, M., et al. (2024). Liver involvement with Langerhans cell histiocytosis in adults. The Oncologist. Advance online publication.

Xuegui Wang | Agricultural Science and Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Xuegui Wang | Agricultural Science and Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Sichuan Agricultural University | China

Prof. Dr. Xuegui Wang, Ph.D., is a distinguished professor and doctoral supervisor at Sichuan Agricultural University, widely recognized for his pioneering work in pesticide science, insect resistance management, and sustainable crop protection. With academic training from South China Agricultural University and Huazhong Agricultural University, followed by international collaborations at China Agricultural University and Auburn University, he has combined molecular biology, resistance risk assessment, and CRISPR-Cas9-based methods to advance innovative solutions in agricultural science. His research emphasizes monitoring and managing insect resistance, uncovering molecular resistance mechanisms, and developing green nano-pesticides that enhance efficiency while reducing ecological risks. Dr. Xuegui Wang published 67 documents, accumulated 958 citations from 767 articles, and holds an h-index of 20, according to Scopus (Scopus ID: 36018772500). He has contributed extensively to leading journals such as Pest Management Science, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Chemosphere, and Frontiers in Microbiology, with his studies being widely cited and influencing pest management practices. In addition to his research excellence, he is deeply committed to education, having mentored undergraduate and graduate students who have earned prestigious national awards and produced high-quality publications. Through his leadership in scientific innovation and talent development, Dr. Xuegui Wang continues to make a significant impact on sustainable agriculture and global food security.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Zhang, S. R., Gu, F. C., Du, Y., Li, X. Y., Gong, C. W., Pu, J., Liu, X. M., & Wang, X. G. (2022). Risk assessment and resistance inheritance of triflumezopyrim resistance in Laodelphax striatellus. Pest Management Science.

Gong, C. W., Ruan, Y. W., Zhang, Y. M., Wang, Q. L., Wu, Y. T., Zhan, X. X., He, Y. F., Liu, X. X., Liu, X. M., Pu, J., & Wang, X. G. (2022). Resistance of Sogatella furcifera to triflumezopyrim mediated with the overexpression of CYPSF01 which was regulated by nuclear receptor USP. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 238, 117535.

Gong, C. W., …, & Wang, X. G. (2022). Maf regulates the overexpression of CYP307A1, which is involved in the fitness advantage of bistrifluron-resistant Spodoptera litura (Fab.) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera). Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety.

Ruan, Y. W., …, & Wang, X. G. (2021). Cloning and functional verification of CYP408A3 and CYP6CS3 related to chlorpyrifos resistance in the Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae). Biology, 10(8), 795.

Gong, C. W., …, & Wang, X. G. (2021). Fitness costs of chlorantraniliprole resistance related to the SeNPF overexpression in the Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(9), 5027.

Gong, C. W., …, & Wang, X. G. (2021). The fitness advantages of bistrifluron resistance related to Chitin synthase A in Spodoptera litura (Fab.) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera). Pest Management Science.

Liu, S. H., …, & Wang, X. G. (2021). Fitness costs associated with chlorantraniliprole resistance in Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Pest Management Science.

Ruan, Y. W., …, & Wang, X. G. (2020). Status of insecticide resistance and biochemical characterization of chlorpyrifos resistance in Sogatella furcifera (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) in Sichuan Province, China. Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology, 168, 104723.

Krishna Pada Das | Mathematical Modeling in Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krishna Pada Das | Mathematical Modeling in Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Mahadevananda Mahavidyalaya | India

Dr. Krishna Pada Das, Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Mahadevananda Mahavidyalaya, Barrackpore, India, is a highly accomplished researcher in the field of mathematical biology and dynamical systems. He holds a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Mathematics from the University of Calcutta and a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from Jadavpur University under the guidance of Prof. Joydev Chattopadhyay of the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. His research focuses on predator-prey interactions, plankton dynamics, eco-epidemiological models, and HIV progression, using advanced mathematical tools such as fractional calculus, spatio-temporal dynamics, diffusion processes, delay differential equations, and stochastic analysis. Beginning his career as a Research Fellow at the Indian Statistical Institute, he has since dedicated over a decade to teaching, mentoring, and research leadership at Mahadevananda Mahavidyalaya. His outstanding contributions are evident from his 76 publications, 401 citations across 327 documents, and h-index of 13, as indexed in Scopus. Dr. Krishna Pada Das has published extensively in reputed international journals, including Ecological Modelling, Bio Systems, Differential Equations and Dynamical Systems, and International Journal of Biomathematics, with his works being widely cited and appreciated by the global research community. He has been honored with the ISI Research Award (2006) and qualified the SLET (WBCSC) in 2006, underscoring his academic and research excellence. His innovative approaches to understanding nonlinear dynamics, stability, bifurcation, chaos, and control in biological systems have provided valuable insights for both theoretical and applied research, establishing him as a distinguished scholar and a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

