Odayme Quesada | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

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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Fulya Erendor Cihan | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Review Paper Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Fulya Erendor Cihan | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Review Paper Award

Ordu University | Turkey

Dr. Fulya Erendor Cihan is an emerging researcher in gene and cell therapy, with a strong focus on precision gene editing, viral vector systems, and therapeutic strategies for metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. Her work integrates advanced molecular biology techniques with translational research, particularly in diabetes, COVID-19 vaccine development, and neuroprotection. She has contributed to multiple nationally funded research projects and international collaborations, emphasizing lentiviral and adenoviral vector-based therapies. Her research outputs include high-impact journal publications, conference proceedings, and book chapters, reflecting her growing influence in biomedical innovation and experimental therapeutics.

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Gene and cell therapy of human genetic diseases: Recent advances and future directions

– Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 2024 | Cited by: 33

Xuefei Wang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Xuefei Wang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University | China

Prof. Xuefei Wang is a leading researcher in gastric cancer biology and translational oncology, with over 100 peer-reviewed publications and significant citation impact. His work focuses on molecular mechanisms of tumor metastasis, DNA damage repair, and chemoradiotherapy resistance. He has contributed to high-impact journals such as Cell Death & Differentiation and Advanced Science. His research integrates CRISPR-based functional genomics, post-translational modifications, and targeted therapeutic development. He is actively involved in multi-institutional collaborations and serves as a reviewer for international SCI journals. His innovations include peptide-based therapeutic strategies targeting cancer resistance pathways.

View ORCID Profile  View ResearchGate Profile

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Yasaman Salari | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Yasaman Salari | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

University Hospitals Sussex | United Kingdom

Dr. Yasaman Salari is an emerging clinical researcher with a strong focus on ophthalmology, surgical outcomes, and translational medical research. Her scholarly contributions include first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals, notably addressing advanced glaucoma management and breast cancer surgical outcomes. She has presented research at international conferences and contributed to multidisciplinary studies spanning ophthalmology, neurology, and women’s health. Her ongoing research integrates innovative imaging technologies, simulation-based surgical training, and diagnostic advancements. Dr. Yasaman Salari demonstrates expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, contributing to evidence-based clinical practice and advancing patient-centered innovations in ophthalmic and surgical research.

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Gabriella Gould | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Gabriella Gould | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Bond University | Australia

Ms. Gabriella Gould is a dedicated physiotherapist and researcher with a focused expertise in musculoskeletal and vestibular physiotherapy, emphasizing evidence-based clinical assessment and rehabilitation strategies. Her research endeavors explore the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of physiotherapy interventions, with a particular emphasis on musculoskeletal conditions such as rotator cuff tendinopathy. Ms. Gabriella Gould’s most notable contribution is her systematic review on the use of diagnostic ultrasound for assessing rotator cuff tendinopathy, published in Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. This work rigorously synthesizes current methodologies, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of ultrasound as a clinical assessment tool, and provides clinicians with clear, evidence-based guidance for improved diagnostic accuracy. Her research approach integrates clinical insights with scientific rigor, bridging the gap between research evidence and practical physiotherapy applications. In addition to her publications, Ms. Gabriella Gould actively engages with the broader research community through professional memberships, contributing to the development of standardized assessment protocols and evidence-informed practice guidelines. Her research contributions extend to promoting patient-centered care by ensuring that diagnostic and rehabilitation strategies are both effective and accessible. By combining innovative research, systematic evidence evaluation, and a commitment to translational application, Gabriella Gould’s work not only enhances the scientific understanding of musculoskeletal assessment but also drives improvements in clinical practice, optimizing patient outcomes. Her ongoing research interests continue to focus on advancing diagnostic precision, validating therapeutic interventions, and supporting the integration of emerging technologies into physiotherapy practice, establishing her as a rising contributor to evidence-based musculoskeletal and vestibular physiotherapy research.

Profiles: ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publication

Gould, G., Macindoe, C., Wong, J., & Matthews, W. (2025). The use of diagnostic ultrasound for the assessment of rotator cuff tendinopathy: A systematic review. Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology.

