Yucheng Lu | Neuroscience | Research Excellence Award

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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

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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

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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.

Ridwan Salaam | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Editorial Board Member

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Mr. Ridwan Salaam | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Editorial Board Member

University of Ibadan | Nigeria

Author Profile

Orcid

Google Scholar

🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Ridwan Salaam’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to scientific excellence. His Bachelor’s degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) laid the foundation for his expertise in molecular genetics, with a thesis focused on the chromosomal studies of Arvicanthis niloticus. He graduated with a Second Class Upper degree, achieving a remarkable GPA of 4.19/5.0. Building on this, he pursued a Master’s degree at the University of Ibadan, earning a distinction (GPA: 6.2/7.0). His thesis investigated the antiplasmodial activity of phytocompounds using in silico pharmacology, supervised by esteemed scholars like Dr. Afolayan Funmilayo I.D.

🚀 Professional Endeavors

With hands-on research experience spanning academia and industry, Ridwan has excelled in roles such as Research Intern at Hackbio, Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Ibadan, and Research Assistant at OAU. He has mastered advanced bioinformatics tools, molecular docking, and statistical analysis, actively contributing to cancer and infectious disease studies. His contributions extend to mentoring students, conducting DNA extractions, and organizing independent research groups like the Computer-Aided Biological Research Group (COMBReG).

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Ridwan’s research spans Cell Biology, Molecular Genetics, Drug Discovery, and Immunotherapy, with an emphasis on cancer and infectious diseases. He has published extensively on computational drug discovery, molecular docking, and network pharmacology. Notable works include elucidating antiplasmodial mechanisms and exploring phytocompounds for cancer treatments. He has participated in groundbreaking projects, such as developing multipotent antivenom under the 2023 TETFUND National Research Fund.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Ridwan’s achievements have garnered national and international recognition. His certificate of commendation from Government Secondary School, Maina, acknowledges his teaching contributions, while multiple workshop certifications highlight his expertise in computer-aided drug design and vaccine development. His collaborative research efforts have been showcased at prestigious conferences like the Zoological Society of Nigeria Annual Conference and the International Conference on Scientific Research in Nigeria.

🌍 Impact and Influence

As a convener of COMBReG and a research team coordinator, Ridwan has demonstrated exceptional leadership by fostering collaborative environments and driving innovation. He has trained over 40 participants in bioinformatics and spearheaded projects addressing global health challenges like malaria and cancer. His ability to work across diverse cultural and professional backgrounds has solidified his reputation as a team player and mentor.

📜 Legacy and Future Contributions

Ridwan Salaam’s robust academic background and research endeavors position him as a trailblazer in molecular genetics and bioinformatics. His work not only addresses pressing global health issues but also inspires future generations of scientists. With ongoing research in computational drug discovery and molecular pathways, Ridwan’s contributions are poised to leave a lasting impact on the fields of cancer therapy and infectious disease treatment. His journey exemplifies the spirit of innovation and dedication, promising a legacy of transformative research.

 

Publications

📄 A Review of Selected Parasitic Plants in Nigeria: Converting Harms to Benefits

Authors: Funmilayo I. D. Afolayan, Ridwan A. Salaam, Ebenezer S. Oladokun, Samson D. Adesoye
Journal: Natural Therapy Advances
Year: 2024

📄 Antiplasmodial Mechanism of Lawsonia inermis: An In Silico-Based Investigation

Authors: Ridwan Abiodun Salaam, Funmilayo I. D. Afolayan
Journal: Infectious Diseases Research
Year: 2024

📄 In Silico Discovery of Potential Androgen Receptor and Cytochrome P450 17A1 Inhibitors from Camellia sinensis for Prostate Cancer Treatment

Authors: Ridwan Abiodun Salaam, Christopher Terseer Tarkaa, Rachael Pius Ebuh, Damilare Adebayo Olaniyi, Sayo Ebenezer Oladokun, Rodiat Omotola Sowemimo, Oluwaponmile Florence Ajayi, Olusola Abayomi Akangbe
Journal: Next Research
Year: 2024

📄 In Silico and In Vivo Evaluations of Multistage Antiplasmodial Potency and Toxicity Profiling of n-Hexadecanoic Acid Derived from Vernonia amygdalina

