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.

Oguz Ozcelik | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Oguz Ozcelik | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Kastamonu University | Turkey

Dr. Oğuz Özçelik (MD, PhD) is a distinguished Professor at Kastamonu University, Turkey, widely recognized for his pioneering work in exercise physiology, metabolism, and oxidative stress. His academic foundation in medicine and physiology has driven decades of impactful research exploring the complex relationships between aerobic fitness, respiratory regulation, and metabolic health. Through rigorous experimental design and translational insights, he has advanced understanding of how exercise modulates physiological and biochemical responses in both healthy and clinical populations. Dr. Oğuz Özçelik’s scientific contributions span more than forty peer-reviewed publications in international journals, reflecting depth, innovation, and clinical relevance. His notable works include studies on the relationship between aerobic fitness levels and isocapnic buffering periods during incremental exercise tests (Cellular and Molecular Biology, 2017, cited by 132), the effects of body mass index on maximal work production and aerobic capacity (Physiological Research, 2004, cited by 84), and the role of nesfatin-1 in glucose tolerance and depressive disorders (Physiological Research, 2016; Psychiatry Investigation, 2018). With an h-index of 13 and more than 474 citations, his scholarly influence demonstrates sustained research excellence. Dr. Oğuz Özçelik’s current investigations focus on the hormonal and metabolic adaptations to exercise and their relevance to neuroendocrine and cardiometabolic health. His leadership, academic rigor, and enduring contributions to human performance and biomedical science exemplify the highest standards of professional achievement and research integrity within the global scientific community.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Algul, S., Ozcelik, O., & Yilmaz, B. (2017). Evaluation of relationship between aerobic fitness level and range of isocapnic buffering periods during incremental exercise test. Cellular and Molecular Biology, 63(3), 78–82.

  2. Ozcelik, O., Aslan, M., Ayar, A., & Kelestimur, H. (2004). Effects of body mass index on maximal work production capacity and aerobic fitness during incremental exercise. Physiological Research, 53(2), 165–170.

  3. Algul, S., Ozkan, Y., & Ozcelik, O. (2016). Serum nesfatin-1 levels in patients with different glucose tolerance levels. Physiological Research, 65(6), 979–985.

  4. Ozcelik, O., Ward, S. A., & Whipp, B. J. (1999). Effect of altered body CO₂ stores on pulmonary gas exchange dynamics during incremental exercise in humans. Experimental Physiology, 84(5), 999–1011.

  5. Algul, S., & Ozcelik, O. (2018). Evaluating the levels of nesfatin-1 and ghrelin hormones in patients with moderate and severe major depressive disorders. Psychiatry Investigation, 15(2), 214–218.

Swaroop S. Sonone | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Faculty Award

Mr. Swaroop S. Sonone | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Faculty Award

School of Forensic Sciences, JSPM University, Pune | India

Mr. Swaroop S. Sonone, Assistant Professor at the School of Behavioural and Forensic Sciences, Jayawant Shikshan Prasarak Mandal (JSPM) University, Pune, India, is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in Digital and Cyber Forensics, Forensic Ballistics, and Cyber Psychology. He holds an M.Sc. in Forensic Science (Digital & Cyber Forensics) and a B.Sc. in Forensic Science from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad, along with a Diploma in Photography. He has qualified multiple national eligibility tests, including UGC-NET (three times) and MH-SET (SPPU, 2021), showcasing his academic competence and commitment to higher education. His research credentials, as indexed in Scopus (Author ID: 57219960845; ORCID: 0000-0002-3358-348X), include 24 publications, 670 citations, and an h-index of 5, reflecting his consistent scholarly contribution and scientific impact. Mr. Sonone has demonstrated exemplary academic leadership as Programme Coordinator, IQAC Coordinator, and Editor of the International Journal of Forensic Sciences (IJFSC). His notable publications, such as Water Contamination by Heavy Metals (2020) and Unveiling the Power of Nanoparticles for Latent Fingerprints (2024), highlight his interdisciplinary expertise bridging forensic and environmental sciences. Recognized for his excellence in teaching and research, he received the Young Forensic Faculty Award (NAEF-2025) by ThinkSakshya. Beyond academia, he actively engages in public science communication through national media, fostering forensic awareness. With his intellectual rigor, innovation, and leadership, Mr. Swaroop S. Sonone continues to advance forensic science education and research in India, exemplifying professional excellence and academic integrity.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | ResearchGate | LinkedIn | Staff Page

Featured Publications

  • Sonone, S. S., Jadhav, S., Sankhla, M. S., & Kumar, R. (2020). Water contamination by heavy metals and their toxic effect on aquaculture and human health through food chain. Letters in Applied NanoBioScience, 10(2), 2148–2166. Cited by 562.

