Arzu Yay | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Arzu Yay | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Erciyes University | Turkey

Prof. Arzu Yay is a distinguished researcher in the Department of Histology and Embryology at Erciyes University, Turkey. Her work focuses on cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying tissue development, injury, and repair, with emphasis on immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses. Her M.Sc. research examined E-cadherin expression during renal development in the prenatal period, contributing to the understanding of epithelial differentiation in organogenesis. Her Ph.D. focused on nestin expression across different grades of meningiomas and glioblastomas, highlighting neural stem cell marker dynamics in tumor progression. She has conducted significant studies on oxidative stress, neurobiology, and tissue damage, including investigations into the effects of melatonin and vitamin C on alcohol-induced lung injury and nitric oxide synthase immunoreactivity. Her research has also explored tissue-level alterations in diabetes and the histological impacts of hormonal and anesthetic agents. Prof. Yay’s postdoctoral work at the University of Lübeck, Germany, further advanced her expertise in dermatological histopathology. Her contributions have been recognized through multiple national and international awards for excellence in experimental and translational research, particularly in antioxidant mechanisms and radioprotection. Her body of work reflects a strong integration of histological, molecular, and ultrastructural approaches in biomedical sciences.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Yıldız, K., Efesoy, S. N., Ozdamar, S., Yay, A., Bicer, C., Aksu, R., & Kılıc, E. (2011). Myotoxic effects of levobupivacaine, bupivacaine and ropivacaine in a rat model. Clinical Investigation in Medicine, 34(5), 273–280.

Sarıozkan, S., Bucak, M. N., Canturk, F., Ozdamar, S., Yay, A., Tuncer, P. B., Ozcan, S., Sorgucu, N., & Caner, Y. (2012). The effects of different sugars on motility, morphology and DNA damage during the liquid storage of rat epididymal sperm at 4°C. Cryobiology, 65(2), 93–97.

Sarıozkan, S., Canturk, F., Yay, A., & Akçay, A. (2012). The effect of different storage temperature on sperm parameters and DNA damage in liquid stored New Zealand rabbit spermatozoa. Kafkas Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Dergisi, 18(3), 475–480.*

Yay, A., Ozdamar, S., Canoz, O., Tucer, B., & Baran, M. (2013). Nestin expression in meningiomas of different grades. Journal of Neurological Sciences (Turkish), 30, 532–540.

Sarıozkan, S., Türk, G., Canturk, F., Yay, A., Eken, A., & Akçay, A. (2013). The effect of bovine serum albumin and fetal calf serum on sperm quality, DNA fragmentation and lipid peroxidation of liquid stored rabbit semen. Cryobiology, 67(1), 1–6.*

Ernst, N., Yay, A., Bíró, T., Tiede, S., Humphries, M., Paus, R., & Kloepper, J. E. (2013). β1 integrin signaling maintains human epithelial progenitor cell survival in situ and controls proliferation, apoptosis and migration of their progeny. PLoS ONE, 8(12), e84356.*

Yay, A., Ozdamar, S., Canoz, O., Baran, M., Tucer, B., & Sonmez, M. F. (2014). Intermediate filament protein nestin is expressed in developing meninges. Bratislava Medical Journal, 115(11), 718–722.*

Erna Van Niekerk | Spinal Cord Injury | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Erna Van Niekerk | Spinal Cord Injury | Best Researcher Award

