Yucheng Lu | Neuroscience | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Yucheng Lu | Neuroscience | Research Excellence Award

Linyi People's Hospital | China

Prof. Yucheng Lu is a distinguished researcher whose scholarly contributions span cancer biology, immunology, and translational biomedical sciences. With 352 citations, 26 indexed publications, and an h-index of 13, he has established a strong research footprint in molecular oncology and disease pathology. Over his academic career, he has published 40 peer-reviewed papers, including 25 as first or corresponding author, reflecting consistent leadership in scientific inquiry. His work encompasses cutting-edge topics such as tumor-associated macrophage regulation in glioma, prognostic biomarkers in low-grade glioma, colorectal cancer therapeutics, and single-cell transcriptomics in esophageal cancer. In addition, he has explored metabolic and immunological disease interactions, cancer proliferation mechanisms, and neural electrophysiological responses. As a principal investigator, he has led 7 provincial and municipal research projects and contributed to 8 national and ministerial-level initiatives, demonstrating strong project management and interdisciplinary collaboration. His research excellence has earned 3 Science and Technology Achievement Awards, alongside innovations represented by 1 invention patent and 6 software copyrights. Through these achievements, Prof. Lu continues to advance biomedical research with significant scientific, clinical, and technological impact.

Profile : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Shi, H., Cheng, Y., Chao, D., Song, Q., Han, L., Li, H., Lu, Y., & Wang, M. (2025). Spatiotemporal profiling of endocytic regulators in the immunosuppressive TAM microenvironment of glioma. Brain Research, 150086. (In press)

Author names not provided. (2025). Identification of CDKN3 overexpression as a marker of poor prognosis and potential therapeutic target in low-grade glioma. Scientific Reports.

Author names not provided. (2025). Okanin suppresses the growth of colorectal cancer cells by targeting Peroxiredoxin 5. Advanced Science.

Shi, K., Li, Y., Yang, L., Zhang, Z., Guo, D., Zhang, J., & Lu, Y. (2022). Profiling transcriptional heterogeneity of epithelium, fibroblasts, and immune cells in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by single-cell RNA sequencing. The FASEB Journal, 0892-6638.

Zhao, J. Z., Lu, Y. C., Wang, Y. M., Xiao, B. L., Li, H. Y., Lee, S. C., & Wang, L. J. (2022). Association between diabetes and acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, 0973-3930.

Shi, K., Zhang, J. Z., Yang, L., Li, N. N., Yue, Y., Du, X. H., Zhang, X. Z., Lu, Y. C., & Guo, D. (2021). Protein deubiquitylase USP3 stabilizes Aurora A to promote proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Cancer, 1471-2407.

Lu, Y., Lv, B., & Song, Q. (2019). Transcranial electrical stimulation motor-evoked potentials in a spinal cord ischaemia rabbit model. Chinese Neurosurgical Journal, 2057-4967.

Lu, Y. C., Wang, P., Wang, J., Ma, R., & Lee, S. C. (2019). PCNA and JNK1-Stat3 pathways respectively promote and inhibit diabetes-associated centrosome amplification by targeting the ROCK1/14-3-3σ complex in human colon cancer HCT116 cells. Journal of Cellular Physiology.

Giovanni Smaldone | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Giovanni Smaldone | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

