Georgia Kaiafa | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Georgia Kaiafa | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Georgia Kaiafa, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki,  Greece.

Dr. Georgia Kaiafa is a distinguished hematologist and academician whose career spans clinical excellence, impactful research, and dedicated teaching. A graduate of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, she earned her MBBS in 1987, Board Certification in Hematology in 1996, and completed her Doctorate in 2005. Her academic roles have progressed from Lecturer to Associate Professor of Hematology and Thromboembolic Diseases, with a longstanding association at AHEPA University Hospital.

Profile

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Georgia Kaiafa began her academic journey in medicine at the prestigious Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, enrolling in the Medical School in 1980. Her foundational training was marked by determination and intellectual rigor, culminating in the completion of her MBBS in 1987. A steadfast commitment to advanced education led her to earn her Board Certification in Haematology by 1996, and later, she successfully defended her Doctorate thesis in 2005. These formative years reflect her deep-rooted passion for understanding hematological science and its clinical applications.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Hematology

Her professional journey has been nothing short of inspiring, anchored in both clinical excellence and academic growth. Georgia Kaiafa has served in several academic ranks, beginning as a Lecturer in Hematology from 2007 to 2015, advancing to Assistant Professor until 2021, and currently holding the esteemed position of Associate Professor of Hematology and Thromboembolic Diseases. She is affiliated with AHEPA University Hospital’s Hematology Department, a major center of excellence in Greece. Her expertise was further enriched by her tenure as a Visiting Research Associate at King’s College Hospital in London in 2012, where she gained valuable international exposure. Since 2005, she has also played a leadership role as a Coordinator in the Northern Greece Office of the Health Sector, bridging academic medicine and healthcare policy.

🩸 Contributions and Research Focus

Georgia Kaiafa has devoted her scholarly efforts to advancing the understanding of thrombosis, thromboembolic disorders, and hematological malignancies. With her contributions to over 95 peer-reviewed international journal publications and participation as a Principal Investigator in 26 research trials, she has carved out a niche in evidence-based hematological research. Her investigations have deeply influenced protocols and practices in vascular pharmacology, hematologic diagnostics, and the clinical management of thrombotic conditions. She is also a prominent educator, mentoring Ph.D. candidates and contributing to postgraduate programs for both Greek and international students.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Her scientific contributions have not gone unnoticed. Georgia Kaiafa has received significant national acclaim, including the 1st Prize Award for Best Paper at the Pan-Hellenic Haematology Conference in 2008 and again at the 1st Conference of Internal Medicine of Northern Greece in 2015. These accolades affirm her research excellence and clinical insight. Her expertise has earned her memberships in elite national and international medical societies, including the Hellenic Stroke Organization and the European Stroke Organization, as well as a respected position in the Excellence of Thrombosis initiative.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond academia and clinical service, Kaiafa has exerted influence on multiple scientific fronts. As a reviewer for prominent journals such as Thrombosis Research, Anemia, Case Reports in Hematology, and the Indian Heart Journal, she ensures high scientific standards in hematologic research worldwide. Her editorial work for both international and Greek journals demonstrates her authority in the field and her dedication to the progression of scientific communication. Her wide-ranging collaborations and committee leadership roles have significantly influenced health education and medical research in Greece and abroad.

📚 Scholarly Engagement and Mentorship

Georgia Kaiafa is not only a prolific researcher but also a passionate mentor and academic contributor. With 23 chapters in medical books, over 130 abstracts in Greek conference proceedings, and nearly 100 abstracts presented in international forums, her voice resonates across the global hematology community. She has mentored and supervised numerous doctoral students, serving on committees for 12 Ph.D. projects and directly supervising five, cultivating the next generation of scientific minds. She has also chaired 22 congress sessions and delivered more than 100 invited talks, emphasizing her respected role as both speaker and thought leader.

🔬 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a seasoned academic and clinical researcher, Georgia Kaiafa continues to shape the future of hematology in Greece and beyond. Her legacy lies in her dual commitment to clinical care and scientific discovery, especially in the realm of thromboembolic diseases and hematologic innovations. Her ongoing involvement in research protocols, editorial responsibilities, and student mentorship assures that her influence will persist. With a solid foundation and a career marked by excellence, her future contributions are likely to further impact hematological sciences and translational medicine globally.

publication

 

  • Title: Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 as a Biomarker in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Prospective Pilot Study
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Prospective Study of ADAMTS13 and von Willebrand Factor’s Role in the Prediction of Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Comprehensive Clinical Review
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: [Not specified]

 

  • Title: The Seasonal Distribution of Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura is Influenced by Geography: Epidemiologic Findings from a Multi-Center Analysis of 719 Disease Episodes
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Current Trends in Stroke Biomarkers: The Prognostic Role of S100 Calcium-Binding Protein B and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: [Not specified]

