Anna Sójka-Makowska | Medicine and Health Sciences | Forensic Scientist of the Year Award

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Forensic Scientist of the Year Award

Anna Sójka-Makowska
Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
Anna Sójka-Makowska
Affiliation Poznan University of Medical Sciences
Country Poland
Scopus ID 57196022239
Documents 5
Citations 165
h-index 5
Subject Area Medicine and Health Sciences
Event International Forensic Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0002-0193-0491

Anna Sójka-Makowska is associated with the Poznan University of Medical Sciences in Poland and has contributed to interdisciplinary clinical research involving temporomandibular disorders, neurophysiological diagnostics, dentistry, and related biomedical sciences. Her scholarly activities include investigations into temporomandibular dysfunctions, headache disorders, neuroendocrine biomarkers, and patient-centered therapeutic methodologies within modern dental and medical practice.[1] Her publication profile reflects continued academic engagement in diagnostic sciences and clinical assessment methodologies relevant to forensic and health-related research domains.[2]

Abstract

The professional activities of Anna Sójka-Makowska demonstrate sustained involvement in clinical and diagnostic investigations within dentistry and biomedical sciences. Her work has addressed temporomandibular disorders, neurophysiological examinations, headache-associated dysfunctions, and biomarker-oriented clinical studies. Through peer-reviewed publications and collaborative research projects, she has contributed to evidence-based methodologies that support patient diagnostics and interdisciplinary healthcare research.[3] The combination of clinical relevance and analytical rigor supports recognition within the framework of the Forensic Scientist of the Year Award.

Keywords

Temporomandibular Disorders, Dentistry, Neurophysiology, Biomarkers, Clinical Diagnostics, Prosthodontics, Oral Health Research, Forensic Medicine, Medical Sciences, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders.

Introduction

Research involving temporomandibular disorders and associated neurological or psychological conditions represents an important area within contemporary clinical medicine. Anna Sójka-Makowska has participated in studies examining the relationship between temporomandibular dysfunctions, headache disorders, stress-related conditions, and neuroendocrine biomarkers.[4] Her investigations have contributed to the understanding of diagnostic frameworks such as DC/TMD and related clinical assessment methodologies applied in patient-centered healthcare environments.[5]

The interdisciplinary nature of her research reflects collaboration across dentistry, neurology, behavioral sciences, and rehabilitation-oriented medicine. Such integration of clinical knowledge and analytical approaches aligns with the objectives of academic recognition programs focused on healthcare innovation and applied scientific contributions.

Research Profile

Anna Sójka-Makowska serves within the academic and clinical environment of Poznan University of Medical Sciences. Her research profile includes publications in journals related to craniofacial medicine, behavioral sciences, prosthodontics, and neurophysiology. She has participated in investigations concerning temporomandibular disorders among adolescents and adults, clinical examination protocols, patient satisfaction in prosthodontic treatment, and biomarker studies associated with neurological conditions.[6]

According to indexed academic records, her Scopus profile reports measurable citation activity and scholarly visibility within medical and dental sciences.[1] Her work demonstrates consistent involvement in clinically applicable research supported by peer-reviewed dissemination and interdisciplinary cooperation.

Research Contributions

A significant component of Anna Sójka-Makowska’s contributions involves the study of temporomandibular disorders and their relationship with neurological, psychological, and physiological indicators. Her studies have explored stress manifestations, anxiety, and psychosocial influences associated with temporomandibular dysfunctions in clinical populations.[7]

Recent investigations have focused on biomarkers including Nesfatin-1 and Ghrelin/GOAT in adolescent headache and epilepsy-related studies. These projects contribute to ongoing scientific discussions concerning neuroendocrine regulation, pain mechanisms, and diagnostic biomarkers relevant to neurological and craniofacial disorders.[8]

  • Clinical investigations into temporomandibular disorders and patient diagnostics.
  • Research on neuroendocrine biomarkers associated with headache and epilepsy conditions.
  • Comparative studies involving DC/TMD and RDC/TMD diagnostic methodologies.
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration linking dentistry, neurology, and behavioral sciences.
  • Peer-reviewed dissemination in clinical and biomedical journals.

Publications

Selected scholarly publications associated with Anna Sójka-Makowska include peer-reviewed articles, literature reviews, conference papers, and clinical studies relevant to dentistry and medical sciences.[9]

  • Is there a relationship between psychological factors and TMD? — Brain and Behavior (2019). DOI:
  • Temporomandibular disorders in adolescents with headache — Advances in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (2018). DOI:
  • Relations between the results of complex clinical and neurophysiological examinations in patients with temporomandibular disorders symptoms — CRANIO (2017). DOI:
  • Comparison of Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) and RDC/TMD — IRONS Journal (2016).
  • Nesfatin-1 and Ghrelin/GOAT as Potential Biomarkers in Adolescent Headache with Temporomandibular Disorders — Journal of Medical Science (2025).