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Featured Publications

Das, K., & Mukherjee, A. K. (2007). Differential utilization of pyrene as the sole source of carbon by Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains: Role of biosurfactants in enhancing bioavailability. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 102(1), 195–203.

Kooi, B. W., van Voorn, G. A. K., & Das, K. P. (2011). Stabilization and complex dynamics in a predator–prey model with predator suffering from an infectious disease. Ecological Complexity, 8(1), 113–122.

Das, C. R., Mondal, N. K., Aditya, P., Datta, J. K., Banerjee, A., & Das, K. (2012). Allelopathic potentialities of leachates of leaf litter of some selected tree species on gram seeds under laboratory conditions. Asian Journal of Experimental Biological Sciences, 3(1), 59–65.

Das, K. P., Kundu, K., & Chattopadhyay, J. (2011). A predator–prey mathematical model with both the populations affected by diseases. Ecological Complexity, 8(1), 68–80.

Ghose, T. K., & Das, K. (2006). A simplified kinetic approach to cellulose–cellulase system. In Advances in Biochemical Engineering (Vol. 1, pp. 55–76). Springer.

Das, A., Ghosh, S., Das, K., Basu, T., Das, M., & Dutta, I. (2020). Modeling the effect of area deprivation on COVID-19 incidences: A study of Chennai megacity, India. Public Health, 185, 266–269.

Nath, B., Kumari, N., Kumar, V., & Das, K. P. (2022). Refugia and Allee effect in prey species stabilize chaos in a tri-trophic food chain model. Differential Equations and Dynamical Systems, 30(3), 631–657.

Das, K. (2011). A mathematical study of a predator–prey dynamics with disease in predator. International Scholarly Research Notices, 2011(1), Article 807486.

Sonja Jahnke | Medicine and Health Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Sonja Jahnke | Medicine and Health Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Group Practice Drs. Jahnke | Germany

Ms. Sonja Jahnke is a promising young physician-scientist whose academic trajectory reflects an exceptional blend of clinical excellence, research productivity, and international engagement in orthopaedics and sports medicine. She completed her medical education at Brandenburg Medical School (MHB), complemented by clinical rotations at Ludwig Maximilian University, University Hospital Brandenburg, and St. Vinzenz Hospital, where she gained comprehensive training in internal medicine, trauma care, orthopaedics, and sports orthopaedics. Since July 2025, she has been serving as a resident physician in training, advancing her clinical expertise while building upon her earlier role as a surgical assistant at Sporthopaedicum Berlin. Her research focuses on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, rehabilitation strategies, and the influence of bracing and muscular strength on functional recovery, bridging biomechanics with patient-centered outcomes. Ms. Sonja Jahnke has authored three peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus, with 34 citations across 34 documents and an h-index of 2, reflecting her growing scholarly impact. Her contributions have appeared in leading journals such as the Journal of Clinical Medicine (2025), Sports Orthopaedics and Traumatology (2023), Efort Open Reviews (2023), and Healthcare Basel (2023), advancing knowledge on ACL rehabilitation, orthopaedic outcomes, and innovative treatment approaches. In addition, she has delivered invited presentations at prestigious international meetings, including ESSKA 2024 in Milan and the Berlin Arthroscopy Course, underscoring her recognition as a dynamic and insightful communicator. Her achievements have been further acknowledged with the Young Investigator Award from Brandenburg Medical School in 2022, highlighting her strong potential as an emerging leader in sports medicine research and clinical practice.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Jahnke, S., Prill, R., Królikowska, A., & Becker, R. (2025, September). Test learning effects influence coordinative but not strength-related tasks in patients six months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

  2. Prill, R., Cruysen, C., Jahnke, S., & Becker, R. (2023, June). Der Einfluss von Bandagen und Orthesen auf die Performance in der Back in Action Testbatterie. Conference Paper.