 

  • Title: Outpatient Management After Hospitalisation for Acute Decompensation of Cirrhosis: A Practical Guide
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Which Is the Best Way to Treat Massive Hemoptysis? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: [Not specified]

 

  • Title: Post-COVID-19 and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Literature Review
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: [Not specified]

 

  • Title: Thyroid Disease and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
    Author(s): [Not specified]
    Year: 2023

 

🏁 Conclusion

Dr. Georgia Kaiafa embodies the values of academic integrity, scientific advancement, and clinical leadership. Her commitment to both national healthcare development and international scientific collaboration sets her apart. With a strong foundation in research, education, and public health, she not only meets but exceeds the criteria for recognition through the Best Researcher Award. Her body of work stands as a testament to sustained excellence and future promise in hematology and related disciplines.

İlyas UÇAR | Neuroimaging | Trailblazer in Neuroscience Award

Assoc.Prof.Dr. Ilyas UÇAR | Neuroimaging | Trailblazer in Neuroscience Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ilyas UÇAR,  Erciyes University, Turkey.

İlyas Uçar is a dedicated academic and researcher specializing in anatomical sciences, particularly in developmental anatomy and teratology. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Anatomy (Medicine) from Erciyes University. His research has focused on the effects of pharmaceutical agents such as Interferon and Paracetamol on embryonic and fetal development, shedding light on critical concerns regarding drug safety during pregnancy. As an Associate Professor, he has contributed to academia through teaching, mentorship, and interdisciplinary research, earning recognition for his impactful work. His studies have influenced medical guidelines and inspired  further research into prenatal health.

Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

İlyas Uçar embarked on his academic journey with a deep-rooted interest in health sciences, particularly in the intricate mechanisms of human anatomy. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation from Abant İzzet Baysal University in 2007, where he developed a strong foundation in musculoskeletal function and rehabilitation techniques. His passion for understanding the human body at a deeper level led him to pursue postgraduate studies, marking the beginning of an extensive academic exploration.

His pursuit of higher education continued at Erciyes University, where he completed his Master’s degree in Anatomy (Medicine) in 2014. Under the guidance of Doç. Dr. Tolga Ertekin, he conducted groundbreaking research on the effects of Interferon beta-1a (IFNβ-1A) and Interferon beta-1b (IFNβ-1B) on in vitro embryonic development. This study not only refined his expertise in developmental anatomy but also set the stage for his future contributions to teratology and embryological research.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

With a strong academic foundation, İlyas Uçar transitioned into professional academia, where he merged his passion for teaching with his commitment to scientific discovery. His doctoral studies at Erciyes University’s Institute of Health Sciences were a significant milestone, culminating in his Ph.D. in Anatomy (Medicine) in 2018. His dissertation, supervised by Prof. Dr. Erdoğan Unur, explored the potential teratogenic effects of paracetamol on fetal bone development, shedding light on critical concerns regarding prenatal medication exposure.

Following his doctoral achievements, he took on an active role in academia, mentoring students and engaging in interdisciplinary research. His teaching methods, rooted in both theoretical knowledge and practical application, have made a lasting impact on students specializing in anatomy and health sciences.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

İlyas Uçar’s research focuses on developmental anatomy, particularly the impact of pharmaceutical agents on embryonic and fetal growth. His studies on interferons and paracetamol have contributed valuable insights into the possible risks associated with commonly used medications during pregnancy. Through meticulous experimental methodologies, he has explored the implications of these substances on skeletal formation, paving the way for further advancements in medical safety guidelines.

In addition to his work in teratology, he has delved into the broader aspects of anatomical sciences, bridging the gap between clinical applications and fundamental research. His interdisciplinary approach has fostered collaborations with medical professionals, physiologists, and pharmacologists, further enriching the field of health sciences.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, İlyas Uçar has earned recognition for his dedication to research and education. His scholarly contributions have been acknowledged in scientific circles, with his research findings being cited in academic discussions on embryology and anatomy. His work has not only contributed to medical literature but has also influenced guidelines on drug safety during pregnancy.

As an esteemed faculty member, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic curriculum, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in anatomical sciences. His ability to inspire and guide young researchers has cemented his reputation as a mentor and leader in his field.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The influence of İlyas Uçar extends beyond the lecture halls and research laboratories. His findings have raised awareness about the importance of cautious pharmaceutical use during pregnancy, prompting further investigations into the long-term effects of medications on fetal development. His work continues to serve as a reference point for medical researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals seeking to enhance patient safety.His collaborations with medical institutions and research centers have facilitated knowledge exchange, ensuring that his discoveries have practical implications in clinical and pharmacological settings. By addressing critical questions in developmental anatomy, he has contributed to the broader understanding of how external factors influence human growth and development.

