Ayda Ahmadi | Pancreatic Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Ayda Ahmadi | Pancreatic Cancer | Best Researcher Award 

Student | Sahand University of Technology | Iran

Ms. Ayda Ahmadi is an emerging young researcher in biomedical and pharmaceutical engineering whose academic performance, early research productivity, and strong technical training collectively position her as a promising candidate for a Best Researcher Award. Currently pursuing her M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Pharmaceutical Engineering at Sahand University of Technology, she holds a solid academic foundation built on a high-performing B.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering (Biomaterials) from Khayyam University. Her hands-on experience includes two extensive 240-hour internships at Samen Pharmaceutical Company—where she gained valuable skills in pharmaceutical formulation, sterile production systems, GMP-based quality control, and laboratory documentation—and in a Dental Prosthesis Laboratory, where she developed practical expertise in biomaterials fabrication relevant to tissue engineering and biomedical device applications. Ayda’s research output reflects her focus on advanced drug delivery systems, nanotechnology, and biomaterials, demonstrated through significant works such as the preparation and characterization of silica nanoparticles and aerogels for smart drug delivery, the design of targeted nanocarriers for anticancer drug delivery to pancreatic tumors, and the study of calcium sulfate for treating bone infections in diabetic patients. With manuscripts submitted and under review, she shows early publication initiative and a clear commitment to building a strong scientific portfolio. Her technical proficiency across COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Aspen HYSYS, OriginPro, and data management tools further enhances her research capability, supported by multiple certifications. Ayda’s research interests—spanning nanostructure functionalization, controlled antibiotic release, and biomedical applications of engineered materials—align strongly with global research priorities in precision medicine and therapeutic innovation. Motivated to participate in international conferences and collaborative projects, she demonstrates ambition, discipline, and scientific curiosity, making her a suitable and competitive candidate for recognition in young researcher or early-career researcher award categories.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Ahmadi, A., Souri, A., & Moghaddas, J. S. (2025). Preparation, characterization, and application of silica nanoparticles and silica aerogel in smart drug delivery systems. Manuscript submitted for publication.

  2. Ahmadi, A., Souri, A., & Moghaddas, J. S. (2025). Design and development of smart nanocarriers for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs to pancreatic tumors: A review study. Manuscript under review.

  3. Ahmadi, A. (2024). Investigation of the effect of calcium sulfate in the treatment of bone infections in diabetic patients. Unpublished research project, Khayyam University.

  4. Ahmadi, A. (2024). Surface modification of silica aerogel for drug delivery in the treatment of bone infection in diabetic patients. Unpublished research study, Sahand University of Technology.

  5. Ahmadi, A., Souri, A., & Moghaddas, J. S. (2024). Development of functionalized nanostructures for controlled antibiotic release in infectious diseases. Unpublished manuscript.

Ms, Ayda Ahmadi’s research advances next-generation drug delivery systems and biomaterial-based therapeutics, contributing to safer, more effective treatments for cancer and infectious diseases. Her innovative work in nanotechnology and smart drug carriers supports global medical innovation by improving targeted therapy, reducing side effects, and addressing critical healthcare challenges.

Jaweher Bday | Cancer Research | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jaweher Bday | Cancer Research | Best Researcher Award 

PhD Student | Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir | Tunisia

Ms. Jaweher Bday is a highly promising PhD researcher in biotechnology with a robust specialization in immuno-oncology, demonstrating strong potential and clear suitability for a Best Researcher Award through her scientific rigor, technical depth, and impactful research outputs. Her academic journey—from a bachelor’s degree in molecular and cellular biology, a research master’s in cell biology and physiology, to an ongoing PhD at the Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir—illustrates continuous progression and dedication to cancer research. She has completed several competitive international research internships in leading laboratories in France, including the Bio PeroxIL Laboratory at the University of Burgundy and the INSERM U1307 Laboratory at the University of Nantes, enhancing her expertise in cell death mechanisms, tumor biology, and advanced molecular techniques. Her publication record is strong and growing, with peer-reviewed articles in recognized journals on topics such as arginase regulation in HPV infection, hybrid cell-death induction in breast cancer models, and the role of nitric oxide pathways in cervical carcinogenesis, along with an additional submitted manuscript on HPV circulating markers. Jaweher’s scientific maturity is evidenced by her active participation in conferences, including oral and poster presentations at national and international oncology and toxicology meetings, reflecting substantial dissemination of her research. Beyond laboratory excellence, she demonstrates leadership through major roles in the Tunisian Association of Biotechnology Students, including serving as President and spearheading scientific events and innovation-focused programs. Her teaching activities, spanning workshops, directed courses, and hands-on training, further showcase her commitment to academic development and knowledge transfer. Equipped with advanced laboratory skills, strong analytical proficiency using tools like FlowJo, ImageJ, SPSS, and GraphPad, along with extensive training in scientific writing, publishing, quality management, and pedagogy, she embodies the qualities of an emerging researcher with both scientific impact and community engagement. Overall, her achievements, productivity, international exposure, and leadership make her an excellent candidate for a Best Researcher Award.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Souid, M., Bday, J., Souissi, S., Ghedira, R., Gabbouj, S., Shini-Hadhri, S., Toumi, D., Bergaoui, H., Zouari, I., Faleh, R., Zakhama, A., & Hassen, E. (2023). Arginase is upregulated in healthy women infected by oncogenic HPV types. Biomarkers, 28(7), 628–636.

  2. Bday, J., Souid, M., Pires, V., Gabbouj, S., Véjux, A., Lizard, G., & Hassen, E. (2025). Arginase activity inhibition with thymoquinone induces a hybrid type of cell death in MDA-MB-231 cell line. Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology, 39(2), e70130.

  3. Bday, J., Souid, M., Farhat, K. H., Macherki, Y., Ghedira, R., Gabbouj, S., Shini-Hadhri, S., Faleh, R., & Hassen, E. (2025). Involvement of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in precancerous and cancerous cervical lesions. Nitric Oxide, 159, 176–185.

  4. Souid, M., Ghedira, R., Bday, J., Gabbouj, S., Shini-Hadhri, S., Hajji, A., Faleh, R., & Hassen, E. (Under review). Human Papillomavirus-16 circulating markers distribution among unvaccinated women. Infectious Diseases Now.

  5. Bday, J., Souid, M., Pires, V., Véjux, A., Lizard, G., & Hassen, E. (2025). Hybrid cell-death mechanisms in breast cancer: Insights from thymoquinone-mediated arginase inhibition. Manuscript in preparation.

Ms. Jaweher Bday’s work advances immuno-oncology by uncovering novel cellular and molecular mechanisms that can drive more precise cancer diagnostics and targeted therapies. Her research contributes to global health by improving understanding of HPV-related cancers and breast cancer biology, supporting innovations that can shape future clinical and translational applications. Through scientific leadership, teaching, and community engagement, she helps strengthen research capacity and fosters the next generation of biotechnology innovators.

Okechukwu Obulezi | Blood Cancer | Best Paper Award

Dr. Okechukwu Obulezi | Blood Cancer | Best Paper Award 

Lecturer | Nnamdi Azikiwe Univeristy | Nigeria

Dr. Okechukwu Jeremiah Obulezi, Ph.D., is a distinguished statistician whose academic trajectory, research productivity, and multidisciplinary impact make him exceptionally suitable for a Best Paper Award. With a strong foundation in Statistics from Nnamdi Azikiwe University and Abia State Polytechnic, culminating in a Ph.D. focused on developing innovative generalized distribution families through Logistic-X transformations, he has consistently advanced statistical theory and its applications. His research interests span probability distributions, machine learning models, survival analysis, competing risks, acceptance sampling, optimum sampling, mask data and censoring schemes—areas crucial to modern data-driven decision-making in engineering, biomedical sciences, public health, and socio-economic modelling. Dr. Obulezi’s publication record is extensive and impactful, with over forty peer-reviewed journal articles in reputable outlets such as Heliyon, Scientific African, Alexandria Engineering Journal, Entropy, Symmetry, AIP Advances, and Earthline Journal of Mathematical Sciences. His works introduce new probability distributions, propose enhanced estimation techniques, develop sampling plans, and apply machine learning to real-world problems such as financial volatility, disease survival modelling, COVID-19 mortality, rainfall analysis, transportation cost prediction, and biomedical datasets. His methodological sophistication and ability to translate theory into practical applications underscore his scholarly depth. Professionally, he serves as Lecturer I at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and holds several academic leadership roles, including Seminar & Project Coordinator and member of multiple university committees. His international academic influence is further demonstrated through active service as a reviewer for renowned journals under Springer, Elsevier, Taylor & Francis, and Scopus-indexed platforms. Dr. Obulezi’s conference contributions and book chapter reviews further affirm his commitment to advancing statistical knowledge. Collectively, his robust research output, innovative contributions to distribution theory, interdisciplinary relevance, and sustained scholarly engagement establish him as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Paper Award.

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

  1. Onyekwere, C. K., & Obulezi, O. J. (2022). Chris-Jerry distribution and its applications. Asian Journal of Probability and Statistics, 20(1), 16–30.

  2. Chinedu, E. C. Q., Chukwudum, Q. C., Alsadat, N., Obulezi, O. J., Almetwally, E. M., & Others. (2023). New lifetime distribution with applications to single acceptance sampling plan and scenarios of increasing hazard rates. Symmetry, 15(10), 1–33.

  3. Orji, G. O., Etaga, H. O., Almetwally, E. M., Igbokwe, C. P., Aguwa, O. C., & Obulezi, O. J. (2025). A new odd reparameterized exponential transformed-X family of distributions with applications to public health data. Innovation in Statistics and Probability, 1(1), 88–118.

  4. Obulezi, O. J., Anabike, I. C., Oyo, O. G., Harrison, E., & Perpetua, I. C. (2023). Marshall-Olkin Chris-Jerry distribution and its applications. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology, 8(5), 1–15.

  5. Anabike, I. C., Igbokwe, C. P., Onyekwere, C. K., & Obulezi, O. J. (2023). Inference on the parameters of Zubair-Exponential distribution with application to survival times of guinea pigs. Journal of Advances in Mathematics and Computer Science, 38(7), 12–35.

By creating forward-looking statistical frameworks with real-world applications, the nominee’s research bridges science and society, enabling smarter policies, stronger industries, and transformative technological progress.

Sanaz Alaeejahromi | Reproductive Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sanaz Alaeejahromi | Reproductive Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Shiraz University of Medical Sciences | Iran 

Dr. Sanaz Alaee is an accomplished reproductive biologist and clinical embryologist whose extensive academic, clinical, and research contributions make her an exceptional candidate for a Best Researcher Award. With over a decade of experience, she has built a distinguished career spanning reproductive toxicology, infertility treatment, ART technologies, and stem cell–based therapeutics. Her academic foundation includes a top-ranked PhD in Reproductive Biology, followed by faculty service at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, where she has led the Reproductive Biology Department, directed the Reproductive Biology Lab, and currently serves as Director of the IVF Laboratory at Hazrat Zeinab Educational Medical Center. Her research portfolio is substantial, with more than 30 peer-reviewed publications covering critical topics such as implantation failure, ovarian and testicular toxicology, stem cell secretome therapy, PCOS biomarkers, assisted reproductive technologies, and oocyte/follicle maturation. A major highlight of her recent work includes a nationally funded project exploring extracellular vesicles from Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells for restoring fertility after chemotherapy—a promising direction for male infertility, especially among cancer survivors. She is internationally engaged, collaborating with researchers from the USA, UK, Australia, India, South Korea, Taiwan, UAE, and Kazakhstan, and remains active in global societies such as ESHRE, through which she is a certified Clinical Embryologist. Her editorial and peer-review influence is exemplary, with over 400 peer-reviews for high-impact journals, including Reproductive Sciences, Reproductive Toxicology, Scientific Reports, and PLOS ONE, demonstrating her commitment to scientific rigor and research integrity. Dr. Alaee has also contributed extensively to graduate education, curriculum development, and the supervision of MSc and PhD candidates. Her combined achievements in research innovation, clinical excellence, international collaboration, leadership, and scholarly service reflect a sustained and impactful contribution to reproductive biology, strongly supporting her suitability for a Best Researcher Award.

Featured Publications

  1. Monsefi, M., Alaee, S., Moradshahi, A., & Rohani, L. (2010). Cadmium‐induced infertility in male mice. Environmental Toxicology: An International Journal, 25(1), 94–102.

  2. Fazeli, M., Hassanzadeh, P., & Alaei, S. (2011). Cadmium chloride exhibits a profound toxic effect on bacterial microflora of the mice gastrointestinal tract. Human & Experimental Toxicology, 30(2), 152–159.

  3. Neisy, A., Zal, F., Seghatoleslam, A., & Alaee, S. (2019). Amelioration by quercetin of insulin resistance and uterine GLUT4 and ERα gene expression in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Reproduction, Fertility and Development, 31(2), 315–323.

  4. Alaee, S. (2017). Role of essential oil of Mentha spicata (spearmint) in addressing reverse hormonal and folliculogenesis disturbances in a polycystic ovarian syndrome in a rat model. Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 7(4), 651–654.

  5. Kargar-Abarghouei, E., Vojdani, Z., Hassanpour, A., Alaee, S., & others. (2018). Characterization, recellularization, and transplantation of rat decellularized testis scaffold with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 9(1), 324.

Dr. Alaee’s work advances reproductive science by integrating stem-cell therapies, toxicology insights, and cutting-edge ART technologies to improve fertility outcomes. Her research directly contributes to societal well-being by offering new hope for cancer survivors and infertile couples.

Jun Lu | Cancer | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Jun Lu | Cancer | Editorial Board Member

Professor | Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine | China

Dr. Jun Lu is a distinguished researcher at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China, specializing in cancer nanomedicine, biomaterials, and translational therapeutics. His work focuses on the design and development of multifunctional nanoplatforms, including engineered chitosan nanoparticles, aptamer-conjugated chemotherapeutics, and self-gelling biomaterials for applications in tumor therapy, wound healing, and infectious disease management. Dr. Lu integrates molecular biology, materials science, and bioengineering to advance innovative therapeutic strategies, such as modulating tumor microenvironments, orchestrating DNA damage pathways in colorectal carcinoma, and promoting MRSA-infected wound healing. He has authored 78 publications in high-impact journals including Journal of Translational Medicine, Chemical Engineering Journal, Carbohydrate Polymers, and Nano Research, reflecting strong expertise in nanobiotechnology and translational oncology. His extensive collaborations with over 380 co-authors worldwide demonstrate his leadership in multidisciplinary research networks, bridging fundamental science with clinical applications. Beyond academic contributions, Dr. Lu’s work has significant societal impact by enabling advanced therapies for cancer, infectious diseases, and tissue repair, providing novel solutions to global health challenges. His research emphasizes translational relevance and real-world applicability, contributing to safer, more effective, and innovative therapeutic modalities. Dr. Lu’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in his metrics 2,421 citations, 78 documents, and an h-index of 24.

Featured Publications

Lu, J., Zhang, H., Hou, J., Li, X., Hu, X., Hu, Y., Easton, C. D., Li, Q., Sun, C., … (2020). Efficient metal ion sieving in rectifying subnanochannels enabled by metal–organic frameworks. Nature Materials, 19(7), 767–774. Cited by: 495

Ni, S., Yao, H., Wang, L., Lu, J., Jiang, F., Lu, A., Zhang, G. (2017). Chemical modifications of nucleic acid aptamers for therapeutic purposes. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(8), 1683. Cited by: 384

Lu, J., Jiang, F., Lu, A., Zhang, G. (2016). Linkers having a crucial role in antibody–drug conjugates. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 17(4), 561. Cited by: 352

Tan, C. M., Therien, A. G., Lu, J., Lee, S. H., Caron, A., Gill, C. J., Lebeau-Jacob, C., … (2012). Restoring Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus susceptibility to β-lactam antibiotics. Science Translational Medicine, 4(126), 126ra35.
Cited by: 328

Li, F., Lu, J., Liu, J., Liang, C., Wang, M., Wang, L., Li, D., Yao, H., Zhang, Q., Wen, J., … (2017). A water-soluble nucleolin aptamer-paclitaxel conjugate for tumor-specific targeting in ovarian cancer. Nature Communications, 8(1), 1390.
Cited by: 275

 

Sheeba Irshad | Tumour Immunology | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Sheeba Irshad | Tumour Immunology | Editorial Board Member

Senior Clinical Lecturer | King’s College London | United Kingdom

Dr. Sheeba Irshad is a distinguished clinician-scientist at Guy’s Hospital, London, specializing in translational oncology, tumor immunology, and precision medicine, with a strong focus on breast cancer, immune surveillance, therapeutic resistance, oncolytic viro-immunotherapy, and treatment-related toxicities. Her pioneering work advances immune-based therapeutic innovation through Fc-engineered antibodies, viral vaccine–driven T-cell activation, immunomodulatory gene therapies, and strategies aimed at reversing T-cell exhaustion in poorly immunogenic tumors. She has authored 61 publications in leading journals such as Cancer Research, Molecular Therapy, Translational Oncology, and PLOS ONE, addressing critical challenges including breast cancer cardiotoxicity, radiation-induced fibrosis, and the complex interplay between viral immunity and tumor control. Dr. Irshad’s extensive global collaborations—spanning more than 1,300 co-authors—demonstrate her leadership within multidisciplinary cancer research networks and her commitment to integrating molecular biology, immunology, and clinical oncology to accelerate therapeutic translation. Her contributions have significantly influenced the development of safer and more effective immunotherapies, improving patient outcomes and shaping modern oncology practice worldwide. Dr. Irshad’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in her metrics 2,293 citations, 61 documents, and an h-index of 22.

Profiles: Scopus| ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Cheung, A., Chenoweth, A. M., Johansson, A., Laddach, R., Guppy, N., Trendell, J., Esapa, B., Mavousian, A., Navarro-Llinas, B., Haider, S., et al. (2024). Anti-EGFR antibody-drug conjugate carrying an inhibitor targeting CDK restricts triple-negative breast cancer growth. Clinical Cancer Research.

Hsu, R., Al-Zubeidy, B., Flores, D., Nazarian, A., Baugh, A., Gonzalez, E., Castanon, S., Xiu, J., Kang, I., Spicer, D., et al. (2024). Evaluation of markers of immunity in different metastatic immune microenvironments suggests more suppression within breast-to-liver metastases in breast cancer. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment.

Jahangir, C. A., Page, D. B., Broeckx, G., Gonzalez, C. A., Burke, C., Murphy, C., Reis-Filho, J. S., Ly, A., Harms, P. W., Gupta, R. R., et al. (2024). Image-based multiplex immune profiling of cancer tissues: Translational implications. Report of the International Immuno-Oncology Biomarker Working Group on Breast Cancer. The Journal of Pathology.

Tang, C. C., Timbres, J., Ramsey, K., Mera, A., Irshad, S., Sawyer, E., & Khan, A. (2023). Clinico-pathological co-variates define a predictive model of breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) in patients undergoing axillary surgery for breast cancer. Cancer Research.

Fatayer, H., O’Connell, R. L., Bannon, F., Coles, C. E., Copson, E., Cutress, R. I., Dave, R. V., Gardiner, M. D., Grayson, M., Holcombe, C., et al. (2023). Current practice and surgical outcomes of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer: UK NeST study (Vol. 109, p. 800, 2022). BJS.

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

George Kroumpouzos | Skin Oncology | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Dr. George Kroumpouzos | Skin Oncology | Editorial Board Member

Professor | Jundiai Medical School, Brazil / Alpert Medical School of Brown University, USA |  United States

Dr. George Kroumpouzos is an internationally recognized dermatologist affiliated with The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, United States, known for his extensive contributions to medical, surgical, cosmetic, and psychocutaneous dermatology, with a strong recent focus on the integration of artificial intelligence, large language models, and virtual reality into diagnostic and therapeutic practices. He has authored 162 peer-reviewed publications, covering clinically significant topics such as counterfeit botulinum toxin and cosmetic iatrogenic botulism, Er:YAG laser therapy for vulvovaginal atrophy in breast cancer survivors, exosome-based treatments for pattern hair loss, AI-driven innovations in maternal–fetal dermatology, and advanced nonsurgical rhinoplasty techniques. His broad collaborative network spanning more than 200 researchers globally highlights his commitment to interdisciplinary advancement across dermatology, aesthetic medicine, oncology, psychology, and women’s health. Dr. Kroumpouzos’s scholarly work consistently promotes patient safety, diagnostic accuracy, and equitable access to cutting-edge dermatologic care, positioning him as a leading voice in regulatory reform and digital transformation within the field. His global impact is underscored by his ability to bridge clinical insight with emerging technologies, shaping future standards and addressing diverse patient needs across populations. Dr. Kroumpouzos’s academic influence and research productivity are reflected in his metrics: 2,695 citations, 162 documents, and an h-index of 28.

Featured Publications

Türk, C. B., Mirza, F. N., & Kroumpouzos, G. (2023). A screening proposal for Zoom dysmorphia in virtual settings. Life, 13(8), Article 1678.

Bhargava, S., Yumeen, S., Henebeng, E., & Kroumpouzos, G. (2022). Erosive pustular dermatosis: Delving into etiopathogenesis and management. Life, 12(12), Article 2097.

Kroumpouzos, G., Paroikaki, M. E., Yumeen, S., Bhargava, S., & Mylonakis, E. (2022). Cutaneous complications of mRNA and AZD1222 COVID-19 vaccines: A worldwide review. Microorganisms, 10(3), Article 624.

Das, K., Daveluy, S., Kroumpouzos, G., Agarwal, K., Podder, I., Farnbach, K., Ortega-Loayza, A. G., Szepietowski, J. C., Grabbe, S., & Goldust, M. (2022). Efficacy and toxicity of classical immunosuppressants, retinoids and biologics in hidradenitis suppurativa. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(3), Article 670.

Messas, T., Messas, A., & Kroumpouzos, G. (2021). Carbon dioxide laser vulvovaginal rejuvenation: A systematic review. Cosmetics, 8(3), Article 56.

Aminah Alotaibi | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aminah Alotaibi | Breast Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Research Professor | King Abdulaziz city for science and technology | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Aminah Ghazi Alotaibi is a distinguished researcher affiliated with the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With a Scopus h-index of 3, 4 indexed publications, and 58 citations, she has demonstrated consistent scholarly impact in the fields of hematology, stem cell biology, and molecular diagnostics. Her research primarily focuses on elucidating the phenotypic and molecular diversity of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) derived from cord blood and bone marrow, advancing the understanding of their biological significance and translational potential in clinical applications. Notably, her recent open-access article titled “Distinct Phenotypic and Molecular Characteristics of CD34− and CD34+ Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cell Subsets in Cord Blood and Bone Marrow Samples: Implications for Clinical Applications” (2025, Diagnostics) highlights her expertise in cellular characterization and regenerative medicine, offering valuable insights for stem cell-based therapies and transplantation science. Dr. Alotaibi’s collaborative network spans 23 co-authors, reflecting her active engagement in multidisciplinary and international scientific research. Her work integrates clinical hematology, genomics, and translational biomedical research, bridging the gap between laboratory discoveries and patient-centered innovations. Through her contributions, she aims to enhance diagnostic precision, therapeutic efficacy, and personalized medical approaches in hematologic and immune-related disorders. Dr. Alotaibi’s scholarly endeavors not only strengthen Saudi Arabia’s presence in global biomedical research but also contribute to the broader scientific community’s understanding of stem cell biology and its clinical potential.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Alotaibi, A. G., Li, J. V., & Gooderham, N. J. (2021). Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) enhances dietary carcinogen-induced DNA damage in colorectal cancer epithelial cells through activation of JNK signaling pathway. Toxicology, 457, 152806. Cited by: 36

2. Al-Saleh, I., Elkhatib, R., Al-Rajoudi, T., Al-Qudaihi, G., Manogarannogaran, P., Alotaibi, A. G., & others. (2020). Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of e-liquids and their potential associations with nicotine, menthol and phthalate esters. Chemosphere, 249, 126153. Cited by: 22

3. Alotaibi, A. G., Li, J. V., & Gooderham, N. J. (2023). Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced metastatic phenotype in colorectal cancer epithelial cells: Mechanistic support for the role of microRNA-21. Cancers, 15(3), 627. Cited by: 21

4. Gaafar, A., Hamza, F. N., Yousif, R., Shinwari, Z., Alotaibi, A. G., Iqniebi, A., & others. (2025). Distinct phenotypic and molecular characteristics of CD34− and CD34+ hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell subsets in cord blood and bone marrow samples: Implications for clinical applications. Diagnostics, 15(4), 447. Cited by: 1

5. Alotaibi, A. G. (2023). Effect of the inflammatory mediator TNF-α on colorectal cancer epithelial cells development and metastasis, role of dietary carcinogens and miRNA [Doctoral dissertation, Imperial College London]. Imperial College Repository.

Dr. Aminah Ghazi Alotaibi’s research advances global understanding of inflammation-driven carcinogenesis and stem cell biology, bridging molecular insights with clinical translation. Her work contributes to precision oncology, regenerative medicine, and the development of safer therapeutic strategies, fostering innovation that benefits both scientific progress and human health worldwide.

Melissa Christiaens | Cervical Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Melissa Christiaens | Cervical Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Radiation-Oncology | University Hospitals Leuven | Belgium

Dr. Melissa Christiaens is a highly accomplished Radiation Oncologist recognized for her contributions to the advancement of radiotherapy and clinical oncology research. With extensive experience in oncological treatment, she has played a key role in integrating evidence-based radiotherapy techniques into modern cancer care. Her professional expertise spans across radiotherapy quality assurance, pediatric oncology, gynecologic cancers, and multidisciplinary tumor management. As an active member of several leading scientific organizations—including the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology, the Paediatric Radiation Oncology Society, the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology, the EuroEwing Consortium, and the Connective Tissue Oncology Society—she consistently collaborates in large-scale international research networks to improve patient outcomes and optimize therapeutic protocols. Her research interests focus on clinical trials in radiotherapy, immuno-oncology integration, and precision treatment strategies for rare and complex cancers. Dr. Christiaens has contributed to numerous high-impact peer-reviewed journals such as The Lancet, Radiotherapy and Oncology, BMC Cancer, and Gynecologic Oncology, where her publications have enhanced the scientific understanding of cancer treatment outcomes, safety, and innovation. Her research skills encompass clinical data interpretation, protocol development, treatment optimization, and evidence synthesis—supported by her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in oncology research and education, promoting collaboration and innovation within the global cancer research community. Her achievements continue to inspire advancements in patient-centered cancer therapy and clinical radiobiology. Her enduring scientific legacy is reflected through 1,417 citations, 25 documents, and an h-index of 12, underscoring her influential role in advancing the frontiers of clinical radiotherapy, oncology innovation, and multidisciplinary cancer research.

Featured Publications

1. Pötter, R., Tanderup, K., Schmid, M. P., Jürgenliemk-Schulz, I., Haie-Meder, C., & Christiaens, M., et al. (2021). MRI-guided adaptive brachytherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer (EMBRACE-I): A multicentre prospective cohort study. The Lancet Oncology, 22(4), 538–547. Cited by: 613

2. Zhang, H., Ahearn, T. U., Lecarpentier, J., Barnes, D., Beesley, J., Qi, G., Jiang, X., & Christiaens, M., et al. (2020). Genome-wide association study identifies 32 novel breast cancer susceptibility loci from overall and subtype-specific analyses. Nature Genetics, 52(6), 572–581. Cited by: 466

3. Lorusso, D., Xiang, Y., Hasegawa, K., Scambia, G., Leiva, M., Ramos-Elias, P., & Christiaens, M., et al. (2024). Pembrolizumab or placebo with chemoradiotherapy followed by pembrolizumab or placebo for newly diagnosed, high-risk, locally advanced cervical cancer (ENGOT-cx11/GOG-3047/KEYNOTE-A18). The Lancet, 404(10460), 1321–1332. 
Cited by: 323

4. Ajithkumar, T., Horan, G., Padovani, L., Thorp, N., Timmermann, B., Alapetite, C., & Christiaens, M., et al. (2018). SIOPE–Brain tumor group consensus guideline on craniospinal target volume delineation for high-precision radiotherapy. Radiotherapy and Oncology, 128(2), 192–197. Cited by: 113

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