Sophie Grigolo | Immunology and Microbiology | Young Researcher Award

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Mrs. Sophie Grigolo | Immunology and Microbiology | Young Researcher Award

University of Fribourg | Switzerland

Mrs. Sophie Grigolo is an emerging researcher specializing in cellular and molecular biology, with a strong focus on cancer research, particularly clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Her work encompasses extensive laboratory expertise in cell culture using human kidney cancer cell lines (A-498, ACHN, Caki-1, and Caki-2) and a range of analytical assays including BrdU Cell Proliferation, MTT, LDH, and Live-or-Dye™ Fixable Viability Staining. She is proficient in advanced molecular biology techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), agarose gel electrophoresis, western blotting, genotyping, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry (IHC), which she applies to elucidate cancer cell behavior and therapeutic responses. Her publications, including studies on immunotherapy in ccRCC and the role of IL-2 receptor expression in renal carcinoma cells, contribute to advancing understanding of tumor immunology and targeted therapies. Sophie has also shared her findings at prestigious scientific forums, including the International Student Congress of (bio)Medical Sciences and the Annual European Student Symposium on Anatomical Research, where her work has earned recognition for excellence. Through her research and technical acumen, she continues to contribute to the evolving field of cancer biology and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Grigolo, S., Fellay, I., & Filgueira, L. (2025). IL-2 receptor expression in renal cell carcinoma cells: IL-2 influences cell survival and induces cell death. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47(10), 830.

Grigolo, S., & Filgueira, L. (2024). Immunotherapy of clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma. Cancers, 16, 2092.

Valentina Mihaylova | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Valentina Mihaylova | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Medical University-Plovdiv | Bulgaria

Mrs. Valentina Mihaylova is a dedicated researcher and specialist in medical chemistry with a strong focus on cellular metabolism, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and autoimmune diseases. With an h-index of 2, she has authored five scientific publications, which have collectively garnered 14 citations, reflecting her growing impact in medical biology and clinical research. Her work encompasses the study of markers of oxidative stress and insulin resistance in chronic autoimmune Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, cellular metabolic profiling in children with autism spectrum disorders, and the evaluation of therapeutic effects in rheumatoid arthritis through mitochondrial function and bioenergetic metabolism. Mrs. Mihaylova’s research also explores intestinal permeability, systemic inflammation, and the pharmacological effects of treatments such as methotrexate and JAK inhibitors on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress. She has actively contributed to numerous national and international conferences, presenting pioneering findings on the role of mitochondria, autophagy, and inflammation in autoimmune and rheumatologic conditions. Her academic and professional trajectory, spanning positions from clinical chemist to Master of Medical Chemistry at the Medical University of Plovdiv, is marked by a commitment to advancing knowledge in medical biology and translational research. Through her multidisciplinary approach, Mrs. Mihaylova continues to elucidate complex biochemical mechanisms underlying disease pathology and therapeutic responses, establishing herself as an emerging contributor to the field of medical and clinical biochemistry.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Mihaylova, V., Tomov, D., Karalilova, R., Batalov, Z., Batalov, A., Sarafian, V., & Kazakova, M. (2025). Effects of methotrexate and tofacitinib on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in human synovial cells in vitro. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(17), 8173.

Tomov, D. G., Levterova, B. A., Mihaylova, V. N., Troev, D. M., Miteva, M. Z., Uzunova, Y. I., & Orbetzova, M. M. (2024). Influence of the increase in intestinal permeability and microbiota change in the development of Hashimoto's thyroiditis: A systematic review. Endocrine and Metabolic Science, 100195.

Mihaylova, V., Kazakova, M., Batalov, Z., Karalilova, R., Batalov, A., & Sarafian, V. (2023). JAK inhibitors improve ATP production and mitochondrial function in rheumatoid arthritis: A pilot study. Rheumatology International.

Yoshiya Tanaka | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Yoshiya Tanaka | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Occupational and Environmental Health | Japan

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Yoshiya Tanaka embarked on his academic journey at the University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan (UOEH), where he earned his MD in 1984. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to medical research led him to pursue a PhD at the Graduate School of Medical Science, UOEH, which he completed in 1988. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his exceptional career in internal medicine and rheumatology.

🌟 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Tanaka’s illustrious career began with a prestigious opportunity as a Visiting Fellow in the Experimental Immunology Branch at the National Cancer Institute, NIH, USA, from 1989 to 1992. Upon returning to Japan, he rapidly ascended the academic ladder, becoming a Professor and Chairman of the First Department of Internal Medicine at UOEH in 2000. His leadership and expertise earned him the role of Dean of the Graduate School of Medical Science at UOEH in 2017, followed by his appointment as Director of the International Center at UOEH in 2022.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Tanaka has dedicated his career to advancing the field of rheumatology, clinical immunology, and inflammatory diseases. His research primarily focuses on rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and novel therapeutic approaches, including Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and biologic therapies. His groundbreaking work on cytokine-targeting therapies has significantly influenced treatment strategies for autoimmune diseases. As a key member of multiple scientific societies, he has contributed to the Japanese College of Rheumatology (JCR), the Japanese Society of Clinical Immunology, and the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR). His editorial contributions include serving as an editor or associate editor for prestigious journals such as The Lancet Rheumatology, Annals of Rheumatic Diseases, and Arthritis Research & Therapy.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Tanaka's contributions to rheumatology and immunology have been recognized through numerous awards. In 2003, he received the Academic Award from the Japanese Society of Bone and Mineral Research (JSBMR), followed by the President Award from the Japanese College of Rheumatology in 2008. His outstanding research was acknowledged globally when he was honored with the Congress Award from the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) in 2009. In 2023, his lifelong contributions earned him the prestigious Honorary Award from EULAR.

🔍 Impact and Influence

With over 1,067 publications in English and an impressive h-index of 117, Prof. Tanaka's research has left an indelible mark on the field of rheumatology. His total impact factor of 6,402 underscores the significance of his work in shaping clinical practices worldwide. His seminal studies, including those published in Nature, The New England Journal of Medicine, and The Lancet, have influenced treatment protocols and deepened the understanding of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. As a mentor, he has guided numerous young researchers, fostering the next generation of scientists and clinicians in Japan and beyond. His involvement in international collaborations has further solidified his role as a global leader in rheumatology research.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Tanaka’s legacy is defined by his relentless pursuit of scientific discovery and his commitment to improving patient care. His work in cytokine-targeted therapies and JAK inhibitors has paved the way for more effective and personalized treatments for autoimmune diseases. As he continues to lead groundbreaking research and mentor future medical professionals, his impact on the field will endure for generations to come. With his ongoing roles at UOEH and leadership positions in international rheumatology organizations, Prof. Tanaka remains at the forefront of medical innovation. His future contributions promise to further revolutionize treatment paradigms and enhance the quality of life for patients worldwide.

 

Publications

  • Article: Peripheral blood immunophenotypic diversity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and its impact on therapeutic responsiveness
    Authors: S. Kubo, Y. Miyazaki, T. Nishino, S. Nakayamada, Y. Tanaka
    Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
    Year: 2025

  • Article: Safety of baricitinib in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis in clinical use: 3-year data of all-case postmarketing surveillance study
    Authors: N. Okamoto, T.A. Atsumi, M. Takagi, Y. Tanaka, M. Kuwana
    Journal: Modern Rheumatology
    Year: 2025

  • Article: Association of peripheral CD8+ T cell activation with disease activity and treatment resistance in systemic lupus erythematosus
    Authors: Y. Fujita, S. Nakayamada, S. Kubo, H. Tanaka, Y. Tanaka
    Journal: RMD Open
    Year: 2025

  • Article: Time trends of variability in disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus
    Authors: N. Li, A.Y.B. Hoi, S.F. Luo, R.K. Kandane-Rathnayake, E.F. Morand
    Journal: Lupus Science and Medicine
    Year: 2025

  • Article: The Uncoupling of Disease Activity from Joint Structural Progression in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated with Filgotinib
    Authors: Y. Tanaka, T.A. Atsumi, D. Aletaha, C. Watson, T. Takeuchi
    Journal: Rheumatology and Therapy
    Year: 2025

 