  3. Diquattro, E., Jahnke, S., Traina, F., & Kopf, S. (2023, May). ACL surgery: Reasons for failure and management.

  4. Jahnke, S., Cruysen, C., Prill, R., & Becker, R. (2023, February). Protocol for a randomized crossover trial to evaluate the effect of soft brace and rigid orthosis on performance and readiness to return to sport six months post-ACL-reconstruction.

  5. Jahnke, S., Becker, R., Królikowska, A., & Prill, R. (2022, August). Manual estimation of hip abductor strength – A practical alternative to conventional assessment tools? Conference Paper.

  6. Jahnke, S., Królikowska, A., Becker, R., & Prill, R. (2022, August). Influence of hip abductor strength on pelvis and knee position during a single-leg landing test. Conference Paper.

  7. Rinaldi, V. G., Prill, R., Jahnke, S., & Becker, R. (2022, August). The influence of gluteal muscle strength deficits on dynamic knee valgus: A scoping review.

Sang-Eun Oh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sang-Eun Oh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Kangwon National University | South Korea

Prof. Dr. Sang-Eun Oh is a leading environmental engineer and biotechnologist at the Department of Biological Environment, Kangwon National University, South Korea, where he serves as Professor and Director of the Environmental Research Center. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering from Gwang-Ju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in 2002, following M.S. and B.S. degrees in Environmental Engineering from Chung-Nam National University. Dr. Sang-Eun Oh gained international research experience as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at The Pennsylvania State University, USA, before joining Kangwon National University in 2006. His research focuses on microbial fuel cells, bioenergy production, wastewater treatment, eco-toxicological monitoring using sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms, and sustainable environmental biotechnology. Over his career, he has led more than 27 completed and three ongoing national and international projects, including pioneering work in microbial electrochemical systems, livestock waste treatment, and hydroponic cultivation technologies. Dr. Sang-Eun Oh has authored 182 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Biodegradation, Journal of Hazardous Materials, Chemosphere, and Sustainability, and holds 26 patents for innovative environmental technologies. He has collaborated with global leaders including Bruce E. Logan’s laboratory at Penn State University, advancing bioenergy generation, green hydrogen production, and microbial bio electrochemical systems. His outstanding contributions have earned him prestigious awards including the Minister of Environment Award, Best Environmental Technology Award, and multiple Best Paper Awards. Recognized for his scientific rigor, innovation, and leadership in clean technology and sustainable environmental solutions, Dr. Sang-Eun Oh exemplifies excellence and is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

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Featured Publications

  1. Min, B., Kim, J. R., Oh, S. E., Regan, J. M., & Logan, B. E. (2005). Electricity generation from swine wastewater using microbial fuel cells. Water Research, 39(20), 4961–4968.

  2. Rahimnejad, M., Adhami, A., Darvari, S., Zirepour, A., & Oh, S. E. (2015). Microbial fuel cell as new technology for bioelectricity generation: A review. Alexandria Engineering Journal, 54(3), 745–756.

  3. Oh, S. E., Min, B., & Logan, B. E. (2004). Cathode performance as a factor in electricity generation in microbial fuel cells. Environmental Science & Technology, 38(18), 4900–4904.

  4. Kim, J. R., Cheng, S., Oh, S. E., & Logan, B. E. (2007). Power generation using different cation, anion, and ultrafiltration membranes in microbial fuel cells. Environmental Science & Technology, 41(3), 1004–1009.

  5. Oh, S. E., & Logan, B. E. (2005). Hydrogen and electricity production from a food processing wastewater using fermentation and microbial fuel cell technologies. Water Research, 39(19), 4673–4682.

  6. Logan, B. E., Oh, S. E., Kim, I. S., & Van Ginkel, S. (2002). Biological hydrogen production measured in batch anaerobic respirometers. Environmental Science & Technology, 36(11), 2530–2535.

  7. Oh, S. E., & Logan, B. E. (2006). Proton exchange membrane and electrode surface areas as factors that affect power generation in microbial fuel cells. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 70(2), 162–169.

  8. Oh, S. E., Van Ginkel, S., & Logan, B. E. (2003). The relative effectiveness of pH control and heat treatment for enhancing biohydrogen gas production. Environmental Science & Technology, 37(22), 5186–5190.

Zhiliang Xu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhiliang Xu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Wannan Medical College | China

Prof. Zhiliang Xu, affiliated with Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China, is a distinguished molecular biologist and epigenetics researcher whose work focuses on histone ubiquitination, chromatin remodeling, and their implications in neurological disorders, cancer, gametogenesis, and cellular reprogramming. He earned his Ph.D. from the State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2017. According to Scopus, Prof. Zhiliang Xu has authored 11 publications, which have been cited 34 times, and he holds an h-index of 4, demonstrating the impact of his research in the scientific community. His seminal studies elucidated the role of H2B ubiquitination in chromatin relaxation during meiosis and cellular reprogramming, published in journals such as Nucleic Acids Research (2016), Cell Proliferation (2021), and Reproduction (2017). His recent work on neuronal repair, gut-liver axis regulation in diabetes, and genomic approaches to thalassemia has been featured in FASEB Journal (2025), Annals of Hematology (2025), and Neuroscience Letters (2025). Prof. Zhiliang Xu leads multiple high-impact national and provincial research projects, serves as a peer reviewer for journals including Scientific Reports and Neurochemical Research, and evaluates theses for graduate and doctoral candidates. Recognized with the 2021 National Maternal and Child Health Science and Technology Award (First Prize), the 2022 Guangzhou High-level Talent Award, and the 2024 Outstanding Young Talent honor in Anhui Province, Prof. Zhiliang Xu continues to advance fundamental understanding of chromatin biology and epigenetic regulation, exemplifying excellence, mentorship, and translational scientific impact, making him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Shi, L., Yan, X., Xia, Y., Zhao, Y., Zhu, X., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). Beyond transfusions and transplants: Genomic innovations rewriting the narrative of thalassemia. Annals of Hematology.

2. Zhang, Y., Wang, J., Huang, S., Liu, M., Zhao, Y., Xu, Z., & Zhu, X. (2025). Electroacupuncture preconditioning alleviates cortical neuronal injury in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion by rebalancing HES1 and NF-κB expression. Neuroreport.

3. Yan, X., Shi, L., Zhu, X., Zhao, J., Zhao, Y., Luo, J., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). From microbial homeostasis to systemic pathogenesis: A narrative review on gut flora’s role in neuropsychiatric, metabolic, and cancer disorders. Journal of Inflammation Research.

4. Huang, S., Lu, Y., Fang, W., Huang, Y., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). Neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinflammation-induced apoptosis. Open Life Sciences.

5. Li, Q., Zhang, L., Sun, Y., Du, Z., Xu, S., Wang, X., Wei, S., Tao, Y., Li, B., Jiang, J., Di, G., Huang, Y., & Xu, Z. (2025). p53 modulates the gut-liver axis via PI3K/AKT/Wnt signaling pathways in type 2 diabetes. FASEB Journal.

6. Li, Q., Yan, X., Zhao, Y., Xu, Z., & Zhu, X. (2025). Paeonol mitigates chronic stress-induced amygdalar neuronal damage through glycogen synthase kinase-3β/calcineurin axis regulation of synaptic plasticity. Neuroreport.

7. Zhu, X., Zhang, Y., Yan, X., Zhao, Y., Shi, L., Sun, Z., Meng, K., Zong, Y., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). Paeonol facilitates the repair of neuronal damage in the mPFC caused by chronic stress via the Rho GTPases-cofilin1 signaling pathway. Neuroscience Letters, 138329.

Alina Lokteva | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Alina Lokteva | Chemistry and Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

ITMO University | Russia

Mrs. Alina Lokteva is an outstanding young scientist whose interdisciplinary expertise in biochemistry, nanotechnology, and hybrid living materials has positioned her as an emerging leader in biomedical innovation. Currently serving as a lecturer and junior scientist at ITMO University, she has successfully integrated microbial biotechnology with material science to pioneer advanced antibacterial and regenerative systems that address urgent challenges in healthcare. With a strong academic background in ecology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, she has built a solid foundation for cutting-edge research on microbial stress responses, nanoparticle toxicity, and biohybrid material development. Scientifically, Mrs. Alina Lokteva has authored five peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus, with a citation record of 62 and an h-index of 4, reflecting both the quality and the growing influence of her work. Her research spans nanoparticle-enhanced antibacterial activity, mechano-bactericidal particles for oral biofilm treatment, magnetic soft robots for biofilm eradication, and probiotic-based biohybrid living materials with regenerative properties, with results published in highly regarded journals including Chemical Communications, Antibiotics, Journal of Materials Chemistry B, ACS Nano, Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry, and Macromolecular Bioscience. Beyond her publications, she has successfully secured more than $120,000 in competitive funding, participated in over five collaborative grant projects, and demonstrated commitment to education by supervising and mentoring students in microbiology and biotechnology. Her international training at Universidade de Vigo strengthened global scientific collaboration, while her recognition as the 2024 Saint Petersburg Young Scientist Award winner highlights her academic excellence.

