Hanzhen Qiao – Hepatitis – Best Research Article Award

Published on by Infectious

Hanzhen Qiao - Hepatitis - Best Research Article Award

Henan University of Technology - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s academic foundation was rooted in a passion for food science and biotechnology. He laid the groundwork for his research career with advanced degrees, culminating in a Ph.D. that emphasized biochemical and functional food components. From his early educational experiences, Dr. Qiao demonstrated a strong curiosity about the natural healing potential of traditional Chinese ingredients. This intellectual pursuit paved the way for exploring herbal remedies not only for nutritional benefits but also for their pharmacological applications in managing chronic illnesses like Hepatitis. The intersection of natural compounds and liver health became a subtle yet significant thread in his early studies. His educational background is emblematic of a broader scientific movement aiming to bridge Eastern medicinal knowledge with modern biomedical science. During his formative academic years, he gained the analytical tools to investigate complex biological interactions and gained exposure to research methodologies that would later become central to his work on Chinese herbal extracts. These skills equipped him to contribute to new approaches in supporting hepatic functions through dietary interventions. By embedding his early learning in multidisciplinary research, Dr. Qiao built a robust academic identity, positioning him well for impactful contributions to the study and treatment of conditions such as Hepatitis.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS & LEADERSHIP 👨‍🏫

Currently an Associate Professor at Henan University of Technology, Dr. Qiao Hanzhen has steadily risen as a formidable academic leader. As a Master's Supervisor and Young Backbone Teacher of Henan Province, he mentors students across disciplines, fostering innovation in food science and natural product development. His extensive participation in academic committees—including the Feed Branch of the China Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Association and the Henan Feed Industry Association—demonstrates his active role in shaping national food and feed policies. Under his leadership, more than ten key projects have been successfully implemented, reflecting his credibility and expertise. His role in provincial and national research schemes reflects a growing interest in sustainable feed development and the health implications of dietary additives. Among his targeted areas is the effect of herbal bioactives on liver function and immunity, tying directly into therapeutic research involving Hepatitis. Dr. Qiao’s leadership transcends teaching, serving as a bridge between theoretical research and practical applications. His research labs often serve as testing grounds for plant-based innovations, some with promising hepatoprotective outcomes. These initiatives contribute to a broader vision: enhancing health through nutritional interventions, particularly for chronic diseases like Hepatitis, by building better scientific frameworks for herbal efficacy.

RESEARCH FOCUS ON HERBAL EXTRACTS & FUNCTIONAL FOODS 🌿

At the core of Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s scholarly contributions is a dedicated focus on Chinese herbal extracts and their functional evaluation. His work investigates the bioactive compounds present in native botanicals and their potential roles in enhancing human health, especially in modulating liver function and immunity. His projects span a variety of herbs traditionally used in Chinese medicine, aimed at supporting bodily resilience against oxidative stress and inflammation. One recurring application of these studies is their relevance to hepatology. Hepatitis, being a liver-centered condition, often demands supportive therapies that mitigate liver damage—an area where herbal-based interventions have shown increasing promise. Dr. Qiao’s lab has examined the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties of numerous plant extracts, some of which display potential as adjunct therapies for Hepatitis management. These functional foods are not merely nutritional; they possess properties that may influence biological pathways related to hepatic health. His interdisciplinary research integrates elements of pharmacognosy, nutritional biochemistry, and food technology. The innovative edge lies in using these herbs in feed additives, supplements, or functional beverages, thus expanding the scope of preventive health. Dr. Qiao's focused commitment to herbal science situates him as a leader in researching novel methods to address liver diseases, including Hepatitis.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH 🌍

Dr. Qiao Hanzhen has made significant contributions to both national and international scientific communities through collaborative research and scholarly publications. He has led or participated in over ten major projects, including prestigious grants under the National Key R&D Program of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. His involvement in such high-level initiatives indicates both his technical competence and strategic vision. These programs often integrate research themes focused on public health, feed safety, and plant-derived therapeutic agents—some explicitly addressing inflammatory liver conditions like Hepatitis. His work has appeared in respected journals such as Food Chemistry and Antioxidants, reflecting peer recognition across scientific domains. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Qiao has built a body of literature that supports the clinical relevance of natural products. He is a co-author of seven textbooks and has developed two national standards, setting guidelines that may impact future food or herbal product regulation. His research outputs consistently emphasize the importance of evidence-based use of herbs in mitigating conditions such as Hepatitis. By marrying fundamental research with applied science, he continues to influence how we perceive traditional remedies in modern contexts, ensuring their credible inclusion in future therapeutic discussions—especially for hepatic disorders like Hepatitis.

PATENTS, TEXTBOOKS & TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS 📘

Innovation forms the backbone of Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s academic ethos, as reflected in his intellectual property contributions and technical publications. He has filed six patents, one of which has been granted, showcasing novel methodologies or compounds related to herbal extract formulations. These inventions often revolve around natural feed additives or functional food ingredients that may support liver metabolism or possess anti-inflammatory benefits. In parallel, Dr. Qiao has co-authored seven textbooks, serving as essential references for students and professionals in food science, herbal pharmacology, and biotechnology. These educational resources include knowledge drawn from his work on botanical agents and their role in preventing or alleviating diseases like Hepatitis. His national standards development further amplifies his impact, translating research findings into practical, regulated applications. These contributions serve not only academic purposes but also industrial, offering scientifically validated models for herbal product formulation. His technical achievements ensure that the next generation of researchers and practitioners can build upon validated knowledge frameworks, especially in contexts where hepatic health and Hepatitis prevention are public health priorities. Through these enduring academic outputs, Dr. Qiao secures his position as both a knowledge creator and a systems innovator.

RECOGNITION & SCIENTIFIC ACCLAIM 🏅

Recognition for Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s pioneering work has come through prestigious accolades, most notably the First Prize of the Henan Province Science and Technology Achievement Award. This honor reflects peer and governmental acknowledgment of his sustained contributions to research and societal advancement. The award recognizes his innovation in applying Chinese herbal extracts to improve both feed efficiency and public health—a dual benefit especially relevant in areas grappling with food security and chronic diseases. Among these diseases, Hepatitis figures prominently due to its global prevalence and demand for long-term, non-toxic management strategies. Dr. Qiao’s reputation has also grown through active participation in professional associations, enabling policy engagement and research dissemination. His recognition extends beyond borders through collaborations and citations in international research. Such acclaim has strengthened the visibility of his work on hepatic health and botanical interventions. As the world increasingly turns to integrative approaches for disease management, awards like these endorse Dr. Qiao’s research path as both visionary and practical. They affirm the significance of natural solutions in modern health crises, including the pressing need for innovative adjunct treatments for Hepatitis using food-based and botanical interventions grounded in empirical evidence.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS & LASTING LEGACY 🔬

Looking forward, Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s legacy is poised to influence both academic and clinical landscapes. His future directions involve expanding the use of Chinese herbal extracts into mainstream therapeutic applications, particularly targeting liver-related conditions such as Hepatitis. He envisions a research ecosystem that marries traditional medicinal wisdom with high-throughput screening technologies, enabling the rapid identification of plant-based agents for disease intervention. His mentorship of graduate students ensures the continuation of this research philosophy, embedding sustainability and public health impact into the heart of future scientific inquiry. Additionally, Dr. Qiao plans to refine the molecular mechanisms behind herbal effects on hepatic cells, with the aim of translating these findings into functional food products and dietary supplements. These innovations could one day become complementary therapies for chronic liver ailments, including Hepatitis, offering safer and culturally relevant alternatives to synthetic drugs. His work also sets the stage for more interdisciplinary collaboration between food scientists, medical researchers, and policy makers. Dr. Qiao’s career trajectory and research vision underscore the importance of integrative medicine in future health solutions, establishing a legacy that bridges traditional knowledge and contemporary science—particularly in the enduring fight against Hepatitis.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Impacts of zinc caproate supplementation on growth performance, intestinal health, anti-inflammatory activity, and Zn homeostasis in weaned piglets challenged with Escherichia coli K88
    Authors: Not specified in your message (likely multiple authors; can be retrieved from the journal site)
    Journal: Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Anti-inflammatory effects of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide on LPS-induced acute liver injury in mice and related underlying mechanisms
    Authors: Not specified in your message
    Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Andrographolide protects against the intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammatory response through modulating ETEC virulence factors in a mouse model of diarrhea
    Authors: Not specified in your message
    Journal: Journal of Functional Foods
    Year: 2024

Expedito Luna – Infectious Diseases Vaccines – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Infectious

Expedito Luna - Infectious Diseases Vaccines - Best Researcher Award

USP - Brazil

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna's foundational journey in medicine began with a Medical Degree (M.D.) from the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco in 1981, followed by a Medical Residency in Preventive Medicine at the Universidade de São Paulo. His academic path was further enriched with a Master's in Public Health from Universidade Estadual de Campinas and a Ph.D. in Preventive Medicine/Epidemiology from the University of São Paulo. From the start, his scholarly interest gravitated toward epidemiology and public health, especially in the control and surveillance of communicable diseases. These formative years laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to combating health crises in Brazil and beyond. Driven by a commitment to vulnerable populations and the scientific potential of Immunoprevention, he was particularly focused on how evidence-based strategies, like Infectious Diseases Vaccines, could curb epidemics and improve public health outcomes. This academic preparation would later empower him to take on high-level responsibilities in both government and academia, ultimately leading to impactful leadership roles. His passion for rigorous training and empirical analysis equipped him to become a recognized authority in the field. Thus, Dr. Luna’s early academic pursuits served as the launchpad for a distinguished career focused on public health innovation and Infectious Diseases Vaccines.

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna's foundational journey in medicine began with a Medical Degree (M.D.) from the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco in 1981, followed by a Medical Residency in Preventive Medicine at the Universidade de São Paulo. His academic path was further enriched with a Master's in Public Health from Universidade Estadual de Campinas and a Ph.D. in Preventive Medicine/Epidemiology from the University of São Paulo. From the start, his scholarly interest gravitated toward epidemiology and public health, especially in the control and surveillance of communicable diseases. These formative years laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to combating health crises in Brazil and beyond. Driven by a commitment to vulnerable populations and the scientific potential of Immunoprevention, he was particularly focused on how evidence-based strategies, like Infectious Diseases Vaccines, could curb epidemics and improve public health outcomes. This academic preparation would later empower him to take on high-level responsibilities in both government and academia, ultimately leading to impactful leadership roles. His passion for rigorous training and empirical analysis equipped him to become a recognized authority in the field. Thus, Dr. Luna’s early academic pursuits served as the launchpad for a distinguished career focused on public health innovation and Infectious Diseases Vaccines.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🏥

Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna’s professional trajectory is marked by decades of service in Brazil’s public health system. He began his work at the State of São Paulo Health Secretariat and later served at the Municipal Health Secretariat. His career then advanced to the national level, where he became Director of the Department of Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health. In these roles, he was instrumental in implementing large-scale epidemiological programs targeting vaccine-preventable illnesses and neglected tropical diseases. He brought a scientific mindset and operational discipline to the management of epidemics, working to integrate surveillance, diagnostics, and vaccine strategies. His efforts had a measurable impact on national health metrics, especially in reducing the burden of diseases through expanded immunization campaigns. He also served as a scientific advisor to national STI and AIDS programs, showing the breadth of his public health influence. These professional chapters reflect his commitment to translating data into action and policy. Throughout his career, he has emphasized the importance of scientific evidence in health decision-making, especially around Infectious Diseases Vaccines, which he consistently promoted as a cornerstone of disease prevention and control strategies across Brazil’s healthcare infrastructure.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE & FOCUS 🔬

A cornerstone of Dr. Luna’s legacy is his prolific research in epidemiology, with a particular focus on vaccine effectiveness and disease surveillance. His academic base at the Institute for Tropical Medicine at the University of São Paulo has been a launchpad for numerous groundbreaking studies. From COVID-19 and dengue to influenza and Zika, he has led or participated in over 30 funded research projects. His investigations often center on the real-world effectiveness of Infectious Diseases Vaccines, including CORONAVAC, influenza, rotavirus, yellow fever, and tetravalent dengue vaccines. He has received grants from esteemed institutions such as FAPESP, CNPq, the Ministry of Health, and international organizations like the Mérieux Foundation and Sanofi. Many of his studies use test-negative case-control designs or cohort approaches to measure vaccine performance in diverse populations, including healthcare workers, pregnant women, and indigenous communities. His work bridges field epidemiology with laboratory science, often addressing disease prevalence, transmission dynamics, and immunological response. Dr. Luna’s research not only advances academic knowledge but also informs national immunization policies. With hundreds of peer-reviewed publications, his data-driven insights have reinforced the critical role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in managing Brazil’s—and the region’s—public health challenges.

POLICY INFLUENCE & LEADERSHIP 📊

Dr. Luna has played a pivotal role in shaping Brazil’s public health policy, particularly in infectious disease control and immunization programs. His tenure as Director of the Department of Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health was marked by significant advancements in national disease prevention strategies. He oversaw large-scale surveillance systems and contributed to the development and evaluation of national vaccine policies, ensuring their alignment with scientific findings. His leadership was vital in coordinating efforts to contain outbreaks of dengue, influenza, Zika, and other emerging threats. He also contributed to global discussions on vaccine strategy and safety, as seen in his co-authorship of influential papers on post-licensure vaccine evaluation. His guidance extended to the National Vaccine Coverage Survey and maternal vaccination initiatives, which were instrumental in protecting vulnerable groups. Dr. Luna's ability to bridge academia and policy-making set a gold standard for evidence-based governance. His focus on Infectious Diseases Vaccines positioned him as a trusted voice in both domestic and international forums. Through his leadership, Brazil has seen greater coherence between scientific discovery and public health application, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of vaccination as a tool for disease control.

TEACHING & MENTORSHIP 📚

Beyond his public health and research contributions, Dr. Luna has nurtured the next generation of epidemiologists as a professor at the University of São Paulo’s Institute for Tropical Medicine. Since 2008, he has played an integral role in training medical students, public health professionals, and postgraduate scholars in infectious disease epidemiology. His courses emphasize critical thinking, data interpretation, and the application of epidemiological methods to real-world problems. He brings field experience into the classroom, enriching academic learning with practical insights. Dr. Luna also mentors young researchers through thesis supervision and research collaboration, many of whom now hold influential positions in public health across Brazil. He is renowned for promoting interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore links between clinical outcomes, environmental factors, and population health. Central to his pedagogy is the pivotal role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in disease prevention. His mentorship approach is not only academic but also aspirational, instilling a sense of duty and purpose among his mentees. Through his teaching, Dr. Luna ensures that the values of scientific rigor, public health advocacy, and vaccine equity continue to influence Brazil’s healthcare landscape for years to come.

RECOGNITION & ACCOLADES 🏆

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna has earned widespread recognition for his contributions to public health and epidemiology. His efforts have been celebrated not just within Brazil but also in international forums, owing to his collaborative work with organizations like the World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization, and various global health research foundations. His publications in high-impact journals, ranging from The Lancet to Vaccine and BMJ Open, underscore the scholarly depth and policy relevance of his work. As a principal investigator on critical national studies, including those assessing vaccine coverage, effectiveness, and disease prevalence, Dr. Luna has received prestigious research grants and institutional support across decades. His influence has been instrumental in developing and evaluating policies that continue to shape national immunization strategies. Among his most valuable recognitions is the trust placed in him by Brazil’s Ministry of Health to direct nationwide programs during times of crisis. Across all honors, one theme remains consistent: his unwavering commitment to advancing Infectious Diseases Vaccines as a primary defense against public health threats. Dr. Luna’s accolades are a testament to his lasting impact on science, policy, and population health.

IMPACT & GLOBAL COLLABORATION 🌎

Dr. Luna’s work transcends borders, exemplifying the global nature of public health. Through cross-national research collaborations and policy consulting, he has contributed to a broader understanding of how infectious diseases emerge, spread, and can be controlled through vaccination. His involvement in studies on dengue, influenza, and COVID-19 has provided comparative insights applicable across Latin America and beyond. He has co-authored international papers addressing vaccine strategies, transmission models, and post-licensure evaluations. Dr. Luna’s voice is regularly sought in global forums focused on Infectious Diseases Vaccines, where he shares Brazil’s experiences and learns from global peers. His collaboration with organizations like WHO and PAHO has influenced vaccine rollout strategies and disease surveillance models. He also contributes to international training programs, strengthening capacity in low-resource settings. By advocating for equitable vaccine access and evidence-based interventions, Dr. Luna has helped shape a more unified and proactive global public health response. His legacy extends to influencing vaccine policies not only in Brazil but in other countries that have modeled their strategies after his data-driven approaches. Through this global footprint, he reinforces the indispensable role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in achieving worldwide health security.

LEGACY & FUTURE VISION 🔮

As Dr. Luna continues his work at the University of São Paulo, his vision for the future remains grounded in scientific advancement and public health equity. He envisions a world where data-driven policies, robust surveillance, and universal access to effective vaccines are the norm rather than the exception. His ongoing projects focus on vaccine effectiveness, particularly for COVID-19 and dengue, reaffirming his belief in the central role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in combating evolving health threats. He remains deeply involved in guiding young scientists and contributing to research that influences national immunization programs. Looking ahead, he advocates for stronger integration of epidemiological data with digital health tools to improve outbreak detection and response. His legacy lies not only in the programs he helped build or the research he led but also in the public health mindset he helped instill in Brazil and beyond. By continuing to engage with policy-makers, research bodies, and students, Dr. Luna ensures that the next generation will carry forward the torch of scientific integrity and vaccine-driven disease control. His work serves as a blueprint for future epidemiologists seeking to leverage Infectious Diseases Vaccines for a healthier, more resilient world.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION 

  • Title: A spatial case-control study on symptomatic and inapparent primary dengue infections in an endemic city in Brazil
    Authors: Gerusa Figueiredo, Francisco Chiaravalloti, Sérgio Campos, Alessandra Cristina Guedes Pellini, Alvina Clara Felix, Expedito Luna
    Journal: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Detection of Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 and hsp70 Genetic Markers Using Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms and Sequencing in Identification of Leishmania Species Causing Tegumentary Leishmaniasis in Brazil
    Authors: J.A. Delprete, L.V. de Almeida, A.M. Barros, R.D.C. Soler, A.A. Bittencourt, E.J. de Albuquerque Luna, J.A.L. Lindoso, L.M.A. Braz
    Journal: American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Dynamics of communication on measles vaccination on digital platforms in the Brazilian context: challenges and perspectives
    Authors: Maria da Penha Soares Silva, Vera Lúcia Gattás, Expedito José de Albuquerque Luna
    Journal: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Low vaccine coverage and varicella outbreaks in Brazil − 2019–2022
    Authors: D.M. Fujita, L.H. da Silva Nali, R.R. da Costa, H.F. de Andrade Júnior, E.J. de Albuquerque Luna
    Journal: Vaccine
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Phylogenetics, Epidemiology and Temporal Patterns of Dengue Virus in Araraquara, São Paulo State
    Authors: C.S. de Souza, G.S. Caleiro, I.M. Claro, J.G. de Jesus, T.M. Coletti, C.A.M. da Silva, Â.A. Costa, M. Inenami, A.C. Ribeiro, A.C. Felix et al.
    Journal: Viruses
    Year: 2024