Huai-Jen Tsai | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Institute of Life Science, Fu-Jen Catholic University | Taiwan

Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai is a distinguished molecular biologist whose research spans developmental biology, marine biotechnology, and gene transgenesis in aquatic organisms, with a particular focus on zebrafish and other finfish models. He has pioneered innovative sperm-mediated and electroporation-based gene transfer systems, enabling highly efficient transgenesis in finfish and shellfish, and has significantly advanced understanding of growth hormone regulation, gonadotropins, rhodopsins, and muscle-specific transcription factors, thereby contributing to both vertebrate developmental biology and aquaculture applications. Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai’s work bridges fundamental molecular biology and applied biotechnology, investigating molecular mechanisms regulating embryonic development, stress responses, and neural regeneration, including studies on ENDOU-mediated translation regulation and the role of extracellular proteins in promoting neurite outgrowth and spinal cord repair. He has authored 162 documents indexed in Scopus, which have been cited over 5,174 times by 4,191 publications, and he holds an h-index of 36, reflecting the high impact and wide recognition of his contributions in the scientific community. Throughout his career, Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai has received numerous prestigious awards, including the MOST Outstanding Research Award, Y. Z. Hsu Technology Invention Award for a patented zebrafish gene fragment, and multiple NSC Outstanding Research Awards, and he has served as principal investigator on numerous funded research projects. In addition, he contributes extensively as a reviewer and editorial board member for international journals. His research continues to integrate molecular genetics, developmental studies, and biotechnological innovation, establishing him as a leading authority in aquatic molecular genetics, transgenic technologies, and regenerative biology, and underscoring his influential role in advancing both basic science and translational applications in vertebrate and aquatic systems.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  • Lee, H.-C., Huang, Y.-H., Hsieh, C.-C., Ke, Y.-N., & Tsai, H.-J. (2025). ENDOU-1-induced cytoplasmic HnRNPA3 recognizes m6A methylation on the upstream reading frame of human CHOP transcripts to achieve maximal CHOP translation. Preprint.

  • Lee, B.-C., Tsai, J.-C., Huang, Y.-H., Wang, C.-C., Lee, H.-C., & Tsai, H.-J. (2024). The 419th aspartic acid of neural membrane protein enolase 2 is a key residue involved in axonal growth of motor neurons mediated by interaction between enolase 2 receptor and extracellular Pgk1 ligand. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(19), 10753.

  • Lee, H.-C., Chao, H.-T., Lee, S. Y.-H., Lin, C.-Y., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). The upstream 1350~1250 nucleotide sequences of the human ENDOU-1 gene contain critical cis-elements responsible for upregulating its transcription during ER stress. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(24), 17393.

  • Zeng, C.-W., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). The promising role of a zebrafish model employed in neural regeneration following a spinal cord injury. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(18), 13938.

  • Fu, C.-Y., Chen, H.-Y., Lin, C.-Y., Chen, S.-J., Sheu, J.-C., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). Extracellular Pgk1 interacts with neural membrane protein enolase-2 to improve neurite outgrowth of motor neurons. Communications Biology, 6, 822.

Eduardo Vignoto Fernandes | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Eduardo Vignoto Fernandes | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Federal University of Jataí | Brazil

Prof. Dr. Eduardo Vignoto Fernandes, is a distinguished researcher in immunometabolism, human physiology, and applied health sciences, recognized for his multidisciplinary contributions integrating experimental pathology, human anatomy, and exercise science. With 28 Scopus-indexed publications, 119 citations, and an h-index of 5, his research advances understanding of metabolic, genetic, and physiological adaptations in healthy individuals and those with clinical or lifestyle-related conditions, including people living with HIV/AIDS. Fernandes has produced influential studies covering immunometabolism responses, exercise physiology, body composition, sports nutrition, metabolic syndrome, cancer immunopathology, and antiretroviral therapy effectiveness. His scientific output includes peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and collaborative investigations published in respected journals such as Metabolites, Geriatrics, Sports, Current HIV Research, Molecular Biology Reports, and Discover Public Health. Fernandes leads and collaborates on research projects exploring exercise prescription, photo biomodulation, osteopathic interventions, muscle damage biomarkers, and functional health indicators such as handgrip strength. His expertise also extends to educational research on human anatomy, including remote versus in-person instruction and academic performance in health-science students. Through public health outreach initiatives, he contributes to community wellness by developing structured exercise programs and participating in One Health–aligned interdisciplinary actions. Supported by competitive funding from major Brazilian agencies, he conducts R&D focused on immunometabolism health, functional performance, and applied health interventions. His growing citation base, broad research themes, and sustained collaborations underscore his scientific relevance and expanding impact across exercise science, pathology, and applied health research.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. De Rossi, T., Lozovoy, M. A. B., da Silva, R. V., Fernandes, E. V., Geraldino, T. H., & others. (2011). Interações entre Candida albicans e hospedeiro. Semina: Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, 32(1), 15–28.

2. Weber, M. G., Dias, S. S., de Angelis, T. R., Fernandes, E. V., Bernardes, A. G., & others. (2021). The use of BCAA to decrease delayed-onset muscle soreness after a single bout of exercise: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Amino Acids, 53(11), 1663–1678.

3. Romanin, P., Palermo, R. L., Cavalini, J. F., Favaro, L. S., De Paula-Petroli, S. B., Fernandes, E. V., & others. (2019). Multidrug- and extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in a tertiary hospital from Brazil: The importance of carbapenemase encoding genes and related resistance mechanisms. Microbial Drug Resistance, 25(9), 1365–1373.

4. Khan, S. A., Venancio, E. J., Ono, M. A., Fernandes, E. V., Hirooka, E. Y., Shimizu, C. F., & others. (2019). Effects of subcutaneous ochratoxin-A exposure on immune system of broiler chicks. Toxins, 11(5), 264.