Publication

  • Effect of respiratory muscle training on pulmonary function and aerobic endurance in soccer players
    T. Ozmen, G.Y. Gunes, I. Ucar, H. Dogan, T.U. Gafuroglu2017

 

  • The effect of kinesio taping versus stretching techniques on muscle soreness, and flexibility during recovery from Nordic hamstring exercise
    T. Ozmen, G.Y. Gunes, H. Dogan, I. Ucar, M. Willems2017

 

  • The relationship between muscle size, obesity, body fat ratio, pain, and disability in individuals with and without nonspecific low back pain
    I. Ucar, C. Kararti, I. Cüce, E. Veziroğlu, A. Özüdoğru, F.A. Koçak, Y. Dadalı2021

 

  • Is scoliosis related to mastication muscle asymmetry and temporomandibular disorders? A cross-sectional study
    I. Ucar, S. Batin, M. Arik, A. Payas, E. Kurtoğlu, C. Kararti, T. Seber, et al.2022

 

  • Is the integration problem in the sensorimotor system the cause of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?
    A. Payas, S. Batin, E. Kurtoğlu, M. Arik, T. Seber, I. Ucar, E. Unur2023

 

  • Analysis of changes in brain morphological structure of Taekwondo athletes by diffusion tensor imaging
    E. Kurtoğlu, A. Payas, S. Düz, M. Arik, I. Ucar, T.T. Tokmak, M.F. Erbay, N. Acer, et al.2023

 

  • The role of pineal gland volume in the development of scoliosis
    S. Batin, Y. Ekinci, K. Gürbüz, A. Payas, E. Kurtoğlu, I. Ucar, T. Seber, M. Arik, et al.2023

 

  • Masseter muscle thickness and elasticity in bruxism after exercise treatment: A comparison trial
    I. Ucar, C. Kararti, Y. Dadali, A. Özüdoğru, M. Okçu2022

 

  • The potential teratogenic effects of interferon beta-1a and interferon beta-1b on in vitro embryonic development
    I. Ucar, T. Ertekin, M. Nisari, D. Ceylan, Ö. Al, H. Ülger2016

 

  • Morphometric evaluation of acetabulum
    G.B. Uzun, M. Değermenci, I. Ucar, A. Arslan, M. Nisari2020

🔍 Conclusion

İlyas Uçar’s contributions to anatomical sciences extend beyond theoretical research, making a tangible impact on medical education and drug safety. His investigations into embryonic development have deepened the understanding of teratogenic risks, guiding both researchers and healthcare professionals. With a commitment to advancing knowledge through interdisciplinary collaboration, he continues to shape the future of anatomical and medical research. His legacy lies not only in his scientific discoveries but also in his role as an educator and mentor, ensuring that future generations carry forward his passion for medical science.

 

Kiran Solingapuram Sai | Neuroimaging | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kiran Solingapuram Sai | Neuroimaging | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kiran Solingapuram Sai, Wake Forest School of Medicine, United States.

Dr. Kiran K. Solingapuram Sai, PhD, is an Associate Professor with tenure in the Department of Radiology at Wake Forest School of Medicine. He holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Northern Illinois University and has extensive research experience in radiopharmaceutical chemistry. His postdoctoral training at Washington University’s Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology focused on radiotracer development.

Profile

Orcid

 

✨ Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Kiran K. Solingapuram Sai embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in chemistry, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Microbiology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, India, in 2001. His passion for organic chemistry led him to pursue a Master of Science in the same field at Osmania University, where he honed his expertise in chemical synthesis and molecular interactions. Determined to explore the depths of organic chemistry, he pursued his Ph.D. at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, under the mentorship of Dr. Douglas A. Klumpp. During this period, his research focused on synthetic methodologies and organic reaction mechanisms, paving the way for his future contributions to medicinal and radiopharmaceutical chemistry.

🌐 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Sai’s professional journey commenced with a prestigious postdoctoral research associate position at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology at Washington University in St. Louis, MO, where he worked under the guidance of Dr. Robert H. Mach. During his tenure from 2010 to 2013, he delved into the complexities of radiochemistry, developing novel radiotracers and exploring their applications in medical imaging. This experience laid the groundwork for his career in radiopharmaceutical sciences. In 2014, he joined Wake Forest School of Medicine as a Research Instructor and Chief Radiochemist, marking the beginning of his significant contributions to translational imaging and radiopharmaceutical production.