  • Gulia, S., Rohilla, R. K., Sankhla, M. S., Kumar, R., & Sonone, S. S. (2020). Impact of pesticide toxicity in aquatic environment. Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry, 11(3), 10131–10140. Cited by 166.

  • Verma, R. K., Sankhla, M. S., Rathod, N. V., Sonone, S. S., Parihar, K., & Singh, G. K. (2022). Eradication of fatal textile industrial dyes by wastewater treatment. Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry, 12(1), 567–587. Cited by 74.

  • Mohan, H., Rajput, S. S., Jadhav, E. B., Sankhla, M. S., Sonone, S. S., Jadhav, S., et al. (2021). Ecotoxicity, occurrence, and removal of pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs from aquatic systems. Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry, 11(5), 12530–12546. Cited by 65.

  • Singhal, M., Jadhav, S., Sonone, S. S., Sankhla, M. S., & Kumar, R. (2021). Microalgae-based sustainable bioremediation of water contaminated by pesticides. Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry, 12, 149–169. Cited by 54.

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

Long Chang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Long Chang | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Peking Union Medical College Hospital | China

Dr. Long Chang is an accomplished physician and clinical researcher whose career demonstrates excellence in patient care and significant contributions to hematology. He currently serves as an Attending Physician at the Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China, building upon his medical training at Peking Union Medical College, Tsinghua University. His research focuses on rare hematologic disorders, particularly myeloproliferative neoplasms and histiocytic diseases, with emphasis on improving diagnostic precision, expanding therapeutic strategies, and enhancing patient outcomes. According to Scopus (Author ID: 57225110413), Dr. Long Chang has authored 39 publications, which have collectively received 165 citations across 152 documents, reflecting the impact of his work, and holds an h-index of 6. He has published influential studies in leading journals including Leukemia, EClinicalMedicine, Oncologist, and Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. His work has advanced treatment options for Rosai-Dorfman disease and Langerhans cell histiocytosis while also providing novel insights into gamma heavy chain disease. Notably, his clinical trials have introduced promising approaches such as low-dose cytarabine and novel immunomodulatory therapies, offering alternatives for conditions with limited treatments. Beyond publications, Dr. Long Chang demonstrates commitment to translational medicine by bridging molecular research with patient-centered care. Recognized by peers for his rigor, innovation, and leadership, he has progressed from Resident and Chief Resident to Attending Physician, reflecting both clinical expertise and academic excellence. With impactful contributions influencing practice worldwide, Dr. Long Chang exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated physician-scientist whose work continues to advance the frontiers of hematology.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Chang, L., Zhou, D. B., & Cao, X. X. (2023). Gamma heavy chain disease: A retrospective analysis of 6 cases. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 18(1), 77.

  • Chang, L., Qiao, B., Cai, H., et al. (2023). Clinical phenotypes, molecular analysis, and outcomes of patients with Rosai-Dorfman disease. Leukemia, 37(11), 2297–2300.

  • Chang, L., Lang, M., Lin, H., et al. (2024). Phase 2 study using low dose cytarabine for adult patients with newly diagnosed Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Leukemia, 38(4), 803–809.

  • Chang, L., Lang, M., Liu, T., et al. (2024). Lenalidomide and dexamethasone for Rosai-Dorfman disease: A single arm, single center, prospective phase 2 study. EClinicalMedicine, 73, 102685.

  • Chang, L., Cai, H. C., Lang, M., et al. (2024). Liver involvement with Langerhans cell histiocytosis in adults. The Oncologist. Advance online publication.

