Emmanuelle Van Erck-Westergren | Equine microbiota | Outstanding Contribution Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Dr. Emmanuelle Van Erck-Westergren | Equine microbiota | Outstanding Contribution Award

Prof. Dr. Emmanuelle Van Erck-Westergren, Equine Sports Medicine Practice, Belgium

Dr. Emmanuelle van Erck-Westergren is a renowned veterinarian specializing in equine internal medicine and sports medicine. She is a diplomate of both the European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) and the European College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (ECVSMR). Dr. van Erck-Westergren earned her DVM and PhD at the University of Liège, focusing on equine respiratory diseases. She founded the Equine Sports Medicine Practice (ESMP) in Belgium, where she leads a team dedicated to elite equine performance diagnostics. A trusted expert for the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), she also serves as president of the Belgian Equine Practitioners Society (BEPS). Her prolific academic output includes scientific publications, lectures at international conferences, and editorial contributions, notably co-editing the third edition of Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery. Her work bridges clinical expertise with high-impact research, benefitting elite equine athletes worldwide.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Dual Specialization & Diplomate Status

    • Certified by both the European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) and European College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (ECVSMR)—a rare and highly prestigious achievement demonstrating clinical and research excellence.

  2. Academic Contributions

    • Over 10 high-impact publications and book chapters (2024–2025 alone), including contributions to the gold-standard veterinary textbook Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery (3rd Edition), in which she is co-editor.

  3. Foundational Research

    • PhD in equine respiratory diseases—her foundational work has real-world implications for the health and athletic longevity of sport horses.

  4. Global Impact and Leadership

    • Founder of the Equine Sports Medicine Practice (ESMP), servicing elite sport horses globally.

    • President of the Belgian Equine Practitioners Society (BEPS) and expert for the FEI, influencing international veterinary policy.

  5. Interdisciplinary & Translational Work

    • Her research spans virology, exercise physiology, gastroenterology, and equine biomechanics, showcasing her ability to integrate science with applied veterinary sports medicine.

⚖️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Wider Interdisciplinary Collaboration

    • While her work is strong in traditional veterinary fields, collaboration with emerging tech (e.g., AI/biomechanical sensors) could expand the scope and impact of her research.

  2. Public Outreach and Knowledge Translation

    • Increased visibility through public science communication, open-access publications, or educational content for non-academic stakeholders (e.g., horse owners, trainers) would enhance the societal reach of her findings.

  3. Mentorship Record (Unstated)

    • No information was provided on her mentorship or training of the next generation of veterinary researchers—although this may exist, it should be highlighted if available.

🎓 Education:

Dr. van Erck-Westergren graduated as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Liège in Belgium. Pursuing her passion for equine health, she completed a PhD at the same university, with a research focus on equine respiratory diseases—an area central to athletic performance in horses. Her postgraduate training led to board certification from two prestigious veterinary colleges: the European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) and the European College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (ECVSMR). These dual diplomate titles mark her as one of a select group of veterinarians with exceptional expertise in both internal medicine and athletic performance of horses. Her education is not only grounded in clinical excellence but also in scientific rigor, making her a key academic and practical contributor in the veterinary field.

👩‍⚕️ Experience:

Dr. van Erck-Westergren has over two decades of experience in equine veterinary medicine, specializing in the health and performance of sport horses. She founded the Equine Sports Medicine Practice (ESMP) in Belgium, where she provides advanced diagnostic and rehabilitation services for elite equine athletes. Her clientele includes top-level international competitors across disciplines such as dressage, eventing, and racing. She has served as an expert advisor to the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), lending her insight to regulatory and clinical frameworks for equestrian sports. As the president of the Belgian Equine Practitioners Society (BEPS), she actively shapes veterinary policy and continuing education. In academia, she contributes extensively through authorship of peer-reviewed papers, textbook chapters, and international lectures, reinforcing her reputation as both a clinician and a thought leader.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. van Erck-Westergren’s research centers on equine sports medicine, with a strong focus on respiratory function, cardiovascular fitness, exercise physiology, and performance diagnostics. Her PhD on equine respiratory disease laid the foundation for a prolific research career that integrates field-based diagnostics with clinical intervention. She is particularly interested in how subclinical conditions—such as mild respiratory infections or gastric issues—impact performance in elite horses. Recent studies include predictive modeling of racehorse performance, the physiological impacts of diet on gastric health and behavior, and the use of advanced endoscopy in diagnostics. Her approach bridges science and sport, often conducting studies directly on high-performance horses during training or competition. She also contributes to veterinary education as a chapter author and editor of the seminal textbook Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, ensuring her research continues to influence the field globally.

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

  • 🦠 Respiratory viruses affecting health and performance in equine athletes (Virology, 2025)

  • 🐎 Cardiovascular Fitness and Stride Acceleration in Race-Pace Workouts for the Prediction of Performance in Thoroughbreds (Animals, 2024)

  • 🔍 Endoscopic examination of the respiratory tract (Equine Respiratory Endoscopy, 2024)

  • 🧾 Endoscopy in pre-purchase examinations (Equine Respiratory Endoscopy, 2024)

  • 📘 Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery: Basic and Clinical Sciences of the Equine Athlete, Third Edition (2024)

  • 🏃‍♂️ Exercise Testing in the Field (Chapter in Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, 2024)

  • 🍽️ Improvement of gastric disease and ridden horse pain ethogram scores with diet adaptation in sport horses (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2024)

  • 📝 Preface (Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, 2024)

  • 🌐 The Connected Horse (Chapter in Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, 2024)

  • 🏇 Veterinary Aspects of Conditioning, Training, and Competing Dressage Horses (Chapter in Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, 2024)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Emmanuelle van Erck-Westergren exemplifies the criteria of the Research for Outstanding Contribution Award through her blend of scholarly excellence, clinical leadership, and translational impact on equine health and performance. Her dual-board certification, editorship of a seminal textbook, and active participation in shaping global veterinary policies place her in the top tier of veterinary researchers.

Guangdong Zhou | Evolution of resistive synaptic states in memristors | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Guangdong Zhou | Evolution of resistive synaptic states in memristors | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Guangdong Zhou , Southwest university , China

Guangdong Zhou is a distinguished Professor at Southwest University, China, specializing in artificial intelligence and neuromorphic computing. With a Master’s degree in Physics and a Ph.D. in Materials and Energy, he has made significant contributions to advanced computing technologies. Over his academic career, Zhou has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and developed innovative technologies, including a groundbreaking photoelectric multi-mode memristor, contributing to advancements in brain-like computing systems. His work is recognized internationally, with several papers included in the ESI 0.1% category, and he has been awarded numerous research grants. Zhou actively collaborates with industry partners to translate his research into practical applications, solidifying his reputation as a leader in his field.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

Professor Guangdong Zhou exhibits outstanding academic and research achievements in the field of artificial intelligence and neuromorphic computing. His extensive publication record, with over 100 peer-reviewed papers and high citation metrics (total citations: 4348; H-index: 38), highlights his significant impact on the scientific community. Zhou’s pioneering work on a photoelectric multi-mode memristor and all-hardware artificial vision systems has garnered attention for its innovative integration of image processing functions. His research not only contributes to theoretical advancements but also has practical applications in the post-Moore computing landscape. Furthermore, his active involvement in consultancy and industry projects showcases his commitment to bridging academia with real-world applications.

Areas for Improvement

While Professor Zhou’s contributions are commendable, there are areas for potential enhancement. Increasing collaboration with interdisciplinary teams could further diversify his research outcomes and expand the applicability of his innovations. Additionally, engaging more with international research networks could increase the visibility of his work globally and attract further funding opportunities. Strengthening mentorship roles for emerging researchers may also amplify his influence in the academic community.

Education

Guangdong Zhou completed his Master’s degree in Physics and Science Technology at Southwest University in 2013. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Materials and Energy at the same institution, graduating in 2018. His doctoral research focused on the development of advanced materials for neuromorphic computing systems. Following his Ph.D., he conducted postdoctoral research in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at Southwest University from 2018 to 2020, where he further honed his expertise in algorithm development and machine learning applications. Zhou’s strong educational foundation has equipped him with a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of artificial intelligence, neuromorphic systems, and advanced computing technologies. This rigorous academic training has been instrumental in shaping his research direction and innovative contributions to the field.

Experience 

Currently, Professor Guangdong Zhou is a prominent faculty member at the College of Artificial Intelligence, Southwest University, where he leads research projects focused on neuromorphic computing and machine learning algorithms. His postdoctoral experience in the School of Mathematics and Statistics provided him with a strong statistical foundation to support his innovative research. Over the years, Zhou has successfully managed numerous research projects, with 14 completed and 5 ongoing, demonstrating his capacity for leadership in complex scientific endeavors. He has also contributed to consultancy projects that bridge academic research and industry applications, enhancing his practical experience in technology transfer. His editorial appointments in various scientific journals reflect his expertise and recognition within the academic community. Zhou’s extensive collaboration with national and international researchers further amplifies his influence, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and methodologies that drive forward the field of neuromorphic computing.

Research Focus 

Professor Guangdong Zhou’s research primarily centers on neuromorphic computing systems, exploring their underlying device theories, mechanisms, and algorithms to advance artificial intelligence technologies. His work emphasizes developing brain-like computing chips and advanced algorithms based on machine learning, which aim to replicate human cognitive functions. Zhou has pioneered the creation of an all-hardware artificial vision system utilizing a photoelectric multi-mode memristor array, successfully integrating multiple image processing functions into a single platform. This innovative approach significantly enhances the efficiency and capability of neuromorphic systems. Additionally, Zhou’s research delves into the design and application of memristors for diverse uses, including logic circuits and biomedical monitoring. His contributions have led to over 100 published papers in esteemed journals, positioning him as a thought leader in the transition toward post-Moore computing paradigms. Through his interdisciplinary approach, Zhou is shaping the future of artificial intelligence and its practical applications.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Blood-based biomemristor for hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia monitoring 🩸💡
  2. Biomaterial/Organic Heterojunction Based Memristor for Logic Gate Circuit Design, Data Encryption, and Image Reconstruction 🔒📊
  3. A multifunctional memristor with coexistence of NDR and RS behaviors for logic operation and somatosensory temperature sensing applications 🌡️🤖
  4. Coexistence of the Negative Photoconductance Effect and Analogue Switching Memory in the CuPc Organic Memristor for Neuromorphic Vision Computing 👁️🔌
  5. A reversible implantable memristor for health monitoring applications ❤️📈
  6. Conversion between digital and analog resistive switching behaviors and logic display application of photoresponsive ZnO nanorods-based memristor 🖥️🔄
  7. An implantable memristor towards biomedical applications 🏥🔧
  8. Memristor-Based Bionic Tactile Devices: Opening the Door for Next-Generation Artificial Intelligence ✋🤖
  9. Brain-Inspired Recognition System Based on Multimodal In-Memory Computing Framework for Edge AI 🧠🌐
  10. Memristor-Based Neuromorphic Chips 🖥️🔬

Conclusion

Professor Guangdong Zhou’s robust research portfolio and significant contributions to neuromorphic computing position him as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative work, combined with a commitment to advancing artificial intelligence, demonstrates both the depth and breadth of his expertise. Recognizing his achievements through this award would not only honor his individual contributions but also inspire future generations of researchers in the field.

 

 

 

Irena Roterman | Protein structure | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Irena Roterman | Protein structure | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Irena Roterman , Jagiellonian University – Medical College , Poland

Irena Roterman-Konieczna is a distinguished biochemist specializing in bioinformatics and protein structure. With a PhD in biochemistry from the Nicolaus Copernicus Medical Academy Krakow, she has held significant academic positions, including Professor of Medical Sciences at Jagiellonian University. Irena is recognized for her innovative contributions, particularly the fuzzy oil drop model, which emphasizes environmental influence on protein folding. She has published extensively, contributing to the understanding of protein dynamics and interactions. As a committed educator, she has guided numerous PhD students and served as the Chief Editor for the journal Bio-Algorithms and Med-Systems. Her work continues to impact the fields of protein folding, membrane proteins, and systems biology.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

Irena Roterman-Konieczna’s extensive academic background and innovative contributions to the field of bioinformatics and protein structure make her an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her pioneering work on the fuzzy oil drop model has provided critical insights into the environmental influences on protein folding. With a prolific publication record of 149 articles, she has consistently advanced the understanding of protein dynamics, particularly in membrane proteins and chaperonins. Additionally, her role as Chief Editor of the journal Bio-Algorithms and Med-Systems demonstrates her leadership in the scientific community. Her commitment to mentoring future researchers is evident through her advisory work with 15 PhD students, ensuring the continued growth of the field.

Areas for Improvement

While Irena’s contributions to theoretical models are significant, there may be opportunities to further integrate experimental validation into her research. Collaborating with experimentalists could enhance the practical applications of her models, particularly in understanding real-world protein behavior. Additionally, increasing outreach to interdisciplinary fields could broaden the impact of her research on medicine and biotechnology.

Education

Irena Roterman-Konieczna completed her basic education in theoretical chemistry at Jagiellonian University in 1974. She earned her PhD in biochemistry in 1984, focusing on the structure of the recombinant IgG hinge region at the Nicolaus Copernicus Medical Academy in Krakow. Following her doctoral studies, Irena undertook postdoctoral research at Cornell University from 1987 to 1989 in Harold A. Scheraga’s group, where she analyzed force fields in molecular modeling programs like Amber and Charmm. In 1994, she achieved habilitation in biochemistry at Jagiellonian University’s Faculty of Biotechnology and later attained the title of Professor of Medical Sciences in 2004. This strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for her extensive research and contributions to the field of biochemistry and bioinformatics.

Experience

Irena Roterman-Konieczna has a robust academic and research background spanning several decades. She has held key academic positions at Jagiellonian University, where she is currently a Professor of Medical Sciences. Irena’s postdoctoral research at Cornell University deepened her expertise in molecular modeling and protein interactions. Throughout her career, she has authored numerous publications and books, significantly advancing the understanding of protein folding and structure. As Chief Editor of the journal Bio-Algorithms and Med-Systems from 2005 to 2020, she played a vital role in disseminating research in the field. Additionally, she has supervised 15 PhD students, fostering the next generation of researchers. Irena’s collaborative efforts and advisory roles in various projects highlight her commitment to scientific advancement and education in biochemistry and bioinformatics.

Research Focus

Irena Roterman-Konieczna’s research centers on bioinformatics, particularly in understanding protein structure and dynamics. Her innovative fuzzy oil drop model explores the role of environmental factors in protein folding, proposing that external force fields influence hydrophobic core formation and overall structure. Irena investigates the effects of membrane environments on protein behavior, examining how hydrophobic factors can alter folding dynamics. Her work also delves into chaperonins and their role in facilitating proper protein folding under varying conditions. Additionally, she explores domain-swapping structures and their implications for complex formation in proteins. Irena’s research emphasizes the necessity of simulating external force fields in computational protein folding, integrating both internal and external interactions. Her contributions to systems biology and the development of quantitative models for protein behavior continue to advance the field, making significant impacts in both theoretical and practical applications.

Publications Top Notes

  • Chameleon Sequences─Structural Effects in Proteins Characterized by Hydrophobicity Disorder 🌊
  • Transmembrane proteins—Different anchoring systems ⚓
  • External Force Field for Protein Folding in Chaperonins─Potential Application in In Silico Protein Folding 💻
  • Structural features of Prussian Blue-related iron complex FeT of activity to peroxidate unsaturated fatty acids 🔬
  • Domain swapping: a mathematical model for quantitative assessment of structural effects 📊
  • Editorial: Structure and function of trans-membrane proteins 🧬
  • Model of the external force field for the protein folding process—the role of prefoldin 🌐
  • Role of environmental specificity in CASP results 📈
  • Ab initio protein structure prediction: the necessary presence of external force field as it is delivered by Hsp40 chaperone 🔍
  • Secondary structure in polymorphic forms of alpha-synuclein amyloids 🧪

Conclusion

Irena Roterman-Konieczna’s innovative research, leadership in academia, and dedication to mentorship position her as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her groundbreaking work in bioinformatics not only advances scientific understanding but also lays the groundwork for future discoveries in protein dynamics and interactions. Recognizing her contributions would not only honor her achievements but also inspire ongoing research in the field.

 

 

Irene Dini | Food Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Prof Irene Dini | Food Chemistry |  Women Researcher Award

Pharmacy Department at  Federico II University of Naples, Italy

Prof. Dini Irene is an esteemed Associate Professor specializing in Food Chemistry at Federico II University of Naples. She holds a Ph.D. in Natural Compounds Pharmacologically Active and is a specialist in Food Science. Prof. Dini has made significant contributions to the field through her extensive research on natural substances, which has resulted in the publication of over 70 papers in indexed journals. She has also authored 8 chapters in international scientific books and 2 chapters for university-level textbooks. Her professional affiliations include serving on the editorial boards of journals such as “E-Journal of Chemistry,” “Antioxidants,” “Molecules,” and “Antibiotics,” all under MDPI. Additionally, she has been a member of the board of directors for CIRANAD, an Interuniversity Centre of Excellence focused on food, nutrition, and the digestive system. Prof. Dini’s dedication to advancing food chemistry and her active involvement in scientific communities underscore her commitment to excellence in research and education.

Profile:

Academic and Professional Background:

Prof. Dini Irene is an esteemed academic with a distinguished career in food chemistry and natural compounds. She holds a Ph.D. in ‘Natural Compounds Pharmacologically Active’ and specializes in ‘Food Science.’ As an Associate Professor in Food Chemistry (CHIM 10) at Federico II University of Naples, Prof. Dini imparts her extensive knowledge to students and advances research in her field.

Leadership and Contributions:

In addition to her academic duties, Prof. Dini has played a significant role in CIRANAD (Interuniversity Centres of Excellence on Food, Nutrition, and Digestive System) as a board member. Her leadership in this interdisciplinary field underscores her commitment to advancing food science and nutrition.

Research Focus: Food Chemistry

Prof. Dini Irene’s research in food chemistry centers on the study and analysis of natural substances with pharmacological activities. Her work aims to explore the chemical composition, properties, and potential health benefits of natural compounds found in various foods. This includes identifying bioactive compounds that can contribute to human health and understanding their mechanisms of action.

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 2,836
  • Citations Since 2019: 1,762
  • h-index: 30
  • h-index Since 2019: 26
  • i10-index: 52
  • i10-index Since 2019: 47

Publication Top Notes:

  • Antioxidant compound contents and antioxidant activity before and after cooking in sweet and bitter Chenopodium quinoa seeds
    • Published in LWT-Food Science and Technology, 2010
    • Citations: 243
  • Chemical composition, nutritional value and antioxidant properties of Allium caepa L. Var. tropeana (red onion) seeds
    • Published in Food Chemistry, 2008
    • Citations: 148
  • Nutritional and antinutritional composition of Kancolla seeds: an interesting and underexploited Andean food plant
    • Published in Food Chemistry, 2005
    • Citations: 137
  • Studies on the Constituents of Chenopodium quinoa Seeds: Isolation and Characterization of New Triterpene Saponins
    • Published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2001
    • Citations: 131
  • Saponins in Ipomoea batatas tubers: Isolation, characterization, quantification and antioxidant properties
    • Published in Food Chemistry, 2009
    • Citations: 128
  • The new challenge of green cosmetics: Natural food ingredients for cosmetic formulations
    • Published in Molecules, 2021
    • Citations: 127
  • Phenolic constituents of Kancolla seeds
    • Published in Food Chemistry, 2004
    • Citations: 127
  • Glucosinolates from Maca
    • Published in Biochemical Systematics and Ecology, 2002
    • Citations: 126
  • Effect of industrial and domestic processing on antioxidant properties of pumpkin pulp
    • Published in LWT-Food Science and Technology, 2013
    • Citations: 123
  • Nutricosmetics: A brief overview
    • Published in Phytotherapy Research, 2019
    • Citations: 119