University of California San Diego | United States

Dr. Erna A. Van Niekerk’s research focuses on advancing central nervous system (CNS) repair through the integration of molecular neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and translational neurobiology. Her work emphasizes uncovering molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive neural regeneration and developing innovative therapeutic strategies to promote recovery after CNS injury. With a strong background in physiology and neuroscience, she has contributed to understanding neuroplasticity, neural signaling pathways, and the molecular determinants of axonal growth and synaptic repair. Dr. Van Niekerk’s recent research explores computational and AI-based models to analyze large-scale neurobiological datasets, aiming to predict regenerative outcomes and optimize therapeutic targets. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges fundamental neuroscience with clinical applications, particularly in the development of bioengineered and data-driven interventions for neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries. Through her academic and industry experience, she has contributed to translational research efforts aimed at improving functional outcomes following neural damage and enhancing the precision of therapeutic design in neuroregeneration.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Zahavi, E. E., Koppel, I., Kawaguchi, R., Oses-Prieto, J. A., Briner, A., Monavarfeshani, A., Dalla Costa, I., van Niekerk, E., Lee, J., Matoo, S., Hegarty, S., Donahue, R. J., Sahoo, P. K., Ben-Dor, S., Feldmesser, E., Ryvkin, J., Leshkowitz, D., Ben-Tov Perry, R., Cheng, Y., … Fainzilber, M. (2025). Repeat-element RNAs integrate a neuronal growth circuit. Cell. Advance online publication.

van Niekerk, E., Kawaguchi, R., Marques de Freria, C., Groeniger, K., Marchetto, M. C., Dupraz, S., Bradke, F., Geschwind, D. H., Gage, F. H., & Tuszynski, M. H. (2022). Methods for culturing adult CNS neurons reveal a CNS conditioning effect. Cell Reports Methods, 2, 100255. 5

de Freria, C. M., van Niekerk, E., Blesch, A., & Lu, P. (2022). Neural stem cells: Promoting axonal regeneration and spinal cord connectivity. Cells, 10(12), 3296.

Poplawski, G. H. D., Kawaguchi, R., van Niekerk, E., Lu, P., Mehta, N., Canete, P., Lie, R., Dragatsis, I., Meves, J. M., Zheng, B., Coppola, G., & Tuszynski, M. H. (2020). Injured adult neurons regress to an embryonic transcriptional growth state. Nature, 581(7806), 77–82.

Wang, W., van Niekerk, E. A., Zhang, Y., Du, L., Ji, X., Wang, S., & Baker, D. E. (2007). Extracellular stimuli specifically regulate localized levels of individual neuronal mRNAs. The Journal of Cell Biology, 178(6), 965–980.

van Niekerk, E. A., Willis, D. E., Chang, J. H., Reumann, K., Heise, T., & Twiss, J. L. (2007). Sumoylation in axons triggers retrograde transport of the RNA-binding protein La. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 104(31), 12913–12918. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.0705488104

Wang, W., van Niekerk, E., Willis, D. E., & Twiss, J. L. (2007). RNA transport and localized protein synthesis in neurological disorders and neural repair. Developmental Neurobiology, 67(9), 1166–1182.

van Niekerk, E. A., Tuszynski, M. H., Lu, P., & Dulin, J. N. (2016). Molecular and cellular mechanisms of axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury. Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, 15(2), 394–408.

Quanjun Cui | Osteogenesis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Quanjun Cui | Osteogenesis | Best Researcher Award

University of Virginia | United States

Dr. Quanjun Cui is a leading researcher in orthopedic surgery with a strong focus on the pathophysiology and treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). His work integrates clinical insight with advanced molecular and cellular approaches to understand joint degeneration and repair. Dr. Cui’s research has significantly contributed to elucidating the cellular mechanisms underlying cartilage and bone remodeling, macrophage polarization, and the role of extracellular vesicles in joint inflammation. His current studies investigate how M1 macrophage–derived, hyaluronan-coated extracellular vesicles influence OA progression, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets that modulate immune–cartilage interactions. He has also explored molecular pathways involved in bone regeneration, osteonecrosis, and implant integration, with numerous publications advancing translational strategies in musculoskeletal tissue repair. Through his interdisciplinary approach combining orthopaedic biology, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials science, Dr. Cui continues to advance innovative treatments that address degenerative joint diseases at both cellular and clinical levels.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Cui, Q., Mihalko, W. M., Shields, J. S., Ries, M., & Saleh, K. J. (2007). Antibiotic-impregnated cement spacers for the treatment of infection associated with total hip or knee arthroplasty. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS), 89(4), 871–882.