Sonja Jahnke | Medicine and Health Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Sonja Jahnke | Medicine and Health Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Group Practice Drs. Jahnke | Germany

Ms. Sonja Jahnke is a promising young physician-scientist whose academic trajectory reflects an exceptional blend of clinical excellence, research productivity, and international engagement in orthopaedics and sports medicine. She completed her medical education at Brandenburg Medical School (MHB), complemented by clinical rotations at Ludwig Maximilian University, University Hospital Brandenburg, and St. Vinzenz Hospital, where she gained comprehensive training in internal medicine, trauma care, orthopaedics, and sports orthopaedics. Since July 2025, she has been serving as a resident physician in training, advancing her clinical expertise while building upon her earlier role as a surgical assistant at Sporthopaedicum Berlin. Her research focuses on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, rehabilitation strategies, and the influence of bracing and muscular strength on functional recovery, bridging biomechanics with patient-centered outcomes. Ms. Sonja Jahnke has authored three peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus, with 34 citations across 34 documents and an h-index of 2, reflecting her growing scholarly impact. Her contributions have appeared in leading journals such as the Journal of Clinical Medicine (2025), Sports Orthopaedics and Traumatology (2023), Efort Open Reviews (2023), and Healthcare Basel (2023), advancing knowledge on ACL rehabilitation, orthopaedic outcomes, and innovative treatment approaches. In addition, she has delivered invited presentations at prestigious international meetings, including ESSKA 2024 in Milan and the Berlin Arthroscopy Course, underscoring her recognition as a dynamic and insightful communicator. Her achievements have been further acknowledged with the Young Investigator Award from Brandenburg Medical School in 2022, highlighting her strong potential as an emerging leader in sports medicine research and clinical practice.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Jahnke, S., Prill, R., Królikowska, A., & Becker, R. (2025, September). Test learning effects influence coordinative but not strength-related tasks in patients six months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

  2. Prill, R., Cruysen, C., Jahnke, S., & Becker, R. (2023, June). Der Einfluss von Bandagen und Orthesen auf die Performance in der Back in Action Testbatterie. Conference Paper.

  3. Diquattro, E., Jahnke, S., Traina, F., & Kopf, S. (2023, May). ACL surgery: Reasons for failure and management.

  4. Jahnke, S., Cruysen, C., Prill, R., & Becker, R. (2023, February). Protocol for a randomized crossover trial to evaluate the effect of soft brace and rigid orthosis on performance and readiness to return to sport six months post-ACL-reconstruction.

  5. Jahnke, S., Becker, R., Królikowska, A., & Prill, R. (2022, August). Manual estimation of hip abductor strength – A practical alternative to conventional assessment tools? Conference Paper.

  6. Jahnke, S., Królikowska, A., Becker, R., & Prill, R. (2022, August). Influence of hip abductor strength on pelvis and knee position during a single-leg landing test. Conference Paper.

  7. Rinaldi, V. G., Prill, R., Jahnke, S., & Becker, R. (2022, August). The influence of gluteal muscle strength deficits on dynamic knee valgus: A scoping review.

Zhiliang Xu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhiliang Xu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Wannan Medical College | China

Prof. Zhiliang Xu, affiliated with Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China, is a distinguished molecular biologist and epigenetics researcher whose work focuses on histone ubiquitination, chromatin remodeling, and their implications in neurological disorders, cancer, gametogenesis, and cellular reprogramming. He earned his Ph.D. from the State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2017. According to Scopus, Prof. Zhiliang Xu has authored 11 publications, which have been cited 34 times, and he holds an h-index of 4, demonstrating the impact of his research in the scientific community. His seminal studies elucidated the role of H2B ubiquitination in chromatin relaxation during meiosis and cellular reprogramming, published in journals such as Nucleic Acids Research (2016), Cell Proliferation (2021), and Reproduction (2017). His recent work on neuronal repair, gut-liver axis regulation in diabetes, and genomic approaches to thalassemia has been featured in FASEB Journal (2025), Annals of Hematology (2025), and Neuroscience Letters (2025). Prof. Zhiliang Xu leads multiple high-impact national and provincial research projects, serves as a peer reviewer for journals including Scientific Reports and Neurochemical Research, and evaluates theses for graduate and doctoral candidates. Recognized with the 2021 National Maternal and Child Health Science and Technology Award (First Prize), the 2022 Guangzhou High-level Talent Award, and the 2024 Outstanding Young Talent honor in Anhui Province, Prof. Zhiliang Xu continues to advance fundamental understanding of chromatin biology and epigenetic regulation, exemplifying excellence, mentorship, and translational scientific impact, making him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Shi, L., Yan, X., Xia, Y., Zhao, Y., Zhu, X., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). Beyond transfusions and transplants: Genomic innovations rewriting the narrative of thalassemia. Annals of Hematology.