Research Impact

The academic impact of Anna Sójka-Makowska’s work is reflected through citation activity, collaborative publications, and participation in clinically oriented biomedical research. Her studies have addressed practical diagnostic challenges within dentistry and craniofacial medicine while also contributing to broader discussions involving pain disorders, neurophysiology, and behavioral health.[10]

Research concerning temporomandibular disorders and neuroendocrine biomarkers carries importance for both diagnostic sciences and patient management frameworks. The integration of clinical examinations with evidence-based analysis supports scientific advancement within healthcare disciplines and contributes to ongoing improvements in interdisciplinary diagnostic methodologies.

Award Suitability

Anna Sójka-Makowska demonstrates professional and academic characteristics relevant to the objectives of the Forensic Scientist of the Year Award. Her involvement in diagnostic research, clinical methodologies, and biomarker-based investigations illustrates a commitment to scientific rigor and interdisciplinary healthcare research.[11]

The combination of indexed publications, citation visibility, collaborative investigations, and contributions to patient-oriented diagnostics supports consideration for scholarly recognition. Her research profile reflects continued engagement with scientifically relevant issues that intersect clinical medicine, dentistry, neurophysiology, and evidence-based diagnostic practice.

Conclusion

Anna Sójka-Makowska has established a research portfolio centered on temporomandibular disorders, clinical diagnostics, neurophysiological assessment, and interdisciplinary medical investigations. Her scholarly contributions within dentistry and health sciences demonstrate consistency in research activity and participation in clinically applicable scientific studies.[12] Through publications, collaborative projects, and analytical clinical research, she represents a suitable candidate for recognition within international scientific award frameworks.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Anna Sójka-Makowska, Author ID 57196022239. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57196022239
  2. ORCID. (n.d.). Anna Sójka-Makowska ORCID Profile.
    https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0193-0491
  3. Sójka, A., et al. (2017). Relations between the results of complex clinical and neurophysiological examinations in patients with temporomandibular disorders symptoms. CRANIO.
    https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08869634.2017.1290907
  4. Sójka, A., et al. (2018). Temporomandibular disorders in adolescents with headache. Advances in Clinical and Experimental Medicine.
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323644581_Temporomandibular_disorders_in_adolescents_with_headache
  5. Sójka, A., Pilarski, J., & Hędzelek, W. (2021). Description of the methodology for clinical examination of patients with temporomandibular disorders according to DC/TMD classification. Dental Forum.
  6. ResearchGate. (n.d.). Anna Sójka publication and research overview.
  7. Sójka, A., et al. (2019). Is there a relationship between psychological factors and TMD? Brain and Behavior.
  8. Sójka, A., et al. (2025). Nesfatin-1 and Ghrelin/GOAT as Potential Biomarkers in Adolescent Headache with Temporomandibular Disorders. Journal of Medical Science.
  9. Sójka, A., et al. (2016). Comparison of Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) and RDC/TMD in Evaluation of Temporomandibular Disorders. IRONS Journal.
  10. Poznan University of Medical Sciences. (n.d.). Department and Clinic of Prosthodontics research activities.
  11. International Forensic Scientist Awards. (n.d.). Award recognition and academic excellence framework.
  12. Sójka, A., et al. (2026). Comparison of the effectiveness of psycho-behavioral-relaxation and occlusal splint therapy in the treatment of myalgia. Dental and Medical Problems.

Odayme Quesada | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Odayme Quesada | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

University of Cincinnati, The Christ Hospital | United States

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Odayme Quesada is a clinician-scientist specializing in women’s cardiovascular health, with a strong focus on coronary microvascular and vasomotor dysfunction (CMVD), ANOCA, and MINOCA. Her research integrates innovative diagnostic strategies and targeted therapeutic approaches to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women. She has authored 78 Scopus-indexed publications, achieving 1,615 citations and an h-index of 22. Her scholarly contributions include high-impact journal articles, book chapters, and leadership in multicenter clinical trials. She has advanced specialized research programs and contributed significantly to understanding sex-specific cardiovascular risk factors and disease mechanisms.

