Aikaterini Sousamli | Behavioral Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Aikaterini Sousamli | Behavioral Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aikaterini Sousamli | University of West Attica | Greece

Aikaterini Sousamli, Midwife, MSc, PhD Candidate at the University of West Attica, is a dedicated healthcare professional and researcher specializing in perinatal health, reproductive medicine, and family planning. She graduated with distinction from the University of Thessaly with an MSc in Primary Health Care and holds a degree in Midwifery from the TEI of Athens. Her doctoral research focuses on perinatal factors associated with the occurrence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children and its impact on family dynamics. Alongside her academic pursuits, she has extensive professional experience as a midwife at the Larissa Health Center and as a research associate in national and international health projects addressing antimicrobial resistance, perinatal care, and global health indicators. She has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, covering topics such as maternal mental health, menopause, perinatal risk factors for ASD, and sexual health in women with chronic conditions. Her research has been widely cited, with an h-index of 5, 15 scientific documents, and 120 total citations, reflecting her growing academic influence. Active in scientific conferences across Europe, Africa, and Asia, she also serves as a reviewer for the Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, contributing to advancing evidence-based midwifery practice globally.

Profiles: Orcid | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Sousamli, A., Vidali, M., Dourou, P., Sarantaki, A., Deltsidou, A., & Vivilaki, V. (2025). Crafting kinship beyond biology: Maternal experiences in non-genetic family formation – A systematic review. MAEDICA – A Journal of Clinical Medicine.

Sousamli, A., Patronidou, D., Taskou, C., Athanasiadou, C.-R., Dourou, P., & Sousamli, A. (2025). The role of the maternal gut microbiome in regulating endocrine function during pregnancy and postpartum: Implications for neonatal health. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 27(1).

Sousamli, A., Malli, F., Tsaras, K., Dourou, P., Sarantaki, A., & Malliarou, M. (2025). Psychological burden, stress, depression, and resilience among midwives: An epidemiological study in Thessaly, Greece. Journal of Clinical & Basic Psychosomatics.

Sousamli, A., Malliarou, M., Sarantaki, A., Dourou, P., Malli, F., & Tsaras, K. (2025). Psychological burden and burnout among midwives: An epidemiological study in Thessaly, Greece. Journal of Clinical & Basic Psychosomatics.

Sousamli, A. E., & Dourou, P. D. (2025). The impact of menopause on sexual health: A cross-sectional study using data from women living in Northern Greece. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 26(3).

Sousamli, A. E., & Dourou, P. D. (2025). Association between menopause and quality of life: A cross-sectional study using data from women living in Northern Greece. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 25(3).

Sousamli, A. E., & Dourou, P. D. (2024). Relationship between episiotomy and dyspareunia: A narrative review of the most recent literature. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 24(3).

Sousamli, A., Dragioti, E., Metallinou, D., Lykeridou, A., Dourou, P., Athanasiadou, C.-R., Anagnostopoulos, D., & Sarantaki, A. (2024). Perinatal and demographic risk factors associated with autism spectrum disorder: A national survey of potential predictors and severity. Healthcare, 12(20).

Rosario Osta | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Prof.Dr. Rosario Osta | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Rosario Osta, CIBERNED-Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza,  Spain.

Prof. Rosario Osta Pinzolas is a distinguished geneticist and full professor at the University of Zaragoza, Spain. Her academic roots in veterinary sciences and a Ph.D. in Genetics laid the foundation for a prolific career in biomedical research, particularly in the fields of neuroscience and genetic disorders. With leadership roles in multiple high-profile research consortia such as CIBERNED, TRICALS, and ENCALS, she has established herself as a central figure in neurodegenerative disease research. Her scholarly output includes over 100 indexed publications, multiple national and international research projects, and an h-index exceeding 45.

Profile

Orcid 

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Rosario Osta Pinzolas began her academic journey with a solid foundation in veterinary sciences, graduating as Licenciada en Veterinaria from the University of Zaragoza in 1989. Her academic inclinations quickly shifted toward molecular genetics, leading her to complete a Ph.D. in Genetics at the same university in 1994. Her early studies were driven by a deep curiosity about the mechanisms of heredity and gene expression, setting the tone for a lifelong commitment to biomedical research. These formative years cultivated her scientific rigor and sowed the seeds for a career that would eventually bridge basic science and translational medicine.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Genetics and Biomedicine

