Kimihide Kusafuka | Neck Cancer | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Kimihide Kusafuka | Neck Cancer | Editorial Board Member

Clinical Physician | Shizuoka General Hospital | Japan

Dr. Kimihide Kusafuka is a distinguished pathologist at Shizuoka General Hospital, Japan, internationally recognized for his expertise in head and neck pathology, salivary gland tumors, and molecular oncopathology. His research has been instrumental in redefining diagnostic criteria, histopathological classifications, and gene alteration profiles across a spectrum of rare and aggressive neoplasms. Dr. Kusafuka has contributed significantly to the understanding of salivary duct carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and solitary fibrous tumors through large-cohort analyses, multi-institutional collaborations, and advanced molecular techniques, including MYB/MYBL1 rearrangement characterization, CRTC1/3-MAML2 fusion analysis, and the identification of novel tumor variants. His scholarly output comprises 100 peer-reviewed documents, reflecting a sustained commitment to translational pathology and precision diagnostics. With more than 380 collaborators worldwide, his work has shaped global guidelines, influenced tumor classification systems, and improved prognostic assessment models for clinicians and researchers in the field. Dr. Kusafuka’s studies spanning molecular pathology, surgical pathology, and carcinoma outcome prediction—continue to strengthen diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic decision-making, ultimately improving patient outcomes and contributing to the advancement of cancer pathology. His rigorous methodologies, cross-disciplinary partnerships, and leadership in multi-center Japanese cohorts highlight his role as a leading figure in contemporary oncologic pathology. Dr. Kusafuka’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in his metrics: 1,768 citations, 100 documents, and an h-index of 25.

Featured Publications

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). A symptomatic intercalated duct lesion of the parotid gland: A case report with immunohistochemical and genetic analyses. Medical Molecular Morphology. Citations: 2

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). Salivary gland polymorphous adenocarcinoma: Clinicopathological features and gene alterations in 36 Japanese patients. Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine.Citations: 6

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). Intraoral basal cell carcinoma of the soft palate: A diagnostic pitfall. Citations: 2

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). The implicated clinical factors for outcomes in 304 patients with salivary duct carcinoma: Multi-institutional retrospective analysis in Japan. Head & Neck.  Citations: 12

Kusafuka, K., et al. (2022). Salivary mucoepidermoid carcinoma: Histological variants, grading systems, CRTC1/3-MAML2 fusions, and clinicopathological features. Histopathology. Citations: 28

Xin Yi Foong | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Xin Yi Foong | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Core Surgical Trainee | Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust | United Kingdom

Dr Xin Yi Foong is a clinical researcher in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery whose academic work is centred on improving the safety, accuracy, and reliability of autologous breast reconstruction through quantitative imaging and evidence-based microsurgical innovation. Her research explores the use of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging to guide intraoperative evaluation of mastectomy flap perfusion, with particular emphasis on establishing objective perfusion scoring methods that support consistent, data-guided surgical decisions. Her published study in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery introduced a structured quantitative perfusion algorithm that demonstrated strong discriminatory capability in identifying poorly perfused tissue and informing reconstructive planning, offering evidence that aligns with national quality frameworks and enhances postoperative outcomes. Alongside this work, she is investigating postoperative monitoring strategies in DIEP flap reconstruction, assessing early-phase observation models that preserve patient safety while promoting efficient and clinically coherent perioperative pathways. Her wider academic activity includes outcome audits, service-improvement initiatives, and reconstructive pathway analyses, all aimed at refining surgical workflows through quantitative measures, imaging-based assessment, and rigorous postoperative metrics. Conducted within multidisciplinary teams of plastic surgeons, anaesthetists, and breast specialists, her research supports the translation of imaging-derived insights into routine clinical practice. Through a growing publication profile, an active ORCID research identity, and sustained commitment to scientifically grounded surgical advancement, Dr Foong contributes to the development of reproducible, clinically meaningful, and patient-centred innovations that strengthen microsurgical dependability and elevate the overall quality of care within reconstructive breast surgery.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Foong, X. Y., Williamson, A., Lymperopoulos, N., & Holmes, W. J. M. (2025). Does indocyanine green imaging perfusion scoring reduce mastectomy flap necrosis in immediate autologous breast reconstruction? A single-centre cohort study. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 111, 198–206.

2. Foong, X. Y., Williamson, A., Lymperopoulos, N., & Holmes, W. J. M. (2025). Does intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) reduce the outcome of mastectomy skin flap necrosis in patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction? European Journal of Surgical Oncology. Advance online publication. 

Hongyu li | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Hongyu li | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Xinjiang medical university | China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🎓EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hongyu Li embarked on her academic journey at Xinjiang Medical University, where she earned her Doctor of Medicine degree and subsequently completed a Ph.D. in 2021. Her formative years were marked by rigorous academic training and an early interest in the oncology of breast diseases, which laid the foundation for her future specialization in breast cancer metastasis research.

👩‍🏢PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 

Currently serving as an Associate Professor, Associate Chief Physician, and Doctor of Medicine at the Department of Breast Internal Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Dr. Li brings over a decade of clinical expertise to the field. Her clinical focus is on the early detection, diagnosis, and management of breast cancer. She has been honored with prestigious awards including the “Tianchi Talent” Youth Doctor Award (2022), the Outstanding Postdoctoral Special Funding (2023), and was selected for the “789 Talent” Training Program (2024), cementing her reputation as a High-Level Talent and Outstanding Young Physician.

🔬CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON BREAST CANCER 

Dr. Li’s scientific inquiry is anchored in understanding the molecular mechanisms of breast cancer metastasis, with a specific focus on breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM)—a critical and poorly understood manifestation associated with poor prognosis. Her translational research bridges clinical challenges and bench-side investigations, aiming to identify novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for BCBM.

She adopts an integrative approach that translates clinical observations into mechanistic questions, enhancing the effectiveness of future treatments and diagnostic strategies for late-stage breast cancer.

📚IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 

Dr. Li’s work is contributing to shaping the clinical paradigms in breast cancer care within the Xinjiang region and beyond. Her research is improving understanding of metastatic processes, especially in underrepresented ethnic populations. She is also involved in institutional collaborations and has served in editorial capacities, reinforcing her influence in both academic and clinical oncology spheres.

💪LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 

Looking forward, Dr. Li aims to establish a dedicated translational research unit focused on metastatic breast cancer, particularly BCBM. She is committed to mentoring young researchers and expanding interdisciplinary collaborations that bridge molecular oncology with precision medicine. Her ultimate goal is to redefine treatment algorithms and enhance survival outcomes for patients with advanced-stage breast cancer.

🌍CONCLUSION 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hongyu Li stands as a beacon of translational oncology, seamlessly integrating clinical care with cutting-edge research. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge, commitment to public health, and strategic focus on a critically unmet need in oncology make her a deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

 

📊🔬NOTABLE PUBLICATION:

Title: GRB2 promotes brain metastasis in HER2-positive breast cancer by regulating the Ras/MAPK pathway

Authors: Hongyu Li, Yalin Zhang, Xiao Han, Bingyu Li, Dan Liu, Gang Sun

Journal: Scientific Reports (Nature Publishing Group)

Year: 2025

Assist Prof Dr Matthias Bartneck | Cancer Therapy | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Matthias Bartneck | Cancer Therapy | Best Researcher Award 

RWTH Aachen University | Germany

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

Google Scholar

Orcid ID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Priv.-Doz. Dr. rer. nat. Matthias Bartneck embarked on his academic journey with a diploma in Biology from the University of Bielefeld (2001-2006). His diploma thesis focused on gene expression and metabolite profiling of human primary mamma carcinomas, under the supervision of Dr. Anke Becker. He continued his academic pursuits with a Doctor of Natural Sciences degree from RWTH Aachen (2007-2010), where his research centered on the interactions of human primary immune cells with various nanomaterials. This work was supervised by Prof. Gabriele Zwadlo-Klarwasser.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Bartneck’s professional career has been marked by a series of significant positions and collaborations. He has been employed at the Medical Faculty 10, Gastroenterology, and Faculty 1 Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials DWI/RWTH Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC) since 2023. He has also served as a guest lecturer at the Max Planck Research Training School Matter to Life. From 2018 to 2022, he was a lecturer at the Center for Functional Magnetic Materials, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University in Kaliningrad, Russia. Additionally, Dr. Bartneck has been a group leader at the Medical Faculty, Medical Clinic III, RWTH Aachen since 2014, focusing on immunomodulatory nanomedicine for inflammatory diseases and cancer.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON CANCER THERAPY

Dr. Bartneck’s research has significantly advanced the fields of gastroenterology, hepatology, and nanomedicine. His work has delved into the development of novel nanocarriers for treating liver diseases and cancer, as well as the modulation of immune cell migration and activation in inflammatory diseases. His research has been supported by substantial funding, including grants from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Wilhelm Sander Foundation. His contributions include over 61 publications, 18 as the first author and 4 as the last author, along with 7 book chapters and 9 reviews.

CITATIONS

  • Zitate           4439
  • h-index        35
  • i10-index     49

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Bartneck’s research has had a profound impact on the scientific community, evidenced by a total of 3764 citations and an H-index of 32. His expertise in immunomodulatory nanomedicine has led to collaborations with prestigious institutions and industry partners, including Bayer Healthcare, Novartis, and Precision Nanosystems. His work has been recognized with several fellowships and awards, such as the Young Investigator Award from the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL).

ACADEMIC CITES

Dr. Bartneck has held numerous academic positions and provided significant contributions to teaching and mentoring. He has supervised a wide range of students, from bachelor to doctoral levels, across multiple disciplines including medicine, chemistry, and biology. His teaching roles have included lectures and practical courses in materials science, blood and defense, and inflammation at RWTH Aachen.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Bartneck’s legacy is marked by his interdisciplinary approach and dedication to advancing nanomedicine and immunology. He has secured research funds exceeding €1,500,000 in 2022 alone for the development of novel lipid-based nucleic acid therapeutics. His future contributions are expected to further enhance the understanding and treatment of inflammation-associated diseases and cancer. His continued collaborations with international academic and industry partners underscore his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION: