Zhiwei Zhong | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhiwei Zhong | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University | China

Dr. Zhiwei Zhong’s research focuses on molecular oncology, nanomedicine, and biomarker discovery in complex diseases such as pancreatic cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, thyroid eye disease, and venous thromboembolism. His studies integrate bioinformatics, molecular biology, and nanotechnology to uncover therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers. Zhong has contributed to several high-impact publications in PLOS One, Cancer Cell International, Oncology Reports, Digestive Diseases and Sciences, and SN Applied Sciences. His notable works include identifying key extracellular proteins (EGFR, CD44, and CXCL8) as potential biomarkers in thyroid eye disease, elucidating the regulatory role of lncRNA FTX in suppressing NAFLD progression to hepatocellular carcinoma via Kupffer cell polarization, and exploring nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for targeted thrombolysis and cancer therapy. He has also investigated tumor suppressor mechanisms involving KLF9 and CHD1L in pancreatic cancer, providing insights into tumor proliferation, invasion, and survival pathways. His research contributions advance the understanding of molecular pathogenesis, precision diagnostics, and targeted nanotherapeutic strategies in human diseases.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. He, S., Nie, H., Yin, X., & Zhong, Z. (2025, April). Identification of key extracellular proteins as the potential biomarkers in thyroid eye disease. PLOS ONE, 20(4), e0322415. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0322415

Zengxin Gao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Zengxin Gao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Innovative Research Award

Department of Orthopedics, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University School of Medicine | China

Dr. Zengxin Gao is a highly accomplished Chief Physician at Southeast University, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital, recognized for his expertise in orthopedics and minimally invasive spinal interventions. He completed his PhD in Orthopedics at Peking Union Medical College in 2008, following a Master’s degree in Orthopedics (2005) and a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Nanjing Medical University (1990). Dr. Zengxin Gao’s clinical career spans over 30 years, beginning as a physician at Nantong University Affiliated Dongtai Hospital, advancing to attending and associate chief physician, and currently serving as Chief Physician at Southeast University Affiliated Zhongda Hospital since 2015. His research focuses on spinal surgery, intervertebral disc regeneration, and innovative minimally invasive techniques for chronic low back and leg pain, particularly in elderly patients. He has led notable projects, including the Jiangsu Provincial Health Commission’s New Technology Introduction Project on percutaneous single-axis hole microscopy (2021–2023). Dr. Zengxin Gao has made significant scholarly contributions, including sole corresponding authorship in Wenbin Xuan, Yucheng Gao, Zengxin Gao. Intraspinal Bone Fragments Resorption in Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture. JAMA Neurol. 2023;80(11):1248–1249 [Cited 12]; co-first authorship in Linhui Ye, Zengxin Gao, Saeed Rohani. Intervertebral disk regeneration in a rat model by allopurinol-loaded Chitosan/alginate hydrogel. Biomol Biomed. 2023;23(4):661–670 [Cited 5]; and co-corresponding authorship in Shuhua Fang et al. Circ_0027885 sponges miR-203-3p to regulate RUNX2 expression and alleviates osteoporosis progression. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2024;25:5 [Cited 3]. He has been awarded the Provincial and Ministerial First Prize for the Medical New Technology Introduction Award (2022) for pioneering percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic intervertebral fusion. Dr. Zengxin Gao’s combination of clinical expertise, innovative research, and leadership in orthopedics underscores his outstanding contributions and makes him an ideal candidate for the Innovative Research Award.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

• Xuan, W., Gao, Y., & Gao, Z. (2023). Intraspinal bone fragments resorption in thoracolumbar burst fracture. JAMA Neurology, 80(11), 1248–1249.
https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.2901

• Ye, L., Gao, Z., & Rohani, S. (2023). Intervertebral disk regeneration in a rat model by allopurinol-loaded chitosan/alginate hydrogel. Biomolecules and Biomedicine, 23(4), 661–670.
https://doi.org/10.17305/bjbms.2023.8535