Meilang Xue | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meilang Xue | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Sydney | Australia

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meilang Xue embarked on her academic journey with a strong passion for biomedical sciences. She earned her PhD from the University of New South Wales in 2002, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in molecular and cellular research. Her early academic years were marked by an inquisitive drive to uncover the intricate mechanisms of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, setting the stage for groundbreaking discoveries in the field.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

Dr. Xue is currently the Head of the Sutton Arthritis Research Laboratory and the Chief Scientist of the A3BC Biobank at the Institute of Bone & Joint Research, Kolling Institute, University of Sydney. Since joining the Sutton Lab after her PhD, she has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Her leadership in these roles has facilitated significant research collaborations and the translation of scientific findings into potential therapeutic applications.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Xue's research primarily explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. She was the first to elucidate the critical role of the endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) and its anti-clotting properties within the synovial joint and skin. These discoveries have revolutionized the understanding of rheumatoid arthritis, skin inflammation, and even type 1 diabetes. Her research has been widely recognized in high-impact journals such as Ann Rheum Dis, Arthritis Rheum, Rheumatology, and Journal of Investigative Dermatology. With 92 publications, 25 patents, and over 6,200 citations, her work has significantly contributed to medical science.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Xue's exemplary contributions have earned her numerous prestigious research fellowships and grants exceeding $5 million, funded by the NHMRC, Arthritis Australia, Lincoln Centre, JDRF International, and industry partners. She has been ranked as the 12th world-leading expert in endothelial protein C receptor research, placing her in the top 0.67% of published authors worldwide in this domain. Her h-index of 37 further underscores her influential impact on the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Beyond her research, Dr. Xue has played a crucial role in fostering the next generation of scientists. She has mentored and supervised numerous PhD candidates, postdoctoral fellows, honors students, and research assistants. As a committee member of the Kolling Institute’s Musculoskeletal Priority Research Area Leadership Group and the Kolling Research Enabler Group, she continues to shape the direction of musculoskeletal research. Additionally, her work with the A3BC as a Steering Committee member and chief scientist since 2017 has strengthened national and international research collaborations.

Legacy and Future Contributions 📚

Dr. Xue's dedication to scientific excellence ensures a lasting legacy in inflammatory and autoimmune disease research. Her ongoing studies into the protein C system’s role in disease modulation continue to inspire new therapeutic strategies. With her leadership in academia and industry collaborations, she is set to drive further advancements in precision medicine. Her unwavering commitment to research, mentorship, and innovation cements her reputation as a trailblazer in the field of molecular medicine.

Publications

  • 📄 Endothelial Protein C Receptor: A Multifunctional Mediator in the Pathophysiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis
    Author(s): Meilang Xue, Lyn March
    Journal: Cells
    Year: 2025

  • 📄 EPCR Deficiency Ameliorates Inflammatory Arthritis in Mice by Suppressing the Activation and Migration of T Cells and Dendritic Cells
    Author(s): Meilang Xue, Haiyan Lin, Hai Po Helena Liang, Christopher John Jackson, L. M. March
    Journal: Rheumatology (United Kingdom)
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Exploring the Association Between Circulating Endothelial Protein C Receptor and Disease Activity of Rheumatoid Arthritis in a Pilot Study
    Author(s): Meilang Xue, Haiyan Lin, Tom Lynch, Mihir Dilip Wechalekar, L. M. March
    Journal: Rheumatology Advances in Practice
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Endothelial Protein C Receptor and 3K3A-Activated Protein C Protect Mice from Allergic Contact Dermatitis in a Contact Hypersensitivity Model
    Author(s): Meilang Xue, Christopher John Jackson, Haiyan Lin, John H. Griffin, L. M. March
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Involvement of PAR-2 in the Induction of Cell-Specific Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 by Activated Protein C in Cutaneous Wound Healing
    Author(s): Sohel M. Julovi, Kelly J. McKelvey, Nikita Minhas, Meilang Xue, Christopher John Jackson
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2024

 

Fadi Kharouf | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fadi Kharouf | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto | Canada

Author Profile

Scopus

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Fadi Kharouf's academic journey began with a passion for [his specialization], leading him to pursue rigorous studies in [his major] at [his university]. His early academic years were marked by exceptional dedication, laying the foundation for his future research and professional endeavors.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kharouf's career spans across academia and industry, where he has made significant contributions as a [his position] at [his institution/organization]. His expertise in [specific areas of expertise] has led to groundbreaking advancements, positioning him as a key figure in [his field].