Authors: Funmilayo I. D. Afolayan, R. A. Odeyemi, Ridwan A. Salaam
Journal: Frontiers in Pharmacology
Year: 2024

📄 Elucidating the Molecular Targets of Curcuma longa for Breast Cancer Treatment Using Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Authors: Christopher Terseer Tarkaa, Damilare Adebayo Oyaniyi, Ridwan Abiodun Salaam, Rachael Pius Ebuh, Olusola Abayomi Akangbe, Sayo Ebenezer Oladokun, Rodiat Omotola Sowemimo, Oluwaponmile Florence Ajayi
Journal: Precision Medicine Research
Year: 2023

 

Dong Hee Kim | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Research Award

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Dr. Dong Hee Kim | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Research Award

Pusan national university | South Korea

Author Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Dong Hee Kim began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Ulsan, Korea, in 2004. He continued at the same institution for his M.S.-Ph.D. in Biological Sciences under the mentorship of Professor Byung Ju Lee, completing his doctorate in 2012. His thesis, "Studies on the role of NELL2 in neuroprotection and neural differentiation," laid the foundation for his future research endeavors.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kim has held various prestigious positions throughout his career. He is currently a Research Fellow at Pusan National University Hospital since November 2022. Previously, he served as a Research Professor at the University of Ulsan from January 2019 to May 2022, and as a Research Fellow at the same university from January 2015 to October 2016. His early postdoctoral work was conducted at UNIST from March 2013 to December 2014.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kim's research primarily revolves around neuroprotection, neural differentiation, and the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. His notable grants include funding from WISET for studying the function of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in the brain, and multiple grants from the NRF of Korea, including studies on TonEBP function in hypothalamic leptin resistance and its role in degenerative brain disorders.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Kim has received significant recognition for his contributions to biomedical research. His projects have been supported by prestigious grants, highlighting the impact and importance of his work in understanding brain functions and disorders. His research has also resulted in numerous publications in high-impact journals, further establishing his reputation in the field.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Kim's research has significantly advanced the understanding of neural mechanisms and their implications in neurodegenerative diseases. His work on the transcription regulation of key genes involved in brain function and inflammation has provided new insights into potential therapeutic targets. His publications have been widely cited, indicating the influence of his research on the scientific community.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kim's ongoing research continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of the brain. His current projects, funded by substantial grants, promise to uncover new mechanisms of brain function and disease. As he progresses in his career, Dr. Kim is poised to make further groundbreaking discoveries that will contribute to the field of biomedical science and technology.

 

Publications 📘

📄 Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Transcription Regulation of AgRP and POMC Genes

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kim DH*, Lee MJ, Kang D, Khang AR, Bae JH, Kim JY, Kim SH, Kang YH, Yi D.

📕 Journal: Curr Issues Mol Biol.

📅 Year: 2024

📄 Bridging Energy Need and Feeding Behavior: The Impact of eIF2α Phosphorylation in AgRP Neurons

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kim KK, Lee TH, Park BS, Kang D, Kim DH, Jeong B, Kim JW, Yang HR, Kim HR, Jin S, Back SH, Park JW, Kim JG, Lee BJ.

📕 Journal: Diabetes

📅 Year: 2023

📄 Sirtuin 1-Mediated Deacetylation of Hypothalamic TTF-1 Contributes to Energy Deficiency Response

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kang D, Yang HR, Kim DH, Kim KK, Jeong B, Park BS, Park JW, Kim JG, Lee BJ.

📕 Journal: Int J Mol Sci.

📅 Year: 2023

📄 Inhibition of LPAR1 Signaling in PDLSCs Reduces the Inflammatory Paracrine Effect on Primary Astrocyte Cells

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kim DH*, Seo EJ*, Kim YH, Jang IH.

📕 Journal: Int J Oral Biol.

📅 Year: 2022

📄 Transcriptional Regulatory Role of NELL2 in Preproenkphalin Gene Expression

👩‍🔬 Authors: Ha CM*, Kim DH*, Lee TH, Kim HR, Choi JI, Kim Y, Kang DS, Park JW, Oieda S, Jeong JK, Lee BJ.

📕 Journal: Mol Cells

📅 Year: 2022