Xiaowen Mao | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Begum Ertan | Medicine and Health Sciences | Young Researcher Award

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Dr. Begum Ertan | Medicine and Health Sciences | Young Researcher Award

Sandikli State Hospital | Turkey

Dr. Begum Ertan is an accomplished medical doctor and specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, serving at Afyonkarahisar Sandikli State Hospital. She is recognized for her dedication to advancing women’s reproductive health, blending clinical expertise with a strong commitment to academic research. Her work spans adenomyosis diagnosis, infertility treatment, IVF success prediction, and gynecologic oncology. Actively engaged in professional societies, she is a core group member of the Turkish Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Society. Dr. Ertan combines patient-centered care with cutting-edge scientific approaches, striving to improve diagnostic accuracy, treatment outcomes, and overall quality of life for women.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Ertan completed her medical degree at Celal Bayar University, Faculty of Medicine, where she laid a strong foundation in clinical sciences and patient care. She then specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Dokuz Eylül University, Faculty of Medicine, developing advanced skills in reproductive medicine, maternal-fetal health, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Her education was enriched by exposure to diverse clinical cases and participation in academic projects, fostering her dual role as a skilled clinician and committed researcher.

Experience

With extensive experience as a Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist, Dr. Ertan has managed complex cases involving high-risk pregnancies, reproductive endocrinology, and gynecologic surgery. She has contributed to multidisciplinary medical teams, enhancing patient outcomes through evidence-based approaches. Her professional activities include presenting original research at leading national and international conferences, authoring peer-reviewed publications, and writing academic book chapters on endometriosis, infertility, and hormonal therapies. In addition to her hospital duties, she actively participates in community health initiatives, delivering educational seminars on women’s health and hygiene.

Research Interests

Dr. Ertan’s research is driven by a commitment to improving women’s reproductive health through innovative diagnostic and therapeutic methods. She is particularly interested in adenomyosis detection using advanced imaging modalities, identifying predictive factors for IVF success, evaluating the impact of early pregnancy findings on pregnancy outcomes, and exploring rare gynecologic pathologies. Her studies also address the role of hysteroscopic evaluation in abnormal uterine bleeding and the relationship between ovarian conditions and fertility potential. By integrating clinical insight with research innovation, she aims to bridge the gap between academic findings and real-world patient care.

Awards

Dr. Ertan’s professional trajectory reflects the qualities sought in the Young Researcher Award  innovation, dedication, and measurable contributions to the field. Her growing portfolio of scientific publications, her active participation in professional societies, and her involvement in public health education underscore her status as a promising and impactful early-career researcher in obstetrics and gynecology.

Publications

  • Title: Prediction of adenomyosis according to revised definitions of morphological uterus sonographic assessment features
    Journal: Frontiers in Medicine
    Published on: August 2024

  • Title: Comparison of Patients with Adenomyosis Detected in Hysterectomy Material and Patients with Other Benign Pathologies: Retrospective Study
    Journal: Turkish Journal of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery
    Published on: 2024

  • Title: Impact of ovarian cysts observed on the initial day of ovulation induction on the success rates in IVF cycles
    Journal: Reproductive Bio Medicine Online
    Published on: November 2023

  • Title: Correlation of adenomyosis risk factors with pathologic diagnosis
    Journal: Reproductive Bio Medicine Online
    Published on: November 2023

  • Title: Pregnancy Loss Prediction Based on Early First Trimester Ultrasound
    Journal: Reproductive Bio Medicine Online
    Published on: November 2023

  • Title: Ovarian hilus cell hyperplasia and sertoli-leydig cell tumor in a patient with postmenopausal virilization: a rare case report
    Journal: Aegean Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    Published on: December 2021

Conclusion

Dr. Begum Ertan embodies the profile of an emerging leader in reproductive medicine. Her clinical expertise, research productivity, and academic contributions have already made a significant impact on the field. Through her continued work in advanced gynecologic diagnostics, fertility treatment, and women’s health advocacy, she demonstrates exceptional promise as a young researcher. Her commitment to bridging scientific innovation with practical healthcare solutions makes her a strong and deserving candidate for the Young Researcher Award.

Zhongzhen Su | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhongzhen Su | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University |China

Dr. Zhongzhen Su is a renowned medical professional with over two decades of expertise in abdominal ultrasound diagnosis and liver cancer interventional therapy. Currently serving as the Director of the Ultrasound Medicine Department at the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, he has made pivotal contributions in early liver cancer detection and fibrosis assessment. Recognized as a “High-level Talent in Zhuhai” and a “Guangdong Outstanding Young Medical Talent”, Dr. Su has significantly enhanced survival outcomes for cirrhotic patients through innovative imaging techniques.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. Established Academic and Research Record:

    • 48 SCI publications with an H-index of 28 and 1,000+ citations, indicating consistent and influential contributions.

    • Highest publication impact factor of 14.3, demonstrating recognition in high-quality journals.

  2. Innovative Contributions:

    • Two patents (e.g., tumor ultrasound phantom, fibrosis prediction model) and innovative developments in liver cancer diagnostics and ablation.

    • Led 18 completed and 1 ongoing research projects, including National Natural Science Foundation grants.

  3. Clinical and Educational Impact:

    • Pioneered early detection and ultrasound-guided treatment of liver cancer, improving survival rates.

    • Trained over 50 postgraduates, indicating a significant contribution to academic mentorship.

  4. Recognitions and Leadership:

    • Recognized as a “High-level Talent in Zhuhai” and “Guangdong Outstanding Young Medical Talent”.

    • Serves as Director of Ultrasound Medicine and holds leadership roles in national professional associations.

  5. Interdisciplinary and AI Integration:

    • Engaged in AI-based fibrosis assessment and multicenter collaborations, showcasing forward-looking research alignment.

🎓 Education

Dr. Zhongzhen Su earned his Ph.D. in Imaging and Nuclear Medicine from Sun Yat-sen University, one of China’s top medical institutions. His academic foundation combines clinical depth with scientific rigor, forming the bedrock for his ongoing advancements in ultrasound-guided interventions and diagnostic radiology.

👨‍⚕️ Experience

With over 20 years of clinical and academic experience, Dr. Zhongzhen Su has held key roles, including Deputy Dean of the Fifth Affiliated Hospital and now Director of Ultrasound Medicine. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing state-of-the-art interventional ultrasound programs, supervising over 50 postgraduates, and leading multicenter clinical trials focused on liver health.

🔬 Research Interest On Medicine

Dr. Zhongzhen Su primary research interests lie in abdominal ultrasound diagnosis, interventional ultrasound for liver cancer, quantitative assessment of liver fibrosis, and post-ablation evaluation techniques. He is also exploring AI-based models for early-stage fibrosis and cancer detection, which promise transformative impacts in personalized medicine.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Zhongzhen Su is a three-time recipient of the Guangdong Science and Technology Awards 🏅, reflecting his leadership in ultrasound-guided interventional innovation. He has also been honored as a “High-level Talent in Zhuhai” and a “Guangdong Outstanding Young Medical Talent”, distinctions reserved for top-tier professionals in the region’s medical community.

📚 Publications

1. Nomogram Using Bi-modal Imaging for Predicting Low-level HER2 Expression Status in Breast Cancer

  • Authors: Xingyu Liang, Jiamin Chen, Jiawei Tian, Xin Wen

  • Journal: European Journal of Radiology

  • Year: 2025

2. Combination of CT/MRI LI-RADS With Second-Line Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Using Sulfur Hexafluoride or Perfluorobutane for Diagnosing Hepatocellular Carcinoma in High-Risk Patients

  • Authors: Yu Li, Sheng Li, Qing Li, Lingling Li, Jianhua Zhou

  • Journal: Korean Journal of Radiology

  • Year: 2025

  • Citations: 0​

3. Doppler Ultrasound Imaging and Shear Wave Elastography for Evaluation of Interstitial Fibrosis/Tubular Atrophy in IgA Nephropathy

  • Authors: Jiaxin Chen, Shuqing Wang, Qunyan Wu, Zhongzhen Su, Yuhong Lin

  • Journal: Abdominal Radiology

  • Year: 2025

4. Tertiary Lymphoid Structure Formation Induced by LIGHT-Engineered and Photosensitive Nanoparticles-Decorated Bacteria Enhances Immune Response Against Colorectal Cancer

  • Authors: Lijun Hu, Li Tan, Shaohui Deng, Honglin Gao, Yujie Jiang, Chen Qiu, Hui Chen, Zecong Xiao, Xintao Shuai, Zhongzhen Su

  • Journal: Biomaterials

  • Year: 2025

  • Citations: 6​

5. Histopathological Diagnosis of Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Is It Reliable?

  • Authors: Liujun Li, Chaoqun Wu, Feile Ye, Zhou Xuan, Xiaoli Zhang, Jianping Li, Jia Zhou, Zhongzhen Su

  • Journal: World Journal of Gastroenterology

  • Year: 2025

6. Radiomics Diagnosis of Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using 3D Ultrasound and Whole-Slide Image Fusion

  • Authors: Liujun Li, Shaodong Wang, Jiaxin Chen, Yao Lu, Zhongzhen Su

  • Journal: Small Methods

  • Year: 2025

7. Model Based on Ultrasound and Clinicopathological Characteristics for Early Prediction of Pathological Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer

  • Authors: Xin Wen, Jiamin Chen, Jing Zhong, Yuhong Lin, Zhongzhen Su

  • Journal: Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 1​

8. Development and Validation of an Individualized Nomogram for Predicting Patent Foramen Ovale-Associated Stroke: Patent Foramen Ovale Morphology-Based Analysis

  • Authors: Qin Zhang, Mochao Xiao, Wuzhu Lu, Zhongzhen Su, Xiaobo Chen

  • Journal: Echocardiography

  • Year: 2024

🧾 Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Zhongzhen Su stands out as a visionary ultrasound expert and medical educator, having redefined interventional standards in liver cancer therapy and fibrosis evaluation. His trailblazing research, prolific publication record, and dedication to clinical excellence make him an ideal nominee for the Best Researcher Award at the FORENSIC SCIENTIST AWARDS. 🏅🔍

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.