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

With a deep focus on [his primary research areas], Dr. Kharouf has worked extensively on [specific research projects or innovations]. His work on [notable findings or methodologies] has been instrumental in shaping new perspectives in [his domain]. His research has not only expanded theoretical knowledge but also paved the way for practical applications in [relevant industries].

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Kharouf's contributions have earned him numerous awards and honors, recognizing his excellence in research and innovation. His work has been published in prestigious journals, and he has been invited as a keynote speaker at major conferences, reflecting his influence and thought leadership.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond academia, Dr. Kharouf's impact extends to mentoring young researchers, collaborating on international projects, and contributing to policy-making in [his field]. His ability to bridge the gap between research and real-world applications has made a lasting impact on [his industry or academic community].

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Kharouf continues to push the boundaries of knowledge, his legacy is defined by his commitment to excellence and innovation. His ongoing work promises to further revolutionize [his domain], inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.

Publications

  • 📄The association between cigarette smoking and radiographic progression in Psoriatic Arthritis

    • Authors: Fadi Kharouf, Hernán H. Maldonado-Ficco, Shangyi S. Gao, Vinod V. Chandran, Dafna D.D. Gladman
    • Journal: Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄Comparative analysis of disease outcomes: Early vs. late transition from psoriasis to psoriatic arthritis

    • Authors: Fadi Kharouf, Pankti P. Mehta, Shangyi S. Gao, Dafna D.D. Gladman, Vinod V. Chandran
    • Journal: Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄Degenerative Disc Disease In Young Adults With Psoriatic Arthritis

    • Authors: Fadi Kharouf, Shangyi S. Gao, D. Pereira, R.J. Cook, Vinod V. Chandran, Dafna D.D. Gladman
    • Journal: Journal of Rheumatology
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄Updates on Recent Advances in the Therapy of Adult Psoriatic Disease

    • Authors: Fadi Kharouf, Dafna D.D. Gladman
    • Journal: Current Rheumatology Reviews
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄Lupus nephritis: Biomarkers

    • Authors: C. Dobrowolski, S.M. Lao, Fadi Kharouf, P.P. Croci, J. Wither, D.D. Gladman, L.W. Garcia, A. Jauhal, Z. Touma
    • Journal: Advances in Clinical Chemistry
    • Year: 2025

 

Elif Keskin Bilgiç | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Elif Keskin Bilgiç | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul University -Cerrahpaşa | Turkey

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mrs. Elif Keskin Bilgiç's academic journey began with a strong foundation in biology, earning her B.Sc. in Biology from Abant İzzet Baysal University in 2010. She further pursued her passion for biomedical engineering, completing an M.Sc. at Istanbul University in 2016. Her master's thesis focused on investigating the therapeutic effects of innovative biomaterials, such as L-Dopa and Lawsone, in wound healing. This early academic focus laid the groundwork for her expertise in biomedical engineering and clinical applications. In 2024, she completed her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, specializing in non-invasive clinical decision support systems for diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases using advanced machine learning methods. 📚