• Fang, S., Cao, D., Wu, Z., Chen, J., Huang, Y., Shen, Y., & Gao, Z. (2024). Circ_0027885 sponges miR-203-3p to regulate RUNX2 expression and alleviates osteoporosis progression. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 25(1), 5.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-023-07172-0

• Gao, Z., Lin, Y., Wu, Z., Zhang, P., Cheng, Q., Ye, L., Wu, F., Chen, Y., Fu, M., Cheng, C., & Gao, Y. (2020). LncRNA SNHG6 can regulate the proliferation and apoptosis of rat degenerate nucleus pulposus cells via regulating the expression of miR-101-3p. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 24(16), 8251–8262.
https://doi.org/10.26355/eurrev_202008_22592

• Gao, Z., Lin, Y., Zhang, P., Cheng, Q., Ye, L., Wu, F., Chen, Y., Fu, M., Cheng, C., & Gao, Y. (2019). Sinomenine ameliorates intervertebral disc degeneration via inhibition of apoptosis and autophagy in vitro and in vivo. American Journal of Translational Research, 11(9), 5956–5966.
https://www.ajtr.org/files/ajtr0094769.pdf

Sahar Issa | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sahar Issa | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Faculty of medicine, Alexandria University | Egypt

Dr. Sahar Issa, is a distinguished Professor of Forensic Medicine, Clinical Toxicology, and Medical Ethics at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria, Egypt. She earned her Ph.D. in Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology from Alexandria University, following an M.Sc. in Forensic Medicine & Clinical Toxicology and a Diploma in Public Health specializing in Vector Control and Pesticide Residues Toxicities, alongside her MBChB in Medicine and Surgery. Over her extensive academic career, Dr. Sahar Issa has combined rigorous teaching with cutting-edge research in forensic medicine, toxicology, and medical ethics, contributing to enhanced clinical and forensic practices. Her research interests include toxicological analysis, forensic pathology, sex determination using skeletal traits, and the assessment of chemical and microbial hazards. She has published several influential works, including her book Forensic Toxicology: Poisoning in the Modern World (IntechOpen, 2019) and Microbial Witness: Unraveling Mysteries with Forensic Microbiomes (IntechOpen, 2023). Her peer-reviewed articles cover a wide range of topics such as fentanyl and ketamine effects on liver biochemistry (Toxicology, 2003), forensic toxicology of suicidal and accidental poisonings (Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 2016), and postmortem trace element analysis (J Forensic Leg Med, 2022), with many of her studies widely cited for their clinical and forensic relevance. Recognized for her contributions to education, toxicology consultation, and public health, Dr. Sahar Issa exemplifies excellence in research, bridging laboratory insights with practical forensic applications and mentoring the next generation of forensic scientists globally.

Profile: Google Scholar | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Hafez, E. M., Issa, S. Y., Ai-Mazroua, M. K., Ibrahim, K. T., & Rahman, S. M. A. (2016). The neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid: A male reproductive system toxicity inducer-human and experimental study.

Hafez, M. E., Issa, Y. S., & Abdel Rahman, M. S. (2015). Parenchymatous toxicity of tramadol: Histopathological and biochemical study. Journal of Alcohol and Drug Dependence, 3(5), 225.

Issa, S. Y., Khanfour, A. A., & Kharoshah, M. (2016). A model for stature estimation and sex prediction using percutaneous ulnar and radial lengths in autopsied adult Egyptians. Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 6(2), 84–89.

Ibrahim, S. Y. (2016). Determination of heavy metals and other toxic ingredients in henna (Lawsonia inermis). Journal of Environmental & Analytical Toxicology, 6(3), 9.

Cebolla, S. G., [et al.]. (2018). Fully automated forensic routine dried blood spot screening for workplace testing. Journal of Analytical Toxicology, 43(2), 1–11.

Issa, S. Y., Hafez, E. M., El-Banna, A. S., Abdel Rahman, S. M., AlMazroua, M. K., … [et al.]. (2018). Baclofen systemic toxicity: Experimental histopathological and biochemical study. Human & Experimental Toxicology, 37(4), 431–441.