Rama Ayash | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rama Ayash | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Damascus University | Syria

Dr. Rama Ayash is a medical advisor, senior lecturer, and scientific researcher specializing in clinical biochemistry, diabetes research, and molecular mechanisms of β-cell apoptosis. Her primary research focuses on the pathophysiological role of cytokines and death receptors in glucose dysregulation and prediabetes, with particular emphasis on the therapeutic effects of DPP4 inhibitors such as sitagliptin. Her recent publications include groundbreaking studies in Scientific Reports, BMC Endocrine Disorders, and the European Journal of Pharmacology, exploring inflammatory cytokine modulation, apoptotic biomarkers (FAS, TNFR1, TRAIL-R2), and their relationship to β-cell dysfunction. Dr. Rama Ayash’s research contributions advance understanding of early diabetic mechanisms, aiding in the development of targeted therapeutic strategies to preserve pancreatic function. She has also supervised diverse clinical and molecular research projects in cardiovascular pharmacology, endocrine biomarkers, and celiac disease diagnostics, demonstrating her interdisciplinary expertise. Her work integrates clinical biochemistry, molecular diagnostics, and translational medicine, contributing to the growing field of preventive and precision diabetology. Dr. Rama Ayash has been an active conference speaker and scientific presenter, sharing insights on cardio-renal pharmacology, metabolic pathways, and biomarker discovery. Her continuing research endeavors aim to bridge laboratory findings with clinical outcomes to enhance diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic efficacy in metabolic diseases.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

• Ayash, R., Kabalan, Y., & Chamaa, S. (2025). Exploring the predictive potentials of IL-1β and TNFR1 in atherogenic risk in prediabetes. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 37369. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-37369

• Ayash, R., Kabalan, Y., & Chamaa, S. (2025). Association of soluble apoptotic biomarkers (FAS, TNFR1 and TRAIL-R2) with β-cell dysfunction in early glucose dysregulation. BMC Endocrine Disorders, 25(1), 218. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12902-025-0218

• Ayash, R., Kabalan, Y., & Chamaa, S. (2025). Sitagliptin reduces cytokine-induced β-cell apoptosis in prediabetes: A six-month interventional study. European Journal of Pharmacology, 177708. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejphar.2025.177708

Xiaowen Mao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Xiaowen Mao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Macau | Macau

Dr. Xiaowen Mao, M.D., Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor at the State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, where she leads translational research on cancer biology, immunotherapy, and tumor microenvironment modulation. She earned her Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Hong Kong and her B.Sc. in Clinical Medicine from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China. Her research focuses on extracellular vesicles, immune homeostasis, metabolic reprogramming in tumors, and hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis, integrating molecular, cellular, and translational approaches. Dr. Xiaowen Mao has led several high-impact projects as principal investigator, funded by the Health and Medical Research Fund, National Natural Science Foundation Young Scientist Fund, and FDCT Innovation and Technology Promotion. Her significant contributions include the development of broadly potent neutralizing antibodies targeting Nidogen 1 to inhibit tumor growth, elucidation of extracellular vesicle-mediated metabolic reprogramming in tumors, and advances in dendritic cell vaccine strategies. She holds a U.S. patent on Nidogen 1 as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma, serves as Guest Editor for Frontiers in Endocrinology, and is an ad-hoc reviewer for multiple high-impact journals. According to Scopus, she has 31 publications, 1,114 citations by 1,010 documents, and an h-index of 20. Dr. Xiaowen Mao’s work bridges fundamental research and clinical translation, delivering innovative therapies and advancing precision medicine in oncology, while demonstrating a profound impact on cancer biology, immunotherapy, and translational research.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Xue, T. M., Yeung, C. L. S., Mao, X. W., Tey, S. K., Lo, K. W., Tang, H. N., Yun, J. P., & Yam, J. W. P. (2025). Development of a broadly potent neutralizing antibody targeting Nidogen 1 effectively inhibits cancer growth and metastasis in preclinical tumor models. Journal of Translational Internal Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1515/jtim-2025-0008

  • Xia, L., Li, C. G., Zhao, J., Sun, Q. C., & Mao, X. W.* (2025). Rebalancing immune homeostasis in combating disease: The impact of medicine food homology plants and gut microbiome. Phytomedicine, 136, 156150. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2025.156150

  • Chen, Z., Yam, J. W. P., & Mao, X. W.* (2024). The multifaceted roles of small extracellular vesicles in metabolic reprogramming in the tumor microenvironments. Proteomics, e2300021. https://doi.org/10.1002/pmic.202300021

  • Lee, K. W., Yam, J. W. P., & Mao, X. W.* (2023). Dendritic cell vaccines: A shift from conventional approach to new generations. Cells, 12(2147). https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12172147

  • Li, S., Delvecchio, M., Ramkumar, K., Mao, X. W., Sun, X. D., & Guo, S. Z. (2023). Editorial: Clinical and genetic determinants of diabetes and complications. Frontiers in Endocrinology.