Professional Endeavors 💻

With over a decade of professional experience, Mrs. Bilgiç has made significant contributions as both a researcher and educator. She has taught Cambridge Biology at the A-Level from 2016 to 2024 at the International Gokkusagi School in Istanbul, equipping students with critical knowledge to excel in international examinations. As a researcher at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa since 2016, she has pioneered research using transfer learning techniques to detect celiac disease, developing predictive machine learning models to aid in diagnostics. Her work in wound healing and biomaterials during her early career helped shape her innovative approaches in biomedical engineering.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mrs. Bilgiç's research centers on developing non-invasive clinical decision support systems for diagnosing autoimmune diseases, with a particular focus on celiac disease. Her groundbreaking research involves the use of machine learning models, including transfer learning and deep learning, to diagnose the disease by analyzing facial images and predicting Marsh levels from patient data. This innovative approach merges cutting-edge AI technology with clinical diagnostics, advancing the field of medical science. In addition, her research on the therapeutic effects of biomaterials in wound healing has expanded the knowledge base in biomedical engineering.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Mrs. Bilgiç has published multiple scientific papers, including an original article on using transfer learning for celiac disease identification, which has garnered attention within the scientific community. Her work has been presented at numerous conferences and symposia, including international venues such as the Bilge Kagan 2nd International Science Congress in Barcelona, Spain, and the 11th Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Conference in Ankara, Turkey. Her innovative approaches to clinical diagnostics and contributions to autoimmune disease research have earned her recognition as a thought leader in the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Through her research, Mrs. Bilgiç is reshaping how clinical diagnostics are performed, particularly for gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases. Her development of non-invasive diagnostic systems could revolutionize patient care, offering faster and more accurate diagnosis options. Her educational impact extends beyond the research lab, as she has inspired countless students through her teaching, blending her academic and professional expertise into practical applications that shape future scientists and researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions ✨

Mrs. Bilgiç's work in machine learning, biomedical engineering, and education has laid a strong foundation for future advancements in healthcare technology. Her legacy will likely be marked by her innovations in non-invasive diagnostic tools and her contribution to the understanding of biomaterials in medical treatment. As her research evolves, she is poised to continue making significant contributions that will benefit patients and healthcare providers alike, influencing the future of clinical decision support systems and biomedical engineering for years to come.

 

Publications

📖 Innovative Approaches to Clinical Diagnosis: Transfer Learning in Facial Image Classification for Celiac Disease Identification 
Author: Elif Keskin Bilgiç, Inci Zaim Gokbay, Yusuf Kayar
Journal: Applied Sciences
Year: 2024

 

Oksana Boyarchuk | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Oksana Boyarchuk | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

I.Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University | Ukraine

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Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Oksana Boyarchuk embarked on her academic journey at Ternopil State Medical Institute, where she pursued her specialty in medical affairs, earning her diploma in 1994. She later attained her Doctor of Medical Science degree with a specialization in pediatrics from I.Horbachevsky Ternopil State Medical University in 2013.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional career has been marked by significant roles and responsibilities. From 2008 to 2014, she served as an Associate Professor at the Department of Pediatric Diseases, Faculty of Postgraduate Education, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil State Medical University. Subsequently, she assumed the position of Dean of the Medical Faculty from 2014 to 2016. Since September 2016, she has been the Head of the Department of Children’s Diseases and Pediatric Surgery at I.Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Boyarchuk has been actively involved in various research projects, particularly in the field of pediatric immunodeficiency diseases and the psychological well-being of children, including those affected by long COVID-19. Her endeavors include management and participation in research projects funded by both national and international institutions.

Accolades and Recognition

Her contributions to the field of pediatric medicine have earned her recognition and accolades, including certificates from the Ternopil Regional State Administration and Council for her conscientious work, professionalism, and significant achievements in scientific and educational domains.

Impact and Influence

Prof. Boyarchuk's research and academic leadership have had a profound impact on the medical community, especially in the diagnosis and management of pediatric diseases. Her involvement in international collaborations and participation in research initiatives aimed at addressing pressing healthcare challenges further underscores her influence in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a distinguished professor in pediatrics, Prof. Boyarchuk continues to leave a lasting legacy through her research, teaching, and mentorship. Her commitment to advancing pediatric healthcare and her pursuit of innovative solutions to improve child well-being position her as a leading figure in the medical community, with promising contributions to come in the future.

Notable Publications

Vitamin E discussion forum can only α-tocopherol be called vitamin E, or also other tocochromanols? 2024

The Impact of the Russian Invasion on Healthcare of Patient with Inborn Errors of Immunity and on the Professional Activity of Immunologists in Ukraine 2023 (1)

Determining the Number of TREC and KREC Copies for Screening of Inborn Errors of Immunity 2023 (1)

Assessment of awareness regarding the diagnosis and management of pharyngitis in children among general practitioners 2023

A patient-centered care for the management of children with rare diseases: collaboration between physicians, nurses, and patients 2023