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Chunmei Qin | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Chunmei Qin | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Luzhou People’s Hospital | China

Dr. Chunmei Qin is a highly respected nephrologist and Director at Luzhou People’s Hospital. With over a decade of dedicated experience in clinical practice, research, and academic mentoring, she has played a pivotal role in advancing nephrology care in China. Her scientific acumen and leadership have led her to spearhead more than ten provincial and municipal research initiatives, gaining national recognition for her innovative contributions. As a recipient of multiple prestigious honors, she exemplifies clinical excellence blended with research-driven impact.

Author Profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Dr. Chunmei Qin brings over a decade of comprehensive clinical, academic, and research experience in nephrology, making her a competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She has led or participated in 10+ provincial and municipal-level research projects, including those funded by the Luzhou Medical Association, Sichuan Province Medical Research Project Plan, and Luzhou Science and Technology Program. Notably, one of her research outcomes has been recognized as nationally advanced.

She has authored five peer-reviewed articles in respected SCI-indexed journals, with research that spans from kidney failure in diabetic nephropathy patients to oxidative stress mechanisms in diabetic kidney disease. These works contribute meaningfully to both clinical practice and academic discourse. Additionally, she has received multiple accolades, including:

  • Outstanding Young Paper Award by the Sichuan Medical Association.

  • Outstanding Contribution Award by the Municipal Health Commission.

Her active engagement in professional organizations and committees (such as the Nephropathy Branch of the Sichuan Medical Promotion Association) further reinforces her leadership in the field.

🎓 Education

Dr. Qin holds a strong academic foundation in nephrology, built through extensive medical training and continuous professional development. Her academic journey is characterized by a focus on integrating clinical insights with evidence-based research, equipping her with the analytical skills and expertise required to navigate complex patient cases and contribute to impactful studies.

🏥 Experience

Currently serving as Director at Luzhou People’s Hospital, Dr. Qin has amassed significant experience across clinical care, research, and medical education. Her responsibilities encompass managing nephrology units, mentoring junior physicians, and leading interdisciplinary teams in patient-centered care. Her experience extends beyond the bedside to include policymaking contributions at the municipal level through health commissions.

🔬 Research Interests On Medicine and Health Sciences

Dr. Qin’s research interests lie primarily in nephrology, with a special focus on diabetic kidney disease, chronic kidney failure, oxidative stress mechanisms, and the psychological implications of kidney disease. She is passionate about exploring the intersection between metabolic disorders and renal complications, as well as applying molecular approaches to improve patient outcomes.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Qin has received multiple accolades in recognition of her outstanding contributions. These include the Outstanding Young Paper Award from the Sichuan Medical Association and the Outstanding Contribution Award from the Municipal Health Commission. Her work, acknowledged both locally and nationally, reflects her commitment to excellence in nephrology research and healthcare delivery.

📄 Publications

Dr. Qin has authored several impactful studies in internationally recognized SCI journals, demonstrating both breadth and depth in her research:

  1. Qin, C., Wu, Y., Zou, Y., et al. Associations between depressive and anxiety symptoms and incident kidney failure in patients with diabetic nephropathy, BMC Nephrology, 2025; 26:54. Cited by multiple nephrology scholars for its clinical relevance.

  2. Qin, C., Wang, Y., Zhao, L., et al. Clinical and pathological features of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes, biopsy-proven diabetic kidney disease, and rapid eGFR decline, Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes, 2022; 15:2847–2856. Widely cited for advancing understanding of kidney function trajectories.

  3. Qin, C., Yin, D., Liu, F., et al. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in a patient on long-term alpha-interferon therapy: a case report, BMC Nephrology, 2023; 24(1):143. Referenced in case studies on rare renal pathologies.

  4. Zhang, R., Qin, C., Zhang, J., et al. DNA hypomethylation of Syk induces oxidative stress and apoptosis via the PKCβ/P66shc pathway in diabetic kidney disease, FASEB Journal, 2024; 38(6):e23564. Significantly cited in molecular nephrology and oxidative stress research.

  5. Qin, C., Li, G., Yuan, Y., et al. Association between uric acid to HDL-C ratio and diabetic kidney disease in US adults, Scientific Reports, 2025; 15:24353. Cited for its epidemiological insights on metabolic markers.