Haifang Du | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Haifang Du | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine | China

Dr. Haifang Du is an Assistant Researcher at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine and a researcher at the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangzhou, China, specializing in targeted drug delivery, exosome technology, and natural product-based cancer therapy. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2019 and completed a postdoctoral fellowship between 2021 and 2023, focusing on advanced precision therapeutics. Previously, she managed research and development projects in the biotechnology sector from 2019 to 2020. Dr. Haifang Du has led six research projects, including three national and provincial initiatives, and continues to explore molecular strategies for bladder cancer, colon cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis therapy. Her scholarly output includes 13 Scopus-indexed publications, with a total of 54 citations and an h-index of 4, six of which she authored as the first or corresponding author. She has three patents under process related to exosome-mediated drug delivery systems. Among her notable works are Exosome-mediated delivery of natural compounds for cancer therapy (Journal of Controlled Release, 2021, cited by 32 articles), Targeted exosome-based therapeutics in oncology (Theranostics, 2022, cited by 24 articles), and Natural product-based immunometabolic interventions in cancer therapy (Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2023, cited by 18 articles). Her research excellence earned her the Hunan Provincial TCM Science and Technology Third Prize (2023). Through her continuous contributions to translational medicine, Dr. Haifang Du is advancing precision drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy, and promoting the integration of traditional medicine with modern biomedical science to achieve impactful innovation in healthcare.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Du, H., Yu, Y., Yan, X., & Zhang, P. (2025). Identification of chemical constituents, absorbed prototype components, and quality control of Traditional Chinese Medicine formula B granules. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 268, 117176. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2025.117176

  • Huang, X., Wang, X., He, Z., Huang, Y., Hu, B., Chen, W., & Du, H. (2025). Mechanisms, clinical trials, and new treatments for BCG‐unresponsive in nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer. Cancer Medicine, 14(18). https://doi.org/10.1002/cam4.71243

  • Chen, Z., Guo, X., Wu, S., Wang, M., Wu, J., Du, H., Liang, H., Huang, R., & Huang, Q. (2025). Huayu Tongbi formula attenuates rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the HIF1A/VEGFA/ANGPT axis and suppressing angiogenesis. Phytomedicine, 139, 156479. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2025.156479

Xuanlong Chen | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xuanlong Chen | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Fudan University | China

Mr. Xuanlong Chen is a promising researcher in forensic pathology with a strong academic foundation and a growing record of impactful contributions. Known for his dedication and meticulous approach to scientific inquiry, he has already demonstrated significant potential in advancing forensic research. His work combines cutting-edge molecular techniques with practical forensic applications, reflecting both innovation and a commitment to improving diagnostic accuracy in complex medico-legal cases. He has been recognized for academic excellence through multiple scholarships and awards, positioning him as a notable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Mr. Xuanlong Chen completed his Bachelor’s degree at Nanjing Medical University, China, where he developed a strong background in medical sciences and research methodology. Currently, he is pursuing a Master’s degree at Fudan University, focusing on forensic pathology and molecular forensic research. During his academic journey, he has received several university-level scholarships, been honored as an Outstanding Student, and awarded the prestigious National Scholarship, reflecting his consistent dedication to academic and research excellence.

Experience

As a graduate researcher, Mr. Xuanlong Chen has undertaken advanced projects that combine single-nucleus RNA sequencing and machine learning to identify potential biomarkers in sudden unexplained deaths among psychiatric patients. He has contributed to developing predictive identification models for sudden death cases, addressing critical challenges in forensic pathology. In addition, he has conducted comprehensive reviews on rare toxicological phenomena, such as bongkrekic acid poisoning, demonstrating both breadth and depth in his research. Although early in his career, his proactive approach and innovative methods reflect significant research maturity.

Research Interests

His primary research focus is forensic pathology, particularly investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying sudden unexplained deaths. He also explores toxicological studies and the identification of biomarkers for psychiatric-related mortalities. By integrating molecular biology, bioinformatics, and forensic analysis, he aims to develop practical diagnostic tools and predictive models that enhance forensic accuracy and provide valuable insights for medico-legal investigations.

Awards

Throughout his academic career, Mr. Xuanlong Chen has been recognized for excellence through multiple scholarships and university awards, including the highly competitive National Scholarship and several “Outstanding Student” honors. These accolades reflect his consistent academic performance, innovative research approach, and commitment to advancing knowledge in forensic pathology.

Publications

Mr. Xuanlong Chen has published several peer-reviewed articles in internationally recognized journals, reflecting his research contribution and growing scientific impact. His work includes studies on single-nucleus RNA sequencing and machine learning in forensic pathology and comprehensive reviews of toxicological phenomena. Selected publications include:

  • Title: Single-nucleus RNA sequencing and machine learning identify CACNA1A as a myocyte-specific biomarker for sudden unexplained death in schizophrenia
    Journal: Forensic Science International

  • Title: A comprehensive review on bongkrekic acid poisoning
    Journal: Journal of Forensic Medicine

Conclusion

Mr. Xuanlong Chen is a dedicated and innovative researcher whose academic accomplishments, publications, and contributions to forensic pathology exemplify excellence. His work in biomarker identification and toxicological studies demonstrates both scientific creativity and practical relevance, making him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication, forward-thinking approach, and growing influence in forensic research underscore his potential to make significant contributions to the scientific community.