IRCCS Synlab SDN | Italy

Dr. Giovanni Smaldone is a highly accomplished researcher whose work spans molecular biology, structural biochemistry, oncology, immunology, and advanced diagnostic technologies. With 1,037 citations, 83 published works, and an h-index of 18, his contributions reflect both productivity and strong scientific impact. His research integrates structural biology, NMR spectroscopy, molecular interactions, and translational oncology, with a particular emphasis on childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). He has led and contributed to numerous funded research projects, including competitive grants focused on long non-coding RNAs, epigenetic markers, and the KCTD protein family in pediatric leukemia. His studies also extend into protein delivery systems, nanogels, cellular imaging, and biobank development for rare pediatric disorders. Dr. Smaldone’s recent publications highlight advancements in 3D refractive index tomography for leukemia cell analysis, targeted drug-delivery platforms, diagnostic biomarkers such as circular RNAs and LINC00958, and the structural mechanisms underlying KCTD–Cullin 3 interactions. His work frequently appears in high-impact journals across molecular sciences, biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and clinical research. Additionally, he has presented widely at national and international scientific conferences, contributing to knowledge dissemination in cellular biophysics, protein structure, pediatric oncology, and advanced molecular diagnostics.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Bianco, V., Pirone, D., Schiavo, M., Bianco, V., Miccio, L., Memmolo, P., Smaldone, G., Pecoraro, G., Altieri, F., Salvatore, M., et al. (2026). Quantitative mapping of leukemia cells and intracellular lipid droplets using 3D refractive index tomography in flow cytometry. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics.

Pizzella, M., Accardo, A., Mercurio, F. A., Sibillano, T., Gallo, E., Morelli, G., Smaldone, G., Giannini, C., Leone, M., Balasco, N., et al. (2025). Structural and functional characterization of self-assembling fragments identified from the transthyretin amyloid-like structure. Nanoscale.

Leone, I., Costabile, V., Smaldone, G., Franzese, M., Soricelli, A., & D’Agostino, A. (2025). Arthrospira platensis attenuates endothelial inflammation and monocyte activation. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Gallo, E., Smaldone, G., Cimmino, L., Braile, M., Orlandella, F. M., Luciano, N., Accardo, A., & Salvatore, G. (2025). Fmoc-FF nanogel-mediated delivery of doxorubicin and curcumin in thyroid cancer cells. Pharmaceutics.

Balasco, N., Esposito, L., Smaldone, G., Salvatore, M., & Vitagliano, L. (2024). A comprehensive analysis of the structural recognition between KCTD proteins and Cullin 3. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Bianco, V., Wang, Z., Brancato, V., Coppola, L., Smaldone, G., D’Aiuto, M., Mossetti, G., Maffettone, P. L., Salvatore, M., & Ferraro, P. (2024). Adaptive space-time digital holography for imaging flow cytometry and tissue slide analysis. In Digital Holography and Three-Dimensional Imaging (DH 2024).

Coppola, L., Grimaldi, A. M., Sarnacchiaro, G., Di Fasano, M. S., Smaldone, G., & Salvatore, M. (2024). An overview of Synlab SDN Biobank’s quality control system. Scientific Reports.

De Martino, L., Mirabelli, P., Quaglietta, L., Ferrara, U. P., Picariello, S., De Gennaro, D. V., Aiello, M., Smaldone, G., Aliberti, F., Spennato, P., et al. (2024). Biobank for craniosynostosis and faciocraniosynostosis: A study protocol. Child’s Nervous System.

Bianco, V., Valentino, M., Pirone, D., Miccio, L., Memmolo, P., Brancato, V., Coppola, L., Smaldone, G., D’Aiuto, M., & Mossetti, G. (2024). Classifying breast cancer and fibroadenoma tissue biopsies using fractal biomarkers in Fourier ptychographic microscopy. Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal.

De Martino, L., Mirabelli, P., Quaglietta, L., Ferrara, U. P., Picariello, S., De Gennaro, D. V., Aiello, M., Smaldone, G., Aliberti, F., Spennato, P., et al. (2024). Correction: Biobank for craniosynostosis and faciocraniosynostosis. Child’s Nervous System.

Gallo, E., Diaferia, C., Smaldone, G., Rosa, E., Pecoraro, G., Morelli, G., & Accardo, A. (2024). Fmoc-FF hydrogels and nanogels for improved and selective delivery of dexamethasone in leukemic cells. Scientific Reports.