Prof. Osta currently holds the esteemed title of Catedrática (Full Professor) in the Department of Anatomy, Embryology, and Genetics at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza. Since 2018, she has led her department with a focus on integrative biomedical sciences. She is the principal investigator of the LAGENBIO group recognized by both the Aragon Health Research Institute and the Government of Aragon. Under her leadership, the group has developed two major subprograms: TERAGEN and REGENERAGEN. As coordinator of the “Neuroscience and Mental Health Program” at IISA, she has spearheaded numerous efforts to understand and address neurological diseases through genetic approaches.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus in Neuroscience

A prominent figure in neuroscience, Prof. Osta’s research lies at the intersection of genetics and neurodegeneration. She is currently the principal investigator of the only Aragon-based group within CIBERNED (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas), reflecting her national influence. Her team represents Zaragoza in prominent European consortia such as TRICALS and ENCALS, both focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other motor neuron diseases. Through more than 100 indexed publications, predominantly in top-tier journals, her work delves into the molecular underpinnings of neurological disorders and explores regenerative medicine strategies, thereby contributing to innovative therapeutic avenues.

🧪 Accolades and Recognition in Scientific Excellence

Prof. Osta’s academic and research career has been punctuated by consistent recognition. She has completed five research productivity periods and one technology transfer period, acknowledged by CNEAI — a mark of sustained scientific impact. She has led over 74 research projects and contributed to more than 100 collaboration contracts, earning her four competitive research awards from respected institutions including CORIS, AREA, IIS, and SEBBM. Her contributions have been lauded not only for scientific quality but also for practical relevance in biomedical advancements.

🚀 Innovation and Impact in Translational Research

An ardent advocate for science with societal impact, Prof. Osta has significantly contributed to technology transfer. She holds nine patents, five of which have been licensed to industry partners. Her collaborations with companies have led to meaningful translational outputs, emphasizing her role in bridging the gap between academic research and real-world solutions. As former Director of the Technology Transfer and Innovation Secretariat at the University of Zaragoza for nearly a decade, she played a crucial role in institutional innovation strategies. Her involvement in joint university-company chairs and her role in the UZ Technology-Based Business Creation Committee for over 12 years further underscore her influence on academic entrepreneurship.

📚 Mentorship and Educational Leadership

Beyond the lab, Prof. Osta has left a profound mark as an educator and mentor. Since 2013, she has coordinated the Interuniversity Doctoral Program in Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, a joint initiative between the Universities of Zaragoza and La Rioja. Her mentorship includes the supervision of 13 Ph.D. theses — 9 of which earned international distinction and 6 received extraordinary doctoral awards. Her influence extends to guiding numerous undergraduate and master’s theses, fostering a new generation of scientists with a deep commitment to research excellence and innovation.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Rosario Osta’s legacy is defined by her ability to integrate scientific discovery, mentorship, and innovation. As a member of the Scientific Committee of the Luzón Foundation, her vision reaches beyond academia into public health advocacy and strategic research planning. With nearly 19,000 citations on Google Scholar and an h-index of 45, her work continues to inspire and inform global research communities. Her continued leadership in collaborative European projects ensures her contributions will shape the future of neuroscience, genetics, and translational medicine for years to come.

Publication

Title: Novel FKBP prolyl isomerase 1A (FKBP12) ligand promotes functional improvement in SOD1G93A amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice
Authors: L. Moreno-Martinez, N. Gaja-Capdevila, L. Mosqueira-Martín, R. Osta, F.J. Gil-Bea
Year: 2025

Title: Identifying Hub Genes and miRNAs Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Bioinformatics Pathway to Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: E. Gascón, A.C. Calvo, N. Molina, P. Zaragoza, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Comparative Blood Profiling Based on ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and Chemometrics for Differential Diagnosis of Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis—Pilot Study
Authors: K. Tkachenko, J.M. González Sáiz, A.C. Calvo, R. Osta, C. Pizarro Millán
Year: 2024

Title: Sex differences on constitutive long non-coding RNA expression: Modulatory effect of estradiol and testosterone in muscle cells
Authors: T. López-Royo, L. Moreno-Martinez, L. Moreno-García, R. Manzano, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Differentially expressed lncRNAs in SOD1 G93A mice skeletal muscle: H19, Myhas and Neat1 as potential biomarkers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: T. López-Royo, L. Moreno-Martinez, P. Zaragoza, R. Manzano, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Proteomic profiling of human plasma extracellular vesicles identifies PF4 and C1R as novel biomarker in sarcopenia
Authors: P. Aparicio, D. Navarrete-Villanueva, A. Gómez-Cabello, R. Osta, R. Manzano
Year: 2024