Fatemeh Shirani | Medicine and Health Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani | Medicine and Health Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center | Iran

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani is a distinguished scholar in the field of Nutritional Sciences, renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to clinical nutrition, dietary epidemiology, and metabolic health. She has consistently advanced the understanding of how diet and nutrition influence chronic disease prevention and treatment, with a strong emphasis on obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Through her innovative research and global collaborations, she has established herself as a thought leader whose work bridges scientific evidence with practical dietary strategies for public health. Currently serving at the Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, she has become a role model for women in science through her dedication, mentorship, and international engagement.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani completed her academic journey with distinction in Nutritional Sciences, earning her foundational and advanced degrees from leading Iranian institutions. She further enriched her expertise through doctoral-level research at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, where she focused on the intricate links between nutrition and chronic diseases. Her academic training was complemented by international research at Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia, where she deepened her skills in nutritional biomedicine and clinical research methodologies. This comprehensive educational background provided her with a strong platform to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application in clinical and population-based nutrition research.

Experience

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani has accumulated extensive experience across research, teaching, and scientific service. She has contributed to large-scale community-based projects, such as national nutrition surveys and heart health programs, aimed at improving public health outcomes through evidence-based interventions. As a dedicated educator, she has taught undergraduate and graduate students, instilling in them the principles of basic nutrition, clinical dietetics, and community health. Her expertise extends to laboratory techniques such as PCR and cell culture, which she has applied to translational nutrition studies. Beyond academia, she has actively participated as a reviewer for prestigious international journals, shaping the quality of published science in her field. Her professional journey reflects a balance of teaching, research, community service, and scientific leadership.

Research Interests

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani’s research interests lie at the intersection of nutrition, epidemiology, and chronic disease management. She is deeply invested in exploring obesity and weight-loss strategies, nutritional interventions for diabetes and metabolic disorders, and the role of diet in preventing cardiovascular disease. Her work also investigates the emerging field of “infectobesity,” examining the connections between viral infections and obesity. By employing systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials, she provides high-quality evidence that informs dietary recommendations and policy guidelines. Her studies not only address the biological mechanisms of nutrition-related diseases but also emphasize the translation of findings into practical interventions for populations at risk.

Awards

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani has been widely recognized for her contributions to nutritional sciences, particularly her ability to merge clinical expertise with public health perspectives. Her nomination for the Women Researcher Award reflects her outstanding achievements in advancing women’s representation in scientific leadership and her sustained impact on global nutrition research. She has consistently demonstrated excellence through her publications, conference presentations, and active participation in national and international nutrition societies. This recognition highlights not only her scientific accomplishments but also her commitment to mentoring young researchers and fostering collaborative networks across borders.

Publication

Dr. Fatemeh Shirani has produced a rich body of work that has been widely cited in international literature. Selected publications include:

Title: Effects of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)-style diet on fatal or nonfatal cardiovascular diseases incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal: Nutrition
Published on: 2013
Citation: 482

Title: The effect of dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet on weight and body composition in adults: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Journal: Obesity Reviews
Published on: 2016
Citation: 308

Title: Effects of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on some risk for developing type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis on controlled clinical trials
Journal: Nutrition
Published on: 2013
Citation: 288

Title: The role of magnesium in sleep health: a systematic review of available literature
Journal: Biological Trace Element Research
Published on: 2023
Citation: 104

Title: Is phase angle a valuable prognostic tool in cancer patients’ survival? A systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature
Journal: Clinical Nutrition
Published on: 2021
Citation: 98

Title: Vinegar consumption can attenuate postprandial glucose and insulin responses; a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Journal: Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
Published on: 2017
Citation: 95

Title: Effects of concentrated pomegranate juice on subclinical inflammation and cardiometabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes: A quasi-experimental study
Journal: International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism
Published on: 2016
Citation: 55

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Fatemeh Shirani stands as a leading figure in nutritional sciences whose contributions have advanced both research and practice in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Her ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical dietary strategies has had a lasting impact on public health. With her strong publication record, global collaborations, and dedication to mentorship, she exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding woman researcher. Her nomination for the Women Researcher Award reflects not only her academic excellence but also her leadership, vision, and commitment to improving health outcomes through nutrition science.