Ilaria Cossu | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Research Excellence Award

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Ms. Ilaria Cossu | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Research Excellence Award

University of Sassari | Italy

Ilaria Cossu is a motivated PhD candidate in Life Sciences and Biotechnologies with a specialization in Microbiology and Immunology. Their work focuses on understanding the role of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in cancer, integrating molecular biology, immunology, and virology approaches to explore how retroviral elements may influence tumorigenesis. Their doctoral project involves conducting indirect ELISA assays, maintaining and analyzing cell cultures, processing blood samples, performing RNA extraction and reverse transcription, and carrying out quantitative PCR for gene expression profiling. The researcher is actively engaged in experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and collaborative research activities at both national and international levels.

Prior academic training includes Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Biology, each completed with top distinction, and research internships in microbiology, virology, and biochemistry laboratories. These experiences provided hands-on expertise in electrophoretic methods such as cellulose acetate electrophoresis, C-PAGE, fluorescent 2-aminoacridone probe (FACE) analysis, and SDS-PAGE, contributing to a solid foundation in protein and nucleic acid characterization. Their current research aims to advance understanding of retroviral contributions to cancer biology and supports the development of innovative molecular approaches for disease investigation and potential therapeutic insights.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Cossu, I., Ruberto, S., Filippi, E., Simula, E. R., Noli, M., Mottula, A., & others. (2025). HERV-K envelope induces a humoral response in Non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients. Current Microbiology, 82(12), 574.

Jasemi, S., Molicotti, P., Fais, M., Cossu, I., Simula, E. R., Sechi, L. A., & others. (2025). Biological mechanisms of enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis toxin: Linking inflammation, colorectal cancer, and clinical implications. Toxins, 17(6), 305.

Simula, E. R., Jasemi, S., Cossu, D., Fais, M., Cossu, I., Chessa, V., & others. (2025). Human endogenous retroviruses as novel therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders. Vaccines, 13(4), 415. h

Ruberto, S., Santovito, A., Caviglia, G. P., Noli, M., Cossu, D., Ribaldone, D. G., & others. (2025). Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis and human endogenous retrovirus in Italian patients with inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Immunology.

Yidong Wei | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Yidong Wei | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yidong Wei , Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University , China

Dr. Yidong Wei, M.D., Ph.D., FACC, is a distinguished professor and the Chief of Cardiology at Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University. He also holds a clinician management role at the Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford. With a strong foundation in both clinical and translational research, Dr. Wei has built an internationally recognized career focused on interventional cardiology, cardiac electrophysiology, and cardiovascular epidemiology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, reflecting his global academic influence. Known for bridging clinical care with bench-side discovery, his work has advanced understanding in myocardial infarction, heart failure, and calcium signaling in cardiomyocytes. With numerous high-impact publications and leadership in multicenter registries like NOAFCAMI-SH, Dr. Wei’s contributions are widely cited and clinically relevant. His dual academic and clinical roles across China and the UK highlight his dedication to innovation, international collaboration, and excellence in cardiovascular medicine.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Research Output:
    Dr. Wei has authored or co-authored more than 18 recent peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals such as Diabetes Metabolism Research and Reviews, Redox Biology, Cardiovascular Diabetology, and ESC Heart Failure. Many of these works are already cited, indicating early academic impact and relevance.

  2. Dual Focus – Basic and Clinical Science:
    His research bridges the gap between molecular mechanisms (e.g., calcium signaling, TRIM21, PTEN) and clinical cardiology (e.g., atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, cardiac remodeling), highlighting a robust translational focus.

  3. Leadership and Collaboration:
    He serves as Chief of Cardiology at Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital and a Clinician Manager at the University of Oxford, demonstrating international leadership and cross-border collaboration.

  4. Registry Leadership (NOAFCAMI-SH):
    His work through the NOAFCAMI-SH registry provides real-world evidence on cardiovascular disease progression, risk prediction, and treatment response—critical for patient-centered care.

  5. Prestigious Recognition:
    Dr. Wei is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (FACC), a title reserved for top-tier cardiovascular professionals with sustained excellence.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Research Leadership:
    While Dr. Wei has strong China–UK collaborations, leading global multicenter clinical trials or international consortia would further solidify his standing.

  2. Public Engagement and Knowledge Translation:
    Though academically prolific, increased involvement in public health education or policy advocacy could amplify the real-world impact of his research.

  3. Mentorship Track Record Visibility:
    Highlighting mentorship of junior researchers and postdocs more explicitly in profiles and bios would enhance his case for a holistic academic leadership award.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Wei began his medical education at Henan Medical University, where he completed clinical training with a focus on cardiovascular medicine. Driven by a passion for research, he pursued and completed his Ph.D. in 2004, with a specialization in cardiac electrophysiology and calcium signaling pathways. His graduate studies were complemented by advanced basic science training at the University of Kentucky, USA, a leading institution in biomedical research. Between 2004 and 2006, Dr. Wei completed postdoctoral research, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of cardiac dysfunction and electrophysiology. His educational background reflects a balanced integration of rigorous clinical education and innovative research development, equipping him with the tools necessary to bridge bedside care with laboratory insights. This foundation has allowed Dr. Wei to contribute to both academic medicine and cutting-edge cardiovascular research, distinguishing him as a leader with comprehensive and global training in the field.

🏥 Experience:

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Yidong Wei serves as Professor and Chief of the Department of Cardiology at Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University. His role extends internationally, acting as Clinician Manager at the University of Oxford’s Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism. His clinical expertise spans interventional cardiology, acute coronary syndromes, and electrophysiological interventions, while his research roles emphasize trial design, biomarker discovery, and cellular cardiology. He has led and contributed to large-scale registries like NOAFCAMI-SH, generating evidence that informs guidelines for myocardial infarction and atrial fibrillation. His professional experience combines healthcare leadership, cross-border academic collaboration, and impactful research. As a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, he is actively engaged in academic societies and peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Wei’s experience reflects an enduring commitment to patient care, innovation in research, and mentorship of future cardiology leaders, marking him as a high-impact contributor in his field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Yidong Wei’s research lies at the intersection of clinical cardiology and molecular medicine. He focuses on interventional cardiology, atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and calcium signaling pathways in cardiac myocytes. A major theme in his work is the electrophysiological basis of heart failure and age-related changes in ventricular function. Using techniques like patch clamping, calcium imaging, laser confocal microscopy, and molecular biology, he investigates calcium channel regulation and excitation-contraction coupling in cardiac cells. Clinically, he leads research through the NOAFCAMI-SH registry, analyzing systemic inflammation, hyperglycemia, atrial fibrillation, and long-term cardiac outcomes. His work advances the understanding of post-infarction remodeling and atrial pathology. Combining basic science with real-world data, Dr. Wei’s research bridges gaps in translational cardiology and offers therapeutic targets for chronic cardiac conditions. His integrative approach makes him a pioneer in translating bench findings into bedside impact, with potential to redefine cardiac care strategies globally.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📈 Association of stress hyperglycemia ratio with atrial fibrillation and outcomes in myocardial infarction

  2. 🧪 Prognostic implications of systemic immune-inflammation index in MI patients with and without diabetes

  3. 🧬 TRIM21 deficiency protects heart post-MI by reducing oxidative stress

  4. 🫀 4S-AF scheme for characterizing atrial fibrillation after myocardial infarction

  5. 🔬 TRIM21 worsens cardiac injury via M1 macrophage polarization post-MI

  6. 🧮 Stress hyperglycemia and outcomes in MI with and without diabetes mellitus

  7. 💉 ZPI protects endothelium via PI3K/Akt pathway activation against ox-LDL

  8. 📊 Atrial fibrillation’s prognosis across heart failure subtypes post-MI

  9. 🕒 Five-year outcomes post left atrial appendage occlusion

  10. 🧫 PTEN and serum deprivation-induced cytotoxicity via PI3K/AKT pathway

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yidong Wei stands out as a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to cardiovascular research—spanning cutting-edge basic science to influential clinical trials—are both innovative and impactful. His leadership roles, international presence, and translational focus align perfectly with the goals of this prestigious recognition. Given his trajectory, Dr. Wei is not only a leader in current cardiovascular research but also a driver of future scientific breakthroughs.

Laure VINCENT | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Laure VINCENT | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Laure VINCENT, CHU de Montpellier , France

Dr. Laure Vincent is a distinguished hematologist at the CHU de Montpellier, specializing in clinical hematology. With a focus on multiple myeloma and stem cell transplantation, she is recognized for her extensive research and clinical expertise. She is affiliated with the Hôpital St Eloi, Montpellier, where she actively contributes to advancing treatments in hematologic malignancies. Dr. Vincent has a profound commitment to patient care and an established career in the hematology field, making notable contributions to both the scientific and medical communities.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contribution: Dr. Vincent has made significant contributions to the field of hematology, with numerous publications in renowned journals such as Leukemia, Bone Marrow Transplantation, Haematologica, and Blood Cancer Journal. Her research has focused on critical topics like multiple myeloma, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes.

  2. Innovative and Impactful Studies: Many of her studies highlight novel findings that contribute to the understanding and management of hematological diseases. For instance:

    • Her research on insulin as a myeloma cell growth factor (Leukemia, 2010) opened new avenues for treatment approaches.

    • The exploration of the therapeutic window for myeloma relapse after high-dose melphalan and stem cell transplantation (Oncotarget, 2012) shows an in-depth understanding of patient care in a post-transplant setting.

    • The retrospective study on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma patients from the Société Française de Greffe de Moelle et de Thérapie Cellulaire (Biol Blood Marrow Transplant, 2015) has crucial implications for treatment strategies in myeloma.

  3. Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Dr. Vincent has worked extensively with international research teams, reflecting her ability to collaborate and contribute to large-scale studies and multicenter trials. This is evident in studies such as the ones published with the Société Française de Greffe de Moelle et de Thérapie Cellulaire and the Eurocord/ALWP-EBMT study.

  4. Comprehensive Educational Impact: In addition to her research, Dr. Vincent has contributed significantly to the education and training of healthcare professionals, particularly in oncology and hematology. Her work in developing educational content for nurses and students in the field of Onco-Hematology demonstrates her commitment to advancing clinical knowledge.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Wider Dissemination of Findings: While Dr. Vincent’s research has been highly impactful within the specialized field of hematology, her findings could benefit from broader dissemination. This could include collaborations with non-medical fields or publishing findings in more general medical journals to reach a wider audience.

  2. Focus on Translational Research: Although Dr. Vincent’s research primarily focuses on clinical outcomes and therapies, incorporating more translational research—bridging the gap between bench and bedside—could further enhance her work. Research on biomarkers for early detection, for example, would benefit the field of personalized medicine.

  3. Long-Term Impact Studies: Some of Dr. Vincent’s studies are focused on the immediate or short-term effects of therapies. It would be valuable to see more research that addresses the long-term outcomes of treatments in hematological diseases, especially in terms of quality of life and survival rates over decades.

Education:

Dr. Vincent’s educational journey began with secondary studies at the Lycée International de Grenoble, where she earned a scientific baccalaureate with distinction in 1999. She then pursued her medical degree at the University of Grenoble (1999-2006), followed by specialized training in hematology. Dr. Vincent is fluent in English, holding Cambridge Certificates in Advanced and Proficiency English. Additionally, she holds certifications in business English and advanced clinical training in hematology.

Experience:

Dr. Laure Vincent has extensive clinical experience in the field of hematology, particularly in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. She has contributed to several impactful research studies, focusing on treatments for hematological malignancies like multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic syndromes. Dr. Vincent has published extensively in reputable journals, authored chapters in medical books, and presented her work at various prestigious international conferences, demonstrating her authority in the field. She also serves as an educator, contributing to the training of future healthcare professionals.

Research Focus:

Dr. Vincent’s research primarily focuses on hematological cancers, including multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and stem cell transplantation. Her studies explore innovative therapies, relapse prevention strategies, and mechanisms of drug resistance in these malignancies. Notable research topics include the use of monoclonal antibodies, the role of the bone marrow microenvironment, and the improvement of outcomes following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Her work aims to develop targeted therapies to improve patient survival rates and quality of life.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Insulin is a potent myeloma cell growth factor through insulin/IGF-1 hybrid receptor activation” (Leukemia, 2010) 🧬

  2. “Malignant plasma cells responsible for Multiple Myeloma relapse are detectable and survive seven days after high dose melphalan and stem cell transplantation” (Oncotarget, 2012) 🧪

  3. “Allo-SCT for philadelphia negative myeloproliferative neoplasms in blast phase” (Bone Marrow Transplant, 2014) 💉

  4. “HLA-matched Allogeneic SCT improves outcome of higher risk MDS” (Leukemia, 2015) 🩸

  5. “Drug metabolism and clearance system in tumor cells of patients with multiple myeloma” (Oncotarget, 2015) 💊

  6. “Low non-relapse mortality and long-term preserved quality of life in older patients undergoing matched related donor allogeneic stem cell transplantation” (Haematologica, 2015) 👩‍⚕️

  7. “Comparison of outcomes after unrelated cord blood and unmanipulated haploidentical stem cell transplantation in adults with acute leukemia” (Leukemia, 2015) 🔬

  8. “Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Multiple Myeloma: A Retrospective Study” (Biol Blood Marrow Transplant, 2015) 🏥

  9. “Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation For Relapsed/Refractory Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma” (Bone Marrow Transplant, 2015) 🔄

  10. “Bing-Neel syndrome as a rare complication of Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia” (Haematologica, 2015) 🧠

Conclusion:

Dr. Laure Vincent’s research is exceptional, with a proven track record in advancing knowledge and treatment options in hematology. Her ability to lead large-scale studies, her contributions to important clinical findings, and her dedication to educating future healthcare professionals make her highly deserving of the “Best Research Article Award.” While there is always room for expanding the scope of research to include more translational and long-term impact studies, her work undoubtedly stands out as a significant contribution to hematological science.