2. Zhang, Y., Wang, J., Huang, S., Liu, M., Zhao, Y., Xu, Z., & Zhu, X. (2025). Electroacupuncture preconditioning alleviates cortical neuronal injury in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion by rebalancing HES1 and NF-κB expression. Neuroreport.

3. Yan, X., Shi, L., Zhu, X., Zhao, J., Zhao, Y., Luo, J., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). From microbial homeostasis to systemic pathogenesis: A narrative review on gut flora’s role in neuropsychiatric, metabolic, and cancer disorders. Journal of Inflammation Research.

4. Huang, S., Lu, Y., Fang, W., Huang, Y., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). Neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinflammation-induced apoptosis. Open Life Sciences.

5. Li, Q., Zhang, L., Sun, Y., Du, Z., Xu, S., Wang, X., Wei, S., Tao, Y., Li, B., Jiang, J., Di, G., Huang, Y., & Xu, Z. (2025). p53 modulates the gut-liver axis via PI3K/AKT/Wnt signaling pathways in type 2 diabetes. FASEB Journal.

6. Li, Q., Yan, X., Zhao, Y., Xu, Z., & Zhu, X. (2025). Paeonol mitigates chronic stress-induced amygdalar neuronal damage through glycogen synthase kinase-3β/calcineurin axis regulation of synaptic plasticity. Neuroreport.

7. Zhu, X., Zhang, Y., Yan, X., Zhao, Y., Shi, L., Sun, Z., Meng, K., Zong, Y., Li, Q., & Xu, Z. (2025). Paeonol facilitates the repair of neuronal damage in the mPFC caused by chronic stress via the Rho GTPases-cofilin1 signaling pathway. Neuroscience Letters, 138329.

Yan Bai | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan Bai | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Yunnan University | China

Dr. Yan Bai is a highly accomplished postdoctoral researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-resources in Yunnan and the Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China. She earned her PhD in Cell Biology from Yunnan University, MSc in Pharmacology from the Chinese PLA Medical Academy, and BSc in Pharmacy from Dali University, establishing a strong interdisciplinary foundation spanning pharmacology, microbiology, and cellular biology. Prior to her current role, she conducted research at the Chinese PLA General Hospital, focusing on combination therapies against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Her research primarily investigates mitochondrial homeostasis, tumor biology, and the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial genetic diseases, with particular attention to mitochondria-associated condensates (MATOs) as regulators of protein translation and mitochondrial integrity. Dr. Yan Bai has led and contributed to several major research projects, including grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the National Basic Research Program, and Yunnan Province Science and Technology initiatives. Her work has resulted in high-impact publications in journals such as Nature Aging (2025), Sci China Life Sci (2025), EMBO J (2024), and Biophys Rep (2024). According to Scopus, she has authored 10 publications, cited 177 times across 169 documents, with an h-index of 6, demonstrating both productivity and influence in her field. Through her interdisciplinary collaborations, innovative experimental approaches, and groundbreaking findings on mitochondrial regulation and aging, Dr. Yan Bai has made significant contributions to biomedical science, advancing understanding of mitochondrial biology, disease mechanisms, and translational biomedical applications.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Bai, Y., Ma, T., Zhao, S., Li, S., Wang, X., Li, J., Sun, W., Yang, Y., Liu, F., Shan, Q., Qin, Z., Liu, N., Zhang, J., Tian, F., Duan, M., Chen, S., Lai, F., Chen, Q., Wu, X., & Yang, C. (2025). Mitochondria-associated condensates maintain mitochondrial homeostasis and promote lifespan. Nature Aging.