Zhao, D., Zhang, F., Wang, B., Liu, B., Li, L., Kim, S. Y., Goodman, S. B., Hernigou, P., Cui, Q., … (2020). Guidelines for clinical diagnosis and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head in adults (2019 version). Journal of Orthopaedic Translation, 21, 100–110.

Wu, T. T., Sikes, R. A., Cui, Q., Thalmann, G. N., Kao, C., Murphy, C. F., Yang, H., … (1998). Establishing human prostate cancer cell xenografts in bone: Induction of osteoblastic reaction by prostate-specific antigen-producing tumors in athymic and SCID/bg mice using LNCaP sublines. International Journal of Cancer, 77(6), 887–894.

Wang, G. J., Cui, Q., & Balian, G. (2000). The pathogenesis and prevention of steroid-induced osteonecrosis. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 370, 295–310.

Cui, Q., Wang, G. J., & Balian, G. (1997). Steroid-induced adipogenesis in a pluripotential cell line from bone marrow. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS), 79(7), 1054–1063.

Wang, Y., Li, Y., Mao, K., Li, J., Cui, Q., & Wang, G. J. (2003). Alcohol-induced adipogenesis in bone and marrow: A possible mechanism for osteonecrosis.Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 410, 213–224.

Misbah Hanif | Human Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Misbah Hanif | Human Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dow University Of Health Sciences | Pakistan

Dr. Misbah Iqbal Hanif holds a Ph.D. in Human Genetics from the University of Karachi, with research focused on the genetic and cytogenetic causes of recurrent spontaneous miscarriages. Her doctoral work, “A comparative analysis of spontaneous miscarriage couples through QF-PCR with STR markers and conventional cytogenetic tools,” integrated molecular and cytogenetic methodologies to identify chromosomal abnormalities contributing to pregnancy loss. Her research interests encompass reproductive genetics, cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics, and the application of genetic counseling in clinical settings. Dr. Hanif has experience in genetic screening, QF-PCR assay development, and the interpretation of chromosomal aberrations associated with gynecological disorders. Her work also bridges clinical genetics and public health, emphasizing early detection and counseling for inherited and endocrine-related diseases. She has contributed to translational genetics through her involvement in clinical research projects, including those addressing pediatric endocrine disorders, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and metabolic syndromes. With additional certification in genetic counseling, her research and clinical contributions aim to advance genetic diagnostics, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen genetic counseling services within healthcare and academic environments.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Ali, A., Ali, N., Hanif, M. I., & Ali, S. R. (2024). Discovering Down’s syndrome: An account from a low middle income country. Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, 40(9).

Khan, H., Sher, S. A., Hanif, M. I., Zemawal, N. A., Ahmad, A., Khan, F., & Daftani, M. H. (2024). Prevalence, proportions, and identities of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the oral microflora of healthy children. Cureus, 16(8), 1–9.

Hanif, M. I., Ahmed, H., Ibrahim, M. N., Raza, J., & Ahmed, S. A. (2024). A novel de novo likely pathogenic variant of WFS1 gene in a Pakistani child with non-classic WFS1 spectrum disorder. Journal of Ayub Medical College Abbottabad, 36(2), 433–435.

Hanif, M. I., Ahmed, F., Raza, J., & Ali, S. R. (2024). Clinical outcomes of neonatal admissions with respiratory distress at Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology: An observational study. Pakistan Pediatric Journal, 48(1).

Hanif, M. I., Khan, S. W., Ali, S. R., & Raza, S. J. (2024). Neonatal disease presentations at a newly developed center in an LMIC: Insights from the spectrum of illness at SICHN. International Journal of Pediatrics and Neonatology, 6(1), 14–17.

Hanif, M. I., Mansoor, Q., Arif, A., Shoeb, E., Ismail, M., Khan, A., & Ahmed, S. A. (2024). Genetic evaluation of spontaneous miscarriages and couples through conventional and modern diagnostic tools. Liaquat National Journal of Primary Care.

Saeed Alghamdi | Clinical Ophthalmology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Saeed Alghamdi | Clinical Ophthalmology | Best Researcher Award

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center – Jeddah | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Saeed Abdullah Alghamdi is a Consultant Ophthalmologist at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH-RC), Jeddah, specializing in cornea and external diseases, uveitis, and refractive surgery. A fellowship-certified specialist from the University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Canada, he has extensive clinical and surgical experience encompassing complex cataract procedures, including phacoemulsification, ECCE, and SICS with monofocal and multifocal intraocular lens implantation, as well as advanced corneal transplantation techniques such as penetrating keratoplasty. His research interests focus on improving surgical outcomes in corneal transplantation, the management of uveitic complications, and innovations in refractive surgery techniques tailored to regional needs. Dr. Alghamdi has contributed to national and international ophthalmic conferences and collaborative clinical studies aimed at enhancing eye care delivery in the Middle East. In addition to his academic and research pursuits, he actively participates in ophthalmology awareness and humanitarian medical campaigns, including projects under the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre. Recognized for his leadership and professional excellence, he has received honors such as the Leadership Medal from the Saudi Arabian National Guard and the Saudi Ophthalmology Society Plaque of Distinction in 2023.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Flanders, M., Hwang, S. Y., Al-Ghamdi, S., Codère, F., & Desrosiers, M. (2007). Endoscopically assisted strabismus surgery. American Journal of Rhinology, 21(3), 297–301.

Blair, J., Hodge, W., Al-Ghamdi, S., Balabanian, R., Lowcock, B., Pan, Y. I., Sherif, H., Al-Mahmoud, T., Fergusson, D., & Slomovic, A. (2011). A comparison of antibiotic-only and antibiotic-steroid combination treatment in corneal ulcer patients: Double-blinded randomized clinical trial. Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology, 46(1), 40–45.

Alzahrani, S. M., Al-Ghamdi, S. A., Abdelaal, A. M., Abbas, E. A., Khan, M. A., & Al-Amri, A. W. (2018). Bacterial spectrum of external ocular infections: Prevalence and associated in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance in a tertiary care hospital. International Journal of Advanced Research, 6(1), 6296.

Alsubaie, M. A., Alghamdi, S. A., Alghamdi, S. A., Abdelaal, A. M., & Satti, M. B. (2018). Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis causing orbital apex syndrome and blindness. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 12(4), ND01–ND03.

Alkhoutani, E., Aldoosari, A., & Alghamdi, S. (2018). Systematic review of ocular side effect of systemic medications. International Journal of Current Advanced Research, 7(5L), 12658–12662.

Almajnoni, A. O., & Al-Ghamdi, S. A. (2020). Topiramate-induced acute, bilateral myopia in a migraine patient. Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7(3), 1185–1188.

Soon Dong Lee | Taxonomy of Microbes | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Soon Dong Lee | Taxonomy of Microbes | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Jeju Microbial Resources, BIOPS Co., Ltd | South Korea

Dr. Soon Dong Lee has made significant contributions to the field of microbiology, particularly in microbial taxonomy, antibiotic biosynthesis, and actinomycete research. His early research explored the biochemical relationships between methionine metabolism and tylosin biosynthesis in Streptomyces fradiae, advancing understanding of antibiotic production pathways in industrially important microorganisms. During his doctoral work, he conducted extensive studies on the classification and characterization of novel actinomycetes isolated from a gold mine cave in Kongju, Korea, contributing to the discovery and taxonomic differentiation of new microbial species with potential biotechnological applications. As a researcher at the Research Center for Molecular Microbiology, he focused on molecular mechanisms governing microbial diversity and secondary metabolite synthesis. His postdoctoral studies further deepened his expertise in microbial genetics and systematics, emphasizing the ecological and functional roles of actinomycetes in natural environments. Later, as a research associate at the University of Minnesota, he extended his investigations into plant-microbe interactions and microbial pathogenesis, integrating molecular microbiology with plant pathology. Through his multidisciplinary research, Dr. Lee has enhanced scientific understanding of microbial taxonomy, secondary metabolism, and the potential of actinomycetes in biotechnology and agriculture.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Kim, S. B., Lee, S. D., Kim, S. Y., Oh, H. H., Kang, S.-O., & Hah, Y. C. (1996). Numerical classification of actinomycetes isolated from volcanic soil. Journal of Microbiology, 34(2), 105–116.

Seong, C. N., Kim, Y. S., Baik, K. S., Lee, S. D., Hah, Y. C., Kim, S. B., & Goodfellow, M. (1999). Mycolic acid-containing actinomycetes associated with activated sludge foam. Journal of Microbiology, 37(2), 66–72.

Lee, S. D., Goodfellow, M., & Hah, Y. C. (1999). A phylogenetic analysis of the genus Catellatospora based on 16S ribosomal DNA sequences, including transfer of Catellatospora matsumotoense to the genus Micromonospora as Micromonospora matsumotoense comb. nov. FEMS Microbiology Letters, 178(2), 349–354.

Lee, S. D., Kim, E. S., & Hah, Y. C. (2000). Phylogenetic analysis of the genera Pseudonocardia and Actinobispora based on 16S ribosomal DNA sequences. FEMS Microbiology Letters, 182(1), 125–129.

Lee, S. D., Kang, S.-O., & Hah, Y. C. (2000). Hongia gen. nov., a new genus of the order Actinomycetales. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, 50(1), 191–199.

Lee, S. D., Kang, S.-O., & Hah, Y. C. (2000). Catellatospora koreensis sp. nov., a novel actinomycete isolated from a gold-mine cave. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, 50(3), 1103–1111.

Lee, S. D., Kim, E. S., Roe, J.-H., Kim, J.-H., Kang, S.-O., & Hah, Y. C. (2000). Saccharothrix violacea sp. nov., isolated from a gold mine cave, and Saccharothrix albidocapillata comb. nov. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, 50(3), 1315–1323.

Weiping Qin | Spinal Cord Injury | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Weiping Qin | Spinal Cord Injury | Best Researcher Award

The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/James J. Peters VAMC | United States

Dr. Weiping Qin’s research focuses on developing innovative therapeutic strategies to prevent and reverse skeletal and neurological impairments associated with spinal cord injury (SCI). His laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying bone loss, muscle atrophy, and neurodegeneration following SCI, with the goal of identifying novel molecular targets for treatment. Dr. Qin’s work integrates approaches from molecular biology, neuroscience, and regenerative medicine to elucidate how injury-induced changes in signaling pathways, inflammation, and oxidative stress contribute to tissue degeneration. He also explores pharmacological and biological interventions that may enhance neural repair, bone regeneration, and functional recovery. Through translational studies, his team aims to bridge fundamental discoveries with clinical applications, advancing potential therapies to improve quality of life and outcomes for patients with SCI. His research has been recognized for its contributions to understanding neurodegenerative and skeletal pathology, and for identifying key therapeutic avenues to promote tissue protection and regeneration.

Profiles:  Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Qin, W., Ho, L., Pompl, P. N., Xiang, Z., Wang, J., Zhao, Z., Peng, Y., Cambareri, G., & others. (2004). Diet-induced insulin resistance promotes amyloidosis in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. The FASEB Journal, 18(7), 902–904.

Qin, W., Yang, T., Ho, L., Zhao, Z., Wang, J., Chen, L., Zhao, W., Thiyagarajan, M., & others. (2006). Neuronal SIRT1 activation as a novel mechanism underlying the prevention of Alzheimer disease amyloid neuropathology by calorie restriction. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 281(31), 21745–21754.

Qin, W., Haroutunian, V., Katsel, P., Cardozo, C. P., Ho, L., Buxbaum, J. D., & others. (2009). PGC-1α expression decreases in the Alzheimer disease brain as a function of dementia. Archives of Neurology, 66(3), 352–361.

Wang, J., Ho, L., Qin, W., Rocher, A. B., Seror, I., Humala, N., Maniar, K., Dolios, G., & others. (2005). Caloric restriction attenuates β-amyloid neuropathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. The FASEB Journal, 19(6), 1–18.

Yamashita, T., Kaneko, S., Shirota, Y., Qin, W., Nomura, T., Kobayashi, K., & others. (1998). RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity of the soluble recombinant hepatitis C virus NS5B protein truncated at the C-terminal region. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 273(25), 15479–15486.

Shirota, Y., Luo, H., Qin, W., Kaneko, S., Yamashita, T., Kobayashi, K., & others. (2002). Hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A binds RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) NS5B and modulates RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 277(13), 11149–11155.

Lin Teng | Cell Junction Complexes | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lin Teng | Cell Junction Complexes | Best Researcher Award

Yichang Central People’s Hospital | China

Dr. Lin Teng is a distinguished cardiovascular researcher whose work focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac electrophysiological dysfunction and vascular remodeling. His research primarily explores the pathophysiological basis of heart rhythm disorders and ischemic heart disease, emphasizing the roles of ion channels and cellular stress responses in cardiac function. One of his major studies investigates the mechanism of HCN4-mediated electrophysiological dysfunction in acute sinoatrial node ischemia, contributing to a deeper understanding of arrhythmogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, his research on C/EBP homologous protein-10 elucidates its role in vascular remodeling and restenosis following percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), providing insights into post-interventional vascular repair mechanisms. Another key area of his investigation involves the glutamate autocrine circuit in embryonic stem cells and its regulatory role in cardiomyocyte differentiation, offering potential applications in regenerative cardiology. Supported by multiple provincial and municipal grants, Dr. Teng’s studies integrate pharmacological, molecular, and clinical perspectives to advance cardiovascular medicine. His contributions have been recognized through prestigious science and technology awards, underscoring his impact on translational cardiovascular research and clinical innovation.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Zhou, Z., Qin, Q., Dong, C., & Teng, L. (2025). The dual guardians of cellular stability: Exploring nesprin and lamin in senescence. Cell Death & Disease, 16, 757.

Liu, Y., Qin, Q., Zhou, Z., Zhou, F., & Teng, L. (2025). Treatment of coronary arteriovenous fistula with patent ductus arteriosus occluder: A case report. British Journal of Hospital Medicine (London), 86(5), 1–9.

Yang, Y., Min, Z., Ye, Y., Teng, L., Cao, C., Li, W., Wen, T., Li, S., Ding, J., Yang, J., & Zhou, F. (2025). A new model for the prediction of intramyocardial hemorrhage in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients after emergency percutaneous coronary intervention. Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions. Advance online publication. ht

Qin, Q., Zhou, Z. Y., Liu, Y., Zhou, F., Cao, C., & Teng, L. (2024). Unraveling the nexus of nesprin in dilated cardiomyopathy: From molecular insights to therapeutic prospects. Life Sciences, 358, 123126.

Teng, L., Zhou, F., Xiong, X., Zhang, H., Qiao, L., Zhang, Z., Qin, Q., & Song, X. (2024). Minimally invasive palliative treatment of malignant tracheoesophageal fistula using cardiac septal occluder. Langenbeck’s Archives of Surgery, 409(1), 169.

Saeed Banaeian Far | Biological Metaverse | Pioneer Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Saeed Banaeian Far | Biological Metaverse | Pioneer Researcher Award

Blockchain and Metaverse Research Lab | Iran

Dr. Saeed Banaeian Far is a senior researcher specializing in applied cryptography, blockchain-based security protocols, and privacy-preserving systems. His current postdoctoral research at Yazd University, supported by the Iran National Science Foundation (INSF), focuses on developing collaboration methods for digital twin teams across heterogeneous blockchains without centralized authority. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Communication Systems and Cryptography, where his dissertation proposed novel approaches to enhancing security and privacy in blockchain-based data auditing protocols. His research output includes over 40 published articles and approximately 20 ongoing manuscripts, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing blockchain interoperability, secure communication networks, and metaverse-related applications such as the BioVerse. Dr. Banaeian Far has also contributed as a reviewer for multiple academic journals and conferences in the fields of cybersecurity and distributed systems. His recent work on cross-chain frameworks for digital twin interoperability earned him the Best Paper Award at the 11th International Conference on Web Research (ICWR2025). With a research focus that bridges cryptographic theory and real-world decentralized systems, he continues to contribute to the development of secure, scalable, and privacy-aware blockchain infrastructures.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Banaeian Far, S., & Imani Rad, A. (2022). Applying digital twins in Metaverse: User interface, security and privacy challenges. Journal of Metaverse, 2(1), 8–16.

Banaeian Far, S., Imani Rad, A., & Rajabzadeh Asaar, M. (2023). Blockchain and its derived technologies shape the future generation of digital businesses: A focus on decentralized finance and the Metaverse. Data Science and Management, 6(3), 183–197.

Banaeian Far, S., Imani Rad, A., Hosseini Bamakan, S. M., & others. (2023). Toward Metaverse of everything: Opportunities, challenges, and future directions of the next generation of visual/virtual communications. Journal of Network and Computer Applications, 103675.

Banaeian Far, S., Hosseini Bamakan, S. M., Qu, Q., & Jiang, Q. (2022). A review of non-fungible token applications in the real world and Metaverse. Procedia Computer Science, 214, 755–762.

Banaeian Far, S., & Hosseini Bamakan, S. M. (2023). NFT-based identity management in Metaverses: Challenges and opportunities. SN Applied Sciences, 5(10), 260.

Banaeian Far, S., & Hosseini Bamakan, S. M. (2022). Blockchain-based reporting protocols as a collective monitoring mechanism in DAOs. Data Science and Management, 5(1), 11–12.

Hamidreza Mohammadi | Toxicology and Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hamidreza Mohammadi | Toxicology and Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

Dr. Hamidreza Mohammadi is a researcher specializing in toxicology, pharmacology, and nanomedicine, with extensive work focused on the toxicological and therapeutic applications of nanomaterials. His research spans multiple domains including nanotoxicology, polymer therapeutics, clinical and food toxicology, and the development of safer nanopharmaceuticals. He has contributed to advancing the understanding of how engineered nanomaterials interact with biological systems, emphasizing risk assessment, cellular mechanisms of toxicity, and strategies for biocompatibility improvement. Dr. Mohammadi’s studies also explore the design of polymer-based drug delivery systems with enhanced therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects. His work integrates experimental and applied toxicology to bridge laboratory research with clinical practice, contributing to public health and safety in pharmacological sciences. With interdisciplinary expertise covering both environmental and clinical toxicology, his research aligns with global priorities in nanomedicine innovation and toxicological risk evaluation. His scholarly efforts continue to support the development of next-generation nanotherapeutics with optimized pharmacokinetics and minimized toxic responses, reinforcing the importance of safe and sustainable nanotechnology in medical and pharmaceutical applications.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Mokhtari Azad, T., Mohammadi, H., Moosavi, A., Saadatmand, Z., & Nategh, R. (2004). Influenza surveillance in the Islamic Republic of Iran from 1991 to 2001. Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal, 10(3), 315–321.

Cheraghali, A. M., Mohammadi, H. R., Amirahmadi, M., Yazdanpanah, H., Abouhossain, G., & Zamanian, F. (2005). Incidence of patulin contamination in apple juice produced in Iran. Food Control, 16(2), 165–167.

Shafiee, H., Mohammadi, H., Rezayat, S. M., Hosseini, A., Baeeri, M., & Hassani, S. (2010). Prevention of malathion-induced depletion of cardiac cells mitochondrial energy and free radical damage by a magnetic magnesium-carrying nanoparticle. Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, 20(9), 538–543.

Mohammadi, H., Karimi, G., Rezayat, S. M., Reza, A., Shafiee, H., & Nikfar, S. (2011). Benefit of nanocarrier of magnetic magnesium in rat malathion-induced toxicity and cardiac failure using non-invasive monitoring of electrocardiogram and blood pressure. Toxicology and Industrial Health, 27(5), 417–429.

Soltani, M., Shetab-Boushehri, S. F., Mohammadi, H., & Shetab-Boushehri, S. V. (2013). Proposing boric acid as an antidote for aluminium phosphide poisoning by investigation of the chemical reaction between boric acid and phosphine. Journal of Medical Hypotheses and Ideas, 7(1), 21–24.