Title: Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Skeletal Muscle Transcriptome Analysis: A Comprehensive Examination of Differentially Expressed Genes
Authors: E. Gascón, P. Zaragoza, A.C. Calvo, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Intermediate Repeat Expansion in the ATXN2 Gene as a Risk Factor in the ALS and FTD Spanish Population
Authors: D. Borrego-Hernández, J.F. Vázquez-Costa, R. Domínguez Rubio, M. Povedano, A. García-Redondo
Year: 2024

Title: New Insights into Endogenous Retrovirus-K Transcripts in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: L. Moreno-Martinez, S. Macías-Redondo, M.H.P. Strunk, R. Osta, J. Schoorlemmer
Year: 2024

Title: Analysis of Plasma-Derived Exosomal MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy
Authors: M. García-Gracia, L. Moreno-Martinez, A. Hernaiz, S. García-Belenguer, I. Martín-Burriel
Year: 2024

🏆 Conclusion

Based on her outstanding research contributions, innovation in translational science, mentorship record, and leadership within national and European research programs, Prof. Rosario Osta Pinzolas is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her profile reflects not only academic excellence but also societal impact and visionary leadership. While there is room for enhanced global outreach, her sustained achievements and contributions make her highly deserving of this prestigious recognition.

Takeshi Sakurai | Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Takeshi Sakurai | Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Takeshi Sakurai, University of Tsukuba, Japan.

Takeshi Sakurai, M.D., Ph.D., is a distinguished academic whose career spans across key positions in neuroscience, pharmacology, and integrative sleep medicine. After earning his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Tsukuba, he embarked on a journey of groundbreaking research, primarily focusing on neurotransmission and sleep regulation. Sakurai’s postdoctoral work in prestigious institutions, coupled with his leadership of major projects like the Yanagisawa Orphan Receptor Project, established him as a leader in molecular neuroscience. Over the years, he has earned recognition through accolades and significant academic positions, including his current role as Professor and Vice Director at the University of Tsukuba’s International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine. His research continues to shape the understanding of sleep and brain function, while his influence extends to mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits 📚


Takeshi Sakurai’s academic journey began with his medical studies at the University of Tsukuba, where he earned his M.D. in 1989. During his early years at the university, he developed a keen interest in the molecular mechanisms of biological systems. This curiosity led him to pursue a Ph.D. in medicine, which he completed in 1993. His doctoral research focused on the cloning of a cDNA encoding a non-isopetide-selective subtype of the endothelin receptor, a project that was published in Nature in 1990, marking the beginning of his significant contributions to molecular pharmacology.

Professional Endeavors 👨‍⚕️


Following his Ph.D., Sakurai embarked on a promising career in academic research, starting as a postdoctoral fellow at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences in 1993. His career rapidly advanced as he took on various roles, including Assistant Professor at the same institute. During his tenure, he also worked as a postdoctoral fellow at the prestigious Howard Hughes Medical Institute at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas from 1995 to 1996. These experiences broadened his expertise in pharmacology and molecular neuroscience, laying the foundation for his future academic leadership roles. By 1999, he became an Associate Professor at the University of Tsukuba and contributed significantly to the university’s research landscape.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧬


Sakurai’s research is primarily centered around molecular neuroscience, pharmacology, and integrative physiology. His work has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of biological systems and their regulation at the molecular level. Notably, his leadership of the Yanagisawa Orphan Receptor Project under the Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology (ERATO) of the Japan Science and Technology Corporation highlights his role in pioneering research on orphan receptors. His continued focus on the mechanisms of neurotransmission and their involvement in sleep regulation has earned him a place as a leading researcher in the field of integrative sleep medicine.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆


Throughout his career, Sakurai has earned widespread recognition for his contributions to medicine and neuroscience. His groundbreaking work on neurotransmitter systems and sleep regulation has led to his appointment as a Professor and Vice Director at the University of Tsukuba’s International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine. His research has not only shaped the scientific community’s understanding of brain function but also garnered him numerous accolades, further cementing his reputation as a thought leader in the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍


Sakurai’s impact extends far beyond his own research. As a professor, he has mentored countless students and researchers who have gone on to make their own significant contributions in the fields of neuroscience and pharmacology. His interdisciplinary approach to sleep medicine has influenced research on neurodegenerative diseases, mental health, and drug development. The work he has pioneered in molecular neuroscience has also paved the way for advances in treatment approaches for disorders related to sleep and neurotransmission, offering hope for improved therapeutic interventions.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔬


Looking ahead, Sakurai’s legacy in neuroscience and integrative sleep medicine is poised to continue influencing both academic research and clinical practice. His innovative research on sleep regulation and the molecular mechanisms underpinning brain function will undoubtedly remain foundational in the future of both basic and applied medical sciences. As he continues his work at the University of Tsukuba, Sakurai’s future contributions will likely expand our understanding of the brain’s intricate systems and their broader implications for human health. His career exemplifies a dedication to advancing science, and his ongoing research promises to address critical challenges in medicine and health.

Academic Leadership and Mentorship 🎓


In addition to his personal research achievements, Sakurai’s role in academic leadership cannot be understated. As a professor at the University of Tsukuba, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s research direction and academic programs, particularly within the fields of integrative physiology and sleep medicine. His influence extends through the mentorship of students, guiding the next generation of researchers who will continue to build on his work. Sakurai’s commitment to education and his support for innovative research initiatives are key to his lasting impact on the academic and medical communities.

Publication

  • Orexins and orexin receptors: a family of hypothalamic neuropeptides and G protein-coupled receptors that regulate feeding behavior
    Authors: T Sakurai, A Amemiya, M Ishii, I Matsuzaki, RM Chemelli, H Tanaka, …
    Year: 1998

 

  • Cloning of a cDNA encoding a non-isopeptide-selective subtype of the endothelin receptor
    Authors: T Sakurai, M Yanagisawa, Y Takuwat, H Miyazakit, S Kimura, K Goto, …
    Year: 1990

 

  • Genetic ablation of orexin neurons in mice results in narcolepsy, hypophagia, and obesity
    Authors: J Hara, CT Beuckmann, T Nambu, JT Willie, RM Chemelli, CM Sinton, …
    Year: 2001

 

  • Autism genome-wide copy number variation reveals ubiquitin and neuronal genes
    Authors: JT Glessner, K Wang, G Cai, O Korvatska, CE Kim, S Wood, H Zhang, …
    Year: 2009

 

  • The neural circuit of orexin (hypocretin): maintaining sleep and wakefulness
    Author: T Sakurai
    Year: 2007

 

  • Distribution of orexin neurons in the adult rat brain
    Authors: T Nambu, T Sakurai, K Mizukami, Y Hosoya, M Yanagisawa, K Goto
    Year: 1999

 

  • Orexins, orexigenic hypothalamic peptides, interact with autonomic, neuroendocrine and neuroregulatory systems
    Authors: Y Date, Y Ueta, H Yamashita, H Yamaguchi, S Matsukura, K Kangawa, …
    Year: 1999

 

  • Hypothalamic orexin neurons regulate arousal according to energy balance in mice
    Authors: A Yamanaka, CT Beuckmann, JT Willie, J Hara, N Tsujino, M Mieda, …
    Year: 2003

 

  • Plastic stress-strain matrix and its application for the solution of elastic-plastic problems by the finite element method
    Authors: Y Yamada, N Yoshimura, T Sakurai
    Year: 1968

 

  • Chemically defined projections linking the mediobasal hypothalamus and the lateral hypothalamic area
    Authors: CF Elias, CB Saper, E Maratos‐Flier, NA Tritos, C Lee, J Kelly, JB Tatro, …
    Year: 1998

 

Conclusion


Takeshi Sakurai’s work has profoundly impacted the fields of neuroscience, pharmacology, and sleep medicine. His contributions have not only advanced scientific understanding but have also paved the way for practical applications in medical therapies. Through his leadership and mentorship, Sakurai’s legacy is set to endure, with his future research promising further advancements in understanding the complexities of the brain and its regulation. His dedication to advancing both science and education ensures that his influence will continue to resonate in academic and clinical circles for years to come.

 

Samira Jafari | Brain Mapping | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Samira Jafari | Brain Mapping | Best Researcher Award

Dr Samira Jafari, Kerman university of medical sciences, Iran.

Dr. Samira Jafari, a distinguished Ph.D. in Biostatistics at Kerman University of Medical Sciences, is a leading researcher in biostatistics, machine learning methods, and meta-analysis. With 11 research projects and 11 journal publications in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, she has made significant contributions to healthcare research, focusing on data-driven solutions. Her work in integrating machine learning with biostatistical models aims to enhance health data analysis, with the potential for improving disease prediction, public health policies, and medical practices.

Profile

Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits: The Foundation of Expertise 📚

Dr. Jafari’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in biostatistics, where she honed her analytical skills and developed a passion for understanding the intricacies of data. During her studies, she was captivated by the potential of machine learning to transform data analysis in healthcare, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors. Her early academic pursuits focused on mastering statistical models and computational techniques, which would become the bedrock of her later research.

Professional Endeavors: Shaping Research Landscape 🧑‍🔬

Since completing her Ph.D., Dr. Jafari has become a key figure in advancing biostatistics research, particularly through her exploration of machine learning applications. At Kerman University of Medical Sciences, she has led numerous research projects, with a total of 11 completed and ongoing studies. Her expertise has contributed to groundbreaking work in applying biostatistics and machine learning methods to analyze large-scale healthcare data. Dr. Jafari’s research provides essential insights that enhance the understanding of disease patterns and contribute to better health outcomes.

Contributions and Research Focus: Bridging Knowledge and Practice 🧠

Dr. Jafari’s research contributions are particularly notable in the integration of machine learning algorithms with biostatistics to improve health data interpretation. Her work includes innovative meta-analytic methods to synthesize complex data and uncover underlying patterns that inform healthcare practices. By combining machine learning with statistical models, she has been able to provide robust solutions for various medical and epidemiological studies. With 11 journal publications in top-tier journals like SCI and Scopus, her research has had a significant impact on advancing statistical methods in biostatistics.

Accolades and Recognition: Scholarly Achievements 🏆

Dr. Jafari’s scholarly achievements have not gone unnoticed. Her work has earned recognition through a citation index of 2, reflecting her contributions to the academic community. Despite the limited citations, her research is highly regarded for its innovative approach to statistical modeling and its potential applications in the field of biostatistics. She has made a lasting impression through her academic rigor, innovative methods, and dedication to enhancing the quality of healthcare research.

Impact and Influence: Leading the Way in Quantitative Healthcare Research 🌍

Dr. Jafari’s work in biostatistics and machine learning has influenced both academic research and practical applications in healthcare. Her innovative approaches to analyzing and interpreting health data have the potential to change how public health research is conducted, improving the accuracy and efficacy of healthcare models. The widespread application of her research is likely to influence future healthcare policy and contribute to the development of more precise, data-driven medical treatments.

Legacy and Future Contributions: A Path to Continued Innovation 🔮

Dr. Jafari’s research journey is far from over. With numerous ongoing projects, she is poised to continue contributing to the field of biostatistics, machine learning, and meta-analysis. As a dedicated researcher, her future work promises to explore new frontiers in data analysis, helping to bridge the gap between complex statistical methods and practical healthcare applications. Dr. Jafari’s contributions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the way we analyze medical data, shaping the future of healthcare and biostatistics for years to come.

📚 Publications

  • Title: The best drug supplement for obesity treatment: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
    Authors: N Salari, S Jafari, N Darvishi, E Valipour, M Mohammadi, K Mansouri, …
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: Classifying patients with lumbar disc herniation and exploring the most effective risk factors for this disease
    Authors: S Jafari, T Dehesh, F Iranmanesh
    Year: 2019

 

  • Title: Diagnosis of borderline personality disorder based on Cyberball social exclusion task and resting-state fMRI: using machine learning approach as an auxiliary tool
    Authors: S Jafari, A Almasi, H Sharini, S Heydari, N Salari
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: The best surgical treatment for cervical radiculopathy: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
    Authors: A Almasi, S Jafari, L Solouki, N Darvishi
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Radiomics-based machine learning for automated detection of Pneumothorax in CT scans
    Authors: H Alimiri Dehbaghi, K Khoshgard, H Sharini, S Jafari Khairabadi, …
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Diagnosis of traumatic liver injury on computed tomography using machine learning algorithms and radiomics features: The role of artificial intelligence for rapid diagnosis in …
    Authors: HA Dehbaghi, K Khoshgard, H Sharini, SJ Khairabadi
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: A assessment of the effects of parental age on the development of autism in children: a systematic review and a meta-analysis
    Authors: T Dehesh, MA Mosleh-Shirazi, S Jafari, E Abolhadi, P Dehesh
    Year: 2024

 

Conclusion

Dr. Samira Jafari stands as a trailblazer in the field of biostatistics and machine learning, making invaluable contributions to healthcare research. Through her innovative integration of machine learning with biostatistical models, she has advanced our understanding of complex health data, paving the way for more accurate predictions and improved healthcare outcomes. With her extensive research experience and a clear commitment to bridging data analysis with real-world medical applications, Dr. Jafari is set to leave a lasting legacy in both academic and healthcare sectors.