Zagloul, N. M., Farghaly, R. M., ELKhatib, H., Issa, S. Y., & El-Zoghby, S. M. (2022). Technology facilitated sexual violence: A comparative study between working and non-working females in Egypt before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 12(1), 21.

Alalawi, S., Issa, S. T., Takshe, A. A., & ElBarazi, I. (2022). A review of the environmental implications of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Arab Emirates. Environmental Challenges, 8, 100561.

Eddine, N. N., Noisel, N., Dieme, D., Asmar, M. K., Issa, S. T., & Bouchard, M. (2022). Multi-matrix biomonitoring approach to assess exposure to metals and trace elements in the Lebanese population and associations with drinking water consumption. Environmental Research, 214, 113982.

Qun Zhao | Medicine | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Qun Zhao | Medicine | Outstanding Scientist Award

The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University | China

Qun Zhao is a distinguished medical professional affiliated with the Third Department of Surgery at the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University. With extensive experience in surgical oncology, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of gastric and gastrointestinal cancer treatments. As a committed researcher and clinician, Dr. Zhao is an active member of multiple professional committees, driving innovation and excellence in cancer therapy.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards

Extensive Leadership in Oncology Research: Qun Zhao holds key positions in multiple national committees related to gastric cancer, gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors, peritoneal tumors, tumor support therapy, and surgical nutrition. These roles highlight significant contributions to cancer research and treatment.

Institutional and Professional Affiliations: Being part of the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, a reputed institution, strengthens credibility. His involvement in China’s Anti-Cancer Association further establishes his expertise in the field.

Contributions to Cancer Surgery & Nutrition: Given the focus on gastric and peritoneal tumors, surgical oncology, and nutrition, Qun Zhao’s work aligns with impactful research that directly benefits patients and advances medical science.

Editorial and Research Contributions: While specific journal publications, patents, or citation indices are not provided, editorial appointments and professional memberships suggest recognition by the academic community.

Potential for Industry Impact: If consultancy or industry projects exist (to be detailed), they could indicate translational research, bridging academia with practical medical applications.

Education 🎓

Dr. Qun Zhao completed his medical education and specialized training in surgical oncology at renowned institutions. His academic journey has been marked by a commitment to continuous learning and specialization in gastrointestinal malignancies and surgical techniques.

Experience 🌟

Dr. Zhao holds a prominent position in the medical field, serving in various leadership roles, including the Standing Committee memberships in multiple prestigious oncology and surgical nutrition groups. His expertise extends across peritoneal tumor management, gastric cancer treatment, and gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors. His clinical acumen and research contributions have had a significant impact on cancer treatment methodologies.

Research Interests On Medicine 🔬

Dr. Zhao’s research focuses on innovative surgical techniques, tumor nutrition, and multimodal cancer treatment strategies. His work aims to improve patient outcomes through targeted therapies and advanced surgical interventions. His ongoing projects include groundbreaking research in peritoneal metastases and gastrointestinal stromal tumors.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Zhao has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to surgical oncology and cancer research. His accolades include awards from national and international oncology societies for his pioneering work in gastric and peritoneal tumors.

Publications 📚

Dr. Zhao has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals. Some of his key publications include:

  • Pioneering case: Robot-assisted remote radical distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer based on 5G communication technology
    • Authors: Honghai Guo, Yuan Tian, Jia Shi, Peigang Yang, Jiaxuan Yang, Pingan Ding, Xuefeng Zhao, Zhidong Zhang, Qun Zhao
    • Publication Year: 2024
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.isurg.2024.01.004
  • Comment on ‘Hand grip strength‐based cachexia index as a predictor of cancer cachexia and prognosis in patients with cancer’ by Xie et al.
    • Authors: Ping’an Ding, Jiaxiang Wu, Haotian Wu, Chenyu Sun, Muzi Meng, Scott Lowe, Yuan Tian, Honghai Guo, Lingjiao Meng, Qun Zhao
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13298
  • Comment on: ‘Triceps skinfold‐albumin index significantly predicts the prognosis of cancer cachexia: A multicentre cohort study’ by Yin et al.
    • Authors: Ping’an Ding, Haotian Wu, Jiaxiang Wu, Chenyu Sun, Muzi Meng, Peigang Yang, Yang Liu, Lingjiao Meng, Qun Zhao
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13304
  • Safety and efficacy of carbon nanoparticle suspension injection and indocyanine green tracer-guided lymph node dissection during robotic distal gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer
    • Authors: Yuan Tian, Yecheng Lin, Honghai Guo, Yiyang Hu, Yong Li, Liqiao Fan, Xuefeng Zhao, Dong Wang, Bibo Tan, Qun Zhao
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.1007/s00464-021-08630-8
  • Efficacy of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy DOX and XELOX Regimens for Patients with Resectable Gastric or Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma
    • Authors: Yuan Tian, Qun Zhao, Yong Li, Liqiao Fan, Zhidong Zhang, Xuefeng Zhao, Bibo Tan, Dong Wang, Peigang Yang, Nicola Silvestris
    • Publication Year: 2021
    • DOI: 10.1155/2021/5590626

Conclusion 🥇

Dr. Qun Zhao’s dedication to oncology research and patient care continues to influence the medical community. His innovative approaches in surgery and therapeutic nutrition play a pivotal role in advancing cancer treatment. His contributions, both in research and clinical practice, underscore his commitment to improving healthcare outcomes globally.

Silvia Di Bonaventura | Health Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Silvia Di Bonaventura | Health Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Lecturer-Researcher | Rey Juan Carlos University | Spain

Silvia Di Bonaventura is a passionate researcher, professor, and social entrepreneur with a commitment to advancing scientific innovation. Her journey reflects an insatiable curiosity, strong leadership, and dedication to contributing to transformative projects in health and biomedicine. Fluent in five languages, she combines global perspectives with academic rigor and entrepreneurial vision to address complex challenges in research and healthcare.

Profile:

Strengths for the Awards:

  1. Academic Excellence:
    Silvia’s strong academic foundation includes degrees in Physiotherapy, Invasive Physiotherapy, and an ongoing PhD in Pain Research, coupled with a Master’s in Clinical Research at Harvard University, showcasing her commitment to scientific rigor and innovation.
  2. Research Contributions:
    Silvia has demonstrated significant contributions to pain research, with notable publications on neuromodulation and digital health interventions for chronic pain. Her work combines clinical relevance and innovative methodologies, emphasizing her potential to make lasting impacts in biomedicine.
  3. Global Collaborations:
    Her experiences as an Invited Researcher at Vrije Universiteit Brussels and Harvard Medical School reflect her ability to work on international research collaborations, contributing to the advancement of cutting-edge medical technologies.
  4. Entrepreneurial Leadership:
    As the CEO of Bei (a digital health app for fibromyalgia) and the Founder of PainCorp, Silvia has effectively bridged research with practical healthcare solutions, emphasizing her visionary approach and ability to create real-world impact.
  5. Awards and Recognitions:
    Silvia’s accolades, including the Banco Santander Scholarship, Young Emerging Leader 2022, and the Outstanding Leadership Award, highlight her dedication, leadership, and exceptional achievements in the field.
  6. Multilingual Communication Skills:
    Fluent in five languages, Silvia has the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively across diverse cultures, enhancing her research’s global reach and impact.

🎓Education 

  • Diploma in Computer Science (2009–2014)
    Instituto Técnico Industrial “IIS” – TE
  • Degree in Physiotherapy (2014–2018)
    Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio
  • Master’s Degree in Invasive Physiotherapy (2017–2018)
    Universidad Camilo José Cela
  • Master’s Degree in Clinical Research (2024–2024)
    Harvard University
  • PhD in Pain Research (2021–Present)
    Universidad Rey Juan Carlos

💼Experience 

  • Physiotherapist & Co-Director
    Clínica Gatzambide (2018–2022)
    Led a successful physiotherapy practice focused on personalized patient care.
  • Professor & Researcher
    Rey Juan Carlos University (2021–Present)
    Teaching and conducting groundbreaking research in pain management.
  • Invited Researcher
    Vrije Universiteit Brussels (2023) & Harvard Medical School (2024)
    Advanced research on neuromodulation and pain mechanisms.
  • Entrepreneurial Roles
    • CEO & Founder of Bei (2024–Present): Innovating solutions for fibromyalgia self-management.
    • President of PainCorp (2024–Present): Dedicated to pain research and treatment.
    • Research Fellow at Mit LinQ and Harvard (2024–Present): Driving forward collaborative research initiatives.

🔬Research Interests On Health Sciences

Silvia’s research centers on pain management, clinical research, neuromodulation, and digital health solutions. She is particularly focused on designing innovative interventions for chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, combining scientific rigor with practical applications for patient care.

🏆Awards 

  • Top 15 Graduates in Spain (Physiotherapy Ranking)
  • Banco Santander Scholarship (Best Academic Record)
  • PI in Competitive Funding (Biomedicine Research)
  • Entrepreneurship Babson College Scholarship
  • Nova Talent Member
  • Young Emerging Leader ’22 (Korea World Summit)
  • Outstanding Leadership Award (Harbour Space University)

🥇Achievements & Certifications

  • Recognized as one of the Top 15 Graduates in Spain in Physiotherapy.
  • Awarded Banco Santander Scholarship for academic excellence.
  • Recipient of Babson College Entrepreneurship Scholarship for advancing digital health solutions.
  • Certified in Italian (Native), Spanish (C2), English (C1), French (B1), and Chinese (HSK2).

🌍Final Note

Silvia Di Bonaventura exemplifies a modern researcher blending academic excellence, global collaboration, and entrepreneurship. Through her multifaceted roles, she seeks to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact, paving the way for transformative solutions in healthcare.

Publication Top Note’s

“How Does Conditioned Pain Modulation Influence Motor Imagery Processes in Women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome? A Cross-Sectional Study Secondary Analysis”

  • Authors: Víctor Riquelme-Aguado, Silvia Di-Bonaventura, María Elena González-Álvarez, Alazne Zabarte-Del Campo, Josué Fernández-Carnero, Antonio Gil-Crujera, Francisco Gómez-Esquer, Jorge Hugo Villafañe
  • Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine
  • Year: 2024

“The Link between Endogenous Pain Modulation Changes and Clinical Improvement in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Meta-Regression Analysis”

  • Authors: Kevin Pacheco-Barrios, Rafaela Machado Filardi, Luis Fernando González-González, Nayeon Park, Fernanda Queiroz Petrus, Alba Navarro-Flores, Silvia Di-Bonaventura, Luana Gola Alves, Fernanda Queiroz, Felipe Fregni
  • Journal: Biomedicines
  • Year: 2024

“Perceived Benefits and Limitations of a Psychoeducation Program for Patients with Fibromyalgia: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis”

  • Authors: Silvia Di-Bonaventura, Raúl Ferrer-Peña, Joaquín Pardo-Montero, Josué Fernández-Carnero, Roy La Touche
  • Journal: Frontiers in Psychology
  • Year: 2024

“Effectiveness of Biobehavioral Therapeutic Education in Chronic Low Back Pain Intensity and Disability: A Systematic Review”

  • Authors: David Ruíz-del Río, Roy La Touche, Gwendoline Giolito, Silvia Di-Bonaventura, Mónica Grande-Alonso, Álvaro Reina Varona
  • Journal: Journal of MOVE and Therapeutic Science
  • Year: 2024

“Can a Specific Biobehavioral-Based Therapeutic Education Program Lead to Changes in Pain Perception and Brain Plasticity Biomarkers in Chronic Pain Patients? A Study Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial”

  • Authors: Silvia Di Bonaventura, Stephen D. Ginsberg, Josué Fernández Carnero, Raúl Ferrer-Peña
  • Journal: PLOS ONE
  • Year: 2024

“Effect of Different Physical Therapy Interventions on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels in Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Patients: A Systematic Review”

  • Authors: Silvia Di-Bonaventura, Josué Fernández-Carnero, Luis Matesanz-García, Alberto Arribas-Romano, Andrea Polli, Raúl Ferrer-Peña
  • Journal: Life
  • Year: 2023