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Featured Publications

Baburova, P. I., Kladko, D. V., Lokteva, A., Pozhitkova, A., Rumyantceva, V., & others. (2023). Magnetic soft robot for minimally invasive urethral catheter biofilm eradication. ACS Nano, 17(21), 20925–20938.

Otinov, G. D., Lokteva, A. V., Petrova, A. D., Zinchenko, I. V., Isaeva, M. V., & others. (2020). Positive and negative effects of metal oxide nanoparticles on antibiotic resistance genes transfer. Antibiotics, 9(11), 742.

Serov, N., Darmoroz, D., Lokteva, A., Chernyshov, I., Koshel, E., & Vinogradov, V. (2020). One-pot synthesis of template-free hollow anisotropic CaCO₃ structures: Towards inorganic shape-mimicking drug delivery systems. Chemical Communications, 56(80), 11969–11972.

Protasiuk, L. E., Serov, N. S., Lokteva, A. V., Kladko, D. V., Koshel, E. I., & others. (2022). Mechano-bactericidal anisotropic particles for oral biofilm treatment. Journal of Materials Chemistry B, 10(25), 4867–4877.

Lokteva, A. V., Trushlis, E. V., Ivankova, O. V., & Koshel, E. I. (2025). Induction of oxidative hormesis by TiO₂ nanoparticles enhances antibacterial activity of Lactobacillus acidophilus. Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry, 51(4), 1801–1812.

Lokteva, A. V., & Sidorova, N. A. (2018). Ecology of Beggiatoa and its role in the biogeochemical cycle of sulfur in areas of technogenic risk. In Biodiagnostics of the state of natural and natural-technogenic systems (pp. 251–253).

Sidorova, N. A., & Lokteva, A. V. (2018). New approaches to the extraction of metals from multicomponent ores using a consortium of heterotrophic and lithotrophic microorganisms. In Lebedeva Nadezhda Anatolyevna – Doctor of Philosophy in the field (p. 32).

Zhechun Wu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhechun Wu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Chaoyang Hospital | China

Mr. Zhechun Wu is a resident physician in the Department of Urology at Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China, who has established himself as an emerging clinician–scientist combining medical training with impactful research. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Capital Medical University and is currently advancing his clinical expertise through residency while contributing to translational oncology research. His work is focused on prostate cancer, with particular emphasis on identifying therapeutic targets that regulate tumor immunity, a critical area for developing next-generation treatment strategies. Mr. Zhechun Wu has published in reputable international journals, including a recent article in Investigational New Drugs that explored drug targets modulating tumor immune response, a study that has already been cited in related scholarly work, reflecting its scientific significance. His projects are supported by competitive funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China  and the Beijing Natural Science Foundation, highlighting his ability to secure prestigious grants and deliver research with clinical and academic value. Alongside research, his clinical practice in urology, oncology, and kidney transplantation strengthens his understanding of patient-centered challenges, allowing him to align laboratory findings with real-world medical needs. This dual role as physician and researcher equips him to contribute to both advancing cancer therapeutics and improving clinical outcomes, establishing a foundation for future leadership in medical innovation and academic research.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Zhang, Y., Qiu, X., Wu, Z., Li, Y., Shen, X., Wu, J., Cao, P., Sun, Z., & Wang, W. (2025). Comprehensive analysis of the association between volatile organic compound pollutants and chronic kidney disease in hypertensive populations: Insights from multi-omics approaches and identification of potential therapeutic targets. Environmental Research, 121966.

Wu, Z., Li, S., Li, Y., Wang, Z., & Wang, W. (2025). Identifying potential therapeutic targets for prostate cancer with mediating role in tumor immunity. Discover Oncology, 16, 98.

Wu, Z. (2025). Higher sexual frequency correlated with lowered PSA complex levels in U.S. men over 40 and without prostate conditions: A nationwide cross-sectional study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine.