Yvonne Hernandez-Kapila | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yvonne Hernandez-Kapila | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award 

Professor | UCLA | United States

Dr. Yvonne L. Hernandez-Kapila is a distinguished clinician-scientist, academic leader, and global research contributor recognized for her transformative work in oral biology, periodontology, and cancer biology. As Professor and Associate Dean for Research at the UCLA School of Dentistry and the Felix and Mildred Yip Endowed Chair in Dentistry, her research has significantly advanced understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying periodontal disease, oral cancer, and host-microbiome interactions. Her laboratory’s pioneering investigations into the oral-gut-brain axis, bacteriocin therapeutics, and oral virome have shaped new paradigms in microbial pathogenesis, inflammation, and regenerative oral health. A prolific author with more than a hundred peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes, Journal of Biological Chemistry, PLOS Pathogens, and Cell Death and Differentiation, Dr. Kapila’s work bridges fundamental discovery with translational innovation. She has served as principal investigator on multiple NIH-funded projects, including major initiatives exploring host–bacterial dynamics and microbiome modulation in oral and systemic disease contexts. Her editorial leadership extends across several international journals and major textbooks, including Periodontology 2000 and Newman and Carranza’s Clinical Periodontology, where she continues to shape scholarly discourse in the field. Dr. Kapila has received numerous prestigious honors recognizing her scientific excellence, mentorship, and contributions to dental research, including awards from the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Periodontology, and the American Association for Dental Research. A dedicated mentor, she has guided over a hundred trainees and junior faculty toward successful academic and research careers worldwide, championing inclusivity, rigorous scientific methodology, and leadership development. Through her interdisciplinary collaborations and global initiatives, Dr. Kapila continues to influence the future of oral health sciences, biomolecular therapeutics, and translational medicine, establishing herself as a leading voice in advancing oral-systemic health research on an international scale. She has 8347 citations from 146 documents with an h-index of 47.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. B. lactis HN019 modulates periapical inflammation and enhances cementum repair by increasing CEMP-1 expression in an animal model. (2025). Archives of Oral Biology.

2. The antimicrobial peptide nisin promotes host cell survival during SARS-CoV-2 infection. (2025). Virology Journal.

3. Nisin lantibiotic prevents NAFLD liver steatosis and mitochondrial oxidative stress following periodontal disease by abrogating oral, gut and liver dysbiosis. (2024). NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes.

4. Biological biomarkers of oral cancer. (2025). [Journal name not specified].

5. Nisin, a probiotic bacteriocin, modulates the inflammatory and microbiome changes in female reproductive organs mediated by polymicrobial periodontal infection. (2024). Microorganisms.

Ahmed Ahmed Olaitan | Global Health and Infectious Disease Burden | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Ahmed Ahmed Olaitan | Global Health and Infectious Disease Burden | Young Scientist Award

PhD Scholar  |  Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin  |  Nigeria

Mr. Ahmed Ahmed Olaitan is an emerging academic and research scholar whose work bridges sociology, environmental studies, and sustainable development. His professional experience spans research, teaching, and community leadership, with active roles as a Lecturer at the Federal College of Forest Resources Management in Ishiagu, Nigeria, and a Research Fellow at the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria. His research contributions focus on traditional healthcare practices, indigenous community development, social and environmental sustainability, and the socio-economic dimensions of forestry and agroforestry. He has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles that explore the intersections of social systems, environmental conservation, and cultural knowledge transmission. His scholarly efforts extend to participation in national and international conferences, where he has presented research on environmental management, indigenous education, and climate change awareness. Ahmed’s research skills encompass qualitative and quantitative methodologies, data analysis using PLS-SEM, SPSS, NVivo, and Excel, and the development of community-based research frameworks that support sustainable livelihoods. His academic excellence has been recognized with honors, including the Graduate on Time Award from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, highlighting his dedication to timely and impactful scholarship. He has also served in leadership capacities such as Treasurer of the International Student Society at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin and Principal of Sheikh Ahmad Islamic School in Ilorin, Nigeria, where he promotes education and community empowerment. His work demonstrates a strong commitment to social innovation, research excellence, and practical approaches to achieving sustainable development goals. With a growing academic profile and a collaborative approach to interdisciplinary inquiry, Ahmed continues to contribute significantly to both scholarly research and societal advancement. He has achieved 22 Citations, 9 Documents, 3 h-index .

Profiles:  Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus 

Featured Publications

  1. GO Victory, Oyewole, A. L., & Olaitan, A. A. (2022). Climate-smart agricultural practices at Oyo State, Nigeria. South Asian Journal of Social Review, 1(1), 1–7.
    Citations: 45

  2. Tokede, A. M., Banjo, A. A., Ahmad, A. O., Fatoki, O. A., & Akanni, O. F. (2020). Farmers’ knowledge and attitude towards the adoption of agroforestry practices in Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria. Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management, 24(10), 1775–1780.
    Citations: 31

  3. Ibrahim, A., Abdullah, R., Ismail, W. N. A. T., & Olaitan, A. (2023). Strategy formulation to empower indigenous community involvement in cultural ecological tourism of Kuala Tahan National Park. Planning Malaysia, 21, 36–47.
    Citations: 19

  4. Ibrahim, A., Olaitan, A. A., Jazmina, W. N., Simin, M. H. A., & Nizam, M. S. (2023). Capacity building of indigenous youth through skills and career training programs in Malaysia. ISVS e-journal, 10(6), 151–163.
    Citations: 13

  5. Rose, A. O., Morenike, T. A., Ahmad, A. O., & Anne, T. F. A. (2020). Predictor of research productivity among married female research scientists in Oyo State, Nigeria. Journal of Finance and Economics, 8(5), 232–236.
    Citations: 9

Goran Augustin | Abdominal infections | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Goran Augustin | Abdominal infections | Best Researcher Award 

MD, PhD | University Hospital Centre Zagreb | Croatia

Dr. Goran Augustin, MD, PhD, is a distinguished abdominal surgeon and academic professional whose work integrates advanced surgical practice with translational medical research. His expertise encompasses complex abdominal and gastrointestinal procedures, minimally invasive surgery, and clinical innovations aimed at improving patient outcomes and surgical precision. Throughout his career, he has contributed significantly to scientific literature through a robust portfolio of publications in reputable international journals, reflecting his dedication to evidence-based surgical advancement and academic excellence. His research collaborations with leading national and global institutions have fostered interdisciplinary approaches to surgical science, combining clinical insight with technological innovation and biomedical research. As an advocate for global health and surgical education, Dr. Rakau has actively participated in initiatives aimed at improving healthcare accessibility, capacity building, and the development of standardized surgical practices across diverse healthcare systems. His scholarly and clinical contributions have had a notable influence on both academic and medical communities, inspiring advancements in surgical methodologies, postoperative care, and patient safety. Through his leadership in clinical research, mentorship of emerging surgeons, and unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of surgical care worldwide, Dr. Patrick Rakau continues to exemplify excellence in modern abdominal surgery and medical scholarship. He has 6061 citations from 179 documents with an h-index of 36.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Age Is Not So Important for Risk Stratification in Early Cholecystectomy for Acute Calculous Cholecystitis: A Post-Hoc Analysis of the SPRiMACC Study Database. (2025). Medicina (Lithuania).

2. Anticoagulation management and outcomes in critically ill patients with acute mesenteric ischemia: An international study. (2025). Intensive Care Medicine.

3. Protective ileostomy creation after anterior resection of the rectum (PICARR): A decision-making exploring international survey. (2025). Updates in Surgery.

4. A Survey on the Management of Patients with Severe Traumatic Brain Injury During Pregnancy: The MAMA Study. (2025). Neurocritical Care.

5. Phase angle as a prognostic biomarker in metastatic colorectal cancer: A prospective trial. (2025). World Journal of Experimental Medicine.

Xuebin Zhang | Surgical Site Infections | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Xuebin Zhang | Surgical Site Infections | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Chief Physician | Yantai Stomatological Hospital | China

Dr. Xuebin Zhang, currently serving as Associate Chief Physician at Yantai Stomatological Hospital, is a dedicated researcher and clinician specializing in oral and maxillofacial reconstruction with a focus on traditional Chinese medicine–based biomaterials. He holds advanced medical qualifications in stomatology and has built a strong academic foundation through years of clinical and experimental research. Dr. Zhang’s primary research explores the application of Chinese herbal compounds such as naringin and icariin in promoting bone regeneration and accelerating healing of tooth extraction wounds and jaw bone defects. His notable studies include “Evaluation of the Osteogenic Effect of Naringin-Enhanced BMSCs/CPC Composite for Alveolar Ridge Preservation and Tooth Extraction Wound Healing in Beagle Dogs” and “Effects of Naringin on the Proliferation and Osteogenic Differentiation of Canine Bone Marrow Stromal Cells In Vitro”, both published in respected peer-reviewed journals indexed in SCI and PubMed. In recognition of his contributions, he led a Yantai Science and Technology Bureau–funded project on alveolar ridge regeneration. Dr. Zhang also serves as a Young Editor for the Chinese Journal of Medical Humanities, reflecting his growing influence in academic publishing and medical education. His research continues to bridge the gap between traditional Chinese medicine and modern tissue engineering, advancing innovative therapeutic strategies for oral bone reconstruction. Through his scientific rigor, clinical insight, and commitment to translational medicine, Dr. Xuebin Zhang stands out as a promising leader in biomaterial-based oral tissue engineering research. He has 6 citations from 3 documents with an h-index of 2.

Profile: Scopus

Publications

1. Zhang, X., et al. (Year). Evaluation of the osteogenic effect of naringin-enhanced BMSCs/CPC composite for alveolar ridge preservation and tooth extraction wound healing in beagle dogs.

Wafa Tombari | Vaccines | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Wafa Tombari | Vaccines | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | University Hospital of Sahloul | Tunisia

Dr. Wafa Tombari, Ph.D., is an accomplished Assistant Professor and Research Scientist at the University Hospital of Sahloul, Sousse, specializing in infectious diseases with a focus on virology, vaccine development, and antimicrobial resistance. She holds a Doctoral Diploma in Biology from the Faculty of Sciences in Tunisia, a Master of Science in Microbiology, and a Certificate of Complementary Studies in Statistics and Epidemiological Methods from the Faculty of Medicine in Tunisia. With a distinguished academic and research career, Dr. Tombari has served as an Assistant Professor at both the High Institute of Medical Technologies and the University Hospital of Sahloul, where she has successfully led and collaborated on numerous national and international research projects. Her research integrates molecular biology, bioinformatics, and immunoinformatics to develop computational approaches for vaccine design, antiviral therapeutics, and the study of bacterial resistance mechanisms. She has authored several peer-reviewed publications in reputable international journals, including studies on mRNA-based vaccines for rabies virus and molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance in Staphylococcus species, highlighting her contributions to advancing biomedical innovation. Beyond her research, Dr. Tombari plays an active role in student mentorship, curriculum development, and scientific outreach, fostering collaboration and innovation within the academic community. Her expertise extends to reverse vaccinology, molecular cloning, and phylogenetic analysis, reflecting her multidisciplinary approach to infectious disease research. Dr. Tombari’s scholarly achievements and professional dedication exemplify her commitment to advancing global health through science and education. She has achieved 119 citations, published 10 scientific documents, and holds an h-index of 5, reflecting her academic influence and research excellence.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Tombari, W., Nsiri, J., Larbi, I., Guerin, J. L., & Ghram, A. (2011). Genetic evolution of low pathogenicity H9N2 avian influenza viruses in Tunisia: . Acquisition of new mutations. Virology Journal, 8(1), 467.

2. Tombari, W., Paul, M., Bettaieb, J., Larbi, I., Nsiri, J., Elbehi, I., Gribaa, L., & Ghram, A. (2013). Risk factors and characteristics of low pathogenic avian influenza virus isolated from commercial poultry in Tunisia. PLoS ONE, 8(1), e53524.

3. Boudaoud, A., Mamache, B., Tombari, W., & Ghram, A. (2016). Virus mutations and their impact on vaccination against infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease). Revue Scientifique et Technique, 35(3), 875–897.

4. Kallel Sellami, M., Zitouni, M., Tombari, W., Ben Ayed, M., Abida, O., Laadhar, L., et al. (2007). Anti-desmoglein-1 antibodies are prevalent in Tunisian patients with hydatidosis and leishmaniasis. British Journal of Dermatology, 156(3), 591–593.

Albert Eisenbarth | Infectious Diseases Prevention | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Albert Eisenbarth | Infectious Diseases Prevention | Best Researcher Award

Head of Medical Entomology Unit | Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg | Germany

Albert Eisenbarth is an accomplished researcher at the Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg, Germany, specializing in infectious diseases, tropical medicine, and vector biology. He holds a Ph.D. in Medical Biology from the University of Hamburg  where his doctoral work focused on the ecology and control of mosquito-borne pathogens. Over the years, Dr. Eisenbarth has gained extensive professional experience leading and collaborating on multidisciplinary research projects across Europe and Africa, particularly in the molecular detection and epidemiology of parasitic and vector-borne diseases. His research interests encompass mosquito ecology, disease transmission modeling, public health interventions, and the application of artificial intelligence in entomological studies. Dr. Eisenbarth possesses strong research skills in molecular biology, field entomology, data analytics, and bioinformatics, which he applies to enhance disease surveillance and vector control programs. His collaborative approach and scientific leadership have contributed to the success of international initiatives investigating malaria, leishmaniasis, and arbovirus transmission. A dedicated academic and mentor, he has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed papers published in reputed journals such as Scientific Data, Acta Tropica, and Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease. His contributions to research excellence have earned him recognition within the scientific community, including invitations to present at international symposia and participate in global health research networks. Dr. Eisenbarth’s continuing commitment to bridging field research with applied innovations reflects his passion for advancing global public health outcomes. His long-term vision involves fostering stronger international collaborations and mentoring early-career scientists in tropical disease research. Through his scholarly achievements and leadership, he continues to make a meaningful impact in biomedical research and public health policy.Dr. Albert Eisenbarth has an impressive academic record with 418 citations across 31 published documents and an h-index of 14, reflecting the strong impact and consistency of his research contributions in infectious diseases and vector biology.


Profiles : ORCID | Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Nolte, K., Agboli, E., Garcia, G. A., Badolo, A., Becker, N., Loc, D. H., Dworrak, T. V., Eguchi, J., Eisenbarth, A., de Freitas, R. M., et al. (2025). Comprehensive mosquito wing image repository for advancing research on geometric morphometric- and AI-based identification.

2. Lubbers, C., Amaral, L.-J., Colebunders, R., Brattig, N., Hadermann, A., & Eisenbarth, A. (2025, October). The last mile in onchocerciasis elimination: Diagnostic challenges.

3. Krüger, A., Balczun, C., Scheid, P. L., Hagen, R. M., & Eisenbarth, A. (2023). Molecular detection of Leishmania (Sauroleishmania) adleri (Trypanosomatida: Trypanosomatidae) in Sergentomyia sp. sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in Mali and Niger.

4. Stoek, F., Barry, Y., Ba, A., Schulz, A., Rissmann, M., Wylezich, C., Sadeghi, B., Beyit, A. D., Eisenbarth, A., N’diaye, F. B., et al. (2022, April 15). Mosquito survey in Mauritania: Detection of Rift Valley fever virus and dengue virus and the determination of feeding patterns.

5. Ngwasiri, N. N., Brattig, N. W., Ndjonka, D., Liebau, E., Paguem, A., Leusder, D., Kingsley, M. T., Eisenbarth, A., Renz, A., & Daniel, A. M. (2021). Correction to: Galectins from Onchocerca ochengi and O. volvulus and their immune recognition by Wistar rats, Gudali zebu cattle and human hosts.

 

 

Dr. Xiaotian Xu | Global Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xiaotian Xu | Global Health | Best Researcher Award

Guilin Medical University | China.

Author Profile

Scopus

🎓Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaotian Xu obtained his Ph.D. in Traditional Chinese Medicine from China Pharmaceutical University in 2017, building on his strong foundation with a B.Sc. in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the same institution in 2012. His academic journey has been dedicated to exploring the therapeutic potential of traditional medicine through modern scientific approaches.

💼Professional Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaotian Xu has been serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University since 2021, where he focuses on research and education in pharmaceutical sciences. Prior to this, he worked as a Lecturer at the same institution from 2017 to 2021, contributing to academic development and advancing research in traditional medicine and pharmacology.

📚Academic Contributions

Dr. Xu has published multiple high-impact research articles in Journal of Functional Foods, European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Cell Death & Disease, focusing on anti-inflammatory compounds and cancer treatment.

🧑‍🔬Technical Skills 

Dr. Xiaotian Xu possesses extensive expertise in natural product extraction and analysis, utilizing advanced techniques to isolate bioactive compounds. His proficiency in molecular pharmacology and cell culture & bioassays enables him to investigate drug mechanisms at the cellular level. Additionally, he specializes in animal disease models for evaluating therapeutic efficacy and applies data analysis & bioinformatics to interpret complex biological data, driving innovative research in pharmaceutical sciences.

📚Teaching Experience

 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaotian Xu is actively involved in teaching Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, where he bridges classical knowledge with modern scientific principles. He also lectures on Drug Discovery and Development, guiding students through the processes of identifying and formulating new therapeutic agents. Additionally, he teaches Advanced Research Methods, equipping students with essential skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing to enhance their research capabilities.

🏆Awards and Honors

NSFC Grant Recipient (2024) for research on durian shell polysaccharides in inflammatory bowel disease

Chinese Patent Holder (2021) for a novel extraction method of p-hydroxybenzaldehyde

🔬Research Interests

Natural compounds in inflammatory disease treatment

Cancer stem cell suppression & ferroptosis

Pharmacological mechanisms of traditional medicine

📑Notable Publications 

“Deep learning-based discovery of compounds for blood pressure lowering effects”

Authors: Li, R.; Wu, T.; Xu, X.; Duan, X.; Wang, Y.
Year: 2025
Journal: Scientific Reports

“p-Hydroxy benzaldehyde, a phenolic compound from Nostoc commune, ameliorates DSS-induced colitis against oxidative stress via the Nrf2/HO-1/NQO-1/NF-κB/AP-1 pathway”

Authors: Liu, M.; Guan, G.; Wang, Y.; Duan, X.; Xu, X.
Year: 2024
Journal: Phytomedicine

“Passion fruit peel fermentation extract and its active component kaempferol alleviate constipation and hemorrhoids in mice by downregulating ESR1 and PI3K/Akt pathways”

Authors: Xu, X.; Li, X.; Wei, X.; Duan, X.; Wang, Y.
Year: 2024
Journal: Journal of Functional Foods

“Characteristics and Influence Factors of Pb(II) Adsorption by Graphene Oxide-Montmorillonite Composite”

Authors: Zhifang, Z.; Xiaotian, X.; Dongxia, L.; Jinlin, C.; Jiyi, Z.
Year: 2024
Journal: Chemistry and Biodiversity

“p-Hydroxy benzaldehyde attenuates intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction caused by colitis via activating the HNF-1β/SLC26A3 pathway”

Authors: Liu, M.; Wang, Y.; Xu, X.; Zhu, Y.; Duan, X.
Year: 2024
Journal: Frontiers in Pharmacology