Dr. Hugues Clotaire Nana Djeunga – Genetics and Molecular Biology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hugues Clotaire Nana Djeunga - Genetics and Molecular Biology - Best Researcher Award

Higher Institute for Scientific and Medical Research (ISM) - Cameroon

Author Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early academic pursuits

Hugues Clotaire Nana Djeunga was born on july 24, 1982, in bangoua, cameroon. his academic journey took him to the university of yaoundé i, where he pursued a phd in molecular parasitology. during his doctoral studies, he explored ivermectin resistance in onchocerca volvulus, the parasite responsible for river blindness. scholarships from the french cooperation (scac) and the french national research institute for sustainable development (ird) allowed him to further specialize in molecular parasitology and bioinformatics at mcgill university, canada. he also received advanced training in statistical analyses of complex data at ird centre in montpellier, france, setting the foundation for his future research endeavors.

🔬 Professional endeavors

Nana Djeunga is currently a research scientist and head of the laboratory service at the higher institute for scientific and medical research (ism), which was rebranded in 2023 as the centre for research on filariasis and other tropical diseases (crfilmt). he leads the molecular parasitology and genetic epidemiology research unit, with a focus on understanding and combating tropical diseases such as onchocerciasis, loiasis, lymphatic filariasis, and malaria. his academic roles extend to teaching as a part-time lecturer at the faculty of medicine and biomedical sciences at the university of yaoundé i, as well as at the laboratory technician school of centre pasteur du cameroun.

🧬 Contributions and research focus

Nana djeunga’s research covers a wide range of tropical diseases, especially neglected tropical diseases (ntds). he has been at the forefront of developing innovative diagnostic tools and treatment strategies. one of his notable achievements includes the creation of a cell-free dna-based diagnostic tool for onchocerciasis, which earned him the 2020 ntd innovation prize. his research interests span drug resistance studies, epidemiological mapping, transmission assessments, and drug Genetics and Molecular Biology development through clinical trials. his commitment to improving diagnostic capabilities extends to the use of artificial intelligence, where his team was a finalist for the 2021 ntd innovation prize.

🏆 Accolades and recognition

Nana djeunga’s innovative approach to solving global health challenges has garnered international recognition. winning the 2020 ntd innovation prize for his diagnostic tool for onchocerciasis marked a major achievement in his career. his work in tropical diseases has also led him to serve as a consultant for prominent Genetics and Molecular Biology organizations, including the world health organization (who), drug for neglected diseases initiative (dndi), and the former african programme for onchocerciasis control (apoc).

🌍 Impact and influence

through his leadership at ism, nana djeunga has had a profound impact on the fight against ntds, particularly in cameroon and africa. his research on drug resistance, diagnostics, and treatment strategies has contributed to global efforts in eliminating tropical diseases that affect millions of people in resource-limited regions. he is Genetics and Molecular Biology also actively involved in mentoring and teaching, shaping the next generation of scientists and researchers in the field of parasitology and public health.

📚 Legacy and future contributions

Nana Djeunga’s work is paving the way for future innovations in the diagnosis and treatment of tropical diseases. his research on alternative treatment strategies and the development of artificial intelligence-based solutions for skin disease diagnosis indicate that his contributions to medical science will continue to evolve. as a member of multiple scientific societies, including the global young academy (gya) and the royal society of tropical medicine and hygiene (rstmh), he is positioned to remain a key figure in global health research.

Notable Publications 

  1. Exposure to Bovine Livestock and Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Children: Investigating the Zoonotic Tuberculosis Potential in a Large Urban and Peri-Urban Area of Cameroon
    Authors: Martine Augusta Flore Tsasse, Kiatichai Faksri, Henry Dilonga Meriki, Hugues Clotaire Nana Djeunga, Marius Ambe Ngwa, Henri Olivier Tatsilong Pambou, Raïssa Dongmo, Ouethy Nguessi, Joseph Kamgno, Jane-Francis Tatah Kihla Akoachere
    Journal: PLOS Global Public Health
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003669
  2. Dissemination Strategies for mHealth Apps: Systematic Review
    Authors: Henri Claude Moungui, Hugues Clotaire Nana-Djeunga, Che Frankline Anyiang, Mireia Cano, Jose Antonio Ruiz Postigo, Carme Carrion
    Journal: JMIR mHealth and uHealth
    DOI: 10.2196/50293
  3. Geostatistical Mapping to Delineate Areas of Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis Persistence in Cameroon: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Authors: Hugues C. Nana Djeunga, Antonia Foka-Sindze, Laurentine Sumo, Linda Djune-Yemeli, Collins Okoyo, Yannick Niamsi-Emalio, Georges Nguefack-Tsague, Flobert Njiokou, Joseph Kamgno
    Journal: Preprint
    DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2780679/v1
  4. Dissemination Strategies for mHealth Apps: Systematic Review (Preprint)
    Authors: Henri Claude Moungui, Hugues Clotaire Nana-Djeunga, Che Frankline Anyiang, Mireia Cano, Jose Antonio Ruiz Postigo, Carme Carrion
    Journal: Preprint
    DOI: 10.2196/preprints.50293
  5. Successful Management of Poisoning with Ivermectin (Mectizan) in the Obala Health District (Centre Region, Cameroon): A Case Report
    Authors: Cyrille Donfo-Azafack, Hugues C. Nana-Djeunga, Guy Wafeu-Sadeu, Raïssa Dongmo-Yemele, Joseph Kamgno
    Journal: Journal of Medical Case Reports
    DOI: 10.1186/s13256-023-03891-4

Prof Dr. Guo-Xin Cheng – Biology – Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Guo-Xin Cheng - Biology - Best Researcher Award

School of Enology and Horticulture - China

Author Profile 

ORCID

Early academic pursuits 🎓

Guo-Xin Cheng began his academic journey at northwest a&f university, where he pursued a degree in vegetable automation from september 2014 to june 2019. his academic commitment was evident as he excelled in his studies, earning a cet6 certificate with a score of 425, which showcases his proficiency in english. his passion for the intersection of technology and agriculture laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the field.

Professional endeavors 🏢

After completing his studies, guo-xin cheng joined ningxia university's school of enology and horticulture in july 2019, where he serves as an associate professor. in this role, he also takes on the responsibility of supervising master's students, helping guide the next generation of researchers and practitioners in horticulture and enology. his leadership and expertise have made significant contributions to the university’s research initiatives.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Guo-xin cheng’s research focuses on the automation of vegetable production and advancements in horticultural practices. his work extends into the field of enology, blending technology with traditional agricultural practices to improve efficiency and sustainability. he is actively involved in several national and regional research Biology projects, including the national key research and development project of ningxia (2021bbf02024), and the nature and science foundation of ningxia (2022aac05023). these projects reflect his dedication to developing innovative solutions for the agricultural industry.

Accolades and recognition 🏅

Through his work on prestigious research programs such as the national key research and development program (2021yfd1600302), guo-xin cheng has gained recognition for his contributions to agricultural automation and horticulture. his research outputs have been highly regarded, making a meaningful impact on the Biology scientific community and earning him the position of associate professor in a relatively short time.

Impact and influence 🌍

Guo-Xin Cheng’s research has significantly influenced the automation of agricultural practices in china, particularly in the region of ningxia. by integrating automation Biology into vegetable production, his work aims to increase crop yields, improve quality, and enhance the sustainability of farming practices. this focus on modernizing agriculture has not only benefited local farmers but has also contributed to national food security efforts.

Legacy and future contributions 🔮

Looking forward, Guo-Xin Cheng is poised to continue his groundbreaking research in agricultural automation and horticulture. his work, particularly in guiding new technological solutions in the agricultural sector, will leave a lasting legacy. as a master’s program supervisor, he will also continue to mentor students, fostering innovation and contributing to the future of sustainable agriculture in China.

Notable Publications 

Assoc Prof Dr. Shidvash Vakilipour – Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Shidvash Vakilipour - Engineering - Best Researcher Award

University of Tehran - Iran

Professional Profile

SCOPUS 

ORCID

Early Academic Pursuits

Shidvash Vakilipour's academic journey began with a strong focus on mechanical engineering, obtaining a B.Sc. from Sharif University of Technology in September 2000. He further specialized in aerodynamic engineering with an M.Sc. from Tarbiat Modares University, completed in January 2003. His pursuit of advanced knowledge led him to earn a Ph.D. in Power and Propulsion from Sharif University of Technology in September 2008. This academic background laid the foundation for his expertise in computational fluid dynamics, thermo-fluid science, and propulsion systems.

Professional Endeavors

Vakilipour's professional career is marked by significant academic and research positions. He is an Associate Professor at the College of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, University of Tehran, where he also served as Executive Vice President. His experience includes a post-doctoral research fellowship at the University of Manitoba, where he contributed to the Computational Thermo-Fluid Science Lab. His roles have allowed him to mentor graduate students and lead significant research projects in computational fluid dynamics and thermo-fluid sciences.

Contributions and Research Focus

Vakilipour has made notable contributions to computational thermo-fluid science, focusing on numerical simulations of multi-phase flows, aero-thermal flow calculations in turbomachinery, turbulence flow modeling, and molecular dynamics simulations. His research extends to power and propulsion systems, Engineering including engine condition trend monitoring and performance enhancement of gas turbine-based power plants. He is also involved in renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbine blade design and combustion modeling for sustainable energy applications. His work is supported by extensive use of scientific computing software like OpenFOAM, Fluent, and CFX.

Accolades and Recognition

Vakilipour's achievements include membership in the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering and a post-doctoral research fellowship at the University of Manitoba. He founded The Center for High Performance Computing at the University of Tehran, Engineering demonstrating his leadership in advancing computational research infrastructure. His role as a visiting researcher at the University of Manitoba underscores his international recognition and collaboration in the field of mechanical engineering.

Impact and Influence

Vakilipour's research has had a significant impact on the fields of thermo-fluid dynamics and propulsion systems. His work on numerical simulations and turbulence modeling has contributed to advancements in the efficiency and performance of engineering systems. His academic contributions are further amplified by his role in mentoring Ph.D. and M.Sc. students, guiding their research in complex fluid dynamics and energy systems. His publications and collaborations reflect his influence on both the academic community Engineering and industry applications.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Shidvash Vakilipour's legacy is characterized by his dedication to advancing computational and experimental methods in mechanical engineering. His ongoing research projects, such as the development of interface tracking methods for two-phase flows and the aerodynamic assessment of wind turbine airfoils, promise to push the boundaries of current engineering knowledge. His future contributions are anticipated to further enhance the understanding and application of thermo-fluid dynamics in renewable energy and propulsion systems.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

A fully coupled ALE interface tracking method for a pressure-based finite volume solver  2021(5)

Numerical study of longitudinal vein effects on the aerodynamic characteristics of a corrugated bio-airfoil  2021(2)

Inverse Designing Airfoil Aerodynamics in Compressible Flow by Target Pressure Distribution  2021(1)

A numerical investigation of CO2 dilution on the thermochemical characteristics of a swirl stabilized diffusion flame  2020(2)

Numerical assessment of a deformable trailing-edge flap on aerodynamic load control of a pitching S809 airfoil using OpenFOAM  2016(7)

Dr. Nathalie Asherie – Medicine and Health Sciences – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nathalie Asherie - Medicine and Health Sciences - Best Researcher Award

Hadassah University Medical Center - Israel

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Nathalie Asherie began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology Engineering from ORT Braude College in Karmiel, Israel, graduating cum laude in 2000. She then pursued a Master’s degree in Microbiology at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, from 2002 to 2005. Her thesis focused on the involvement of the CD44 molecule in Type 1 diabetes of non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice. She continued her education at the same institution, earning a Ph.D. in Immunology, also with honors, and receiving the Excellence Prize for her Ph.D. thesis in 2012. Her doctoral research delved into the role of CD44 in Type 1 diabetes, identifying a redundant molecule, RHAMM, that supports the migration of inflammatory cells, and examining CD44’s role in β-cell demise.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Asherie's professional career began with a research associate position at Omrix Biopharmaceuticals, where she contributed to the development of life-saving products derived from human plasma. She then interned at Alomone Labs, focusing on polyclonal antibody design and production. Her extensive industry experience provided a solid foundation for her later roles in academia and clinical research.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES

Dr. Asherie's research focuses on finding applicative solutions to immune disorders, including autoimmunity, immune deficiency, and cancer. Her significant contributions include the optimization of anti-BCMA CAR-T cells, process development, Medicine and Health Sciences and CAR humanization. Her work on the anti-BCMA CAR-T based treatment for MM and AL is particularly noteworthy, having enrolled and treated nearly 80 patients. Her innovative research has been published extensively, highlighting her role in advancing cellular therapies and immunological treatments.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Asherie’s impact is evident in her numerous publications and the successful clinical trials she has led. Her work has garnered recognition in the scientific community, evidenced by awards such as the First Best Abstract Award at the 7th Congress on Controversies in Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapies in 2022 and the Excellence Prize for her Ph.D. thesis. Her contributions to the field of immunology and cellular therapy have influenced current practices and opened new avenues for treatment.

ACADEMIC CITES

Dr. Asherie’s research has been widely cited in the scientific literature, reflecting her influence in the field. Key publications include her work on the anti-BCMA CAR-T cells published in Haematologica and the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Medicine and Health Sciences which have contributed significantly to the understanding and treatment of multiple myeloma and other immune-related disorders. Her research on the molecular mechanisms involving miR-103 in glucocorticoid-induced apoptosis of hemopoietic tumor cells has also been influential.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Asherie’s legacy is marked by her pioneering research and successful implementation of advanced cellular therapies. Her work on CAR-T cell therapy for cancer treatment represents a significant advancement in the field. Moving forward, she aims to continue her research in immunology, focusing on developing novel treatments for immune disorders and enhancing the efficacy of existing therapies. Her commitment to training new personnel and her ongoing contributions to clinical trials ensure that her impact will extend well into the future.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Development and Validation of a Prediction Model of Outcome After B-Cell Maturation Antigen-Directed   2024(1)

Clonal Myeloid Dysplasia Following CAR T-Cell Therapy: Chicken or the Egg?   2023(3)

Development and manufacturing of novel locally produced anti-BCMA CART cells for the treatment   2023(9)

Early lymphocyte collection for anti-CD19 CART production improves T-cell fitness in patients with relapsed/refractory  2023(4)

Feasibility of a Novel Academic BCMA-CART (HBI0101) for the Treatment of Relapsed and Refractory AL Amyloidosis   2022(11)