Hao, Q., Bai, Y., Guan, R., Dong, R., Bai, W., Hamdy, H., Wang, L., Meng, M., Sun, Y., Shen, J., & Sun, J. (2025). VPS35/Retromer-dependent MT1-MMP regulation confers melanoma metastasis. Science China Life Sciences, 68(7), 1996–2009.

Hao, Q., Dong, R., Bai, W., Chang, D., Yao, X., Zhang, Y., Xu, H., Li, H., Kui, X., Wang, F., Wang, Y., Wang, C., Lei, Y., Chen, Y., Shen, J., Sang, L., Bai, Y., & Sun, J. (2024). Screening for metastasis-related genes in mouse melanoma cells through sequential tail vein injection. Biophysical Reports, 10(1), 15–21.

Liu, F., Li, T., Gong, H., Tian, F., Bai, Y., Wang, H., Yang, C., Li, Y., Guo, F., Liu, S., & Chen, Q. (2024). Structural insights into the molecular effects of the anthelmintics monepantel and betaine on the Caenorhabditis elegans acetylcholine receptor ACR-23. EMBO Journal, 43(17), 3787–3806.

Wang, T., Zhou, X., Bai, Y., Zhang, L., Li, L., & Wu, C. (2018). Antiepileptic effect of uridine may be caused by regulating dopamine release and receptor expression in corpus striatum. Brain Research, 1688, 47–53.

Bai, Y., Liu, B., Wang, T., Cai, Y., Liang, B., Wang, R., Liu, Y., & Wang, J. (2015). In vitro activities of combinations of rifampin with other antimicrobials against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 59(3), 1466–1471.

Liu, B., Bai, Y., Liu, Y., Di, X., Zhang, X., Wang, R., & Wang, J. (2015). In vitro activity of tigecycline in combination with cefoperazone-sulbactam against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Journal of Chemotherapy, 27(5), 271–276.

Andrej Sirek | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Andrej Sirek | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University Hospital Basel | Switzerland

Dr. Andrej Sirek is a dedicated Pathology Resident at the University Hospital Basel, Institute of Medical Genetics and Pathology, where he is actively shaping his career at the intersection of clinical diagnostics and medical research. With his educational foundation built in leading European institutions, Dr. Andrej Sirek has developed a strong grounding in medical genetics, histopathology, and laboratory sciences, which now supports his dual role as both clinician and researcher. His residency provides him with exposure to complex pathology cases while also allowing him to engage in research that seeks to bridge genetic profiling and diagnostic pathology, with the long-term aim of contributing to precision medicine and early disease detection. Currently, he has completed one research project and is progressing with another, both expected to yield indexed publications in the near future. Despite being at an early stage of his academic career, his commitment to innovation in pathology has already been recognized with a nomination for the Best Researcher Award. He maintains active membership in several professional organizations, including SGPATH, ÖGPATH, SGZ, and ESP, which strengthens his global collaborations and engagement with the wider pathology community. While he has yet to publish peer-reviewed articles, his ongoing research demonstrates his potential to make impactful contributions to the field. His academic and professional journey underscores the promise of a new generation of clinician-scientists who integrate advanced diagnostic techniques with research innovation to improve patient care. Dr. Andrej Sirek’s trajectory highlights his dedication, scholarly potential, and commitment to excellence in pathology and medical genetics.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Dr. Andrej Sirek has contributed to impactful research in pathology, focusing on diagnostic innovations, tumor biology, and clinicopathological correlations. Key recent publications include:

Sirek, A., Hench, I. B., Hench, J., Alborelli, I., Gross, M. W., Jakscha, J., Schaller, P., Nagel, G., Baumhoer, D., & Tzankov, A. (2025). Recurrent clonal radiotherapy-associated fibroepithelial polyp of the pharynx: Do low grade radiogenic stromal tumours exist? Case report.

Sobottka, B., Vetter, V., Banaei-Esfahani, A., Nowak, M., Lorch, A., Sirek, A., Mertz, K. D., Brunelli, M., Berthold, D., de Leval, L., et al. (2024). Immune phenotype-genotype associations in primary clear cell renal cell carcinoma and matched metastatic tissue.

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.