⚛️ Contributions and Research Focus

At Wake Forest School of Medicine, Dr. Sai played a pivotal role in the Department of Radiology and the Clinical Translational Science Institute (CTSI). He specialized in managing clinical and research-based radiopharmaceutical production at the Wake Forest PET Research Center. As a cyclotron manager and coordinator, he oversaw the synthesis and quality control of radiotracers essential for PET imaging. His expertise extended to the development and implementation of cGMP-approved protocols for C-11 and F-18 radiopharmaceutical production, ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficacy. His research focuses on advancing PET imaging techniques, exploring new radiotracers for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, and improving imaging biomarker development.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Sai’s dedication to radiochemistry and molecular imaging has earned him recognition in the scientific community. His work has been instrumental in developing radiopharmaceuticals for neurological and oncological imaging, contributing significantly to early disease detection and targeted therapy. His contributions have been acknowledged through numerous research grants, collaborative projects, and publications in high-impact scientific journals. His commitment to excellence and innovation has positioned him as a leading figure in the field of radiopharmaceutical sciences.

🔬 Impact and Influence

Beyond his research and technical expertise, Dr. Sai has mentored budding scientists and researchers in the field of radiochemistry and imaging sciences. His guidance has helped shape the next generation of radiopharmaceutical experts, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific curiosity. His role in translational imaging programs has bridged the gap between basic research and clinical applications, directly impacting patient care by improving diagnostic imaging techniques.

💡 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Sai’s work continues to inspire advancements in molecular imaging and radiopharmaceutical development. As an Associate Professor with tenure at Wake Forest School of Medicine, he remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of radiochemistry, developing cutting-edge imaging agents, and enhancing the precision of diagnostic medicine. His legacy in the field is defined by his unwavering commitment to scientific discovery, translational research, and the continuous pursuit of excellence in radiopharmaceutical sciences.Dr. Kiran K. Solingapuram Sai’s contributions to the field of radiopharmaceutical chemistry stand as a testament to his dedication, innovation, and impact on medical imaging and healthcare. His journey from a passionate chemistry student to a distinguished professor and researcher highlights the transformative power of science in shaping the future of medicine.

 

Publication

  1. Radiation-induced brain injury in non-human primates: A dual tracer PET study with [11C]MPC-6827 and [11C]PiB

    • Authors: Naresh Damuka, George W. Schaaf, Mack Miller, Caleb Bradley, Bhuvanachandra Bhoopal, Ivan Krizan, Krishna K. Gollapelli, Christopher T. Whitlow, J. Mark Cline, Kiran K. Solingapuram Sai
    • Year: 2025

 

  1. The β-Secretase 1 Enzyme as a Novel Therapeutic Target for Prostate Cancer

    • Authors: Hilal A. Rather, Sameh Almousa, Ashish Kumar, Mitu Sharma, Isabel Pennington, Susy Kim, Yixin Su, Yangen He, Abdollah R. Ghara, Kiran Kumar Solingapuram Sai et al.
    • Year: 2023

 

  1. Development and Optimization of 11C-Labeled Radiotracers: A Review of the Modern Quality Control Design Process

    • Authors: Paul Josef Myburgh, Kiran Kumar Solingapuram Sai
    • Year: 2023

 

  1. Binding Parameters of [11C]MPC-6827, a Microtubule-Imaging PET Radiopharmaceutical in Rodents

    • Authors: Avinash H. Bansode, Bhuvanachandra Bhoopal, Krishna Kumar Gollapelli, Naresh Damuka, Ivan Krizan, Mack Miller, Suzanne Craft, Akiva Mintz, Kiran Kumar Solingapuram Sai
    • Year: 2023

 

  1. PET Imaging of [11C]MPC-6827, a Microtubule-Based Radiotracer in Non-Human Primate Brains

    • Authors: Naresh Damuka, Paul W. Czoty, Ashley T. Davis, Michael Nader, Susan H. Nader, Suzanne Craft, Shannon L. Macauley, Lindsey K. Galbo Thomma, Phillip M. Epperly, Christopher T. Whitlow et al.
    • Year: 2020

 

  1. One-pot synthesis of novel tert-butyl-4-substituted phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazolo piperazine/piperidine carboxylates, potential GPR119 agonists

    • Authors: Nagaraju Bashetti, J.V. Shanmukha Kumar, Naresh Varma Seelam, B. Prasanna, Akiva Mintz, Naresh Damuka, Sriram Devanathan, Kiran Kumar Solingapuram Sai
    • Year: 2019

 

Conclusion

Dr. Kiran K. Solingapuram Sai has established himself as a leading expert in radiopharmaceutical sciences, contributing significantly to translational imaging research. His work in PET radiopharmaceutical production and quality assurance underscores his role in advancing medical imaging techniques. His academic and research contributions make him a valuable asset in the field of radiology and molecular imaging.