Qianghua Lv | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Qianghua Lv | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Dr. Qianghua LV is an Associate Researcher at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine (IASVM), Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (SAAS). He earned his Ph.D. in Veterinary Pharmacology under the mentorship of Prof. DENG Xuming at Jilin University in 2020. His research focuses on developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting bacterial virulence factors, including bacterial hemolysin, Type III Secretion System (T3SS), and Type IV Pili (TFP). His work contributes significantly to understanding anti-infective mechanisms and advancing new drug development against bacterial infections.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • High-Impact Research Focus – Dr. LV Qianghua’s work on anti-infection mechanisms and natural compound-based drug development aligns with global health priorities, particularly in combating superbacterial infections. His research on bacterial virulence factors like hemolysin, T3SS, and TFP contributes to the development of novel antimicrobial strategies.

  • Quality Publications in Reputable Journals – He has multiple first-author and co-first-author publications in high-impact journals, such as Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. These papers focus on novel antibacterial mechanisms and natural product inhibitors, demonstrating both innovation and scientific rigor.

  • Translational Impact – His research not only advances basic microbiology but also holds significant translational potential in developing new antibacterial therapies, an area of urgent medical need due to rising antibiotic resistance.

  • Collaborative and Multi-Disciplinary Approach – His collaborations with researchers across multiple disciplines (pharmacology, microbiology, and veterinary medicine) enhance the applicability of his findings beyond veterinary science, benefiting both animal and human health.

  • Contribution to Veterinary Medicine – As an Associate Researcher at the IASVM, SAAS, Dr. LV contributes significantly to veterinary pharmacology, a field essential for both agricultural and public health. His work has implications for livestock disease management and food safety, making it highly relevant for both academia and industry.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Veterinary Pharmacology, Jilin University, 2020
    • Advisor: Prof. DENG Xuming
    • Research Focus: Anti-infection mechanisms of natural compounds targeting bacterial virulence factors

💼 Experience

  • Associate Researcher, IASVM, SAAS (2020–Present)
    • Conducting research on antibacterial strategies targeting virulence factors
    • Screening natural compounds for inhibitory effects on bacterial infections
    • Developing new therapeutic agents against superbacterial infections

🔬 Research Interests On Medicine

  • 🦠 Discovery and screening of novel targets and lead compounds against superb acterial infections
  • 💊 Synergistic antibacterial effects and mechanisms of natural compounds and antimicrobial agents

📚 Selected Publications

  • Title: Inhibition of the type III secretion system by syringaldehyde protects mice from Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium
    Authors: Lv Q(#), Chu X(#), Yao X, Ma K, Zhang Y*, Deng X*
    Publication Year: 2019
    Journal: Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine

  • Title: Identification of the natural product paeonol derived from peony bark as an inhibitor of the Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium type III secretion system
    Authors: Lv Q(#), Li S(#), Wei H, Wen Z, Wang Y, Tang T, Wang J, Xia L*, Deng X*
    Publication Year: 2020
    Journal: Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

  • Title: Phloretin potentiates polymyxin E activity against Gram-negative bacteria
    Authors: Du R(#), Lv Q(#), Hu W, Hou X, Zhou Y, Deng X, Sun L, Li L, Deng Y, Wang J
    Publication Year: 2021
    Journal: Life Sciences

  • Title: Commercialized artemisinin derivatives combined with colistin protect against critical Gram-negative bacterial infection
    Authors: Zhou Y, Liu B, Chu X, Su J, Xu L, Li L, Deng X, Li D*, Lv Q*, Wang J*
    Publication Year: 2022
    Journal: Communications Biology

  • Title: Isoflavone glucoside genistin, an inhibitor targeting Sortase A and Listeriolysin O, attenuates the virulence of Listeria monocytogenes in vivo and in vitro
    Authors: Liu M(#), Lv Q(#), Xu J, Liu B, Zhou Y, Zhang S, Shen X, Wang L
    Publication Year: 2023
    Journal: Biochemical Pharmacology

🔚 Conclusion

Dr. LV Qianghua has dedicated his research to developing innovative antibacterial strategies, focusing on targeting bacterial virulence factors. His contributions in natural compound screening and new drug development have advanced the fight against superbacterial infections. With numerous impactful publications and ongoing research, he continues to make significant strides in veterinary medicine and pharmacology.

Dan Zhao | Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Dan Zhao | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Fellow | Harvard medical school | United States

Dan Zhao, Ph.D., is a distinguished researcher in biochemistry and molecular biology, currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard University. With a strong background in protein quality control, ER-associated degradation (ERAD), and autophagy, Dr. Zhao has made significant contributions to understanding cellular homeostasis mechanisms. His research integrates cutting-edge techniques in cell biology, biochemistry, and structural analysis.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

✅ Outstanding Research Impact: Dan Zhao has made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology, particularly in ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and autophagy. His research has been published in high-impact journals such as Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, Molecular Cell, and Autophagy.