5. Vitorino, R. W. S., Fornaziero, C. C., & Fernandes, E. V. (2020). Evaluation of performance and perception of learning in teaching human anatomy: Traditional method vs constructivist method. International Journal of Morphology, 38(1), 74–77.

Hasan Hallaçeli | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hasan Hallaçeli | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Hatay Mustafa Kemal University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Hasan Hallaçeli is a distinguished Turkish physiotherapist and academician specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation. A 1989 graduate of Hacettepe University with a Ph.D. earned in 1996, he is currently serving at Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Faculty of Medicine. With a visionary approach, he has pioneered the establishment of orthopedic physiotherapy departments in four university hospitals across Turkey. As an honorary member of the Turkish Orthopaedics and Traumatology Association, he has devoted his career to enhancing postoperative rehabilitation, especially for knee, shoulder, and elbow surgeries. Passionate about education and service, he has supervised 10 master’s theses and contributed to over 100 scientific outputs, while actively volunteering in combat sports and for children with disabilities.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Academic Background: Ph.D. in Physiotherapy (1996); graduated from Hacettepe University, a top institution in Turkey.

  • Institution Building: Established orthopaedic physiotherapy departments in four university hospitals across Turkey.

  • Research Contributions:

    • Over 100 scientific publications including:

      • 11 SCI-indexed journal articles

      • 19 international/national refereed journal papers

      • 19 book chapters

      • 55 conference presentations

  • Editorial Roles: Editor of three specialized books in orthopaedic physiotherapy.

  • Book Publications:

    • Ortopedik Fizyoterapi ve Rehabilitasyon (2021)

    • Ortopedik Fizyoterapi – Diz (2020)

    • Physiotherapy And Rehabilitation in Knee Joint Extensor Mechanism (2022)

🎓 Education

Dr. Hallaçeli graduated from Hacettepe University’s Faculty of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in 1989. He pursued his academic aspirations further and obtained a Ph.D. in 1996. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in clinical expertise and theoretical rigor, setting the stage for his future innovations in orthopedic physiotherapy.

💼 Experience

Prof. Hallaçeli has held influential academic positions across Turkey, playing a key role in the foundation of orthopedic physiotherapy units in multiple universities. With vast clinical experience, he focuses on rehabilitation following orthopedic surgeries, especially in high-impact joints. His clinical skills, combined with over three decades of academic leadership, have significantly shaped the field in both practice and policy.

🔬 Research Interests On Medicine

His research interests center on orthopedic physiotherapy—particularly the rehabilitation of the shoulder, elbow, and knee—and extend into sports injuries in combat sports. Dr. Hallaçeli also conducts multidisciplinary studies on postural balance and fall risk among patients with knee osteoarthritis and post-prosthetic surgery. His work aims to improve patient safety and athletic performance through scientific insights.

🏆 Awards

Prof. Hallaçeli is recognized as an Honorary Member of the Turkish Orthopaedics and Traumatology Association for his notable contributions to the field. In addition to academic leadership, his dedication to community services—especially for disabled children and combat sports athletes—has further solidified his reputation as a compassionate and impactful professional.

📚 Publications

  • The effect of combined therapy (spa and physical therapy) on pain in various chronic diseases
    A Cimbiz, V Bayazit, H Hallaceli, U Cavlak
    📅 2005 | 📑 73 citations

  • Normal hip, knee and ankle range of motion in the Turkish population
    H Hallaceli, V Uruç, HH Uysal, R Özden, Ç Hallaçeli, F Soyuer, T Parpucu, …
    📅 2014 | 📑 72 citations

  • Importance of anatomy education in physical therapy and rehabilitation in Turkey: A qualitative study
    F Duman, I Huzmeli, B Yucekaya, H Hallaceli, M Gunes
    📅 2017 | 📑 18 citations

  • Normal range of scapular elevation and depression in healthy subjects
    H Hallaceli, I Günal
    📅 2002 | 📑 13 citations

  • A new anchor augmentation technique with a cancellous screw in osteoporotic rotator cuff repair: an in vitro biomechanical study on sheep humerus specimens
    V Uruc, R Ozden, Y Dogramacı, A Kalacı, H Hallaceli, F Küçükdurmaz
    📅 2014 | 📑 12 citations

  • Goniometric Measurements of the Angular Values of the Joints in the Fore-and Hindlimbs of Kangal Dogs
    S Ates, C Hallaceli, H Hallaceli, I Kürtül
    📅 2011 | 📑 11 citations

  • Does scapular elevation accompany glenohumeral abduction in healthy subjects?
    H Hallaceli, M Manisali, I Gunal
    📅 2004 | 📑 11 citations

  • Türk toplumunda kalça diz ve ayak bileğinin normal eklem hareket açıklığı
    H Hallaçeli, V Uruç, HH Uysal, R Özden, Ç Hallaçeli, F Soyuer, …
    📅 2014 | 📑 10 citations

  • Injuries in wheelchair basketball players
    ED Huzmeli, N Katayifci, H Hallaceli
    📅 2017 | 📑 8 citations

  • A new clinical design measuring the vertical axial rotation through tibial shaft resulting from passive knee and subtalar joints rotation in healthy subjects: A reliability study
    A Cımbız, U Cavlak, M Sarı, H Hallaceli, F Beydemir
    📅 2006 | 📑 8 citations

🔚 Conclusion

In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Hasan Hallaçeli’s career embodies excellence in orthopedic physiotherapy, scholarly publishing, and community engagement. With over three decades of dedicated academic, clinical, and volunteer service, he continues to inspire through innovation and empathy. His interdisciplinary focus—bridging rehabilitation, sports, and education—makes him a deserving candidate for any prestigious recognition.