Gallo, E., Diaferia, C., Smaldone, G., Rosa, E., Pecoraro, G., Morelli, G., & Accardo, A. (2024). Fmoc-FF hydrogels and nanogels for improved and selective delivery of dexamethasone in leukemic cells. Research Square.

Filomena, A., Smaldone, G., Ginevra, S., Santiago, N., Di Fasano, M. S., Peppino, M., Alessandra, C., Antonia, D. M., Giuliana, B., Rosanna, P., et al. (2024). Identification of a circular RNA isoform of WASHC2A as a prognostic factor for high-risk pediatric B-ALL. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.

Raymundo, J. R., Zhang, H., Smaldone, G., Zhu, W., Daly, K. E., Glennon, B. J., Pecoraro, G., Salvatore, M., Devine, W. A., Lo, C. W., et al. (2024). KCTD1/KCTD15 complexes control ectodermal and neural crest cell functions. Journal of Clinical Investigation.

Altieri, F., Buono, L., Lanzilli, M., Mirabelli, P., Cianflone, A., Beneduce, G., De Matteo, A., Parasole, R., Salvatore, M., & Smaldone, G. (2024). LINC00958 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Frontiers in Oncology.

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

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.

S. Azhagu Madhavan | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. S. Azhagu Madhavan | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Saveetha University | India

Author Profile

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Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. S. Azhagu Madhavan’s academic journey is rooted deeply in the life sciences, with a steadfast commitment to zoology and biotechnology. He completed his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. at the prestigious A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College, affiliated with Bharathidasan University, Tamil Nadu, India. His academic curiosity led him from foundational studies in zoology and biotechnology to advanced research, culminating in a doctoral thesis titled “Elucidating the Pharmacological Effect of Costus Spicatus Rhizome Extract in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Albino Wistar Rats.” 🧪🧬 His early academic work also explored microbial biodiversity within earthworm guts, revealing his interest in both macro and micro life sciences.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

With nearly five years of experience in academia and research, Dr. Madhavan has been shaping the minds of future scientists. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai. Prior to this, he honed his research skills as a Research Associate at Global Scientific Research Services and as a Research Assistant at Harman Institute of Science Education and Research. His journey reflects a blend of academic rigor and practical experience, contributing meaningfully to the scientific community.

🔍 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Madhavan’s research encompasses a wide range of cutting-edge disciplines including pharmacology, phytochemistry, nanobiotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural entomology. His scholarly efforts have led to impactful discoveries, especially in the synthesis and application of bioactive compounds and nanomaterials. His work on silver nanoparticles, biomarkers in autoimmune and neurological disorders, and natural therapeutic agents stands out for its translational value in modern medicine. His diverse research interests continue to evolve with interdisciplinary collaborations.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Madhavan’s academic brilliance has not gone unnoticed. In 2020, he was honored with the International Young Scientist Award at the 7th International Scientist Awards on Engineering, Science, and Medicine by VDGOOD Professional Association. He has also been recognized at several national conferences for his innovative contributions and oral presentations, including awards for his early research on earthworm-associated microbiota. His invited talks and memberships in peer-reviewed scholarly publishing forums further validate his scientific excellence.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Madhavan has made a global impact through his research, with multiple Q1 journal publications in top-tier platforms like Elsevier, Springer, and the Royal Society of Chemistry. His work has contributed to our understanding of nanomedicine, immunology, forensic neuroscience, and plant-based bioactive therapies, gaining recognition from peers worldwide. His designs, patented under the Indian IPR system, including innovations like biosensors, UV chambers, and biodegradable delivery systems, are already making waves in health tech and agriculture.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Madhavan is poised to leave a lasting legacy in biomedical and biotechnological research. His future plans likely include expanding interdisciplinary research, mentoring young scientists, and driving innovation through sustainable and impactful science. His visionary approach—combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific tools like nanotechnology and pharmacogenomics—positions him as a transformative figure in life sciences. As a passionate educator and a dynamic researcher, his contributions will continue shaping science and society.

Publications


📄 Identification and characterization of silver nanoparticles from Erythrina indica and its antioxidant and Uropathogenic antimicrobial properties
Authors: Sivalingam, Azhagu Madhavan; Pandian, Arjun
Journal: Microbial Pathogenesis
Year: 2024


📄 Exosomes in Regulating miRNAs for Biomarkers of Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Sivalingam, Azhagu Madhavan; Sureshkumar, Darshitha D.
Journal: Molecular Neurobiology
Year: 2025


📄 Fungal pretreatment methods for organic wastes: advances and challenges in biomass valorization
Authors: Chaurasia, P.K.; Bharati, S.L.; Singh, S.; Sivalingam, A.M.; Shankar, S.; Mani, A.
Journal: RSC Sustainability
Year: 2025


📄 Antihyperglycemic Activity of Polyphenolic Metabolites and Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Pedalium murex: Characterization and Application of Antioxidant and Uropathogenic Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Azhagu Madhavan Sivalingam; Arjun Pandian
Journal: Microbial Pathogenesis
Year: 2025


📄 Cerebellar pathology in forensic and clinical neuroscience
Authors: Azhagu Madhavan Sivalingam; Darshitha D. Sureshkumar; Vijayalakshmi Pandurangan
Journal: Ageing Research Reviews
Year: 2025


Jairus Nandwa | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jairus Nandwa | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Hebrew University of Jerusalem | Israel

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Jairus Nandwa's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor's in Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology from The Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya. He pursued his passion further with a Master's in Biosciences from COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan, where he delved into cancer genetics. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Genetics at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, focusing on circular RNAs, SNORDs, and miRNAs in cancer under the guidance of Professor Ruth Sperling.

Professional Endeavors

Jairus has garnered diverse professional experiences, from his tenure as a Laboratory Analyst at the Regional Veterinary Investigation Laboratory, Kenya, to his role as the Head of Public Needs Research at the Integrated Cancer Research Foundation of Kenya. He has contributed significantly to cancer education and research, both as a volunteer and in leadership positions, demonstrating his commitment to advancing cancer management in Kenya.

Contributions and Research Focus

With a strong background in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology, Jairus has dedicated his research efforts to elucidating the roles of non-coding RNAs in gene expression regulation, tumor microenvironment, biomarker discovery, and DNA repair mechanisms. His research spans both experimental and computational domains, aiming to unravel the complexities of cancer genetics and improve therapeutic strategies.

Accolades and Recognition

Jairus's contributions to the field of cancer genetics have been recognized internationally. He has been awarded prestigious scholarships, including the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship, and has received honors for his academic achievements. Additionally, his research publications in reputable journals underscore his growing influence in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Through his research, leadership roles, and volunteer activities, Jairus has made a significant impact on cancer education, awareness, and research in Kenya. His work has contributed to the understanding of cancer pathogenesis and has paved the way for innovative approaches to cancer management and treatment.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Jairus continues his doctoral studies and pursues his research interests in cancer genetics, he aims to leave a lasting legacy in the field through groundbreaking discoveries and transformative contributions. His multidisciplinary approach, coupled with his passion for scientific inquiry, positions him as a promising leader in cancer research with the potential to drive positive change in the global fight against cancer.

Notable Publications

miR-4716–3p and the target AKT2 Gene/rs2304186 SNP are associated with blood cancer pathogenesis in Pakistani population 2024

In silico analysis of RPS4X (X-linked ribosomal protein) with active components from black seed (Nigella sativa) for potential treatment of multiple sclerosis 2024

Therapeutic capability of selected medicinal plants' bioactive constituents against the mutant ovarian TP53 gene; a computational approach 2023

Targeting allosteric sites on PDK-1 and PLK-1 with bioactive compounds from Daucus carota as a potential therapy for triple-negative breast cancer 2023