✅ Strong Academic and Research Background: His journey from Peking University to Harvard University, along with his research at prestigious institutions such as the National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS) and Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), showcases his academic excellence.

✅ Breakthrough Discoveries: His identification of Epr1 as the first soluble ER-phagy receptor and his work in ERAD have advanced fundamental knowledge in cell biology, making him a leader in his field.

✅ Recognized Achievements: Multiple awards and honors, including “Outstanding Researcher” at NIBS and a poster award at an International Symposium on Autophagy, highlight his scientific contributions.

✅ Consistent Conference Presentations: Presenting at prestigious international conferences (e.g., Gordon Research Conference, ASCB | EMBO Meeting) underscores his active engagement in the research community.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2011 – 2017)
    Peking University & National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
  • B.A. in Biological Sciences (2007 – 2011)
    Sichuan University, Chengdu, China

🧪 Experience

  • Postdoctoral Fellow (2021 – Present)
    Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University

    • Investigated how the Mnl1/Htm1-Pdi1 complex recognizes misfolded proteins and initiates ERAD.
    • Identified Pdi1 as the key reductase in ERAD.
    • Developed a novel assay for detecting mannosidase activity.

  • Research Associate (2017 – 2021)
    National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China

    • Discovered Epr1, the first soluble ER-phagy receptor.
    • Explored the molecular mechanisms of Epr1 in ER-phagy.
    • Characterized a novel protein, SPBC1685.04, in macroautophagy.

  • Ph.D. Candidate (2012 – 2017)
    Peking University-Tsinghua University-National Institute of Biological Sciences Joint Program

    • Studied PX-BAR family proteins and their role in organelle autophagy.
    • Investigated XRCC4 homologs in fission yeast.

  • Early Research Roles (2010 – 2012)

    • Conducted metagenomic sequencing of Cordyceps Sinensis.
    • Performed single-cell transcriptome sequencing.
    • Researched amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing.

🔬 Research Interests On Biology

  • Protein quality control and degradation
  • ER-associated degradation (ERAD)
  • Autophagy and ER-phagy mechanisms
  • Structural and functional analysis of protein complexes

🏆 Awards & Honors

  • 2017 – Excellent Graduate, Peking University
  • 2015 – Outstanding Researcher, National Institute of Biological Sciences
  • 2015 – Poster Award, International Symposium on Autophagy
  • 2014 – Best Oral Talk, Chinese Fungi Symposium
  • 2013 – Merit Student, Peking University
  • 2011 – Excellent Graduate, Sichuan University

📄 Publications

  • Initiation of ERAD by the bifunctional complex of Mnl1 mannosidase and protein disulfide isomerase

    • Authors: Dan Zhao; Xudong Wu; Tom A. Rapoport
    • Year: 2024

  • Visual detection of binary, ternary, and quaternary protein interactions in fission yeast using a Pil1 co-tethering assay

    • Authors: Zhong-Qiu Yu; Xiao-Man Liu; Dan Zhao; Dan-Dan Xu; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2021

  • Visual detection of binary, ternary, and quaternary protein-protein interactions in fission yeast by Pil1 co-tethering assay

    • Authors: Zhong-Qiu Yu; Xiao-Man Liu; Dan Zhao; Dan-Dan Xu; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2021

  • Atg38-Atg8 interaction in fission yeast establishes a positive feedback loop to promote autophagy

    • Authors: Zhong-Qiu Yu; Ling-Ling Sun; Zhao-Di Jiang; Xiao-Man Liu; Dan Zhao; Hai-Tao Wang; Wan-Zhong He; Meng-Qiu Dong; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2020

  • Epr1, a UPR-upregulated soluble autophagy receptor for reticulophagy

    • Authors: Dan Zhao; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2020

  • A UPR-Induced Soluble ER-Phagy Receptor Acts with VAPs to Confer ER Stress Resistance

    • Authors: Dan Zhao
    • Year: 2020

  • Atg20 and Atg24 family proteins promote organelle autophagy in fission yeast

    • Authors: Dan Zhao
    • Year: 2016

  • Genome-wide Screens for Sensitivity to Ionizing Radiation Identify the Fission Yeast Nonhomologous End Joining Factor Xrc4

    • Authors: Dan Zhao
    • Year: 2014

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Dan Zhao’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of protein degradation and autophagy. His discoveries, including the role of ER-phagy receptors and ERAD pathways, contribute to fundamental biological processes with implications for diseases like neurodegeneration. As a leading scientist in the field, his work continues to shape our understanding of cellular homeostasis.